Keifer was in class, but he wasn't listening. His professor, Mr. Alvin Siongco, was talking about the New York collaboration project. Keifer already finished his part. He was bored.
He opened his laptop. He wanted to know more about his partner. All he knew was her name: Jasper Jean Mariano.
Jasper Jean, he thought. Still sounds like a boy.
He typed "Jasper Jean Mariano New York" into the search bar.
He clicked on a profile. A picture popped up.
Keifer blinked. His eyes went wide.
It was a girl. A very cute girl. She had a bright smile and pretty eyes. She looked sweet and kind.
Wait, he thought. My partner is a girl? A cute girl?
He felt his face get warm. He quickly closed his laptop.
Mr. Siongco's voice made him jump. "Mr. Watson! Daydreaming? Your partner from New York is arriving next week with her group. I hope you are ready to work with her in person."
Keifer just nodded. "Yes, sir."
His mind was racing. A cute girl. His partner. Coming here. He didn't know how to feel.
New York – Jay's House
Jay was packing her bags. She was so excited. She, Mia, and Ben were going to the Philippines for the final part of their project!
"Sugar, are you sure you have everything?" Jane asked, helping her fold clothes.
"Yes, Janey!" Jay laughed. "I'm just going for a few weeks."
Her mom, Jeana, came in. She looked a little worried. "Baby, are you sure you'll be okay there? It's so far."
"Ma, I'll be fine! Percy is coming too, remember?" Jay said.
Percy was going back to the Philippines for a visit. He would be with them.
Her dad, Jasfher, hugged her tight. "My princess. Be safe. Call us every day. If anyone bothers you, tell Percy. He will handle it."
Jay smiled. "I know, Dad. I love you guys."
She didn't tell them that she was a secret mafia leader. They didn't need to know. Mia and Ben were the only ones who knew. They would protect each other.
Manila – Keifer's House
That night, Keifer couldn't sleep. He kept thinking about that picture. The girl with the bright smile.
Stop it, he told himself. She's just a partner. Focus on work.
But his mind wouldn't listen.
He grabbed his phone and texted his best friend, Percy, who was in New York.
Keifer: Hey. You coming back soon?
Percy: Yeah man! Flying out tomorrow actually. My little sister is coming with me for a school project.
Keifer: Oh cool. Tell your sister I said hi.
Percy: Haha will do. She's excited. See you soon bro!
Keifer put his phone down. He had no idea that Percy's little sister was the same girl from the picture. The same girl who was about to turn his cold world upside down.