END

“I didn’t know what you’ve been through when I was gone. I wasn’t there for you.. but I hate you for leaving me.” He said.

“You’re the one who didn’t make you feel Wilder. There was no text or even a call.”

“Because I was mad! Then I heard that you and Hades are a thing! That both of you went to America!” He said while his jaw was clenching.

“He’s my brother!” I will defend myself.

“Yes, but I didn’t know that before.” He said then looked away.

“I tried to find you. There is no Fertine Weiler anywhere in the world. There is only Athena Wu. At first I thought she just looked like you when I saw the news about the other daughter of Wu’s. I dug deeper and found out that it was you all along.”

“I’m sorry for not being there with you, Fertine. Mom is sick at that time, she’s in America and she needed me. I love you.” He said while cupping my face.

“Its alright. I’m sorry too, for leaving you. I don’t know what to do because a lot has changed in my life. But the beating of my heart will never change. I love you too.” I said then pull me closer to him locking my lips with his.

“Oh Aunt Herma, thank you for this!” I said while hugging the dior bag she gave as a wedding gift.

Last night was our wedding. After almost five years we are married. That day in the beach, he proposed to me. The four years we’ve been apart have been too long, so I’ve agreed.

Our parents agreed to the wedding. So we took care of it right away. They didn’t know the news that happened when we were still in college, we told them that but they just laughed.

The well-known person in the business industry was at the wedding, my friends and his. I don’t even know why the other college schoolmates were there.

As I look back on my life, I see a path filled with obstacles, challenges, and struggles that have shaped me into the person I am today. From an early age, life seemed determined to test my strength and resilience.

Growing up, my family faced financial difficulties. We often struggled to make ends meet, and there were times when we had to go without basic necessities. Witnessing my parents’ constant worry and sacrifice left an indelible mark on me. It made me determined to rise above my circumstances and create a better future for myself.

In school, I faced countless hurdles. Academically, I was not the brightest student, and I often had to work twice as hard as my peers to achieve mediocre results. I battled with self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy, but I refused to let those obstacles define me. I sought help, developed effective study habits, and slowly began to see improvement.

But life had more struggles in store for me. At a tender age, I experienced the heartache of losing a close friend to a tragic accident. The pain and grief were overwhelming, and it took me a long time to come to terms with the loss. It taught me the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.

As I entered adolescence, I faced the tumultuous storms of bullying and social exclusion. I was judged for my appearance, my interests, and even my dreams. The constant criticism and rejection stung deeply, but I refused to let it break me. I sought solace in the company of true friends who accepted me for who I was, and their unwavering support gave me the strength to rise above the negativity.

In my journey towards adulthood, I encountered countless roadblocks and setbacks. Rejections became a familiar companion as I pursued my dreams, whether it was applying for college, scholarships, or job opportunities. Each rejection felt like a blow to my confidence, but I persevered. I embraced resilience, picked myself up, and tried again and again until I finally achieved success.

Through all these struggles, I have learned invaluable lessons. I have learned the power of determination, resilience, and the importance of never giving up. Each hurdle has made me stronger, more compassionate, and more appreciative of the simple joys in life.

While the struggles have been numerous, they have not defined me. They have merely been stepping stones in my journey, shaping my character and propelling me forward. I am proud of the person I have become—an individual who refuses to let adversity dictate her future. My struggles have transformed into sources of strength, and I am ready to face any challenge that lies ahead with unwavering courage and determination.

In the depths of despair, amidst the shadows of adversity, I stood tall, determined to overcome the countless struggles that had plagued my life. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, I summoned every ounce of strength within me to conquer the demons that threatened to engulf me.

With each challenge I faced, I refused to succumb to the weight of despair. I embraced resilience as my guiding light, turning setbacks into opportunities for growth. Through the storms of financial hardship that battered my family, I became a beacon of hope, channeling my energy into finding solutions and forging a brighter future.

