The Billionaire's Adopted

Chapter 1

The next day, he was here at the resort with Aling Martha and was sweeping up the scattered leaves and equipment that had been used last night at his son's wedding reception.

Even though he was busy sweeping, his mind was wandering about what happened last night. He never expected something like that to happen to him. It was the first scary thing he had ever experienced that someone would do that to him. He was very scared, but he was so relieved that someone saved him. A man who is very tall and very strong. He saw how it lifted the man so that those on the ground no longer glowed. He couldn't see her face or part of it because of the little light on the road. He wanted to, but because of the speed of the incident and fear, he immediately left and went home.

It's just frustrating because I didn't even understand what it said. He sighed. If only he had been able to continue his studies, he would have understood what the man who saved him said.

Hopefully, he will recognize it and appreciate it. I hope so.

"Alana!"

"Which Mar!" he was surprised and dropped the broom when he heard ALing Martha. "Why?"

"Why? I've been calling you for a while. What's happening to you, why are you so stupid?"

Oh? He didn't notice anymore. "I'm sorry, Aling Mar."

"Did something happen to your Mom?"

"Nothing. Mama is fine. What happened last night?"

"It's good. What happened last night?"

"Someone saved me last night."

"Saved?"

He told the whole story of last night. Very shocked and worried to hear what happened to him.

"I just didn't understand what he was telling me so I left immediately and said I didn't even see his face."

"Does your mom know this?"

He shook his head. "I didn't tell him because he might get worried and get worse. Don't tell him Aling Mar, please!"

"Yes. I think your mom's condition will worsen when she finds out. I wish I would have taken you home if that's what happened to you. It's good that someone helped you. So next time, go home early . That might happen again."

"Maybe not, Aling Mar."

"No. You'll be at the store until four in the afternoon."

"But, Which Mar---"

"It's a tough time right now, Alana. Even though we can say this place is safe, there are still people who will do bad things to others. It's better to be doubly careful, especially you. You and your mom are the only two here. Do you understand me, hija?"

"Yes." He couldn't do anything else. He will just follow Aling Martha. All he wants is to meet the person who saved him.

[Roman Manicci]

"He's been doing that for three years and you just found out?! Are you really working or just hanging out? I've been away for a week and this is what you're going to greet me with when I come back? Give me the reports! Now! "

He had just returned to the office after a week of business trips and attending the wedding of an acquaintance at a resort. After the wedding he attended, he immediately went home and was suddenly told that one of his administrators was making embarrassing news to the audience. News that even his name and what he has worked for for several years may suddenly disappear and he will never be able to get over it!

He was born into a rich family but that doesn't mean he won't make his own fortune. Everything he has today, he worked hard to build without any help from anyone until now at the age of thirty-two.

Then, this Francisco Caprio is the first person to do something stupid in his company?!

[Roman]

He threw the newspaper in his face that contained the news that he had hired a pro^^titute and was photographed entering a hotel. "I don't care how many paid women you sleep with but don't be fooled that you have a high position here in my company!"

"I apologize to you, Sir Macini. I didn't think there were photographers following me."

"That means you are stupid! Look, our enemy here is not only the media but also other business competitors. For sure they are very happy that you, me and the company have been scandalized. I hope you think! Use your brain, he doesn't bring you!"

"I'm really sorry. This will not happen again. If you insist that I resign from the position and the company, I will not stop you"

He shook his head and laughed. "Oh, no. I don't believe that sh^t. Didn't you remember that you owe me a huge unpaid debt? How are you going to resign?"

"I'll pay for it all. Don't worry. I'll find a way."

"I'll accept your resignation until the debt you owe me is paid in full. Make sure Francisco, don't ever run away from me."

"Yes, sir."

Even though he was older than her, she didn't care. He already knows what responsibility is hanging on his shoulders, but he seems to be acting like a child between the two of them.

[Alana POV]

"Mom, you have to eat the food." He begged his mother.

He shook his head and lowered his hand holding the spoon. "I'm full, son."

"But you just have a little bite, eh."

"Later, son. I just want to go back to bed."

He supported her and laid her on the bed. He notices that it is page by page and that he prefers to lie down rather than leave the house.

"By the way Alana, what do you want us to do for your birthday? You'll be eighteen years old next week."

Yes it is. "Nothing. Don't worry about my birthday. We will prioritize your health first."

