Discovered My CEO's secret

"Pretend? To be in a relationship? With you?"

He said it emphatically and seemed surprised at what I said. I nodded slowly and avoided looking at him. He chuckled, and his perfect white teeth showed up. He touched the bridge of his nose, and his expression became dark. There was some pain in my heart as I watched his mocking reaction.

He has a fiancée; this man in front of me has a fiancée. And I'm here asking him to pretend to be his girlfriend so her fiance will show up.

"So what is this? You'll use me as a cover up for your scandal?"

"Oh! Says the mighty, respectable CEO, having some important meetings enclosed for hours in his office." His auburn eyebrows met in one line.

"What?" He laughed without humor.

"Oh! You can't fool me. Meetings that last that long?"

My voice trembled with extreme irritation. I can feel my face heating up again. I want to cry at the thought that he believes in the scandal that is spreading. His eyes narrowed, seemingly unable to understand what I was saying. I rolled my eyes at him.

"We're sailing too far from our topic. I don't care who you fvck and how long you do your woman here.

"Where did you learn those words, Ava? And what the fvck are you talking about?"

His voice thundered. His hawk like eyes are ready to destroy me. I rolled my eyes again.

"It's okay. Don't be so defensive; I'm open minded. I'm used to—"

"You’re ‘used’ to it!?What the actual fvck are you tryna 'say huh?"

"What else then? Your secretary said that you were having an important meeting, but it took another five hours? Really Levi? Who's the unprofessional now?"

"Look at me."

He whispered. I didn’t follow him and focused on my nails.

"Look at me, please."

He touched my chin with his fingers and made me meet his eyes. The tenderness and sweetness of his voice shook the wall I had tried to build between the two of us. His deep set of eyes are soft and drunk. He grabbed the tip of my elbow and pulled me even closer to him as if the thin space gap between the two of us was still missing. I was like a flame dancing with his flow of wind, letting him take me on his own swing.

"Katrina is my dad's employee. She arrived just as I ended my meeting with the attorney to drop off the documents I need."

His eyes were wide as he stared at me. I looked at his lips, and he gently grabbed my attention again to look him in the eye.

"It's your employee's fault." My voice was hoarse, and I couldn’t recognize it.

"Should I fire here?"

"No!"

That's ridiculous, you don't fire people just because of that.

"Uhhuh?"

His eyes were playful, so I avoided looking at him again.

"Now tell me, where did you learn those words, huh? You're accent is music to my ears, but it's not working with that dirty mouth of yours."

I gulped again when I felt his warm breath on my face. Now his eyes are on my lips.

"That's not what I meant here. If you don't agree with what I'm saying, I'm leaving."

I said it without hesitation. Gradually, I began to feel annoyed with myself because I was like a slave enslaved by his caresses. It's just like that, and I immediately weaken and give in to him.

"What's this all about, huh? The last time we talked, you asked me to pretend that we didn't know each other. And now this? What's with this pretending thing?"

He hissed. I didn’t answer him because I just remembered what happened to us last week.

"What are you up to? Please tell me."

He groaned and rested his forehead on my shoulder. It was as if something was missing in my stomach at the tenderness of his voice.

"We'll pretend?"

His palm found its way to my hands, while his other hand is on the side of my chair.

"But the last time I checked, we didn't break up."

My heartbeat went berserk, like an animal that has long been confined and loves to get away.

"You won't bring the past to me again, Levi."

Her eyes narrowed as he nodded. His hands slide from mine down to the side of my chair. Now he seems to be confining me here in my chair. He sighed heavily. It seemed so hard with his emotions.

"I've waited for years... If that's the only thing you can offer, then I'll gladly accept what I deserve."

The corners of my eyes warmed at what he said. I can sense the pain in his words, which make me weak.

How can I unlove this man? I can't just put all the blame on him, because in the first place, I'm hurting because I'm allowing this to happen. When it comes to him, I am so weak. All the strength and plan I had developed over the years seemed to be disappearing. Just by his touch, his words, and his caress, everything has surrendered to me. He's good. He's good at pretending and playing with me.

"Great!"

I said it enthusiastically, even as my tears were forming clouds in my eyes. He raised his gaze at me as if confused. I'm pursing a smile on my lips, and it's dark.

"My company will soon give a statement about this, since you already know that our photos have been spread everywhere." His eyes were cold and silent at what I said. "From now on, if you're asked by the press and media, say that I am your girlfriend."

"You are my girlfriend." I don’t know if he was imitating me or correcting what I said.

"Yyeah! And if I'm asked, then I'll tell them that you are my boyfriend."

"So what am I? I'm sort of your boy toy, huh?"

"We'll both benefit from this, Levi, and you know that. Just cooperate!"

I wanted to say it for her fiancé, but it was good, so I resisted. He raised his brows and pursed his lips. He did not speak for a few seconds as I waited for his answer. "Okay." I narrowed my eyes at him. His eyes were very lazy.

"Treat me like your slave if you want, if that's the cooperation you're talking about."

Wow. Did he agree? That's easy. "Okay, then, I'm good to go."

I stood up, and he backed away from what I had done. He held my wrist and looked up at me with his puffy eyes. It looks like a child will be left by his mother.

"Where are you going?"

"I'm going home." He cocked his head to the other side and glared at me.

"Let's go." He stood up and turned the table around again. I am confused by what he did.

"What? I'm going home alone!" On his cellphone, he turned to me again.

"And what do you want people to think? That I'm letting my girlfriend book a car service and go home alone, coming from the inside of my company? Really Ava?"

I looked at him innocently as if I couldn't get what he said. He's right, but... we have to pretend just to the press and not to the citizens of this country. He raised his eyebrows because I looked so puzzled looking at him. Am I circling him or am I circling him?

"Let's go."

"Is New York beautiful? I saw on the internet that there are many buildings there."

I heard him laugh from the other line. I pouted. I feel like I'm just always being ridiculous in his eyes. Hearing, by the way.

"You love buildings, I forgot." He mocked.

He knew it. He was really just teasing me. He knew how much I wanted to see the City lights that he keeps on flexing about. He knew how much I've draw buildings on my sketch book. He knew it.

"Do you want to come here?" I sighed.

This one is teasing me again.

"I'm serious Ava. Do you want me to bring you here?"

I fell silent. I can't seem to imagine what he wants to happen. Is he asking me if we want to travel together?

"Hmmhmm" I nodded.

I like that. I love that but I don't know why I have so little pain in my heart. I never knew that we've come this far. I never knew that I could dream that far. I thought there should always be a limit when you dream, especially if the dreamer is a scoundrel like me. I remember dreaming about him, dream or illusion all that I remember. Dreaming of being with him for more time every time he's in the office, dreaming for at least a minor attention.

