A 13-year-old provincial girl applied to be a maid but was surprised when she saw her own photo inside the mansion. Good day to you housewives. Now let’s open a new page containing the topic of pictures in the mansion. [Music] The weight on Lira’s chest could not be reduced as she walked out of their small house made of wood and thatch.

She felt the cold of the morning not only from the sound of the wind but also from the shock of the decision to leave her father for the time being. She was sitting on their old bench in front of the house. There was a blanket on her shoulders and her breathing was weak. “Son, are you sure?” the old man asked sarcastically as he followed her gaze.

Lira nodded and forced a smile as tears streamed down her cheeks. Yes, dad, we need it so we can buy your medicine. Her father held her hands. They were still warm even though his grip was weak. Always be careful there. Don’t be fooled and remember that no matter what happens, you will have a home to return to here.

Lira sighed and hugged him tightly. It was as if in that hug she wanted to pass on all the strength and love she had. She didn’t know how long it would be before they would meet again. So she tried to imprint every detail of her father’s face in her mind.

His deep eyes, the slight smile despite the pain and the wrinkles on his forehead that had grown from years of hard work. When the tricycle that would take her to town arrived, she tightly held her small bag. It wasn’t heavy. It only contained a few pieces of clothing, a few pieces of bread and a small bottle of water.

But inside that bag was hidden the only thing she couldn’t afford to lose. The old necklace she was wearing now. As the tricycle traveled along the narrow road of the village, Lira looked up at the sky. The sun was slowly peeking through the coconut trees. The birds could still be heard in the distance, as if they were also sending him greetings.

She closed her eyes for a moment, trying to hold back her tears. When they arrived in town, the bus terminal opened up before her. There were several people lined up with their luggage. She sat on a wooden bench. She held the fare in her hand. She didn’t know what Manila looked like, how big or chaotic it was, but she tried not to give in to fear. The bus finally arrived.

She approached. She handed over the fare and got inside. She chose the seat near the window. When the bus started, she just stared outside. Watching the familiar sights slowly disappear. The rice fields golden in the sunlight. The children playing on the side of the road and the wooden shops she often frequented.

In her mind, she kept repeating, I’ll save up. I’ll be back soon. I won’t let dad stay alone for long. As the bus moved, Lira lightly touched the necklace hanging around her neck. It was faded with a small scratch in the middle. But to her, it had no equal value.

It belonged to her mother. She whispered to herself. Her father said, “My mother gave it to me before she passed away. She had no other memories of it. Only the necklace and her father’s stories served as a bridge to the past. An old woman next to her smiled and asked, “Are you alone, Hij?” “Yes,” she replied weakly.

I’m going to work in Manila. Oh, you’re still young. Be careful there. There’s a lot of goodness in the city but there will always be people who take advantage of you. The old man’s advice while he fixed his fruit basket. Lira nodded and thanked him. She felt some comfort in the stranger’s simple concern.

As the journey went on, the trees and rice fields gradually disappeared, replaced by more buildings, cars, and noise. But despite this, there was still a trace of longing in her chest. It was as if something was calling her to the city. something she couldn’t explain. In her last look out the window, she saw the mountains in the distance that seemed to be gradually being swallowed by clouds.

That was probably the last view she would have of her province for a long time. In her mind, the plan was clear. She would work hard, save money and return to her father immediately. But what she didn’t know was that the mansion she was going to was not just a place to work. It would be the beginning of questions that had been hidden for a long time and a secret that would change her entire life.

Manila was hot and noisy, different from the province Lira had left behind. As soon as she got off the bus, she was greeted by the smell of smoke and the sound of cars honking their horns nonstop. On the side of the road, there were people selling fruit, snacks and rags. She was holding a small bag that was almost crushed by sweat as she held it. A man in an agency uniform approached.

Are you Lira? He asked. Yes. She answered weakly. Come, I’ll take you to your future boss. He’s strict but as long as you work hard. You’ll last. He said as he led her into a van. Inside the car, Lira was restless. She pressed against the window, watching the tall buildings and the street lights even though it was only daylight.

As the van drove along, the carts and scattered shops gradually disappeared, replaced by large buildings and marble fences. We are almost there,” the man said. And not long after, they stopped in front of a gate that was almost as tall as two people. Its iron had a spiral design and in the middle was carved the letter F.

A uniformed guard was immediately on the side. He approached and greeted. When the gate opened, it was as if he had glimpsed another world? A vast garden full of various types of plants and flowers, a fountain that seemed to have come from another country and a path made of white marble opened up before him.