"Alana, it's your birthday so we should make it a priority. We'll only celebrate it once and make sure, you're not a child anymore."

"Mom, I'm not a child."

"Alana, listen. When you reach the age of twenty-eight, you will become a woman. That means, you can be yourself and you will decide what you want to do with your life."

"Is that so, mom? Well, when I'm eighteen, will you agree to get checked up?"

"Why?" it was a surprising question.

"You said I can do whatever I want when I turn eighteen."

"Oh, you." It laughed. "Alright, what do you want for your birthday? Do you want us to prepare a party?"

"I don't want to, mom. I don't want to do anything on my birthday."

"That's not right, son. It's your birthday and then we won't get ready?"

"That's not really up to me, mom. If you really want it, maybe just have a little party with Aling Martha and Ate Julia."

"Alright, we'll do that and the ones we'll prepare are your favorite foods."

"Thank you, mom."

"Alana, listen to me. When you're at the right age, you should stand up and know whatever you want to be and decide in life. If you know you're not stepping on anyone, do what you think is right. And wherever you go, remember that mom loves you very much. Take good care of yourself."

"Mom, I'm really doing that. And I love you too. I promise I'll remember what you said. But mom, I want a present."

"What is that son and I will give it."

"After my birthday, let's check up, huh?" he said smiling.

"It's you. Go ahead."

"Yehey! Thanks, mom!"

Good thing his mom agreed. Honestly, he doesn't think about doing things that will change his life. He is doing well here. Life is quiet here on the beautiful island and with his mother and people he trusts wholeheartedly. That's it. he is happy, quiet and content with his life, he can only wish on his birthday that his mother's health will be good.

[Theresa (Mother/Parent) POV]

"It's very rare that you call me, Theresa."

Before he called her, he waited for Alana to leave the house. He meant that with the amount of time, he only now decided to talk to Alana's ex-husband and father. He already knows that he will not be with his son for much longer, so even if it is against his heart to do this, it is also for his son's future.

"If you hadn't forced yourself to leave with our son and live there, you wouldn't have experienced the hardships now---"

"If you didn't put your gambling addiction first, maybe we would still be together. It's good that I made up my mind to leave you and live in the quiet life of your son."

"Did you just call because you're going to scold me again? It's been so many years Theresa. Do you think I'm still like this until now?"

"No, Francisco. I know and feel that you have changed. I have one last request and I hope you do it."

"What do you mean?"

He took a deep breath. It's heavy inside but if this is the only way to make Alana's life easier. "Alana, I will entrust her to you."

"What?"

"I know that I won't be able to take care of him much longer. I don't want him to be an innocent in the world. I want him to experience the life that should be for him. Somehow, I've raised him to be a good boy. I'm begging you Francisco, you take care of our son."

He waited for her answer. "Alright, I'll agree. I'll take care of him."

"Thank you. I will give you all my trust. Love Alana. Provide her with her needs and finish her education."

"I will."

"Thank you." He can't tell his son the reality that he will disappear from his side. Even if he goes to the doctor, there is no cure for his pain. Hopefully, she will be strong and she prays that she will find someone who will truly love her.

His birthday. A day of fun with his loved ones because one of the most important people is gone. His mother is gone. It happened suddenly. He thought he was just sleeping so he just let it go but it was already noon, he still didn't wake up. He didn't think it would be the last.

Aling Martha and her daughter Ate Julia are helping him well in taking care of his mother's hill. He has no money and doesn't know what to do. He didn't even know if he cried as long as he didn't feel anything. His whole body felt numb from the speed of the incident.

"Are you alright, Alana?" asked his Sister Julia. He stood next to her while observing her mother's coffin.

"It's okay, Sister."

"Mama and I asked you to stay. Don't worry, you'll be fine with us---"

"I might just be a burden to you, sister."

"No! Alana, we consider you a member of our family. We love you as well as your mother so we will not leave you."

"I never thought this would happen."

"Alana, we feel the pain that Auntie Theresa is gone, but understand what she wants, that she doesn't want you to be sad. Even if she leaves you, no matter where you go, she's right next to you and watching over you. I want of your mom that you dream. Fulfill what you want in life."

That's what his mom always told him. But, how will he do that without her by his side? Who can he tell his problem to? He is her only inspiration in life.

"Alana, you have a visitor." Aling Martha called him.

