LOVE ACROSS TIME

CHAPTER 2: TROUBLE

JERVIN BRYSON RAMOS POV'S

YEAR 2022

In our lives, we can't avoid having competition, whether it's simply in dealing with them or in how we treat others. As I'm experiencing now, I'm competing with our bussiness to grow it even more. I'm not that good at handling a company, but I can do my job well because I will try all the ways to achieve what I want.

I'm Jervin Bryson Ramos, and I'm 32 years old. My approach to life is characterized by a profound seriousness, coupled with a penchant for making flawless decisions. Given my cautious nature, some may even label me as a "mafia boss" due to my tendency to view everyone with a certain level of suspicion, deeming them potential adversaries. After all, why would I consider individuals as allies if trust isn't a given in those relationships?

Furthermore, my personal attributes, I hold the prestigious position of Chief Executive Officer at Zinfandel Philippines Manufacturing Corporation, the foremost liquor company in the country. The genesis of this enterprise can be traced back to my grandfather, whose inspiration for establishing the company stemmed from his fondness for the exquisite flavors of wine encountered during his travels abroad. Grandpa's discerning palate, captivated by the diverse and refined tastes experienced in various countries, led to the creation of Zinfandel Philippines Manufacturing Corporation, a testament to his passion for crafting exceptional alcoholic beverages. This company, under my stewardship, not only symbolizes a family legacy but also stands as a thriving testament to the pursuit of excellence in the world of spirits and libations.

I was currently in my room here at home when my friend suddenly entered.

There must be a problem, again!

"Grandpa will be here, now!" He said nervously.

He is Timothy Wood, a 32-year-old individual with whom I share a longstanding friendship. Our connection goes back to our early school days, precisely since the time we were both in grade 5. Throughout our academic journey, synchronicity seemed to follow us, as we consistently found ourselves sharing the same classes up until our college years. This natural alignment not only fostered a deep bond but also solidified Timothy's role as not just a friend but a trusted ally in various aspects of my life.

Beyond the conventional dynamics of friendship, Timothy has seamlessly transitioned into a professional capacity as my assistant. This evolution in our relationship speaks volumes about the trust and reliability I place in him. Our shared experiences, starting from the formative years of grade school, have cultivated a camaraderie that extends beyond the ordinary, making him an indispensable figure in my life. Timothy's presence as both a friend and a professional collaborator underscores the resilience and depth of our connection, emphasizing the importance of relationships that withstand the test of time and evolve organically.

"Let's get ready." I said and stood up from my bed.

"He said he was with someone." He said that surprised me.

Who can go with grandpa?

"Then?" Hoping that he will answer well.

"He warned us to be careful." When he said that, I felt nervous.

Grandpa wouldn't say that if we weren't in danger.

"Where is he now?"

"I don't know. I've been calling him for a while but he's not answering... Maybe he's doomed."

"F*ck! Sh*t!" I immediately grabbed my black blazer before putting it on. I also put two guns in both pockets of my pants.

He quickly gave me my wireless earphones which were connected to his earphones so we could hear each other before handing me my transparent eye glasses which can detect people holding guns. I also wore my watch with only a hidden bomb and the black leather sneakers shoes with a hidden camera.

"Get the things ready for us." I ordered him which he immediately obeyed.

I need a lot of guns and vehicles, we will surely fight here again.

A few minutes later he returned with a large bag containing a gun.

"Let's go." I said and immediately left the room.

After we got in the car, I immediately started it.

"Where are we going now?" He asked.

"Track grandpa's car now. We'll follow them." I ordered him and he immediately opened his laptop before clicking on it.

I don't really know much about tracking cars so I did it myself. He also studied for almost a year before he learned.

"They're in Laurel, Batangas. It's 25.9 km away. We can get there in 55 mins but it's possible to get there in 30 mins if you drive faster."

"So, are you saying I drive slowly?" I asked him before driving off.

I grinned when I saw him clinging to his seat belt.

"You still need to train, Timothy." I patted his shoulder and sped up the car again.

We were in the middle of the road when suddenly I felt something strange in my stomach.

Hyst! Why now?

"I think you should be the trained, boss." Timothy looked at me laughing and shook his head.

"Let's stop for now. I really can't take it anymore." I said before parking the car in front of a club.

I have no choice. Even though I don't like this place, I can't stop the pain in my stomach anymore. That's bullshit, what did I eat that cause my stomach hurts like this?

