When the Past Comes Calling

Yvienna's breath hitched as cold sweat trickled down her spine. A shiver ran through her, and the already chilly atmosphere seemed to grow even colder. Her trembling hand turned to Kyle, who had just parked the car near a convenience store.

"Are you okay?" he asked, concern lacing his voice.

She didn't answer immediately. Instead, her gaze dropped to her phone, her fingers shaking as she handed it over to him without a word.

Kyle took the phone and read the message displayed on the screen:

From: Unknown

Do you want to know the biggest secret that could ruin your family?

His brows furrowed, but before he could speak, another message popped up from a different number.

From: Unknown

Do you really think your father is a great man? What if he has a child who isn't from your mother?

Kyle's jaw clenched as he turned off the phone and looked at her gently.

"Don't worry," he said, his voice calm and reassuring. "It's probably just a scam. Your hotel is gaining more recognition—someone might be trying to stir trouble."

Yvienna nodded slowly, though unease still curled in her chest. She reached for her phone, gripping it tightly as if that alone could steady her nerves. She couldn't accept the fact that someone might ruin their family. She cherished her family, especially their hotel, which was built from the love of her parents. If she had a weakness, then her family and their hotel were at the top of the list.

She would do everything to protect those weaknesses. No matter what happens. The thought weighed heavily on her, making her shiver with anxiety.

Kyle offered a small smile. "Do you want some hot chocolate? Or anything else?"

She turned her gaze toward the convenience store, her mind drifting momentarily before settling on a craving. "I just want some ramen."

Kyle nodded without hesitation, guiding her inside. As she took a seat at an empty table, he went to buy her request. Yvienna's eyes wandered around the store before unknowingly settling on him. His broad shoulders, the way his clothes fit perfectly, and his smooth skin made her cheeks flush. And his voice—deep yet gentle—lingered in her mind.

The warm glow of the convenience store lights cast soft shadows on his face as he waited for their order. There was something oddly comforting about watching him. A steady presence amidst the storm in her mind.

Suddenly, Kyle turned around, catching her staring. Yvienna's eyes widened in shock, and she quickly looked away, but it was too late.

A smirk tugged at his lips. "Am I too handsome?" he teased, placing the ramen and iced tea on the table.

She rolled her eyes, masking her embarrassment. "Let's just eat."

Reaching for the chopsticks, she was about to unwrap them when Kyle swiftly took them from her hands. Without a word, he opened the wrapper and handed it back.

"Be careful, it's still hot," he murmured.

She accepted it silently, watching as he placed a straw in her iced tea for her. Such a simple gesture, yet so thoughtful. How lovely he is.

The moment stretched between them, unspoken yet understood. Outside, the city lights flickered in the distance, and the faint sound of passing cars added to the night's quiet melody.

Their moment was interrupted when the convenience store's speakers suddenly came to life, playing soft music that made the ambiance even more comfortable.

"How did you know my family owns a business?" she asked suddenly.

Kyle, in the middle of sipping his drink, choked slightly.

"Hey, here—drink this." She pushed her iced tea toward him, but he waved it off, drinking his own instead.

"I-I just assumed. You look rich, so I figured your family has a business," he replied, avoiding her gaze.

Yvienna squinted at him, suspicious. She leaned in closer. "Really?"

"Are you sure?" she continued.

Kyle groaned, rubbing the back of his neck. "Okay, fine! I stalked you. But not in a creepy way! I just—uh—checked your account, then found your mom's account, and saw a post about the hotel celebration. That's it! I was just curious!" he blurted out, unable to withstand the intensity of her gaze.

She tilted her head. "Why were you curious?"

Kyle averted his eyes, pretending to focus on his ramen. "Just eat, okay? It's late. Your mom's going to be mad at me."

Yvienna chuckled but did as he said, picking up her chopsticks. Even as she ate, she couldn't help but steal glances at him, amusement flickering in her eyes.

Kyle was a mystery. A playful yet gentle presence that made her heart race in a way she didn't quite understand.

Cute.