When he turned around, an old man wearing salamat and formal clothes. He walked towards his mother's coffin. He watched his mother for a few minutes. When it was over, he approached her.

"Alana, can I talk to you?"

"W-why? Who are you?"

"I'm your dad."

"Will you take Alana?!"

The man introduced himself as his father. After a long time, he also recognized her. When he asks his mother about his father, she ignores his question until he stops asking. His mother is still alive, she never showed up to the two of them but only now that her mother is gone. He didn't know what he would feel when they both met for the first time. This man in front of him was like a stranger.

"Yes. His mother is gone and he is alone here, I decided to take him and he will live with me."

"Wait a minute. Well, there's no way you're going to take Alana from us right away." Aling Martha immediately objected. "Alana's whole life, she's grown up here and made up her mind and then, you just found out that her mom just died, you have the right to take her?!"

"Her mother herself spoke to me." This is the answer.

"W-what?" did he talk to his mom? when?

"He told me before he disappeared that he would entrust Alana to me. Our daughter. Please give Alana what she deserves, especially Alana's education."

"How can we trust you? And if you really are Alana's father, do you have any evidence?" Aling Martha's challenge to the old man.

"Mom! Calm down." Julia weaned her mother.

"No! I need proof! What if it's just an introduction but it turns out to be a liar."

He took out a big envelope and gave it to Aling Martha. When they opened it they were surprised. There is a birth certificate and a baptismal certificate attesting that this is indeed the father!

"If you don't believe me yet, I have more to show you."

"Hi-no. It's okay. You say that you can teach Alana to provide for her needs? What is your job and why did her mother break up?"

"I am one of the shareholders of a company. When Theresa gave birth to Alana, because I was too focused on work for the needs of both of them, Theresa left with our daughter. I begged her to come back but Theresa's decision was made up to be far away from each other. The only thing I can help my mother and daughter with is support."

"But why did you come here to see your mother and daughter?"

"Because if I do that, he himself said that he will go away again and I will lose communication with him. You don't have to worry about Alana because she is in good condition with me. I will do everything as her father and fill the void I will give him clothes, shoes, education and a comfortable life that he wants."

"But, Alana..."

"I know you're very worried about her but Alana is eighteen. I'm not saying that I'm forcing her to come with me, it's just that her mother talked to me. The final decision is up to her if she stays here or he will come with me."

"Alana, what's your decision?"

"Huh?" he? He decides? What will he answer? He is happy here with Aling Martha and Ate Jula but his father is here because of his mother. This is the one who said that his father will take care of him. So, what will he choose?

He could not speak. He was confused about what he wanted. He likes it here but his mom is heavier. When he goes with his father, he will help him especially in his studies.

"Alana, hija? What do you want?"

He has made up his mind. "Yes. I'll come with you."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 2

Alana POV

After burying his mom, it was time to say goodbye.

"Alana, are you really sure you're going to live with your dad? You can live with us, right?" Aling Martha told him to cry.

"Mama, don't nap or confuse Alana. But Alana, Mama is right too. You can be with us." Julia said.

He smiled. "I've made up my mind. I'm sure mom wants me and dad to be together again. I have confidence in him that he'll teach me."

"We'll pray for you, Alana. You also visit here sometime, ah?"

"Yes, Sister Julia. Thank you very much, everyone."

"Be careful, hija."

He hugged her tightly. "Thank you very much for your help, especially with mom. I will never forget you."

His father has arrived with a car. "Are you ready? We're leaving."

"Yes. Wait a minute, I'll get my things."

"You don't need to sift through any stuff. We'll buy you new stuff there." It said.

"Ah, okay, but can I bring at least one thing?"

It agreed. He immediately entered the house to the bedroom and took the only photo of his mother from his bag. He thinks that this is the most important thing that he doesn't want to lose by his side.

After he came out, he hugged Aling Martha and Ate Julia again and said goodbye. He entered the car.

From now on, his life will change.

Alana POV

After several hours of long journey, they arrived. He never thought that what he would see on television and magazines, he would experience himself! To ride in fancy cars, ride in expensive yachts and helicopters! He was shocked by what was happening. Is his father this rich?

They came to a big house. Very well done and the area is spacious. Not like his mother's residence which is just a hut. When he entered, he was immediately greeted by women wearing uniforms.

"Welcome back, Sir Francisco."

"Is the room ready?"

