Raze P.O.V
"Hello? Please ensure immediate delivery of the order from Dela Kuma's boutique. Has Terence informed the supply department? This is becoming increasingly frustrating."
I messaged Tyron to assist my new secretary at the clothing company. Fortunately, Tyron is still available, he's persistent and highly dedicated at work. With nearly 6 years of service, I admire him for his outstanding performance as a secretary and for being a great colleague.
"Sir? Mr. Chang wants to withdraw his investment for no apparent reason," my secretary Venise informed me, her voice urgent. As the head of the investment company with four secretaries under my management, Tyron stood out as the most versatile and capable.
"Make him regret it! He's only invested 1 million, tell him to increase his investment. We can even offer him more!" I responded with sarcasm, my frustration is evident.
"Sir, please sign these papers," she continued, handing me the documents. "I'll keep you updated after you leave."
I quickly scanned the documents and signed them before preparing to leave, relying on Venise to keep me informed.
"Sir, there's a telephone call for you."
"Who is it?"
"Mr. Ramirez."
"Alright, connect him to line one." *Sigh.*
"Mr. Ramirez? Yes?"
"How's business?"
"Is that all? Well, can you see the progress from your end?" I replied sarcastically.
"Somewhat. I called to discuss my offer."
"Ah, marrying off your daughter? Sorry, but I'll have to decline your offer. I'm quite busy at the moment. Goodbye!" I ended the call with a sigh.
I stretched my body and yawned. I was exhausted from preparing that proposal, even though I have someone who could handle it for me. Darn it!
"Sir, here's your iced coffee!"
"Thanks, Venise. Please send these papers to the finance department. And remind me of the time as well," I said with a forced smile. Sometimes I want to smile genuinely, but something from the past holds me back.
I felt exhausted, but I couldn't complain too much. My dad might disapprove a hundred times over. That man! I played ICEcore's music while lounging in my swiveling chair. The telephone rang again.
"Hello? Oh?"
"Sir, Mr. Buelva wants to pull out his investment!" Damn it! Is this because I refused to marry their daughter?
"Let me handle this. I'll talk to him," I replied sharply.
"Sure, sir. I'll inform him," Venise said calmly.
"Thanks." Argh! Chang, Buelva, Felix III, Arcilla, Matteo... Who else wants me to marry their daughters? Tito Andrew, Mr. Davis! Why me? I have no interest in marriage, and being married is no joke.
Yeah, I'm still haunted by the past. It's holding me back from allowing myself to be happy until I can forgive myself. I feel like I'm trapped in the chains of my history.
Carrying my signed papers since I'm ready to leave now. I only managed to drink half of my coffee before tossing it. Apologies, dear food fairy! I promise I'm not losing my mind.
After this, I'm heading to the police station to get an update on the ambush from a few weeks ago. Thankfully, a wicked plant lives longer, and here I am, still safe, waiting for my missing piece!
The life of a businessman isn't easy; sometimes it feels like I'm walking on my own grave.
"Sir, are you leaving now?"
"Yeah, all done signing!" I replied, handing her the folders.
As I walked out, my employees stood up from their cubicles to bid me goodbye.
"Goodbye, everyone! Enjoy your meal. Let me know if the food doesn't satisfy you. Have a productive day!" I smiled. It was important to me that they didn't overextend themselves on ordinary days. Their happiness brought me joy too.
"Thank you, sir," they replied in unison. I believed in the importance of values over money. Money was transient, like a flower that blooms today and wilts tomorrow, or a balloon carried away by the wind. But kindness and genuine relationships were enduring treasures.
With that said, left Coleman's Investment Company.
My phone rang—it was Mom.
"Mom?"
"Son, how are you?" What do they need this time?
"I'm fine, Mom. Why?"
"I see. Sabrina will be back here in four days, just wanted to inform you." Ah, darn it. I don't like that girl.
"Mom, she's just a friend to me," I complained.
"I know, son, but your dad..."
"Yeah, Daddy has been upset with me since then. Don't worry."
"I love you, son."
"I love you too, Mom. Please tell Dad that I'm declining Tito Andrew's offer."
"Son, I can't. It's not just an offer; it's a pact between them. I'm sorry, but there's little I can do. You've got a lot on your plate and a heavy weight on your shoulders, but please don't forget about your health."
