Regret Getting Pregnant For Lying Billionaire

"Ma'am, our sales have increased seventy percent this year. Congratulations!"

I looked at them and smiled. "Let's congratulate ourselves because I'm not the only one who should be celebrating. Because of all of you, this business won't be consistent."

"Does it mean, based on what you said ....." They looked at each other so I just shook my head while still smiling.

"Okay, I'll treat you all this time. Where do you want to go?" I asked and they all screamed because of that.

Like I said, I'm going to treat my employees to the restaurant they want to eat at. But it turns out that they want to hang out in a bar.

"Ma'am! Let's dance!" my secretary, Aileen, shouted and I laughed.

"Go ahead. I won't restrict you anymore. But y’all should think that there are still limits. Don't get wasted because you still have jobs in the next few days." I said they shouted.

"Ma'am!"

I looked at Limuel. We were actually shouting in conversation because of the loud music.

"When do you plan to get married? You're already twentynine!"

I looked at him blankly when he said that. How many times has anyone asked me that? They are always interested in when I will have a boyfriend and worst, get married. Kira has been asking me too on when I'm going to plan to marry someone. I think she was just teasing me because she went ahead of me to get married.

"I don't need a husband anymore, Limuel. I'm very content right now with what I have."

"What?!" he shouted and he didn't seem to hear what I said.

I think they are all like that when I say that. Even though we weren’t in a noisy place, they seemed to be deaf to me saying that I didn’t have to get married anymore.

"Just dance on the dance floor!" I shouted and I saw him laugh. See?

I was the only one left at our table. I went near the counter first to see the bartender there. I was amazed at how dedicated the man was to mixing drinks.

"Having a decent job made everyone feel content."

I looked at the man who suddenly stood beside me. I couldn't see his face very well because it was so dark and the lights were still moving. I'm not interested in him either. I just sat across the counter and ordered a drink. I prefer the pink wine that me and Kira were always ordering. I really missed our bonding time. They also have a baby now so she can't enjoy things like this anymore.

"How much is this?" I asked.

"I'll pay for her drink." I immediately turned to the man next to me again. Because of the light coming from here from the mixing of drinks, I could already see his face.

"Why would you pay for my drink? I can afford it." I told him and took out my wallet as well but it seems like my hand holding my wallet stinged when he placed his hand there. What the?

He smirked. "Don't be stingy, Seraphrim Bautista."

I was shocked when he said my full name. He took that opportunity to pay for my drink.

"How did you know my name?" I asked.

"Because I just know." he said and took the pink wine then presented it to me. "Shall we drink?"

I couldn't stand what he said. He's dangerous, I feel like it. So I chose to just leave and go back to our table. I caught up with my employees there who were back from the dance floor.

"Ma'am, where did you go?" Aileen asked me as I sat down.

"Just there, rest room." I said and she nodded.

"Did you know that there’s a handsome famous man here? He seems to be in the Forbest rank as well because he’s rich." We looked at Will when he said that. "It was said that he was a Japanese billionaire and then he actually came here to greet his friend."

"What does he look like? Is he really handsome?" Kath asked so Will pulled out his phone. He typed something then presented his phone with a flashed picture on it.

I was surprised to see the photo of the man I had talked to earlier.

His name was Rye Fujisaki, the famous Japanese bachelor and a billionaire in the Philippines.

"Aileen, is there anything else I need to do today? I mean, aside from these papers." I asked and she shook her head.

"None ma'am. But we received an invitation. I'll just see it in my email and it was addressed with the name of our business. It also has your name on it."

My eyebrows met, "All right, just forward it to my email." I said and she nodded then left.

Invitation? For what? Aileen immediately forwarded to me the invitation she said so I immediately looked at it.

``We're pleased to invite you to our conference that will be held in the Azitech Hotel. Many business owners and professionals will be gathered for a mini celebration and a seminar. Hoping for your cooperation!’

It's said that it will happen this coming Sunday. The paperworks isn't heavy right now so I think I can also attend there. But I'm not required to go there, am I? It's just a gathering, nothing special. I'll just see if I can go there. If I'm lazy, I won't go.

I stretched my body when I stood up. I left the office first and decided to have a coffee at a nearby restaurant. My employees are busy with their tasks, so I can’t bother them at all. I will just give myself a time to rest even if only for a few minutes because I have also finished my paperworks assigned yesterday.

"One macchiato, please." I said and in just a few minutes, my order was given to me immediately.

I sat down near the glass wall and looked outside. My eyes roamed and stopped when I saw someone. A boy seemed like… homeless, passed in front of me, he approached the people who passed by but they ignored him. But I wonder, why is he still smiling even when they don’t give him attention?

My eyes widened when I saw him, looked at me and waved his hands. I gulped and smiled. I gestured for him to come over. He even pointed to himself to confirm if he was really the one I was talking to. I nodded so his face lit up. He immediately went to the entrance but the guard stopped him there. I stood up and approached the guard.

"You're not allowed here, kid." I heard the guard say so I spoke.

"I'm letting him in. I'll treat him, is it still forbidden even if I have money to pay?" I asked the guard and he looked embarrassed because of what I said.

The kid approached me and I could see the joy in his eyes. People kept on looking at us but I just ignored them till we got to the counter.

"What do you want to eat?" I asked and he looked thoughtful.

"The one with eggs, chicken, and rice. That's delicious, isn't it?" he asked and I just laughed.

I ordered the ones he wanted and also ordered water and juice. It's already afternoon but his orders are for breakfast and lunch. I'm worried that he might not have eaten yet. I just watched him eat because he was good at eating, it was just fun to watch him.

