MORE NIGHT WITH RUTHLESS BILLIONAIRE

"Battle 1"

"Peyton Kamila Ramos..." Miss Minchin called me with a venomous tone. I couldn't help but roll my eyes before standing up.

Miss Minchin, whose biography probably had Luci and Santa----Lucifer and Satan, I mean--written as her parents. She was literally spit out from hell.

And she wasn't alone in tormenting me at the University of San Miguel---my alma mater which suddenly turned out to be a stopover to hell.

Suddenly, everyone in this school seemed to hate me. Yes, I'm not rich, just plain like me and my mom, but for crying out loud, I'm intelligent! And I could tell who was the cause of all my suffering.

"I saw you staring at Mr. Valdemar for quite some time now. Are you that attracted to him?" Her hand crossed her ample chest.

This certain Valdemar.

Since he appeared in the university this semester, I've been dodging him like I'm fleeing from death. I thought it was just a coincidence that whenever he bothered me and I snapped at him, I'd walk into class and suddenly my professor would unleash fire upon me.

But it seems like a cycle!

Every time Valdemar pesters me to spend time with him, which I don't even know why, something bad happens to me a few hours after I refuse him. It's like there's a green-skinned spell and curse book hanging in his briefs against me.

I feel like there are friends

of his, sprites and goblins, who always sprinkle magic dust on my irritation towards him. I'm just so thoroughly fed up with him.

And I didn't look at him when Miss Minchin saw me.

Because, you see, someone threw a small piece of paper at me, and I knew it was none other than the fish with the blue eye. He's so pathetic, a lustful creature who's absolutely enamored with my looks.

The first message I received from him?

I want to go between your thighs.

The second message?

I love your lips... I wonder how it tastes...

The third, and repeatedly?

Lunch?

Your smell is so addicting, Pey...

Your voice sounded like a moan.

Who wouldn't get annoyed, right?! And how can I believe when that jerk has a new conquest every day! And now, he's trying to put me on his list.

No way!

"What are you holding?" Miss Minchin from hell walked towards me and tried to snatch the paper from Valdemar. Dammit! I knew the message would be something offensive, and Minchin definitely won't let it slide.

"You won't give it, Ramos?" Miss Minchin raised an eyebrow at me. Her face, chubby and sweaty, I kept my composure even though I was getting annoyed.

"Read what's written there!" She demanded.

What on earth does this paper hold?! I feel like every day I'm opening a fortune cookie with a note inside predicting my fate for the day. I always anticipate, but these messages of his are just infuriating.

I unfolded it

and my eyes widened at what was written. I quickly shifted my gaze to Valdemar, who was now grinning like a demon.

"I said 'F---'," I started.

"FU--" I took a deep breath.

"Fuck me later." I said it quickly. My classmates burst into laughter, and I wanted to sink into my seat. That damn Valdemar!

"RAMOS!" Miss Minchin from hell went pale. "To whom are you giving that?!" She accused.

"What?! Someone just threw this at me." I defended.

"You are one week suspended from my class!"

"F*ck!" I couldn't help but curse.

"What did you say, Miss Ramos? Your mouth is filthy! Repeat what you said! You are two weeks suspended!" She didn't give up.

I remained silent.

"Repeat what you said, Miss Ramos." She asked impatiently.

What more does she want?! It's just a slip of the tongue for crying out loud. I crossed my arms to my chest. My horns are showing because my patience is running short. My mother raised me not to be afraid, so in a matter of seconds, I answered her with an arched eyebrow.

"I said 'FUCK'," My classmates laughed. "WITH RESPECT." I added with emphasis. The laughter and commotion in the class grew louder.

Miss Minchin turned red, seemingly struggling to utter my curse.

"For goodness sake I will file a petition for you to get kicked out!" She suddenly shouted.

"Fine!" I shouted while grabbing my bag.

I walked out. Damn it! It started with a flying paper, and now she wants to kick me out! Hell! I'm a consistent academic scholar at San Miguel.

It's the third year of the second semester, and she wants to kick me out?! That Minchin is really a nuisance, along with Valdemar, the relatives of Satan!

