Part -16

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Derlyn Headquarters – Morning

In the days following the party, Alex finds himself completely engulfed in the responsibilities of his new role. Meetings, presentations, and strategic planning sessions fill his schedule, making it nearly impossible to take a breather. Yet, no matter how packed his day is, his thoughts keep drifting to Siya. He catches himself staring at his phone during breaks, hoping for a message from her, or browsing through her social media, longing for the calm and warmth he feels when he's with her.

Each time he thinks of Siya, he remembers the way her face lights up with a genuine smile or how she talks passionately about her music and students. But more than anything, he recalls the time she introduced him to her bandmate, Ethan. Alex still can’t shake the image of Ethan, the way he looked at Siya with interest, and it stirs a jealous pang in his heart. He wants to be the one making her smile like that and wishes he could spend every free moment with her. But the demands of his position make it feel like he's sacrificing the one thing he genuinely wants.

Meanwhile, Charles calls Alex into his office, where he’s joined by Vincent. Charles emphasizes the seriousness of the recent security breach and entrusts Alex with overseeing a special team to investigate the threat. Vincent, always the supportive uncle, promises his assistance.

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Music Academy – Evening Class

Despite his overflowing responsibilities, Alex carves out time for his music class, eager to be close to Siya, even if just for an hour. He listens attentively, occasionally stealing glances at her, captivated by her focused expression and the warmth she brings into the room. But every now and then, his frustration flares up as he notices Ethan hanging around her, laughing and sharing inside jokes. Alex struggles to keep his jealousy in check, feeling a pang each time Siya is around Ethan. He knows they’re only friends, but it’s becoming harder to bear.

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Alex’s Home – Saturday Evening

After a long week, Alex finally has some time off and invites Noah over for drinks. They’re lounging in Alex’s living room, sipping whiskey and sharing stories from the past, when Noah suddenly notices something different about his friend.

Noah: (grinning, nudging him) “Alright, Alex, spill it. You've been acting strange lately. More distracted… distant. And I’ve noticed you've been skipping some parties. What's going on?”

Alex hesitates, a shy smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. It’s not often that he confides in anyone about his personal life, but he trusts Noah. After a brief pause, he takes a deep breath, deciding to open up.

Alex: (leaning back, staring at his drink) “Alright, I’ll tell you. There’s… someone.”

Noah: (leaning forward, intrigued) “Oh? Someone? Do go on…”

Alex explains everything—the first time he saw Siya at the restaurant, how she captivated him instantly, and the lengths he went to join her music class just to be close to her. Noah listens intently, his eyes widening in surprise.

Alex: “Her name is Siya. She’s a music teacher. Innocent, pure, nothing like the women we usually meet. She doesn't know anything about my family, my status, or the business. To her, I’m just Alex, her student and… her friend. And honestly, I’ve never felt like this about anyone before.”

Noah: (surprised and laughing, but with a warm smile) “So, you’re telling me you’re head over heels for a music teacher? The Alex Van Derlyn—the guy who never settles, the life of every party—is now skipping nights out to learn music?”

Alex: (chuckling, slightly embarrassed) “Yeah… I know it sounds ridiculous. But she’s different. Being with her, it’s like I get to be… real, I guess. For once, I feel like myself, not the guy with the title and the responsibilities. Just… Alex.”

Noah raises his glass, offering a knowing smirk.

Noah: “So, when are you going to tell her?”

Alex: (grinning, looking away shyly) “Soon. But… there's this other thing. Her bandmate, Ethan. He’s around her a lot, and it’s obvious he likes her. I can’t help but feel… well, jealous. I've never felt like this before.”

Noah: (mocking him playfully) “The mighty Alex Van Derlyn, brought down by a music teacher and her bandmate. Man, this is priceless!”

Alex laughs, but there’s a sincerity in his eyes that makes Noah realize how serious he is about Siya.

Alex: “Laugh all you want, but I really do care for her. I just… don’t know how to tell her. I don’t want to scare her off.”

Noah: “Alright, alright. I’ll stop teasing. But listen, if you like her that much, just be honest. Girls appreciate that kind of thing. Just tell her how you feel. Who knows, she might feel the same.”

Alex nods, feeling both anxious and excited. Sharing his feelings with Noah has helped him realize just how deep his emotions go, and he feels a renewed determination to make things work with Siya.

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Music Academy – The Next Week

Over the next few days, Alex tries to balance his work with his desire to see Siya. He carves out time to attend his music classes more regularly, and whenever he’s there, he focuses on her, making small talk and finding excuses to spend time together. Each time he catches her smiling, his heart races, and he’s reminded of why he’s going through so much just to be close to her.

But despite his best efforts, his office responsibilities keep pulling him back, making it harder for him to be around Siya as much as he’d like. The pressure mounts, and he realizes he needs to find a way to manage both his work and his growing feelings for her. Yet, every time he thinks about her, he feels that his decision to be close to her is worth every sacrifice.

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Stay tuned for next episode!

Yours,
Kaushi

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