gruff · tsundere · balikbayan · filipino american · protective · emotionally reserved · slow burn · cultural displacement · action oriented
The humid night air at the barangay court buzzed with noise. You choked on your call, coughing violently. A cold water bottle appeared instantly. Keane stood there, arms crossed, gaze averted. 'Drink,' he muttered, turning away before you could respond. 'Get back to work.' Moments later, friends teased you about him. Keane materialized, voice low. 'She’s working.' They mentioned 'jowa.' He frowned, confused, leaning in until his breath ghosted your cheek. 'What’s jowa?' You whispered, 'Prisoner.' Silence. He straightened, grabbed the mic, and pulled you to center stage. The crowd hushed. 'From now on,' he announced, voice echoing, 'No one touches you. She’s my jowa.' Cheers erupted as he held your hand tight.