Before, he seems so far out of reach, now he told me he is I feel all that ispossible. He'll always be the range of my limit, nothing equals his dream. Even reaching heaven is unmatched.

"After you graduate I'll bring you in any country you want." He breathed.

I miss him so much. It's only been a week since he left Mar De Vena again and headed to New York for what he says is the conference. He said he was sent as the representative of his father. In addition, we only met for a short time when he was here because he was staying at their hotel in the center.

The Solidad's are here but Sir Constantine left for Manila. It's okay and I'm not alone here in the mansion. So I couldn't help but miss him even more. And now that he's saying this, another dream of mine was molded. We'll come that far soon Levi. Not just at the end of Mar De Vena.

"Are you still not gonna sign the contract?"

Lourd presented me with the contract. I looked at him and just gave up.

"Can I handle all this?"

I brushed my curled hair because of another photo shoot we did this afternoon. Right here in their hotel bar. My make up is heavy and it's a bit new and daring than the usual photo shoots we do. So now that I am aware of the reality of the job I will be entering, I am wondering if I will be able to handle all this by the time I sign this contract.

"You know that I'll always be here right?"

Let's face it. Although Lourd and I didn't have a good start, she has played a big role in my life in recent months. He is the reason I am facing the big change in my life today. I'm thankful that I had a friend but an enemy at the same time. Even if I didn't tell him, he knew I was very grateful to him. Suddenly he entered my life, things I did not expect God to give me.

Levi:

Baby,

I opened his message while going out in the elevator, Lourd was about to take me back to the Solidad. My chest throbbed for no apparent reason. I felt nervous reading his texts, he had that text before but it was alone and he seemed to have something important to say.

As we walked into the lobby, I typed on my cellphone to reply to him. Me: Is there a problem? Before I could even send it Lourd stopped walking in front of me. At his height I had to side to see the reason for his stop.

Lourd's expression seemed bored and when I ruled out the reason for his stop I was also surprised. A middle aged woman wearing a tan sleeveless knee length coat. A skinny black pants was underneath that coat. The belt was close to his waist and I could see the curve of his body. The tans talons heels are clacking while straightly looking at our direction.

She got the smirk on her face as her straight hair didn't seem to be disturbed by any gust of wind. I also stopped because of Lourd's disposition. Why does he look so shocked and afraid? The woman finally came in front of us and two strong men were behind her. Now that she's near, now I see more of her beauty, not paying attention to her age. Even the flap bag she's holding was mesmerizing. I'm intimidated.

"How are you hiding in your son's nest?"

Its cold voice echoed in the quiet lobby. Her side of lips rose but I don't see any humor in it. I was confused by what was happening. This was probably the first time I had seen Lourd without saying anything. His face was restrained but could not look into the woman's eyes. My leg shook as it shifted its gaze to me. Her eyes are cold and intimidating. She scanned me from head to toe until she almost state words as if she's spitting it.

"The news is true, that you brought a hypocrite here."

She smirked. My mouth fell open. My eyes are shocked by her words.

"Ma, please. Let's not include Ava here."

Lourd blocked his arm and forced me to go behind him. My whole being seemed to cool when I heard what Lourd had said. Ma? His mother? Levi's mother? "Ma?" She spat with amusement.

"I'm never you mother, kid."

Her words were even sharper than a dagger, which caused Lourd to bow to his mother's words. The people in the lobby seemed to stop what they were doing.

"Ava?"

She turned his gaze to me, parting my lips to release the building pressure in my throat.

"There is no one else. Until the next life you will still force yourself on the life that is not for you."

It was as if a dagger had pierced my heart. Especially when I saw his eyes full of disgust and hatred. I couldn't understand anything he was saying but to hear it from the mother of the person I love I couldn't bear.

"Ma, please!"

Lourd exclaimed but that doesn't shake her.

"Like your mother, you also try to squeeze yourself into someone you can't reach."

Gradually tears welled up in my eyes, my legs are shaking so bad. The whole lobby's attention was on us.

"The thickness of your face stick your name on my son's name! You inherited from your ambitious and inaccessible mother!"

Lourd kept me hiding behind him. I bowed down to shed my tears. I tried to hide the sobs that I almost vomited. Her anger was clear, the way she shouted and pointed at my face was all clear. The only vague thing was that he joined in my mother's name.

"Isn't your mother's soul still can't move on and when she can't get my husband it's my son you're trying to take !?"

It was as if my heart was pounding with the pain of his words. It was as if I was being killed by the fact that it was slowly opening up in my mind.

"We're leaving here, Ma. You don't have to make a scandal here"

"I'm not your mother!"

He tried to catch up with me but Lourd blocked between the two of us. The female crew was fast and in a flash Lourd was holding them. My cheeks filled with tears when I saw his eyes mocking and full of anger. Full of hatred and abomination.

"Is it money again? For sure it was all about the money, that's really what your mother wanted first."

With dim eyes I could clearly see the rage that was alive in him. I was unable to defend the mother because of the unknown fact. Has the mother been a fixture? And who? When his wife? The father of the person I love the most? I shuddered as I tried to suppress the sobs.

"I love Levi"

"Ma!"

Simultaneously with the numbness of my cheek was the suddenness of everyone. During these times my mind went blank. Eveything went blank as soon as I felt her palm on my cheeks.

"You're disgusting! You're not only flirty like your mother, but you still look like money!"

My knees are weak and my heart seemed to be killed over and over again. Not even my sobs were left in the air and I could barely breathe in the pain I felt. I understand the loath, I understand where she's coming from, understand the critic but I think this is enough.

"This is what you tell your mother the next time you meet, neither in heaven nor in hell, you will never get the men in my life no matter how many times you desire!"

Even before I could kneel in the weakness I felt, Lourd caught up with me.

"Enough! You have no right to hurt Ava! We know you're the criminal here!"

His mother spat a shocked laugh at his son's statement. I can't take my eyes off him. I struggled to memorize how furious he looked so that even in the next life I could carry the pain of the truth I just found out.

"You've caused the fire in their Island so Ava's family died! So my real mother disappeared!"

I thought that was all there was to it. My whole system trembled, my gaze fell to the floor and I completely lost myself. All I can think of was my mother and my father. How much I've wanted to disappear at this moment. I can't digest everything. It's even worse than the nightmare.

"Don't worry. Cause every time I declare your name as my mother, I despise it a lot. It's embarrassing to carry your last name. It's embarrassing to be part of your family."

Levi, we've really come so far.

"So you'll gosee?"

She flung herself on the sofa and lifted up the big Tshirt my sister owned, I saw her red underwear. Seriously? I'm so use seeing her like this every time she visits us here in our flat. My brother is not used though.

"No. I'll get the copy of my Editorial in NY Management."

"I thought you had another, again. You've been beaten at work for a few months, Cy."

