Chapter 45

Charlene’s POV
The judge’s words echoed in the room: Kerill had won. Full custody of Lily, Ericka, Wency, and Wyl was now his. The mother would only have limited visitation, carefully supervised for the kids’ well-being.
I wrapped my arms around him without thinking. Tears slipped down my cheeks—not from sadness, but from relief and happiness. He’d finally achieved what he fought so hard for.
“Thank you… thank you so much,” he whispered, burying his face in my shoulder. I held him tighter, feeling the weight of everything we’d been through.
“Congratulations,” I murmured.
He kissed me softly, then turned to the children, gathering them into his arms. Seeing his face light up with joy, seeing him so proud—it was a moment I would never forget.
And yet, a small thought lingered in my mind: with custody settled, the contract was over. I was free.
“Tita Charlene!” Lily’s voice brought me back.
I went to her, hugging all the children in a big embrace. I loved them more than anything, and I didn’t want to let go.
The next day, we celebrated at the mansion with a simple family gathering. Kerill took charge of the cooking while I watched him work, amazed all over again. Up close, he was even more handsome—strong, warm, commanding, and yet gentle. No wonder I’d fallen for him.
“Adi, I’m not the dish,” he teased when he noticed me staring.
“Not at all. But it’s hard not to look,” I teased back with a grin.
“You really know how to make me blush,” he laughed softly, the faintest red coloring his cheeks.
When the meal was ready, the helpers arranged everything on the table. Lily’s eyes sparkled. “Wow!”
I helped serve everyone, from Kerill to the kids, feeling a quiet joy in every gesture. For the first time, it really felt like we were a family.
“Thank you,” Wyl said softly beside me.
“For…?” I asked.
“For bringing life back to our family. I missed this,” he said, glancing at his siblings laughing with Kerill. Then, he handed me a small handkerchief. My name was embroidered on it, with a delicate gumamela design along the edge.
I blinked back tears. “Thank you…” I hugged him briefly, then smiled, heart full.
The next day, Kerill surprised us with news: a vacation to Korea. I could hardly contain my excitement. He promised to dedicate the whole month to bonding with us, just the six of us, exploring and experiencing everything together.
Early the next morning, we flew out. Kerill’s private plane made the journey fast and effortless.
When we arrived, I couldn’t stop staring. Every street, every building looked like it had stepped out of a K-drama. I felt as if I’d walked straight into one of my favorite shows.
Kerill’s house was cozy and welcoming. For a whole month, it would be our home. I vowed to savor every moment.
We visited famous landmarks, climbed mountains, and sampled dishes I’d only ever seen on TV. Every day was an adventure for the six of us, ending with a trip to Jeju Island.
“It’s beautiful,” I whispered, watching golden leaves drift to the ground, the crisp air making everything feel like a perfect scene from a drama.
“You’re beautiful, Adi,” Kerill said softly behind me.
I swatted his arm lightly, cheeks burning. “Stop teasing me!”
“I mean it,” he said, his voice tender. “You’re breathtaking.”
I turned away, embarrassed, but he wrapped his arms around me from behind, resting his head on my shoulder. Together, we watched the leaves fall in silence.
“I love you. I love you so much,” he whispered.
But I noticed something—his breathing seemed heavier than usual.
“You’re okay?” I asked gently.
“Yes… just tired,” he admitted.
“Let’s head back then. You need to rest,” I suggested.
He nodded, a small smile on his lips.