Tied To You

B

The 18 Roses

'Why me of all people?' Michael asked to himself. 'Why couldn't it be Brandon, he's madly in love with Ava and dad knows I'm in a relationship.' All this ran through his head as he drove to the venue of the Onyx Hotel.

'Son you're here! Did you bring what I asked you?' Michael purposefully forgot the ring at home. He pretended as if he didn't know what he was talking about. 'What was I suppose to bring?' He asked his father in confusion.

'He means this...bozo.' Brandon said from behind as he took out the velvet box from his coat pocket and handed it to his father. 'I wouldn't expect someone like you to forget such a thing Mike.' Brandon said smirking at his brother. Brandon envied his brother he wpuld do anything to be in his situation right now. He's been in love with Ava since their fathers both set foot into office. He doesn't understand why his father chose Michael to represent the family at Ava's debut when he clearly knows that Mike is dating a Cora Valles, Ava's cousin. When the better option could've been him because he was single and heir to Solis Farms the main supplier of goods in Eagle Valley. 

'It's a good thing Brandon had it. You boys take a seat the seriousness is about to begin. Don't lose this.' He said to his sons and handed the ring to Michael. All the boys participating in the 18 roses were given diamond engagement rings in the event of Ava picking one potential suitor. This was the last chance anybody could be apart of the Montenegro family because Ava was the youngest Montenegro.

'Alright may we have the 18 candles make their way to the debutant please. Have your candles present with you when we call your name.' The host said as all the candles prepared.

Mr. Montenegro was at the back smoking a big cigar reading each contract that came with the engagement of Ava from every family participating. He wanted to make sure his daughter would be in good hands and so were his assets he was to leave his daughter.

After the whole 18 candle procession was over, the host immediately called for the 18 roses to take their place. All the participants for the 18 roses placed on their mask and headed out. Evan was still by his sister. He took her hand and started slow dancing with her. 'Make sure you pick the right guy.' He whispered to her ear before the first rose approached.

'What do you mean kuya?' She asked with confusion written all over her face.' He looked at her as he handed her to the first rose. 'You will know soon.' And with that he left as the first rose came. This 18 roses is similar  to the traditional style where the guy gives the girl the rose, the only thing different is that at the very end she chooses which rose she wants.

The first rose was Emerson Imperial, eldest son and heir of Imperial Goods and Services. They were the main suppliers of exported goods and plantations all over Eagle Valley.

The second rose was none other than Renlie Cortez, only son of Charlie Cortez and heir to Mendoza Enterprise. They are one of the biggest investors of Dreamland Corporation.

Third to set foot was Carson Avila, youngest son of Mr. Avila, the owner of Avila Networks. They are the partners or merged company of Dreamland Co.

Fourth was Henry De Silva, only son of Marcus De Silva. The De Silva family owned many vineyards and casinos in Eagle Valley.

Fifth was Toby Perez middle son of Quincy Perez the owner of Onyx Hotel and Resorts. They have branches all over Eagle Valley and in many towns over.

Sixth was Avery Asuncion, son of Aldrich Asuncion the famous prosecutor. He is the lawyer for the Montenegro Family for the last 20 years and has decided to pass the torch to his son Avery who spent years abroad studying law. An educated, rich man he was.

Seventh was Ashton Monroe. Only legitimate son of Edgar Dumas. His mother was a famous international model and Mr. Dumas holds a seat in city council.

Eighth was Roberto Pizzoli. Son of Philippe Pizzoli and Sarah Dumas. He is the heir of Pizzoli Manufacturing and Dumas Printing. Eagle Valley's biggest manufacturing and advertisement company.

Ninth was Arthur Mathias, son of Henry Mathias. Arthur founded Puso't Kamay Organization that helps lower class families with housing and schooling. He was rich and kind hearted.

Tenth was Mateo Salinas. Son and heir to Salinas Express. The biggest mailing company all over Eagle Valley and Eagle Rock.

Eleventh and Twelfth didn't matter as they were just suitors handpicked by the Valles who if chosen will benefit just the Valles family.

Thirteenth and fourteenth pick was unimportant because both the boys are the illegitimate child from mistresses of big businessman who didn't have sons.

Fifteenth was Ava's ex-boyfriend was always close to the family and that Victor Travis, son of Admiral Vicencio Travis of the Eagle Rock Navy. Now mature he is in training for Admiral position in the Armed Forces division.

Sixteenth was Ian Ventura, son of Ivan and Zamora Ventura. Owner of Ventura Realty. They are top notch real estate agents who sell million dollar properties for both business and residential all over the globe.

Last but not least was Michael Solis, youngest son of  board of supervisors president Carter Solis her father's right hand man and successor to office. Unlike his brother Brandon who owned Solis Farms, Michael owned high-end condos and clubs. All done on his own. He was independent.

The eighteenth rose of course was none other than Ava's dad who accompanied her on stage. 'Pick wisely. The rose you choose will tied to you forever.' Said her father.

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Author's Note: So I changed up the character list a little bit so check it out to avoid confusion. Thanks.

Czarina ❤️