Chapter 7: A day with Señorito

"Señorito, what are you doing here?" 

"I'm trying to wake her up!" he replied urgently.

"Oh! Why?" 

"I need her," he stated simply.

"What's that, señorito? I can do it for you," Erika interjected, her voice tinged with annoyance.

"Sorry, can you please wake her up? I'll be back," 

"Okay, señorito," Erika grumbled reluctantly.

Ah! So Erika is tasked with waking me up? I resolved to make it as difficult as possible for her.

I hear the bell ring.

"Witch, wake up now!"

She's yelling at her remote, which acts like a microphone connected to the speaker inside my room. It's typically used to relay urgent messages, especially to someone inside the room. However, we also have another remote, like a phone, to contact the guards in case of emergencies.

"Witch, I'll kill you if you won't wake up!" Erika's voice blared through the speaker once more.

"That's your way of waking her up, Erika?" The voice that followed was cold and savage, unmistakably Raze's. You're in trouble, Erika.

"Chump, I'll leave you if you won't wake up!" Erika's threat sent a shiver down my spine. I didn't want to miss out on another opportunity.

"S-señorito?" I stammered in response, recognizing Erika's voice. It was as if she were asking, 'Are you going out with her?'

With a wide smile, I strolled over and swung open the door.

"Good morning, Raze. Oh? Erika? You're here?" I feigned surprise, pretending not to have noticed her presence.

"Señorito, she's calling you by name. Where's the respect in that girl!" Erika's annoyance was palpable, but I only smiled wider, deliberately trying to irritate her.

"You can leave now, Erika," he commanded firmly, then unexpectedly took hold of my arm.

"Raze! What are you doing?" I exclaimed, taken aback by his sudden action.

"Please prepare in my room," he replied promptly, his tone leaving no room for argument.

"Señorito! Why in your room?" Erika's complaining voice rang out, reminding us she was still there. Ignoring her, my eyes were fixed on his hand gripping my wrist, sensing his urgency.

Hmm, I bet he's just excited to spend time with me. Just my imagination running wild!

I was panting by the time we reached his room. It was dimly lit, with LED lights tracing the edges, giving it a sleek and attractive look.

"Alexa, please turn on the lights," he commanded, and instantly the room illuminated. It was truly impressive.

"I HATE YOU!" I blurted out angrily.

"Why?" he asked, raising his left brow in confusion.

"Don't you know that I cleaned this room yesterday using the flashlight on my phone because the light from the window wasn't enough? Hell, you! Did you even consider that I was tired of searching for the switch?" I ranted, feeling frustrated.

He just looked at me, seemingly incredulous. Until suddenly, his sweet laughter filled the room, echoing off the walls and causing my irritation to melt away.

"Chump really suits you, in case you didn't know," he remarked casually, scratching his nape.

"Chump really suits you, in case you didn't know!" I mocked, rolling my eyes in response.

He shocked his head cheerily. Was he happy? Or was it disappointment? I couldn't bring myself to care either way.

His room was enormous, with a fabulous king-sized bed positioned near the window, a cozy sitting area facing a huge TV, and even a mini kitchen complete with its own fridge.

His mini office was as sleek as he was, and he even had a generously-sized walk-in closet that resembled a clothing store in the mall.

"Why do I need to prepare myself here?" I asked awkwardly, trying to ignore the chaotic thoughts swirling in my mind.

"You're going to cosplay as one of the game's characters. Here, use these bath essentials in case you've already used yours," he explained, handing me a set of bath essentials.

He explained and handed me a paper bag.

"Did you plan this already?" I inquired, raising an eyebrow suspiciously.

"No! I just remembered it earlier and asked my secretary to rush to my mall and get your stuff," he replied casually.

"You planned it! Don't deny it!" I teased, but his deadly stare made me stop in my tracks.

"A-ahem! I'll take a bath in my room and I'll be back after the shower. Anyway, thanks for these," I said, gesturing towards the paper bag. He continued to stare at me, seemingly lost in thought.

"Can I?" I added, feeling a bit awkward under his intense gaze.