"Just eat. Looks like you haven't eaten since earlier." I just said and he smiled widely.

"I ate earlier, miss." he said to my surprise.

"Ah, it's good then"

"I ate grass." he said smiling and ate again.

Grass? Is that even edible? Maybe some insects may still be attached to the grass he ate. It's not safe. But maybe that was his only choice because they had nothing to eat. Such a thing is still not good.

I just drank my coffee while watching him eat. The fun of this. Actually, I also help charities, as well as orphanages. All excess funds from our target sales were donated to all charities. Well, it should always be that way. What are we going to do with so much money? Where will all that go, right?

"Thanks for the food, miss." I was surprised when he stood up immediately so I almost panicked.

"Wait, I'll buy you more food. Take it to your family." I said and he shook his head.

"I don't have a family anymore." he was still smiling as he spoke.

I insisted that we leave the restaurant together. I really don't want to leave him but I still have a job in the office.

"Can I ask for a favor?" I asked him and he nodded immediately. "Can you please meet me here later around six o'clock?" I asked and I saw that he was surprised.

"Why?" he asked and I just smiled.

"It's a secret. So, can you?"

I saw him think of it then looked at me sincerely. "Okay, miss. I'll wait. Thank you for the meal again!" he said happily and I said goodbye to him.

I returned to the office with a smile on my face. It feels so rewarding. And I'm excited about what's going to happen tonight at six o'clock. I was inspired to work so I’m almost done with everything. My employees also noticed me so they couldn’t stop teasing me because of that.

"Ma'am, just slow down and you might have nothing to do tomorrow!" Aileen teased that I just laughed.

Until the time I have been waiting for has come. I fixed myself and my things up right away.

"Ma'am, we'll go ahead!" said Aileen and I just nodded. They bid goodbye to me and I went to my car and got in it.

I drove over to the front of the restaurant and was shocked to see that the kid I talked with was not there.

"Awful! They didn't stop kicking the boy! It's pathetic!"

"Yes, they always get money from children. They don't feel sorry for them anymore."

I looked at the women talking when I heard that so I immediately got out of the car and approached them. "Miss, where's the boy you're talking about?"

"There, in the back of that convenience store!" The woman pointed out where that was and I got it right away. I thanked her and went there right away.

Lots of people gather and talk around that area. I looked where they were looking and I was surprised to see that was the kid I treated earlier! He has bruises and was bent because it seems like his stomach hurts a lot!

I immediately called the doctor I knew to send an ambulance. My annoyance, anger, and sadness mixed because no one wanted to help. There were many of them around this child but they did nothing but talk about it and just look.

This is maybe the discrimination in this world.

The ambulance came and I can’t help but to feel pity on the kid’s situation. We have no relation in the first place but I’m definitely worried sick and about to cry. The trip went short as we reached the nearest hospital. They took him to the emergency room and I was very thankful for that. After several minutes of waiting for someone to come out, the doctor I’ve contacted appeared in front of me.

“You’re really going to adopt one because you realized that you’re not going to marry someone anymore?” he asked me which made me roll my eyes.

“How is he? Is he okay now?” I asked and I saw him laugh. This man!

"Don't worry. He fell asleep because he was given medicine. He has wounds and bruises that we have treated to prevent infection." he said and I took a deep breath. "We're going to move him to a confinement room. He can be released in two to three days. Sera, you're really going to take care of him?"

"Ivo, can't I adopt him? He said he has no parents at all and maybe those who beated him will come back. He will continue to suffer." I said and he smiled at me then messed up my hair.

"Instant mother? No worries, I'll be right here for you if you need an instant husband too." he said so I stepped on his foot which made him groan. He bowed in great pain because my shoes had heels.

"Anyway, thank you for responding quickly." I told him while he was still groaning about his sore foot.

"You witch!”

Of course, I can be bad sometimes especially for someone like you.

But, a good woman for someone like this kid. I will adopt him.

He also named himself but he told me that I was even supposed to give him a name again because I adopted him. We were watching television that time because I just came home from work while he was left at home. I bought him clothes right away and I’m glad that he’s way comfortable.

"What's your name first?" I asked him.

"I named myself Lip. Because some of my playmates said that my smile makes them smile too."

I smiled at what he said. Indeed, it is really contagious when he smiles. "Then I'll call you Lip. It's cool to hear your name so that's all I'll call you. No need to change it. Anyway, do you also want to study?"

When I asked that, his eyes seemed to twinkle but he also immediately bowed. "Isn't it too much? The amount you've done for me and you're going to send me to school?"

I just thought it would be a waste of the opportunity if he couldn’t study. He's smart and a bright kid. When I took him to my house, I asked him what toys he wanted or maybe he wanted a ball to play with while I was at work. I also don't want him to be bored and just watch TV all the time. But none of what I said was what he asked for. He wanted so many books, it wasn't comics or anything that I expected for a kid like him. He wanted me to buy him some educational books.

"Don't think about something like that. I'm doing all this to help you. If only all the children, your playmates, could be adopted so that they wouldn't be in trouble. I want the best for children like you. Life is short so if we have a hard time with life's challenges, we should also enjoy it somehow. " I said and he smiled at me which meant approval.

I saw how happy he was. It's his dream and I'm happy to be with him on his journey. I will cry more for him when the time comes for him to graduate. I can't stop myself from imagining that day that I will hang a medal on him.

"Ma'am!"

I went back to the present when I saw Aileen’s face was already close to mine. I was taken back and drank from a water bottle near my table. "Why? Are you saying something?" I asked and I saw her laugh.

"You were dozing off. I've been calling you since earlier and have been here in your office for quite a minute." she said so I fixed myself.