“I have only seen something like this today.” He whispered to himself. As they approached the mansion door, it automatically opened from the inside and that’s where he first caught sight of Donya Felina. She was sitting on a wooden chair with a rose carving. Her hair was perfectly styled and the dress she was wearing seemed to be made of the most expensive fabric.

But most of all, her eyes were cold and sharp. It was as if she could see everything about you before you even spoke. She looked at Lira from head to toe. “You’re still young,” she said. Cold and without any joking. But you’ll learn. Lira didn’t know whether to smile or thank her.

So she just bowed and nodded. The donya called Mila. From the side of the living room, a woman with a kind face and a gentle smile came out. Yes, ma’am. This is Lira. You’ll be in charge here. Teach her all the chores. The donya ordered. Mila approached and smiled at Lira. Come on, little one. I’m Mila.

It took a long time I’ve been working here. Don’t be shy. Thank you. Lira replied. She felt a little relieved. From behind the door to the garden, an old man peeked out. White hair, slightly hunched. But still elegant in his stance. This was Mang Andres, the gardener. He didn’t speak. But he nodded slightly in greeting before returning to his work.

Before she and Mila finally went upstairs, Donya Felina spoke again. Also, here there are no questions about what the order is to be done, clear?” “Yes,” Lira quickly replied. Good. I don’t want to repeat what I’m saying. Lira was silent as she climbed the stairs. But she could feel even though her back was turned that the donya’s gaze was still following her.

It seemed like she was looking for something on her face or maybe worried about something. On the second floor, Mila showed her some rooms. This is where you will sleep. It’s small but neat. You have a closet and a bed. There’s nothing else to do here but rest after work. Lira nodded and placed the bag on the bed.

Remember, Mila added, ma’am is strict. But if you do your job properly, there will be no problem. Just don’t ask about things. that are not your responsibility. Lira swallowed. Yes. I will do everything. Mila smiled. That’s right. Tomorrow you will start cleaning the living room. But tonight, rest first. Before Mila leaves.

Lira peeked up the stairs again. Donya Felina was still downstairs. Sitting, looking in her direction. And in the few seconds that their eyes met, she felt her cold but searching gaze. It seemed that there was a question that was not being asked and an answer that had been awaited for a long time. One morning, Lira was ordered to clean a room on the second floor that had been closed for a long time.

The dust was thick and the old wood smelled bad. While putting away the boxes, she noticed an antique wardrobe. She opened it and saw some old clothes and toys. At the very bottom was a box covered with a cover. He opened it and an old picture in a gold frame appeared. A girl who looked almost exactly like him.

His eyes widened and he held his own face. Who was this? Why was there such a picture in this house? He immediately placed the picture in the box but from the door, he noticed a shadow of someone watching him. He slowly lowered the box and tried to pretend that he didn’t see anything. He felt the cold air from the open window.

But more than that was the shiver caused by the presence he knew was there. Is there someone? He asked softly, almost in a whisper. No one answered. He only heard faint footsteps moving away from the door. He was nervous but he forced himself to go back to cleaning. While wiping the dust off the table, he couldn’t help but glance at the box again.

The image of the girl in the picture floated through his mind. Long hair, wearing a white best and a familiar face, as if she had seen it before. That must be Mila, she whispered to herself. Although she knew it was impossible, she looked like everyone else in the house. After a while, Mila entered.

With a rag and a basin. Hey, Lira, you’re here. It’s a good thing you opened this room. It hasn’t been cleaned in a while. Lira looked at her and asked, “Ate Mila, whose room is this?” Mila was stunned for a moment then looked away. “Ah, it used to belong to a relative of the family, it hasn’t been here for a long time.

” “Relative, is he a child?” Lira asked again. Trying to find out the truth. Why did you ask? Mila asked back. Noticing the slight concern in her tone. Lira shook her head and forced a smile. Nothing. Just curious. There were so many toys. But inside her, a question was burning. It wasn’t just curiosity but something was pulling at her emotions to find out who that child in the photo was.

As they continued cleaning, Lira felt Mila’s eyes occasionally looking at her. It seemed to be examining her every move. When they were finished, Mila said, “Oh Lira, don’t open the boxes again. There are things here that you’d better not touch.” Lira nodded but in her mind, she only wanted to know the secret even more.

That night she was restless. In her small room behind the kitchen, the face in the picture kept coming back to her mind. She wanted to go back to that room but she knew she would be caught if she did so at that hour of the night. Before she fell asleep, she heard faint footsteps in the hallway.

She thought it was just one of the maids but when she peeked through the door she saw Donya Felina herself standing at the end of the hallway looking in the direction of the room she had cleaned earlier when their eyes met Donya Felina quickly turned around and walked away, wondering Why did the owner of the mansion seem to be hiding something about that room? The next day, while serving breakfast, she was with Mila again.

