~LEONA~
" So what have you also been up to!"
He asked out of nowhere.
I sighed.
" Well, I couldn't get any suitable job because I had none of my certificates but I was managing some work."
" I'm sorry about that but why did you leave so suddenly? I went to class and when I came, my friend said you left. I was so disturbed that I searched for you the whole week but couldn't find you."
" I had to leave. It was urgent. I waited for some time but you didn't come."
I tried not to give any hint of the ordeal I had to go through before leaving. Had it not been for his friend, I would have stayed.
"And you left everything behind without a second thought? Why? "
I bit my lips when the memories of that day won't go away.
I didn't want to implicate his friend so I lied.
"I'm sorry, Ray. but I had no choice at that time. I was called urgently to my school for some work abroad. I couldn't refuse such an opportunity but when I got there, there were no certificates to prove so I was laid off." I lied.
" Alright. Whatever it is, I am glad that we're together again but you look hideous. Why do you go about in only one hoodie and jeans? That's what you've been wearing ever since I started stalking you."
" Em.." I was lost for words.
What will I tell him so that I won't end up revealing who I have been to him?
"You've changed so much, Leo. You've changed in the way you speak, walk, and everything. I can't believe you tried to punch me so hard the other time. " He said and chuckled.
" Yeah. So tell me... why have you been following me in disguise all this time?" I changed the topic.
He signed, walked to me then removed my wig and my braided hair fell behind my back.
He studied me then walked back to sit on the couch.
"Even without your long hair, I was sure that you were my sister. Even though your actions said otherwise, I knew deep down that somehow we're connected."
He continued.
" You know, I was passing the administration block the day you brought the baby to be admitted and I heard your voice.
It sounded familiar so I decided to come check but you were gone when I arrived.
I went for your details since I work at the school's private hospital and tried to find where you lived and your occupation but there was nothing to show. I guess they were fake.
I started stalking you but you were so smart and fearless. I decided to scare you but you scared me instead until yesterday."
I walked to him and sat beside him. " I wonder what brother you'd have been if you hadn't recognized me."
" The worst... which I'm not."
" So do you have my certificates? I'd really like to start doing something."
" Sure, I have them kept in a safe place."
"Thanks. "
" It's alright, so what work do you wanna do?"
" I thought you know already."
"Be an Economist?"
" Yeah, I've always wanted to be one but any work will do for now."
"Alright, I'll try to get you one."
" You know, you're the best."
" And my little sister is the best."
" Are you sure?" I asked.
" What was that supposed to mean?"
" I know you have a girl who's the best so tell me who she is."
" I don't have, not now but someday."
" Phew... thank God. At least I won't have to share you with anybody for now."
" If you keep doing this, I'll never get married." He replied and rolled his eyes.
" I wished that could happen." I said honestly.
" Seriously? You're mad."
We spent the entire time chatting and teasing each other until we fell asleep.
As usual, Raymond left for work early the next day so it was only I and Leonard again.
The same routine continued for a week.
On the weekend, he went to work but came early.
"You're back early today. Is it because it's a weekend? " I asked when he walked in.
" I guess but I actually got some plans. "
" Care to share? "
" Yeah sure. "
" Then? " I waited for him to speak.
" Guess it. "
" What the fuck! I can't guess. "
" But you used to be a good guesser."
"That was before."
"Yeah, how can I forget. You've changed so much and you now use swear words in your speech." He said observantly with a thoughtful look.
I shifted uncomfortably on the couch.
His arm settled on my shoulders. "Listen, I don't know what you've been through or what went through you but I know you are not being completely honest with me and that's okay..."
"Ray, I."
"No, Leona. I can literally see the lies but it's okay. You're just not ready but remember I'll be whenever you are."
"I'm sorry." I whispered sincerely.
" It's fine. I'm just glad you're here." He pulled me near.
"Me too." I leaned into him.
"And I got you a job, Leona."
I turned to face him with wide eyes as I shook my head. "No way!"
He nodded with a grin. "I got you a job at one of the best banks in America and your interview is on Monday."
" You don't mean it!"
" Come on, we need to shop for some new outfits." He got up and took my hand.
" Wait." I stopped him.
"What? Don't tell me you don't wanna work again." He frowned.
" Not that. Actually, I don't have money for new clothes.."
" Rubbish! I won't allow you to do that."
" But.."
I really don't want him to make unnecessary expenses on me.