"Pey!" My cousin Bilog, who grew up with me, rushed up to me. He's not my classmate, but he surely heard about my outburst in class and Miss Minchin from hell failing me.

"Bilog. That Valdemar is really an asshole. He put me in trouble again!" I clenched my fist and pulled up the sleeves of my t-shirt.

"Why does Alec have a grudge against you? Did you do something to him?"

"A grudge? Seriously? Me? No, Bilog. I have no idea why that jerk has been making my life miserable since he showed up at this school. Just the other day, damn it, he hid my panties!"

Ugh, I remember now, the panties I left in my locker for emergencies. Valdemar, that jerk, followed me, saw me put them in, took them, smelled them, and then stuffed them in his pocket before walking away. What a pervert. He really has no shame!

"So, what are you going to tell Auntie Ganda? Oh, she'll worry when she finds out you're failing this semester..."

I let out a sigh. Yeah, Ganda will be disappointed. My mom worked so hard to support me. She joined every networking scheme just to have enough for rent and food, including my daily allowance. Thankfully, she hasn't fallen victim to a pyramid scheme, so she keeps on with her business. She says she can still afford to send me to school, but I don't want to add to her expenses. But now it's hitting me. How will I graduate if I'm no longer on scholarship?

"I'll deal with that Valdemar!" I stood up in frustration. I need to calm down; swearing won't help. I have to punch him, it should make me feel better.

"Hey Pey! Don't cause trouble right now! The campus is already hot! Pey!" Bilog shouted at me, but I didn't listen. I started walking away.

I headed to the Football Field, it's not hard to find Valdemar there. He's where all the girls gather, he's that appealing. Girls watch him practice. I guess even nose-picking or this guy taking a dump would draw an audience!

Valdemar waved when he saw me, grinning, even though I was still far from him. His messy hair was drenched in sweat, but his undeniable handsomeness shone through. I wanted to slap myself for noticing.

He is an enemy, Peyton.

Even though his eyes are narrow, they're still intense when he looks. I know girls go crazy for those blue eyes. I still don't understand why, ever since he became my classmate, all he's done is follow me and make my life difficult. He has the option to waste his time on random hot girls, so why bother me?

"Valdemar!" I shouted, even though I was very close now. I prepared my right hand, took a deep breath, then swung it with all my might.

"Ow!" He complained as my fist landed on his nose.

The field fell silent, some gasped.

Of course, I just punched fucking Alec Xerxes Valdemar and it feels so fucking good!

Valdemar's forehead creased as he looked at me, then he glanced at how many saw me punch him. He gritted his teeth, even his jaw tightened, but I didn't feel fear. I didn't care if he wanted to get even!

He grabbed my arm and, being much taller, it was like my feet were swept from under me.

I struggled and shouted, "Fuck you Valdemar! I'll kill you!"

"Tss"

We made it inside the gym, and he pulled me into the male's locker room. He leaned me against the wall and looked into my eyes intently. They were filled with emotions I couldn't understand. Who is this guy, and why does it seem like his mission is to annoy me?

It's like he's harboring some grudge against me and seeking revenge.

"Punching me is a crime, Peyton. You don't know what you are doing.." He whispered, sending shivers down my spine. His warm breath brushed my neck due to our close proximity.

A crime? This damn pimple-faced fish! The nerve of this guy! Who does he think he is?!

"I don't care! You're an asshole! Since you arrived, you've turned this school into Lucifer's playground!!!"

"Oh, so this is already hell for you, Pey? Let me show you what hell really is.."

His eyes widened as I felt his hot lips on mine.

Damn it!

Is he kissing me?!

battle 2

"Shameless! You stupid animal! Why did you kiss me?!" My eyes were still wide while Valdemar was holding his bloody lip because I bit him when I was back in a trance.

"Because I can, Pey. I freaking can.." He answered bravely. His blue eyes were full of hatred, staring at me. His gaze was cold, if I wasn't brave, I probably would have weakened from his stare and my knees would have given out.

i always see his playful side so i thought he was just playing with me, but today it kicks in, he seems to be mad at me that's why he's annoying me.