"Mom, don't worry. I've been strong. Are you expecting me to give up? Hell no!"
"Okay, I'm going to hang up now. Take care, son!"
"Bye, Mom! Love you, take care alway!" I said, ending the call. I headed directly to the parking area, putting aside the idea of going to the police station for now.
I know, they call me for updates. I must seem quite full of myself. While driving, I was listening to an ICEcore song titled 'Drifting,' but suddenly the music paused and my ringtone took over—it's connected to my car.
I glanced at the screen and saw it was Dad calling, so I answered, bracing myself for the worst.
"Dad?"
"What on earth! Your mom says you still refuse to marry Sabrina Rex Davis! Are you out of your mind?"
"Dad, I know you're frustrated, but setting me up with random people isn't the solution!' Why is he pushing this so hard?"
"I'm telling you, you'll regret this—" I hit the mute button. I can't bear to hear his words right now. His harsh criticism, mixed with the memories of what happened to my older brother, Rance Trivian, always weighs on me. It's like a constant shadow, haunting my thoughts and stealing my sleep each night.
I arrived at Texno, greeted warmly by everyone. Despite being the boss, I know I need my team just as much as they need me. Without them, I'm nothing.
Today, I'm focused on refining our plans for the upcoming competition, which includes our new games and the cosplay event happening in just a few days.
"Sir, it's great to see you!" Tyron said, loosening his necktie. He looked worn out—he definitely deserves a break.
"How's the preparation going, bro?" I asked, trying to sound casual.
"We need your approval on the design. Here are the new options," he said, handing me a folder.
"You can take a break; I'll handle this," I said, giving his shoulder a reassuring pat.
"We need to stay on top of things. You've got a board meeting at 1pm, then a meeting with Mr. Preaker, and finally, a session with… right, Mr. Coleman—your dad!" Tyron added, with a hint of uncertainty.
"Dad? Is this for business or personal matters? Can you cancel the last meeting?" I joked.
"Eh? As if I could say no to you! Besides, I'm worried about what he might do. Don't you remember anything?" Tyron said, sounding like a concerned brother, best friend, and adviser all in one.
"Don't worry, I've got your back! I've realized that Dad's just trying to scare me. He can't afford to lose another handsome son, right?" I said dramatically.
"Well, yeah! But I really don't have time for a break."
"I'm giving you time off—I'm your boss, after all! You should listen to me. Right, Tyron?" I said, half-serious and half-teasing, trying to convince him.
"O-okay! What do you want first, coffee?" Tyron asked. I couldn't help but smile at how dedicated he is.
"Fine, I'll have an espresso. I'm heading to the designer and organizer now. Just bring the coffee to the discussion room. And when you get to LitDinner, let Chef Jeffrey know to prepare lunch early. I'll be eating with everyone here today." I instructed. He nodded and left, though I knew he probably wouldn't take a break.
"Good morning, Mr. Coleman!"
"Hi Rushelle, are everything and the games ready? And where's Sam?" I asked as I took a seat on the couch.
"She's with her team, sir. The computers are all set up and stable in room 10," she replied.
"Got it. I've decided on black, silver, and gold color motifs—keep it simple but stylish," I said.
"Understood, sir. I'll send Vera and April to purchase the materials right away. Excuse me!" Rushelle said, and I nodded in agreement.
As she left, I sighed. I really didn't want to check my office now, knowing the files are probably stacked up on my desk.
I had already settled the program yesterday and assigned tasks to everyone, yet everyone still seemed so busy. I recalled that we had opened hiring for game designers and animators; we need more creative and capable people. Unfortunately, we haven't received any applications yet. Are they still preparing? The process seems to be dragging on.
The day ended much like the previous ones—stress-free. I mean, it was relaxing because I love my job and my role. As they say, doing what you love can reduce stress, and I can certainly testify that it's true.
"If you still refuse, I won't transfer the properties into your name!" Dad's words echoed in my mind, and I felt a pang of sadness. It's clear he's blinded by wealth, believing he can use threats to control me. But I know I can build my own success and make a name for myself. It's just that I don't want him to hate me.
It's as if he's forgotten what it means to be human. It's so cruel.
