Terban’s POV
Even before parking in the garage, I noticed an unfamiliar car in front of the boarding house. I know we have a guest. So instead of coming in, I went near the door and listened secretly. The door is not soundproof, so it is easy to hear the conversation inside.
“There is much anticipation for the next person to manage the Ixumi corporation. While Sylvester is my son, I will only pass on the company if he proves himself worthy. That is why his cousins, who also work in Ixumi, hold him in high regard.”
'So, it's Slvester’s father. I see.'
“However, I worry that Sylvester's future wife being adopted may be used against him.”
I grinned at what I heard. What is this? Doesn't Slyvester know that his father thinks like this? Sh*t.
“I am concerned for you and wonder if you dare to face any criticisms about your origins.”
I grabbed my phone and texted Kyle.
[Kyle, are you at school? Please find Slyvester. Say, his father is here. He's talking bullsh*t with Ryan.]
I put exactly what I heard from his father in the second text. Because Slyvester needs to listen to this, HE MUST.
I put my hand on the door lock. I was about to walk in and help her, but...
"You're just using another word to say I'm not suitable for Slyvester," I managed to say.
My feet halted after hearing what she said to Slyvester’s father.
"I am aware of my situation, Sir. When you learned I was adopted, someone said you would not like me. But I see no reason to be ashamed of being one. You said it depends on Slyvester if you give the company over. That means your decision does not depend on me."
When we were young, I always comforted her when she was sad because of her origin. But now it looks like she is strong enough to defend herself.
'Good job. You did great, my Ryan.'
"Yes. And I'm grateful." But just in case, I won't marry Slyvester’s relatives. Slyvester will be the one to share the same house with me."
I'm glad she could defend herself, but I wasn't happy with her last words. 'Marriage?! That...! Hearing that is painful.'
I heard Slyvester’s father stand up and say goodbye. After a while, the door opened, but I didn't leave my position. I really waited for him to open it so we could meet.
Then the middle-aged man stopped when our eyes met. Unlike Slyvester, he emits a very intimidating aura. You can tell from his stance and looks that he has a high status in life.
I swerved to let him pass. Then we parted ways without exchanging greetings. Why would I greet a rude man? Now is not the right time to talk to him. Because after this, I'll set another date for our meeting.
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Slyvester’s POV
Upon receiving the text message from Terban, Kyle promptly showed it to me. In response, I hastened my return to the boarding house. Despite thoroughly searching the living room and knocking on Ryan's door, my efforts proved futile in locating her.
Considering that it was not certain that she had left the premises, I decided to venture up to the rooftop. The moment I set foot on the open-air expanse, a biting gust of wind assailed me, but it failed to quell the turbulent emotions roiling within me.
She was weeping inconsolably, and Terban embraced her. Even though he was her close friend, Terban had feelings for her as a woman. So, I was so damn mad to see him consoling Ryan when it should be me.
"Let's move on to the third question," Ryan said.
"..."
"Slyvester?"
"What?" I mumbled absentmindedly.
"You're not paying attention," I chided.
Ryan and I had planned to prepare for our upcoming math exam together in the garden. However, I found it difficult to concentrate due to the previous night's events.
"Sorry. What number are we at?"
Ryan put the book down. She pouted her lips and creased her brows. "Spill it."
"What?"
"You're thinking about something. You were blank the whole time. This morning, you used toothpaste as your facial cleanser. So, tell me. I'll listen."
'No. I should be the one listening to her at this time.’
" Ryan. When Dad returned my wallet and cellphone, did he say anything to you?"
I already know what my father told her. Terban shared the message with Kyle, and I read it all. Feeling embarrassed and annoyed, I planned to go home immediately to talk to my Dad. But I lost my mind when I saw my girlfriend and Terban hugging on the rooftop.
Ryan gave me the exact details that I read in Terban's text. She was straightforward and didn't hold back. However, I still feel unsatisfied. Shouldn't I be happy that Ryan didn't take it personally?
"All I can say is sorry," I replied.
"Why are you apologizing for your father's actions? You and your father are different individuals."
I bit my lower lip and bowed. "Why didn't you tell me right away?"
"About this?"
"Hmmm."
"Ahhh, I just calmed myself down. I have a plan to tell you all about this. Just, you got ahead of me, Slyvester."
"How about your feelings? You won't be okay after hearing that."
"Right. I felt bad. I was so humiliated, to be honest. But now I'm good."
I'm feeling regretful for not being there to comfort her when she was hurt. It was my responsibility, but she only approached me once she had already recovered. I couldn’t help but question my own vulnerability. ‘Do I look weak?’
"Ryan."
She responded, "Yes?"
I said, "Next time, please come to me. Even if you're not ready, seek comfort in me."
Our eyes met, and I reached out to gently hold her hands.
"I saw you embracing Terban on the rooftop. I felt envious," I confessed.
Her eyes widened while her lips parted in surprise. "That...!" she exclaimed.
"I know," I sighed. " Terban just comforted you because you needed it at that time. I understand. It's just that I'm still jealous. Silly, right?”
Ryan’s hand tightened around my clutch, perhaps thinking of something to say so I’ll stop being jealous.
‘But jealousy doesn't have medicine.’