Someday, Someway

The Wedding

The wind carried the scent of the sea, crisp and salty, as it whipped through the air on Jeju Island, where the Martino family had gathered for a much-needed break. The rolling hills and volcanic landscapes stretched out before them, a stark contrast to the bustling lives they led back in the Philippines. For a few precious days, the world slowed down, and they could simply be a family.

David Sr., standing at the edge of the villa's veranda, gazed out at the shimmering waters of the East China Sea. His health had improved significantly since his heart attack, and the fresh Jeju air seemed to breathe life back into his weary soul. The vacation had been planned months ago, but now, it had become more than just a break—it was a turning point.

"Dad, come join us," Lorraine called from behind, where the rest of the family was seated around a large outdoor table, sharing drinks and laughter under the warm Korean sun. Krystal sat near the edge of the group, her usual composed demeanor softened in the presence of her children. William and Francis, now closer than ever, were caught up in a spirited discussion about soccer. Arianna, David Jr., Stephanie, and Jamie were relaxing, catching up on life's twists and turns, their faces relaxed and glowing in the light of the setting sun.

David smiled at Lorraine's invitation and turned back to the family, his heart swelling with pride at the sight of them together. He joined the table, his presence commanding, yet quiet. He took his seat, and a familiar hush fell over the group, knowing their father had something to say.

He cleared his throat. "I've been thinking a lot, especially since the hospital," he began, his deep voice steady but filled with the weight of the past. "About the future. And about the kind of life I want to live moving forward."

Lorraine felt a pang of anticipation. She knew her father had been contemplating big changes, but he had yet to reveal his plans to the family.

David glanced at Krystal before continuing. "I've decided that I'm returning to the Philippines. I want to reenter politics. It's where I belong—helping our country, contributing to something larger than myself."

A ripple of surprise moved through the group, but it was mixed with understanding. Politics had always been David's passion, the one constant in his life, even during the turbulent years of his marriage.

William, sitting beside Francis, shifted uncomfortably in his seat. "Does that mean... we're going back, too?" he asked, looking at his father with wide eyes.

David smiled warmly. "That's up to you, Will. But if you want, I'd love for you and Francis to come live with me in the Philippines."

There was a moment of silence, broken only by the soft rustle of the ocean breeze. William and Francis exchanged glances, and it was clear they had already discussed this between themselves. Finally, William nodded, a grin spreading across his face. "We've decided," he said, his voice firm. "We're coming with you."

Francis, sitting a little more quietly, smiled as well. "Yeah. I think it's time. I want to be with Dad."

Lorraine couldn't help the wave of emotion that surged through her. William had grown so much over the past few months, and Francis was finally becoming a part of the family in a real, tangible way. She glanced at her mother, Krystal, who was listening silently, her face unreadable.

Krystal's eyes met David's for a moment before she nodded, a small but significant gesture. "I approve," she said simply, her voice calm. "They need their father, and if that's what they want, then I won't stand in the way."