They were silent at first until she couldn’t take it anymore. “Ate Mila, is there anyone who looks like me here at home?” Mila looked up, slightly surprised. Why did you say that? I don’t know. It seems like I just saw something yesterday that she couldn’t finish saying because Donya Felina suddenly entered the kitchen. What are you talking about? Her voice was cold. Nothing, ma’am.

Just household chores. Mila answered quickly. I could see the worry on her face. Donya Felina looked at Lira for a long time before leaving as if nothing had happened. But the weight of her gaze remained in Lira’s mind and she knew there was a deeper reason why the owner of the mansion seemed to be staring at her.

Throughout the day, Lira felt like someone was following her. Even when she was simply mowing the garden or washing the dishes, she would occasionally see a shadow by the window or door. It would disappear quickly but it was clear to her that it wasn’t her imagination. And each time, curiosity pushed her to look back at the box and the photo.

To herself, she whispered, “I need to know who you are and why you think you are me.” That night, while washing the dishes, Lira asked Mila who the child in the photo was. Mila paused, looking around slightly before whispering. It was Donya Felina’s child who didn’t have a baby yet. Lira paused.

How did he disappear? She asked. Her voice was slightly shaky. A housekeeper had tried to run away with the child. Until now, Mila had seen the explanation and looked around again, as if watching to see if anyone might hear. Lira didn’t move anymore, but the confusion in her mind deepened. She couldn’t explain why she felt like she had a connection to that child.

Especially since they both had a small scar on their right eyebrows. As she continued washing, she felt the cold flow of water on her hands. But the nervousness in her chest was colder. Questions seemed to be gradually branching out in her mind. Why do we look alike? Is it just a coincidence? And if that is Donya Felina’s son, where is he now? Mila approached.

Slowly placing the wet cups on the table and looking straight at her. Lira, listen to me. Don’t mention that picture to Donya Felina again. Dangerous, dangerous. What do you mean? Lira asked almost in a whisper. I don’t know the whole story. But since her son disappeared, she has become brave and strict with all the characters.

He had also been fired before just because of questions. I don’t want you to get hurt. Mila said. Her voice was stern. Lira just kept quiet, hiding the burning of her curiosity. She didn’t know why, but instead of being afraid, she wanted to find an answer even more. It was as if something was pulling her to continue.

After work, she went up to her small room behind the kitchen. Through the thin curtain, she could see the airy garden illuminated by soft lights. In the middle of it, she could see Donya Felina. She was sitting on a chair made of iron. She was holding a glass of wine and staring into the distance.

It was as if the old man was thinking something hard. He watched her for a moment and in his mind, the image of the picture of the smiling child inside the gold frame returned. If it was me, it was impossible. But why do I feel that way? The next day while the bosses were having breakfast, Lira was busy pouring coffee for Donya Felina. The old man didn’t even look at her, but when he poured the coffee, their eyes met slightly.

Donya Felina was stunned for a moment before returning her gaze to the newspaper. Mila called. Make sure no one enters the room on the second floor, especially the one with the old wardrobe. No one moves there. Sir? Yes, Donya. Mila answered quickly. But she couldn’t help but glance at Lira. Lira felt a cold shiver creep up her back.

Did Donya know that she had interfered or did she just sense that someone had opened that room? After breakfast, Mila ordered her to clean another part of the house. But while she was sweeping near the stairs, she heard Donya Ferlina and Mang Andres talking on the veranda. Until now, there has been no news.

Maybe she’s really gone. Mang Andres said in a low voice. I won’t stop. I know she’s alive. Donya Felina answered firmly. I can’t just pretend that she was just taken and disappeared. Even though the whole conversation wasn’t clear, it was enough to confuse Lira even more. The clues she was getting seemed to be coming in pieces but she still didn’t have a clear picture of the whole story.

That night before going to bed, she took out of her bag the old and faded necklace she always carried. She opened and closed it while thinking about her past. She didn’t remember much about her mother. His father said, “She died when she was just a baby. But he didn’t have a picture of her. All that was left was the necklace.

He slowly opened the small pendant and inside it was a small piece of paper. which he had known was there for a long time. But he had never opened it. He didn’t know why he hadn’t looked at it before. Maybe because he was afraid of finding out what was inside. But that night, it seemed like something was pushing him to do it.

He carefully took out the paper and saw a small letter that was difficult to read due to his age. Only one was clearly written. An initial F, he held the necklace tightly. F. Felina, he whispered to himself. He swallowed as his heart beat faster. If he was thinking correctly, that initial could be connected to the owner of the mansion he was serving now.