"You are related to satan!" I'm interested while hitting him that he's doing it like crazy. He laughed at me. I was stunned when I saw his perfect teeth while his eyes narrowed. He's so devilishly handsome.

It's an animal, it's handsome even if it's annoying.

"Oh damn? He is my father, Pey.. Do you want to know him?" He asked with a grin. I'm still very angry, the blood that drained from my body is almost half in anger.

"Are you really not going to stop me Valdemar?! What do you want you insect?!"

"You.." he responded with emphasis while sliding his index finger on my chest and still shaping my boobs with his finger. I can feel the veins coming out of my face because of anger.

"Whore! You idiot! Animal!"

Valdemar didn't move, just looked at me. after a while his eyes widened suddenly...

"Ramos!" Together we turned in the direction of

voice I turned pale when I saw Mr. Rivas is approaching us, he is the dean of the school.

I'm dead.

Literally.

King Mother!

I'm gonna kill this f*cking Valdemar with my bare hands. will see it!

"Ramos! What have you done again?" Disappointed, Mr. Rivas. asked me. when we sat down in his office.

I'm facing this fucking Valdemar whose face became pitiful in an instant because he was facing Dean.

I took a deep breath, I also needed to be calm, the temper doesn't help.

"Mr. Rivas, Valdemar is the culprit---" I started but Mr. interrupted. Rivas.

"A while ago, they said you were going to send a letter inviting someone to---you know.."

"Fuck me, Sir?" I added the word he couldn't say. Mr. blushed. Rivas.

"That--that is so unlady like. You shouldn't--"

"Sir, that's not from me. Valdemar sent me that letter."

Valdemar bowed as if he had become a gentle sheep, he is not using any words but by his actions you will definitely be convinced that he is an angel who is lost. He looks like a victim of a bully like me!

"Why did you punch Mr. Valdemar?" Next prosecution of Mr. Rivas.

"Because he sent me that letter---"

Mr. Rivas cut me off again.

"Is it because he didn't agree to talk to--- 'you' know..." He accused. Is he referring to sex?

What the?

I blinked and wondered if the other person was telling a joke

I this time. Valdemar? will I ask for sex? Maybe I'll volunteer to go mental when that happens!

"Ms. Ramos, we know that there are a lot of people who like Mr. Valdemar, I hope you don't join anymore. It affects your standing. Right now, I'm telling you, that this is not good for your records. you should apologize to Mr. Valdemar--"

My ears are ringing.

"Mr. Rivas!" I hit his table hard. "I'm not going to apologize! He's the one to blame!" I answered hysterically.

"Then I think we should revoke your scholarship."

I was shaken but I didn't show it. I'm in the right so I'll stand up.

"Then revoke it, Sir. I won't apologize." I said firmly.

Mr. seemed tired. Rivas in his chair and stared at me for a long time. After a while he scratched his senses.

"You know Ms. Ramos, it's a pity. It's a pity because you're smart. your scholastic records are at stake now. And I'm afraid, that you can't continue this sem and will be under probationary period next month before you can repeat third year." He said.

My eyes widened a lot.

"Repeat?! Third year? Second sem now, Sir! I have grades last sem and it's all outstanding! This is ridiculous!"

Mr. Rivas, didn't say a word. he looked at me pathetically.

"Fine! Take that Valdemar's side!" I said giving up.

I stood up and was about to leave when I heard Valdemar speak.

"That is too much, Sir.." Valdemar's voice was still shy.

Bitch! How pretentious!

"No! Mr. Valdemar, if the school is kind enough to give her options, she could have been kicked out considering all the things she did today, just today."

I turned the lock with a trembling hand before leaving the Dean's Office. I am going home.

I can get revenge on you too, Valdemar. You are an animal.

My shoulders slumped as I entered our apartment. I dropped my bag on the sofa and then took off my old Vans. I smiled, it's been five years and counting. We don't have anything to buy.

Life is really miserable.. Destiny is really stupid.

Those who don't have anything, are still oppressed.

I raised my tired foot on the center table and sighed.

