The Brother

Luna's POV

My body shivered due to the coldness when I felt my blanket lost its contact with my body.

"It's cold..." I muttered as I try to locate my blanket back using my hands, too lazy to even open my eyes.

I just came home after a thrilling week-long escapade with my friends in Dubai.

Well, not all friend-friends because some of them, I just met when I pulled my friend Yessa for a skydiving activity, which by the way almost did not happened because she almost passed out.

But of course, she's with me and it's like, almost my birthday so she doesn't really have a choice but to agree.

Anyways, I won't stop until she jumps with me or I'll pull the "I'm-going-to-call-him" card which means me, calling his neighbor and spilling out the beans.

Well, two weeks ago, Yessa accidentally slipped that she has the hots for her neighbor which happened to be my cousin, so now, she doesn't really have any choice left but to agree with me.

Knowing my cousin, Mark, he'd probably annoy the hell out of Yessa once he found out that she has a crush on him and of course, Yessa wouldn't let that happen. Like what she said and I quote- "Over my dead fucking fingernails..."

I know that it's basically blackmailing and I feel so bad but hey, she had fun anyway. That's what's important and it's not like that's the first time she had tried doing some daredevil activities with me.

It's actually funny because it's not like this is the first time that I had pulled a lot of stupid-blackmailing cards on her. I don't even understand how she still falls for it when she knows I won't really spill any of her secrets.

Gosh, we've been friends for like, 14 years? Of course I won't do that. I'm not that stupid. She's almost my sister.

I groan when I heard the sound of vibration on the table. Probably my phone because I always set it in silent mode.

I slightly opened my eyes, squinting because of the blinding light coming from my window.

When did I actually open those stupid curtains anyways? I'm nocturnal at home so I stay in bed whenever.

My eyes finally snapped open as it slowly adjusted from the light.

I looked at the bedside table to check the time,

3:24pm.

"Fuck." I muttered.

I sat down immediately after realizing what time it is. I was supposed to wake up at 9 in the morning to attend my cousin's wedding.

It was because of that stupid flight, my plane got delayed so I came home at 5 am instead of 2. Of course, once my back hit the cushion, I was immediately passed out, too exhausted.

I messed up my hair in frustration. I'm screwed. My parents would kill me. Dad specifically told me to be there because I was supposed to be the maid of honor.

I washed my face with my dry hands, my eyes close as I think about what happened. I am so in trouble.

"So, my little princess is actually home, huh?" My eyes snapped open as I heard my dad spoke.

Speaking.

"And awake if I may add."

And there's mom as well. Great.

I mentally groan. My mom and dad are always busy that the only instance that I get to see them together is when there is a family occasion or if I actually got myself into trouble. Now, I'm not sure if I'm lucky but I get to see them now for both reasons.

"Mom, sorry. I overslept. You know Yessa and I just arrived..." I tried to talk sweetly as I went out of my bed to greet both of my parents.

Regardless of how rare we met each other, I know that my parents really love me.

Well sorry, this isn't the type of rich family where the son or daughter was neglected by her or his busy parents. We're far from that.

My mom's arms automatically reached mine as I move forward to hug her. She was standing on the far-side of my bed with my dad beside her, not looking really happy upon seeing how I look.

I remember, I'm actually still on my jeans and spaghetti strap blouse, my hair looking all messy after getting off from sleep.

"I miss you Mom. It's been ages since I last saw you" I told her as we hug each other real tight.

"I know. I missed you too, my baby." I let go of her after I felt her kiss me lightly on my forehead.

And then I reached for my Dad, who's looking so serious but he still hugged me back real tight. Perks of being a daddy's girl.

You see, I am the only daughter of the owners of Park 'N Bite Enterprises, one of the largest food and convenience store chains in South Korea. Actually, we also have a few stores around Asia but I don't know where or how many because I never really paid any attention.

Plus, not a lot of people knew about me. I never really attended anything business related occasions that will release my face to the public. And my Dad had actually been strict about it. They were afraid I would get kidnapped.

My grandparents started our business which they passed down to my parents and ever since, I grew up not worrying about money. My parents had given me more than enough that I can always do whatever I wanted. I can always buy what my eyes saw even if I don't need them.

