Living With The Billionaire

I couldn't help but be emotional as I left our small house here in the province. Perhaps this is the last time I'll see this home that witnessed my growth and development of thoughts. If only my grandfather, my only family, hadn't passed away, I would never leave this province. But that's life. There are things you need to forget even if you don't want to. It's just sad because remembering them continues to make you sad.

Wow, Althea, you're quite expressive!

My grandfather passed away just last week. Everything happened so suddenly. He didn't even tell me, "Grandchild, I'm about to die. I'll leave you. Kthnxbye." So I could have prepared. But my grandfather didn't give me any warning. He just collapsed while lifting firewood. The doctor said it was due to fatigue and old age. If only I knew it would be like that, I wouldn't have let him do heavy lifting at home. Sometimes, my grandfather can be stubborn.

I spent a lot on my grandfather's burial. We only had a small amount of savings, and it wasn't enough. We don't have other family or relatives. If there are any, maybe they forgot about us. It's just the two of us, me and my grandfather. My parents died when I was young. Luckily, the caretaker of my grandfather's wealthy friend from Manila came. He brought money that I used for my grandfather's burial. I talked to him on the phone – Mr. Andres, my grandfather's friend. I told him I'd pay him back once I get a job.

But I thought that would be the end of his help. He also offered me a job in Manila. I told him I would think about it. First, I don't want to leave this province. My life is here. I know this place well. Unlike in Manila, where it's rumored to be a nice place but with rampant crimes and killings. I'm scared of such news.

Second, I wonder if I can handle life in Manila. I don't know anyone there. Unlike here in the province, where I have friends, even if some of them are fake. I have no one to turn to there if I have a problem. I can't always ask for help from Mr. Andres. Besides, it's embarrassing, and we're not that close. It's too much if I keep relying on him, right?

But I also thought about wasting this opportunity. I thought that if I stay in the province, I'll keep remembering my grandfather. My beloved grandfather who left me. I'll continue to cry and be sad. Also, maybe my luck is in Manila. Many people from our place travel to Manila because they say life is better there. Some are lucky, but others are not.

My grandfather raised me to be resourceful, so I agreed to Mr. Andres' offer. I called him yesterday and told him I would go to Manila today. He was delighted and immediately asked when I would arrive. I just said today, and he asked when. Mr. Andres is quite impatient. He even wanted to send someone to fetch me, but I told him not to, and I'll just go on my own. I asked for his address in Manila and said I'd arrive in the afternoon if I make it alive.

I took a deep breath and glanced at our small home with my grandfather for the last time. I'm trying to hold back my tears again. It's really heavy in the heart when you leave the house that has been your home for such a long time. I picked up my two suitcases and a woven bag and continued walking. Even though it's a bit heavy, I'll manage. My heart is still heavier because I'm leaving my home because my grandfather left me. Echos.

I met some friends who told me to take care in Manila. They said I should come back when I'm rich and not forget them. I just laughed at what they said. I hope getting rich in Manila is that easy as they think. I won't sell my body there, you know.

I know that someone like me, from the province with insufficient education, is just lucky if I make it in Manila. Even some educated people struggle, so what about me, who only finished high school? Where will I find my luck? Can you buy luck in Manila? Maybe for five pesos, three if I'm lucky to get a discount.

I arrived at the bus terminal in town and bought a ticket. After buying, I immediately boarded the bus bound for Manila. Luckily, I left early, so there's still a bus. If I travel in the afternoon, there won't be any buses even if there are still many passengers. Our province is too far, and only a few buses make it here. They're neglecting our province.

I have seat number 24. It means I'm seated towards the back. I struggled to pass through because of the many bags in the aisle. My two suitcases are heavy. When I reached my seat, I noticed a man wearing glasses and a hat.

I didn't see his face well because it's somewhat covered by the large glasses he's wearing. But his straight nose and slightly red lips that were slightly open were very noticeable. Yes, the guy is gaping. It looks like he's asleep. He's the one I'll be sitting next to. I immediately thought about how I could sit when he's already occupying my seat.

I even thought about hitting him with my suitcase to wake him up and be annoyed. But, of course, I won't do that. Even if he looks around my age or maybe a bit older, if he wakes up suddenly, he might confront me.

"I'm going to wake him up? But he seems sound asleep. It's bad to disturb someone sleeping. My grandpa told me it's not good; I don't want to be rude. But he's sitting on my seat. What should I do? Why is he sitting there?

I gently nudged his shoulder, 'Brother.'

No reaction. Fast asleep.

I repeated, 'Brother. Wake up. That's my seat.'

Still no response. Oh well, let him be.

I lifted one of my suitcases and placed it in the overhead compartment, the one with random useless stuff. I followed with the other suitcase, containing my clothes and belongings, and also the only large picture frame of my grandpa. It was challenging to lift because it was heavier. My hand cramped from the weight, causing it to slip and fall on the sleeping guy's face. I froze. It felt like my own face got hurt.

I looked at the sleeping guy, 'Brother, sorry. It wasn't intentional-'

I paused as I saw he didn't wake up. Still sound asleep. His head tilted, arms crossed, and his mouth remained open. Raised eyebrows. What's with this guy? Numb? No feelings? Not even a flinch?

I let it go. No one seemed to notice, and others were busy, so I proceeded. I carefully placed the fallen suitcase back in the overhead compartment. Before sitting next to him, I moved his head.

I thought he'd wake up when he scratched his nose, but he didn't. He was still deeply asleep. Fine. I sat beside him and looked out the window. I silently prayed for a good life in Manila.

