Versailles Series Book 4: The Bodyguard [COMPLETED]

PROLOGUE

=== C A R R I E ===

The Crisologo family holds a charity event annually in their province, Nueva Maravilla. They are one of the known clans in the beautiful province where the eldest son, Kylo Crisologo is the governor.

I was invited for the first time by the family's matriarch, Inocencia Crisologo. They have been working together in the family's foundation for the past year.

The mansion had an old vibe to it with its capiz windows and white-gray walls. The garden was decorated with beautiful lights that illuminated the place. It had a walkway from the house which was elevated from the rest of the garden. There were orchids and other flowers along the sides. In the middle, there was a large circular flat ground where the Bermuda grass seemed to be well maintained.

The garden was filled with guests which were from different industries and businesses. There also politicians close to the family.

"Nice to finally meet you, Miss Versailles."

Kinamayan ko ang babae. "Nice to meet you as well."

"I hope you had good trip."

"The trip was pleasant. Sementado na ang mga daan mula sa airport. The people were also very hospitable. You have a very beautiful province Mrs. Crisologo."

I have been to other provinces. Sad to say, may iba na developed na habang may iba naman na kahit may potential ay underdeveloped pa rin. Hindi ko naman sinasabi iyon dahil may iba akong motibo sa anak nito pero dahil iyon naman talaga. Lahat ng napagtanungan nila ng araw na iyon ay mababait.

"That's good to hear. My son makes sure that the province is well taken care of. Have you met him?"

Umiling ako. "I haven't. I'm looking forward to meeting him."

I saw how her eyes glittered. I knew what that meant. She wanted to match me with her son. Too bad that I'm not interested.

"Oh, she's here. Kylo!"

I looked over to where the lady called his son. A tall man eventually emerged clad in barong and slacks. His face was serious which added to his formal demeanor.

"Here is Carrie Versailles. Miss Versailles, this is my unico hijo, Kylo Crisologo."

I extended my hand. He accepted it and shook it. He had a firm grasp and I can say he's used to this hand-shaking thing.

"I'll leave you two."

Umiling-iling si Kylo. "Sorry about that."

"No worries." I took a sip of wine as I looked at him. I made a mental note to ask what wine was I drinking.

No wonder many women talk about him. He is smart, young, handsome, and rich. Kylo Crisologo was born with a silver spoon in his mouth. Hindi political clan ang pamilya nito. They had a business that surpassed generations. Ito lamang ang pulitiko sa pamilya. From what she learned, he is a clean politician. He has been recognized abroad for his clean service during his term as a mayor and governor.

"I've heard about you and your prestigious club. And your philanthropic efforts too." Sabi nito sa akin.

"Buti naman at mabuting mga bagay ang narinig mo sa akin." I may be a bitch but only in businesses. I always try to see where I can help.

"Well the rich often forget their corporate social responsibility." Sabi nito.

"So, it will be your last term this coming election. Any plans of pursuing a higher position?"

He shrugged. "As much as I want to serve the province longer, the only way is up. I can still return though. Hindi ko pa alam actually."

"The country surely wants to be served like how your province was served."

"They are just exaggerating things, that's all. It's a shared effort by the people and the government."

Nilabas ko ang itim na envelope. "One of the reasons I accepted your mother's invitation is for me to have the opportunity to give you this." Inabot ko iyon dito.

He looked at it before looking at me. "An invitation to be your member. Hmm...I don't think I can accept this. I am a public servant, Miss Versailles. I don't think splurging on such-"

"It's a free membership for you."

Napatigil ito. "What?"

"It's a free membership for you. I'm sure you've heard of the premium from the members. It is pretty pricey, that's true. But for you, it's free. Take it as a reward."

"What's in it for you? You are a businesswoman. This partnership should yield you something."

I shrugged. "You just attract investors without noticing it. That's a plus for me. And of course, that's good publicity for me and my business. That's all."

"I don't really think I should accept this-"

"The invitation will stand indefinitely. Try it out. And your family has businesses. If it doesn't sit well with you, pay the premium like the other members. My club has a lot to offer. And you can participate with more outreach activities if you partner with me."

Itinago nito ang envelope. "I'll think about it."

"That's good enough for me. I'll get going. It was nice meeting you."

Tinalikuran ko na ito at nakihalubilo sa ibang mga tao. I smiled. My gut feeling tells me I'll see him in my club soon.

***

After a few weeks...

I just finished my tea when Waldo went in with another man. I smiled. It was no other than Kylo Crisologo himself.

"Well, well, well. We meet again."

"I came to talk about the membership you offered."

"Sit down please." Sinenyasan ko si Waldo na ihanda ang kontrata. "So, have you been thinking about it?"

"Yes. I am accepting your offer."

"Good. That's good."

"But in one condition."

I puffed the smoke from my cigarette. "I'm listening."

"Our foundation plans to support a group for battered women and children in the province. I want you to be our main benefactor."

I smiled. "Uh huh. You're asking something from me that won't benefit you."

He shrugged. "Might as well ask that from you. You seem to love helping."

"I do. And by the way, you can remain as a club member with free membership as long as you are elected."

"That won't be any problem. I am trying out your club as you said. And I think I will be needing this place soon. Security wise, you have what I need."

"It's a deal. Welcome to Versailles, Governor Crisologo."

CHAPTER 1 >>

📷 Garden photo: Pieter Estersohn @ https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/lush-home-garden-landscaping

Happy New Year mga Madama!

Wishing everyone a more prosperous year, better health, happier relationships, more stable mental health, more blue bills at laging masarap na ulam!

Thank you for my readers and followers for sticking with me up until now.

Baguhan pa rin ako at marami pang matututunan sa pagsusulat. I am happy learning from you based from your feedbacks. :) <3

In this book, I'll be using first person POV. Abangan na lang ang chapter 1 in a few days!