The Begging Of His Love

Chapter 1

"Mica, let's have lunch together," I said as I packed my things and placed them in my bag. I walked over to her desk and sat down. Mica Jolena-she's my cousin, Uncle Ethan's daughter.

"Uhmm, I'm eating with my new boyfriend. Wanna tag along?" she teased, flashing me a mischievous grin while packing her stuff.

"Uh, no thanks. I'd rather eat alone than watch you two being all lovey-dovey. Gross." I walked out of our classroom and headed straight to the cafeteria to grab some food. I decided to eat in the garden instead-it's peaceful there. I don't like noisy places.

I really prefer eating in the garden over the cafeteria. The fresh air and quiet atmosphere help me relax.

"Where have you been? I've been looking for you," Mica said as I returned to my seat. She followed me and sat on my desk.

"I was at the garden. I always go there during recess." I took out my notes to review for our quiz later-I don't want to fail.

"If I were you, Mica, I'd start reviewing too. You don't want to fail the quiz," I said. She pouted at me before heading back to her desk to review.

The quiz was over, and all I can say is-it was really tough. Stressful.

"Why are you frowning like that?" I laughed, looking at Mica's sulking face.

"I failed the quiz! Just one more point, and I could've passed. Ugh, it's so frustrating. Now I have to retake it." She stomped her foot before slumping back in her seat.

By the way, we're in our fourth year of college, so we'll be graduating next year.

"Bye, Luna. See you tomorrow." Mica hugged me tightly, as if we wouldn't see each other for a year.

"Bye." I waved as she got into her dad's car. I wish Dad could pick me up like that, but he's always so busy.

I drove home but decided to stop by the park first. I didn't feel like going straight home-I wouldn't have anything to do there anyway.

The park is my go-to place after school. It's relaxing, and the view is beautiful.

When I got home in the afternoon, Mom greeted me as she came down the stairs. I approached her and kissed her hand.

"Where did you go, Luna?"

"Just at the park, Mom." She nodded, and I excused myself to change and have dinner.

During dinner, no one spoke. I was surprised when Dad came home early to eat with us. He's usually home late because he's so focused on our company.

After dinner, I excused myself to go to my room. Mom and Dad seemed to be discussing something serious.

I lay in bed, bored. I got up and went to the kitchen to look for something to eat. I felt like a stray cat rummaging through our fridge late at night. I found my favorite mocha cake and made a glass of milk to go with it before heading back to my room.

On my way back, I overheard Mom and Dad talking in the living room.

"Are you sure about this decision? It will bring major changes to our family," Mom said, her tone serious.

"Yes, we need to discuss this. I've already made up my mind," Dad replied firmly.

Curious, I wanted to eavesdrop, but I decided against it-Mom might catch me and pinch my side.

What were they talking about? What changes are they referring to? I'm so confused.

I tried to sleep, but my mind was restless. I kept thinking about their conversation.

The next day, I came home from school and greeted Mom.

"Mom, I'm home!" She kissed me on the cheek and said, "Come to the living room. They're waiting."

"They?" I had forgotten we were having guests.

In the living room, Dad was busy chatting with someone.

"Oh, Luna, you're here! Come here," Dad called. I sat beside him.

"This is my daughter, Luna," Dad introduced me.

"Your daughter is beautiful, just like her mother," one of the guests said with a smile. I nodded politely.

"They're a perfect match for our son. Good thing they're getting married soon!"

Wait, what?! Getting married? I stared at Dad, completely confused.

"Excuse me, what do you mean I'm getting married?" I asked, trying to stay calm.

"Oh, sweetie, didn't your parents tell you? You're in an arranged marriage with our son," the woman said with a smile.

I turned to Mom and Dad, my confusion growing.

"You must be mistaken. Are you sure you're talking about me?" I joked nervously.

"No mistake, dear. It's an agreement between your parents and us-your marriage is in exchange for our help with your family's company."

What? Our company is struggling, and I didn't know?

"But I'm too young to get married!" I whispered, barely holding back my frustration.

"Don't worry, dear. Our son is kind," she assured me. I wasn't convinced.

The door opened, and the maid announced the arrival of their son. I turned to look and saw a tall, well-built man-undeniably handsome.

"Oh, you're here, Cloud," the woman said, standing up to greet him.

