SECURED

FIGHTING.

• CIYA •

As I walked into the store, I told the sales associate my size and began browsing through the undergarments. The store was quiet except for the soft hum of the air conditioning and the occasional rustle of fabric. I was focused on finding what I needed when I overheard a murmur coming from a corner of the store.

"Did you see Romanavs, how they looked today?" one woman gushed. "They're just as handsome in person as they are in those photos!"

"I know, right?" another voice agreed. "I heard they're really kind and supportive, too. It's so cool that we get to see them out and about."

Their admiration was clear, and it was nice to hear such positive things about my brothers. It made me smile a bit, knowing they were making an impression on people in such a good way.

But then, the tone of the conversation shifted. I heard another group of people talking, their words tinged with criticism and disrespect.

"I don't get why they're so popular," one voice said dismissively. "I've heard they're not all they're cracked up to be."

"Yeah, I've heard they're just putting on a show," another added. "It's probably all just for the cameras."

The idea of people badmouthing my brothers, especially when they were trying so hard to make me happy, was infuriating.

For a moment, I thought about confronting them, letting them know just how wrong they were. But I stopped myself. I didn't want to let that negativity spoil my mood or my brothers' day. I felt good today, enjoying the time we were spending together, and I wasn't going to let some nasty comments get in the way of that.

I considered calling Bi for a second opinion, but I hesitated. I wanted to make the most of this day, to be with my brothers without any distractions. I wanted to learn more about them, understand them better, and I didn't want anything or anyone coming between us

So, I took a deep breath, focusing on the positive. I was determined not to let the fear or anger take away from the joy of spending time with my brothers. They meant special to me, and I wasn't going to let anything ruin our day.

After leaving the store with my new purchases, we made our way to the food section of the mall.

After finishing our meal, I felt a bit of a heavy weight lift off my shoulders. The commotion at the washroom had passed, and we were finally able to enjoy our food in peace. I looked around the table, my brothers chatting and relaxing, and I decided it was time for a quick break.

"I'm going to head to the washroom," I said, standing up from my seat.

Kirril glanced up from his plate, his expression still a mix of concern and wariness from earlier. "Are you sure you'll be okay alone?" he asked, his voice filled with a hint of protective worry.

I smiled reassuringly, trying to ease his concerns. "Yes, I'll be fine. I just need a few minutes to myself. I'll be back soon."

Kirril nodded, though I could see the lingering concern in his eyes. "Alright, but if you need anything, just call us."

After finishing up in the washroom, I made my way out, feeling a bit more relaxed. I was looking forward to rejoining my brothers and continuing our day together. However, as I stepped into the hallway, I overheard a group of men standing nearby, their voices loud and filled with criticism.

"Did you see those guys?" one of them sneered. "Acting like they're royalty. They think they own the place."

"Yeah, and that girl with them? She's just as bad," another man chimed in. "They're all full of themselves. It's pathetic."