Forever love

Winter Pov.

Do you believe in the saying that when you love you fight for it? When you love someone, you can bear everything even if you are hurt. No matter how much the people around him try to dislike you, you can't give up on him.

Because you love him.

Everything that I didn't think before about love, I'm experiencing now. I thought about love, it was almost love. That when you love, you're happy and almost without problems, because that's usually what I see in mom and dad.

I can feel ashong's love for me, the only difference is. There are people who just stand in our way and sometimes there are trials that come.

Just like the scene I heard earlier while we were talking on the video call. I know he's hiding a problem from me, because he's usually quiet. There are always deep thoughts and sometimes just suddenly become stunned.

That's not how I know ashong, I'm sure he has a problem but he doesn't want to share it with me. I know he was just worried that I might think more, but because of what I heard earlier. It seems like all the questions running through my mind have almost stopped, all of them have been answered but instead of this is the strange pain in my heart.

"Oh, how are you grandson? Are you tired? I will continue to cook for you." I shook my head at grandma, I couldn't smile because I heard everything that happened on the other line. Even Erica's voice, and especially the role it will play in Ashong's life.

I'm confused, there are many questions that come to my mind like raindrops that just keep pouring. My head suddenly hurt so I stood up, I smiled at grandma as if she could read my mind right away.

"My grandson has a problem, he just doesn't want to tell." I shook my head again, smiling at the chance to convince him there was nothing.

"I'm just thinking about mom and dad." that's my only excuse. "I would like to be with them this Christmas, just in case. Sales are still slow at the farm."

"We will go home before the new year, I don't want my grandson to be sad."

"Are you sure? Maybe you're just being forced because of me."

Grandma smiled. "I'm sure grandpa, you know we will leave this house too. When you're done, I'm ready to sell it."

"Are you really going to sell it?"

"Yes, we have many memories of your grandfather in the photo album. Besides, I'm old. I know that my days here on earth are numbered."

"Grandma!" my eyes rolled. "Why are you saying that! You will live a long time, remember. You can see the house I'm going to build, I'll also buy you a sewing machine so you don't have to sew by hand anymore."

"I know that, I'm just saying what might happen."

"Tsk, let's not talk about that anymore. It's Christmas." Grandma nodded, she was smiling at me even though I was frowning.

Why did he suddenly say that, I was just thinking that grandma would leave me. My chest hurts.

I can't seem to.

While I was translating the lunch I cooked, suddenly a car honked outside the house. I didn't bother to stop what I was doing while grandma was asking if I had visitors.

Actually, I don't have any visitors. Our video call with Ashong also died earlier while he was talking to Erica.

My chest started to ache again so I just stared at the big bowl, I was staring at the smoke coming from the braised pork when grandma turned around to see who it was.

I can't stop moaning even though I shouldn't, I just can't stop feeling bad. Because Erica is that girl, she's the one who makes me feel bad. By the way, is that his fiancee?

How did they meet?

Have they known each other for a long time?

But ashong said, that was a new student and he was still in the other section as a business student.

"As for the length of this boy's legs, we are about to have lunch." I blinked when I heard grandma's voice coming into the kitchen. What he meant was that ashong was correct because we were about to be fed.

Didn't he and Erica talk?

He turned off the video call earlier.

"That's right, I haven't eaten yet." I looked away after he approached me. I took the bowl but he grabbed it and took it to the dining area outside.

I still had no emotions after he brought me back to the kitchen, I took a plate, a spoon before turning away from him. I don't know if I'm doing it right, I know I should listen to what he has to say before I get angry. He must have a reason why he didn't immediately tell me what was happening and how he and Erica were doing.

"Didn't you tell winter you were coming?" I didn't look at Ashong even though I knew he was looking at me after I sat next to grandma.

I noticed his shaking while I was taking rice.

"I just want to surprise him." The corner of my lips rose because I wanted to sneer at him, I knew. He's going to go later that night, and because I overheard the conversation between his mom and Erica. He's here.

"You are really young people, but this is my grandson. He doesn't care about any surprises, even if there aren't any. He will appreciate you."

"I know, that's why I love your grandson."

"Did you eat already." he is now looking at me because of my insertion. As much as I wanted to stop this sulking, my speech to him was becoming violent on purpose.

Maybe this is just the effect of jealousy, pain and self-insecurity. It's just sad because that girl is the one his mommy likes, I wouldn't be surprised. Erica is really beautiful, she looks rich. It is clean and tidy, ashong also told me that he is smart.

"Let's eat." I just averted my eyes even though his smile was insulting. Can't he see how to irritate me? I guess I can't stop myself and be sensible right now.

I'm really hurt.

Ashong was NOT quiet while we were eating, when grandma asked something, he answered it with almost a few words. Sometimes this answer goes too far and obviously only eases the situation for both of us. He will definitely talk to me after we eat.

"Do you have anything to cook later?" I simply nodded as I carried the plates to the sink. Grandma was left at the table because she was still eating the salad I made earlier.

"Do you need help?"

"Will you help?" I put down the washcloth and put it on the faucet because I intend to clean them. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw him nod several times at what I said.

"Of course, I won't do anything either. I will wash that." I distanced myself to give him way. It was fast at four o'clock when he took the washing equipment and he was supposed to do my work.

The only case is, if what you are trying to do is not really your work. You'll falter at first, just like him. He let go of the glass because his hand slipped, he was even more embarrassed to see it shatter on the floor.

"Sorry, I'll just replace it with a new one."

I looked away, it's natural to replace something with a new one when it's broken. Because something that is broken cannot be restored. It's like the distance I suddenly thought because of what he said. Is it because of what happened earlier?

The glasses he is going to change, why do I have something else in mind.