I zipped my Suede knee high Boots. I adjust the belt on the waist part of my over sized knitted sweater.

"Working your ass off again."

"Last 2 Editorials ... and catalog."

She stared at me because I knew he didn’t believe me.

"Promise." She hissed.

"That's the same line you said last time I came here."

I got my chain bag in the high stool and I looked again at my appearance in the mirror. I have to exhaust everything. If I got enough money to pursue last year of my college and and buy my own unit then I'll settle. It would be enough if I could work in a company through the profession I want.

"This is unusual. You're gonna walk the streets of New York with that outfit?"

"Wwhy? What's wrong?"

I glanced at myself and was nervous. I'm never good at styling myself. I'm used wearing comfortable clothes, it just happened that I need to dress my self a little bit 'cause camera will be all over the place. Now my Editorial Magazine is out so for sure paparazzi will be everywhere sticking their noses at me. I don't have my body guards, and my manager is in the company waiting for me.That means I'll have to drive alone.

"Nothing is wrong Cyreese. I am seeing you wrong. The paparazzi and tabloids are celebrating you again."

My shoulder dropped at what he said. It will be 4 years in 2 months of being in this industry and I'm still not used in this limelight I've entered in. It was the substitute for everything I desired.

"I know. I don't want to wear this though."

She chuckled and finally approached me. She fixed the buckle of my belt and beat my legs.

"Aww."

"Flaunt your ass. It's only a year and you'll be leaving New York. Might as well give them a proper good bye. Duh ~ Gossips and stuff."

I was shaken by what Lucy was saying. Since his childhood, this has been the world he has come to know. He has mastered almost every system, and he is numb to every issue that will go through his life. I'm not. And I will never be used too it. "

How's Justine?"

Her eyebrows furrowed with meaning. The smirk on her lips is naughty so I turned my back on her. Are we here again?

"Justine and I are just friends, Lucy."

"Friends? After years of impressing you, still friends?"

I never asked him to impress me. I just spoke to myself.

"Are you sure you don't want to extend your contract? When you boom here in New York then you will say bye."

"I want to pursue my "

"Studies. Yes. Of course."

She shrugged and raised her hands in the air as a sign of surrender.

"Study my ass."

She whispered at the end and just shook me. I still have a year to strive. The situation over the past two years has been very critical. Tons of projects in and out of my work and studies. So my 4 year contract is about to end. I want to focus on last year because that is the reason for all this.

"How are you two?"

Her mouth was covered and there seemed to be no answer to what I said. I frowned at his reaction.

"You guys fought again?"

I haven’t been here in the apartment for a few weeks because of the out of town photoshoot I did, so I don’t know if anything happened here while I was away. I haven't met Lourd since I got home. Only he alone.

"Nah, you're brother is just ... being weird. What time will you be home? That'll ask about you."

When he changes the subject immediately. Maybe they have another fight. I left her at the apartment and went to work.

"Would you like some beverage Ms. Suarez?"

I turned to a clerk here at the company.

"Yes please." I smiled.

"The possible circulation of those copy will be higher than the usual. We're also producing copies around Asia."

"What?"

My eyes widened at what he said. I forget the language I just borrowed.

"I mean, Asia? But we used to reach beyond circulation even though we focused on selling those in the west."

She was all smiling but I'm too shocked to comprehend. This is too much. They told me it was a big project but I didn't think it would reach the other side of the world. Several more talks were opened with some of the company’s executives. They were asking about my renewal of contract and other aspects. My answer is the same at first. I'll stick to my original plan. I have unfinished business left on my own, I think it's about time to focus on that.

"Ms. Suarez, From Mr. Bailey."

I looked at the black box with a perfectly arranged red roses. I almost wiped my face at what I saw. What is this? "

Where is he?"

I chased the clerk before he left.

"In the R&D Deparment Miss."

"Thank you."

I look constipated looking at the flowers left in the coffee table.

"That's so sweet of Justine. How's your relationship with him?"

I almost breathed my forced laugh.

"No ma'am, we're just friends."

"Oh? Really? He's been consistent since day one I thought ..."

The smile I gave here was raw. Everybody thinks of that, what else is new? How many times did I explained the truth to them? I've lost my count.

"Ma'am, She's with Lourd Vidalio isn't she?"

My ear pricked up at the whisper of his assistant. If there's one thing I'm not use hearing about, it's this. Gossips like me and my brother living under the same roof are seldom to pass by. That I would have a relationship with my own brother. I should not be affected by that mere thing 'cause what they think is wayway more different from the truth. But I can't help it. If it's about my brother and my personal life, I just can't help it.

"Thank you for your time Ma'am, But I got some errands to do so ..."

"Oh yes, Congratulations Ms. Suarez."

I thanked everybody, I was going to lift the flower box in front of me but one of my bodyguards lifted it. Don't ask me. I also thought they were gone now. My manager is not here and left a body guard here. That's good and it's just one. I walked down the long hallway to go to the R&D Department.

My body guard drove for me all the way to the university. I just submitted the floor plan which I also gave a few weeks of time and time. I combined both shoots and vigil just after that.

I breathed a sigh of relief when my prof accepted that. I fully expected him to decline it because of my one week grace period. As much as I wanted to be treated fairly I had no choice but to ask for this privilege because my schedule could not afford it.

"Uhm, can you please drop me by the cafe. Thanks."

I dialed my manager's number who's apparently Lourd's manager too. I apologize for being late but she's cool with it.

"I'm really sorry. I still passed my last requirement at Univ."

He seemed to ignore what I said and apparently just greeted me to kiss my cheek.

"My very own Cyreese Suarez! Congratulations!"

I smiled looking at her. I was embarrassed at the attention I received from someone else in the cafe for declaring my name. Some started to take some photos, I'm not used to it yet.

"And now you're towering Asia!" She exclaimed.

I breathed a deep sigh.That's what I wanted to clarify.

"I didn't know that the contract I signed includes production in Asia, Tita Matilda."

In the amount of shoot I’ve done these past few months I didn’t realize the client’s weird contract turned out to be what he was signing with me. It's her Job to inform me but she didn't mention anything.

From the very executive of NYM came. It’s embarrassing that I was even surprised when I knew I should be getting the job I was getting. He stopped at what I said and slowly sipped his coffee.

"Darling, I'm sure that won't make any noise in the Philippines."

"But still aunt, you know how much I wanted to erase my name into their issues. I know I'm not their target but what about my brother? He's been through so much already. I don't want to be the reason he's broken like that again. gradually cooling and his name is there. "

Lourd is a very well known public image in the Philippines. Since everything happened that day a big noise and wave was made then not only in his personal life but in his whole family. My brother have suffered for how many months clearing his name into the public.