"Just go!" he responded curtly.

"What's wrong with you? You're being a snob again!" I rolled my eyes and left the room, feeling a mix of frustration and confusion.

"What's wrong with you?" Erika demanded, snatching the paper bag from my hands and inspecting it closely.

"Tell me that there's nothing between you and señorito!" she yelled, her voice breaking with emotion as tears welled up in her eyes.

There it was again, her undeniable affection for Raze. Was she jealous?

"There's nothing bet—" I began to respond, but I was abruptly cut off.

"Give it back to her!" came a cold voice filled with authority from behind us.

Erika froze, slowly handing me the paper bag before swiftly retreating, tears streaming down her face.

She wasn't running away out of shame for sure, she was running away because she was crying.

"Thanks, but you scared her," I murmured softly, watching Erika's retreating figure.

"Why do I see a different person in you? You're not the same as when we first met," Raze's voice rang out behind me, causing me to turn and face him once more.

"Likewise, you're so kind and nice, but it can't change the fact that you're cold and emotionless sometimes," I said with a smile, acknowledging his complexities.

"Prepare yourself now, hurry up because your makeup artist will be here," he instructed suddenly, catching me off guard. Did I need a makeup artist?

"I have a makeup artist? Okay, bye~" I exclaimed, feeling a rush of excitement as I dashed inside.

I couldn't contain my excitement for my first cosplay experience. Raze truly was a blessing.

After just 20 minutes, I emerged from the bathroom feeling refreshed and eager.

Raze was dressed in his usual style: a plain signature white v-neck t-shirt paired with a black leather jacket, faded jeans, and white shoes. It was a departure from his usual attire, and I couldn't help but notice the change.

"Can you please move a little faster?" Raze's tone was more annoyed than angry, but it still made me feel uneasy.

"I'm sorry! Do you expect me to take a bath for 10 minutes?" I retorted, feeling a twinge of defensiveness.

"Well, less than that!" he replied curtly, glancing at his phone.

"Duh, I'm not a boy!" I muttered under my breath, feeling frustrated.

"Your makeup artist is waiting at the studio, go there first," he instructed, seemingly eager to get on with things.

"I want to push the time to nighttime," I coldly whispered to myself, staring up at the ceiling.

"It's because your mood changes during the daytime. Why is that?" I continued after realizing that Raze was still listening.

"Well, never mind," I added dismissively, deciding to drop the subject and head next door.

"Oh? Hi, beautiful. It must be you? I'm Steven, but I prefer you to call me Stella," the makeup artist greeted me with a smile, giggling like a kid.

He's undeniably handsome, but unfortunately, this handsome man is gay.

"Hi, Ms. Stella. And who are they?" I inquired, glancing at the girls accompanying him.

"Oh, she's Annie, and she's Suzette," he introduced before I extended my hand for a handshake.

"Ahem!" Steven was about to kiss my cheeks when another voice interrupted.

"Good morning, señorito," Stella greeted in a more girly tone, and I couldn't help but notice the genuine smiles on Annie and Suzette's faces upon seeing Raze. Ah, that handsome yet cold billionaire truly had a certain charm.

I settled into the high chair positioned in front of the ring light and a wide mirror. Annie began to work on my hair, while Stella focused on my makeup. Suzette was assigned to assist me with the costume and lend a hand to Stella with my makeup, while Raze dropped in with comments from time to time.

"Raze, this costume is pretty heavy! Damn!" I complained while struggling to wear the armor on my back.

"You won't fit inside my car if you're wearing that already. Stella, please bring that with you. You guys will assist her until the end of the cosplay," he commanded before stepping out of the room.

I grabbed some extra clothes and shoes so I could change right after the cosplay.

As I made my way downstairs, I spotted Erika holding a vacuum with Rina and Teresa.

If looks could kill, I'd be dead by now.

"Ms. Celo, we'll go first!" Stella waved and led the way.

"Sure, see you later," I replied, trying to mask the tension in the air.

