Caught in the Rainy Season(COMPLETED)

Chapter 28

It was another morning when I stumbled upon them in my living room.

“Mom, Dad, Tita, Tito... It’s too early in the morning, and you didn’t tell me you were coming,” I said, trying to mask my surprise with politeness.

I hadn’t expected them to arrive so early. Embarrassment washed over me, prompting me to retreat to my room to tidy up.

As my daughter Darniesha enjoyed her breakfast, I invited them to eat since I had prepared a feast.

“Iha, we’re all here to ca—” Tita Dal began, but my mother cut her off, getting straight to the point.

“We want to take our granddaughter to the mall again. Can we, Iha?” I chuckled at Tita Dal’s straightforwardness; she always knew how to consider others before making decisions involving everyone.

But even as I smiled, a familiar guilt gnawed at me. The resentment and regret I held for my past selfishness clung tightly.

Bakit nga ba mas madaling magpatawad ng ibang tao kesa patawarin ang sarili sa mga mali nating nagawa?

It was a question that haunted me. The burden of my mistakes replayed in my mind like a broken record, each loop a reminder of the foolish choices I made.

But I had to remember: we’re not perfect. If we can forgive others, we must also learn to forgive ourselves.

I nodded; after all, Darniesha didn’t have school today since it was Saturday, and I knew she would be thrilled. We often planned outings, but work always interrupted.

“Why won’t you join us, Iha?” Tita Dal asked, and I immediately felt the need to decline politely.

“Tita, I’d really love to join you, but I can’t. I have some issues to fix at the company,” I explained, feeling the weight of responsibility.

“Do you need any help, Iha?” My dad and Tito chimed in unison, their concern palpable.

“Hindi na po. It’s just a mistake with the furniture delivery,” I assured them, keeping my tone respectful.

Just then, my daughter called for me, and we all turned to see her, still rubbing sleep from her eyes. But instead of coming to me, she dashed towards her grandparents, excitement lighting up her face.

With a quick goodbye, I headed to the kitchen to prepare breakfast for everyone. I made the usual spread and poured coffee and milk for my daughter, grateful for my mother’s help in setting the dining table.

The morning was filled with laughter as we shared humorous stories, and even Darniesha couldn’t stop giggling. I finished my meal first, saying my farewells, letting them know I had to get ready for the office.

I donned my office attire and touched up my makeup before checking my bag for the essential papers I needed. As I headed downstairs, I approached my daughter.

“Mommy will go to the office now. You’re going to the mall with your grandparents today. Darniesha, be a good girl and don’t wander too far from them. Always hold their hands, and remember to listen to them, okay?” I instructed, and she nodded obediently.

I tucked a strand of hair behind her ear before kissing her cheeks. I made sure to say goodbye to my dad and Tito before leaving.

As soon as I entered my office, I saw my secretary busily organizing papers on my desk.

“Good morning, Miss De Mavicos,” she greeted, her voice cheerful.

“Good morning. Is the conference room ready?” I asked, settling into my swivel chair.

“Yes, Miss. Everything is set, and Mr. Villin is already there with some of the shareholders.”

My heart raced. “Am I late?”

“No, Miss. There are still thirty minutes before the meeting begins.”

I quickly composed myself before deciding to head to the conference room with my secretary. Upon arriving, I greeted everyone, extending my hand for a handshake, including Dameon’s.

As the meeting progressed, we discussed the terms and conditions of our two companies. Cut to the chase: the deal was finalized, and we signed the contracts.

“Finally, it’s great to work with you, Miss De Mavicos.” Dameon offered his hand for another shake.

“Thank you, Mr. Villin. I hope everything goes smoothly with this contract. I detest liars and those with hidden agendas,” I said, my gaze piercing into his.

He licked his lower lip, a flicker of tension hanging in the air.

“Don’t worry, Miss. As long as you’re willing to listen before making decisions, everything will be fine. I’ll take my leave now.” I watched him exit, a part of me relieved yet unsettled.

As I walked back to my office, I caught sight of familiar figures in the hallway. My heart dropped, and I wished desperately that Dameon hadn’t noticed my mother with my daughter.

But to my shock, he stopped and faced me, confusion etched on his features.

“Why is my mom here, and who’s that child with her?”

I froze, words caught in my throat, feeling as if the ground beneath me might give way.

Is this the right moment to confess? Should I admit the truth, or let fate take its course?

Instead of answering, I simply smirked at him and turned to walk away.

Taste your own medicine, Dameon. You always did this to me before, making me feel foolish as you played your games. This time, the tables were turned.

How satisfying it felt to watch him squirm, realizing that he had no answers.

I knew it was wrong and vindictive to retaliate against someone who had hurt me, but wasn’t it only fair for him to feel the pain he inflicted?

Think about this carefully.

I wouldn’t even be in this position if he hadn’t broken my heart.

But why were they here without telling me?

That question echoed in my mind. Please, I can’t bear to suffer another betrayal!

I needed to trust them; I knew I couldn’t let the trauma of my past dictate my present. They promised they wouldn’t betray me again.

Stop being paranoid, Taniesha! They swore to you they wouldn’t hurt you again.