"Why? Is there a problem?" I asked.

She nodded. "I have received another email from the sender of the business conference invitation. They are hoping for your cooperation according to the message because you did not attend last Sunday.."

My eyebrows met. "Specifically me? It stated?" I asked and she nodded again. "Is it really required to go there? I'm busy lately because I have something new at home. It was just a business conference. Who is that sender? Is it still from the hotel staff?" I asked her in disgust and I saw that she faked a smile.

"Actually, Ma'am, the sender's name has changed ...."

"Who is it? Maybe it's just spamming or maybe it's just fake," I said complacently.

She lowered her head. "It's Rye Fujisaki. I've also verified if it's his personal email address and I saw that it's on his official Cheekbook."

Rye Fujisaki? The man I saw at the bar? He seems to really know me. He didn't even tell me how he knew my name but I think it was because I was one of the business owners and professionals on the list of that business conference. But specifically me? Is he mad at me for what I did? Why would he waste time for someone like me who is just a normal woman here? He's unbelievable!

But I felt a cold whisper of wind telling me to be scared. I knew that he’s dangerous based on his aura. It’s possible that he can just buy our business because he’s super rich. Fate, what is this again?

Kira and Patry managed to settle for private life after their turbulent world in the gaming industry. I'm impressed with those two but please, I'm single. But I'm strong so maybe I can do it? Or maybe I'm just saying these flowery words to calm myself?

I opened my drawer and picked up my phone. It's a coincidence that suddenly someone called.

"What?" I asked quickly when I saw it was Ivo.

"No greetings, witch? You're really harsh to me."

I just rolled my eyes because of what he said. "What? I'm so stressed because an email came. I'm being forced to attend a business conference."

"Ah, so the invitation has already reached you?"

I was shocked when he said that. "You're invited too?"

"Uhhuh, I'm going." When he said that, I seemed to breathe easy.

"All right, I'll go too." I am compelled to say. It’s just like highschoolers that when one goes, everyone goes along. I have no choice.

"Great! Let's go together. I'll pick you up." he said and I just agreed.

The call ended and I just looked at my paperworks. I no longer feel like working anymore.

The conference ended a few minutes later. I immediately went to the banquet hall of the hotel because I really wanted to eat. The seminar lasted more than an hour and I was about to die of boredom and starvation.

"You didn't wait for me. Are you very hungry?" I heard Ivo's voice beside me so I looked at him.

"Yes, I should eat because I've been annoyed with you since earlier. This is free, right?" I asked, pertaining to the foods I’ve transferred to my plate and he nodded.

He also took his food and at the same table, we sat. I roamed my eyes around and looked to see if that man was here, but he wasn't.

"Who are you looking for?" I heard Ivo ask.

"The one who invited me here. The sender of the invitation is addressed in his personal email." I just answered.

"Ah, it's Rye Fujisaki."

I stopped eating and looked at him. "Why do you seem to know so much? Did he also invite you here?"

"That's my friend." His response was so short but I was so shocked about it.

"What? Do you really have so many friends that you seem to know them all? Where did you meet him?" I asked.

He stopped eating, "Why? Do you like him? I'm telling you, he has more money than me but I'm still more handsome than him. You should just choose me."

I just winced at what he said and didn't try to ask again. I really wanted to ask him a lot but I chose not to continue because he didn't answer them properly. How did he become friends with him? Maybe they just really have the same nasty attitude? Birds with the same feather, fooling forever. I no longer really know why there are such men in the world.

"What is it? Do you like him? It's not possible, he's a playboy and has no past serious relationships. You should just die single, it's more advisable." Ivo said again so I frowned.

"Stop there. I didn't like him. He was the only one who invited me. It's a bit impossible, though scary. Maybe I offended him that night."

He was stunned. "How did you offend him? He's not quick to be offended by small things. He's a billionaire, he doesn't care about the people he meets." he said as if to say that I shouldn’t think of him.

But how? He knew my name and my appearance. He even sent an invitation stating my business. Why is he bothering my mind? I could hardly sleep last night wondering if I would continue to go here.

"Right, I shouldn't be thinking about that anymore." I said and I heard him laugh.

"Don't bother yourself anymore. You won't be noticed. Just pay attention to me and I'll give you all my attention ..." he said again so I just shook my head.

We finished eating and I told him that I’ll go to the restroom first to fix myself. But as I was walking, someone suddenly pulled my hand, there I knew I entered the janitor’s room!

Shocks! Is this kidnapping?

"You finally attended. I thought you were going to reject my invitation again. You really like to reject people like me?"

I immediately looked at the man who spoke then. What I was looking for earlier has shown up to me now. Why did he drag me here? For what intention?

"Why did you pull me here? And why in the first place did you want me to attend this conference?" I asked one question after another and I saw it even amused him more.

"Well, I just want your business to be consistent. No one knows that maybe anytime your business will just collapse. Pity on you." he said to my surprise.

In the past, he was like a sweet toxic wine that seemed so kind and playful. But now, he's like mocking me and my business? What's with this attitude?

"Does it seem like I hurt your pride because I rejected your offered wine so that's how you react? How shallow for a billionaire like you to judge the business of others. Just mind your own business." I said and was about to touch the doorknob to leave when he spoke again.

"You were nothing to me in the first place but I like you being feisty. Do you think you can be proud right away because of your status?"

I faced him and squinted my eyes.

"Why do you talk like that? Who are you, Rye Fujisaki?" I asked.

"Your nightmare." he said so I slapped him immediately he was surprised, "WHAT THE?"

"Serves you right. How you speak, you sounded like a faggot." I said and left him immediately.

