"ERIK? It’s you, right?"
Nathaniel, finally sensing the moment, approached his boyfriend.
"I'm Nathaniel, Mia's brother," he said without hesitation, extending his hand toward Erik.
At that moment, Mia looked up at her boyfriend's face. She could clearly see the quick change in Erik's aura as he accepted Nathaniel's handshake.
"Oh, would you believe it, I have a brother?" Mia said, stifling a laugh. "And here you are, getting jealous without even asking me?" she added, embracing Erik tightly.
That was when Erik held Mia tightly in his arms, then let go and pressed his lips against hers without uttering a word. Disregarding the people who could see them, he made her feel the intense longing he had for her.
"Shall we go inside?" he said with a smile, his eyes sparkling.
Mia happily nodded in agreement and waved at Erik's parents before entering.
*****
"We're actually traveling today to bring Mia back to Manila," Nathaniel said when they faced each other in the living room.
"Nate has his online classes, so we couldn't leave early. He wasn't allowed to an absent today," Mia explained.
She was sitting next to Erik at that moment.
"Sorry, Nathaniel, if I mistook you for--"
"It's okay. I can't blame you. No one really knows that Mia has a brother. And who would have thought that my lost sibling was her? Especially when she informed Aunt Ising about her being in a good situation, she contacted my cellphone," Nathaniel said, his voice filled with joy.
"How did you find out that I'm here?" Mia asked him at that point, curious about the matter.
"Through Bernie," Erik replied briefly.
"W-What?" she asked, bewildered. "You talked to that man?"
Erik nodded and then proceeded to explain everything to her.
"Is it okay with you if I talk to him?" she asked after hearing everything from Erik.
"If you're going, Mia, I'll come along. Can I do that?" Aunt Ising promptly replied.
Mia simply nodded in response to her aunt's question.
"Is it okay with you if, after our wedding, you visit him?" Erik asked, tightly gripping her hand.
Mia didn't pay much attention to the hand her boyfriend held. It was only then that she understood its meaning.
"Alright, sure," she answered, smiling.
Erik embraced her and kissed her forehead. "I just don't want him to do anything again. Even though he has apologized, I still don't want to trust him. Besides, I'll get ahead of him. I have no plans to withdraw the charges against him. He needs to pay for everything he did to you since you were together," Erik spoke with conviction.
"Erik is right, Mia. He needs to be held accountable for all of it. Maybe the reason he wants to see and talk to you is because he wants you to drop the case?" Elena added.
Mia didn't respond to any of it because everything they said was right.
"Are you staying here for the night?" Aunt Ising finally spoke up when Mia remained silent.
"Yes, the travel back to Manila is quite long. You need to rest, Erik," Elena agreed.
"I won't refuse that. To be honest, I was so excited to see Mia that I almost flew the car just to get here quickly," Erik said, playfully pinching her cheek.
"So, this is the reason, Nate, why you weren't allowed to be absent earlier, right? I knew it, everything happens for a reason," Mia added, bursting into laughter.
The house filled with joyful laughter at that moment. And when there was an opportunity, it was Aurora who spoke up.
"Will you be joining us tomorrow on the trip back to Manila?" she asked, her gaze fixed on Mia’s family.
"Perhaps we can, especially since it's a holiday on Monday. And tomorrow is Sunday," Nathaniel replied.
"That would be great then. So you can also see Mia's future home. Oh, by the way, with everything that has happened, we haven't told you, Erik, that we won't proceed with selling the house. We're giving it to you and Mia," Aurora added.
Mia's face lit up with joy as she gazed at her boyfriend. She knew that Erik cherished the house, as it held countless precious memories from his childhood. And for her, it was within those very walls that Erik's love for her had begun to blossom.
"It's up to you whether you sell it or not. It's your call. But if I were you, I would take care of it and pass it down to your future children," Fidel chimed in.
Mia's eyes welled up with warmth, her heart brimming with overwhelming happiness. Once, she had felt like a lost, helpless soul, without a place to call home. But now, by the grace of God, not only were they blessed with one home, but two—a testament to their love and a legacy they could pass on to their future children.
