《The Billionaire 1&2》 Chapter 1 Chapter 1 ¡°Are you okay, Amber?¡± Kaylee, her friend asked. ¡°You¡¯ve been like that for the past week.¡± She added, worried about her friend¡¯s welfare. ¡°Y-yes. I¡¯m just tired.¡± Amber answered with a forced smile. ¡°This is not my only job that¡¯s why.¡± She added. ¡°Why don¡¯t you take a rest? Or take a day-off just once?¡± Her friend suggested. ¡°You know that I can¡¯t do that.¡± She said with a sigh. ¡°I have to pay my father¡¯s debt.¡± ¡°Why don¡¯t you just move to my apartment? My apartment can cater the two of us. Let¡¯s just split the rent.¡± Kaylee said. ¡°Thank you, Kaylee but I can save more if I¡¯ll just stay at my ce. It is more convenient since it is near here and to my other workce.¡± She said and continued washing the dishes but she covered her mouth and ran to thefort room and vomits. Owned by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Amber, I¡¯ve been meaning to ask this sincest week.¡± Kaylee said while giving her a cup of water. ¡°Are you pregnant?¡± She asked making her frown. ¡°What are you talking about, Kaylee? I had my mens¡ª¡± She suddenly remembered something making her eyes wide while looking at Kaylee. ¡°I¡ªI didn¡¯t have my menstruationst month.¡± She said with tears on her eyes. Kaylee approached and embraced her. ¡°Who is the father?¡± Kaylee asked. ¡°I¡ªI don¡¯t know.¡± She lied. She knew him but she doesn¡¯t want to see him again. ¡°Amber! You will not just give up your virginity to someone you don¡¯t know.¡± Kaylee sermons. ¡°Unless he raped you¡­¡± She said, worried for her. ¡°No. It happened with my consent.¡± She said. ¡°He¡¯s a frequent costumer in the bar I worked at. And I don¡¯t know his name.¡± She lied. ¡°Amber¡ª¡± ¡°Hey! We are not paying you just to have a chit-chat there!¡± Their strict manager, Antte said. ¡°Do your job well as the owner wille and inspect.¡± ¡°Can you still work?¡± Kaylee asked her. ¡°Yes, go to your post or else Miss Antte will be angry at you.¡± She said while holding the te and sponge, Kaylee is hesitant to leave her at first. ¡°Amber!¡± Antte shouted making her drop the te in surprised. ¡°What the heck are you doing? You¡¯re so stupid! Quickly fix those, the owner is on his way!¡± Antte shouted. She secretly sighed, this is the day she will meet the owner of the restaurant yet she broke a te. Ever since she started working there, she never had the chance to meet the owner since she was alwayste when he is ¡°Rafael to earth! Rafael Anderson to earth!¡± Gabriel repeatedly calling him while Joshua and the others areughing. They were gathered on Joshua¡¯s office who justnded from London due to a business trip. ¡°Ha?¡± He asked frowning. ¡°What¡¯s your problem?¡± He asked. ¡°You!¡± They said in unison. ¡°Tell me buddy, did someone struck you in the heart?¡± Jonathan asked. ¡°Who¡¯s the unlucky girl?¡± Gabriel teased. ¡°Or did you make someone pregnant?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°Damn you all!¡± He cursed. ¡°I always practice safe sex!¡± He said but he suddenly remembered that one night when he was drunk. ¡°Hey! You¡¯re in daze again.¡± Joshua tapped his shoulders making him sigh. ¡°I just remembered something.¡± He said and stood up. ¡°I¡¯ll go ahead,tely there are negative reviews about my restaurant, so I¡¯m going to inspect today and see what¡¯s the problem.¡± He was shocked so see the negative reviews on their page. It never happened before so he¡¯s curious. ¡°AMBER!¡± Rafael is at the entrance of his restaurant when he heard the loud voice of Antte, the one he appointed to be the restaurant¡¯s manager due to her splendid performance. That is why it is surprising that she is shouting loud enough for their costumers to hear. ¡°What the heck are you doing? You¡¯re so stupid! Quickly fix those, the owner is on his way!¡± Her loud voice echoed through the restaurant. ¡°There she goes again, always picking on Amber.¡± One of his employees said. ¡°I don¡¯t really get it why sir Rafael appointed that bitch to be the manager.¡± ¡°Ma¡¯am Antte didn¡¯t show her true self when she¡¯s still a simple waitress.¡± Another one said. ¡°Shh! Enough of that chit chat.¡± Ronald said to the other employees. ¡°Let¡¯s just apologize to the costumers about the fuss.¡± Hemanded. Ronald is one of his choices for the manager position, but he chooses Antte because she was employed before Ronald. Rafael witnessed how Ronald apologizes to the costumers. It seems that he made a huge mistake. ¡°You are so stupid!¡± Antte shouted again. ¡°You piece of trash!¡± It was thest straw, in his restaurant, he never once sees his employees as trash nor he even shouted or cursed at them. He went straight to the kitchen. ¡°Sir Rafael¡­¡± The employees who saw him were surprised. ¡°Stop with your act and stand up, you trash!¡± Antte said and kick the woman¡¯s stomach who is lying on the floor. But he is more surprised to learn the identity of the woman. ¡°Damn!¡± He cursed and immediately scoop the woman in his arms. ¡°S..sir..¡± Antte uttered in surprised. ¡°Amber!¡± A woman in uniform entered the kitchen. ¡°What happened here?¡± She asked, worried. ¡°It seems that she fainted.¡± He answered. ¡°S..sir.¡± she uttered in surprise. ¡°Is she your friend.¡± He asked. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± She answered immediately. ¡°You should bring her to the nearest hospital, there¡¯s a chance that she¡¯s pregnant.¡± She said making him gasps in shock. ¡°P-pregnant?¡± He uttered in disbelief, ¡°Yes, Sir. I think she¡¯s one month pregnant.¡± The woman answered with a frown. His face turned pale and angrily nce at Antte. ¡°She¡¯s freaking pregnant and you kicked her in the stomach?¡± He shouted in rage. ¡°Pray that nothing bad will happened to my child or else you will pay!¡± He threatened her. Antte¡¯s face turned pale, and his employees were shocked. He didn¡¯t waste any time and walked out from the kitchen; all the costumers¡¯ eyes were on them but he didn¡¯t careless. He prayed that nothing bad will happen to Amber and his child. Chapter 2 Chapter 2 RAFAEL is staring at amber who is in deep sleep, he slowly approached her and caress her face. Their hot and passionate together is still fresh on his mind; he can¡¯t exin the emptiness he felt when he woke up that morning without her by his side. Every night he stays in the bar hoping to see her but Amber didn¡¯t show up. Heter learned that she resigns. ¡°Who would have thought that I will see you again and in my own restaurant.¡± He said softly, still caressing Amber¡¯s face. He can¡¯t help not to stare on her red, luscious lips; he can¡¯t get enough the moment he tasted those lips. He still remembers how many times he kissed those lips. He was shocked in horror that moment when he learned that she¡¯s a virgin. He has a golden rule and that is not toy a finger on virgins, but that night when he bumps into Amber all his senses vanished. The first time he saw Amber, she perked his interest. He sees how hard working she that her tiredness is evident but that didn¡¯t lessen her beauty. There is a faint knock on the door before it opened, it was his cousin¡ªGinger. ¡°What¡¯s the result?¡± He asked. ¡°She¡¯s one month pregnant.¡± Ginger answered, and he can¡¯t exin but he felt a something deep within his heart. ¡°They are both fine, Amber just fainted due to exhaustion.¡± Rafael sighed in relief. ¡°So, you¡¯re the father.¡± Ginger asked in disbelief, this time she¡¯s talking not as a doctor but as his cousin. ¡°Seems like it.¡± He shrugged. ¡°So, what is your n?¡± She asked in concern. ¡°We both know that you have no ns on settling down? Don¡¯t tell me that you want her to have an abortion?¡± She added with a faint of disappointment and anger on her voice. ¡°Don¡¯t even think about it! You have to go against me if that¡¯s your n, Rafael!¡± She warned. ¡°What the heck are you talking about, Ginger?¡± He frowned. ¡°I know that I mess around but that doesn¡¯t mean that settling down is not on my list. And about the child, it¡¯s already there, it already formed. I will take them in, beside it seems that she can¡¯t do it alone.¡± He said and took a nce on Amber. ¡°I know that I am not in the position to judge but are you sure that you¡¯re the father? Is she not just after your money?¡± Ginger asked. ¡°We can do a paternal test just to make sure.¡± She suggested. ¡°I doubt it, if she¡¯s after my wealth, then why didn¡¯t she tell me about it. Besides, I was the one who approached her and initiated it. I¡¯ve watched her for how many long nights and I can say that she¡¯s not the same as those women.¡± He said. ¡°And I am hundred percent sure that I am the father of the baby.¡± ¡°If that¡¯s your decision then good.¡± Ginger said and looked at Amber. ¡°Now that you mentioned it, she seems the innocent, shy type unlike those women you mess with.¡± She sighed. ¡°I really hope and pray that she will be the one to change you.¡± She added making him frown. ¡°Anyway, she can go home once she woke up, she can also go home tomorrow. She should have enough adequate sleep and should avoid stress.¡± Ginger said and handed him a prescription. ¡°I prescribed vitamins and milk that she should take. I¡¯ll go ahead, I still have to check another patient.¡± ¡°Okay. Thank you.¡± He said before Ginger could leave the room. His cousin just smiled and left the room. AMBER woke up with the thought how she ended in the room, thest thing she remembered us that Antte is shouting at her for breaking the tes. She¡¯s in the middle of reminiscing when the door opened suddenly. ¡°You¡¯re awake.¡± A familiar voice echoed the room. ¡°How are you feeling?¡± It was Rafael. ¡°S-Sir Rafael¡­¡± She uttered in surprise. ¡°What are you doing here?¡± ¡°Checking on my employee.¡± Rafael answered casually while approaching her. ¡°But I¡¯m not your employee anymore. I don¡¯t work at the bar anymore.¡± Amber said, nervous.¡± She didn¡¯t expect to see him again, after what happened between them that night, she doesn¡¯t have any face to face him. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re not working at the bar anymore but you¡¯re working at my restaurant. And that still makes you my employee.¡± Rafael said making her jaw drop in shock. ¡°I won¡¯t be surprised that you¡¯re not aware that I¡¯m your employer since you¡¯re the employee who is alwayste whenever Ie over for inspection. It¡¯s no wonder Antte is always picking on you.¡± ¡°Ahm, I¡¯m sorry, Sir, but please don¡¯t fire me. I really need the job badly.¡± She pleaded. She can¡¯t afford to lose the job especially that she still hasn¡¯tpleted that five million. Three months passed and still her earnings are still not enough. ¡°Give me a good reason not to fire you.¡± Rafael said while taking a seat on the visitor chair. Amber can¡¯t think of any good answer, she can¡¯t afford to say that she needs a job to pay for his father¡¯s debt. ¡°Why can¡¯t you answer, Miss Santiago?¡± Rafael stared at her. ¡°Do you need a job because your pregnant?¡± He asked making her looked at his way with wide eyes. Right at that moment, she remembered what she and Kaylee had been talking earlier that day. ¡°I¡¯m really pregnant?¡± She smiled bitterly. What a life! She¡¯s not done yet with her problem and now she made another one. She slowly caresses her stomach; I¡¯m going to be a mother. RAFAEL is observing Amber, it is true that Amber is not aware that she¡¯s pregnant. After making sure that she¡¯s okay, he went back to the restaurant and asked about happened. Antte has been making a lot of excuses but he doesn¡¯t have the time to deal with it. From Amber¡¯s record, he got the information he needed. He went to the apartmentplex Amber is staying and he is sure that it is not safe for her to live there. ¡°Yes, you¡¯re pregnant and of course, I am held responsible for that.¡± He said. ¡°You¡¯re one month pregnant and the doctor advised that you should avoid being stressed and you should have adequate amount of sleep. That is why you will take a leave¡ªno, scratch that, you¡¯re quitting your job.¡± He said making her jaw drop. ¡°No!¡± She sternly said. ¡°I need a job, especially now!¡± ¡°If it¡¯s about the baby, you don¡¯t have to worry a single thing. I will support the two of you.¡± He said. ¡°all I want is that the baby will be born and grow up carrying my name¡ªAnderson.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t need your money, Mister Anderson. What I need is a job! You don¡¯t have nothing to worry about the baby, I will not remove your obligation as the father.¡± ¡°That¡¯s not what I¡¯m talking about, Miss Santiago.¡± Rafael sternly said and stood up. ¡°I don¡¯t want our child to be born and grow up thinking that he¡¯s an oue of a single mistake.¡± He said. ¡°You and I will get married whether you like it or not, Miss Santiago.¡± He added making Amber shock. ¡°what nonsense are you spurting?¡± Amber said. ¡°You don¡¯t want it? What is mine will also be yours.¡± Rafael said smirked as he moved closer to her. One move and their lips would close the distance between them. ¡°Meaning, all my wealth and properties will be yours. And that is if you will only get married to me.¡± He slowly moves back when Amber didn¡¯t say anything; he might get tempted with those luscious, red lips. ¡°Think carefully, Amber.¡± He said. ¡°I¡¯ll leave you for a moment, I will just settle the hospital bills.¡± He added. ¡°W-wait!¡± Amber stopped and approached him. ¡°I will only get married to you in one condition.¡± ¡°And that is?¡± He asked, frowning. ¡°Five million pesos.¡± She coldly said. ¡°Give me five million pesos and I will marry you.¡± ¡°Where is the woman who told me that she doesn¡¯t need my money?¡± He mocked to hide his shock and disappointment. ¡°Didn¡¯t you tell me that once we¡¯re married, I can get my hands on your wealth? Who would reject the offer of the great Rafael Anderson?¡± Amber asked and moved closer to him; their bodies so close to Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. each other; her hands were caressing his chest. ¡°Who would decline my offer?¡± He mocked and pulled her roughly for a kiss¡ªa rough one. ¡°Only those who are not gold digger like you will decline my offer, Miss Santiago.¡± He said with a cold tone as soon as their lips parted. ¡°You can¡¯t me me, Mister Anderson, I¡¯m just being practical here.¡± Amber said forcing herself not to show any emotion. ¡°The decision is still yours, Mister Anderson. Five million in exchange I will marry you, and you can be with our child.¡± ¡°And if I decline?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°If you decline¡­¡± She ced her hands on her stomach. ¡°L-let¡¯s bid goodbye to the baby.¡± She said. I¡¯m sorry, baby. I didn¡¯t mean it, trust me. Rafael can¡¯t believe what he heard; he threw the table near them making Amber flinch in shock, she didn¡¯t expect this but she tried not be bothered by it. ¡°F*ck, Amber! Just f*ck!¡± Rafael cursed in anger. ¡°Do you really have no heart? You will kill our baby just for money? What kind of mother are you? F*cking sh*t!¡± ¡°So, what is your decision?¡± Amber remained stoic. ¡°Give me five million and I¡¯ll make sure that the baby will be born healthy or¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯ll make that thirty million!¡± Rafael red at her. ¡°Just make sure to take care of your health for the baby!¡± Rafael said, his face is red due to his anger; his fist were clenched tightly. If Amber is only a man, he would surely beat the hell out of her. ¡°Fix yourself, you¡¯ll go home today!¡± He coldly told her before leaving the room. ¡°Damn!¡± Rafael punched the wall as soon as he went out of the hospital room. He was amused when Amber told him that she doesn¡¯t need his money because he can¡¯t believe that there is still woman who are like that. But what he can¡¯t understand is her sudden changed in attitude, she even dragged their unborn child in her scheme. He can¡¯t believe that behind that innocent face lies a devil. She¡¯s using the child as a bait to get money from him. Just you wait, Amber Santiago, I will y your game, but get ready because I will make sure that you will suffer once the baby is safely born. Chapter 3 Chapter 3 AMBER cried as soon as Rafael left her in the room, she quickly took a seat as her legs got weak from their confrontation. She¡¯s angry at herself. Five million in exchange for their baby¡¯s life, she¡¯s no different from those mothers who abandoned their child. But she¡¯s way worse than them, her baby is still not born yet what has she done? ¡°I am so sorry, baby. There¡¯s no truth on what I¡¯ve said.¡± She said in between her sob as she caresses her stomach. ¡°I only said those for both of us, you know what I¡¯ve been going through, right?¡± She added. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, this will be the first andst time I hurt you, it will never happen again. I will love and take care of you. I¡¯ll take good care of myself so that you will be born healthy. I¡¯ll protect you at all cost.¡± ¡°Forgive mommy, okay? Your grandfather has a huge debt and I only need two months left to pay for it. This is the only solution that I could think of for both of us.¡± She said as she continued to caress her stomach. ¡°I love you, baby. It doesn¡¯t matter even if you¡¯re just an oue of a mistake.¡± Amber noticed the sudden cold treatment she received from Rafael when she mentioned that needs money in exchange of their marriage. She didn¡¯t want to drag their unborn child but she was desperate. She sighed and went to the bathroom to wash her face. She doesn¡¯t want Rafael to know that she¡¯s crying; even if it hurts, she must be stern on her decision. ¡°I thought you will bring me home?¡± Amber asked Rafael with curiosity. ¡°This is not the way to my apartment.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Rafael said, eyes on the road. ¡°Whether I like it or not, you will stay at my house. I don¡¯t trust you to be alone after knowing what kind of person you are!¡± He said without even looking at her but she can feel his angriness through his words. Of course, Amber. What should you expect? You¡¯re the one who made him think that way. ¡°And I went to your apartment, it is not safe for you and the baby.¡± Rafael added that makes her heart warm. He really does care for his heir. ¡°But my things¡­ I need to get those.¡± She said. ¡°There¡¯s no need, I already asked your friend to get your things for you.¡± Rafael said, unbothered. Friend? Maybe he¡¯s referring to Kaylee. ¡°Can we still please go to my apartment.¡± She said loud enough for him to hear. ¡°Please?¡± She pleaded. She was shocked when Rafael suddenly stepped on the brake. ¡°What the hell do you need to get there? Didn¡¯t I already told you that I already asked someone to get your things?¡± Rafael said, staring at her with a frown on his face. Amber was dumbfounded not because he is irritated but it is due to his looks. He might be irritated but that didn¡¯t deny that he is good looking. His eyes were dark-brown, framed by graceful brows. He had prominent cheekbones and a well- defined chin and nose. And those soft, sharp lips were very attractive and captivating, Amber can still remember the feeling of his lips kissing her and her body. She suddenly blushes on the thought. ¡°Are you done eye-raping me?¡± Rafael asked as his lips twitched. ¡°You wish!¡± She said and looked outside the window to hide her embarrassment. ¡°You¡¯re so tempting when you blush, honey.¡± Rafael said and pulled her closer to capture her lips. Her mind is telling her to push him away but her body didn¡¯t obey; she slowly opened her mouth to wee him and she wrapped her hands onto his neck. ¡°I want to ravish you right now, but let¡¯s save it forter.¡± Rafael whispered. It was a long, passionate kiss that even her wants more. She wants him to kiss her, to touch her like the way he did during that hot night. ¡°Wait for me here, I will be back.¡± Amber said to Rafael as soon as he parked his car outside her apartment, but it seems that Rafael didn¡¯t hear a thing, he stepped out his car. Amber sighed and grab the keys of her apartment in her bag; she was about to open the car door but Rafael opened it for her. Hmmn¡­ A gentleman, eh? ¡°Thank you.¡± She said. She didn¡¯t wait for him and she went straight to her apartment. She¡¯s staying at a rundown apartmentplex, it is way far from the life she¡¯s used to, but she¡¯s very grateful to her mother for teaching her household chores and how to live life being contented on what they have no matter how small it is. The room she¡¯s staying is at the first floor, every time she opens her door, she can¡¯t help not to remember her old room. Her old room is more spacious than the room she¡¯s staying now. She¡¯s just thankful that theplex is clean. Her room is almost empty, no cooking utensils or such, what she only has is a pillow and a nket. She doesn¡¯t even have a foam. She opened the wooden cab and her clothes are gone, even her shoes. ¡°How can you leave in such a ce?¡± Rafael asked frowning. ¡°I don¡¯t know. I just epted it.¡± She said. ¡°What is that big box for?¡± He asked. ¡°Memento.¡± She simply answered as she put her remaining things on the box. It¡¯s good that she managed to persuade Rafael, because knowing Kaylee, she will only get her clothes and shoes. Rafael carried the box without saying anything and went out, making her smile. She¡¯s grateful that he is there to carry the box because she doesn¡¯t know how to carry it especially now that she¡¯s pregnant. She went out of the room and saw Rafael talking to someone on the phone while leaning on his car, but his gaze is still focused on her. She suddenly remembered what he said when they were on the car making her blush. Amber closed the room¡¯s door and remembered that she still hasn¡¯t paid her rentst week, but her bag is in the car. She has no choice but to go back and ask Rafael to wait for her for a little while. ¡°Amber!¡± It was herndy. ¡°Where are you going? You still haven¡¯t paid your rent. You told me that you will give it this week, where is it?¡± Herndy shouted. ¡°You thought, I wouldn¡¯t know that you asked someone to get your things?¡± Their neighbours gathered outside and started to gossip. ¡°Aling Nena, I¡¯m sorry, I¡ª¡± ¡°What now? Are you going to tell me that you have no money to pay?¡± She cut her off. ¡°Are you running away? You have no shame! Sorry! Sorry! Get out from my house!¡± ¡°I will really get out from here! I¡¯ve been keeping up with all of you! You think I wouldn¡¯t know that you¡¯re spreading rumours about me, saying that I¡¯m a prostitute? Ha!¡± She burst out. ¡°I don¡¯t really have a n to run away from my rent. I will just get the money from the car so that I can pay you!¡± She added. ¡°I was just dyed payingst month¡¯s rent due to some matters, you talk as if I¡¯m not paying you on time for the past months! Your other boarders are far worst from me!¡± ¡°Aba! You¡¯re talking back now? What are you proud of?¡± Herndy shouted angrily. ¡°Your tainted body? How many men have touched you, ha?¡± She added making her more agitated. ¡°Are you talking about me or your daughter?¡± She mocked, making herndy¡¯s face pale, even their neighbours gasps in shock. ¡°Do you think I didn¡¯t know about that?¡± She added. ¡°You, bitch!¡± Herndy tried to grab her hair. RAFAEL is curious about the box that he ced on his car¡¯spartment; it seems that it is so important to Amber since she really secured it with packing tapes. He sighed in relief that he didn¡¯t stay at the car since the box is kind of heavy. He¡¯s about to go back to Amber when his phone rang, he doesn¡¯t want to answer it but the caller is his friend, Joshua. He¡¯s been ignoring his call since this morning. ¡°You need something, man?¡± He asked as soon as he answered the call and leans on his car, but his gaze is still at the room where Amber is upying. ¡°I¡¯m f*cked up, man!¡± Joshua said, his voice indicates that he is in trouble. ¡°What happened?¡± He asked. ¡°I made my secretary pregnant!¡± Joshua answered making himugh. ¡°This is not a joking matter, man!¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, can you repeat that again? It seems that I didn¡¯t heard it right.¡± He teased his friend. ¡°F*ck off!¡± Joshua answered making himugh. He saw Amber went out from the room and their eyes meet. He can¡¯t exin what he feels, there¡¯s this angry part of him and the other part is longing for Amber. ¡°Hey! Are you listening?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°Yeah.¡± He simply answered. ¡°So, what¡¯s your n?¡± He frowned when people started gathering Owned by N?velDrama.Org. around the house and there¡¯s woman shouting at Amber. ¡°I requested for a paternity test, I asked Gabriel to do it, but with or without the test, I¡¯m hundred percent sure that it¡¯s mine.¡± Joshua sighed. Rafael can¡¯t also help not to sigh, even if Joshua deny it, he knows that his friends has lingering feelings to his secretary, Danielle and she also feels the same. He wanted to say more but he noticed that the arguments between Amber and the other woman is getting worse. ¡°I got to go, man. I¡¯ll call youter.¡± He said. ¡°And congrats to the both of us.¡± He sarcastically said while walking towards Amber¡¯s direction. ¡°What are you tal¡ª¡± He immediately cuts off the line. ¡°You bitch!¡± The woman tried to grab Amber, but he grabbed the woman¡¯s hand. ¡°Try toy your finger on her and I don¡¯t care if you crawl on the street.¡± He threatened, he looked at Amber. ¡°Are you okay?¡± He asked, worried, in which she nodded as an answer. ¡°What happened?¡± ¡°Who are you? Is she with you?¡± Thendy asked and stared at him from head to toe. ¡°It seems that you¡¯re well-off. Why don¡¯t you pay her rent?¡± She grinned. ¡°How much?¡± Rafael asked as he pulled out his wallet. ¡°Seven thousand and five hundred pesos.¡± She quickly answered making Amber frown. ¡°What?¡± Amber uttered in disbelief. ¡°Five thousand is what we¡¯ve agreed on.¡± ¡°The rent went highst month.¡± Thendy reasoned out. ¡°You!¡± Amber gritted her teeth. ¡°Ten thousand pesos.¡± Rafael said as he handed the money. ¡°Uy! That¡¯s too much.¡± Amber said. ¡°My rent here is just five thousand.¡± She added but he acted as if he didn¡¯t hear it. ¡°My wife will not being back here anymore.¡± He said making the listeners and thendy gasp. She grabbed the key from Amber¡¯s hand and handed it to thendy. After that he grabbed Amber¡¯s hand and made their way to his car. Chapter 4 Chapter 4 ¡°Are you okay?¡± Rafael breaks the silence as he drives. ¡°Yeah.¡± Amber simply answered and looks outside the window. ¡°Is it okay to leave there without settling the issues about you?¡± He asked. ¡°I¡¯m used to it. Besides, I¡¯m not the only one they¡¯ve been gossiping.¡± She answered as she looks outside the window. ¡°What do you mean?¡± He asked curiously. ¡°They¡¯ve been gossiping about me the moment I started renting there.¡± She sighed as she remembers all those gossips about her. ¡°A neighbour started a rumor that I worked at a bar as a prostitute due to a reason that I¡¯m almost not at home. My shift at the restaurant is from eight am to five pm, while it¡¯s six pm to four am.¡± She paused. ¡°They still continued making gossips about me even when I stopped working at the bar. They said that a costumer made me pregnant. I don¡¯t know if there are still gossips about me.¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t do anything to clear your name?¡± He asked. ¡°What for? They¡¯re closed-minded and besides I know what is the truth.¡± She answered. ¡°Maybe now, they¡¯re gossiping about us. I know how people think there.¡± She added as she watched where they were passing until they entered a subdivision. ¡°And that is?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°That you¡¯re one of my costumers.¡± She said, unbothered. She frowned when Rafael parked the car in front of a two-story mansion. If here memory serves her right, this is where Rafael stopped when she persuaded him to go to her apartment. ¡°This is your house?¡± She asked when they get out of the car. Her eyes wandered around and there is a mini-park near the mansion. ¡°Amber, get in here!¡± Rafael ordered who is now at the door step. They went into the living room and it made her flinched. ¡°Something wrong?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°N-no¡­ Nothing.¡± She answered as her eyes wandered around the living room. ¡°Your living room reminds me of something.¡± She said. ¡°Uhm, where should I sleep?¡± She diverted the subject. ¡°I feel tired and I want to rest.¡± She added. ¡°I¡¯ll apany you.¡± Rafael said. ¡°where should I put your things, by the way?¡± ¡°If possible, in the room that I¡¯ll be upying. If that¡¯s okay with you.¡± She answered. ¡°Sure.¡± He said and carried the box. ¡°Follow me.¡± ¡°This will be your room.¡± Rafael said as he puts down the box beside the cab. ¡°This is the bathroom.¡± He said as he opened the door, ¡°and this¡­¡± ¡°a walk-in closet.¡± She said as soon as she sees what is behind the other door. She saw the clothes that Kaylee got from her apartment, and there are also clothes that doesn¡¯t belong to her. ¡°Those are brand new clothes that I ordered for you.¡± He said as if he read what¡¯s on her mind. ¡°There¡¯s np need to worry, for I don¡¯t bring women in my house.¡± ¡°That has nothing to do with me.¡± Amber said. Rafael stared at her and sighed. ¡°Anyway, take a rest. I still have work to do.¡± ¡°Wait.¡± She stopped him. ¡°I have something to give.¡± She said as she go over her bag and bring out a white envelope. ¡°Here.¡± ¡°What is that?¡± Rafael asked, frowning, ¡°My payment from what you¡¯ve given to myndy.¡± She answered. ¡°There¡¯s ten thousand inside.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about that. I won¡¯t ept it.¡± He said. ¡°Please, just ept it.¡± She pleaded. ¡°And why did you have to give her twice the amount of rent? Don¡¯t you know that she¡¯s greedy?¡± she uttered in irritation. ¡°And you?¡± Rafael¡¯s face suddenly be dim. ¡°Are you not different from her? Isn¡¯t the reason why you¡¯re going to marry me is because of my money? You even drag our unborn child in exchange for a f*cking five million!¡± He shouted. ¡°Now,¡± he grabbed her arm. ¡°tell me how different you are from her?¡± ¡°R-rafael, it hurts.¡± She said as she tried to get away from him. ¡°You are more worse from her, Amber! You drag our child to your f*cking schemes!¡± He said as he pushed him unto the bed. ¡°Behind that fucking innocent face lies a devil.¡± ¡°Y-you don¡¯t understand¡­¡± Amber said, crying. ¡°You don¡¯t have the right to be pregnant! And heartless, gold-digger like you is not suitable to be a mother!¡± His words are like a knife that stabs her heart. ¡°I really regretted having sex with you.¡± He snorted. ¡°I guess this is my karma for fooling around¡ªto end up with a trash like you.¡± ¡°Y-you don¡¯t understand why I said those¡ªI was desperate.¡± Amber said in between her sobs. ¡°You don¡¯t have the right to judge me just for that condition I asked.¡± She shouted in desperation. ¡°You don¡¯t know what I¡¯m going through.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t me me, Amber! It was you who puts your self in that position, remember that!¡± He coldly said. ¡°If only you didn¡¯t drag the child into this mess, and just told me the reason then we won¡¯t have any problem.¡± ¡°I¡ª¡± ¡°Whatever you say today will not change how I looked at you, Amber.¡± He cuts her off. ¡°Let¡¯s just end it here today. Take a rest, you need that, not just for yourself but for the baby or else you might lose five million.¡± He mocked. ¡°and by the way, the judge who will marry us wille tomorrow. You should celebrate.¡± Amber cried her heart out when Rafael left her; he is right in many ways, she¡¯s the one who put herself on that situation. She¡¯s the one who decided to ask for a five million instead of asking him for help. ¡°Fuck!¡± Rafael cursed as soon as he opened the door to the bar¡¯s VIP room, where he and he¡¯s friends are upying. His behaviour surprises his friends. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± Gabriel asked and drinks on his vodka. ¡°Fuck man! Just fuck!