Anne Gonzales was the kind of girl other girls hated.

She survived the roller coaster of adolescence and all-girl high school hell virtually unscathed. Went to college and passed all her classes with flying colors, while still managing to have a social life. Graduated with honors, spent her summer after college traveling around the world, returned to Manila to job hunt, and proceeded to climb the corporate ladder. With ease. And undeniable style.

She was just one of those fabulous types. She couldn’t help it. It’s just the way she was wired.

Not only did Anne conquer the workplace, she also ably navigated the complicated landscape of adult relationships.  Soon after she started working, she met Francis Verayo at an investment seminar for young professionals.  He was a finance whiz kid, and an up-and-comer at one of the country’s most well-respected banks. They were made for each other. They often joked that it was good that they did not work in the same industry.