Pasta?
Cassandra suddenly woke up, her heart beating fast as her eyes darted to the bedside clock.
10:24 AM.
She cursed under her breath and immediately sat up, reaching for her phone. Multiple missed calls and emails flooded her screen.
"Shit—" She was about to scramble out of bed when a calm voice interrupted her panic.
"Sit. Down."
Cassandra turned her head sharply, only to see Adrielle standing by the bedroom door, arms crossed, wearing her usual no-nonsense expression.
“Bakit hindi mo ko ginising?” Cassandra demanded, still groggy but running purely on adrenaline now. “I’m so late—”
Adrielle lifted her phone and nonchalantly waved it in front of her. “No, you’re not.”
Cassandra squinted. “What do you mean, ‘no’—?”
Adrielle smiled sweetly. “I filed a leave for you.”
Cassandra blinked. Once. Twice. “You what?”
“I. Filed. A. Leave,” Adrielle repeated slowly, as if talking to a particularly stubborn child. “Effective immediately.”
“This is ridiculous, Adrielle.” Cassandra muttered, glaring at her phone, which now had an official email stating that she was on leave. “I didn’t approve this.”
“No, but your wife did, who happened to be your co-CEO?” Adrielle said smugly, sipping her coffee.
Cassandra shot her a look. “That's practically power tripping Ms. Hidalgo.”
“Emergency use of power,” Adrielle corrected. “You haven’t been sleeping properly, you’ve been running on coffee and sheer stubbornness, and I had to literally stop you from bringing your laptop to bed last night.”
Cassandra scowled. “That was an important—”
“I changed the password.”
Silence.
Cassandra’s mouth opened, then closed. Then opened again. “You did what?”
“But I have meetings!”
“Rescheduled.” Adrielle replied in a deadpan tone.
“I have emails!”
“Handled.”
“I have—”
“You have a wife who knows you haven’t been sleeping properly and decided to step in before you collapse on top of a boardroom table,” Adrielle interrupted, raising an eyebrow. “See? That’s how much I love you.”
Cassandra groaned, falling back against the pillows. “I hate you.”
Adrielle chuckled and crawled onto the bed, leaning over her. “No, you don’t.”
Cassandra peeked up at her, lips twitching. “You’re right. I don’t.”
Adrielle sighed, shaking her head. She reached out to caress Cassandra's hair helping her relax. “Tigas ng ulo mo, Cass. You need rest.”
Cassandra hummed in response, tugging Adrielle down until she was lying beside her. Instinctively, Adrielle shifted closer, allowing Cassandra to drape an arm around her waist.
“You do realize that I’m still going to check emails the second you leave the room, right?” Cassandra murmured against her hair.
Adrielle sighed dramatically. “Knew it. I should’ve hidden your phone.”
Cassandra chuckled, nuzzling into her. “Dri, let me check my emails after this.”
Adrielle sighed, threading her fingers through Cassandra’s hair. “Fine. But only after you get at least a few hours of proper rest.” Cassandra opened her mouth to protest, but Adrielle shot her a look.
“No shortcuts, Cass,” Adrielle said firmly. “You sleep first, then you can check whatever you want.”
Cassandra exhaled in defeat, pressing a soft kiss against Adrielle’s temple. “You drive a hard bargain miss.”
Adrielle smirked. “I run a business, love. Negotiations are my thing.”
Cassandra sighed, pulling Adrielle closer. “Stay here for a bit? Five minutes lang.” Adrielle rolled her eyes. “We both know that’s a lie.” Cassandra just hummed in response, already feeling herself relax in Adrielle’s warmth.
Cassandra grinned, tightening her hold. “Please, Dri?” Adrielle pretended to think about it before relaxing into her. “Fine. Five minutes.”
Cassandra sighed, eyes fluttering shut. The weight of exhaustion finally caught up to her, and despite her grumbling, she didn’t resist as Adrielle tucked her in properly.
“Rest well, Moja” Adrielle whispered, fingers brushing through Cassandra’s hair. “Mmm.” Cassandra was already halfway asleep. Adrielle smiled, watching as her usually composed and sharp wife finally let go and rested.
By the time Cassandra finally dragged herself out of bed, the golden glow of the late afternoon sun was spilling through the windows. The air smelled of freshly brewed coffee and warm pancakes, and it led her straight to the kitchen like a moth to a flame.
She slowed down as she caught sight of Adrielle, wearing one of her oversized button-downs, sleeves lazily rolled up as she set plates on the dining table.
“You actually cooked,” Cassandra said, amusement laced in her voice.
Adrielle shot her a dry look. “You make it sound like I don’t know how.”
“I just assumed you’d get lazy and order takeout.”
Without missing a beat, Adrielle grabbed a fork and tossed it at her. Cassandra caught it effortlessly, grinning.
“Ganda ng reflexes mo, ah,” Adrielle said, raising an eyebrow. “Sa dami ba naman ng coffee intake mo araw-araw, hindi na ako nagtataka.”
