The trouble with Love

---

I quietly watched as the bakery on the side of the road closed, just weeks after my mother asked me to leave home, and now my job is closing too.

My employer said someone already bought the place, a significant amount for them to move to Rizal. But I won't be going with them; it's too far, and I won't be able to see my father.

"Sorry, this is all I can offer. Helda took all your wages from me," my female boss apologized. She was kind, the type who genuinely helps you as much as she can.

"Thank you," I smiled at her, that being the last smile I saw before they left the place where I first worked.

I sighed; it was only 10 in the morning, and it was already scorching hot. Combine that with the unpleasant smell around, and it wasn't a pleasant walk.

I tried walking and thought about finding another job. On the other side, there was a newly opened supermarket. I went there and headed straight to the cashier.

"Do you accept applicants?" The woman with thin eyebrows raised her eyes, scanned my body before stopping at my eyes.

"Your resume?"

"I-I don't have a resume."

"Are you a high school graduate?" I hesitated; I couldn't answer immediately because I didn't finish high school. I wanted my siblings to finish their education, so I supported them.

I shook my head. "N-no."

"If so, you can't work here, and I think you're not of the right age." I lowered my gaze; I was only fifteen, and I would turn sixteen tomorrow, but here I am, looking for a job instead of studying.

I sighed heavily as I left. I walked again on the hot road, continuing my job search.

But after a few hours of searching, it seemed like luck wasn't on my side. I wasn't accepted because, like my first attempt, they were looking for a resume.

"Can I buy..." I was on the side of the market where I bought coconut ice, and the man smiled at me before giving me a five-peso coconut.

"Did the bakery close?" I nodded while sipping. He used to buy there every morning. He became a regular customer for our pandesal, but sadly, I won't be able to work there again.

"Looking for a job?" I lowered the empty cup.

"Yes, I am."

"I know of one, but the pay is low."

"Really, where?"

"At the cellphone store. They need a saleswoman." He easily caught my interest, so I almost agreed to help him that day.

We went to a cellphone store, small but my new boss said meals were free, and the weekly salary was only a thousand pesos, depending on daily sales.

"How old are you?" My new female boss asked on the same day I started because they needed someone to guard.

"Fifteen."

"You're still young. Aren't you in school?"

I shook my head. "No, I need to work now."

She sighed, and I noticed her gentle gaze, prompting me to look away.

"You're almost the same age as my daughter; she'll finish high school at Fatima."

I remained silent; I knew it was a good school, but I didn't have the chance to enter there. Moreover, I'm more focused on work now and how to earn money to support my mother, especially for my father's diabetes medication.

"This is your only salary..." I could hear the sadness in Mother's voice; I nodded. A week had passed since I got close to that job, and despite the low pay, my boss still gave me a thousand.

"The salary there is low because meals and snacks are free..."

"Well, aren't you lucky to have snacks, while we have none!" I sighed, wanting to bring up her gambling habits. Instead, I held back; I didn't want to be kicked out again.

"Switch jobs, go to Dahlia's!"

"No!" My eyes widened. "I don't want to!"

"Why not?" Mother raised her voice. "Look, Abby, Juliana's daughter is earning well and even built a house!"

"But Mother, I don't want to be there!"

"No, listen to me, I know you'll earn more. A thousand isn't enough for medicine and expenses at home!"

Feeling upset, I turned away, tears welling up.

Father, emerging from the room, parted the curtain. I approached to help him with his wheelchair.

"Why are you still awake?" I pushed his wheelchair into our small living room; our once sturdy home now seemed to be falling apart. Ever since Father lost his job, there was no chance to repair it.

"Sorry, my child." I sat on a wooden chair and smiled at Father.

"Why are you apologizing?"

"Because of your hard work for me, forgive me for not being able to help you..."

I smiled. "It's okay, don't worry about it. That's what the eldest does."

Father sighed. "You're a very kind daughter, Natasha. I'm sorry if your mother scolds you often."

I looked down. "It's okay..." I said, though I still felt hurt. Despite everything I did, it seemed insignificant to her.

"I won't get tired of working, Father. Like you did for this family, I'll save money to get you walking again."

"Don't, my child."

"I will, Father. Let's sleep now so you can rest."

I took Father to his room; our small house had three rooms. In one, Mother and Father shared, while Chloe and Brandon, my younger siblings, had separate rooms.

I helped Father lie down, turned on the fan, and set up the mosquito net while Mother was away.

"I don't know where she went, but I have a bad feeling after our last conversation."

IN THE MORNING, a car honked outside our house. Breakfast was ready, which I had prepared before heading to work.