I immediately went back to where Ivo was and pulled him out of the hotel. He still wanted to stay but I forced him to leave as well. I was more than enraged. I was angry, annoyed, and nervous about what had happened.

When Ivo started his car, I was relieved because we had already left that hotel.

"Why did you want so bad to leave that hotel?" I heard Ivo ask and I just sighed.

"I slapped him."

His eyebrows met. "Who? Seriously wherever you go, you sow your witchcraft."

"Rye."

I almost fell to the front when he suddenly braked! When he recovered from the shock, I immediately hit him on the arm. "Are you going to kill me? Why did you suddenly stop?"

"Are you crazy already? You told me that you want your life to be peaceful but you slapped Rye?" he asked me so I rolled my eyes.

"He judged me! He told me something earlier that’s beyond my temperament so I slapped him! He deserved it!" I said out loud.

He heaved a sigh. "Yeah, you're already at that point. But maybe tomorrow you'll be in the headlines of the newspaper! You don't know what it may bring."

I bit my lip. "Isn't he your friend? Why is he like that the way he talks? It's like he knows me and he's so mad at me. I'm not doing anything wrong. I don't like him, that's all I know."

"Let's see if what you did was okay with him. I knew him, he always doesn't care even if you're a woman. He can do everything because he has a lot of money. And you? You're a woman and you're just a normal citizen. We don’t know what he can do. He's my friend but we don't talk often anymore because he's busy with his circle of riches."

He just continued to drive me to my house and we never talked about it again. Should I be concerned about what he said? What if I'm in the headlines of the newspaper tomorrow? But if I tell the public that he told me bad things, will they believe me? No one would believe me because he was more influential. Everyone is on his side while I am, my image will be destroyed for sure.

But he still deserved that slap. I will stand for that.

Earlier, I always looked at my phone because there might be some notifications in my Cheekbook that I mentioned in any post or article. Until now, I seem to be paranoid because of what Ivo said that my name will be in the newspaper because of what I did.. I'm just pretending that I'm not affected but of course, if ever that my name was involved in such a thing, even our family business that has been standing for a long time will collapse suddenly because of that jerk!

"Ma'am, don't worry about that at all. But can I ask why you do that?" I looked at Aileen and sighed, "You didn't tell me about it, Ma'am, so why did you slap Sir Rye? He's so handsome then "

"Aileen, I don't care if he's handsome. He's a jerk! He totally ruined my day and I will never forget him. He sounded like a gay in how he talked to me and worst, a judgemental. I didn't know that he definitely knew me. Do you know what I’ve been doing all the time? I've been so mysterious all my life then he suddenly comes into my life just to judge what I’ve achieved." I almost gasped at my repeated complaints and she handed me bottled water. I drank it and massaged my temple.

I really don't want to see that Rye again. I think that will be my daily prayer.

"Please calm yourself, Ma'am. You won't be able to focus on work when you think about it. He's a billionaire and I'm not sure what happened was a big deal. I also saw that there were women who slapped him as he used to in the news, because of his playboy nature." she said and I stopped.

Playboy nature? Have the women slapped him too hard? Ha, serve him right.

I just nodded because of what she said. I seem to be relieved because of that. Maybe I don't have to overthink that thing anymore. Stay away from my life, you jerk. You can't disturb my peaceful life.

"Thank you, Aileen. I'm a little relieved by what I found out." I said and she smiled.

I just continued what I was doing that day. I suddenly became in a good mood because of that. My energy returned so I could finish my paperworks easily. My employees left when work was over while I went to a restaurant to buy Lip a bucket of chicken. I’m really happy with that kid. I think he is the one who gives me happiness now. I have nothing more to ask for.

When I arrived at home, he greeted me immediately. I immediately hugged him. We immediately went to the dining table and I could see the excitement in him when he saw his favorite chicken.

"Why is there so much chicken? Do we have a guest tonight?" he asked and I just smiled.

"What are you? It's so late at night right now. This bucket of chicken I bought is for you. Isn't it your first day next Monday? So you need to have courage. And to celebrate your excellence because you passed the acceleration exam. Alas, you're really silly. " I told him and ruffled his hair.

I want to be single with Lip. Only Lip will make me happy.

"You adopted him? When else? Sera, I know that somehow, you are confident that you will never love any man or have a love life. But try to explore the world and not just stay in that mindset."

Kira and I met one time when she was having free time at a restaurant. Patry was left at their home to take care of their child, thankfully and we had time to talk. I told her about my adoption of Lip and it looks like she was so shocked about it. What is wrong with not having a love life?

"Is it bad if I adopt him? Because he doesn't have a family and then the goons on the streets kept on taking money from him. Besides, he's a good boy and smart. I enrolled him already in a school then he will enter tomorrow. He passed the acceleration exam. " I told her and she was surprised.

"Wow! That’s great! Though it's not bad to adopt. But "

"No buts. He's the only source of my happiness right now because I don't have anyone at home. Besides, I've arranged everything for him to go to school. Maybe I'll take care of the adoption papers and his last name will be changed as well. I don't want his classmates to bully him just because he's adopted. I need to work out everything in order for him and I to be legal in papers. The fact that I’ll be his guardian." I told her and she smiled eventually.

"Are you an instant mom now? If you want, when Lip has free time, he can visit us at home so he can play with Kit. Kit is kind and silent, he's not always crying."

When she said that, my eyes just rolled. "Kit really inherited that attitude from Patry. Given that he doesn't have any emotions at all so you don't have to tell me about your children’s attitude.."

We just laughed and continued to eat. Lip is at home and he is studying. Kira and I will talk quickly and I will be right back.