In the realm of education, where the seeds of self-doubt were sown, I nurtured a relentless spirit, dedicating myself to surmounting academic hurdles that seemed insurmountable. The taunting whispers of inadequacy became fuel for my determination, propelling me to go beyond my limits, to defy expectations, and carve my own path to success.

When grief and loss threatened to shatter my spirit, I summoned the resilience of a warrior, weaving the threads of memories into a tapestry of strength and remembrance. Through tears and anguish, I found solace in the resilience of the human spirit, cherishing the preciousness of life and vowing to live each day to its fullest.

In the face of bullying and social exclusion, where daggers of judgment pierced my soul, I rose above the noise, embracing my uniqueness with unwavering pride. I sought refuge in the warmth of true friendship, surrounding myself with those who saw beyond superficiality, who celebrated my quirks, and who bolstered my courage to embrace authenticity.

As I traversed the treacherous terrain of adulthood, encountering rejections and setbacks, I transformed disappointment into determination. Each closed door became a catalyst for personal growth, a chance to refine my skills, and an opportunity to unleash my resilience and unwavering spirit of perseverance.

Through the crucible of life’s struggles, I emerged forged in the fires of adversity. No longer defined by the challenges that once threatened to consume me, I stand tall, an embodiment of strength and triumph. The struggles that once cast shadows upon my path have become stepping stones, paving the way for self-discovery, empowerment, and the realization of my true potential.

With unwavering resolve, I now face the future with unbridled optimism and a heart filled with gratitude. Every battle fought, every hurdle overcome, has molded me into a warrior of resilience, compassion, and unwavering determination. I am a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable ability to rise above circumstances and craft a life that radiates with hope, purpose, and unyielding joy.

“Aunt Herma really loves you.” He said. “Jealous?” I mock him.

He sat next to me on the sofa while sipping coffee. “No. I can buy you the whole store if you want.” He said smiling. “You don’t know!” Next I opened the smallest gift of all. “This is beautiful.” I said while still in awe. It was a diamond jewelry necklace from my Dad.

“Why is their gift just for you? It’s our wedding. I should have one too.” Wilder sneered when he saw that. “Tsk. I thought you could buy a store huh?” I answered him.

“Yes! But that is unfair, but since I want to see you happy. I told them not to give me.” I looked at him. “Huh?” I asked.

“I said they should only give you because I don’t need those gifts from him. I already got the gift I wanted.” He moved closer to me and kissed my lips. I felt my cheeks blush. He never failed to make me feel this way.

I open another gift again. It was my baby clothes when I was a child!

That’s from mom!

Awww

She wants me to use this to her grandchildren!

I looked at Wilder who was looking at the baby clothes while smiling.

My mom managed the Weiler hotel since it was for her. I made another business again. Which is a bar. I have a restaurant too. I used to be a barista and I like what I’m doing before so I decided to build one.

Mama introduced the man who made her heart beat again. He is also from Bicol and owns a farm.

Wilder opened another gift. That was from Geo. It’s a ticket. Trip to Maldives.

“Wow.. Geo is so smart!” I said. He ignored that. He followed the other.

“Tsk.” I looked at the gift. I laughed and took it from him. It’s a manufactured pussy! A sex toy! “I don’t need that though.” He smiled mischievously.

He planted small kisses on my neck.

I continued opening the gift. Our grandparents gave us house and lot! While Freeda gave me dozens of baby clothes in all colors. Hades gives us baby clothes too! It’s not obvious that these two pretended to give to us. Maybe they bought together?

Wilder is sucking my neck now. When I turned around it stopped and opened a present. “Hey… That’s later.” I caressed his chest from behind.

“Let’s go back to bed…” I whisper to him seductively.

“No, Fertine. It’s not possible. You’re pregnant. My child might be full inside.” He said.

Yes. I’m pregnant. Nona will get a brother or a sister and that is the best blessing. Wilder was so happy when he found out that we have a daughter.

I’m glad that he accepted her and so eager to connect with her for the past years that he lost touch with her.

