Dainara... I whispered her name when I saw her. My strides grew larger as I tried to approach her. She was wearing a black hoodie, unzipped to reveal her tear-streaked face. Her eyes darted around, lost and fearful, as though unsure where to go. Dainara... It was as if she heard me. Her gaze met mine amidst the crowd under the dim evening light. Despite the many people disembarking the ship, she was the only one I noticed. Her sweet smile pierced through me, quickening my heartbeat. Just that single smile was enough to unsettle my soul. I smiled back, closing the distance between us, our eyes locked on one another. But my smile faltered as a small red laser light appeared on her chest. Dread gripped me. Without wasting a moment, I dashed toward her. Her brow furrowed in confusion as she noticed my frantic approach-but I was too late. A sniper's bullet struck her chest. Time slowed as I saw the blood spray and her radiant smile fade. She collapsed onto the pavement, narrowly missed by the frantic crowd. Chaos erupted, but I was deafened by the pounding in my chest. Fear rooted me in place, afraid to touch her, afraid to hurt her further. But the fear of losing her outweighed everything. "Leon..." she whispered weakly. I dropped to my knees and cradled her trembling body, my hands shaking as her blood soaked them. Desperately, I tried to stem the bleeding. "D-Dainara..." Tears streamed down my face as I cried out for help. "Call an ambulance! Someone, please!" "Leon..." she murmured again, her lips pale, her breathing labored. She clutched my shirt tightly. I held her close, pressing her to my chest. "Is she pregnant?" a woman in the crowd gasped. My heart sank as I noticed the blood pooling beneath her. Was it possible? My voice trembled as I looked at her. "Dainara..." "The... our child?" she choked out. The agony in my chest deepened, and all I could do was cry. "I'm sorry, Dainara..." I kissed her forehead repeatedly, my tears falling onto her pale face. "L-Leon..." "Please, hold on," I begged her. "Am... am I dying, Leon?" she asked, her voice faint. "No! That won't happen! It can't!" I shouted, refusing to accept it. She smiled weakly before coughing up blood. I wiped it away, but it wouldn't stop. "Fight, please! Stay with me!" I pleaded, but her eyelids grew heavy, her breathing shallow. "Leon... she's gone. I'll be gone too..." "Stop it, Dainara! Don't say that!" I cried desperately. "Is Manila... beautiful?" she asked softly, her words faltering. "This is Manila..." I stammered, barely able to respond. "I... I want to stay here longer..." she said, her bloodstained smile breaking me completely. "Then live! Live if you want to stay!" I shouted. "I want to... I want to be with you longer... Even if you love someone else now, I still want to be with you. But... I also want to see our child again... It's my fault... it's my fault they're gone..." "It's not your fault, Dainara. Please, don't speak anymore. Just promise me... promise me you won't let go..." I begged, clutching her freezing hand. "I... I don't know if I can..." she whispered as her strength faded.
Chapter 1
DAINARA ORTEGA'S POV
I sighed deeply upon realizing that I didn't have enough rice left to cook for lunch later. This only meant one thing-I'd have to sell illegal drugs again.
I didn't grow up with parents. I had no mother or father to teach me the difference between right and wrong.
Since I was a baby, my parents sold me to a syndicate. A plump woman raised me from childhood, and she took care of many other orphaned children like me. But this wasn't out of kindness-it was because we were useful to their illegal business.
Out of gratitude, we had to follow her orders and do whatever tasks she assigned us.
Each child had specific tasks to perform, but the heaviest responsibility was delivering drugs.
At a young age, I already knew what we were doing was wrong. However, we were poor, and this was the only way for us to survive.
Our home was an old bamboo hut. I lived there with Nanay Malia, a sixty-year-old woman. Despite her age, she still had strength. She was trusted by Mamu Cynthia, the leader of the syndicate.
Nanay Malia had taken care of me the longest, and I'd grown close to her over the years.
"Nana, why are you just standing there?" she asked, snapping me out of my thoughts. I turned to her and smiled.
Nanay Malia was wearing a white duster. She was a small woman who could easily be mistaken for a child if not for her white hair.
Nana-that's my nickname, and it's what most people call me. My full name is Dainara Ortega, a name given to me by Mamu Cynthia. Ortega is also her last name.
I've learned many things about the world, thanks to the woman who raised us-Nanay Malia.
"We're out of rice," I told her, showing her the large jar where we kept our rice. She nodded and began brushing her hair.
"Ask Cynthia for rice," she said, and I frowned.