The picture in the antique cupboard, the scar on the eyebrow, came back to his mind. Donya Felina’s gaze at him the first day and now the initial F. She felt the answer getting closer and closer and she was also more afraid to know what it was. In the following days, Lira noticed that Donya Felina often glanced at her especially when she thought she wasn’t looking.

Sometimes while she was clearing the table in the large dining room, she felt a cold but sharp gaze from the head of the table. This was not the normal look of the boss to the maid. There was a mixture of scrutiny as if she was searching for something on her face. Donya Felina called Lira once while she was sitting and holding a cup of urine.

Sit down, ma’am, bring the light here. It’s too dark, she said. But as she was giving the order, she suddenly asked. Where did you grow up again? Lira didn’t answer right away. Not because she didn’t know the answer but because the question seemed to have a different weight. In the province, she finally answered, with dad. Mom has been dead for a long time.

Donya Felina was silent but she didn’t take her eyes off her. For a moment and she changed the subject. But Lira was left with the feeling that the donya was trying to find out something about her. In the evening while watering the plants in the garden, she met Mang Andres. He was usually quiet. He only said a few words.

But today he seems to be avoiding talking even more. Good afternoon,” batilira. The old man just nodded and quickly turned around to continue tending the plants. But before he could get far, he heard him whisper softly to Mila approaching from the other side of the garden.

As if he had heard Mang Andres say that, Lira stopped. Her chest pounded. Who is it? She immediately asked. The two approached. Namila and Mang Andres immediately looked at each other as if they had been caught in a secret. Ah, nothing. Mila quickly replied, bowing and pretending to be busy removing dry leaves from the pot.

Mang Andres suddenly went straight inside the house. Without even saying goodbye. As she walked back to the kitchen. Lira couldn’t get the question out of her mind. Why do they seem to know something that I don’t? And why do they seem to be talking about me? It was already night when she returned to the small room that had been given to her in the back of the house.

As she lay down on the bed, that scene kept replaying in her mind. Donya Felina’s gaze, Mang Andres’s whispers and the questions he can’t answer. With each passing day, the mystery deepens. It seems like everyone in the house is trying to hide something and little by little he feels like he’s in the middle of it.

One night, a heavy rain falls. and flashes repeatedly. Each burst of light from the lightning is accompanied by the sound of thunder as if the sky is being split open. In the kitchen, Lira is busy arranging the cups and plates when she remembers that she hasn’t brought the tea for Donya Felina yet. She looks at the clock on the wall.

It’s 7:30 at night. Oh, ma’am might be looking for it. She thought. She quickly put the tea on the tray. She made sure to bring a saucer of biscuits and slowly climbed to the third floor. The third floor of the mansion has a strange silence. Only the faint rustle of rain on the windows and the soft sound of her slippers on the shiny floor can be heard.

On the side of the hallway, hung with old pictures, family, elegant banquets and a few photos taken in the mansion’s courtyard. When she reached the end, the door to Donya Felina’s room opened slightly. Lira knocked first. “Ma’am, here’s your tea.” She said calmly.

“Come in!” answered the lady from inside. She entered quietly. The room was spacious, fragrant and full of expensive furniture. The lady was sitting in a chair near the window. Looking outside while holding a book that she apparently wasn’t reading. Lira placed the tray on the small table next to it.

But in her haste, she didn’t notice that a white handkerchief had slightly fallen from the pocket of her skirt. Donya Felina noticed that. She bent down and picked up the handkerchief. At that moment, she also noticed the small, sparkling object hanging from Lira’s neck. The lady’s eyes widened. It was as if something cold had flowed around them.

Where did you get that?” She asked sternly. Looking straight at the necklace hanging from Lira’s neck. Lira was surprised that she was holding the necklace that she seemed to want to hide. “This.” “Yes.” Donya Felina’s voice was firm. Lira was momentarily stunned. She felt the coldness of her palms. To my mother before she died, she left it to me. Her answer was weak.

Almost a whisper. Donya Felina fell silent. The stern expression on her face was suddenly replaced by something that seemed to be shocked and hurt. Donya slowly turned her gaze back to the window. But she was obviously gathering the courage to speak. Tomorrow! She said weakly. We will talk. Lira did not move.

She just nodded slowly. She took in the traumas of the room. But as she went down the stairs, she could not get the donya’s look out of her mind. As if a strong memory had suddenly drawn in her mind? In her small room at the back of the house, Lira was restless. She kept staring at the necklace, a small round pendant with a rose design.

