After dinner, Rayden now stood in front of the mirror, getting himself ready for an important event. He was fixing himself up for something that he needed to attend to."Oh, my handsome son! Where are you heading, my child?" Mrs. Rebecca curiously asked, her interest piqued.Rayden faced his mother and replied, "I'm going to Isabelle's place, mom."Mrs. Rebecca neatly brushed Rayden's hair and straightened his collar."Son, if your father were still alive, he would surely be proud of you. Especially now that you're becoming a fine young man.""Wherever he may be, I'm sure he's proud of both of you for taking care of us," Rayden said, placing his hands on his mother's shoulders."Are you sure about Isabelle?" Mrs. Rebecca asked, her question tinged with doubt."Yes, mom. I'm sure she's the woman I will love forever..." Rayden's eyes sparkled as he spoke those words.They were just two siblings. He worked hard as a fisherman to provide for his younger sister who was studying. Rayden was
As Rayden stood there, seething with anger and regret over his impulsive act, one of the bystanders, fueled by the spectacle, approached him. This bystander, a burly figure with a confrontational demeanor, issued a direct challenge to Rayden."Hey, you! If you're so courageous, why don't you prove it in a one-on-one fight?" the bystander taunted, his voice dripping with provocation. The other friends who had been watching eagerly joined in, cheering and goading Rayden to accept the challenge.But Rayden, overwhelmed by his inner turmoil and the weight of his emotions, couldn't find it within himself to engage in a physical confrontation.His mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Isabelle, the love they shared, and the painful separation forced upon them."Sorry, I can't," Rayden replied, his voice tinged with sadness and distraction. "I have more important things on my mind."The bystanders, initially eager for a fight, now registered a mix of confusion and disappointment on their fac
The gangsters quickly fled when the patrolling police arrived. They saw Rayden lying on the ground, appearing lifeless.They hurriedly approached him to check his condition."Can you stand up, young man, or do we need to carry you?" asked one of the police officers, crouching down to the injured Rayden.Rayden couldn't speak due to the intense pain he was feeling. He could only moan in response to them."Buddy, we should call for backup," suggested one of the police officers.Another officer grabbed the radio. "Come in base, over..."The other line responded, "This is Santa Lucía Police Station, over.""We have a young man beaten on Mabuhay Street. Send backup to apprehend the gangsters... Also, send an ambulance, over...""Copy that, over..."The two police officers carefully helped Rayden, supporting him as they leaned him against their vehicle. They gently laid him down."Poor guy, he's covered in bruises," lamented one of the officers, placing a hand on his chest."Yeah, buddy. Th
After three days, Rayden was finally discharged from the hospital. His bruises had healed, and he was feeling much better. The people who had beaten him up had been caught."Oh, my child. Are you feeling better now?" Mrs. Rebecca asked, concerned."I feel physically better, Mom. The pain in my body fades quickly, but the pain in my heart, even with the slightest relief, still lingers," Rayden expressed his emotions."Oh, child. Forget about those things for now. You are kind, hardworking, brave, and handsome. You take after your father and me. I know you will overcome your love troubles..." Mrs. Rebecca gently held both of Rayden's cheeks.She embraced him, offering comfort for what he was feeling."Even though I fail in love, I am fortunate because you are always there to support me," Rayden said."Because you are my child. I love you and your sister dearly. I hope you both take care of each other when I'm no longer around," Mrs. Rebecca raised her chin."You will never be gone from
Leila quickly returned with a glass of water, her hands trembling as she handed it to her brother. They both knelt beside their unconscious mother, fear gripping their hearts."Mom, please wake up," Rayden pleaded, his voice laced with worry. "Leila, help me lift her head so she can drink the water."Leila gently supported their mother's head while Rayden carefully tried to pour a few drops of water into her mouth. However, to their dismay, Mrs. Rebecca remained unresponsive. The water trickled from her lips, unable to be swallowed."Oh no, what do we do now?" Leila's voice trembled with panic. "Brother Rayden, we need to bring her to the hospital!"Rayden's eyes widened, realizing the urgency of the situation. He nodded, determination replacing his fear. "You're right, Leila. We have to get her to the hospital immediately."As they prepared to carry their mother, the sound of rain intensified outside. Dark clouds enveloped the sky, releasing a torrential downpour. The heavy raindrops
As Rayden, Leila, and Ricky arrived at the hospital, their hearts pounding with a mix of relief and anxiety, they wasted no time in rushing Mrs. Rebecca to the emergency room. The urgency of the situation was evident, and the nurses and doctors quickly sprung into action."Please, you have to help her!" Rayden pleaded, his voice filled with desperation as he held tightly onto his mother's hand. "She collapsed, and we don't know what's wrong!"The medical staff, recognizing the gravity of the situation, swiftly took charge. They whisked Mrs. Rebecca away on a stretcher, wheeling her into the emergency room. Rayden and Leila instinctively moved to follow, hoping to stay by their mother's side.However, a stern-faced doctor intercepted their path, blocking their way. "I'm sorry, but you cannot enter the emergency room. It's crucial for us to assess and stabilize your mother's condition. Please wait outside."Leila's eyes welled up with tears, her voice quivering as she protested. "But sh