"You know what that means, Nanay Malia," I replied sadly.
As much as I wanted to leave the syndicate led by Mamu Cynthia, I couldn't. I didn't know any other job aside from what I was doing now.
"Well, there's nothing we can do about it. We'll starve if we don't act, even if it means doing something wrong," she said. Though she knew what we were doing was wrong, she never stopped or scolded me. That was always her reasoning.
I just nodded and sighed. I went up to my small room, where five other girls were sleeping soundly. They were still tired from their errands yesterday, so I decided not to wake them.
I changed into a blue dress with long sleeves. Though I looked a bit awkward in it, it was comfortable. I tied my long, black hair-the same shade as the night sky and similar to Mamu's hair. I grabbed my black shawl from the clothesline and draped it over my face, as Mamu Cynthia had instructed.
According to her, I needed to cover my face. Not to brag, but I apparently had a beauty worth showing off-or so they said.
I put on an old pair of slippers and left the small home that Mamu had provided us. It wasn't in disrepair, as it was often maintained.
We lived in a remote province far from the city, somewhere in Mindanao. Though the place seemed peaceful at first glance, it harbored darkness and greed. The surroundings were beautiful and full of life, but they were tainted by Mamu's illegal activities.
Mamu Cynthia wasn't just the leader of a syndicate; she was also the barangay captain and had connections with higher syndicate groups. This was the world I grew up in.
As I made my way to Mamu Cynthia's house, I was greeted by her guards outside. I didn't respond and simply walked inside to look for her.
I found her in the living room, sipping coffee. Steam rose from the cup, and when she saw me, she set it down on the small table.
"My most beautiful ward, Dainara," she greeted with a smile, motioning for me to come closer.
I sat on the sofa as she removed my shawl. She began combing my hair with her fingers.
"Are you busy, Mamu?" I asked softly, glancing at the table cluttered with papers.
I learned to read because of her. She made sure I got an education, though it only went as far as high school.
"Not really. Why do you ask, hija?" she replied.
"I need to ask for rice, Mamu," I quickly said. She chuckled softly.
"Maceda!" she called out to her housemaid, who was around my age. But that wasn't her only job-she was also used as a prostitute. Thankfully, Mamu never forced me into that.
Maceda hurried into the living room, wearing an unusual outfit.
"Yes, Mamu?" she asked respectfully.
"Go with Dainara to the rice storage and help her carry five sacks of rice to her place. Include anything else she might need, along with some viands," Mamu instructed.
Whenever Mamu gave this kind of order, I knew it meant she'd assign me a difficult task soon.
"As you wish, Mamu," Maceda replied, bowing before leading me to the storage room.
I could sense Maceda's resentment. She often said Mamu treated me differently, and even I didn't know why.
"You may look poor, Dainara, but you're lucky. At least you didn't end up like us," she said sarcastically. I chose not to respond.
I had nothing to say about it-I couldn't control Mamu's decisions, nor did I understand them.
"I'm grabbing some sugar and coffee too," I said, not waiting for her reply. I took what I needed and placed it in a bag.
"This is probably better. At least you'll have delicious meals every day," Maceda added, her tone still condescending. Yes, you might have good food, Maceda, but you're the one being served up to Mamu's clients.
I wanted to tell her that, but I held my tongue. I knew it would only anger her.
I'm not the type to argue or say unnecessary things. If I have something to say, I only express it in my mind.
"Dainara! Before you leave, go to Mamu's room!" Carlia shouted, Maceda's friend. She even raised an eyebrow at me. I just pursed my lips and said nothing.
Three of Mamu's men were assigned to deliver the rice I requested. I added some fruits as well. I might as well make the most of this opportunity since it doesn't happen often.
When I entered Mamu's large room, she was sitting on the bed, carefully examining a pile of clothes.
"Mamu, do you need anything else?" I asked. She quickly turned to me.
"Come here, Dainara. Pick some clothes. I bought these from the thrift shop," she said.
She's the one who usually buys my clothes, so I went in and started picking. Blue, white, and red dominated the selection. I don't like black-it's too dark for my taste.
"I'll take these, Mamu," I said, and she grabbed them to put in a paper bag. However, she also added a black dress.
"This will suit you, Dainara. Your fair skin will complement it," she said with a smile. I couldn't argue, so I just nodded.
"What do I owe you for these, Mamu?" I asked.
"Nothing. We had a good deal last night, and we earned quite a lot. Consider this a gift, hija. Now, go home and don't wander around, understood?" she said.