Cloud walked over, and his cold gaze sent chills down my spine.

"What?" he said curtly.

"This is your fiancée, Luna Rodriguez. And these are her parents," his dad said.

Cloud glanced at me with piercing eyes, then greeted my parents politely without looking at me again.

I escaped to the garden, my heart heavy. Why did I have to be the solution to our company's problems?

"So, this is all your plan?" A voice startled me. It was Cloud.

"What?" I asked, confused.

"You're just like every other girl-desperate to marry me," he said coldly.

"Excuse me? I didn't even know about this stupid arrangement!" I snapped, my frustration boiling over.

He stepped closer and gripped my arm tightly. "Remember this-I will never like you. I'll make your life miserable," he hissed before walking away.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I returned to the house. This can't be happening.

"Hello, sis. Why do you look so sad today? Your eyes are swollen too," Mica asked me with concern.

I cried so much last night. Why do I have to get married? I don't even love that person.

I skipped breakfast earlier because I didn't want to see Mom and Dad. I know it sounds rude, but this is how I feel right now.

"Ahh, I just didn't get enough sleep. I watched a movie last night, and it was a tearjerker, so my eyes are swollen," I lied to Mica, but she squinted her eyes at me suspiciously.

"You sure?" she asked again, still doubtful.

"Yes," I replied. She nodded, and I finally felt relieved.

"By the way, have you finished your project?" I changed the topic, hoping she'd drop the issue about my puffy eyes.

"Uhm, almost done. I went out a lot these past few days, so I didn't finish it right away," she said, grinning mischievously.

"You're something else. You prioritize going out over your project," I teased, and she just laughed, scooting closer to me with a wide smile.

"Let's go boy-hunting at the mall later!" Mica suggested enthusiastically, but I just glared at her.

"No. And finish your project first before you go boy-hunting," I said, making her pout and cross her arms.

"It won't take long. We need to enjoy our college life too!" Mica exclaimed, but I just shook my head at her.

"I'll see if I have time later," I said nonchalantly. Mica beamed and hugged me tightly.

"Thank you so much, sis! I knew you couldn't say no to your pretty friend," she said, winking playfully.

"You're so full of yourself, Mica. I only agreed because you look like a sad stray kid," I teased, causing her to roll her eyes and cross her arms. She stood up and started pacing.

"I feel like that handsome engineering student in the other building has a crush on me," she said dreamily.

"And what makes you say that he likes you?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

"He helped me out," she replied.

"Helped you with what?"

"I tripped, and he saw me, so he helped me," she said, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

I facepalmed at my friend's delusional thoughts.

"Mica, why don't you just go to sleep? I give up on your fantasies."

"Why? It's true! He likes me!"

"Stay away from me before I strangle you," I joked, trying not to laugh.

"Come on, sis! It's rare for me to assume that a handsome guy likes me!"

"Rare? You're always assuming guys have a crush on you."

"Sorry, okay? I can't help it. I'm just so pretty," she said, dramatically flipping her hair.

"Yes, you're pretty-pretty annoying!" I joked as I stood up and walked away. Meanwhile, Mica was still fixing her school things, which mostly consisted of her makeup.

We're now in our room, having just finished lunch. Mica, as usual, couldn't stop sneaking glances at the handsome engineering students eating by the side of the cafeteria.

"Mica, finish your food," I told her, but she simply signaled for me to hush.

An idea suddenly popped into my head. I stood up and walked toward the group of engineering students sitting at the edge of the cafeteria.

"Hello," I said, and they all turned to look at me, visibly confused.

"One of you has a secret admirer," I said, pointing at Mica, who was now blushing furiously.

"She wants your number," I added, grinning mischievously. Mica looked like she wanted the floor to swallow her whole.

After a brief pause, one of the guys handed me a calling card with a smirk.

"Here, give this to her. Tell her to call me later," he said. I nodded, waiting to see if the others would offer anything, but instead, the first guy stood up.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

That's enough, miss. Don't let her crush on anyone else, okay?" he teased, patting my shoulder before walking away.

I returned to Mica, holding the calling card.

"So much for acting shy earlier," I teased, handing her the card.

"Oh my gosh, thank you so much! He's the one who helped me when I tripped the other day," she said, giddy with excitement.

