heya! this is the epilogue of Birth of Lies in Sicily and I really hope you enjoyed the story from the very start. would love to hear your feedback at the very end. And yes for the last time, join Jacinta and Fabio for their last ride of love.

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Epilogue

This isn't my first time in the Philippines, I have been around here a couple of times due to business. I do like it in here, especially when I'm hanging with my favorite people.

"Fabio, there's someone I would like you to meet," my good friend Allan said, behind him was a beautiful lady.

"Sure, I would love to."

"Here she is," Allan said and she stood beside him. "Fabio, this is a friend of mine, Jacinta Alessa. Ja, this is Fabio and he's from Italian."

She giggled. "I figured that out by his accent." She took my hand, hers was soft and small. "Nice to meet you."

"Nice to meet you, too," I greeted with a smile. "Do you want a drink?"

"Yeah, I think I should let both of you alone now," Allan said, patting my shoulder.

"I'll take it from here, Allan. Thanks!" I smirked.

When he left us, this woman he introduced to me couldn't set her eyes on me.

"Hey," I caught her attention and she quickly raised her eyes at me. "Wanna grab a drink?"

She smiled, nodding. "I wouldn't turn down a free drink."

I arched my arm and she slide hers in it. I led her to the bar counter where I asked what drink she would like to have. She asked for a piña colada which is a very usual drink women would get.

"I'm not a basic girl if my taste in drinks would make up your mind about me." She smirked.

"No, not really. But I would suggest long island iced tea, cosmopolitan, or bloody mary. Those are probably the best ladies' drinks you'll get."

"I've only had cosmopolitan and it's not what I would normally get."

"You don't like it?"

"I would rather get an old-fashioned than that," she said as if she was testing me.

"Funny," I said. "You got a different taste from many women I know."

"I'm not one of them," she said. "I'm not like any other woman."

"Then maybe you'll have to go on another night with me and try my recommended drinks."

"Are you asking me on a date?"

"Probably," I smirked. "What do you think?"

"Take my number," she said.

I scooped my phone out of my pocket and handed it over to her. She quickly types her number on it. She hands it over back to me.

"Your name again?"

She chuckled. "You forgot it already?"

"No, it—"

"It's Jacinta," she said before I could speak. "It's J, a, c, i, n, t, and, a. Pretty much not a common name."

"Sounds unique I must say," I said.

We were then interrupted when the bartender called us to serve us the drinks.

"Let's cheer for that unique name," I said. "Jacinta..."

"Fabio."

And we both drink what we have—I've got myself some rum. That drinking session quickly escalated into something—to the restroom. When we found ourselves inside the restroom, we locked the door and she's giving herself to me which is a surprise.

I'm only giving kisses, I'm not touching her, but she was the one who put my hands on her butt and her breast.

"You like this, huh?"

She smirked and what she got in return, was something she could only get from an Italian stallion. But while we were in the middle of our session, someone kept smashing the door to get it open. We were both disappointed when it happened so we had to set it back and walked out of the restroom separately.

After that night, I haven't seen her again, but I remember I got her number so I took the chance of leaving a message for her, hoping she would respond. Later that day, she did and that was the start of our conversation which leads to something special.

When I invited her to go out for a dinner, her response time made me sweat, but later on, I got a reply from her and she wants to meet me, too. I couldn't be more excited when she replied. I thought after that night, I wouldn't have a chance to see her again.

I'm not gonna lie, she's fucking sexy.

Tonight, I'll pick her up. She texted me the location where I would be picking her up. I arrived at the place and found out she was already waiting for me. She doesn't know what car I was in, I slide the window down to call her.

"Hi!" she greeted and wave her hand.

"Come on in," I invited her.

She quickly roams to the other side of the car and opens the door jumping next to me.

"How are you?"

She smiled. "I'm good... you look dashing."

I smirked. "You're a goddamn beauty, Jacinta."

"Well, thank you, Mr.," she giggled. "So, where should we go?"

"I've got a place and you'll like it."

"Surprise me."

I drove the car away and headed to the place I was talking about. Before we could go to some fancy restaurant, I brought her to a mall in Makati. We went to those luxury stores and I told her to pick whatever she wants, but she doesn't want anything from it. She doesn't want me to buy anything for her.

I couldn't push her to do so, but in the end, I bought her a handbag that cost a quarter of a million. It's nothing something I'd regret buying an item for a girl, I've got a lot to spare.

When we arrived at our next destination, we were having dinner at a fancy luxurious restaurant. This was recommended to me by Allan. He went here before and I've heard good things about it so I must have to try it.

While we were waiting, I noticed she couldn't seem to be comfortable.

"Hey, what's wrong?" I asked her.

She smiled at me. "I feel like you're doing too much for me... you don't have to buy this Chanel. This is too expensive... you can take it back if you want."

I smirked, shaking my head. "No. Why would I take that back? I gave that to you so keep it and it doesn't matter if it's too expensive for you, but not for me."

"Ikaw bahala..." she muttered. "Ah, I mean, it's up to you..."

"Yeah, so keep it..."

After that night, Jacinta and I kept seeing each other—more likely dating, she implied.

When we go out together such as meeting without friends at the clubs we go to, they're picking on us like we're the couple they would like to end up together. I didn't say anything, words are too powerful to make any statements... for now.

But we kept seeing and getting fond of each other every single day.

I've met many women whenever I go to countries for business or simply to have a good time that comes along fun times with women. But Jacinta's different. She makes me happy, laughs, and does all sorts of things.