Cassandra smirked as she slid into her seat. “Sayo din naman galing yung kape ko, so technically, kasalanan mo ‘to.”
Adrielle rolled her eyes. “Just eat your food, Sy.”
Cassandra obediently took a bite of the pancakes, and the moment the soft, buttery flavor melted in her mouth, she let out an involuntary moan.
Adrielle leaned on the counter, watching her with amusement. “Words Cass. Is it that good?”
Cassandra looked at her with dramatic adoration. “Moja, pakasalan mo ulit ako.”
Adrielle snorted, crossing her arms. “Napanalunan mo na ako, Sy. You don’t get a second proposal.”
“Unfair. If you tasted your own pancakes, you’d marry yourself.”
Adrielle grinned, sitting down across from her. “Maybe I should. At least hindi ako magigising na walang kape.”
Cassandra gasped. “Excuse me? I make sure may stock tayo lagi—”
“—para ikaw ang makinabang,” Adrielle cut in, taking a sip of her own coffee.
Cassandra pointed a fork at her. “Ibigay mo na sakin ito. Kape ang lifeblood ko.”
Adrielle huffed but shook her head fondly. “Kape nga lifeblood mo, pero wala kang tulog. That’s a problem.”
Cassandra waved a dismissive hand, already reaching for her coffee mug. “Kaya nga may kape, para kahit walang tulog, buhay pa rin.”
Adrielle leaned forward, eyes narrowing. “Subukan mong uminom ng pangatlong tasa ngayong gabi, Cassandra Sy, tatapon ko yan.”
Cassandra paused mid-sip, feigning betrayal. “You wouldn’t dare.”
Adrielle smirked, leaning back against her chair. “Try me.”
Cassandra groaned, setting the mug down. “Fine, ikaw na panalo. Pero kung matulugan kita habang nagkukwentuhan tayo. Not my fault.”
Adrielle grabbed her phone and skimmed through her notifications. “Speaking of emails—”
“Don’t even think about it.” Cassandra pointed her fork at her again.
Adrielle huffed. “It’s just a quick check.”
“No work during mealtime,” Cassandra scolded, mimicking Adrielle’s voice from earlier that morning.
Adrielle clicked her tongue but put her phone down. “Hypocrite.”
Cassandra grinned, taking another bite of her pancakes. “That’s why you love me.”
Adrielle sighed, but the soft smile playing on her lips gave her away. “Yeah. That’s why.”
Despite Adrielle’s clear instructions to rest, Cassandra’s mind was already working the moment she took a seat. She just can't help it. Actually, both of them.
“So, about the contract issue—” Cassandra started, but Adrielle immediately cut her off.
“Cass,” Adrielle warned.
“Hear me out, Dri,” Cassandra said, raising her hands in surrender. “I was just thinking—”
“I swear, if you bring up work right now—”
Cassandra smirked. “But this is my rest day, not yours. I’m just talking.”
Adrielle narrowed her eyes. “You’re impossible.”
“And you love me for it.”
Adrielle sighed, already giving up. “Fine. Quickly.”
Cassandra leaned forward, resting her chin on her palm. “I think I know who’s behind the unwarranted transactions.”
Adrielle straightened. “Who?”
Cassandra leaned back on her chair. “All trails lead back to Mendoza.”
Adrielle frowned trying to remember who Mendoza is. “Mendoza? The senior manager handling procurement?”
Cassandra nodded. “Turns out, he’s been funneling funds into dummy accounts. Small amounts over time, para hindi mahalata. But when we were reviewing the contract discrepancies, may nakita akong pattern sa approvals. He’s been doing it for months.”
Adrielle’s jaw clenched. “Does legal know?”
“Already informed them,” Cassandra said smugly. “HR is preparing the necessary documentation. We’re letting the authorities handle the rest.”
Adrielle stared at her for a moment before shaking her head. “You’re scary when you’re like this.”
Cassandra smirked. “Efficient lang.”
Adrielle scoffed. “More like control freak.”
Cassandra took a slow sip of her coffee. “You married me.”
Adrielle rolled her eyes. “Unfortunately.”
Cassandra gasped dramatically. “How dare you.”
Adrielle chuckled, but her expression softened as she looked at her wife. “You did good, Cass. I know you barely slept trying to figure this out.”
Cassandra leaned back, stretching. “That’s why I deserve to celebrate.”
Adrielle raised a brow. “I let you sleep in. That’s your reward.”
Cassandra pouted. “Not enough.”
Adrielle sighed before standing up, walking over to stand behind Cassandra’s chair. She leaned down, wrapping her arms around Cassandra’s shoulders and pressing a soft kiss to her temple.
“There. Happy?”
Cassandra hummed. “Almost.”
Adrielle rolled her eyes but kissed her again, this time on the cheek. “Now?”
Cassandra grinned. “Now I’m happy.”
