Out of Reach | Mikhaiah

Chapter 19

Disclaimer: This is pure fiction. Any similarities to real people, places, or events are purely coincidental. Read, enjoy, and don't take it too seriously!

- ✦ 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 ✦ -

Arisha's POV:

UGH.

Damn it, Kamizaki, you are so frustrating.

I'm in my car now, driving home after dropping her off. I left without saying a word. I was supposed to leave her there kanina, but then I remembered-she didn't have her phone or a car. And she's hot pa naman, the type that naturally attracts attention. What if someone takes advantage of her? Edi na-guilty ako. Not because she's stunning, okay?! I just-I'd feel guilty if something happened to her.

Whatever. What am I even thinking?

So she is jealous of Gino. Grabe ka na, Kamizaki ha. She's known for being habulin, pero patay na patay sakin? Sorry na lang, Kamizaki, but I don't like you. Duh.

I finally arrive at my luxury condo, but the annoying part? I still can't stop thinking about her. It's frustrating because she thinks I can just forget her like that. Alam ko naman na I can be cold, but come on. I know the weight of my words, yet I still can't let myself give in. I can't let her expect anything from me. I can't afford distractions. My future is at stake, and I won't let anything ruin that.

As soon as I open the door, I'm greeted by a soft yet commanding presence-my mother, standing effortlessly elegant under the dim glow of the chandelier, poised as ever.

"Mom? What are you doing here?" I ask, walking toward her and placing a kiss on her cheek. She smells of expensive perfume-subtle, sophisticated, and undeniably powerful.

She smiles, a perfect picture of grace. "Hello, baby. I'm here to check on you. You haven't been replying or answering our calls." Her voice is warm but firm, like silk woven with steel.

I frown and instantly check my phone. Damn. Dozens of missed calls.

"Uh... sorry, Mom. I was out for dinner, but I didn't even get to finish-" I trail off.

"With Mikhazra?" she asks, swirling the wine in her crystal glass, eyes sharp, knowing.

I freeze. "Uh... yes, Mom. How did you know?"

She smirks-elegant, unreadable, almost intimidating. "Secret."

I roll my eyes. "Mom..."

She chuckles lightly, setting her glass down with effortless grace. "Anyway, anak, I came to discuss your upcoming collaboration. Stazia's mother and I have agreed-both of you will be the new face of Le Merveille magazine for three years."

I blink. "Three years?"

She nods, unwavering. "Yes. But we know how occupied you'll be. Anak, your father and I are not pressuring you to take over the business. Whenever you're ready, the company will be yours. You are our only daughter, our heiress. The Yñares." She pauses, her voice softer now. "But don't be too hard on yourself."

Her gaze lingers on me for a moment before she continues, "And about your band... your father and I talked. We know it's your dream. We want you to achieve everything you desire."

Something in my chest tightens. Para akong maiiyak.

The realization hits me like a tidal wave. My family never actually pressured me. Ako lang ang naglalagay ng pressure sa sarili ko. Because I want everything to be perfect. I want to be at the top, all the time. Kasi 'yun lang ang alam kong paraan para ma-proud sila sa akin. Mom and Dad are so successful.