From Boring to Burning

1: Unmasking Mysteries

Alexandra Soleil Andrews tapped the final period on her keyboard, sighing as she saved the latest chapter of her dark romance novel. The screen glowed with the title of her series, a name that sent shivers down the spines of her devoted fans. Pero walang nakakaalam maliban sa pamilya at kaibigan niya na siya ang nasa likod ng pseudonym na ito. She liked it that way.

With a satisfied smile, inupload niya yung chapter sa isang popular na e-book website. Instantly, bumuhos ng notifications ang kanyang inbox. Comments from excited readers, all speculating sa mga susunod na mangyayari sa kanyang nobela. Her heart swelled with pride, her secret life thrilling and rewarding.

Her phone buzzed, breaking her reverie. Si Francesca. Asawa siya ng older brother ni Alex na si Reagan. They are newly married and meron silang cute na 1 year old daughter na si Elizabeth. Si Fran ay isang editor-in-chief sa isang fashion magazine. Malaking parte siya ng success ni Alex as a dark romance author. Siya ang nagtulak sa kaniya na magsulat and she even helps her if she doesn't have any ideas anymore 'pag nakakaranas siya ng mental block.

"Hey, Alex! Kakabasa ko lang ng latest chapter. You've got everyone on edge na naman ha."

Fran said with a chuckle.

Alex laughed softly. "Glad to hear it, Ate. Keeps me motivated. What's up?"

"Oh yeah, your brother wants to remind you regarding sa gathering tomorrow sa bahay. Sabi ng Kuya mo, may big announcement daw si Dad."

"Yes Ate, Kuya Reagan already called me about it. No clue what it's about, though. I guess we'll find out tomorrow," Alex said, her curiosity piqued.

"Can't wait! See you then, Lex. And keep those chapters coming ha, I'm addicted!"

Fran giggled before hanging up.

As soon as natapos yung call, nagbihis si Alex to check on one of her coffee shops. Of course, may day job si Alex aside sa pagiging secret dark romance author niya. She owns a few coffee shops in the city, targeting students and other customers who want to drink and eat affordably but doesn't affect the overall quality of the menu and the shop itself. She co-manages it with her best friend, Noelle. The wild friend....a complete opposite of Alex. Kahit si Alex 'di niya alam paano nagclick ang friendship nila pero it is what it is. What's important is that they truly cherish each other.

Pagkabihis ni Alex, kinuha niya ang car keys niya and sinara ang pinto ng kanyang condo. She lives alone now pero paminsan-minsan, nauwi siya sa family home nila to visit her family.

The distance between her condo and her main branch is not that far. It usually takes 15 minutes to reach the coffee shop.

At the main branch of her coffee shop, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee embraced Alex as she stepped inside. The familiar clinking of cups and soft chatter of customers made her feel at home. She spotted Noelle behind the counter, expertly managing the bustling crowd.

"Hey, boss lady!" Bati ni Noelle with a grin. "Everything's running smoothly. You're just in time for the evening rush."

Ngumiti si Alex, feeling a sense of pride. "Thank you, sis."

Noelle's eyes sparkled with mischief. "So, how about magcelebrate tayo with a night out? Let's hit the club!"

Noelle being herself, again. Suki na talaga ng clubs itong babaeng ito. She loves to hunt men...figuratively. Ilang beses nang pina-blind date niya si Alex pero laging failed. Kung 'di umaayaw yung lalaki due to Alex's strong personality, minsan naman 'di sumisipot si Alex sa mismong date.
Sometimes, she wonders if Alex wants to be single for life.

Alex frowned, hesitant. "'Di ko alam, sis. Masyadong marami tayong gagawin e."

Noelle pouted, not taking no for an answer. "Come on, Alex! Need mo ng break. Isang gabi lang oh. You deserve it!"

Rolling her eyes, Alex relented. "Fine, fine. But just for a little while."