CHAPTER 383 - TENANT
JAY-JAY'S POV
Dinner!
Nice—lots of dishes. Maybe because we have a lot of visitors. Ma'am Cindy and Sir Alvin ate here too. Of course, Batang Kumag, David, Yuri, and Keifer were there as well.
I have so many rivals for food.
"Hey, slow down and eat," Aries's scolded.
"I might run out," I whispered to him.
He looked at Ci-N, who was spooning food one after another like no one else was at the dinner table. My brother just shook his head.
I looked at Tita's supposed seat. They weren't at the table and didn't come with me because she had to take care of Mama first. I felt embarrassed—it should've been me taking care of my mom.
"What are you planning?" Kuya asked Sir, who had caught our attention.
"Move back again. We're going to invade your unit," he replied.
They actually moved into Kuya's unit one day. They move really fast. I didn't even know they were there until Kuya told me. But why would they avoid Kuya's unit? It's so big. And who could resist them anyway?
Well, maybe if they were hiding from children or creditors.
"How about you stay here?" Kuya asked, and Aries, Keifer, and David looked at us one after another.
My cousin's being stupid. He seems to have forgotten that both Ma'am and Sir are my teachers, so they know I don't study well.
But why did the three of them say that?
"Brother? Are you serious?" Aries asked.
Kuya Angelo raised an eyebrow at him. "Whose house is this?"
Aries couldn't answer and just drank some water to shake off the awkwardness.
"Does that mean Yuri will stay here too?" David asked, and the young man looked at him briefly before taking the chicken from his plate.
"He has nowhere else to go," my cousin answered casually.
"Then I'll stay here too," said the King. 😂
Kuya suddenly stabbed his fork into the chicken on his plate.
"I mean, I'll just visit here frequently," he quickly corrected himself.
Scared, huh? Maybe next time, you'll be the one getting stabbed with a fork.
We were all surprised. Even Ci spat out what he was chewing from shock. It was the first time I saw Sir startled too—Ma'am Cindy had to steady him. David was shocked as well, but recovered quickly by drinking water.
"Mama and Aunt Jeana are going back to the province. They'll be staying there for a while, so they can stay here with us," Kuya explained to me.
I was stunned by the part where Mama and Tita were going home to the province.
"Why are they going back?"
I couldn't help but feel afraid or uneasy. What if Mama doesn't come back later because the police arrested her?
Can I go with them?
"Grandma called them back. It has something to do with the property Grandpa left behind," Kuya said while focused on his food.
Aries and I looked at each other. He smiled as if to say Kuya's explanation was true, but I had trouble believing it.
Turns out, our grandfather still had property. I never met him. I just knew that he was strict and scary. He used to be a soldier but retired early. And he brought his soldier-like attitude home.
According to my rich aunt, they were always fighting. She said he used to whip them like they had fairies clinging to their bodies. That's why she would hit him back with a slipper when she got mad.
That's my Aunt. Her weapon of choice? Beachwalk slippers.
"You guys can stay here until you find a better place," Kuya said to Sir.
"Maybe we can stay until the exam is over," replied Ma'am Cindy.
Sir agreed, but Yuri seemed hesitant. He stared at his plate, and Ma'am had to call his name just to get a response.
"Yuri..."
He smiled at me. "I'm thinking of moving out. I'm embarrassed."
"You can move to my house," suggested Keifer, and Ma'am Cindy and I immediately looked at each other.
It seemed we were thinking the same thing—Yuri can't live with Keifer. It's still not clear to me what Keifer's true agenda is, or whether Yuri plans to follow the list that I found from him, or even if he might do something bad to the King of Snakes.
When Yuri lived with Ma'am, they never had problems with him. I even heard them praising him once because he knew how to do housework. He didn't need to be told what to do—he took initiative. Sometimes, even without being asked, he would finish tasks quickly on his own.
If Yuri had bad intentions toward Keifer, Ma'am would've said something, or even acted on it—and she definitely would've told me. But she never said anything bad about Yuri.
Even so, we still can't be complacent.
"You don't have to. You're under my protection and care, so you're moving with us," said Sir Alvin.
Yuri was about to argue, but Ma'am stopped him.
"Whether you like it or not."
Yuri sighed and scratched his head. He had no choice but to nod and accept defeat.
I noticed Keifer frowning, as if he couldn't accept that Yuri would stay while he couldn't. It's only for a few days, yet he acts like Yuri will be here forever.
We ended dinner by planning Sir's move. Keifer had to leave because there was a problem—something involving Keigan. I couldn't help but worry. Whenever Keigan's name is mentioned, I feel like he's done something Keiren will have to fix.
Is this what trust issues feel like?
"What happened?" I asked the King of Snakes after he said goodbye to Kuya and Sir.
"There was just a little trouble. It's not that bad," he answered, smiling at me to ease my worry.
It didn't help—I was still worried. "When you get home, can you tell me how he is?"
He cupped my cheek and gave me a quick kiss on the forehead. "Thank you for checking on Keigan, but you have nothing to worry about. Honey handled everything."
