Don't Forget To Remember

Chapter 1

"Haze, son." Haze looked at his father when he called him. They were in the living room, sitting on opposite sofas.

It was Sunday afternoon, and his parents were staying home. It was their rest day from work.

His father was an architect, now in his mid-50s, and Haze knew his father was nearing retirement. His dad was one of the best in his field.

Haze was supposed to be his father's successor, but he had chosen to follow his dream. He became a surgeon, and his parents respected his decision to pursue medicine.

Perhaps his younger brother, Euzen, would take over their father's business instead. Euzen was only in his third year of college but was ready to handle their family company.

Their youngest sibling, Euzel, was in seventh grade. Despite being young, Euzel already knew how to cook, seemingly taking after their mother.

Euzen had considered studying architecture, but he said business management was his priority.

"What is it, Dad?" Haze asked.

"Your Ninong Zerald's daughter is arriving tomorrow, and I'd like you to pick her up at the airport," his father said softly.

"My Ninong's daughter? I... I forgot her name, Dad," Haze scratched his head, genuinely unable to recall his godfather's child.

"She's a girl, son. Her name is Dhea Averay. She's a good kid and very smart," his dad said with a smile, while Haze grimaced.

"You're in trouble, Haze," his mom teased as she joined the conversation. "How could you forget her? She spent months vacationing here, and the two of you were inseparable."

"Hey, honey." His mom sat next to his dad, kissing him on the lips, before turning to Haze with a knowing look.

"Don't look at me like that, Mom. I really forgot her. See? I even forgot her gender," Haze explained, trying to justify himself.

He tried to remember the face of his Ninong's daughter, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't picture her.

"When was the last time she stayed here, Mom?" Haze asked, watching as his mom leaned on his dad's shoulder.

His parents were the sweetest couple, a shining example of love. Even with age and three children, their affection for each other never wavered.

He knew they'd been through a lot, especially his mom, who raised him alone for the first seven years of his life.

He often saw his mom cry in silence, deeply hurt. From his parents, he learned one important lesson about love.

Trust-trust is the most important thing in a relationship. It's not enough to love; you have to trust. Both of you need to have faith in each other.

"Five years ago, Haze. She was such a beautiful girl, and now you're telling me you've forgotten her?" His mom raised an eyebrow, and Haze sheepishly smiled.

"Sorry, Mom. I've just been really busy with work."

"Why don't you take a vacation, Haze?" his dad suggested.

"Uh, maybe after my friend's wedding."

"Dervon? He's getting married?" His mom looked excited.

Dervon Veins Avelino, also a surgeon, worked at the same hospital as Haze. He was a close friend, along with Domein Domingo, Psyche Chan Quraiz, and Andrey Callelan.

However, Haze couldn't bring himself to feel excited or happy for his friend. Dervon wasn't marrying the woman he loved.

He knew Dervon wasn't thrilled about the upcoming marriage.

"Yes, Mom."

"I'm happy for him. Make sure to tell him to send us an invitation. I'm excited for that boy," his mom said with a smile.

"I will, Mom."

Dhea Averay Lacsamana

Haze raised the placard with his Ninong's daughter's name, hoping she would see it.

Passengers and newly arrived travelers flooded the airport. He didn't bother looking at their faces, as he couldn't remember what Dhea looked like. It had been a long time, and he had no clear memory of her.

If his dad hadn't asked him to pick her up, he wouldn't have come to the airport at all. God knows how much he hated airports.

This was where he last saw and spoke to the woman he loved-the one who left him and chose her parents.

Yes, this was where Kreza left him. His first love. But he was willing to wait for her. It had been four years since she left, and he knew she would come back to him.

"Haze Montefalcon?" A girl's voice suddenly called his name.

"That's me," he replied, turning to face her.

He found himself standing before a stunning young woman. She wore a peach blouse, white jeans, and pink sneakers. She held sunglasses in one hand and her luggage in the other.

Her long hair was dyed light brown with bangs. Haze couldn't help but stare at her.

Her brown eyes were beautiful, her nose petite and slightly pointed. Her pinkish lips looked so soft that he felt an urge to kiss her. But no, that couldn't happen. The girl was fair-skinned and only reached his chest in height.

She wasn't just beautiful-she looked like a goddess. She smiled at him, and for some reason, he found that smile very appealing.

Before he could react, she hugged him, shocking him. He could feel the electricity between them, and he had to admit, her body felt soft and warm.