"You're right. Let's have another child, so each of them can have their own house," Erik jokingly added, provoking laughter from everyone present.
At that moment, Mia felt immense gratitude for the love and blessings surrounding her. She knew that her journey with Erik was not solely about finding love, but also about building a future together—a future filled with warmth, affection, and a deep sense of belonging. Their home would become a sanctuary, where their love would continue to flourish, and where their children would create their own precious memories.
As they embarked on this new chapter of their lives, Mia couldn't help but feel a profound sense of contentment. She knew that their love was strong and unwavering, and would only grow deeper with each passing day. With Erik by her side, she felt ready to face any challenges that lay ahead, knowing that their love would be their guiding light through life's storms.
Together, they would create a home filled with love, laughter, and cherished moments. Their love story would continue to unfold, painting a picture of a love that withstood the test of time, bloomed against all odds, and became a source of inspiration for generations to come.
Hand in hand, they embarked on the path that lay before them, ready to write a love story that would be remembered and cherished. With hearts full of hope and dreams intertwined, Mia and Erik were determined to create a future rooted in love—a future where their love would forever be their greatest treasure.
*****
"Why didn't you tell me that you're pregnant?" Erik asked, his question hanging in the air as they lay side by side in her room that evening.
Mia swallowed nervously, worried that Erik might be angry at her for keeping this secret. "I-I didn't expect things to come to this point, and besides, I wanted to surprise you," she replied, her voice filled with apprehension.
To her surprise, as Erik shifted and leaned over her, she saw the most beautiful smile grace his lips. Even with the lights dimmed, the room illuminated only by a small dim light, Mia could still clearly see the twinkle in his eyes, like stars competing for brilliance against the windows of his soul.
"Well, what if I told you that I knew you were pregnant and that it was supposed to be my surprise to you?" he teased, starting to undress her.
The effect on Mia was instantaneous, not just from Erik's words, but from his actions as well.
"I-It's like 'The Gift of the Magi,' isn't it?" she managed to say as her heart fluttered with excitement.
"Exactly!" Erik replied, his voice low but brimming with immense joy.
As Mia continued to gaze into his eyes, she quickly sensed a shift in the atmosphere around them. Especially when Erik gently traced his fingers over her lips. Lost in the moment, Mia couldn't help but close her eyes.
At that moment, time seemed to stand still as their connection deepened. It was as if they were alone in the universe, their love creating a sacred space where only they existed. The anticipation and desire in the air were palpable, a prelude to a new chapter in their love story.
"We're truly compatible, sweetheart. It's evident from the start that our minds are aligned, don't you think?" Erik whispered to her, leaning in and placing a gentle kiss on her neck.
Mia gasped at Erik's action. In her heart, she couldn't deny the intense longing for a moment she had been eagerly anticipating for so long.
"E-Erik, mmmnnnn..."
"I've missed you so much, Mia," he murmured, removing the last remaining garments from her body. "Please don't leave me again?" he pleaded, as his hand began to trail up her thigh, moving towards the place of her desires, applying gentle pressure.
Mia felt an electric sensation course through her body from the pleasure. It caused her to close her eyes tightly.
"Open your eyes," the man whispered to her.
She knew and understood why. And when he started undressing in front of her, she willingly indulged her eyes with the sight she had denied herself within the moon's embrace.
"I love you so much, Mia..." Erik whispered before leaning his face closer to hers.
Then Mia raised her hand, caressing the beloved face of the man she cherished. "I love you so deeply, Erik," she said, and with those words, she brought her lips closer to his, bridging the small distance between them.
Erik filled that night with fiery passion and love. After months of being apart, they reunited and he made her feel his unparalleled love in a special, scorching, and intoxicating way that took her to unimaginable heights. He continued to bring her to a place beyond her wildest dreams, as he had always done before. And he was still there with her, of course.
Their bodies intertwined, and their souls danced together in a symphony of passion and devotion. Every touch, every kiss, spoke volumes of their love for one another. In that embrace, they found solace, reassurance, and the promise of a future filled with boundless love and happiness.
