Keifer's POV
I wanted to smash my phone against the wall. I used the word 'again'. I'm nervous. I hope she doesn't notice what I said. I read my message to her again.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:it ws nice hearing ur voice again. š
She doesn't know me that well. All she knows is that we've met, so I don't think she'll notice the word 'again'. My carelessness could get me in trouble. I'll make sure to double-check my messages next time.
I heard my phone's text tone. It was Jay-jay.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message: I don't know you! Goodnight already!
My lips formed a smile. I didn't sense any irritation in her response. And she didn't react to the word 'again'.
I couldn't stop smiling as I typed my reply.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:Gudnyt... I hope you'll hve sweetdreams. ššš
I felt so corny using emojis. It felt so childish and cringey. But it looks like Jay-jay enjoys it.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:You too. Sweetdreams too. ššš
Damn it! Why can't I stop smiling? It's just an emoji. I bit my lips while typing a reply.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message: nah! But wet dreams will do!
I could already imagine her reaction.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message: You're a Queen! Don't text me anymore! You're so good at making me give in!
I knew it! And I laughed so hard. I even ended up lying on my bed from laughing. I'm so in love with this woman. She makes me laugh with her little gestures and curses.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message: I more like it when u talk to me like that..
I bit my lips again and waited for her reply.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:You're really crazy! Your name suits you...GagongBaliw! (Crazy fool)
Sounds like a curse. Should I mentally count that one? It's a name but still a profanity.
Oh well... I'll count it. More profanity, more kisses.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:Crazy and Fool also. How rude.
If only I was with her right now, I'd probably pinch her cheek because I'm so happy. I could also tease her in other ways.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:I don't care! Don't bother me! I thought you had to go? Then why are you still replying?!
I was about to reply...
I was about to reply to her when someone suddenly knocked on the door. I hid my secret phone and took the original one from my pocket. I also sat properly on the bed as if I wasn't doing anything.
"Kuya... Are you still awake?" It was Keigan.
"Yeah."
The door opened, and he walked in. His eyes immediately landed on what I was holding.
"You're holding your phone." he said while pointing at my phone.
"Yeah, I've had it for a while now."
"Then why aren't you answering Honey's messages and phone calls?"
Shit! I didn't hear my phone ring. I was too caught up with Jay-jay.
"I'm not in the mood to answer her calls. I'm busy thinking about our plan." I said and tossed my phone behind me.
His forehead creased. "You ignore her calls? Kuya! It's important to answer everyone's phone calls! We're doing something important, so what they have to say might be important too!" he scolded me.
"I just have a lot on my mind."
He held out his hand to me. "Hand me your phone. I'll be the one to answer calls for you."
I shook my head. "You don't have to. It won't happen again."
He sighed. "Next time, Kuya. I will take your phone."
I simply nodded. "Is that all?"
"We're going back to Watson Enterprise tomorrow. Please, talk to him nicely and don't threaten his life."
He was referring to Clyde. I sighed before nodding at him. He turned around and walked out. I let out a breath of relief once the door shut. I thought he'd bombard me with more questions about what I was doing.
Why does it feel like I'm talking to my dad whenever I'm with him? So bossy.
I looked at my secret phone. I still wanted to text her, but she might already be asleep.
The time in the Philippines is ahead, so it might already be midnight over there.
It's better to just let her sleep. I just hope she sleeps well after everything that happened.
I hid the phone again and stood up to walk to the bathroom. I placed myself under the shower after removing my clothes.
Honestly, everything feels so strange. It's like I'm in a different world. And because of that, I couldn't help but feel anxious. I don't have control over myself in this place.
After taking a shower and changing into pajamas, I collapsed onto the bed. My body was exhausted, but my mind was wide awake. I tried to close my eyes and force myself to sleep, but it was useless.
I sat up and rubbed my eyes. I don't know what to do to make myself fall asleep. I grabbed my original phone again and opened social media. I was only looking at Jay-jay's account.
She doesn't post anything, and the only people commenting on her timeline are her enemies. If she does have a post, it's obvious it's not really her. It was C-in pretending to be her.
I closed the app after seeing nothing interesting.
I sighed. Then I opened the gallery. Most of the pictures were taken by C-in.
He told me he'd take nice pictures of Jay-jay. But he didn't fulfill his promise. Most of his shots were of her either with her mouth open, eyes closed, or pouting. There were also pictures of her yawning and picking her nose.
His pictures are going to ruin her reputation.
I put the phone down again and lay on the bed. I rolled around on the mattress but my mind was still wide awake.
I started imagining all sorts of things. I even thought about how I'd approach Jay when I return. Maybe a deep torrid kiss will do.
But she might just greet me with a punch instead. I'll just hug herāor buy her an expensive gift.
But she doesn't like material things. She's more intoā¦ food!
I'll bring her to an all-you-can-eat buffet for a monthāor a year! I think it's better to just buy the whole restaurant for her. She'll definitely like that one.
I'll ask Honey to find me a restaurant with an eat-all-you-can buffet.
I wonder if she's dreaming about me now.