¡± Rafael said and drinks straight from the bottle of vodka. ¡°How can I be so fucking careless? To think that she¡¯s that kind of woman? Damn!¡± ¡°What is your fucking problem, man?¡± Gabriel asked in annoyance. ¡°Joshua made his secretary pregnant. What about you?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you impregnated someone?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°I remembered what you¡¯ve said earlier before you cut the line.¡± ¡°Cheers man! Congrattions to the both of us!¡± Rafael bitterlyughed and drinks again from the bottle. ¡°But you¡¯re lucky, man.¡± He nced at Joshua who is giving him a questioning look. ¡°Your secretary, Danielle, is such a kinddy, she will surely take good care of your child.¡± N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°What is your point?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°and what the heck is your problem?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°She¡¯s s cold-hearted, woman!¡± He gritted his teeth. ¡°Five million¡ªno, scratch that, thirty million!¡± He bitterlyughed. ¡°Thirty million, that¡¯s the cost of my child¡­ for his safety.¡± ¡°What are you talking about? Who is this woman?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°Amber Santiago, she used to be a waitress here.¡± Rafael answered making his two friends surprised. Gabriel and Joshua looked at each other waiting for him to continue. ¡°Damn her! A devil lies behind that innocent face! I asked her to marry me, I even offered her all my money, my properties, my assets ¡ªmy everything! And you know what, she rejected those which made me happy. At that moment I thought to myself that there is still a woman who doesn¡¯t care about money.¡± Heughed. ¡°But fuck! I¡¯m wrong! I felt disgusted for thinking those things. She agreed to marry me but, in a condition¡­.¡± he bitterlyughed. ¡°I have to give her five million. I will give her that if that¡¯s what she wants but she threatened me¡­ She threatened me to have an abortion! Damn! Shit!¡± Rafael threw the bottle of vodka on the wall. ¡°I won¡¯t allow it, even if I spent all of my fortune until the baby will be born safely, I will!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say.¡± Joshua said and took a shot. ¡°We both impregnated someone but you have a bigger problem.¡± ¡°That¡¯s why I said your lucky with Danielle.¡± Rafael shrugged while opening another bottle of vodka. ¡°Gab, I need your help.¡± He said and nced at Gabriel. ¡°Yeah? What is it?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°Tomorrow, Judge Marquez will being to wed us. I need you to make a contract indicating that I will only give Amber two million after the wedding, and the remaining twenty-eight million will be after the baby is born safe and healthy.¡± ¡°Okay. I can do that.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°But why thirty? I thought she only asked for five.¡± Gabriel asked, curious. ¡°I told her that I will make it thirty, and I you know me, I will never turn back on my words.¡± He seriously said. ¡°How about your properties?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°You said that once you get married, what¡¯s yours will be hers.¡± ¡°Heck no!¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Gab, add on the contract that she will not get anything from me aside from that thirty million. During her pregnancy, I will provide everything so that she and the baby will be healthy and safe.¡± He told Gabriel who just nodded. ¡°I already made it thirty, that should be fair enough.¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t expect her to be that kind of woman.¡± Joshua said shaking his head. ¡°I know right, I was the one who hired her yet I didn¡¯t even notice that she¡¯s that kind of woman.¡± Gabriel said and sighed. ¡°Looks can really be deceiving.¡± ¡°Come on guys! Let¡¯s celebrate!¡± Rafael bitterly said. ¡°Congrattions to us again, Joshua!¡± He added and took a shot. ¡°It¡¯s a shame that the others are not here to celebrate with us!¡± Chapter 5 Chapter 5 AMBER is in the kitchen drinking water when she heard voices inside the house. She is afraid but she mastered her courage to move out from the kitchen and went to the living room, where the noises came from. Even if Nana Mildred said that the vige is safe, she still can¡¯t calm down. Nana Mildred is the head of the housemaid of the Anderson family, she¡¯s the one who took care of Rafael when he is a still a kid. She meet her earlier this evening when she woke up from her sleep. ording to her, the other maids were on a day-off that is why there is no one who weed them when they arrived that afternoon. ¡°Who¡¯s there?¡± She bravely shouted, but no one is in the living room. ¡°Who are you?¡± A baritone voice asked from the stairs. She was stunned to see who it was. ¡°S-sir Gabriel¡­¡± He is one of the owners of the bar she used to work at, and he¡¯s the one who hired her. ¡°Hey, Gab! A little help here.¡± She heard another baritone voice upstairs and was again stunned to see Joshua, another owner of the bar, struggling to support Rafael. ¡°What happened to him?¡± She asked Gabriel, referring to Rafael. ¡°He¡¯s just drunk.¡± Gabriel answered and went up the stairs to help Joshua. She followed them until they ¡°You dimwit!¡± Gabriel cursed at Rafael. ¡°I should be the one being drunk today not you!¡± He sighed. ¡°You should be grateful to us, Rafa, we can just leave you all alone there!¡± Joshua said. ¡°Oh, look who¡¯s here.¡± Joshua said when he looked at her. ¡°It¡¯s nice to see you again, Miss Santiago or should I say soon-to-be Mrs. Anderson.¡± He said while smiling but that smile didn¡¯t reach his eyes. ¡°I don¡¯t know what you are scheming but don¡¯t think of doing something bad to Rafael¡¯s child. Take good care of the baby inside of you.¡± Joshua threatened. ¡°Judge Marquez will tomorrow afternoon so that Rafael can rest.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°You should also take a rest. We will be the ones to lock the door and gate.¡± He said and they left them. Amber approach Rafael to remove his shoes, then she went to the kitchen. Shees back with a towel and warm water. She slowly unbuttons Rafael¡¯s polo but he¡¯s resisting her. ¡°S-stop! I¡¯m getting married tomorrow!¡± He said and shoving her away. Amber was shocked by his action but she patiently continued unbuttoning his polo even though he¡¯s shoving her many times. She sighed in relief when she finished wiping him and put his clothes on him. Rafael¡¯s been saying her name countless of times making her heart beats fast. She sighed for the nth time, she nces at Rafa, Owned by N?velDrama.Org. who is sleeping soundly. Amber is in a deep slumber but was awakened by her phone ringing. She doesn¡¯t want to answer it but the caller is Kaylee. ¡°Hey, how are you?¡± Kaylee asked from the other line. ¡°I¡¯m fine.¡± She answered, her eyes still shut closed. ¡°But you called so early.¡± She grunted. ¡°Early?¡± Kaylee asked in confusion. ¡°It¡¯s already ten in the morning, my friend.¡± Kaylee giggled. ¡°Hmm? Ten?¡± She suddenly opened her eyes and checked the time. ¡°Oh, great!¡± She sighed and stood up from the soft bed. She suddenly missed her room at the rest house her parents gifted her. ¡°Amber? Are you still there?¡± Kaylee asked, she put the phone in loudspeaker since she ced it on the bedside table. ¡°Ah, yeah. Sorry.¡± She answered. ¡°Are you free to talk now? I¡¯ll just visit you during your day-off.¡± She asked, worried that Antte might pick on Kaylee. ¡°Yep, it¡¯s my free time!¡± Kaylee said in joy. ¡°There are rumors going around here that you¡¯re not going to said. ¡°I will miss you here.¡± ¡°I will miss you, too.¡± She said, sad that she will not see her friend for a while. ¡°Let¡¯s just hang out when you¡¯re avable. You should go back to your shift, or else ma¨¢m Antte will pick on you.¡± ¡°This Saturday, let¡¯s go hang-out, I am excited to bug you about your pregnancy and to think that it is Sir Rafael¡­¡± She teased. ¡°Stop it, Kaylee.¡± She warned making thetterugh. ¡°And by the way, Ma¡¯am Antte is not working here anymore. Sir Rafael fired her yesterday, that us why the fifteen minutes break of the staff is implemented. And everyone is now working harmoniously.¡± Kaylee said. ¡°And right now, a friend of Sir Rafael is filling in the manager position for a while.¡± ¡°Is that so, then that¡¯s great. The good working environment will improve the work of the staff.¡± She said. ¡°Uhm, do you have any idea why Raf¡ªSir Rafael fired Ma¡¯am Antte?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know the exact reason but it has something to do with Ma¡¯am Antte kicking your stomach yesterday.¡± Kaylee answered. ¡°Sir Rafael is now aware of how she manages the restaurant and the employees. And L¡ªSir Lohan, the one who is acting as a manager for a while witnessed how Antte maltreated the employees that is why she¡¯s fired immediately and Sir Rafael didn¡¯t give her a rmendation.¡± Kaylee exined. ¡°I¡¯ll see you on Saturday, friend. We have a full house today, and the staff needs a hand.¡± ¡°Okay. See you.¡± They bid their goodbyes before ending the call. She is lucky to have a friend like Kaylee; the first time they meet each other, she can¡¯t believe that she¡¯s a waitress. Kaylee has a fair skin and her hands are smooth and you can immediately know that she¡¯s not used doing chores. Almost all of her things are branded that made her suspect that Kaylee is hiding something but she didn¡¯t ask anyway because she, herself is hiding something. Chapter 6 Chapter 6 AFTER ending the call with Kaylee, Amber fixed her bed and went to the bathroom to take a bath. She chooses a red blouse for her top and ck leggings then a slip on for her footwear. ¡°Nana Mildred.¡± She called as soon as she entered the kitchen but was taken aback when she saw Rafael brewing his own coffee. His wet hair and his after-shower scent indicates that he just took a bath. ¡°G-good morning.¡± She stammered greeting him. ¡°Morning.¡± He said casually. ¡°Are you hungry? I¡¯ll ask Nana Mildred to prepare our breakfast.¡± ¡°Sort of.¡± She answered as she drinks a ss of water. ¡°Go and make yourselffortable in the dining room.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I¡¯ll be there in a second.¡± Amber¡¯s about to leave when Nana Mildred entered the kitchen. ¡°How is your sleep, hija?¡± She asked amber, smiling. ¡°It¡¯s good, Nana, that¡¯s why I overslept.¡± She answered. ¡°That¡¯s great, you need plenty of sleep now that you¡¯re pregnant.¡± She said. ¡°Take a seat and I¡¯ll just prepare your breakfast. By the way, do you want milk?¡± ¡°I already made milk for her, Nana.¡± Rafael said who is now holding two mugs. He nced at her. ¡°Let¡¯s go to the dining room.¡± He said and he went out of the kitchen. ¡°Nana Mildred, when will the other helperse?¡± She asked. ¡°I think they¡¯re on their way now, hija.¡± Nana Mildred answered. ¡°Sir Rafael is not strict so we just work in our own pace, for him, the result of the work is more important.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡± ¡°You should go and follow Sir Rafael in the dining room. I will serve the food in a moment.¡± Nana Mildred said; she just nods her head and went to the dining room; there she saw Rafael talking to someone on the phone, she quietly took a seat. ¡°Did you prepare what I asked you to?¡± Rafael asked to the one he was talking to while staring at her. ¡°Okay, thank you, Gab.¡± He said and ended the line. ¡°So, how was your first night here? Did you sleep well?¡± Rafael asked her. ¡°Yes, thank you.¡± She answered as she took a sip on her milk. ¡°And thank you for the milk.¡± She said and he nods as an acknowledgement. ¡°By the way, Judge Marquez will be here after lunch.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Ah, yeah. Sir Gabriel mentioned itst night when they brought you here.¡± She said making him frown. ¡°Why are you still awake? Gab mentioned that it was past midnight when they brought me here.¡± Rafael asked seriously. ¡°I-I was making milk because I can¡¯t sleep.¡± She exined, his stern expression was reced by a calm one. ¡°Then it was you who changed my clothesst night¡­¡± ¡°Y..yes, you reek of alcohol so I wip¡­¡± she can¡¯t help not to blush, just thinking about his naked body¡ª those abs and muscles, makes her gulp; and it seems that Rafael noticed her red cheeks because the corner of his lips raised. ¡°Anyway, can I go out thising Saturday?¡± She diverted the subject, making him frown again. ¡°Where are you going?¡± He seriously asked. ¡°Ehm, that day is Kaylee¡¯s day-off¡­¡± ¡°We are supposed to go to Baguio on Saturday.¡± Rafael said making her upset, and curious what they will do there. She was about to asked when Nana Mildred came. Amber and Rafael were both silent as Nana Mildred serve the food. ¡°On the other hand, let¡¯s just go to Baguio on Sunday.¡± Rafael said when Nana Mildred left them, making Amber¡¯s face light in delight. ¡°You¡¯re not kidding?¡± Amber asked not believing what he just said, her red lips are smiling wide. ¡°Just take care of your self and don¡¯t exhaust your self too much.¡± ¡°Yes! Thank you!¡± She happily stood up and hug Rafa. ¡°Thank you so much, Rafa!¡± ¡°Is that how you show your gratitude?¡± Rafael asked, pulling her in hisp and wrapped his hands on her waist. ¡°Rafa!¡± Amber¡¯s eyes widened as he slowly closes the gap between them. ¡°This how you show your gratitude to your husband.¡± Rafael said and gave her a mind-blowing kiss. ¡°You¡­you¡¯re still not my husband.¡± Amber said when the kiss ended. ¡°Soon, hon. Soon.¡± Rafael smirked. ¡°We¡¯re just counting hours and you are soon to be mine.¡± Rafael said and captured her lips again. ¡°You have the softest lips that I ever kissed.¡± He said when they parted. ¡°Should I take it as apliment or an insult?¡± Amber asked, raising her eyebrow. But Rafael didn¡¯t answer and stared at her beautiful face. ¡°Hey! I might melt.¡± Amber said, but Rafael just smiled. ¡°Now, I know why there are many women flocking over you.¡± She said and cupped his face. ¡°If our baby is a boy, he will surely be your doppelganger¡ªa handsome man. But I hope he will not be like you who will make a lot of woman cry.¡± ¡°So, you¡¯re saying that I¡¯m handsome?¡± Rafa smirked. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°I don¡¯t remember saying that you¡¯re not good looking.¡± She said making himugh and hisughter is like a music to her ears. ¡°You know, if our baby turns out to be a girl. I¡¯m sure she will not get anything from me. She will surely inherit your looks.¡± ¡°And why are you saying that?¡± Rafa asked. ¡°You have a strong gene!¡± Amber said and slightly smack his shoulder. ¡°I saw your family portrait in the living room and I notice that you¡¯re just the exact doppelganger of your father and it seems that you didn¡¯t get anything from your mother.¡± She said making Rafaelugh. ¡°You¡¯re wrong on that part, hon.¡± Rafael said. Hon¡­ That sounds like music to her ears. ¡°I did get something from my mother¡­¡± Rafael said and sighed, making her arc her eyebrow. ¡°We both don¡¯t know how to cook.¡± Rafael said making her speechless. ¡°You?¡± She uttered in disbelief. ¡°You own one of the prestigious restaurants in the country and you don¡¯t know how to cook?¡± ¡°Uh-huh.¡± He said in delight. ¡°I don¡¯t know how to cook but I enjoy eating. Now that I think about it, I just started the restaurant business without an absolute n. It didn¡¯te to mind that it will be sessful.¡± ¡°Did you not learn how to cook?¡± Amber asked. ¡°I tried but it seems that cooking is not my thing.¡± He smiled. ¡°I nearly burned my parent¡¯s house.¡± He said making herugh. ¡°Oh boy! I hope our baby will not be like you.¡± Amber said shaking her head. ¡°But whoever our baby inherits, the important thing is that he or she will not experience the same hardships I¡¯ve gone through.¡± Amber said and bitterly smiled while caressing her stomach. Rafael on the other hand seemed confused on her actions and the words she uttered. What does she mean hardships? Is she just pretending? Why does it seem that the woman in front of her now is different from the woman he confronted at the hospital¡ªthe one who heartlessly threatened him to abort the baby if he will not agree to her terms. ¡°Let¡¯s eat.¡± Amber said. ¡°The food might get cold.¡± She while getting up, she took the seat adjacent to him. She even took the initiative to put food in his te. ¡°Is that enough?¡± She asked; he frowned when he noticed the food, howe he didn¡¯t notice it when Nana Mildred is serving the food? ¡°That¡¯s enough. Did you request for this?¡± He asked. ¡°Yes.¡± Amber said while putting food on her te. ¡°Nana Mildred asked mest night what do I want to eat since you only had pancakes for breakfast.¡± She added. ¡°And I¡¯ve been craving for pork adobo with lots of pineapple.¡± ¡°Okay¡­¡± His eyes wandered around the table. ¡°so, where is my pancakes?¡± ¡°I told Nana Mildred not to make some, you need to eat proper breakfast.¡± Amber said and looks at him. ¡°Let¡¯s pray then we can eat.¡± Amber said and closed her eyes, and started to pray. Rafael closed his eyes too, listening to Amber. ¡°Hmmnn¡­ Nana Mildred is a good cook.¡± Amber said, smiling. ¡°It made miss my mother¡¯s cooking.¡± ¡°Why? Where is your mother?¡± He asked; he¡¯s curious why Amber is living on her own in a rundown apartment like that with no things. ¡°My parents are dead.¡± She bitterly smiled. ¡°Oh! I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t know.¡± He quickly apologized. ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± She said. ¡°We didn¡¯t even know each other until recently and now we¡¯re getting married.¡± She said softly, making him unable to hear. ¡°Are you saying something?¡± Rafael asked frowning. ¡°None.¡± She quickly answered, and put a slice of pork on his te. ¡°Just eat, Nana Mildred cooked it deliciously.¡± Chapter 7 Chapter 7 AMBER is busy ying with her phone while lying on her bed when Rafael suddenly entered her room and quickly approached her. ¡°Rafael!¡± She screamed his name in surprised as she stood up. ¡°Can you at least knock? What if I¡¯m naked and you suddenly barged in?¡± ¡°Then that¡¯s great! If that¡¯s the case then you¡¯re already moaning loudly right now.¡± Rafael said making her instantly blush. ¡°You¡­¡± She was surprised when Rafael quickly grabbed her wrist and pull her closer to him, giving her a kiss. ¡°I wanted to ravish you here, right now¡­¡± Rafael said, staring at her. ¡°Behave!¡± She warned making Rafaelugh. ¡°Kidding aside, judge Marquez is already here and is waiting for us.¡± He said. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± He said pulling her hand and they went downstairs. She was curious why Joshua and Gabriel are there, maybe they serve as a witness. Judge Marquez didn¡¯t stay long, he just let them signed their marriage certificate. Starting from that day on she is now Amber Santiago-Anderson. She doesn¡¯t know what will happen to her now, but she¡¯s willing to take the risk especially now that she¡¯s starting to feel something to Rafael. But it is still early to say that¡­ ¡°Congrattions, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson.¡± Judge Marquez said. ¡°I will go now, since I have works waiting for me at the office. I will just send your marriage certificate once it is done.¡± ¡°Thank you, Judge.¡± Rafael said before the guest leave. ¡°This is the contract you¡¯ve asked me, Rafael.¡± Gabriel said opening his ck attach¨¦ case and bring out a brown folder. Rafael, her husband from now on, gets the document on the folder and reads it. ¡°Amber¡­¡± Rafael called her name, she¡¯s actually nervous¡ªshe can feel that something is going on. ¡°I need your signature here.¡± Rafael said handing her the document and a sign pen. She didn¡¯t say anything; she grabbed the document and read it. The document is actually a contract¡ªa contract stating that she will not get anything from Rafael except for the thirty million and the things she will use during her pregnancy, it also states that she will only get an advance of two million. The remaining twenty-eight million will be given to her once she safely delivers the baby. The contract even states that she will only be Rafael¡¯s wife in name only. ¡°Do you have any questions?¡± Joshua coldly asked; she sighed in secret, Joshua¡¯s attitudes towards her now is different when she¡¯s still working at the bar. It is true that Joshua is a womanizer like Rafael, but he didn¡¯t hit or even tried to hit her, ¡°No, it is just¡­¡± She sighed. ¡°Why? Is it not enough?¡± Rafael asked frowning, gone is the Rafael who she teased with a while ago. ¡°No, it is actually more than enough.¡± Amber said. ¡°But this is too much, I only need five million, so I¡¯m sorry I cannot sign this.¡± She said. ¡°Can you state your reasons why?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°I¡¯m okay that I will not get anything from Rafael once I¡¯ve given birth, at least, he will still provide a roof over my head and food to fill my stomach and of course being a mother to our child.¡± Amber said and looked at Rafael who is staring at her with those serious eyes. ¡°As long as you provide the things I need during my pregnancy then we¡¯re good, but the amount is too high, Rafa.¡± She said and sighed. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I cannot sign this.¡± ¡°What is it that you need to sign that damn contract?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Just five million, Rafael. And you must give that in full.¡± She said, sounded desperate, she needs to pay the debt in full in a couple of months. Rafael frowned and scanned her face. ¡°No.¡± Rafael sternly said, making her upset. Can she able to reason out to Mister Lim? ¡°Two million is enough as an advance, Amber and I can¡¯t give you more than that for now. And as stated on the contract I will give you the remaining twenty-eight once you¡¯ve given birth to a healthy baby.¡± Rafael added, serious. ¡°Okay, I understand.¡± She sighed. ¡°But can thirty million is too much, Rafa. I only asked for five.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯m okay that I will not get anything from you after I give birth. But this is too much.¡± ¡°Where will you use the huge amount, anyway?¡± Rafael asked. She didn¡¯t want to answer and averted her eyes. She can feel the gaze of three men at her, waiting for an answer. ¡°Answer me, damn it!¡± Rafael shouted making flinch. ¡°I¡¯m sorry¡­ I can¡¯t answer that now¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡± She said, there are still things she needed to check Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. before opening up to Rafael. She heard Rafael cursed slowly. ¡°I have already deposited that two million on your ount. You can check itter and whatever you want with it.¡± Rafael coldly said and stormed out the house. ¡°I don¡¯t know what are your reasons but I still think that you¡¯re a kind-hearted person.¡± Joshua said. ¡°Said the person who is also having troubles with his woman.¡± Gabriel asked making stared daggers on him. ¡°Damn you, man!¡± Joshua cursed and stormed out the house. Gabriel justughed and nce at her, ¡°I don¡¯t know what you¡¯re going through, Mrs. Anderson, but I hope you can talk to Rafael about it.¡± Gabriel said while fixing his things. ¡°In my line of work, I know if a person is hiding something.¡± He added. ¡°And I can easily have you investigated but without Rafael¡¯s head up, I can¡¯t do that. Joshua is not as good as me in judging a person, but I can agree with him that you¡¯re kind-hearted.¡± He added as he grabs his attache case. ¡°Take care, Mrs. Anderson, see you around.¡± He started walking away from her. ¡°Wait!¡± She blurted, making him stop. ¡°Is there something you forgot?¡± He asked. ¡°About the contract¡­¡± she is hesitant to continue. ¡°Go on.¡± Gabriel said, his interest perks up. ¡°The amount is really too much, and Rafael will not change his mind, right?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Gabriel answered. ¡°Then please add on the contract that once I give birth, he will give me the whole three million¡ª" ¡°Mrs. Anderson, it seems that you don¡¯t understand.¡± Gabriel interrupted, his eyebrows forming one line. ¡°Let me finish first.¡± She said. ¡°Rafael must give me the whole three million, and he must help me put up my own coffee shop with the remaining twenty-five million.¡± ¡°A business?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°You?¡± ¡°Yes, since I will not get anything from him after giving birth, I might as well start a business to busy myself with and earn, so that I can also provide something to our child.¡± She answered. ¡°Rafael may go against it, but tell him that it will be an alternative for me to agree to sign the contract.¡± She determined added. ¡°Okay. I will talk to Rafa about this.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°Thank you.¡± She gratefully said; Gab just nodded his head and headed to the door. She sighed and took a seat on the couch, since Rafael is persistent on giving her thirty million, she decided to grab the chance¡ªjust get the five she needs and used the remaining to build up her own coffee shop. She loves coffee and it was her dream to have her own caf¨¦; she sees this as an opportunity so might as well grabbed it. Chapter 8 Chapter 8 AMBER sighed and leaned her head on the couch. She¡¯s not different from being a gold-digger. She doesn¡¯t know if she will be happy or sad that at least she has two million to give to Mr. Lim. A tear slowly escapes her eyes, she¡¯s using her child as an excuse and it pains her. ¡°Hija, what do you want to have for a snack?¡± Nana Mildreding from the kitchen. She quickly wiped her tears. ¡°I..I¡¯m okay, Nana.¡± She answered; she¡¯s embarrassed, for sure, the olddy already knows what the real score between them and Rafael. ¡°I didn¡¯t say anything yesterday but I already had a hunch especially when Rafael mentioned that he will marry you. I am not in a ce to judge, but you should try opening yourself to Rafael.¡± Nana Mildred said making her cry. Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to do, Nana Mildred.¡± She said. ¡°I really need that money and I really do regret dragging our child just to get that.¡± She said in between her sobs. Nana Mildred hugged her, trying to calm her down. ¡°If only I could go back in time, things will be different.¡± ¡°Shh¡­ Stop crying, hija.¡± Nana Mildred said stroking her head. ¡°You may not go back in time but you can just be honest with yourself and tell Rafael about it.¡± She added. ¡°Will that be worth it, Nana?¡± She asked. ¡°I mean, Rafael already thought that I¡¯m some girl who want to get my hands on his wealth.¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t that because that¡¯s what you made him think?¡± Nana Mildred said making her sigh; the olddy is right; it was her who made him think that way. She shamelessly asked for five million because she¡¯s really desperate. She wanted to cut her connection with Mr. Lim by paying her father¡¯s debt. The clearing the debt is one thing she wanted not because she wanted to be debt-free but she can sense that Mr. Lim wants something from her. ¡°I don¡¯t know what are your reasons but you can count on Rafael. I know that he will be a good husband and a father.¡± Nana Mildred smiled and wiped her tears away. ¡°He is not the type to just marry someone because he made you pregnant. He can just give financial assistance and im the baby once delivered but he didn¡¯t do that.¡± ¡°Thank you, Nana.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°Please, don¡¯t tell Rafael anything what we¡¯ve talked about.¡± ¡°If you say so.¡± Nana Mildred smiled. ¡°I will go to my room and take a rest, Nana.¡± She said. ¡°Okay. And I will continue cleaning the house while waiting for Tess and Dina.¡± ¡°Can I help you with something, Nana?¡± She asked, worried that the work might be too hard on her. ¡°No, it¡¯s okay, hija. All I have to do is just to dust off the furniture and sweep.¡± She said. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about me, Tess and Dina are on their way.¡± ¡°Okay¡­¡± She was hesitant to go to her room but Nana Mildred assured her. When she entered her room, she took her phone on the bed and check her ount. Rafael really did transfer two million on her ount. All she needs to do is to give it to Mr. Lim, she decided that she will meet the man on Saturday before meeting with Kaylee. She lies down on the bed and shutting her eyes close, she wants to take a nap, but hours passed and she still can¡¯t sleep. She stood up wandered around the room thinking of what to do; she thought of roaming around the mansion but she changed her mind when she saw what¡¯s outside the window. It is a beautiful garden with different varieties of flowers and in the middle is a fountain, there is even a pond on the side of the garden. She grabbed her phone and took a photo of the breath-taking view. The view reminded her of her mother¡ªwho is a nature lover, it was her mother who made her appreciate the beauty of nature. Amber¡¯s mother is the one who take goods care of their garden, and she always nts different varieties of flowers and nts. There is a wide garden on their resort before where guest can go and take a stroll, it was her mother who is hands-on taking care of those. But that ident took it all from her. She¡¯s not contented on just viewing the garden so she went to the garden. She started weeding and watering the nts; the joy and excitement she feels at that moment is the same as when her parents are still alive. Together with her mother, they would water the nts while talking about things, while her father is on the balcony ncing at them while reading. If being a nature lover is what she got from her mother, her father influenced her in reading books. His father will not end his day without reading a book or two. ¡°What are you doing?¡± A baritone voice echoed throughout the garden¡ªit was none other than Rafael, her husband. It is four in the afternoon when Rafael got home, after storming out the house earlier, he went to his restaurant. Joshua and Gabriel followed him there, and they knock some senses on him. ¡°Nana Mildred, where is Amber?¡± He asked the olddy who is arranging the flowers. ¡°I saw her going to the garden, hijo.¡± Nana Mildred answered. ¡°Is Tess and Dina back?¡± He asked. ¡°Yes, they just got back.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good then, so that you¡¯re not the only one doing the chores here.¡± He said. ¡°I will go and see Amber.¡± ¡°Wait Rafael.¡± Nana Mildred stopped him. ¡°I know that I¡¯m in no ce to say this to you but don¡¯t hastily judge, Amber. It seems that your wife is having troubles.¡± She said. ¡°I know that you heard what happened a while ago, Nana.¡± Rafael said, making her nod. ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean that you should judge her by what she chooses to show you. Wait for her to slowly open up to you, Rafael. I¡¯m sure you will see the goodness in her heart.¡± Nana Mildred said and leave him thinking about what she had said. ¡°Wait for her to slowly up, eh?¡± Rafael sighed and went to the garden. There he saw Amber happily watering the nts. ¡°What are you doing?¡± He asked making her dropped the hose due to shock. ¡°Goodness, Rafa!¡± She red at him and picked up the hose. ¡°don¡¯t do that again, you will be the cause of my death!¡± she said and continued watering the nts. ¡°Why are you doing that?¡± He asked. ¡°And why not?¡± She asked not looking at him. ¡°Nana Mildred already had her hands full; I can¡¯t let her do this.¡± She added and turned off the faucet. ¡°Besides, I¡¯m done.¡± She said with a smile on her face¡ª a smile that is not pretentious. He approached her and grabbed the hose from her. ¡°Let¡¯s go inside and talk about the contract.¡± He said. ¡°Okay.¡± Amber said, her cheerful smile turned into a bitter one. They went inside straight to Rafael¡¯s study room. Amber is seated on the couch when Rafael handed her the contract. ¡°I will not sign that if the terms I asked is not included.