It was difficult to walk in the cosplay outfit, resembling the warrior Zariña from "The Last Warrior" video game. Clad in a gray metal suit with a massive sword on my back and a sleek gun in hand, I felt like a completely different person. My shoes were equipped with hidden heels and wheels, adding to the surreal effect.

"Why is it always you? Why a newbie like you?" Erika's tone had shifted, no longer one of anger but rather of envy and desperation.

"I can't answer that, but one thing I'm sure of—I'm not flirting with your señorito. I'm not flirting with Raze," I replied calmly, continuing to walk as if nothing had changed. I noticed Raze heading towards me, likely impatient after waiting for so long.

"You think you can handle it?" he asked, concern evident in his voice.

"I can! This is my first time, so I'll give it my all," I replied proudly, flashing him a reassuring smile.

"Just let me know if you start feeling tired," he added, his worry still apparent.

"I'll stick with this mood, I won't get tired," I assured him with a wide grin, genuinely appreciating his concern. There was something about his presence that lifted my spirits.

He held onto my metal hands as we made our way to his car.

Wow! He's using a new car this time, completely different from the one he used on the day that initially made me resent him.

We're going to use his Bugatti Chiron. Damn! This is my first time riding in a luxurious car.

I'm constantly amazed, but then again, I am with a handsome billionaire.

"I thought you were going to use your motorbike because of your outfit!" I quipped, expecting a playful response.

"Tsk!" Boom! His mood suddenly shifted. Was he not in the right state of mind?

After that abrupt reaction, he focused on driving, so I took the opportunity to have a brief conversation with my sister.

I was bursting with excitement to share my day with them, and luckily, Stacey managed to reply while she was on her way to school.

"Raze?" I called out.

"Hmm," came his response.

"I forgot to eat! I'm hungry," I complained.

"Here! But remember, you can't eat too much or drink too much water because it's difficult to manage your costume," he reminded me in a formal tone.

Well, yeah! It's not easy to use the restroom in this costume.

I pouted and grabbed the paper bag, finding a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich along with a bottle of Yakult inside.

"Why just a sandwich?" My stomach was practically growling.

"Wait until 9:00 am! You can eat more than that," he replied, his attention still focused on the road.

"Good thing! I thought you were going to kill me," I responded with a laugh.

"Crazy!" he muttered, sounding like he was losing patience.

"Hello?" he answered a phone call, the conversation audible through the car's speakers.

"Sir, everything here is all set!" a voice came through the other line.

"Okay, Tyron, we're almost there," he replied before ending the call.

"Who's he?" I inquired.

"My secretary," he responded casually.

"Secretary? Y-you mean the one who got me some bath essentials?" I couldn't help but feel a surge of irritation towards this man.

"Yes!"

"Is he gay?" I pressed further.

"Of course he's not!" he replied definitively.

Heck! Seriously? That Tyron guy is a man, and he even added a sanitary napkin to the essentials he got me. Did Raze tell him to get those too?

Damn him! I never imagined that his secretary would be a man! I couldn't shake off my surprise, even though I found him to be quite gentlemanly.

I remained silent until we arrived at Texno.

Upon arrival, someone took the keys to park his car, and I spotted Suzette at the entrance.

She waved at me, so I waved back and smiled.

"Attention, everyone! The boss has arrived. All cosplayers, please proceed to room 10," a loud announcement blared from the speakers, confirming my assumption.

There was a group of photographers and members of the media waiting to welcome us.

Suzette and I continued walking, while Raze got caught up between posing for photos and fielding questions from the media.

We reached room 10, and it was bustling with cosplayers, most of whom were portraying male characters.

"Excuse me! Excuse me!" His voice cut through the crowd, commanding attention, yet he walked through as if it were nothing.

I could feel everyone's eyes on him, their stares and smiles speaking volumes.

Seeing him gave me butterflies and made me shiver, even though I was clad in thick clothing and the room was a bit warm. I couldn't quite understand why, so I just looked away, focusing on Suzette and Annie as they adjusted my armor while Stella touched up my makeup and hair.

"Lorence!" His voice calling my name made my heart race.

Was it just palpitations? I doubted it. I hadn't even had coffee.

"Oh? W-what?" I stuttered, feeling flustered.

