It's already December, and today is the day I've been eagerly anticipating. I can hardly believe that my older brother is finally coming home. My dad, on the other hand, remains the same. I talk to him on the phone all the time, but he's always busy with work, and I haven't seen him since we moved to this new place.
But the most important thing is that I'll finally get to see my brother. He told me he'll be staying here for a while because his company has assigned him to this location. It's a relief to know that they have a branch here.
As for my relationship with Logan, I can feel that we're progressing. We're growing closer to each other, spending more and more time together.
My brother won't be arriving until later tonight, so I still have time to go on a date with Logan. It's already our Christmas break, so there are no classes, and it won't be a problem for me.
"Mom, Logan and I are going out," I informed my mom.
She hugged me tightly and gave me a gentle kiss on the forehead. "You look so happy with him. Is he a good guy?" my mom asked, her eyes filled with warmth. Maybe she can see the brightness in my eyes and the way my smile has grown.
I nodded, a wide grin on my face. "He makes me happy," I replied, my voice filled with sincerity. Logan brings an added flavor to my life and gives me an extraordinary feeling.
My mom smiled, her eyes sparkling with joy. "I know. I can see it in your eyes, my child. But being happy with him is not enough. You need to have a conversation with him about what you mean to each other, the label of your relationship. Is he serious about you? Does he envision a future together? I understand how wonderful it feels, but it's important to be clear about your intentions."
I took a deep breath, absorbing her words. "I will talk to him, Mom," I promised. "But for now, let's just enjoy what we have. The most important thing is that I'm happy, and we're happy with whatever stage we're in."
"That's good to hear. Love is beautiful, as long as we handle it with care," my mom advised, her wisdom shining through.
"Don't you have any concerns about us? What about our age difference?" I asked cautiously, not wanting to upset her.
"That guy is not that much older, Krystal Krystal. Besides, you're at an age where you can make decisions for yourself. As long as you understand your boundaries, we won't have any issues," my mom reassured me. I felt incredibly grateful to have such an open-minded mother.
"Thank you, Mom. You're the best!" I exclaimed, wrapping my arms around her once more.
"I'm grateful to have two children who are growing into exceptional individuals," she replied, her voice filled with love.
Before tears could well up in our eyes, I bid her goodbye. After all, the guy waiting in the car might be getting impatient.
As I stepped out of the gate, there he was—Logan leaning against the car, exuding an irresistible charm. Correction, he is incredibly attractive in so many ways. Wearing a white unbuttoned polo shirt, he looks like the epitome of a charismatic heir.
Tall, dark-skinned, handsome, and undeniably sexy, Logan effortlessly catches the eye. If he were to walk through Claybourne, he would undoubtedly be the center of attention. His mere presence commands attention with an aura that captivates anyone's gaze.
"You're drooling," he teasingly remarked, causing me to quickly wipe the corner of my mouth.
But as I realized there was no drool, I shot him a playful glare. How dare he!
"Excuse me?" I retorted, feigning annoyance.
He chuckled and closed the distance between us, reaching out for a hug. His actions were becoming bolder, and I couldn't help but push him away, feeling slightly flustered.
"You're too close, Logan. What will people think if they see us like this?" I whispered, my voice tinged with caution.
Seemingly displeased, he responded, "They can't do anything if you're the one I want to embrace."
"You know you have your reputation to uphold. Let's be cautious. We'll have all the time in the world to be together when we're not in the public eye," I advised a touch of worry in my voice.
"But I don't want to be a secret. I don't want someone else to court you. I don't want anyone to steal you away if I don't claim you," he confessed, leaving me awestruck by his words.
"Come on, that won't happen. I'm not foolish enough to let go of someone like you," I assured him, emphasizing that my feelings were not based on his wealth or near perfection, but on the happiness and confidence he brings me. He makes me smile as if materialistic ambitions hold no significance. I've learned to be content because of him. Yes, he is the sole reason.
We got into the car, and he couldn't resist stealing a gentle kiss from me. It was a sweet and tender kiss that I enjoyed immensely.
"Where are we going now?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.
He grinned mischievously. "We're going to Claybourne. I need your help in choosing gifts for the upcoming holiday," he announced. This guy really knows how to keep me on my toes. His spontaneity is both unpredictable and endearing.
"So sudden?" I asked, taken aback by the impromptu plan.