He sacrificed his own free will just to protect the family he grew up with and loved. But seeing him all through that moments was a pain to me. He tends to look so strong but I know deep inside he's unwell. It was not right for him to let everyone know that he had turned his back on his family even though his mother had vomited him up. Our first year here in NYC was not easy.

We've both dealt with our own miserable knots. I'm busy healing while he focused on me so much when I know he's deeply wounded too. If I was utterly wounded by the truths that came to my mind that night, what else is he who has long forced himself into a lie even though he knows the truth.

He never think of himself. He never acknowledge his pain and failures instead he help me cope up. He's the only person I can trust. There's no way I can fill a space in my heart for a love I thought was true yet it was just full of lies. It all just happened because I allowed it. And now I don't want to loose my brother just because of my own egocentric.

So I won’t let all my brother’s suffering go for nothing. I badly wanted to forget anything from the past and have a fresh star with him and Lucy who happened to be my family now. If my name makes a noise, his name will definitely be involved again and I don't want to get to that point.

"As long as you maintain a good scandal in that span of your promotion there's nothing to worry about Darling. And for all I know, there you are great. Keeping your image clean."

I breathed a deep sigh.

"In a few months Cyreese, your contract will end. If there is no problem you can easily get all your cards and say good bye. So if you don't want what you fear to happen, better behave and trust your management. Hmkay?"

She fixed the parting of my hair with the comfort he did. For some reason, my heart was not at peace with what he said. I don't know if I'm just bothered or I don't really have a good feeling about it.

"Oh, he's here."

I looked in the direction he was staring and I saw my brother. I smiled but his expression remained grim. It approached me and kissed the top of my forehead. The cafe was noisy because of the rumor that happened. I saw how he looked badly at the people there before he sat down next to me. I grabbed her arm and her expression immediately softened.

"Lourd, chill. You know those people are just bugs who are thirsty for another gossip.

"Should we plan about your contract renewal?"

Lourd leaned over and toyed with his key on the table.

"Ava's not gonna do it so ..."

My eyes narrowed confusedly looking at him.

"What? Lourd, no. We haven't talked about this yet? I can manage on my own. You can just focus on yourself, to Lucy, to both of you!"

Tita Matilda just sneezed at the way it looked. She's aware, she's been taking care of it for a long time.

"We won't argue about this again Ava."

"Cyreese,” I corrected him.

Tita Matilda:

Cyreese Suarez! Check this.

My forehead frowned. What is wrong this time? I click the link he gave me and it barely loads on my cellphone screen due to the successive explosion of my notifications on social media.

What the hell is happening? I was overwhelmed and amazed at what Lucy was doing. There's this unknown nervousness and crazy beat inside my chest as I wait for the page to load. Is this something bad?

Lucy sniffed when she saw I was an idiot. He sat with me and leaned on my shoulder, his exact look at the screen of my cellphone was the appearance of an article from Aunt Matilda's message.

"What. The. Fuck !?"

Lucy shrieked out of horror for me. He seemed to utter the content of my mind, while I seemed to have my tongue cut out because of what I had read. Coldness dripped on my face, my soul seemed to escape me. The door of my room popped and then my sister spat as if in a hurry because of the screaming Lucy made.

"What happened?"

"Scandal ?! Sex video? Really, Ava Cyreese Suarez?"

My mouth hanged open while gently shaking Lucy. Hindi can believe what I read, I didn't stop as if when i shake that I can also tell the whole world that not everything is true.

"No! She's not coming back!"

Lucy grabbed my sister’s arm when it showed strong opposition to Aunt Matilda’s decision.

"Hijo, if you want to go in your way..."

She gripped his cellphone and threw it on the table. I swallowed the lump in my throat. What is this mess again?

"You answered the eternal call there on my phone!"

Lourd's lips parted and he stood up and turned his back on us. He rubbed his nape, suppressing anger. I found Lucy's confused eyes. I bit my lip.

"Lourd, maybe we should follow Aunt Matilda."

"And what? You got bitten by that issue? Coming back to the Philippines will just fuel the fire! You will just look defensive because you went back there to cover your name!"

My eyes begged him to calm down. He seemed to have a hard time seeing my eyes.

"She will not cover her name Lourd, she will come back to the Philippines because that is the company's order."

Even Matilda. I nodded in agreement. He keeps on jumping into conclusions so here is the warmth of his head again.

"Babe you knew she needed to follow the company. Her contract hasn't ended yet."

His condolences here.

"Then fucking end that contract!"

His voice thundered and I closed my eyes firmly there. My heart skipped a bit. Tita Matilda's phone that kept ringing made the situation worse.

"Do you hear yourself Lourd? Ava is one of the highest paid models today, she can't just make stupid decisions!"

Aunt Matilda grabbed his penis and picked up her phone to answer it. He got up and went to the kitchen.

"Lourd, I tthink I really need to go back."

He hopelessly shook his head. He put both his hands on the back of the sofa.

"What the fuck is that scandal Ava?"

"Nno! It's not me!"

Don't tell me he believed that?

"But I saw it! The posture and the hair as well as the shape of the body are just like you!"

My mouth hanged opened, so he really did think that was true?

"There's also this picture of you Ava with that guy, and it's really your face in the picture. It's dark but I can still see your face and you're wearing that gown you wore in "

I picked up my cellphone and clicked on the link sent by aunt Matilda. There I saw some unbelievable article with a video that I could no longer afford to watch as well as a few photos.

It's ... It's really me. That's me! My face was clearly visible as I leaned against the wall and a man surrounded me. In the next photo, I can't see my face anymore because the man's head is already covered, which makes it look like we're kissing. I was breathing fast along with the trembling of my hand. This is Jomar. This is the night in Mar De Vena high and we have this Graduation ball. I remember it!

"This is ... me."

It came from me but even I couldn't believe it. Lucy sighed but Lourd's expression was helpful and seemed incredulous.

"I mmean ... I'm the one in the picture. But I haven't had any scandal! For godess sake, Lourd!"

"I booked your ticket. I will also take care of your university. For now let's focus on our deadline. When we arrive in the Philippines, we will take care of everything."

I fell silent and stare at myself at the mirror. Am I really coming back?

"Yes tita, thank you."

I wore denim in the last batch of the catalog. This is my last shoot in New York. And after, reality will hit me hard as soon as I stepped into the Philippines. I accept their decision, if they remove the contract it's okay, I'm in my last year of college and I think I have enough savings for that.

The information about my return here is hidden, I don't know how the company and aunt Matilda took steps to make my return home so peaceful. I'm on the right company, it's just embarrassing that I'll leave them with shame.

When we left Mar De Vena we only stayed here a week then we left for New York. I didn't even have time to marvel at the beauty of Manila that I used to only see on television. I used to think this city was beautiful, because of the buildings I always adore, the city lights I've always wondered but not yet. New York was beyond it.