"There you go. I will be fast." I tossed him the key before running inside the club.

Where is the cr here?

When I got to the end of the hallway I felt happy to see the cr for men.

"Finally." I said before entering the cr.

I took off my underwear and sat down comfortably.

I still singing a 'hmm hmm' as I release the thing inside my stomach.

After I did what I had to do I noticed there was no water!

The bucket was empty too and the faucet didn't even leak!

F*ck! Why didn't I immediately find out if there was water?

How is this?

What will I do?

I look disgusting now!

When I felt someone enter the cr, I immediately drew my gun which was not noisy. It might be who it is and suddenly open the door.

When I felt her turn on the faucet on the bathroom counter wash I felt irritated.

Why is not water here?!

I was shocked when someone spoke and it was a woman's voice.

So, I'm with a woman in the comfort room now? Damn, that's embarrassing!

While she was complaining about how unfair life is, I set up my hidden camera that was worn on my shoes before it was a monitor on my eye glasses.

I slowly put out my left foot and looked for the woman who spoke.

The black fitted skirt she was wearing caught my eye. It's a nice view!

No! No! It's wrong!... I won't look at her, my brain is still sane and another thing is that I need her help to ask for water or anything that i can use to get out of this place.

I adjusted my foot again before observing her appearance, she was wearing a waitress uniform that fit to her body.

I swallowed a little when I saw her appearance.

Both her cheeks were red and her hair and clothes that she was wearing were also a little wet.

What happened to her?

Did she take a bath here?

Tss. It's cheap!

She stopped complaining when I suddenly asked for wipes but she said that she didn't have any so I feel like I have the whole world with me.

How do I get out of here?

I was confused when she suddenly went out and left me.

"That's why the world is unfair! She's so unkind!" Annoyed, I said to the door that like I was talking to the woman.

Is it unfair because life doesn't favor her? Really unfair because you didn't even help!

I just took out my cellphone and called Timothy to ask him for help.

"Why boss? What happened to you?" He asked worriedly after entering the bathroom but he couldn't see me.

"Get me some water." I ordered him before taking the mug out the door.

"Why?"

"Does that even need to be asked?" I told him, I was annoyed.

I saw on my monitor that he was laughing so I opened the door a little before throwing soap at him.

Headshot!

"Why? What did I do again?" He was still laughing.

"Get rid of me later!" I said and slightly raised my foot to show him that I have a hidden camera there where I can watch him.

"Hehe sorry boss." He even made a peace sign in front of my shoes.

After I cleaned, I looked around.

Where is the unfair girl? I hate her when I see that girl! What she can say is not only unfair but good bye life! HAHA.

"Are you planning to stay here?" He jokingly asked that I immediately glared at him.

"Let's go." I said and he drove the car.

As we approached the location where my grandfather was situated, an unsettling intuition began to prickle at the edges of my consciousness—I sensed that we were being trailed by an unseen presence. Reacting swiftly, I readied my firearm and adjusted my eyeglasses, preparing for an unforeseen encounter.

The premonition proved valid when I observed a vehicle tailing ours, and my instincts kicked into high gear. Without hesitation, I discharged my weapon at the pursuers, targeting the armed assailant in the vehicle behind us. The precision of my aim was fortuitous; the driver took the hit, incapacitating their ability to pursue us immediately. It was a calculated move, born out of necessity and the urgency of the situation.

However, our respite was short-lived, as a succession of adversaries armed with firearms made attempts to engage us. Swiftly navigating the precarious situation, we deftly evaded each threat. The tension in the air heightened, with every passing moment demanding heightened vigilance.

Behind the wheel, Timothy, recognizing the escalating danger, accelerated our escape. The adrenaline-fueled pursuit and evasion became a dance of survival on the asphalt, with each twist and turn revealing the resilience and resourcefulness of our combined efforts. In the face of adversity, the bond between us strengthened, forging a narrative of courage and strategic maneuvering in the pursuit of protecting not only ourselves but the familial connection that bound us to the perilous circumstances at hand.

"How many are they boss?" He asked still focusing on driving.

"About three cars. Four people on the seats." I replied that the gun was still full.

"Alright. I'll slow down the drive and then just shoot."

"There are too many of them."

"There will be more later so aim one by one, boss." He said and gradually slowed down the driving.