Mother came out of their room, glanced out the window, and to my surprise, I saw her smiling.

"Come here. Come inside!" She opened the door as I watched from the kitchen. A woman, about her age, and three burly men entered.

"Have a seat; I'll get you something to drink."

"No need, Helda, we just stopped by to get what you mentioned."

Mother's visitors didn't sit. She looked at me and walked toward her guests, smiling.

"This is her, all dressed up."

I looked at Mother, my eyes wide, as she emphasized her grip on my shoulder.

"My daughter is kind, Dahlia. She won't give you headaches."

"Alright, I gave you the money last night, so we're taking her now."

"But!" I protested, but Mother ignored me, pulling me towards their vehicle.

"Stop the drama, Natasha! You won't be mistreated there!"

"Mother, please, I don't want to!"

"They've already paid, and whether you like it or not, you're coming with us to work there!" My mother turned away from me, and as I tried to leave, the men quickly approached, forcing me into a black car. I could only cry silently, feeling helpless and questioning why they treated me this way just because I wasn't their biological child.

I couldn't help but pity myself as I bowed my head. Were they treating me like this just because I wasn't truly their child? Yes, I am the child of my father from another woman, but I accepted my mother when she chose to be with my father. I never imagined this would be my fate at her hands.

"Hasn't she dressed up yet?" I heard the leader's voice from the door. I didn't respond or look at him. The girl next to me spoke up, stating that I didn't want to dress up. The women here seemed almost my age.

Young, yet working in this club.

"That useless girl is not worth it! She said she'll quit because her daughter is talented!" The man protested, but I continued avoiding eye contact. I refused to comply with what they were asking.

"Yes, take the money from Helda. If she can't pay, take one of her daughters!"

I quickly raised my gaze, stood up, and approached Mrs. Dahlia.

"No, please, not my sister..." I pleaded. She raised an eyebrow.

"If that's the case, why don't you work and contribute something to me!" My lips trembled as I held back my tears. I bit my lip before nodding.

"All right."

"You'll earn a lot, and we'll split the percentage. You won't dance, just accompany the customers at their tables!"

I swallowed hard, the fear in my chest lingering. And in the end, all I did was change into the clothes Abby gave me.

She was my neighbor and a former classmate in fifth grade.

"Who would have thought we'd end up here?" I remained silent as she tied my hair. "The pay is high, Natasha. Fantastic! Not only that, there are handsome guys too!" My eyes rolled.

"Any guy, even if he looks like a beetle, is handsome to you, as long as he has money."

"Well, you know. Nowadays, money is what matters in life, and that's what I worship."

"That's why you look like money. They should call you 'Benchingko.'"

"Wow, she's something."

I stood up, not in the mood for this because it went against my principles. I didn't want to be here, but I had no choice. I didn't know how much my mother took because Mrs. Helda didn't mention it to me.

"Go to the guy sitting at the end; he has someone with him."

I nodded, amidst the noise of the music and the bright lights hurting my eyes.

"I'll accompany you." Abby guided me to the customer I was assigned to, and when I saw him, I almost froze in my place.

He was the guy I saw in the rain.

He was also the one who gave me the jacket that I now wore.

Who is he, Nico? Noah?

Noah.

"Natasha!" Before the guy could turn and call me again, Mrs. Dahlia approached and pulled me away. Before we completely moved away, I looked back at him.

And there, our eyes met again, both of us equally puzzled.

Natasha's POV.

Life is unfair, isn't it? Being poor is unfair too. But the saddest part is being abandoned by your own family; that's the real injustice. You've given your best, but for them, it's still nonsense. You're the unlucky one who's willing to give your all, but unfortunately, they don't care. None of them appreciates your efforts.

How poor are we, right? It's disheartening when you realize you're not as important to someone as you thought. It's sad, but it doesn't mean you should give up.

I'll never give up because of this tough chapter in my life. I'll keep going, maintain the flow to normalcy, and attain the joyful life I want. Someday, I know I'll find the most amazing chapter of my life.

"Sinabi ng ayoko!" It's almost ten pm, but the show still hasn't started. Ma'mang lacks a dancer. Since the new girl refuses to change, I signaled Abby to leave, the one forced to dress up.

"I'll do it," Abby sighed, standing up and turning away.

"What a waste, you're so beautiful!" She almost hissed at the new girl, clearly sold by her aunt.

Tsk.

I sighed while leaning on the side, observing her. It's been almost a year. How many years have I been here? Four years? I guess that's how long I've been here.

I've learned to earn money from other men's wallets. Just sit at their table, be part of the drinking session.