While sitting, I wondered about Grandpa Andres. Is he kind like the stories my grandpa told me? I haven't seen him yet, only knew him through stories. All I knew was he was very wealthy, and my grandpa worked for him before starting his own family and moving to the province."

-

"Several hours have passed since the bus started moving, but my seatmate is still asleep. Sometimes, he even snores. That's good because I don't know how to apologize for what happened. I also noticed a cut on his cheek, a small scratch clearly from the suitcase hitting his face. I feel guilty for hurting his smooth face. But it's partly his fault. Why didn't he move?

I see nothing interesting along the bus route, just trees. My eyes turn to my sleeping companion again. I observe his appearance. He's clearly well-dressed, and even his watch is fancy. Is he also from the province? He looks wealthy, so why is he taking the bus?

Why do I care? Why am I bothering about him? Well, I'm just really hungry, so I'm messing around with this guy who's asleep.

I take out the suman from my bag and quietly start eating. While eating, I focus on the flat-screen TV in the bus, playing a wedding scene from a movie. I stop eating and watch the scene. Before I know it, I find myself crying at the wedding vows of the lead guy. Whenever I watch wedding scenes, I can't help but get emotional. I also dream of getting married, and instead of me crying, it should be my future husband.

I thoroughly restrained myself from crying because I didn't have a handkerchief, but my tears were stubborn, do they even have heads? Anyway, they just started flowing. I couldn't help but sniffle while watching.

"Miss, oh. Looks like you don't have a handkerchief."

I looked at the speaker and saw that the guy who was asleep is now awake. He had removed his sunglasses. He was staring at me with brown eyes filled with concern. Wait, why is he concerned? Are we close? As far as I remember, we just met. We don't even know each other.

I stared at him for a moment and realized he looks like a celebrity. Oh my. I almost fangirled, but thankfully, I restrained myself. I remembered we're not close. lol

"I don't need that, brother. I can handle myself," I declined his handkerchief.

"Ah, okay. Chill. Don't be grumpy," he said and adjusted his seat. "I just hope you know how to apologize for dropping the suitcase on my face. It really hurts." He touched his face, wincing in pain.

I was surprised, "You were awake when the suitcase fell on your face?"

I covered my mouth in shock.

He glanced at me and gave a faint smile, "Yeah. I was just too sleepy to pay attention to you."

"Oh, brother, I'm really sorry. It wasn't intentional. But, come on, you were sound asleep, and I was trying to wake you up."

He laughed, "Wait. Are you apologizing or blaming me?"

"I'm apologizing."

"You sound more like blaming."

I playfully slapped his arm, "Hey, brother! Don't be a tease. We're not close, but you keep teasing me. Wow, huh."

"You're the one causing harm. Are we close?"

I laughed, "You're kidding."

He teased, "You're the one who's hurting. Are we close?"

I adjusted my sitting position, realizing I've been quite loud inside the bus. I focused on the TV again, and the waterworks resumed.

"Oh, why are you crying again? Did you break up with your boyfriend?" he asked again. Why does he keep talking to me? Are we close?

"Why does it have to be about a boyfriend? Can't it be because the show is emotional?"

He glanced at the TV, "What's emotional about it? It's just a mistake?"

"You won't understand; you're a guy," I replied and sniffed. "One of a girl's greatest dreams is to get married. So, don't be noisy. Let me enjoy this moment."

He laughed again, "Okay, crybaby." he whispered and fell silent.

The show ended, and I went back to eating my suman. While eating, I noticed the guy next to me glancing at me as if he feels close.

I looked at him, "Do you want some?" I offered him some suman.

"What's that? Is it delicious? You seem to be enjoying it," he remarked.

"Of course, it is. Here," I gave him three suman. "For-"

"For I love you?"

"No, brother, joker. Three suman mean 'I'm sorry.' I love you? Oh, no, we're not that close." We both laughed at what I said.

He took the suman and sniffed it, "It doesn't have poison, right? You're acting like I might get poisoned."

"I'm just smelling if it's fragrant."

"Oh, wait. I have cologne here. If you like it fragrant, let's make it smell good."

"You're too much. Everything I say, you block. Haha."

He opened the suman and took a bite. He chewed slowly, "Hmm, delicious. I should have bought some earlier."

"Well, what did you do in the province?"

"Work," he swallowed and continued, "I didn't bring a car because traveling is tiring."

"I didn't ask," I replied, taking a bite of my suman.

He just laughed, "I'm just saying. Haha. You, where are you heading?"

"To Manila. Work as well."

"I didn't ask," he imitated me, making me glance at him. "Just kidding. Hehe."

"Cute, brother," I said, smiling.

Talking to this guy is enjoyable. I didn't get bored during the long journey to Manila. Aside from enjoying our conversation, I also enjoyed teasing him. Even though we just met, he seems nice. Because if he wasn't, he could have scolded me earlier for repeatedly teasing him. lol

We chatted with Jonas while eating suman. He took advantage of my storytelling, so he ended up eating more. It's fine with me because I brought a lot of suman as a gift for Grandpa Andres. I even told Jonas I'd give him extra suman before we reach Manila.

"What's your name? You've been calling me 'brother' for a while. I'm only 22," I asked.

"I'm 20, sister."

"You're calling yourself 'brother' again."

"Oh, why? Do you want me to call you 'sister'? Didn't know you were into that."

He burst into laughter, and other passengers looked at us. "You're too funny. That's why we're being looked at."

"Oh! It's just you they're looking at. You dragged me into this."

"But seriously, what's your name? I'm Jonas, by the way."