We went to the restroom together and I was just washing my hands while Kira was busy on her phone.

"Oh!"

I looked at Kira in the reflection of the mirror. "Why?"

She looked at me as her eyes widened. "You're in an article in the Cheekbook."

I seemed to be nervous when I heard that from her. Has Rye ever told the media that I slapped him? That jerk! He should be really ready for me when we meet again! He won't really stop pestering me?

Kira handed me her phone and I looked at it. But contrary to what I thought happened. "Sera, he's asking you for a date."

I gritted my teeth. That jerk!

"He asked you for a date?"

It's been two weeks and I didn't bring myself to Fujisaki to the place he wanted me to go. I’m definitely not going to go into the nonsense date he said. I will not allow myself to bite the bait he said so publicly! I was really enraged and even my employees asked me if anything was happening to us privately because he asked me for a date!

"First of all, our clients are increasing because he dragged me into many articles. All of our clients have recently been asking about what kind of relationship Rye and I have. Can you tell your friend about issues like this that suddenly happen? He just brought these up? It's so nonsense!" I shouted and I saw that Ivo gave me a canned soft drink.

"I told you, we're not that close like you thought. His industry is different, that's why it's vague that I can talk to him for just a second or an hour. Maybe he's really interested in you. That's why he mentioned your name to some reporters who asked him. You know you are a different woman, so unique from the others because you’re like a tigress, so maybe you're his target."

I rolled my eyes. "Target? What did he think of us, toys at the fair being shot to get a reward? What kind of brain does he have? I slapped him and I told him how much I hated him. I don't like people like him, swear!"

"You don't really plan to follow what he's saying? Maybe later he'll talk to the media again about you not going. We don't know what's on his mind and that he might be annoyed with you." he added.

I just smirked, "If he's annoyed with me, I'm more annoyed with him. I don't care anymore. Does he make me look like I can't succeed so he mentioned my name publicly just for our clients to increase? I don't need help from him, of all people."

I looked at Ivo as if I just didn't tell him anything. He mentioned that he's his friend before, but even then, they still can talk. He surely didn't want to help me in this matter. Why is it like that? If Rye was really pestering me, it was impossible for him not to talk to that man for even 30 seconds? Is he hiding something from me?

A few more minutes later, Lip finally arrived with the service driver. The service driver is from one of our delivery drivers at the company so I'm no longer worried about Lip's safety.

"How's your school, Lip?" I asked as soon as he entered the door.

He immediately smiled at me. "Sorry, sister."

I was shocked when he suddenly said that. Then I noticed his right hand with bondage. I immediately touched it gently and looked at him. "Where did it come from? Did you fight with someone?"

I could see the fear in his eyes even though he was smiling so I sighed deeply. "Did you win? Did you knock down the one you punched?"

He laughed at what I said, "I win, no worries. He just bullied me so don't worry anymore, it’s normal. I have to fight back so that such scenarios won't happen again."

As if he speaks like he is really an adult. He really had been through a lot outside so I think he got used to it because of that.

"But Lip, don't hit them back if the argument is also nonsense. The ones with empty brains, they are the ones who say a lot. They only say harsh words to you, maybe they are also jealous. You're a smart kid and they have nothing else to judge you but your background. Everything will pay off, just keep excelling at school, okay?" I asked him and he nodded.

We both ate the cookies I baked and I was happy with his reaction because he was really good at eating. It just means he liked the cookies I made.

"Can I finally call you my mom?"

I was stunned by what I’m eating and looked at him. I really felt so touched when he asked me that, though I also felt relieved. I also want the things I’ve been waiting for to come from him. I don’t want to force him to call me Mom just because I adopted him. He has a free will on his own which made our relationship grow stronger.

"Silly. Of course, it's a yes."

He smiled sweetly at me. "Okay, Mom. Thank you for always being there for me. What happened to me won't happen again. But I can't help but fight back when they insult me. Like you did to Rye. You didn't go to that place. He wants to meet you for a date, doesn't he?"

My eyes widened when he said that. "How did you know that?"

"I read that in the newspaper. I know you won't just agree to things like that. But what are your plans because he might make another article about you. Or maybe something worse will happen."

I just sighed. That really can't be avoided because that man is influential. He is really interfering in my life and many already know that. When will he stop? Did I hurt his pride so much? Tsk, serves him right. It should have been just him so that he would have stopped bothering me but he seems really stubborn.

"Nothing worse is going to happen there. I just want him to know that I don't like what he's doing anymore. Let it go, let's not talk about him anymore." I just said and he nodded.

We also finished eating and suddenly someone called me. I saw that it was Aileen so I answered right away.

"Oh, Aileen, why did you call? It's late." I said.

"Ma'am, all the clients who just bought parts recently pulled out. Because you allegedly rejected Mr. Fujisaki's date offer. Ma'am, we need a strong refund now."

I pursed my lips. Aish! That guy is really annoying! He's a pest!

"It's your passion to really get attention. Will you stop from pestering me? Are you happy that what you want has come true?" I asked him and I saw that he just smirked at what I said. So shameless.

"I have nothing else to ask but to see you always." It was as if I shivered the hardest when I heard that from him.

"Waiter." I heard him speak but he was still looking at me. I'm like that too because I really want to punch him when I have a chance.

The waiter approached and handed him the menu booklet. "What do you want?"

"I don't want to eat. I'm leaving right away, I just want to ask something."

"I want you to eat." He blatantly rolled his eyes at me and looked at the waiter. He pointed to something there on the menu. "Give me these meals." That's all he said and the waiter left.

I roamed my eyes here in a transparent room of the restaurant and the media reporters could not hear what we were saying to each other. I just closed my eyes again to calm myself.

