Virgil Sanders

"In the kitchen, she's a firestorm. In love, she's about to burn." Youngest Perez. Billionaire. CEO. Head-turner. Maxine Avrielle Griego Perez has it all-beauty, brains, and billions. With multiple successful businesses under her name, she's unstoppable. But behind the glam life, may isang pangarap siyang matagal nang hindi natutupad: To become a certified chef. As her final requirement, she's sent to train at Moonlight Kitchenette, a cozy restaurant owned by her tito-but managed by Chef Timothy Hayden Sanders, a perfectionist known for being cold, demanding, and insanely hot. At first, clash sila. She's used to being in control. He's used to obedience. But in between the yelling, stolen glances, and late-night cooking sessions, something starts to simmer. Timothy falls-for her strength, her sass, and that laugh she tries to hide. And Maxine? She falls harder. For the first time, she lets herself feel. Then comes Cassandra. The manager who's always wanted more than professionalism. One drunken night. One betrayal. Maxine leaves-broken, silent... and pregnant. Five years later, Maxine returns as a world-class chef and single mom. Fierce, focused, and definitely not here to rekindle anything. But fate isn't done with them yet. Timothy is back, full of regret-and still in love. He wants answers. He wants her back. What he doesn't know is... he already has a piece of her. Secrets will be exposed. Old wounds reopened. And somewhere between revenge, forgiveness, and five-star meals... a second chance might be served.

I was pinned against the wall, his handsome face getting closer and closer to me. I focused my attention on his grey eyes, which were cold and menacing. I gasped when he tightened his grip on my hands above my head. His intimidating demeanor was undoubtedly frightening. But I was not ready to give in. I squirmed and grunted out, “Let me go.” “You are not allowed to tell me what I should do,” he hissed dangerously. “I do as I please,” he hissed threateningly. "And this... you and I. I'll decide whether or not to leave you." ----------------- Molly Sanders, an ambitious and independent woman, had been in love with Lance since she was a child. She had always wanted to be his wife, but Lance had never shown any interest in her. Molly was overjoyed when the elders of the family arranged their marriage and assumed Lance would start liking her soon. Everything began to fall apart when she realized he only had one woman in his heart. She was devastated and sought a divorce. When they finally parted ways, Lance approached her and asked her to return to him. Molly, who was already tired of his arrogance and domineering attitude, didn’t want to keep in touch with him. But how could she ignore him when he was so determined to reclaim her? Could Molly ever forgive him for his past actions and take him back? Or will they stay apart forever?