Is she eating properly? Did she get into another fight? What could Angelo have done to her this time?
I'm a bit worried about her family's reaction. Maybe Aries is picking on her again.
Now I suddenly feel like going home. I don't want to just take chances while I'm here. I want to know exactly what's going on with her right now.
The hell! I should go to sleep! I grabbed a handful of my own hair in frustration as I rolled around on the bed. If I don't stop thinking about her, I might not be able to control myself and end up going home.
I gave her space because she needs it. I can't just come back all of a sudden just because I'm worried.
I know she's a strong woman. I trust her and I believe she can face every challenge in her life.
I got up and took my original phone. I looked for Rory's name and hit the call button.
["Hello?"] he answered in a sleepy voice.
"Rory! I want you to update meā" He cut me off.
["Keifer? Come on! Can't that wait until tomorrow? It's the middle of the night here!"]
"I know. I just want to make sure you'll keep me updated on what's going on with Jay-jay."
I heard his faint groan of protest. ["Fine! Just let me sleep! Please!"]
"Okay... Goodnight." I said and ended the call.
I just want to be sure she's safe. Maybe I should call the others too. I don't think there's anything wrong with checking in every now and then.
I placed my phone on the bedside table. I lay back down, but I wasn't planning to sleep yet. I have this feeling that someone's thinking about me. And that someone is her.
I smiled as I reached for my secret phone. I bit my lips while composing a message.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:stop thinking of me. I can't sleep.
Not long after, I received her response. I knew itāshe's still awake.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:you have a thick face! How can you say that I'm thinking of you? YOU'RE SO FULL OF YOURSELF!
I laughed shortly. Forget sleeping. Let's do this all night.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:how do I know? Because you're the only person that I'm talking to since earlier.
I know she'll insist I'm wrong. My stubborn Future Mrs. Watson.
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:don't me! Donnat blaming me!
What? Donnat? I laughed so hard after reading her message. She really knows how to make me laughāwhether she means to or not.
I typed my reply, but another message from her came in. I sent mine first before reading the new one.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:hahaha... What's with ur english?
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:You are the one thinking! Because I am the one who can't sleep!
I immediately typed my answer.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:yes, i am thinking of you. Here in my bed, naked... šš
I can already sense her fury from here. Time to start counting!
From: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:You jerk! Don't you show your face to me, or you'll go home with every bone in your body broken! Annoying! You're such a creep! You deserve to be castrated so you'll learn your lesson! You should be targets for Tokhang!
I'm having a bit of trouble understanding her message, but I know she's pissed. Maybe I should tone down the jokes a bit.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:i'm just kidding. Yes, I'm thinking of youābut not like that. I'm thinking of you wearing a wedding gown and walking on the red carpet, smiling at me, so happy.
I always imagine that scenario. Me, waiting at the church. Her, walking down the aisle, wearing that beautiful smile.
Damn! I hate sounding cheesy.
I composed another message for her.
To: MyFutureMrsWatson
Message:and of course... the honeymoon!
Yup. She's definitely cursing me out now and wishing for my death. I was planning to wait for her reply, but I figured it's not good to keep her up.
She needs to save her energy. Especially now that the Hanamitchis have backed off. She'll be facing more problems.
I hid my secret phone and closed my eyes. For the last time, no need to try to fall asleepābecause I actually did.
I just woke up because of the sound of my phone. I reached for my secret phone, thinking it was the one ringing. I stopped when the ringing also stopped.
"Hello." Keigan's voice.
I opened my eyes and looked at him. He was holding my original phone. Good thing I didn't take out the other one.
"Got it. We'll be there." he said before putting down my phone.
I arched a brow when he looked at me. "Too early to scold me," I said with a raspy voice.
"Get up. It's already late."
I looked at the wall clock. 7:15 AM. And Keigan considered that late. His time must be different from mine. I was forced to get up.
"Get out. I'm getting ready." I said, and he walked out without saying a word.
I immediately took my secret phone and checked if there was a message from her. Unfortunately, it looked like she fell asleep right away last night too.
I decided to greet her before hiding my phone again. Keigan can get into my room without me noticing, so he might see it if I just leave it lying around. I headed straight to the bathroom to shower and get ready.
I moved quickly because I knew Keigan would rush me again. And I hate it when he talks to me like our Monster Dad.
To be honest, Keigan resembles that monster more than I do, even though I'm the eldest. I'm not surprised, but I don't want Keigan to end up like himā A heartless monster.
I took both my phones. I hid the secret one in my coat, while the original one went into my pocket. I stepped out of the room, and I was right. Keigan was already on his way to call me.
"A little faster, please." he said while gesturing with his hands.
I nodded briefly. He's starting to get bossy.
When I got out of the suite, Honey and Mr. Raider met me.
"I'll take care of Keiren," Mr. Raider said. "Honey will go with you."
I winced. I didn't like that! Is there seriously no one else? Maybe next time I should call Rory and ask him to work for me here.
"What's with the look?" Honey asked me.
I shook my head. "Nothing."
