Almost Us: The Love We Never Chose

By Darwin Manalo

ALMOST US
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.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0H4M3WCTM
• ISBN13: 9798180756091
• Release Date: June 2026
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 230 Pages
• Weight: 0.62 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.0"