"So, his name's Ryle Hawthorne. Handsome, and even his name screams class!"

"Whatever, Mica. Finish your food. Time's almost up."

"Let's go to the mall, sis!" Mica dragged me to the parking lot.

"Did you bring your car?" I asked, but she shook her head, flashing a peace sign.

"Mom and Dad confiscated it. My brother tattled about my constant outings."

"Serves you right," I teased as she got into my car.

"Drive, Madam," she said dramatically, putting on her sunglasses and pretending to be a celebrity.

While Mica wandered around the mall, I stopped by a bookstore. Reading always helped me de-stress, so I ended up buying quite a few books. By the time I returned, Mica had just come out of a makeup shop.

"You just bought makeup the other day, and now you're buying more?"

"Of course! There's a new crush around. I need to look extra pretty tomorrow," she said with a playful wink.

I was about to reply when my phone rang. I signaled to Mica that I'd take the call, and she nodded.

"Hello?"

"Hello, hija. It's your mother-in-law, Mrs. Evander."

"Why did you call, Ma'am?"

"Your mom asked me to remind you to come home early. We're having dinner at your house tonight."

"Ah, okay. I'll head home now."

"Good. Drive safely."

"Yes, Ma'am." I ended the call and turned back to Mica.

"Mica, I need to go home. My mom said we have guests for dinner. Should I drop you off?"

"No need. Go ahead. I'm still on the hunt for more eye candy."

"By the way, Ryle said I shouldn't let you crush on anyone else. Call him later. It's your chance!"

"Really? He said that?"

"Yes. Now go home-it's getting late."

"Okay, fine! Drop me off," she finally relented, leading the way to the car.

---

I dropped Mica off and headed home.

"Mom, Dad, I'm home!" I called out, and Mom greeted me with a kiss on the cheek. I noticed there were guests in the living room.

"Perfect timing. Dinner's ready, but you should change first," Mom said.

"Okay, Mom."

---

At the dining table, the adults were deep in a business conversation. I was just glad they weren't bringing up the wedding-yet.

"Oh, Cloud, you're finally here. You're always late," Mrs. Evander commented.

"I'm busy, Mom," he replied curtly.

Their conversation was loud and clear, but I didn't care. I didn't even glance at Cloud. After yesterday's threat about making my life miserable over this arranged marriage, I had no energy to deal with him.

"Uhm, Mom, Dad, can I head up to my room? I have a lot to do-you know, graduating and all."

"Can you wait a little longer, sweetie? Your fiancé just arrived," Mom said.

Fiancé? I didn't even care about this guy.

"Sorry, Mom. I really need to get back to my work."

"Luna, you can go," Dad said, granting me permission. I quickly excused myself and rushed to my room.

Locking the door behind me, I sighed in relief. God, I couldn't stand Cloud's presence. Always with that sour expression.

Here's the revised version of your text with improved grammar and consistency while keeping the tone and style intact

"Mom, can I go out? Mica and I are just going to the mall."

"Sweetie, you don't need to ask for my permission. You're about to get married, and you're still asking me for approval?"

"Come on, Mom. It's too early for that talk. I don't want to hear it."

"Why not? Aren't you happy you're going to marry Mr. Evander's son? Cloud is so handsome."

"Handsome, yes, but he seems arrogant. Why would I care about that guy? Happy? Duh! Why would I be happy about marrying someone I don't even like?"

"Whatever, Mom. I'm leaving now. Bye."

"Take care, Sweetie."

I smiled before walking to the garage. It's Saturday, so I decided to go out. I need a break from all the stressful schoolwork.

"Sis, where are you? I've been here at the mall for ages," I said, glancing around while searching for her.

"Wait, Luna. My god, I'm still doing my makeup."

"You're so slow, Mica. You've been getting ready forever."

"Sorry! I just want to look good. Who knows? There might be some hot guys at the mall. Imagine looking like a mess if I didn't prepare, so chill. I'm almost done."

Geez, this girl-always on the lookout for handsome guys.

"Alright, I'll walk around the mall. Just call me when you're here."

"Copy, sis." I ended the call and started exploring the mall.

While browsing books, I noticed a familiar face. That's Cloud. And who's that girl with him? I stepped out of the bookstore and discreetly followed them.

