35 WORDS SPOKEN UNDER THE NIGHT SKY (1/2)

Throughout dinner, Talia's eyes would find their way to where Alex sat. His side view was beautiful. He was graceful when he ate and every now and then when his grandparents said something funny he would chuckle. A warm glint would appear in his amber eyes and every time Talia saw it, she would smile.

When she was younger, she always looked forward to dinner at the Zi mansion. Her parents were good friends with the Zi family and they were invited to dinner every week. She had loved coming over because she got to play with Alex out of school. They usually run around the mansion playing tag cheerfully.

Talia sighed inside as she admired his hands. They were large, muscular and a few of his fingers had pen marks he probably got while working. 'I will continue working hard for you Alex.' She reassured herself and proceeded to finish the delicious dinner before her.

When dinner was done, she noticed that Alex seemed to be in a hurry to leave. She quickly tagged along with him and explained that she had not asked her driver to come to get her since she wanted to speak with him.

”Can we pass by our elementary school on the way, if I remember it's close by.”

”Talia, I'm actually in a hurry tonight,” Alex replied indifferently.

”Don't worry it will be quick. I haven't seen the place in forever. Why don't we stop there to chat, hmm?” She protested but Alex remained quiet.

When they arrived, they couldn't get into the compound, so they sat in the park across the school.

”Do you remember the day I fell off the monkey bars when we were nine? I thought I could hang on, but Lucio pushed me, and I hurt my arm. That day you punched Lucio and said, 'I'm the only one who can bully Talia, idiot.' You carried me to the nurse's office. You got in trouble with the teacher afterward. I felt really happy when you protected me…”

Alex sat on the swing quietly listening. Although he had no idea where Talia intended to go bringing up the past. Since she had asked him to chat she must have something important to say. He wanted to get back to his condo, but he sat there listening to her because even though they were older now, he would still help her if she needed his help. That's what brothers do for their sisters.

”…that wasn't the only time Alex. You always protected me and that made me happy so thank you Alex, for always protecting me. Now that I'm older and understand, I am ashamed for not sincerely saying thanks when we were young.”

”It's okay. You were like a sister to me and as a big brother, I had to. Grandpa had also asked me to look after you like a little sister. So, don't worry you don't owe me anything.” Alex said as he stood up. He patted Talia on her shoulder and walked back to the car.

”W…wait I…I love you! Not like a sister or a friend, I've always loved you Alex. I studied overseas, worked hard and became stronger, to be able to tell you that I have loved you since the first day you protected me from the bullies in school…”