Chapter 2: The Unseen Path
1113 Words
Celestine POV
The plane finally landed, and as I stepped out, the familiar heat of the Philippines enveloped me. It was as if my senses were waking up to something I hadn’t realized I missed so much. The tropical scent of the air, the distant buzz of jeepneys honking, and the sight of mango vendors lining the streets instantly brought me back to my roots. This was home—chaotic, lively, and full of heart.
I’m home. I’m finally home.
My phone buzzed in my hand, and I saw "Mom" flashing on the screen.
“Hello, my beautiful princess! Where are you now?” Mom’s warm, excited voice greeted me.
“Mom, I’m not a kid anymore! But yes, I’m here already,” I replied with a chuckle.
Before she could answer, a group of excited voices caught my attention.
“Wait, is that Celestine? The famous model from Paris?!” a young woman’s voice exclaimed, followed by the squeals of what I could only assume were fans.
“Mom, I have to go. My presence has been compromised. Bye!” I said hurriedly, ending the call as I slid on my sunglasses to avoid attracting more attention.
As I walked through the crowd, I couldn’t help but notice someone standing by the far edge of the airport. A tall man in a fitted suit, with a brooding presence, caught my eye. He looked...familiar. My heart skipped a beat.
Wait. No. Stop overthinking, Celestine. It’s just jet lag, I told myself, shaking the thought away.
When I finally saw my parents waiting by the car, I ran toward them.
“Welcome home, princess!” Dad said, pulling me into a warm hug and kissing my forehead.
“I missed you both so much!” I said, my voice full of genuine happiness.
“We missed you, too. But come on, let’s get in the car. The media’s already gathering,” Mom added, pulling me along.
As we drove away, the familiar streets passed by like a dream, but my thoughts kept drifting back to the man I saw at the airport. Why did he look so familiar? He reminded me of someone… someone from my dream. But that’s ridiculous. It was just a dream.
When we arrived home, the smell of pork adobo and chicken kare-kare wafted through the air. I ran straight to the kitchen like a child, my mouth watering.
“Mom! Dad! Can we eat first before we catch up? I’m starving!”
Mom laughed. “Of course, anak. I promised I’d make your favorite ulam, di ba?”
Dinner felt like heaven. The flavors of home, combined with the love of my parents, made me realize how much I’d missed them.
“So, anak,” Dad started as we moved to the veranda overlooking our luxurious pool, “are you ready for our new business venture? You’ll be the face of the product, of course.”
“Of course, Dad. I was born ready!” I said confidently.
“That’s my girl,” Dad said proudly.
“But for now, magpahinga ka muna, anak,” Mom said. “Your dad and I have to meet with some business partners tomorrow. Do you want to come with us?”
“No, Mom. You two go ahead. Tomorrow, I’m planning to visit the charity house and donate some of my things. I’ve been wanting to do that for a while.”
“You never change, anak. You’ve always had such a big heart,” Mom said, smiling. “But, anak, you know what would make us even happier? If you had a boyfriend and gave us grandchildren!”
“Mom! Soon, but not now,” I said, laughing.
As the night settled, I packed a few boxes of clothes, shoes, and other items I no longer used. I couldn’t wait to see the kids’ smiles tomorrow.
Azrael’s POV
The wheels of my private plane touched down on the runway. I was back in Manila, but I wasn’t particularly thrilled. The Philippines was home, yes, but it wasn’t the place I found peace—it was just where my business empire thrived.
The airport buzzed with chaos. Apparently, a famous Parisian model had arrived, and everyone was in a frenzy. I couldn’t care less. Celebrities didn’t interest me. I had work to do.
As my car navigated through the traffic, I glanced out the window and spotted a woman. She was stunning, standing tall with an air of confidence. Her long blonde hair framed her face perfectly.
Why does she look so familiar?
The honking car behind us jolted me from my thoughts, and I shook my head. Get a grip, Azrael.
When I arrived at my office, my secretary was already waiting by the door.
“Sir, Mr. and Mrs. Devereux are on their way for the meeting,” she informed me.
“Alright. Tell them I’ll meet them in the boardroom. I just need a few minutes,” I said, walking past her.
I headed to my private bathroom to shower and clear my head. The image of the woman I saw earlier lingered, mixing with memories of my strange dream from last night.
“Celestine,” I muttered to myself. The name felt heavy on my tongue.
After my shower, I dressed sharply in a tailored suit. As I adjusted my tie in the mirror, I smirked. “Still the most handsome CEO in the country,” I said to my reflection.
Just as I was leaving, Thalia appeared in my office.
“Babe, you didn’t even cuddle me last night. What’s up with you?” she pouted.
“Thalia, I have a business meeting. Go home. Now,” I said coldly, brushing past her.
Moments later, I was seated in the boardroom with Mr. and Mrs. Devereux.
“Mr. Ziferano, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you. Thank you for agreeing to this partnership,” Mr. Devereux said, shaking my hand.
“The pleasure is mine. I’ve reviewed your proposal, and I must say, it’s impressive. I’ve signed the contract, and I look forward to working with you,” I replied, maintaining my professional demeanor.
“We’re excited to work with you as well, Mr. Ziferano. Our daughter, will be the face of the brand. She’s a top model, and we believe she’ll bring great value to this project,” Mrs. Devereux added.
“Your daughter?” I asked, keeping my tone neutral.
“Yes. She’s currently in town. Perhaps you’ll meet her during the photoshoot next month,” Mr. Devereux said.
“Noted. I’ll make sure my team coordinates with yours,” I said, hiding my curiosity.
- Writer
