I'm Yours Forever

"Hey Fat girl!" Pat woke up to the shout of her brother, Allan.

She covered her ears with a pillow. Sleeping is so good, especially on Sundays. Since she started working in their gravel and sand business, Saturday and Sunday are the only days she can get a good sleep until she wants to. And here comes her annoying brother, disturbing the peace.

"Fat! Get up! Someone's waiting for you outside!"

"Who? It's too early, bro!" she replied irritably.

"It's Matt! He invited you for a jog!"

She quickly got up! Oh no, she forgot to set the alarm!

"Get up! If you keep lazing around with your exercises, your old body will come back!" her brother teased as he exited.

Pat hurriedly showered and brushed her teeth. Her hair is short now; she's too lazy to style it. She has a bob cut with bangs. Since she lost weight, many people say she resembles Glaiza de Castro, also compared to Angel Locsin.

She underwent rigorous diet and exercise to achieve her current goddess-like figure. Sometimes, she feels conscious because she thinks her boobs didn't get smaller. She didn't know they actually added to her sexy appearance.

After brushing, she pulled up her snug sleeveless shirt. She lost count of how many crunches, planks, and sit-ups she did to achieve those toned abs. She smiled. It was all worth it. Her abs could be a model for canned tuna.

She touched her face, now very smooth. A change of lifestyle did wonders for her. She also uses a scrub for her skin, so even if she's not as fair as her bestie, she's incredibly smooth. As Shelly said the last time they met, she looks extremely beautiful now. Pat just laughs when her brother still calls her fat, even though she's already slim. It's just his way of teasing her.

Pat went outside, and her brother said, "Fat! Finally, you're out. Enchong Dee might have gotten bored waiting for you!" He patted Matt on the shoulder and left.

"Brother!" Pat said in annoyance.

Matt laughed at the siblings.

He smiled at Pat. "Good morning, angel."

(Pat's POV)

Before you think of anything, let me explain first, okay? I met Matt at the gym. Even when I just started losing weight, he supported me. He accompanied me on jogs and never embarrassed me. He even said he saw himself in me because he used to be fat too. He faced ridicule, so he worked out to build muscles.

I think he even broke up with his girlfriend because of me. I felt so embarrassed then when his girlfriend asked why he was hanging out with someone like me, a pig. I was really hurt, so I pushed myself to change. Now, I'm prettier and more tempting than his ex. Matt calls me "angel" because he thinks I look like Angel Locsin. It's like his endearment for me. Oh, my bangs are long, right? But we're not in a relationship; we're still in the friend zone.

"Hi Matt!" I smiled at him, confidently showing my teeth. Why else would I regularly bleach them if I won't show them off?

"Ready to go?" he asked, offering his elbow for me to hold before we stepped out.

"Child, I thought you were okay here. Why would you return to the Philippines?" inquired Alex's mom.

"Mom, I need to check all my businesses there. If everything's okay, I might sell some, and others I'm involved in. Maybe I'm really not meant for the Philippines," explained Alex as he sipped his coffee.

He was at his parents' house, having just accompanied his sister Annie to the airport. She's returning to Texas with her spouse after spending a few days at their parents' house in California for Christmas.

Alex, on the other hand, will be going back to the Philippines after the new year.

In the past almost a year, a lot has changed for him.

He became more serious about life, pouring his time into his work to forget the past. He smiles when he remembers his past foolishness.

Now, he realizes that what he felt for Shelly wasn't love. It was a strong physical attraction accompanied by a desire for revenge against his sister's ex.

Who would have thought he'd have a civil relationship with Jake Herrera?

After saving Shelly from her ex Marco, he and Jake came to an understanding. Once Shelly's situation improved, and with her sister Patricia present, they had a conversation. They disclosed everything about what happened between Alex and Jake.

Another reason for his return is the baptism of Shelly and Jake's child, and he's asked to be the godfather. Since he missed their wedding, he wants to make it up during the baptism.

"All's well that ends well," the young man thought with a smile.

Suddenly, he thought of Patricia. How is she doing? He couldn't ask Shelly because he often talks to Jake. It's tricky; Jake might get jealous again.

He will see Patricia in a few days and plans to bring her lots of chocolates, knowing her weakness.

"Bestie! Bukas na ang binyag ni baby Ethan," Pat said with a smile as she visited her friend's house.