I've found something in her that I couldn't find in any other woman. She admitted to me she doesn't really like to go to a bar, at the time we met, she was with her friend—she was always with her friend when she goes to the bar, and meeting me at that moment said was some kind of perfect timing.

"I think we should go now," I told her.

"And where we should go?" she asked.

I smirked. "Somewhere we should have been a long way before."

We sneak out of the party we were invited to. It seemed like they didn't mind us leaving so I brought Jacinta back into my condo and we continued what we did from the first time we met.

"Take it slow, Fabio..." she begged. "I'm... I'm a virgin."

That news was a little surprise for me since she's a very good kisser. "I'll do it slowly, baby..."

I look straight into her eyes and the fear and worry are visibly present in the, but I didn't make it too hard for her because eventually she was begging for it and her moans are the witnesses.

She stayed with me for the night and when I'm watching her sleeping, what we had was too good to be true. We've had good times and I wouldn't deny some moments I had with her are memorable, but I received a call that night...

Fabrizio, we need you back in Rome. ASAP.

When Jacinta left the morning hoping to see me tonight was something I couldn't promise. I bought a ticket back to Italy and left what I had back in the Philippines—especially all the things I had with her.

Fuck.

I know she's too good for me, I guess she could find someone better than me, or if we ever got a chance to meet again in the future, that would be good for me.

When I got back to Italy, I work day and night—and met women along the way. Things went by so quickly for me. I've been busy with work, I had to make up for the months I was away. But good thing though, there are people who could put my stress away.

My time in Rome was excellent and then I and the boys decided to go to Milan. I met my ex-girlfriend there, Gianna. The boys are picking on me at her. They set-up us up on a date and thought it would be a good time for us to reminisce about what we had in the past.

Gianna was a goddess to me. I couldn't take my eyes off of her when we were together. I was so in love but because we weren't able to be there for each other as we've got all things to do on our own, we come to terms and let go of each other.

But I thought meeting her would also rekindle the fire between us, something happened between us that night, but that's all that. She's on her own once again. When I told the boys it didn't work out, they said I could find another woman in my life again. But that was months ago and I've never heard anything from her again.

Well, I guess that would be a good thing for me.

"Quali progetti abbiamo oggi?" I asked my friends. (What plans do we have today?)

Tante cose, Fab," my friend answered. "Bevi qualcosa e conosci le donne." (Many things, Fab. Have a drink and meet women.)

"Ho avuto abbastanza donne nella mia vita, Ander." I chuckled. "Andiamo a bere qualcosa, penso che sarebbe una buona idea." (I've had enough women in my life, Ander. Let's just go for a drink, I think that would be a good idea.)

"I agree," Rafael said. "Conosco un bar dove vendono bevande autentiche di fascia alta. Dovremmo andarci." (I know a bar where they sell high-end authentic drinks. We should go there.)

"Portaci lì, Raf," I said. (Take us there, Raf.)

When they informed me that we should go to Sicily, I didn't hesitate since I have my own house there. They could stay at my place, but they decided to have their own rooms just near the city.

"Cosa c'è di speciale in questo posto, Raf?" I asked. (What's special in this place, Raf?)

"Vedrai." He smirked. (You'll see.)

"Ho vissuto in Sicilia per un quarto della mia vita, ma non sono mai stato in questo posto." (I have lived in Sicily for a quarter of my life, but I've never been to this place.)

He cackled. "Allora immagino che tu sia andato solo al tuo bar di fascia alta preferito di questo locale." (Then I guess you only went to your favorite high-end bar than this local.)

"Fair enough."

When we walked inside the bar premises, we were attended to by the staff.

"We're sorry to keep you waiting," the staff said. "I would take your order."

"Where's the other girl staff I was talking to here earlier?" Ander asked.

"Oh, Jacinta?" she queried. "She left... there's just an emergency."

"Jacinta?" I asked.

"Si," the staff said.

"Perché, Fabio? Conosci quella ragazza?" Ander questioned. (Why, Fabio? Do you know that girl?)

I shook my head. "Nothing... just know someone with that name, too. Didn't know it was common. Comunque, prendero 'un po' del tuo miglior rum." (Anyway, I'll get some of your finest rum.)

She took the rest of our orders and left us alone and they started asking me about thinking of a woman's name after that scenario. They thought I was missing out on someone else and I needed to get it tonight, but no, I just thought of someone else.

After a few months, I just remembered her.

She was the one I met back in the Philippines and when I left the country as well, haven't heard anything from her so I guess I'm just one of his collected men for her satisfaction.

A moment later, our drinks have been served along with their specialty snacks. It was the owner, Alessandro who served us. He's very welcoming and attentive to us. I like his personality. It was my first time going into this place. I've been around in Sicily for a quarter of my life and I haven't been to local places like this one.

It's good to discover new places though.

In the next few days, I'll be busy once again. I have a meeting with a business partner who owns a vineyard.

"You know I wouldn't be able to join you in the next few days?" I told them. "Luckily, I've found a business partner here in Sicily. Heard his business has a good stand and have tried their produced wine before, I really liked it. This week I'll be visiting them. Do you guys want to come with me?"

"I would if I don't have another plan," Ander said.

"Same," Rafael added. "Just take us home some wine. We would love to taste them."

"I for sure will."

As the comes day, I visit Andrei, my new business partner in town. When we met and discussed a few things, he was about to be something else, yet we found someone else—someone very familiar to me.