I can say it's a bad influence working here. Why? Because you'll learn to drink, socialize with any man, and be wild. But I'm not that wild. Maybe my mind has been influenced by my surroundings.

Do you get what I'm pointing at?

I'm still a virgin, but my mind is already creating countless fantasies.

That's it!

"If you just cry all night, you won't gain anything," I told the beautiful girl. She rolled her eyes. Why so attitude, girl? I cried too, maybe I filled ten buckets of tears, but I can't do anything about it.

I'm here, rejected by my own mother who looks like ten thousand pesos.

Look, I'm only worth ten thousand for her, just money.

"You can't force me, I don't want this!"

"Oh, you don't want it. But let me tell you, ma'mang won't let you go because he paid a large sum to your aunt." She looked up at me, cheeks wet but still beautiful. What a waste of a girl. Her future will be ruined here.

"You know, almost everyone working here is like you. You have no choice but to follow that old man's wishes." I turned away; I can't convince her because I know it's tough in the beginning.

But I know she'll eventually accept it if there's really no other choice.

"She really doesn't want to, ma'mang." That's how I started the conversation with Mrs. Dahlia. She's changed now, a bit older but still looks moneyed.

"Fine, start even if you're short." I nodded; I didn't want to dance. I'm just here for the table, and that's what Mrs. Dahlia wants because, aside from entertaining customers, I also help take their orders.

I can dance, but I'm not comfortable with it.

"We need to add more girls." I sat on the side while watching them dance. The old men are so amused, as if they don't have wives waiting at home.

"I'm still wondering if they give their entire salary to their wives, tsk. They're fond of women, so I talked to ma'mang not to assign me to his older clients; isn't that too demanding on my part?

But it was followed by my regular customer. Maybe he's almost my age, and he frequents this place.

"I don't know where to find them, ma'mang, and besides, it's probably better to post outside that we're available...," he turned to me, seemingly interested. "Because if you forcibly recruit, you'll end up with a large sum, it's better if they come in willingly."

"I've done that, haven't I? I haven't found anyone good-looking; the interested ones are almost ugly. It's better with pimps."

I sighed; he really wanted it done forcefully. As if he's beautiful, when in fact, he's just covered.

"Here comes Apollo," Abby slipped in front of me, ma'mang nodded before turning away.

"Go to your customer; he'll surely give a lot of money again." I smirked without him seeing; I know Apollo Reivas is rich, and he's a criminology student at Fatima, probably in high school.

He's loaded, I know.

"He's also with someone, our regular customer," I raised an eyebrow. "Monteclaro," ma'mang grinned, and I know that Monteclaro. He's always here, and I'm annoyed because he doesn't even recognize me. It's a miracle that he's with Apollo. Do they know each other?

"Okay, go ahead."

Abby and I walked towards them, wearing a gold skirt and a black sleeveless top paired with one-inch sandals.

Apollo smiled when he saw me, but it seems like he really can't remember me anymore. While I vividly remember that night.

"Hi," Apollo greeted me, smiling at me as the waiter served drinks to their table. I smiled back before sitting next to him.

Abby stood beside the tall guy with a charming smile.

"I didn't go out last night; it was enrollment yesterday," I nodded to Apollo; that's all he wants. To drink while he's beside me. He doesn't want me to have another table because he wants to be my only customer.

He's kind and too talkative; he tells me everything that happened to him all day, even though I have no idea.

"This is Noah," he introduced the guy with him, even though he wouldn't introduce him, I already know his name.

Noah smiled at me; I was startled when he extended his hand to me.

"Hi, you are?" I accepted it, not saying my name because his hand was cold, soft, and seemed well-bred.

"Oh, are you a waitress here?" I withdrew my hand; do I look like a waitress here?

"No, she's with us," Abby answered, nodding while I glared at her. He doesn't recognize me, and he even mistook me for a waitress here.

Different.

"I just saw her here now," he sipped from his glass, just now? Does he have brain damage to forget my face? We've met several times, not just once. But he says he only saw me now?

Is this guy senile?

"Did you have a table last night?" I asked Apollo.

"I just served last night, there were a lot of customers."

"Every night."

"Day and night, many customers here," Apollo nodded, besides being a club at night, it's also a restaurant in the morning. Many people eat, and I do extra work as a server in the morning.

Mrs. Dahlia is definitely rich.

"Do you want to go with me?" I heard Noah's voice whispering; I don't know why I'm starting to hear him so sharply whenever he speaks.

Annoying. He could have been handsome, but I'm irritated.

It's annoying that he doesn't notice me.

"I can't, Giovanni will come later," Abby's answer seems to disappoint Noah.