I paused for a moment. Could she also know about Keigan's condition? I think Honey is a reliable person, but I'm not sure she could stop Keigan if he really lost control.
Can Kuya stop me if that happens?
"Alright, if you say so."
He chuckled. "I won't lie to you about his condition."
"I didn't say anything. You might be lying."
"I just feel like you're being suspicious again," he said, laughing loudly.
I shoved him out of the house. "Go home now."
We kept walking until we reached the gate and stepped outside. I kept pushing him until we reached his car. We both fell silent as we looked around.
Yes, this is my chance.
"Keifer," I called, snorting, but he suddenly laughed when he saw me.
"What is that?" he asked, laughing even more.
What is that? Ugh, this is stupid. My ears suddenly felt hot. I was even more embarrassed now.
"Oh WHORE, I embarrassed myself."
His eyes widened as he laughed at what I said. Then I remembered… that sneaky PROFANITY of his.
He quickly turned to the gate before touching both of my cheeks, but I dodged.
"I don't want to. I'm embarrassed."
"You know the rules," he said and was about to grab me again, but I pulled away.
"Your face is your rule, you idiot."
"Only we two are here"
"Even if there are ten," I answered, annoyed, and took big steps away from him.
I was surprised when he suddenly followed, so I ran to the other side of his car. He quickly caught up with me and hugged me. He signaled for me to be quiet and looked at our gate. We looked together, but there was no one.
What is he trying to teach me?
I felt his breath on my cheek, so I stepped back until I was leaning against his car.
"Hey, get ready. When Kuya comes out, we'll all go together."
"Who started it?" he asked teasingly.
I still didn't face him. I was serious when I said Kuya might come out. That's why I was giving him a hint earlier, but he made fun of me.
"Seriously—"
"You're too hairy!" Ci suddenly burst out and yelled at me.
"What are you doing there?"
"You ruined their moment," David said with a smirk.
It was like he was teasing us for having a moment. Keifer moved away from me, took a deep breath, and looked in another direction. He sighed before facing me again.
What suddenly consumed him?
"I'm leaving. I might run into someone," he said, and David laughed loudly like he had won.
Keifer kissed me on the forehead before getting into his car. We watched him leave, and the younger boy waved at him.
"Wow, you can flirt even without a label," Ci said, and I was shocked.
"How can we label each other when we're always busy?" I replied, annoyed, and tried to hit him, but he quickly hid behind Grandpa.
"There! Grandpa! She is going to hurt me!" he reported dramatically.
"Fuck off," David said before facing him. "Let's go. I still have to drop off the kid."
I smiled and nodded. They were about to get into the car, but Ci suddenly stopped and seemed to be looking for something in his pocket.
"My cell phone?" he asked me like I was the last one who had it.
This kid started moving again after deleting something.
"Where did you last leave it?" I asked.
"In your room!"
I was about to walk back home, but he stopped me. "I'll go," he said and quickly ran into the house.
I just let him go and faced David. He smiled at me before fixing a strand of hair that had fallen on my face.
"Why are you with Ci?" I asked him.
"I went to see him because he called me crying. I thought something had happened," he answered, and we both laughed.
He probably felt sorry for him, so he was forced to bring him here. He also couldn't stand Batang Kumag.
"What were you talking about earlier?" I asked, even though I already knew the answer.
Same with Keifer— I just wanted to know if he'd tell me.
"About Drew. The exam is tomorrow," he answered, and I nodded.
He answered truthfully but didn't mention the part where they sent Drew back to the loan shark he owed. I didn't want to ask more questions because he might realize I know something.
It's just a social instinct.
"So, are you and Keifer getting serious now?" he asked, which surprised me.
I laughed a little. "Of course. What kind of question is that?"
"Where's the label first?"
I blushed, causing him to laugh out loud. "I'm just kidding."
Power trip. He must have enjoyed our dinner.
"I don't know about you," I replied, pretending to be annoyed.
"As long as you're happy," he said, and I looked at him, noticing the seriousness in his tone even though he was smiling. "But let me know if Keifer hurts you again."
"Why? You're going to stretch him?"
He shook his head. "I'll take you from him."
I made a face at him. "You think you're going to kidnap me?"
"I have my own ways, and Keifer knows that," he said arrogantly before laughing.
Is that like the King's line?
I just shook my head, laughing at him—whatever else he could think of. If only Keifer were here, I think they would have fought because of what he was saying. This one's a strong tease, too.
"What ways are those?"
"You want to try?" he asked, moving toward me, but I raised my foot to stop him. "Alright, when it's you and Keifer, we'll try."
"Gago," I said, and he laughed again.
We looked at the gate as Ci came out holding a Tupperware. Looks like he got a pass. Sir Alvin, Ma'am Cindy, and Kuya Angelo came out after him.
"Go home," he said with a smile.
I tried to peek at the contents of the Tupperware, but he hugged me tightly as I approached David's car. He still waved at me.
Why do I feel like meat? Like fried chicken.
"Bye-bye, Jay," he said.
David smiled at him before waving and getting into his car. "See you tomorrow."
"See you when I see you," I replied.
