ONE - Part 2

In the past three months, we successfully opened a new branch of EXiellene Royale on Jeju Island, South Korea, which has received a highly positive response from the people. Our top priority has always been to satisfy the needs and provide exceptional service to the tourists, customers, and visitors of EXiellene Royale. And we have accomplished just that by taking the risk of expanding from America to Asia. 

Standing before the others, I presented a graph showcasing the continuous increase in ratings of EX Royale in Jeju over the last three months. Their smiles widened as they witnessed the positive results of the risk we took the previous year.

"Congratulations, everyone! I've always believed that taking risks is not a bad thing at all. Therefore, our next plan is to build a new hotel and resort in the Philippines."

They eagerly opened the folders that Audrey had distributed to them. "As you can see, and as we all know, the Philippines is renowned for its attractions that attract both foreign and local tourists. It's an ideal country for vacations, events, and everything in between. Now, I'm not promoting the country just because I am half-Filipina," I smiled, "but because it's undeniably true. Am I right?"

After sharing my thoughts, they looked at me, smiling and nodding, showing their agreement. "I believe you all agree. So, let's focus on this next project and work towards achieving the best possible outcome."

"We have always been aware and ready to take risks, Ms. Kim. After all, it's what we do," commented Mrs. Rosewell with a smile.

Returning her smile, I acknowledged her words. Mrs. Rosewell looked as youthful as me, despite being five years older. "That's right. We are entrepreneurs, businessmen, and businesswomen who strive to provide the best for our customers, employees, and clients. We aren't afraid of failure because we always take responsibility for the consequences of the risks we undertake. While we may anticipate higher profits, we must also prioritize the well-being of the people involved in this business," I paused and looked at them.

"Let's work together to achieve the best results for this project. All I need now is your approval for me to visit the construction site. Perhaps you'll allow me?"

They smiled and some laughed. "You always ask for permission to leave, Ms. CEO. You haven't changed a bit," Mr. Mendrano remarked.

"Indeed. You are the CEO and owner of EXiellene Royale, yet you still respect our decisions. That's a commendable habit that you possess and must never forget," added Mr. Smith.

"You are a genuinely kind woman," Mrs. Holland praised me. "So now, it's settled. I suggest you leave early so you can oversee and observe everything from the beginning. How about the day after tomorrow?" Mrs. Holland suggested, giving me an appreciative smile.

They all agreed, and the meeting adjourned.

I chuckled to myself as I listened to Samara's excited voice screaming from the other end of the video call.

"Hey, you're so loud. Keep your tone down young lady, huh," I scolded her while laughing. She tried hard to contain her screams, and even Audrey giggled softly at me. Apparently, Samara's high-pitched screams were considered cute.

"Well, why not? After waiting for so long, you're finally coming home. Finally! And I'm really happy about that," she exclaimed before laughing mischievously, mimicking a villain.

"But, what if-"

I knew exactly what she meant by her look and tone of voice. I understood who and what she was referring to. So, I preempted her

 by laughing—a laughter that concealed bitterness and pain.

"What?" I asked her, pretending to be clueless about what she meant. She shook her head, then smiled again.

We chatted for the rest of our free time, interrupted only when Audrey reminded me of the time. "Hey, Sammie. I need to start getting ready because we'll be leaving soon," I bid her farewell. She changed her smiling face to a serious one, so I laughed once more. "Hey, aren't you excited to see me in person already?" I teased her.

Her face immediately brightened, and she regained her smile that had momentarily disappeared. She really wanted to see me. Well, she's the only one excited to see me.

She's my only family and friend left. After the incident that happened seven years ago, I turned my back on all the people who didn't see me as a living person but rather as a machine. I tried to forget all of them, and I succeeded. I left, and I never regretted it. But despite everything, Samara was the only person who didn't abandon me in the darkness and didn't forget me, unlike what I did to others.

She has been a true friend to me, more like a sister.

"So, see you later," I finally said before she ended the call.

Well, it's time to start packing because soon I'll be returning to my old home.

***

Philippines, I'm finally back home.

I walked while dragging a black suitcase that contained my office supplies, paperwork, clothes, and many other items. Actually, I don't plan to stay here for too long because I still have a lot to attend to at the main branch of EXiellene. I prefer personally serving clients and working closely with employees, but for now, it's giving me a hard time. Nevertheless, I can manage.

"Hello, Sam, where are you?" I asked Samara on the other line. "Didn't you say you'll pick me up? Where are you, girl?"

"Hey, sorry, Beshie. I won't be able to pick you up. I'm really sorry. But Manong will be there soon. You know Manong Bert, right? He'll be the one to fetch you. Oh, and he's already there."

Oh, so she can't pick me up?

This girl is something else. "Okay, fine. What color is the van?"

"Most likely black and white. It's an SUV with the plate number B.Y 7K00," she replied from the other line. When I think about it, we could have chosen a red or blue van and SUV, right? But I just kept it to myself.

I laughed at her while she kept repeating her apologies from the other line. What's the problem if she can't pick me up, right?

"Nope. It's okay. I got what I need. So, let's-- Oh, I'm sorry, mister," I suddenly said as I bumped into a man wearing a black leather jacket.

I looked up and saw two emerald eyes staring back at me, causing me to freeze. I stood there, unable to move, not knowing what to do. A familiar gaze that suddenly sent chills down my spine.

It's him.

All the memories of our past together suddenly flooded back. The wounds and pain that time alone could heal. Everything I had tried to bury in oblivion. It's as if those eyes shook my world, bringing nothing but reminders of the past. I was acting brave just a moment ago, and now I feel like all the courage and strength I had accumulated vanished, in case I have to face him again.

"Xiellenna?" He whispered my name, sending shivers down my spine. His voice.

I stared at him, looking into his eyes.

'Those hazel-colored eyes.'

I didn't respond. I just kept staring at him, trying to hide my true emotions and searching for something else. And finally, I found it.

"Do I know you?"