While Cassandra is technically on house arrest, Adrielle still had to work. She needed to attend to a quick virtual call so she left Cassandra to herself. But knowing Cassandra, she is surely up to something. True enough, Adrielle found her hunched over her laptop. She somehow managed to open it despite Adrielle changing the password. This left her with no choice. She stood beside the router, arms crossed, watching as the signal light blinked off. She turned around slowly, a victorious smirk playing on her lips.
Cassandra stared at her, mouth slightly open in disbelief. “You did not just unplug the WiFi.”
“Oh, I did,” Adrielle said sweetly, tossing the cable onto the counter. “Since you’re so instinctive, gamitin mo instincts mo to entertain yourself.”
Cassandra groaned, arms dramatically flailing. “Moja naman! That’s a low blow!”
“Cry about it,” Adrielle teased before walking off to clean up their dinner plates.
Cassandra muttered something under her breath before dragging herself to the living room. With nothing else to do, she flopped onto the floor beside the couch, arms spread out, staring at the ceiling like it held the secrets of the universe.
When Adrielle finally walked in, wiping her hands with a towel, she found Cassandra in the same position—motionless and seemingly lifeless. She raised a brow. “Are you… sulking?”
Cassandra sighed dramatically. “I have nothing to do.”
Adrielle chuckled, tossing a throw pillow at her. “For the first time in your life, wala kang ginagawa, and you’re whining about it? Enjoy the moment.”
Cassandra caught the pillow and hugged it. “I don’t know how.”
Adrielle shook her head in amusement before sitting on the floor beside her, their arms brushing slightly. “Fine. Let’s talk about something random, then.”
Cassandra turned her head, eyeing her suspiciously. “Like what?”
Adrielle shrugged. “Hmm… what if we get a pet?”
Cassandra blinked. “A pet? Seryoso ka?”
“Bakit, ayaw mo?”
Cassandra made a face. “Depende. Anong pet?”
Adrielle grinned. “Dog.”
Cassandra scoffed. “Cat.”
“Dog.”
“Cat.”
Adrielle narrowed her eyes. “Dogs are loyal.”
Cassandra raised a brow. “Cats are independent.”
“Dogs greet you when you come home.”
“Cats judge you from a distance, pero alam mong love ka nila deep inside.”
Adrielle snorted. “So basically, you're a cat?”
Cassandra smirked. “And you're saying you're a dog?”
Adrielle gestured at herself proudly. “I mean, obviously. I’m fun, affectionate, and I actually acknowledge people’s presence when they walk in the room.”
Cassandra gasped in mock offense. “Excuse me? I acknowledge your presence all the time!”
“Only when I unplug the WiFi.”
Cassandra groaned, burying her face in the pillow. “I hate you.”
Adrielle poked her side. “No, you don’t.” Cassandra peeked at her. “Maybe a little.”
Adrielle hummed. “Okay, what if we compromise? A cat and a dog?” Cassandra thought for a moment before grinning. “Fine. Pero if we get a dog, ikaw ang bahala sa training. I am not waking up at 5 AM to walk it.”
“Deal,” Adrielle agreed. “Pero pag may attitude yang pusa mo, ikaw magaadjust.”
Cassandra smirked. “No need. The cat and I for surely will match our freak.” Adrielle groaned, shoving her lightly. “I regret teaching you that phrase.”
Cassandra laughed, rolling onto her side to face Adrielle. “Pero seryoso, gusto mo talaga ng pet?”
Adrielle shrugged. “Well, parang cute, di ba? We barely have time for anything outside work. A pet might force us to slow down.”
Cassandra hummed, considering it. “Pwede rin… but I still vote for a cat.” Adrielle sighed. “Compromise tayo. A cat and a dog. Para fair.”
Cassandra squinted at her. “Tingin mo ba magkakasundo sila?”
Adrielle smirked. “Eh tayo nga, magkasundo kahit hindi tayo normal.” Cassandra grinned. “Good point.”
A comfortable silence settled between them. No WiFi. No work. No distractions. Just them, sitting on the floor, making up for lost time.
Adrielle tilted her head, watching as Cassandra absentmindedly played with her fingers. “Moja?”
“Hm?”
“Thank you for today.”
Cassandra looked at her, a small smile playing on her lips. “Always.”
Adrielle squeezed her hand. “Always.”
Cassandra woke up feeling something she hadn’t felt in a while, well rested.
For once, she didn’t woke up in a panic, checking emails or making frantic calls the moment she opened her eyes. Instead, she was met with the soft glow of morning light filtering through the curtains and the scent of freshly brewed coffee filling the air. Adrielle stood by the bedside, arms crossed, watching her with a victorious smirk.
“Oh? Look who’s alive.”
Cassandra groaned, stretching her arms above her head. “What time is it?”
“Late enough for normal people to be awake,” Adrielle teased, sitting on the edge of the bed. “How’s the sleep? First time mo ulit matulog ng maayos, no?”