"Ow, that Martinez," I rolled my eyes, his annoying voice.

"Yes, it's that your friend, right?"

Noah nodded. "Yes," he sipped from his glass and then looked at me. We're facing each other in our seats, and I can clearly see his body, even his face that has matured over time.

"How about you?" He's looking at me, how about me?

"Huh?"

"Nevermind.." she leaned on the sofa, I was a bit irritated by her abrupt interruption. Tsk,

By that time, Abby left, and Noah's friends, known here as Adonis, arrived.

Adonis indeed, they're handsome, especially the guy with thick eyebrows.

"The club is too wild, can we go outside?" I heard the familiar voice from the bathroom; I left Apollo there, thinking he might leave soon.

"Sure.." I heard the girl's voice, opened the door, and there was Noah, with his back turned, kissing the girl we were with.

Ice ran down my spine; this wasn't the first time I saw a scene like this. But why does it feel different this time?

Sh*t.

The way he led his lips on that woman's neck amused me. Is he an expert?

An expert playboy.

"Let's go?" They didn't even notice me, either they didn't see me, or they simply didn't care as they were eager to go somewhere.

I pondered where they would go after leaving the bathroom.

And I kept wondering why I couldn't erase that image of Noah from my mind.

D*mn it, Natasha!

__

"Do you know where you can meet..."

"I will never do what you want.." she rolled her eyes, turned away from where she lay.

So much attitude.

"Your name is Shaira, right?" She didn't respond, but I planned to convince her to follow Ma'am Dahlia's wishes.

And also, if she doesn't obey Ma'am Dahlia and continues to defy that old lady, she might be sold for a large sum. I don't want that to happen; she's too innocent. It's better to persuade her to work than be sold to someone else.

"I'll help you escape once you've saved enough; I've got you."

And that's the promise I left her with, so I convinced her to work. I don't know if I can keep that promise, but she did follow Ma'am Dahlia's wishes.

Ma'am Dahlia's money increased because of her; many customers were eager for Shaira because her face was hidden with mascara while she danced.

And that's the night she started training as a dancer. But one day, she cried after talking to her parents.

And I know what she needs; I asked her for a beading. She would earn a large sum, but in return, it's just her body.

That's the work I can't do. Ma'am Dahlia has been wanting me to participate in a beading with customers for a long time, but I refuse. I can still earn money somehow.

"Relax, Shaira. It's okay; surely someone kind will buy you." I didn't want her to do this; even though we've known each other for a short time, I became close to her. I felt more comfortable with Shaira than with those I've been with for a long time.

Maybe because we share similar experiences.

"I-I'm nervous.." her voice was shaking; I could do nothing but strengthen her resolve. Especially when Ma'am Dahlia came out to instruct me to speak on stage, the club is too exciting for this beading. They were eager to get the girl behind the mascara.

But as I stood on stage and saw Noah on the side, is he interested in Shaira?

He's joining the beading because he has a piece of paper. And of course, he didn't notice me again. Always, every time we meet, he often asks if I'm new here.

I want to slap his face; I'm annoyed and irritated that he never remembers me.

"250,000..." The bid of 50 raised the stakes, and I felt nervous, fearing he might outbid for Shaira. But when Noah spoke up, surpassing the old man's offer, I was left speechless.

"500,000..." That's too much money; he could lose thousands just to take Shaira out. Wealthy as he may be, I couldn't agree with what was happening. I didn't know what to do.

"This is the money percentage..." Noah handed something to Mrs. Dahlia as Shaira and I stood on the side. I felt Shaira's hand trembling as she held onto me.

"Hey, it's okay. He's the one who bought you."

"I-I'm still nervous..."

I took a deep breath, but when Noah approached us, I suddenly felt small. He was so tall, almost engulfing me as he stood beside.

"Let's go?" Noah gently asked Shaira, who now wore a robe before he approached. "I'll put this on you, okay?" His voice was soft. Was he being kind to Shaira because she's beautiful and smooth-skinned?

I'm beautiful and smooth-skinned too.

I rolled my eyes, but he ignored me as they left. Shaira didn't even glance back, her eyes covered.

And that was the last day I saw Shaira and that Montecarlo.

"Someone will order there, Natasha..." Dianneya, a regular customer, approached me since Apollo wasn't around.

I sighed. The last time I saw Apollo was during the chaos with Stanlee and Jacob.

Surprisingly, Noah wasn't the one who bought Shaira. I was happy for my friend, finally free from this place, while I saved up to leave this dreadful job.

"Who?" I asked, reaching for paper and pen.

"At table 15..." I nodded and walked towards the table, but when I saw who it was, my eyes rolled.