"Yes, Sir. We'll just serve the food later."

"All right." His father confronted him. "Come on, Alana. I'll take you to your room."

He followed it. When he entered his room, he was surprised by its beauty and size.

"Later, the maids will serve the food and you will get dressed tonight. Tomorrow, my secretary will go with you to buy your things."

He was about to leave when he spoke. "Can I ask a question?"

It stopped. "What is that?"

"Why did you and mom break up?"

A few seconds of silence. "I want to say it but I know you won't understand. Now that your mom is gone, I'll take care of you. As I promised your mom, I'll teach you and give you whatever you want. Rest already." it must go away.

Even though his mother bought him here, why doesn't he feel that this is his father? There was a little joy in the end, he recognized who his father was but it seemed like nothing. it's heartbreaking that even if someone wants to take care of him, his mother's love will still not be surpassed but nevertheless, he will try to warm his heart to his father.

[Roman POV]

Tonight his parents invited him to a small party at a restaurant. They have just returned from Milan and also want to see them as siblings. He and his younger brother Dylan.

"It's a miracle that you and your mom joined us for dinner."

"Right, it's a miracle. Where's Dylan?"

"He has an important meeting so he can't go. That's okay because you're here to join us with your dad." His mom said happily.

"So during our time abroad, how's your work?"

"Still busy as always, so many things to be fixed." Especially what one of his men did.

"Yeah, we heard that news while we're at Milan. One of your employees did something unpleasant. Have you fired him yet?"

"No, not yet." How can he get rid of the job that owes him that much and if he does that, he will surely hide it from him. He can't tell his parents the real reason why he might intervene.

"Why not? He's a shame in the news and in the company, you don't want to get rid of him."

"I know that, pa. Don't worry, I'll take care of that."

"Be sure to take care of that right away. The more you delay it, the more your work will pile up."

"I can handle everything, mom, so stop worrying about it."

"Roman, your mother is just concerned about you. You've done so much to exceed your goals. We just want to see you rest and not worry about work."

Oh boy. Here we go again.

"We want to see you having a good time. Take a vacation first. Go somewhere without thinking about work. Much better it's time to settle down. Get married so you can be together forever so your life can be peaceful."

"Mom, is that it again?" that's why he doesn't want to go to this gathering because he's being pressured to find a wife. Not that he doesn't want to, he just doesn't have time for that.

"Then, how about Dylan? Is he the only one you can tease to marry?"

"Dylan just turned twenty-eight but you, Son? You're thirty-five!"

"So?"

"Your brother is just starting his businesses but with you, you've got almost everything. Do you think your dad and I will see you get married and see our future grandson?"

"Your mother and I are old, son. So we are still alive. We should see our grandson, right?"

"I already said that those are not on my mind yet. Our company is more important than finding a woman who I will marry and bear you grandchild." He insisted on the parents.

"Well, if you're going to make your mom wait for us, why don't you find a woman and get her pregnant?"

They were surprised by what his father said. "Pa! What are you---?!"

"Hon! Why did you say that?! Really? Is that your idea?!"

"Okay! I'm sorry I said that. What else can I say? I just want Roman to get married and live peacefully. Maybe that woman will be the one he can stay with and they'll give us a grandchild." This is the reason.

"You really are! I don't want that. He needs to introduce someone to the two of us. Don't we want a woman who is educated, raised in a decent family, kind and respectful. Stop saying that."

"I'm sorry, hon."

Are his parents this desperate to get him married? Yes, he's thirty five years old and it's a good time to get married and start a family. But if he doesn't do it, his parents will never stop him. But as what his father suggested, why not? He thinks that's not a bad idea. If his parents will just keep quiet, He will take that as consideration.

Alana POV

A few days have passed in his new home, he already misses the island. There, at any time he can go out to wander, take a walk anywhere and play in the sea but here, even if he just goes to the garden, he still has to let the maid know. So he just stayed in the room all day. He couldn't say anything that would accompany him in this regard. The food prepared for him was new to him but delicious. It was also cold in his room because of the non-stop operation of the air conditioner. The only things that make him happy are toys like teddy bears and talking to the photo of his late mother. His father has not come home for several days. Where is it? Is it too busy with work? His promise in the past, they would go somewhere and buy him new things.

He heard a knock on the door. He immediately got up from the bed and opened the door, a woman was in front of him. "Why?"