"I missed you, Haze! You have no idea how much I've missed you!" she said cheerfully, clearly excited to see him.

And oddly enough, he felt awkward, especially with how fast his heart was beating.

Gently, he pushed her away and looked at her again, but to his surprise, she suddenly kissed him hard on the lips.

She held his face tightly, leaving him frozen in place, unable to move.

"I've waited for this moment! Finally, we meet again! I'm so happy to see you, Haze!"

Haze was too stunned to react. He was a bit irritated that she kissed him without warning, and in public, no less.

Was this what she was like? Just kissing people out of the blue?

So embarrassing!

"Haze?"

He shook his head to clear his thoughts.

"You shouldn't have done that, you know," he said. He was angry about what she did, but he couldn't show it. What if she cried? He wasn't sure how to comfort her.

"The what?" she asked, confused.

"The kiss," he replied. She pouted, her face falling, and Haze cursed himself inwardly. "T-that's not what I meant. Please don't get me wrong. You can kiss me, just... not in front of a crowd."

He was annoyed with himself. He was too kind to even express his anger.

Well, he wasn't really angry, just shocked. She had kissed him, after all!

"L-let's go? My parents are waiting for you at home," he said, smiling. She smiled back.

He picked up her luggage, but when she clung to his arm, he flinched. He cursed under his breath, feeling uneasy.

Haze, dude. What's wrong with you?

DHEA AVERAY LACSAMANA'S POV

I woke up early today. It's my rest day, but I need to catch my dad to tell him about my vacation plans.

I headed to the bathroom to wash my face and rinse my mouth, then quickly stepped out of my room. I ran my fingers through my brown hair to comb it.

I saw Kuya Derman coming out of the room across from mine. When he noticed me, he smiled. I walked over to him and stood on my tiptoes to kiss him on the cheek.

"Good morning, Kuya," I greeted him with a smile. He placed a hand on my waist and returned the kiss on my cheek.

"How was your sleep? It's your rest day, why are you up so early?" he asked as we started descending the stairs, with him guiding me.

"I told you yesterday that I'm going to ask Dad for permission to go on vacation," I answered.

"Oh," was all he said, and we soon arrived at the dining area where our parents were already seated.

There are only three of us siblings Brother is the eldest, I'm the second, and our youngest is Dhelo, who is just ten years old. Yes, I'm the only daughter, but our parents never played favorites because they love us equally.

"There you are. Come here so we can all have dinner together," Mommy said with a smile, inviting us to the table. Brother and I approached her, and I kissed her on the cheek. I also kissed Daddy, while Brother Derman simply took his hand for a respectful gesture, then sat beside him.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

I sat down beside my little brother, Dhelo. "Good morning, kiddo," I greeted him, kissing his cheek and messing up his hair. He smiled at me.

"Good morning, Ate," he replied. Mom then sat beside me, so the three of us were seated together, while Dad and Kuya sat across from us.

On the table, we had fried rice with chicken, half-cooked eggs, hotdogs, and ham. There was also coffee and pineapple juice.

I smiled when Mom put food on my plate. "Thanks, Mom."

"It's your day off today, Avey. I thought you'd sleep in," Dad said, glancing at me, while Kuya smiled but continued eating.

"I was planning to go on vacation, Dad."

"Do you want me to find a place for you? A beach resort or somewhere out of town?" he suggested.

"I want to spend my vacation in the Philippines, Dad," I replied directly, causing him to stop eating. Even Mom paused and stared at me.

"You know we all go together when we vacation in the Philippines, sweetheart. You'll be alone there," Mom said, but I shook my head.

"I'll be staying at Ninong Eujinn and Ninang Hazel's house," I explained, and she nodded.

"Are you staying for just one or two weeks?" Dad asked.

"One month, Dad."

"That's quite long, sweetheart. Does that mean we won't see you at home for a whole month?" Dad remarked, making me laugh.

"You can't go on vacation alone, Ate. Wait for our school to close, and I'll come with you," Dhelo said, leaning on my shoulder.

"I can't wait that long, kiddo. I really want to go now," I said with a smile.

"Okay, anything you want, sweetheart. I'll let your godfather know. What about you, son? Why don't you go with your sister?" Dad asked Kuya Derman.

"As much as I'd like to, Dad, we all know Avey prefers to be on her own," Kuya said, nodding. He knew me so well.

"You got it, Kuya," I said.

"See, Dad?"

