Chapter 18;A Heartfelt Conversation

That evening, Amiver had a conversation with her son.

"Marcus, can I talk to you for a moment?

"Sure, Mom. What's up? Marcus replied

Well, you know, you've been getting better and stronger, and I'm really proud of you.Isn't it that we're going to the US next month? Hmm, you know what, your dad and grandparents are here in the Philippines. They want to meet you and see you. But I want you to know that whatever you decide, I'm here to support you. You don't have to make a decision right away. You can take your time," Amiver told her son.

"I know that they want to meet me. I was just waiting for you to introduce me to them," he said, his eyes serious.

Amiver was taken aback by Marcus's statement. Maybe Messie did tell him, or did Denmark come here?She thoughts.

"Hmm, did your Aunt Messie tell you?" Amiver asked with a smile, concealing any disappointment.

"Aunt Messie didn't say anything. I overheard you both talking at the hospital. I wanted to open my eyes to see them, but I couldn't do it. So I just listened," he said.

She chuckled at what she heard and hugged her son. All this time, she had been anxious, thinking that her son might not be interested in meeting them. But she was wrong. Her heart was now set on introducing her son to his relatives, feeling more confident than ever about the decision.

On a Sunday, Amiver brought his son Marcus to the mansion.

"Wow, Mommy, this house is so big. Is this Dad's house?" Marcus exclaimed as we got out of the car.

"Yes, sweetheart, that's your dad's house," Marcus said as we descended from the car we were riding in.

Shortly after, Mami Joy and Denmark warmly welcomed us outside the gate.

Marcus hid behind Amiver, seemingly shy.

"Haven't you and your Uncle Denmark met before? He even bought you toys. Remember?" Amiver asked.

Marcus nodded.

"Is he my daddy?" Marcus inquired.

Denmark nodded and approached Marcus.

"Yes, Marcus, I am your father. And also, here are your grandmother and grandfather. You know, they are very happy now to meet you."

Their introduction became emotional. Marcus was taken around the entire mansion and introduced to all the staff here.

As the day went on, the atmosphere at the mansion became more relaxed and joyful. Laughter filled the air as Marcus warmed up to his grandparents, exploring the large garden and sharing stories with them. Amiver watched from a distance, a mix of emotions swirling within her.

Later, as the sun began to set, Denmark and Amiver found themselves sitting together on a bench, their eyes fixed on Marcus playing in the distance.

"I never thought this day would come," Denmark admitted softly, breaking the silence between them.Thank you for granting our request, Amiver,"

"You're welcome. I just did what was right," Amiver replied.

"I can't thank you enough for giving me the chance to get to know Marcus, even if it's just for a brief moment. I'm sorry for what I've done and I'm sorry for not being by your side when you and Marcus needed me," Denmark said sincerely.

Amiver looked at him, her heart softening. "We've all made mistakes, Denmark. What's important is that we learn from them and strive to be better."

"When is your flight to the US?" Denmark asked, not looking at Amiver and focusing on watching Marcus play.

"Next month, I just have some things to sort out at the office, and after that, we'll be heading to the US."

Amiver's words hung in the air as they both watched Marcus running around, his laughter echoing through the vast garden.

"I'm going to miss him," Denmark's voice was tinged with a mixture of longing and regret.

Amiver's gaze remained steady. "I won't be coming back to the Philippines.

Denmark's heart swelled with emotion at hearing those words.

After a while, Denmark stood up and bid farewell to Amiver.

He couldn't bear the pain he felt, and he didn't want Amiver to see his longing to be with Marcus for a long time. He knew he could visit Marcus in the US anytime, but the feeling is different when he's close by, and he can frequently see him. However, fate seemed to be withholding that from him because of what Amiver decision.

As the time came for Amiver and Marcus to leave, Denmark held his son in a tight hug, his emotions welling up within him. "Take care, Marcus. Remember, I'll always be here for you."

Marcus nodded, his eyes filled with a newfound warmth. "I won't forget, Dad."

Amiver approached them, her gaze filled with a mixture of gratitude and understanding. She placed a hand on Denmark's shoulder. "Thank you for this, Denmark."

Denmark looked at her, his voice sincere. "Thank you for giving me this chance, Ami."

And as Amiver and Marcus walked away, their figures gradually disappearing into the distance, Denmark stood there, watching them go. He knew that this marked a new chapter in their lives, one where he would have to find ways to be a father, even from a distance.

On the last week of Amiver's stay in the Philippines, a farewell and thanksgiving party was held on her last day at work.

All the employees gathered together for the occasion.

"Ami," Director Frank called her with a smile.

"So, how is it now? You're going back to the US, and we won't have our excellent Vice President anymore," Director Frank said, praising her.

Amiver smiled at Director Frank's words.

"Don't worry, I'll make sure there's a replacement for me. I just won't mention it because I want it to come directly from Justine".she replied

"You know, since you arrived, our firm has undergone significant changes. I've realized that there's something unique about you. You're not just beautiful; you have incredible leadership skills in handling both the team and the company. Justine didn't make a mistake in choosing you. It's just a bit regrettable that you're leaving so soon," he added.

Amiver smiled gratefully at Director Frank's words. "Thank you, Director. It's been an honor to be part of this team and contribute to its growth."

Throughout the evening, Amiver felt a sense of appreciation and warmth from her colleagues, many of whom expressed how much they would miss her leadership and presence. She was humbled by their kind words and gestures, realizing the impact she had made during her time as Vice President.

After the party ended and everyone started to leave, Amiver decided to stay behind for a while. She didn't accompany Justine, as she wanted to have a few moments of solitude and reflection. She headed to a nearby park, a place where she often found herself lost in thought. She was overwhelmed by her emotions and needed some time alone to sort them out.

Sitting down on a bench beneath a tree, Amiver realized the journey she had been through since arriving in the Philippines.When she feel tired, Amiver decided to head home and start preparing their things for the flight soon.

As she approached her apartment building, she spotted a figure standing by the entrance. Her heart skipped a beat as she recognized the silhouette – it was Denmark. A mix of surprise and uncertainty washed over her.

Denmark turned as he noticed her approach, a small smile playing on his lips.

"Hey, Amiver". Denmark approached while smiling.

"Hello, Denmark. What are you doing here?" Amiver asked curiously.

"I just wanted to see you and Marcus before your flight ," he replied.

She smiled at what Denmark said.

"Sure, let's go upstairs together. Marcus will be delighted to see you," she said

But instead of complying, Denmark approached her. He looked around, then covered Amiver's mouth with a handkerchief, until everything became a blank for Amiver.