Three months have elapsed since Amiver learned of her pregnancy. She is currently employed as a saleswoman in a Cebu mall, alongside Messie.
Messie's unwavering support has been invaluable, as she stands by Amiver through this life-changing journey. She considers herself lucky to have a friend like Messie, who looks after her much like a father would for a child. At times, rumors have circulated about their relationship, given their exceptionally close bond, even suggesting a same-sex connection.
They laugh off those rumors, finding comfort in their friendship, and Aling Cherry's kindness is extended to Amiver as if she were her own child.
Amiver, with determination in her heart, is also diligently preparing for the upcoming Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) exam for architects. She aspires to achieve full licensure as an architect, a dream she's determined to fulfill. This drive often leads her to study late into the night after returning from work.
"Are you sure all this studying and work won't affect your baby, Amiver?" Aling Cherry couldn't help but voice her concern, her eyes reflecting genuine care and worry for her young friend.
"I promise, Inay, I won't push myself too hard," Amiver assured her. Aling Cherry had grown close to Amiver and preferred to be called "Inay."
"Alright, rest up," Inay Cherry said before leaving the room. Amiver's eyes fell on Messie, who was peacefully asleep. She couldn't help but be amazed by the genuine care and affection the mother and daughter had shown her, treating her like a part of their family, despite having no blood ties.
Her pregnancy had been quite challenging, leading to multiple hospital visits due to bleeding. The financial strain of childbirth and preparing for the baby weighed heavily on her mind, causing immense stress.
She had already sold some of the other bags her mother had given her. All of those bags had sentimental value, but the necklace was the last remaining keepsake of her mother, and she couldn't bring herself to part with it.
We'll find a solution," Aling Che assured her, as they were discussing baby items and childbirth.
One day, when Amiver and Messie came home, they were greeted by a new crib and a collection of baby supplies. Amiver's six-month baby bump was clearly visible, and they had recently had an ultrasound confirming that she was expecting a baby boy.
"Ma, where did all this stuff come from?" Messie asked, her eyes widening in surprise.
Aling Che simply smiled in response.
"Honestly, Nay, how did you manage to afford all of this?" Amiver inquired, her amazement evident. They were aware that the allowances they provided to Aling Che from their earnings as a saleslady weren't substantial.
"I sold the land behind our house last month, and the buyer paid today. We now have money for your childbirth expenses, so don't worry about the costs," Aling Che explained with a smile.
Amiver and Messie exchanged glances, deeply touched by Aling Che's selflessness. It was a testament to the genuine bond they had formed as a makeshift family.
Amiver couldn't hold back her tears and embraced Aling Che tightly.
"Thank you, Nay. I'll repay you one day, we'll make things right," Amiver uttered with a mix of emotions, her voice cracking as she spoke.
On the day of the PRC exam, Amiver arrived at the PRC building early to take the test. Messie joined her, having taken a day off work to be there for her friend. Amiver's belly had grown noticeably larger, and she was relieved that she hadn't yet reached full term, as going into labor on exam day would have been a major setback.
After completing the exam, she and Messie made their way home.
"You know, I'm absolutely confident that you'll pass," Messie reassured her. "Remember back in high school, they used to call you 'Miss Beauty and Brain' because that's exactly who you are."
Amiver managed a gentle laugh at Messie's words. In her previous life with Denmark's affluent family, worries were scarce. She had always been confident in her abilities. But now, circumstances had altered her, and she felt like she had lost those qualities she once possessed.
You passed, Amiver," Messie exclaimed happily the next morning.
She always eagerly anticipates the exam results, and she's extremely pleased that Amiver was among those who passed.
"And not only did you pass, you're also a top-notcher. Look, you're in second place with one of the highest scores achieved."
Amiver glanced at Messie's cellphone and confirmed that she did pass and even ranked second.
Amiver felt a sense of contentment as they sat around the table. She looked at Messie and Aling Che and said, "I couldn't have done this without both of you. You've been my rock through all of this."
Messie grinned and replied, "We've always got your back, Amiver. You're like family to us."
Amiver's eyes welled up with tears of gratitude. "I'm so lucky to have found you both. And now, with this license, I can give my child a better future."
Aling Che, who had been quietly listening, smiled warmly. "You're like a daughter to me, Amiver. We'll support you and your baby every step of the way."
The faces of the top 5 were all over the newspapers and the internet, which overwhelmed her emotionally."
Do you think Denmark's family might track you down, Ami, now that your face is all over the country?" Messie asked her with concern.
"Hmmm, I don't think so," Amiver replied. "I'm being cautious, and I provided my address in Manila when I filled out my information for the exam, so don't worry.
So don't worry, Denmark won't take me away from you. I'm still with you." Amiver winked playfully at Messie.
Ewww," Messie retorted as she saw Amiver continue to tease her with playful winks.
A while later, Amiver experienced intense stomach pain as her labor began. Messie immediately called her mother upon realizing that Amiver's water had broken. This was the moment she had been eagerly waiting for – the arrival of her child.
Fast forward two months after Amiver gave birth, and she was now determined to find a job to support her child and contribute to the household expenses. She gazed at her baby, a handsome boy bearing a striking resemblance to Denmark, except for the dimple that was clearly inherited from her. She couldn't deny that the child was indeed her ex-husband's. She decided to name him Marcus.
Amiver smiled as she watched the baby sleep.
"Baby Marcus, Mama will work hard to give you a good life," she whispered to him peacefully sleeping child. Her mind had come to accept that she would become a single mother, following in the footsteps of her own mother.
Amiver found herself in a promising position at a renowned architecture firm in Cebu. She couldn't help but feel elated since the compensation was quite generous.
On her first day, she had the pleasure of meeting her new boss, Mr. Justine Doritos, and her new colleagues. Mr. Doritos was a charming and unattached individual who held a key position at the ADCE company. His warm personality and sharp intellect made him quite popular among the staff.
He is the heir and inheritor of the ADCE firm, but the way he acts and mingles with the staff is very casual, which is why many admire him, especially the women."
Over the course of several months, Amiver consistently demonstrated her competence in her job. Her goal was to climb the corporate ladder, and she didn't hesitate to put in extra hours, especially when she needed to perfect her blueprints or complete projects. She wholeheartedly devoted herself to her profession, striving to give nothing less than her absolute best.
Good afternoon, guys. Today, we have gathered for a big announcement. I will be selecting a skilled architect from here to send to the main office in the United States. The salary there is three times higher compared to what you're receiving now. Housing is also provided for free, and you can bring your family along. This was announced by Justin to his employees.
The whole conference room came alive, as if everyone was excited about Justin's sudden announcement.
Amiver felt a mix of nervousness and excitement over the past few months, especially because Justin often praised his design work.
However, she knew deep down that she wouldn't be chosen since she was still new to the job.
"Amiver, your dedication and innovative approach to design have not gone unnoticed," Justin started. "After careful consideration, I am pleased to inform you that you have been chosen to join our team at the main office in the United States."
Amiver's heart skipped a beat as he processed Justin's words.
Justin continued, "We believe in your potential, and this opportunity will not only benefit you professionally but also offer a chance for personal growth. You have shown promise, and we are confident that you'll thrive in this new role."
All the employees in the conference room were looking at Amiver,
Sir, why does it seem so unfair? She hasn't even been here for a year yet, why her? Compared to us who have been with the company for decades." The female employee said, frowning and full of dismay."
Even though some people didn't like Justine's choice of her, they couldn't change it because the boss decided. But Amiver felt really happy about the news and quickly told Messie and his nay che. They were really excited about what she achieved."
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