Chapter Two: The Future Groom and Bride.

At a bar in Ginza.

After their meeting with their company's CEO, Kai and Shun decided to have a drink at their favorite bar, just to loosen up a little...

“--You’re already 31 years old, Kai. I think it's the right age to settle down and have your own family. Aren't you planning to get married? ” Shun suddenly asked, after he took a sip of vodka.

Kai almost spit on his scotch when he heard Shun's remark. It's the kind of topic that makes him cringe. ALL THE TIME.

“There you go again, Shun. You sound like my mother. How many times do I have to tell you, I have no intention of getting married? I don’t like the idea of being chained by other people. I want to have my own freedom and space. ” Kai stated.

“Don’t you want to build your own family just like what your father and mother did? Aren't you jealous of their good relationship as a couple? You’re not getting any younger..." Shun spoke again.

“But seriously... I can't see myself being someone. Sure, I’ve had girlfriends, and we had fun and great times, but that's it. I've never been really inlove, and I don't think I will in the future." Kai seriously stated.

"Well, I'm just your best buddy giving you a piece if advice, but it's your life. You can do whatever you want." Shun casually responded.

"Thanks, man. But let's forget about everything and let's enjoy and relax. Cheers!" Kai happily announced, as he raised his glass for a toast...

======================

Siren was taken aback once she arrives at the lobby of a hotel where the audition for an International reality show was being held. There was a long queue of women who are hoping to be picked. She was overwhelmed with nervousness when she saw the hopeful applicants. They are all jaw-dropping gorgeous compared to her...

"Please fall in line properly and put the number given to you on your chest. We will call you according to your number. ” one of the staff made the announcement.

Siren took a deep, calming breath, as she prepares herself for the audition...

==============

After eight hours…

Siren took a deep breath before she opened the door of the Audition room. She instantly saw three people as soon as she enters the room. She saw a woman, and two men who were watching her every move... They look so serious, and she feels like they're going to eat her alive...

"Good evening." Siren politely greeted them.

“Good evening. Can you tell us your name, please? ” the woman asked her

“I'm Siren Gonzales. I'm pleased to meet you all" Siren answered, while trying her best not to sound nervous.

“Nice to meet you, Siren... Tell us something about yourself, please." the male judge spoke to her this time.

"I"m twenty-nine years old, and I consider myself as a country girl. However, my family and ai decided to move to the big city for better job opportunities. I am currently the breadwinner in my family. I have teenage twin siblings, and I have a mother. My father passed away ten years ago because of a heart disease. But I think my family and I are doing better. My dream is to be an award-winning International actress, and I am willing to do anything to make my dream come true." Siren calmly relayed.

“Well, let’s proceed to the next question, then… What are your thoughts about marriage?" the third jury suddenly asked her.

Siren let out a nervous smile before she spoke again.

“Marriage for Filipinos is considered as sacred. We believe that God blesses the union of a couple. The couple should create a family that who are God-fearing, filled with genuine love, and have high respect with each other..."

"And what can you say about divorce and annulment?" the judge did a follow-up question.

“I personally think that if a husband and wife have lost their reason to love each other. The. they should seriously talk about the problem, instead of running away from it. Also, if staying together causes mental, emotional and physical pain, it will be better to finally let go and move on with their own lives. I hope they can make decision that will benefit their children." Siren explained her own thoughts about the topic.

“Very well said, Miss Gonzales. You're the woman we've been looking for this project... But are you willing to get married just to be on this International reality show?" the female judge spoke again.

"What do you mean by "getting married?" Siren asked again, as she looks obviously surprised.

"For your peace of mind, this marriage is only for a reality show. It’s not really a true marriage. You will only show the viewers your daily life as a wife. And we can't tell you about your future husband... Yet. Your partner doesn't know anything about you as well..." the judges explained the theme of the show.

"Oh. So, this is just like a pretend marriage?" Siren clarifies.

"Yes. This is what we call as virtual marriage. No personal feelings, just purely business." the judges assured her.

"I understand. I think it's a unique show." Siren finally got interested with the show.

"Great to hear that from you. So, what do you think, gentlemen?" the female juror asked the two men.

"I think he has all the qualities we are looking for. Let’s talk to her Manager and let’s talk real business. ” the first man commented.

"I agree. I think she is perfect for the role." the other judge nodded approvingly.

“We have made our decision, Siren. Please call your Manager so that we can talk about the Terms and Conditions, and if you both agree, we'll do contract signing rightaway..." one of the judges smilingly announced.

"Thank you very much!" happily thanked them.

She finally passed the audition!