Chapter 16: Chapter 16

“DID I say something wrong?”

“When you say we are friends for life, it does not mean we need to see each other every day, right? We can be friends as long as you keep me in your heart.”

“Of course.” Gretel nodded and smiled.

“You did not have to see me every day, then. So we could miss each other.”

“If that’s what you want. I did not realize seeing me could bother you, too. I apologize, Alexander.”

“It’s not a bother, actually. I just don’t want you to be seen with me. I might put you in trouble.”

“As long as we meet here, no one will see us, “ Gretel reassured. “I hope you like fried bananas.”

“I like everything you make, “ Alexander said sheepishly. “Gretel, know that I like being friends with you.”

Gretel stared at him.

“Me, too, Alexander.”

WHEN Gretel returned, she found Hansel sitting at the kitchen table, a mug of coffee in front of him.

“Brother, why are you still awake?” she asked.

“Where have you been?”

“I took a walk to get some fresh air.”

She put the lit lamp in her hand on the table.

“Is something wrong?”

“Do you really want to be with that man?”

Gretel sat across him. She took a deep breath as she stared at her brother’s weary face.

“Javier is not a bad person despite his intimidating look. I am not saying he’s perfect, but he’s not heartless. I am taking a risk with him, and I was hoping you’d be there to support me.”

“He’s taking you away from us.”

“He was the reason we’re still together, “ Gretel said. “He’d never do that.”

“I did not know something’s already going on between the two of you. I feel like I almost ruined your relationship. I’m sorry, Gretel, “ he said regretfully.

Gretel smiled and reached for Hansel’s hand.

“I’m sorry for keeping things from you and Mother. I failed to keep my promise to prioritize my dreams and our family.”

“That’s not true. We never wanted to get in the way of your happiness. If that man can make you happy, be with him.”

Gretel’s lips quivered. If only Hansel knew that what she had with Javier was not a love story. Well, kissing him was romantic, but that was part of the game. A game that felt natural to Gretel.

“Thank you, “ she sniffed as she fought back the tears that welled up her eyes. “I’m more determined to follow my dreams now that Javier is going to be by my side.”

GRETEL barely slept that night. She woke up a little late that morning. When she went out of her room, she found her mother and Hansel fixing the dining table.

The food was almost prepared! The smell of chicken stew stirred her appetite.

“Mother, Hansel...”

“I’m glad you’re already awake, “ Glenda said with a smile. “You should bathe, your husband-to-be is coming anytime soon!”

She blinked. Her mother looked more excited than her! Yesterday, she was emotional and confused. But now...

“Yes, Mother!” She threw her hands around her. “Thank you for doing this for me.”

When Gretel was done dressing up, she went to Dory’s house.

“This is new. You’ve never asked me to join you for breakfast before, “ Dory said jokingly as they walked back to their house.

Gretel sucked a breath as she saw Javier’s carriage parked outside their gate. He had arrived and her heart could not help racing.

“I’m going to make an announcement today, “ she uttered nervously.

“Is that Javier del Mundo?” Dory said.

Gretel smiled at Mr. Martinez politely.

The carriage door opened, and Javier came out, looking gorgeous in his grey knitted sweater.

She could only stop and stare and wondered if he was real.

“He’s gorgeous, “ Dory murmured to contain her delight.

Their eyes met, leaving Gretel breathless.

“Good morning, “ she said as she stopped in front of him.

“Good morning.”

“I haven’t introduced you to my best friend yet. Javier, this is Dory. We grew up together. Dory, this is Javier, my...” she cleared her throat, “husband-to-be.”

Dory’s eyes widened. She started at Gretel and then to Javier, and then back to Gretel.

“Did I hear it, right?” she said. “How come? How long have you known each other? Are you serious? Gretel, I thought you don’t want to date? And then, this?”

“I know it happened so fast, “ Gretel said and bit her lip. “You’ll support, won’t you, Dory?”

Dory glanced at Javier reluctantly.

“Well, I can’t blame you if you’re in a hurry. I mean, just look at that face, and he’s wealthy. You’ll be in good hands, I supposed.”

“Thank you, Dory.” She wrapped her arms around her.

“WHEN DO you plan to get married, then?” Glenda asked.

Javier and Gretel exchanged glances. They were already sitting at the table. Dory was enjoying the food, but her attention was on her.

“The day after tomorrow, “ Javier said.

“That soon?” Glenda exclaimed.

That was what Gretel thought, too. But what else can she do? She could not find a reason to delay it.

“It will be a private ceremony in my mansion. The only people invited are at this table. Mr. Martinez had already found an officiating minister. As much as I want to give Gretel a fairytale-like wedding—”

“I don’t need a fairytale-like wedding, “ she said at once. “I just want to wear what Dory will make.”

Dory straightened her back.

“It would surely be a rush. But for Gretel’s wedding, that won’t be a problem.”

Gretel smiled at her across the table.

“Thank you.”

“And you’ll move out soon, “ Hansel said. “It would be harder to move around this house, that’s for sure.”

“That would not be for long, “ Javier said. He nodded at Mr. Martinez, who was sitting on the other side of the table.

Mr. Martinez pulled out a small pouch from the inside pocket of his coat.

“Please accept my offering.” Javier accepted the pouch from him. “I hope it will help you with your expenses while Gretel stays with me. You can see her anytime you want. And if you need anything, just tell Mr. Martinez, and I will do my best to address it.”

Glenda hesitated in accepting the pouch. And when she opened it, she gasped in shock.

“I don’t think I can accept this, Mr. del Mundo.”

“I know. And that is nothing compared to your precious daughter. But I know that that will make Gretel happy—seeing you finally free from financial burdens.”

Glenda and Hansel exchanged glances. Gretel watched them, tears welling up her eyes.

She glanced at Javier. He smiled at her as he brushed the corners of her eyes ever gently.

“T-thank you, Javier.”