Suddenly, I was jolted awake by the soft, comforting sound of a "Meow!" My baby's gentle purring and warm presence made it hard to shake off the sleepiness and resist the urge to stay nestled in bed.
"Cally!" I called, gently stroking her fur. She was curled up on my chest, while baby Rain stretched her little body and Raisins remained nestled beside me.
I groaned inwardly. I didn't want to get up and prepare for the day just yet; I wanted to savor this peaceful moment.
"Alexa, please turn off the air conditioner!" I wrapped Cally in a warm hug; she loves it, and so do the others. She's like a sweet little baby.
Around 5 a.m., I reluctantly got up to start my morning routine. I squeezed in a quick workout in the gym, enjoyed a cup of coffee, read an article, and then headed upstairs for a refreshing shower.
"Masha?" I called for my butler, who's like a mother to me. I affectionately call her Masha, a blend of "mother" and her name, Sharn.
"Hijo, here's the new rack of your business suits," she said, gently pushing the rack towards my closet.
"Masha, let me handle that. Don't overexert yourself. Ask the boys to help with the heavy lifting," I insisted. I've seen her carrying heavy items before, and I worry about her pushing herself too hard. Her bones are more fragile at her age.
"Sus! Stop treating me like a child," she said with a warm smile. A beautiful smile from a truly wonderful lady.
"Okay! I'm just a concerned citizen," I replied with a wink.
"Masha, when will the agency send a new helper?" I asked, adjusting my hair.
"My friend said she'll arrive the day after tomorrow. Are you that eager?" she inquired.
"Well, I am. I just want to make things easier for them. At least here, the work is light and the hours are manageable. With me around, everyone's in good hands!"
"You've really grown up, despite your past. The fire you had before has become a wildfire, hasn't it?" she said, smiling warmly at me.
"I've learned a lot from life, Masha, and I'm still learning. Let's head downstairs for breakfast together!" I said, wrapping my arm around her shoulder. We made our way downstairs, talking about things I thought I couldn't answer. I couldn't help but miss Mom.
"When are you going to open your heart to someone?" she asked gently.
"My heart isn't closed, Masha. I've just stopped playing around with relationships. I don't feel the excitement anymore, and I'm too busy with my business."
"The right time will come, hijo," she said with a sense of certainty, as if she had a hunch about it. I'm truly fortunate to be surrounded by such good people. When it comes to relationships, the right woman will come along. Some of the women I've met seem more interested in my money, and that's not what I'm looking for. I need someone truly unique.
I felt even more blessed after having breakfast with my family. I consider all of my house staff as family too; there's genuine love and connection with them.
"Dad?" I answered the call, already anticipating a lecture about the arrangement with Tito Andrew's daughter, Sabrina.
"The engagement party is set," he announced. That wasn't the news I wanted to hear.
"I'm not in the mood to argue today, Dad," I replied, keeping my tone formal.
"YOU.ARE.GOING.TO.MARRY.HER!!!" he yelled before abruptly ending the call. I sighed, knowing he would probably scold me again later, but I'd rather deal with his anger than be completely ignored like I don't exist. I quickly checked the time—7 a.m.—and rushed to the garage.
On the way, I received two calls: one about business and the other...
"Your death is approaching. Start preparing your coffin made of your own money," the caller sneered with a chilling, demonic laugh. Despite the threats, I wasn't scared.
These days, I've been inundated with threats—letters with blood stains, disturbing calls, and even unsettling gifts like body parts. What do these people think they're achieving? Fortunately, a special force has started investigating, but so far, they haven't managed to get a single lead. It's infuriating.
"Man, I can't wait to meet the Grim Reaper! Just make sure he's not wearing black when he shows up," I responded coldly before ending the call. The audacity of that caller was almost amusing.
Just then, another call came in. "Yes, Denise?" I answered, curious about her reason for calling.
"Can we hang out?" she asked.
"Sorry, I'm tied up at the moment," I replied.
"Seriously? Why do I always have to beg for your time?"
"No one's forcing you!" I snapped. "I'm on my way! WHAT THE FUCK!" I suddenly swerved as I saw a woman in my lane. Seriously? Why is she on her phone while walking? I slammed on the brakes and honked to warn her.
"What's that ice?"
"Never mind! I'm hanging up now!" I said, pressing the red end button. This is ridiculous! Now she's slamming the door and yelling outside, but I can't make out what she's saying.
