Many days passed, and things seemed to have improved. Christmas was approaching, and the surroundings were starting to come alive with twinkling Christmas lights. Amiver was planning to go home to Cebu to celebrate Christmas with her Nanay Cherry.
It's only December 10, sweetheart. You still have to count 10 more days to see your Nanay Cherry," she said to Marcus, who was excited about going back to Cebu. He missed his Nanay Cherry a lot.
Okay mom, I wonder what I can bring as a gift for Mom Che? Marcus asked excitedly.
Anything, as long as it comes from my heart," Amiver replied with a thoughtful response.
Meanwhile, Justine was also preparing to go back to the US to spend Christmas with his family. He wanted to invite them along, but Amiver mentioned that she had promised her Nanay Cherry to spend Christmas there.
Amiver often finds herself working overtime, driven by her desire to complete all tasks before leaving. This is especially true now that Justine has returned to the US, leaving her alone.
"Miss Ami, I'll be heading out. Take care," Maria informed her.
"Okay, Maria. Stay safe," she replied as her colleagues bid her farewell one by one.
As the clock struck 7 in the evening, Amiver found herself alone in the office. She called Messie to let her know that she would be working late again and not to wait for her.
She looked over the progress report for Denmark's mall project. Construction had reached a quarter of completion. She felt thankful that her path no longer crossed with Denmark's, as she had handed over all meetings and discussions about the project to Director Frank. This way, she managed to completely avoid dealing with Denmark.
At around 8 o'clock, Amiver left the office. The building was now dimly lit as maintenance had already reduced the lighting.
She opted to use the stairs since the elevator was not available at this time. Her office was only on the 5th floor, so she didn't mind taking the stairs.
After a while, when she was on the 2nd floor, she felt like someone was following her. She looked around but didn't see anyone, so she continued walking. She also heard faint rustling sounds from behind, which made her nervous.
"Manong guard!" she called out, but there was no response. Feeling uneasy, she quickened her pace, aiming to reach the ground floor where her car was parked.
Ami," a voice called from behind her. She stopped walking as she recognized the familiar voice. She turned around and saw the figure of Denmark.
Amiver's heart raced as she looked at him, a mixture of surprise, confusion, and anxiety swirling within her. She hadn't expected to see him there, and his sudden appearance had caught her off guard.
What are you doing here? How did you get in?" she asked Denmark, her heart beating faster.
Denmark looked at her with a hint of sadness in his eyes.
"I just wanted to talk to you,Just for a moment, there are a few things I need to clarify.
" he replied softly, his gaze fixed on her.
Amiver's brows furrowed as she crossed her arms defensively. "So, you probably don't need to enter the building at this hour like a thief, Denmark. And besides, what do you want to talk about?
I talked to Director Frank, thinking I would see you and be able to talk to you. But he said you were busy and he would handle it, so I waited for you at your departure. But your secretary told me you were doing overtime, so I waited to see if you'd finish.
And no one did tell me that someone was waiting for me? Amiver asked, her eyebrows furrowed in a slight frown as she looked at Denmark.
I told them not to tell you, Ami , I know I messed up, Amiver. I made mistakes, and I deeply regret them "Denmark replied briefly.
I've moved on, Denmark," she said, her voice steadier now. "I've found stability and happiness without you." So, please excuse me I need to leave now my son is waiting for me and beside we don't need to talk anymore, Amiver turned away from Denmark to distance herself.
He called out to her, but she quickened her pace and immediately got into her car. She felt a pang of sympathy knowing he had been waiting for her for a while, but she reminded herself not to let her pity override her memories of how he had hurt her in the past.
Amiver's hands gripped the steering wheel tightly as she drove away from the building. She tried to push away the flood of emotions that had resurfaced during her encounter with Denmark. The memories of their painful past together weighed heavily on her mind.
As she drove, Amiver couldn't help but reflect on the conversation they had just had. She was taken aback by Denmark's unexpected presence and his attempt to explain himself. Part of her wanted to believe that he had changed, that he genuinely wanted to make amends, but another part of her was cautious and skeptical. She had been through so much pain because of him, and she didn't want to let her guard down again.
Amiver's thoughts shifted to Marcus. She missed her son dearly and couldn't wait to see him when she got home. He was her source of strength and happiness, and she was determined to protect him from any harm.
As she pulled into the driveway of her home, Amiver took a deep breath. She was ready to put the encounter with Denmark behind her and focus on the positive aspects of her life. She stepped out of the car and entered her house, greeted by the warmth of the familiar surroundings.
"Mama!" Marcus exclaimed, running towards her with open arms as she entered the living room.
Amiver picked him up and hugged him tightly. "Hey, my little champ! I missed you so much."
Marcus giggled. "I missed you too, Mama."
Amiver's heart swelled with love as she held her son in her arms. She knew that no matter what challenges she faced, Marcus would always be her guiding light.