I Want You Back

Three: Elisa is Back

Angel Leffman

I never thought that it would be that easy for Sofia to sign the divorce papers. I thought it'd be hard for me to convince her, and I had to give her my assets or whatever, but no. Instead, she even told me I could keep anything I wanted.

I know Sofia came from a prestigious family, and that's also the reason why I married her. Knowing that she's a calculating, cold, and ambitious woman, I thought she'd ask for more for the divorce. Sometimes I think she's obsessed with me, and that's why she did everything to marry me, and her horrible lies hurt Elisa. My sweet, innocent, and pure Elisa. That woman ruined her, our plans, and our future.

And she even had the guts to ask me why I hated her after all she did. Hah! I almost fell for the fake confusion in her face. She's such a great actress.

I was the one who wanted to divorce her and hurriedly asked for her signature, so why am I the one affected that she showed up earlier, acted so flirtatiously, and even assumed the presidency with such arrogance like I was nothing to the company?! And those men were all over her, wearing that inappropriate dress. Did she dress up for attention?

I can't stand her, and that's why I divorced her. But is it true that she packed all her things? And what did she mean by saying that I look like my house? She hated it, and yet she stayed there for a few years.

"Angel!" Mom shouted my name, and I went back to reality to see her waiting for my answer.

What was the question again?

"You don't need to shout, mother. I'm here."

"Oh, but it looks like your mind is elsewhere. I said it's a good idea not to tell your grandpa and dad about your divorce from that woman. They will be angry, and even if I want Elisa to come back, they won't accept her because it's still early."

"Mom, I won't hide my divorce. Sooner or later, they will know about it. Besides, the shareholders already know."

"If that woman asks for anything, do not give her even a single cent," she sneered.

"For your peace of mind, she did not ask for anything, and I don't want to talk about it."

She seemed taken aback by what I said. "Stay alert because she might just surprise you. That woman is nothing like Elisa; she's educated and graceful. She's perfect for you."

"I did not hear you say that five years ago when they forced me to marry Sofia," I said with a mocking laugh.

"Son, that marriage is made by your dad, and you know him. And we needed to build our reputation to make our family known and for society to respect us. Plus, we wanted to have access to places we cannot enter."

"Yes, of course, the society. Now we have that, so I don't need to stay married. Elisa's back and she believes me that I never betrayed her, but that doesn't change what Sofia did to her."

"I know, son, but that's in the past. Forget about that woman and start again," Mom said with a smile.

We stopped when we heard Elisa and Angelica entering with shopping bags in their hands.

"Girls, what are those?" Mom asked the two while looking at the bags.

"Angel and I brought gifts from our travel, and I hope you'll like them. Right, love?" Elisa turned to me, and I nodded with a smile.

When she entered a store, I brought gifts for my family, something that Sofia influenced me with. Every time we went to a meeting or gathering, she always bought a gift for everyone. Even when I know my mom and Angelica dislike her, they like her gifts. Whenever I travel by myself, she never fails to remind me to bring back some gifts for the family, and so I adapted it.

"It's not surprising. Lately, Angel has been giving us gifts from his travels, something he hasn't done before."

"These are just simple details, mother."

"Simple or not, they are beautiful. He always brings us the latest collection of brands we like, and some of them have yet to be released in our country," Angelica interrupted with excitement.

The truth is, Sofia is often the one who suggests what I buy for them. She sent me suggestions, and I just went along with them.

"Angel, let me pick the gifts. I hope you'll like them."

"Of course we will. You always had great taste," my mom said immediately.

I looked at Elisa, and it made me think that we were the same years ago.

"Good evening." We heard Dad greeting us when he arrived and looked at Elisa. "Elisa, what a surprise. Welcome back."

"Thank you, Mr. Leffman," Elisa responded warmly, and she stood up to hug Dad. "I arrived with Angel."

"As I guessed, and you brought gifts. Were you traveling together?" Dad asked, and Elisa blushed.

I quickly intervened. "We met in London, Dad, and she decided to go home with me."

"What a coincidence, then. Well, welcome back home, Elisa."

We were interrupted by Grandpa, who came to the dining table. "Good evening."

I saw how his facial expression changed when he saw Elisa. He never really liked her.

"Good evening." We all greeted him.

"Grandpa, do you still remember Elisa? She came to join us for dinner and brought gifts." I told Grandpa carefully, and his eyes found the gifts but said nothing.

"Good evening, Mr. Leffman." Elisa greeted my grandpa in a small voice, almost nervously, and this time, she did not attempt to hug Grandpa.