"Here, memorize this line and take a break with these chocolates. Good luck!" He handed me a blue sticky note, along with Dairy Milk and Toblerone chocolates, before leaving without waiting for my response. Damn him! Why is everything so sudden? 

"Yieeee!" I hear Stella's teasing voice while the others start their murmurings.

I couldn't focus, my mind consumed by thoughts of Raze. I made a face as I stared at the paper in my hand, trying to memorize the lines.

"Sis, can you accompany me to the powder room?" I asked Suzette, hoping a change of scenery might help.

"Sure," she smiled and nodded.

In the powder room, I tried to force myself to focus and memorize the lines, but it was futile. Frustration crept in, evident in my annoyed expression reflected in the mirror.

Raze's image lingered in my mind, distracting me beyond measure. I decided to take a break, as he had suggested, and shared the chocolates with Suzette. She was delighted, especially since they were from Raze, she claimed!

"Calling all cosplayers, please line up. The introduction will begin in 10 minutes," the announcement blared over the speakers, prompting us to hurry back.

As we returned, someone affixed a number to my left wrist: Number 10. It was my favorite number.

"Good luck, Lorence! First placer will receive 50k," Stella cheered me on, her words serving as both encouragement and a notification, boosting my energy.

I noticed Raze conversing with some staff members, likely arranging something at the center of the room.

The studio was spacious, resembling a stage, complete with a red carpet and perfectly arranged seats. Despite my nerves, seeing the girls and Stella helped calm my racing heartbeat.

Taking a deep breath, I focused on the line I had memorized earlier.

I can do this! It's for the prize and for Raze, to make him proud.

My eyes met Raze's, and they softened into heart shapes. He gave me a thumbs up, silently asking if I was okay. I responded with a thumbs down, but his intense gaze and the sight of his weapon made me quickly change it to a thumbs up, accompanied by a wide smile.

His mere presence was enough to uplift my spirits. It might sound crazy, but seeing him always brought me happiness.

"Miss!" a man approached me.

"Yes?" I responded.

"I'm Hance," he said with a smile.

"Hi, I'm Lorence," I replied.

"Lorence? What a cool name. Zariña suits you. Anyway, good luck," he complimented.

"Wow, thanks! You look great with your cosplay too. Good luck," I returned the sentiment.

"Hope we can talk after this," he said before turning away.

The emcees approached us, giving instructions.

"Just follow the numbers on the floor later for our cosplay show. Good luck," she said kindly before leaving.

"Okay! First, we're going to have a cosplay show, but before that, let's start our event with a prayer led by the head of this event, Mr. Albert Del Rio."

After the prayer, there's a welcoming address from the CEO, Mr. Pryce Raze Coleman, which held everyone's attention.

We strutted down the runway, trying to exude confidence despite my nerves.

The introductions began in ascending order, and my heart raced as my turn approached.

"OMG! Look who's here! It's Zariña, and guess what? She's the favorite hero of our CEO since he designed her himself."

The revelation stunned everyone, including me. Why did he choose me to cosplay his favorite hero? Was I his favorite too? It felt like a perfect illusion.

Nevertheless, I smiled as I walked, determined to do my best and not disappoint him.

"Your love is just a word, faded by my power,

Slashed by my sword, and pierced by my bullets!

I am your LAST WARRIOR! Zariña, from the land of Zarapanta, here to save your kingdom and people. TORCH! Light the way, and I will vanquish our enemies."

My evil laugh seemed to make the best impression. 

Afterwards, the thunderous applause warmed my heart as if I had won. Perhaps I could have been an actress if my life had taken a different path.

After the introduction, we took our final walk and awaited the judges' verdict.

"Congratulations!" I greeted the unfamiliar faces, likely employees of the company.

As we posed for pictures, I had my first photo taken with Raze, or should I say, with Zariña and him.

"Congrats," he whispered, which brought an even wider smile to my face.

"Thanks, my creator," I replied, staying in character as Zariña.

"You're such a crazy chump!" he whispered back.

~

"Shit! Move!"

"BOOM, yes!"