My arrival didn’t create noise, no headlines, no articles and all. I don't know how I'll deal my life if the news spreads out all over. I arranged some paperwork given to me by Tita Matilda, I don't know how she arranged everything and I transferred so fast even though I still have a year to finish. I just need to find an internship here and attend a few classes at the university I attended as an irregular student and it’s all set. I'm gonna take the review and get my license.

This is the power of money, I thought then that if I just study and have my own principles everything will be easy but that is not what life has taught me.

Hard as it is to admit, it is easier for privileged people to deal with daytoday, while others still have to reach both ends just to get what they want. Or worst, they won’t even get it, it will stay as an illusion.

"Yes tita, I'm running some errands today. Do you mind if you can email the address of some companies that I can coordinate with regarding the internship?"

"Oh yes, of course."

The email popped out. I wondered.

"It's only one address tita .."

"Uhm yes! That's the only company who can handle an intern professionally. The others who recommended me have dirty management so that's all I'll give you."

I nodded and read the address. I'm still not familiar with Manila. It's also a good thing not having a car because for sure I might not be able to use it anyway. I'll just book a car service to make things easier.

I read the schedule given to me and that wasn’t that bad. I have to attend class once a week. I would have liked to be a regular student but it is unclear what will happen because big adjustments will be made.

The curriculum is different in other countries and here so maybe I won't base too much on that. The most important thing is to finish my last year together with the internship.

There is nothing wrong with the chaos of Manila and the chaos of New York. That's the charm of the city, isn't it ironic how you find peace in a chaotic place? The tranquility provided by the city is different. After a long day you'll feel that life hasn't ended yet, you feel worn out. The night doesn’t seem to end, but somehow you’ve still managed to have a good rest and peace of mind.

"I have an appointment. Cyreese Suarez."

I smiled to the woman in corporate. She smiled but when she read my name to my ID she lost her smile and turned to me. They looked at another woman and they made a meaningful look at each other. I gulped due to nervousness.

"Can you wait for minutes ma'am? I'll just call it up." "Of course. Thank you." It stopped me from ignoring me and spoke to the intercom. A few seconds after he spoke he turned to me. "You can proceed to the 40th floor ma'am." It reached my ID. I thanked her and before I turned in the elevator I saw her and her desk companion whispering again. Now, that's uncomfortable.

I got to the 40th floor and compared to the floor I came from before, the people here are more frugal, almost free and not that spacious. There was just a long passage with some scaffolding decors around some places and it was more formal to see the people here. I went to a desk similar to the one before. There was a woman in uniform so I asked her.

"I'm here for an appointment. Internship" "This way ma'am, let me fill you with some drink while you wait. Mr. President is still on a meeting." President? Isn’t all I need to talk to is the Manager or even just HR? Before I was finished he left and guided me to a place where there were small tables and soft furniture. I would have asked him more but it was like a robot just left in front of me.

I read my lower lip as I leaned back on the soft single sofa. I felt my eyes bulge due to drowsiness, I didn’t immediately fall asleep last night. I was still adjusting my sleeping time. I even had to draw things just to sleep. I lifted the pinched hem of my corporate cream formal long sleeve, the same as the loose high waist short at my waist. Just a simple black embroided spaghetti top was inside of my corporate. My straight and long hair is loose.

I didn't even have time to groom myself. And at least I've managed to wear my black talons even if I'm just forced to. I prefer flats but these are the only formal shoes I carry. It hurts the eyes if I pair doll shoes or sneakers here. I remember Lucy again, she used to help me with my outfits.

Next to me are the wide mirrors. The busy city is clearly visible here. The Philippines is very different. The woman came and dropped it a tall glass with only iced tea. I kept looking back at the desk to see if I would be called but still nothing. Someone came out, that man at a glass door and imagined.

I was called but for a few minutes I was still not called. I tried to take a peek inside from the seat because it had a view of the surrounding glass of that room but I couldn't really see anything because those mirrors were tinted. After minutes of waiting I got bored, I checked my phone to entertain myself.

As soon as I left New York, I already turned off my social media accounts because it wouldn’t help if I could see people’s hefty issue with me. What's the news? New York already knew that I had to clean it to go to the Philippines. I was tempted to open my notifications but I manage to stop myself. Some message from Lourd, Justine and many more are left unread. I read them and filled in.

Justine: How's Philippines?

Me: It's OK.

Lourd: Damn paparazzi.

I chuckled. I was unable to reply to it. He must be fighting them again. This impatient man. Tsk. I was about to hang up the phone when Lucy's message popped out.

Lucy: Guess what?

I typed quickly in his enticing text.

Me: What?

Lucy: I ate chocolate.

My forehead furrowed. This woman!

Me: Lucy please ...

Where is the older brother? Why is he eating chocolates?

Lucy: Kidding. I miss you girl. My shoulder loosened when I read his text.

I smiled. Why does she sound so bored without me around? When in fact my life is so boring without her.

Me: Stop eating chocolates. I miss you too. Before I could send it, the intercom rang. My attention is on the lady in corporate now, wanting her to call me. I sent the text to Lucy and when I looked back she called me.

All smiling, I immediately put the cellphone in the bag. I got up and approached the door, I thanked the woman before entering. I looked around even though I hadn't entered the prose yet. Compared to its appearance on the outside, it has a wider interior.

The combination is a mixture of darkness and light. I narrowed my eyes because of the blur of my vision. I did not wear my lenses because my eyes are hurting due to lack of sleep. I also want to rest it. I entered completely and when I entered I saw more of the surroundings. I saw a man's posture leaning with his back in front of the table.

My breath hitched. Fvck. I almost took my breath away at what I saw. My knees trembled even as my hand clung tightly to the bag. I don't understand. Why is he here? This is not Vidalio Group of Hotels.

Why is he here? I can't ... no, I didn't expect this one coming. He's standing there looking so cocky with his gray long sleeves folded till his elbows, slacks ... his arms.

Damn. With his cold and dark expression. Four years, if I say nothing has changed in him is a big lie. I feel like he's way more taller now and his body became bulky than it used to be before. His hair is still looking so clean with it's cut but its style is different than before.

It's longer but still clean looking. My throat went dry and I blinked repeatedly. I never knew that this day will come, I'm not ready for this. I was never ready for this! Why didn’t I think of all this? The side of his lips rose.

"You might want to take a seat, Ms. Suarez." I think I swallowed my tongue and it was as if no more words wanted to come out of my mouth. His eyes are dangerous and his brows are furrowed, they're cold but I see irony in them. Fold it and let's get organized. Both of his hands are in his pocket now looking so proud standing there while I can't even imagine myself in his eyes right now.