When I saw her, I look at her from my head and my eyes dropped from her growing stomach. She's pregnant as to what it looks like. She tried covering them with her bag and I shifted my eyes back on her, but it seems like she was trying to avoid any eye contact with me now.

"Well, Fabio, I want you to meet our new Sommelier. She's Jacinta Verzosa and this is our new business partner. I'm sure you remember him from yesterday's visit. This is Fabio Giordano," he introduced us.

"Piacere di conoscerti, Jacinta," I said, reaching for her hand. (Nice to meet you, Jacinta.)

But she looked at me for quite a few seconds and accepted it. "Piacere mio, signore." (Nice to meet you, too, sir.)

"When is your due?" I asked. Something out of curiosity because the last time we met back in the Philippines, she was pretty single.

"Next month," she answered.

"And it's her first day today," Andrei said.

"Yeah," she muttered.

"Well, I gotta go, for now, Andrei. Tornerò presto," I said, shifting my attention to Andrei. (I'll be back soon.)

"Quando vuoi, Fabio," Andrei said. "Excuse us, Jacinta."

When we left, that was the time I couldn't get her off of my head. I tried to think she got pregnant with someone else, but I didn't expect to be here in Sicily. That's odd. Why was she here? And how is she pregnant?

For the past few days, I couldn't that thought out of my head so I decided to visit the vineyard once again.

"Salve, signore. E ' un piacere rivederti!" Esther, the receptionist greeted me as I entered the premises. "Cosa posso fare per te? Sta cercando Sir Andrei?" (Hello, sir. Nice to see you, again! What can I do for you? Are you looking for Sir Andrei?)

I shook my head. "Non proprio. Sono venuto qui per Jacinta Versoza. E ' in giro?" (Not really. I came here for Jacinta Versoza. Is she around?)

She nodded. "Sì! La chiamo. Scusami." (Yes! I'll call her. Excuse me.)

"Prego. Ringraziamento." (Please. Thank you.)

When Esther left her area to look for Jacinta, I prepared what I would say. I've been thinking about what would say to her for the past few days, but I know I'll fuck this up. A moment later, she came back, and behind her was Jacinta.

She looked at me like she wants to run somewhere else. She was not going anywhere and kept avoiding my stares so I walked toward her.

"You should come with me," that sounded so authoritative but I didn't mean to sound like that.

She shook her head. "Why would I come with you?" She then looked into my eyes. "I'm leaving..."

And before she could even pass on me, I grabbed her arm. "Please. I mean no harm."

"Fine, whatever you want to say, go on."

Esther's watching us and she might be wondering why we're talking like this. She knows I'm a business partner and Jacinta shouldn't be talking to me like that.

"Come with me."

"And where?"

"Wherever."

She let out a defeated sigh. "Wait a moment."

She turned around and went to talk to Esther. I don't know what they talked about, but it seems like Esther agreed.

"I'm coming with you," she said. "Let's go."

She walked out of the building and followed her. I directed her to my car and I still don't know where to go, but I'd like to take this opportunity to talk to her alone and whatever she may be dealing with, I need to know that. At first, she doesn't want to get into my car and said we don't even need to do so, but she ended up next sitting next to me.

While we were on our way, she couldn't stop talking.

"If you're going to kidnap me, you're in the wrong place to do that," she warned me. "This might be your home country, but you can't always do what you want."

I sighed and focused on driving.

"I don't wanna fight with you, Jacinta," I calmly uttered. "I just want to talk with you."

"We can talk now. We could've talked in the vineyard in the first place," she reasoned.

I didn't say anything, but she remained silent for the rest of the trip because I feel like she was just trying to get away with me. But we made it to my home.

"Come on," I said, shutting down the engine and then stepping out of the car. But when I opened the door on her side, she doesn't want to come out. "Please, Jacinta..."

"We could've talked somewhere else," she reiterated. "You don't even have to bring me here... but I'm not leaving my seat. I prefer we should go to some public places."

"Is that what you want?" I asked. She didn't answer my question so how am I supposed to know what should I do? I just went back inside the car and seated next to her. "We'll go anywhere you want. Just tell me where?

"I know a place," she uttered.

"And where would that be?"

"Il bar Catalano," she mentioned a familiar place. "I'll just point you in the direction."

"Then let's go there."

She pointed me to where to go and I'll go where could that be, but as I get familiarized with the directions we were going, it seems I know where we are going until we reached the bar she was talking about.

"I remember this place," I said. "I've been here the other night... I think." I looked at her she immediately shifted her attention away from me.

We stepped out of the car and headed inside the bar, but she immediately turned to face me and said, "stay here for a second."

"Alright," I answered then put my hands in my jeans pockets.

She went looking for someone else and then at that point, I've come to the realization that the name they mentioned when I was here before was the same girl I'd met. So, basically, her name's not even that common.

I was wrong.

And then I found her talking to the bar owner, if I could recall his name correctly, it was Alessandro. After they talked, she went back for me and directed me to where we would sit. It's a two-seat table just right at the corner.

"So... what do you want to say?" she started. "I don't have a lot of time."

"Back in the Philippines," I started. "When we're together, are you pregnant?"

She smirked. "Back when we were together. I wasn't pregnant. That was almost eight months ago."

"Obviously, and you could be on your eight-month now."

She shook her head. "I'm sorry to break it to you, but you're not the father of this child. I'm on my five-month... if it was yours, I should've been on my due. But no. Be happy, you're not the father."

"Hmm..." I hummed leaning my back on the chair and tapped my finger on the table. That doesn't make sense from what she said the other day. She said she was due next month. She could be lying. "Who's the father then?"