"Alright then. Just take care of yourself there, sweetheart."

After breakfast, Mom helped me pack my things, and Dad bought my plane ticket. Of course, Brother gave me a lecture, and Dhelo said he would follow me since their vacation was coming up soon.

Only Kuya Derman came with me to the airport, carrying my large suitcase. I had a black backpack slung over my shoulders, holding my essentials like my phone, money, and ATM cards. He also held my plane ticket and passport.

"Take care over there, Avey. I know you won't give Ninong and Ninang any trouble. Maybe just their eldest son-you still have a crush on him, right?" brother teased with a smirk. I grinned, knowing he had figured it out.

"I will, Brother. Don't worry. I'll be fine," I assured him. He pulled me into a tight hug and kissed my temple.

"I love you. Take care, Avey."

"I love you too, Brother, and I will!" brother didn't leave until my flight was called. "Bye, Kuya! Love you!" I blew him a kiss, and he jokingly caught it, pressing it to his chest with a laugh.

I was so excited that I didn't sleep during the flight. I became even more thrilled when the pilot announced that we had landed safely.

A smile spread across my face as I disembarked and followed the crowd. It was noisy inside NAIA.

Dad said someone would pick me up, but I wasn't expecting to see Haze holding a placard with my full name on it.

He hadn't changed a bit-if anything, he had become even more handsome. His face was captivating, with expressive eyes, a sharp nose, a strong jawline, and lips the color of apples.

He was dressed in a dark blue coat with a black long-sleeve shirt underneath, gray trousers, and black shoes. His hair was styled in a neat side part, as if he had spent over an hour perfecting it.

I approached him. "Haze Montefalcon?" His full name was Hajinn V. Montefalcon, but Haze was his nickname.

"That's me," he replied, and our eyes met.

"I missed you, Haze! You have no idea how much!" I exclaimed excitedly. He was one of the reasons I wanted to vacation here-I wanted to see him again. "I've been waiting for this moment, and finally, we meet again! I'm so happy to see you, Haze!" In my excitement, I didn't think clearly and kissed him on the lips. He froze. "Haze?"

He shook his head, trying to gather his thoughts. "You shouldn't have done that, you know," he said coldly.

"What?" I asked, frowning.

"That kiss," he replied. I pouted. "That's not what I meant. Please don't get me wrong. You can kiss me, just not in front of a crowd." I knew Haze well-he hated seeing women cry. I wasn't sure why, but it was part of what made him a kind person, something I had always admired. "Let's go? My parents are waiting for you at home," he said with a smile, and I couldn't help but smile back. I hugged his arm, and he glanced at it.

He carried my suitcase in one hand and took a deep breath as we started walking.

This is it! I've finally reunited with my crush! I'm sure this vacation will be amazing because I'll get to spend time with him for real!

The hot climate and the loud honking of cars greeted us as we stepped out of the airport. It was indeed hot.

I own DheAvey's Clothing Line, where my brother and I are business partners. He runs a large fashion show company called DeLarkin's. Kuya Derman is also a fashionista. When it comes to outfits, he's an expert. Sometimes, people mistake him for being gay because of it, but my brother is straight.

Occasionally, he coaches models for their catwalks. He's good at that, and I'm also a dress designer.

I was born on December 25, Christmas Day. I'm 24 years old, and Brother is 28. We're only four years apart. I found myself staring at Haze's profile.

We were riding in his white BMW, and he was focused on driving. I, on the other hand, couldn't stop watching him. My gaze lingered on his veiny hands.

He's a surgeon, but his hands look like this?

"Staring is rude, Miss," he said sternly, making me chuckle softly. He shot me a quick glance.

"Don't you remember me, Haze?" I asked.

"I thought Ninong's son was arriving, but it turns out it's a girl. And no, I don't remember you," he said honestly. I pouted.

"That's harsh. Do you have short-term memory? I thought you'd be excited to see me," I said sadly.

"I'm sorry. I've just been busy at the hospital. How old are you again?" he asked.

"I'm 24," I replied, and he nodded.

"Then call me 'Kuya.' I'm four years older than you," he said, which made him the same age as Kuya Derman.

"No way," I refused, even though I used to call him that.

"You will," he insisted, and I just shrugged.

"I have a crush on you, and I can't call you that," I said bluntly, which made him stop driving. I almost hit the dashboard, but thankfully, I was wearing my seatbelt.