It wasn’t even hard for Nona to meet his Dad. He is just happy that he has a father aside from Hades who is actually his uncle but treated her as his child. I’m sure he will be a father when he gets a chance to be one.

They will be amazing parents. Hades and Freeda.

This morning at five am I vomited. It happens to me often. He was worried so he went to the doctor.

Then we found out that she was two weeks pregnant. While we were taking care of the wedding, I couldn’t help but invite her. That’s why she’s going to have a baby!

This is the gift we received.

Their gifts are perfect for us too because they are baby clothes! It’ll be our second baby. I can’t believe we are on second. I still remember how Wilder found out about Nona.

The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the deserted beach. The crashing waves echoed the turmoil in Fertine's heart as she watched the vibrant colors fade into darkness. Her eyes, filled with a mixture of hope and fear, darted toward Wilder, who stood beside her, oblivious to the secret she held.

Wilder, tall and rugged, his dark hair tousled by the ocean breeze, stared pensively at the vast expanse of the sea. There was a profound sadness etched upon his features, the weight of the world burdening his soul. Little did he know that within that very world, a hidden treasure awaited his discovery.

Fertine had long harbored the truth, keeping it locked away like a forbidden relic. She couldn't bear to shatter the delicate balance of their companionship, nor reveal the depth of her clandestine actions. Yet, as the years passed, the guilt had become an unbearable burden, gnawing at her every waking moment.

She took a deep breath, gathering her courage, and turned toward Wilder. Her voice trembled as she spoke, "Wilder, there's something I need to tell you."

Wilder turned his gaze toward her, his eyes shimmering with curiosity and concern. "What is it, Fertine? You seem troubled."

Taking a step closer, Fertine's heart pounded within her chest, threatening to drown out her words. "I have a daughter, Wilder. Our daughter."

A pregnant pause filled the air, as if time itself had halted to witness their fragile bond hang in the balance. Wilder's eyes widened in disbelief, his mind struggling to comprehend the weight of Fertine's revelation.

"A daughter?" he whispered, his voice barely audible.

Fertine nodded, her voice choked with emotion. "Her name is Emilia. I never told you because I feared losing you. I wanted to protect her, protect us."

Wilder's brows furrowed as he absorbed the magnitude of Fertine's secret. He reached out, his hand trembling, and gently cupped her face. "Fertine, why? Why didn't you trust me with this?"

Tears welled up in Fertine's eyes as she answered, her voice filled with remorse. "I was scared, Wilder. Scared that if you knew, you would leave, and I couldn't bear the thought of losing you. I thought I could protect both of you by keeping her hidden away, but it's become too heavy to bear."

Wilder's expression softened, his touch tender against Fertine's cheek. "Fertine, I understand your fear, but we're in this together. I may not have known about Emilia, but she's a part of us. I want to be her father, and I want to be there for you. We can face this together, no matter how difficult it may be."

Overwhelmed by Wilder's understanding, Fertine felt the weight of her secret begin to lift. She reached out and clasped Wilder's hand, their fingers intertwining in a gesture of unity. In that moment, the waves crashing on the shore seemed to echo the resolute determination in their hearts.

Together, Fertine and Wilder would embark on a journey of forgiveness, healing the wounds caused by hidden truths. They would search for Emilia, embracing the unknown, and unraveling the layers of their intertwined destinies. For beneath the surface of their love lay a story waiting to be told, a story that would forever change their lives.

And as the moon cast its gentle glow upon their faces, they knew that their path forward would be illuminated by the strength of us.

“It’s been two weeks, it’s still safe. Just take it easy.” I said modestly. “No.” He said seriously.

“Please?” I plant small kisses on his neck.

“Fine!” He said frustrated.

I laughed at his reaction and ran to the bed while taking off my clothes.

“I don’t have a nymphomaniac girlfriend anymore. I have a nymphomaniac wife now.” I heard him say.

“Shut up and get in here!” I shouted from inside the room.

I am Athena Fertine Wu Villacorta. Signing off as a nymphomaniac nerd.