"It's none of your business," she answered.

I smirked. "Is it the bartender?"

Her brow rose sharply. "He's not just a bartender. He's the owner of this bar."

"Oh, I see..." I grinned. "And why are you in Sicily now?"

"Bakit bawal ba?"

I chuckled. "I was just asking. Maybe... you were looking for me."

She murmured something else, but I wasn't able to understand them. "I'm not in Italy because I was looking for you. 'Wag kang assuming. I'm here—I'm here to ano..." She swallowed. "But why would you even care kung sabihin ko? You never even cared for me."

My brows crossed at what she said. I guess she's really lying. Or not?

"Why would you say that? You're the one who pushed me away, Jacinta. I cared for you. You never answer my calls and messages anymore."

"And yet you easily found someone to fill that—ewan. Babaero."

"Are you sure, Jacinta?" I questioned.

She confidently answers, "yes. Is there anything you want to tell me?"

"Once you gave birth, let's test the baby for DNA."

Her eyes grow big and quickly refused by shaking her head. "I won't do that. I will never do that for you. As you have heard from me, this baby is not yours."

While we were talking, the bar owner come to attend to us.

"Is there something going on in here?" he asked.

I looked at him and stand up. "Nothing... I was just about to leave. And congrats to your baby... if that was even yours."

I patted his shoulder and I walked out of the place getting nowhere I stand on Jacinta. I know I really don't have to care about her anymore, but what happened between us before this was at the top of my concern.

And I couldn't stop myself until Jacinta tells the truth to me. I followed her wherever she goes. I also accidentally found her one day going to work on a Vespa which is nice, but not good transportation for her in her condition. I tried my best to get her attention, but she was mad at me.

And I don't know why she's getting so mad at me. What did I do to be treated this way?

She kept telling me that I'm not the father of her child—there's something inside of me talking that in some way, I would be lucky if I'm not, but on the other hand, I am scared if it was really mine.

When I finally persuaded her to come into my house, I know she was just doing it so I'll eventually stop bugging her, but she doesn't know that I'm pursuing her back—even if the action doesn't seem to be what she sees.

But when I asked someone if there was a one-day result of a DNA test available here in Sicily, some say they know so they referred me there. I told Jacinta we would be taking a DNA test so we could prove whether the baby inside her would be mine or not. She was hesitant at first, but she also knows I would stop bothering her when the result comes out.

And then the result comes out, it was mine.

There are a lot of emotions overflowing between me and Jacinta, but I guess she knows the truth all this time and just doesn't want to say anything to me. I don't care if she did that at some point. But I was ready to take that responsibility even though everything seems so abrupt and shocking to me.

Still, it's something I cannot argue about anymore. Fatherhood should be celebrated and I hope Jacinta will see me as someone who's a good father for our child.

When she stayed with me, I know I have to step up my game. There are things I know I can't fill from the times I have missed her out. I tried my best to do what I can to offer her and she's been adjusting herself as well I don't want to push myself on her since we're trying to keep everything in place.

For now, I'm happy I got to see them grow and actually be there for her. From the time of her pregnancy and to her due, I was cracking nervous. I'm not sure if I was doing the right thing for her, but it seems like what I'm doing is on the right track—or that's what I thought.

Jacinta and I are trying to get along with our differences. I felt that she was quite giving me some distance and that's what I want to work out with her. It seems like for the past months, she's been all by herself.

I've asked her once why she didn't let anyone know back in the Philippines.

She replied, "who will care?"

That's the point where it all processed to me. Somehow, Jacinta's been trying to avoid all the people she cares for and who care for her back in the Philippines for getting pregnant—which I didn't really expect.

I know, there's still something that she's blaming me for it. Like how I'd left her without saying a word.

And when the moment comes for her to give birth, it was hell for me. I was just downstairs when she called me on my phone and I couldn't distinguish what she was trying to say until it popped into my head what was happening.

I rush to see her and quickly carried her. We prepared for this moment, but it seems like even when we practiced what we should do, there are things we still cannot get away from.

But all the worry went away when she gave a birth fine to our first child—Matteo Ruffino Giordano.

I couldn't be much happier to see her happy and see the face of our baby boy. For the past few months, I wasn't even expecting to be a father. I was living the best life as a bachelor—getting all the things I want, doing what I want to do, and traveling where I want to.

I don't blame her for coming to Italy just for me to discover her pregnancy, but it was also a perfect moment for me to set my mind straight on what I should be doing. It took her a few days to stay in the hospital for a further check-up on her and our baby. All went fine after that and so we're ready to go home.

Jacinta could see on my face how happy I am. This may still be shocking for me that I'm a real father, but I've got no time to process it since it's here—Matteo's out in this world.

Before she got discharged from the hospital, I've been thinking about a little celebration we should do. When my parents told me they will be visiting us, I thought it would also be a good time to set up dinner. I called everyone who should be with us that night, most importantly Alessandro, which I know Jacinta would hate me if I didn't invite him.

On that day, a few hours before dinner, I kept myself busy. I know she still hasn't had the chance to talk with my parents. But I do let them know about it, obviously, they were a little surprised but then again, they were happy for me—and mama even made sure that the kid was mine or this girl could be just an opportunist trying to get some of my money.

Well, in fact, that's not the case.

Alessandro was the first one who came into our house. Obviously, he quickly check-in with Jacinta as if he was the father. Sometimes I wonder what's with both of them. Are they just friends or there's something I need to worry about?