"I don't want to tell you my name."

"Why not?" he asked, puzzled.

"We're not that close yet. Is this how people from Manila are? Too fast? Once you know my name, what's the next question? My address? Then my number? And you'll text me? Deceive me, give me false hope, and hurt me? No, thanks, brother. I won't tell you my name."

He stared at me for a moment and burst into laughter again. He even held his stomach, clearly finding my words amusing.

What's so funny about that?

Seems like Jonas is clueless.

In the end, the two of us reached Manila without me revealing my name to him. It's difficult, you know. It's difficult to get hurt. Where does that pain come from anyway? Isn't it when you're asked for your name? Lols. I'm just avoiding pain. I'm not ready to get hurt, even if Jonas is a bit of a cutie with the name Jonas.

Sorry, Grandpa. I won't go chasing after guys in Manila. I came here for work, not for romance. Hehe.

It's been several minutes since Jonas and I parted ways, and I got into this taxi. But until now, the smile hasn't left my lips.

Ajuju, hilarious. Just kidding. I'm just amused by our conversation earlier. It feels like we've known each other for so long. Like we're comfortable with each other. Maybe we were friends in our past lives, right? Or perhaps our shoulder blades were buddies in ancient times?

I'm sure Jonas isn't an ordinary guy. He's a Saiyan. Like Goku and Vegeta. Just kidding. I know he's wealthy and low-profile, allowing him to mingle with people like me-poor folks in the surroundings. While we were talking earlier, he effortlessly switched to English. Not like me, struggling even with a single word.

Common since. Tch. Turns out, it's common genes. I thought it was common sense.

Perfectionist. What did Jonas say about that? I can't remember. Anyway, the pronunciation is the same. Like he's just making it fancy.

So, anyway, Manila is really crazy. This city is enormous. Not like our province where a few steps lead you to the town, a few more steps to the plaza, and one more step, you're in front of your plastic neighbors, engaging in plastic camaraderie. Here, I've been sitting in the taxi with Manong Driver for several minutes, and I still haven't reached my destination. Seems like there's forever.

Forever is a long journey.

I shifted my gaze to the window. I can't help but be amazed by the tall buildings I see. This is the city they were talking about. Amazing. It's really beautiful. I wish Grandpa were still alive to see Manila's beauty with me. But Grandpa, always too eager to move on to the afterlife.

Have they had a meet-and-greet with Itay and Inay there? I hope they send a picture with the caption, "Child, you're next. ASAP."

"Ah, I know!" I said to myself as I came up with an idea.

I opened one of my suitcases and took out a large picture frame of Grandpa. Since Grandpa disappeared a week ago, this picture frame has been my frequent companion. I talk to it as if he's still alive.

"Grandpa, look at that building! It's so tall!" I pointed to a high-rise building we passed by, with numerous windows. "If we were at the top, and I pushed you, would you survive?" I suddenly frowned. "We'll never get to try that because you're not here anymore. It's really sad, Grandpa."

I put Grandpa's picture frame back into my suitcase as the taxi entered a massive gate. It stopped as two security guards with long firearms blocked our way. It's like scenes from the movies I've watched. There's something like this in real life.

The taxi moved again after Manong Driver exchanged smiles-rather, fake smiles-with the security guards. After a while, the taxi stopped at a huge gate painted black. I peeked at the gate to read what was written.

"Falcon Residence," I read, then turned to Manong. "Are you sure? Is this it?"

He looked at me, "What does it say on the paper? Falcon Residence, Aviana Subdivision?"

I double-checked the paper, and Manong was right. "Ah, yes, that's right. How much do I owe you?"

"Just a thousand, miss."

I was startled, "WHAT? A thousand? Is your taxi emitting gold smoke or something?"

"Miss, Aviana Subdivision is far from where we started. Nothing comes cheap in this world."

"There's still something cheaper than this, Manong!"

"What?"

"Damn it. Damn it. Damn-"

"Miss, stop that. You might say something worse."

"But there's something worse than what I already said," I insisted.

"Fine, what is it?"

"The suman in our province, three for twenty pesos. Sometimes you can get four for twenty if there's nothing left to buy," I proudly mentioned.

"I don't care about the suman in your province. Just pay."

"Is there no discount, Manong? Come on. I'm new in Manila."

"Forget it, miss. Go to the barangay if you want to haggle."

"Can I?"

"I don't know, miss. You're confusing to talk to. Just pay."

"What a grump. Are taxi drivers always this grumpy in Manila? The drivers in our province are so friendly."

"He's friendly, miss."

"Is that what you call friendly?" I retorted.

"That's friendly enough," he replied, not even bothering to look at me, as I was busy counting the remaining money in my wallet.

My wallet now only contained crumpled bills and coins, and unfortunately, it didn't add up to a thousand. It was only eight hundred. Even after shaking my wallet, no more money came out.

I looked at Manong, "Hehehe. Manong."

"Miss, I know that smile. It's not enough, right?"

I nodded, "Yes. I didn't know that taking a taxi in Manila is so expensive."

"Tsk. Okay, that's enough. Next time, don't take a taxi. Just walk."

"Thank you, Manong!" I said and handed him the eight hundred. "Here are two suman. They're delicious!"

I got out of Manong's taxi, lifting my two suitcases and a bayong again. If I was already wide-eyed at the tall building we passed earlier, I was even more wide-eyed because of the gate in front of me. It was black, made of expensive-looking metal. Then there's Falcon Residence written in gold. It seems Grandpa Andres wasn't just wealthy but super duper extra mega wealthy.