"Oh, why did your guest wash the dishes?" grandma is already there because she heard the broken glass, I'm annoyed with ashong. That's how I feel about him because he didn't tell about his fiancee.

"He made a presentation, didn't he."

"Really, next time don't do that. Sandal sandal!" he stopped Ashong because he was still planning to pick up the strewn bubbles. I sighed, I walked out of there to get a broom and dustpan. When I came back, Ashong was looking at me, not knowing whether to take the broom from me so that he could do it himself.

In the end, he just watched me while grandma continued her washing.

"Go ahead and eat the sweets on the table first, I'll be here."

Ashong nodded, because I was not in the condition. I let grandma wash it first, which I do most of the time.

Ashon followed me when I left, I didn't go straight to the table because I left the house. I went to the side of the tree and leaned there, ashong was silent while looking at me.

"Speak now." I said without looking at him, my eyes were straight on the road and even hot. I can still feel the coldness of my voice at my words.

"I'm sorry if I didn't tell you about my problem." I didn't say anything even though I had a lot to say, I kept quiet. I tried to convince myself to calm down and listen first. "I know im a selfish, I didn't tell you and I just told myself. But it's not that I don't treasure you, I just don't want to hurt you so I kept it a secret."

"Who is Erica really?"

I faced him, he backed away a bit because I knew my eyes were sharp. He swallowed before biting his lip.

"Erica is my childhood friend, her mother is my mom's best friend before. But they left when Erica was studying abroad, but I didn't notice her before. I don't know him."

"But he introduced himself to you, it's impossible that you didn't remember his name."

"It is that impossible? It's true that I forgot about him, because I didn't care at that time. I'm focused with you."

I looked away, I still don't feel better and it's more like I'm getting heavier. By the way, have they known each other for a long time? So when he saw ashong, he seemed surprised.

"Hey, I don't like him. Do not be mad." he grabbed my hand, I didn't take it back even though I raised an eyebrow at him.

"Is she really your fiancee?"

"Were not engaged, you are my fiancee." he raised my hand that he was holding and pointed to the ring he had given me three months ago.

He said, as long as I wear it. That's a sign that I love him. That I belong only to him and no one can own me. But the moment I took it off, it just meant that I was throwing away everything we had together when I took off the ring.

"My fiancee can't be anyone else, winter. It's just you. Mommy likes him, but me? I don't want it, even if they beat me. I will still fall for you."

"Your mommy has made a decision, ashong. What if he rejects you because you hate him?"

"He's going to reject me, isn't that right? Yes, I am his daughter, but he is too much the one to buy who will be my wife! That's not possible!"

"So, is that your problem that makes you so often stupid?" he snorted, but also just nodded before sighing.

"I don't want to hurt you, I know you are jealous of Patria. Especially because I often spend time with him because of guanzon, but only until then. You are my only love."

I looked away because of what he said about jealousy. does he know How did he know that I was jealous of Erica?

"S-who said I'm n-jealous of that b-girl?"

His two eyebrows rose. "I." My lips twitched at this answer, I wanted to defend myself because my system didn't want to accept that I was really jealous of Erica.

It's annoying.

"I'm not numb, winter. I know how my girlfriend feels, that's why any girl approaches me. I don't pay attention, because my attention is only focused on you. Only you are beautiful, so I will only look at you."

"Tsk."

"Sorry, don't hit me anymore. You make me hard, I remember more and more how I fell for you."

"I kicked you so you fell for me, assong."

"God, you're making fun of me. You make fun of me and often interrupt me with my words, the kick is just a bonus."

I shook my head, straightened up and leaned against the tree again. "So, you ran away from your mommy again?"

"As usual."

"Are you always going to run away? Maybe they will reject you, where will you live?"

"It's yours, winter. I won't be swallowed, I can work. Besides, I have many rich friends. Even with Jacob alone I can survive."

"I still don't want that to happen, son, I don't want to be the reason why you will be away from your parents. I also want everything to be fine while we are happy, I won't be happy if I think about it. That's what's happening to you." he sighed, he came to me and suddenly he pulled my hand to hug me.

I buried my face in his chest, he was stroking my hair while one of his hands was on my back.

"You're not going to break up with me, are you?"

I was stunned by his question, I know that I really love ashong and what he is saying about being separated did not cross my mind. If there is a problem, I only think about the solution and not the end of the relationship.

"If you're thinking of breaking up with me, I won't agree. I'm fine if they're angry, that's their choice. Why won't they let me be happy?"

"I will not break up with you, ashon." I responded to his hug after I said that, he only tightened his hug when I did that.

"It's good, I won't agree either. I will tie you up if you try to leave, if you can escape. Wherever you go, I will follow you. That's why I don't miss you either."

"Not anymore, right?"

"Yes, don't try." He smelled my hair as he hugged me tighter and tighter. If only a motorcycle hadn't passed by, maybe he wouldn't have separated from me. "Tsk, why did you push me?"

"It's your quota."

"What quota? Is there a limit to hugging now because you're angry?"

I hesitated. "I'm not angry anymore."

"If not, why are your eyes still rolling?"

"You have a lot of questions, let's go in."

"Wait, just wait." He grabbed my hand when I tried to pass him, I was stunned and faced him again.

"What is it again?"

"Does it seem like you are gaining weight?" I blinked as he looked down at my body, his eyes dropped to my thigh before going up to my chest again. He looked away before scratching the back of his neck.

While I'm blushing because I think I've gained weight, it's not fat. It's just that my bras don't fit me anymore, it's like I changed the size too. My bras don't really fit anymore so I bought a new one.

"W-what's the problem?"

"Why are you using a push bra?"

My eyes rolled. "W-what did you say!" I hit his arm.