I watched their car leave before heading back home. I didn't realize they had left Kuya behind. Maybe they were just going to get their things. I didn't even notice if Yuri was with them since he didn't come out the gate.
Where did that red hair go?
I went inside, and Mama and Aunt Gema opened the door for me. Mama was standing, but she was still wrapped up and looked a bit pale.
"It's late, are you still going out?" Mom asked me.
"I just walked my friends out," I answered, looking her over from head to toe. "Why did you get up? Are you feeling okay?"
She shook her head and coughed slightly. "Not yet, but I have to get ready for tomorrow's flight."
"Tomorrow?"
"Didn't Angelo tell you yet?" Auntie asked, and then I remembered what Kuya said earlier at the dining table.
"Is that when you're going home to the province?" I confirmed, and Auntie nodded.
"Why all of a sudden?" I couldn't hide my worry. What if Mama doesn't come back?
"We've been asked to return for a long time, and now it's necessary."
"We'll leave early tomorrow, so I can get a good rest when we arrive," Mama added, adjusting her cloak.
I stared at her. I wasn't scared, just unsure. Maybe it's true that this is only about Grandpa's property. I just hope they don't come back with bad news.
I nodded slightly. "Just tell Grandma I miss her."
"And to Tita Lara? You won't say anything?" Auntie asked.
I shook my head. "Just don't insult me."
Mom and I laughed together. They walked to the kitchen, so I went to my room to rest. I was surprised to see someone lying on my bed.
Red hair.
I approached and peeked—he was fast asleep, breathing deeply. I suddenly felt pity for him. He seemed so tired, like he had just found a good place to finally rest.
So that's why he wasn't with Kuya or seen leaving the house.
He really didn't go.
I'd better let him sleep. I just grabbed some clothes and went straight to the bathroom to clean up. I didn't stay long. When I came out, he was still asleep and now softly snoring.
I'm not sleepy yet, so I reviewed first. Maybe I managed to save a lesson or two in my brain that I can use tomorrow. Just don't starve me during the exam—I might lose everything I worked hard to study.
My brain needs to be functioning tomorrow. I'll eat a lot in the morning.
While reading the notes Aries gave me, I heard my phone ring. I looked at it and saw the King's name on the screen.
📩
From: King Bingi
Message: I'm home. Keigan is alright. He's asleep now due to exhaustion.
That's it! That's exactly how I like being updated. I quickly replied and said goodnight. I knew he was tired, so I didn't keep the conversation going. I'll just tell him tomorrow that Yuri is in my room. He might suddenly come back here and beat up his best friend.
I was about to go back to reading my notes when I noticed that Yuri was awake and looking at me. He smiled and slowly sat up.
"Sorry, I fell asleep in your bed," he said, fixing his hair before putting on his glasses.
His hair is long—I just noticed it now.
"You look really tired," I said.
He smiled. "A bit. It's been hard lately with our setup."
"A little patience. You'll eventually find a good place to move into," I replied.
He sat on the edge of the bed, near my study table where I was sitting.
"Do you need help?" he asked, pointing at my notes.
I shook my head. "I'm fine. Aries helped me. I'm just going over everything again so I don't lose my mind."
He stared at me for a moment and was about to touch my cheek, but I quickly pulled away. He was clearly surprised by my reaction.
I didn't mean to—it was instinctive.
"You have dirt on your cheek," he said. I wiped it off.
His earlier smile disappeared. He looked calm, but it seemed like he was thinking deeply. I couldn't help but feel nervous. I knew he wouldn't hurt me, but still... I couldn't shake the feeling.
"W-What?"
"Why are you so mean to me?" he asked.
I thought about it. Am I really being distant? I still greet him. We laugh, talk like before, and even hug when we get the chance.
What part of that is elusive?
I pretended to laugh. "How am I being elusive?"
"Is it because of Keifer?" he asked seriously. His tone made me serious, too. "Don't you want him to be jealous?"
"I'm not that kind of person, am I? I should be the one asking you that. There are still things you haven't told me," I replied, and he seemed embarrassed.
He ran his fingers through his hair and sighed. I think my tone came off as accusatory. Maybe it was. But how can I stop accusing him?
"I'm sorry, my bad," he said and reached for something under my pillow. "But how can I tell you if you already know something?" He unfolded a piece of paper and handed it to me.
My eyes widened when I saw Keifer's face and name. It was the list I found among his stuff.
I was sure I put it back properly in the envelope it came in. How did he know I saw it? Ma'am Cindy couldn't have told him.
"W-What are you saying?" I asked, my voice trembling.
He didn't answer. He just looked at me, as if telling me silently that this wasn't a game.
Can I still pretend when it's obvious that he already knows? I was the one making a fool of myself. I swallowed hard. My body felt frozen, but I had to move.
I only had a second. I stood up and ran for the door, but Yuri was faster. He grabbed both of my arms and pushed me against the wall. I even heard my study stool crash behind me.
I looked at him, shaking. I wanted to scream, but what if he did something to me or hurt the people at home?
Ugh! I shouldn't think badly of him—he hasn't even explained yet—but I can't help it.
What is really going on with Yuri?
Or maybe it's better to ask— who are you, exactly?