I threw open the door with a forceful yank. She had really startled me earlier, and I wasn't prepared for another accident. If I hadn't been quick to react, she might have ended up in the hospital, unconscious.
Now she was sitting on the ground, looking dazed from the impact. I was seething with frustration.
Conscience: Apologize to her!
No way, not a chance!
I grabbed her hand and pulled her up roughly since she seemed unwilling to get up on her own.
"What's your problem?" I snapped, irritated by the delay.
"YOU ALMOST HIT ME! CAN'T YOU SEE? AND THEN YOU SLAMMED YOUR DOOR SO HARD I FELL!" she yelled, pointing at me. She was acting like a lunatic! "Slammed"? This girl was driving me insane. What was she trying to prove?
"Are you really blaming me?" I said coldly. It was her fault, after all—she was the reckless one.
I scolded her as if she were a lost child finally realizing her mistake.
"I hate you!" she yelled before running off. Tsk! I shook my head in frustration. What a strange person.
I got back in the car and drove away from the chaos on the highway. She had caused a minor traffic jam, which only added to my irritation.
When I arrived at Texno, everyone was busy in room 10. It's our go-to space for events because its large size can accommodate hundreds of people.
I decided to check in on the design team before heading to the application room. Thankfully, no one was waiting there yet. I was about to evaluate the efficiency and quality of the mobile version of "Team Riffle Legend." I pulled out my phone and started playing the game. It's an online game that tests your ability to build and manage your own team, your progress stability, and even your sharpness of focus.
It has a certain logic that can easily hook players, so I needed to test it myself and identify areas for improvement without relying solely on reviews.
"Ahem!"
"Hey!"
I ignored the calls. I'm not just "ahem" or "hey!"—I have a name, and I'm the boss! This is infuriating!
"Hey! Mr. Ungentleman, I see! Are you applying here too? In what position? Janitor? Nice tux for a janitor!" She caught my attention with her sarcastic tone. A janitor? Maybe I should use her as a mop. I shot her a glare.
Wait, she's the same girl from earlier—the one who was in the way. Our eyes met, and she looked like a kid, especially when she flashed a peace sign and grinned as if nothing had happened.
I chose to ignore her and went back to playing the game. I couldn't afford to lose at my own game.
"Anyway, I'm here to apply as a game designer or animator. What about you? Oh, and have you seen the boss's secretary?" She was clearly trying to get under my skin. If she's applying, I'm not going to make it easy for her.
I sighed as I lost the game—my team had let me down again.
I left her there, deciding to ignore her annoying antics.
"Bella, please let the rude woman in the application room know she needs to move to the examination room. I'll handle her personally," I said with a hint of frustration.
"Understood, sir!" Bella responded, heading off to take care of it.
I tracked down Tyron and instructed him to oversee the preparations for tomorrow's event. I also needed him ASAP to find a cosplayer for Zarina. With that sorted, I made my way to the examination room.
There she was, eating chocolate. Despite her beauty, she seemed completely out of touch. I watched her closely, studying her demeanor. She appeared as a delicate, sweet, and charming individual, but I might have been more inclined to like her if I hadn't witnessed her earlier blunders.
"Eating is not allowed here," I said firmly, noting her shock at seeing me for the third time.
She asked if I was there for the interview, completely unaware that I was the boss. It was bold of her to apply without knowing much about the company. I was surprised she didn't recognize me—didn't she know who the CEO was? Her reaction was priceless when I revealed my position. It was too late for regrets now. There's always a lesson in these situations.
Honestly, she's beautiful but comes across as quite troublesome. There's something almost amusing about her, especially when she tries to joke while I'm dead serious. I needed to see what she really had to offer.
"You're not qualified. Your attitude falls short," I said. While her skills might meet the requirements, our company doesn't need someone disrespectful, inconsiderate, or with poor manners.
To my surprise, she started to beg. Despite her cuteness and unique personality, I had to set aside any sense of mercy.
She's undeniably beautiful, different, and seems both nice and innocent—but I shook off these distractions. What was I even thinking?
The guards were instructed to escort her out.
"Damn it! What's this? Raze! What the hell! HELP! You're such a jerk. I hate you!" she yelled, her frustration clear. Hearing my name like that was startling, it's been a long time since anyone called me Raze with such raw emotion. Only my father uses my full name, and it's always filled with resentment.
