Prologue

Four years ago

Russell

“You’re showing too much skin. Get changed!”

As we prepared for prom, Ryker cast an intrigued gaze my way, taking note of my trendy outfit. He gave me a look that made me feel younger than my actual age. He never seems to approve of my clothing choices, as if he believes that revealing outfits leave me vulnerable to the weather.

“Kuya, prom dresses aren’t in style anymore. This looks okay,” I said. I’m wearing a dress that fits snugly and features vibrant shades of red and black. The back reveals a tasteful amount of skin, with a subtle hint of cleavage. Ryker has an impeccable fashion sense. He is 12 years older than me. Despite his polished demeanor, he falls short in everyday situations.

“You should consider changing your outfit.” Ryker raised his voice once more in my direction.

“Ryker, you seem a bit out of touch with the latest fashion trends for women,” Mom remarked. “That seems to be the typical style of dress for many women I encounter.”

“Of course, Mom, I’m well aware.”

“I’m surprised that Kuya didn’t know. He has a reputation for being quite the ladies’ man; when Daniel is around, they make quite the mischievous pair.” I continued to playfully taunt my older sibling.

“Would you like a guy who’s not bothered by a little drool and finds it endearing? She’s putting herself out there, like...” Ryker attempted to speak, but our mother cut him off before he could finish.

“Like what, Ryker? Hurt your sister’s feelings.”

Ryker looked dissatisfied. “She seems to have developed a sense of entitlement due to the consistent fulfillment of her desires.”

I playfully teased Kuya by sticking my tongue out and rolling my eyes. I can sense his jealousy creeping in once more.

“Wow, my date is stunning,” Daniel exclaimed, a smile lighting up his face as he gazed in my direction.

Ryker and Mom both glanced at Daniel, the newcomer. Daniel glanced briefly at my mom. “Hello Auntie, good evening.”

“Daniel, you have the final say. Is Russell revealing too much?”

I caught another glance from Daniel. I noticed his gaze fixed on me, and it dawned on me that he recognized Ryker and seemed to appreciate my choice of attire. Daniel is quite the ladies’ man, with a preference for attractive women like Kuya. However, it’s worth noting that Daniel possesses a contemporary sense of style.

“Well?” I asked, and my eyebrows arched in curiosity. His gaze lingers on me as if undressing me with his eyes.

“I don’t notice any issues with her attire, auntie.” Daniel grinned and told my mother, “Even though no one can lay a finger on her or even catch a glimpse of her as her date, men can’t help but be captivated by her.”

I glanced in Daniel’s direction. What more could one anticipate from someone like Daniel, known for his womanizing ways?

“Am I not judged based on my clothing choices, as if I were a prostitute?”

Daniel’s expression shifted from confusion to surprise as his gaze shifted between Kuya and me. “No. Your appearance is a reflection of your behavior. And another point to consider: even if that job doesn’t meet the expectations of others, it’s not our place to pass judgment on them.”

“Alright, I suppose. If you feel like wearing it, go ahead. After all, Daniel is your date. Show him kindness.”

I glanced at Daniel briefly. His wide smile guarantees that my prom night will be unforgettable. I released a brief exhale.

“Okay, let’s go. Maybe my date is waiting for me,” Ryker said.

Ryker guided me towards the garage, gently holding my back.

***

Claire leaned in and whispered to me, “Ryker is quite the looker.”

As we settled into the backseat, a sense of anticipation filled the air. Despite receiving numerous invitations from other guys to be my date for prom night, Ryker insisted that I couldn’t have someone my age as my companion. Instead, he entrusted me to his closest friend, who happened to be twelve years my senior.

“What are your thoughts on my brother, someone with unconventional interests and a unique profession?” I softly murmured. “Hey, let’s spend time with fellow teenagers our age on prom night. What a missed opportunity, completely wasted.”