"Can I come in, Alana?"

"O-opo. Come in."

He entered and sat on the bed. "I'm Miss Hazel. Your dad sent me to accompany you shopping."

"Shopping?" does that mean they will go for a walk?

It nodded. "Yes. We will buy clothes, shoes, bags and anything you want. We will also go to the salon to fix your hair."

"Really? Is dad coming with us?"

"No Alana, eh. But don't worry, even if your dad isn't with you, I'm sure you'll enjoy our shopping. Tomorrow, I'll teach you things like basic manners, a little knowledge of how to talk to other people and basic learning in case you're going back to school. So, are you ready?"

"Alright. I'll just change clothes."

After he got dressed, he immediately got into the car with Miss Hazel.

He was amazed by the height of the buildings, the number of cars and the number of people. He was taken to a very beautiful market. Miss Hazel said, this is called a shopping mall. Everything they need can be found here. When she entered, she was very elegant and beautiful everywhere she looked.

He took her to a salon. Her hair was styled because it was knee-length, braided to the back. Her hair is so soft to touch. Then he was taken to a shop with many clothes. He was asked to choose what he wanted but since it was his first time in this place, he was a little unable to choose so he chose for him himself. He also likes what he chooses especially if it's pink.

The next day, he began to be taught things such as how to behave in front of people, how to use cutlery at the dining table and so on. he was also taught a little English. He knows other words but what Miss Hazel teaches, he has a hard time remembering everything. He only finished grade six so he is struggling. But, he also has to do what he can. He is no longer on the island and he decided to go with his dad. If he wanted to finish school like his mom wanted for him, he would.

It's night and it's raining outside. He was alone at the table while having dinner. It's been almost a month since he was taken by his self-proclaimed father. He thought that when he arrived and lived in his power, he would be able to study as he was promised, but until now he is still here waiting when his promise will be fulfilled. He was going home but he would only find out the next day from the helpers who had left and he never caught up with him.

It was the dream of both of them and his late mother that he could continue his studies. Since his mother is sick, he has to watch over and take care of her every day. When his mother was buried, his father took him here to live and finally get an education.

'When his father is away, Ma'am Hazel is here to accompany him. His father assigned it to teach him simple things that he should learn. How to behave when in front of people, proper manners at the dinner table, and so on. Ma'am Hazel also takes him for a walk at the Mall and buys him what he wants. That's because his dad wants to shower him with things that he likes and suits him. But, this is not what he needs. He wants to know when he can go to school.

He is grateful because he is given clothes, shoes, toys and other things but he will be happier if he receives good news from his father that he can go back to school. It's boring every day that he's always here at home. He eats alone from breakfast to dinner and if he wants someone to talk to, the servants ignore him.

He heard a car coming. He stood up and peered out the window. "Dad!" Finally, his father came home!

He greeted her as she entered. "Good evening."

"Oh, Alana. How are you?"

"Um, that's good. It's good that I caught up with you. I only found out from the assistants that you had already left when I woke up."

"I'm just too busy at work. There's a lot to do. So, are you learning anything from what Hazel taught you?"

"Yes. He's kind and he's definitely a good teacher. By the way, thank you very much for the clothes and shoes. Ma'am Hazel said that you were the ones who told me to buy nice things."

"Nothing. Those are for you."

"Um Papa, I just want to ask when will I go to school? I've been here for almost a month---"

"I know, I'm already doing that so you don't have to worry about your studies. But for now, if you're learning something from Hazel, maybe you're ready."

He was suddenly surprised by the last thing he said. "ready? Where are you?"

He ignored her question and called one of the assistants. "Please pack Alana's things and put them in the car."

"Next time."

"Why? Where are we going? And why am I carrying my things?"

"I'll explain it there when we get there. Get ready because after they pack your things, we'll leave right away. I'll wait in the car."

"But---"

At this time of night and rainy? He couldn't understand anything about his father's actions or what he was planning.

"Seniorita, come on so you can get dressed."

To Be Continued...

Chapter 3

ALANA

"Dad, where are we going?" he asked while in the car with his father.

"Alana, I have something important to do and I need to do it as soon as possible. I can't watch or take care of you while I'm there, so I'll leave you to someone I know can take care of you." It said.

He was shocked. To other people? Does that mean he will live with someone he doesn't even know? Why? Couldn't his father have taken him because he himself will take care of him? Why leave him to someone else if this is what's going to happen?