My parents never opposed on my daredevil escapades because I promised that I will not try something that isn't safe and that it will never affect my studies. In fact, I finished my degree in business abroad last year but I never really started working because my dad said I can enjoy my youth since he can still run the company. Of course, I agreed.

So, I have been spending my whole year traveling around the world and doing things a regular 21-year-old haven't even achieved.

I looked up when I felt my dad kissed the top of my head.

"Sorry Dad. I never really intended not to attend Kara's wedding. You know that right?" I told him as I sway by body back and forth while my arms still around him. Then I pouted. My pout always gets to him.

"I know." He sighed. A smile started to tugged on the corner of my lips.

Got'cha.

"But I guess, I still have something to tell you. And I have this feeling that you wouldn't really like it."

My hands immediately let go of my father's. My shoulders dropped. My eyebrows furrowed.

"Dad, there's no way that I'll be grounded, right? I'm like, 22 for Pete's sake!" my eyes wide open.

"Well, you're technically not grounded." my mom answered.

"But?"

"You see, your grandma and grandpa were a little disappointed about what happened."

"And?" my heart started beating a little faster. It's never a good news when my grandparents got involved. And honestly, once they've decided, that means it's final. Even my mom and dad wouldn't be able to do anything about it.

And I won't be able to protest. Those were my grandparents. They took care of me till I was ten. I love them to death and I don't say "NO" to my grandparents.

"They decided that you should get a taste on how our line of business works and of course, it means, you need to experience everything starting from scratch. You know how me and your mom also started from scratch right?"

I nodded. My grandparents didn't make everything easy even for my parents. They had to work hard.

Why do I have this feeling that I am soon getting myself into a big trouble?

My Mom held my arm and guided me back to my bed. Then we sat on the corner as if she knows I'll be needing something for support after this.

"Your grannie wants you to stay with them in the meantime and you'll have to help them manage our very first store" My mom explained.

"So....." I started as I eventually put everything to pieces. "I will work as a clerk in grannie's store. That's what you mean right?"

My dad only smiled.

Don't get me wrong, I love my grandparents a lot but they are pretty strict, I'm starting to dread the days that I will staying with them.

"And sweetie, you have to pack your things. They're actually waiting for you downstairs." My dad added.

My Mom had to hug me real tight, the shocked look not leaving on my face.

This is it. Fuck. I'm totally screwed.

Luna's POV

"So this was where your parents stayed when they were still managing the store..." I looked around the house and noticed how incredibly small it is, my rest room is actually twice bigger.

Well, not bad actually because at least it still has a kitchen, bathroom and a separate room from the living room.

"And this is where you would be staying for three months, sweetie, that is, if you'll be good." I looked back to both my Grandma and grandpa who despite, the old age, went around and showed me my apparently, new place...

I pouted. "Grandma, can't I just stay with you and Grandpa?" I said as I put down my backpack and made my way towards my grandma.

I know said that they were strict but nevertheless, I still love them as much. Plus, I actually don't know how to cook so I don't even know how I will survive on this house on my own.

My grandpa just messed my hair. "You'll love it here. Don't worry."

I doubt that though.

"We have to go. We need to meet some people. Arrange your things and make yourself comfortable." I moved closer and gave both of them a hug.

"I'll help you and Grandpa to go downstairs." I told them as I wear my shoes so I can assist them to go down.

We're actually on the rooftop of a two-storey building which my grandparents own, the ground floor is the convenience store, the second floor is an apartment and my house is basically at the rooftop.

"Don't bother, my child." My grandpa. "You can take a rest. Remember, you'll be starting tomorrow. Make sure to be down before 6am so Natalie can tell you everything you need to know."

"Ow." I said as I stop tying the lace on my shoes. I look up to both of them. "Alright, take care Grandpa and Grandma." I told them as I watch them carefully make their way down to the stairs.

Once they're out of my sight. I closed the door on my new house. I plopped myself on the sofa bed situated on the living room.

I looked around once again, trying to absorb the fact that for three months, I will be staying on this almost run-down rooftop apartment.

There shouldn't be any problem right?

I mean, what other reason should my stay be extended. All I need to do is help in the store downstairs.

