Heart's Assessment (Completed)

Chapter 16

As the week approached, the looming specter of our midterm exams haunted my thoughts, yet my mind remained ensnared by the presence of Travian and his mind fucking games. Coming to terms with the realization that he was no ordinary serial killer was a bitter pill to swallow. Damn it! Did I underestimated him?

Frustration coursed through me, evident in the tightening grip on the steering wheel as I navigated through the streets. Seeking respite from the turmoil within, I reluctantly accepted my mom's invitation to attend a business event hosted by their company, but I guess it still won't help me.

through the grand hall of the event, I found myself bombarded by the blinding flashes of cameras, aggravating my irritation. However, mindful of the public eye and the presence of media and reporters, I concealed my annoyance behind a composed facade. This was the downside of bearing the Marquez name-a constant intrusion into my privacy that I begrudgingly accepted.

Approaching my parents' table, I couldn't help but squint in annoyance as I took my seat beside them. "Mom, why didn't you mention the swarm of media reporters? I would have prepared myself," I complained, the frustration evident in my voice.

My mom chuckled in response, offering a simple explanation, "You never asked, darling. Besides, if I had told you, you probably wouldn't have come." Pulling me into a hug, she added, "Just enjoy the evening, sweetheart. I've missed having you around."

Returning the hug, I echoed, "I missed you, too," before gently pulling away. Injecting a bit of humor into the conversation, I jokingly added, "Pahinging pera." eliciting laughter from both of them.

My dad chimed in, addressing my jest, "You already have two to three black credit cards. Do you really need another one?" He offered lightheartedly.

I quickly shook my head, clarifying, "Just kidding, dad. Hindi ka naman mabiro?" with a chuckle. Shifting the focus, I inquired, "By the way, what's the purpose of this event?"

My mom couldn't help but roll her eyes at my tardiness. "We already made the announcement earlier, but of course, you arrived fashionably late and missed it. Dumating kung kailan patapos na yung event. Kahit kailan ka talagang bata ka ang hilig mong magpa-late." she said in a motherly tone.

Natawa naman ako sa panenermon sa akin. Wala kasi talaga akong hilig sa ganitong mga event lalo na kapag usapang business.

My dad interjected, gently taking my hand and offering a reassuring smile. "We just announced our plans to expand our business into other continents, and it's all going to be under your name," he revealed with pride.

My jaw practically hit the floor at my dad's revelation. Confusion flooded my mind, and I couldn't help but seek confirmation. "Wait, what?! Did you just say that I'll be the one handling all of it, or did I mishear?"

"That's correct. You'll be the owner," he reiterated casually, taking a sip of his wine as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

Frustration began to bubble up inside me. I didn't like the idea at all. Just the thought of being in charge of running an entire company made me want to quit before I even started. Paano pa kaya kung madami na? Ghad!

I took a deep breath, trying to steady myself before addressing them with a serious tone. "Dad, I've already made it clear that I don't intend to enter the business world. It's just not for me."