Cassandra reached for her coffee on the bedside table, taking a slow sip. “Not gonna lie… it feels illegal.”
Adrielle chuckled. “Well, you’re fully charged now. Ready to ruin some lives?”
Cassandra smirked over the rim of her mug. “Always.”
The moment they stepped into the office, it was game time.
Cassandra, sharp and composed, executed her plan flawlessly. Every detail had been meticulously prepared, the culprit behind the unwarranted transactions was exposed, evidence presented, and legal action taken. Adrielle, standing beside her, let Cassandra have the spotlight. This was her fight, her victory to claim. But she was there every step of the way, her unwavering support like a silent force of nature.
By the end of the day, the matter was officially closed. Their company remained untarnished, and the problem was legally and efficiently handled.
Now, there was only one thing left to do—celebrate.
The bar’s neon lights flickered against the polished floor, a mixture of blues and purples casting an atmospheric glow over the crowd. The air was thick with the scent of liquor, citrus, and a hint of something sweet probably from whatever ridiculous cocktail Liv had ordered.
At the center of it all, Cassandra and Adrielle stood like they owned the place.
Cassandra’s outfit was an unexpected mix of sharp and regal. She wore a black corset-style top that highlighted her toned figure, layered with a cropped blazer that added just the right amount of business-edge. Paired with a silk, asymmetrical skirt that trailed slightly at the back and high-heeled boots that screamed power, she looked like a CEO who had just stepped off a fashion magazine cover. Her signature chinita features were even more striking under the soft lighting, accentuated by bold red lips and a confident smirk.
Adrielle, on the other hand, was the perfect contrast—feminine yet dangerous. She wore a deep wine-red satin slip dress with a high slit, complemented by a leather jacket casually draped over her shoulders. Her hair was effortlessly tousled, and the gold jewelry on her wrists and fingers glinted every time she lifted her drink. If Cassandra was elegance and precision, Adrielle was allure and rebellion.
Liv, meanwhile, looked them up and down with mild amused expression. “Okay, bakit parang hindi tayo sa bar pupunta? Are we here to drink or to debut as main characters in a K-drama?”
Cassandra, adjusting the rings on her fingers, smirked. “Siyempre, we have to uphold our reputation. Can’t be out here looking like extras.”
Adrielle, swirling her drink, scoffed. “Parang hindi ka sanay, Tanaka.”
Liv sighed, sipping her drink. “Nakakainis kayong dalawa minsan.”
— A Few Hours and Several Shots Later —
The energy in the bar shifted when the DJ took a sharp turn in music selection. From club anthems, the speakers blasted a familiar beat, one that sent a ripple of excitement through the crowd.
Cassandra, who had been calmly sipping her whiskey, froze for half a second. Then, her eyes gleamed.
Adrielle raised a brow, recognizing the intro of a classic Hev Abi track.
“Oh no,” Liv muttered, already sensing the chaos about to unfold.
Cassandra put her glass down with purpose, straightened her posture, and—without hesitation—began rapping along. Flawlessly. Word for word.
Adrielle turned to her, stunned.
“Wait, wait lang, Cass??”
Cassandra, still completely in her element, barely spared her a glance. She just grinned and kept going, seamlessly following the fast-paced lyrics. Adrielle could only watch, slightly tipsy, highly amused, and very much in awe.
She had always known Cassandra was full of surprises, but this? The elegant, composed, fashionista CEO, effortlessly rapping to an underground Filipino rap song?
“Liv, please tell me I’m not hallucinating.”
Liv, already laughing, leaned in. “Sis, I told you. Pag lasing yan, nagtatransform yan.”
Adrielle shook her head in disbelief. This was so out of character—and yet, the confidence, the precision, the effortless delivery?
It was so damn Cassandra.
Then, the first few chords of Maikee’s Letter played. Adrielle who had been silently admiring Cassandra suddenly stood up.
Liv who was surprised, looked up at Adrielle but she was looking at Cassandra who was looking at her with a small smile.
And all hell broke loose.
Cassandra and Adrielle screamed.
“Oh my God—THIS IS OUTR JAM!”
Without hesitation, they raised their drinks in the air and belted out the lyrics together. Their voices, one smooth, one slightly raspy from all the whiskey merged in perfect chaos.
They weren’t CEOs right now. They weren’t two women carrying the weight of an empire on their backs. Right now, they were just two idiots, singing their hearts out, drowning in nostalgia, and having the time of their lives.
Liv? She was just there. Laughing her ass off. Because seeing two of the most powerful women she knew, absolutely unhinged over a Maikee’s Letter duet?
Yeah. This was gold.
Adrielle stirred awake, greeted by the soft sound of Cassandra groaning beside her. She turned, stifling a laugh at the sight of her wife sprawled across the bed, half buried under the blanket, an arm dramatically thrown over her face.
"My head…" Cassandra mumbled, voice raspy from sleep (and probably from belting out Maikee’s Letter at the top of her lungs last night).