That should be easy. I said to myself, getting a little confident.

I smiled when I remember the huge open space just right outside my house. I was sure I saw a big low table where I can lie down or drink alcohol if I like. At least I have a rooftop terrace that I can share with Yessa.

Beside, this house can actually host at least three people. Again, I looked around my new home.

The house looks very warm and cozy. It is already equipped with kitchen utensils which I doubt I can use since I don't cook.

A cable TV was sitting in front of the sofa bed. I grab my phone from my pocket.

So okay, a FREE Wi-Fi. Not bad.

Through the large windows in the room, I can actually enjoy a surprisingly great view.

What's actually funny was, our building is connected to another one, so there was another house just across just like mine. The only difference is, their place looks like it is being taken cared off, with plants outside while mine looked like it has been vacated for years.

I hope I don't have a noisy or old neighbors. I actually like playing a loud music so having an old neighbor means problem.

The room inside was surprisingly clean. My grandparents might have actually hired someone to clean it before I arrive.

Tomorrow, my three-month hell period will be starting.

I hope Natalie or whoever she is, is around my age and friendly.

I closed my eyes after remembering everything that happened.

Our very first store was located just a few hours from where our real house is so I'm not technically far from the city.

The only problem is, my parents had confiscated my cards and my car telling me that I won't be needing any of those while I'm here. Plus, it appears that I will be receiving my salary while I work in the convenience store.

As far as I know, not a lot of people knew that this is actually our company's mother's or main store. My family had always been low-key in media. One thing that I was thankful for because I don't want to be surrounded by fake people.

Of course, you know when people befriends you just because they knew who you are.

When I was in second grade, some kids used to bully me and Yessa stood up by my side, hitting those mean kids. After that incident, we became the best buddies.

Imagine her shock when she found out who I was. Nevertheless, it was fine. At least I have one friend who I can trust. I'm more than satisfied with that. Besides, her family is actually well-off to be honest.

With that in mind, I closed my eyes to try to get some sleep. I need to get ready for my journey for tomorrow.

I swear, I was almost getting my very much needed sleep when I heard a sound of something hitting the lower metal of the screened door just right after my wooden door.

Okay, don't mind that. It was probably just some small stone that was carried by the wind.

thud...

"Don't mind it Luna." I talk to myself.

thud...

Okay, it's starting to get a little creepy.

thud...

That's it, I stood up from my short slumber and opened my goddamn door.

"Why do I have two doors anyways? What a bother." I told to myself.

I angrily stood outside of my door, just in front of my rooftop terraces but I see no one. Not a single soul.

"Weird..." I muttered.

The cold breeze brush past me. It's already getting dark.

I swear, the hairs just above my neck stood up upon realizing how creepy it was.

"Shoot, this house isn't haunted, right?" I talk to myself.

If there is anything I am afraid of, it's a ghost and any other paranormal things.

You can ask me to jump off a cliff with a parachute any day, Bungee jump in Dubai or even run in Macau Tower Skywalk but I can't really deal with anything ghost related.

My body shivered at the thought and the darkness that is almost enveloping the sky isn't helping really at all.

Before I can even go back inside my room, my body stood frozen when I saw a reflection of a girl in white dress, with long wavy hair covering half of her face, on the glass window of my house.

"Ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!" I screamed at the top of my lungs while I desperately covered my eyes.

I lost my balance and fell on my bottom while I still scream in horror.

"Oh God, mom!!!!" I cry for my mom's name. Tears started streaming down my face in shock.

I'm sure I was crying for a good old fucking minute and then I heard small chuckles just behind my back.

Does ghost actually laugh?

"You look ugly; do you know that?"

I turned around and saw a little girl, roughly five years old laughing her ass off because of what happened. She's looking at me like I'm some stupid shit as fuck.

My blood started to boil.

Did she actually just make fun of me?

I started wiping the tears on my face.

"Hey, you lit------" Before I can actually finish, the little kid run away to the exit and I soon lost her in my sight. "-tle tiny mole...." I continued as I whisper.

Wow.

I grab the roots of my hair with both hands as I grunt all by myself.

That's why I hate kids. They are a pain in the ass.