" Yes, Leo, I might not be a billionaire but I have enough to fend for us. I already told you that you guys are my responsibility."
" Alright, but please let me pay you back after my first check." I insisted.
He let out an exasperated sigh and ran his tongue over his lips.
Then a mischievous smile crept on his lips.
He looks so cute. I hope it's not a sin to admire one's brother.
Well if it's a sin, then I am ready to commit it over and over again.
My brother is very handsome and I can't believe that he said he doesn't have a girlfriend.
I am sure most of the girls must be dying to have him.
"You can pay me back after you get a boyfriend." He said and looked at me in a challenging way.
"You know that won't happen.."
"Well, then let it happen." He grimaced.
" You're impossible." I whispered and went for Leonard's carrier.
I changed my clothes then picked Leo up. When I got out, Raymond was also done changing and was waiting for us.
We got into the car and he drove us to one of the boutiques in the city.
He carried Leo while I shopped for clothes. After putting each clothes on, he'll examine it and if it looks good on me, he'll approve.
We selected work outfits the most and a few casual clothes but they were enough. I was surprised at how he managed to pay for all of them.
I loved all the clothes he chose for me and he loved all the ones I chose too.
After we were done shopping, he took me to a beauty salon where I had my pedicure and manicure.
I told him that it wasn't needed but he insisted that I do it because the first impression always counts and I have to look elegant and smart on my interview.
"Why won't you let them trim your hair? He asked after I refused the hair specialist.
"I have my reasons, Ray. If not, I would've done so a long time ago."
" Alright, it's your hair whatever you think is best. I'll always support you."
I ended up washing my hair thoroughly with expensive products, the finished work was wow. My hair looked prettier and lustrous.
Despite that, I had them make a new wig for me to wear.
It was already late when we got home and we were all tired including baby Leo.
The following day was Sunday which means no work for Raymond so we spent the day together. It was a bonding time for us and we made the best out of it.
The following day, I woke early even though the interview was at 8 am.
I prepared Leonard for school since he'll be leaving with Raymond. It happened that Raymond was actually a nurse in their school so he suggested to keep an eye on him while I am at work.
After breakfast, which I couldn't take much because of my nervousness, we left the house.
Raymond has already packed everything I'll be needing in my bag so all I needed was to carry it.
What a brother I have, so caring and loving. Just like Mary, Raymond is not pushing me to say what I am unprepared to say.
He dropped me in front of a tall building that had the name written boldly at the top. "The ANOSOVA'S international Bank." I read it out.
Who are they to name such a big bank after their name? They must be rich.
I turned to ask Raymond but he has already zoomed off.
I checked my time and it was 7:40 am which means I have the next 20 minutes at my disposal.
I walked into the building the best way I could.
I've done dirty jobs and it has helped boost my confidence so I knew that I'd be used to this new environment soon.
Besides, this is my first attempt for a proper job so being a bit nervous was expected.
I just hope that I qualify for the job.
I checked myself in the glass doors on my way to the CEO's office.
Everyone was dressed neatly and beautifully.
Raymond had recommended my outfit so I think it's the best.
I learned his assistant was not around so I was to meet the CEO himself.
When I got to his office, the secretary who was dressed smartly told me to wait because the boss wasn't in yet.
After waiting for thirty minutes, I was allowed inside.
I brushed my hands softly on the door before entering even though no one permitted me to.
"Did I give permission for you to enter?" A grumpy voice roared from where he sat at the desk without the person raising his head.
I stood stunned by the tone and a little irritated.
Is he seriously mentally disabled? Who talks to a person like that?
"I thought I asked a question which demanded an answer? You're disqualified! Now get out of my office..."
He paused when he raised his head to look at me for the first time.
I think I saw his eyes widen before returning to normal in a flash.
Ever since Yolando made me his partner, I stopped taking shit from people.
I don't kiss asses anymore and I'm fucken, not scared of anyone.
I don't care who the hell he is so I prepared to give him the best comeback when he rose from his seat and the next word that came from his mouth after he was done assessing me got both my fist and mouth itchy.
I yearned so much to smack the hell outta him.
"And don't you think you're under-dressed my roomie?. Who goes about looking for work with such long ugly skirts?"
Long ugly skirt? Fuck him! Raymond chose this and I know it's the best.
Wait...did he say, Roomie?
I think it was my turn to let my jaw drop lower, lower, lower, and lower. If it was possible to drop even lower, then it would've graced the floor.
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