Adrielle smirked, propping herself up on one elbow. "Ah, consequences. Sino nga ulit ‘yung nagsabi na kaya niya pang uminom?"
Cassandra peeked from under her arm, pouting. "Let’s not talk about last night."
"Oh? Ayaw mong i-reminisce? Kasi, Cass, you were in your element, Rapping like a pro, arms in the air, feeling the music. You never told me you had those songs memorized?" Adrielle’s eyes twinkled with amusement. "You even tried to outdrink Liv."
Cassandra let out a soft groan, covering her face again. "Hindi ko na maalala. What else did I do?"
"Hmm." Adrielle tapped her chin. "Let’s see… you practically performed an entire rap concert, and then dramatically held your drink up when Maikee’s Letter played as if you were in some music video."
Cassandra huffed. "You could've stopped me, you know."
Adrielle chuckled. "And miss that once in a lifetime performance? Absolutely not. Besides, did you forget that I sang with you on Maikee's Letter?"
Cassandra groaned again but eventually sat up, rubbing her temples. "Never letting you and Liv drag me to a bar again."
"Noted ma'am. Until the next time." Adrielle smirked before standing up, stretching. "Come on, we need food. Unless you plan to survive on just your regrets for breakfast?"
"I would, but unfortunately, regrets aren’t that filling." Cassandra sighed. "What do you feel like eating?"
Adrielle thought for a moment. "Actually, wala akong energy magisip."
Silence.
Then, as if sharing the same wavelength, they turned to each other.
"Wheel of Names?" Cassandra suggested.
"Wheel of Names," Adrielle confirmed.
And just like that, their lazy afternoon had its first agenda.
The Wheel of Names app blinked on Adrielle’s phone screen, filled with random food choices. With a tap, the wheel spun, colors blurring together as they both leaned in.
It slowed.
Past Pizza… past Ramen… then stopped at—
“PASTA!” Cassandra cheered, fist bumping the air. “HAH! Alam mo, Dri, ang lakas talaga ng manifestation powers ko.”
Adrielle rolled her eyes. “Fine. Pero since ikaw ang nagmanifest ng pasta, ako na pipili ng sauce.”
Cassandra smirked. “Carbonara.”
Adrielle scoffed. “Hindi. Arrabbiata.”
Cassandra’s face fell. “Masyadong maanghang yun!”
“Eh yung Carbonara mo masyadong creamy!”
They stared each other down.
And that’s when an idea struck Adrielle.
“Teka, teka. May nakita akong trend sa TikTok.” She grabbed her phone and searched. “’Yung How to Choose a Meal Date Night Challenge. We toss ingredients, tapos kung sino ang mas malapit sa mark, yun ang gagamitin.”
Cassandra gasped dramatically. “Aba! Sige. Challenge accepted, Hidalgo.”
And so, the Pasta War began.
Their kitchen counter turned into an arena. They even set up a phone to record everything ensuring that no one will one-up another. They each picked ingredients for their sauces. Adrielle with her spicy arrabbiata essentials and Cassandra with her creamy carbonara picks.
Each took turns tossing ingredients towards a makeshift target.
First up—garlic. They get to choose the amount of garlic they will put in the pasta.
Cassandra threw hers… and it landed far off the mark.
Adrielle’s landed perfectly.
“HA! Point for me!” Adrielle did a victory dance.
“Fluke lang ‘an,” Cassandra grumbled.
Next up—parmesan vs. chili flakes.
Cassandra tossed the parmesan and landed it perfectly.
Adrielle’s chili flakes? Fell way off the mark.
“Hah!” Cassandra smirked. “Mukhang creamy ang kakainin natin.”
Adrielle grumbled. “Damn you, Cass!”
Last round—bacon vs. sun-dried tomatoes.
The final decider.
They both took their aim.
Adrielle’s sun-dried tomatoes rolled to the edge.
Cassandra’s bacon? Direct hit.
“YESSSS!” Cassandra cheered, dramatically pumping her fist in the air. “CARBONARA IT IS!”
Adrielle slumped over the counter. “Ayoko na. Gusto ko na lang ng takeout.”
Cassandra wrapped her arms around Adrielle from behind, resting her chin on her shoulder. "Awww, sore loser?"
"Shut up." Adrielle pouted.
Cassandra giggled and kissed her cheek. "Bawi ka na lang next time, Moja."
Despite her defeat, Adrielle couldn’t help but smile. They ended up cooking together anyway, Cassandra sneaking in extra garlic despite losing that round, Adrielle sprinkling in a little chili anyway. By the time the pasta was done, they were both laughing, enjoying the chaos of it all.
Just as they were about to sit down for dinner, Adrielle’s phone buzzed.
She glanced at the screen and her stomach dropped.
Video Call: Mom & Mommy.
"Oh no." Adrielle’s eyes widened.
Cassandra peeked over her shoulder. "Oh no."
