THE GUEST WITH NO NAME

“Bridge College?” Aiden asked, arching a brow.“Yes.” Rowan nodded.They had gone to different schools in college. Aiden remained at Crossville College, while Rowan was determined to attend Bridge College. In the end, Mrs. Hale enrolled both of them in their preferred schools“He was the most feared and notorious guy in school,” Rowan said as Aiden folded his arms, listening, but suddenly, Rowan went quiet.“Go on,” Aiden urged.Rowan stared at him, then collapsed onto his bed, brushing his hands over his face.“You won’t understand,” Rowan said, his gaze fixed on the ceiling.“Tell me first. I promise I will,” Aiden said, crossing his heart. They’d always done this to show seriousness, and each time it worked.Rowan sat up, he opened his mouth to speak, but the words wouldn’t come out.“I’m sorry, I can’t,” Rowan said at last, his voice cold, leaving no room for argument.Aiden watched Rowan, worry and fear written all over his face. Rowan wanted to open up; he could see it, but it f

“Hey, Rowan!” Aiden called, running toward him.Rowan spun, driving his fist forward, but Aiden rushed in at the same time. The punch landed on his face instead, and he dropped instantly.Kai froze, then knelt beside him, tapping his cheek to revive him as Rowan stared in confusion. He had meant to hit Kai, not his brother.“It’s all your fault,” Rowan spat, striding toward them, but before he could reach them, Kai bolted for the door.“You better run, you bastard,” Rowan scoffed after him, then he turned back to Aiden.“Wake up!” Rowan muttered, tapping Aiden’s face while scanning the room. His gaze landed on a glass plant.He grabbed it, pulled out the flowers, and lifted the water, ready to pour it over Aiden.“Don’t!” Aiden groaned, his eyes still shut.“Nice acting,” Rowan said, setting the plant back.Aiden slowly sat up, rubbing his already reddening cheek. “How could you try to punch him that hard? Have you lost it?” “How could you watch him use my belongings? And why isn’t

Kai and Aiden stepped forward to begin the presentation of the canvas, unveiling the canvas with quiet confidence. The room fell into a contemplative silence as the design came into full view.The Rodriguezs began whispering among themselves, exchanging subtle gestures before one of the three men finally rose to speak.“Well, in as much as this is far better than the previous collection…” He paused deliberately, then lifted his gaze to meet Mrs. Hale’s.“I’m sorry. We can’t proceed.” He delivered the verdict like a quiet explosion.Mrs. Hale rose immediately to her feet.“Gentlemen, with due respect,” she began smoothly, her tone controlled yet persuasive, “what you see before you isn’t just fabric on canvas. It is vision. It is direction. This collection speaks to modern luxury while honoring timeless craftsmanship.”The second Rodriguez folded his arms. “It’s bold. Too bold. Our clientele prefers something safer.”“Safe does not create legacy,” Mrs. Hale countered calmly. “Your bran

Slowly, Kai helped Aiden to his feet, steadying him, but their hands lingered a second longer than necessary before they finally pulled away.“Are you okay?” Kai asked quietly.“I’m fine,” Aiden cleared his throat, stepping back with care. “Thanks.”Kai nodded, sliding his hands stylishly into his trouser pockets.“Let’s head back down,” Aiden muttered, forcing composure into his voice.He led Kai to the elevator, when they arrived at the office, Aiden walked toward the small table where the telephone sat.He dialed a number.“Send lunch to my office. Make it double,” he instructed before placing the receiver down and settling into his chair.“That was a long walk,” he exhaled, and Kai offered a faint smile.“Lunch will be here soon,” Aiden announced, reopening his laptop. Just then, a knock was heard.“Come in,” Aiden said as the door creaked open. A female staff member walked in carrying two trays of food and placed them carefully on the desk.“Mr. Aiden, this is your lunch,” she sa

“Please, I’m Kai, and I don’t know who Rida is. I have never heard that name before,” Kai said, as Rowan angrily slammed his hands on the table, causing it to vibrate.“Don’t lie to me!” he thundered, and Kai trembled, his heart pounding violently.“I’m Kai…” Before he could finish, Rowan cut him off with a slap.“Ahh!” Kai groaned, clutching his cheek. “Please, you have the wrong person. I’m Kai,” he gasped.“That slap was only the beginning. If you don’t admit you’re Rida, I’ll keep hitting you,” Rowan said, his voice echoing sharply.Just then, Aiden stepped out of his room after hearing Rowan’s raised voice. He rushed downstairs and witnessed Rowan deliver another slap to Kai’s other cheek.“Tell me now,” Rowan pressed, but Kai held both cheeks, tears streaming down his face as Aiden clenched his fists.“I’m Kai… please…” Just then Rowan raised his hand again, ready to strike, but froze as Aiden’s voice reverberated through the room.“Rowan!” he thundered, his jaw tightening as Ro