But to what it seems, maybe I shouldn't have. I'm better than him.

After a moment, her relatives arrived. Lilian and Stefano together with their son Lorenzo. When I called them, they said to me that their son visited for a vacation and would also love to meet Jacinta and her baby. It wasn't really a problem for me. I'm doing this for Jacinta so I know I'm taking her seriously.

When everything was done and prepared for the night, my parents then arrived. When I introduced them to Jacinta, I was so nervous. I know mom is a little bit intrusive when it comes to people, especially those whom I see. I know it's not her business, but I guess she couldn't just stop herself from doing so.

They all met and side by side, Jacinta and I are feeling okay, but terrified. They all come to meet Matteo which is the center of the celebration. I'm happy that my parents didn't push them away as if they were after something, yet they welcomed them with open arms.

That's just how I wanted it.

The dinner went great from the start, we're all having a good time. Even though I'm feeling Jacinta a little anxious about what was happening, I understand her. I mean, I told her everything will be fine and I'm not sure if that helps her, I just hope it does.

When Matteo cries catching everyone's attention, Jacinta excuses herself just so she can keep him calm down. A moment later, my house staff called me someone was looking for me. At that moment, I found Alessandro and Jacinta talking—again, but I didn't mind what I was seeing when an uninvited guest arrived.

She walks in surprising all of us, especially me whom I didn't even reach out.

"Buonasera, Fabrizio," she greeted with open arms.

I'm still shocked, for months I haven't heard anything from her, and then she's back with a grown stomach. She went straight to me and gave me a tight so that I could feel her big bump touching my lower body. She kissed me on both cheeks and her enthusiasm makes me more confused.

My parents then saw her and were happy to see her. Of course, they knew her. When we're together, she's staying at our house in Rome most of the time so they really knew her.

They hugged her, seeing much more affection than what they gave to Jacinta. Maybe because they've known her for so long. I couldn't argue with that.

"Sono così felice di essere qui!" she exclaimed. (I'm so happy to be here!"

"We are too, darling," mom replied.

"E 'passato cosi' tanto tempo... Mi sento come se ci fossero un sacco di cose che voglio dirvi!" (It's been so long... I feel like there are a lot of things I want to tell you!)

"I bet you do, hun," mom giggled.

When Matteo cried, our attention shifted back to where Jacinta is. She immediately excuses herself to go to the bedroom because Matteo might be tired now and need some resting.

I haven't had the chance to check up on them in the bedroom, but know Alessandro followed them there. It seems like I couldn't get away with Giana. We went to the yard as I'd prepared a little bar stand and some snacks out there.

My parents joined us in the yard with Giana and Lorenzo while Lilian and her husband chose to stay inside the house.

"For real, Giana. You could've told me."

She giggled. "Then it wouldn't be a surprise, though? Well, that's what we're planning when I met your parents so we thought it would be a nice thing to do. And aren't you happy to see me?"

"I am, of course, but I didn't expect to see you here tonight."

"Oh... is it because of your wife?"

"She's not my wife, yet."

She smirked. "Then I still have a chance on you, Fabby." She rubbed her hand on her stomach.

"Not funny."

"Well..." She chuckled. "Who was she anyway? I know I haven't met her before."

"You haven't. We met back in the Philippines... and it's a little complicated to talk about it right now."

"Oh..." she muttered. "I like complicated stuff... really."

I scoffed at her response.

A moment later, I saw Jacinta coming out to the yard with Alessandro by her side. I wave at her to join where we are now. They both joined us—really thought this guy would leave us alone for now.

"Hi," she said as she joined us.

I found Lorenzo busy talking with my parents. I know they're only talking about business because as far as I know, they mentioned earlier on dinner they'd meet each other once back in Milan during a convention. What a small world I guess.

"Sei cosi carina," Giana said. (You look so nice.) "E come ti chiami? Scusa, colpa mia." Giana laughed. Jacinta responded with a laugh as well. (And what's your name again? Sorry, my bad.)

"Non vi siete ancora conosciuti formalmente," I said. "Giana ti presento Jacinta, la mia compagna. Jacinta ti presento Giana, mia amica." (Both of you haven't formally met yet. Giana meet Jacinta, my partner. Jacinta meet Giana, my friend.)

"Piacere di conoscerti, Giana," Jacinta said, shaking her hand. (Nice to meet you, Giana.)

"You seemed so soft, Jacinta. I like that," Giana said, giggling. "Fabrizio mentioned to me that he met you in the Philippines. Am I right?"

Jacinta nodded. "Si."

"Cool, the Philippines is such a lovely place. Did you know I modeled there one time?"

Jacinta shook her head.

"Oh, that's alright. But now you know me, you'll know me when I'm back in the Philippines again. Oh, you'll be going back there, right?"

Jacinta looked at me as if she was saying something to me with those stares.

"To tell you the truth, as much as I love to say here in Sicily, the Philippines is my home so you're right, I'll be going back there."

"That's still in the planning process," I interjected. "We haven't really talked about it yet, but we will."

"Oh, you'll go there, too?"

I smirked. "Why not, right? I could've—we could stay there for good."

"That's big," Giana said. "But it's your decision... but you've got something you cannot take away from your life here in Sicily. You know that. "

"You're actually blooming in your pregnancy stage," Jacinta shifted the conversation to her. "We'll I haven't seen your pre-pregnancy looks, but you look awesome... how long it has been now?"

"I lost count in weeks, but it's going around 7 months," she answered. "It's my due in September, but at that time I'll be in Milan. If you have time, you guys can visit me there."