At seven in the morning, the sun cast a golden glow on the sandy beach as Rayden and Ricky landed from the boat. The salty breeze tousled their hair as they carried with them a bountiful catch of fish, their hard work paying off.Rayden's mother and younger brother stood waiting on the shore, their eyes lighting up with joy at the sight of the freshly caught fish. Mrs. Rebecca's voice filled with gratitude as she embraced Rayden. "Rayden, Ricky, thank you both. This is a wonderful gift."Rayden beamed with pride, a sense of accomplishment washing over him. "Mom, these fish are for you and our family. Ricky and I worked hard to catch them, hoping to bring some happiness and delicious meals to our table."Ricky nodded, his eyes gleaming with satisfaction. "Absolutely, Mrs. Rebecca. We wanted to contribute something special for you all."Mrs. Rebecca's eyes sparkled with appreciation as she looked at her son and his friend. "You both have hearts of gold. Let's cook these fish and enjoy a
Rayden's heart raced as he left Ricky's side and crossed the bustling street, his determination guiding his every step. He found a hiding spot near the electricity post, concealing himself from Isabelle and her new boyfriend, Anthony Valle. Rayden's hope to have one last conversation with her burned fiercely within him.Just as he had settled into his hiding spot, an unforeseen stroke of luck came his way. Anthony's phone rang, demanding his immediate attention. Seizing this opportune moment, Rayden acted swiftly. He approached Isabelle and gently grasped her arm, pulling her a bit further away from Anthony's line of sight. Isabelle's eyes widened in shock as she locked eyes with Rayden once again."Rayden?" Isabelle gasped, her voice filled with surprise and disbelief.Rayden's eyes burned with a desperate plea as he looked into Isabelle's eyes, his voice filled with longing. "Isabelle, please, let's try to restore what we once had. We can't let this love be interrupted by the circum
Rayden remained hidden in his makeshift alcove as a group of men approached, their voices growing louder as they drew near. With a sinking feeling in his stomach, he realized they were accompanied by a captive woman.Peering cautiously around the corner, Rayden watched as the men roughly pushed the woman forward, her hands bound behind her back. She stumbled, almost falling to the ground, but they yanked her upright again, laughing cruelly.Rayden's heart raced as he struggled to comprehend what he was witnessing. It was clear that the woman was in trouble, and he knew he couldn't just stand idly by and do nothing. But he also knew he needed to be careful – confronting the men head-on could put both himself and the woman in even greater danger.As the group drew closer, Rayden pressed himself further into the shadows, weighing his options. He needed to find a way to help the woman without alerting the men to his presence. But as he watched their rough treatment of her, he knew he coul
Rayden's heart was filled with compassion as he set out to assist the old man he had encountered begging in front of the grand jewelry hotel. Recalling the potential value of discarded items at the junkyard, he embarked on a mission to gather goods that could be sold to provide aid to the destitute stranger.As Rayden observed the old man, his heart swelled with empathy. He couldn't bear to see someone suffering and neglected, especially in such dire circumstances. With determination in his stride, Rayden resolved to make a difference, even if it meant starting small."I can't just stand by and do nothing," Rayden muttered to himself, his voice resolute. "There must be something I can do to help this poor soul."Reflecting on the discarded items he had seen at the junkyard, Rayden devised a plan. "I'll gather as much as I can from the junkyard and sell it. With the money I earn, I can buy food and essentials for the old man. It's not much, but it's a start."With his plan in place, Ra
Rayden wandered the streets, his thoughts consumed by the weight of his responsibilities and the promises he had made. As he passed by a bustling restaurant, he couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment when the waitress informed him that there were no job vacancies available.Rayden approached a small grocery store next, hoping for a chance to inquire about any job openings."Excuse me," Rayden said politely to the shopkeeper behind the counter. "I'm looking for work. Do you have any positions available?"The shopkeeper glanced up from his paperwork, assessing Rayden with a discerning eye. "Sorry, we're not hiring at the moment," he replied curtly.Rayden nodded understandingly, though disappointment flickered across his features. "Thank you for your time," he said, turning to leave.Disheartened but undeterred, Rayden continued his search, determined to find a means to support himself and his family. He ventured further into the city, his eyes scanning the storefronts and esta
