END

The paper works and tons of people in line keeps everyone in the room busy. It’s afternoon and the people are still barely declining.

I confronted the just sitting client.

“What is the loan for?”

“Surgery.”

“What kind of surgery?”

“Uh…” My head tilted as he scratched the back of his neck.

“Penis enlargement.”

My eyes widened at what it said.

“Are you serious? Maybe you’re just fooling us Sir. We can’t give you a loan if we don’t——”

“It’s true! My girlfriend left me because,” he paused, “You know.”

I sighed.

“Sir, it’s not about interfering, but if he leaves you because he doesn’t really love you. You shouldn’t change just to please your gf or whoever.”

“I know, Ma’am, I also want to boost my confidence.”

“How much is the loan?”

It told me the price of the surgery. I arranged the loan paperwork.

“Is what I heard right Celiza? Penis enlargement is what she borrowed?”

I nodded.

“Aren’t there any pills then?”

I shrugged. “Maybe more effective.”

“Anyway, I’m going to replace that with that.”

“Are you sure? I’m also needed at home because I’m not ready there yet.”

“Yes, I don’t know! I’ll take care of your business!”

Months after the wedding I decided to build my own company that’ll help those in need. I choose a loan business to minimize the chance of making mistakes and weighing better choices that I did just for money. They don’t have to go through difficult conversations anymore and especially they don’t have to choose whether they love what they love or for whatever reason use the money.

So where else are they? With a CS loan!

Do I know if I’m not the only telenovela -like life.

“Thank you so much Mirs! You’ll catch up later ah!”

Miranda is an investor in the company and also works here. So hands on hands on in business.

“Maybe I’ll miss that? Then I’ll pick up Meredith at your house too.”

She now has a daughter, Meredith. It looks like the father, Jack. Unexpectedly, the two of them met Jack, Miranda was happy because she said that the reconciliation with the children continued because Jack was Magnus’ friend.

“Mirs first me!” I smiled and waved at her as I fixed my bag.

I made my way to the hallway. Mom called exactly.

“Where is my beautiful child?”

“Mom andito!” I heard Bliss answer on the other line.

I chuckled. “Andyan daw Mom.”

“I’m talking to one too!” hagakhak nito.

“Where have you been? Have you picked it up yet?”

“Just going to school Mom.”

“Aba dalian niyo na—-“ I cut her off when Magnus’ caller ID appeared on my phone.

“Wait Mom, Magnus is on another call.”

“I’m outside, baby.”

I’m going straight out of the company. Magnus’ new sports car opened up to me, his sweet smile flashed as the car window went down.

It went out to open the door. He smacked a kiss. I scanned him quickly. He’s not in his business suit anymore. He’s wearing a casual plain red polo shirt paired with black pants and leather shoes. He’s even got aviators!

Years have passed but he doesn’t look different! It’s even more handsome! If you look at it, it looks like he is not married and has a family!

Before my mind flew to where I immediately went back to Mom’s line.

“Magnus is here Mom, we’ll just pick up Riux at school then we’ll go straight there.”

“I miss my handsome grandson!” she said.

A week after Magnus and I were married, we found out that I was pregnant. Magnus almost beat the 20th floor of the hospital in delight.

Riux was in grade school and as he grew up I noticed his proficiency in numbers and language. It seems to have inherited Magnus’ sharpness of mind, almost all of them inherited it because it also looks like Magnus. If I had just been born into the world and seen Magnus and Riux, I would have thought that it was Magnus himself who gave birth to her.

I know it sounds ridiculous but it’s freaking real! I’ve been wondering if ever I get pregnant again, if it’s a girl, would she look like me? Or does he still look like Magnus?

But it’s better that Riux inherited from Magnus because I only contribute good genes because I’m not as gifted as Magnus.

“For sure it will be nice to meet Alfredo for her!” Mom said.

They just returned to the country yesterday. The two were on vacation in Hong Kong. Because we were able to relax somehow, I asked Mom and Dad to retire. Now that we’re financially stable, It’s my turn to spoil them and give back on the things and sacrifice they’ve done for me. They deserve to be happy and enjoy life.

Luckily, the years of therapy helped Dad to walk again without any equipment to accompany him.

While Bliss is close to graduating from senior high, even though I didn’t pass and study at the university I wanted, she did it. It has passed the Ateneo and other universities.

See? I know she’s going to be successful!

Just in case I was saved on the genes of intelligence and it all went to Bliss, just taken back by beauty, just in case Bliss is beautiful and smart! A blessed child!

As a teenager she seemed to be becoming Celiza v2. It also loves everything pink and shiny. I’m not spoiling her that much but Mom did.

I’ve been through that and I know it’s not good for her to be too extravagant. Fortunately, it followed my advice.