"I knew that you loathe me and I hurt your pride, but why did you know me from the start? Why are you doing this to me? Have I done anything before to make you angry like that to me? The words coming out of you… seems to have a source. I have a decent job, business, and badly wanted a peaceful life. Why did you invite me for a date? I know you don't want a date, you’re just toying with me." I said while catching my breath because my speech was mixed with annoyance.

"You're too noisy for a feisty woman. I just want to continue pestering your life until I see that you're suffering. Just for fun." he said so I clenched my fist.

"Just for fun? You know that all our clients have returned all the parts that they've ordered and it costs us so much because of the turnovers. Are you happy now? Do you have nothing else to do with your life?" I asked and my ears reddened when I heard him laugh.

"It's your fault. Maybe you didn't properly monitor the quality of the parts your business is selling. Why put me the blame? That's your business."

I faked a laugh. "We've been selling quality parts since day one and you’re telling me that to cover up what you’re doing? Asking them to pull out because I didn’t accept your date offer? And don't drag my name in any of the interviews again. You won't get anything from me. Find another person you can trick with your ways."

I was about to get up and to walk away when suddenly some juice was thrown at me, causing my clothes to get wet on my chest.

"Ma'am! I'm sorry! I'm sorry I didn't see you going in my direction! I'm sorry!"

I looked at the waiter who continued to apologize to me. It's a good thing the glass didn't fall off completely, otherwise the supervisor might scold him so much, "No, it's okay. It's not your fault." I just said and turned to the jerk man again.

I walked over to him and I saw that he covered his face with his hands. "Will you slap me again?"

I just smirked and stepped on the part of his body that would definitely hurt him. "AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"

"Don't you ever pester me again. Leave me and my business alone." I turned my back on him and walked out of that room smiling.

I walked and ran so that they could no longer reach me. I breathed a sigh of relief as I got into my car and drove it away. I looked at myself in the mirror and smiled. "You thought that I'm the only one to be brought down? I don't care about your popularity and the control of our clients. You want a war? I'll give you then."

No one has challenged me like this in my whole life so bring it on.

All my employees looked at me when I returned to the site.

"Ma'am, what happened to you?" Aileen asked me as soon as I entered the office.

"Filled with juice." I said and opened the drawer of my table. I picked up the reserved blouse there and looked at Aileen.

"Don't worry about me. What's going on now with the clients?" I asked and I saw that she was stunned.

"Ahh ... that's still the case, Ma'am. We're still halfway through the turnovers. It's really costly and the production has been affected. Have you talked to Sir Rye Fujisaki "

"Let's just let what happened go." I just said and walked to the restroom to change.

"Ah, what she said was from our misunderstanding. Actually, we have a good relationship. She's just really feisty. Out of all the women I've met, she's the one I like the most."

I immediately grasped hard the empty soft drink can I was holding because I was so annoyed. I gritted my teeth and I can tell that my nose is smoking right now.

"Ma'am, Sir Rye and you are fine now "

I immediately widened my eyes at her. "Aileen, he's just saying those things because he's in front of the media. I was drenched in juice because I was so eager to leave him right away when I talked to him. Actually, we didn't talk properly because of his attitude. He's just annoying me. He just wanted many people to know that he is slowly destroying my image. What he was saying was not true. Don’t believe in him."

"Ah okay, Ma'am. I'm sorry ..." she said to me with a fake smile.

It seems like I’m getting a fever. That man is annoying. What is he, a child? How long will he bother me? I’m not really going to face him anymore, swear. He should mind his own life to date himself. Or maybe he just wants another kick in his treasured part? Haven't I done enough yet?

"Ma'am, I’m going back to my work. Don't stress yourself about the news anymore." said Aileen and I just nodded. How can I not be stressed by the news? Added by the clients who always ask me about my relationship with Rye? Really disgusting anytime.

I picked up my phone and checked that there were messages from Mom. Because my phone is always on silent when working so I don't lose focus. It's already past six o'clock in the evening and my employees and I were still working due to numerous turnovers. I looked at Mom's messages and scrolled.

'Sera, visit us here at the house. It’s your Dad's birthday today, have you forgotten?’

I was stunned and held in my mouth. Omg, it's Dad's birthday! June 10! Why did I forget? It was that man's fault! I will forever blame that man. He is always on my mind, maybe I will think about what he does forever. I don't care about him but he is interfering in my life! So how can I not think of him?

I resumed working even though something else came into my mind. My head really hurts but I'll try my best later not to show it to Mom and Dad. They will worry for sure. I had a torn body when I finished and managed to still fix myself. I left the office and saw my employees waiting for me when I came out.

"Ma'am, don't think about that. You can do it. Fighting!" Aileen said to me and my other employees smiled at me as well.

"But Ma'am, you're pretty fit with Sir Rye even though AWWW!" Will couldn't continue what he was saying because Aileen had already pulled his ear. I just sighed at them.

"I'll go first because I had plans for tonight. Be careful while going home." I reminded them.

"Yes ma'am!" they said at the same time so I said goodbye to them.

I went to my car and got in there. I was so excited, I will take Lip there as well. I was about to start the car when suddenly, my phone rang. Mom's calling.

I sighed. "Yes, Mom? I'm going there. Don't worry. Of course it's Dad's birthday so I just have to go." I said and I heard her laugh on the other line.

"We are expecting your adopted son too. Be safe on your way here."

I was shocked when she said that. Ah, I just forgot to tell them! "When did you find out, Mom? I'm sorry I didn't immediately say anything about that." I said.

