The Temporary Wife (BongLeni)

Chapter 10

The sun was shining brightly over El Nido as Leni and Bongbong sat across from the owner of the online streaming service, their proposal finally in the last stages. The atmosphere crackled with anticipation, and Bongbong could feel the weight of the moment pressing on his shoulders.

"Thank you, Bongbong, Leni," the owner said, a broad smile lighting up his face. "Your vision for this partnership is impressive. It's refreshing to meet people who truly understand the industry."

"Salamat po," Leni replied, her chest swelling with pride. "Naniniwala kami sa potensyal ng collaboration na ito. Together, we can reach new heights."

Bongbong nodded in agreement, the thrill of closing the deal washing over him. "Tama ka diyan. We look forward to a fruitful partnership."

Once they finalized the contract, Leni felt a wave of relief wash over her. They had done it. They secured the deal that could elevate both their careers. Bongbong glanced at her, a newfound respect in his eyes; her expertise had been invaluable.

"Great job, Leni," he said, his tone softer now, free of the earlier tension. "I really appreciate everything you did to make this happen."

"Thanks," she replied, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. "Guess we make a good team after all."

Just as they were about to leave, Bongbong checked his phone, and his expression darkened. "Uh-oh. We might be stuck here a little longer."

"Anong ibig mong sabihin?" Leni asked, a knot forming in her stomach.

"There's a strong typhoon hitting Manila. Our flight has been canceled, and it looks like we won't be able to leave until it passes," he said, running a hand through his hair. "We're stuck here."

"Great," she muttered, rolling her eyes. She didn't mind being stuck in paradise, but the reason for their delay made her anxious. Leni had her own reasons for wanting to avoid El Nido—memories tied to two mansions on the island: the Marcos family mansion and her family's home, the Gerona residence. She hadn't spoken to her family in three years and had no idea where they were now.

As they sat down for lunch at the villa, Leni's curiosity got the better of her. She had to know if her childhood home was still empty. "Kuya, do you know if anyone lives in the Gerona mansion?" she asked one of the staff.

The staff member smiled politely. "Ahh, yung mansion ba ng mga Gerona? Naku, matagal nang walang nakatira diyan. Ang balita namin, simula nung nawala yung anak nila, lumipat na sila sa Amerika, at hanggang ngayon andun pa rin yung mag-asawa."

A rush of happiness and sadness washed over Leni at the news. "Ayos lang 'yan," she thought. Maybe she could visit without worrying about running into her family.

Bongbong, overhearing the conversation, raised an eyebrow. "What's up with the Gerona mansion?" he asked, intrigued.

"Dun ako lumaki," Leni admitted, feeling vulnerable. "It's just... been a while since I've seen it."

"Wanna check it out?" Bongbong suggested, surprising her. "I'm curious now."

"Uh, sure," Leni replied, hiding her surprise. "Let's go."

***

As they made their way to the mansion, Leni felt a mix of excitement and anxiety. She hadn't set foot in that house in years. When they arrived, she hesitated at the entrance, memories flooding back. The mansion was just as she remembered: grand yet worn down, a testament to the life it once housed.

With a deep breath, Leni pushed the door open. To her astonishment, it creaked open easily, as if welcoming her back. She turned to Bongbong, who was looking around with keen interest.