The morning sun filtered through the makeshift shelter as Rayden stirred from his sleep. Blinking away the remnants of dreams, he found himself alone in the modest dwelling. Stepping outside, he noticed Janice diligently sweeping the area clean."Good morning, Janice," Rayden greeted, his voice carrying the softness of the early hour. "Where are Father Juan and the children?"Janice paused in her sweeping, her dark eyes meeting Rayden's gaze. "They've gone to trade," she replied, a hint of weariness evident in her voice.Rayden nodded, understanding the rhythm of their daily routines. With a sense of purpose, he resolved to make the most of the day ahead, knowing that each moment was precious on his journey towards a brighter future.Rayden's words hung in the air, carrying the weight of their impending farewell. Janice's eyes reflected the sadness that echoed in her voice as she processed Rayden's decision."Are you leaving, Rayden?" Janice asked, her tone tinged with melancholy.Ray
As they sat around the modest dinner table, the warm aroma of home-cooked food filled the air, mingling with the sounds of lively conversation and laughter. Rayden savored each bite of the simple yet delicious meal, feeling a sense of comfort and belonging in the midst of this makeshift family."So, Rayden, where do you come from?" Father Juan asked, breaking the pleasant silence that had settled over the room.Rayden paused, his thoughts drifting back to his past, to the life he had left behind. "I come from a town not too far from here," he replied, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "But I've been away for a while now, trying to find my way in the world.""And what brings you here, to our humble abode?" Janice inquired, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.Rayden smiled, grateful for their warmth and hospitality. "I must admit, I found myself lost and alone tonight. But stumbling upon your home feels like a stroke of luck," he confessed. "You see, I've been searching for something—perh
Rayden found himself standing amidst the humble surroundings of the old man's residence, a squatter area that spoke volumes about the resilience of its inhabitants. Surprised by the simplicity yet warmth of the place, Rayden's curiosity piqued as he awaited what awaited him inside.The old man's call brought forth two children and a girl, approximately Rayden's age of sixteen. Despite the modesty of her attire, Rayden couldn't help but be captivated by the girl's beauty, which seemed to radiate from within, untouched by the hardships of their surroundings.As they exchanged greetings, Rayden felt a sense of kinship with this makeshift family, drawn in by the genuine warmth and camaraderie that enveloped them.Despite the challenges they faced living in the squatter area, there was an air of resilience and hope that filled the space, infusing Rayden with a newfound sense of gratitude for the simple joys of life.Sitting down for dinner, Rayden found himself engrossed in conversation wi
Four years had passed since Rayden and Eloisa had embarked on their journey together. Now, they were a family of four, with two beautiful children filling their home with laughter and joy. Rayden and Eloisa had built a life together, supported by the love and guidance of Eloisa's parents.Their days were filled with simple pleasures and cherished moments, as they watched their children grow and flourish. Rayden worked hard to provide for his family, while Eloisa took care of their home with warmth and dedication.Rayden rubbed his eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of sleep. The blaring car horn had jolted him awake once more, pulling him back to reality. As he glanced around, he was met with the grim sight of his surroundings—a desolate place cluttered with garbage, illuminated only by the dim glow of streetlights.He found himself situated on the side of the road, amidst piles of trash and debris. Nearby, he spotted a group of young traders sifting through the refuse, scavenging
As Jose hastily arranged his bed, the rest of the family gathered their belongings, preparing to leave room 123. Their hearts were light with gratitude and hope, yet a sense of anticipation lingered in the air as they stepped out into the corridor.Outside the room, they were met with a flurry of activity, with hospital staff bustling about attending to various tasks. They observed as a new patient was wheeled into the ICU, surrounded by medical professionals, their expressions a mix of concern and determination.Amidst the commotion, Aling Maria turned to her family, her voice filled with relief and gratitude. "We can leave now, my dear ones. Let us go forth with hearts full of thanksgiving and faith in the divine."Eloisa nodded, her eyes shining with emotion. "Yes, Mama. We have witnessed a miracle today, and our faith has been strengthened. Let us carry this light with us as we journey forward."Rayden placed a comforting hand on Eloisa's shoulder, his gaze reflecting the solemnit
As Doctor Gonzales and Nurse Susie entered Mang Jose's room, they were greeted by a scene of jubilation and relief. The family surrounded the bed, their faces lit up with smiles and tears of joy as they witnessed Mang Jose's remarkable recovery."Wait! What does this mean?" Doctor Gonzales asked, his brow furrowed in confusion as he surveyed the room."We're leaving, doc, because we don't have money to pay for the operation," Eloisa replied, her voice tinged with resignation.The doctor's expression softened as he regarded the family with sympathy. "I understand," he said gently, his tone filled with compassion."But the patient? Why did you go up there? You should just be lying down," the doctor added, his concern evident as he noticed Eloisa's presence at her father's bedside.Eloisa exchanged a glance with her family members, their eyes reflecting a mixture of determination and resolve. "We couldn't just sit idly by, doctor. We had to do something," she explained, her voice firm wi