¡± She sternly said, making Rafael sighed. ¡°Just read it.¡± Rafael said. Amber red at him as she grabbed the contract from him and started reading it and a smile slowly formed on her lips. Earlier in the restaurant, Gabriel told him what Amber wants. ¡°Is this true?¡± Amber asked, her face is beaming with happiness. ¡°You wanted a caf¨¦ then a caf¨¦ it is.¡± He said crossed arm and leaned on the table. ¡°Oh, Rafa!¡± Amber eximed and stood up; he was surprised when Amber hugs him. ¡°This means a lot!¡± she added. ¡°Are you that happy?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Yes!¡± Amber said, still hugging him. ¡°Happy enough to kiss me?¡± Rafael asked, as he ced his hands on her waist. He can feel her body flinched. He didn¡¯t give her chance to answer, he captured her lips. Ater while, his lips touched her neck and slowly kissed it, a soft moan escaped Amber¡¯s lips. ¡°U-ugh¡­¡± Amber moaned again as he continued kissing her neck leaving hickies. Rafael brushed her lips with his and stared on her eyes, he smirked as she slowly responded on her kisses. He slightly slid his tongue across her lips. He felt that Amber is slowly craving for more as their kiss deepened. His hand started to roam around her body, his right arm slid unto her t-shirt making Amber moan, as she felt ticklish. He slowly touched her breast, and he can feel her erected nipples beneath her bra. Rafael continued to tease her body with his hands, he massaged her breasts the same as kneading a dough. He slid his other hand down to her skirt and reached inside her panty; he can sense that she¡¯s starting to get wet. ¡°It seems that you¡¯re already wet, wife.¡± Rafael smirked, making Amber blush. ¡°N-no, I¡¯m¡ªOh!¡± She closed her eyes as she moaned when he touched her core. ¡°Damn you, Rafa!¡± She said, making him chuckle, as he continues to y with her breast and core¡ªteasing her. ¡°Do you want more, wife?¡± Rafael asked as he slid his finger to her core, making her moaned and stared at the ceiling. Her reaction is making him turned on. ¡°R-rafa! U-ugh!¡± Amber moaned. He slowly moved his fingers making Amber moaned some more. ¡°Tell me you want more, Amber¡­¡± He whispered to her ears. ¡°A-ahh, what are you doing to me, Rafa?¡± amber said in between her moans. He was about to kiss her when they heard a knock on the door. ¡°Rafael, you have a visitor.¡± It was Nana Mildred. Damn! Chapter 9 Chapter 9 RAFAEL is irritated and frustrated as he walks down the stairs. Who the heck would suddenly pay him a visit as he and Amber is on the middle of doing something? He left out a groan when he saw his friend, Lohan sittingfortably on the couch. ¡°What the heck, Lohan?¡± He grunted. ¡°What the hell are you doing here? Unannounced?¡± ¡°I¡¯m here to see who is your wife.¡± Lohan grinned. ¡°The heck, man!¡± Rafael uttered in annoyance and throw the throw pillow at his friend. ¡°Ohh, did I disturb your honeymoon?¡± Lohan¡¯s grin be wider. ¡°It is still early though.¡± He teased. ¡°What do you want?¡± He grunted. ¡°Well, the gang prepared a party for you and your wife.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Amber can¡¯t go, she¡¯s resting.¡± He said. ¡°Too bad, she can¡¯te with us.¡± Lohan said making him frown. ¡°You will being with me, whether you like it or not.¡± Lohan said and grabbed his arms. The next thing he knew, he¡¯s already seated on Lohan¡¯s car. ¡°Why did you even prepare a party?¡± He curiously asked. ¡°first, you got married and Joshua will be next.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Originally, it is supposed to be you who got married early.¡± He said making Lohan sighed. ¡°I know right, if only my bride didn¡¯t run away.¡± He said. ¡°Am I not the marrying type?¡± He left out a bitter Rafael couldn¡¯t find a word tofort his friend. Lohan is right, among them he is the only one who didn¡¯t y around, his attention is only focused to his fianc¨¦e. ¡°I¡¯m sorry for being dramatic.¡± Lohan saidter on. ¡°It was supposed to be yours and Joshua¡¯s night.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± He said. ¡°So, did you already talk to her?¡± He asked. They are aware that Lohan has been tracking down his runaway fianc¨¦e but he didn¡¯t have the courage to talk to her. ¡°Yes.¡± Lohan answered. ¡°But she didn¡¯t tell me my she ran.¡± He sighed. ¡°But at least I have her close to me so that¡¯s enough.¡± ¡°You should¡¯ve talk to her though. That would help resolving the misunderstanding between the two of you.¡± Rafael said making his friendugh. ¡°And that¡¯s reallying from you, eh?¡± Lohan said in between hisugh. ¡°It¡¯s ironic, isn¡¯t it?¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°Anyway, let¡¯s just forget our troubles tonight and drink till we drop!¡± Lohan said as he speeds up the car. After a while they arrived at Lohan¡¯s house, they went immediately to his backyard. ¡°Seriously, Barbeque?¡± Rafael asked in disbelief. ¡°That¡¯s the n, to throw a barbeque party for you and Amber, and Joshua and Danielle.¡± Phil said. ¡°Where¡¯s Jon?¡± He asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know, he¡¯s not answering my calls.¡± Joshua said. ¡°It seems that he and Samantha broke up.¡± He added with a sigh. ¡°He made another woman pregnant.¡± ¡°What?¡± Gabriel said dropping the tongs, he is the one grilling the meat. ¡°Jon? As in Jonathan who is loyal and faithful to Samantha?¡± ¡°Unfortunately, yes.¡± Joshua sighed. ¡°From what I heard, Samantha is so broken. Jonathan really loves Samantha, that¡¯s why he had a hard time choosing to break up with her.¡± ¡°But why does he need to break up with Samantha? He can just give child support.¡± Lohan asked. ¡°You all know that Jon is an adoptive son of his parents.¡± Joshua answered. ¡°He doesn¡¯t want his children to experience the hardships he experienced when he was still not adopted by his adoptive parents.¡± Joshua sighed. They all knew the story of the hardships Jon had faced during his childhood. When they are still in college, Jon is always shy to hang around them because he thought that they only befriended him because of his surname¡ªLevine, and he is just Joshua¡¯s cousin. It took them months before Jon slowly open his self to them. ¡°Where is Rafael, Nana Mildred?¡± Amber asked, she just woke up from a nap and went to the kitchen to drink water. ¡°I saw his friend dragging him and they drive off somewhere.¡± Nana Mildred answered. ¡°Oh, is that so¡­¡± She sighed in relief; she doesn¡¯t know how to face Rafael after what happened between them in his study. When Nana Mildred knocked to informed them about Rafael¡¯s visitor, she was actually close on cumming and she wanted him to continue but instead she pushed him away. Just thinking about it make her blush. Is what she¡¯s feeling a respond of her body or it is due to her pregnancy hormones. ¡°What do you want for dinner, hija?¡± Nana Mildred asked her. ¡°Rafael will surely dine outside with his friends.¡± ¡°If that¡¯s the case¡­ can I go over some ingredients, Nana? I¡¯ll see if there would be enough for a vegetable sd.¡± She said; she went over the vegetables and she smiled when all the ingredients she needs is avable¡ªlettuce, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, grapes and apples. ¡°Do we have olive oil, Nana?¡± ¡°Yes, we have.¡± Nana said making her smile wide. ¡°Tell me if there is something you still need.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­ Nana, do we have pork?¡± She asked, but she¡¯s rampaging through the fridge. ¡°Oh, we have.¡± She said pulling it out. ¡°What do you n on cooking, hija?¡± Nana Mildred asked. ¡°We¡¯ll have fried pork chop and vegetable sd for dinner.¡± Amber said putting the frozen pork on the basin full of water to defrost. ¡°Is that okay with you, Nana?¡± She asked making the olddy frown. ¡°Since Rafael will be eating out, I¡¯ll be lonely if I will eat alone. So I¡¯m thinking that you, Tess and Dina will join me.¡± She said making the olddy shock. At the same time Tess and Dina enters the kitchen. ¡°Oh, just in time!¡± she eximed. She asked the two if they¡¯re okay with the menu and just like Nana Mildred, they are shocked. ¡°Are you sure that it¡¯s okay, Ma¡¯am Amber?¡± Tess asked. ¡°Of course.¡± She answered, smiling. ¡°How about we all make the dinner for tonight?¡± She suggested. ¡°So that we can all go to sleep early.¡± She added, the three helpers are hesitant at first but due to Amber¡¯s stubbornness they eventually agreed. AMBER woke up when she felt that someone is staring at her and stroking her hair¡ªit was none other than Rafael. ¡°Did you just got home?¡± She asked in her sleepy voice. ¡°Yeah.¡± Rafael answered while staring at her. She can smell the alcohol on his breath. ¡°You¡¯ve been drinking.¡± She said, Rafael just smiled. ¡°You should go and clean up so that you can sleep.¡± He didn¡¯t say anything but in a glimpse of time he¡¯s already on top of her. ¡°R-rafa¡­¡± she moaned when he kissed her neck. He continued kissing her neck and leaving hickies. ¡°Ahh¡­ Not there Rafa.¡± She said. ¡°It will be hard to cover that.¡± She said making him chuckle on her neck and it send chills on her body. ¡°So, where do you want me to put a hickey on you, wife?¡± Rafael asked staring at her, amusement is evident on his eyes. She can feel her cheeks bing hot, so she pulled the nket until her face to hide her embarrassment. Her action made Rafael burst outughing, and he lied down on her side. ¡°You don¡¯t have to hide everything from me, Amber.¡± He said. ¡°I already saw every inch of your body.¡± He said making her blush some more. ¡°Stop!¡± She said still behind the nket. Rafael stoppedughing and pulled her in his arms, making it more hot for her who is hiding behind the nket. ¡°Why don¡¯t we try to work on this marriage?¡± Rafael suddenly asked making her pull down the nket Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. until her neck and looked at Rafael who is staring at her. His eyes are shouting seriousness and there is no hint of teasing or what-so-ever. ¡°w-what are you saying?¡± She asked, still confused why Rafael is saying that. ¡°Let¡¯s work our marriage out, Amber. We got married because of the baby and not because we love each other, but let¡¯s try to work things out. Let us give our child a family he deserves.¡± He said. ¡°But the contract is still in effect, right?¡± She asked. She will only be his wife in name only. Rafael didn¡¯t answer. ¡°Anything will work for me, Rafael, as long as I can have what I¡¯ve asked.¡± She added making him Rafael sigh. ¡°Of course.¡± He said. ¡°Anyway, I heard that you fired Antte.¡± She asked, suddenly remembering what Kaylee had told her. ¡°Yes. She¡¯s the reason why there are negative reviews on the restaurant, and that hadn¡¯t happened before.¡± He sighed. ¡°And I cannot forgive her for kicking your stomach!¡± Rafael gritted his teeth. ¡°She did?¡± She asked; she has no recollection of Antte kicking her. ¡°You fainted that¡¯s you don¡¯t know.¡± Rafael said. She can¡¯t help not smile, Rafael really cares for their baby and he¡¯s willing to do anything just for the baby to be safe. ¡°I heard that a friend of yours temporarily fill the managerial position.¡± ¡°Uh-huh.¡± He said burying his face on her neck. ¡°But that¡¯s not what we are going to talk about tonight.¡± He said and started kissing her until he reached her lips. The room temperature started heating up. Amber remembered what happened in his study and her body suddenly bes hot, she wanted to feel him. And Rafael didn¡¯t fail her, the room was filled with their moans. Chapter 10 Chapter 10 Rafael woke up in Amber¡¯s room and his wife is nowhere to be found; he wears his clothes and went to Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. his own room. He took a shower and went downstairs; he saw Tess sweeping the floor. ¡°Did you see Amber?¡± He asked. ¡°She¡¯s in the garden, sir.¡± Tess replied. He nodded and went to find his wife. Wife. He never once envisions his self calling someone his wife at the age of 28. He is expecting his self to marry at the age of 34 or so. He arrived at the garden and found his wife watering the flowers again, for a moment he imagined his mother and Amber happily talking in the garden while watering the nts. His mother is nature lover and the garden in his house is one of his mother¡¯s request. When his mother visits him, she would always check the garden and make sure that it was well taken care off. Rafael slowly and quietly approached Amber and suddenly hugged her gasps. ¡°Rafa!¡± She red at him and pinched his right hand using her free hand. ¡°I told you not to startle me.¡± She added. ¡°I can¡¯t help it, you¡¯re adorable every time I startle you.¡± Rafael chuckled, giving her an idea. ¡°Is that so¡­¡± She said and sprinkled the water on them. ¡°Hey! I just took a bath!¡± Rafael said and let go of her, his reaction made Amberugh. ¡°Too bad. I still didn¡¯t take a bath.¡± She teased and continue spraying the water on him. ¡°So, that is how you y, eh?¡± Rafael smirked and grabbed the water hose from her and started spraying the water on her. ¡°S-stop it!¡± She screamed but Rafael didn¡¯t stop; he had other ns. He pulled her in his arms and pulled the hose making the water sprinkled on them. ¡°Hey! We¡¯re both wet now.¡± Amber said, her hands on his chest. ¡°That doesn¡¯t matter.¡± Rafael grinned and captured her lips. Her lips is so addicting that he can¡¯t get enough kissing her. ¡°R-rafa¡­¡± Amber moaned his name when their lips separated; their forehead were touching. ¡°Every time we kiss, we end up doing something.¡± She said, her cheeks are blushing. ¡°Now that you mentioned it¡­¡± Rafael smiled¡ªmore likely he widely grinned. ¡°I know that look in your face.¡± Amber slightly pushed him. ¡°I¡¯m still sore fromst night.¡± She blushingly said making Rafaelughed. He indeed can¡¯t get enough of herst night and he took her multiple times. ¡°I know.¡± Rafael said and moved away from her to turn off the water sprinkler. ¡°Let¡¯s go and fix ourselves.¡± He said intertwining their fingers. ¡°My goodness! What happened to the both of you?¡± Nana Mildred asked in horror upon seeing them drenched in water. ¡°It is Rafael¡¯s fault, Nana.¡± Amber said pouting. ¡°It is my fault now?¡± Rafael asked and chuckled. ¡°Should I remind you how we ended up drenched?¡± Rafael asked and grabbed her by the waist. ¡°Behave!¡± Amber said putting a finger on his lips. Rafael grinned and pecked her fingers making Amber¡¯s eyes grew wide. ¡°What were you saying?¡± He teased. Amber red at him and pinched his waist. ¡°That hurts.¡± He ¡°Heh! It¡¯s your fault!¡± She rolled her eyes. Seeing the two of them bickered made Nana Mildred smiled, it means that their rtionship is progressing. ¡°why don¡¯t you go up and dry yourselves.¡± Nana Mildred said, smiling. Rafael pulled Amber by his side¡ªhis arm on Amber¡¯s waist. ¡°Hon, Nana Mildred said that we should dry ourselves.¡± Rafael said smirking. ¡°I know a fastest way to dry us up.¡± He whispered. ¡°Arrgh! Rafa!¡± She uttered in embarrassment. ¡°Nana Mildred is in front of us.¡± She warned, but Rafael is not bothered by it¡ªinstead he justughed it off. She is about to leave Rafael when she remembered something, she looked at Nana Mildred. ¡°Nana, can I ask a favor?¡± She asked. ¡°Yes, what is it?¡± Nana Mildred asked. ¡°Can you please cook Bicol express for lunch? And can you make it super spicy?¡± She said, her eyes are glistering; just thinking about it makes her mouth water. Bicol express is a spicy food made of pork, chillies, coconut milk, shrimp paste, onion and garlic. ¡°Are you sure about that?¡± Rafael asked, worried. ¡°You might not take it.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry about it, Rafa.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯m really craving for Bicol express.¡± ¡°Bicol express it is, but Nana will make it not super spicy as you want it to be.¡± Rafael said. ¡°If you insist on what you want, I will decide on what we will have for lunch.¡± Rafael said sternly. ¡°Fine!¡± Amber pouts, making Rafael smile. ¡°Good girl.¡± Rafael said and intertwined their fingers. ¡°What else do you want?¡± He asked. ¡°Hmm¡­ Do we have vegetables for pinakbet? It¡¯s been a long time since I eat that.¡± She said after thinking hard. Pinakbet is an indigenous Filipino dish from the Northern regions of the Philippines. It is made from mixed vegetables¡ªbitter melon, string beans, eggnt, squash,dy finger and pork, steamed in fish or shrimp sauce. ¡°Yes, we have. I¡¯ll cook it for you then.¡± Nana Mildred answered. ¡°How about you, Rafael, do you have something in mind?¡± She asked. ¡°No, I¡¯m okay with what Amber wants.¡± Rafael answered. Nana Mildred nodded and went to the kitchen. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go and dry ourselves.¡± He said and pulled her to the stairs. ¡°what do you want for dessert?¡± Rafael asked as they climb up the stairs. ¡°Pizza?... No¡­ Hmm¡­ Cake?... No¡­ Ice cream?... No! Arrgh!¡± Amber pouts as she can¡¯t made up her mind. ¡°Are all pregnant women like you?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°You can¡¯t make up your mind.¡± ¡°I guess.¡± She shrugged making Rafael sighed. ¡°Oh, I know! Why don¡¯t we go and buy pizza, ice cream, cake and donut!¡± ¡°All of that for dessert?¡± Rafael asked in disbelief. ¡°Uh-huh!¡± Amber nodded, she looks like a child who is excited to get what she wants. ¡°Fine.¡± Rafael sighed. How could he say no to her? ¡°Thank you!¡± Amber kissed him on his cheeks and smiled widely. ¡°Oh, before I forgot, can I go to the grocery with Nana Mildredter?¡± She asked. ¡°Yeah, sure. Just don¡¯t tire your self too much.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Thank you.¡± Amber sweetly smiled. ¡°Yeah.¡± Rafael said, they stopped when they arrived at Amber¡¯s room. ¡°Go and dry yourself.¡± He said and give her a kiss on the forehead before turning to his room. RAFAEL is having a headache reading the documents and his phone keeps on ringing and ringing. He doesn¡¯t want to pock it up, that is why he is just letting it ring but the caller can¡¯t get him. He answered the phone in annoyance without looking who the caller is. ¡°What took you so long to pick up your damn phone?¡± It was Joshua and his irritation. ¡°Damn! Can¡¯t you get it that I don¡¯t want to be disturbed?¡± He asked back in annoyance. ¡°Whatever! I called to say that me and Danielle will go to Baguio tomorrow.¡± Joshua said making him closed his eyes. ¡°And what do I have to do with that?¡± He asked massaging his temple. ¡°Maybe you have an idea what¡¯s happening on the hotel?¡± Joshua¡¯s voice became serious. ¡°Then you¡¯ve already read it.¡± He gritted his teeth. ¡°Yeah and I swear, I¡¯m going to fire that employee!¡± Joshua said; even if he¡¯s on the other line, he¡¯s voice indicates that he is angry. ¡°That would be nice, Josh. I¡¯ll leave it up to you. I don¡¯t want to deal with her myself, I may forget that she¡¯s a girl.¡± He said; embezzlement is something that they can¡¯t forgive. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll see you on Saturday.¡± Joshua said. ¡°We can¡¯t go on Saturday.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I¡¯ll see you on Sunday or Monday.¡± He added. ¡°Fine by me.¡± Joshua said before cutting the line. He ced his phone on the table and is about to continue reading the documents when he heard a knock on the door. He sighed as he stood up and went to open the door. He frowned when he saw his wife in front of him. ¡°Is there a problem?¡± He asked. ¡°I¡¯m here to call you for breakfast.¡± Amber said but her eyes drifted to the shelves inside his study room. ¡°Do you have books here?¡± She asked and looked at him. ¡°Yes, but more on business-rted books.¡± He answered. ¡°Ah, is that so¡­¡± He noticed the disappointment in her eyes that immediately vanished when she smiled. ¡°Anyways, let¡¯s go and eat breakfast. But if you¡¯re busy, I can just get you coffee and pancakes.¡± She suggested. ¡°No, I¡¯ll join you.¡± Rafael said pulling her and giving her a mind-blowing kiss. ¡°I really can¡¯t get enough of your sweet, red lips.¡± He said as he give her another kiss. ¡°Rafa! I told you, I¡­¡± ¡°I know, but I don¡¯t really want to let go of your lips.¡± Rafael said grinning. ¡°Sheesh!¡± Amber stomped her feet making him chuckle. She looks like a kid throwing a tantrum and for a moment he can see a small Amber throwing tantrum on him for not giving her what he wants. ¡°Let¡¯s go an eat or else we might end up doing something!¡± She said and pulled his hand. Rafael didn¡¯t say anything and just followed her while looking at their hands; he can feel sparks whenever they touch and it is the first time he¡¯s experiencing this. He cleared his throat. ¡°So, what did you ask Nana Mildred to cook for breakfast?¡± He asked. Amber stopped and grinned at him. ¡°What?¡± ¡°You¡¯ll see.¡± She answered still grinning. They entered the dinning room and he saw pancakes on the table, his coffee is also ready. They took a seat and Amber ced a piece on his te. ¡°How¡¯s the taste?¡± Amber asked when he took a bite; he looked at her with questioning eyes. ¡°I remembered when Nana Mildred said that you usually have pancake for breakfast so, after having a bath, I made some using my own recipe.¡± Amber said. ¡°So, that is why the taste is different from usual.¡± He nodded and took another bite. ¡°It is delicious and fluffy.¡± He said making her smile. ¡°Thank you.¡± She said still smiling. ¡°I was thinking that since we¡¯re going out to buy the food you¡¯ve been craving for, why not also go to the grocery?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°We can just get the list from Nana Mildred.¡± He added. ¡°Sure, that would be convenient, so that Nana can have take some rest.¡± She said and took a sip on her milk. Rafael nods. ¡°Anyway, we have a library upstairs. You can just enter and grabbed a book to read on.¡± Amber looked at him in delight. ¡°You didn¡¯t roam around the house for the past days?¡± He asked frowning, Amber just shake her head but still smiling from ear to ear. ¡°Fine, I¡¯ll take you thereter.¡± He sighed. ¡°Thank you, Rafa, you¡¯re the best husband any woman could ask for!¡± Amber said and continued eating her food delightfully. Chapter 11 Chapter 11 It is already night time and Amber and Rafael is in the library, after they had their dinner, Rafael showed her around the house. As she already knew which room is which on the first floor, Rafael made her familiarize herself on the second floor. There are three bedrooms in the second floor¡ªthe master¡¯s bedroom, which is Rafa¡¯s, and two guest rooms. Then his study room, and there is even a theatre room and the wide library. ¡°Have you found something?¡± He asked. ¡°Yep.¡± Amber happily answered and showed him a book. ¡°Since you¡¯ve been gone by Carlene Thompson.¡± ¡°Nice pick. My mom loves that book.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Really?¡± Her eyes grew wider in shock. ¡°Uh-huh. She read that countless of times.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Then it must be a great book, then.¡± Amber said. ¡°My mom also used to read this, but when I was about to start reading it¡­¡± She sighed. ¡°Why? What happened?¡± He asked. ¡°My mom died.¡± She answered, sadness was visible on her lovely face. He waited for her to continue talking but she remained quiet and stared at the book. He knew that there¡¯s more to it but he doesn¡¯t want to ask his wife. He¡¯ll wait until she¡¯s ready to open herself to him, full. ¡°By the way, where are your parents?¡± Amber asked, changing the subject. ¡°They¡¯re happily travelling around the globe.¡± Rafael shrugged. ¡°Thest time I heard from them, they¡¯re in Greece.¡± He said. ¡°Are you not in contact with them?¡± Amber asked frowning. ¡°I actually want to be in contact with them but they¡¯re the ones who doesn¡¯t want to be disturbed.¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°When they¡¯re in Japan, I kept calling them every now and then to ask if they¡¯re okay because there¡¯s a strong typhoon there, and my mom got pissed.¡± He said. ¡°She told me that it¡¯s okay if I called them every now and then to ask if they¡¯re okay but what is not okay is that to call them every 30 minutes.¡± Heughed. Amber smiled upon hearing his story, he must really love and value his parents. And if he¡¯s like that then he can be a good father to their child. ¡°That is why I never got the chance to tell them that I got married.¡± He shrugged. ¡°They must be really happily inlove with each other.¡± She said. ¡°Yeah and I¡¯m happy for them.¡± Rafael said as he stares on his wife¡¯s innocent face. And I am hoping that we can work out our marriage, but that would not happen if I don¡¯t know who you really are. You are too different when ites to money¡­ could it be that you¡¯re hiding something? ¡°Rafa¡­¡± Amber called out his name. ¡°Hmmm?¡± ¡°Bake me some chocte chips.¡± Amber orders making his jaw dropped. ¡°What?¡± He asked in shocked. ¡°I said, I want chocte chips and you should bake some for me.¡± Amber said. ¡°And don¡¯t dare to ask someone, I want you to bake it.¡± ¡°Fine.¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°I guess, I should be thankful for my mom on forcing me to learn how to bake.¡± Rafael said and pinched the tip of her nose. ¡°Hmm¡­ I¡¯ll help you.¡± Amber said with glistering eyes. He didn¡¯t say no because she might throw a tantrum. ¡°Then, let¡¯s go.¡± He said and held her hand. ¡°Do you want it sweet or not too sweet?¡± He asked when they entered the kitchen. ¡°Not too sweet.¡± Amber answered. ¡°Do you need something, Ma¨¢m, sir?¡± Dina asked, who just finished cleaning the kitchen. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Dina. You can go and sleep.¡± Amber said. Dina nodded leave them on the kitchen. ¡°Hon, we don¡¯t have enough ingredients.¡± Rafael said whose face can¡¯t be read; he opened the cabs and drawers but still no avail. ¡°Is that so¡­¡± Amber said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, let¡¯s just have it next time.¡± She added as she opens the refrigerator to fine something to eat but to no avail. There are foods and snacks but she doesn¡¯t want to eat it yet. ¡°Do you want to go out and look for chocte chips?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°No need, it¡¯s alreadyte.¡± She said as she opened the drawer and saw a chocte syrup. She grabbed it and an idea crossed her mind. ¡°Where will you use that?¡± Rafael asked frowning. She seducingly smiled and approached him. ¡°On you.¡± She whispered and bit his ear. ¡°Rafaaa!¡± Amber called her husband. ¡°Is it still not cooked?¡± She asked. ¡°I already emptied my te.¡± She acted like a child. ¡°What?¡± Rafael frowned. ¡°The te is full a moment ago.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know, when I checked it, it¡¯s already empty.¡± She pouts. ¡°Who would eat it if it¡¯s not you?¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°This will be thest, so that we can take a rest already.¡± Rafael said transferring the fries on her te. ¡°Ehh, it¡¯s delicious.¡± Amber reasoned out. ¡°Yehey!¡± Amber eximed while pping as Rafael ce the te full of fries in front of her and immediately puts chocte syrup on the fries. ¡°Where will you use that?¡± Rafael asked frowning. She seducingly smiled and approached him. ¡°On you.¡± She whispered and bit his ear. ¡°Amber!¡± He warned but his eyes were filled with desire. ¡°Haha.¡± Amber burst outughing. ¡°You and your naughty mind.¡± Amber said trying to stop herughter. ¡°I suddenly want fries. Cook some for me.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know how to cook, amber.¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°Besides, where will you use that syrup?¡± ¡°Jeez! Stop with the questions and start peeling the potatoes.¡± Amber said in annoyance. ¡°Watch your tone, wife!¡± Rafael warned. ¡°Aarrgh! Rafael, the baby wants fries!¡± Amber said with a high pitch making him sigh. Lesson number 1, don¡¯t argue with a pregnant woman. ¡°Fine.¡± He said and wash the potatoes and grabs the peeler. Upon seeing this, Amber smiled. She grabs the knife and started slicing the potatoes he already peeled. ¡°What now?¡± He asked making Amber looked at him with questioning eyes. ¡°I mean, what¡¯s next?¡± ¡°Oh, yeah.¡± Amber said upon realization. She gets the frying pan and turned on the stove, then she added the cooking oil when the pan is hot enough. ¡°I already put salt on it.¡± Rafael said when she¡¯s about to put salt on the potatoes. ¡°Okay, thanks.¡± She smiled. ¡°And now, fry the potatoes.¡± She said making Rafael groaned. ¡°It¡¯s okay, it¡¯s not like you¡¯re going to burn the house down.¡± She added. Rafael had no choice but to put some potatoes on the boiling oil. Owned by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Here, drink your milk.¡± Rafael said and handed her the cup of milk when she finished eating thest piece of fries. ¡°Go and sleep, I¡¯ll wash the dishes.¡± Rafael said when she finished drinking the milk. ¡°No, I¡¯ll be the one to wash it.¡± Amber said. ¡°You should be the one going to sleep, I know that you will be early tomorrow.¡± ¡°Amber, it is bad¡ª¡± ¡°Rafa, washing the dishes is not a hard task. Don¡¯t worry too much, I will not endanger our child, okay? I know my limitations. Please?¡± Amber said sternly, when Rafael didn¡¯t answer, she grabbed the chance to start washing the dishes. ¡°I¡¯ll just help you then, if I can¡¯t stop you.¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°Thank you.¡± Amber said and smiled. ¡°Isn¡¯t it nice to do this once in a while?¡± Amber said while washing the te with soap. ¡°I am now thinking what you should cook next.¡± ¡°Amber!¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°You¡¯re already aware that I don¡¯t know how to cook.¡± ¡°But you did cook earlier.¡± Amber said giving him the te with soap. ¡°All I need is fried it, Amber.¡± Rafael said. ¡°well whatever! You can¡¯t stop me from wanting to eat what you cook.¡± She said. ¡°I can burn down this house, you know.¡± He said. ¡°And for your information, I nearly burned my parents¡¯ house when I was young. Since then, my parents prohibited me from cooking.¡± ¡°Are you for real?¡± Amber¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°But you did a good job today, though.¡± She said. ¡°Should I thank you?¡± Rafael smiled. ¡°Nah! I didn¡¯t do anything though.¡± She said, giving him the pan. And washed her hands. Rafael did the finishing touches before drying his hands. ¡°You don¡¯t need anything else?¡± He asked. ¡°None.¡± Amber answered and shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m fully satisfied now.¡± She grinned. ¡°So it was really you who wanted to eat fried potatoes?¡± His eyebrow arced. ¡°Oops! Busted.¡± Amber grinned. Rafael didn¡¯t say anything and grab the chocte syrup and not forgetting the whipped cream on the counter. ¡°Where are you going to use that?¡± She asked. Rafael grinned seductively and approached her. ¡°I will use it on you.¡± He whispered and bit her ear. Amber gulped, she already knows that she¡¯s doomed. This will be a very long night¡­ Chapter 12 Chapter 12 ¡°Let¡¯s make this marriage work, Amber.¡± Rafael said while giving her a kiss on her temple. They are both lying on the bed, naked under the sheets of the nket. ¡°And I¡¯m serious, Amber.¡± He added. Amber doesn¡¯t know what to react, she pinched herself for how many times to make sure that she¡¯s not dreaming. But on every pinched she does, she feels the pain. ¡°Hey! Stop doing that.¡± Rafael said and grabbed her hand. ¡°You¡¯re hurting yourself.¡± He added and kissed her cheeks that are now red due to her pinching. ¡°I know that it is hard to believe, but I really do want this marriage to work. I want to work things up with you.¡± ¡°But you don¡¯t really know me, Rafael.¡± Amber said, her eyes are filled with worry. ¡°That may be true, bute to think of it, you also don¡¯t know me, Amber.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Isn¡¯t this a perfect time for us to get to know each other better?¡± He asked. ¡°What can you say?¡± ¡°O-okay.