There were engraved letters that were almost faded. She could not remember when she had last opened the pendant and to be honest, she was afraid to do so. Why did ma’am react like that? She asked herself. It was as if she knew her. It seemed like she had been looking for it for a long time. Outside, the heavy rain continued. The sound of the roof’s crackling echoed throughout the mansion, and with each clap of thunder, the words spoken by Donya Felina floated through Lira’s mind.

We’ll talk tomorrow. She was somewhere between nervous and curious. She didn’t want to think about it but she couldn’t help but ask herself. Does this necklace have anything to do with the photo of the child she saw in the hallway? The child with a small scar on her right eyebrow like hers. The next day, she knew she would hear answers but she wasn’t sure if she was ready to hear them.

The next day, Lira was called to the donya’s office. Even early in the morning, the air inside the mansion was already heavy. It seemed like there was a secret hanging there that the walls were trying to hide. Lira walked silently along the hallway and every step felt like it was rattling in her chest. When the office door opened, she immediately saw Donya Felina sitting behind a large desk.

Her eyebrows were raised, looking straight at her. Mang Andres was also standing to the side, seemingly struggling to breathe. Lira sat in the chair in front of the desk. Before the conversation even started, she could feel the cold tension between the three of them. Donya Felina asked again. Her voice was low and heavy. What was your mother’s full name again? I advised Lira.

I don’t know her last name, ma’am. All I know is my name is Lira and she said I was her daughter. Mother Rosa raised me. But I didn’t get to see her for a long time because she died early. How did she get you? The donya quickly added. I don’t know. I was just a child. She was my companion.

I don’t remember anything else. Lira’s voice trembled. The room was silent for a moment. Only the sound of the old clock on the wall could be heard. Mang Andres suddenly spoke. His voice trembled. Ma’am, it’s him. Donya Felina turned around, her eyes glaring. Are you sure, Andres? The old man nodded.

She took a deep breath. I was the one who saw the maid take the baby that night. More than 16 years ago. I followed them to the harbor but she was abandoned by a fisherman and fell into a boat. I saw that child myself. Lira seemed to have lost blood. Her hands and feet were cold as her rapid heartbeat slowly beat in her ears.

She couldn’t speak. She said I was the baby. How? No. Could it be that you were mistaken? She tried to whisper. She almost didn’t want to hear herself. Mang Andres shook her head. I wasn’t mistaken. Her face was still clear to me then. She had a scar on her right eyebrow like Lira’s. Lira touched her eyebrow as if she had just noticed what he was saying.

That small scar had always been there but she hadn’t paid attention to whether what you were saying was true, Andres. Donya Felina’s voice was cold but trembling. It meant she was stunned. She didn’t finish what she was saying but it was clear what she meant. Lira stood up, still shaking.

“Ma’am, I don’t know what you’re talking about. All I know is that I grew up in a simple house with Mother Rosa and I didn’t know that I was robbed. In that case, how can you explain the necklace you’re wearing? The lady quickly pointed to the pendant hanging from the girl’s neck. That belongs to my son, my missing son.

A necklace, but mother said I gave birth to it from her. No. I know that necklace. I chose that myself before my son was born. You can’t say it was just a coincidence. The lady cut her off sharply. Lira’s vision blurred. It felt like her surroundings were spinning. The words she heard were like pieces of an incomplete puzzle. You’ll remember everything too.

Donya Felina said coldly. But her hand was shaking obviously. But before anything else, I want to hear from you everything you know about your mother Rosa. Who is she? Where did she come from? And how did she meet you? She shook her head Lira closed her eyes. I don’t know anything anymore. I was still a child when he took me to town.

I don’t know anyone else but him. Mang Andres interrupted again, his tone heavy. Ma’am, I remember that night the maid wasn’t the only one who took the child. There was a man in black with her and they were rushing to board the boat. I’m sure if we can track down who that man was, we’ll know the whole truth.

If what you say is true, Andres, we have a long-standing debt to this child. Donya Felina looked weakly but sharply at Lira. Lira could no longer control herself. Why? Who am I really? What do you mean? You will find out tomorrow. The donya had a clear answer. I need to make sure everything first.

Inside the room, the silence grew even heavier. Lira felt that a secret was about to burst out. But the donya was still holding it back. It was as if she was gauging whether she was ready. As she left the office, Lira could not get the donya’s gaze and the words my missing child out of her mind. It was as if a force was pulling her back to a past she had not known for a long time.

In her chest, a question began to form that she could not answer. Am I really that child? Because of what Mang Andres said, Donya Felina wasted no more time. She immediately called a doctor from the city to conduct a DNA test. Lira remained silent as she sat on the edge of the sofa.

