Chapter 1

SINCE he was a kid, Jerome Yao believes that everybody needs a partner. To have a reason to live. To be inspired. To be happy in love.

But in reality, he never try approached anyone. He loves being alone in his messy bedroom, in front of his laptop.

Why not? His job don't need to go out. Yes, he is a commission artist. He is making video for others, doing artworks, accepting school projects, editing, drawing and graphic designs. And the payment he recieved is enough to buy food for once a week. Sometimes, a big help to his loving mother pay the bills.

"Roro, the dinner is ready!" His mom almost shouting but for him that's the most sweetest voice.

"Five minutes, mom!"

"Okay, it's my graveyard shift. And you know, your dad's business trip extended for one more week so you are on your own again. Bye-bye, dear."

"Take care, mom!"

After that, he heard the shut door sound. The timing is right, he already finish today's last project. He just have to click the white box icon.

Send.

Satisfied, he stretched his arms and stand up. No matter how busy he is, he will never forget to eat.

Jerome is the only child of the two busy parents. His father Jestoni, is a Chinese businessman married to his mother Laura, a Filipina registered nurse.

Now that he is alone there's so many things running wild in his mind. So, he came back in his room right after brushing his teeth. He wants to write something, a different from the usual.

In front of his laptop again, Jerome browsing on his social media account, no, it's a dummy account. Of course, not his real face. He used a fake name too. It's Toro Morato.

He started public posting for the first time about his artworks, and the amount he needs. He even add his contact number. Just give it try. If no one notice, it will be deleted.

Hello, there! This is one of my artwork collections. You like it? If you do, I'll give it to you. Just pay me the said amount below.

By the way, this my phone number +63999*******

He has few followers here so it's really not good to expect. But after a minute or two, the post got reacts, comments and shares. Even his phone is vibrating. He also recieved a non-stop call. This is crazy! What exactly is he doing?

But yeah, just continue. No one can stop him now that he got what he wants. He scrolled up and down. He is full of curiousity while reading every comment carefully. But there's one here made his forehead furrowed.

Are you for real?

Where did you get these?

Poser!

Tell us the truth. This is not yours.

I know the real artist. And I am his biggest fan.

Don't try me, I'll report you.

He was shocked. Typing a reply as fast as he can.

No, please! Text me. I will explain.

Whatever! Eventhough he sounded like he is begging in the reply section. He just want to clarify things. But tonight, at least he is happy. He found out that his real account as a Jerome Yao has a loyal fan.

While waiting for a reply and text, he decided stalking the timeline of that stranger. They're not friends. Not his followers either.

...Kael Marcus Shen...

...Yao Jerome's Property...

...wo xihuan ni...

No pictures. No public posts. It's a private account. But reading his name under that guy's name is making his heart skip a beat. No. It is pounding right now. And this is the very first time.

The wait is over. He heard a vibrate sound again. He already knew, it was Kael after reading the message.

+63927*******

Now, explain.

08:45 PM

^^^+63999*******^^^

^^^That was me.^^^

^^^08:47 PM^^^

As simple as one, two, three. No lies. Just honesty. And hoping that Kael will not that slow to understand what was his replied mean.

And then, browse again on his laptop. But of course, this time he changed the privacy of the posted photos from public to only me. After that, he logged out.

The next thing he did was shut down the computer so he can comfortably climbed up over the bed. He want to go to sleep.

But his phone vibrates again and again. He can't ignore that so just get it and checked.

+63927******

It was a relief. Thank you.

I'm sorry I was harsh.

Good night.

09:00 PM

Jerome closed his eyes smiling. Tonight is not a bad night. He met Kael, a fan of him.

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