Her reaction was almost amusing; it made her seem even more endearing in her defiance.
I followed the commotion, keeping a stern face and my hands tucked into my pockets. Despite her pleas for help, the guards had already guided her into the elevator.
Glancing at the monitor, I saw her sitting on the elevator floor, looking dejected. There was something unexpectedly charming about her frustration. Lorence, huh? I'll find you again soon, have your details.
As she departed, looking so downcast, I found myself wishing I could do something to make it up to her or offer her some form of solace.
"You're smiling! I rarely see that!" Tyron remarked, bringing me a cup of coffee.
The aroma of freshly ground coffee hit my nose, and suddenly, I was reminded of her.
Damn it, is she like a drug?
"Sir! Here's the proposal from Subisoft Entertainment," Tyron said, handing me a document.
"Thanks! I'll review it later," I replied, taking the proposal.
I spent the rest of the day walking around, engaging in brief conversations with employees about their work and following up on priority tasks.
I spent the entire day at Texno, despite still receiving important calls from my other businesses. I'll deal with those tomorrow or after the event. I can't be everywhere at once, but at least I manage my time as best as I can.
The clothing industry was my father's business. I'm the CEO now, but he wants me to get involved with his friend's daughter, Sabrina. It's always Sabrina. Sometimes, I seriously consider stepping away from the business just to escape his unreasonable demands, but I know he might hold a grudge against me forever.
I was exhausted by the end of the day. This morning, something compelled me to check the CCTV monitor, so I decided to swing by after getting ready for work.
The agency sent over their helper? My heart skipped a beat when I saw the woman standing in front of the gate, it was the same girl from yesterday.
Masha assisted her, and they left together in the golf cart. I called Masha, knowing she usually wears her earpiece, so she'd hear me clearly.
"Masha! Please have her stay in the guest room near the quarters," I instructed. I watched the monitor as Masha gave her a tour around.
After a while, I decided to head out by myself.
"Good morning, señorito," Erika and the other girls greeted me as I walked in. My pulse quickened when I spotted the new helper. She looked anxious and agitated. What's troubling you, Lorence?
"New helper?" I asked, but she avoided my gaze, perhaps still feeling awkward about yesterday's incident. She resembled an angel, almost like a cosplayer. Aha! Maybe I could use her as my cosplayer. Problem solved!
I decided to have a little fun and test her, so I playfully suggested she handle all the house chores for the day.
"Seriously?" she asked, disbelief evident in her voice. I wanted to see how she'd handle it.
She probably thinks this is my way of getting revenge, and I suppose that's fair enough.
I decided to cancel all my meetings for the day just to observe her first attempt at house chores.
"Felix, take this cold bottled water to Lorence," I instructed, noting how sweaty she had become.
I watched from a distance, seeing her laugh and chat with Felix despite her exhaustion. When she caught me watching, I couldn't help but smile slightly.
"Andy, tell her to come inside now!" I commanded. Andy nodded and left to relay the message.
I considered granting her access to the system, including the ability to open my room using the scanner. Was that a good idea, Raze?
As I touched her hand for the fingerprint scan, I felt an unexpected jolt of energy surge through me. What the hell was that?
She was utterly charming, her smile radiating sweetness, and her laid-back demeanor was refreshing. For the first time in ages, someone called me Raze in a way that felt genuine and unique.
There was something soothing about her presence, like the best remedy for my restless mind. For the first time in a long while, I tasted tuna cooked to perfection. Her recipe was delicious and unforgettable, so much so that I found myself wanting to request her cooking again.
"Are we friends?" I asked.
"Why? Can't we be more than that?" she replied with a playful tone. Yet, her words struck a chord, making my heart race. I found myself wondering about her, trying to understand why she evoked such feelings.
It was already 9pm when I checked on her. She was sleeping soundly, her peaceful expression bringing a smile to my face.
"Sorry for making you work so hard today," I whispered before leaving her room.
Despite finishing my new vlog around 11 p.m., I still couldn't fall asleep. Restlessness kept me awake, so I spent the rest of the night editing the video. I planned to upload it tomorrow.
I stepped outside to clear my mind, only to be greeted by the unexpected sound of her singing softly in the distance. Her voice was soothing, a perfect complement to the quiet night.