"Shhh! He said don't hit me, my arm. It might be removed."

"I-it's you!"

"What? I'm just asking you, why are you wearing that? are you trying to be seductive, dvmn. Maybe I'll just look at that when I'm with you!" I hit one of his arms again because of what he said.

Because I have no choice but to buy a new one, and the small sizes don't fit me. So I tried something new, I didn't expect the result to be like this.

"I'm going to order you another brallete, don't be like that!"

"Why is this also?"

"I don't like that, I want them to be normal. M-too much.. w-what..."

"I'll hit you, ashon."

"What? I just want to say that your dvmn bo*bs is too much attraction. I-its full of distraction, i can't explain." He turned back after saying that, he was still washed when I saw him go inside.

I didn't look down at myself, then I realized that I'm wearing a v-neck shirt. That's right.

Winter Pov.

Ashong stayed at home all day, he helped us with cooking and some decorations even though there were no visitors. My day was happy because I was with him, even though I was thinking about our relationship. I still chose to make the most of the time with him.

Even though I know his mommy doesn't like me. I don't know what will happen the next day, that's why I feel heavy because of the information about his problem. I still get along well with him.

"Merry Christmas." I smiled at Ashong's greeting. It's only eleven o'clock at night but here he is greeting me, we're still awake because we're waiting for noche buena time. This is not the first time I was with ashong on Christmas night, I still remember when I was with him when we were still in a relationship with calix.

That was also the time when he had a crush on me and didn't feel any more for Trixie.

"It's not even twelve." I said with a slight smile.

"But it's still Christmas, what are the ones you brought out earlier?" I looked away when he mentioned that. I have a gift for grandma and her, this is the first time I will give her a gift even to give a material thing to a man.

"It's just a gift." still avoid my eyes even when I answer. I don't know why I was shy, but I also turned to see his reaction.

"Is that for me?"

"Y-yeah, I just thought I'd give you a present because it's Christmas. Because I haven't given it to you yet."

"Gosh." he lightly pinched my cheek. "Even if you don't give it to me, I'm happy."

"I won't give it anymore?"

"Huh? Why not? I thought that gift was for me."

"I thought you would be happy even if I didn't give it to you, then. I will not give it anymore."

His eyes rolled at what I said. "Not like that, im happy with or without gift's. It's just me, you're still bothering."

"It didn't bother me, I just used an online app to order it." he bit his lip as if to hold back a smile, here's the side of him that he's excited about that he can't really stop.

"What did you order for me?"

"You want to see something?" he nodded.

Still really smiling and I can even see the twinkle in his eyes. I shook my head, only the surface of happiness. Honestly, I can't decide what gift that I should give him. I have a lot of things. I know that even though I bought him a cheap gift tonight, he will be happy. That's fun even if it's just a small thing, he should be happy because I even searched online for what good gifts for men.

"I'll just take it, wait for me." I stood up from sitting, we were in the living room. I went to the small Christmas tree and took a present for Ashong. Grandma also came out right after she had just dressed, I smiled at her before handing over the gift for her as well.

"Merry Christmas." Grandma's smile was wide when I reached. The gift I gave was simple because dad hasn't sent me money yet, aunt Raquel just sent it to grandma so we bought something for noche buena today.

"Thank you, grandson." Grandma sat in front of Ashong, I also approached her there and handed my gift to her. He peeked into it even though he couldn't see what was inside, it wasn't difficult to wrap it. The gift was still in the box and I just wrapped it in red gift wrap.

"What's inside it?" I sat next to him while shaking my head.

"Secret, you have to open it first. I won't say because I want to see your reaction."

He snorted. "You're terrible, I'm nervous. Maybe it's a ring too, right?"

"Tch." I struggled, the woman was even better if she narrowed her eyes to open the gift. Grandma is fine, hers has been opened. It's a pair of sandals for her to go to church, grandma goes to church often and her favorite sandals have never been replaced with new ones. So I thought of buying her to have a pair of her sandals.

"The color you chose is beautiful." I smiled at grandma's comment. You could read the joy on his face and I could see that he really liked what I gave him. He looked up and stared at Ashong. "Aren't you going to open it for you?"

"I'm excited, right? I'm nervous, I might pass out here." Lola laughed at Ashong's answer, even if he would really insert his thrill.

"Open it now." Grandma insisted because she also wanted to see what was inside. Ashong bit his lower lip, trying to hold back a smile.

"Don't stop."

I held my breath. "In that case, just take it home and open it at your house." it goes beyond what I said.

"I'm just kidding, I also want to ask why you gave this to me. I'm going to open it, are you sure it's not a ring huh?"

"Just open it, bro. You know too much."

"Tch, really spoil the moment."

As I said, he did open it, being almost careful with each tape release. Your gift wrap wasn't even damaged and it really wasn't torn when the box containing the gift came out.

Since he saw the box, he immediately knew what was inside. It's a watch, its numbers are black and white. Ashong's watches are almost black in color, so I thought of giving him a black one too because he might prefer a black watch.

He had a big smile, his mouth slightly open as he slowly opened the box. The watch that I ordered online was revealed to him, it wasn't that expensive. Grandma's sandals are even more expensive than my gift to Ashong.

"How much did you buy it for?" my lips pressed together because that was his first question. Will he ask all the details of how much and where I bought it myself?

"Do you need to know?"

"It's look like expensive, maybe you don't have an allowance." I snorted.

"I still have some, I guess. I bought that a long time ago, I just couldn't give it to you, so I thought I'd give it to you this Christmas."

"How about you? Did you have one? Did you buy for yourself?"

"Why are you still asking? Don't you like what I gave you?"

