𝐇𝐈𝐒 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐒𝐄

𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐑𝐓𝐄𝐄𝐍

𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄

I stood in awe before the immense glass walls of Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada, my eyes fixed on the mesmerizing underwater world that unfolded before me.

The vibrant marine life moved gracefully through the crystalline blue waters, a dance of colors and shapes that seemed to transcend the boundaries of reality.

Beside me stood a beautiful woman, her gaze equally captivated by the aquatic spectacle. She watched in fascination as a school of shimmering fish darted past, their scales catching the soft, ethereal light that filtered down from above.

I couldn’t help but admire her profile as she gazed at the underwater wonders. Her features were bathed in the gentle, otherworldly glow of the aquarium, casting an almost magical aura around her.

As we continued to explore the aquarium, our steps mirrored the fluid movements of the aquatic creatures. We shared a moment of quiet appreciation for the beauty that surrounded us.

—

We left the bustling city behind, making our way to our spacious, tastefully decorated home. The exterior was a blend of modern design and classic elegance, with clean lines and large windows that allowed natural light to flood the interior.

The house was painted in soothing neutral colors, as she had always admired, creating an aesthetic that was both calming and visually pleasing.

As we stepped inside, the interior continued to reflect her refined taste. The living room, with its minimalist furnishings and tasteful artwork, exuded an air of understated luxury.

Plush, earth-toned sofas were arranged around a sleek coffee table, all positioned strategically for an unobstructed view of the large flat screen TV mounted on the wall.

We settled on the couch, her favorite throw blanket draped over us for extra coziness. She selected a movie, one that held a special place in her heart — How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days. It was a romantic comedy that never failed to make her laugh and feel warm inside.

The film played on the screen, and we snuggled closer, sharing a comfortable silence as we immersed ourselves in the antics of the characters onscreen. She couldn’t help but chuckle at the comical situations.

As the movie reached its heartwarming conclusion, I turned to her with a smile. “You really love this movie, don’t you?”

She leaned her head against my shoulder. “I love it every time we watch it. The chemistry between the two leads is fantastic.”

I nodded. “It’s a classic for a reason. Andie and Ben make quite the pair, don’t they?”

She chuckled softly. “They do. You know, even though it’s a romantic comedy, there’s a lot of truth in there about relationships. The little games we play, the push and pull.”

“You think so?”

“In the end, it’s always worth it, isn’t it? Finding someone who makes you want to be a better person.”

—

The sunlight streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow across the room as we stood by our open suitcases, packing our belongings. The clothes were neatly folded and placed inside, our travel essentials organized with precision.

She finished packing first, folding her last piece of clothing before turning to me with a hint of concern in her eyes.

“Honey,” She began, her voice gentle. “Do we really need to go back to the Philippines and live there for good?”

I paused, my gaze meeting hers. I understand her frustration and her attachment to the life we had built in Canada.

I walked over to her and placed a hand on her shoulder. “I know it’s a big change, my love, but it’s necessary. Our businesses are there. Besides, we can always visit Canada whenever we want.”

As I spoke, my phone chimed with a message. I retrieved it from the nearby table and turned to her. “Could you please read that message for me, my love?”

She took the phone and read the message aloud, her brows slightly furrowing as she spoke. “It’s from Demetrio. He says, ‘Time to come home, Salvadore.’”

It seemed like our return to the Philippines was becoming more urgent. I took a deep breath and turned back to her. “We’ll get through whatever awaits us in Manila together, just like we always do.”

—

The airport bustled with activities as travelers hurriedly moved about, their footsteps echoing through the vast terminal.

It was a sprawling complex, modern, and efficient, with gleaming glass windows that offered glimpses of the runway and the planes beyond.

The terminal was abuzz with the constant hum of the chatter, the ringing of boarding announcements, and the shuffling of luggage.

She clutched her passport and boarding pass, a mix of anticipation and nostalgia in her eyes as she gazed at the familiar surroundings of our home country.

For me, this was a return to a place filled with responsibilities and the intricate web of my business empire. It was a journey back to a world I had left behind for a life in Canada, a peaceful life filled with new beginnings.

As we made our way through the airport, my emotions were a complex blend of excitement and trepidation. I felt the weight of my responsibilities and the uncertainties of the path ahead.

—

The possibility that she might remember everything from that fateful night loomed large in my mind, a shadow of uncertainty that threatened to cast a pall.

I couldn’t help but wonder if she would hate me for what had transpired, for the choices I had made, and for the secrets I had kept.

The substance that could counteract Starfall, the very substance Demetrio had used to spike her drink, remained untouched, a reminder of the past.

—

I stood amidst the familiar faces of my friends, enveloped in their warm, welcoming embrace. They laughed and ribbed me playfully, our camaraderie strong as ever.

Thaddeus raffled my hair, Demetrio clapped me on the back with a hearty laugh, while Bartholomew was taking a video of us.

A few minutes later, my friends’ attention was drawn by the entrance of a striking woman.

As she approached, her presence seemed to command attention, drawing the gaze of onlookers. My friends exchanged knowing glances, their expressions are a mix of curiosity and admiration.

She walked with an effortless grace, her steps unhurried, and her eyes held a depth of mystery that piqued their interest.

“Welcome home, Teagan Salvadore.”

TO BE CONTINUED.