I bowed my head tiredly.

Damn! He stole my first kiss.

The one for my first boyfriend was stolen.

He will pay.

I love to charge.

I let out another breath.

My urine is high but I can't do anything.

I don't have a scholarship anymore. I'm on probationary status at school.. I'm not allowed to enter and my Third Year is back to zero until I apologize for that mess. I was tired and lay down on the sofa and enjoyed the silence, I didn't even turn on the electric fan.

**King **King

"Beauty.." I answered my cell phone after a few rings that I ignored.

"There you go honey! How's school?" Ganda said happily on the other line.

"It's fine..."

"It's fine but the voice sounds like Good Friday, Where's the reading?!" She joked.

"It's not funny. Where are you?"

"Oh..I can't go home now, I've already cooked a dish, just heat it up and then you'll eat."

"Where are you?" I say it again.

"We have a prayer vigil at Mrs. Ramirez's house.. Overnight."

"Good, isn't Mrs. Ramirez's religion different? What, are we going to convert?" I asked innocently.

"No... Of course you already know, this is a marketing strategy to buy gluta from her colleague in the church who believes that the fountain of youth exists!" Ganda whispered on the other line. I laughed.

"Ohh, that's good!"

"Of course they thought that was my secret.. You know your mother, beauty is all natural!" She was proud. I laughed, She was so beautiful that's why my father fell in love with her. He was left to know that my mother is pregnant with me..

a man who loves sex but not the result after.

A man who has no balls. Only cock, who knows how to fight and pound. Then it's gone, when it bears fruit, the happiness is over.

But that's okay. Ganda and I are happy.

even though he is often not at home to shop and feed me, we are happy. That's why I'm in a hurry to graduate so that at least Ganda and I are stable. She no longer needs to sell glutathione and soaps from the dead sea to make money.

Case... That Valdemar that was blown up is ten kilos shameless. I don't like him but he makes my life difficult.

It has changed

I'm from home. I wore tight shorts and a big shirt. I was often mistaken for a homosexual because of my big clothes. it's okay that I'm not called beautiful. I'm not making an effort, who else is it for?

Ganda looks even younger to me when we are together, I don't care because I don't have anything to beautify. who? Those guys I mentioned earlier? Those who want my earthly body? those who are cowards and don't know how to take responsibility then?

Thanks but no thanks.

I went out and peeked through our fence, looking to see if Bilog had arrived. I had to tell him about the shame Valdemar had done to me. I'm only talking to him because Ganda will definitely be worried when she finds out I'm being bullied at school.

"Hey!" Bilog was the first to see me, because he was waiting for me at the fence that blocked our apartment and theirs.

Ganda's brother is Uncle Julius, Bilog's father. That was a policeman but he died, so Bilog and I are the same fatherless orphan. by the way, Bilog, Benok and Butil have siblings while I don't. Bilog is the eldest so Pretty's partner in supporting their family, fortunately he passed as scholar, because Pretty is Captain's type.

I immediately crossed to the other apartment. I just walked to the bank, there is also a bank in the Bilog lot, it's like we don't go out the gate every time we move

we are on the other side. We are the only family in Manila so we are very close.

"WHAT?!!! Alec has kissed you?! Yuck you, Pey! Well, there's no one who hasn't touched his lips yet!" Bilog shouted when he made sure his room was locked so we could gossip again.

Valdemar hasn't touched anyone's lips yet? Does he mean..

"Has he kissed you, Bilog?!" My eyes narrowed at him.

Bilog burst out laughing and rolled over on the bed before he spoke.

"No! Why he kiss me. But maybe there's a chance, because if he kissed me as a girl, I'll love it."

"Hey you're thick! I'm going to report you to Ning for your flirting!"

"Just kidding, this one.. What's the feeling of his lips?" Bilog asked flirtatiously.

"Slimy!" I answered.

But in fact, I liked it. because it's hot. calmed my nerves at that moment, the feeling was even better than when I kicked him.

But damn! That's wrong! He shouldn't just kiss me.

"Well, how about that.. When you don't apologize, Pey, you're a pro... the third year is only two months away, your one year will be wasted.."