I noticed a button with a camera on the side. I pressed it.

"Good Day! This is Falcon Residence. How may I help you?" the camera spoke. Wow. A talking camera.

"Hello, camera! I'm Althea Josefa Marinduque. Grandpa Andres sent me here." I even waved at the camera. "How about you, Camera? Do you have a name? What's your name?"

Wait? Was that the right question? "Uh, what is your name?"

I pondered again. It seemed like my question was wrong. "What is your camera name?" I muttered to myself, still unsure if that was the right question.

"Thank you, Ms. Marinduque. Falcon's gate is now about to open," the talking camera replied, and suddenly, the massive gate opened.

"WOW!" I exclaimed in amazement. Their gate automatically opens.

I entered and immediately looked around. There were many well-maintained trees, indicating proper care. On the left, there was a flower garden with various colors of flowers. There was even a pink-painted nipa hut. Could that be for Grandpa Andres? I continued walking and saw five cars parked in front of an enormous house.

OMG. Lord, is this really a house? It looks like Malacañang Palace in size. The cars I see in front are so beautiful. Definitely for the wealthy. Only in Manila will you see this because we don't have such things in the province.

In the province, it's just a competition of tricycle aesthetics. I looked to my right. There's a large swimming pool, and beside it is a fountain with two angels spouting water from their mouths. Are those angels or tilapia?

"Good Day, Ms. Marinduque."

I turned around when someone spoke. When I looked, a man in what seemed like business attire appeared. He was already at an age. He also wore glasses. There were two guys with white polos accompanying him.

"Good Day too," I replied.

He smiled at me, "Get her luggages."

The two guys quickly took my suitcases. They almost fought over them.

"Are you Lolo Andres?" I asked him.

I still haven't seen Lolo Andres in person. I've only spoken to him on the phone before.

He shook his head, "No. I'm Fernando-the right hand of Lord Andres. I was assigned to take care of you when you arrive. This way, Ms. Marinduque. Please follow me."

He walked ahead, so I followed. We entered the massive house, and I was even more impressed with the things inside. Everything was pure white. From the chairs to the displays on every corner of the house. There were paintings on the walls with meanings I couldn't comprehend.

Are those called abstract paintings or imprak paintings? I can't remember. Ugh. Headache.

I stopped when I saw a large family picture with handsome and beautiful beings. There was a slightly older person, then what looked like a couple, and the other five males seemed to be their children. One was a bit younger, very cute and chubby. It looked so deliciously pinchable, like a siopao filled with asado. Rawr. So cute!

"Who are they?" I wondered while staring at the large portrait.

"They are the Falcon Family," Sir Fernando answered. He pointed to the elderly one in the picture. "That's Lord Andres. Your grandfather's friend." He then pointed to the person beside him in the photo. "The one next to him is Sir Erwan, his son, and his wife, Ma'am Cynthia." I nodded.

Even though Erwan and Cynthia were a bit older, they still looked good. Erwan resembled Lolo Andres. Probably. He's his son, after all. lols.

I noticed something about the guys in the picture. From Lolo Andres to the youngest one. They all had the same eyebrows. Thick and almost perfectly shaped, making their eyes lively.

"The other five guys are their children. The one on the right is the eldest, Erwin Alejandro, the son of Sir Erwan and Ma'am Cynthia." I looked at Erwin, and I almost squealed because he was so handsome. He was smiling in the picture, making him look even more attractive. "Next to Erwin is Elton Alexander." He pointed to Elton next to Erwin, who looked similar but with a frown instead of a smile, like he fell from heaven and earth rejected him.

"Elton seems grumpy, unlike Erwin, who's smiling. Was he conceived during Ma'am Cynthia's bad mood?" I joked.

Sir Fernando laughed, "No, Iha. The two who look alike are the twins, Brylan Kylde and Brent Klode."

"Ah, they're twins. Wow. They're so handsome!"

"You're right, Iha. They're twins."

"Ah, twins indeed. What did I just say?" I replied. "What's the name of the youngest?"

"She is-"

Before Sir Fernando could continue, a young boy suddenly appeared in front of us. He only reached my waist. He looked at me without any emotion on his face, like a robot holding a toy car.

"This is Sir Erwan's youngest son, Christopher Llyod." Sir Fernando touched Chris's head.

I bent down to be at the same height as Chris, "Hello, Chris. I'm Ate Althea. How old are you?" I asked with a smile, but he ignored me, quickly hiding behind Sir Fernando.

"He doesn't speak," Sir Fernando said with a compassionate look at Chris. "He's five years old."

"Is he mute?"

Sir shook his head, "No, just traumatized from the tragedy that happened to the family a few months ago."

"What tragedy?"

Sir glanced at Chris before speaking, "It's been six months since Sir Erwan and Ma'am Cynthia passed away. They were headed to Cebu with Erwin and Chris for the company's branch opening, but a tragedy occurred."

"What tragedy?" I asked, anxious to know.

"The ship they were on sank. They found Sir and Ma'am lifeless, hugging Chris, who was weak, probably due to exhaustion, thirst, and hunger."

I covered my mouth in shock. Trying not to cry at the fate of the couple.

"Chris witnessed how his parents took their last breath at such a young age. Since then, he stopped talking. His doctor says he's mentally and emotionally traumatized. It can be treated, but there's no certainty when. He's still too young to cope," Sir explained.

"What about Erwin? Wasn't he with them?"

Sir Fernando's face saddened. It was evident that my question affected him.