“Looks like my CEO isn’t busy ah?”

He glared at me. “It’s family time baby. I’ll cancel everything for you and my son.”

“Sus! You just want another one!”

“That’s a good suggestion.” He chuckled.

I was about to speak when my phone rang again. My eyes widened at what the person on the other line said.

“What happened?” He asked when I dropped the call.

I couldn’t help but be sensitive to the call I received.

“Drive quickly and Riux is in the principal’s office again!”

“Again?” he chuckled.

“Don’t laugh at that, hurry up, maybe what happened to Riux!”

“Yes ma’am.”

What did Riux do today, this is the second time the guidance counselor at his school called us. The first was when he pushed the classmate who fought with another female classmate.

I admit that the intent is good but the action is not.

I rushed to my son when we entered the principal’s office.

“What happened?” I asked in a soft tone. Based on Riux’s clear appearance it doesn’t look like he pushed or fought with the classmate.

“Good afternoon, Mr. and Mrs. Morrison.” Greetings to us. I noticed the counselor staring at Magnus. It’s just a little old for us.

I would have liked to tell him to just slowly stare, in case my priority is Riux.

“What’s the problem? Why is Riux here again?”

I’m already worried about what’s happening to him. Is this still normal for Riux?

“He asked a sensitive question to his classmate, specifically his girl classmate. The parent heard that so here we are. The girl’s mother left but she asked for this behavior to be corrected and I couldn’t agree more. As the principal of this school, such despicable behavior and language is not allowed, considering the fact that Riux’s young age. We will not tolerate this Mr. & Mrs. Morrison. This is his second warning and if there will be another one, I don’t have a choice but to act on the best solution I can think of just to stop your son’s antics. “

Magnus and I met eye to eye. Of all the things that Riux inherited from me, why is this?

I’m a trouble maker and my son inherited it. It must be right because I don’t want it to be like me.

I turned to Riux. “What did he ask his classmate?”

“Can I be your sex student ?! Are you crazy Magnus? What are you teaching our son!” I was utterly shocked when the principal told me that was the question my son asked his classmate!

What parent wouldn’t be worried about that?

Now I know why Mom and Dad felt so disappointed and hurt when my scandal came out. No parents want their child to be judged and belittled by the society based on their choices, whether it’s considered a mistake or not.

It’s harder for a parent to witness the downfall of their child because of foolish mistakes. And I admit, it is hard to be a parent but it’ll be painful and harder to be a good parent, to be the best parent that a child could ever have.

I sighed.

We first let Riux play in the school park while Magnus and I talked not far from Riux’s direction.

“Shh … Don’t be mad.” He chuckled.

“W-why don’t I get mad? Look at what happened to our son! You were Magnus valedictorian when we were in senior high school so I don’t understand and why did you teach that? Calculus can be done! Or maybe you taught physics and chemistry to advance the child in the lesson, not the advance in sex life! Riux is only seven years old! Of all the things you can teach a child, why is that? “I asked him annoyed.

He cupped my face. “I know … I’m sorry. I’ll explain alright? But calm down first.”

My annoyance melted into Magnus’s eyes. My chest throbbed, not out of annoyance but out of him. With his closeness and stare at me.

My lips protruded. “Why is that what you taught her?”

“He asked me how you noticed me before.”

My forehead furrowed at what he said. Couldn’t Riux have a crush on their class?

“So I told him and I advised him not to think about it that much, and don’t say it to anyone yet because he is still young.”

“What are you thinking about Magnus? Riux is still young. He doesn’t have a clear understanding on the concept of sex!”

I gently slapped Magnus’ chest.

Thinking back on my past, I can’t help but cringe at the way I used to think about nerds. I used to believe all the stereotypes: that they were socially awkward, unfashionable, and obsessed with things that were considered “uncool.”

Back then, I was more concerned with fitting in and being popular than anything else. I wanted to be seen as one of the “cool kids,” so I avoided anyone who didn’t fit that mold. I would make fun of the nerdy kids in my class, not realizing how hurtful my words could be.

But then something happened that changed my perspective. I met a guy who was a self-proclaimed nerd, and he was nothing like the stereotype I had in my head. He was smart, kind, and passionate about things that I had never even heard of before. And as I got to know him better, I realized that being a “nerd” was actually pretty awesome.

From then on, I started to see things differently. I started to appreciate the intelligence and creativity that nerds bring to the table. I learned to embrace my own interests, even if they didn’t fit into the mainstream. And I stopped caring so much about what other people thought of me.

Looking back on how I used to think about nerds, I feel embarrassed and ashamed. I wish I could go back in time and tell my younger self to be more open-minded and accepting. But I’m also grateful for the experiences that helped me change my perspective. I’m a better person for it, and I’ll always be thankful for the nerds in my life who showed me a new way of thinking.