"I will apologize to him, Bilog." I'm getting serious.

Apologizing is just a small sacrifice, it's for Ganda, I need to return my scholarship, or at least get credit for my entire Third Year, I'm ready to be a working student if I don't pass the scholarship.

That's why tomorrow,

even though I couldn't go to class, I insisted on going. I waited for the end of our first class in Economics to look out for Valdemar.

I know what I'm going to do, I'm going to our room at Eco, I'm going to pull Valdemar's hand, and then I'm going to apologize.

Just like that.

It's easy.

there is no need for a spring inside. Just say sorry.

I saw that our Prof had come out of Eco, so I hurried to take a position at the door of the room, only to find that the students were already exhausted from inside, no Valdemar came out.

I was disappointed. I just walked again to go to my next class with Valdemar, just in case he might enter our class there.

"Looking for me?" I almost jumped. Valdemar raised his eyebrows as he stood in front of me.

"May I talk to you?" I immediately spoke.

He nodded and walked with me. I took him to the most hidden kiosk I saw, nice and empty.

I took a deep breath when we stopped at the kiosk.

"I'm sorry." I started, the nervousness overflowing in my chest, he needs to forgive me so that he can talk to Mr. rivas to lift the punishment on me!

Valdemar's lips formed a thin line as he looked at me with raised eyebrows.

"That's not what I want." He said.

I frowned.

What do I care about what he wants? I just said I'm sorry!

"What do you want, Valdemar? you win.. I give up, what else?"

Valdemar approached my neck, slowly. I closed my eyes to the heat of his breath. I held my breath because my raging admiration for his beauty might suddenly spill over.

"I want you to say my name--- Scratch that, I want you to scream my name when you are about to come in my bed, Peyton.." He whispered.

I had goosebumps.

I felt all the hairs on my body stand up in shock at what he said.

When I recovered, my high blood pressure went up.

"Oh, you're such an animal! How did your mother let you go?! Are you holding that--- That's why you're like that! You're stupid! I'm not that kind of girl!" My loss

He raised his head and applied his lips to mine, but it was quick. just to silence me. I couldn't even react because of the speed of the incident.

"Cursing machine.. Let me take that dirty mouth and let's do something dirty but satisfying.." He said with almost hair between our faces.

I can smell the mixture of mint and cigarettes on his breath but it smells so tasty. That sounds good to taste.

Erase, Peyton!

" I'm going to die before you taste my body, you animal! Rub your cock against the wall!" I exclaimed furiously.

"Ramos! I am kicking you out!" shouted Mr. Rivas who was already standing in front of us.

I trembled. But there is nothing I can do.

I am gonna break my mother's heart this time..

I am kicking you out now, Ramos. Wait until I process your release papers," Mr. Rivas reiterated as he approached us.

I could feel my stomach churning, but I won't cry. Both Valdemar and Mr. Rivas can go to hell! Let them be together!

"I need to talk to your parents," Mr. Rivas said formally.

That's when it sank in.

Damn, I felt the corners of my eyes burning. I glared at Valdemar who just shrugged at me. I could clearly see the smile in his eyes even though his lips didn't move.

He's a beast! He doesn't have any mercy. I pushed him hard until I was running away. I wiped away the continuous stream of tears.

Why is it like this?

I didn't do anything to Valdemar! He just always makes me mad.

I sat down at one of the kiosks in school and slumped over, resting my head on my knees, crying and watching the students happily walking around campus, laughing as if they had no problems. While me, just like that, kicked out in an instant?! I worked so hard for three years here...

**Beep **Beep

I wiped my tears before reading the message.

Ganda: Sweetie, do you have any leftovers from your lunch the past few days? I fell short on the electricity bill, but I'll pay you back next week, promise! I love you...

I let out a sigh. I remembered Ganda. She surely won't agree if I tell her I'll stop studying and just work. Education is very important to her; she wasn't able to finish her own because of my pregnancy. And here I am, not even pregnant but thinking of quitting school, come on Peyton!

Look where your filthy mouth got you!