Playing with the hem of her old skirt. She felt the weight of the eyes looking at her. Donya, Mila and Mang Andres. They all seemed to be waiting for something that would change everything she knew about herself. Doc, can we start now? Donya Felina’s voice was cold but trembling.

The doctor nodded and brought out the equipment. I’m just going to take a swab sample from inside the child’s mouth and the same for you, ma’am. Donya Felina held Lira’s hand. It was warm and had a hint of trembling. Don’t be afraid. It was only for a moment. Lira didn’t move. She seemed to be floating in the air while wondering why the course of her life had suddenly changed since the day she saw the old photo.

The doctor placed the clean cotton swab inside Lira’s mouth. He rotated it gently. She felt the strange coldness from the iron handle of the instrument. Next, he did the same to Donya Felina. You can be sure that everything will be confidential. The doctor said as he placed the samples in a sealed container.

The results could take three to five days. When the doctor left, silence fell again in the living room. No one wanted to speak, but it was clear to everyone that every second of waiting felt like a whole year to them. In the days that followed, Lira was restless.

Every morning she did the chores in the mansion. Sweeping, cleaning, setting the table. But her heart was not in every move. Her mind always drifted back to the province. To the small house made of wood. And to the voice of the Father, whom she had called daddy since childhood. If what they say is true, does that mean he is not my real father?” She whispered softly to herself one morning while sweeping the yard.

Mila came over and tapped her on the shoulder. “Son, eat first. You can’t just do your job.” Lira smiled. Her smile was forced and thin. Thank you, sister Mila. She couldn’t tell anyone her heavy thoughts. Not even Mila, who had become close to her. It was as if she was afraid that if she told anyone, everything would change forever.

One night while she was lying in the maids’ small room, she heard the rain falling on the roof outside. She stared at the ceiling. Wondering what would happen when the results came out. If true, that meant I had been missing them for a long time. But why did I go to my father’s? She asked herself.

She closed her eyes but couldn’t stop the tears from flowing. It was as if every drop of rain brought back a memory. The nights her father hugged her when she was afraid of thunder. The mornings they prepared breakfast together. And the simple laughter they shared as they slept under the sun.

Three days had passed. In the morning, the air in the entire mansion seemed heavier. Everyone was in Donya Felina’s office. Lira, Mila and Mang Andres. The surroundings were quiet. Only the ticking of the old clock on the wall could be heard. There was a knock. A man from the clinic entered carrying a white envelope with the hospital’s seal.

He handed it to Donya Felina who immediately took it. Her hand was obviously shaking. Thank you! The donya said briefly. The man left. The silence seemed to grow heavier. Donya Felina sat down and stared at the envelope. It was as if she had wanted to open it several times but lacked the courage.

Finally, he slowly tore the edge and pulled out the paper. As he read, his face gradually softened. The first tear fell, followed by more. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath before speaking. 99.9%. Let’s be mothers, Lira. It was as if the world had stopped. Lira stared at him. Still holding on to the hem of her dress.

He couldn’t move, couldn’t speak. Donya Felina came over and suddenly hugged Lira tightly. My child, I’ve been looking for you for a long time. I thought you were gone. But Lira remained standing. Not ready to embrace the truth. It was like a wall was between them. A wall of confusion, fear, and unanswered questions.

Ma’am, you really mean him. Mang Andres whispered, still holding back tears. There was no doubt, Donya Felina replied, but her voice was full of longing and hope. In the following minutes, many words flew through the air. Explanations, apologies, and pieces of the past that were slowly being put together.

But in Lira’s heart, there was still no clear picture of how she would accept all of this. She silently looked out the window. Outside, the rain was easing but the sky was still dark like a mirror of her feelings. In the days that had passed since the DNA test confirmed everything, it was as if Lira’s world had changed.

Before, whenever she woke up in the mansion, she expected the list of household chores to immediately unfold. Sweep the garden, mop the floor, wash the curtains. But now none of those were given to her. Instead, there was always another maid to do those chores. Her hands, accustomed to hard work and sweat, seemed to have nothing to hold.

In the first two days, she changed. Whenever she saw a dirty glass on the table, she would still voluntarily take it to the kitchen. But one of the maids would stop her. It’s me, Senorita Lira, he would say politely and she would just force a smile. But inside, she couldn’t believe that she was being called senorita.

Every night while lying on the soft and fragrant bed with her body almost sinking into the thickness of the mattress, she couldn’t help but think about the simple room in their house in the province. The surroundings smelled of rice and the smell of earth, especially when it rained. Her mattress there was thin. There were cracks and patches.