The silence that followed was uncomfortable, and my mother finally decided to break the ice.

"We were waiting for you to eat. Excuse us."

As my grandpa and mom talked about something only they could hear, I ordered the waiter to serve us the meal.

"Let's sit," my father offered, and we all followed. "Elisa, tell us about what you have been doing all these years."

Angelica busied herself with the gifts while my grandpa seemed to attentively listen to Elisa's words. Of all my family members, he's the one I respect most. He's the one who always trusts and believes in me and my skills. He's the only one who told me not to marry Sofia if I didn't want to, and it's engraved in my mind.

*Flashback*

I'm preparing to attend my own piece of hell called a wedding with a broken heart and soul. I will face God with the woman I hate instead of the one I love. I never thought she'd do that.

"My grandson looks so handsome," my grandpa said when he entered.

"Pops, you look like the one getting married. You look sharp." I commented as I admired his stance despite his age.

"Well, I do look happier than you, who looks like he's going to attend a funeral instead of your wedding," he said with a chuckle.

"You know why I'm getting married, pops," I said with a frustrated sigh.

"Punishing yourself just to please your parents isn't right. In life, marriage is sacred, not because of the ceremony, but because of what it embodies and symbolizes."

I did not say anything, and he stepped closer to fix my tie and suit.

"It is a promise that when you're becoming one with someone, you'll be within duties, sickness, happiness, sufferings, and love. If you don't have any of it, you'll live in hell."

"This is what I should do."

"No, not at all. I know you have another woman you love even if I don't want to, but you are an intelligent man. You cannot be possibly tied down by someone just because they demand you to. If you're getting married, it's because you want to."

"Grandpa..."

"I know you, when you heard about this marriage, you were against it. You and your dad fought but after a month, you decided to accept it. That is your decision and not your parents. Now, you have two choices. First, call that beautiful woman waiting for you while dressed in a beautiful gown, and tell her you won't marry her; I'm sure she won't reject you. Or second, put on your best face, walk down the aisle, and accept her as your companion for life. And I know she won't reject you as well."

He smiled and kissed my cheek while patting the other one.

"What would I tell my parents if I embarrassed them? Will you allow me to embarrass our name, pops?" I asked with uncertainty and a troubled mind.

"It's just a name, son. Happiness is the most important thing, while this will pass. They'll talk about our family now, and tomorrow, they'll find another family to talk about. But remember, whatever your decision is, I will support you."

A genuine smile appeared on my face at the thought of someone understanding me. "Thanks, pops."

"By the way, I must tell you that the bride looks gorgeous," he told me with a wink. "At least she's not ugly."

We both laughed and while I agree that she does look good on the outside, she's a demon inside.

And that's why, until now, I think I should have opted for the first choice.

"Elisa, I hope the food's to your liking. When I found out you're coming, I decided to cook your favorite dish," my mom happily said.

"Where's Sofia?" Grandpa asked after he had been silent earlier.

"Dad, isn't it obvious?"

"I am asking my grandson, and he should be the one answering," Grandpa reprimanded Mom, who pursed her lips and all eyes turned to me. "Where is your wife?"

"Pops, Sofia's not coming."

"And that is quite obvious, Angel. I am old, but I'm not stupid. It would be foolish to invite your ex with your family and wife."

A good question. Where is that woman right now?

"Angel! I'm waiting for an answer," he repeated, but sternly.

"I didn't want you to find out this way, but Sofia and I decided to get a divorce. In fact, we're in the process of doing it, so you won't see her here anymore." My dad and grandpa both stared at me while Angelica and mom were both smiling happily. "Elisa and I decided to give our relationship another try once the divorce is finalized. I'm expecting your support."

"Of course, son!" My mom said enthusiastically.

"You can always count on me, brother. Besides, I always liked Elisa more than Sofia."

"And why not? Because a respected and powerful woman like her who has goals and dreams doesn't want to spend time with a brat like you?"

"Grandpa," I called him in a disappointed manner. "You cannot make my girlfriend, mom, and sister the villains."

"I'm just saying the truth. Let's see, girl," he addresses Angelica. "What have you done in your life besides shopping, partying, and gossiping with your friends? You did not even attend the university. And your daughter-in-law, you do nothing but the same as your daughter."

"Dad!" My dad raised his voice, clearly not liking what Grandpa said.

"You do not shout at me, boy. Am I wrong? Angel, you came back with Elisa, but I'm guessing you did not just meet each other, am I right?"

"This is not the time to talk about that, pops. Let's talk later."

