Royal Deception

Chapter 2

Philippines

As the private plane touched down on the tarmac in Manila, Jeanna felt a mix of excitement and nerves. The city below was alive, and she knew they were about to enter its core. She peered out the window, taking in the sights, but before she could fully absorb the atmosphere, the plane door swung open.

The moment they stepped off the plane, warm air surrounded them. Inside the lobby, Cameras flashed as they spotted Tom and Jeanna, and the trio was quickly surrounded by admirers.

"Tom! Jeanna! Can we get a photo?" a young woman called out.

Jeanna exchanged a glance with Tom, who grinned. "Sure, let's make it quick!" he replied.

Simon stepped forward, camera in hand. "Alright, everyone, gather around!" he said, capturing the moments as fans posed with Tom and Jeanna.

One by one, Jeanna smiled for the pictures, appreciating the joy of their supporters.

After a few minutes of snapping photos and signing autographs, they managed to break free from the crowd. "We should probably get moving before more fans show up," Simon suggested, glancing around as more people began to approach.

Outside, a black van sat near the curb, the driver stepping out to greet them. "This way," he said, opening the sliding door with a nod. Jeanna stepped inside, followed by Tom and Simon, who chuckled as he adjusted his camera.

The driver slid into his seat and started the engine, the low rumble breaking through the sounds of the cit. The interior a contrast to the frenzy outside. As the vehicle drove away from the airport, Jeanna settled into her seat, allowing herself to relax for a moment.

"Quite the welcome," Simon remarked, chuckling. "I forgot how wild it gets here." Jeanna said.

"We have a bit of a drive ahead," the driver informed them, merging into the traffic. As the van moved through the streets, Jeanna looked out the window, taking in the vibrant scene of Manila.

Tom sat quietly, his eyes focused ahead, but his mind was elsewhere. He stole glances at Jeanna, noting the tension in her posture despite trying to calm herself. He wished he could reassure her, but he knew words might not suffice.

Memories of their childhood flashed through his mind. He recalled their first day in training, how Jeanna stood tall, her spirit strong even during difficult tasks. There was something about her that drew him in, a determination that inspired him. In quiet moments, he admired her, not just for her strength but for the kindness she showed to those around her. He remembered the way her eyes lit up when she talked about her dreams to be a singer.

Tom shifted in his seat, a small smile appearing as he thought of the time they snuck away from training to get ice cream, their laughter ringing out in the empty streets. That day had felt like a break from their reality. He felt warmth for her, a connection that had grown over time.

He glanced at her profile, noting the way her brow furrowed in concentration. He admired her resolve, the way she faced challenges. It was hard not to feel a deep connection. He wondered if she knew what she meant to him. Did she sense the bond that went beyond friendship?

As the lights passed by, Tom caught himself lost in thought. He felt a mix of hope and uncertainty in his chest. They were in a high-stakes world where emotions could complicate everything, yet he could not shake the feeling of something unspoken between them.

Jeanna turned to him, their eyes meeting for a brief moment. Tom felt his heart race. There was an understanding between them, a history that went beyond words.