"No, winter. Not really, I really like it. It's like I'm floating in the air because you gave me a gift, I thought I could just be with you. I didn't expect something like this, my heart. I'm having fun inside, but I'm thinking about you. I think your price here is expensive, I still have a lot of watches."

I did not move what he said. I know he has many. I've seen all his things at home, he's almost complete. But that's the top one best gift for men, followed by shoes but I don't know what size Ashong is so I only chose the watch.

"But this one, I will surely use this. It might be my favorite, I can't sleep on it now."

It messed up my hair, I couldn't help but smile because I thought he didn't like that. But he immediately put it on after he took off the watch he was wearing earlier, even the gift wrap I used to wrap it in his pocket.

"Why don't you throw that away yet?" he frowned.

Throw it away? Why should I throw it away? This is part of the gift you gave me, I will put it in the big book in my room." I winced.

"You really know a lot." he grinned before looking at grandma who was just watching us.

"This is your grandson, too destructive of the moment. Isn't it right that I hide it?" Grandma nodded.

"Whatever you want, that's what you do."

"Yes, I'm going to treasure everything she gives me. Even if it's paper, as long as it's from him. I will hide it."

I shook my head and smiled, this assong really knows a lot about how to catch a woman's smile. And with every gesture and word, I smile. My feelings are more and more different, I can't stop the growing and growing love I feel for him.

AFTER we were waiting for noche buena, grandma said goodbye and was going to rest in the room. I didn't eat much because I only ate food while waiting for twelve o'clock.

But since it's past midnight, grandma needs to sleep. I also turned off the lights of the Christmas tree because I'm going to keep it in my room.

"Where are you going to take that?" I looked at Ashong who was now carrying a glass of ice tea. He placed it on the side of the table before finally taking the Christmas tree I brought, it was only small. She is just the right decoration for the little house.

"I was going to put it in the room."

"Why didn't you ask some help, will you carry it? It's so heavy." he walked past me. Since Ashong thought he was already at home, he went up the stairs first. I shook my head and followed him, he didn't wait for me because he entered my room first.

I saw him put it in the corner near the cabinet. He even closed the window that was open because it was dark there. Later he sat on the bed while looking around my room.

"Compared to your room in the province, this is smaller. But he's cute."

I also sat on the other side, facing each other while looking at the posters on the column of the room.

There are emojis stuck there, on the opposite side of my bed are tulips stickers. On the ceiling, there are glow in the dark stars. I really cleaned up this room because before I moved here, grandma really neglected cleaning. So here I am, loving the room and decorating it.

"I didn't like stickers, but it was beautiful. I'm planning to buy some stickers too, help me organize my room." I laughed.

"Alright, let's just put stars on your ceiling."

"How can we put stars? The ceiling of the room is too high, maybe even close to my bed."

I was disgusted, it turns out that they live in nothing like our house. It looked like tall people were there because of the height of the ceiling and ceiling of their house. I sighed, I didn't just give a suggestion but he squealed once more.

"I also want to print your pictures, I will also stick them in my room so that even when I wake up. You are the first one I will see."

I laughed. "How about mommy? Maybe he'll just set your room on fire because of the way I look."

"Tch, why are you still thinking about that? I will keep my room locked. Only I can enter there, even you."

"B-but, that's not possible, is it?" I looked away. Why does he have to put my photo in his room?

Really know a lot.

"That's what I want, don't stop me. Okay?"

"It was embarrassing when Mrs. Angelina saw it."

"Why are you shy? That's how beautiful you are. You should be confident."

I know everything if ashong makes me look beautiful. He often says that, he never makes me feel like I'm not perfect. He thinks I'm weird, more than I thought.

"By the way, I left my gift for you at home." I looked at him. I was interested because I thought he didn't have a gift for me.

"I have a present?"

"Of course, I give you every special day, don't I? I don't miss anything, and it doesn't matter what day it is. I will really give you a present."

My lips twitched. "Why do you seem to be stressing what you are saying, huh? I know I just gave it to you, so I'm sorry."

"What?" he laughed. "That's fine with me, and besides. I don't listen, as long as you love me and you are mine. That's just the big gift I received for you."

"Are you not joking?"

He stood up, walked over to my place and sat down next to me. "I often joke, but when it comes to talking about relationships. I'm serious, so don't even think about giving me a present, don't give me one. I know your studies are expensive, graduation is next month right? Have you paid yet?"

I shook my head. "I'm still waiting for papa's shipment, maybe next week or the first week of January."

"I will pay your graduation fee."

I shook my head several times because of what he said. "I don't want to, I can pay."

"Tsk, no. I will call your adviser tomorrow. Don't reject me anymore."

"Ash." he stood up, ignored me and headed to the side where my small side table was. He was just looking at my photo that was taken when I was studying in the province. I was with the whole family, even grandfather when he was alive.

"I will sleep here." he said without looking at me, I blinked.

"Won't your mommy scold you? B-Maybe he'll come here and get mad at me again." he looked at me with a frown.

"I can protect you from mommy. He will be angry with me, just not with you. Besides, I don't want to go home. Only aunt Yolanda and Erica were there."

"S-is Erica?"

"Hmm." he nodded. "That's why I left, because they will spend Christmas there."

"N-Did you talk to Erica earlier?" He stared at me for a long time at my question. It's like it balances my emotions if it's okay for me to talk about his future fiancee.

"What you heard earlier, that's all we talked about. We don't talk." I swallowed. Even though he said that, he still didn't lose the weight in his chest because of the thought that his mommy still voted for Erica and not for me.

"W-why was he there this morning?" he sat next to me, never taking his eyes off me.

"He often comes to the house, but I never take him out. I'm just in the room, he leaves immediately when mommy isn't there. Because he knows I won't talk to him."

