All Chapters of Love Beyond Contact (English Version): Chapter 11 - Chapter 14

I helped Maria cook three dishes—Pakbet, Tinola, and Adobo—all of which, they told me, were Denver’s favorites. It was a bit nerve-wracking trying to help in a kitchen that wasn’t mine, but everyone was so kind and patient. We moved around like a well-oiled machine, chopping, stirring, tasting. I felt like I was part of the family, even if just for a while. The air was filled with the smell of garlic and ginger, and the comforting aroma of adobo simmering in soy sauce and vinegar.After we finished cooking, we carefully arranged the food on serving dishes and carried them to the dining table. Everything looked delicious, and I was honestly proud of what we had done together. Luisa was quick on her feet, efficiently setting the table with plates and silverware, her movements practiced and graceful. She placed the last spoon beside a bowl and nodded with satisfaction.Just then, Manang approached me, her expression calm and gentle. “Sienna, Master Denver said he’ll be home late tonight.

“Seven years ago, he used to be so irritable,” Mom said quietly, her eyes drifting toward Denver. “He’d lock himself in his room all day, ignoring everyone around him. Cold, withdrawn, like he didn’t care about anything. But for reasons I still can’t fully explain, little by little… he began to change.”I followed her gaze, my eyes landing on Denver. He was laughing softly with his brother, relaxed in a way I’d never seen before. And for the first time, I noticed something I’d somehow missed — he looked genuinely handsome when he smiled.“That’s why, Sienna,” she continued, turning back to me, “if he ever hurts you or does something you don’t understand, please… give him a chance to explain.”She gently took my hand in both of hers. “Please… take care of Denver. I don’t want him to go back to the person he used to be.”All I could do was nod silently. Her words, her vulnerability — they pierced through something inside me. Then she pulled me into a warm, motherly hug.“Mom, can I borr