"I have a plan to go to Milan," I said. "Of course, with Jacinta and Matteo."

"I just wanna ask," Jacinta interrupted. "How did the two of you meet? It seems like the two of you have known each other for a very long time."

"Has it been a long time?" Giana wondered, looking at me as if she was questioning me with those stares—ah women. "I don't think so... Fabio's my ex," Giana continued. "And that's something we don't talk about anymore, but remain good friends. I guess that's where we should leave that."

"Oh..."

"And where's your partner?" Jacinta asked.

"Where do you think?" she questioned me back with a smirk plastered on her face.

"Do you want some drink, Ja?" Ale put his hands on her shoulder. She responded with a nod. "Sure, I'll be back."

"Who was that though?" Giana asked pertaining to Alessandro. "Your friend?"

"Yes," she replied.

"How long have you known each other?"

"Since the moment I came here to Sicily," she answered. "Less than eight months. He's been there with me for the whole time of my pregnancy. He actually owns the bar in the city where I worked for a couple of months just to save up some money."

"Hm..." she hummed, creasing her forehead. "This doesn't make sense to me. So, where have you been all the time?" She looked at Fabio and put him in the spotlight.

"I was away," I said. "That's a long story."

"Oh, I don't care, I'm all ears anyway and I've got time," Giana said.

I chuckled shaking my head. "No, you don't. I think you need to go home and get some rest." I looked at Jacinta. "You, too, Jacinta."

But a moment later, Alessandro came back with a glass of wine and she took one.

"I'll take my wine first.

Giana smirked and tapped me on the shoulder. "I like her, Fab."

"Well, I do, too."

Then I was called by my parents to join them and I guess we'll talk about business on family time. Giana also excuses herself to the bathroom, Jacinta offered her help, but she declined.

When I joined them, as I expected, they asked me about business stuff and I was just answering whatever they throw at me. But suddenly, all our attention banged up when we heard Giana scream inside.

I rushed inside the house and searched for her. I found her slammed on the bathroom floor. I quickly helped, but she couldn't help herself to stand up so I have to get her up. Everybody watches us and because Giana's in her fragile condition, the only thing I can do is to bring her to the hospital.

I did and when we get there, she was in the emergency room. After an hour, they made me see her and told me everything would be fine and nothing dangerous occurred, but they let her stay in the hospital until she finally recovers from her fall.

She was sent into a private room, as I also requested.

"What are you still doing here, Fabio?" Giana asked me.

"I'm here for you."

She smirked, shaking her head. "I'm fine and you've heard them that I just need to rest. Nothing bad will happen to me. I just had a bad slip in the bathroom there and I'll be fine. I think it's better for you to go home."

"What about you?"

"I'll be fine," she said. "My baby's fine as well, so there's nothing to worry about. And you have a baby back home and your partner, Jacinta might also be worried. You should give them a call or whatever."

I've received a few messages from her upon checking my phone and she could be sleeping by now. Should I still give her a call?

"I think you should go home now, Fabio."

"Alright, if you say so..." I stood up and took a deep breath. "But I just wanna ask you, what happened between us in Milan before isn't the result of this, right?"

She cackled, shaking her head. "Oh, Fabio! I know I could prank you big time, but no... this baby isn't yours. It was from my German partner. He was a model, but he's back in Germany now so I guess he'll freak out once he found out that I'm pregnant because we haven't seen each other for a long time."

"I guess, that's on you now," I said.

"Well, I have a flight to catch up on... but for now, I'll take a rest and you should go home."

"Okay." I went to her and gave her a hug. "Take care of yourself."

"You, too..." she said, patting my shoulder. "And be a good father to your son, I know you are..."

When I left the hospital, I was really excited to meet them back home. I know I shouldn't have just left earlier, but there was an emergency and we all panicked at that moment.

As I arrived back home and entered the house, I found Alessandro and Jacinta in the living room asleep. I took a deep breath and went on to wake Alessandro up. I thought it should kick him out of the house, but he kept Jacinta accompanied while I was away.

I let him stay while I carried Jacinta back into her room and suddenly, she comes so furious about what happened, but I just made her assured that everything was fine.

After that night, everything went back to normal. From Matteo's weekly check-up and me busy going to work. I've had a lot on my plate and I couldn't seem to get away with them. I'm not sure if things are going so well for us, but one night, it pulled a straw on me and I couldn't help myself but fight with her.

I was so tired that I don't have enough time for it. I've just got from hectic work and I couldn't handle any more stress back at home where it is supposed to be a resting place for me.

I left Jacinta mad at me, and so the next day, that's when I regret everything. I couldn't find her everywhere in the house. Even some of her things are gone... that's how I know she must've run somewhere else.

I only know a few places she could've run into, at first I tried checking in on her at the vineyard, but Esther told me she hasn't seen her around from the last time she was here. Even Andrei who was at that premises asked me why I was looking for Jacinta then I just said, she might be going to some places without saying a word to me.

Those are just the reasons I said because I'm still not sure what she had done.

If she wasn't at the vineyard, she could be at the Catalano Bar.

I went in looking for Alessandro and he seems to be avoiding me.

"C'è Jacinta?" I questioned, but he kept on ignoring me. "Ehi. Te lo sto chiedendo. E ' qui?" (Is Jacinta here? Hey. I'm asking you. Is she here?)

"Trovi qui da qualche parte nel bar? No, vero?" (Do you find here anywhere in the bar? No, right?)