¡± She softly agreed making Rafael smiled and kissed her forehead. ¡°But there is only one rule,¡± Rafael said staring at her eyes. ¡°We will not talk about money, the contract or anything that is rted to money.¡± He continued. ¡°I noticed that we are fighting when ites to those.¡± He added. ¡°Okay.¡± Amber agreed; she thought that she¡¯s the only one who noticed that the major reason of their fight is money but she thought wrong. She, herself also wants to stop their fighting and to work out their rtionship just for their unborn child. They can just be civil to each other. ¡°Sleep now, wife.¡± Rafael said pulling her in his arms. ¡°We will be busy tomorrow.¡± He said, perking her interest. ¡°And why is that?¡± She asked. ¡°We will go to the restaurant tomorrow.¡± Rafael informed making her flinch. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± He asked ying with her hair. ¡°I¡¯m not confident paying a visit there, Rafa.¡± She sighed. ¡°There might be rumors about me circting there.¡± ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry, Amber. I will be there with you.¡± Rafael reassured her but she can¡¯t keep still, her heart felt heavy. ¡°You didn¡¯t do anything bad for them to gossip about you.¡± ¡°Marrying your boss is enough for them to talk about me.¡± She sighed and moved closer to Rafael. ¡°Don¡¯t think too much about it.¡± Rafael said giving her a kiss on her forehead. ¡°Sleep tight.¡± ¡°Hmmm¡­ Good night, Rafa.¡± She said before drifting to sleep. ¡°I¡¯ll just wait for you here in the car.¡± Amber said when Rafael parked his car outside the restaurant. ¡°We already talked about this, Amber.¡± Rafael said and held her cold hands. ¡°You¡¯re worrying too much, hon.¡± ¡°But¡­¡± ¡°Hon, everything will be okay. I am here with you and whoever tried to spread rumors about you will be personally dealt by me.¡± Rafael sternly said and give her a reassuring look. Amber nervously nodded. Rafael smiled before going out the car, and opened the door for her. Rafael holds her hand as they approached the entrance. ¡°Good morning, Sir Rafael.¡± Benny, the security guard greeted as he opened the door. Benny is the security guard from Gabriel¡¯s security agency. ¡°Sir Lohan is waiting for you.¡± He added. ¡°Good morning too, Benny.¡± Rafael smiled; he¡¯s always generous when ites to his employees really respect him. ¡°I want you to meet Amber, my wife.¡± He introduced Amber making the guard awed in shock. ¡°Miss Amber?¡± He eximed. ¡°Good morning, Benny.¡± Amber shyly greeted. ¡°So, the rumors circting around that you are Sir Rafael¡¯s girlfriend is true, and now you¡¯re married to him.¡± Benny uttered in shocked. ¡°No wonder, Sir Rafael fired Antte immediately. I wonder what would be her reaction when she learned that you¡¯re Sir Rafael¡¯s wife now. She used to pick on you before.¡± He tsk. ¡°That is why I didn¡¯t hesitate to fire her upon learning that she¡¯s abusing Amber and the other Owned by N?velDrama.Org. employees.¡± Rafael said and enveloped his around on Amber¡¯s waist, pulling her closer to him. ¡°Hey, man! I¡¯ve been waiting for you for a long time.¡± A loud voice caught their attention, they turned around and she was shocked to see who it was. The man was evidently shocked but it seems that Rafael didn¡¯t noticed it. ¡°Hey, bro. Sorry, we werete.¡± Rafael said pulling her closer. ¡°I thought both of you will not make it.¡± The man said looking at Amber with questioning eyes. ¡°Amber this is Lohan Marquez, a good friend of mine and he¡¯s the son of Judge Marquez.¡± Rafael introduced. ¡°He is a friend who just recently showed up.¡± He added making Lohan grimaced. ¡°Let¡¯s just say that I¡¯m exploring ces.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Most likely, looking for your runaway fianc¨¦.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Whatever man, whatever!¡± Lohan shook his head and looked at her. ¡°It¡¯s nice to meet you, Amber.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Who would¡¯ve thought that you will be Rafael¡¯s wife.¡± He added with a smile stered on his face, but she knew better that what he meant has another meaning. ¡°Same here.¡± She said, making her voice casual, and looks around to ease the awkwardness she feels. ¡°Ehm, there¡¯s no customer?¡± ¡°We will openter for dinner, I guess, since both of you werete.¡± Lohan answered. ¡°And what does it have to do with us?¡± Rafael asked, frowning. But Lohan just grinned. ¡°Wait here.¡± He said and went to the kitchen. Then one by one, the employees formed a line but they are surprised upon seeing her. ¡°What¡¯s happening?¡± Amber softly asked Rafael. ¡°I have no idea what¡¯s happening.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°I guess this is Lohan¡¯s idea.¡± He added. ¡°This is to celebrate Rafael¡¯s wedding to Miss Amber Santiago, or should I say Mrs. Amber Anderson.¡± Lohan said smiling. ¡°Two days ago, Rafael and Amber got married hastily because Rafael here is head over heals to Amber and he can¡¯t wait to call her his wife.¡± Lohan grinned at Rafael. ¡°Oh, boy!¡± Rafael sighed, while Amber doesn¡¯t know how to react, she can¡¯t even look at her co- workers. ¡°Congrattions.¡± The employees greeted them. ¡°I know it is sudden but thank you.¡± Rafael said, smiling. Amber couldn¡¯t say anything and just smiled there. Rafael can feel her being tensed so he held her hand tightly. ¡°Now, bring out the cakes!¡± Lohan announced and the kitchen door suddenly opened and a four- ¡°I prepared all of this for you two.¡± Lohan grinned. ¡°Not only that, I asked the chefs to cook your favorites.¡± He added. ¡°So, how is it?¡± Lohan asked. ¡°You¡¯re really crazy, Lohan.¡± Rafael said shaking his head before looking at his employees. ¡°Thank you for all of this,¡± he said and ncing at the decorations that they just noticed. ¡°As Lohan said, we were married hastily because I can¡¯t just let go of Amber.¡± He smiled sweetly and looked at Amber who is speechless. ¡°You probably know Amber as she used to work here, I am not aware that she¡¯s working here, she kept it a secret from me, because she knows that I will not allow it.¡± ¡°Then that exins why every time you pay a visit, Amber is alwayste.¡± One employeemented. ¡°Yes.¡± Rafael smiled. ¡°Some of you are here even though it is your day-off, thank you.¡± He smiled. ¡°And Lohan¡¯s sry for the whole month will be doubled and be distributed to all of you.¡± He said making his employees cheered. Chapter 13 Chapter 13 ¡°Lohan¡­¡± Amber was shocked to see Lohan leaning on the wall when she opened thefort room¡¯s door. It seems that he followed her there. ¡°It¡¯s really nice to see you¡­ again, Amber.¡± Lohan said looking at her eyes. ¡°Lohan¡­¡± she uttered his name. ¡°I¡¯m happy that you¡¯re okay.¡± He said and hugged her tight. ¡°Mom is worried sick thinking of you.¡± He added and released her. ¡°We can¡¯t move without Uncle Leo¡¯s signal.¡± He added making her curious. ¡°I¡¯m just d that¡­¡± he sighed. ¡°Anyway, you don¡¯t have to worry about a thing, I will not say a thing to Rafa.¡± ¡°Thank you, Lohan.¡± She said. ¡°Please tell Auntie that I¡¯m in good hands.¡± She added. ¡°And about Uncle Leo, how is he and his family? After I sold all our properties, they are nowhere to be found.¡± She asked and she noticed that Lohan flinched. Uncle Leo is their family¡¯swyer and a close friend of her parents. ¡°I..I also haven¡¯t heard of them.¡± Lohan answered. ¡°Dad has something important to tell you, I just talked to him on phone earlier. Imagine his shock when he saw you after how many months.¡± He sighed. ¡°It¡¯s good that he managed to control his self from hugging you.¡± ¡°I was also shocked to see him two days ago and I was embarrassed at the same time.¡± She sighed. ¡°What does he want to say?¡± ¡°He still hasn¡¯t registered your marriage contract he wants to know your decision.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Even if he¡¯s a close friend of Rafa¡¯s father, he still puts you first.¡± He added making her surprised. Judge Timothy Marquez is one of her parents close friends and he treats her as his own daughter, because Lohan is an only child. His shocked face when Rafael introduced her is still fresh on her mind. ¡°Please tell Uncle to register it, Gabriel will surely have it checked. Besides, Rafa and I already talked about our marriage and we decided to somehow make it work.¡± ¡°Are you sure?¡± Lohan asked, worry is evident on his grey eyes. ¡°Yes, don¡¯t worry.¡± She smiled. ¡°If you say so¡­¡± Lohan sighed. ¡°I am really happy to see you again, and I¡¯m sorry if I was not there when you needed someone to depend on.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be silly.¡± She smiled. ¡°I know what you¡¯ve been going through during those times.¡± ¡°Amber?¡± A familiar voice called her name, she immediately turned around and hugged her. ¡°Kaylee!¡± She happily eximed while hugging her tight. ¡°I¡¯m so happy to see you again.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll leave you two then, I will go and see Rafael and the others.¡± Lohan said. Earlier Gabriel and a man named Phil joined them for the simple celebration. Joshua cannot make it because he and his fianc¨¦e went to Baguio, and Jon is having troubles of his own. ¡°Okay. Thank you.¡± Amber said. Lohan nodded and nced at Kaylee. She can feel that something is going on with the two. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°So, what¡¯s with you and Lohan?¡± She asked Kaylee as soon as Lohan is far enough not to hear. ¡°W¡­what are you saying?¡± Kaylee stuttered. ¡°There is something between your look on each other.¡± She teased. ¡°He¡¯s a good catch, my friend. He¡¯s a responsible one. He owns Venus studio, though I don¡¯t know why he¡¯s here.¡± She added. ¡°There¡¯s nothing going on between us.¡± Kaylee said. ¡°But you on the other hand have Sir Rafael and now you also have Sir Lohan.¡± Kaylee teased. ¡°Lohan is a childhood friend.¡± Amber said. ¡°But you and Lohan look good together.¡± She teased making Kaylee blushed. ¡°See! You¡¯re blushing!¡± She teased whileughing. ¡°Jeez! Stop it, Amber.¡± Kaylee said covering her mouth. ¡°Someone might hear you and will get the wrong idea.¡± ¡°Fine, fine!¡± Amber said trying to stopughing. ¡°You¡¯re the one who is supposed to be on the hot seat and not me.¡± Kaylee said then grinned. ¡°So, you¡¯re now, Mrs. Anderson, eh? And you didn¡¯t even tell me that Sir Rafael is the father of your baby.¡± She said and there¡¯s a hint of sulkiness on her voice. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I didn¡¯t really know that he¡¯s the owner of the ce.¡± She said making Kaylee frown. ¡°But Sir Rafael told everyone earlier that he has no idea that you¡¯re working here.¡± Kaylee said. ¡°What he said earlier were all lies; he doesn¡¯t want me to be embarrassed.¡± She said. ¡°But it is true that he has no idea that I work here.¡± ¡°Then you really don¡¯t know that he¡¯s the owner of this ce?¡± Kaylee asked making her nod. ¡°Gosh!¡± Kaylee closed her eyes and sighed. ¡°You¡¯re the only one who doesn¡¯t know that this ce is famous around the country, and Sir Rafael is the owner.¡± ¡°Believe me, I really don¡¯t know. Imagine my shock when I woke up in the hospital and saw him there.¡± She shook her head. ¡°You have a lot of exining to do, youngdy.¡± Kaylee said. ¡°I know, I was actually going to tell you tomorrow.¡± She smiled. ¡°Oh, yeah, about tomorrow¡­¡± Kaylee is hesitant to speak. ¡°I have an urgent matter to attend to.¡± Kaylee managed to say. ¡°Oh, is that so? Then it is a good thing that Rafael insisted toe here then.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯ll make it up to you one of these days.¡± Kaylee said before linking her arm to hers. ¡°So, spill the beans today.¡± She grinned. ¡°Fine.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°But let¡¯s go to the table on the corner that is not too close to others.¡± She added. While they¡¯re looking for a table, she took a nce at her husband who is cheerfully talking to his friends. And all the employees they passed by congratted her and she returned it with a smile and gratitude. ¡°Did you enjoy your day, hon?¡± Rafael asked his wife, they just got home from MJ restaurant. ¡°Yes.¡± Amber sweetly smiled. ¡°I finally talked to Kaylee.¡± Her sweet smile suddenly vanished. ¡°But our date for tomorrow is cancelled, she has an urgent matter to attend to.¡± She pouts. Rafael smiled and pinched her nose. ¡°That¡¯s okay. If you want, you can go out tomorrow and stroll around town.¡± He said. ¡°That¡¯s a great idea!¡± She excitedly eximed. ¡°Will we have our date tomorrow?¡± She asked making Rafa sighed. ¡°I have a meeting tomorrow.¡± Rafael said making the smile on Amber¡¯s face slowly disappeared. Aside from the restaurant he owns, he is actually the acting CEO of the Anderson corporation, he¡¯s father is away, so he has to fill in the position for a while. ¡°Is that so.¡± Amber said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I understand.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I would love to spend the day with you tomorrow but¡­¡± ¡°I understand.¡± Amber said and hugged him. ¡°By the way, what were you talking with your friends earlier? It seems that it is serious, especially when you received a call.¡± She asked. ¡°Oh, that.¡± Rafael sighed and wrapped his hands on Amber¡¯s waist. ¡°It was Josh who called, and it has something to do with our hotel branch in Baguio.¡± ¡°Why? What happened?¡± ¡°An employee stole things from the guests, and the guest are journalist from Phil¡¯s magazinepany, who is there to feature the hotel. At the process, it was also known that she¡¯s been doing that for a long time already. The problem is there¡¯s no report given to me or Josh. That is why I was so shocked when I read the column.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Phil? Isn¡¯t he your friend? Didn¡¯t he checked the output first before giving the permission to publish?¡± Amber asked. ¡°He didn¡¯t notice that column, and it waste when he saw it. The volume is already published and distributed throughout the country. The good thing is he stopped the shipping to other countries.¡± Rafael said and pulled her to the couch. ¡°That would be a huge lose for Phil.¡± Amber said. Rafael looked at her and sighed. ¡°Yes, it was a huge lose on his part, that is why Josh and I covered it.¡± ¡°How about that employee?¡± Amber asked. ¡°And aside from theft, she¡¯s been embezzling from the hotel.¡± Rafael added making her shocked. ¡°Joshua fired her, and we will file a case but the problem is that there¡¯s no evidence that she¡¯s the one stealing.¡± ¡°But the embezzlement?¡± She asked. ¡°There¡¯s a strong evidence so there¡¯s nothing to worry.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°And besides, Gabriel is our ¡°Well, I kind of rte to your situation now because it also happened to us. A trusted emp¡ª¡± She was cut off when Rafael¡¯s phone suddenly rang. It was also at that moment that she suddenly realized something¡ªit was too early to spill the beans. ¡°Go on, answer it. It might be urgent.¡± She smiled. Rafael stared at her, wanting to ask something but he just erased the thought and answers the call. Chapter 14 Chapter 14 AMBER sighed as she puts down her phone, she just finished talking to Mister Lim on the phone. They will meet tomorrow and she will give the two million as an advance. They agreed that they will meet on the parking lot of a mall just near the bank. At first, he is hesitant to get the advance, what he wants is for Amber to pay the full five million but she pleaded until he agreed. She is about to take a bath when she heard a faint knock on the door, and it sprang open¡ªas expected it is his husband, Rafael. ¡°Why?¡± She asked. ¡°For you.¡± He said handing him a small paper bag. She grabbed it and frowned when she saw what¡¯s inside¡ªit is thetest model of a phone. ¡°I don¡¯t need it, Rafa.¡± She said and putting the phone¡¯s box inside the paper bag and handed it to him. ¡°Besides, I already have my own phone.¡± She said while getting her phone on the bed and showed it to him. ¡°Same model.¡± She added, making Rafael surprised and curious. ¡°I thought¡­¡± Rafael sighed and didn¡¯t continue what he is about to say, but she already can guess what he is about to say. Well, he can¡¯t me her husband, when Rafa is around, she didn¡¯t bother to bring out her phone. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I understand.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°I can¡¯t afford to sell this since it is thest present I got from my parents.¡± Rafael nodded. ¡°Can I borrow your phone for a moment?¡± Rafael asked and she didn¡¯t hesitate to give her phone. She thought that maybe Rafa will check if it¡¯s original or just an imitation. But she¡¯s shocked that after a while he returned it to her. ¡°I already save my number; I also called my own number so that I can save yours.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Now, I don¡¯t know what should I do with this.¡± He sighed and looked at the paper bag he was holding. ¡°Return it?¡± Amber answered with a question mark. ¡°Ehm, I¡¯m sorry, I should have told you that I already have a phone.¡± She said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, it is partly my fault for not asking.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Maybe I can just sell it to Phil, he broke his phone earlier.¡± He added. ¡°I¡¯ll go ahead and reach him before he can buy.¡± He added and exited her room. Amber sighed and took a seat on her bed, she can sense it that Rafael is starting to doubt her identity. ¡°I don¡¯t know how you managed to get two million but I don¡¯t really care, all what I want is to get my money back.¡± Mister Lim said as he finished checking the bag full of bills. ¡°You could just have transferred it to my ount, why bother withdrawing this huge amount?¡± ¡°It¡¯s a long story.¡± Amber said. ¡°Well, I don¡¯t really care.¡± Mister Lim said. ¡°I expect the remaining three million in two months.¡± ¡°About that, can you give me nine months to pay back the remaining three?¡± Amber asked. ¡°five months is what we agreed on, Miss Santiago.¡± Mister Lim sternly said. ¡°Now, use the methods you did to gain two million in order to gain another three million.¡± He added and entered his car leaving her Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. in the parking lot. She let out a heavy sigh and went to the grocery inside the mall to buy choctes. While on her way home, she kept thinking a reason to cover-up the sudden withdrawal of that huge amount of money, for sure, Rafael already knew about this. The cab pulled over outside the gate of Rafael¡¯s house; Tess, who is watering the nts on the yard saw her and immediately approached her. ¡°Good morning, ma¡¯am, I¡¯ll help you with your things.¡± Tess politely said and grabbed the paper bags. ¡°Thank you, Tess.¡± She smiled as she paid her cab fare. ¡°Thank you. Drive safely.¡± She politely said to the driver who smiled and thanked her before going. ¡°Where should I put this, ma¡¯am?¡± Tess asked. ¡°In my room, please. Thank you.¡± She answered. ¡°Where are Nana Mildred and Nina?¡± She asked. ¡°They¡¯re in the backyard, ma¡¯am.¡± Tess answered. ¡°Go to the kitchen once you¡¯re done cing that in my room.¡± Amber said. Tess nodded even if she¡¯s confused. Amber went to the backyard and looked for Nana Mildred and Dina, she saw them talking while cleaning. ¡°Nana, Dina.¡± She called them to get their attention. ¡°Come inside for a moment.¡± She added. The two looked at each other and followed her to the kitchen. ¡°Is there something you need, ma¡¯am?¡± Dina asked. ¡°Ah, no.¡± She answered. ¡°You¡¯ve been working nonstop since this morning. Take a break and have some cake.¡± ¡°Ma¡¯am?¡± Dina uttered in surprise making her smile. ¡°Have a break first before continuing your work.¡± She said, and Tess came in just in time. ¡°Tess,e here and have some cake.¡± The three were reluctant at first so Amber put a slice on a te and give it to them. ¡°Enjoy your snack. I will go to my room and fixed the things I bought.¡± She said and exited the kitchen. As soon as Amber reached her room, she locked the door and immediately finds the packing tape and scissor she bought. She went inside the walk-in closet and saw the big box that she hasn¡¯t open since she stayed at Rafael¡¯s house. She flinched when her phone rang but she ignored it and opened the box, sorting the things inside. But her phone keeps on ringing and ringing, she grabbed her phone and startled when she saw who is calling. ¡°Damn! Did he already find out?¡± Amber asked herself as she answers the call. ¡°Hello, Rafa.¡± ¡°What took you too long to answer your damn phone?¡± Rafael asked in anger. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I was in the bathroom and didn¡¯t hear my phone ringing.¡± She reasoned out. ¡°Is that so.¡± Rafael said, who seems to have calmed down. ¡°Did you just get home?¡± ¡°Yes, and it seems that I bought too much choctes.¡± She said as she looked at the five paper bags full of choctes. ¡°You could¡¯ve just asked me to get you some choctes.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I don¡¯t want to bother you, since you have a meeting.¡± She said. ¡°I was about to go home after shopping but I suddenly craved for choctes.¡± She reasoned out. ¡°By the way, what time will you be home?¡± She asked to divert the subject and to know how much time left she has. ¡°I¡¯ll be home by seven, hon.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Why? Miss me already?¡± He teased, and amber already know that he is grinning from ear to ear. ¡°Sort of.¡± She said. ¡°Oh, and by the way, I¡¯m wearing a red lingerie.¡± She seductively said and burst out suddenly blurted it when she noticed the red lingerie given by her mom. ¡°Damn, woman!¡± Rafael cursed. ¡°I am just testing the things I bought, and I wanted to show it to you and ask for your opinion.¡± She said, biting her lips to stop herughing. ¡°Amber, stop it!¡± Rafael warned. ¡°I might cancel all my appointments this afternoon just to ravish you!¡± ¡°Hey, I¡¯m just kidding.¡± She said, but she can feel the heat in her body. ¡°Behave there, okay? And do your job.¡± She added. ¡°Just wait when I get home, hon.¡± Rafael warned. ¡°Prepare yourself because I will make sure that you¡¯re not going to get a single damn sleep.¡± ¡°I¡¯m actually wetting for you, hon.¡± She seductively said. Putting emphasis on the word wetting. ¡°Damn, woman!¡± Rafael cursed making her smile. ¡°Why, hon? Are you already hard?¡± She teased. ¡°For goodness¡¯ sake, Amber! Stop it!¡± Rafael warned making her burst outughing. ¡°Okay¡­ Okay¡­ I¡¯m sorry.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯ll see youter then.¡± ¡°Yeah.¡± Rafael said and ended the call. Amber sighed and can¡¯t believe that she said those things to Rafa, and she is actually looking forward for him to get home. She let out another heavy sigh and started sorting her things. She is looking for things that looks expensive enough to cover that two million. The box contains albums, jewelries, her valuable clothes and a ne that was their family¡¯s treasure. She brought out five jewelries that were presents from her mother¡ªsimple jewelries but expensive. The jewelries were one of her option to sell in order to pay the debt but she can¡¯t afford it. She brought out some of her branded clothes, andstly, the red lingerie that was given by her mother. She still remembered what her mother told her when she received the gift. ¡°Mommy, I don¡¯t wear stuff like that.¡± Amber said when she saw the red lingerie. ¡°Why bother buying this?¡± ¡°I bought that because this is my way of saying that me and your father wanted to have grandkids.¡± Her mother smilingly said. ¡°And this will what you should wear on your honeymoon.¡± Her mother giggled. ¡°Mommy! I still haven¡¯t graduated and has no boyfriend.¡± She pouts. ¡°Why are you bringing grandkids this early?¡± Amber bitterly smile as she remembered that memory. ¡°Mommy, you and dad will soon have a grandchild.¡± She said as she stares at their family photo. A tear escapes her eyes. ¡°It¡¯s unfortunate that you¡¯re not here to witness it.¡± She said in between her sobs. Chapter 15 Chapter 15 AMBER is busy looking for a pajama set when someone hugged her from behind. She already can guess who it is basing from his after-shower scent. ¡°Rafa, I¡¯m looking for something to wear.¡± Amber said. ¡°Don¡¯t bother looking, you don¡¯t need it.¡± Rafael said as he tried to untangled her robe. ¡°Rafa, stop!¡± She sternly said. ¡°But hon, you know that I can¡¯t get enough of you.¡± Rafael said started kissing her nape giving her tingling sensations. ¡°Rafa, please. I¡¯m tired.¡± She said, trying to fight the urge to hug him. ¡°We just did it multiple times as soon as you get home.¡± She added. ¡°Fine.¡± Rafael sighed and grabbed a pajama set on the closet. ¡°Wear this.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± She smiled. ¡°By the way, did you pack enough jackets or warn clothes?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°I think so. How many days are we going to stay there?¡± She asked as she puts on her pajama. ¡°One to two months.¡± Rafael asked making her shocked. ¡°I just want to have a vacation.¡± ¡°Well, you do deserve a vacation.¡± Amber said and hanged her robe. ¡°What?¡± She asked since Rafa is sternly staring at her. ¡°I was notified this afternoon that you withdraw the whole two million.¡± He said making her flinched and she tried her best not to be bothered by it. ¡°Oh that, yes, I went to the mall and there are good things that caught my eye.¡± She said. Oh, please, believe me. ¡°Hmm¡­ Is that so. What did you buy?¡± He asked fixing his shirt. ¡°Clothes and jewelries?¡± She answered with a question mark, and opened the jewelry box and showed it to Rafa. And she was surprised that the heirloom of their family is there. Crap! I forgot to keep it. ¡°This is wonderful.¡± Rafael said as he touched the ne, amazement is written on his eyes. ¡°Where did you buy this?¡± He asked. ¡°At the antique shop in the mall. I wanted to have it the moment I set my eyes on it.¡± She answered. ¡°I think I saw this somewhere.¡± Rafael said while looking sternly at the ne. ¡°Maybe because it was an antique¡­¡± She said. ¡°Hmm¡­ This most cost a fortune.¡± He said and looked at her. ¡°Actually, yes¡­¡± Amber said biting her lips. ¡°It cost 1.5 M¡­¡± ¡°What?¡± Rafael uttered in shocked. ¡°Is there an antique shop who sell things as high as that?¡± ¡°Yes, the store where I bought that.¡± Amber pouts. ¡°And you didn¡¯t hesitate to buy this?¡± ¡°Why would I?¡± Amber asked. ¡°I mean, I really wanted to have that, and I have the money¡­¡± ¡°Amber!¡± Rafael warned. ¡°Fine! It was a money I got from threatening you. But I really can¡¯t help myself not to buy it.¡± Amber said. ¡°I thought already agreed not to talk about money?¡± She pouts and closed the jewelry box. Rafael let out a heavy sigh. ¡°Give the ne to me.¡± He said, making her looked at him questioning look. ¡°If that ne really cost that much then, we must put it in the safe.¡± ¡°I¡­ Okay.¡± She agreed and give her the ne. ¡°That is valuable so please be careful.¡± She said, handing it to him. She followed Rafael on the master¡¯s bedroom until he carefully ces the ne on the safe. ¡°Is this your rest house?¡± Amber asked in awe as she stared at the three-storey mansion in front of them. It is already afternoon when they arrived in Baguio, and she can feel the cold breeze and the pine trees that Baguio offers. ¡°It is my parents house.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Let¡¯s go in, they¡¯re waiting for us.¡± He said. The amusement and excitement Amber felt a moment ago suddenly was reced by nervousness. ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± Rafael said and intertwined their fingers. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°Wait!¡± Amber nervously said, Rafael looked at her with questioning eyes. ¡°Your parents are here? I thought they¡¯re at Greece?¡± ¡°They just got here yesterday.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Didn¡¯t I already tell youst night?¡± ¡°You didn¡¯t mention a thing about it.¡± She said. ¡°Oh! Never mind that!¡± She added. ¡°I¡¯m worried that your parents may not like me.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t worry. My parents will definitely like you.¡± Rafael said trying to assure her and squeezed her hand. ¡°And my parents don¡¯t bite, hon.¡± He smiled. ¡°But they can roast you alive.¡± He teased and pinched the end of her nose. ¡°Rafa¡ª¡± ¡°Are you not going toe in?¡± A sophisticated, middle-age woman, who is standing the entrance of the house asked¡ªit was Rafael¡¯s mother. She can only see her in the portraits in Rafael¡¯s house and to see her in person is making her nervous. ¡°Mom!¡± Rafael¡¯s face lit up as soon as he saw his mother. Rafael guided Amber until the entrance and introduced her to his mother. ¡°Mom, this is Amber my wife. And Amber this is my mother, Allison.¡± ¡°G-good afternoon, auntie. How are you doing?¡± She politely greeted Allison despite her nervousness. She doesn¡¯t know if Allison will like her for his son, especially that today is the first day they meet. ¡°Wee to the family, dear.¡± Allison warmly weed her and wrap her in her embrace. ¡°Just call me mommy, since you¡¯re married now to my son.¡± She added and cup her face. ¡°Oh, you¡¯re so beautiful.¡± She smiled. ¡°And you, young man.¡± She looked at Rafael. ¡°I was so disappointed in you!¡± Allison said grabbing Rafael¡¯s hair. ¡°How could you get married without informing us? My goodness! I don¡¯t want you to marry any girl out there!¡± Allison said. ¡°I was so relieved when I saw who your wife is. Amber is such a kind-hearted woman!¡± ¡°Why, mom? Do you know Amber?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°No, but I was once a witness on how kind-hearted she is.¡± Allison smiled and looked at Amber. ¡°Do you still remember the old woman you helped years ago in the grocery?¡± Allison asked. ¡°The poor woman, was a victim of snatcher inside the grocery and she only noticed it when she is about to pay. I was about to pay it but you suddenly told the cashier that you¡¯re going to pay for it.¡± Amber was confused at first then a memory starts to sh in the back of her mind. ¡°Ah that¡­ Yes, I remembered that day clearly.¡± Amber said, because that was the day my mother died. ¡°Honey, let them in first. I¡¯m sure that they are tired from the long drive.¡± Rafael¡¯s father said who is waiting for them inside. ¡°Oh! Silly me, where are my manners?¡± Allison chuckled. ¡°Come in. Let¡¯s continue talking inside.¡± She said as they entered the big house. ¡°I will ask Lani to prepare some snacks.¡± ¡°Hey, dad,¡± Rafael said as he hugged his father. ¡°so, she¡¯s your wife?¡± Rafael¡¯s father asked as he stares at Amber. ¡°Yes, dad.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Amber, this is my father, Nico.¡± ¡°Good afternoon, uncle.¡± Amber politely greeted. Meeting Rafael¡¯s father is nerve-wrecking, basing from the pictures, his father is serious-looking and she is sure that he is also strict. ¡°Just call me Dad or daddy.¡± Nico said to his daughter-inw. ¡°And wee to the family.¡± Nico said and hugged her. All the nervousness Amber felt suddenly vanished, Rafael¡¯s parents warmly weed her to their family is enough for her to be grateful. ¡°Take a seat as we wait for your mother.¡± ¡°Didn¡¯t I told you that they will like you?¡± Rafael whispered to her ears when they seated. ¡°Amber, I hope my blueberry cheese cake is to your liking.¡± Allison said as she carries a tray with four dessert tes with a slice of blueberry cheese cake, following her is the family¡¯s helper who is holding a tray with a pitcher of iced tea and four sses. ¡°Thank you, mom.¡± Amber said when Allison ced the te in front of her. ¡°You know what Amber, we always wanted to have a daughter but we were not blessed. That is why I¡¯m happy that Rafael found his match.¡± Allison said. ¡°We always thought that he will not settle down.¡± ¡°If you only know, Rafael is a pain in the butt.