“I’m okay with it.” Ryker’s youthful appearance remains as captivating as ever. “As well as Daniel,” Claire whispered. “Why not acknowledge Daniel’s hard work? Despite his hectic schedule, he always manages to prioritize spending time with you. And another thing: our date will shine brightly throughout the night. They are quite attractive! When our classmates inquire about their numbers, I will, as usual, provide a different one when they request Ryker’s number.”

I remained silent. I couldn’t help but wear a constant frown until we arrived at school.

Immediately, Daniel came to my aid and assisted me in exiting the vehicle. A somber expression overtook my face. A smile spread across Daniel’s face as he realized that I had no intention of asking him to be my prom date. Imagine a scenario where all my classmates are enjoying the night while we are accompanied by bodyguards.

Daniel softly murmured, “Smile, babe. Embrace the beauty of this evening.”

The warmth of his breath startled me, sending a shiver down my spine. I gave Daniel a little nudge.

“Quiet down, Daniel. Just a friendly reminder: I’m still a minor. You have quite an interesting perspective,” I said, slightly irritated.

Daniel let out a soft laugh. “I’m not doing anything. Can you please just smile for me?”

I muttered, “Quiet, keep your mouth shut.”

As we made our grand entrance, all eyes were drawn to us, creating a buzz of excitement in the room. They appeared unfazed by the fact that our date was outdated for us. That evening, all eyes were fixed on us. My older brother and Daniel seem to have quite a bit of charisma.

My surprise was evident as Daniel placed my wine glasses on the cocktail table.

“Let’s dance,” Daniel said.

“I’d rather not dance with you,” I murmured.

I noticed Ryan and Monique gracefully moving across the dance floor. As I watched them, a heavy sigh escaped me. Ryan was, apparently, my date. Unfortunately, my bothersome brother orchestrated his commitment to another woman, which prevented him from dancing with me. It feels like an insurmountable task, despite my longing to solidify our relationship tonight after two weeks of playful interactions.

“Come on, Russell. Let’s savor the evening. It only happens once,” Daniel said. “It was quite amusing to witness the swarm of eager youngsters vying for the opportunity to dance with me. However, I graciously declined all their requests, ensuring that you would not be left standing on the sidelines tonight. If you refuse to dance, I’ll easily find another partner, leaving you to simply stand there.”

“Hey, what do you mean by that? Is there anyone else with a beautiful face like yours? I have a multitude of admirers.”

“I understand, but I will make sure they don’t come near you or ask you to dance. I am your date for the evening. I demand your undivided attention and exclusive company for the evening.”

I was suddenly pulled towards the center, my heart racing as I took a deep breath. The unexpected gesture as he tenderly drew me closer by wrapping his arm around my waist surprised me. I instinctively rested my hand on his shoulder, deliberately averting my eyes. Ryker and Claire were also present, and they thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

“It shouldn’t look like you hate me,” Daniel said. “Hold me right.”

“That’s how I feel tonight,” I said, clearly annoyed. “I clearly expressed my reluctance to dance, yet you persisted.”

Daniel remained silent. Instead, I was taken aback when I felt the gentle touch of Daniel’s hand on my exposed skin.

“It seems like you’ve shed a lot of weight since your waistline was 32 inches before,” Daniel said.

“I know I have an undeniable allure,” Russell declared confidently. “You don’t need to say that to me.”

Daniel let out a soft laugh.

“You really shouldn’t pay any attention to what my brother says,” I said. “Our animosity towards each other ensures that our time together will be far from enjoyable.”

“I don’t dislike you; in fact, I...”

“Hey, is it possible for me to dance with Russell?”

Daniel turned around, and I swiftly released my grip on him. Ryan has requested that I join him for a dance.

“Sure,” I replied with a smile.

Daniel firmly took hold of my wrist, preventing me from moving any further. “Hold on, Russell...”

I forcefully pulled Daniel’s hand away from me, feeling annoyed. “Many women are eager to dance with you. Feel free to select from the options available. Have a great evening!” I grinned mischievously as I abandoned him on the busy dance floor.