I cursed my playmates in Bicol, they were all guys, so I learned to curse.

Damn them all. They're such idiots.

I replied to Ganda to just take from my piggy bank. Truth is, I really save my allowance for times like this. I always bring packed lunch so I don't have to buy, and I walk instead of taking the jeep. I often use the extra money that Ganda sets aside for me as my project fund, and when there's some left, I quietly add it to my spending money without her noticing.

I took a deep breath. I can't get kicked out. This is for Ganda and me.

I looked up and started to think about what to do.

The sky was turning orange, I checked my phone to see the time, it's getting late. I realized I haven't eaten yet. I still have a class today and it will end in fifteen minutes.

I briskly walked towards our Physics building. I saw Valdemar inside and he even waved at me. I had a blank expression. Why does it all seem like a game to him?

After the class, I stood by the door and waited for Valdemar to come out. He was the last one to leave the classroom even though he knew I was waiting, acting all important.

"Hi former classmate!" he greeted in a teasing tone.

I clenched my fist, damn him! I'll get back at him eventually.

"Let's talk," I untangled. He nodded.

"In my car," he said.

"What? No. Let's just..."

"Okay, stay there..." He walked away quickly.

"Valdemar!" I called, but he didn't look back or even stop.

"Valdemar! Alright, fine, we'll go to your car." I had no choice.

He turned and walked back towards me with his hands in his pockets. He extended his hand to me, and we walked hand in hand towards the parking lot.

My hand was sweating profusely.

I wanted to pull my hand away but I wouldn't dare. It's difficult dealing with this crazy demon.

He opened the shotgun seat of his obviously expensive red car and gestured for me to sit. He got in too and started the engine. He turned on the air conditioning, but he didn't start driving yet.

"Talk," he ordered.

"I can't afford to get kicked out," I began.

He smirked.

"Why are you telling me this? Talk to Rivas, Peyton..." He ran his index finger across my face, but I didn't flinch.

"You know they won't listen to me. You have influence over them."

Valdemar let out a suppressed laugh, damn, is this guy crazy?

"So you figured it out? You're smart, Pey... You really deserve your scholarship, but... too bad, it was taken away from you." I clenched my fist and shot him a glare.

"It's your fault! You're such an idiot!" I retorted without holding back.

"So brave... I am so turned on." His eyes gleamed as he ran his palm over my cheek.

"I'm really brave, Valdemar. But I know my place. So now, I'm asking you for a favor. I don't want to be kicked out."

Valdemar raised an eyebrow. The corner of his mouth lifted as he looked at me from head to toe.

"Ignore the translations. Focus on the party. I want you to make sure he's enchanted. Understand?" Ate Vania instructed.

"Yes, Ma'am," I replied nervously.

I went back to the apartment with a bag full of clothes, makeup, and hair accessories. Ganda was already home from her work at the bakery. She looked at me curiously as I entered.

"What's all this, Pey?" she asked.

"Just trying out some new things, Ganda. Thought I'd experiment a bit," I said, avoiding her gaze.

The truth was, I needed to make sure I looked perfect for Valdemar's party. It was a night I couldn't afford to mess up.

As the days passed, I spent hours practicing with the makeup and hair products. Ganda was amused by my sudden interest in beauty routines. She'd often chuckle and offer me tips, thinking it was just a phase.

Finally, the day of the Valentine's Party arrived. Ganda wished me good luck, thinking I was attending as a guest. She had no idea about the deal I had made with Valdemar.

I followed Ate Vania's instructions carefully. The salon spa was luxurious, and everyone treated me with utmost respect. They transformed me, giving me a new look that even I couldn't recognize.

When I arrived at the party, I was met with stares of admiration. Valdemar's eyes widened when he saw me. He approached me with a grin.

"You look stunning, Peyton," he said, his voice low.

"Thank you," I replied, trying to keep my composure.

As the night went on, Valdemar and I danced, laughed, and pretended to be a couple. I played my part, knowing that my scholarship and future depended on it.

It was a night of deceit, but I had no choice. I had to do whatever it took to secure my education and Ganda's future. And if that meant pretending to be someone I wasn't, then so be it.