¡± Nico said, sighing. ¡°Always messing around with girls¡­¡± Nico slightly shake his head. ¡°Dad, being pain in the butt is too much.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Hey! Your father is right.¡± Allison said. ¡°Remember the times when we visit you but you¡¯re not around because you¡¯re busy fooling around with random woman?¡± Allison¡¯s eyebrow arced. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing that Amber married you!¡± ¡°Mom, in case you¡¯ve forgotten, you gave birth to a handsome son.¡± Rafael smirked. ¡°Who would not want to be noticed by me?¡± ¡°you¡¯re such a narcissist!¡± Amber said. ¡°I¡¯m just stating the fact, hon.¡± Rafael said. ¡°wherever I go, women drool over me.¡± He added. ¡°Yeah, right!¡± Amber rolled her eyes. ¡°I¡¯ll just remind you, in case that you¡¯ve forgotten, weren¡¯t you the first one to approach me?¡± She asked. ¡°Oh, and you¡¯re the one who begged me marry you.¡± She teased and taste the blueberry cheese cake Allison baked. The couple on the other hand is happy seeing the two of them bickered. It is the first time seeing Rafael speechless in front of a girl. ¡°Mom, it is so delicious.¡± Amber looked at Allison and took another bite. ¡°Hey! Are you still not full? You ate a lot earlier.¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Is there a problem?¡± Amber asked. ¡°Are you not going to eat that?¡± She asked eyeing on his piece of cake. ¡°I¡¯m still full.¡± Rafael frown. ¡°And don¡¯t even think of eating that, Amber. You will get fat.¡± He warned his wife. ¡°And so? Isn¡¯t it normal for a pregnant woman to eat and eat?¡± Amber said raising her right eyebrow. ¡°You are pregnant?¡± Allison uttered in surprised, and red at Rafael. ¡°Yes, mom. I¡¯m one month pregnant.¡± Amber answered as she continued devouring the cake. ¡°Rafael, how could you keep it a secret from us?¡± Nico sternly asked. ¡°You really kept on surprising us!¡± Allison said. Amber is enjoying eating while Rafael is being roasted by his parents. Chapter 16 Chapter 16 AMBER is drying her hair when Rafael entered the room¡ªthe room they are upying is her husband¡¯s room. He is wearing a white shirt paired with a ck pajama, until now she still can¡¯t believe that she married a handsome and hunk man. ¡°Are you tired?¡± Rafael asked and nted a kiss on her forehead. ¡°Not really. I enjoyed talking to your parents.¡± She answered and turned off the blow dryer. ¡°You are lucky to have them.¡± She added and unplugged the blow dryer and faced her husband. ¡°You are really loved. ¡°Well, I guess that¡¯s the advantage of being an only child.¡± Rafael said, and she can see the sadness on his eyes. ¡°My mom had three miscarriage before conceiving me.¡± Rafael said making her gasps in horror. ¡°When they learned that Mom is pregnant with me, mom took a leave on her work and dad leave thepany to my grandfather. They always took precautions and mom went for a regr check-up but I was not breathing when mom gave birth to me.¡± ¡°Rafa¡­¡± ¡°The doctors did everything they could until they could feel pulse and heartbeat.¡± Rafael said. ¡°My parents tried to conceive another one but they failed. I still remembered their joy and excitement when my mom got pregnant when I was thirteen, especially when they found out that it was a girl¡­¡± A tear escaped Rafael¡¯s eyes. ¡°But a drunk driver robbed that happiness from us¡ªfrom my parents.¡± Amber noticed that Rafael¡¯s hands are trembling, and all she could do is to hold them tight. Now, she finally understands why he was so triggered when she threatened him to abort their baby. She cannot say anything as there is like a lump on her throat. ¡°My parents are on their way to the hospital for a prenatal check-up but that drunk driver¡­ the collision¡­¡± Rafael cannot continue talking as he remembers those painful memories.N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. ¡°Hush¡­ Rafa¡­¡± She hugged him tight. Her tears are falling fast. Losing a loved one is very painful. ¡°My sister is gone in just a glimpse of time, Amber¡­¡± Rafael said in between his sob. It is the first time that Amber saw Rafael in this state. ¡°Because of that drunk driver¡­. Because of him, I lost my sister¡­¡± Amber is speechless and felt so guilty saying those things in the hospital even if she didn¡¯t mean it. Rafa¡¯s words before now makes sense. If only she could turn back time, she will not make the same mistake. She couldn¡¯t imagine how Rafa felt before, her words are like a knife that cuts really deep. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry, Rafa¡­ I¡¯m so sorry¡­¡± She repeatedly apologized when Rafael calmed down. ¡°I¡¯m so sorry for the words I said when we were in the hospital.¡± ¡°Amber¡­¡± ¡°I may not mean those words but I felt so guilty¡­ It is all wrong. I¡¯m so sorry.¡± She said in between her sobs. ¡°I promise you that I will take good care of our baby, I will make sure that he will be born safe and healthy.¡± ¡°Amber¡­¡± ¡°I¡¯m really sorry¡­¡± She continued apologizing. ¡°Stop crying, hon.¡± Rafael said, cupping her face and drying away her tears. ¡°Let¡¯s just forget about the past and look forward to what awaits us.¡± ¡°I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.¡± Amber sincerely said. Rafael didn¡¯t say anything and kissed her lips and she responded. MORNING came and the whole family are happily taking their breakfast, Allison and Nico still can¡¯t believe that they are now going to be grandparents and they keep on thanking Amber for that. Amber on the other hand is feeling guilty, will they still thank her if they know the things she has said? They might even curse at her. She looked at Rafa who suddenly squeeze her hand. ¡°It¡¯s okay.¡± Rafael mouthed making her smile. ¡°Eat up.¡± He said when he noticed that she¡¯s not eating her breakfast. ¡°Is the food not to your liking, hija?¡± Allison worriedly asked. ¡°We can ask Linda to cook something for you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine, mom.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°It¡¯s just been a long time since I experience having breakfast with the whole family.¡± She added. Amber can¡¯t remember thest time she had a meal with her parents, was that a year ago? ¡°Why?¡± Allison asked. ¡°Where are your parents?¡± ¡°They are dead, mom.¡± Amber said and took a sip on her milk. Allison and Clyde looked at each other, feeling sympathy to their daughter-inw, she¡¯s young to be left alone in the world. ¡°Oh, I¡¯m sorry.¡± Allison said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, mom.¡± Amber said and started eating the food on her te. No one bothered to speak until Rafael cleared his throat. ¡°Hon, I¡¯ll leave you for a while here.¡± Rafael told Amber, making her looked at him, frowning. ¡°I¡¯ll go and meet up with Joshua in the hotel to sort things.¡± He exined. ¡°Okay.¡± Amber nodded. ¡°You can go around the housete, hija, if ever you feel bored.¡± Allison suggested. ¡°I¡¯m sure you will like the garden.¡± ¡°Or better yet, you can go and roam around the vige, we have many exciting activities here.¡± Clyde added. ¡°Really? I will do that, then.¡± Amber said in excitement. ¡°Oh, Clyde and I already talked about your engagement party.¡± Allison said making her speechless. ¡°Mom, Amber and I are already married. There is no need for that.¡± Rafael frowned. ¡°No, we insist, son!¡± Allison sternly said. ¡°You are our only child and we want to experience nning for everything. I mean, this only happens once so don¡¯t rob the excitement from us, Rafa.¡± ¡°And it is better if you two will be married in the church, it is more sacred.¡± Clyde added making Rafael sighed. ¡°Rafa, you are our only child, so please¡­¡± ¡°Okay, fine. I get it.¡± Rafael said and massage his temple. With this Allison and Clyde smiled ear to ear. Rafael looked at Amber who is quiet by his side. ¡°Are you okay with that?¡± He asked. ¡°Yeah.¡± Amber smiled but it did not reach her eyes. Rafael knew what is running on his wife¡¯s mind, he let out another sigh. After their breakfast, Amber and Rafael roamed around the garden and she cannot help not to be amazed, the garden is two times the garden in Rafael¡¯s house. She really loves the smell of the garden¡ªadding the smell of pine trees around the vige. There are colors everywhere¡ªbright color, subtle color¡ªpink, purple, green, red, yellow¡ªyou name it. And the sound, oh! It is a music to her ears, the sound of wind chimes, the birds chirping, the man- made waterfalls and nts gently rustling in the wind. She wandered her eyes around and saw wind chimes throughout the garden with different sizes and shapes. It has different sounds but it generally requires strong wind to get therger chimes to move. The man-made waterfall is located on the side of the garden and has different kinds of fish swimming through it, and was surrounded by different kinds of flowers. They continued to walk until they stopped in front of a fountain with lotus flowers. ¡°Your mom is so amazing.¡± Amber said. Rafael looked at her waiting for her to talk. ¡°The garden is so breath taking that it can bepared to an enchanted garden being describe on a story book.¡± ¡°It is one of mom¡¯s dreams to have a house with a big yard so that their pets can freely run and y.¡± Rafael said. ¡°My mom grew up in a poor family and she worked very hard to make their life easier. A lot of people said that the reason why she and her parents is now living a luxurious life because she married my dad, since my father is from a wealthy family. But they are all wrong, my mom already built a house for her parents and is providing them well before meeting my father. She already helped her younger brother finish his studies.¡± Rafael said smiling and proud of his mother. ¡°My mom doesn¡¯t want a big house, for her a roof above her head and a big garden is enough.¡± Rafael added, ¡°And speaking of which, it seems that their two dogs is nowhere to be found.¡± ¡°Dogs?¡± She asked. She can¡¯t remember seeing two dogsst night. ¡°Yes, Copper and Draco.¡± Rafael answered. Just then a golden retriever is running in their direction. ¡°Oh! There you are Copper.¡± Rafael said, patting the dog who is whining in front of Rafa. ¡°Who¡¯s the good boy?¡± Rafael asked while rubbing Copper¡¯s belly. ¡°Where is Draco?¡± Rafa asked as if the dog will answer him. She cannot help not to smiled looking at them, she has a soft spot for animals. She wanted to touch Copper when she felt a warm breath on her hand. She looked down and saw a Siberian husky sitting in front of her. ¡°You must be Draco.¡± She smiled and touched its head; Draco wagged his tail before standing and run to Copper and Rafael. Chapter 17 Chapter 17 AMBER is still in shock when she learned who is the owner of the Enchanted Forest Subdivision, it was no other than Allison. They are roaming around the subdivision with Copper and Draco, the two were at the veterinary clinic yesterday so she didn¡¯t see them. She noticed that the people living there is also fond of nature. The subdivision is wide and the people living there will not be having any problems because the facilities wereplete. There is a view tower, a gazebo, pic area where you can also camp. There is also a hiking area good for those who are into adventures. There is also a maintenance facility, and a veterinary clinic, and most of all the ce is 100% secured. But what she likes the most is the butterfly garden. ¡°Mom, I am really speechless.¡± Amber said looking around. ¡°The ce really stands to its name; it is very enchanting and a hundred percent eco-friendly.¡± She added, they are both seated on the bench under a tree while watching the families who are happily boating on the wideke. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, the ce was once featured on a magazine.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Allison smiled. ¡°It was not easy at first. I was fortunate to have my younger brother to help me aplished this. He is an engineer. This is not just my dream but my mom too. I¡¯m sure, Rafael already told you that I was not born into a wealthy family. My parents worked really hard everyday to send me and my brother to school. Life is hard back then and my only goal is to repay my parents.¡± Owned by N?velDrama.Org. Allison said. ¡°My parents did all kinds of work. They put up a smallundry business and a store, and that is where we are getting all the things we need for every day. Me and my brother helps out every after ss and weekends. Until I finished my course, nurse passed my board exam and worked abroad. It was hard living alone in another country at first, but just the thought of my brother and parents keeps me going. Until my brother finished his studies and we slowly built a house for our parents.¡± Allison added. ¡°Your parents must be so proud of you and your brother, mom.¡± Amber said. ¡°They are so fortunate to have you two.¡± Allison didn¡¯t get a chance to say anything because Copper and Draco, who are just running on the grass suddenly jumped in front of them. ¡°It is good that they can freely roam around the subdivision.¡± Amber said as she is petting Draco. ¡°And they know how to get home.¡± ¡°If they are bored ying around the house and the garden they would roam around the subdivision, they are ymates of almost all the pets here. The subdivision is secured so I don¡¯t really mind.¡± Allison said as she ys with Copper. ¡°You know what, Amber, I¡¯m happy that my Rafael settled down.¡± Allison said after a while. ¡°But I am really disappointed that you two got married hastily.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry about that, mom.¡± Amber said, upset that the poordy didn¡¯t know the main reason. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to be sorry about, hija.¡± Allison smiled making more guilty. ¡°I¡¯m so excited to start nning your engagement party to be followed by the wedding.¡± Allison added with pure excitement on her voice. ¡°What the!¡± Joshua said and puts down his phone. ¡°Are you okay, bro?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Danielle suddenly cuts-off the line.¡± Joshua answered making himughed. ¡°What¡¯s funny?¡± ¡°Did you tell her that you¡¯re with me? Maybe he¡¯s thinking that you¡¯re with another woman. You¡¯ve been gone for 6 hours so I can¡¯t me her.¡± He answered making Joshua sighed. ¡°But I never did expect that you and Danielle will really end up together.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll go back. I¡¯ll leave the matters here in your hands.¡± Joshua said and stood up. ¡°You¡¯re really in love with her.¡± Rafael said whileughing but he didn¡¯tment and red at him. He let out a sigh and looked at the documents scattered in the table. Rafael looked around the lobby and can see the impact of what their previous employee did, back then, their hotel is fully booked but now, he can only see some guest and no one is even calling the hotel for reservations. He grabbed his phone and called Gabriel. ¡°Hey, how many days should it take for the case to be closed?¡± Rafael asked as soon as Gab picked up his phone. ¡°It depends, but don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll be pulling some strings to end this. I already called Phil and in no time, your hotel will be fully-packed again.¡± Gabriel answered. ¡°And I suggest that you should change your manager there, basing from the investigations, he is an aplice. There are even rumors that they¡¯re together but the girl is denying it.¡± ¡°Those jerks! They will pay for it.¡± He gritted his teeth in anger. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll handle it.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°Thanks, man.¡± He thanked his friend. ¡°No worries.¡± Gabriel said and ended the call. Rafael fixed the documents and went to the front desk, on the way, he meets the manager who is in a hurry but he didn¡¯t pay him a notice. ¡°Good afternoon, sir.¡± The two receptionist greeted. ¡°If someone is looking for me, tell them that I went home as my wife needs me.¡± He said making the two shocked. Rafael is in his car when Amber called. ¡°Yes, hon?¡± He asked as soon as he answered the call. ¡°I¡¯m on my way home, is there something you want?¡± ¡°Ahh, none. I called to ask what time will you be home, but it seems that there¡¯s no need.¡± Amber said, and he can¡¯t help not to smile. It was a first time he felt this way, someone calling him to ask what time will he be home is somewhat heart-warming. ¡°Did you miss, hon?¡± He teased but he was shocked when Amber suddenly cuts off the line. ¡°What the!¡± He cursed, is this what you call karma? He is justughing at Joshua earlier but now it is happening to him. He is about to put away his phone when amber messaged him. Drive safely. See youter. He smiled as soon as he read the message. He can¡¯t wait to be home and spend time with his wife. Chapter 18 Chapter 18 A week passed and Rafael learned so many things about his wife. Amber is not like those girls he Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. usually hangs out with, she¡¯s not afraid to meet with bare face with a messy hair. Sheughs at the littlest things and is someone who is concern with others. Sometimes he is doubting if the Amber he is with now is just a fa?ade or real. But nevertheless, he fell for her. He loves her and he has no ns to let go of her. He¡¯s not really good at expressing his love vocally but he tries to show it through his actions. ¡°Hon, I will be leaving you for a moment.¡± Gabriel said grabbing her attention from the book she¡¯s reading. ¡°I have to meet up with the gang, it seems that Danielle is in trouble and Joshua is asking for help.¡± ¡°Is that so?¡± Amber said and turned her attention to the book. ¡°You can go, I want to finish reading this today.¡± She added. ¡°I¡¯ll be back as soon as possible.¡± Rafael said with hesitation. He can¡¯t leave her behind since his parents are out for a date. ¡°On second thought, I will not go out today.¡± He said making Amber put a bookmark on the book and look at him. ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to see your friends?¡± She asked frowning. ¡°If you¡¯re worried about me being left alone here in the house, you don¡¯t have to worry. The helpers are here and the dogs, so basically, I am not alone.¡± She added. ¡°Even though. I will call them; we can have our meeting here.¡± Rafael said as he brings out his phone. ¡°I really can¡¯t leave you here alone.¡± He added as he dials Joshua¡¯s number. ¡°It¡¯s up to you.¡± She said and continued reading. He doesn¡¯t know if she¡¯s hallucinating or what but he saw a glimpse of sadness and disappointment on Amber¡¯s eyes. He wants to confirm it but Joshua answered his call. ¡°Hey, man! Is it okay if we will just meet here at my parents¡¯ house? I can¡¯t leave Amber here alone.¡± He asked. ¡°Okay, bud. Just inform the others, I still need to talk with Danielle.¡± Joshua answered before cutting the line. He immediately informed the others and it¡¯s good that they¡¯re fine with it. ¡°Did they agree?¡± Amber asked when he took a seat beside her on the couch. ¡°Fortunately, yes.¡± Rafael said putting his chin on Amber¡¯s shoulder. ¡°I really can¡¯t leave you behind.¡± ¡°I will not run away from you, if that is bothering you.¡± Amber said, sadness and disappointment are evident on her tone. ¡°Don¡¯t you trust me?¡± She asked. ¡°Well, how can you trust a person who¡­¡± Rafael shut her up by kissing her red, tempting lips. ¡°I have trust on you, Amber.¡± Rafael sternly said looking straight in her eyes. ¡°It¡¯s just that I don¡¯t want to be away from you especially that aside from the helpers and the two adventurous dogs are here, you don¡¯t have anyone to call.¡± ¡°Rafa¡­¡± Amber is speechless and can¡¯t find any words to say. Rafael smiled and captured her lips again. ¡°Your lips are really addicting.¡± Rafael said when their lips parted. ¡°I know, that is why you should stop kissing me or else your friends might see us.¡± Amber said in dazed, her eyes are focused on Rafael¡¯s lips. ¡°We can always go to our room, and let them wait.¡± Rafael grinned and moves closer to capture her lips, again, but she pushed him away. ¡°Behave!¡± She warned him. ¡°I know what you are thinking.¡± ¡°Fine!¡± Rafael sulked and wrapped his arms on her waist. Amber smiled and leaned on his chest as she opens the book and started reading again, but she can¡¯t concentrate because Rafael is asking her what the book is about. She actually summarized what she had read to him. A little while a continuous honk of car is heard in the gate. ¡°It must be those, jerks.¡± Rafael said as he looked at his watch. ¡°I¡¯ll go and open the gate.¡± ¡°Then I will go and ask Linda to prepare snacks.¡± Amber said as she ces the book on the center table. Rafael nods as he presses a button near the entrance to open the gate. ¡°What took you so long to open the damn gate?¡± Lohan asked as they enter the door and immediately took their ces as if it is their own house. ¡°We will use my father¡¯s study room.¡± Rafael said sighing at the sight of his friends¡ªthey are in their casual clothes and some are seated on the couch and some are seated on the floor even if there are avable seats. ¡°I will just ask them to send the snack there first so that we will not be disturbed.¡± He added. And on cue, Linda came out from the kitchen holding a tray of juice and cups followed by Anna who is holding a tray full of croissants baked by Amber. He instructed them to put those in the study room. A little while, Amber came out from the kitchen holding a te of peeled apples and oranges. ¡°Hi there, Amber.¡± Lohan greeted her casually as if they are very close. ¡°Hey!¡± Amber smiled making Rafael frown. Amber noticed it and approached him kissing his cheeks. ¡°It seems that things are doing well between you two.¡± Gabriel said eyeing at them with his suspicious eyes. ¡°We¡¯re trying to work things out.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°That¡¯s good.¡± Joshua said. And looked at their friends. ¡°How about you guys? Is settling down not in your n?¡± ¡°Me? Hmm¡­ I don¡¯t know.¡± Lohan said them arced their eyebrows. ¡°How about you, Gab?¡± ¡°I¡¯m busy with work.¡± Gabriel said, but even if he doesn¡¯t say a thing, they already knew that he is still hurting inside. ¡°How about you, Phil?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Haven¡¯t meet my match yet.¡± Phil shrugged. ¡°Even if your mom is always setting you up with a blind date?¡± He asked. ¡°Yeah.¡± Phil shrugged. ¡°I mean, I need a wife not a clown.¡± Phil rolled his eyes. ¡°Mom always set me up with woman who has thick make-up and man! Their attitude is another thing, they¡¯re shouting at waiters for servingte or for a single mistake. I can¡¯t even tolerate talking to them, it makes my head hurts.¡± Phil said. ¡°And now that you¡¯ve mentioned it, my mom set me another date next week.¡± He said, frustration is written all over his face. ¡°And that is for the nth time?¡± Lohan asked,ughing. ¡°Fifty-fifth times?¡± Phil answered frowning. ¡°I don¡¯t know and I don¡¯t care.¡± He sighed. ¡°So that means, the articles about you being a yboy is not true?¡± Amber can¡¯t help not to asked. ¡°Yep, they¡¯re just exaggerating things!¡± Phil nodded. ¡°And I can¡¯t believe that people are buying those crap! I mean, they don¡¯t even know me.¡± ¡°You¡¯re reading those magazines?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Nope, it was Kaylee who is reading those. She just mentioned it to me in the past.¡± Amber answered. ¡°I should excuse myself so that you can talk.¡± She said. ¡°I¡¯ll be in the garden if you need me.¡± ¡°I should¡¯ve brought Danielle with me so that you can get to know each other.¡± Joshua said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, maybe next time we can get to know each other.¡± She smiled. ¡°How is she, by the way? I heard from Rafa that she is also pregnant.¡± She asked making Joshua sigh. ¡°She¡¯s a glutton when ites to strawberries.¡± Joshua said. ¡°It¡¯s a good thing that we are here or else, we will really have a hard time since she wanted it freshly picked.¡± He added making her giggle. ¡°How about you, Amber?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°Choctes.¡± She immediately answered. ¡°And pan de sal.¡± She meaningfully added as she looked at Rafael. And all of Rafa¡¯s friendsughed at her remark, while Rafa sighed and massaged his temple. ¡°You know what, I¡¯m starting to like you.¡± Phil said to Amber in the middle ofughter. Rafael who heard this throw the throw pillow to his friend. ¡°And there goes the possessive husband.¡± Phil added as he catches the pillow. ¡°I never thought that you would say that, Amber.¡± Lohan said while suppressing hisughter. ¡°Pan de sal¡­¡± He burst outughing. ¡°As in Rafa¡¯s abs!¡± He added making her sigh. ¡°Why don¡¯t you look for your missing fianc¨¦e instead ofughing me?¡± Amber asked arcing her brows making Rafa frown in surprise. She knows about that? How? Is his wife and Lohan friends? The way they bicker indicates so. But why neither of them tells him so. ¡°Bull¡¯s eye!¡± Phil said grinning. ¡°You know about that?¡± Gabriel asked Amber. Rafael notice that Amber was taken aback. ¡°W-well, Kaylee shared me that information when we had a simple celebration in the restaurant, she said that she read it in a magazine.¡± Amber answered. ¡°Is that so?¡± Gabriel said as he looks at him, even Joshua is looking at him with concerning eyes. Phil is busy teasing Lohan so he didn¡¯t hear it. What bothers Rafael is that there really is a connection between Amber and Lohan, but why are they not saying anything to him. And they are being so familiar to each other, even if they only meet once in his restaurant, that is not enough reason for Lohan to act familiar to Amber. Could it be that they were ex-lovers? But Lohan, ever since is looking for his fianc¨¦e. Could it be¡­. He clenched his fist and teeth just thinking about it. He was startled when Amber holds his hands. ¡°Hon, are you okay?¡± She asked, worried is all over her eyes. Hon. It was the first time, Amber called him that way, it sounds sweet and music to his ears that it even makes his heart flutter. ¡°Don¡¯t think of something unnecessary.¡± She said. He slowly loosens his fist and sighed. Is this what Nana Mildred told him before¡ªto wait for Amber to slowly open up to him? ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± He said as he looks at his wife. Amber sighed and slightly shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll be at the garden if you need me.¡± She said and give him a peck on the cheeks before grabbing the book on the center table. Chapter 19 Chapter 19 AMBER let out a heavy sigh as she closes the book and ced it on the table; she cannot understand what she is reading no matter how she concentrates as her mind is wandering away. Lohan did keep his promise but it seems that she is the one revealing herself. She let out another sigh and stare at the calming garden. She told Rafael her life the other night so there is no problem, what she didn¡¯t say is where she will use the money she asked him. Amber is in the middle of her thought when Draco and Copper approached her. ¡°Where did you go again?¡± She asked as she pets them. She is now used that the two will suddenly show their selves and be gone in an instant. ¡°Are you hungry?¡± She asked and they wagged their tail. ¡°Let¡¯s go inside then.¡± She said and the two immediately went to the door waiting for her. She grabbed her book and the emptied te, then went inside the house. ¡°Do you need something, ma¡¯am?¡± Linda asked when she entered the kitchen. ¡°I will just feed Draco and Copper.¡± She answered and nced at the two who are now in front of their tes in the corner. ¡°I¡¯ll do it, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda said. ¡°It¡¯s okay, I will do it.¡± She smiled. ¡°Just continue what you are doing.¡± ¡°If you say so¡­¡± Linda said still hesitating but continued washing the chicken that she defrost when Amber starts putting dog food on the dog te. ¡°Ma¡¯am, is Sir Rafael¡¯s friends will have their lunch here?¡± ¡°I think so.¡± She answered, not fully sure. She checked the time on her wrist watch and its already eleven. She puts water on the dog¡¯s drinking bowl and added their oral powder dextrose. ¡°What will you cook?¡± She asked when she¡¯s done catering for the dogs. ¡°Chicken stew, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda answered. ¡°Or do you have something in mind?¡± She didn¡¯t get the chance to answer when Berta entered the kitchen. ¡°Linda, are you done cooking? I badly need a hand in the second floor.¡± Berta said, she cannot me her because the house big, and Allison is strict when ites to cleanliness. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, ma¡¯am Amber, I didn¡¯t see you there.¡± Berta apologized. ¡°I still haven¡¯t started chopping the chicken.¡± Linda said. ¡°You can go and apany her, Linda.¡± Amber said. ¡°But ma¡¯am the¡­¡± ¡°I will be the one to cook.¡± Amber cut her off. ¡°But ma¡¯am¡­¡± ¡°No, buts, Linda.¡± She said. ¡°I know how to cook so I will not burn the house down.¡± She smiled. Linda cannot do anything but to agree. ¡°Just call us if you need a help.¡± Linda said before exiting the kitchen. ¡°It¡¯s just you two and me now.¡± She said as she stares at Draco and Copper who are now lying down on the floor and looking at her. RAFAEL and his friends are now done finalizing their n on how to put John Ynez behind bars. He saw how Joshua is determined to put him behind bars and he cannot me his friend. John Ynez is a scheming bastard who puts the Montereal family into a great dilemma and even ns to steal Danielle away from Joshua. He will also do the same if someone will try to harm his family. ¡°Is it Amber who bakes these croissants?¡± Lohan asked as he took a bite. ¡°The taste is still the same.¡± He whispered but Rafael still heard it. ¡°Have you met Amber before?¡± He can¡¯t control his urge not to ask. ¡°When we had a simple celebration?¡± Lohan answered with a question mark. ¡°I saw the shock in your eyes when I introduced you to her, Lohan but I decided to ignore it.¡± Rafael said. ¡°And I saw you talking to her in a very familiar way and both of you are so friendly at each other.¡± ¡°I am just a friendly person.¡± Lohan shrugged. ¡°And she is aware of your long-lost fianc¨¦e.¡± Rafael sternly said. ¡°And what bothers me the most is that Amber said that Kaylee told her about your fianc¨¦e but we all know that you, having a fianc¨¦e is not known to the public.¡± Gabriel said while tapping on hisptop. Phil and Josh are also listening to them. ¡°Again, I¡¯m asking you, Lohan, do you know my wife?¡± Rafael asked cornering his friend. ¡°I made a promise not to tell you anything.¡± Lohan let out a heavy sigh. ¡°But this is all I could say, Amber and I are childhood friends, nothing more and nothing less.¡± Lohan said staring at him. ¡°The Santiago family is a close friend of ours.¡± ¡°So that exins the shock on your father¡¯s face when he saw Amber.¡± Rafael sighed, now all the pieces hase together. ¡°Yep!¡± Lohan answered emphasizing the ¡®p¡¯. ¡°That is why dad is in a hurry to leave because he can¡¯t control his self not to hug and ask her where has she been. We were worried sick about her, dad has Owned by N?velDrama.Org. been looking for her until they saw her working in your restaurant.¡± ¡°And that is when Kaylee entered the picture.¡± Gabriel said while reading something on hisptop. ¡°you know?¡± Lohan red at Gab. AMBER just finished washing the utensils she used when Rafael entered the kitchen. ¡°What are you doing here? I¡¯ve been searching for you in the garden.¡± Rafael asked frowning. He wanted to talk to his wife after asking Lohan about their rtionship. He searched all around the garden but there is no Amber that can be found, and even the dogs are not there. ¡°Draco and Copper were hungry so I fed them.¡± Amber said as she dries her hands with a clean towel and gazed at the two who are sleeping on the corner of the kitchen. The two didn¡¯t leave her even for a second. ¡°Are you done talking with your friends?