"You said, it became your childhood. Calix and I seem to be the only ones, it's fine if you talk to him. If he understands that you are already in a relationship."

"I still don't want to, I know the feeling when you talk to others. Like when you and Calix had a conversation before, even though I knew we were already. I still don't want you two talking, I still can't help but feel jealous. So that's what I don't want you to feel, because I know it hurts.."

I don't know what to answer here. I can say that sometimes ashong has a childish mindset, but when it comes to relationships. It seems that it still surpasses the professional.

"So, you're not really going to talk to Erica?" it was a long time before he could answer. He looked away before he wet his lips.

"If it's not important, I'll just ignore him. I won't talk to him on purpose either, but I won't treat him badly, he was also a good friend of mine when we were kids. He always helped me before, he even played ball with me even though he often wanted us to cook. He also saved me from the bullies before, he was the one who pushed me to fight against those who were oppressing me. So, now I'm the brave one."

He was smiling until he finished his story. I know the feeling of growing up with your youth, just like calix. We've been together since we were young, he's already standing guard at our door in the morning so we can have breakfast together, what I've experienced before. I'm sure ashon also experienced that with erica.

"But, I didn't have special feelings for Erica. Not like you, you liked calix didn't you?"

"W-why did it pass me?" I stand. "That's in the past, what's important now is what's in the present."

He smiled, nodding. "I just want you to know my side, the true feelings I have for Erica. She's just an old friend, and what happened in our past. Just stay there, it can't be returned even if he comes back."

"I know, I trust you. What you said, that's what I will imprint on my mind." The corner of his lips rose, as if he still didn't believe what I said.

"But Calix, you really can't avoid him, can you?"

"No, ass. If erica is only your childhood friend, calix has been with her since she was a child until now. When you arrived, he was already there. I can't avoid him anymore, he's like family to me."

"Yeah, I understand. I won't be jealous anymore because you're mine, you're my girlfriend. Marriage is not enough to say that you are completely mine. On paper, in the eyes of the crowd and in the eyes of God."

"Why are you getting married right away? We're still young, we're just starting on 20's. Let's think about the future first."

"I know, but for me. Your future is certain." I struggled, I couldn't help but laugh because his eyebrows were raising his chin full of nonsense. It's really different. "You're here first." he patted his thigh, I raised an eyebrow because of what he ordered.

"Why?" he broke his mouth and dropped his shoulder. Later he looked away with a sigh. But he stood up for a few seconds and suddenly pulled my hand.

He made me sit on his lap, I was shocked because I looked like a child because of what he did.

"I said, sit here so I can hug you." I was speechless, I was sitting on my side with him. My legs are locked on his thighs while his head is on my shoulder. "I don't want to go home, I would really rather get married and be with you. That's all I can think about, by the time I have my own family. I'm sure mommy won't mess with me anymore."

I swallowed slowly. "H-that's still not a solution to the problem, bro. Your parents will definitely be more angry if we do that, it will feel better that we have your mother's blessing."

"But, it's really annoying."

"Because we're still young, it's only natural that they care about our lives. But we can do something, just show that we really love each other. You know, one day everything will be fine."

He pulled away after I said that, he was serious. It looked into my eyes almost drowning my vision. He caressed my cheek later before kissing my forehead.

"Thank you." he whispered after that. He pressed our foreheads together so I couldn't do anything but close my eyes. "You understand everything too much, the breadth of your understanding. How can I be like you?"

I didn't answer, I just smiled because that's how I've been since then. I prefer to understand everything rather than getting angry, rather than judging and making a way to hurt them too. That's not what mom taught me, she raised me well that's why I'm like this.

Silence enveloped us before I answered. His forehead also parted so I opened my eyes. As we were so close to each other, I almost squinted while staring at him. He continues caressing my cheek until his finger touches my lips.

His red mouth slightly opened while looking at it, my eyes couldn't take my eyes off his handsome face because I was feeling strange right now. I am truly blessed because I have someone like him, someone like ashong seems like a blessing that I can never refuse. That even though we have problems in our relationship now, I never thought of letting go.

Because I love him.

"I love you." Ashong's voice was so husky, his bright eyes were strange now. Everything was different, and I like the way he touches my face. It's full of gentle, care and desire.

"I love you too." I answered, full of sensitivity and love. He smiled like a happy man tonight, he slowly moved closer to capture my lips. His kiss was gentle without letting go of my cheek, I responded to his kiss. I follow the movements of his smooth lips, the smell of him is slowly taking all my sanity.

I couldn't help but obey, but accept his kiss because I really love him.

He put me on the side of the bed while our kisses didn't cut. He was really gentle, his demeanor was still careful with the cradled baby. His caress seems to break me as he appreciates me.

His kiss takes me to another dimension, I feel the warmth of his palm. Its lips are becoming more and more familiar making my breath short.

I thought he wouldn't let me get air, but he pulled away. He didn't just stop what he was doing because his lips were on my neck, I closed my mouth because of what he did. I don't know what it is, but it's really weird. It gets the tickle I hide, as if it knows where my weakness is.

But as long as he was there, he was done there. He also stopped as if he knew how long he would stop, which is the limit because I know for myself that he has a lot of respect for me.

"Should I control myself next time again?" I stared while he was still there next to me. He smiled before finally sitting down, he took the blanket and placed it on my body. "What's the meaning of being silent?"

"Huh?"

"If you just say yes next time, maybe we can do a lot of things here. Not only that, there are many. We're sure to like you."

After he said those words, he headed for the door. He grabbed the doorknob but turned to me before he went out.

"I will sleep there in the living room."

Winter Pov.

SPG R-18

After Christmas passed, we traveled back to grandma's province on the twenty-seventh of December. We celebrated the new year there, I didn't allow ashong to come with us because I also wanted them to get along well. Besides, it's better for his family to be with him in the new year than us, he didn't even insist. He understood me and I also told him that we will also return home after the third of January.

