No strings attached |(UNDER REVISION)

Chapter 39- I see you again

"This is it," I said, walking around the living room. "It's perfect."

Ethan nodded. "I like it too. Kung gusto mo na talaga 'to, we can start the process."

"Yes," I said without hesitation. "Let's do it."

After finalizing the condo, we grabbed lunch before heading to meet Jho for the commercial space viewing.

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AFTERNOON - BUSINESS SPACE VIEWING

Jho was already waiting for us at the first location in BGC when we arrived. She waved as we walked up. "Mikha! Ethan! Buti on time kayo. Ready ka na makita 'tong potential future home ng business mo?"

"Siyempre!" I grinned, excited.

The first space was in a prime location, but it felt too small for what I had in mind. The second one in Makati was more spacious but lacked foot traffic. Finally, we arrived at the Ortigas location-a modern, well-lit commercial space on a busy street.

"This one feels right," I said as I walked around, picturing the layout. "It's spacious enough, and the location is great."

Jho nodded. "I agree. Plus, mas flexible ang lease terms nila compared to the others. Pwede mo ring i-customize 'yung interior."

Ethan looked around, nodding approvingly. "It's a good choice, babe. I can already see your business thriving here."

I took a deep breath, feeling that same certainty I had when we found the condo. "Let's go for it."

Jho grinned. "Great choice! I'll start the paperwork and help you negotiate the best deal."

As we left the property, I felt a wave of excitement. Everything was coming together-my home, my business, my future.

For the first time in years, I felt completely in control.

And I couldn't wait to see what came next.

After finalizing the business space, Jho stayed behind to discuss paperwork, while Ethan got caught up with a work call. Since he was busy, I decided to head to the nearby mall to buy clothes-unti lang kasi 'yung nadala naming damit ni Ethan, and we'd be staying in Manila for good.

"Babe, okay ka lang mag-isa?" Ethan asked as I grabbed my car keys.

"Yeah, mabilis lang 'to. You're busy, and I can manage," I reassured him.

"Text me kung may kailangan ka, ha?"

I smiled, giving him a quick peck on the lips. "Of course."

With that, I headed out and drove to the mall.

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AT THE MALL

The mall was buzzing with people, as expected. After parking, I went straight to the clothing stores, picking up a few basics for both me and Ethan. I was scanning through racks of shirts when I heard a familiar voice behind me.

"Mikha?"

I froze.

That voice-soft, familiar, almost hesitant.

I turned around, and there she was.

Aiah.

Standing just a few feet away, looking straight at me.

She had changed-a lot.

Her once soft features had sharpened, giving her an air of maturity that hadn't been there before. She carried herself differently, more confident, more composed. Her hair was longer now, cascading down her shoulders in soft waves, and she wore a tailored blazer over a sleek black top and trousers-nothing too flashy, but effortlessly elegant.