¡± She asked. ¡°Call them so that we can have lunch. I am the one who cooked our lunch for today.¡± She grinned. ¡°You¡¯re the one who cooked?¡± Rafael asked in disbelief. ¡°Where is Linda? Or Berta?¡± ¡°upstairs. Cleaning.¡± She answered and wrapped her hands on his waist. ¡°Just let it pass, besides, I was the one who ordered Linda to help Berta with the cleaning.¡± She added and leaned on his chest. ¡°It has been a long time since thest time I cooked.¡± She pouts. ¡°But¡­¡± ¡°Oops!¡± Amber eximed and puts her finger on his lips. ¡°Don¡¯t say a word.¡± She said. ¡°I want to do my wifely duties, you know¡ªattending to your needs and such.¡± ¡°Okay, okay¡­ I am not mad or angry¡ª¡± ¡°But you¡¯re upset¡­¡± She cuts him off as she ys with his chest using her index finger. ¡°A little bit upset¡­ yeah¡­ it was just I was worried when you¡¯re nowhere to be found in the garden.¡± Rafael said making her smile, her gaze fell upon his tempting lips. Tempted with it she tiptoed and give him a small peck. ¡°And now you¡¯re a kiss stealer, eh?¡± Rafael grinned; amusement is all over his eyes. ¡°Uh-huh.¡± She sweetly smiled. ¡°Oh, by the way, I already talked with Lohan, why didn¡¯t you tell me that you are friends with him?¡± He asked. ¡°Sorry if I hid to many things from you.¡± She said and rested her head on his chest. ¡°I promise not to be secretive anymore.¡± She added. Rafael can feel that there are still mysteries around her, especially that 5M, where in the world will she use that? In Gabriel¡¯s investigation, their debt is already paid so it is still bothering him. He wanted to ask Amber but remembered that talking about will lead them again to another argument. He will let Gabriel investigate deeper on his wife as soon as Joshua¡¯s problem is solved. Rafael sighed in hugged his wife. ¡°You can always trust me, Amber.¡± He said and he can feel her body tensed up. They didn¡¯t say a word and just stood there hugging each other. Chapter 20 Chapter 20 THE dining room is filled with joy andughter as they have their lunch. Amber is slightly getting courses but they were ssmates in one subject and since they are alwayste, they upied the seat at the back and that¡¯s the start of a beautiful friendship. ¡°How about you, Amber?¡± Lohan asked. ¡°You¡¯re a graduate of pharmacy, right? You didn¡¯t take the boards?¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t file.¡± She answered, how could she file when she lost everything? ¡°Maybe after a year or two. I don¡¯t want stress and I am sure that Rafael will be against it.¡± She added as she nces at Rafa who just nods in agreement. ¡°Danielle also graduated in the same course.¡± Joshua said. ¡°Inf act, she just finished her boards and she¡¯s one of the topnotchers.¡± ¡°Yepp! And both of you celebrated and vi! You made her pregnant!¡± Phil teased and Joshua throw him a table napkin. ¡°What? That¡¯s true, right?¡± Philughed. ¡°Whatever!¡± Joshua rolled his eyes. ¡°Don¡¯t tease Josh too much, Phil.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Even if that¡¯s how they started, look now, Josh is doing everything just for love.¡± He grinned. ¡°Coming from you, eh?¡± Gabriel said grinning at him. ¡°Well, people change when ites to love.¡± Lohan said, and the rest agreed. ¡°By the way, Lohan, did you already found her?¡± Amber asked, referring to his fianc¨¦e. ¡°Yep, but I¡¯ll introduce her next time.¡± Lohan answered brightly, and happiness is all over his face. She didn¡¯t got the chance to meet who the girl is because the night before their engagement party, the girl run away leaving no trace behind. She still remembered how Lohan reacted, confusion mixed with betrayal, hatred and anger. ¡°It is good that she didn¡¯t run away when she saw you, though.¡± She said making him choke on his food and the restughed. ¡°Oh! Believe me, she nearly did.¡± Lohan sighed. ¡°Do I look like I¡¯m a hideous monster that would rip her to pieces?¡± Lohan uttered in disbelief making themugh. ¡°she should be grateful that even if a lot of woman flocks around me, I paid no attention to them because I considered myself tied to her.¡± ¡°Whoever she is, she¡¯s lucky to be love by you.¡± Ambermented. ¡°Love, eh?¡± Lohan murmured and sighed. ¡°Amber, are you really the one who cooked this?¡± Phil said asked for nth time as he took another bite of the butter shrimp with honey. She also cooked buttered chicken and made jello sd for dessert. ¡°Ye¡ª¡± ¡°Yes! Amber cooked all of this!¡± Rafael said annoyance. ¡°You¡¯ve already asked that for nth time!¡± He added but Phil acted as if he didn¡¯t hear him. ¡°My standards in a woman is getting higher.¡± Phil said making Rafa sighed. ¡°You and your high standards!¡± Lohan said. ¡°That is why you even if you mom arranged you many dates if you¡¯re like that¡­¡± he sighed. ¡°Well, it is not my fault, I found faults on them, one is their attitude.¡± Phil said. ¡°Being good in bed may count but I can¡¯t stand their attitude.¡± He added making Amber frown, and he noticed it. ¡°I am not saying that I bed all of those women¡­ And why the heck I am exining this?¡± Phil asked in annoyance. ¡°You¡¯re the one who started it.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°Damn!¡± Phil cursed. ¡°What are you looking for a girl, then?¡± Amber asked. ¡°Brains and beauty!¡± Lohan answered while grinning. ¡°And not to mention, sexy!¡± Joshua said. ¡°Not a gold digger.¡± Rafael added. She knows that they are joking but a sharp pain pierce through her heart. ¡°And more importantly no attitude problem.¡± Gabriel added. ¡°Are you guys, Phil?¡± Phil asked his friends in annoyance. ¡°Amber is asking me and you guys answered. Seriously?¡± He added making the guysugh, and looks at her. ¡°I don¡¯t care about the first three, all I want for a girl is that she knows how to respect others to cater my needs.¡± ¡°There is a girl I know who will fit your description and not to mention she¡¯s a beauty and brains.¡± She said, making the guys perk up their interest. ¡°Who?¡± Phil asked in excitement. ¡°Kaylee Legaspi, a friend of mine who is working at MJ restaurant. I¡¯m sure you already meet her.¡± She answered. Their attention turns to Lohan when he suddenly dropped his spoon. ¡°Oh, don¡¯t mind me.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Of course, I know her.¡± Phil answered with a mysterious smile on his face. ¡°I would like to know her more.¡± He added and Lohan cursed again. This time his water spilled. ¡°She¡¯s a beauty!¡± Lohan added with a wide grin on his face. ¡°Are you okay, Lohan?¡± Amber heard Rafael asked Lohan. When she looked at Lohan, his face is dim and is ring at Phil who is just grinning at him. ¡°But it seems that someone is going to murder me if I willy my hands on your friend.¡± Phil meaningfully said to her making her confuse. ¡°But Kaylee is single, though.¡± She said. ¡°Who knows.¡± Phil shrugged and continued eating with gusto. Rafa, Gab and Josh just sighed and shook their head at Phil. AMBER and Rafael are enjoying their selves in the butterfly garden, they headed there when Joshua and the others went home. Joshua and Gabriel even apologized about their rude behaviour when they sent Rafael home when he¡¯s drunk. ¡°Hon, do you know who is Lohan¡¯s fianc¨¦e?¡± Amber suddenly asked. ¡°Why do you ask? Are you interested on him?¡± Rafael frowned and jealousness is screaming on his eyes and tone. ¡°Are you jealous?¡± She teased. ¡°You don¡¯t have to be jealous, hon. I¡¯m only asking because Lohan is a friend of mine and he¡¯s like an older brother. He is part of my childhood.¡± She added and loosely wrapped her arms around his neck. ¡°I am not jealous.¡± Rafael said averting his eyes, making herugh. ¡°You can¡¯t hide anything from me, Rafa.¡± She said. ¡°Your face tells it all.¡± She added, Rafael didn¡¯t answer; he wrapped his hands on her waist pulling her closer and captured her lips. Amber didn¡¯t expect the kiss but she wholeheartedly responded with the same intensity. ¡°You are mine, Amber.¡± Rafael said when their lips separated. Possessiveness is evident on his eyes yet, she sees it as a sweet gesture, for her it only means that she¡¯s slowly entering his heart, and she¡¯s happy with it. ¡°And I don¡¯t share what is mine.¡± He added. ¡°And I don¡¯t share what is mine, either.¡± Amber said before he captured her lips again for another passionate kiss. ¡°This ce is beautiful.¡± Amber said in amusement as they roam around the butterfly garden. ¡°You are like in a paradise.¡± She added as she admires the butterflies flying around. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, there are fifty different species of butterfly here. I don¡¯t know if they added another species.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Your mom is so amazing, she really worked hard to get where she is now.¡± Amber said. ¡°Aww! So beautiful.¡± She eximed in amazement when a bluish white butterflynded on a tulip in front of them. ¡°Yes¡­ It¡¯s beautiful.¡± Rafael said looking at Amber, he has always admired his wife¡¯s beauty even before. When the butterfly flew, Amber looked at Rafa and caught him staring at her. ¡°Is there a dirt on my face?¡± Amber asked. ¡°You are beautiful, Amber.¡± Rafael said as he stares straight in her eyes. ¡°You are like a goddess in a magical kingdom.¡± He smiled making Amber¡¯s cheeks reddened. ¡°And I love it every time you blush due to mypliment and mine alone.¡± Rafael added and kiss her. ¡°Ever since this morning, you¡¯ve been kissing and kissing me.¡± Amber said and slightly hit her Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. husband¡¯s arm making himugh. ¡°I will miss you that is why I am enjoying our time together.¡± Rafael said making her frown. Will he leave her behind? ¡°And I don¡¯t know when will Ie back.¡± ¡°Why? Where will you go?¡± she asked. ¡°A friend needs a help.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°You¡¯re leaving me?¡± Amber asked, she doesn¡¯t know how to exin what she feels. ¡°For a mean time, hon.¡± Rafael said cupping her face and dried her tears away, she¡¯s not even aware that a tear escaped her eyes. ¡°While I¡¯m away, mom and dad will keep youpany and also you will not be bored because mom¡¯s adventurous dogs, Copper and Draco will also be there for you.¡± ¡°But they will also leave me, you said it yourself that they are adventurous.¡± She sulks. ¡°I will be back. I promise.¡± Rafael said as he kiss the top of her nose. ¡°What if you will meet another girl there and you will fall for her?¡± She is still sulking. ¡°That would never happen, Amber, because in my eyes, there¡¯s only you and you alone.¡± He said and give her another kiss on the lips. ¡°There is something I will tell you when Ie back.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t say it now?¡± She asked as she wrapped her hands in Rafael¡¯s waist. ¡°No, it¡¯s a surprise, hon.¡± Rafael said ¡°Fine, but make sure that I would love that.¡± She said and leans her head on his chest. While Rafael hugs her. ¡°Make sure that I would cry because of joyfulness.¡± She added making himugh. ¡°Yes, I assure you that you will and you will scream in delight.¡± Rafael said and kissed the top of her head. Chapter 21 Chapter 21 As soon as they got home, Copper and Draco excitedly approached them. They wanted to bring the two with them earlier but the two dogs were nowhere to be found. ¡°Hey, buddy! Rafael said as he yed with them. ¡°Want to go and y fetch?¡± Rafael ask as he get their ball on the cab. The two are happily waiting for him at the garden. ¡°I¡¯ll be in the kitchen if you need me.¡± Amber said to him. ¡°Kitchen again?¡± Rafaelughed. ¡°I¡¯m thirsty.¡± Amber rolled her eyes. ¡°Okay¡­ okay¡­ if you say so.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I¡¯ll go and y with the dogs.¡± He said and kissed her lips again. ¡°Rafa!¡± She warned. He¡¯s been kissing her all day. ¡°Your lips are addicting, hon.¡± Rafael answered grinning widely making her sighed. Just then Copper and Draco barked. ¡°Oh, they¡¯re calling.¡± He said and went to see them. Amber sighed and entered the kitchen and saw Linda and Berta eating. ¡°Good afternoon, ma¡¯am.¡± They both greeted. ¡°Good afternoon too.¡± She smiled. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you are a good cook.¡± Linda said. They may be housekeepers but the Andersons treated them as family, so they eat what the Andersons eat for a meal, unlike some other households who treated their housekeepers differently. ¡°Thank you.¡± She smiled as she drinks water. ¡°Do you need something, ma¡¯am?¡± Berta asked when she opens the cab to check for ingredients. ¡°Hmm? No, just keep on eating. I also don¡¯t know what will I bake.¡± She said as she stares at the ingredients avable. ¡°What time will you leave tomorrow?¡± Allison asked Rafael when he told him about their ns. They are talking over dinner. ¡°Around eight, mom.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°We¡¯re just going to help a friend in need.¡± ¡°It is so sudden.¡± Nico said. ¡°It is so that Danielle and Joshua can get married without a glitch. Joshua wanted that Danielle will have a fresh start when they get married.¡± He said. ¡°Oh! Joshua is so sweet.¡± Allison said. ¡°I¡¯m happy for you and your friends. You are all starting to settle down now.¡± ¡°Well, it is very obvious that Joshua¡¯s in love with Danielle ever since.¡± Rafael shrugged. ¡°Is Danielle his secretary? His date during your birthday party?¡± Nico asked. ¡°Yes, dad.¡± Rafael nodded. ¡°Oh. I thought she¡¯s already his girlfriend.¡± Nico said. ¡°But they really suit each other.¡± ¡°How about Jon?¡± Allison asked. ¡°He is still confused as of the moment. He made another woman pregnant and now he is torn in between.¡± Rafael answered as he nces on Amber who is quietly eating her dinner. ¡°But is it sure that it was his child?¡± Allison asked. ¡°Jon is not the type of person that would cheat especially now that he is getting married.¡± ¡°I know, mom, but a test has been done and it was really his.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Samantha is also broken right now.¡± ¡°But you know that results can be faked, right?¡± Nico said. ¡°Yes, but Jon is determined to take responsibility.¡± Rafael sighed. ¡°Oh, poor them.¡± Allison said. ¡°I hope everything will be alright.¡± ¡°I hope so.¡± Rafael said. ¡°But do you really need to go?¡± Allison asked. ¡°Yes, I also need some time to think on things.¡± He answered. Amber looked at him. ¡°It will not take long.¡± He said and squeezed Amber¡¯s hands. TWO days passed with no Rafael felt like a year. Amber is sighing looking at the vast sky while sitting under a tree. ¡°It seems that your lost in thoughts.¡± Allison said and seat beside her. ¡°Mom¡­¡± She ¡°Missing Rafa?¡± She asked. ¡°Mom, do you think that it is funny that I only known him for a while but he already made a big impact on my life?¡± Amber asked. ¡°It¡¯s only been two days but it feels like a year to me, I already miss his presence, his scent, his voice¡­ I really miss him, mom.¡± ¡°Amber¡­¡± Allison gently caress her hair as she doesn¡¯t know how to make her feel better. ¡°Mom, I don¡¯t know if I should be saying this to you but¡­¡± She bitterly smiles as she nces at Allison. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you will still treat me the same once you knew this¡­¡± She added making Allison curious. ¡°Your son really hated me to the core.¡± ¡°W-what do you mean?¡± Allison asked in confusion, she has a hunch that Rafael and Amber didn¡¯t marry for love but as the day goes on that she observed them, she can definitely say that both of them are in love with each other. ¡°I was working as a waitress on a bar that Rafael co-owned and in just one night our fate changes forever. After that night, I immediately resigned with a thought that I will not see him again, but it seems that fate is ying with us. It turns out that he is the owner of the restaurant where I worked at.¡± Amber said. ¡°When he learned that I am pregnant, he immediately took the responsibility, not even doubting if the baby is his.¡± She smiled. ¡°I thought Rafael would just give child support but instead, he offered me his name¡ªhe offered me marriage saying that whatever he has will also be mine.¡± Amber said. Allison gasps in surprise, she can¡¯t believe what she is hearing. Rafael indeed is not someone that would tie his self to any woman and he even offered everything he has. It makes her wonder what was Rafael thinking at that moment. Could it be that he is already smitten by Amber that is why he offered those things? ¡°I declined the marriage at first, mom.¡± Amber continued. Allison can see the sadness in her eyes. ¡°I confidently said that I could raise our child even without his help when I can¡¯t even have a proper meal myself. But of course, Rafael already had me checked, he already knows where I live and he doesn¡¯t like it. He insisted on us getting married and I thought that it was already my chance to get myself the money I needed.¡± Amber bitterly smile at her. ¡°I married your son for money.¡± She added as a tear escaped her eyes. Allison is speechless. Did she hear it right? She got to know Amber during her stay and she¡¯s sweet and kind-hearted. ¡°Since I badly needed five million, I threatened Rafael that I will abort our baby if he will not agree to my terms.¡± Amber said making Allison gasps in horror. Allison cannot believe what she is hearing. In the past, she had many miscarriages and it was even a miracle that she and Nico had Rafael, after that she even lost another baby daughter. She and Nico had heart breaks until they gave up on having another one since her life is already at risk. ¡°Rafael told me that I am not fit to be a mother and I cannot me him, I made him think that way. And no matter what exnations I made, it would not chance the fact that I hurt him and our baby.¡± Amber said and caress her belly. ¡°I am really happy when it was confirmed that I am pregnant, and I never really had an intention to abort it. The truth is, I don¡¯t really care about Rafael¡¯s wealth¡­¡± ¡°But you needed five million.¡± Allison said making her nod. ¡°But why?¡± Allison can¡¯t help not to ask. ¡°When my mother died, it was the start of our miserable life. My father started gambling until he umted millions of debts before hemitted suicide.¡± Amber bitterly smile as she remembers that painful memory. ¡°I sold all of our properties, even the resort that was dear to my parents. I was basically left with nothing but other than some of the jewelries of my mother that I cannot sell, and that five million debt left.¡± ¡°Oh, Amber¡­¡± Allison eximed and hug her, she¡¯s not aware that behind those smiles, she¡¯s suffering a lot. ¡°I am so sorry, ma.¡± Amber said in between her sobs. ¡°I was so guilty when you and dad Nico wholeheartedly epted me and you¡¯ve been so kind to me.¡± She added. ¡°And the guilt was always there especially when Rafael told me that you¡¯ve experience a series miscarriage that having him is a miracle. I am so sorry.¡± ¡°Hush¡­ It¡¯s okay, Amber.¡± Allison tried tofort her as she, herself is also crying. ¡°Nico and I already had a hunch when Rafa suddenly get married, we already knew that there is something behind it. Rafael knew that when the timees that he will get married, we will throw a grand engagement party and a wedding because he is our only son. That is why when we learned that you¡¯re pregnant, we thought that was it, but it seems that there is still something behind it.¡± ¡°I am so sorry.¡± Amber apologized again. ¡°It¡¯s okay, sweetie. I am just shock and all, but I will never hate you for threatening my son nor saying that you will terminate your pregnancy, but even if you said that because of the spur of moment, I am disappointed.¡± ¡°I understand¡­¡± ¡°But did you clear the misunderstanding with Rafa?¡± Allison asked. ¡°Not yet, ma. I always had the time to clear it, especially when he gave me the advance of two million.¡± She answered making her gasps. ¡°I ask him to give me five million once we got married, but he told me that he will give me thirty. When we got married, he gave me the advance of two million and the remaining twenty-eight will be given once I gave birth to a healthy baby.¡± ¡°My goodness¡­¡± ¡°I withdrawn the whole 2M and give it to the debt collector, at that moment, I could just have told Rafa the truth but instead, I made plenty of excuses. Rafa even made an effort to make our marriage work and it felt so warm, when he told me that I am contemting if I will just tell him the truth, but he added that we will not ever talk about money since it is the root of our arguments. ¡°You raised a good son, mom that I sometimes felt that I don¡¯t deserve him that I can¡¯t even help not to think that what if one day, he will meet a woman that can make his heart flutter and will fall for her. Our baby is the only one who binds us together¡­ but if ever that timees, I will not hold him back if he Owned by N?velDrama.Org. wants an annulment.¡± ¡°Oh, Amber, don¡¯t think like that, there is no way that Rafael will fall for another woman.¡± Allison said as she dries Amber¡¯s tears. ¡°Rafael loves you, Amber and I can feel that. He has never care for another woman as how much he does to you.¡± She added. ¡°Now, tell me, Amber, do you love my son?¡± ¡°I love him, mom.¡± Amber answered as her tears started to fall again. ¡°I love him so much that it hurts thinking that he might fall for someone else.¡± Chapter 22 Chapter 22 AMBER is having her morning tea in the veranda while looking at the vast sky, it has been days and there is still no sign of Rafael, and the most devastating part is that they can¡¯t even contact him. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you have a visitor.¡± Linda informed making her frown. ¡°Who?¡± She asked, it is impossible that her visitor is Kaylee because thest time they talked to each other, she already submitted her resignation letter and she is now busy taking care of her father who is in the hospital. ¡°Danielle Monteverde, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda answered making her confused. ¡°Danielle Monteverde?¡± She asked. ¡°Why would she be here?¡± She mumbled. ¡°Please tell her that I¡¯ll be there, and please make some snacks.¡± She said and went back to her and Rafa¡¯s room to change clothes as she is only wearing her pajamas. ¡°Hello, I¡¯m Danielle.¡± Danielle introduced her self and outstretch her hand. Amber epted and smiled, she unknowingly stared at Danielle¡¯s not so big stomach. ¡°I¡¯m nearly on my second month.¡± She said as she caresses her stomach. Amber on the other hand, unknowingly caresses her stomach. ¡°Ah, I¡¯m sorry, I didn¡¯t mean to¡­¡± She shyly said. ¡°Please take a seat.¡± ¡°I was shocked when I heard that Rafael got married, now I know why¡­¡± ¡°Because I¡¯m pregnant?¡± Amber cuts her off. ¡°What? No¡­ that¡¯s not what I mean.¡± Danielle answered. ¡°What I mean is that you are very beautiful.¡± ¡°But that was not the reason why my husband married me.¡± She bitterly smiled. ¡°I doubt it. I don¡¯t know what really is happening between you two but you should know that Rafael¡¯s been looking for you.¡± Danielle said making her confused. ¡°Oh, I forgot to mention, I was Joshua¡¯s secretary and I happen to heard it.¡± ¡°Oh¡­ I thought¡­¡± She didn¡¯t get to finish what she is about to say since Berta entered with a tray in her hands. ¡°It is good that youe and visit.¡± ¡°Mom Althea tagged me along so that we can get to know each other.¡± Danielle answered. ¡°I hope I didn¡¯t bother you.¡± ¡°No, it¡¯s okay.¡± She smiled. ¡°I¡¯m sure that our husbands will be happy to know that we are getting along.¡± ¡°I am still not tied to Joshua.¡± Danielle bitterly smiled. ¡°We were supposed to ger married today but he postponed it. And until now he still didn¡¯t call once.¡± ¡°Rafa also didn¡¯t call once.¡± She said and they both sighed. ¡°Do you want to tour around the garden?¡± She asked so that they can rx. ¡°Is it okay?¡± Danielle asked but there is a glitch of excitement in her eyes. ¡°Of course.¡± She smiled. ¡°I¡¯m dure you will love it.¡± ¡°Wow!¡± Danielle eximed in amusement. ¡°Tita Allison¡¯s garden is so beautiful and enchanting!¡± Danielle said. ¡°Earlier, I kept blinking my eyes and pinching my cheeks to make sure that I¡¯m awake not in a dream. The view is fascinating and enchanting at the same time.¡± ¡°I actually had the same reaction, especially when we toured around the subdivision, I can¡¯t even almost believe what I am seeing.¡± Amber said. They are nearing the center of the garden when Draco and Copper suddenly appeared out of nowhere. ¡°Aww! They are so cute!¡± Danielle said as she pets the two dogs. ¡°Are they your pets?¡± ¡°Tita Allison¡¯s pets. Draco is the husky one and the Labrador is Copper.¡± Amber said, and in an instant the two suddenly ran around again. ¡°They are very adventurous, if they are nowhere to be found in the house or in the garden, then they are roaming around the subdivision.¡± ¡°They are very lucky to have a wide yground.¡± Danielle said and sheughed when the two suddenly ran after a butterfly. ¡°I¡¯m really happy that mommy Althea tagged me along, at least I can see you again after how many years.¡± Danielle said when they are resting in the balcony. ¡°You remember?¡± Amber uttered in surprise. ¡°Of course.¡± Danielle smiled. ¡°You¡¯re in a different block that is why we seldom see each other in the hallways or in the cafeteria.¡± They are both schoolmates when they were in college¡ªsame course but different block. ¡°Yes, and the first time we talked was about the approval of the n our block is having.¡± She added. Danielle is the president of their department so, she¡¯s the one screening the proposals for every n of each block every school activity. ¡°That school festival is the most memorable to me, we merge our ns and until now the memory is still fresh. I can¡¯t help not tough at our victim¡¯s reactions but in the end they all ended up together.¡± Danielle said andugh. It was their school festival and Danielle¡¯s block decided to have a wedding booth, while their booth decided for a blind date. ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, we received a lot of harsh words in the process but as the blind date goes on, they were smitten by their partners and they proceeded to the wedding booth.¡± Amber said and slightly shook her head. ¡°That¡¯s right. And until now, I am having goosebumps every time I heard that everyone who went to our booth are now real boyfriends and girlfriends. Some are even married and the others are still preparing.¡± Danielle added. ¡°Really? Wow!¡± Amber uttered in surprised. ¡°Did we just be a cupid?¡± She asksughing. ¡°So that means, Sir Monde and Ma¡¯am Francisco also got together?¡± She asks when she remembered the two instructors who are single at that time and they all set them up. ¡°Yes.¡± Danielle answered andughed. ¡°They are now married, blessed with a bouncy baby boy.¡± ¡°Wow!¡± She said in amusement. ¡°And thinking back, it is great that we didn¡¯t join the craze or else, we might not be here.¡± Danielle said making her smile. ¡°You had a point there.¡± She said and they bothughed. N?velDrama.Org copyrighted ? content. AMBER woke up by her ringing phone, thinking that it was Rafael, she immediately answered it without checking who the caller is. ¡°Rafa? Where are you?¡± She asked in sleepy but worried tone. ¡°So, it is really true that you are married to Rafael Anderson, Miss Santiago.¡± A familiar voice said making her woke her senses up. Even without checking who the caller is, she already knew who it is. ¡°Mister Lim¡­¡± ¡°How are you, Miss Santiago?¡± He asked, and even if she can¡¯t see him, she knew that he is grinning. ¡°I¡¯ve been thinking how did you manage to get that two million but now it has been answered. You are married to a very rich and influential man.¡± ¡°What do you need?¡± She coldly asked. ¡°Watch your tone, Miss Santiago.¡± He warned. ¡°Remember that you still have a remaining three million debt.¡± ¡°I know, Mister Lim but I still have less than two months to pay, so why are you calling me?¡± She asked, trying to act tough. ¡°I am collecting your bnce, Miss Santiago¡ªor should I say Mrs. Anderson.¡± He answered making her frown. ¡°I¡¯m sure you will not have a hard time to pay me now, right?¡± ¡°That¡¯s absurd!¡± She said. ¡°Rafael and I were married but I don¡¯t have the right toy my hands on his wealth!¡± She added. ¡°And why are you collecting now? I still have less than two months to pay!¡± ¡°I have the right to collect any time and any day, Mrs. Anderson!¡± He warned. ¡°If you can¡¯t pay me now, then I have no choice but to call your husband.¡± ¡°Y..you can¡¯t do that.¡± She stuttered. ¡°Oh, yes, I can, Mrs. Anderson.¡± He said. ¡°In fact, I already called him, it is unfortunate that he cannot be reached as of the moment.¡± He added making her eyes wide open. With shaking hands, Amber ends the call and immediately dialled Rafael¡¯s number and it was still really out of reach. She tried to calm her self and breathe deeply. She must reach Rafael first before Mister Lim does, but how? ¡°Linda, where is mommy?¡± Amber asked when she saw the helper wiping the table. ¡°They went out but they said that they will be backter.¡± ¡°Is that so¡­¡± She sighed and make her some milk. ¡°Ma¡¯am, what do you want for breakfast?¡± Linda asked. ¡°Pancake, please.¡± She answered when she saw the pancake mix in the drawer. ¡°Just bring it in the veranda. Thank you.¡± Amber went to the veranda holding her cup of milk. She can see that Copper and Draco are happily ying near the pond. She slightly shook her head as she watches the two, it is still early in the morning and they are already out there ying. Her eyes wandered around the garden and saw the Mang Tirso, the gardener with an unfamiliar man. The gardener is going there every other day to tend the nts and he would always tag along his son when he has no ss. ¡°Ma¡¯am, here is your pancake.¡± Linda said and ce the te in front of her. ¡°Oh, thank you.¡± She said. ¡°Do you know who is that man with Mang Tirso?¡± She asked. ¡°Ah, that is Julian. He¡¯s been looking for a job and the madam hired him. It is his fourth day today.¡± Linda answered as she stares at Julian who is trimming the bushes. ¡°Isn¡¯t he hot and handsome, ma¡¯am?¡± Linda added making her shock. ¡°Linda!¡± She uttered in horror, but she can¡¯t help not tough seeing the helpers oozing eyes. ¡°Do you like him?¡± She asked making her blush. ¡°Ooh! You like him.¡± She teased. ¡°M..ma¡¯am, tone down your voice¡­ he might hear us.¡± Linda said being flustered, and she can¡¯t help not tough. ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask him out?¡± Amber suggested making the helper more flustered. ¡°He is way beyond out of my reach.¡± Linda said, it seems that she¡¯s really infatuated to Julian. ¡°I can help you with him, if you want.¡± She asked. ¡°There¡¯s no need, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda said making her confused. ¡°I already have a boyfriend.¡± She said, smiling wide. Happiness can be seen through her eyes. ¡°Eh? What?¡± She uttered in surprise, nearly dropping her fork. ¡°You have a boyfriend and yet your eyes are oozing around the new gardener?¡± ¡°I can¡¯t help it, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda said grinning from ear to ear. ¡°Julian is hot and sexy.¡± She giggled, and Amber also cannot help not to giggle seeing the helper like this. ¡°Excuse me, ma¡¯am, but there is a phone call from the guard house.¡± Berta said interrupting them. ¡°A certain Mister Shin Lim is asking for you.¡± She said making her pale. ¡°Should we let him in?¡± ¡°N... no! I don¡¯t know that person.¡± She said. The two helpers looked at her suspiciously but they remained silent. She wiped the bullets of cold sweat on her forehead and tried to remain calm. ¡°I will tell the guards not to let him in, then.¡± Berta said. ¡°P¡­please do so.¡± Amber said, before Berta and Linda leaves. After a while, she was startled when her phone rang and it was no other than Shin Lim. ¡°What do you want?¡± She asked trying to act tough. ¡°You cannot run away from me, Mrs. Anderson.