The mansion had returned to its usual rhythm, the quiet care of the past week slowly blending back into playful chaos.
Jay thought she could finally breathe… until Keigan and Keiren appeared with mischievous grins.
"Jay! Look what we found!" Keiren exclaimed, holding up a tablet.
Jay froze. "Wait… what is that?"
Keigan laughed, nudging his brother. "Remember last month? That little video you made? You forgot to hide it!"
Jay's cheeks flamed bright red. "What? No! Delete it!" she squeaked, trying to snatch the tablet, but the boys dodged, laughter bubbling from them.
Keifer, who had been leaning casually against the doorway, watched silently, a faint smirk tugging at his lips—but he didn't intervene. Not yet. He let the boys have their fun, knowing how Jay loved to sulk and pout.
"Don't worry," Keiren teased, "we won't share it… much."
Jay groaned, burying her face in her hands. "I can't believe you kept this!"
Before she could protest further, Serina appeared, a playful sparkle in her eyes.
"Oh, Jay," she said softly, settling beside her. "Do you remember what you used to ask when you were younger?"
Jay peeked up at her, wary. "Mama…"
Serina chuckled, nudging her lightly. "Yes, yes, you always wanted to know everything about the house… the family… and sometimes even a little about Keifer."
Jay's blush deepened, and she swatted Serina's hand lightly. "Mama! Don't remind them!"
Keizer, standing in the background, laughed quietly, clearly enjoying Jay's flustered state—but it was playful, warm, not mean.
Through it all, Keifer stayed silent, leaning against the doorway, his arms crossed. His gaze lingered on Jay, soft and protective. He could have teased her mercilessly—but he didn't. Not this time.
Instead, when Jay finally glared at the boys, pleading for mercy, Keifer stepped forward, his presence quiet but commanding.
"Okay, enough teasing," he said gently, resting a hand on her shoulder. "Let's not overdo it."
Jay leaned into him instinctively, relief washing over her. His calm, protective presence was a contrast to the playful chaos around her.
"See?" Keifer murmured, brushing a strand of hair from her face. "You don't need to worry. I've got you."
Jay's blush softened, a small smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks… I hate you," she teased quietly, her tone betraying her affection.
He chuckled softly, kissing her temple. "I know. And I'll always be here, even when everyone else teases you."
The mansion buzzed with laughter and playful chaos, but for Jay, the moment with Keifer reminded her once again—he was her constant. The one who wouldn't tease her mercilessly, the one who would always protect her heart amidst all the fun and mischief.