"Te lo chiedo con rispetto." (I'm asking you respectfully.)

"E rispondo anche alla tua domanda con rispetto." (And I'm answering your question respectfully, too.)

"Sai dov'e', no? Devi nasconderla." (You know where she is, 'no? You must be hiding her.)

He laughed evilly. "Stai scherzando, Fabrizio. Non sto nascondendo Giacinta quando in realtà, dovresti sapere dove si trova ora perché sei il padre di suo figlio. Pensaci." (You gotta be kidding me, Fabrizio. I'm not hiding Jacinta when in fact, you should know where she is now because you're the father of her child. Think of that.)

"E penso che tu stia parlando troppo." (And I think you're talking too much.)

"Vuoi che parli, vero? Ora lo sono." (You want me to talk, right? I am now.)

I smirked. "She must be fucking you that's why you're hiding her."

His eyes widened with anger when I said that statement. "Fuck you, Fabio."

"Don't lie to my face right now. I know you like her."

He smirked. "And what if I say I do and I could do much for her than what you are doing for her."

"I guess, that's it."

I wasn't able to stop myself and jumped on him and throw punches in his face. She was trying to get to me but wasn't able to do so when people around us immediately kept us away from each other. I didn't take much time at his place since I feel like I couldn't get much more from him and I'm only gonna hurt myself.

The next people I know would know where she could be. I went to Ferucci's house. They were a little surprised when I showed up without saying any word, but I've come to them with one thing to ask and that's where their niece is now.

And Lilian said to me, Jacinta flew back to the Philippines and it hasn't been twenty-four hours since it has been. I was to make a decision to follow her there, but Lilian said I should leave her be for now and I'm not sure what to do with their suggestion.

So, I kept that in mind for a few days until I received a message on my Instagram from someone else saying she was with Jacinta.

@ShairaGalvancio

Hello, Fabrizio! This is Shai. I know we've met a long time ago, but I know you know my friend, Jacinta Verzosa... she has your baby and I don't think she'll carry this through. If you see this, please respond. Thank you!

After reading that message from her, I quickly called her.

"Hey," I started as soon as she accepted the call.

"Hello?"

"Are you sure you're with Jacinta?"

"Yes. I wouldn't lie about that."

"Okay. How is she?"

"She's doing great... she's happy, but sometimes I found her sad and she doesn't have enough money to support her baby. I'm trying, but I don't earn that much. Letting them stay in my condo is the only thing I could offer, but supporting her baby is something I can't afford, but I'm trying to."

'Sure, here's what I would you to do. I'll transfer money, fifty thousand to your bank account and buy and get what she needed and for the trouble, she may have caused you. I'll do this until I got into the Philippines and get her back here."

"Okay... that would be helpful for me."

"Just send me your bank details and we'll take it from there."

After our conversation, she's been sending me a few updates about what they do and some photos. I didn't want her to mention to Jacinta that we were talking. It's part of what we've agreed.

Jacinta doesn't have any idea I know where she is and what she was doing. So, a few days before I flew to the Philippines, I hire someone to look for her back in the Philippines and send me updates on all her whereabouts.

I thought it was a good thing to do since it would help me locate her. One night when the person I hired said he found Jacinta in a bar, I made sure he kept an eye on her.

He said Jacinta and Shai attended a party there and she was drinking. I just landed in the Philippines when I received that message and I couldn't imagine what will happen next so I told him what he needs to do.

At midnight, he took Jacinta away and get her into one of the hotel rooms I rented for her. I was thinking I made the right choice to do this to her, but then when I finally showed up and she was so mad at me, I didn't stop her.

I let her go, but I wouldn't want a life without her.

I went to face Shai and paid her one last time and made her call Jacinta. She did and there I found where she was staying. I made her tell lies because I know Jacinta wouldn't tell the truth.

I ended everything with Shai from that moment and a few days later, I showed up at his parent's home. She was shocked and told me to leave as if she doesn't really want me to be in her life.

All I could ask was to get her back, not in Sicily yet, but in my life. It feels like everything revolves around her now and I couldn't move on with the life I had right now without her.

So, I told her the truth. Everything. From the start and up until the very moment.

I didn't want to throw Shai under the bus, but it was part of the lies so I had to admit them and find their way to the light. It has to. It has to be.

But she ended up pushing me away even though I'd learned my lessons and told her the truth. All those things aren't enough for her.

Before I leave their house at that moment, his father talked to me.

"Do you really love my daughter?" he asked genuinely.

I nodded. "Yes, that's why I came here. That's all I ever wanted to do. For Jacinta and for our baby. But I feel like she doesn't want me anymore and I don't know what to do."

"Are you giving up now?" he questioned.

I shook my head. "I have no plan of giving up."

"That's what I would like to hear."

I thought Jacinta's father would hate me and punch me in the face as well, but he's treating me differently right now. Far from what I expected.

"Pursue her back, if that's what you really want. You've got a family on here and you don't wanna lose that. Don't go back to Italy until you have her back. You'll lose her forever when you do."

I was silent when he said that. Totally makes sense.

He patted my shoulder. "Talk to her, just not right now. Go back to the other day, you're still welcome at our house. For now, you should go home."

I sighed and nodded. "Thanks for the advice."

"I've been in a very complicated situation before, so I know what it feels like. I've been there so I don't my daughter to go through that situation. Fix it with her. I believe in you, okay?"

I nodded with confidence and determination. "I will. I'll make sure of that."