Spending time with her has become a highlight of my day. She had a way of making everything feel right, and I found myself smiling whenever she was around.
Eventually, I came to a profound realization: I wanted her to be the happiest person in the world. I envisioned her as part of my journey and dreams, wanting to celebrate every moment with her. It hit me that I had fallen deeply in love with her. She was a masterpiece I wanted to cherish for the rest of my life. Yet, I couldn't shake my worries; I knew my father would likely be vehemently opposed to our relationship.
Choosing her felt natural, yet I couldn't ignore the weight of my father's expectations. For him, Sabrina was the only woman suited for me, and he certainly wouldn't approve of my decision.
She's the reason behind my smile and the new version of myself. Despite this, I lacked the courage to express my feelings to her, caught between my emotions for her and my father's potential reaction. Dad, always complicating things.
I recalled Lorence's words: "Please don't stop yourself from doing something just because you think it's not the best or you're not worth it!"
I finally understood. She's the only one who can stir such deep feelings in me jealousy, immense happiness, and a sense of being uplifted. It's not strange; I've come to grasp the true meaning of love because of her. She's taught me so much, making me fall even harder for her. I whispered "I love you" in front of her beautiful, sleeping face, feeling a profound sense of commitment and affection.
It all began when I found myself speechless around her. Now, here I was, playfully pranking her while preparing for a confession.
"You're the woman I want to spend the rest of my life with," I said, my voice steady but filled with emotion.
"I love you, Chump!" I declared, feeling every bit of the truth in those words. She had given me everything, and I wanted to give her all of me in return.
"Lorence, will you be my girlfriend?" I asked, my heart racing. When she said 'Yes,' it became one of the most unforgettable moments of my life. Her acceptance left me questioning my feelings, as they were a whirlwind of joy, anxiety, and pure love.
She's like my coat in winter, my ice cream in summer, and the spark that wakes my sleepy heart.
Dad wanted to meet her, and as expected, he disapproved. It was tough, but at least Mom liked her. Dad and I ended up having a heated argument. He had been harsh and humiliating towards her, and this time, I stood up to him. I couldn't let him jeopardize my happiness. Not this time.
"Señorito! Glad you're here. Your new song has been polished for the fan fest," one of my music editors greeted me.
"Thanks, bro! Just send it to Manager Alona and me later. I'm here to handle a few things," I replied.
"Your secretary's not with you today?"
"Tyron?" I said. He's managing a few things on my behalf with the YouTube fan community. One of the key moments I'm looking forward to is the face reveal. As ICEcore, it's been challenging to ignore Cath, but I had to for the sake of the project's success. It pains me to hurt her; seeing her expression breaks my heart, but I believe it will be worth it in the end.
"Razeeee!" Her voice cuts through my thoughts. I was about to leave when she caught up with me. I looked at her blankly, struggling to suppress the urge to pull her into a hug.
I couldn't bear it any longer, so I had to leave. That day, I hired someone to track down who was sending threats to Lorence, but she refused to share any details with me.
To keep my mind occupied and my emotions in check, I threw myself into work. Everything was running smoothly.
I reached out to her friend Cynthia to bring her to the fan fest, and thankfully, Cynthia agreed. I stayed with Alona Sanchez throughout the event, making sure everything went as planned.
When I finally went home, I received a message from Masha letting me know that Lorence was already asleep. I left a flower on her bedside table. It wasn't much, but it gave me a sense of peace, knowing that she was safe and resting.
The moment I'd been waiting for had arrived. I was about to perform, not just for my fans but especially for her. She was seated with Cynthia in the spot I'd reserved, but she seemed to be asleep. Cynthia gently shook her awake, and I couldn't help but smile at how adorable she looked as she yawned and adjusted herself.
"The last and most anticipated performance of the night. Please welcome, ICEcore!"
My cue had come. I stepped into the spotlight as the music blared and the crowd roared. With my backup dancers by my side, I launched into the first number, giving it everything I had. The energy from the crowd, the rhythm of the music, and the thrill of performing all fueled me. But even amidst all the excitement, my focus was on her hoping that she'd see just how much this meant to me.
I was the star of the night, but she was the true light that guided me. Her presence gave my performance a perfect glow, making everything shine just a little brighter.