"Luna, this will get you in trouble," I muttered to myself. They entered a jewelry shop, so I followed.

"Love, look at this necklace. Isn't it beautiful?" I raised an eyebrow upon hearing that. Love?

Cloud leaned closer to the girl, examining the necklace. Oh my God, don't tell me...

"It looks great on you, love," he said, wrapping his arm around her waist and kissing her lips. The girl even blushed at his gesture.

What the f*ck? Cloud has a girlfriend? And he's marrying me? Oh my God, this can't be! So I'm supposed to be the "other woman"? But why am I irritated by the girl with him? Ugh, never mind.

I left the shop, just in time for Mica to call.

"Sis, I'm here at the mall. Where are you so I can find you?"

"I'm at the bookstore," I replied while walking back to the store. Maybe I should tell Mom about Cloud's girlfriend to stop this wedding.

"Okay, wait for me there. Bye!"

I put away my phone and resumed browsing books. I already have tons of books at home, but I still enjoy buying new ones. I love collecting them-it's my favorite thing to do.

"Hello, sis!" I turned around when I heard her voice. Mica approached me with a big smile.

"You took so long."

"Sorry! Let's go. I'm starving," she said, dragging me out of the bookstore toward her favorite restaurant.

"I'm eating a lot today."

I frowned at her. "Really? When did you ever eat less?"

"I was on a diet before, so I only ate a little."

"Oh, so the 'little' you ate was equivalent to three servings?"

"Ugh, whatever, Luna. I'm eating as much as I want today. Period."

I just shook my head and browsed the menu.

---

"Mom, we're out of my favorite cake," I whined like a child. Well, I had no choice-I prefer Mom's baking over store-bought cakes.

"I'll make you some later, Sweetie, okay?" she said. I nodded and jumped for joy.

"Mica, you're acting weird."

"That's harsh, sis," Mica said, pouting.

"I'm just being honest. By the way, you let Ryle drop you off? No wonder you didn't want me to take you. You saw him earlier, huh?" I said, raising an eyebrow. This girl will hang out with anyone she barely knows.

"Sorry! You told me to grab opportunities, so I just followed your advice."

"So if I tell you to kiss him, will you do it?"

"Sure, why not? If it's him, I'm all in."

"You're impossible." I massaged my temples because of Mica's antics.

While we were on a video call, someone knocked on my bedroom door.

"Sweetie, it's time to eat."

"Yes, Mom."

"Sis, I'll end the call. We're having dinner."

"Okay, tell your mom to feed me too! Just kidding. Or not-maybe tell her," Mica joked.

I shook my head at her silliness before ending the call. What could we be having for dinner?

"Mom, what's for dinner?"

"Your favorite, Sweetie-sinigang and adobo."

"Wow, you're the best, Mom."

She smiled at me and gestured for me to sit down.

While we ate, I couldn't help but notice Dad's empty chair again.

"Mom, isn't Dad coming home yet?"

"He said he'll be back around midnight. He has a meeting with Mr. Evander."

"We rarely get to eat with Dad anymore. He's always busy."

I know Dad is doing his best for the business, but I can't help feeling sad about it.

"Don't worry, Sweetie. He's working hard for us. Besides, you have me," Mom said, pinching my cheek with a smile.

We continued eating, talking about small things. Even if it was just the two of us, it was still a happy dinner.

After eating, I went straight to my room and lay down. I'm getting married... but Cloud has a girlfriend. I have to tell Mom tomorrow.

I'm too young for this marriage. But I don't have a choice-it's for Dad's business. I know how important it is to him, so I can't complain. But why do I care so much about what I saw earlier?

I shouldn't be affected, right? But it feels unfair. How can I marry someone who's clearly in love with someone else? It's wrong-everything about this feels wrong.

I kept replaying what I saw in my head. Cloud... with his girlfriend? And they looked so sweet. What will happen if Mom finds out? She might not believe me. And Dad? He'll surely get angry if he finds out I tried to interfere with his deal with Mr. Evander.

I hope tomorrow, I'll have the courage to tell Mom the truth about Cloud. If only I could stop this wedding before it's too late.

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3

The next morning, I woke up to the smell of coffee and freshly cooked breakfast. As I went downstairs, I saw Mommy busy in the kitchen, as usual.