That night, I didn't expect to find Jacinta in the bar. I kept my distance from her even though I could the bartender was trying to hit on her. I have to keep some space for now, but she has been drinking and drinking... I'm not sure when to step in because I feel like she'll push me away. But when night's getting too deep and I feel like she's not going anywhere, but to get drunk.

I stepped in, paid her bill, and get her out of the bar.

When I brought her into my car, I know she couldn't fully recognize me, but when she does, she wants to get out of my car. I didn't let her do it so I drive until something between us happened that night. I brought her to my condo as if nothing happened and later that morning, she woke up realizing what happened between us.

I thought she'll leave me once again, but she stayed and talk through with me the terms we'll agree on regarding co-parenting our child.

From that moment, I thought this was it, I am at the point where I am getting everything back with me, but I know it'll take her time for that. I can wait. I can wait for her for as long as I can.

She went back to her parent's house every day. I visit them bringing gifts of what I could think about. His parents are lovely. They welcome me with open arms and they didn't push me away like a stranger.

But I thought that day would end just as quickly as I thought.

The only thing we've both agreed on, I can visit them every day, but I have to go back home to my condo in Makati. I was driving back home when a reckless teen driver crashed into my car while I'm at the stoplight. When that happened, I thought life was done with me now and all the things I had in life flashed right in front of my face, especially my family... they are the only thing I could see before everything went black.

The next day, luckily, I am still alive with minor injuries. Death could have gone my way, but maybe I was spared because there are still a lot of things I need to do—things I need to work out.

When they found out about the accident, they rushed to see me in the hospital and see if I'm still alive. I am... and I was glad to see when Jacinta's face so concerned when she saw me.

At that moment, I know I'll spend my whole wither and I'm sure of that. Thinking about it, when I got discharged from the hospital and had to stay in the condo to further recover from my condition, her parents visited us and while she was away, I took the chance on talking to them.

"I'd keep this straight and forward because she might come any minute now, but I would like to get your permission or whatever is that to marry your daughter. To marry Jacinta."

They both looked at each other as if it was something they didn't expect to hear, but all those silences were treated immediately with a smile.

Jacinta's father patted my shoulder. "Just be a good partner for her... and don't ever hurt her. Be a good father to her child and do whatever it takes to make her happy because we're accepting your proposal to marry our daughter... and think it's time..."

"Love her," her mom said. "That's what she needs. Love her as much as you want, as much as you will, for the rest of your life..."

"And if you hurt her, you'll never see her again."

I nodded. "I promise that—"

We weren't able to finish what we are talking about when she came in. She didn't ask what we were talking about, but I felt so much relief in my chest when I got their approval. And it was just in time when she found out she could be pregnant... and I think it was the best time for me to make a move.

We're both surprised that something formed about what we did the last time, but it brought us so much more together. Before I could propose to her, I talked to my parents and they are supporting me and they wished they were here to witness that.

I was so happy that I thought would end, but I feel like I was reborn and get to experience all these good things.

Before the day I intended to propose to her, I called someone close to her.

"Ale," I started.

"Fabio... what's this call for?"

I took a deep breath. "I know the last time we met wasn't the best, and I'd like to make up for it sometime soon. And I'm sorry for coming at you like that..."

"Sure..."

"Jacinta's pregnant," I told him. "It's gonna be our second baby."

He was silent for a few seconds until he responded. "Wow, I see... congrats to both of you."

"Thank you... and yeah, I would like to tell you that I'm going to propose to her."

"Oh..." he muttered. "Okay? But why are you telling me about it?"

"You're her best friend, and I want you to know it, too."

He scoffed. "It seems like you're asking for my approval."

I smirked. "Does it sound like it?"

"Yeah." He laughed. "But on a serious note, if you love her, do it. Just don't hurt her again. Don't run away from her. Do it. Fabio. Marry her."

I chuckled. "I will... thanks, Ale."

"Yeah... I'd appreciate you coming to me, good luck!"

I bought a ring she wasn't aware of. Her parents are my accomplice, they do have an idea about it, but they don't that I'm doing it today.

After getting the positive result of her pregnancy from the doctor, we drove to her parent's house. She doesn't know it yet, but I was so nervous that I feel like I'm gonna throw up and murder what I will do.

The news about Jacinta's pregnancy for our second child made them happy telling us if it would be the reason we were heading back to Italy. But I wouldn't push her if she doesn't want it, I'll respect so I finally make the next step and my other knee slowly landed on the floor with their eyes on me.

"Jacinta," I stared. I could feel my chest going to explode at any minute and I hate it. "We may have gone through difficult times and all those things we have to suffer along the way, but we still made it. Amidst our differences, I know we're made for each other. Jacinta Alessa Versoza, Ti amo e mi piacerebbe passare il resto della mia vita con te e con la nostra famiglia. Giacinta, vuoi essere la mia Sicilia?" (I love you and I would love to spend the rest of my life with you and with our family. Jacinta, will you be my Sicily?)

And the reality hits me... will I ever get an answer?

She'd look at the ring on my hand and shift her eyes on me. But then she smiled, something assured me. "Sì, amore mio. Mi piacerebbe essere la tua Sicilia." (Yes, my love. I would love to be your Sicily.)

I slide the ring on her finger and stand up to kiss her, hugging her tightly. We see people around us so happy for us. I guess, this marks a new journey for us... something to look forward to and forget all the lies behind as this new phase of our relationship birth a new hope for love and a place for love.

END
end of world trip series 9

#BirthOfLiesInSicily #BOLISEpilogue #WTS9