After all this time, we meet again.

"Will you order?" I said calmly, but inside, I felt irritated. Why am I irritated? Is it because he doesn't recognize me?

He shook his head, tapped the sofa before looking at me. "No, but sit down."

"I can't be tabled right now." He raised an eyebrow. "Are you ordering or not? You're wasting my time."

"I'm not ordering, but sit here and join me." He grinned, but I wasn't in the mood because I was irritable.

"Do you want me to repeat what I said?" His grin disappeared. "You don't need anything, so I'll leave."

"Oh, I knew it. Are you Natasha?" I raised my eyebrow. How does he know my name? Did he ask Shaira my name? Why would he ask Shaira?

"Well, I'm also friends with Shaira. Sit down; I'll take care of you."

I smirked, put down the paper before looking at him again. "I don't have time to talk to you. If you want company, I'll call someone for you."

"You're so dramatic." He furrowed his brow. "You're not even pretty."

I was taken aback by what he said. Of all the men I've met, he's the only one who said I'm not pretty.

"Do you think you're handsome?" I wanted to kick him, but I might get in trouble because he's rich. "You look like a squashed grasshopper!"

"W-what did you s-say?" He couldn't believe what I said, and until now, I can't believe he told me I'm not pretty.

"Your eyes are so small..." I whispered, but it seemed like he heard.

"Do you think you're beautiful? Your body is ugly, so pretentious."

I blinked. It's two times insulting for him. How dare he say that to me? I'm beautiful, and I know I'm sexy because I'm blessed with a good chest. And here he is, insulting me.

"Do you think I'll show my body because you said that? Tseeh!"

I walked away, enduring the insults I received that night, almost unforgettable. And that night, I promised myself that I would prove him wrong.

Natasha's POV.

(Meant to fight)

"I need money..." I sighed as my mother visited me at work. It's been months since her last visit, and this time, she asked for a significant amount for the payment of electricity, water, and my father's medicine.

"I'll use the money, Mom. Maybe next time..."

"No! Give me at least five thousand!" Her voice rose immediately, echoing inside and outside the club. "Just give me five thousand!" I closed my eyes; five thousand? What does she think of me, picking money off the ground?

"What will you do with five thousand?"

"Chloe's enrollment is tomorrow, and she needs to try on a new uniform!" I sighed; my sister is already in her second year of college, while I'm stuck here with nothing to show.

"Fine, but next time, I might not be able to give you anything..."

Her eyebrows raised at my statement. "With the income you have here, you can't give me anything?"

"I'm planning to leave..."

"What!" My mother lacked gentleness when facing me, but I was determined to leave, wanting to start my own business. I won't be here forever.

"I bought a space near Fatima; I'll open a shop there."

"You're going to start a business?"

"Yes." She frowned; I just wanted their support, but it seems all they care about is money.

"I thought you'd look for a low-paying job. Well, make sure your shop earns, and still give us money."

I sighed; this is my role. To support them while I can, even if I can't provide for myself. As long as they have what they need, it's enough for me.

The next morning, my mother left with the five thousand she wanted. In my time here, I managed to save some money. But if my mother didn't ask for money so often, I might have left earlier.

"Are you leaving?" Mrs. Dahlia asked in her office after lunch. I shared my plan with her; I have dreams too, and I won't always be here.

"I'm going abroad..."

She laughed. "What job? Domestic helper, caregiver, or perhaps an entertainer?"

I bit my lip; she was belittling those jobs. I'd rather be a domestic helper than stay here, but that's not my plan.

"I'll be working in a hotel." I lied; this would probably be our last meeting. I won't be coming back.

"You're going abroad, away from your family. Maybe you prefer that just to escape your stepmother."

I sighed. "I'm leaving next week, Mrs. Dahlia. Thank you for taking me in."

"Oh, alright! You still have a week, but I want to get the fifty percent before that day comes."

I didn't say anything more; I was grateful she allowed me to leave. And besides, I won't worry about the fifty percent. Apollo found the space for me, near Fatima.

That night, Apollo visited again. He mentioned a girl he liked named Trixie Domingues.

"She's beautiful but strict with me," Apollo said while we drank. He was alone, no handsome guy to be seen.

In short, GGSS!

"The woman can be really snobbish at first, but if you genuinely show your good intentions, she'll eventually soften."

"Really?" he lowered the glass he was holding.

"Yes, if she gives you the cold shoulder, just let it be."

"She's too westernized, she often rolls her eyes at me and seems to have a liking for another guy."

"Oh, if you want her, there's a way; you'll get her eventually." I leaned back, surveying the scene, lively in the late hours, with people enjoying the spectacle of dancing ladies on stage.