How can he looked at me when I can't even met his eyes? He chuckled. He turned his back on me and circled in his chair. What will I do? Am I leaving? Say I just got the place wrong? But I had an appointment.

Why am I meeting him anyway !? I saw a raw grin on him. Strange heat rose to my cheek when I saw his eyes traverse me from head to toe. Fury and not of anything else. Damn him. I can't just run to this. He is the one who is behind me so why would I run?

I do not know what to do. With trembling legs I went to the front of his desk. I can feel him staring at me, my heart won't stop beating wildly. I don’t know if I’m going to continue this or I’m going home. I gulped the lump on my throat. This life is fucked up anyway, let me just deal with this. I sat up straight as I bravely looked into his eyes as if I was unaffected. I have no other idea how dangerous they are. His jaw are sharp the stables are on it.

He's matured before but he looks more mature now. His lips twitched and raised his eyebrows as if he was waiting for me to say something.

"I ... uhm ..."

My voice can't stop stuttering. Why am I being like this? I saw him glance at his wristwatch and part my lips there. Okay ...

"Your people have brought me here. If you're busy then might as well send me to your HR so I can properly deal my concerns."

I saw him stop at what I said as I kept my gaze on his watch. The edge of his lip lifted again and he leaned back in his large swivel chair.

"Go on. I'm all ears." I rolled my eyes in disbelief. The nerve of this man. Really Tita Matilda? Treat their intern professionally? Says who?

"I want to apply aas an intern." I tried so hard. Its head tilted as if confused by what I was saying.

"Intern? Sale Representative or ..." He couldn't continue.

"Architectural."

He wrote a few pages of paper and I still didn't hear anything. I look stupid in front of him. Did I made an appointment just to watch him scribble on those papers?

"Have you not heard me, Mr. Vidalio?"

His signature was left on the air and did not continue. He slowly rotated the ball pen and laid it on his clean table. He loosened the neck tie he was wearing and stood up. His shadow covered the bright city behind him. My heart beat went violent. He laid his two hands on the table and now my tongue seemed to retreat from the coldness of his gaze on me.

"Loud and clear, Ms. Suarez."

It was almost like a whisper. He turned his back on me and faced the city in the wide mirror of his office. I badly wanted to get out. Just a touch of my patience and I'll run out. Damn the internship!

"I don't know if we have an available"

"Then I'm leaving."

I quickly stood up and grabbed my bag and turned to leave.

"Isn't that too unprofessional for a future Architect in the making?"

I almost broke my teeth at the pressure I felt. The tone of his voice was sarcastic and my head grew hotter. I faced him again and saw him approaching me. Anyone will probably fake the smile I gave to him so I hope he can get it.

"Thank you for your time Mr. Vidalio, it's my pleasure to leave."

He cocked his head when stopped going near me. Even from a distance I could smell her perfume. The familiar scent of him. It was as if I had suddenly forgotten my anger just now

. "We're not yet done talking.

" "We are. So if you'll excuse me."

I would have turned my back again when he came closer to me. I was taken a back. Now there is no denying, his scent was still the same as before. I restrained myself from revealing that I was affected by him.

"We are never done."

He clenched his jaw. Her eyes grew darker. My pupils have lost its focused and my heart shuttered into pieces looking at his deep brown eyes. I could clearly see the change in emotion in his eyes. I saw a mixture of pain, anger and sadness here. I tried to deny it but that's really what I see. I was exhausted to see them. I seem to want to give everything up to him now.

"What am I gonna do here then? I'm not going to get anything out of it."

I answered with all might even though I knew he was referring differently to what he said.

"We do have, let me settle it with my secretary"

"Then I'll just come back."

I'm ready if I'm numb, and clearly that's not how I feel right now. I used to be brave, or I wasn't really brave either. I was just pretending to be, because I'm afraid he might see my real emotions and feelings. He stared at my eyes and it was like taking a glimpse of my soul. I can see how his cold eyes turned a bit shock and blood shot. His lips parted and the words he tried seemed to be left in the air he would say. As much as I wanted to ask how is he, I can't.

"Uuhm, sorry for the inconvenience. If there's no available slot then I think I'll just go."

My voice was shaking and I couldn’t help but look at him now following my movements.

"We do. My secretary can settle that matter." I nodded, not to myself. The marble floor in his office was my focus, not knowing what to say next. Can I just refuse and say I will look for someone else? But that'll be rude, I'll just agree, when I come back I'll look for another company, the one without him.

"Email me your" I looked up at him as he stopped. He looked up and read her lower lip. I gulped, I averted my gaze again.

"Give me your number."

"Huh?"

"So we can ... update you about your application."

"Just contact mmy manager."

"Is he the intern?"

I stopped at his cold tone. None of myself nodded again, not knowing how I was going to give him what he was asking for. I just want to get out of this situation and get stuck. He took his cellphone out of his pocket and handed it to me. My hand are still shaking and an unfamiliar cold is running inside my stomach. My own soul had fled from me.

I typed my number and his phone and I made a mistake as if I didn't memorize it. I'm just so nervous knowing that he's looking at me, tracing all my flaws. He didn’t speak when I handed him the phone back and he just kept looking at the number and pressing what was there.

"I'll go now. Tthank you." It nodded.

"I'll call you." I glanced at him questioning his statement. Her lips twitched.

"For the internship ..."

My lips parted at what he said. Yeah right, what else is the reason for him calling?

"Yyeah."

I nodded and stormed out.

I couldn't even thank the woman who greeted me, I just left and vowed never to come back. I almost hurt myself as I walked out of the building, a mixture of embarrassment and frustration was felt. If I deny that I was not affected by our meeting that is a big lie. He looks so well, as if I’m the only one who’s been miserable these past few years.

And it pained my heart, to think that he was fine and seemed to have forgotten that while I was still left with the wound of yesterday. I'm not being irrational but I think it's true, that games and big nonsense are just past us. I’m the only one affected by it and I’m the only one who can’t forget it. He's fine now. That's enough for me to know. Going back to the unit, I cried so bad. I cried until I felt like I was wasting tears.

"Auntie, find me someone else."

"Why? What's wrong? Have you gone yet? I've already set an appointment"

"Yes, just find another."

I narrowed my eyes as I leaned on the head board of the bed here at Lourd's condo. I felt the soreness of my body, I didn't do any activity all day but I felt very tired.

"But hija, that's all I've seen capable of handling"

"Please! Lourd's brother is the CEO of that company tita!"

I sighed. The line is quiet. I didn't mean to shout at her. He was not at fault because most likely if he knew Levi was the CEO of that company he wouldn’t have suggested that to me. She doesn’t know anything about me and Levi, all she knows is the issue of my brother in that family.

"Sorry, I didn't know. I'll send another address."

