ith hesitation as she spoke. "Hays, you r

to her eyes. "Okay, Mom. I promise

her plea, her concern shining through. "Ta

I replied earnestly, attempting to all

e strong one for Mother and Ate Datdat. And perhaps, if you can find a way, try to lighten Papa's mood. I know you ca

d eagerly. "Yes, Ate! I'll take good care of

the warmth of our connection mingling with the underlying sense of longing. As I handed her my keypad cellphone, a tender smile curved my lips. "Keep it,

rt. "Thank you, Lyka. It means a lot to me. And don't worry about us. We'll manage

f sadness. The embrace lingered a moment longer, conveying unspoken sentime

aped my lips, the weight of the world seemingly pressing down upon me. My mind wandered, contemplating what a

ing Dodong the last piece of biscuit from my mini bag, knowing deep down that he needed it more than I did. Although my s

I leaned back in my seat, closing m

Would you like to buy it?" A woma

ave any money left. I only had enough for transportation.

ng, but I'm not hungr

ally? I heard your stomach growl like a hungry

glancing out the window, pretending to be interested in the view. But ho

et about my hunger. Maybe if I sle

I was really hungry, and it was making my head hurt. Everything looke

But I couldn't stop the cold sweats that covered my face. I tri

o the actual house. The villa was enormous—when I say big, I mean really big!

nding, and my vision was still blurry. A man

I pleaded, feeling like I was going to be sick. My

ned. I nodded repeatedly, not knowing what would happen next. All I wan

nd a cab," h

into the cab, cold sweat continued to trickle down my palms. This was not good. I wan

ve me, miss," the cab driver informe

my weakened state, my face still reflected a sense of astonishment as I took

ness. The theme and design emanated elegance, promising a sop

and asked if I was okay. I ran my fingers through my hair, trying to

eat! You must be Lyka Montefranca. Come, let's go inside. Madam

athered my strength and followed her.

ook pale..." she asked, co

to disguise my cond

ma'am. It's too formal! HAHA!" Her laughter lightened the

lier welcomed us with a warm glow. The place ex

legant woman. Contrary to what I had seen in movies, where the "Madam" character often

!" she greet

ith a smile, but my body refused to coope

remembered before everyt