But that was the bed she was used to. She missed her father’s voice even more every morning as he drew water from the well. Good morning, son. Come and have breakfast. A simple greeting but enough to fill her day with warmth. One morning while she and her mother were sitting together at the elegant dining table, the surroundings were silent except for the faint clink of cutlery.

The table was long, with an expensive table runner and in the middle was a vase of fresh roses that you knew weren’t just bought from somewhere. The maids served hot chocolate and stuffed pandesal that seemed even tastier than the ones she had tasted in town.

Lira, Donya Felina spoke softly. She looked at her from the other end of the table. Don’t you want to stay here? She stopped eating and looked at the donya, I could see the doubt on her face. “I don’t dance, ma’am.” She answered almost weakly. But my father was there. He was the one who raised me. I couldn’t just leave him.

The donya’s face wrinkled slightly but it softened immediately. I understand what you mean. But Lira, your child. In all this time, I’ve only just seen you again. I want to make up for all the lost years. I will provide for all your needs. You don’t have to work anymore. I advised her.

Trying hard to find the right words. I know your hearts are good and I am grateful for everything. But I cannot forget the life I grew up in. That is where I learned to work hard. That is where I learned to dream. That is where my heart is. Donya Felina did not speak anymore. But her eyes showed a sadness that was hard to hide.

After breakfast, Lira walked around the mansion’s yard. A place that she had almost only seen in a dream before. The lawn was wide. There were pink, yellow, and white flowers that seemed to shine even more in the sunlight. The scent of jasmine and rose wafted through the air.

But no matter how beautiful the view was, it still felt like something was missing. “Lira!” a familiar voice called. When she turned around, it was Mang Andres standing in the shade of a mango tree. Yes, Mang Andres. He sat down. His steps were slow. You made the right decision to return to your father first. You don’t need to rush everything.

I know this is a big change in your life. But there will come a time when only you can decide where you really are. She smiled, even if only slightly. Thank you, Mang Andres. Sometimes it feels like I don’t know who I really am anymore. You know, Lira, she replied. It’s not just a name or wealth that defines who you are.

Your heart and values ​​will dictate that. And if you love your father, there’s nothing wrong with choosing him. That night, while sitting on the edge of the bed, Lira opened a small box that her father had given her. Back then. The old ribbon she had used to tie her hair on the first day she went to school was still there.

And the photo of the two of them was taken under the mango tree in their yard. That’s when she burst into tears because she thought about what if everything would change if she stayed here? What if she could never go back to that simple life? The next day, Donya Felina called her to her office.

The room was filled with expensive furniture, pictures, and antiques that seemed to have come from Spain. In the middle of the table was a white envelope. Take this, the lady said. She handed the envelope. Your fare back to the province. There’s also an extra for your father. I know it’s not enough to repay the love he gave you.

But I hope it helps Lira stare at the envelope. She couldn’t speak right away. Finally she said softly, “Thank you, ma’am, this mother.” The lady’s eyes suddenly sparkled at that word but she didn’t come closer. “Come back to me, my child. That’s all my healing.” The next morning, Mang Andres drove her to the terminal.

Their journey from the mansion to town was quiet. The scenery outside the car, the fields, the small shops on the side of the road, and the children playing by the roadside. All of that seemed closer to her heart than the marble floor of the mansion. Arriving at the terminal before he got off, Mang Andres spoke.

Lira, don’t think that you owe us anything. You are the daughter of a donya but above all you are a good person. No matter which path you choose, it will decide what kind of life you will follow. She nodded, forcing a smile. Thank you, Mang Andres. I will never forget everything you did. While on the bus back to the province, she looked out the window.

The clouds in the distance seemed heavy as if carrying all her worries. With each kilometer of the journey, she felt a mixture of nervousness and joy. She knew that the time would come when she would have to choose. The life she grew up with or the life she had just come to know. Right now, only one thing was clear to her. She was not ready.

But the day would come when she would face that decision. Carrying all the memories, love and lessons that were imprinted in her heart. Two weeks later, that morning was clear when Lira and her stepfather boarded the jeep heading to town. Even though they had no heavy burdens in their hands, they could feel the weight of emotion in their hearts.

Lira silently looked out the window as the familiar scenery passed by, fields, coconut trees and a few houses that she used to see every day. She couldn’t explain why every time she looked at it, there was a mixture of joy and sadness. Father Ernesto was next to her, wearing a clean polo shirt that looked like it had just been ironed.

Every now and then he would smile at her and squeeze her hand. It was as if he was making her feel that no matter where she went, he would not abandon her. When they arrived in town, they got into the car that Donya Felina had sent to pick them up. The car was large, the seats were soft and the interior smelled good.