Jake had their house constructed for the future, so when baby Ethan grows up, he can play in the garden. They moved here after Shelly gave birth, and their son is now almost two months old.

Baby Ethan is currently napping, so the two friends find themselves in the kitchen. Despite having a nanny to assist Shelly, she prefers taking care of her son herself.

Sipping on vegetable juice, Shelly remarked, "Kim is really helpful. She takes care of everything. It's a good thing she enjoys organizing parties. It's a big relief for Jake and me."

Shelly gazed at Pat. "You've really changed a lot, Pat."

"Oh, come on, bestie. I'm still the same," Pat pouted.

"You even look sexier than me," Shelly said, scrutinizing her own body.

"Stop it, bestie! Your boobs got bigger, making you even sexier. You've become more beautiful," Pat winked.

"How's Papa Jake? Is he still jealous of baby Ethan?"

Shelly sighed. "Sometimes, he still gets jealous. I pump milk because when he's around, he doesn't want to see me breastfeeding Ethan."

Pat nodded.

"By the way, Pat, I have news for you!" Shelly said excitedly.

"What is it? Are you trying to set me up again?" Pat raised an eyebrow.

"Oh, please. You're too much. Jake's cousin really likes you. Why don't you give Alvin a chance? He has a stable job."

Pat stood up, got an apple, washed it, and started munching.

"Bestie! You're so boring to talk to. All he talks about are his achievements," Pat complained.

Shelly rolled her eyes. "Maybe that's because you're already with Matt?"

"No, bestie. Matt and I are just friends. I'll tell you if he starts courting me," Pat grinned.

"So, is there a chance?" Shelly asked curiously.

Pat sat back down and said, "I don't know, bestie. I'm enjoying my current status. I can do what I want. I'm just starting to embrace my womanhood, hahaha."

"Flattered, huh? You have a lot of admirers now. I'm happy for you, Pat," Shelly said sincerely. "Just enjoy for now. The guy who will change your perspective will come."

Pat lowered the apple. "Bestie, it seems like there's depth in what you're saying, hmm."

"By the way, what are you going to wear?" Shelly asked.

"Leave it to me. I'll be the most beautiful godmother!" Pat laughed.

Suddenly, they heard Pat's phone receive a message alert.

"Wait, bestie. I'll just answer this," Pat said with a furrowed brow.

Shelly watched her friend as she responded to the text.

Pat looked at Shelly. "Bestie, what's up?" she asked, curious about Shelly's expression.

"It's a secret!" Shelly teased, winking.

Pat raised an eyebrow. "By the way, what were you going to say earlier?"

"Forget about it. It's a surprise! You'll find out tomorrow!" Shelly said with a playful smile.

Pat rolled her eyes.

"But make sure you look stunning tomorrow! Wear something super sexy!"

"Of course, bestie! I want to be the best godmother!" Pat replied with a laugh.

After an hour, Pat excused herself. There was an issue at the office, and her secretary informed her. Even on a Saturday, if there's an emergency like this, she needs to be there. It's a good thing she now knows how to drive; commuting is difficult.

When she arrived at the office, her secretary said, "Ma'am, Architect Ocampo is in your office."

"Has he been here long?"

"About 10 minutes, ma'am. I've already given him coffee."

"Thanks, Arianne," she said to her secretary.

Pat was in dark denim jeans and a gray tank top with a black cardigan. Her beautiful figure was evident.

She planned to go to the gym after visiting Shelly, so she wore a tank top and intended to change into leggings later.

Well, whoever this Architect Ocampo is, she apologized for her casual wear. She wasn't supposed to be here.

When she entered, a tall man stood up. Pat was slightly surprised. If he weren't so tall, she would have thought he was Dennis Trillo.

"Good morning, Miss Sandoval. I'm Jude Ocampo," he offered his hand.

"Good morning, Architect Ocampo," Pat shook hands with him. "Please sit down," she pointed to the seat in front.

If it were the old Pat, she might have been thrilled to the core. The guy in front of her is extremely handsome. Good thing he's also dressed casually. He has a great physique, but not as hunky as Alex. (Oh no! Why did Alex suddenly come into her thoughts? Shake off thoughts about him!)

Now, even if an incredibly handsome guy is in front of her, she has learned how to handle her emotions. She didn't invest a considerable amount in a personality development program for nothing.

He sat down. "Please call me Jude. And can I call you Patrice?" he asked with a smile.