What he said calmed my mind. I massage my temple while talking to her about my errands today and my issue. He just preached to me and said goodbye afterwards. There are also some text that I haven't replied yet, so I have already answered them. I’ve caught my brother surprisingly because I’m not bombarded with calls or texts.

I was about to say that I met his brother today but I think It will be better if I don't say it. I will also look for another company and we will not meet again. I don’t want to exaggerate that thing anymore. My only prayer was that the news would not reach his mother because I did not know what could have happened. I lighted a candle to help myself ease the stress I'm feeling.

I tried to concentrate on good things, I repeatedly mentioned the things I was grateful for. Whenever I'm feeling sad and being eaten by anxiety I always do this routine. It is true that if you are sad, no one can help you but yourself. That's why it's important to find happiness within yourself and not to other people. For the latter you also know what will make you happy whenever sadness engulfs you. After a few minutes of relaxing I decided to search for the address that tita Matilda sent me.

I already know the backgrounds of the companies and maybe I can see another Vidalio in them. Gladly, I didn’t see any Vidalio. VREC I went back to the name of the company I had gone to earlier to answer the questions in my mind. I searched for it and some results came out there. I close my eyes emphatically when I see what those letters mean.

Vida Real Estate Company. Great. I'm so dumb. Only a few letters were removed and Vidalio meant it. My lips are twitching reading some of the articles about that company. VREC, it was launch 3 years ago. Some of the statements I read were just all about how this company is rising and climbing to the top in just a span of years. It is new but it is well known and looked up to.

Damn, I was never a part of him probably, I'm just assuming. Why do I even need to know if he has a girlfriend or is he married? I shifted my gaze to the cellphone next to me. He said he'll call me, or maybe his secretary. Yeah, I should stop expecting anything from him. Whatever we have you have long since finished. He seems to be happy with what he is achieving in life, I'm ... happy for him.

Then a simple life was enough for me, it's still the same today. So now that I have something to provide for what I have worked for, maybe it is not bad to reduce it a little.

"This is nice."

Out of all the units I’ve visited, the latter is the one I liked the most. It's not that grand for a single person, it has 2 rooms and it was simple and fully furnished, the walls are white, the. ceilings are high and it's modern. The masters bedroom has its own glass walk in closet.

The accent are touch of dust pink, the furniture are gray. One thing I realize is the interior is not that common, can't help but to admire the interior designer of this building. There's no veranda but I'm happy with the large wall windows, anything as long as I can see the size of the city is fine with me. I can imagine the look of this unit with plants, definitely more comfortable to the eye. We had a good conversation with the agent, I just have to wait for a week and I can move in.

This is how fast when you hold the ace, unlike the island back then. Mom and Dad still have to kneel down just so we won't be sent away, they still have to disappear ... just to fight for that island.

They might look like they've lost because they lost without winning the match, but they're together. There is no equal there. I was in the middle of contract signing when my phone rang. It was from an unknown number. My forehead furrowed, unknown number? I don't just give my number because it's my personal number. If it is a client, it will contact Aunt Matilda. I excused myself from the agents and answered the call. I looked at the entire city in the tall and wide mirror of the unit.

"Hi, this is Cyreese Suarez speaking."

I heard a sigh from the other line. I looked at the screen again because I didn't hear anything from it. I went back to my ear.

"This is Levi."

My cheeks turned cold hearing his voice. My jaw dropped when I realized that I had given him my number yesterday. But I thought her secretary will call me?

"Just ... About your internship."

He cleared his throat. My spirit was awakened by what I heard.

"Uuh, yeah! Yes? Wwhy?"

Why can't I even do this right?

"We have an available position for your application."

I close my eyes tightly, it is very difficult for me to hear his voice. It sounds deep and husky, just like how it sounds before. It feels nostalgic and it's digging deep into my soul.

"Do you have time? You can drop by to our building and settle this matter."

I bit my lip.

No! I just gave my number because I want to get out of there and not to enter his company. What do I do now that he's the one calling me and confirming my application? I searched for the words and I didn’t know what to say, would I refuse? I just let him think that I'm going but I won't really show up? I heard some breathing and shrug from the other line. I went back to trance.

"I have a schedule."

Schedule? Where did that come from? You have no job! The other line was quiet, my teeth bit my lip hard. Liar Ava! Liar!

"Then when is your free time? We can just meet and ..."

My heart boom real hard. Definitely no! I refused because I didn’t want to go to his company, clearly because I didn’t want to see him. And now that I've lied for that is even worse what he wants to happen? Now I know why it is bad to lie. Karma returns to you worse.

"I'm not sure yet ..."

I turned to the two agents who were talking. I smiled at them as if I wasn't buried because of what I was talking about.

"Oh." I just nodded. All I could hear was breathing.

"Okay ..."

"Thank you."

Fast forward to 4 o'clock I turned off the call, did I sound rude? No? But what he said was okay ending the conversation, isn't that also goodbye? And do CEOs really have the one to call their intern? Ugh! I settled all the paper works for the unit, before I went home to Lourd's unit I went through the company again to hear any updates regarding the issue.

"Are you free this Friday? Join me at the salon, Jade is kind of you know, busy with her man."

Sorry Olivia said. Olivia is a good friend of mine. Not only is Lucy and I close but we're pretty close, I also know her best friend Jade. Which I find amazing, because I remember back then that he and his wife went to Mar De Vena. I only realized that, because he looked so young then. I just didn't tell him because it didn't matter anymore.

After some updates from her mother, here she is, teasing me. Earlier, Ma'am Evangelista reprimanded her because she was completely mean to me while I was also talking to the IT who was hired for this matter. Olivia is two years older than me, the same age as Lucy. When she's in New York they would always pursue me to come with them whenever they have night outs.

I'm going but I just can't, that's not the night out I had in mind. There was even a time when I just locked myself in the rest room of the bar we went to. They would always make me drink liquors, I tasted it once and I never did it again. I'm fine being alone and enjoying tranquility. Lucy and I have a good temper.

"All right, I still don't have a job and classes."

She cried and even hugged me as if that was the happiest thing that had happened in her life. Her energy, I can't argue with that. He told me a lot more, as well as other models we both knew that he hated, he told me. I just nodded at what he was saying, I'm used to the two of them and Lucy, if it was here now the story of the two of them would probably be eternal again.

She laid the plans she has for Friday, she invited me to go to the salon too, as well as her other skin appointments. I just said that I will think about it because I am not the type who likes to give time to my external appearance. I don't even know if I have something to enhance, besides I'm fine being simple.

"Tell that bitch to come back here! She's been out for 4 months already!"

"She's with Lourd." I moved a few pages of the magazine I saw here in her mommy’s office.

"Lourd, Lourd, Lourd! Lourd again! They're just the same as Jade, so thirsty for dcks !." She made face.

My eyes widened at what he said and looked at the people here, I don't think he heard. Her mouth ...