The three of them and the driver were silent until Lira noticed the rapid change in their surroundings from the narrow streets of the village to the wide, paved roads of the city. After a few minutes, the wide gates of the mansion opened up before them. It was no longer a mystery to Lira. But this time, she felt different.

Before, she had entered here as a servant with trepidation and fear. Now she would return as the daughter of its owner. Opening the gate, they slowly walked down the driveway with palm trees on the side. She could see the large and luxurious house. And at the top of the stairs, there was Donya Felina wearing a simple cream-colored dress.

But she had clearly prepared herself for this special day. As they got out of the car, Lira and Father Ernesto were still holding hands. “Lira! Ernesto,” the lady greeted her tearfully. Her tone was no longer as harsh as before. Now it seemed full of warmth and humility. Donya Felina approached and gently caressed Lira’s cheek.

From now on, you will no longer work here. I am your child. She said. Her voice trembled. Lira’s heart sank at those words. It was as if all the walls surrounding her suddenly disappeared. From the corner of her eye, she saw Father Ernesto smiling even though his eyes were clearly red.

“Thank you, Ma!” She was momentarily stunned but then she continued, “Mama!” The donya was touched and immediately hugged her tightly. It was like a hug she had been waiting for for a long time from someone she had never known before. But now it seemed like there was blood flowing through their relationship. Father Ernesto also couldn’t help but whisper thank you donya, this Mama Felina for welcoming him.

He said, laughing slightly at the new call. They were led inside the mansion. As they entered the living room, Lira couldn’t help but look again at the large picture on the wall. The picture of the child had once been a puzzle to her. Back then, she had looked at it with a mixture of wonder and question.

Now she knew that she was that child. And as she looked at the picture, it was as if she was also seeing the long journey of her life from being a simple provincial girl to discovering her true self. If you want, we can have a new portrait made of us, but I also want it to stay there as a keepsake.

Donya Felina said, pointing to the picture. Lira nodded. Let’s leave it there, mama. It’s a reminder that even if someone is gone there is a way to meet again. At lunchtime, the three of them shared a hearty lunch. There was marinated chicken, shrimp stew and leche flan, Lira’s favorite. While eating, Donya Felina was no longer very formal.

She asked about Lira’s life in the province, how she learned to wash clothes in the river, plant crops in the fields and cook with firewood. She listened with great joy as if each story was a treasure she had just found. Mama, Lira said after a spoonful of rice, even though I’m here, I want to go back to the province from time to time.

Because my friends are there and my mother’s memories are there. Donya Felina held her hand. Yes, my child, I will never stop you. The important thing is, you know where you will go home whenever you need a home. Father Ernesto smiled. I told Yo Lira, no matter where you go, we love you.

And I am happy that now more people will love you to you. After lunch, Lira walked around the mansion. But today, every room she opened was different. Before, the walls seemed cold and distant. Now she felt like she was one of the owners of every memory here. In her room, there was a new bed, curtains, and a table.

But the small cupboard that she first saw when she worked in the mansion remained there. Did Mama Felina purposely not remove that thing? A reminder of her origins. Before they left the province earlier, Aling Rosa gave her a small pot of gumamela. Now she placed it by the window so that I wouldn’t forget the smell of our house in the village.

” She said to herself while gently caressing its leaves. In the afternoon, while the three of them were together in the living room, a cold breeze passed by. They were quiet but the silence was not burdensome, instead it was like a tree of peace. Lira! Mama Felina broke the silence. I have searched for the answer to your loss for many years.

I prayed many nights that you were still alive. I never thought you would come back like this. I’m sorry I didn’t recognize you right away at first. Lira shook her head. You have nothing to apologize for, Mama, if I hadn’t gone to the province. Maybe I wouldn’t have learned how to appreciate simple things.

And if it weren’t for Tatay Ernesto, maybe I wouldn’t have learned to love without expecting anything in return. Mama Felina smiled and looked at Ernesto. Thank you. I don’t know how I can repay you for raising Lira. You don’t have to. The old man replied.

Just love her. That’s all that matters to me. Lira’s smile deepened as she looked at the two people who were now the most important in her life. Back then, she felt like she had no real place in the world. Now she had two homes to go back to. The province and the mansion. That night before going to bed, she looked again at the picture of the child hanging on the living room wall.

But now every time she looks at it, she no longer asks who it is because she already knows the answer. It is not just a photo of a missing child but a photo of a child who has been found again. In Lira’s heart, she carries both worlds, the simple life in the province and the luxurious home in the city.

And for the first time, she doesn’t have to choose which is more important because they are both part of her being. And that night, she fell asleep with a smile on her face, ready for a new chapter in her life. This is where I will close the chapter titled the picture in the mansion.