"We haven't found his body yet. It's been more than six months, and we still don't know if he's alive or-"

"He's alive!" I confidently interrupted. "There's no corpse found, so I'm sure he's still alive!"

"I hope so. Lord Andres hasn't lost hope in finding his eldest grandson alive, so he continues the search. But some say Erwin might have been eaten by sharks, and that's why there's no trace. It's been months since it happened. If Erwin were alive, they argue, someone would have reported it by now."

"What right do they have to declare someone dead without seeing the body? Oh well, Sir Fernando, I strongly believe Erwin is alive. I'll shave my head if he's really gone."

Sir Fernando chuckled, "You're full of positivity, Ms. Marinduque."

"Just call me Althea. Hehe."

As Sir Fernando was about to speak, we heard a shout from the staircase. We both turned to see the twins walking, seemingly in an argument.

"I told you not to come to my classroom, right? Why are you so stubborn?" one of them scolded the other.

The other remained silent, continuing to walk past us.

"Klyde, he's-" Sir Fernando stopped speaking as Klyde passed us, heading straight to the room.

"Let's go. Let's walk to Lord Andres' study room while I tell you what happened to the family," Sir Fernando said, and I followed him, glancing around and listening to his story.

"It's been six months since Sir Erwan and Ma'am Cynthia passed away," he paused, and I covered my mouth in shock at his revelation. He continued, "They were on their way to Cebu with Erwin and Chris for the company's branch opening. But a tragedy occurred."

"What tragedy?" I asked, eager to know.

"The ship they were on sank. They found Sir and Ma'am lifeless, hugging Chris, who was weak, probably due to exhaustion, thirst, and hunger."

I held back tears and tried to compose myself. "How heartbreaking."

"Chris witnessed how his parents took their last breath at such a young age. Since then, he stopped talking. His doctor says he's mentally and emotionally traumatized. It can be treated, but there's no certainty when. He's still too young to cope," Sir explained.

"What about Erwin? Wasn't he with them?" I inquired.

Sir Fernando's face saddened. It was evident that my question affected him.

"We haven't found his body yet. It's been more than six months, and we still don't know if he's alive or-"

"He's alive!" I confidently interrupted. "There's no corpse found, so I'm sure he's still alive!"

"I hope so. Lord Andres hasn't lost hope in finding his eldest grandson alive, so he continues the search. But some say Erwin might have been eaten by sharks, and that's why there's no trace. It's been months since it happened. If Erwin were alive, they argue, someone would have reported it by now."

"What right do they have to declare someone dead without seeing the body? Oh well, Sir Fernando, I strongly believe Erwin is alive. I'll shave my head if he's really gone."

Sir Fernando chuckled, "You're full of positivity, Althea."

As he was about to continue, we heard a shout from the staircase. We both turned to see the twins walking, seemingly in an argument.

"I told you not to come to my classroom, right? Why are you so stubborn?" one of them scolded the other.

The other remained silent, continuing to walk past us.

"Klyde, he's-" Sir Fernando stopped speaking as Klyde passed us, heading straight to the room.

"Let's go. Let's walk to Lord Andres' study room while I tell you what happened to the family," Sir Fernando said, and I followed him, glancing around and listening to his story.

"It's been six months since Sir Erwan and Ma'am Cynthia passed away," he paused, and I covered my mouth in shock at his revelation. He continued, "They were on their way to Cebu with Erwin and Chris for the company's branch opening. But a tragedy occurred."

"What tragedy?" I asked, eager to know.

"The ship they were on sank. They found Sir and Ma'am lifeless, hugging Chris, who was weak, probably due to exhaustion, thirst, and hunger."

I held back tears and tried to compose myself. "How heartbreaking."

"Chris witnessed how his parents took their last breath at such a young age. Since then, he stopped talking. His doctor says he's mentally and emotionally traumatized. It can be treated, but there's no certainty when. He's still too young to cope," Sir explained.

"Uh, what happened to Erwin? Wasn't he with you?"

Sir Fernando's face saddened, clearly affected by my question.

"His body hasn't been found yet. It's been over six weeks, but we still don't know if he's alive or-"

"He's alive! No corpse has been found, so I'm sure he's still alive!"

"I hope so. Lord Andres hasn't lost hope in finding his eldest grandson. Some say Erwin might have been eaten by sharks, making it hard to locate the body. It's been months, and if Erwin is alive, someone would have reported by now."

"Why do they assume someone is dead without finding the body? Oh, sir Fernando, I strongly believe Erwin is alive. I'll shave my head if he's really gone."

Sir Fernando chuckled, "You're full of positivity, Ms. Marinduque."

"Just call me Althea. Hehe."

Before Sir Fernando could speak again, we heard a shout from the stairs. We both turned to see the twins walking separately, seemingly in an argument.

"I told you not to come to my classroom, didn't I? Why are you so stubborn?" one of the twins yelled.

The other remained silent, continuing to walk past us.

"Klyde, he-" Sir Fernando began, but was interrupted as Klyde passed us.

Klyde seemed aloof in person. Is he famous in their school?

The other twin stopped in front of us, offering a reserved smile. "Klode, this is Althea."

"Is she the one Grandpa mentioned?" Klode asked politely.

I noticed the contrast between the twins. Klyde had a tough demeanor, while Klode was gentle. Did he go through a Downy bath?

"Yes, she is."

Klode looked at me, "Hello. I'm Klode. My twin, Kylde, just went into his room." He spoke softly. "Sorry about him. He has a hot temper."

"No problem," I replied.

"I'll change first," he excused himself, walking into the room next to Kylde's.