Pat almost choked. Thank goodness it's not Patricia. Only one person calls her that. (Well, well! Erase that!)

"Sure, Jude. You can call me Patrice," she gave him her million-dollar smile.

The guy also smiled sweetly.

"So let's talk about business?" the lady asked.

"Only if you'll have coffee with me after?" he asked.

Pat hesitated for a moment. But then she thought, why not? She doesn't have a boyfriend to disapprove, anyway. Besides, the guy inviting her is incredibly handsome, and he seems okay.

"We'll see," she said with a smile.

---

Alex sat down on his old couch, surveying his former unit. Nothing much has changed. He has it cleaned weekly, even when he's in America.

He felt a bit tired from the journey, despite it being a supposedly non-stop flight. He first sorted out the work he left in America. He estimated his stay in the Philippines to be at least a month. Maybe during that time, he could settle everything here. Maybe his fate is really in America.

Deciding to freshen up, he thought of visiting the coffee shop in the lobby where Jake's condo unit used to be. He needed to talk to Ron first.

He realized he needed to call Jake. He needed to confirm the time of the baptism tomorrow.

---

"Alex!" Shelly answered.

"Hey, Shelly. How are you? Is Jake around?" he asked in a friendly tone.

The excitement Alex used to feel upon hearing Shelly's voice was gone. Now, it's more of fondness for a friend. He smiled to himself.

"He's taking a shower. Are you already in the Philippines?" she asked curiously.

"Yeah, just arrived. I just wanted to confirm the baptism tomorrow. 10:00 AM, right?" he inquired.

"Yes, at St. Joseph Cathedral. I'll text Jake the directions later," Shelly said.

"Okay, thanks. By the way, Shelly, can I get Patricia's number? I brought chocolates for her. I was planning to visit her. Are they still living in their old place?" he asked.

Shelly bit her lip. A little white lie wouldn't hurt. She didn't want Alex to just show up at Pat's place. She preferred they meet at the baptism. That would be a great surprise for both of them.

"Well, Alex, sometimes Pat doesn't go home there anymore. You might not catch her. Just bring it tomorrow at the baptism. Anyway, Pat is the godmother," Shelly happily suggested.

"Ah, okay. That works. I'm sure she'll be thrilled with the chocolates I brought for her," Alex said.

Shelly almost laughed. If only Alex knew. Her beautiful and incredibly sexy friend is now into healthy living. She can't wait to see Alex's reaction when he sees Pat.

"Wow, you look chubby! Honestly, you're beautiful and sexy!" praised her brother Allan. He was sitting on their sofa, chatting with their sister.

"Brother? Do you have a fever?" she asked, holding her sister's forehead. It was the first time he complimented her like this.

"Maybe Allan ate something unusual?" teased their eldest sister Lena, the trio's firstborn.

She left her room for the christening of baby Ethan. She had prepared for this day, aiming to be extra beautiful and sexy, as advised by her bestie.

She wore a dark blue mini dress paired with wedge pumps, almost matching her outfit. Carrying a black clutch, her curves were prominent. Who would have thought her body shape resembled an hourglass?

She had learned makeup from Shelly, realizing that thick makeup wasn't necessary. She used to think red lipstick wouldn't suit her, but now she understood that the right color and well-shaped eyebrows made a statement. Shelly also taught her eyebrow shaping, and she didn't need cheek tint or blush because of her naturally rosy cheeks from a healthy lifestyle.

She sprayed DKNY's Be Delicious Fresh Blossom Eau de Parfum, enhancing her overall appeal.

Their mother entered the scene and was impressed. "You look stunning, dear! You might be the center of attention at the christening tonight."

"If you weren't my sibling, and I hadn't seen your struggles with losing weight, I'd think you're a doctor!" her brother teased.

"You should sing 'Beh Buti Nga' to those who used to mock you," her sister added with a smile.

"Chubby! Are you serious? Why don't you have a boyfriend yet? Many are courting you. Shelly is your age, but she's married with kids. Meanwhile, you've been boyfriend-free since birth! Consider dating Matt!" her brother insisted.

"Allan!" their mother scolded. "Stop saying such things about your sister!" She shook her head.

Pat sighed, "Oh, brother, I'm not rushing into anything. And why should I? I'm still young."

Scratching his head, he said, "If you had a boyfriend, I wouldn't be your constant driver. Come on, let's go before you're late!"

