The Business Man's Son (Wattpad Version)

Graduation

Valeria

Today I was graduating from college. I asked Richard to attend. He said maybe. It didn't matter if he came or not. We had an agreement with each other.

After graduation, I was packing my dorm room and moving into an apartment close to the office. The apartment was in one of Dad's buildings. The perks of the businessman's daughter.

I hadn't spoken to Landon since the day he came to see me. How dare he judge me for my business? If anyone should not judge, it's my brother. He had no right.

I arrived at commencements and found a seat. I glanced around to see if any family came. They didn't. I looked for Richard, and he didn't show. I turned to face the stage.

Other students sat down, and I saw their families wave along with friends. I knew my family didn't care about me. It's how Dad punished us for our insolent behavior.

Graduation started, and I sat there, listening to the speeches. Next, the Dean called us to the stage. I look to graduates receive cheers. I received nothing when I received my degree. I held my head high as I collected my degree. I returned to my seat and sat down.

After the ceremony, I stood there, watching everyone receive hugs and congratulations. I learned a long time ago that my parents cared more for Lexie and Landon. I didn't expect them to show up.

I remember calling Dad after what happened.

Flashback

The phone rang, and Dad answered it. "Not now," he replied with a curt tone.

"Dad," I said, trying to keep my voice from cracking.

"Valeria, I can't talk now," Dad told me. He hung up, and I stood there, holding my phone.

"Valeria," Joe said. "Honey, your parents will talk to you."

I didn't look at Joe. The person I needed many times wasn't there for me.

"It's okay. My parents are busy like they always are," I said in a flat tone. I went upstairs since I was staying the night at Lexie's house for the night. My parents would require me to visit Landon. I would, but then I would focus on my studies.

End of flashback

I looked at the degree in my hand. I ran my finger over the hardbound cover. It didn't matter. I will treat my relationship with my father as a business. That's the day my heart grew cold and uncaring. Feelings get you nowhere and leave you disappointed. My family proved that to me today.

*******
Landon

I completed my schooling. My family and friends came to see me. The minute I receive my certificate, they cheered and whistled. My family is a bunch of nuts.

After the ceremony, my parents congratulated me along with everyone else.

"We're proud of you," Dad told me.

"I'm proud of myself. It was a long journey," I said, smiling.

It was a happy occasion, but the happiness would be short-lived when Lexie received a text. She opened her phone and read it, furrowing her brows.

"Lex? What is it, honey?" Dad asked.

"It's Valeria. She said thanks for punishing her," Lexie mentioned.

"What?" Dad questioned.

Lexie handed her phone to Dad, and he read the message.

"What does Valeria mean? I didn't punish her," Dad refuted.