As Sir Fernando and I continued, I asked, "Aren't twins supposed to get along well? Shouldn't they be super friendly with each other?"

"Super friendly?" Sir Fernando laughed. "Those twins are peculiar. When they were kids, they got along perfectly. But as they grew older, they started arguing frequently. Klyde is usually the one angry, and Klode just tolerates him."

We entered Grandpa Andres' study room, filled with books. I couldn't help but feel excited. I love reading English novels.

After settling into a soft chair, Sir Fernando's phone rang. He excused himself to answer it, announcing that Lord Andres had arrived.

Just as I was about to speak, the door opened, revealing an elderly man in a stylish black business suit and glasses, with white hair. He approached me with a big smile.

"Dear! Finally, you're here. How was your trip?"

I hesitated, "It was fine, Grandpa Andres. Thank you so much for the help you sent. I'll repay you with my first salary."

"Do not mention it. It's nothing." He glanced at Sir Fernando. "Ferds, call Elton. Tell him to come to the study room."

I took a seat. Grandpa Andres mentioned that I wouldn't be working as Chris's nanny.

"So, what will I be doing here? Will I be Chris's nanny?" I asked.

Surprised, he chuckled, "Nanny? Where did you get that idea? No, you won't be working as a nanny."

"Then, what will I do? You mentioned a job over the phone."

"We didn't quite understand each other on the phone." He paused as the door suddenly opened.

A man in boxer shorts entered, and I was almost left agape by his well-built physique. He had abs, and his boxer shorts seemed ready to fall. I managed to look at his face, noticing his blonde hair, making him resemble a foreigner. It was Elton, the second son of Mr. and Mrs. Cynthia, seemingly born out of resentment.

"Elton, my grandson. Althea has arrived," Grandpa Andres warmly announced. Elton, near the door, seemed uninterested in my presence.

Lolo Andres turned to me, "Elton will be your husband."

"What?" I stammered.

"Your husband," he repeated, and my brain had to reload.

I came here for a job, not a marriage proposal. Elton, the San Goku look-alike, as my husband? Why not Piccolo, Krillin, or Gohan? Why San Goku? What the shell!

Wait, was it "shell" or "smell"? Oh, what the shell?

Every time there's a wedding in our province, I'm always present in the church, whether I know the couple or not. Whether I'm invited or not, I still go to witness the ceremony. I enjoy watching the scene of two people pledging to love each other for a lifetime.

Later on, they'll eventually part ways. Just kidding!

And every time I watch that, I can't help but cry. For me, getting married and facing the altar is one of the most beautiful things that can happen in a woman's life. The happiness is unmatched.

I don't know when or at what age I decided, deep in my mind and liver, that when I get married, it will be to the man I love. I don't care if the wedding is extravagant or simple; the important thing is that we love each other. I shouldn't be the one crying; it should be my future spouse, overwhelmed with joy that he's marrying me.

Althea Josefa Marinduque is the one getting married, so she needs to cry. I was good in English when I was in elementary.

So when Grandpa Andres told me that his second grandchild, San Goku, the grumpy version, I mean Elton, is going to marry me, I felt like fainting. But I restrained myself because my grandpa once told me it's bad to faint when talking to someone. I'm still talking to Grandpa Andres now, so I'll faint later when I'm alone.

I suddenly stood up and fanned myself. The room got so warm, and I couldn't feel the air conditioning in Grandpa Andres's study room. I really feel like fainting now. Yes, as in right now.

You can faint later, Althea. I reminded myself. You weren't raised to be rude by your grandpa. You still have someone to talk to. Okay, push.

"I feel like I'm going to faint, Grandpa Andres."

The old man quickly stood up, looking at me with concern. "Wait. Do you want water?"

"Yes, please," I replied in English.

Grandpa Andres hurriedly went to his study table and grabbed a glass with a pitcher on top. He handed it to me quickly.

I was about to drink the water when I stopped before it touched my lips. I was disappointed.

"Oh, Grandpa, why haven't I drunk the water yet?" I asked the old man in surprise.

He looked at me seriously, "Althea, that's cold water. Is there no coldness water there?"

"That's cold water? It doesn't feel cold, Grandpa. Don't you have coldness water?" I muttered to myself as I observed Grandpa Andres.

He opened a cabinet, which turned out to be a refrigerator. Wow. I wasn't aware that it was a fridge. I thought it was just a cabinet. When he opened it, I was amazed at the variety of items inside. There were different bottles that looked like alcohol and a bottle of water. He took a bottle and handed it to me.

I finished it in one gulp. But my anxiety still lingered in my chest, unrelieved. I placed my hand on my chest to calm myself. My whole being felt like it would go crazy at the idea that I came to Manila not for work but for marriage. Oh no. I'm still young. I'm still fresh. I'm still... what's the English term for not being ready?

"Are you okay, Althea, my grandchild?" Grandpa Andres asked with concern.

"Oh my, Grandpa Andres. I'm not okay. How can I be okay if you're telling me that I'm getting married? Immediately? I'm not easy to get, you know!" I snapped at him.

"I'm sorry, Althea. But we've discussed this with your grandpa for a long time. When you and Elton were still kids, we already arranged for both of you," he explained. "Besides, now that your grandpa is gone, and he entrusted you to me, it's better to follow what Philip and I agreed upon. Elton doesn't want to marry anyone else but you."

I slapped my forehead, "Grandpa Andres, listen. My grandpa and I wanted Elton The Porn Star and I to be together and have forever. But I hope you asked both of us if we're okay with this. Grandpa, we have feelings too. I hope you considered how we feel. We're not kids anymore."

