Golden Melody (Editing)

Chapter 132

Chapter 132
Miexha's POV

The graduation march wasn’t mine this time—
It was Jamie’s.

And yet, my palms were sweating just like they did last week.

She held my hand tightly as we walked down the aisle together. Her tiny steps matched mine, her hair tied into the neatest pigtails I’ve ever managed, her uniform spotless—except for the glittery heart sticker she sneakily slapped onto her sash.

“Jamie Wayne Dom,” the teacher called out.

My heart nearly burst.
My baby.
First Honor.

The applause rolled like thunder. I couldn’t help the tears. Jamie climbed the stage like it belonged to her, adjusting the mic with that confident smile she always wore like armor just like her father.

Her voice rang bright and clear:

“I want to thank my teacher, my classmates, my Ninongs and Ninangs, and especially… my Mama. She sings and studies and helps me do my homework. She’s the best singer in the world, and when I grow up, I’ll be just like her. Maybe even prettier!”

The crowd laughed.
I cried harder.

When the medal was hung around her neck, she ran straight into my arms. I knelt, fixing it gently against her chest.

“You did it, love,” I whispered, pressing a kiss to her forehead. “You’re the brightest star in my sky.”

We walked out hand in hand, her fingers swinging with mine.

And then—

He was there.

Jayson.

Wearing a soft blue button-down, holding a silver balloon and a teddy bear in a tiny toga hat.

I instinctively pulled Jamie a little behind me. My breath hitched. My mind raced.

Of course he found out. He’s her father.

But why was he standing there… smiling like some proud dad in a Sunday drama?

“Miexha,” he called, taking a cautious step forward. “Wait—can we talk—”

I turned away like I hadn’t heard him.
Jamie tugged at my dress.

“Mama… who’s that handsome man?”

I gritted my teeth. “A jerk.”

Her eyes widened. “That’s the jerk?! He looks like… a hundred times better than Ninong Sonata!”

I nearly choked.

“Jamie.”

“What?” she whispered.
“He’s still a jerk. Just a really good-looking one.”

Of course.

I tried to move. But I knew if I ran, he’d catch up.

He had long legs. I had corgi legs.
Unfair.

Jayson finally reached us.

“You- you hid my daughter,” he said, voice low and sharp. “I have... rights...”

“Funny how you remembered them six years too late,” I shot back.

He crouched, offering the balloon. Jamie glanced at me, then shyly took it.

“Mama… he gave me a balloon. Maybe he’s a little less jerk now.”

Betrayal.

Jamie turned to him. “Can I hug you?”