The night turned out to be surprisingly tolerable. I didn't end up looking like a clown. It's hard to recognize myself when I look in the mirror. The makeup was subtle, but it made a significant difference. They curled the ends of my hair, and I actually liked how it fell.

They handed me the dress I'd be wearing - a golden tube dress adorned with crystals and beads. It showcased my legs. I'd never worn something like this before, let alone the gold high heels.

Ate Vania presented me with a box, and my mouth dropped open. Inside were pearl bracelets and dangling earrings. She insisted I put them on, despite my protests.

"Alec's request," Ate Vania whispered while placing the earrings on me.

Is everyone, including Ate Vania, bending over backwards for that jerk?

I left the dimly lit salon, feeling slightly overwhelmed by all the changes. The black car was waiting for me. I got in, feeling nervous during the drive.

What will Bilog say when he sees me looking like this? Will he report me to Ganda?

And can I even return to school? Am I still kicked out?

"Madame, we are here." The door opened on my side, revealing a hotel where the Valentine's Party was being held. I recognized many faces, but only one caught my attention.

Valdemar.

He leaned against the side of his red car, hands in his pockets. His gaze was fixed, and everyone who passed by couldn't help but glance at him.

He's so handsome, damn it.

I took a deep breath before stepping out of the car. I walked towards him, my heart pounding. It felt like my heart was racing faster than my feet. When I saw him looking straight at me, it felt like I was the lead in a shampoo commercial, approaching her leading man.

"Damn it, Pey, you look stunning!"

My dramatic entrance to Valdemar was interrupted by my friend Ralph.

I turned to Ralph, who approached with a wide smile, oblivious to my irritation. I smiled and nodded.

Get lost, I signaled with my eyes, trying to convey my frustration. But he just scratched his head in confusion.

"Who's this, Ralph?" I glanced to the side and saw Leigh approaching as well. I slapped my forehead mentally. I hate this scene!

"Peyton!" Leigh chirped. If it were any other day, I would've punched them. They were my classmates in three subjects, and they treated me like one of the guys. They often teased me for being good at riding a motorcycle, a skill they admired.

I felt someone tug at my hand from the small group of Ralph and Leigh. I was about to protest, but then I noticed Valdemar's back. My feet moved on their own, following him without looking back.

Valdemar opened his car, and I got in automatically. He followed suit, driving away from the venue.

No one spoke in the car. Valdemar's eyes were fixed on the road, his grip on the wheel tight.

We arrived at a prestigious hotel. I suddenly felt nervous, anticipating what would happen next. And until now, I couldn't quite accept it.

"Presidential Suite," Valdemar informed the receptionist, who was clearly smitten by the presence of that jerk.

We wasted no time and went up to the suite. I was amazed as soon as the door opened. The hotel room was spacious, with two rooms, even a kitchen.

He sat on the sofa immediately. I followed suit. He looked at me sternly, so I stood up again.

"Number One rule, do what I say and never do anything that I don't say," he ordered with authority. I nodded quickly.

"Number two, you won't tell anyone about our connection." I nodded again. That suited me just fine.

"I'll call you if I need you. You call me if you need me," he said with a grin, emphasizing the 'need'.

"It's not likely that I'll need you in the way you're thinking," I retorted.

"Whatever. I'm just letting you know that you have that option."

"What else? When will I get my scholarship back?"

Valdemar grinned and took out his cellphone. He set it to speaker.

"Sir Alec," he said into the phone.

I furrowed my brows.

It was Mr. Rivas's voice. It was noisy in the background, so I was sure he was at the Valentine's party.

"How's Ramos' scholarship?" Valdemar asked.

"It's good, Sir. We'll send it to her house tomorrow," Mr. Rivas politely replied.

"Good. Bye."

Valdemar shrugged and patted the spot beside him. I sat there.

"W-why did we leave the party?" I asked.

"Because those idiots were staring at my property. You look beautiful tonight, Pey," he whispered, kissing my earlobe, sending shivers down my spine.

"And today I decided, that you will be exclusively for my eyes only, Peyton. Remember that."