I then I pinch my cheeks to make sure I did not just hallucinate. I'm pretty sure that was a real kid and not some rooftop ghost.

Don't tell me, that kid is actually living right across my house. Hell, no right?

Luna's POV

"Hmmm, not bad." I said as I scan my reflection in the big mirror situated just across the counter.

I was wearing the uniform that Natalie had given me. It was a plain pale blue collared polo for women which I partnered with my black ripped jeans underneath, still fashionable enough for my taste.

Since I hate the feeling of getting choked, I decided to left a few button of my shirt open.

My long brown hair was up in a ponytail letting some of the loose strands fall freely on my face.

Instead of wearing my contacts, I decided to just wear my spectacles to feel more comfortable.

Since I am never really fond of wearing makeup, I just settled myself with applying just a face powder and a light lip tint just enough to make my lips show color.

I checked my watch. It is just past 10 in the morning so it means it has been three hours since my shift started and I was so sure there at least four people who came in the store.

Where are those customers by the way? I thought a lot of people comes in a convenience store?

I sigh as I play with the bottle in front of me. This is a little boring than I expected.

How will I be able to survive for three months with this?

"Natalie..." I called the girl who is crouched down across the hall, busy doing the inventory.

"Yes?"

Me and Natalie are the same age and honestly, she acts exactly likes Yessa so I feel really comfortable with her.

I laugh as I remember that it only took me ten long minutes to fix myself while Natalie stayed at least an hour in the restroom just to change and fix her makeup. Like Yessa, this girl looks like she would literally die if she faces people without painting her eyebrows.

"Is there anything else that I can do? This is so boring." I told her which she just returns with a smile. Despite her full make up, Natalie face exudes kindness and affection. Maybe that's the reason why I don't feel a lack of indifference from her.

"Don't worry, Luna. It's still early. I assure you, you'll have a lot of shoes to fill later and you'll be thankful you had your free time this morning."

The sound of the door opening caught my attention. I looked around a saw a little come in.

My brows furrowed. This girl seems familiar.

I studied the kid's face as she starts roaming around the store.

"Hello, Sarah. Do you need help?" I heard Natalie said to the little girl.

So, her name is Sarah. She's pretty huh. I told to myself.

The little girl was actually wearing a pink dress with flowers on it as a design. I don't need to check its tag to know that it is from an expensive designer brand.

"NO. Tsssss" she scoffed. I was sure I saw her eyes roll even from where I was watching.

What a brat. I can't help but snickered.

I remember when I was like her age. I was pretty sure I was as snobby as she is, thinking too highly of myself.

I'd spat on our maids and even make fun of them. I was so mean, until my grandparents came and they had to make sure I learn my lesson.

Seeing this kid acting like the way I did brings back so many memories.

Moreover, I hope she has someone like Grandma and Grandpa to guide her back to what is right and wrong.

"By the way, didn't I tell you not to talk to me?" the little kid remarked, arms crossed.

To say that I was shocked was an understatement. I looked at Natalie and I saw her looked down and get a little embarrassed after being told off by a kid. To my surprise, she didn't say anything about it as if she's used to the kid 's attitude.

I can't help but get pissed off. Natalie had been a sweetheart. All she wanted to do was help the kid but this pretty little demon disguised as an angel was really something. I wonder why she acts that way though. Nonetheless, I don't like it when kids are acting up like that.

"Hey, I don't think that's the right way to talk with someone who's offering you a little help. Well actually, that's not how you should be talking to someone that's older than you." I told the kid as I walk towards her from the counter. I am sure this is not the best way to approach a young kid but her sassiness is getting on my nerves.

There are no other customers anyway.

I looked at Natalie and mouthed, "Are you okay?" She just smiled in return.

"Why do you care? I don't need any help from poor and ugly people like you guys!" she said as she walks towards the section full with chocolates.

My eyes widened and I was not able to rebut immediately. I did not expect the kid to really be talking back like she's doing right now.

Wow. This kid is one another level. And she's totally pissing me off.

"Who's ugly?" My hands both landed on my hips. This kid is getting a piece of it. I don't care if she's just a kid. I can't tolerate that bitchy kind of attitude. No one should top my bitchiness, not that I am a full pledge one because I still know when to be one and when I shouldn't.