I nodded again. She adjusted the scarf on my head and lightly tapped my cheek. I smiled and left.
Whenever I'm with Mamu, I feel something I can't explain. Is it a strange kind of happiness? I don't know-I can't figure it out.
"Dainara! You're getting even more beautiful!" one of Mamu's men remarked as I passed by. I frowned at the comment but chose to ignore it.
As I stepped outside, I tightened my grip on the paper bag I was carrying. I had left the bag of sugar and coffee earlier. Mamu's men would handle its delivery.
Now, back to what's happening at the moment. I felt someone's presence. It seemed like they had been following me for a while, and I could sense their watchful eyes.
I quickened my pace. If they were one of Mamu's men, I knew they wouldn't harm me. Mamu herself would deal with anyone who dared to approach or hurt me.
When I reached the legal age, Mamu warned everyone not to touch even a strand of my hair. Perhaps that's why Marceda said Mamu treated us unfairly. I held a higher status compared to them.
I deliberately walked under the trees to hear any footsteps on the dry leaves scattered on the ground.
I walked faster and finally turned to look behind me. At that moment, someone covered my mouth, preventing me from screaming.
Fear and panic gripped my chest. I knew Mamu would be furious if she found out about this.
I tried to use the paper bag in my hand as a weapon, but it was quickly snatched away. Though I couldn't scream, I struggled to break free. I was certain the attacker was a man because of the strong scent of his cologne.
To Be Continued...
Struggling to make ends meet and save money for her sick mother's treatment, the protagonist feels hopeless after another fruitless day of job-hunting. As night falls, she walks home through a dimly lit area when strange noises catch her attention. Initially dismissing it as her imagination, she grows cautious and investigates. To her shock, a bloodied man collapses in front of her, gravely injured and barely conscious. Overwhelmed but determined to help, she calls for an ambulance and tries to comfort him, cradling his head in her lap. As the man's condition worsens, she reassures him, urging him to stay strong until help arrives. This life-changing encounter not only sparks her compassion but also pulls her into an unknown world of danger, trust, and unexpected bonds. Little does she know, saving this man's life will entwine their fates in ways she could never have foreseen.
"Nothing is perfect." That's what people always say. Relationships don't last, and everything is fleeting. In this imperfect world, I've come to understand that truth. Even in my relationship with Caleb, a man who always puts me first and makes me feel like I could never ask for more. He's loving, thoughtful, and everything I could want-but as I've said, not everything is perfect. Caleb is a billionaire, someone admired, respected, and recognized for his name and stature. Meanwhile, I am just an ordinary woman, far beneath his level-someone with nothing to boast about, especially in his world. But Caleb fought for us. For years, he proved that no status or disparity could hinder true love. I never asked for anything in return-just his love. One day, Caleb said, "Let's get married." Stunned, I asked, "Are you joking?" He pulled me close, looked into my eyes, and said with sincerity, "I have nothing to ask for but to marry you." Overwhelmed with emotion, I nodded, unable to speak, as he embraced me tightly. "I have a flight to France tomorrow. Be ready when I return," he said with a smile. "I'll marry you." Though fear lingered in my heart, Caleb reassured me, "Don't mind them. Think of us. That's all that matters. As long as we're happy, we don't need anyone else." I believed him. We didn't need anyone else as long as we weren't hurting others. There was no reason to be afraid. The next morning, Caleb left for his business trip, promising to return and marry me. I waited for him with hope and certainty. But when the day came, dark clouds loomed. Rain poured heavily, and thunder roared ominously. Something felt wrong. On my way to meet Caleb at the airport, I was informed of devastating news: Flight 301 had crash-landed. I collapsed, knees weak, unable to process what I had heard. The promises Caleb had made, the life we were supposed to share-it all felt shattered. I screamed his name in despair, hoping it wasn't true. Days passed, and I relentlessly sought updates. Finally, I received a notification: Caleb had been found and was alive, recovering in a hospital. Hope surged through me as I rushed to his side. But when I arrived, I was stopped by his family. Caleb's mother slapped me and forbade me from seeing him. She accused me of clinging to something I didn't deserve. When I finally caught a glimpse of Caleb, he looked at me with unfamiliar eyes and asked, "Who's that girl?" In that moment, my world crumbled. He had forgotten me. The love we shared, the promises he made-they were erased. His family shut me out, leaving me with no way to remind him of the bond we had. Caleb, you promised. Will I ever be able to bring back the man who once loved me? Or is this the end of our story?