“He doesn’t know what it means baby, I told him it means love.”

“So when he grows up he will incorporate sex with love only. Not infatuation and sudden desire.”

“I get Magnus. The intent is good but the action is not. No matter what reason you have, it’s still wrong. He’s still young.”

I stared at my handsome son who was happily playing in the park.

“I know baby, I’m sorry. Don’t worry, I’ll correct it, hmm? Don’t be mad at him. It’s my fault.”

“I’m not mad at him. I’m really mad at you. Tsk! Don’t teach Riux like that!” I said.

“Maybe it will follow in your footsteps.”

“Come to think of it, Because you don’t fall in love with me.” He chuckled.

My cheeks are warm.

He pulled me closer and gave me a kiss. “I love you.” He said.

“I love you too Magnus.” I said.

“Let’s see, Mom and Dad are already waiting for us.”

It stood up to pick up Riux. He carried him on his shoulders. My lips curve into a smile. The sun shines brightly on their spot, they both look gorgeous. The scene of them laughing made my heart melt.

The bottom of my eyes became hot as I watched the father and son.

It’s been years … Until now, I still can’t believe it.

In all the trials I went through, it never crossed my mind that I would have a beautiful and harmonious family with Magnus. I gave up not only Magnus but my dream to myself for the good of the people I love.

The intelligence hierarchy, I disliked in school and in any educational system, didn’t view nor accept that troublemakers like I can pass an exam and hope for a better future.

But here I’am now, living the future I wished for. Their doubts and judgment cut me off but I put myself back ‘cause the only judgment that matters is my own.

I thought beauty was the only key to the future.

I used my beauty to trick my destiny. I was envious that dugged a hole in my road to success.

All of the challenges that I faced, through the years filled with sacrifices, tears, lies, pain and regret wounded me but it’s all healed now because of acceptance and truth.

You only live a happy life if it’s built with trust, love and forgiveness.

I used to think that diamonds and anything that shines will lead me to a great life with friends inside the wealthy circle. I spend thousands of money on lavish things for social approval. Oh how wrong I was, true happiness will never be found in material things and people’s validation. It’ll only give you a taste of happiness then next is everlasting doubt on yourself. It’ll fade away then overthinking will eat you up for reasons that your mind made up.

I hit rock bottom that made me see the other side of life. There is so much more than glamorous things, money and fame.

There is a family who will protect you no matter how hard life hits you. There are true friends who will be by your side in dark and bright days just like your family who will believe in you. Lastly, there is love that’ll set you free from all the chains that’s been holding you back to be your true self.

When we arrived at Mom and Dad’s house, everything was in order. They even surprised Riux who was happy with it.

Dad and Mom immediately gave the gift to her. Mom painted it a few times to make it my day for Aunt Aurora to see.

They reconciled. Tito Ceasar and Toci are already in another country. Toci and I still remained friends. I have no news about her even with Aira.

Miranda also came with Jack so Riux immediately played a game with Meredith when he saw it.

I turned in the direction of Riux’s shout, even though Magnus was the same.

“Mom? Dad? You didn’t tell me you’re coming.”

Tito Argento immediately created the grandson.

“It’s my grandson’s birthday Magnus. I can’t be without him.”

“But you said you two are busy,” Magnus said.

“We made time for our little boy!” Her mom said.

I greeted the two. Riux’s guests played and ate at his birthday party.

I told Aunt Emelda to watch Riux. She tried to file a divorce with Tito Argento, thinking it’s for the best.

That was its intention, so I felt differently from what was said on the wedding day. Tito Argento did not agree because even though there were mistakes, his wife accepted him. Tito has also learned to love her over the years. It seems to be captured by the enlightenment that came from Tita Emelda, how can it not shine and be kind?

He is no longer aborted in life!

Looks like we’re being watered! Most likely they will have another brother Magnus is Freeda!

“You raise him well, Celiza.”

“Is it still me?” And even myself.

“Don’t be too proud, you’re just in the beginning of raising him. Soon you’ll deal with his first crush, girlfriend and love. You’ll get to the point where you can’t handle him.”

“Is it like Magnus?”

“Exactly.” She nodded.

“And if that day comes, I will let him decide for himself. Whoever he wants to be inlove with won’t feel the deprivation because of our social status, it’s a stupid shit.”

Laughing it nailed.

“Don’t wear out the fun sister.” He laughs at the promise.

“Anyways the party is good. Not that grand but enough for his age.”

“Looks like you like my son -in -law ah?” I teased.

“I’m thankful you gave us our grandson, Celiza.”

I smiled at what it said.

As I sit here and reflect on my life, I can’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride and gratitude. It’s hard to believe how far I’ve come since my humble beginnings.