"What about you, anyone trying to court you?"

I grinned. "Yes, but I have many responsibilities; my two siblings haven't finished their studies yet."

He stared at me, understanding the course of my life. He's been the one urging me to leave and start a business.

"Don't dwell too much on your responsibilities; you might end up an old maid."

"H*ll no!" I protested. "Even if I'm just this kind of lowly girl, I dream of having a happy family!"

"Hey, easy!"

"Your mouth, I'd love to shut it down."

He chuckled while shaking his head. "Why don't you just focus on studying?"

"I told you, I have a family to feed; my father is still sick, and I haven't fulfilled my promise."

"I offer you help, but you never accept it."

"Tsk, you're going to spend again. Just let it be; I'll save up again."

He sighed; he often says that, but I don't want him always helping me. It's enough for me that he takes on some of my workload.

"Are you really leaving?" Abby asked, grinning. It's been a week, and I'm about to move to that space. Unfortunately, the place I bought is almost empty; I need to start from scratch, hoping my money won't run out.

"I have dreams in life; if I just stay here, I won't achieve them."

"Well, you haven't even experienced stepping into heaven."

"I'll experience that too, with the right person, not just anyone!"

"Wow, fast talk, huh?"

I rolled my eyes, and Kate laughed, knowing their antics. But for me, never. No one has touched my heart, not even a first kiss, flying in the air. Hug? I've had those, but except for them.

"You have a good reason for leaving, what if she passes by your shop?" Abby teased.

"So what? I can say hello to her. If I tell her I'm starting a business, she might not allow it, and besides, it's done; I've said my goodbyes!"

I stood up, carrying what seemed like two suitcases, as if I were going abroad. But these bags are second-hand; my poor pocket can't afford brand new ones.

"Natasha will really prosper outside, but if I were you, I'd do what Shaira did, snag a millionaire!"

I looked at Abby, wearing a beautiful dress we bought once in Divisoria.

"What if I end up with someone else? You know, it's like a mango tree. You're under it, and you can't see the ripe and rotten ones!"

"Really comparing it to a mango tree!"

"And besides, that's not what's meant for me. Because Lord is still busy with my love life."

I grabbed the two suitcases; I had no time to fake niceties with them. I was excited to escape this courtyard.

"At eight in the morning, I bid farewell to Ma'mang. I spoke a bit of drama to convince her that I was happy at this rundown club. Despite earning money there, it was just enough to tolerate the insults.

I placed two suitcases on a metal bed in the room of the two-story shop I bought. There's a bathroom downstairs and one upstairs. The space underneath is bright, prompting me to think about opening a flower shop and coffee table.

Sitting on the bare metal, I still need to buy household items, but the tables and chairs I ordered haven't arrived yet. I need to prioritize that to avoid running short on cash.

"Where are you now, Shai?" I asked Shaira when she answered my call. I planned to join her in searching for materials for this shop.

"At Jacob's house."

"Wow, at the house? So, directly at Jacob's house!" I was amazed at Shaira's answer, considering she used to live in a condo. Now, she's in Jacob's actual house?

Seems like my friend hit the big time.

"That's why I said house," I chuckled at her response, eager to see where she was. Upon learning Jacob's location, I quickly took a taxi and temporarily closed the vacant space.

"Here!" the taxi stopped at a large gate where Shaira was leaning. I chuckled at her attire, covering her body.

I kissed her cheeks after greeting her. "What's with that fashion, Shai, planning to attend a meeting?"

"This is what I wanted to tell you earlier."

"Really? Are you going to ask me how to choose fashion every day?"

She smirked, still quite sassy. "No, tsk. Come inside first."

"Yay, okay!" I entered their mansion, no, Monteclaro Mansion, and Shaira, the goddess, looked stunning!

"You live here!" I marveled, looking around, the chandelier in the middle catching my eye.

"Temporary while I'm studying."

"Oh my god, you hit the jackpot with Jacob. Such a beautiful house, a palace!" Shaira grinned at me, but I was just amazed at what I saw. It seemed like my little feet didn't deserve to step into such a place.

"I know, let me get you something to drink." She turned, and I chimed in.

"I don't want water; I want juice!" I laughed again at her reaction. With this beautiful house, they must be rich in food too.

"Fine, do you want it with a sandwich?"

"With cake, no?"

"With extortion, you want?" A bit harsh, but let it slide. My little one in my belly is hungry, and I haven't had breakfast due to my thriftiness.

"Okay, with a sandwich." She turned away with a smirk, and her outfit was still weird, as if hiding something.