"Good morning, sweetie!" she greeted me with a smile. "Come, let's eat."

I sat down, but I had no appetite. My mind was racing with thoughts, especially about what happened yesterday. Should I tell Mommy about Cloud? But what if she tells Daddy?

"Sweetie, is there something wrong?" Mommy asked when she noticed how quiet I was. "You're unusually quiet today. Are you okay?"

I hesitated. If I told her, would it stop the wedding? Or would it just make everything more complicated?

"Mom," I began, trying to muster my courage. "I need to tell you something about Cloud."

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Cloud? What about him?"

"Yesterday, I saw him at the mall... with another woman. And they seemed really close." I couldn't beat around the bush anymore. "They kissed, Mom."

For a moment, her expression froze. She set her coffee down and looked at me intently, as if processing what I'd just said. Then, she let out a heavy sigh.

"Are you sure about this? Maybe you're mistaken. I know Cloud, and according to his mom, he doesn't have a girlfriend."

"No, Mom! I saw it with my own eyes. They were at a jewelry store, and he called her 'love.'" The words spilled out faster than I could control. "He has a girlfriend, and yet you still expect me to marry him?"

Her face softened, but I could still see the worry in her eyes. "Sweetie, I know this is hard. But sometimes, arranged relationships take time to work out. Maybe he's not ready yet. Who knows? Maybe, in time, things will change."

I shook my head in frustration. "But, Mom, he's cheating. Isn't that a red flag? What if he never changes? I don't want to be trapped in a marriage like that."

She fell silent, staring down at her coffee. I could see the struggle in her expression-torn between protecting me and upholding the business arrangement Daddy had made with Cloud's family.

"Let's not jump to conclusions just yet, okay? I'll talk to your dad about this tonight. For now, let's give it some time. We'll figure this out."

I didn't argue anymore. I knew she didn't want to believe it, but the truth was staring me in the face. Cloud was seeing someone else, and this marriage already felt like a prison before it even

"What is it you need to tell me, sis? Why'd you drag me to a bar?" Mica asked, confused, as she played with her glass of whiskey.

"Our company is going bankrupt."

Mica stared at me in shock. "The heck, girl! Stop joking. Your dad's a genius at running the business. There's no way your company is going under!"

"It's true, Mica. We're losing money." I took a deep breath before looking her in the eye. "And the worst part? Dad wants me to marry his business partner's son to save the company." Tears began streaming down my face. From childhood until now, Dad has controlled every aspect of my life.

"Sis, what do you mean marry? They're arranging your marriage to his partner's son?" I nodded, laughing bitterly.

"He even threatened me. Cloud said he'd make my life miserable. He thinks I'm some desperate girl."

"S-sis..." Mica moved closer to me, rubbing my back, her fists clenched in anger.

"And yesterday, I found out that Cloud already has a girlfriend. Mica, I don't want to ruin someone else's relationship."

"Cloud? What's his last name?" Mica asked, taking another swig of her drink.

"Evander."

She choked on her drink, spitting it out in surprise. This girl-here I am pouring my heart out, and she's being dramatic!

"WTF, sis! Are you serious? You're marrying Cloud Evander?" I frowned at her, confused by her reaction.

"Yeah, why? Why are you so shocked? What's the big deal?"

"Seriously, Luna? Don't you know he's a famous business tycoon?" Mica said, her voice almost squealing.

I rolled my eyes. "Mica, don't forget-he threatened me."

"Sorry! Hahaha." Frustrated, I left her there and went home.

The days passed quickly. I graduated with a nursing degree and worked for a short time, but I never imagined the day would come when I would marry Cloud.

"Anak, smile for me. You look so much better when you smile," Mommy said, adjusting my veil. I forced a smile, even though my heart wasn't in it. Who would be happy marrying someone they didn't love?

"Ija, I know this is difficult for you because you don't love my son yet. But I believe that, in time, you'll learn to love him," Mrs. Evander said, trying to encourage me. I managed a weak smile, even though I felt like crying. I'm too young for this...

"Luna, let's take a picture," Mommy said, so I stood beside her. "I know this wedding is hard for you. I'm sorry, but you need to marry Cloud to save our company." Her tears started to fall, and I quickly wiped them away.