Before they could escape, the call connected. On screen, Elena Hidalgo and Margaret Sy sat side by side, their matching smiles both warm and utterly knowing.
"Adrielle, Cassandra!" Elena greeted sweetly.
Margaret tilted her head. "How are you two? We were just wondering… kailan niyo balak bumisita?"
Cassandra straightened in her seat. "Ah… soon?" Adrielle nodded too quickly. "Yes, soon. Very soon."
Elena raised a brow. "Mm. You said that last time."
Margaret crossed her arms. "Funny how you two never seem too busy for a bar night but are suddenly unavailable when it comes to family bonding."
Silence.
Adrielle turned to Cassandra. "Sino nagsumbong?" she whispered.
"Si Liv."
Margaret smirked. "Girls, we understand you’re busy, but we’d love to see you in person. Hindi lang puro video calls."
Elena sighed dramatically. "Tama. We don’t expect shareholder meetings, just one proper family dinner."
Adrielle and Cassandra exchanged looks, guilt settling in.
"This weekend?" Adrielle offered.
Margaret nodded approvingly. "Good. Dinner sa bahay. No excuses."
"And one more thing," Elena added. "We want you two to cook for us."
Adrielle and Cassandra blinked.
"Of course!" Cassandra answered. "Absolutely," Adrielle agreed.
As soon as the call ended, they both slumped against the couch.
"We’re cooking for our moms," Cassandra muttered.
"Wala na tayong ligtas," Adrielle sighed.
Cassandra turned to her. "What pasta are we making?"
Adrielle smirked. "Wheel of Names ulit?"
Cassandra groaned. "Diyos ko, huwag na."
They burst out laughing, knowing full well that whatever happens next, at least they’ll be doing it together.
The start of the week rolled in both are still hung up on the aftermath of their Pasta War from the weekend. Cassandra stretched as she stepped into their home office, still feeling triumphant from her victory. Across the room, Adrielle was holding her coffee, scrolling through her emails with the kind of focus that only Mondays demanded.
"Pansin ko lang," Cassandra teased as she perched on the edge of Adrielle’s desk. "Hindi ka na nagreklamo sa Carbonara ko kagabi."
Adrielle side eyed her. "Hmp. Hindi ako mahilig magcompliment nang harapan, pero sige. Fine. It was good."
Cassandra smirked. "Masyado namang generous ng review. Baka lumaki ulo ko."
"Kulang nga sa asin, pero sige na nga," Adrielle muttered before taking a sip of her coffee.
Cassandra gasped dramatically. "Grabe ka! Hindi mo lang matanggap na talo ka sa pasta game natin."
"Talo sa challenge, panalo sa tastebuds." Adrielle smirked. "Pero sige, princess, enjoy your win."
Cassandra rolled her eyes, but there was warmth in her gaze as she shook her head.
The lightheartedness didn’t last long, though. The moment they glanced at their schedule, reality set in.
They had a meeting with Julian Park today.
And this time, it wasn’t about their past contract issue, it was about the merger he kept pushing.
As they prepped for the day, the weight of their decision settled between them.
"We’re not considering it, right?" Cassandra asked, fastening the buttons on her sleek white blazer.
"We’re not," Adrielle confirmed, adjusting her cufflinks. "It’s not just about the business itself. It’s about control."
Cassandra nodded. "If we merge, we lose authority over major decisions. Julian may say it’s a ‘partnership,’ but we both know it’s a power play."
"Exactly. And we didn’t build this company from the ground up just to let someone else have a say in how we run it," Adrielle added. "We worked too damn hard for this."
Cassandra smirked slightly. "Damn right we did."
Adrielle turned to face her fully, tilting her head. "Also… di ba sabi mo dati, you don’t like his vibe?"
Cassandra scoffed. "Not just ‘his vibe.’ The man gives off ‘I’ll steal your empire and smile while doing it’ energy."
"Then why are we even stressing?" Adrielle smirked. "We’ll meet him, hear him out for the sake of formality, then say no. Simple."
"I doubt he’ll take ‘no’ that easily," Cassandra muttered.
"Well then, let’s see him try," Adrielle replied, her voice laced with quiet confidence.
The Japanese restaurant exuded quiet luxury. Subdued lighting, tatami-lined floors, and a private dining area reserved for high profile clients. It was the kind of place where business deals were made over sake and the unspoken carried as much weight as the spoken.
Cassandra and Adrielle arrived together, their presence as striking as ever. Cassandra, in a sleek white blazer over a black silk camisole, paired with tailored trousers, looked effortlessly regal, a stark contrast to the commanding intensity in her sharp gaze. Adrielle, in a deep navy wrap dress, radiated an air of quiet authority, her every movement precise and controlled.
Julian was already seated at the private table, swirling his cup of tea, his signature smirk in place. He stood as they approached, his gaze flickering between them with something close to amusement.
"Ah, the queens have arrived," Julian greeted smoothly. "Shall we?"