I walked to the side, noticing some picture frames with family photos of the Monteclaros. What surprised me more was seeing the flirtatious Noah there.

Someone cleared their throat behind me, but I ignored it, engrossed in Noah's photo with Jacob and Dianne, the handsome grasshopper.

"Excuse me?" I turned to the voice and almost raised an eyebrow seeing who it was.

"YOU!" We both said simultaneously, but seriously, what is he doing here?

"What are you doing here?" I asked with a furrowed brow, but he just laughed.

"I should be asking that. What are you doing here?" I raised an eyebrow, wondering if it's right to return the question."

"Ah, I know! You're the maid!"

"W-what did you say?" I couldn't believe it. "With my beauty and elegance, you think I'm a maid?"

"Where's the beauty?" he trailed his fingers over my body, raising an eyebrow, continuing down until his eyes stopped at my chest. Tsk. What's he up to now?

He averted his gaze. "G-get me something to drink, and also call your boss."

"I'M NOT A MAID HERE!" I exclaimed, annoyed because I was mistaken for a waitress earlier and now a maid.

Is there a sexy maid in a dress?

"W-why are you shouting?"

"Because you're annoying, ugly chinito!"

"W-what!"

"I HATE YOU!"

I turned away irritably, my steps heavy as I entered where Shaira had gone before.

"You think he's handsome, but he looks like a janitor in that outfit!" I sat on an empty chair, Shaira's companion preparing food nearby.

"Who looks like a janitor?" Shaira placed some sandwiches in front of me. I took one before answering.

"Do you still remember the guy who took you from the club?"

"Noah?"

I laughed, she probably knows him, maybe he's related to Jacob.

"Is that his name?" I acted as if I just learned his name, even though I've known it for years. "His name is as ugly as he is."

"He's handsome, ma'am," Shaira's maid raised her eyebrows.

"Is your standard for handsome that low?"

"What?"

"He's not handsome to me, with those squinty eyes, he looks like a grasshopper!" She stopped, biting her lip and not responding. Seems like I said something amusing to make her hold back a smile.

"Oh, by the way, what's your good news?" Shaira changed the topic suddenly. I looked at her, smiling.

"I left the club."

"Since when?"

"It's been two days."

"Really? How come they allowed you?" She pulled a chair and sat beside me.

"I paid the old man to let me go. You know, I've saved up quite a bit during my time there."

"That old man is really consumed by money."

"True." We both sighed, but she had another question.

"Is that the good news?"

I smiled subtly before shaking my head.

"No, of course not. This is the good news." I took my phone from my pouch and quickly found a photo of the space I bought.

"What's that?" She asked, puzzled.

"I bought it."

"Wow, really?" I nodded. "Are you going to build your own house?"

"No, I'm going to turn it into a mini flower shop with a coffee corner."

"When do you plan to start?"

"Tomorrow!" I said excitedly. I'll start arranging things tomorrow because I'm so thrilled. I'll buy some items because I'm sure the orders will start coming in tomorrow.

"It's close to Fatima because there are only a few coffee shops there. Plus, I'm the only one selling flowers near Fatima." I added.

"If that's the case, you must really love what you bought."

"It fits my budget."

She nodded. "If I'm not busy, I'll visit you. I won't miss the opening."

I smiled before placing my hand on the table.

"I never thought I could buy that. There are so many expenses with Dad's medical treatment, and Mom keeps asking me for money."

"How's your dad doing?"

"The same, still sick." I sighed. "We're three siblings, I'm the eldest, but why does everything fall on me? My brother brings home someone to feed, even though I'm already struggling with work, and my income is not enough."

"Because you're the only one with a job."

"Brandon also has a job, with his two girlfriends. But everything falls on me. I'm not even at home, yet I carry all the burden." I felt resentful; maybe this is the first time I've complained since Mom kicked me out and sold me.

"Your parents still raised you, it's only right to reciprocate and show gratitude for how they brought you up." I laughed sarcastically, thinking if only I could take care of Amang alone, but I'm not that heartless to my siblings.

"They don't treat me like a real child; I'm like an adopted one with the way they treat me. Inang even managed to sell me."

Well, she's not really my mother. She can probably do whatever she wants. What am I even dramatizing?

"A person can really make mistakes."

"That's not a mistake, Shai, it's a choice." I sighed, realizing my situation. "But you're right, even if they rejected me before, I can't turn my back on them because I have a heart, unlike them."

He placed his hand on my shoulder. "You're a good person."

"I'm a beautiful person."

"WHO'S BEAUTIFUL?!" I turned to the familiar voice from the door, and there's the annoying one.

Epal alert.

