Heartless (Completed)

Chapter 26

Chapter 26

I nearly jolted out of bed when I caught a glimpse of the time. For Pete's sake, it was already 11 AM, and lunchtime was fast approaching! Art was nowhere to be found in the room. Panic surged through me as I sprinted to the bathroom, hastily brushing my teeth and splashing water on my face.

Descending the stairs, I hurried toward the kitchen. Just as I was about to step inside, a tantalizing aroma enveloped me—the unmistakable scent of adobo wafting through the air, courtesy of Manang Beth, our beloved cook. I wasn't mistaken; as soon as I entered, I saw her stirring the pot with a smile.

"Good morning, Eliann," she greeted warmly.

I returned her smile, a little shy but genuine. "Good morning to you too, Manang. I'm so sorry for waking up late; I wish I could have helped you." I wanted to offer my assistance, but it seemed she had everything under control. Instead, I grabbed the dishes and utensils, arranging them meticulously on the table.

"Oh, no need for that! This is my job. It would be embarrassing for you to help," she insisted, but her modesty only made me more resolute. Manang Beth was genuinely kind, and I could see the embarrassment painted on her face as I assisted her.

"It's really okay, Manang. I want to help," I replied, trying to reassure her.

She sighed softly, scratching the back of her neck. "Thank you. You're such a kind child. Sir is lucky to have you." Her words struck me like a lightning bolt, and I offered a reserved smile. I was at a loss for how to respond.

Lucky? I don't think so.

"By the way, where's Art?" I asked, eager to change the subject.

"Didn't he tell you? He just went out for a bit. He didn't even eat," she said.

My heart dropped at her words, leaving me momentarily speechless. I inhaled deeply, struggling to regain my composure before glancing at her.

"Maybe he didn't say goodbye because I was still asleep," I lied, swallowing hard. "Did he mention where he was going?"

"No, he just left earlier."

I nodded slowly, taking in her response. She had no idea about the turmoil between Art and me, but I feared that soon enough, she would. The thought sent a wave of dread crashing over me. What would she say when she discovered everything? Would she sympathize or judge us harshly?

Where could Art have gone?

"Manang, just take some food you've cooked and give it to your children. I'll be by the pool for a bit," I said, swiftly exiting the kitchen.

As I stepped into the living room, I caught sight of the outside world through the transparent wall. I was captivated by the view— a beach not far from where we were. I hadn't noticed it last night in the darkness. I stepped outside and made my way to the pool.

The sun had risen higher, bathing everything in its golden glow, the sky a brilliant canvas of unblemished blue. A gentle afternoon breeze kissed my cheeks. But that didn't stop me from dipping my feet into the cool water and sitting on the edge.

I longed to feel joy, but a heavy weight anchored me down. As long as I remained trapped in this situation, I couldn't summon the happiness to jump for joy. My heart ached, not for myself, but for Art. I knew I shouldn't have done what I did, yet I felt cornered, forced into this painful position. What could I do now? It was done.

All I could do was find a way to make amends. But how? I'd just have to figure it out.

Suddenly, a loud ring from my phone broke through the haze of my thoughts, jolting me back to reality. I grabbed it from the table nearby.