"You opened the topic, and now you don't want to talk."

"I just want to inform you of all of my decisions."

"Right. And you woman, what are you doing in this house? Since you came, I just heard you were traveling. What have you been doing? Did you study?"

"I love the arts, so I decided to travel while I was still deciding what to take, but I graduated in accounting."

"I see. You are not studying, but you are not working either, and you are living off what your family has."

"Pops,"

I know what you're doing, and I won't let you.

"What? I just want to know what she's been doing all this time she's gone."

I looked at Elisa to see her uncomfortable and shuffling in her seat. "I am working in my family's business, sir." I looked at her in surprise because Elisa was never one to be interested in her family's business.

"Good. That's good. I remember that your family's business is fashion," my dad said.

"Yes, and my older brother's the one who's handling our business, and he's doing a great job. Our business is known worldwide, and it wasn't easy to achieve," Elisa stated with a proud look on her face.

"Of course, your parents and grandparents built that. I know your brother, David Dalton, right? He's a good man with a vision for his projects. He competes with leading brands like Lee Andrew's."

"Yes, sir, but that company is technically new. It has only been in the business for years; they cannot compete with my family."

"But in just four years, the company managed to make itself known worldwide and place itself on top, leaving your family in seventh place."

"Yes, they launched a new handbag, perfume, and sandals called ‘The New Era’," Angelica said excitedly. "I have their products that I admire so much. Plus, they have one for every preference and color! It's my favorite store," she added with a squeal, and Mom nudged her. "And your family's, of course."

My grandpa laughed. "As far as I know, no one knows the owner of that company, but whoever they are, they sure know how to handle a company. They managed to grow the company in four years, and it's still climbing up the ladder like that company, Let-technology."

"I heard about that company." I intervened this time. "They created a new operating system that is just amazing and an advanced communication platform."

"We use their system in the company, and I can say that I'm impressed." My dad agreed with a nod of his head.

"It is convenient for us young people. It helps us communicate, and it has a great security system," Angelica added, her eyes shining with interest.

"I used their platform, and it is indeed convenient and secure enough. It's amazing," Elisa shared, and we all turned to Grandpa when he laughed.

"Are you that happy, pops?"

"I just like how we found a topic where everyone can share their thoughts and experiences."

"Another company that caught my interest is one of the new but escalating companies called Autos-Let." My head snapped at my father at the mention of my company. "It is still considered small in the market, but we can agree that they are creating impressive cars with an efficient system."

It filled me with pride when I heard him say that, and it made me think that maybe he knew about my company. Sofia should have told them when she found out.

"I want to know who the owner is. I would like to know a competitor, but it's quite hard. No one knows who it could possibly be. Do you know the owner, Angel?" Grandpa asked me, and I panicked inside, but I remained calm.

That means they still have no idea that I am the owner, and Sofia hasn't told them. What is that woman playing now?

"Is it related to Let-technology? They have the same name," Angelica said in wonder.

"No," I hurriedly answered without thinking. "If that's the case, their models will have advanced systems, but that is a big risk."

At my last words, I paused and thought. How did I not think about that?

"You're right, son, we need to negotiate with that company so that our new designs will have their advanced system," my dad said, and I cursed in my head.

I should really think of what to say first, and now they have that idea.

"By the way, since you decided to divorce without asking us, how's the company?"

"Don't worry, Dad, everything in the company will remain the same. I am still part of it."

"Are you sure? I don't want that family taking what's ours."

"That family is the one who leads us to where we are. May I just remind you that if it weren't for their power and influence, we wouldn't be here? Besides, admit it or not, Sofia's brilliant mind played a big role in the world. If it weren't for her, the ladies in this family wouldn't be enjoying the benefits they love so much, so be grateful." Grandpa reprimanded us all like we were a bunch of children.

"My son is the one who raised our name, Dad. Wherever we are, it is because of his hard work and intelligence." My mom was the one who was quick to refute pops.

"And I'm not saying he isn't. My grandson inherited my brain and cunningness, but." He paused, and his sharp eyes found me. "Not to offend you, son, but you know Sofia and her family are our main foundation where we are now. You cannot forget that and be ungrateful."

I saw the message he wanted to convey, and I also saw it in his eyes that he knew what I was doing.

"Father-in-law, that's in the past. They are divorced now. My son sacrificed a lot to get to where he is, and it's not right to mention that woman when she's now gone from our lives. And Elisa is even here, so that is a bit disrespectful."

"Stating the truth is not disrespectful, but you tend to forget it when it suits you. Besides, she can't feel that way because I'm talking about my grandson's wife."