"Don't you want to?" he retorted, throwing the question back at me.
I shook my head, a smile playing on my lips. "No, it's just that I might need some time to adjust. It's been so many months since the last time I was in the city..." I trailed off, my mind still processing his surprise.
He smiled knowingly. "I've got you now, just so you know."
I knew he would always be by my side. He once told me he was my number one fan.
Throughout our journey, he entertained me with his stories and jokes. He has a knack for keeping me engaged, and his ability to listen attentively is one of his endearing qualities. We shared numerous stories, both from my life and his own. I mentioned my brother coming to visit.
"I haven't seen my brother in such a long time. I miss him," I confessed, a touch of nostalgia in my voice.
Logan's expression shifted to concern. "What do you think your brother's reaction will be when he meets me?" he asked, his eyes filled with worry. It's endearing to see him concerned about how my brother might perceive him.
I laughed at his reaction. How does he effortlessly manage to look handsome and cute at the same time?
I gave him a playful smirk. "To be honest, my brother takes after my father. They both have overprotective tendencies. So, I can't say for sure how my brother will react when he meets you," I revealed, feeling a surge of nervousness myself.
"Well, I'll do whatever it takes to gain his trust," he declared, determination evident in his voice.
And here I am, swooning over his words. "You're quite the smooth talker, aren't you?" I playfully teased him.
We laughed together, the sound filling the car with warmth and happiness.
A few hours later, we arrived at the mall. As expected, it was bustling with people. With Christmas and New Year's Eve approaching, it was a critical time for holiday shopping.
"Where should we go first?" I asked, looking to Logan for guidance.
"I think we should start at the men's store. I have three brothers, and maybe we can find something for your brother and your male friends," he suggested.
I didn't object, as that was his plan. So, as he suggested, we headed to the men's store and carefully selected thoughtful and luxurious gifts for his family. It was heartwarming to see how much joy he found in shopping for his loved ones.
But then, he surprised me by picking out gifts for my family too! I was completely taken aback!
I had told him that a simple and thoughtful gift for my brother would suffice, but he insisted on getting a high-quality present for him. I wanted to express my gratitude, but I was left speechless when he said that the holidays only come once a year, so I should let him spoil us.
Afterward, we moved on to the women's section. We picked out gifts for his sister-in-law and his sister, Kate. It was a bit challenging, as Kate has specific tastes and preferences, being a renowned fashion icon. However, finding gifts for Alice and my mom was much easier. I couldn't help but think that this would be a perfect holiday for all of us.
Logan asked me to wait inside a fancy restaurant while he put our purchases in his car.
So I patiently waited, savoring the anticipation of the surprises yet to come. I thought this day couldn't get any better, but then I saw a familiar figure making their way towards me.
They used to be my friends until I hit rock bottom and found myself alone. During those times, their true colors were revealed, and they turned out to be toxic influences that I wanted to forget were ever part of my life.
"So, how did someone like you, a rat, end up here? Aren't you struggling?" one of them sneered.
"Leave me alone," I retorted, not wanting them to ruin my day. I hoped they would just stay away from me.
"Maybe she found herself a sugar daddy? Perhaps she can't afford this kind of food and places anymore," another one added mockingly.
Kim, one of the girls, was about to pour her wine on me when someone stepped in to stop her.
"Get out and leave her alone," Logan's voice resounded, low and filled with authority.
Initially, they didn't appear intimidated by his words. "Look, she found herself a sugar daddy. What a dirty girl!" they jeered.
However, their arrogance quickly faded when Logan made a phone call. I watched as he ordered someone to check the backgrounds of the three girls standing before me. It turned out that Logan's family owned the mall we were in, and reviewing the CCTV footage was an easy task.
We decided to eat at a different place to avoid any further unpleasant encounters.
"I'm sorry," I said in a low tone, not wanting this outing to be marred by negativity.
"Why are you apologizing? You didn't do anything wrong. If there's anyone to blame, it's them. It's right to cut toxic people out of my life," he assured me, his voice filled with understanding.
I felt grateful for Logan's presence and how much security he provided me. With him by my side, I felt invincible.
As we made our way home, I grew increasingly quiet. Logan seemed to sense my change in mood and respected my need for space. I couldn't help but appreciate his sensitivity in such moments.
By the time we arrived home, the evening had already descended. He dropped me off and mentioned that he would give me his gift on Christmas day.