"Hey there you little kid." I said as I walk towards her. Natalie already followed and pulled me back.

"One second Natalie, I need to teach this little girl a lesson." I told her.

"Don't bother Luna. She's just a kid" she muttered.

I put down her hands on me and look back at the kid who's not even paying attention. She was trying to grab the last piece of chocolate, I didn't notice the brand, at the top of the shelf.

Too pissed off, I decided to pull a prank.

"Oh, sorry. This one is out of stock." I told her as I grab the chocolate away from her, her surprised face landed on my direction.

I can't help but grin.

That's right kid. Who's ugly now? I told to myself as I notice how she looks. Her face turned red and her eyes started to tear up. By the looks of it, she's trying so hard not to cry as she balled her fist.

"Give that to me. I found that first," she said, her voice a little shaky.

"Nope. I got it first."

"You're ugly. Uglier than how you looked yesterday."

My brows furrowed. Yesterday?

"What yesterday"

"Yesterday at the rooftop. You're that scaredy-cat old lady." And then she started to scream like how I did yesterday.

My blood started to boil.

"That was you?"

"Yeah, and you look stupid by the way."

"What???!" I almost screamed in anger. And then I lost it.

"Well for your information. I screamed so hard last night because you look so ugly and scary. You're the ugliest kid I've ever seen."

Natalie tried to stop me but I can't back down to a little kid so I motion her to stop worrying.

I knew what I said is a little mean but this girl is going to get it.

"My brother said I'm the most beautiful girl she's ever met."

Well, you're actually beautiful but your attitude isn't.

"He's lying. That's what brother's do. But you're not so you better be good. Now, I need you to apologize to me and to the lady over there for being rude." I told her.

"No. I don't like you. And give me back that chocolate. That's for my brother." She said as she raised her hands to me.

"No. Not until you apologize." I said firmly.

"No. I don't want to. Give that to me or I will tell my brother about you. You'll surely lose your job!"

I chuckled. "Babe, that won't work. If you want this chocolate, apologize or I'll eat this instead."

I saw her face panicked. What's with this chocolate anyway.

"You won't?"

She pressed her lips together, her face a little uncomfortable that I felt my conscience eat me a little.

"No!!!!!!!" she said as she started attacking me with her hands, hitting my body.

I was so startled I had to move and step backwards when she suddenly slipped and fell on the floor. She screamed in pain and she started crying so hard.

I looked at her and noticed that she actually twisted her left ankle.

I immediately crouched down and touched her. "Are you okay?" I said a little worried.

"No!!!!! Go away!!!!!?" she started screaming so loud and Natalie moved a little closer, in panic.

"Sarah?" I looked around and saw a guy. I can't see his face because the sun is facing my direction.

"Oppa..." I looked back to the little girl.

Oppa? Is he her bother? Good. I might as well talk to his brother about this kid.

"What did you do to my sister?!!!" his voice a little louder. I can sense how angry he was.

Or I guess I can't talk to him either?

I stood up and faced his direction, while Natalie remained seated on the floor, trying to help the kid.

"Hey Mister..." I started but I had to stop once my eyes landed on his face.

I gulped.

You know what happens in those love flick movies where the girl's surroundings suddenly started moving in slow motion? This is exactly how it is.

Standing before me was a guy with a face that can launch a thousand ships. His facial features were so perfect I can't even find anything bad to point out. His lips were so red, his nose were pointed and his deep set eyes are mesmerizing to see. Shoot, I just fell in love.

Screw Helen. This one is a god.... an angry looking god to be exact... I think I just found my future husband.

His face is so perfect; I never knew someone who looks like him can exist. I can kiss his lips this instant.

Why is God not fair?

"I said... what did you do to my sister!!!?"

I was break off in a trance upon realizing that the gorgeous guy towering in front of me is fuming in anger.

"What are you-----" then my eyes wide. Oh right, he was asking about her sister.

And then it hit me. This guy I claim to be my future husband is this brat's big brother?

"You're his brother?" still a little shock.

He just looks at me, his face still fuming in anger while his eyebrows furrowed.

Well, there goes goodbye to my future husband....