"Pops, please," I begged with a sigh, already tired of this evening.

"I do not intend to hurt you. She needs to know that as long as your divorce isn't official, Sofia is still your wife."

I was flabbergasted by what he said, and Angelica dropped the glass she was holding, and even my parents looked at each other. I stared at Elisa, and she was red in embarrassment.

"Excuse me, I have to go to the restroom." Elisa excused herself, and Angelica followed her.

"Dad, that was too much," my mother told my grandpa while shaking her head.

I controlled my emotions and took a deep breath. "Pops, you've gone too far. Elisa is the one I love, and she's my girlfriend. You need to respect her and get used to the idea of seeing her often."

"A woman who does not value herself shouldn't be respected, as she does not know how to respect others."

And that was the last straw. "Grandpa!"

"How long has it been since you separated? A day? A few hours or maybe more, and you did not even tell us?"

"That has nothing to do with this. You know that this marriage is nothing but a joke. Everything is a contract."

"A contract that this family has benefited a lot, but a joke or not, Sofia is your wife. If you show yourself to everyone with your ex-girlfriend, when you just got divorced, what do you think the people will say? You cheated on your wife, and that's it."

I was not able to say anything because I did not expect those words to come from him. Especially him.

"I agree with Dad, son, be discreet for now. Just for a while to be safe." My mom agreed.

"It's not that we are ashamed, son. It's not that I care if you divorce that woman because we got what we wanted from your marriage. It won't be good for you to be seen in public with another not too long after your divorce."

My fists clenched as I tried to control myself. "You don't need to worry because I won't do that, but not for all of you, but for her. I don't want people to see her as the villain when she's a victim of a woman who ruined us for a fake wedding."

"She already shamed herself by talking to a married man, or when she joined the dinner with the family when you haven't even told us about the divorce."

"Grandpa, stop it!" I couldn't help but raise my voice again this time because of his choice of words.

"No, I'm not done yet. How did Sofia take the divorce? Did you tell her that it's because of Elisa?"

"She took it very well, if you ask me," I said sarcastically, remembering how she signed the papers. "Does it bother you?"

"Yes and no. Sofia has been your wife for five years, and admit it or not, you learned to give us gifts from your travels here, and among other things, I'm worried about how she took it. On the other hand, she's a woman who never needed a man to excel anyway. She can take care of herself, she's intelligent, and she's cunning. Even her dad is aware of that. Not to mention that she's one of the most beautiful women in the country, and men are dying to have her."

"She's free to do whatever she wants, and I don't care about that," I said in irritation because what he said irritated me, especially how she flirted earlier.

"It's just funny to me that I know most men will jump at this chance, even your girlfriend's brother. He'll be glad to know." My anger rose at every word he said.

"Well, good for her. Let's see if she finds someone who will suit her taste."

"Don't be surprised if she already has one." My mom intervened with a roll of her eyes.

I almost broke my neck when I turned to her. "What do you mean? That Sofia cheated on me?!"

"I don't know for sure, but it would be strange if there isn't. Besides, she was spotted a few times with a handsome man in a meeting at a restaurant or even at parties."

"Who is he?!"

"It doesn't matter who it is," my grandpa commented before Mom could answer. "You are having fun with Elisa; you came back to her; Sofia has every right to do that. Do you think that a woman like her won't have men at her feet?"

No! She's my wife. I answered almost immediately in my head.

"Let's stop this nonsense conversation about who's dating Sofia," Dad interrupted in annoyance. "Son, just be careful. That family won't stand down."

"Excuse me." Elisa and Angelica excused us as they came back and sat back down.

"Are you okay, dear?" Mom asked Elisa, but my mood was already ruined.

"Elisa, we're leaving. Say goodbye to them."

"But, son, we haven't talked yet."

"Another time, Dad, not now. Pops, we'll talk later."

"Of course, Angel, I'm just here."

Elisa bid them farewell, and we left using my car. There was a long silence, and I did not push her before she spoke again.

"Don't be too bothered by what your grandpa said; it's normal for him to say that I'm your lover," Elisa said in a soft voice.

"You are the one who shouldn't take it to heart. I don't want you to get hurt because of what he said," I told her with a smile.

"No, I'm just shocked. What's important is that the divorce is in process, and soon you'll be mine again."

"Of course, as it should be," she told me with a smile, but I couldn't help but think about what Mom and pops said.

Sofia is with another man. Why does that irritate me so much? Did she sign that fast because of that man? Without any conditions? Did she really cheat on me?