We all walked out of the hotel almost at the same time. Our service vehicle was waiting for us. When we got inside, I looked at Honey as she handed me a piece of paper.
"What is this?"
"The plans of the acting CEO of Watson Enterprise. They're planning to expand and increase their shares," she explained. "A strategic plan so that by the time you take your seat in the company, he won't be removable anymore because he'll have more allies and leverage."
That bastard! He's already making moves to make sure he keeps what should be mine. He's got some nerve.
We arrived at the Enterprise. There are three buildings that belong to our company. The newest one is located on a busy street in London. The second one is unknown, while the oldest one is the one in front of me now.
It's a building made of bricks and stoneājust like the materials used in castles. It also has three floors, and because of the tall and grand ceilings, the whole building looks like it has five floors.
Keigan and Honey walked in first, and I followed. Just like before, the lobby was deserted except for the receptionistāa man and a woman. They greeted us by slightly bowing their heads.
As far as I know, only the CEO's office is located in this whole area, so it's nearly empty. The employees of the CEO's office are here as well.
When we entered the elevator, Keigan was the one who pressed the floor button. He was also the one who broke the silence.
"Please, Kuya, stop threatening his life." he said, sounding pleading.
He's talking about Clyde. It's hard not to threaten that guy, especially when I hear his insults.
When we reached his office floor, I noticed a few bodyguards stationed right outside the office door.
Did he really feel threatened?
They slightly stepped aside when they saw us approaching. Keigan knocked before opening the door.
We almost all stopped at the same time when we saw the youngest of the Elders. He was the only Elder who never got involved in discussions about my inheritance. He was also the one who gave me the key to the vault at Watson Bank.
"U-Uncle Kier." I said and slightly bowed my head.
I glanced briefly at Clyde and saw the irritation on his face. Looks like they were talking about something unpleasant.
"Have a seat, Keifer." He said and motioned to the nearest seats just across from Clyde.
I sat down, and Keigan and Honey followed. They just stood behind me.
"Nice to see you, Uncle." Keigan greeted him.
He looked at him and stared for a while before speaking.
"I need a new pair of glasses. I thought you were Kaizer."
I didn't even notice Keigan's reaction. I knew he didn't like what he heard either. Who would want to be compared to that monster?
"What brought you here, Uncle?" Clyde said and slightly turned to me before facing the Elder again.
"I heard you're not letting Keifer get his rights in this Company. Do you want me to remind you about our deal?"
My forehead creased. What deal? What's going on? I don't understand what this is for. But I liked the way he scolded my stupid cousin about my rights.
"I don't think Keifer is ready." Clyde explained.
"Of course he will never be ready. Unless you let him experience things. Give him at least a position in this office." His commanding voice echoed throughout the entire office. "He's the heir, and you're just the acting CEO."
The disagreement was clear on Clyde's face. But there was nothing he could do. He was talking to one of the Elders. Even if this one didn't often interfere like the others, his word still carried weight.
"B-but the other Elders will notā"
"Forget them!" His voice growled like thunder. "Our deal, Clyde! I agreed to let you handle the company if you would put Keifer into training. But it looks like you're changing your mind."
He bowed his head and clenched his fist. So that's it! He was supposed to train me, but now he's refusing. No wonder he managed to become CEO.
"Keifer." Uncle called me. "I know you still don't have a degree. This company requires a school graduate. That's why we can't let you sit on your throne yet."
I simply nodded. "I understand."
"Clyde will be in charge of everything for your training." he said and stood up.
Ā
We did the same and watched him leave the office. As the door closed, I felt Clyde's hand grab my collar.
"You bastard don't deserve anything here." he said through clenched teeth.
I swatted his hand away. "Same as you. You tried to fool the youngest Elder."
He smirked. "Your grandfather made a mistake. He shouldn't have left everything to you."
"Who should he have left it to? You? Then he would've made a disaster."
It was obvious he was triggered. He threw a punch that landed on the side of my lip.
Honey screamed.
"Kuya!" It was Keigan.
I immediately countered with a punch of my own, and of course, there was no way he'd back down.
We exchanged hard punches and kicks. We didn't even care where we were anymore.
We rolled over the coffee table and the executive desk. We broke so many things. Papers flew in the air along with all sorts of stuff.
"I'll fvcking take everything from you!" he shouted in my face.
I pushed him hard. "I will never let you!"
He stood up and grabbed me by the shirt.
"You don't deserve to be a Watson."
"Too late to say! I've carried the same last name for almost 18 years now!"
He threw another punch, but I managed to land a kick on his leg. He screamed in pain and collapsed to the floor.
"Fvck you!" he shouted at me. "You will lose everything! I'll make sure of that! And I will include your girlā!"
I kicked him square in the face. He couldn't speak anymore because of the blood and dizziness. I badly wanted to break his jaw.
"What have you done, Kuya!" Keigan said in shock.
"Shutting his mouth. He talks too much."
I took off the coat I was wearing and handed it to Honey. I sat back down in the seat I had earlier and unbuttoned a few buttons on my polo.
I could crush his skull right now. He just better not make the mistake of dragging Jay-jay into this.