He also grabbed a gun and started shooting while I was shooting a gun. I have to target them.

I opened the convertible roof of the car and set up a position to shoot.

Even though I was far away, I aimed my gun at the head of the driver but my gun went off.

I need to think of a plan.

I need to knock them down quickly so that I don't run out of ammo.

I sat down and thought of what to do.

"Slow down the drive." I ordered him and sat down again to shoot properly.

I took my two guns and fixed them.

"Let's start!" I grinned before he slowed down the drive.

With a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins, I discharged round after round from my firearms, a triumphant grin stretching across my face. The staccato rhythm of gunfire echoed down the road, each shot a testament to my precision and determination. As the echoes reverberated, a sense of exhilaration and empowerment enveloped me, magnified by the audible impact of each bullet finding its mark. This symphony of gunfire resonated not only as a tactical expression but also as a visceral manifestation of control and dominance in the unfolding scenario.

The act of firing became a dynamic dance, a fusion of calculated aggression and a visceral response to the unfolding circumstances. The resonance of gunfire, punctuated by the visual confirmation of adversaries faltering, reinforced a sense of mastery over the immediate environment. In that moment, the convergence of skill, strategy, and sheer audacity painted a vivid tableau of defiance against the encroaching threat.

The audible manifestation of my actions underscored a narrative of resilience and mettle, a declaration that I was not merely a passive participant but an active force shaping the outcome of the situation. Each discharge of the firearm symbolized a decisive step in navigating the challenges at hand, transforming a potentially perilous encounter into a display of calculated prowess. The resonant echoes of my grinning countenance served as an audible punctuation to the unfolding drama, marking a moment where adversity was met with unyielding resolve and an unwavering spirit.

"Cool!" Timothy commented to me before speeding the car off.

"I'm the living sniper mafia boss." I said before sitting comfortably.

After a while we arrived at the resort where we tracked grandpa's car.

When we entered, two women who's wearing a Tie Up Knitted Bikini Two Piece Swimsuit Beach immediately greeted us. They are approached us and slightly rubbed in our bodies.

We nodded together then grinned.

"It's okay that we go here." Timothy said foolishly. He must be undressing the two women in his mind.

"Are you the one of Mr. Angelo's son?" A woman wearing a flower base design outfit asked flirtatiously.

She's wearing a lot of flowers, even in pink color.

"Yes, I am." I replied manly.

"Nice!" The two women said and almost pressed their bodies against me.

I saw Timothy complain because the girl in the sea outfit left him. The color of what she was wearing was too blue and there were sea shells on it.

"Let's go, baby." Flower vase girl gently invited me and took me by the hand before pulling me away.

Where are we going?

It looks exciting! HAHAHA.

"Follow me." The sea girl gruffly said Timothy before she started walking with me.

He looked at the woman annoyed but his look changed when he looked at the lower part of the woman's back. This is crazy! I think I will still compete with these two.

After arriving at the water sports area, I was shocked when he pushed us there and that's when grandfather appeared to me with his hands tied behind his back while there were two guns pointed at him held by two men.

He is my grandfather Angelo, my only companion in life besides Timothy. He took care of me until I grew up. He also bequeathed me the company I hold today.

"Grandpa!" I shouted at him and was about to approach him when I heard a series of gunshots.

"Grandson." He said with difficulty.

"Let my grandfather go! What did he do to you? You bastards!" I told them I was annoyed.

"I thought you were good at fightining." The flower vase girl said to me with a smile before forcefully presenting me to her.

She's beautiful and sexy, it's okay if you speak English!

"You want to try?" I grinned at her.

"I would like to in case someone wants to talk to you." She said and clapped. There came out more than ten men wearing all black outfits before surrounding Timothy and me.

We stood up and prepared ourselves to fight.

The tallest of them rushed at me first so I immediately faced him and found a good timing to fight him. I first kicked him in the stomach before punching him in the face. The man who was behind me followed. I punched him in the stomach before punching him in the face. He even punched me in the face before laying down and falling asleep.

We had been in the battle for almost ten minutes and we were enjoying all the blood and bruises before we knocked out the last enemy.

"You are Angelo's son." Mr. Aran surprised and he even clapped.

He is Mr. Aran Paez, my business competitor. I can assure you that he is the mastermind behind all this happening.

What else does he need?

What else does he want to happen?

•••

Written on: July 19, 2023