Like I said, it was early that morning when grandma and I left Manila. I wanted to leave grandma in the province but she didn't agree. The reason for this is that he will talk to the buyer of the house. That's what grandma and mom talked about. After graduation, I will take the board exam still here in Manila. I will wait for the result and when I pass, we will head back to the province.

I told this to Ashong. He didn't object either because the place where I was was not far, he said he could drive there in just two hours.

I laugh every time he answers that. Because I told him, I prefer to teach in the province. Where I studied before because I loved that school so much, I learned almost all the lessons there. And I will never forget where I came from.

"How many days do you practice?" we were in the living room when grandma asked. It took us six hours to drive home from here, it was eleven o'clock when we got home and we were talking about the graduation practice.

At the end because it's the graduation of all of Fatima, we took some courses at the same time and they were there as well. I was a bit anxious that day, I just didn't get to practice today because it was time to go home. Also about our graduation fee, at all costs. Ashong answered all of this, no matter how much I tried to stop him from paying for it. In the end, he also talked to my advisor himself.

"About two weeks, the remaining days we will prepare for it." Grandma nodded.

"So, is the party here?"

I shrugged my shoulders. Because mom wanted us to eat at a restaurant, and because it was expensive. I suggested to cook at home, grandma agreed with what I said. But since it's my graduation and it's supposed to be celebrated, we have to eat at a restaurant. I still don't agree with that, which is why grandma is asking now.

"It's because mom wants to go out to eat. It's fine if it's just a simple feast."

Grandma nodded. "Where are you comfortable, grandchild? But I also thought that it would be better if we could go for a walk outside."

"Do you want to go for a walk?"

"It's possible too, so you can take Elena and Henry around here in Manila."

I laughed. "It's really grandma, it's like I've memorized manila. We might just get lost."

"Is your boyfriend Philip, won't he come here that day?" I thought and froze, we never talked about that day. But it is certain that he will come here, just in case. It's also his graduation and they will probably celebrate that as a family.

I couldn't answer grandma's question. I thought that he might get back together with Erica, but I should have nothing to worry about because Ashong told me that he has made up his mind to not like Erica. I just can't stop thinking about mrs falcon, how can I talk to her properly if every time I look at her she makes me suffer.

I held my breath. "Philip might be busy that day, our business and education graduations are at the same time."

"It's a pity, we could have gone for a walk with him because he must have memorized the city."

"We can go for a walk, someone knows that I've been around the mall. Let's just go there in the end."

"That's it, then. Call elena later and tell her your decision." I nodded to grandma, she said goodbye that she would just put away her dirty clothes so I was left alone in the living room. I messaged Ashong this morning that we were going home, I received a reply from him but I lost cosignal on the bus so my reply was only sent today.

ASHO.

• "Six hours before I received your reply, did you fall asleep on the bus?"

That's the message I received today from him. I was about to reply to him but I stopped when I saw his name on my screen, he was calling. I quickly answered that before leaning back on the sofa, as far as I know. He should be at practice right now. And tomorrow at twelve o'clock is their free time to call. But you can insert the cell phone if you don't want to be distracted from what you are doing.

"Have you come home yet?" that's what he said immediately after I answered the call. I didn't hear any other voice on the other line, I still expected there to be noise because he was at the gym at this time.

"It's been almost half an hour, I just rested."

"Looks like my baby is tired, huh?" I laughed at what he called me, no matter where I could talk to him. He's too mischievous to squeal.

"No, I've heard your voice." I did not immediately receive an answer from him. I think she might be holding back a smile and I can almost picture her look now.

"Why are you suddenly surprising me?" that's what he answered after his silence. My response was only laughter because even his voice was filled with excitement.

"Where are you now?" I have a different question in the conversation.

"Why? You miss me already?"

"Yes."

There was a momentary silence again. It was only a few seconds before I heard him cursing softly on the other line.

"I think you are too good at answering today, winter? What prize do you want?"

"Only you."

"Sh*t. I can not take it anymore."

"Where are you?"

"I'm only in your heart, winter."

"That's very corny, man. Answer properly." he laughed instead of answering. I don't think he's really at the gym today. Didn't he practice?

"You really want to see me? Tell me."

"Yes, that's why I'm asking where you are? You are still laughing."

"Gosh, I'm just petting you. You make me so excited, I feel like I'm going to kiss you later."

"Tch." I crossed my legs and leaned back even more. I didn't fall asleep on the bus because I was just dizzy, even though I wanted to sleep earlier. I couldn't do it because my interest was getting the view of every place we passed earlier.

I just feel that it's good to go on a road trip.

"I'd like to go for a walk today while I'm not at rehearsal, would you?"

"Going for a walk? It's fine with me, where do you want to be?" that was his immediate question. I would like to take grandma with us because she said she wants to go for a walk, I will first ask if she wants because she might be tired earlier on the trip.

"It was just grandma, she asked if we could go for a walk with mom at the end here in Manila."

"That's graduation, isn't it?"

"Yes."

"I'm okay." I frowned.

"Isn't there a celebration at your house?"

"I don't know, they weren't talking about my graduation. So I'll just go with you."

"Per---"

"The decision is final." I stopped and looked up to hear his voice behind me. I even blinked because I hardly realized that he entered and reached my back without making any noise. "Hi, miss me?" My mouth opened slightly as I leaned my head against the couch. He bent down and quickly put his lips on mine, my eyes remained wide open because of what he did. It was only a few seconds that he pulled away, smiling at me before I returned to my sitting position.

"W-why are you here?"

