A Journey Through Love and Loss

New Years Eve

Avery's POV

The Sandoval mansion was breathtaking, draped in twinkling lights and vibrant decorations that seemed to dance in the new year's eve air.

The festive atmosphere was infectious, yet a part of me remained distant, preoccupied with thoughts of Tyler and his recent busyness. Ilang araw din siyang busy at nakikita ko lang siya tuwing gabi kapag umuuwi ito sa bahay namin. Halatang lagi itong pagod. I couldn't help but wonder what was keeping him so occupied.

I wandered through the grand halls, exchanging pleasantries and offering polite smiles, but my heart wasn't in it.

Caleb, Mark, and Lucas along with Ruth, provided some distraction with their laughter and lighthearted banter. We had invited Analea too, pero hindi ito pumunta kaya mag-isa lang si thalia na umiinom ng wine. Mukhang ayaw nitong makipag-usap.

"Why do you think Analea didn't come?" Mark asked, sipping his drink.

"Maybe she had other plans," Lucas shrugged, then turned to Ruth. "And what's with you and your endless arguments with me? Are you secretly in love or something?"

Ruth threw a playful punch at Lucas's shoulder. "As if! I'd rather spend New Year's alone than with you."

I chuckled at their exchange but couldn't shake the nagging curiosity about Tyler. He'd been upstairs since we arrived, kanina pa siya nasa kwarto niya at hindi pa ulit ito bumaba.

I was about to check on him when Mr. Fernandez intercepted me.

"I'm sorry, Miss Avery, but Master Tyler has given strict instructions that no one is allowed to go upstairs," Mr. Fernandez said firmly.

I frowned but didn't push the matter. Instead, I returned to my friends, trying to immerse myself in the vibrant conversations and games that filled the night.

The grand party was alive with activity. Relatives and friends gathered in clusters, laughing and reminiscing about the year gone by.

The air was thick with the scent of delicious food, and the clinking of glasses as toasts were made echoed throughout the mansion.

Masaya naman na nag-iinuman ang parents ko at ang parents ni Tyler. Buti hindi sila nagtataka na kanina pa wala si Tyler sa party.

"Where's Tyler? I haven't seen him for a while." Caleb remarked, glancing towards the staircase.

I shook my head. "He's been busy with something. Mr. Fernandez wouldn't let me go upstairs to see him."

Mark raised an eyebrow. "That's strange. What could he be doing up there?"

Ruth leaned in closer. "He might be dealing with something for his work at Sandoval Empire. Remember, our OJT starts after New Year before graduation."

"Work? On New Year's Eve?" I frowned

The party continued, and soon it was time for the New Year's countdown. Everyone gathered in the main hall, glasses of champagne at the ready. I stood with my friends, my eyes scanning the crowd for any sign of Tyler.

The countdown began. "Ten, nine, eight..."

As the clock ticked down, the anticipation in the room grew palpable. "Seven, six, five..."

My heart pounded, still no sign of Tyler. "Four, three, two..."

Just as the crowd shouted "One! Happy New Year!" Nakarinig kami ng mga paputok galing sa labas at kitang kita namin ang fireworks sa malaking window na kinatatayuan namin.

As everyone celebrated the arrival of the new year, a sudden hush fell over the crowd. All eyes turned to the staircase.

I followed their gaze and saw Tyler descending the steps, carrying a young boy in his arms. Whispers spread among our relatives, all wondering who the child was.