I remember when I was just a little girl, growing up in a small town with big dreams. Life wasn’t always easy, and there were times when it felt like the odds were stacked against me. But I never gave up. I worked hard and stayed focused on my goals, even when it seemed like they were out of reach.

Over the years, I faced my fair share of challenges and obstacles. There were setbacks and disappointments, but I refused to let them define me. Instead, I used them as fuel to drive me forward, to push myself harder and strive for more.

And now, as I look back on my journey, I can see just how much I’ve accomplished. I’ve graduated from college, landed a great job, and built a life that I’m proud of. I’ve traveled the world, met amazing people, and experienced so much that life has to offer.

But it’s not just about the external accomplishments. It’s also about the person I’ve become along the way. I’ve grown so much, both personally and professionally. I’ve learned to be resilient, to persevere in the face of adversity, and to never give up on my dreams.

As I sit here, taking it all in, I can’t help but feel grateful for the journey that has brought me to where I am today. I’m proud of the person I’ve become, and I’m excited to see where my path will take me next. Whatever the future holds, I know that I’ll be ready for it, because I’ve come so far already.

We had lots of misunderstandings back then, were blinded by our own goals and feelings that blocked our way of seeing the real truth behind every situation and decision we made.

I used to believe that my beauty would bring me joy, fame and wealth but the beauty I adored so much became the source of shame, my own shame.

As I sat on the porch of my family’s home, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed with joy as I watched my family. The warm summer breeze rustled through the trees, and the sound of laughter and conversation filled the air. It was one of those moments where time seemed to stand still, and I wanted to hold onto it forever.

I watched as my parents sat together, talking and sharing stories from their day. My younger siblings were running around in the yard, playing games and chasing each other. I couldn’t help but smile as I watched their carefree energy, and I felt grateful to be a part of this family.

As the sun began to set, my family gathered around the picnic table for dinner. We shared a meal together, passing dishes back and forth and laughing as we talked about our day. It was a simple moment, but one that I cherished deeply.

As the night went on, we sat around a campfire, roasting marshmallows and telling stories. I watched as my dad played his guitar, and my siblings sang along. It was a beautiful moment, and I couldn’t help but feel grateful for my family.

As I sat there, taking it all in, I realized how lucky I was to have a family like mine. They were always there for me, supporting me and encouraging me to chase my dreams. They were my rock, my constant, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them.

As the night wore on and it was time to head inside, I gave each of my family members a hug, feeling a sense of warmth and love that I couldn’t quite put into words. As I lay in bed that night, I thought about how lucky I was to have a family that loved me unconditionally. They were the foundation of my life, the reason for my joy, and I felt so grateful to have them by my side.

In that moment, I made a silent vow to always cherish my family, to never take them for granted, and to show them how much they meant to me every chance I got. Because at the end of the day, family was everything, and I couldn’t imagine my life without them.

I took care of some guests while Mom was busy chatting with Tita Emelda. There was magic and the two became close. My forehead furrowed as I saw Meredith running towards me.

I kneeled in front of her and hugged her.

“How’s my Meredith?” I said as I gently squeezed her chubby cheeks from blushing.

I know the outcome of Miranda and jack’s mixture of genes is good but I never thought it would be so good! Meredith is like a living doll! Maybe it’s because of Jack’s genes because there’s a race to that.

My forehead furrowed as it frowned.

“What’s wrong? Where’s your Momma? ” I asked in the softest way possible.

“Riux kissed some girl.”

My eyes widened at what it said.

“Really?

Behind it was the painting Magnus. Even the visitors were already looking in our direction.

“What happened?”

“I found it.”

My brows furrowed. “Found what baby? What did you and your Dad do?”

“I found my sex student Mommy!” He screamed.

My eyes widened. I opened my mouth to hear.

“Oh hell no! I don’t want another video in this family!” Tita Emelda kept her promise and everyone laughed.

I also couldn’t help but smile.

Mom carried Riux to where.

The tape that made my life miserable but also opened a way to be with the right man who’s always by my side. Even if I’m nothing new he accepted me for who I am and he loves me as brand new.

Our love is more than just sex, he taught me things in life that are so much better than sex positions that I taught him.

And for that I love him.

“Our son is going to be a heartbreaker,” Magnus whispered.

“Where did Riux inherit that?”

“Who else? Edi to you Celiza. How many times have you broken my heart.”

I raised my brow at him. “How many times have you also destroyed my femininity so we quit Magnus.”

He pouted. “Both are different but I’ll let you pass of you let me break your ---”

“Celiza! Oh Riux! Kiss the girl!”

My eyes widened once again.

Magnus laughed beside.

Guess I should get used to this kind of news now.

A happy life with two of my boys, Magnus and Riux and together we will make more memories, for the rest of our lives.

THE END.

.