I'm really irritated with what's happening now. Who would be happy with this? So what if Elton is handsome and wealthy? So what if he looks like a super saiyan? I don't love him, okay? Marriage is a sacred ceremony for those who love each other. I don't want to ruin my dreams! No. It can't be.

"As a matter of fact, I already talked to Elton about this."

I stopped thinking and looked at Grandpa Andres, "And what did he say? I'm sure he doesn't agree, right? It's obvious he doesn't like me. Earlier, he looked like he wanted to punch me because of the hate in his eyes. And-"

"Actually, he's okay with this. He's okay with you. He didn't say anything. He agreed to marry you."

"WHAT?" I exclaimed.

"Are you surprised, Althea?" Grandpa Andres said with a smile. "Surprising, isn't it? You didn't expect Elton to agree so easily."

"I'm surprised because you said it in English. Can you please speak in Tagalog? I didn't understand anything, really." I scratched my head.

Grandpa Andres stared at me, then chuckled, "I said it's okay with Elton, this marriage between you two. He has no objections."

"Really? Is this not a joke?" I asked to confirm.

He nodded, "Yes, Althea, my grandchild. It's not a joke."

"Oh my. How did that happen? How did San Goku agree?"

"Who knows. I just told him that he's going to marry my grandchild, and he agreed right away. He said, 'Okay, Grandpa.' Simple as that," he narrated. "How about you? Still don't want it?"

"I don't!" I replied firmly. "Not to be rude, Grandpa Andres, but I really don't want it. If this is going to happen, I'll just go back to our province. It's easier to fake it with my neighbors than to be the wife of your grandchild who looks like San Goku but has the attitude of Majinbu. No offense, Grandpa. But that's real talk."

He laughed again, "No offense meant, Althea."

"It's the same anyway. I just make mistakes in English when I'm annoyed. I was top 2 in our class when I was still studying." I boasted.

"How many are you in your class?"

"Two," I answered. "We were supposed to be three, but one dropped out because I gave her three months' worth of expired suman."

Grandpa laughed again, "I have something to show you that I'm sure will change your mind." Grandpa Andres stood up and went to his study table to get something. When he came back, he had a white envelope. "Here. Read its contents."

I took this and read what's written on the front, "Josefa." As I read, "This is me, huh. Is this mine?"

She nodded, "Yes. That's your grandfather's last letter before he left this world."

"How did you get this?" I wondered aloud.

"Like I told you, everything was planned. Your grandfather knew his time in this world was limited, so he wrote this final letter for you," Grandpa Andres sat down. "Go ahead. Read it."

I opened the letter and took the paper inside. I quickly read what my grandfather had written. I hoped he had just made up what he wrote here; otherwise, I might roll my eyes so hard they'd get stuck.

Josefa, granddaughter,

Perhaps as you read this letter, I am no longer in this world. It's difficult for me to leave you, but I have no choice. I am getting old, and I'm sure my time is running out. Lola and your parents are probably waiting for me in heaven.

I just want to tell you that I entrust you to my friend, Andres Falcon. He is a kind person, as our friendship has been tested for decades. We made an agreement that you will marry his second grandson, a request I hope you consider to ease my mind completely. I know they won't abandon you, my dear. I know they will love you like a true family.

I know you're stubborn, and you might get angry about this. You might think I'm dictating to you. But, granddaughter, please consider my request to marry Elton. He is a good man, and I'm confident he will take care of you and love you wholeheartedly.

Granddaughter, forgive me for leaving you. I didn't want to leave your side, and I wanted to be with you for a longer time, but I can't bear it anymore. As I write this letter, you're sleeping beside me. I am also shedding tears, thinking about leaving you. Granddaughter, I love you very much.

That's all, granddaughter. I truly hope you agree to my request.

Grandpa Philip

PS. If you don't follow my request, it's better for you to join us in heaven with Lola, Dad, and Mom. I'm sure they miss you a lot too.

PPS. Just kidding, granddaughter, but please, marry Elton.

PPPS. Pretty please, granddaughter? With a cherry on top.

I couldn't help but shed tears after reading Grandpa's letter. Despite the nonsense he wrote, I still felt his love for me until this letter. Until his last breath, he was thinking about my well-being. You're really annoying, Grandpa. Why so kind?

"Grandpa is annoying. He's making me cry," I hugged the letter and looked up to hold back my tears. But it was too late; they were already streaming down. "Ugh! Grandpa, I miss you! I miss our antics and those moments when you scolded me!"

Grandpa Andres suddenly burst into laughter, "You really inherited it from your Grandpa Philip. Both of you are mischievous." I looked at him, "So, Althea, what do you think?"

I took a deep breath before speaking, "Well, I don't know. I guess there's no harm in trying to love Elton for Grandpa's sake." I laughed at what I said because I knew it was impossible. "But for Grandpa and for his peace of mind, fine, I agree."

"Great!" Grandpa Andres clapped in delight.

He's delighted, but me? I'm not finding it amusing! Ugh. There's nothing funny about it.

-

I left Grandpa Andres in his study room when he told me to rest. He also pointed out my room in their huge house. He said to walk down the hallway after leaving the study room. My room would be on the right at the end with a blue door.

I'm panting now, and I finally found this damn blue door. Damn it. The old man told me to walk down the hallway, but I saw three hallways earlier. He didn't say which one, so there I was, wandering around before finding this door. Damn it all.

I took a deep breath before entering the room. It's a bit dark inside, and it smells like a man. But it's cool because there's air conditioning. It's my first time entering a room with air conditioning, so I grinned while exploring the room.