As their bodies moved in perfect harmony, their souls soared higher than ever before. They became one, merging their love and creating a bond that nothing could break. In each other's arms, they found a sanctuary, a place where their love could flourish and grow.
Time ceased to exist as their love-making became an expression of their deepest emotions. It was a celebration of their love, a testament to their commitment to one another. In that intimate moment, they sealed their love with passion, promising to stand by each other's side through life's joys and challenges.
In that intimate moment, their bodies and souls merged, becoming one in a dance of unbridled love. Their desires intertwined, fueled by the intense longing they had endured during their time apart. With each touch, each caress, their love burned brighter, igniting a fire that consumed them both.
Time seemed to stand still as they explored the depths of their desires, unleashing their love in a passionate symphony. Their bodies moved in perfect harmony, expressing their love for one another with every breath, every movement.
In that timeless space, they found solace and completeness. Their connection was stronger than ever, an unbreakable bond forged in the flames of desire and devotion. Their love story continued to unfold, painting a vivid picture of a love that defied distance and time.
As their bodies entwined and their hearts beat as one, Mia realized that their love was an extraordinary gift. It transcended physical boundaries and embraced the deepest parts of their souls. In each other's arms, they found a home, a sanctuary where their love could thrive and flourish.
And as they basked in the afterglow of their passion, wrapped in each other's arms, Mia knew that their love was unbreakable. Together, they would face any challenge, and overcome any obstacle, because their love was their strength and their refuge.
In the silence of the night, they whispered sweet words of love, their voices blending into a symphony of devotion. Their bodies intertwined, and they drifted into a peaceful slumber, knowing that their love would endure, guiding them through the chapters of their shared journey.
Their love story continued to unfold, each chapter filled with passion, tenderness, and unwavering commitment. They were bound by a love that knew no limits, a love that would withstand the test of time.
And as the moon bathed them in its gentle light, they surrendered to the blissful embrace of their love, ready to write the next chapter of their extraordinary romance.
Afterward, as they lay wrapped in each other's arms, their breaths still mingling, Mia felt a profound sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the love they shared, for the new life growing within her, and for the beautiful journey they were embarking on together.
In that tender moment, Mia knew that their love was destined to endure. Through every twist and turn, they would face life's trials hand in hand, knowing that their love would always be their guiding light.
As they drifted off to sleep, their bodies entwined, Mia felt a sense of peace wash over her. With Erik by her side, she knew that their love would weather any storm, and their hearts would forever beat as one.
Their love story was just beginning, and as the night embraced them, they dreamt of a future filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. Together, they would create a legacy of love, one that would be remembered for generations to come.
ONE MONTH LATER
Just as Erik had always dreamed of from the beginning, he gave her a grand and extravagant wedding. It was attended by many close friends from high school, as well as their teachers. And most importantly, Erik's grandfather who flew all the way from Canada just to witness the special day of his favorite grandchild.
Contrary to Fidel and Aurora's initial concerns, Erik's grandfather did not oppose their love. Instead, he was overjoyed to see Erik finally with the woman he would spend his life with.
With only a month of preparation, Erik spared no expense in ensuring that everything was taken care of by a team of dedicated individuals.
Mia wore the same wedding gown that Erik had specially tailored for her. However, due to her slightly protruding belly, the gown had been adjusted.
The wedding took place on the exact date of their high school prom, a day that held sentimental value for both of them. It was also the same day when Erik had proposed to her.
"Are you okay?" Nathaniel asked Mia.
Mia looked at Nathaniel with a smile and replied, "Yes, I'm more than okay. I couldn't be happier."
She was accompanied by Elena and Nathaniel inside the bridal car. The two of them would escort her to the altar, just as they had discussed earlier with her mother.
Mia’s eyes filled with tears as she smiled. "I-I can't believe that in such a short time, I would come to realize how beautiful God's plan is for me. That's why my previous wedding plans didn't push through because this is what He wanted for me. And having both of you by my side is a blessing. At least I have someone to walk me down the aisle. Someone to hand me over to Erik," she spoke at length, struggling to hold back her tears.