"You're so honest and straightforward. Seriously, Averay?" He raised an eyebrow slightly.

"Call me Avey, please..."

"Okay, sorry about that." He resumed driving.

His car entered a familiar subdivision, and after a few minutes, it stopped in front of a large mansion. I smiled again.

I didn't wait for him to open the door. I stepped out of his car and stared at the beautiful mansion in front of me.

He took my suitcase from the trunk and extended his hand, letting me go ahead. He followed me inside, and even from the main door, I saw a familiar face-a beautiful woman.

"Ninang Hazel!" I called out her name and ran toward her. She opened her arms to welcome me, and I hugged her tightly.

"Welcome back, Avey," she said, kissing the top of my head.

Ninong Eujinn's wife is kind and attentive. She and my mom get along really well. They're lucky to have each other. Even Ninong is kind. No wonder their eldest daughter, Haze, takes after them.

"Thank you, Ninang. I missed you," I said, kissing both of her cheeks.

"I missed you too, Avey. Come on in. Haze, sweetheart, take Avey's suitcase to the guest room. I had it cleaned yesterday." Ninang Hazel and I walked hand in hand into their mansion.

In their living room were Haze's twin brothers, Euzel and Euzen. They looked exactly alike, making it hard to tell them apart.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3

As I recall, they were only 20 years old and might still have been studying. There was also a young girl, probably around the same age as my little brother, Dhelo. She might be the youngest as well.

I glanced at their stairs when a tall and handsome man descended. I recognized him immediately, and just like I did with his wife, I ran to him to give him a hug.

"Thank God you're safe from your trip, Avey. Welcome back," he said, kissing my forehead. They were like second parents to me, but I wanted their eldest son to be my future. I silently giggled at the thought.

I let go of Ninong Eujinn's embrace as Haze passed by us to take my luggage to the guest room.

"Thank you for letting me stay in your house, Ninong, Ninang," I said with a smile.

"Of course, you're very welcome here, dear. Euzen, Euzel, do you remember your Ate Avey? She's the daughter of your Ninong Zerald and is also your god-sibling." The twins stared at me intently, then stood up at the same time. They looked at each other and giggled softly.

"Of course, Mom. How could we forget the girl who had a crush on Brother Haze?" one of the twins asked. My cheeks heated up, realizing they still remembered that.

"Yeah, I remember it well, Mom. Hi, Ate Avey. We're so happy you chose to stay with us." One of them hugged me, but I still couldn't tell which twin he was. "I'm Euzel, in case you're confused, Sister," he said with a laugh. We exchanged kisses on the cheek, and then Euzen followed suit.

They both guided me to the couch, sitting on either side of me. "I'll get you a drink, Avey. Stay here with my twins," Ninang Hazel said as she excused herself.

"Anyway, Avey. Make yourself at home, dear," Ninong Eujinn added as he left.

"Are you working?" I asked, and he nodded, kissing his wife on the cheek.

"Take care, honey," she said sweetly. The twins also kissed their dad's cheeks before he left.

"brother! Stay here with Sister Avey!"

"We have class!" I waited for their handsome older brother.

"I have work too," I heard him say. I didn't look at him right away.

"Up to you, Brother!"

"Bye, Ate Avey! We'll see you later! We're going to bond!"

"I like that," I said, nodding. Haze sat in a single chair, focused on his cellphone.

I grabbed a pillow and placed it on my lap, resting my chin on it.

"So, how long is your vacation?" he asked casually.

"Not days, I'll be here for a month," I corrected. He licked his lower lip, and I found myself staring.

"What do you do for a living, Averay?"

"Please, call me Avey," I replied.

"Okay, Avey."

"I own DheAvey's Clothing Line in Europe. I have branches in Singapore and Malaysia," I said, noticing his amazement.

"At 24?" he asked, and I nodded.

"Our company is a business partner of my brother Kuya Derman's. He helped guide me when I was just starting my clothing line," I boasted. My brother was one of my mentors when I was just beginning.

"Oh, I remember your brother." I snorted.

"I guess I'm the only one you don't remember," I said sadly, my brows furrowing.

"Sorry, I really have a poor memory when it comes to people," he explained.

"How did you become a doctor then?" I whispered.

"What did you say?" he asked in a calm voice.

"I said you're a handsome doctor," I replied. He quickly averted his gaze, looking embarrassed. I could clearly see his cheeks turning red. What's this? He's blushing?

He cleared his throat. "Why is Mom taking so long?" he asked absentmindedly, growing restless in his seat.