There's a large bed in the middle with blue beddings. The pillows are also blue. Even the lampshade that illuminates the entire room from the side is blue. Is this really going to be my room? Aside from the manly scent, why is everything in blue? It's not even my favorite color.

I saw my two suitcases on the side of the large cabinet. I didn't pay attention to them as I walked towards the dresser with various pictures on top. I looked at the pictures.

I saw a family picture similar to the one I saw downstairs. The Falcon Family picture. It's just in a smaller frame. There's also a picture of two boys who look alike. I recognized them immediately because the older-looking boy is smiling brightly in the photo, while the other one looks grumpy, as if luck had abandoned him in life.

"Erwin and San Goku, for sure," I said to myself.

I couldn't help but feel sad as I looked at Erwin's picture. He looks like an angel when he smiles, and he's handsome. Clearly, he's a good and joyful person. No wonder Sir Fernando was so upset when he informed me that Erwin is still missing. It seems like he's close to him.

I shifted my gaze to the next picture frame. My mouth fell open when I saw who it was. It's Elton, with his arm around a beautiful woman. Damn. Why is this woman so beautiful, and who is she? Her hair is so long, and she looks like a celebrity. She's smiling, but Elton is frowning again. Is he toothless that he can't smile?

I picked up the frame to look at the picture more closely. I noticed there was writing on the side of the picture. I read it.

"Happy 1st Anniversary, Love! I love you so much!" I read it aloud, and I was suddenly surprised.

Anniversary? Does this mean Elton's girlfriend is this girl in the picture? But if he has a girlfriend, why did he agree to marry me? What's happening? And if he has a girlfriend, why are we being pushed to get along? Doesn't Grandpa Andres know that his grandson is already in love?

I paused my serious thoughts when the door suddenly opened beside me. Elton came out wearing only a thin towel. Your super sayan brother is in a wet look. Jeez. Why does he look so handsome when his hair is down? There are droplets of water all over his body. His well-defined abs and almost perfect v-line are on full display.

"What the heck are you doing here?" he angrily asked me. "And why are you holding that frame?"

He quickly walked towards me and snatched the picture I was holding. This guy is so tall; he towers over me. His body is so close to mine that I can't help but smell his scent. He smells good.

"I'm asking you!" he shouted.

"OH, ELTON'S BALLS!" I shouted in surprise. But as soon as I realized what I said, I quickly covered my mouth.

"The fuck?" he clearly got angrier. "GET OUT! I SAID GET OUT!"

"Why should I leave?" I replied. "Stop yelling! I'm not deaf. This San Goku here!"

"This is my room!" his face was turning red with anger. It looks like his hair is about to stand up any moment, and he'll transform into a super sayan.

"What? Is this your room?" I asked back. "Granpa Andres said this is going to be my room. So, you get out!"

He stared at me as if trying to figure out if I'm telling the truth or not. Suddenly, he looked up and rubbed his temples, as if trying to suppress the anger enveloping his entire body.

But as he looked up, his muscles shaped even more. Although I wanted to gaze at them, I quickly averted my eyes. He might think I'm fantasizing about him. His face, though.

"Shit," he cursed and looked at me again. "I think my grandfather wants us to share a room." he said, calming down.

"What?" I replied. "Are you kidding me San Goku?"

"And what do I care about that San Goku?" he said.

"What's his problem with San Goku?" I laughed to myself. I looked at him. "So, are we sharing this room? What kind of nonsense is Grandpa Andres thinking? Jeez. It's stressing me out!"

"So, you're the one I'm marrying?"

I looked at Elton, and I saw that he was staring at me intensely. He suddenly grinned.

"You're a plain, ordinary, boring girl."

"Are you cursing at me?"

"Promdi Girl," he replied, and he turned away from me, walking towards the cabinet.

"Wait a minute. Why are you so furious with me? I'm not doing anything to you!"

He stopped and looked back, "Really? Are you really asking me that? Are you stupid or just pretending to be stupid?" he angrily asked again. "Fine, I'll give you a clue. First, you ruined everything. You ruined my life and my personal plan. Second, you're a gold-digger. You look like you're after money. Just because you know we're rich, you agreed to marry me right away? God. Where's your decency? Is that how you provincial girls are? Agree to marriage as long as the guy is rich?"

He grabbed his clothes and spoke again, "Just because I said it was okay for me to marry you does not mean I'm okay with this. Don't expect that what my grandfather wants will happen because I will find a way to stop it." He shot me a look. "By the way, I'll sleep on the bed. You can take the sofa." He pointed to the seat on the side of the bed.

I couldn't speak or say anything because of what he said. Until he left the room, I just stared into space. I'm holding back tears that want to escape my eyes. I looked up and wiped my own eyes.

"It's okay, Althea. It's okay."

Honestly, I was hurt by what he said. He's trying to make me feel like I'm after his money, so I agreed to this setup. Doesn't he know that I'm clueless about this too? And if he's not okay with it, he should have told his grandfather. Instead of pretending everything's fine when it's against his will.

I didn't eat that night. I lay down on the sofa and tried to sleep. One of the maids called me, but I said I wasn't hungry and preferred to rest. It was already late at night, but Elton still hadn't returned to the room. I don't know, and I don't care where he went. I hope he just goes back to the planet of the super sayan.

Before I completely fell asleep, I suddenly wished I hadn't come here. It seems like life in our province is happier. Before my eyes closed due to extreme fatigue and sleepiness, a few more tears fell from my eyes.

"Grandpa, I can handle this." I said before finally going to dreamland.