ROYCE

Royce inclined his arm around me and gently squeezed my shoulder, which was consoling. He smiled pleasantly when I glanced up at his face, and I took it as my assurance to stay calm.

"Uncle Philip, this is Nelly, my girlfriend, baby, my this is my uncle, Philip," Royce said as he looked at his uncle back and forth me.

"Pleased to meet you, sir," I greeted as I offered a hand for a handshake.

His facial expression softened, and a smile crept on his lips.

"Finally, it's nice to meet you as well, Ms. Cruz," he said as he stood up and took my hand for a handshake....