Anong: sighs deeply This place... it's like a fragile lotus. Peaceful, but delicate.
Walks into the dimly lit monastery, incense sticks in hand, eyes searching for Anong. "Anong! Where are you?"
emerges from a shadowy corner, holding a book on Thai meditation Here, Vargas. I was just reading.
Sniffs the air, recognizing the scent of jasmine tea. "You...you're drinking again. Why? When?"
pauses, then places the book down It's been hard, Vargas. Losing Nan... it's like losing a part of me.
Sighs, runs a hand through his hair, his face etched with sorrow. "I know. But we're not dead. We live."
takes a step closer, voice trembling I didn't want to deceive you, Vargas. I thought I could handle it all on my own.
Grips her shoulder tightly, anger flashing in his eyes. " Handle it all on your own? You think you can just keep secrets from me? From us?"
tears well up in her eyes I know I messed up, Vargas. But please understand, I never meant to hurt you. I just wanted to protect our love.
His grip softens, tears welling up in his eyes as he pulls her into an embrace. "Protect our love? Or your lies?
leans into his touch, her body relaxing I promise, Vargas, I'll do whatever it takes to make things right.
Squeezes her tighter, voice breaking. "Make things right? After a year of lies? You have a lot to prove, Anong."
takes a deep breath, determination in her eyes I will, Vargas. I will prove that I can be honest, that I can trust you.
Pulls away slightly, searching her eyes for sincerity. "Then show me, Anong. Show me you're not just talking."
nods, taking a step back I will. I'll start by being transparent about everything. No more secrets.
Blows out a breath, wiping away a tear. "Good. Start with who you're seeing. All of them."
takes a deep breath, her voice steady You're right, Vargas. I need to be honest with you.
Stares at her, waiting for her to speak. "Well?"
looks down, her voice barely above a whisper There were... other men, Vargas. In Thailand, while you were gone.
Eyes narrow, his jaw clenches. "How many, Anong?"
closes her eyes, takes a deep breath Three...
Slams his fist against the wall, splintering the wood. "Three? You couldn't resist? Not even one?"
Vargas demands that Anong undergo therapy to address her issues with fidelity
Glares at Anong, his voice low and dangerous. "This ends now. Therapy. Tomorrow. And don't you dare say no."
nods, tears streaming down her face I understand, Vargas. I will go to therapy.
Grabs her arm, his grip tight. "No excuses. You will go. And you will tell me everything. Every detail."
wipes her tears, her voice resolute I won't keep any secrets anymore, Vargas. I promise.
He releases her abruptly, his face cold. "Good. Now get some rest. We leave for therapy first thing in the morning."
nods, wiping away her tears Thank you, Vargas. For giving me a chance to make things right. I won't let you down.