"Enough! You've said too much, brother! You can use my car for your date tonight," she replied irritably. She didn't plan to bring a car, as she agreed with Matt that he would pick her up.

Since Shelly got busy, Matt became her companion for most outings.

"Mom, we're leaving," she said goodbye to her mother before kissing her cheek. "Te Lena," she waved to her sister.

The church was crowded. Luckily, Alex found a parking spot nearby.

He wore a brown long-sleeved shirt, black pants, and black leather shoes. His fragrance was Hugo Boss.

He paid no attention to the whispers of passing women. He knew they were talking about him, but he was used to it.

"Is he a model? He looks like Daniel Matsunaga! Those dimples are so deep!" one girl exclaimed.

"Oh, girl! His presence is stronger. His body is killer. Have you seen those biceps?" another one commented.

"Let's sit near where he'll be sitting," whispered the third.

"Alex!" Jake greeted as he approached, holding their child with Shelly nearby talking to Jake's parents.

"Jake!" Alex approached and looked at his godson. "Hi!" he greeted Shelly.

"Hi!" she responded. "Your godson is handsome," she praised when she examined baby Ethan closely.

"Of course, he takes after his father," Jake teased.

"Really?" Shelly scoffed playfully.

Alex just laughed.

"We should get used to calling each other 'pare' (buddy)," Jake suggested.

Taking the child from Jake, Shelly faced Alex again. "How was your first night here? Did you settle into your old condo?"

"I'm still adjusting. It's been a year since I was last here," he replied.

Suddenly, Alex seemed to be looking for someone. "By the way, where's Patricia? Is she not here yet?" he asked Jake.

"Why are you looking for Pat?" Jake teased.

"Oh, I owe her a lot. Because of my confused mind before, I didn't even properly say goodbye. I have a lot to thank her for," he said with regret.

"She'll come, buddy! When you see her..."

"BABE!" Shelly called. "Dad wants to talk to you for a moment."

Jake nodded, lightly tapping Alex's arm. "Excuse me for a moment, okay? I'll be right back."

"Oh no! My husband almost slipped! I bet Shelly thought," Shelly thought.

"It's good you're home for the baptism," Shelly said.

In Shelly's eyes, Alex seemed even more handsome. His skin had a rosy hue from staying in America for so long. They truly looked perfect together.

"Yes, and I need to sort out my businesses here before I return to the US."

"You probably won't leave again," Shelly hinted.

Alex frowned. "Why not?" he asked, puzzled.

"BESTIE!" a voice behind him called.

Alex turned abruptly; he couldn't afford to make a mistake. It was Patricia who arrived.

"Pat!" Shelly waved.

Alex slowly turned his gaze.

His eyes widened.

"SHIT!" he cursed.

Shelly hid a smile. She had been waiting for this moment-the reunion of Alex and the new Pat.

The woman a few feet away from them was incredibly sexy and pretty. She smelled amazing even from a distance, and Alex caught a whiff of her sweet fragrance.

It felt like a punch to his chest when he saw her.

"P-Patricia???" his voice stumbled a bit.

Patricia paused. She had no idea that Alex would be here. Oh boy, she thought. He seemed even more delectable now, like an irresistible treat!

OPPPPSSS!! Poise! Pat scolded herself. She replayed her favorite line in her head when she wanted to release her excitement but couldn't-Cool it! Don't lose it or you'll regret it!

Suddenly, she remembered Alex's cold farewell on the phone hours before he left for America. That's when she felt she meant nothing to him. Even though she almost got into trouble with Shelly because of his constant presence, he just used her to get closer to her bestie. Thinking about that, she composed herself.

Showing her million-dollar smile, "Hi Alex," she said huskily.

One of her gym buddies had taught her what they called LIGHT FLIRTING 101. The person was an expert in making men fall for them. While Pat didn't want to be someone who counted boyfriends, she could use those learned skills when necessary. She hadn't applied it to anyone yet, but it seemed like a good time to test it on Alex.

Alex muttered a soft curse. She looked so different now-everything about her was irresistibly sexy. Even her voice. However, he frowned a bit when he heard her addressing him as just "Alex." What happened to baby Alex?

"Ahem!" Shelly interrupted.

Still, no one made a move. Alex seemed frozen, and Pat had a broad smile on her face.

"Alex, I would like you to meet my friend Patricia. I believe you two have met before," Shelly teased.