"The heavens gave me a chance,
To feel love and be loved,
The heavens gave me a chance,
Guiding your path to my palace."
She looks blank and can't understand what's currently going on.
"The fate made us fall in love,
You helped me pick up my pieces,
And now, you own my half,
The half of my heart."
As I walked down the runway, my gaze was drawn to her. She looked stunning in my merch, radiating a charm that made me eagerly anticipate the day I'd see her in a wedding dress.
"You can call me by name, only you can.
You are mine, fate has spoken for the rest of my life."
I'm now infront of her, she's blushing yet she still looks innocent and questioning.
"Hold my hand, let's run away together.
Listen to my heart, it's singing your name."
I took her hand in mine and handed her the bouquet of flowers, my heart pounding with anticipation. As I began to sing, I gently pulled her from her seat and guided her onto the stage. The spotlight illuminated us both, casting a magical glow over the moment.
With a deep breath, I knelt down on one knee and looked up at her, my voice steady but filled with emotion. "I want you to be my other half forever!"
"Will you marry me?" I asked, opening the red velvet box to reveal the sparkling diamond ring. My heart raced, and my palms were clammy with nervousness. The fear of her saying no gripped me, an outcome I couldn't bear.
The crowd seemed to hold their breath, their collective anticipation building. Even her sister, who I had made sure was present for this moment, was watching intently.
Then, with a radiant smile that could light up the darkest night, she answered, "Raze, yes! It's a yes! I'll marry you!"
Her words turned my swirling fears into a clear, overwhelming joy. The night felt like it had transformed into a dream made real. Her acceptance meant everything to me; she's the beat of my heart, and I knew then that I would do everything to ensure that beat never faltered. I couldn't let her slip away. She's my everything.
New moments with her and her family felt like a dream come true. Every day was a celebration of our love, and I relished each one with her by my side. Life seemed perfect, and I thought nothing could ever come between us.
But one morning, I woke up to find her side of the bed cold and empty. I initially assumed she was just running late, but the silence that greeted me was unsettling. The absence of her warmth and presence turned my heartache into a storm of confusion and sadness.
Then, a visit from my father shattered the remnants of my hope. "Hijo, Lorence left. She quit and wanted me to give you this letter."
My hands trembled as I tore open the white envelope. Each tear of paper felt like a tear in my heart. The words inside were hard to digest, a painful reminder of her departure. I was overwhelmed by a mix of sadness and anger, struggling to process the pain that engulfed me.
I couldn't comprehend why she left so abruptly, especially after the joyful moments we shared. It hit me that her decision might have been influenced by something I didn't fully understand or perhaps a misunderstanding on my part.
The news reports that followed only deepened my confusion. They painted her in a light that didn't align with the person I knew and loved. Seeing her character tarnished like that felt like a betrayal, and I was furious.
"Hello? Tyron, get in touch with the broadcasting line immediately. Tell them I'll file a lawsuit if they don't pull all the news about Catherine down. I'm serious, this is beyond frustrating," I demanded, my voice tinged with anger. The thought of her being misrepresented in the media was infuriating, and I was ready to fight to clear her name.
Dad offered me the opportunity to manage our business in Spain, but I turned it down. My heart was set on staying with Lorence. Despite my decision, she left, and now I find myself leaving too, burdened with an aching emptiness that I can't seem to shake. I want to run after her, to make things right, but I'm shackled by responsibilities and expectations that I can't escape.
"Sweetheart, let's go!" Sabrina's voice breaks through my thoughts. I nod, knowing I have to go with her.
I've entrusted my company to my cousin, confident in his ability to handle things in my absence, while Tyron remains by my side. Despite their support, I feel profound loneliness. My tears have dried up; I've cried them all out.
Why do the days drag on so painfully? I can't quite grasp what's happening to me. I feel a deep sense of betrayal. I walked into the church, expecting to attend a simple wedding for one of Dad's business associates, only to realize I was mistaken.
"Sorry, Sab!" I muttered, my voice heavy with regret, before turning and walking out. The shock on everyone's faces was palpable, but I couldn't stay.