¡± He threatens before cutting the line. Chapter 23 Chapter 23 ¡°Who is there?¡± Amber asked trying to act tough. She is on her morning walk around the garden when she felt someone following her. ¡°Is there anyone here?¡± She asked again as she feels her surroundings. She was startled when she heard a footstep behind her. ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you okay?¡± A voice asked. When she turns around, it was no other than the new gardener. ¡°Ma¡¯am?¡± Julian asked. ¡°Oh, it¡¯s you.¡± She breathes in, calming her nerves. ¡°Are you okay, ma¡¯am?¡± Julian asked. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m fine.¡± She answered. ¡°What are you doing here? You should not be here today.¡± She cannot help not to ask. Ever since the man came to the mansion, she started feeling ufortable and that someone is eyeing on her. ¡°We didn¡¯t finish the work yesterday, so Mang Tirso decided that we wille again today.¡± Julian answered while staring directly at her, making her ufortable. It seems that he¡¯s been looking through her soul. ¡°Is that so. Then I¡¯ll leave you here then so that you can continue your work.¡± She said and immediately leaves, she doesn¡¯t want to be alone with that man. Amber went directly to their room and checked her phone. Her heart beats fast when she saw a missed call and message from Rafael. She immediately opened and read his message. Hi, hon, how are you? I hope you are doing fine. Don¡¯t worry too much about me. I am doing well here¡­ Well, maybe not because you¡¯re not here beside me. But I will see you soon. Take Care! She immediately dialled his number but disappointment awaits her as he cannot be reached. She decided to write a reply to his message. I miss you, hon. Come back home, please. She sighed and hit the send button. She wanted to talk to someone so she called Danielle. ¡°Hey, sis, how are you?¡± She asked when Danielle answered her call. ¡°I¡¯m fine sis.¡± Danielle answered. ¡°Do you have any news about the boys?¡± She asked, concern is evident on her voice. ¡°I just received a message from Rafael. He says that they are okay and they will be back soon.¡± She said. ¡°Is that so¡­ That¡¯s great then.¡± Danielle said and sighed. ¡°If only Joshua call or message us, his parents are worried sick about him. We tried calling Gabriel but he is also out of reach.¡± Danielle said then she heard a loudmotion. ¡°I¡¯ll call you backter, sis.¡± Danielle hurriedly said and cuts off the line. ¡°What is happening to us?¡± She asked herself and let out a sigh. She is about to get out of the room to have breakfast when her phone rings again. She excitedly checked it hoping that it was Rafael but to her disappointment it was Shin Lim. She didn¡¯t answer her phone and block the number. ¡°Good morning, mom, dad.¡± She greeted her inws who are in the dining table and waited for her. ¡°Good morning too, dear.¡± Allison greeted. ¡°I was about to ask Berta to call you.¡± She added. ¡°How is your sleep?¡± Allison asked. ¡°I can¡¯t really sleepst night because I spend the whole afternoon sleeping. That is why I took an early walk around the garden.¡± Amber said as she took a sip on her milk. ¡°Is that so.¡± Allison nodded. ¡°By the way, are you okay being alone here today?¡± ¡°Yes, mom, why?¡± She asked. ¡°Nico will be having a meetingter and I will be attending an outreach program. I want to bring you with me but the travel is quite far.¡± ¡°It¡¯s okay, mom. I am fine here.¡± She said. ¡°I n to finish the book I am reading today.¡± ¡°Ma¡¯am Amber, telephone call for you.¡± Linda said. ¡°Is it Rafa?¡± She asked thinking that Rafael might be calling her but she left her phone in the room. ¡°It is not Sir Rafa, but¡­¡± ¡°Oh¡­¡± She murmured; disappointment was all over her face. She excuses her self for a while to get the phone. ¡°Hello, Amber speaking. Who is this?¡± ¡°Mrs. Anderson, how are you?¡± She nearly drops the telephone upon hearing that voice as fear and nervousness engulfs her. The caller is no other than the man who is pestering her for the past few days ¡ªShin Lim! ¡°How did you know the telephone number here?¡± She asked, holding tightly the telephone. ¡°I have my ways, Mrs. Anderson.¡± Shin Lim simply answers but it spent chills throughout her body. ¡°Do you think you can run away from me, eh?¡± Heughs devilishly. ¡°You can hide but you can¡¯t run!¡± He warned. ¡°I promise that I will pay the remaining bnce but please wait for a while, I don¡¯t have any money to pay you.¡± She pleaded in a soft voice in fear that someone in the house might hear her. ¡°And when is that?¡± The man growls. ¡°When Rafaeles home.¡± She answered. ¡°So, please, wait for a while. I cannot just ask my inws for a huge sum of money. They will surely question me!¡± ¡°Hah! I believe that I¡¯ve already given you enough time, Amber!¡± The man said firmly. ¡°Oh, please!¡± She pleaded desperately. ¡°You are aware that I already sold all our properties, I have nothing left with me now, where else do you want me to get money?¡± She asked. ¡°I literally sold my body to a man whom I just known for a while just to pay you.¡± ¡°enough of excuses! I lent your father my money and when he can¡¯t pay me back, hemitted suicide. Now, it is your responsibility to pay it back!¡± The man shouted in anger. ¡°But that was my father¡¯s debt and not mine!¡± Amber insisted. ¡°Just give me months and I will pay back the remaining bnce.¡± She pleaded. ¡°No can do, Mrs. Anderson.¡± Shin Lim said. ¡°Now that the thing I want is nearly in my reach, I will never stop until I get my hands on it! You know what I am talking about, Amber!¡± He said. ¡°And I will not stop until you give it to me!¡± ¡°I don¡¯t know what you are talking about so leave me alone!¡± She shouted and cuts of the call. What he said is making her confused and curious. What is it that he wants and what does it have to do with her? If it is about money, she is sure that the man has no problem with it, three million is just a piece of cake for him. ¡°What did I ever do wrong to deserve this?¡± She asked and sigh. She unknowingly looked at the window ss and was startled when Julian is looking at her. ¡°Is everything alright, dear?¡± Allison asked making her flinch. ¡°We were worried that you¡¯re taking your time in the phone and we heard you shouting.¡± Nico asked and there is a hint of worried in their voices. ¡°T-there¡¯s no problem, mom, dad.¡± She lied. The couple looked at each other and looks back at her. ¡°Who are you talking to?¡± Nico asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know, it was a prank call and they are being persistent.¡± She lied again. ¡°I don¡¯t even know why they knew my name.¡± She added. Amber spend the whole afternoon reading a book and just a few more chapters and she¡¯s done. But she still can¡¯t help not to be ufortable especially that where ever she goes, Julian is there. At first, she thought it was coincidence since the man is working in the garden, but she changes location for how many times and still Julian is in sight. She closed the book and ced it in the table and took a sip on her tea. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you have a visitor.¡± Berta informed making her frown. Who would visit her? It is impossible that it is Danielle nor Kaylee. ¡°Who is it?¡± She asked and put on her cardigan. ¡°They didn¡¯t say the name but it is girl.¡± Berta answered. ¡°A girl?¡± She frowns. ¡°Where is she?¡± ¡°At the subdivision gate, ma¡¯am. The guards didn¡¯t let her in.¡± Berta said. ¡°Should we let her in?¡± She Owned by N?velDrama.Org. asked. ¡°No.¡± She answered, she¡¯s curious who is her visitor. ¡°I will go there myself.¡± ¡°Should I call someone to pick you up using the subdivision¡¯s cart car?¡± Berta asked again. The subdivision has its own transportation making it convenient for the people living there and also for the visitors. ¡°If you want, Julian can drive for you.¡± ¡°Julian?¡± She asked. ¡°He is still here? I thought he went home already.¡± ¡°Ah, no, ma¡¯am. They are staying here as of the moment so that they can tend to the needs of the garden.¡± Berta answered. ¡°Is that so. Call him then, I¡¯ll meet him in the garage.¡± She ordered. On their way to the gate, she tried calling Kaylee but her phone just keeps on ringing. ¡°Ma¡¯am, we are already here.¡± Julian said as he parks the car. ¡°And please don¡¯t trust anyone.¡± He said firmly making her curious. But she didn¡¯t pay attention to it and went to the guard house. ¡°Ma¡¯am Amber, do you know this person?¡± The guard ask and pointed on one of the monitor screen. She frowned as soon as she saw the woman. She didn¡¯t who she was. ¡°Please, ask her name.¡± ¡°Her name is Kaylee Fernandez, ma¡¯am.¡± The guard answered making her legs lose its strength. She took a seat on a vacant seat. ¡°Ma¡¯am, are you okay?¡± The guard asked worriedly. ¡°What?¡± Amber uttered surprised when she saw from the monitor that two men grabbed the woman. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am, they are agents.¡± Julian said who is beside her and holding his phone. She saw that the woman tried to fight back but failed to do so. She doesn¡¯t know what was going on as she watched Julian talking to the guards and it makes her curious and confused why can Julian ordered them around. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, ma¡¯am, everything will be alright.¡± Julian said when they reached the mansion. ¡°What do you mean?¡± She asked but Julian didn¡¯t answer her. ¡°Who are you?¡± She asked again but the man didn¡¯t answer her back. Ten days passed and still no news on Rafael and the others. Rafael didn¡¯t message nor call her again and it is making her devastated. Amber is walking around the vige with Copper and Draco. She already finished reading her book and now she¡¯s bored that is why she decided to stroll around. And before she gets out of the house, Julian told her to be careful. Until now, she is questioning Julian¡¯s identity. It seems that he is not just a simple gardener. ¡°It¡¯s good that I have you two with me.¡± Amber said to the dogs who stopped walking and looked at her. ¡°You understand what I am saying? Aww! I really love you two.¡± She said as she pets them. ¡°Thank you for being with me.¡± They continued to walk until they reach theke. ¡°Let¡¯s take a rest first.¡± She said and took a seat in the bench. The two dogs took their ce beside her. ¡°Sometimes I envy those happy family.¡± She suddenly said while watching the happy families rowing the boat. She really missed her parents. She is happy that her inws are treating her well and nothing changed despite knowing that she used Rafael for money. She let out a sigh and looked at Draco and Copper who are looking at her. ¡°Let¡¯s go home, it¡¯s getting cold.¡± They are near the house when Draco and Copper suddenly barked non-stop. Copper is behind her while Draco is in front of her, and it seems that they¡¯re protecting her from something. ¡°Amber.¡± A familiar voice called her making her. ¡°Rafa?¡± She can¡¯t be wrong, even if she hasn¡¯t seen him for days, she is certain that it is Rafael. But why does it feel wrong? Why does she can¡¯t feel anything from the man standing in front of her. And why does Copper and Draco barking at him? Chapter 24 Chapter 24 ¡°Are you not going to hug or kiss your husband?¡± The man in front of her asked giving chill throughout her body. The dogs keep on barking non-stop. ¡°Stop right there!¡± She said when the man started walking towards her. ¡°You are not my husband!¡± She said making the man stop. ¡°What are you talking about, Amber?¡± The man asked. ¡°This is me, Rafael, your husband.¡± The man tried to convince her. ¡°No!¡± She firmly said. ¡°You might have his face and voice but I am hundred percent sure that you are not my husband!¡± ¡°What makes you say that?¡± The man grinned giving chills to her body, and slowly approaches her. ¡°Is that how you wee your husband?¡± ¡°I told you already, you¡¯re not my husband so get lost!¡± She said firmly as she took a step backwards. She wanted to run but she is thinking about the baby in her womb; she should not be risky. She nced at the Anderson¡¯s mansion nearby hoping that someone inside can hear Copper and Draco barking. ¡°Is that so, eh?¡± The man grins as he grabbed her arm. ¡°Let go of me!¡± She shouted and pulled her arm but the man is grabbing her tightly. She was shocked when Draco suddenly bites the man¡¯s hand making him let go of her. ¡°Draco!¡± She called, nervous that the man might do something bad to him. Her eyes widen when the man bring out his gun and pointed it at Draco. ¡°Draco! Copper! Run to the house as fast as you can!¡± She shouted and started running. ¡°Damn you!¡± The man cursed and shoot the gun. Amber can see in her peripheral view that the dogs are running by her side. They seeded on entering the gate. She is catching her breath as she checks on the dogs. ¡°Oh gosh! Draco!¡± She worriedly eximed when she saw Draco¡¯s leg is bleeding. ¡°What happened?¡± Allison and Nico asked rushing. ¡°Mom¡­¡± Amber said and looks at Draco who is now seated on the ground and licking his wound. ¡°Draco¡¯s leg is¡­¡± ¡°Nico, let¡¯s bring Draco at the vet.¡± Allison worriedly said as she approached Draco. Nico on the other hand, didn¡¯t say anything and hurriedly went inside the house to get his car keys. ¡°Oh my gosh, what happened?¡± ¡°There is a man outside who disguised his self as Rafa and Draco bit him.¡± Amber said. ¡°What?¡± Allison asked in confusion. ¡°Hon, let¡¯s go.¡± Nico hurriedly said. ¡°The vet is closed today since the doctor has a seminar to attend, so we need to go to the city.¡± Nico added as he carry Draco into the car. ¡°Mom, I will go too.¡± Amber said who is really worried about Draco. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Amber. Stay with Copper.¡± Allison said as she nce at Copper who is whining. ¡°We will be back, Copper, okay?¡± Allison pets him. Just in time, Julian enters the gate. ¡°Julian, I will leave Amber to you. And I want an exnationter.¡± Allison firmly said before entering the car. ¡°Yes, ma¡¯am.¡± Julian answered as he opens the gate for the car to get out and closes it again. ¡°Ma¡¯am Amber, please go inside.¡± Berta said. ¡°And please don¡¯t panic too much, it will be stressful for you and the baby.¡± She added. Amber didn¡¯t say anything and went inside the house, she took a seat and Copper took a seat beside her and puts his head on herp. ¡°I will go and get water.¡± Berta said and hurriedly went inside the kitchen. ¡°I am so sorry Copper.¡± She said as she pets his head. ¡°I put you and Draco in danger.¡± Allison and Nico¡¯s worried faces is still fresh on her mind, and now the lonely eyes of Copper staring at her is enough to make her feel guilty. She is the one who brought storm to the peaceful subdivision. ¡°Okay, Sir. Yes, don¡¯t worry¡­ Noted, sir.¡± She heard Julian¡¯s voice from the doorway, he is talking to someone on the phone. She frowned as she stared at him, she noticed that Julian and Rafa is the same in height and their body built. But one thing that grabbed her attention is the bandage on his right hand. She slowly felt nervous and looked at Copper. ¡°Okay, calm down, Amber.¡± She softly told herself. ¡°Copper is not having any weird behaviour towards him unlike the man earlier.¡± She reminded herself. ¡°Don¡¯t be paranoid, Amber!¡± She added. ¡°Are you okay, ma¡¯am?¡± Julian asked making her flinch. ¡°Y-yes¡­¡± She stuttered. ¡°What happened to your hand?¡± She asked as she looks at his hand. ¡°Ah, this¡­ I was bitten by a stray dog earlier.¡± He simply answered as he puts his phone on his pocket. ¡°Is that so¡­¡± She said and he nodded. ¡°Julian, please be honest with me.¡± She said, the man looked at her with expressionless eyes. ¡°Who are you really? Do you know what was going on?¡± She asked but the man didn¡¯t answer. ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much, ma¡¯am. You should rest and don¡¯t stress yourself; it will be bad for the both of you.¡± He said and went to the kitchen leaving her behind. ¡°What the?¡± She frowned. Now she is sure that Julian is a dangerous man. ¡°Hey, Copper, is it okay to trust that man?¡± She asked the dog and sighed. ¡°If only, I told Rafael everything then things will not turn into this.¡± She added as the dog whines. ¡°Ma¡¯am, do you want to eat?¡± Linda asked. ¡°I¡¯m not hungry.¡± She answered. ¡°By the way, did someone called when I was out?¡± ¡°None that I know of, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda answered. Just then, Julian hurriedlyes out from the kitchen. ¡°Linda, if someone knocks, don¡¯t hastily open the door. I will go out for a while.¡± Julian said. ¡°I already locked all the doors in the house¡­¡± he said making Amber confused, what the hell is going on? ¡°Linda, the moment I leave the house, lock the door immediately and be vignt. Don¡¯t let anyone in.¡± ¡°Yes, Sir.¡± Linda said. Julian gave them a meaningful look, as if he doesn¡¯t want to leave them, he sighed and went out. Linda immediately locks the door as what Julian instructed. ¡°Why did you call him Sir?¡± Amber asked Linda, but the helper act like she didn¡¯t hear a thing. ¡°Linda! Answer me! Why did you call him Sir?¡± She asked again with full of authority. ¡°I am not in the position to say anything, ma¡¯am. I am sorry.¡± Linda said and leaves her in the living room. ¡°what are you all keeping away from me?¡± She sighed as she leans on the couch. ¡°Ma¡¯am, you should eat first.¡± Berta said, an hour passed since Julian left them and there is still no sign of him. Amber and Copper are still seated on the couch. Copper didn¡¯t leave her even for a minute, where she goes, he will follow. ¡°I don¡¯t have the appetite, Berta.¡± She said.Owned by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°But ma¡¯am¡ª¡± ¡°I will just feed Copper.¡± She said and stood up, as expected, Copper also stood up and follows her to the kitchen. ¡°Come Copper, it is time for you to eat.¡± She said as she puts ample amount of dog food on his te but the dog just stared at it and Draco¡¯s te then stares back at her making her heart clench with pain. ¡°I am so sorry, Copper. You must not be used that Draco is not with you.¡± She said and the dog whines. ¡°They are inseparable, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda said with a hint of loneliness in her voice. ¡°It is understandable since they grew up together.¡± She agreed and pet Copper. ¡°I am so sorry, Copper.¡± She apologized. ¡°But you need to eat or else Draco will be sad.¡± She pleads. ¡°Draco will be here soon so eat your food.¡± She added. At first, Copper just stared at her, after a while, he slowly eats his food. ¡°Good boy, Copper!¡± She said and refills his empty bowl with water. ¡°Ma¡¯am Amber, you should eat too.¡± Linda said. ¡°I have no appetite.¡± She answered. ¡°But ma¡¯am, you haven¡¯t eaten anything since this afternoon.¡± Berta said. ¡°But I am not hungry.¡± She insisted. ¡°Sir Rafael will surely get mad at us.¡± Berta said. ¡°He is scary when he gets angry.¡± Linda added. ¡°When will hee home?¡± She suddenly asked. ¡°He can call or text but he didn¡¯t.¡± She sighed. ¡°sometimes I am thinking to go back to Man.¡± ¡°Ma¡¯am, don¡¯t talk like that.¡± Berta said. Amber just smiled. ¡°By the way, who really is Julian?¡± She asked changing the topic. ¡°And why did you call him ¡®Sir¡¯ earlier, Linda?¡± ¡°We are not in the position to answer, ma¡¯am.¡± Linda said. ¡°But one thing is sure, you can trust in him.¡± Berta added. Amber wants to make sure something but they heard the doorbell. ¡°I will go and open the door.¡± Berta said and hurriedly went to open the door. ¡°Don¡¯t hastily open the door, Berta!¡± She shouted to warn her. She doesn¡¯t know why she suddenly feel nervous especially that Copper started barking. ¡°Berta¡ª¡± She was taken aback when she saw who is standing behind Berta. ¡°Ma¡¯am, I am sure you will be happy.¡± Berta said happily. ¡°Sir Rafael, came back.¡± She added making her go pale as Copper barking and growling non-stop. Chapter 25: Prologue Chapter 25: Prologue AMBER doesn¡¯t know what to do, the debt collector wille any time to collect her father¡¯s debt. She already sold their properties and yet it is still not enough. Her father who used to be a responsible man changed when her mother died due to a car ident. The car she¡¯s driving fell on a cliff and that serves as a start for her and her father¡¯s miserable life. Her father started drinking and gambling making them lose more money and then their resort started to lose costumers and fell into bankruptcy. And her fathermitted suicide because of his debts. She sold all of their properties, even those where she had a fond memory of when they were still happy, but it is still not enough to cover her father¡¯s 12 million debt. ¡°Miss Amber Santiago, we¡¯re here to collect the remaining 5 million.¡± Mister Lim, the half-Chinese, half- Filipino said. ¡°I-I don¡¯t have anything to give you.¡± She said with tears starting to fall. ¡°I already sold all our properties just to pay you. I don¡¯t have anything left on me.¡± ¡°Well, that is not my problem, Miss Santiago. All I care is for you to pay the five million remaining bnce.¡± He coldly said. ¡°Please, give me time to pay you. I¡¯ve got nothing left with me. I already sold this house and I¡¯m packing my things to leave.¡± She pleaded. ¡°Five months, Miss Santiago.¡± Mister Lim said firmly. ¡°All I can give you is five months.¡± ¡°What?¡± She eximed. ¡°Where can I find a job that can pay me one million for a month?¡± She asked in disbelief. She¡¯s grateful that he still gives her time to pay but five months? There¡¯s no way she can earn five million in a span of five months. ¡°As I said, that is not my problem, Miss Santiago.¡± He said as he scanned her body. ¡°You have a beautiful face and a nice body.¡± He said while looking at her maliciously. ¡°Sell yourself and your problem will be solved.¡± ¡°There is no way that I will sell my dignity!¡± She sternly said. ¡°Well, that¡¯s only a suggestion, Miss Santiago.¡± Mister Lim shrugged. ¡°You said that you¡¯ve sold all your properties, but I still think that you haven¡¯t sold everything.¡± He said with a meaningful look. ¡°I already told you that nothing is left with me. I sold all the properties and jewelries that we have.¡± She sternly said. Mister Lim looked and there is something with the way he looked at her that she can¡¯t pin point. ¡°Then see you in five months, Miss Santiago.¡± He said and leave together with his body guards. ¡°Oh, dad! What kind of a mess did you get yourself involved with?¡± She sighed and went back inside the big house to continue packing her stuff. The house is used to be lively and full ofughter but now... The house is sad and almost empty. AMBER¡¯s done with her shift at the bar she¡¯s working as waitress. And now her memory is still in haze, she doesn¡¯t know how and why she¡¯s kissing her boss. All she remembers is that they bumped into each other by the door. And now he¡¯s on top of her and they¡¯re both naked. She can taste the liquor on her boss¡¯ mouth. Her boss started kissing her neck down to her breast and teasing her nipples. A moan escaped from her lips. How did it end up to this? She thought. She gasps when he lowered his kisses to her stomach down to her core. He started tease her lips, her Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. mound and her other sensitive areas. ¡°Ah¡­¡± She moaned, it was the first time she felt this and she doesn¡¯t know what to do. ¡°W-wait, I need to pee.¡± She said as she feels something about toe. ¡°Just let it out, babe.¡± He said and his breath make a tingling sensation on her core. He continued to tease her with his mouth and tongue and she moaned in pleasure. ¡°Ohh!¡± She moaned loudly when his long finger reced his mouth. She looks at him and he¡¯s enjoying watching her erotic face. ¡°It¡¯s time for the main course.¡± He said as he positioned his self on her. She shouted in great pain when he thrust. ¡°Damn!¡± He cursed and stared at her in disbelief. ¡°You¡¯re a virgin!¡± He said in horror but it didn¡¯t stop him from giving in. ¡°I¡¯ll be gentle.¡± He said in a soothing voice and kiss her tears away. Amber can feel the pain as he moves gets faster and harder. ¡°Ahh¡­ Rafa¡­¡± Amber moaned his name. She keeps on moaning his name out loud until she gasps for her breathe. Rafael saw Amber closed he eyes and can¡¯t help not to adore her innocent and angelic face. He may be drunk but that can¡¯t stop him from adoring the woman beneath him. ¡°Damn! You¡¯re so tight.¡± He cursed but still enjoys the pleasure it is giving him. The room is filled with their moans and groans. He thrust as fast as he could until they both reached their climax. He lied down beside her and they both gasping for air. Chapter 26 Chapter 26 ¡°I¡¯m going to kill that bastard!¡± Joshua uttered in anger. ¡°Go, kill that bastard and you will be put behind bars instead of him.¡± Gabriel said while tapping on his ¡°But I have you, Gab!¡± Joshua insisted. ¡°Yes, you may have me. And I can even alter evidences but that doesn¡¯t mean that I will just let you do something you will regret forever.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°You know my rules, man. Even if we are friends, I will not help you.¡± He added. ¡°Stop that already!¡± Rafael butted in. ¡°The best thing that we should do is to n again.¡± He added still irritated with the fact that someone tip John about their n and now the man is in hiding. They spent the whole week finding where John is hiding. They thought that they can execute their n smoothly but they were wrong. John is no longer in his home when they attempted to arrest him, they were on a stake-out for days but John is nowhere to be found. ¡°I already sent agents to the Montereal home.¡± Gabriel informed Josh and looked at Rafa. ¡°By the way, Rafa, I also sent additional agents to your parents house.¡± Gabriel said making him frown. ¡°There are people asking information about your wife, and are attempting to enter the subdivision.¡± He added making him puzzled. ¡°And who would do that?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°A certain Shin Lim.¡± Gabriel answered. ¡°The undercover agent acquired that Amber is still paying the five million debt of her father.¡± ¡°But that¡¯s impossible!¡± Lohan butted in. ¡°The debt is already cleared!¡± ¡°ording to the agent, Shin wanted to have the Santiago¡¯s family heirloom.¡± Gabriel looked at Rafael. ¡°Do you have any idea where it is?¡± ¡°A family heirloom?¡± Rafael is puzzled. ¡°Amber didn¡¯t mention anything about this.¡± He added and looked at Lohan. ¡°Do you have any idea about this?¡± ¡°I¡ª¡± ¡°Guys!¡± It was Phil who just entered the room they are currently staying and took a seat beside Rafa. ¡°Have you heard of this so-called Peacock¡¯s eye?¡± He asked. ¡°It has been the talk of the countrytely.¡± He added as he looks for a certain page in the magazine. ¡°Here!¡± He showed them the picture. ¡°This is¡­¡± Rafael murmured in surprised. He cannot be mistaken, the one in the picture is the same as the ne that Amber brought in an antique store, at least that was what Amber told him. ¡°That is the peacock¡¯s eye.¡± Lohan said firmly. ¡°The family heirloom of the Santiago¡¯s that has been passed down from generations to generations.¡± He added. ¡°Damn!¡± Rafael cursed. He doesn¡¯t know a single damn thing about his wife. ¡°I am not in the position to tell you things, man.¡± Lohan said. ¡°It is better that Amber will tell you her story.¡± ¡°But man! That heirloom is worth billions of dors, it says here in the magazine that a Duke from Spain who is arranged to be wed meet a woman in vacation and he feel for her, and he fights for his love. Then the Duke¡¯s father was amazed by his son¡¯s bravery and gave him the peacock¡¯s eye and told him to give it to the woman he marries. It has been like that for generations, the eldest son will inherit the heirloom and will present it to his wife.¡± Phil said. ¡°The ne was never been found after the Santiago¡¯s massacre years ago. It is said that the murderer took it.¡± ¡°No.¡± Lohan said. ¡°The murderer never found it at the ancestral house, since it already was given to Amber¡¯s mother.¡± Lohan said. ¡°I don¡¯t know if it is the right term to say but, Amber and her parents are fortunate that their flight from Spain was dyed.¡± ¡°The peacock¡¯s eye¡­ Amber gave it to me.¡± Rafael said and all eyes are in him. ¡°No, its more likely, I took it from her. She told me that she brought it from an antique store and it worth 1.5 million making her withdraw the two million I deposited on her ount. She even showed me set of jewelries and clothes.¡± ¡°Then she used the money to pay Shin Lim.¡± Gabriel said while staring at hisptop. ¡°More likely, yes.¡± Rafael said. ¡°So, where did you put the heirloom?¡± Joshua asked. ¡°I kept in my safe back in Man.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°Oh, Gab, can you send agents at my house in Man? There is a chance that they would go there, especially now that they¡¯re aware of my rtionship with Amber.¡± ¡°Sure thing.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°Thanks man!¡± Rafael said. ¡°We will pay you back when the timees.¡± Content property of N?velDra/ma.Org. ¡°We can arrange a date for you.¡± Josh suggested. ¡°Yes, my mother can arrange a blind date for you.¡± Phil agreed. ¡°No need. Women are just pain in the butt.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°Or you still haven¡¯t forgotten about her?¡± Lohan asked making them shut up. Gabriel even flinched. ¡°It is not the right time to talk about things like that.¡± Gabriel said and close hisptop. ¡°We still have a mission to do.¡± Gabriel stood up and walk towards the room he¡¯s upying. ¡°He¡¯s hopeless.¡± Lohan said. ¡°He has the ability to look for her but why didn¡¯t he do so?¡± Phil asked with curiosity. ¡°Gab actually looked for her and ended up broken.¡± Joshua said. ¡°Until now he is still hurting but he didn¡¯t show it.¡± He added and they all sighed. ¡°Hopefully, he can find a woman to open up his heart again.¡± Rafael said. ¡°The right woman can change a man.¡± ¡°You are all aware that I can hear you guys from here, right?¡± Gabriel, who is leaning on the wall, crossed arms butted in, they looked at his direction. They looked at each other before Phil stood up and approached Gabriel. ¡°Gab, my man!¡± Phil said smiling widely as he puts his arm on Gab¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Is there a lead about John¡¯s whereabouts?¡± He asked as if nothing happened. ¡°Fuck off!¡± Gabriel said and pushed him before entering his room and loudly closed the door. ¡°What?¡± Phil asked. ¡°I am just asking!¡± Phil yelled. They just shrugged and sigh. They only have one wish for their friend, and that is to totally move in from his past and be happy. ¡°There is already a lead about John¡¯s whereabout!¡± Gabriel suddenly sprang the door open making them shocked, his phone is in his ears. ¡°But he¡¯s already in Man.¡± Then he slowly frowned as he puts his phone in his pocket. ¡°Fuck! We need to move fast, he is going to Spain.¡± He informed making them curse. They never once thought that he might go to other country and to make things worse, they are still in Baguio. ¡°I will send agents to the airport.¡± He added while typing fast on hisptop. ¡°What should we do?¡± Joshua asked worried of the oue. ¡°Let¡¯s just let him think that he already past through us.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°If ever we didn¡¯t make it in time, my agents will capture him.¡± ¡°My private jet is on its way.¡± Phil said while holding his phone. ¡°Let¡¯s all wait at Loakan airport. It is a good thing that Tyron is avable.¡± ¡°Tyron?¡± Lohan asked. ¡°That Tyron Cruz, who owns the famous Storm Airlines?¡± ¡°Yeah. We meet a year or two due to business, basically he became my friend.¡± Phil answered. ¡°He is also a pilot and he will be our pilot for today.¡± ¡°Good! Let¡¯s pack our things then.¡± Gabriel said. Rafael is about to enter his room when Gab called him. ¡°How is Amber?