Chapter 9: Arthur's Regrets

Angelic Emperial stood in her new office at the top of the Reyes Architectural Solutions building.

The office was spacious, filled with modern decor and a large window that offered a stunning view of Klympog.

She had come a long way from the woman who had been kicked out by her father, and now she ruled over the company she had once been forced to leave.

Her heart, however, was colder than ever, hardened by the betrayals she had faced.

Angelic's demeanor had changed significantly since she took over the company.

She was ruthlessly efficient, and her sharp tongue and icy disposition made her both feared and respected by her employees.

The people who had mocked her before now bowed their heads in her presence, wary of incurring her wrath.

One afternoon, Angelic's twins, Monic and George, approached her with eager eyes.

They had heard so much about the company and wanted to see it for themselves.

"Mommy, can we visit the company today?" Monic asked, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"Please, Mommy?" George echoed, equally enthusiastic.

Angelic's stern expression softened as she looked at her children. She nodded. "Alright, let's go. But remember, you must behave and stay close to me at all times."

The twins cheered, thrilled about the impending adventure.

For them, it was more than just a company visit; it was a chance to see the world their mother had built.

They arrived at Reyes Architectural Solutions, and the staff greeted them with a mix of respect and curiosity.

It was the first time the twins had visited the company, and their presence brought a rare warmth to the cold halls of the building.

Angelic guided Monic and George through the various departments, explaining what each section did.

The twins were fascinated by everything they saw, from the intricate models in the design department to the bustling activity in the project management office.

Their joy was infectious, and even the employees couldn't help but smile at their innocent excitement.

As they continued their tour, Arthur Reyes, Mariam's father, walked into the building.

He had been struggling with his emotions for weeks, torn between pride and regret.

He knew he had to see his daughter, to apologize for the pain he had caused her.

His heart was heavy with the knowledge that he had ruined their relationship, but he hoped for a chance to make amends.

Arthur made his way to Angelic's office, his steps slow and uncertain. He saw her standing by the window, looking out at the city. She turned as he entered, her expression hardening.

"Mariam," Arthur began, but she interrupted him.

"Angelic," she corrected coldly. "My name is Angelic Emperial now."

Arthur nodded, accepting the rebuke.

"Angelic, I came here to say I'm sorry.I know I've hurt you more than I can ever atone for. I don't expect your forgiveness because I know I don't deserve it.

But I want you to know that I'm proud of what you've accomplished. You've surpassed me in ways I never imagined. I am proud of you, despite everything,"

he admitted.

Angelic's eyes narrowed; her anger barely contained. "Proud? After everything you did to me, you think saying you're proud will fix it?"

"No, it won't," Arthur admitted, his voice breaking. "I just... I regret everything. I was wrong, and I've paid for it every day since you left. I only wanted to protect you, but I ended up destroying the most important relationship in my life."

Angelic's heart ached, but she kept her face expressionless. "What do you want, Arthur?"

"I wanted to see you, to tell you that I'm stepping down. This company is yours now, completely. Protect it, make it flourish. I know you can do it. I know I wasn’t a good father, but I regret it deeply. Protect this company, please."

He handed her a small box, his hands trembling.

"These are old photos of us, from happier times. I thought you might want them."

He handed her a box filled with old photos of happier times.

As Angelic looked through them, her heart sank. She had been so focused on revenge that she had forgotten the love and bond they once shared.

Her father’s sincere apology and the memories stirred a mix of emotions, but she couldn’t bring herself to forgive him just yet.

Angelic took the box, her emotions in turmoil. She didn't want to show any weakness, but the sight of the old photos brought back memories of better days.

Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away.

"Thank you," she said, her voice cold. "You can leave now."

Arthur nodded, accepting her dismissal. As he turned to leave, he whispered, "I miss you, my daughter."

Angelic's heart shattered, but she didn't call him back. She watched him walk away, her tears finally falling as she looked at the photos.

She had been so focused on revenge that she had forgotten the love she once had for her father.

Meanwhile, Monic and George were exploring the lobby, marveling at the grandeur of the building. Monic tripped and fell, scraping her knee.

She began to cry, and before anyone could react, Arthur was there, helping her to her feet.

"Are you okay, baby girl?" he asked gently. "Be careful next time."

Monic sniffled and nodded, grateful for his help. "Thank you, mister."

Arthur smiled, though it was tinged with sadness. "What's your name?"

"Monic," she replied. "My mommy's name is Angelic, and she owns this company."

Arthur's eyes widened in shock. "Your mother is Angelic Emperial?"

Monic nodded proudly. "Yes, she is."

At that moment, George came running over. "Monic, we need to go back inside. Mommy is waiting."

The twins thanked Arthur and hurried back inside. Arthur stood there, stunned. He realized that the children he had just met were his grandchildren.

His heart ached with the weight of his mistakes and regrets.

Inside, Angelic composed herself and prepared to leave. She didn't notice the twins' brief encounter with her father.

As they walked back to their car, Angelic felt a strange emptiness. She had achieved her goal, but it had come at a great cost.

Arthur watched them leave, his heart heavy with regret. He had lost his daughter and missed out on knowing his grandchildren.

The realization that he had caused so much pain was almost unbearable.

As Angelic drove away, she couldn't shake the feeling of loss.

She had built an empire, but at what cost? She glanced at her children in the rearview mirror, their innocent faces reminding her of what truly mattered.

For the first time in years, Angelic allowed herself to feel the pain of her past.

She had been so focused on revenge that she had forgotten the love and warmth that had once filled her life.

She knew she needed to find a way to heal, for her sake and for her children's.

The journey ahead would be difficult, but Angelic was determined to find a balance between her ambition and the love she still held deep in her heart.

She had come this far, and she wouldn't give up now.

As she drove into the future, Angelic knew that her story was far from over.

She would face new challenges, find new strength, and maybe, just maybe, find a way to reconcile with her past.