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My response is immediate, a reflection of my resolve. "Then work around it. When I leave, she's coming with me." The firmness in my voice leaves no room for doubt.
Joshua, catching the tail end of this exchange, looks surprised. He hasn't been privy to the latest developments, as I've had him focused on other details. I quickly tell him my intentions regarding Pia, and he nods, his professionalism unwavering. "We'll make it happen," he assures.
I stand, feeling the weight of the decisions before us. "As much as I would prefer to stay, this location no longer feels secure. Coordinate with whoever is necessary to facilitate our move. I'll discuss this further with Don Melchor. In the meantime, ensure we have a trustworthy individual for our day-to-day needs. And start a comprehensive sweep of the estate; leave no stone unturned. If we’re dealing with a breach, it needs to be found."
I also recognize the need for additional manpower. "We're going to need more hands on deck. Make it quick," I instruct, the urgency pushing us to act swiftly.
As we head back to my room, I pause at the door, taking a moment to collect my thoughts. The safety of this sanctuary for Pia and myself hangs in balance, challenged by unseen threats and complicated by legalities I hadn't anticipated.
Shaking off the tension that clings to me like a second skin, I consciously shield Pia from the burdens and worries that have no place in her world right now. She needs peace, not the burden of our reality, and I'm here to ensure she gets just that. As I enter the room, I'm greeted by the sight of her petite form asleep on the bed, a serene expression on her face that momentarily eases the storm within me.
I quietly close the door and lock it with a soft snick, removing the house slippers I wear in a silent nod to Don Melchor's household traditions. Moving around in my socks, I'm mindful of the room's tranquility, determined not to disturb her rest.
Settling at the desk, I boot up my laptop, diving into the work that refuses to wait. Emails fly out to my brothers and father, bringing them up to speed on everything, including the complexity of Pia's situation. A grin touches my lips, anticipation mingling with a touch of amusement at the imminent reactions I'll undoubtedly receive.
Next, I navigate a few online shopping sites, my thoughts on Pia's needs. Her hurried departure left her with little, and it's within my power to remedy that. Selecting a range of clothing that I imagine would complement her, I pause on a simple yet elegant white dress, envisioning it on her. The thought solidifies a decision that's been forming in my mind—I plan to marry Pia. It's not just a whim; it's necessary to ensure her safety and expedite our departure from this increasingly volatile situation.
I quietly check her shoe size before making additional purchases—shoes, intimates, nightgowns—all chosen with a burgeoning affection that warms me. The mere thought of her in them sends my heart racing, a wave of heat rushing through my body. My core ignites like a firework, each spark sizzling with desire. My erection pulses against the fabric of my pants, fighting for release as I struggle to maintain control. My eyes are drawn to her sleeping form just steps away, tempting me with every rise and fall of her chest. Every inch of my being longs to be inside her, to feel her warmth.
But I resist, savoring the sweet agony of anticipation. I know that waiting will make it all the more meaningful. The thought of my cock pressed deep inside her sends shivers down my spine, and I can almost taste the sweetness of our connection. But I know she's not yet ready.
My chest tightens as I inhale a sharp breath, my body trembling with a deep, primal urge to protect and possess her at all costs. She is mine, and anyone who dares to lay a finger on her will face the full force of my fury. No borders, oceans, status, or power can shield them from my wrath. The mere thought of someone causing harm to my beloved Pia fills me with an uncontainable rage, and I swear on all that is sacred that I will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
Approaching her sleeping form, I resist the urge to wake her, instead allowing myself to simply watch her, a tender smile playing on my lips as I tuck a stray strand of hair behind her ear. In this quiet room, with Pia so close yet unaware, I find an unexpected peace that lulls me into a restful state beside her, surrendering to sleep with her image as the last thought in my mind.
Chapter Nine
Pia
Arriving in Dasmarinas Village, Metro Manila, the level of luxury before me is unlike anything I've ever encountered. The mansion we pull up to is a beacon of opulence, nestled within a neighborhood that exudes an air of exclusive tranquility. The estate takes my breath away with its towering facade and sprawling grounds. "This is something else," I manage, my voice barely above a whisper, overwhelmed by the sheer grandeur.
"It's nice," Marco responds, his tone surprisingly casual, and I'm taken aback by his nonchalance.
"Don’t tell me this isn't the nicest place you've ever been in?" I press, unable to hide my astonishment.
Marco merely shrugs. "Not to sound extra, but this is standard for my family." His words leave me speechless, and I am swirling with intrigue and incredulity.
"Who are you?" I blurt out, the question slipping out more awkwardly than I intended. Apologizing, I try to convey my sheer disbelief at the level of luxury I'm being introduced to—a stark departure from anything I've known.
Exploring the mansion, I'm drawn to a massive fireplace, an anomaly in the tropical climate of the Philippines. "I didn't even know fireplaces were a thing here," I muse, my voice a mix of wonder and realization of my sheltered existence.
Marco's presence cocoons me from behind, his warmth seeping into my skin as he kisses my neck. The intimacy of our connection sends shivers down my spine, a testament to how quickly and deeply we've become entwined. "What does all this mean?" I ask, the future suddenly a pressing concern.
He spins me to face him, his eyes searching mine before he drops to one knee, and my heart stops. The sight of him, so powerful yet so vulnerable, is enough to draw a laugh from me—until the moment's import sinks in.
Marco produces a black velvet box from his pocket, and as he opens it, my hands fly to my mouth in shock. "Pia, despite the odds and the universe conspiring against us, it's clear that you are mine, and I am yours. Will you marry me for time and all eternity?"
Tears streak down my cheeks as the realization hits—this connection, however improbable, is rooted deeply within me. "Yes! Yes, I will be your wife. I am yours, and you are mine," I affirm, my voice breaking with emotion.
Sliding the stunning solitaire diamond ring onto my finger, Marco stands, lifting me into his arms in a single, fluid motion. As our lips meet in a kiss that seals our promise, I'm swept away by a whirlwind of love and passion, the world around us fading into insignificance. In his embrace, I find a home—a sanctuary from the dangers that chase me and the solitude that once defined my existence.
When the intensity of our kiss fades and Marco gently sets me back on my feet, I gravitate toward the impressive floor-to-ceiling bookshelves lined with various books. "I do love reading," I murmur, my fingers grazing the spines, each title a new world waiting to be explored.
Turning back to Marco, I catch his gaze firmly fixed on me, unwavering attention that has become a constant in the whirlwind of our budding relationship. "What?" I ask, a flicker of nervousness betraying my maelstrom of emotions. The speed at which things progress between us, the leap from adversaries to allies to something much more, leaves me reeling.
"Marco," I begin, my voice carrying the weight of my doubts. "How can we be sure this is the right thing to do? We barely know each other, and I'm already engaged to Jon Marc." The question hangs in the air, a stark reminder of the complex web of obligations and expectations we're entangled in.
Marco takes a deep, steadying breath, his expression one of resolve. "Pia, that is your past. This is now. Forget about Jon Marc. And while we may not know each other as some couples do, I don't need more time to understand what I already feel. Besides, this is also necessary to get you out of the country."
