MARIA MINERVA

Chapter 1

Maria Minerva lived in a modest, sun-baked village nestled between rolling hills and vibrant fields of sugarcane. Her family was known to be hardworking, but low in social standing—barely enough to make ends meet. In stark contrast, the De La Cruzes, with their sprawling estate and riches, were the most powerful family in town. Among them was Miguel, the young heir whose charm and striking looks made him the most sought-after bachelor in the region.

Their love story began in secret. Maria had always known her place in society, and Miguel was aware of his family's expectations. Still, whenever their paths crossed, the connection between them grew impossible to ignore. It started with stolen glances at the market, a shared smile in passing, and eventually, daring late-night rendezvous in the moonlit fields.

One evening, as they met by the old stone bridge outside of town, Maria's heart raced as she waited for Miguel. The wind rustled through the trees, casting long shadows on the road. She glanced around nervously, knowing all too well what would happen if anyone found out about their affair.

Miguel appeared from the darkness, his confident stride instantly calming her nerves.

Maria (smiling softly): "I didn't think you'd come tonight."

Miguel (grinning as he approached): "Nothing could keep me away from you, Maria."

He took her hand, and they walked together along the edge of the river. The world around them seemed far away, and for a moment, all the worries melted away.

Maria (sighing, her voice low): "Sometimes I wonder how long we can keep this up. What if someone sees us? What if your family finds out?"

Miguel stopped and turned to face her, gently cupping her face in his hands. His dark eyes reflected the moonlight, filled with intensity and love.

Miguel: "Maria, do you ever think I care about what they think? I'm here because I want to be. You're the only one that matters to me."

Maria (frowning slightly, her doubts creeping in): "But your father... he would never allow this. He's always said you would marry someone from the city, someone wealthy and—"

Miguel (cutting her off, shaking his head): "No. My father doesn't control my heart, Maria. I know what they expect of me, but I won't live my life by their rules. Not when I've found you."

They sat by the riverbank, watching the water flow quietly under the bridge. The stars shone brightly overhead, casting a peaceful glow over the night.

Maria: "Sometimes I dream about us living far away from here, where no one knows us. We could start fresh, build our own life."

Miguel (smiling at the thought): "And we will, Maria. I promise. One day, we'll leave all of this behind. We'll be free."

For a moment, they allowed themselves to get lost in the fantasy of a life without secrets. But the reality was never far behind.

Maria (her voice quiet, almost fragile): "But how? How can we, when your family has so much control over everything in this town?"

Miguel pulled her closer, his arm wrapped around her shoulders.

Miguel: "We'll find a way. We just need to be patient, careful. I won't let them take you away from me."

As the night grew darker, their passion deepened. They spoke of dreams, desires, and fears. But the weight of secrecy was always there, pressing on them.

Maria (her voice breaking slightly): "Miguel, I love you. But sometimes I feel like this is a dream. That one day, I'll wake up, and you'll be gone, forced into the life they've chosen for you."

Miguel (fiercely): "That will never happen. I promise you, Maria. I'll fight for us. No one— not my father, not anyone—will come between us."

They kissed under the stars, the warmth of their connection battling the cool night air. For now, they were safe in the quiet of their hidden world.

But deep down, they both knew the walls were closing in. The whispers had already begun in town, and Miguel's family was more watchful than ever. For how long could they hide their love?

As they parted for the night, Miguel walked her to the edge of her family's small cottage, where they exchanged a final, lingering kiss.

Miguel (softly, brushing her hair from her face): "Goodnight, my love. I'll see you tomorrow. Same place."

Maria (with a nod, her heart heavy): "Be careful, Miguel. Please."

He disappeared into the shadows, leaving Maria alone with her thoughts, a mixture of happiness and dread swirling in her chest. She closed the door behind her, leaning against it, her hand resting on her heart.

In the silence of the night, Maria whispered to herself.

Maria: "I hope love will be enough to protect us."