My world crumbled further as I faced mounting losses. I spent 1 million PHP to silence the false rumors and clean up the mess caused by the news and media outlets. Just when I thought things couldn't get worse, Sabrina's parents demanded compensation. They didn't want cash or a check, they wanted my investment company. I tried to negotiate, offering my clothing company instead, but they wouldn't budge. It's infuriating. I was the victim here, yet I'm left paying the price.
I had no choice but to give them what they demanded, even though it felt like a betrayal of everything I've worked for.
I dedicated so much to that business, only for it to slip through my fingers so easily.
Even though I'm still a billionaire, it feels like I'm the poorest person on earth without her. Her absence has left a void that no amount of money can fill.
Dad apologized, and as always, a son remains a son to his father and his parents. I've come to understand why he was so strict and underestimated me. It was all to push me to be my best.
Dad finally explained his reasons for wanting me with Sabrina. It turns out there was an agreement between him and Mr. Andrew, and the latter's influence was something Dad feared. It all added up to make my life a tangled mess.
"Go after her!" Dad urged me. I had just read Catherine's letter and, once again, the tears came. I realized too late how much I needed to act. So, without hesitation, I went after her.
But fate was cruel. I saw her with another man. I stayed in Lahzon for a week, hoping for a sign, but she was always with him. Eventually, I had to face the truth: if she was meant to be with me, we would find each other again. If not in this life, then maybe in another.
Leaving her was an indescribable pain, a hurt that seemed to seep into every part of my being, draining me of all my strength.
I missed her.
A year had passed, but the memories of her remained as vivid as ever.
"Señorito, I received a letter from Xgames Company regarding a project proposal," Venise informed me, since Tyron was away on his well-deserved vacation with his wife.
"Hmm, have them meet me at my office," I replied, feeling a twinge of anticipation. Venise, now working at Cazila, would be bringing the proposal. I was eager to see her again.
I had been keeping tabs on her. I knew she was now at Cazila and that she had only grown more beautiful and radiant. I'd seen her around but had kept my distance, unwilling to intrude or make my presence known. It was as if fate had taken her away once, and now it was my hope that fate would bring her back.
Later that day, she arrived with her boss. I forced myself to remain professional and distant, to act as if I didn't know her—just another employee, just another face in the crowd. But inside, I was struggling. Despite my best efforts, I couldn't escape the fact that I still loved her. And now, seeing her, it was impossible not to notice that many others were drawn to her as well. Why did she have to be so irresistibly attractive?
"Please deliver this food to Ms. Celo for me." I've noticed she's been avoiding me, working quickly and leaving early each day. It seems like she's trying to distance herself, but I believe deep down she still cares for me.
I don't want to shy away from expressing my feelings, so I plan to tell her how much she means to me. I've even asked her parents for their blessing, and they're happy for us. Time has flown by—she leaves, comes back, and now I'm determined not to let her go again.
The wedding day is set, and everything is coming together perfectly. Soon, I'll be able to call her my wife, and I can hardly contain my excitement.
"Hey, bro! This is Lorence, your future sister-in-law," I said as I introduced her to my brother, Trivian. I know if he were still here, he would be overjoyed for me. I'm truly sorry, bro. I miss you and look forward to the day when I can see you again and talk endlessly.
"Love, I'm just going out to buy a new set of pencils today. You don't need to accompany me," she said, looking beautiful in the dress I gave her. She's like a living doll.
We have our photoshoot scheduled for tomorrow, and I'm so excited for what's to come.
I let her go out on her own while I spent some time with his brother.
But now it's 6 p.m., and I'm starting to worry. She's not answering my calls, and I've informed both my parents and hers. They're just as concerned as I am.
Where could she be?
Krrrrnggg!
It's Sabrina calling. I rejected the call; I can't focus on talking to her while we're still searching for Lorence.
I'm trying to track Lorence's location through GPS when I receive a message from Sabrina.
Sabrina: "Answer my call if you want to know where she is!"
Damn it! This woman always causes trouble. She's already made my life difficult once before.
I had tried to make peace with her after she took over my company, but now—damn it all.
I didn't wait for her to call me back. I called her instead.
"Oh, hello sweetheart! Can we make a deal?" she answered.
"What's that?" I asked coldly, my heart pounding in my chest.
"Give up all of your properties in exchange for your future wife's life!"
Did I hear that right? My world is falling apart, but I would do anything for her. I'm willing to give up everything for her.