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°The housekeepers noticed that she is always lost in thoughts and flinched every time the telephone rings. There are also mysterious calls around the house. At first, they thought that it was just prank calls but they heard Amber yelling at someone on the phone.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°And Julian said that Amber is being suspicious in every slightest thing.¡± ¡°Damn!¡± Rafael cursed. ¡°You can go to her now.¡± Gabriel suggested. ¡°No, there is something I must be sure of.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°I have to get something back in Man.¡± He added. He is not quite sure why he wanted to go back to his house. Chapter 27 Chapter 27 Rafael and his friends are on the ne when Gabriel informed them that John will be having his flight at Storm Airlines making it easier for them. They exin the situation to Tyron and he is willing to help. The moment they meet him, they already clicked. With Tyron¡¯s help, the flight was dyed and they finally captured John. It took them two days to make John talk, and they manage to capture one of the biggest drug syndicate in the country. They are currently at his house to rest. Rafael leave them in the living room and went to his room, he opened the safe and check the ne he got from Amber. He also went to the room Amber is upying, without hesitation he open Amber¡¯s box and sorted everything in there¡ªfrom the clothes, jewelries and albums. He go through the album and saw pictures of Amber from when she was young until when she turns into a fine youngdy. He also saw Lohan and his parents in the album. ¡°We really need to know each other, my wife.¡± Rafael murmured when his phone rang. He checked it and it was Julian, an agent that they assigned to pose as gardener to work in her mother¡¯s garden. ¡°Sir, someone passed through the vige security as he disguised his self as you.¡± Julian informed making him rmed. ¡°How is my wife?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°She is fine, Sir. She is with Copper in the living room.¡± Julian answered. ¡°It is good thing that Copper Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. and Draco is with her when the man attacked her. I saw from the CCTV that they both protected her but Draco was shot and is now in the clinic.¡± He informed. ¡°I am sorry, Sir. I was at the clinic when that happened because a stray dog bit me.¡± Suddenly fear and worry engulf his whole body. He silently prayed that his wife and their baby will be fine. ¡°I will go there now.¡± He said. ¡°Protect my wife!¡± ¡°Copy, sir!¡± Julian answered before he cuts off the line. Rafael immediately grabbed the empty jewelry box in Amber¡¯s box and ced the heirloom there. He immediately went to his friends. ¡°Lohan, I need to borrow your helicopter now.¡± Rafael told Lohan who is lying on the carpeted floor. ¡°What for?¡± Lohan asked. ¡°My wife in danger!¡± He clenched his fists. ¡°It seems that they are working now.¡± ¡°Damn!¡± Gabriel cursed and immediately stood up. ¡°What are those jerks doing?¡± he asked, pertaining to his agents. ¡°It seems that they put on a man-made mask to enter. I am not sure if I was the only one that they copied.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Let¡¯s go then.¡± Lohan said. . . ¡°Sir, you cannot go in.¡± The subdivision¡¯s security firmly said. ¡°What the hell!¡± Rafael cursed. ¡°My wife needs me right now!¡± ¡°Damn you, Rafa!¡± Lohan cursed catching his breath. Behind him are their friends. ¡°How could you run so fast?¡± ¡°Hey, Gab! I need you here!¡± Rafael called for his friend. ¡°They will not let us in!¡± he informed. ¡°What is happening here?¡± Another security guard approached them. ¡°H¡­how?¡± He was shocked when he saw them. ¡°I didn¡¯t notice that you going out, Sir Rafael.¡± ¡°Fuck!¡± Rafael cursed. ¡°Listen, the ones insides are impostors! My wife is in danger!¡± He insisted, but the guards looked at each other. ¡°Agents are already inside.¡± Gabriel informed but that didn¡¯t make him calm. ¡°I will talk to the secu¡ª¡± ¡°Go on, Rafa!¡± Lohan shouted and they were shocked that the three guards are on the floor, unconscious. There are also other guards who are approaching them. ¡°Get in, Rafa!¡± Gabriel shouted and he immediately get into Gabriel¡¯s car. Gabriel immediately started the engine and drives through the open gate; he is puzzled at first on how the gate was opened but then he saw Phil in the control room. They are near his parent¡¯s house and they saw agents nning. ¡°Sir Gabriel!¡± One agent greeted when he saw them. ¡°We surrounded the area.¡± ¡°Do you know what is happening inside?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°They¡­they are pointing their guns to your wife, sir.¡± The agent answered hesitantly. ¡°We already throw a listening device inside and they won¡¯t hurt your wife for now, as they are still asking her about the heirloom.¡± The agent added. ¡°As of now, they are trying to call your parents.¡± ¡°Do they have apany?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°They do, but Julian already took care of it, but he attained three shots and is now in the clinic. We also saw a maid with shots and was taken to the clinic.¡± ¡°Sir, Miss Amber is walking towards the garden.¡± Another agent informed them while listening to the earpiece, then after a while he give a signal and agents started to go in. They heard several gunshots. Rafael is worried sick and was about to go in but Gabriel didn¡¯t let him. ¡°How is everything here?¡± Phil asked catching his breath together with Lohan and Tyron. ¡°All clear, Sir!¡± The agent shouted as he walks out the door. Their attention was focused on the men that are injured that the agents are holding. ¡°We got these masks from them.¡± The agent said and showed them a mask giving goosebumps to their body. ¡°So close¡­¡± Shin Lim told him when he saw him. ¡°I should¡¯ve killed that woman!¡± He grinned making Rafael lose his temper and smack the man with all his might. ¡°I will kill you myself if you did that.¡± He clenched his teeth. ¡°I will make sure that you will rot in hell!¡± He warned and went inside the house. Copper wags his tail as soon as he saw him. ¡°Thank you for protecting, Amber.¡± He said as he pets him. They heard a faint voiceing from the garden calling Copper. He went out and relief was all over him when he saw his wife standing in front of him, unharmed. ¡°Amber!¡± He called out to the woman who is standing in front of him with puzzled face. He saw how Amber slightly pinched herself. She didn¡¯t say anything and just stood there looking at him. He also noticed that her tears keep on falling. Rafael didn¡¯t approach his wife and hug her tight. ¡°I am d that you¡¯re safe, hon.¡± He said and tears started falling down from his eyes. It is at that very moment that he felt relieved and all. Amber on the other hand, hugged him tight and keeps on saying his name in between her sobs. ¡°I love you, Amber.¡± Rafael said and kissed her lips. ¡°I love you¡­¡± Chapter 28 Chapter 28 Amber can¡¯t believe her eyes¡ªRafael is standing in front of her. She thought she is just dreaming but her heart is beating fast. There is only one person who can make her heart beats fast without doing anything and that is Rafael. In just first nce, she already knew that it was her husband. She wanted to go and hug him but she can¡¯t move her body. She wanted to speak but she cannot open her mouth. She just stood there and watch her husband approach her as her eyes started to water. She cried her heart out when Rafael hugged her tightly. ¡°I am happy that you¡¯re safe, hon.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I love you, Amber.¡± Rafael said and kissed her lips. ¡°I love you¡­¡± His confession made her dumfounded. Is she hearing just things or it is real? ¡°I will really kill that jerk if heid a hand on you.¡± Rafael said as he scans her. ¡°Did he hurt you or anything?¡± He asked again. ¡°Hey, hon, are you okay?¡± Rafael asked worriedly. ¡°Why are you not talking?¡± He asked again. ¡°Damn! I will kill that bastard!¡± He cursed. ¡°You love me?¡± Amber asked as she stares at his eyes. ¡°Yes.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I love you, Amber.¡± He said looking at her with loving eyes. ¡°The moment Iid my eyes on you, you already grabbed my attention. My eyes were always following you back when you were working at the bar. I know that behind that thick make-up is a bare-faced beauty.¡± Rafael confessed. ¡°You may think that the reason why I touched you that night is because I was drunk but you are wrong, hon. I just really can¡¯t resist you anymore, Amber.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I tried to resist the attraction I had for you but I failed. That is why I offered you marriage right away.¡± ¡°But I rejected and told you that I will only marry in exchange of the money you will give me.¡± ¡°Yes.¡± Rafael bitterly smiled. ¡°I am confused why you only asked for only five million when I am offering you my name, my wealth and all of my properties. I will give it to you if that¡¯s what you want but you threatened me and that made my head boil and lost my respect towards you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Rafa. I was just to desperate that time. I thought that is the only opportunity I have to pay off the debt that was already paid.¡± Amber said. ¡°But the days I spend with you made me question who is the real you. The woman I spend time is loving and caring unlike the woman I confronted in the hospital¡ªheartless and selfish.¡± ¡°I am really sorry.¡± Amber said as she loosely wrapped her arms on her husband¡¯s waist. ¡°But did I really hear it right? You love me?¡± She asked looking straight at his eyes. Rafael sweetly smiled and cupped her face. ¡°I really do love you, Amber. My wife, my beloved.¡± He said and kiss her lips. Amber slightly pushed him and pouts. ¡°You¡¯ve been kissing me again.¡± She said making him chuckle and it sounds like music to her ears. ¡°I can¡¯t help it.¡± Rafael said. ¡°I¡¯ve been away from you for weeks and I¡¯m missing you¡ª" ¡°I love you.¡± She butted in. ¡°¡ªlike crazy.¡± Rafael¡¯s eyes widened and she giggled. ¡°What?¡± He asked. ¡°Can you please repeat what you just said, is my ears ying with me?¡± ¡°I love you, Rafael Anderson¡ªahh!¡± She screamed when Rafael lifted her. ¡°I love you, Amber!¡± Rafael shouted making her heart flutters. ¡°I love you!¡± He said. ¡°I never thought that I can be this happy in my entire life.¡± ¡°Me, neither.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°After all those tragedies in my life I thought I don¡¯t have the reason to be happy but you came¡­ you came to my life and gave me ample of hope. Thank you, Rafael.¡± ¡°I should be the one saying thank you.¡± Rafael said as he stares at her loving eyes. ¡°You give meaning and color to my life.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s have a walk in the garden.¡± Amber suggested as she wanted to tell him the truth of her life. And it seems that Rafael understand what she meant. ¡°I just turned 10 when me and my parents went to Spain for a vacation. Out flight was dyed so we were stuck in the airport for how many hours that is why we didn¡¯t make it to the reunion. We only heard the incident when wended.¡± ¡°We don¡¯t know what to do and what to say. We were heart broken. Our whole n has been wiped out. We don¡¯t have any rtives as my mother was an orphan.¡± Amber said. ¡°All the Santiago¡¯s houses were all burned down to ashes, nothing was left behind. Back then, we don¡¯t know what was their motive. It is a good thing that my father bought a resort secretly as a gift for my mother, and we started again from scratch. And then my parents were murdered.¡± ¡°What? I thought your mother died from ident and your fathermitted suicide?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°No. Shin Lim confessed that he drove my mother to the cliff and he killed my father and disguised it as a suicide.¡± She said. ¡°That damn bastard!¡± Rafael clenched his fist. ¡°I will make sure that he will pay for his sins!¡± Rafael added. ¡°I never thought that the main root of all those tragedies is our heirloom.¡± Amber sighed. ¡°It seems that Shin is the grandson of the woman who was supposed to marry my great-great grandfather, but he fell for my great-great grandmother. So now, because of that I was left alone.¡± ¡°No, don¡¯t say that!¡± Rafael beg to disagree. ¡°You are not alone in this world, hon. You have me and my parents. You also basically made new friends.¡± Rafael said. ¡°And now, we are having a family of our own.¡± He added and caress her stomach. ¡°So, don¡¯t say that you are alone because you are not.¡± ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Amber smiled as she leans her head on his chest. Meanwhile there are five men resting at the Anderson¡¯s living room. ¡°I don¡¯t know why I am with you crazy dudes.¡± Tyron said making the menughed. They didn¡¯t bother to look for Rafael as they knew that he is with Amber. ¡°Because we are friends.¡± Phil answered grinning widely. He is the one who grabbed Tyron when he drive them to where Lohan¡¯s private helicopter is. ¡°A friend in need needs a friend.¡± ¡°But that beat the hell out of me.¡± Lohan said as he gulped down the iced tea Linda prepared for them. ¡°I almost ran out of breath because of the distance of this house from the entrance.¡± ¡°And whose fault is that?¡± Tyron asked in annoyance. ¡°I suggested that we should use the service of the subdivision but you told me that it is near!¡± ¡°Sorry about that. I forgot that it is only near if we used a car.¡± Phil said making Tyron groan in irritation. Tyron looked at Gabriel who is busy typing on hisptop. ¡°Hey, Gabriel.¡± He called out. ¡°Hmm?¡± ¡°I have a favor to ask you.¡± Tyron said. ¡°I hope you don¡¯t mind.¡± ¡°Oh! He won¡¯t mind.¡± Lohan butted in. ¡°And you don¡¯t need to pay for his services.¡± Phil added with a wide grin. Owned by N?velDrama.Org. ¡°Whatever you ask, he will surely do it!¡± Josh added making Gabriel sighed heavily. ¡°Don¡¯t mind them. They are really like that.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°So, what is it?¡± He asked as he looked at Tyron. ¡°I need you to investigate my wife.¡± Tyron uttered making his newly-found friends surprised. ¡°Wait!¡± Phil uttered in surprised. ¡°You are married?¡± ¡°Yes, it has been two weeks already.¡± Tyron answered. ¡°Only our family and friends attended.¡± ¡°Howe that it wasn¡¯t known to public?¡± Phil asked. ¡°And why wasn¡¯t I invited?¡± ¡°Because you are not in the country when we had our wedding.¡± Tyron answered. ¡°And the answer for your first question is because it is the decision of my wife.¡± He added. ¡°And why the heck I am exining this to you?¡± Tyron asked. ¡°Enough.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°So what is wrong with this wife of yours?¡± He asked. ¡°There is something strange about her. The profile they gave me is different from the vibe I see from her.¡± Tyron answered. ¡°Is it an arranged marriage?¡± Lohan asked. ¡°Yes.¡± Tyron sighed. ¡°Okay¡­What is her name?¡± Gabriel asked. ¡°Isabe Morgan.¡± Tyron replied. ¡°Okay.¡± Gabriel said. ¡°I can¡¯t believe this. I am awyer but you guys are making me an investigator.¡± Gabriel sighed. ¡°That is part of your job.¡± Joshua said. ¡°But thanks for the things you¡¯ve done for us.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s see¡­ It is only Phil who haven¡¯t ask me for a favor.¡± Gabriel said as he looks at Phil meaningfully. ¡°I wonder when will the time that he asks for a favor.¡± ¡°That will never happen.¡± Phil said. ¡°Oh! Herees the love birds.¡± He announced as he looks at the door going to the garden. Rafael¡¯s hand is wrapped at Amber¡¯s waist and both are beaming with love and happiness. ¡°Oh! You guys are still here.¡± Rafael said as soon as he saw them. ¡°I thought you guys went home.¡± ¡°Damn you, Rafa!¡± Phil cursed. ¡°Do you have any idea how far your parent¡¯s house to the entrance?¡± Phil asked. ¡°We literally run from there to here.¡± ¡°Is that my fault now?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°You could have just used the service.¡± ¡°That is what I¡¯m telling them, but Phil insisted that it is near.¡± Tyron said. ¡°Fine, it was fault.¡± Phil said. ¡°Happy?¡± He mockingly answered. ¡°It was basically your fault why we are like wilted nts!¡± Joshua said making Phil groaned. ¡°Your fianc¨¦e is waiting for you, Joshua, is it okay for you to be here?¡± Amber asked. ¡°Damn!¡± Joshua cursed and stood up. ¡°I really should get going.¡± ¡°She¡¯s worried sick.¡± Amber said. ¡°She is?¡± Joshua¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Of course she is!¡± He blurted right away. ¡°What am I saying?¡± He sighed. ¡°Danielle is a great woman.¡± Amber said. ¡°Of course, she is!¡± Joshua proudly agreed. ¡°She is my fianc¨¦e after all.¡± He added. ¡°Wait, you know her?¡± He asked frowning. ¡°Yes, she¡¯s a schoolmate and she visited mest time and we¡¯re in constant touch.¡± Amber answered. ¡°Oh, I see¡­¡± Joshua nodded. ¡°Well then, I will go ahead. I¡¯ll catch up to guys some other time.¡± ¡°Love really changes people.¡± Phil said when Joshua walks out the door. ¡°Yep, so we are waiting who will be the next to get married.¡± Lohan said. ¡°Says the man who still haven¡¯t confess his feelings.¡± Phil mocked; Lohan didn¡¯t answer but he throwed a throw pillow at Phil. Amber is happily watching his husband¡¯s friend when her eyes stopped at the man who is familiar to her. If she¡¯s not mistaken, she saw the man in one of Kaylee¡¯s magazine. ¡°Hi.¡± The man greeted. ¡°I will introduce myself since the jerks has no n to do so. I am Tyron Cruz.¡± He said as he outstretched his hand for a hand shake. Amber is about to outstretch her hand when Rafael smack Tyron¡¯s hand. ¡°Hands off!¡± Rafael said making his friendsugh. ¡°Rafa!¡± Amber warned. ¡°In case you haven¡¯t know, I am married.¡± Tyron said in annoyance. ¡°Oh!¡± Rafael eximed. ¡°Is that so¡­¡± ¡°Damn man!¡± Lohan saidughing at Rafael. ¡°I didn¡¯t know that you¡¯re possessive!¡± Chapter 29 Chapter 29 ¡°We are so sorry, dear.¡± Leo Fernandez apologized to Amber. Leo is Kaylee¡¯s father. The moment she learned about the truth from Lohan, she cannot help not to feel guilty. She suspected the poor man for pete¡¯s sake! The old man suddenly had a stroke and it leads him to aatose stage. Her Aunt Gina, Leo¡¯s wife, tried to look for her with the help of Lohan¡¯s family but they failed until they saw her working at Rafael¡¯s restaurant. It was then that they asked Kaylee to look out for her, it was at that moment that she learned Kaylee¡¯s identity. ¡°We really don¡¯t know how to help you even if we already know where you are. That is why we asked Kaylee a favor.¡± Gina said. Kaylee is the only daughter of Gina and Leo, Amber never once meet her in the past because Kaylee is a shy girl and was only close to Lohan. ¡°And another reason is we wanted to know who killed your parents. It is good that the mastermind behind the tragic death of your family is now behind bars.¡± ¡°I understand, Auntie.¡± Amber smiled. ¡°The truth is, I am really indebted to you. I am not aware that you and Uncle Timothy and Auntie Odette were the ones who bought our properties.¡± ¡°We are friends with your parents for a long time and it is only natural to help you.¡± Leo answered. ¡°You can go and check it if you are worried.¡± Timothy said. ¡°I really can¡¯t thank you enough.¡± Amber said, her eyes are started to moist. No words can exin what she is feeling right now. ¡°If possible, all I want to get back is the resort. We have many memories there.¡± ¡°You can have all your properties, Amber.¡± Gina said making her puzzled. ¡°Rafael bought it all from us.¡± Odette smiled making her shocked. Rafael never mentioned a thing to her. She is about to say something when the door opens and Kaylee enters the room. ¡°Amber¡­¡± Kaylee softly called her; she can feel the tension in the air. ¡°Kaylee!¡± Amber hugged her dear friend. ¡°How are you? It¡¯s been so long since west saw each other.¡± She said. ¡°I really miss you.¡± She added. ¡°I¡­I am fine.¡± Kaylee answered. ¡°How about you? I heard what happened to you.¡± ¡°I¡¯m all good.¡± She smiled and hugged her friend again. ¡°You don¡¯t have to feel sorry about the reason why you befriended me.¡± She added making Kaylee flinched. ¡°I know that despite of the reason, you Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. treated me as a friend and not just someone you need to look out because they told you so.¡± ¡°Oh, Amber!¡± Kaylee eximed and hug her back. ¡°How did it go?¡± Rafael asked when they are in his car. ¡°It went good. I really feel bad for suspecting Uncle Leo. It turns out that he is the one helping us.¡± Amber sighed. ¡°As for Kaylee, there is no tension or awkwardness between us. She¡¯s a dear friend.¡± ¡°That¡¯s good then.¡± Rafael smiled as he drives. ¡°But you are not telling me something.¡± Amber said and pouts, she also noticed that Rafael flinched. ¡°About what?¡± He asked acting innocent. ¡°You didn¡¯t tell me that you bought the properties from them.¡± She said. ¡°Oh that¡­ It was supposed to tell you but I forgot.¡± Rafael answered. ¡°But you don¡¯t need to do that.¡± Amber said. ¡°It is originally yours, so as a good husband, I need to return it all to you.¡± Rafael said making her sigh. ¡°But¡­¡± ¡°No, buts, hon.¡± Rafael cuts her off. ¡°If you don¡¯t want it, then we can just give it to our kids when they grow up.¡± ¡°Kids?¡± She asked. ¡°Yes. Kids.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Being an only child is lonely, don¡¯t you think? So, we should at least have two or three kids.¡± He added. Well, Rafael had a point. ¡°Fine.¡± Amber said in defeat. ¡°By the way, where are we going?¡± She asked. ¡°This is not the way to our house.¡± ¡°I have a surprise for you.¡± Rafael smiled as he nces at her. ¡°Oh no! What kind of surprise?¡± Amber asked in horror, she still remembered the hot and steamy surprised he made for her the other time and it made her stay in bed the whole day. Rafael suddenlyughed at her question. ¡°If you are thinking of that hot and steamy surprise¡­¡± he grins widely as he nce at her. ¡°We can do it if you want.¡± He added making her blush. ¡°Rafa!¡± She warned. ¡°I know¡­ I know¡­¡± Rafael smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it is not about that. I will until you delivered our baby.¡± Rafael added. ¡°Will you be able to wait?¡± She unknowingly asked as she looks outside. Amber was shocked when Rafael parks the car at the side of the road. ¡°Amber¡­¡± Rafael called out to her. ¡°Hmm?¡± She asked as he looks at him and his serious eyes. ¡°What did you just ask earlier?¡± He questioned. ¡°What did I ask earlier?¡± she innocently asked back making Rafael sighed. ¡°Look at me straight in the eyes, Amber.¡± Rafael said as he holds her hand. Amber didn¡¯t say anything and just stare at him, straight to the eyes. ¡°I know that I did many wrongs things before meeting you¡­¡± Amber can see desperation and regret in his eyes. ¡°I admit that I did mess around in my younger days but that was before. I will never do those things again now that I have you and we are building a family of our own.¡± ¡°Rafa¡­¡± ¡°I know that it is difficult to trust me and you still have that fear that I might look for someone who will satisfy my needs, but fear not, hon, because no one can ever satisfy me aside from you.¡± Rafael said as his eyes started to water. ¡°I promise you that I will not betray the love you have for me.¡± He added making her tear up. ¡°And I will work hard to earn your trust, fully.¡± He said firmly looking at her loving eyes. ¡°I love you, Amber.¡± He said and kiss the top of her hand. ¡°I¡¯m sorry if I am being dramatic.¡± Amber said. ¡°I didn¡¯t know why I said that, it¡¯s just¡­¡± She sighed. ¡°It just came up and¡­ and¡­¡± ¡°Shh¡­ I understand.¡± Rafael smiled. ¡°Just tell me if anything is bothering you so that we can work it out, okay?¡± He said making her smile. She indeed married the most caring, understanding and loving husband she could ever find. ¡°Yes.¡± She answered. ¡°I love you, Rafael.¡± She smiled sweetly. ¡°And I love you too.¡± He said and kissed her lips. ¡°Now, let¡¯s go as my surprise is waiting for you.¡± He said. ¡°Hmm.¡± Amber nodded. Rafael started the engine and continued driving until they parked two blocks his restaurant. ¡°What are we doing here?¡± She asked but Rafael smiled and get out of the car. ¡°Come out, hon.¡± Rafael said when he opened the door for her. She¡¯s still puzzled but she took off her seatbelt and get out of the car. ¡°What are we doing here?¡± She asked. Rafael smiled as he grabbed her hand and pulled her towards a newly-built two-storey building. ¡°You will know soon.¡± Rafael answered as they entered the building, and she gasps in shock when they entered. ¡°W¡­what? How? When?¡± Amber asked in surprise as she looks around. ¡°Did you like it?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°I don¡¯t like it. I love it.¡± Amber said in excitement and happily went to the second floor. The building is designed to be a caf¨¦ shop. There are still no counters, tables and chairs but she can already visualize theyout of the caf¨¦. ¡°The previous owner dered bankruptcy so I bought it even though I don¡¯t know what should I do with it. Then you said you wanted a caf¨¦, so I had it renovated.¡± Rafael told her and wrapped his arm around her waist. ¡°It is yours so, I want you to be the one who will make theyout, the decorations and such. I will just be by your side to support you.¡± ¡°Thank you.¡± Amber said and kissed his cheek. ¡°It means a lot to me.¡± She said and wanders her eyes to the space. ¡°I can already visualize what I wanted to do here.¡± She said and pointed at the walls. ¡°Let¡¯s make a book shelves there, so that customers can also read while they have a coffee. Maybe we should also put nts and disy a piano in the corner.¡± She excitedly said and Rafael just smile looking at her. Chapter 55: Epilogue Chapter 55: Epilogue Amber and Rafael¡¯s wedding took ce in a church in Baguio and a reception was held at the wide hall located at the Enchanted Forest Subdivision. It is an intimate wedding and only their friends and family Exclusive ? material by N?(/v)elDrama.Org. are invited as they wanted to share their happiness to them. Amber wore their family heirloom since Rafael insisted it. At first, she doesn¡¯t want to because it reminds her of the tragedies of her past but Rafael told her that it is part of her identity. At first, she thought that she is alone in this world but she is wrong. She made new friends, Danielle and Kaylee, she also has her aunts Odette and Gina and Uncles Timothy and Leo. And she has her kind and sweet inws and of course her sweet and loving husband. She already puts up her caf¨¦ and she can say that it is sessful as she receives great reviews and she owe it to her staffs. She also gave birth to a bouncy baby boy and she doesn¡¯t know if Samantha, Jon¡¯s wife is unlucky to be the first one to gave birth as she and the wives of Rafael¡¯s friends also gave birth. It is a funny and heart-warming event to all of them. ¡°Hon, wake up.¡± Rafael tried wo wake her up. ¡°Hon¡­¡± Amber slowly opens her eyes. ¡°What?¡± She asked, half-awake, half-asleep. Rafael didn¡¯t answer but instead kiss his lips. He will never get tired of kissing his lovely wife. ¡°Rafa, it is still early.¡± Amber said making him chuckle. ¡°What are you talking about?¡± Rafael innocently asked but Amber pinched him. His wife really knows him too well. ¡°I would love to ravish you, hon, but not today.¡± He whispered and leaves her full of curiosity. He really loves teasing his wife so much. Rafael cannot helped not lough and that was Kyle, their five year old son witnessed. ¡°Dad, is something wrong?¡± Kyle asked innocently. ¡°You look weird.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing, kiddo.¡± He smiled as he messes Kyle¡¯s hair. ¡°Are you done with the decoration?¡± ¡°Yes, dad!¡± Kyle answered in full of excitement as he pointed at the cake on top of the counter. ¡°Okay, then. Let¡¯s get it. Your mom might be bored.¡± Rafael gets the cake. ¡°Will mom like what we baked?¡± Kyle asked. ¡°Of course, she will.¡± He reassured his son. Kyle smiled and opened the bedroom door. ¡°Happy birthday, mommy!¡± Kyle said as he approached Amber, who is seated on the bed, and showered her with kissed. ¡°Happy birthday, hon.¡± Rafael greeted as kissed her. ¡°Aww. How sweet.¡± Amber said. ¡°Blow the candle, mommy.¡± Kyle said making her giggle before blowing the candles. ¡°Yehey! Happy Birthday, mommy.¡± Kyle hugged her tight. ¡°Thank you, baby.¡± She smiled and kiss Kyle¡¯s forehead. ¡°Dad and I woke up early to bake the cake. Then dad let me decorate it.¡± Kyle said proudly. She looked at the cake Rafael is holding, it is a chocte, heart-shaped cake with rose candy as designs. ¡°You really decorated it?¡± She asked in amusement. ¡°Yes, mommy.¡± Kyle answered. ¡°Did you like it?¡± ¡°I love it. Thank you, Kyle.¡± ¡°I love you, mommy.¡± ¡°And I love you, too.¡± ¡°Can I bring the cake downstairs?¡± Kyle asked. ¡°Can you do it by yourself?¡± Rafael asked. ¡°Yes, dad.¡± Kyle answered. ¡°I¡¯m a big boy now.¡± ¡°Yes, you sure a big boy now that is why you keep on quarrelling together with your friends.¡± Rafael firmly said making Kyle pout. ¡°That is a different story, dad.¡± Kyle said as he gets the cake. ¡°Can I eat a slice?¡± ¡°Sure, kiddo.¡± Amber answered. ¡°Be careful with the stairs.¡± She reminded. ¡°Yes, mom.¡± Kyle answered before closing the door. ¡°Kyle is such a sweetie.¡± Amber said when Rafael took a seat beside her. ¡°But behind that sweetness of him lies another personality.¡± Rafael said full of worry. He cannot stay still when he witnessed Kyle fighting with another kids. The kid he witnessed is like a different person. ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much, hon¡± Amber said as she holds his hand. ¡°I had a deep talk with them and there are also witnesses. It is not our son nor his friends¡¯ fault. They were being bullied and they were just forced to defend their selves.¡± She squeezed his hands. ¡°And we are here to guide him.¡± ¡°You¡¯re right.¡± Rafael sigh. ¡°I am also worried but we can do this.¡± Amber said. ¡°Anyway, mom and dad will be hereter to get Kyle.¡± He said making Amber curious. ¡°Why?¡± She asked. ¡°Will they bring him to Baguio?¡± ¡°No. They will just have a good time in the city.¡± Rafael said. ¡°Then let¡¯s go too, it¡¯s been months since thest time I had a great time with mom and dad.¡± Amber said. ¡°Not so fast, hon.¡± Rafael said. ¡°We will have the whole day to ourselves.¡± He grinned widely and she already knows what he meant. ¡°and you already know what I mean.¡± He said as he captured her lips, giving her a hot and passionate kiss. They really can¡¯t get enough of each other. As days passed, their love for each other deepens, and just like any other couples, they are also fighting but they will never sleep without resolving their misunderstandings. ¡°Rafa¡­¡± Amber moaned his name. ¡°I have something to tell you.¡± She said. ¡°Can that not wait?¡± He asked as he took off his shirt. ¡°I really can¡¯t wait not to¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m pregnant.¡± Amber said. ¡°¡ªravish you¡­ Preg¡­ Pregnant?¡± His eyes widened. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant?¡± He confirmed. ¡°Yes, I went to my OB-gyne yesterday and I am one and half month pregnant.¡± Amber said. ¡°that exins why I am being moody andzy.¡± Amber gasps when Rafael suddenly hugged and kissed her. ¡°Thank you, Amber. Thank you!¡± Rafael said as he continued kissing her. ¡°Now, we have another reason to celebrate.¡± He added as he removes Amber¡¯s night dress. Rafael never thought that he will experience this kind of happiness with his wife and their son. He is sure blessed to have a family full of bliss, happiness and a love thatpletes him. And he cannot wish for more. The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!