"B-but, you promise to take care of me and send me to school, right?"

"I know but I really have to do that thing. Don't worry, I know someone who will be with you while I'm gone."

"But because..."

They have arrived. Their car stopped at a big gate. He couldn't see a bit because of the darkness but he knew they were in a big house.

The driver took out his two luggages. His father dropped him off opposite the gate. He was starting to get nervous why they were here and if this was really the house he was going to live in.

"Papa, are you sure? If you have a lot to do, I'll just go home with us. It won't be a problem if I go back there again. It's safer and I know a lot of people there."

He shook his head in disapproval of what he wanted. "I can't, Alana. It's not like I'm going to leave you here and break my promise to you. But for now, give it to me first, okay? Here, I'll give you something."

He was given a white envelope. "When you see him, give it to him."

"go ahead."

"Remember what Hazel taught you. Don't get a headache while you live there."

"Dad, how long will I live here?"

"Until I finish what I'm doing. I'll get back to you. Be careful here. Alright, I'm leaving."

"Papa---" suddenly closed the car window and left.

If it was just like this, he wouldn't have come. He will be moved to another house. What kind of father does he live here? Is it a friend or a relative?

It started raining again so he quickly covered his things to prevent them from getting wet. He went to the gate. There is no doorbell and it is locked. How can he get inside? He thinks that because the place is so dark, there are a few lights that are on in different parts of the house.

He can think of a way, but it might be a source of trouble. He could wait here but since it was late at night, rainy and too cold, he couldn't wait here any longer.

He looked for a wall to climb. Luckily there is a tall coconut tree near the wall. He first climbed up and put in the things he was carrying to make sure he climbed up and went inside. He knew that what he did was wrong and that he was like a woman in labor entering here but he really couldn't handle the cold air. His clothes are also wet because of the rain.

When his father left him here, he was like a beggar without a companion or someone who cared about him. His mother left him after his father left him for someone else. He just wants to experience having a family to be with, but it's like what he expected and vice versa.

ROMAN

He suddenly woke up and got up from the bed. He didn't know if he heard something outside or if he was dreaming. He is a heavy sleeper and does not wake up easily, but it is rare for him to wake up suddenly.

He is tired from work. He was doing a lot all day, especially since he was still cleaning up the mess made by one of his employees. His parents are forcing him to remove it from the company but he cannot agree. That person owes him a lot. He will not let him go lightly until he pays his debt in full. His businesses were greatly affected because of what he did. He has given him a grace period and if he still doesn't pay, he might do something.

Hearing his married parents added to the stress. He can't do that right away! He still has a lot of work to do and that doesn't include finding a mate. For him, that's stupid and crazy. His business is the most important in his life and nothing else!

He heard another noise outside. So he got out of bed and put on a t-shirt and joggers. There is something going on outside his house. Maybe a thief or an animal got in.

He left his room and went to the study room. There is a monitor on the CCTV cameras in every corner of the house. He looked at the cameras one by one and looked for where the noise was coming from. Did an animal or person get in? It was impossible that what he heard was just a hallucination.

After a few minutes of observation, he was surprised when someone caught one of the cameras behind the house. Confirmed that someone entered his house!

So he didn't think twice about contacting the police but he stopped when he saw the person's face.

One girl? Girl? And it looks like you have a lot of things.

He did not continue calling the police. He left the study room and went to where the girl was. When he opened the door, the woman was there, sitting with her head resting on a suitcase.

He opened his eyes and looked at her. What the heck is going on here?

Because he is not that kind of person, even though it is not in his heart, he lets the woman inside the house. Since it was wet from the rain, he lent her a towel first. He still has a conscience when he gets sick. He doesn't know her, he's the one who will be the one with her medical problems.

He continued it in his living room. While it was drying he was walking around not knowing and wondering why it was here in his house. He looked at it. Not sure how old it is. It is small, has long hair and a medium complexion. He also noticed that her clothes were branded as well as the things she was carrying. Did it fly away? If it's true, he needs to know the information about his parents immediately and return it. He doesn't want to get involved in any problem now. He has a lot to deal with and a lot of problems to fix.

He should ask her, right now.

He sat opposite it. "Um, first of all I don't know what you're doing here in my house and I don't know how you got in here."