Neither woman responded to his theatrics, only taking their seats with cool composure.
Cassandra didn’t waste time. "Let’s be direct, Julian. We’re not considering the merger."
Julian chuckled, setting his cup down. "Straight to the point. I admire that." He leaned forward, fingers steepled together. "But allow me the courtesy of pitching one last time. You might just change your minds."
"You can try," Adrielle said, taking a measured sip of her tea. "Pero we’ve already done our due diligence. The merger does not align with our long term goals."
"And frankly," Cassandra added, tilting her head, "we don’t trust you enough to give you a seat at our table."
"Ouch." Julian placed a hand over his chest in mock offense. "But is this really about business? Or… is there something else?"
Adrielle’s eyes narrowed. "What exactly are you getting at?"
And then, with an air of nonchalance, Julian delivered the blow.
"I know you’re married."
Silence.
Cassandra didn’t move, didn’t even blink, but Adrielle caught the way her fingers curled against her lap. Adrielle, on the other hand, placed her cup down with calculated movement. "And what exactly do you plan to do with that information?"
Julian leaned back, exuding the ease of a man who knew he had the upper hand. "Nothing. Unless, of course, you force my hand."
Cassandra’s voice was deceptively calm. "You’re seriously going to threaten us over this?"
"Threaten? No, no." Julian’s smile widened. "I prefer the term… leverage."
Adrielle’s expression remained unreadable. "You’re assuming we’re afraid of this getting out."
Julian tilted his head. "Aren’t you?" He let the silence stretch before continuing, "Think about it. Two of the most powerful female CEOs, secretly married, leading an empire in a male-dominated industry. What happens when the world finds out?"
"Nothing," Cassandra said coldly. "Because we’ve built our company on our expertise, not our personal lives."
"Ah," Julian mused, "but perception, my dear Cassandra, is everything.You and Adrielle? You’ve spent years cultivating an untouchable image—two formidable women thriving in a world designed for men. Powerful, intelligent, poised. But once people realize you’ve been hiding something this significant, they’ll start to wonder: What else have they been lying about?”
His smirk deepened as he continued, "Investors love confidence. Stability. Predictability. The moment doubt creeps in, the moment the media starts twisting your narrative, your empire doesn’t just take a hit. It starts to crack."
Cassandra’s jaw tensed. "You underestimate us, Park. If you think we’d crumble over something as trivial as our marriage, then you’ve clearly done a poor job assessing us."
"Oh, I don’t doubt your strength." Julian’s voice was almost admiring. "But strength and public perception? Two very different things. The moment people sense weakness, they pounce. And I wonder…" He tapped a finger against the table, "How many of your board members would feel betrayed that they weren’t aware of this? How many investors would start questioning whether they should place their trust elsewhere?"
Adrielle’s expression darkened slightly. "And you think forcing our hand will make us agree to your terms?"
"No, Adrielle." Julian grinned. "I think forcing your hand will make you reconsider the consequences of refusing."
Cassandra exhaled sharply, her patience wearing thin. "Let’s cut to the chase, Julian. What do you want?"
Julian lifted his tea cup, savoring the moment before responding. "The merger."
Silence.
"Or," Julian added, eyes gleaming, "we let the public decide how they feel about two of their most respected CEOs keeping secrets from them."
Cassandra and Adrielle exchanged a glance.
This wasn’t just business anymore.
This was a declaration of war.
Julian swirled the last of his tea before setting the cup down with a soft clink. He let the silence stretch, savoring their reactions before delivering the final blow.
"You have exactly two weeks," he said smoothly, adjusting his cufflinks. "Agree to the merger, or I release everything."
Adrielle’s fingers twitched against the table, but she remained composed. "And what exactly do you think you have, Julian?”
Julian smirked. "Oh, you know… a marriage certificate, travel records, receipts, and enough documentation to piece together the puzzle. Photos of you two looking a little too domestic for just business partners. And if that’s not enough, well… you know how the business world works. A well placed whisper can turn into a storm.”
Cassandra’s jaw tightened. "You really had nothing better to do?"
"On the contrary," he leaned forward slightly, "I had everything to gain."
"And why the rush?" Adrielle’s voice was even, but there was a sharpness beneath it.
"I don’t like waiting." Julian shrugged. "And besides, we both know your company holds the market share I need. If I wait too long, you might find a way to block me completely. This way, I get ahead of the game."
Cassandra exhaled sharply, fingers drumming against the table. "So that’s what this is about. You want access to our market. You need us."
"Need is a strong word," Julian mused. "But I’d rather have you on my side than against me."
Adrielle’s eyes narrowed. "And if we refuse?"
Julian smirked, leaning back. "Then I make sure you lose everything you've worked so hard to protect."
His words hung in the air like a loaded gun.
He stood, buttoned his suit jacket, and gave them one last glance. "Two weeks. I’d make the smart choice if I were you.”