"It's okay, Mom. I understand how important the company is to you and Daddy."

"Promise me you'll visit me even after you're married. If you don't, I'll be upset," I joked, even though it felt like a farewell. She hugged me tightly, and I held onto her.

"Oh, enough drama. The wedding is about to start," Mommy said. I stood up, composed myself, and took a deep breath.

Daddy entered the bridal room, his eyes filled with unshed tears.

"My only daughter is getting married," he said softly. "I'm sorry, anak, for agreeing to this wedding even though I know you don't love Cloud. I did this to save the company."

I stood beside him, tears streaming down my face. "It's okay, Dad. I understand. Don't cry; I'm starting to tear up too," I said, trying to lighten the mood. He smiled, wiping his tears. "You need to look beautiful today, anak. Daddy loves you very much."

I hope my life turns out well after this wedding.

As I walked toward the altar, I couldn't help but feel anxious and sad.

"Luna, anak," Daddy called, and I looked at him.

"Now that you're about to leave us, promise me you'll take care of yourself. If you ever need help, don't hesitate to come to me or your mom."

I smiled at Daddy, tears welling up as I faced the altar. I knew there was no turning back now.

"Cloud, do you take Luna to be your lawfully wedded wife, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or for worse, as long as you both shall live?"

He took a deep breath before answering, "I do."

"Luna, do you take Cloud to be your lawfully wedded husband, to have and to hold, in sickness and in health, for richer or poorer, for better or for worse, as long as you both shall live?"

I hesitated before answering. I looked at Mommy and Daddy; they smiled at me. "I do, Father."

"You may now kiss the bride." Cloud lifted my veil slowly, looking into my eyes. His lips brushed against mine briefly before he wiped them, his expression filled with disgust.

While everyone celebrated, I stood in the corner, wondering if this was where my life would change.

"Luna, congrats, Ija!" Mrs. Evander said, approaching me and kissing my cheek.

"Thank you, Mrs. Evander."

"Please, call me Mommy or Mama," she insisted, and I smiled shyly.

"Let's celebrate at our table, Ija!"

"Sorry, Mama, but I'm not feeling well right now."

"Oh, really? Wait, I'll call Cloud to take you home." I wanted to stop her, but she had already walked away.

As Luna and Cloud stood in front of the grand house their parents had given them as a wedding gift, both felt an overwhelming emptiness. They were strangers, bound by family obligation, not by choice or affection. The silence between them was suffocating as they stepped into the house for the first time as husband and wife.

Inside, the coldness between them was palpable, reflecting the emotional distance in their hearts. Would this be the start of a new life or merely an extension of the loneliness they both felt?

"Let's make one thing clear, Luna," Cloud suddenly said, his voice sharp, breaking the uncomfortable silence. "I didn't want this any more than you did. This isn't what I wanted for my life, so don't expect anything from me."

Luna flinched at the harshness of his words but didn't back down. She had never dreamed of marrying Cloud either. She was forced into this marriage for her family's sake, and it was obvious that Cloud shared the same resentment.

"You don't have to remind me," Luna replied coldly. "Do you think I ever wanted to marry you? This is just as much a nightmare for me as it is for you."

"Good. At least we're on the same page. Don't worry, I won't interfere with your life. You live your life, and I'll live mine. We just have to make this look convincing for our parents and their precious business deal."

Luna stared at him, anger bubbling up inside. She knew this marriage would never be about love, but hearing Cloud state it so bluntly still hurt. "That's fine by me. I don't need anything from you either. Do whatever you want, Cloud, and I'll do the same. Let's just get through this."

Cloud turned his back on her, walking deeper into the house. "Good. As long as we stay out of each other's way, this arrangement will work. This is nothing more than a business deal. Don't expect anything more from me."

Luna's chest tightened with frustration and hurt. She wanted to scream, to cry, but she knew it would be pointless. They were both trapped in this situation, but she was determined not to let Cloud make her feel smaller than she already did.

"Don't worry, Cloud," Luna said, her voice laced with bitterness. "I never wanted anything from you to begin with."

Cloud didn't respond. He just kept walking away, disappearing into another room without a second glance.

Luna stood in the grand, empty living room, her heart heavy with the reality of her new life. She had everything material wealth could offer, but inside, she felt completely hollow.

To Be Continued...