Torn Between

chapter 19: close deal

One morning...

As Iris sipped her morning coffee, her mind swirled with questions and doubts, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the bitter taste of envy. She couldn't shake the nagging feeling of unease surrounding Axel's solo trip to Baguio, the unanswered questions looming like shadows in her mind.

With each sip, Iris found herself lost in a labyrinth of emotions, her thoughts drifting to the looming business meeting with a prestigious client. While she relished the opportunity to showcase her talent and creativity, a pang of envy tugged at her heart, reminding her of the elusive dream she longed to call her own – a proposal from Axel, a symbol of their shared future.

As she stared into the depths of her coffee cup, Iris couldn't help but wonder if Axel's intentions were as clear as her own. Would he ever leap and ask for her hand in marriage, or would she forever be confined to the sidelines, designing dreams for others while her own remained just out of reach?

In the quiet of the morning, Iris grappled with her desires and fears, the bitter taste of envy tempered by the sweet anticipation of what the future might hold. As she took another sip of her coffee, she vowed to confront her feelings head-on, determined to carve out her path to happiness, whether Axel stood beside her or not.

As Iris's phone rang with the unexpected call from her client requesting a meeting in Baguio, she couldn't contain her excitement. Baguio, with its crisp mountain air and charming ambiance, held the promise of adventure and possibility. But beneath her professional anticipation, a flicker of hope ignited within her – the hope of a chance encounter with Axel in the City of Pines.

With a quick intake of breath, Iris answered the call, her voice tinged with enthusiasm as she confirmed the details of the meeting. As she hung up, her mind raced with the possibilities that lay ahead. Could this be the opportunity she had been waiting for, a serendipitous moment to reconnect with Axel amidst the scenic beauty of Baguio?

Unable to suppress her anticipation, Iris dialed Axel's number, her heart pounding with nervous excitement. With each ring, her hope soared higher, envisioning their reunion against the backdrop of Baguio's picturesque landscapes.

When Axel finally answered, Iris couldn't contain her excitement. "Axel, guess what? I have a business meeting in Baguio! Wouldn't it be amazing if we could meet up there?" she exclaimed, her voice brimming with anticipation.

Axel's response was a mixture of surprise and delight. "Baguio? That's incredible, Iris! I'll see if I can rearrange my schedule to join you there," he replied, his tone echoing her excitement.

With renewed energy and a sense of anticipation, Iris set about making preparations for her trip to Baguio, her heart aflutter with the prospect of a serendipitous encounter with Axel amidst the winding streets and misty vistas of the mountain city...

As Iris stepped onto the bustling streets of Baguio, her excitement was tinged with a sense of disappointment. Despite her hopes of a serendipitous encounter with Axel in the picturesque city, her attempts to contact him had been met with frustration – his phone was out of coverage area.

With each unsuccessful call, Iris's heart sank a little lower, the shadows of doubt creeping into her mind. Had she allowed herself to be swept away by the whims of fate, only to be met with disappointment? Was Axel truly unreachable, or was he intentionally avoiding her?