"You?" I raised an eyebrow at his question.

"I don't talk to a grasshopper." I rolled my eyes, hearing a faint laugh from the side, and there's the handsome Jacob.

He's so hot today; I hope Shaira notices.

"In this handsome guy, you'll call me a grasshopper?" I sighed at Noah's voice.

"Who said you're handsome, your conscience?"

"Many have said, not just ten, but twenty."

"You believe too much in hearsay, tsk."

"Hey!" He widened his eyes at me, lips quivering as if annoyed. Don't tell me he'll pick a fight; what does he think? I'll back down? "You're so arrogant!"

"Why, do you want to fight?!" I stood up, challenging him.

"I don't fight with a skinny girl!"

"If that's the case, you have no balls; you're soft."

"Huh!" He glared at me, his eyes bulging, lips trembling as if annoyed. Don't tell me he'll still engage me; what does he think? I'll back down? "You're so arrogant!"

"Why, do you want to fight?!" I stood up, challenging him.

"I don't fight with a skinny girl!"

"If that's the case, you have no balls; you're soft."

"Huh!" He widened his eyes at me, holding his chin while looking at me. "I said I won't fight with you, you pervert!"

"If that's what you think, I don't care."

"Hey!" He laughed, holding his chin while looking at me. "I said I won't fight with you, you pervert!"

"If that's what you think, I don't care."

"Hmm!" I laughed at that, and since then, my mind seemed to blank out.

He's handsome, but he resurrects irritation in my body. I can't accept that he can't remember me when in my mind, he never left.

"I was going to ask you to accompany me today, but maybe Jacob won't allow you..." I'm outside the mansion now, we discussed a lot after Noah left, that guy is so infuriating.

"I can."

"Sus, never mind. Jacob might miss you." I smiled at him, aside from being a good friend, Shaira also has issues about her father. I found out today that she didn't really grow up with her biological father; it's just sad that we almost share the same experience.

I haven't seen my mother either.

"Next time, visit the shop, okay?"

"Sure, I will." I have a big smile as I leave, but inside, it feels like something's missing.

Shaira is happy even though the one who raised her is not her blood relative, but I was never considered a real child.

Beep...

A honk from a passing car made me turn around; there's no available taxi nearby, so I have to walk to the not-so-distant highway.

It's embarrassing to ask Jacob for a ride.

"Are you going home?" I rolled my eyes at his slanted eyes. After he confronted me earlier, he's acting like nothing happened.

"Get in."

"No, thanks." I continued walking, but his car kept following me.

"I'll take you where you're going." I stopped and looked at him with a hint of confusion.

"And why are you doing this?"

"You can just ride and stop complaining," I rolled my eyes before looking at the clean road. Are there really no taxis around here?

Well, instead of spending on fare, might as well not waste his sudden kindness.

"I'm going to a market, take me there," I willingly entered the back seat; he looked at me with a furrowed brow.

"Why?"

He sighed, as if his eyes were perfect when they're just narrow. It's amusing that I can hardly see the road due to his height; I had to look out the window.

The car smells nice, I wish I had a car. When will I be able to afford one?

"Why are you going to a market?" he suddenly asked. What's his problem?

"I'll just hang out there," I grinned slightly. What else would I do there? Obviously, shopping.

"Oh, really?"

"Tsk, of course, I'll shop. I need food and things to use!"

"You really have a big voice."

"W-what?" He didn't repeat what he said, but what did he mean? Is my voice loud?

Is my voice loud?

I furrowed my brow, looking out the window, wondering if it's true that my voice is loud. I always thought Shaira and I had similar voices, hers being soft even if she's loud.

But me?

"Get off now," Noah's voice snapped me back. His voice isn't that loud. Just right, very manly.

"Tsk..." I don't know why he's like that. He opened his door and stepped out of the car; I just stared until he opened my door.

"You're already here," I avoided eye contact, eventually stepping out before scanning the surroundings.

11-11 Marketing.

That's the name of the large mini-mall he brought me to.

"Thank you," I still thanked him despite our little conflict earlier. I just can't accept that he can talk to a woman disrespectfully, especially commenting on her appearance.

I'm pretty and sexy, after all.

"Are you going in there dressed like that?" I raised an eyebrow.

"So what's it to you?"

"Your boobs are waving when you're walking..." I smirked, slightly grinning.

"Why are you looking at my chest then?" I raised both breasts with my palms, teasingly.

"Well, I'd look there because of what you're wearing. It's getting more attention; you look braless."

"I'm not wearing a bra," he suddenly coughed, a full-blown cough because of what I said.

"You're unbelievable."

"Yeah, I'm available."