Hellisha Jane De Castro, a 28-year-old woman, possesses breathtaking beauty that any man could dream of. Her perfectly shaped eyebrows, almond-shaped eyes, straight nose, and red lips make her unforgettable in the eyes of many. She is recognized as a powerful and respected CEO worldwide. However, behind her immense success in the industry lies a dark secret. She is a mafia queen. An expert in combat, she has mastered nearly all forms of fighting techniques, from hand-to-hand combat to handling various weapons like guns and knives. With her intelligence and influence, no one dares to challenge her or become her enemy. But what if she discovers that those closest to her heart are planning to betray her? Will she accept the harsh truth? Or will she seek revenge in the name of justice? Allisha Zayn Oxford, a 17-year-old senior high school student, is different. She has delicate eyebrows, slanted eyes, a petite but sharp nose, and red lips. Her pale skin isn't enough to change how people perceive her. Known as the "clown" of her school, Allisha is constantly ridiculed for the thick makeup she often wears. She's also seen as desperate and attention-seeking, especially toward a man she has loved for over two years. But what happens when the person you love pushes you away? Will you still fight for your feelings, even if it seems hopeless?
All she ever wanted was a simple life. But what happens when fate intervenes and brings together a demon and an ordinary person? Gun Lucifero Madrigal Ruthless. A demon personified. A cold-blooded monster. Feared by everyone. Capable of killing in an instant. What will happen when their worlds collide? Will she survive his wrath, or will she change his heart? This is a tale of danger, love, and the unpredictable twists of destiny.
"Sign the divorce papers and get out!" Leanna got married to pay a debt, but she was betrayed by her husband and shunned by her in-laws. Seeing that her efforts were in vain, she agreed to divorce and claimed her half of the properties. With her purse plump from the settlement, Leanna enjoyed her newfound freedom. The constant harassment from her ex's mistress never fazed her. She took back her identities as top hacker, champion racer, medical professor, and renowned jewelry designer. Then someone discovered her secret. Matthew smiled. "Will you have me as your next husband?"
In her previous life, Kimberly endured the betrayal of her husband, the cruel machinations of an evil woman, and the endless tyranny of her in-laws. It culminated in the bankruptcy of her family, and ultimately, her death. After being reborn, she resolved to seek retribution against those who had wronged her, and ensure her family's prosperity. To her shock, the most unattainable man from her past suddenly set his sights on her. "You may have overlooked me before, but I shall capture your heart this time around."
After three years of loveless marriage, Kira was slapped with divorce papers. She has shown him her unrequited love throughout her entire marriage with him, but he decided to turn blind eyes all because of his lover. Distraught and heartbroken, Kira choose to sign the divorce papers with bitter heart. But then and there, she promised herself that when she's back, he will come crawling to her, but she will make him pay for hurting her. Join Kira as she transform to a wealthy heiress and soared as the CEO of a multi-billion-dollar empire, a remarkable healer and make her ex-husband pay!
After being kicked out of her home, Harlee learned she wasn't the biological daughter of her family. Rumors had it that her impoverished biological family favored sons and planned to profit from her return. Unexpectedly, her real father was a zillionaire, catapulting her into immense wealth and making her the most cherished member of the family. While they anticipated her disgrace, Harlee secretly held design patents worth billions. Celebrated for her brilliance, she was invited to mentor in a national astronomy group, drew interest from wealthy suitors, and caught the eye of a mysterious figure, ascending to legendary status.
On the day of their wedding anniversary, Joshua's mistress drugged Alicia, and she ended up in a stranger's bed. In one night, Alicia lost her innocence, while Joshua's mistress carried his child in her womb. Heartbroken and humiliated, Alicia demanded a divorce, but Joshua saw it as yet another tantrum. When they finally parted ways, she went on to become a renowned artist, sought out and admired by everyone. Consumed by regret, Joshua darkened her doorstep in hopes of reconciliation, only to find her in the arms of a powerful tycoon. "Say hello to your sister-in-law."
Rachel used to think that her devotion would win Brian over one day, but she was proven wrong when his true love returned. Rachel had endured it all—from standing alone at the altar to dragging herself to the hospital for an emergency treatment. Everyone thought she was crazy to give up so much of herself for someone who didn’t return her feelings. But when Brian received news of Rachel’s terminal illness and realized she didn’t have long to live, he completely broke down. "I forbid you to die!" Rachel just smiled. She no longer needed him. "I will finally be free."