Karera | [ Stacey x OC (F) ]

C33 - After 5 years

Louise's POV (5 years later)

The day was already busy when Javi barged into my office, his usual energy lighting up the room. "Engineer Tuazon." he said with a cheeky grin, using the formal title even though he knew it irked me. "May bago tayong project, it's for Ms. Ocampo."

Before I could respond, Aiah, who had been lounging on the couch, stood up to greet Javi. They exchanged pleasantries, a small smile passing between them.

"Is there an architect assigned yet?" I asked, turning back to Javi. 

He shook his head, his expression neutral. "Wala pa. Ms. Ocampo mentioned that she's still finalizing details and gusto n'yang makipag meet muna."

I nodded, my mind already running through possibilities. "What kind of building are we designing?" 

"Just a house." Simpleng sagot n'ya. 

I stood up, slinging my bag over my shoulder. A quick glance at my watch told me we had just enough time to make it. I looked back at Javi and Aiah, who were watching me expectantly. "You want to come with us, Ai?"

Aiah shook her head, her smile apologetic. "I just stopped by to check on you. Maybe tomorrow, I have a meeting in a bit." She leaned in, pressing a quick kiss to my cheek. "Take care, bub, okay?"

"You too." I replied softly, watching her leave before turning back to Javi. "Tara na." 

As we walked to the car, tumingin si Javi sa'kin at nag tanong. "Hindi ka pa kumakain 'no?"

I shrugged nonchalantly. "I've been busy."

He sighed, exasperated. "Jusko ka, puro ka trabaho, Lou. Mag drive thru muna tayo, kumain ka." 

"Yes, Dad." Asar ko. 

He shot me a side-eye glance but didn't argue. "What if wala ako rito para i-remind sa 'yo na kailangan mong kumain?"

"You'll always be there." I said with a chuckle. "You're like a permanent fixture in my life, Javi."

He shook his head, muttering something under his breath as we pulled into a drive-thru. I ordered a quick meal, and Javi grabbed coffee for himself. As we ate in the car, the light banter continued, easing the weight of the long day ahead. 

1:30 pm - Restaurant

When we arrived at the location— a luxury restaurant owned by Ms. Ocampo, we composed ourselves before stepping inside. The staff greeted us warmly and guided us to a private area kung saan nag aantay si Ms. Ocampo. 

She stood up to greet us, her smile wide and welcoming. "Engineer Tuazon and Medoza, thank you for coming."

"Thank you for having us." I replied, shaking her hand bago umupo. 

Ms. Ocampo wasted no time, diving into the details of the house she wanted. She described it with such enthusiasm and love that it was impossible not to feel her excitement. "It's a gift for my daughter." she explained, her eyes sparkling. 

Javi took detailed notes, his pen moving furiously over the pages, while I focused on listening. The passion in her voice was contagious, and I found myself smiling despite the long day. 

When she finished, I leaned forward. "That sounds like a wonderful idea for your house, ma'am. However, we'll need to assign an architect. Most of the ones in our company are currently occupied."