"Ah! Fight! Fight! Fight~"

"Yes! Yahoo~ Kill it! Kill it!"

I couldn't contain my excitement as I played the game called THE ZOMBIE AND TOWER HUNT.

"Yes! I won!" I exclaimed joyously as I emerged victorious.

With another victory under my belt, my points tally reached 5,000.

"Number 10 wins the game," the announcer declared.

"3 and 7 also won the game," I smiled at number 3, and he returned the gesture.

"Hey! Congrats," he approached me.

"Thanks, you too," I replied.

He took the seat next to me, striking up a conversation about the game, perhaps just to pass the time.

He called me cool just because I wore a gray dress with my white shoes again. I think what he really thought was that it was so out of style?

After a while, the game ended and there were 10 winners, including me. I was in for a terrible surprise when the announcer said that we had to say something live about the game. Well, it was kind of a fun and thrilling game.

"Lorence, we have to go now. Congrats," Stella said, interrupting my thoughts.

She mentioned they had something to do.

"Okay, bye! Thanks, girls," I said, giving them a hug.

"You're welcome. Don't forget to DM me on IG, @STELLAabyou to follow. Babush!" Stella waved goodbye after that.

"Sure."

"Don't forget to follow us too. Bye," Annie waved her hand and continued on her way.

I was really happy to have experienced this, all thanks to Raze. Speaking of him... where is he?

The event ended, but I couldn't find him anywhere. Where did he go?

I waited in the lobby, feeling sleepy, until...

"Chump!" a voice jolted me awake.

"Finally," I murmured under my breath.

"Where did you go?" I asked as he approached, now dressed in his business suit, looking bold, hot, but also kind of cool.

"I had a meeting. Let's go," he replied, walking ahead without waiting for me.

"What's wrong?" I inquired, trying to keep up with his long strides. He seemed cold, distant.

"Just don't ask," he snapped, shutting down any further conversation.

He was silent the rest of the way, his brows furrowed. I hesitated to ask what was bothering him again, sensing his mood.

After 10 minutes, we arrived at the restaurant.

"Good morning, sir. Welcome to Varix House. Can I help you?" The waitress greeted us warmly.

"Can we have a table for two, please?" Raze responded in his usual formal manner.

"Right this way, please," the waitress replied, leading us to our table. Raze surprised me by briefly grabbing my hand before letting go as we walked beside each other.

My heart raced at the unexpected gesture, causing a warm flush to spread across my face.

We took our seats near the window, enjoying the refreshing ambiance of the restaurant. It had a romantic atmosphere, mostly filled with couples.

"What would you like, chump?" Hearing him call me that sounded different this time, almost sweet. It felt like the most endearing word I had ever heard.

"Just a chicken salad, please," I replied.

A few minutes later...

"Are you both ready to order now?" the waitress inquired.

"Yes, we are. Can we have the Sunday Roast with vegetables and chicken salad, please?" Raze ordered confidently.

"Would you like anything to drink with your meal?" the waitress followed up.

I was still pondering the options in the menu book when Raze turned to me. "What do you want?" he asked.

"Ah! Can I have mocha cashew butter?" I replied, feeling a bit unsure.

"Are you sure?" he questioned, his tone suggesting a hint of surprise.

I realized this was a different dining experience than what I was used to back in the province. There was nothing quite like this.

"Just give us two glasses of white wine and mocha cashew butter," Raze decided decisively.

The waitress repeated the order and then left our table.

"Ah! Never mind," I muttered to myself, feeling a bit overwhelmed. Raze's presence was somewhat intimidating, and his aura added to the feeling.

As I couldn't find a suitable drawing application on my phone, I opted for the classic pen and tissue method. Carefully, I sketched out a sad face and showed it to Raze, hoping to convey my emotions.

His response was lukewarm, as if he couldn't be bothered. Undeterred, I grabbed another tissue and drew a smiling face, mirroring my own expression.

"You look much cooler when you smile," I remarked optimistically.

"Even without a reason?" he replied with apparent disinterest.