"That's why I'm not in the thought of falling in love. You won't even realize that it's slowly changing you. I don't like the thought of surrendering your all just because you love that certain person. Duh."

He struggled in the air. I stopped at what he said. He knows the story of his friend trying to chase after a man who is also known here in the country. Lucy the Lourd? They are fine now but just like her friend Jade, Lucy also chased after Lourd when she was young. Like ... she just hit some point on that.

"If that's true love, why are you the only one who loves?" She asked.

"If that's true love, why are you the only one hurting? Its 21st century. They're too outdated to be martyrs."

Straight from the heart it hit me. She just spoke all my unsaid thoughts. That love, changed me a lot, I didn't even realize that it had changed me. When you love, there is a feeling that you are willing to give up everything because you think that is the right thing to do. You surrender everything even you have nothing left anymore.

You will give wholeheartedly, the trust and emotion you have spent. But love is not a one way street. If that is true love, why are you the only one who loves? Why are you the only one capable of surrendering yourself and resisting? Why would you settle yourself alone in a battle? Is your sacrifice worth to die for? Is that battle worth to fight for? Or maybe you're fighting the wrong person.

It's hard. Our creator surely knows how to discipline his children. You have to know if it's the right person or just the wrong time, or the wrong time and then just the wrong person.

I rubbed my forehead when I went to the last company on the list given to me by aunt Matilda. Third company and all of that has him — his reason why they won’t accept. Either there's no available slot for me, or the information they're still receiving is outdated. I always call Aunt Matilda whenever I fail at the company I go to. He has nothing else to give me, so here it is and my head hurts.

"Okay, I'll just take care of this aunt. I'm sorry."

"Sorry hija, I'm really taking care of a lot here, those were the only companies I know."

I also don't want my aunt to be bothered because I know she also has a lot of work. It's for my internship and it's only natural that I should take care of it, why do I still rely on others? I spent the whole day reresearching the company, but of course, when destiny plays you there is nothing you can do. I stumbled upon two choices, either I won't intern. Or I'll play with the dangerous fire taking the risk. If I stop, time will be wasted.

It's only been a year and it's okay, I'll leave the modeling industry. But at the same time I can't just take the risk, I have to think not only of myself but also of my brother. It is not impossible to reach his family that I have returned to the Philippines and what is worse is that I will still work under their son's management.

I let out a big sigh. I've never been torn like this in my entire life. It is difficult to decide even though the choice is both important. I stared at the number who called me last time. Is this his personal number? Or maybe his business number? I don't know. Will I call and say I will proceed with the application? Oh no. I'll just go there and find their HR so that's what I can talk to.

For some reasons, I had time to put light make up, well ... I kind of had time so ... yeah. I always looked around at the people I would meet as I walked down the hallways of the building, as if some were stopping to look at me, making me uncomfortable. I don't know if it's normal, but for as long as I can remember, people here didn't think of me like this when I last went. I walked over to the clerk's desk and when I stopped in front of them they were gently startled. The smile I gave was raw.

"Uhm, I don't have an appointment but I was informed to go back here"

"On the 40th floor, ma'am? For Mr. President?"

My eyes widened and I was confused inwardly. I raised my hand and denied what he had promised. I breathed a laugh.

"No, uhm, can it be just HR or those who handle Interns?"

The woman's judgmental eyes shifted to hers, the eyes seemed to have a conversation causing me to be even more uncomfortable. It called the phone and whispered the trembling of my heart, this is my last call, if I am not accepted here it will be up to you.

"Mrs. Madrigal is still on a meeting. She's on the 23rd floor ma'am."

The pressure on my chest slightly loosen, that means ...

"Then I can wait, where can I wait?"

"You can just proceed on the 23rd floor ma'am."

I almost celebrate what he said.

"Thank you, thank you so much." I smiled at her but her faint smile says otherwise. I just didn't pay attention to that, you can't please everybody. You also have the problem if you are affected. I entered the lift and I can't wipe of the slight hope in my face. Floor 23, far away from the 40th floor he occupies. I don't know if we will ever meet again.

"What floor miss?"

Asked a man, wearing a casual clothes and holding a cup of Ice coffee.

"23."

"Oh, you're 23 too?"

I noticed the sincere smile he gave me. Other than what the woman in the lobby showed me earlier. I just nodded slowly at him. There are only two of us here in the elevator, he seems friendly and warm. Somehow my nervousness was dispelled because of the stares that people had given me earlier.

"What are you doing on our floor? Are you from here, or visiting someone?" I was taken a back when he started a conversation but it wasn't that bad.

"I have a purpose in HR." He frowned at what I said.

"But that's not the HR floor."

I gasped at his statement. Was what the woman told me wrong? He tilted his head and seemed to be thinking.

"Ah, maybe because of the company meeting."

My eyes lit up at what he said and I nodded slightly as well.

"That's what they told me in the lobby."

"Oh, you have an accent." He pointed at me and he smiled. My cheeks warmed at what he said. I stayed in New York for 4 years, I can't help it. I just bent down and avoided looking at him, I was shy to respond so I looked at him again when I heard his little laugh.

"I'm Steve." I looked at the hand he held out to me. I accepted it without hesitation.

"I'm a Section Chief." Obviously he works here.

"Cyreese. I'm applying for internship." His lips parted.

"The reason why you're not familiar, and with that outfit, you won't fit on our floor." I paled at what he said. He must have seen how I reacted.

"Oh nonono! Don't get me wrong, you're more suitable on the 40th floor. You look like an elite model."

My lips parted at what he said, okay, it's a good thing. This person does not know me. The elevator tings and I am stunned by what he said. He unfolded the open elevator and led me out first. I looked at what I was wearing and I couldn’t help but be self conscious.

The floor is quite busy. Three rows of wings and busy people. They are quiet and have herher world. Only a few were distracted as we exited the elevator.

"Hey Cyreese, you can sit here and wait, Mrs. Madrigal is still in the conference room." I smiled at him.

That's probably the conference room Steve was talking about earlier. Some look at me every time they see me before going straight to the elevator, and others don't seem to be talking to their peers. After a while a middle age woman approached me.

"Were you the one the lobby called me earlier?"

I quickly stood up and immediately I towered over her. I'm not tall but maybe because of the heels I'm wearing.

"Yes please." She warmly smiled at me and state some instructions.

"Sorry to keep you waiting, but come let's proceed on my floor."

His eyes are dark and he’s looking so intimidating with his corporate attire walking so proudly in this hall, on her side is a slender woman wearing a fitted red tube dress, her hair is short and she has a big smile while talking to him. Like the whole world has slowed down, the sluggish caress of the woman on his arm could not escape my sight and was followed by the laughter of the two of them.

"Sorry, we have to take the lift after the President take it."