"Kira told me about Lip. I know that you and Patry already have an independent life. But don't forget us. We don't even have to know your whereabouts everyday, but at least update us sometimes. Especially since we saw you in the news that you already have a relationship and is now famous "

"Wait, what?" I immediately asked when I heard the last things she said. "I don't have a relationship with any man, Mom! It was just fake news that Fujisaki was spreading and you know that I don't just agree especially when it comes to such things Hello?"

I looked at my phone and saw that Mom already ended the call. I pursed my lips. Looks like I’m being caged by the issue that came from that guy.

I started the car and drove to my house. Lip immediately greeted me and kissed my cheeks. I still laugh because I see him blush every time he does that.

"Let's change our clothes. We're leaving tonight." I said and I saw that he was stunned.

"Where? It's late."

I just smiled. "We'll visit your grandparents. My Mom and Dad wanted to see you. And don't forget to greet your grandpa, it's his birthday today."

The shock reaction was so obvious on him but he immediately complied. I also changed my clothes and made some adjustments like fixing my daily makeup and such. We immediately got in the car and I saw Lip's nervousness while on the way.

"Don't be nervous. They're kind." I said while driving.

"We didn’t buy a present." I heard him say so I just laughed.

We finally arrived and I immediately parked my car. Lip went out first and entered the gate. I would also like to enter…. when a man with a cap suddenly appeared in front of me, and I almost jumped out of shock.

"Speak up sometime so I know there's someone near me." I told him and I saw that he had a small box wrapped into birthday packaging on his hand.

"I'm giving this to the birthday celebrant, Patrick Bautista." he said and I was surprised when he suddenly left and the box was already handed to me.

Who's that? Maybe it has a bomb? So…. out of curiosity, I opened the box myself.

"Mom, aren't you coming in yet?" I heard Lip call me but I kept opening the box.

At the same time, as I opened and saw inside, there was a strong wind which made me shiver. It was a bit dark around but there was a light here at the gate so I could clearly see what’s inside.

It was some pictures of my Dad... with a woman. They were at the bar and their faces were close to each other. They seem to enjoy it.

And with the second picture, they kissed.

I immediately put the pictures back inside the small box and was able to still smile at Lip. "Let's go inside?"

When we entered, we were immediately greeted by Kira and Patry holding their baby boy.

"It's good that you've finally arrived. We've been waiting for you for a while." said Kira and looked at Lip. "Hi, Lip. Have you eaten yet? Your grandma and grandpa have prepared meals. You like chicken, don't you?"

"Oh, you're going to fly already because you ate a lot of chicken everyday." I said to Lip and he laughed.

"Come here at the dining table and get ready to eat." I heard Mom say that's why we all went to the table. I hid the small box under the table first and made sure that no one would notice while eating.

They all smiled while fixing themselves in front of the table while I didn't know if I could smile genuinely because of what I saw earlier, pictures still flashing in my mind. I looked at Mom and Dad who were both happy while giving food to each other’s plate.

"Why do you seem anxious there? Are you too stressed right now because of your own popularity that is always showing on TV?"

I looked at Kira and found out I was the one she was talking to. I just sighed. "Tired of work but worth all the effort. I'm not that affected by what's happening. I've been famous for a long time." I jokingly said.

"You're just saying that but you're really affected. Or else you like the man who says you two have a relationship." I stared blankly at Patry because of what he said. What’s with this bastard?

"I don't have a relationship with anyone. Don't believe what that man is saying. He's going crazy, he needs some medications." I just said and put food on Lip's plate.

"Thank you." said Lip and started eating.

"His enthusiasm to eat really energizes me. How old is Lip?" I heard Mom ask.

"I'm ten, grandma." I looked at Lip who was still smiling as there was a chicken drumstick in his mouth. I should be the one to answer that but he insisted as if he was already comfortable here.

"We're really old, P." Mom said to Dad and they both laughed. "We'll really have more grandchildren. It seems like before, Sera and Patry have been arguing like a child but now, they looked so matured not talking to each other now. After all, they will have more children and we will be called grandma and grandpa so many times."

"So when are you planning to get married, Sera?" I looked at Dad and immediately averted my gaze when our eyes met. "It's not that we're in a hurry. But you're getting older "

"Dad, can I talk to you after eating?" I asked, interrupting what he was saying and I saw them all stunned because of that.

"Sure, Sera. Right after eating." Dad replied and I just nodded quietly.

We continued eating and no one spoke after that. We finished the meal immediately. Kira and Patry were talking to Mom. Mom was already holding their baby and I could see the pleasure in her eyes. Lip was also next to Mom and looking at the baby. He is also now chatting with them and he looks comfortable unlike when I saw him nervous earlier in the car. Good for him, it should be.

I saw that Dad had left the living room so I followed, carrying the small box. When I came out and saw him, I didn't hesitate any longer and handed the small box to him.

"Open it." I said and I saw that he smiled.

"A gift? Is this all you want to say? You shouldn't be ashamed of this thing " He stopped when he saw the contents of that small box. He looked closely at the pictures and I could see that he was stunned.

"When did that happen, Dad?" I asked him directly. "You cheated on Mom, since when?"

The way I asked him hurt me at the same time. How would Mom feel when she found out?

"It's been a long time. Who gave you this?" he asked and I was surprised when he was about to throw that small box in the trash can nearby when I quickly took it from him. "What are you doing? Your Mom shouldn't know about this!"

"What are you hiding from us, Dad? Why did it just show up? Until now, are you still fooling Mom? Are you still fooling us? What is this? Does it even matter who gave me the truth? Why are you hiding this matter from us? " I almost shouted and I couldn't really stop myself from getting angry because of his attitude in front of me.