"Then it must be because I'm standing in front of you and because I'm beautiful," I quipped, trying to lighten the mood with a chuckle and a peace sign.

But his reaction was lackluster. He just stared at me blankly, turning back to his phone as if I hadn't spoken.

His indifference stung, casting a shadow over my previously sunny disposition. I hated feeling so insignificant, but his actions only reinforced that sentiment.

My smile faltered, replaced by a genuine feeling of sadness.

He was so engrossed in his phone, perhaps he only brought me here because he felt obligated to fulfill his promise about the meal after the cosplay event. Was I just an inconvenience to him?

I sighed, frustrated with my own thoughts and the unwelcome feelings stirring in my heart. I didn't want to overthink things, but it was hard not to.

Suddenly, he glanced at me, his eyes searching for something.

"Oh, I need to use the restroom!" I blurted out, seizing the opportunity to escape the uncomfortable atmosphere.

"Where's the restroom?" I asked one of the waitstaff, and they pointed me in the right direction.

"Thank you," I offered a small smile before hurrying away.

In the restroom, I stared at my reflection in the mirror, trying to shake off the negativity. "You did well today," I murmured to myself, offering a silent pep talk. I needed to regain my positive mindset, no matter what.

After a few minutes, I emerged from the restroom, feeling somewhat better.

"Oops, sorry!" I exclaimed as I accidentally collided with a man in the hallway.

"It's fine," he smiled, and I returned the smile before continuing on my way.

"What took you so long?" Raze inquired as I returned.

"Oh, just five minutes. Did you miss me already?" I teased, winking at him playfully, which seemed to slightly irritate him.

"You're really something," he muttered, his brows furrowing in a familiar manner.

"Admit it!" I challenged, meeting his gaze with a mischievous twinkle in my eyes.

"You're crazy—" he started to say, but I cut him off.

"I'M NOT!" I protested, feigning offense.

"You're just constrained to bring me here, aren't you?" I asked, my tone turning more serious.

Raze seemed to emit a gruff coolness, and it both intrigued and frustrated me.

"I'm not! What made you think that?" he responded evenly.

"But you make me feel that way!" I retorted, my frustration bubbling to the surface.

"Do I?" he replied, his tone still cold.

"I hate you!" I huffed, turning away in annoyance.

"You're free to!" he responded casually, as if my leaving wouldn't make any difference to him.

"See! You're really unbelievable! Tell me if I'm not welcome here. It seems like you're just forced to bring me here! I still have time to leave!" I couldn't shake off the feeling of being an imposition.

"I said I'm not constrained or something," he replied, sounding increasingly irritated, though his expression betrayed a hint of amusement.

"You're not even trying to talk to me!" I admonished, frustration evident in my voice.

"Tsk, girls!" he muttered, clearly annoyed by my persistence.

"I just don't know what to say! Seeing you in front of me is enough," he said, his voice barely audible as he whispered the last part.

"I am too. It's hard to make conversation when all you do is take my breath away," I responded softly, catching him off guard.

Before he could reply, the waitress arrived to serve our order, providing a welcome interruption to the tension between us.

"Enjoy your meal," she said as she left.

"Thanks," Raze and I said simultaneously.

The silence between us grew, punctuated only by the gentle strains of instrumental music, casting a romantic atmosphere over the restaurant.

I found myself stealing glances at him, only to catch him doing the same. It's unsettling how my heart races just from our shared gaze.

Minutes passed, and soon we were on our way somewhere else. Raze settled the bill and then unexpectedly took hold of my hand as we walked to the parking space. I was stunned, unable to comprehend why he would do such a thing.

"Where are we going?" I finally managed to ask.

"I need to meet someone," he replied, his gaze fixed on the road ahead.

"Okay," I replied quietly, turning my attention to the passing scenery outside the window.

We pulled up at a coffee shop, but it seemed an odd choice at this time of day. As we entered, I couldn't help but wonder who he was planning to meet.

As we entered, a beautiful blonde waved at us. Raze acknowledged her with a nod, and my heart sank. Who was she?