"Doc, are you sick? Why are your cheeks so red?" I asked innocently, pretending not to know the reason.

"Shit!" he cursed under his breath, standing just as his mom returned with a tray.

"Oh, where are you going, son?" she asked him.

"I'm leaving now, Mom. I'll pick up Euza from school later." He kissed her cheek and avoided looking at me as he hurried out.

"Bye, Doc! Take care!" I shouted after him.

"What happened to my eldest, dear? He was in such a rush, and I noticed his cheeks were flushed," Ninang commented, noticing her son's hasty exit. I watched her place food and drinks on the coffee table.

"I don't know what's up with him either, Ninang," I shrugged, clueless.

"Have some food, dear, then get some rest. You're probably still jet-lagged." Ninang Hazel joined me.

"Thank you, Ninang. You know, I was so excited to get here that I couldn't sleep during the flight," I said.

"Oh, I'm sure you'll catch up on your rest later. By the way, Avey, how are your parents? Why are you vacationing here alone?" she asked after a while.

How could my family join when this was my decision to come alone?

"They're doing well, Ninang. This was my plan to vacation here. Mommy and Daddy haven't made any plans yet," I explained.

"I hope they decide to visit soon. It's been quite a while since your family last vacationed together. I miss our family bonding, Avey."

"Same here," I agreed. Ninang and I continued chatting until she escorted me to the guest room.

As soon as I entered, I collapsed onto the bed, only kicking off my slippers before I jumped face down onto the mattress. It was so soft that I bounced a little.

"I'll be downstairs, Avey. Don't hesitate to call if you need anything."

"You don't have work today, Ninang?" I asked, glancing over my shoulder. She was still by the door.

"I do, dear. But I chose to stay home to welcome you. I didn't want you to be alone here. The twins and my youngest are at school, and your Ninong and Haze are at work," she said. She was so kind. She didn't go to work just to welcome me.

"Thank you."

"Rest for now, Avey." I nodded and closed my eyes.

I fell asleep and woke up to persistent knocking on the door. I was too lazy to get up.

"M-Mom, is that you?" I asked groggily, adjusting my position. I frowned when I opened my eyes to nothing but darkness. Suddenly, fear crept in. "Mom! What happened to my eyes?! Why can't I see?!" I shouted in a panic, bolting upright. I got tangled in the comforter wrapped around my feet and fell off the bed.

I groaned in pain from the hard landing. The door swung open, and I heard a sharp curse from the other side. The light turned on, and I let out a sigh of relief.

I thought I had gone blind!

Suddenly, I was lifted off the ground, and I stared curiously at the man who carried me. He gently set me down on the bed and sat beside me.

"Are you alright?" he asked with concern, checking my arms and face. My eyes widened in shock when I saw him.

Right! I'm in the Philippines and chose to vacation here with the Montefalcon family. How could I forget?

"I'm fine, Haze. Thank you." I gently pulled my arm from his grasp and smiled sweetly at him.

"How did you fall?" he asked, his brow furrowing.

"I-I got up because I was scared when I saw nothing but darkness," I replied, feeling embarrassed. He nodded and helped me sit back down.

"Go change your clothes. Dinner is ready," he said. He quickly withdrew his hand as if he felt something. He looked at his palm, puzzled. The smile on my lips didn't fade.

"Do you often come home here?" I asked him. The crease on his forehead deepened.

"This is my home. What do you expect?" he asked, though he didn't sound annoyed.

"It's just that the eldest children usually live in condos, especially the sons. I'm glad to know you come home so I can see you every day, Haze," I said, and his lips parted slightly. I might have said something he didn't like.

"Why are you like that?" he asked.

"Hmm?"

"Never mind. Just follow me downstairs," he reminded me before heading to the door to leave.

The guest room was quite large, and it wasn't boring to look at because it had paintings-mostly of nature and flowers. The structure and furniture were beautiful, in light blue and white.

I headed to the bathroom to take a shower and get ready for dinner. I didn't want to keep Ninong and Ninang waiting.

I chose a peach-colored jumpsuit with sleeveless underneath. I dried my hair using the hair dryer on the vanity table. I'll organize my clothes tomorrow. I didn't bring much, even though I'll be staying here for a month. I had brought some gifts, so my suitcase was a bit large.

I pulled it out and gasped when I saw someone who looked like the twin. He must be the youngest child.

To Be Continued...