Chapter 20: Grand Opening

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A’ishah's POV

One week later.

Today is the grand opening for Maxine's real estate. She sent me an invitation para daw manood sa event. And yes, Denise will be there. I'm sure pati dad niya pupunta don.

But I'm not worried anymore. After all this time, Maxine was so consistent in reassuring me. Besides, I can really feel her love for me.

I am not worried that she'll decide one day na gusto niya parin si Denise. What worries me is Denise herself.

That woman is working on something I don't know yet. I just feel it. Nararamdaman ko na may gagawin siyang hindi ko magugustuhan.

Anyway, I'm attending the grand opening today not because of her. It's because of Maxi.

I wanted to see her achievement today. She really worked hard on this project and I couldn't be more proud to see her stand tall with this success.

Our friends are also invited. Excited na nga sila at kanina pa nila pinapaulanan ng congratulatory messages si Maxi sa group chat namin.

Of course, Maxine's family will be there too. I can't wait to finally meet them again.

I wore a casual dress and kept my hair loose, wanting to look effortless yet stunning. As I glanced in the mirror, I reminded myself that today was about Maxine and her accomplishments, not about any lingering doubts I had.

As I arrived at the venue, I could already see the decorations shining brightly, and the buzz of excitement filled the air. People were mingling, laughter echoing, and I felt a wave of warmth at the thought of celebrating with everyone.

I spotted Maxine across the room, surrounded by a small group of admirers. She looked stunning, her confidence radiating. My heart swelled with pride. She truly deserved this moment. I took a deep breath and made my way toward her.

“Hey, beautiful!” I called out, trying to catch her attention. She turned and her face lit up when she saw me.

“A’ishah! I’m so glad you made it!” She exclaimed, pulling me into a warm embrace. Leaving her admirers in awe. Malamang curious nanaman yang mga yan kung sino ako.

“Of course! I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” I replied, smiling.

As we chatted, I noticed Denise hovering at the edge of the crowd, her eyes fixed on us. I could feel a knot tightening in my stomach, but I pushed it aside. This was Maxine’s moment.

“Are you ready for the speech?” I asked her, trying to divert my thoughts.

“Almost! Just a few last-minute things to check.” Maxine said, her excitement palpable.

“Great! I know you'll do great later.” I patted her cheek lightly. She leaned her head on my palm, feeling my warmth.

“I'm really glad you're here.” She smiled and looked at me lovingly. She didn't mind that the majority of the crowd were watching us.

The media are also taking a picture of us. I know, because I can hear the sound of the clicking cameras around us.

My heart raced a bit at the attention, but I felt a surge of confidence standing beside Maxine.

That's right. I am the one who's standing beside her. Not any other woman, no one else, but me.

“Maxine, can you tell us who's this lovely lady?” A reporter came out of nowhere, startling me and Maxi.

Quickly, I pulled away. And agad na umayos ng tayo si Maxi.

“Sure. This is A’ishah Layla Alvarez.” She showed me to the reporters, putting her hand on her favorite spot. Saan pa ba? Edi sa bewang ko!

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