And then he walked away, leaving nothing but the weight of his threat behind.
Cassandra exhaled sharply, staring at the untouched plate in front of her. Adrielle, usually the first to steer them into action, was eerily quiet, her gaze unfocused as she traced the rim of her cup.
For years, they had built their empire on merit, on skill, on resilience. Rising through a male-dominated industry without ever letting their relationship become a factor.
And now, one man was threatening to tear it all down.
Cassandra clenched her jaw. "We have to hit back before he does."
"We will," Adrielle answered, but there was tension in her voice. "But we need to be smart about this. Julian isn’t the type to bluff."
Cassandra nodded, but her hands were clenched into fists beneath the table.
They had spent years making sure no one could use their marriage against them. Now, they only had two weeks before someone did.
The air in the car was thick with unspoken thoughts. The soft hum of the engine was the only sound as Cassandra drove, her fingers gripping the wheel a little too tightly. Adrielle sat in the passenger seat, arms crossed, gaze focused on the passing streetlights.
After a few minutes, Cassandra finally broke the silence. "Alam mo, naisip ko... dapat pala sinabuyan natin ng tubig si Julian kanina."
Adrielle snorted. "Sayang yung green tea, Cass."
"Wala na siyang respeto, tapos green tea pa iniisip mo?"
Adrielle finally turned to her, lips twitching. "If I’m throwing something, gusto ko extra hot matcha. Yung freshly brewed. Para may damage."
"Ay, premeditated na yan, ah." Cassandra smirked, but the humor was short lived.
Silence settled between them again. Adrielle reached for Cassandra’s free hand, squeezing it briefly before letting go. "We’ll handle this. Together."
Even if they were both rattled, that much, at least, was certain.
By the time they got home, neither of them had the energy to talk about Julian anymore. So instead, they did what they always did, gravitated toward each other.
Adrielle was sprawled on the couch, one arm lazily draped over Cassandra’s waist as the latter absentmindedly played with her fingers. The TV played some random drama in the background, but neither of them was paying attention.
"If you were a cat, you’d be purring right now," Cassandra murmured sleepily.
"And if you were a dog, you’d be wagging your tail," Adrielle shot back.
"That means I’m the sunshine in this relationship."
"No. That means you’re needy."
Cassandra gasped. "Excuse me, I am independent and self sufficient.”
"You’re clingy and you know it."* Adrielle smirked, tightening her hold. "Not that I mind.”
Cassandra sighed dramatically. "We really need a break."
"Mm. We’ll figure something out."
For tonight, that was enough.
The days blurred into a cycle of meetings, reports, and silent battles. Their empire demanded their full attention, and so did the looming threat hanging over them like a storm cloud. But amidst the chaos, they never let each other stand alone.
While working in the office, they were careful and deliberate in every move. There was no room for mistakes. No room for lingering touches, stolen glances, or whispered reassurances. They had worked too hard to let anyone question their professionalism.
But love finds a way.
Cassandra’s morning routine never changed. Meetings, emails, decision making. And yet, no matter how early she started her day, a cup of coffee would always be waiting on Adrielle’s desk. It was never from Cassandra’s hands, but it was always hers. The temperature was perfect, the taste is always exactly how Adrielle liked it—strong, just enough sweetness to balance the bitterness.
I'm here.
At first, Adrielle would roll her eyes, smirking at it being so Cassandra coded. But on the toughest mornings, when the weight of the business bore down on her shoulders, she would pause. Fingers curling around the cup, she would exhale slowly before taking a sip. Salamat, Cass.
Cassandra never heard it, but she didn’t have to. She just knew.
Afternoons were the hardest. Cassandra who is meticulous and relentless, would sit through back to back meetings without pause, her sharp eyes scanning documents, catching details others missed. She was brilliant and untouchable. But even the strongest foundations crack under pressure.
That’s when Adrielle stepped in. Without words, without needing to be asked.
A short email would appear in Cassandra’s inbox:
"Room 08B is unoccupied for the next 20 minutes. Use it before your next meeting."
It may be random to anyone seeing it. Just another CEO directive. But Cassandra knew better.
Take a break, Cass. Breathe. I’ll handle things while you do.
And she listened.
Fifteen minutes later, she would emerge calmer, sharper. She wouldn’t thank Adrielle, wouldn’t acknowledge it out loud. But Adrielle didn’t need her to. The next morning, her coffee arrived with an extra shot of espresso—an unspoken reply.
You take care of me. I take care of you.
It was the way Adrielle would subtly take over discussions whenever she sensed Cassandra’s patience running thin. How Cassandra would draft quick summaries of complex reports so Adrielle wouldn’t have to sift through endless paperwork. The way Adrielle’s presence alone was enough to keep Cassandra steady during tense negotiations.
They never said it outright. They didn’t need to.
Their love was in the quietest moments, the smallest gestures. Unseen by the world, but deeply felt between them.
And that was enough.
For now.