"I just climbed the big coconut tree behind." It answered immediately.

What? Oh right, this is the second time he told his gardener to cut down that tree but so far it hasn't been done. That's it, someone has entered.

"O-okay? So, why did you go up and come in here? Don't you know that it's illegal to enter a place you're not allowed in?" he spoke to her slowly. He guess it's not a threat and there is no evil plan.

"Hm, I know. But, I can't wait outside the gate anymore because of the cold so I just come in here. I don't see a doorbell so... that's it."

"Then you need something from me? Do you know me?"

It shook its head in response.

"What's your name?"

He stared at her for a few seconds. "Huh?"

"What's your name?" Does it not understand him?

"Alana."

Alana. He doesn't remember that he met Alana so he is telling the truth. "So, what's the reason why you're waiting outside my house?"

"Because Papa said I'll be here first while he does something important."

He was even more confused by what was happening. "I know your dad?"

"He said, eh. That's why he left me here."

"What's your Dad's name?"

It seems to be thinking again. "Hi-I don't know. I didn't ask. When Mama was on the hill, he suddenly appeared and said he was my Papa. Ah! I forgot something." He took something from his skirt pocket. It presents a putting envelope.

"He said, when I see you, I will give it to you."

He took the envelope and opened it. When he read the first sentence in the letter, his eyes widened in shock. The letter is from Francisco Ramos! The employee who made a scandal and owes him a lot!

It is stated in the letter that he cannot pay his debt so as collateral for what will be paid to him, his own son will be the payment.

This girl here is that man's daughter?! That person made his own child pay?!

Oh god! This can't be happening! What will he do? What will he do next?!

Mister Romance Manicci. I can't pay the huge debt but I know that you won't lose or lose me because I have found a way to pay you more than the amount of my debts.

I leave behind my only child, Alana. I leave him to you as collateral for all my debts. You are in charge of any decision what future you will give the child. Many thanks to all. -Francisco.

He felt like his head hurt from what he read. He couldn't believe it would happen. This man who disgraced his company and owes a huge amount of money, will gamble his own son to escape his responsibility! Damn that man! I think this is the weirdest thing that happened in his whole life.

"What did Papa say?"

He woke up to this question. He could not answer. He thinks that this girl has no idea that her father has left her. Or maybe not?

Doubtful. What if this is just Francisco's plan and this girl is guilty of it? This is a very sad situation but he should not be complacent.

Of its true or not, this girl can't stay in her household.

He sat opposite it. He needs to calm himself down first. "Before I answer that. Do you know why your Papa sent you here?"

It came to mind. "I don't know, eh. He just came home from work afterwards, he packed my things and brought me here."

"And what did he say why did he bring you here?"

"He just said, he has work far away and it will take a long time to get home, so I will stay here first."

"Did your Papa say anything about me?"

"Nothing. That's just what he said. I'll just wait for him to come back and he'll pick me up after his work."

He saw that he knew nothing about his father's plan. It just means that this girl is now his problem. What will he do here?

"So, where is your Papa going?"

"I don't know. Since he took me from us, I haven't seen or talked to him much because he's always been away."

"Yours? Where are you from?"

"I live on an island. It's beautiful there. It's just that, because Mama died, I had to go with Papa because he promised me that he would send me to school. Well, that's what Mama wanted so I went. But, I didn't I don't know if Papa will keep his promise to me because every time I ask him when I will go to school, he doesn't answer me. Papa buys me clothes, toys, but what I really want is to go to school."

"Is that so? How old are you?"

"Eighteen."

She doesn't look like an eighteen year old. "You know, I didn't know... that you were coming. And your Papa didn't tell me that you were going to live here."

"Huh?" It was surprising. He could see that she was starting to panic. "B-but, that's what Papa said."

"If you want, just go home. I can help---"

"Not allowed." It was immediately against it. "That's why I went with Papa after Mama's funeral because Mama wanted me to finish school. I wanted to go home, but I held that Papa would fulfill his promise to me."

He understood the point. It especially believes in promising someone who has made it collateral for the debt.

"Okay, I understand. I guess I don't have a choice. Alright, you stay here first."

"Really thanks!"

"But you won't be staying here. First we need to solve your problem which has become my problem. Come, I'll take you to your room first."

It's freaking two in the morning and his brain isn't working. He will let him go first and later, he will have him find that Francisco.

To Be Continued....