Wave to the Sky (Omegaverse)

Chapter 35: Keeping Enemies Close

Caelus' PoV

Layla is probably right; it's unlikely that anyone would readily admit to the crimes they've committed.

I'm following Layla's advice to keep my friends close and my enemies closer.

Loony can feign innocence all he wants, but the real question is, how long can he keep up the act? He can deny everything, but I'll uncover every bit of dirt on him and use it to my advantage.

I'm Caelus Strait, a force to be reckoned with, and this person should know that. I decided to extend an olive branch by sending him some pastries as an apology for our confrontation the other night. It's all part of the show; now I need to focus on gaining his trust and playing my cards right. Keeping him close is crucial; he's my last hope for reclaiming my rightful position as the Chief Executive Officer and President of SkyHaven Toys Corporation.

As soon as I saw him leave the building, I headed to the bus stop where he usually waits. Sure enough, he was there. I offered him a ride home, but he declined, so I suggested we grab dinner together.

"Is this your first time here?" I asked, noticing his wide-eyed expression as he looked around the restaurant.

"Yes, Sir," he replied. I forced a smile, wondering how much Carl had bribed him. Perhaps he's angling for a position at SkyHaven. But why now? Why did he wait a year to join, when Carl could have easily given him the job? It doesn't make sense. I'm struggling to understand their twisted scheme this time. What else could Carl want from me?

"So, Loony," I said, trying to appear genuinely interested, "can you tell me something about yourself?"

"I don't know what to say," he replied, scratching his neck nervously.

"Why don't you tell me where you studied art?" I prompted.

"I, uh, I don't have any formal education in art," he explained. My forehead furrowed with surprise.

"My interest in art began in high school. The first time I held a paintbrush and started painting, it felt like I was transported to another world. It was liberating, like I didn't have any burdens to carry," he continued, sincerity evident in his voice. It reminded me of Jun, the way he talked about his passions.

"My high school art teacher taught me a lot, even after I graduated. I started working as her assistant in her Weekend Art Classes. Since I couldn't afford college, I continued painting and sold my work on the streets. I'm grateful that SkyHaven accepted me despite my lack of formal education. So, thank you for the opportunity, Sir Caelus."

I was taken aback by his story. It sounded genuine, but I couldn't bring myself to believe it without confirmation from the private investigator I hired to look into him.

I smiled back at him. "SkyHaven believes in talent. Judging from the Light Mages Series you showed me, I'm certain you'll make valuable contributions to the company." There was no lie in that; he was undoubtedly talented and would excel at SkyHaven. It's a pity he'll have to leave soon. He chose the wrong person to cross. "Eat up," I said with a forced smile. I just wanted this interaction to end. I didn't want to be anywhere near him, but I had to go through with it.

"Sir Caelus, can I ask you something?" he suddenly said, catching me off guard. I looked at him and nodded, mustering a smile.

"Do you often eat alone?" he inquired.

"Indeed," I replied softly, my gaze drifting elsewhere for a moment.

"Do you not have anyone to share dinner with? Family perhaps? Or someone close to your heart?" he asked next, his tone gentle.