"I want to see you, winter. Is that still being asked?" he turned around to sit next to me. He pressed the end call on my screen to end the call we had earlier, I was staring at it because his smile was strange. Or maybe, I just can't get used to his good looks because every time I see him, I'm amazed at how old he is.

"Oh, what is that look again? I guess you're undressing me?" I thought about it causing him to laugh. "I'm just kidding, where's grandma?"

I hesitated. "In the room."

"Are we going out?"

"I'll ask first if he wants it, maybe because he's tired."

"Then, we can go for a walk if he doesn't come. We'll just buy him food." I glanced at her again, I didn't want to leave grandma here because we just got back. I want to stay at home while I'm not too busy with practice. "And I already have stickers, I brought it yesterday. I know you're coming home, didn't you say you'd help me design my room?"

I raised my eyebrows. "How about your mommy?"

"Mommy wasn't home today, she went to a gathering with daddy."

"Really? How can I be sure that your mommy is not there? I don't want you to fight again because of me, and you know he won't want to see me with you."

He sighed. "He's not at home, he wasn't there yesterday."

I did not give a word to what he said. Grandma also came out of the room and immediately approached us.

"Are you here son?" ashong stood up quickly to guide grandma. He sat across from us after Ashong gave us a hand.

"I missed your grandson." I elbowed him because of his answer. But he didn't even notice that, instead he was still smiling at grandma.

"You talk on the cell phone often, don't you?"

"It's different because I can talk to him personally, see and touch your grandson."

Grandma shook her head. "Why are you so early? Isn't today practice day?"

"I went home after breaktime, because winter texted me." I looked at him, I widened his eyes because I think he was still blaming me for why it was only half a day of rehearsal.

"It's my fault why you're lazy?" he messed up my hair.

"I'm not lazy, I just really want to see you. Tomorrow I will work hard because I am there with you."

"Our seats are different, ashon."

"We can stay aside, it's up to me."

"Tsk, don't make up your mind." I stood up to end that conversation. I asked if he wanted something to drink or a snack, of course he wouldn't refuse if I offered.

Since grandma and I brought something to eat from the province, I put it on the table next to the coffee Ashong wanted. I sat next to him again while he and grandma talked.

"Because I'm not free now, the buyer of this house will come. Maybe before lunch, he will be here." I frowned at what grandma said. It seems ashong asked her out, but that's what she said so I'm wondering.

"Is the buyer in a hurry?"

"No, it will provide an advance payment. He will divide the amount we discussed for the transfer of his name and so that he will not pay so much in the end."

I nodded.

"Do we have to sell the house? It's a shame." I would have agreed with what ashong said. But grandma will have something to use for the money she will get from this. She knows that the flower farm is weakening, the number of tourists going there is decreasing, even our flower buyers have decreased.

Grandma intended to build a small bakery in the province, dad was skilled at kneading bread. Mama is good at baking, just like grandma, she's also good at baking. I think I learned everything about making bread from them.

"My grandson will live in the province, and this house. My husband just remembers, I just feel sad when I'm here."

Grandpa came to my mind again, because grandpa was a big manila and only visited the province during the times they met. Grandpa worked here because he had his own studio, but that studio was also sold when grandpa got sick and was hospitalized with cancer.

"What will happen here at home? Will it be demolished?" Grandma nodded at Ashong's question.

"The buyer will turn it into a car wash and volcanizing shop, he also lives here. Because there aren't many car washes in this area, that's what he plans to build."

"Is this house really going to disappear? I might miss it." I did not respond to what Ashong said. If only we had enough money, this house would never sell. I don't know why the flower farm has become sluggish since I went here. Mama has also reduced workers because they can no longer pay them enough wages.

"Business in the province is too weak, but I have no intention of closing down and selling the land of the flower farm. I grew up there and made more good memories there than in this house." My chest was heavy when grandma said that. I know how he valued the farm, he risked more than his life and sweat to make it flourish. And now that he's slowly falling, it's like I'm being crushed, crushed that there's nothing I can do because I can't help them.

We waited for said grandma's buyer to arrive before we said goodbye to leave. He told us that if we wanted to go out, it would be just the two of us. And because the couple who will buy the house are nice and I already know them. We also left after I prepared them a snack.

Ashong wants us to go straight to their house, because he is excited to show the stickers and glow in the dark stars he bought. I didn't object because I really like the design of the room, and because of Ashong's excitement. I was infected with his joy, we went through the market of food streets near them. He said that ashong missed eating street food so he bought it and we brought it home to their house.

As he said, mrs falcon was not there when we got inside. Nanny Corazon greeted us now, obviously having just finished cleaning.

"Is your practice over?" ashong nodded.

"Yes, did mommy come home?"

"Not yet, are you going to eat here?" ashong shook his head at the old man's question.

"We have bought some food, eat now."

"Later, I have to go to the market because of Angelina's instructions."

Ashong winced. "He is giving you many orders again?"

"It's not that heavy, I'll make the driver feel bad."

"Sure, you really need someone with you. That might be a lot of lists."

The lady smiled because of Ashong's concern. He said goodbye to leave and if we wanted anything, we should just go to the kitchen because there was food prepared there.

I nodded with a smile after he said goodbye to me. Ashong immediately led me up to his room because he was in a hurry to show me the things he bought yesterday.

"Is it OK?" I nodded. He bought moth stickers that I really admired. His are more beautiful than mine because the ones he bought look expensive, this guy is too expensive that even the ones that glow in the dark scream beauty.

"Where did you buy those?" I asked, looking at the other stickers he brought out.

"At the mall." after it answered. He took out a large plastic. My mouth dropped when I saw its contents as he placed it on the bed.

"W-are you really printing?"

He nodded, those were two large pictures containing my solo photo and one with him.

