About this ebook
The Love We Never Chose
By Darwin Manalo
Some love stories are not destroyed by distance, betrayal, or time.
Some are simply sacrificed for friendship.
When three irregular students from different backgrounds meet in the College of Business, an unexpected friendship begins. Erik Carlos, a quiet and hardworking young man, finds himself drawn to Jonna Villanueva—a talented guitarist whose intelligence, kindness, and simple beauty slowly capture his heart.
As their friendship deepens through late-night phone calls, shared dreams, and unforgettable college memories, Erik begins to believe that Jonna may feel the same way.
But there is one complication.
Glenda Buenaventura, their beautiful and wealthy friend, has secretly fallen in love with Erik.
Faced with an impossible choice between friendship and love, Jonna walks away without explanation, leaving behind a story that never had the chance to begin.
Ten years later, after marriage, children, and separate lives, a simple message on social media reconnects two people who never truly forgot each other.
When Erik finally asks the question he has carried for a decade, the answer reveals a heartbreaking truth about sacrifice, loyalty, and the love they never chose.
Almost Us: The Love We Never Chose is an emotional coming-of-age romance about first love, friendship, missed opportunities, and the lingering question that stays with us forever:
What if?
Perfect for readers who enjoy heartfelt contemporary romance, emotional love stories, and unforgettable tales of friendship, sacrifice, and second chances.
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About the author
About the Author
Darwin Manalo is an independent author passionate about telling stories that explore the depth of the human heart. His novels center on themes of love, friendship, family, sacrifice, hope, faith, resilience, and the life-changing choices that define who we become.
From heartfelt contemporary romances to inspiring life stories and epic fantasy adventures, Darwin writes characters that feel real—people who struggle, dream, love, lose, and ultimately discover the strength to move forward.
His works include The Azmaria Chronicles, a fantasy series filled with magic and destiny, as well as emotionally driven novels such as The Beating Heart of First Love, The Father Who Stayed, When Hope Refused to Die, and Almost Us: The Love We Never Chose.
Through every story, Darwin hopes to remind readers that even the most ordinary moments can become extraordinary memories, and that the greatest journeys often begin with a single choice.
When he isn't writing, Darwin enjoys creating new stories, exploring meaningful life experiences, and connecting with readers around the world who believe in the enduring power of hope, love, and second chances.
"Every story leaves a mark. I simply hope mine stays with you long after you've turned the final page."