"Everything that happens, no matter how painful, has a beautiful reason. And that's how your life has unfolded, sweetheart," Elena said with meaningful words that Mia understood the profound meaning behind.
"Shall we go?" Nathaniel chimed in, knowing that he was trying to alleviate the dramatic atmosphere surrounding them.
"Sure," Mia said, beaming with a smile as she reached out her hand to her brother, ready to step out of the car.
*****
“I NOW pronounce you, husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride!"
Mia knew that Erik was eagerly awaiting those words from the priest. As soon as they were pronounced, he swiftly pulled her into his arms and passionately sealed their union with a kiss.
"You are mine now, Miss Valedictorian. My Queen of the Night," Erik whispered as he released her from his fervent embrace.
Blushing, Mia's face lit up with a playful giggle. "And I am yours, Mr. Salutatorian, My King of the Night," she replied.
Without any warning, Erik swept her off her feet, causing the cheers from the people inside the church to grow even louder.
"At least I kept my promise, didn't I? Same date, and later tonight at the reception, I will dance with you again. Same love song, what do you think?" he proudly declared, paying no mind to the rose petals being showered upon them as he continued to hold Mia in his arms, making their way down the long aisle.
Mia's heart swelled at her husband's words. "Thank you for fixing my life. And most of all, thank you for giving me my greatest dream. And that is to be your wife, E-Erik," she said, her voice choked with tears.
At that moment, Erik looked at her intently. Then, he leaned closer and spoke.
"We still have so much to do together. You're going to continue studying, right? Isn't it your dream to become a veterinarian?" he reminded her with a tone that was both gentle and reassuring.
She nodded, and with love in her touch, she caressed his handsome face. "Thank you."
"I told you before, didn't I? I want to fulfill all your dreams because it hurts me to think that someone else might do that for you," he expressed passionately.
Mia nodded again and opened her mouth to speak. However, before she could utter a word, Erik once again claimed her lips with a kiss. This time, it was more fervent, more intense. But if there was one familiar quality in that kiss that she never grew tired of, it was the overwhelming presence of love.
The type of love she received was one that accepted her completely. She was loved despite all her flaws and imperfections. And every shattered piece of her being was what brought them together. In essence, Erik loved her not just for what he saw in her, but he loved her even more for every scar and wound on her soul. Just as he had said to her before.
"I accept you, Mia..."
Words that were now proven true by her husband.
In Erik's love, she found solace, acceptance, and healing. He embraced her fully, cherishing every part of her, both the light and the darkness within. His love was a balm that soothed her deepest wounds, mending the broken pieces of her heart. With him, she felt safe, cherished, and whole.
Their love story was a testament to the power of acceptance and unconditional love. It was a tale of two souls intertwining, learning to embrace each other's strengths and vulnerabilities. Together, they created a sanctuary where they could be their true selves, unmasked and unafraid.
Through their journey, they discovered that love wasn't about perfection or surface appearances. It was about seeing beyond the surface, delving into the depths of one's being, and loving fiercely and unconditionally. Erik's love illuminated the beauty within Mia, giving her the courage to embrace her true self and to love herself as deeply as he loved her.
In their union, they found the strength to face life's challenges and the support to pursue their dreams. Together, they would build a future filled with laughter, joy, and shared adventures. With each passing day, their love would continue to grow, nurturing their souls and inspiring them to become the best versions of themselves.
Their love was a beacon of hope and resilience, a testament to the transformative power of love. Through all the ups and downs, they would hold each other's hand, facing whatever obstacles came their way. And in the embrace of their love, they found a home—a place where they belonged, where they were cherished, and where their hearts would forever be intertwined.
Their love story would be etched in the annals of time, a tale of two souls destined to find each other and create a love that would withstand the test of time. And as they walked hand in hand, they knew that their love was a gift—a rare and precious treasure that they would cherish for eternity.