Feeling Hopeful

Ethan's POV

I couldn't contain my anxiousness as I contemplated my conversation with Vince. Every passing moment felt heavier than the last. The thought of Meliza choosing my cousin over me gnawed at my mind like an unshakable shadow.

Vince had everything, while I didn't have the money, freedom, or ability to offer her the kind of life she wanted. I was stuck here, stripped of my access to my things, bank account, and cards, and I couldn't even tell my new friends who I really was.

The weight of regret in my chest was a constant reminder of the time and money I had wasted, knowing I could never get them back. But what hurt even more was the look of disappointment in my father's eyes that haunted me in my sleep.

I knew I had to rebuild my father's trust and prove to him that I could be better. At first, I wished to prove him wrong and be on my own. But then I met Meliza. She changed everything. Her presence gave me a new purpose, a reason to not just fix what I had broken but truly become someone better, not just for my father but for her and for myself.

And working at Adriana's farm taught me the true value of hard work. It made me realize how much effort and perseverance it takes to earn a living. It was a humbling experience that gave me a deeper appreciation for the opportunities and privileges I have as the son of a successful businessman. It reminded me not to take my blessings for granted and inspired me to strive for success while respecting the hard work of others.

And even though my chance to be with Meliza was slim since I listened to the rumors, I was a jerk for hurting her countless times. I was hopeful she would give me a chance to date her.

From the start, I made it clear, intentionally or not, that I didn't like Iza. I kept my distance, my words clipped and indifferent, and my actions often left her feeling unwanted. It wasn't something I did out of malice but rather a defense, a way to keep my own feelings in check. Yet, in doing so, I unknowingly built a wall between us that only seemed to grow higher with every interaction.

I was on my way to the dining hall when I crossed paths with Vince, and he looked so happy.

"Hey buddy, I wanted to be honest with you. I actually already asked Meliza out on a date, and she said yes. I hope we're cool." Vince declared with a wide grin on his face.

I felt a mix of emotions wash over me. My face froze for a moment, and I'm sure my expression gave away my surprise and disappointment. I forced a small smile, trying to mask how I felt, but inside, there was a tight knot in my chest. I felt a twinge of jealousy and sadness, but I also knew I had to respect her choice and my cousin's happiness. But I am not giving up.

I didn't think Iza would make Vince her boyfriend after just one date. I could tell she was different from any girl I knew, and based on how she looked at my cousin, I didn't think she liked him more than friends. I didn't want to make my hopes up, but I have witnessed that, and I wish I wasn't wrong.

"You better do your best, for it might be your last chance to take her on a date," I replied, and he chuckled.

I felt glad we had an agreement, and I was excited to woe Meliza; too bad Vince had the advantage since everybody thought he was my father's son, and he had already asked her out. I needed to do something about it, and I didn't want to play dirty, but I wouldn't allow Vince to win her love, and ruin my chance to be with her.

"You don't need to feel pressured, Ethan. Iza said no. I only wanted to see the priceless reaction on your face. I saw it and finally understood what she meant for you." Vince revealed he was only joking about Iza saying yes to his date proposal.

I felt a surge of relief wash over me. The tension that had built up in my chest immediately eased, and I couldn't help but laugh, even though I was still a bit annoyed at being tricked. My heart was racing, and I realized how much I cared about Meliza. At the same time, I felt a bit foolish for falling for Vince's joke, but mostly, I was just glad the situation wasn't real.

"Oh, really? She already turned you down, and why are you still confident that she will become your girlfriend?" I asked with a wide grin on my face.

I don't know if I had to feel happy that Iza told me she would be having a date with Vince when I asked her out or to be worried that she used my cousin as an excuse so she could turn my invitation down.

"But it doesn't mean I surrender; I won't give up easily. I love her, Ethan. Don't celebrate yet because I will do everything to win Iza's heart." He replied, and I nodded.

I left my cousin's room and returned to mine with a smile on my face. At least Iza doesn't like Vince, and I hope I wasn't mistaken in reading her facial expression every time we were near each other.

"Hey, good morning, Iza. Can we talk?" I asked right after she got out of her assigned room, and I could see the shock on her face.

"Why are you here outside my room? If Nina finds out, you will be suspended, or if someone sees us, we will be in big trouble." She replied, avoiding my gaze as she looked around.

"Don't worry. It is still very early, and your room is far from them; no one will come here," I responded, and she furrowed her forehead as she looked at me.

She was wearing her floral dress, the one she wore on the first day I saw her, and I wished to buy her fancy clothes someday.

"You don't need to come here, Ethan," she said with seriousness.

"I know, but I wished to speak with you," I replied.

"If it is about work, I will entertain you, but if it is a personal matter, I am sorry, but I can't talk with you." She mumbled softly, darting her eyes nervously, scanning the area to ensure no one was watching us.

"Look, I knew you lied to me, but I understand you don't want to date me. But I hope you will give me a chance," I replied, and her face fell.

"Ethan, I don't date, and I already told you that," Iza replied firmly.

"I know, but all I am asking you is a chance, one date. I just want to treat you to a nice restaurant in town to show you my sincerity. I felt bad for judging you and for hurting you many times. I felt guilty and wouldn't stop feeling this way unless you gave me a chance to show you the better side of me." I declared, and she was silent as I looked at her with tenderness.

"Please, Iza," I begged.

"Ethan, you must leave now. There is no way I will go on a date with you. I hope you will respect my decision." Iza responded, avoiding eye contact.

"I will not leave here until you say yes; I can stay here outside your room for the rest of the day," I insisted, and Iza heavily sighed as she gave me a hard stare.

"You already saved me, and it was enough gesture to show me that you are a good person. I appreciate your intentions, but I hope you will respect my decision and give me the understanding I need." She declared.

"It wasn't enough. I had been harsh to you, and I want to make it up to you," I replied with puppy eyes.

"Okay, just one date," she said, and I jumped to my feet and shouted yes. I felt an overwhelming sense of excitement and relief.

My heart thumped with anticipation, and I couldn't help but smile, knowing that something I had hoped for was actually happening. There was a sense of possibility in the air, and I couldn't wait to see where it would lead, even if she told me it was just one date.

"Hey, don't yell, or else everybody will find out you are here." She shushed me.

"You make me feel so happy, Iza. Don't worry, I promise you, it will be one hell of a date. I will make sure to make it a day you won't forget for the rest of your life." I declared in more than a whisper.

I could tell she was holding back her laughter as she composed herself and stared at me. But the words that came out of her mouth were not what I was expecting. Girls in the city would always go crazy about me, even the girls here on the farm; even if they didn't know the real me, they still showed interest in me.

"Stop being so conceited. Remember, I only agreed to have a date with you since you were shouting. I don't want to get in trouble because of you." She declared, frowning at me.

"You better leave, Ethan," she dismissed me. Even if I still wanted to talk with her, I retreated to my room, feeling so excited about our upcoming date, hoping I could win her heart.