I swallowed because I was just thinking that mrs falcon would see this, her head was getting hot. I don't think I can stick it in his room.

"B-maybe, you can just put it in the bathroom." he winced at my suggestion.

"Tsk, why in the bathroom? What's that, while I'm taking a shower I'm looking at you? Maybe I just can't take a bath." I glared at him.

"Don't stick that anywhere, it's embarrassing!"

"This is my room, winter. If you don't want to stick it, I'll just do it tonight. When you're gone." I closed my eyes before letting out a long sigh.

I didn't even complain about what he wanted. Whatever it wanted, that's all I did. Where he wants to put these ornaments, I no longer object. He had a good taste in where to lay it, so I almost sweated even though what I was wearing today was not that thick.

Mom bought it in the province, it's a dress and I really like it because it's simple. He is buttoned up in the front, he is cream in color and his eye color is delicious.

"Let's eat first." he said to me as I finished a few stars on the side. I nodded, I got off the bed and approached the table where the food was, I was about to taste the orange egg when I was suddenly stopped by a voice coming from out.

Because the door was open, mrs angelina's voice was now calling her child's name loudly.

"Ashton?" I swallowed and was stunned while hearing the footsteps of his heels. Because of the nervousness, I couldn't move if Ashong didn't pick me up. He was about to run to the bathroom but he turned and opened his making cabinet on the side. He let me in there in a hurry, even standing next to me before finally closing the door.

Because its cabinet is so big, it can fit five people. This is not the only cabinet here, he has his own closet room on the other door where all his things and clothes are.

"Are you there?" mrs angelina is already inside because we heard her steps. It was quiet outside for a while because he obviously noticed the stickers there. I cursed in my mind because it's a good thing those pictures of mine haven't been pasted yet. Because ashong said, it's just tonight when I'm not there. "What is that boy doing?"

We heard his footsteps leaving the room, I swallowed before he called nanny corazon who still hasn't come.

"I didn't know she's going home today." I glared at him, I didn't think I would hide a mother because she didn't want me for her child. But I'd rather hide here than have him see me in this room, maybe he'll think of something and suddenly drag me out.

"I'm just going to check her." I grabbed his t-shirt, shaking my head.

"Later, he might be angry. Fight again." he didn't answer, I didn't want to personally witness and hear their argument. I know that they will talk about me again and that might be the reason for their argument.

"Are you afraid? Mommy won't fight you in front of me."

"Then why did you bring me in here?"

He laughed. "I didn't know what to do, I was confused because you were sweating."

"I was sweating because of what we did, that's it."

"We did? we haven't done anything yet. You just stick the stickers."

"What's that called?" I struggled, because there was a hole in his cabinet. I could peek outside his room, his room door was completely open. I don't know if mrs angelina is still outside and is still looking for this man.

"But you're wet with sweat, it's air conditioned." it's true that I'm sweating, add the tension to the sudden arrival of mrs falcon. I almost had a heart attack.

"Who wouldn't sweat if you were locked up here?" I struggled, gathering my hair to lift it up. I fanned myself but it was really hot.

"Let your hair down." I frowned because he removed its accumulation. He avoided looking at me while sweat was really dripping down my cheeks.

"I'm getting hot here inside your cabinet, you can take me into the bathroom, ashong. Why is it still here?"

"Because it's close to here, and if I'm still there I'll run. Mommy will see us."

"Then why are you forbidding me to twist my hair?"

"Because your neck." I blinked. Because of my neck? My neck is sore. "Your too hot while doing that, your neck is beautiful!" I swallowed.

That was his reason why he pulled my hand down. He used to see my neck, what's his problem?

"We're too close, I've been wanting to kiss you outside for a while now. You are doing a lot of things, then now. I'm tempted to touch you."

My mouth fell open. I couldn't say anything because the words coming out of his mouth were really straight. His eyes hit my lips when he glanced at me, he bit his lip before closing his eyes.

"It's not forbidden to kiss you, is it?" I can't answer because I don't know how to answer his question. He also came to me and did what he wanted to kiss me.

It brought me closer to the back of my neck, causing us to be very close. I grabbed his arm because his kiss today was like the night before. Hot and sweet, thirsty as if eager on every part of my lips.

He leaned on me again and turned his head at a different angle. With the softness of his lips, you will be able to respond to every gesture of his kiss. It was as if everything that happened earlier was nothing and it was erased from my mind.

Catching my breath from his kiss, he managed to pull away from me to give me air. But his lips, it just likes to spell my neck. I don't know if I'm getting hot from sweat or just because of the heat of Ashong's body.

I didn't think I would create a moan as his lips pressed against the center of my neck. His caress on my whole body is strange, I am carried away and I like every movement of his hand and lips.

It grabbed the top of my button to open it. At the same time as opening a button, he lowered his lips there. One by one, he unbuttoned the lower part of my button until my body was half naked. I moaned when he kissed my left breast, I tightened my grip on his sweating arm and I was slowly getting carried away by what he was doing.

My whole body is wet with sweat, but what he does to me doesn't change the heat I feel inside the cabinet.

"Dvmn, baby. Your gorgeous." I swallowed when our eyes met. Ashong's bright eyes are strange, which makes my body feel even hotter. He bit his lip and stared at half of my body again.

I know I'm blushing now, but I don't make a whimper even as he kisses me again. This time, I knew we were in a different scenario if this continued. But why is my whole system like this, I love everything he does.

There is no complaint or objection from the whole part of my body even when it caresses the lower part of my femininity.

My eyes literally rolled, I thought there was a limit to everything he was doing. But there was something even greater than the strange feeling I would experience.

"You're really wet, not just sweat." that's what he whispered that made me close my eyes even more.

***********