Kiara's End Game

Chapter 4

Flashback

Kiara’s POV

Today is my grandmother’s second death anniversary. Sofie and I are here at her grave, paying our respects. I brought flowers and some food as I plan to have lunch here with Sofie, my loyal canine companion.

As I sit peacefully by my grandmother's grave, I notice a bunch of people walking around. Sofie seems about to bark, but I hush her gently.

"Shhh, Sofie. They've also lost their loved ones, just like I did two years ago," I explain softly while patting her back.

Sofie's face reflects a sense of understanding, despite being a dog. She has been my source of comfort ever since my grandmother passed away. While I do have my mother, she lives far away, and I often find myself feeling emotionally drained without her physical presence to lean on.

I fondly remember a time when I graduated from elementary school with the highest honor. Although my mother couldn't be there to celebrate with me, I had my grandmother by my side, and that meant the world to me. However, since my grandma's passing, everything has changed. I've had to learn to take care of myself, from cooking my own meals to doing household chores. It's been tough, but Sofie's companionship has been a source of solace. She's like family to me.

Suddenly, a young man, who appears to be around my age, approaches me and starts a conversation.

"Hey, why are you alone? Where is your mother? Your father?" he asks curiously.

I'm taken aback by his direct questions, but I manage to reply, "Uhmm... My mother lives in Scotland with her new family, and my dad passed away when I was young. They said he's buried in China, but I've never seen his grave."

He introduces himself as Jake Sy, the son of a businessman named Mr. Chad and Clarisse Sy. They own several businesses in the Philippines and China. Jake's warm and talkative nature makes me feel at ease as I share more about my life with him.

As we continue talking, Jake expresses surprise at how I manage to live alone and take care of myself.

"It must be incredibly draining and tiring," he remarks, looking confused.

I nod and reply with a smile, "Yes, it can be overwhelming, but I don't have many options. Sofie has been my pillar of support through it all."

Just then, a woman with a commanding presence approaches us, accompanied by a man who seems to be her husband. Jake addresses them as mom and dad.

"We're here, Jakie," she says sweetly.

Introductions are made, and I find myself meeting Jake's parents, Clarissa Dy and Chad Sy. Their warm and welcoming demeanor puts me at ease.

"You're such a lovely girl," Clarissa compliments me, and I thank her with a smile.

As the conversation unfolds, it becomes apparent that Jake's family genuinely wants to be a part of my life. Jake starts picking me up from school regularly, and his parents attend my junior high school events and milestones.

And so, a unique and unexpected connection begins to form between me and the Sy family, one that will undoubtedly shape the course of my life in ways I never imagined.
Over time, Jake and his family become an integral part of my life, celebrating birthdays, debuts, recognitions, graduations, and many more special moments with me.