"Sera, it's been a long time."

"That's the point, Dad. Why didn't you tell us? What grade am I then? Are you and Mom already married by that time?" I asked one question after another and I saw that he averted his eyes.

"You were in Grade 3 and your Mom and I were already married. It's been a long time, I haven't seen that woman again, I was very drunk and I don't want your Mom to get pregnant again so I stopped myself by doing the wrong things I regretted. I'm sorry if I went there and I talked to her. Until that's all happened, please don't " He tried to hold my arm but I stepped back from him. "Don't tell your Mom about this."

"She doesn't have to tell me anymore because I've heard everything."

My eyes widened when I heard that. We looked at the door and I saw that Mom was just smiling. Why is she smiling? Shouldn't she be mad and crying right now? Why did she react like this?

Mom approached Dad and held his hand. "Thank you for letting us know your bitter secret. But you're already forgiven, P."

What's happening? Will Mom just forgive Dad despite what happened?

"Mom, what are you saying?" I asked her almost out loud because I couldn’t believe what I heard. I rolled my eyes. "You're just going to forgive him after all these years that he's cheating on you? That he's cheating on us all? What do we know that they might have had a child with the woman he was with?"

Mom turned to me and held my arm. "Sera, watch your words!"

I pulled my arm back. "You're being so unreasonable! Don't forgive him just like that! We don't even know the whole story yet! Look at these pictures!" I said and showed her the pictures that were inside the box but she just seemed tired and just smiled at me.

"Calm down. I want to know more of the pictures. I want to hear your Dad's side about this. He said that… that happened a long time ago "

"And you believed that?" I asked eagerly and faked a laugh. "Mom! Get hold of yourself! Why would you even believe the person who kept us secret for so long "

I stopped speaking when I felt a loud slap on my left cheek. I let go of the box, causing the pictures to be thrown from inside as well and that was scattered on the ground. Was I too much? But I have the right to get angry and say that!

"Sera, please understand the situation first. Don't talk like that to your Dad!" I saw that there were tears streaming down her cheeks which made me even more annoyed.

"What's going on?"

Patry arrived and there was a trace of shock on his face because of what he had found out. His eyes went to the pictures scattered on the floor.

"Patry, Dad cheated on Mom. He's been cheating on us for a long time. Look at those pictures!" I told him and I saw that he took the pictures on the floor. "And after all, Mom wanted to forgive him even though he kept it a secret for a long time. This is so insane! I can't believe that despite everything, he even managed to fool around!"

I heard of Mom's story. I know how many times she also had a hard time pursuing Dad back then. I was also very mad because she accepted all that. She endured until Dad accepted her. Then after marriage, will she just be fooled? And after that, Mom will just forgive Dad so easily?

Patry approached me. "Sera, calm down. That happened a long time ago. Dad didn’t see that woman again "

"What do you mean?" I asked and looked at him, being confused. "You knew about this?"

I laughed out loud because of another thing I found out. "So you really looked for an ally, Dad? Patry knew about your infidelity all along?" I asked and I could see that Patry just averted his eyes.

I'm done with this family.

I immediately walked back to the living room. It's like I'm storming out and Kira noticed that right away when she saw me. She’s carrying their baby. Actually, I still wanted to talk to her about things … but I really lost my appetite.

I grabbed my bag and looked at Lip, "Let's go home." I said and he immediately stood up.

Fortunately, Lip didn't ask any more questions because he just followed me.

"Sera, what happened?" I heard Kira's question that I just ignored and Lip and I went straight out.

"Sera! Sera, please!" Mom even blocked me and held my arm but I just resisted. "I'm sorry, Sera. Please let's all talk before you leave!"

"I'm disgusted and I can't talk to you anymore. Leave me alone." I said and walked immediately out of the gate with Lip.

When we got in the car, I immediately drove it away without looking back. My heart was throbbing, mixing anger and whatever other emotions in my heart. I wanted to get lost and I just poured that into the tightness of my hold on the steering wheel.

"Mom, you're crying." I was shocked when I heard what Lip said.

I immediately wiped away the tears that I didn't expect to be on my cheeks. I'm heartbroken, what can I do? I’m hurting for my Mom but she doesn’t understand that. I love her so much that it pains me to know that she had been cheated on. "Lip, adults can cry too. I can be weak too and sorry for that." my voice almost broke while saying that.

I heard him sigh like an old man. "I wanted to hug you but you're driving. Please focus on driving first, Mom. Think of the happy things."

Because he said that, I learned to calm myself. No one spoke to us the whole trip and just felt the silence. I feel like a child is not with me. It feels like I was being comforted by a man my age. We got home and I parked it neatly. I immediately removed my seatbelt and wiped the tears from my cheeks with my handkerchief.

And there, I was stunned again when Lip hugged me.

"You're strong, Mom."

That simple word made me feel better. I never cried again and we entered the house straightly, then changed our clothes.

We rested in our room and I waited for him to sleep first. I was looking at him, being so grateful that it was a good thing that a child like him came into my life. I was so exhausted all the time but the encouraging words he said motivated me to continue. I thought now that I didn’t even wish my Dad a ‘Happy Birthday’ because of my anger. But still, I still can’t accept what he did to us, especially to Mom.

She was so forgiving and she accepted everything even in return, was her exhaustion of self love. Are mothers really like that? Do they always sacrifice just to make others happy? What about herself? That's why people around her abused and used her kindness, that's because she always lets that happen. Why is she letting Dad be like that and forgive him right away?

I can't do what she's doing. I won't forgive Dad as easily as she did. I will never talk to him again. We were betrayed and that will be sealed to us forever.