Chapter 24: Chapter 24

NELINA

I remember checking on the company investigations files in the guest room. Before I finally look at my work schedule in the coming week. I do this regularly during my free time. It took me almost 2 hours to do it. I was shocked when my eyes landed on the classic wall clock a few minutes before 11 in the evening. My dad's former secretary would be of help, the next person I need to contact. After two years, things are getting clearer.

I placed my phone on the center table to prepare for my shower when I remembered calling Marica back. I grabbed my phone again and dialed her number. Marie answered the phone on the first ring like she was waiting for my call.

"Hello dear, what took you so long? It's like almost 3 hours, huh," she said with annoyance in her voice.

I laughed, listening to her on the other line. "Could you calm down, please? After dinner, I had to do something. Check some files, work schedules, and all kinds of stuff. We're gonna be busy in the coming weeks and months. It took me so long because I only have my phone; I don't have my laptop here." I felt guilty. I shrugged my shoulders and thought that I didn't entirely lie anyway. I just can't divulge to her the investigation. Not now.

"Hey, easy dear, I'll give you 3 days off as your birthday gift. We're going to Palawan," Marica said; she squeals, saying the last word.

My mouth wide opened, to my surprise. I haven't been on a vacation that long after we declared bankruptcy. "Besty, is this for real?" I said, grinning as if she could see me.

"Yes, dear. So we only have a week to prepare. I already have a ticket and hotel reservation for the two of us. So you can't say no."

My smile faded, turning my thoughts to mom and dad. "Marie, I couldn't leave mom and dad on my birthday. I also want to celebrate with them."

"I know, and you don't have to worry because I set the date a day after your birthday. So, you can celebrate with them on your birthday and with me the next day. How does it sound to you?"

"Sounds good," I said; I got excited again.

"Now that we're done with the vacation. How about you tell me how your little tour is going on?" she asked; in her smoky voice. It seems to be intended to tease like she always does.

I bit my lower lip, turning my thoughts to Royce when he was in my room. "To be honest, I have a lot to share that we can talk about when I come home. There's only one thing I can tell you now. I didn't expect this man to be sentimental. He values everything he has. This house is ancient, and he chose to preserve it, and the perfume he wore every day was a gift from his granny. This may seem like little things, yet when you think about it, it's not usual for a young man like him."

"Oh, so I was right. I had a good first impression of this man, Nelly. When I first met him, it was not just because he was a good-looking, hot guy that I would be biased and favor him. However, the way he talked and carried himself, he seemed professional and a gentleman. That sentimental guy you are talking about might be the one for you," she said as she squealed again.

"Oh, Marica. Can we talk when I come home? I need to take a shower now."

"If you say so. Have a yummy night," she said, teasing me again.

I nodded no as if she could see me. "Bye, besty, have a good night."

I was about to go to the bathroom when a knock came from my door. My heart was racing to the thought of who might be the man outside my door. At first, I thought of pretending I was asleep, but he knew that I still needed to call Marica, take a bath before preparing for bed. The short amount of time wouldn't be enough for me to fall asleep.

For the second time, a knock was heard again. I let out a long breath as I stood up and walked near the door.

"Yes, who is it?" I refused to open the door and just stuck my head on it. I listened closely to the twist on the doorknob. Thank God I locked the door. What am I thinking?

"Nelly, it's me; open the door," he said without hesitation.

Hmmm, the audacity of this man. "I'm preparing for bed. Can we just talk tomorrow?"

I heard a chuckle outside. "I'm just gonna hand you the clothes for tomorrow. If you want to prepare early tomorrow morning, you need this now. "

I pressed my hands on my face remembering I only had sleepwear in the closet. I was left with no choice but to open the door. As soon as I twisted open the door, Royce appeared wearing a fitted white sleeveless shirt, my eyes landed on his broad chest. The next thing I saw was his luscious shaft fitted on his black boxer's shorts. I swallowed a lump in my throat as I stuck my eyes on it, sending warmth in my body.

He cleared his throat and handed me a paper bag. "These are your clothes. Please check it and let me know if you need more."

I squeezed close-open my hand before I lifted it and grabbed the bag. My hands still shiver as I open the paper bag. Upon opening the bag, I held the clothes one by one, but I didn't bother to check if they were good or not. The only thing in my head was to let him leave.

"This is enough, thank you," I said as I raised my head and looked straight into his eyes. It took me a lot of courage to hold a gaze with him after what I saw. "I need to take a bath then prepare for bed. If you don't mind." I was startled.

"Sure," he said as he lifted a hand and trailed a finger on my cheek before turning around and walking out of the door.

I hurriedly followed and closed the door behind him, almost banging it, and then leaned against the door, my back on it. I clutched my hand on my chest as it rose and fell; my heart was still racing to the thought of Royce's luscious shaft. Just when I thought everything was over.

"Nelly?" He called out my name.

I was startled and slapped my hand in my mouth. Should I answer?

"Nelly, still there?" He called out my name for the second time.

Did he know I'm still here? I questioned myself if I did make any noise to have him ask. I decided to ignore him and tiptoed to the comfort room for him to think that I was already taking a bath.