"Hi sweetheart!" she exclaimed, enveloping Raze in a tight hug before turning her attention to me. "Who is she? You really brought your PA, huh?" Her words dripped with sarcasm as she released Raze from the embrace.

"She's not my PA. Where's mom?" Raze inquired.

"She already left since I told her you'd be coming to see me," she replied smugly.

A pang of hurt shot through me. What is this feeling?

"Excuse me, Raze. I'll wait outside," I muttered, unable to bear the weight of the situation any longer. Without waiting for a response, I turned and hastily made my way out, feeling the weight of curious eyes on me.

"So, you're already willing to be called by name? That's unfair!" I overheard the girl say.

She was stunning, exuding an air of elegance and confidence as she sat. Her beauty was captivating, undoubtedly one of a kind.

"Your mom said that the engagement will be held soon," she added, her words like daggers piercing my heart.

I quickened my pace, desperate to escape the conversation.

Once outside the car, I stood weakly, feeling defeated. Plugging in my earphones, I tried to drown out the noise with music, but each note only seemed to amplify the ache in my heart.

As he arrived, I leaned against the car's hood, having spent a restless 20 minutes waiting since I left them.

"Bye sweetheart, let's talk more tomorrow," the girl said, planting a kiss on his cheeks. I averted my gaze, feeling a surge of discomfort.

She drove off in her own car, and Raze watched her departure before turning to me.

"Let's go," he said, opening the car door for me. There was a faint hint of sweetness in his gesture, a reminder of what once was.

I simply nodded and got inside, drowning out his presence with the music.

"I'm asking you!" he grabbed at my earphones, irritation etched on his face.

"WHAT?" I snapped, frustration bubbling to the surface.

"What's wrong with you?" he demanded, his tone stern.

"Just don't ask!" I retorted, echoing his earlier words.

"Answer me!" he commanded.

"It's nothing! Why? There's nothing wrong with me! Got that, señorito?" I shot back, rolling my eyes in exasperation.

"Heck!" he muttered, shaking his head in disapproval.

We headed to the mall after that, with him buying office supplies and snacks. I ended up carrying the bags, resigned to the fact that it was just part of my job.

After a few minutes, we arrived at the horse racing venue called Kick's Turf, and the sight was breathtaking.

"Wow!" I breathed out in amazement, taking in the bustling atmosphere.

"Just stay here," he instructed, heading to the ticket counter to place some bets.

As I waited, he returned with a brochure of the horses competing.

"Hey, look at this. Which one do you like?" he asked, showing me the options.

"Hmm, Dutch and Wild Punch," I replied, pointing out the horses that caught my eye.

Dutch, a black one, reminded me of Raze, while Wild Punch, a gray one, was my personal favorite.

"Okay," he said, then abruptly left.

What was that about?

Suddenly, he returned and took my hand as if I were a child.

"Let go! I won't lose," I protested, trying to free my hand.

"What's with your mood?" he questioned, his tone curious.

"What's with your mood? Numb!" I retorted, making a face.

"Stop acting like you don't like it!" he fired back, flashing a grin.

"What?" I stammered, caught off guard.

"Just admit it!" he urged, his smile growing wider as he pulled me closer and draped his arm over my shoulder.

I was left speechless, unsure of how to react to his unexpected gesture.

I don't know how, but after a few minutes, he somehow managed to lift my spirits.

"Whoooooo! Go Wild Punch!" I cheered, still holding his hand tightly.

I knew I had to seize this moment, because soon he would be getting married, and I wouldn't have opportunities like this anymore. The thought saddened me.

He had bet on Wild Punch because he claimed the horse was way cuter than Dutch. He was such a weirdo, but I loved it.

"Yeeessssss!" we celebrated along with other Wild Punch supporters as the horse won the race.

"Sorry!" I apologized, feeling a sudden urge to hug him.

He smiled widely, a sight I hadn't seen before. He pulled me close, our eyes meeting, and I felt a rush of emotions.

"Can we please stay like this?" he whispered softly.

My heart raced, did he feel it too?

"Creo que me gustas," he whispered, before letting me go. I didn't know what those words meant, but they made my heart thump even harder.

'I think I like you.'