Chapter 76

"Say I love you," I pulled Gresia close to me.
I borrowed him from the orphanage earlier. I'm not doing anything right now. I don't have a private tutorial class, I am taking a break from computer work, and even my experiments. I left things as usual for a while. I want a breath of fresh air. As time passes by, I felt like my old hobbies is kinda suffocating. I don't feel the progress. I mean, I didn't try hard to move forward. I didn"t try to get out of the cage of the past. 'Cause where I am right now, is the assuring place I know that pulls myself through darkness.
"Lap you," Gresia replied.
It was sitting on a wooden bench. Staggering feet eating fruit. This is her first time going out after a long while. Glad enough, her body is getting stronger. It boldly confesses cancer. Her doctor said she is getting better. And if it will carry on, then there is a huge chance of survival.
So I was also able to actually release him today because of the good news. This is my little reward for her.
I raked her hair with my fingers and draw a complacent smile.
"You are so strong baby."
As I stared at it for a long time, I thought about her future. A future full of challenges and miseries. But still, she can be able to defeat all of those because she is born to be rigid. His courage will lead him to victory.
"Tell me, beautiful," I looked at her eyes intently.
"Byutichul ..." she said as she snizzes.
I immediately grabbed the handkerchief hidden in my pocket and wiped the saliva from its mouth and nose. She licked on her lips and trailed her eyes up to my face.
"Mama ..." she reached for my cheeks.
Such is the blossoming of joy in the depths of my heart. Just a simple word to listen to. But a strange joy brought me. As if I heard my real child's first word. And nothing is more satisfying than this. I'm not in the habit, but this time, it's like I just want to jump for joy and dance like there's no tomorrow. That seemed like the last time I could see the blue sky, the green plants, the vehicles in which, and the various openings of the future.
A tear escaped on my eyes. I wiped it quickly, then hugged the child tightly.
"Say it again ... Please," I kissed the side of her head.
"Pweashhh," she chuckled.
I brought her to the nearest park. Where Spencer and Ayanna are waiting. I called him earlier to say we were going for a walk. There would have been an important walk, but was forced to cancel because of it. On Friday I will leave for the island again. I am hoping to see Aryel. And when the mind is enlightened to the things that are troubling.
"You look like a mother and daughter," Spencer stretched his arms for Greece. The child immediately moved into her arms and was greeted by a series of kisses.
"You look like a father and daughter," I said back.
We finally found Ayanna's family. Her father has one sister, and her mother has three siblings. She is born in a silver platter. As what I've heard, Ayanna is an heir. She'll be inheriting seventy percent of her grandfather and grandmother's wealth. That's before the incident. Everyone thought they were dead so the wealth that should have belonged to him, went to another family. And after the transfer of ownership, his grandparents died because of an incurable illness. What happened is very doubtful. So now I am hesitant to let her aunt know the truth.
As for her mother's family. They are in the South. Both have their own families. Based on the information I received, they are said to be trustworthy. We just can't guarantee a good future for Ayanna, because their daily income is just enough for the family's needs. I and Spencer can go there to personally ask their permission for a legal adoption. I'm sure they'll allow it. In the other family we will have a hard time. But whatever it takes, I will make sure to win Ayanna by all the means. Her life will be fine under Spencer and me.
It loves the child. It's like he can't let go of it either. Even if I don't do anything, even if I lose hope, I know Spencer will do everything to make Ayanna his legal child.
"Soon," he playfully winked.
It eventually brought down Greece. Let Ayanna play across from us. I sat on the bench with him. Both focused a strong gaze on the children.
"What if Ayanna is the obstacle for you to find that person for you?"
"Ayanna you will be the bridge," he leaned backward, "A person true of her intentions will accept everything in me. And the same applies to you Neilani."
We both stared.
"You will be his mother."
I sucked.
"I won't ask to find anyone else. I'm fine with my life now."
"Why are we suddenly getting serious?" he chuckled and pinched my nose. "Even I ... I'm fine with the life I have now," this harvest can be more meaningful.
After a while of playing, we took the kids to the restaurant. I spontaneously chose foods for Gresia and Ayanna. The one healthy and good for them. Spencer and I were both excited as we watched the two talk. They seem to understand each other, even if another language comes out of the mouth of Greece.
"Your children will be beautiful," said the woman at the table next to us suddenly.
I was caught off-guard. I just stared at it. Signs and my mind understands what he said, but I don't know how to answer it. I can't deny the children. Even though their parents are really different. I don't know what words to pull. So to be safe, I stayed silent.
"Thank you," Spencer said. He caressed his chin and chewed on his bottom lip, halting himself from smiling.
"The parents are also handsome and beautiful," commented another.
Spencer simply swallowed his mouth and changed position. He slightly turned on the side. Hiding his face from me. I laughed as I peeked at him. First noticed its pleased smile. Then it was like a child crouching.
It was the first time I had seen him like this. Even a badboy had this silly side.
"You're doing?" I laughed commenting on him.
He sneezed and arranged for us. He expression turned blank as he averted his gaze back to me.
"What?"
"Gosh, pretend more," I jokingly kicked his foot under the table.
We are so hands on at taking care of Gresia and Ayanna. We both make sure they eat well. Spencer was even better at getting along with them. And how careful I am with them, double to him.
Next we took them to the Mall. We bought them dress and toys. They were very happy, especially Greece with her talking toy. Every simple words coming from the doll constitutes one laugh from her. He almost didn't want to let it go. When we try to take it by the arm it will automatically cry.
We look like a real family. Sometimes something bothers us. He stared as if he had just seen a woman and a man with children. Then a few will murmur. Some are blatantly expressing their envy.
'They're envious!'
'If my wife isn't like that, I just don't want the world'
'The beauty of children'
Is it really a child? Why are you looking at my father? '
I can"t deny Spencer"s good looks. He can pass as an international model. In case I don"t know him and have to guess his profession. I will immediately answer that he is a model. His side swept hair gave emphasis to his defined jaw. Making him look more manly. Because of wearing contact lenses, he looked like a foreigner. Wearing this black slim fitted shirt defines the curve of her body. Paired with trousers and formal shoes. He also wears a wristwatch and designer glasses, which adds up spice to his enigmatically handsome look.
I can"t blame others if they almost don"t want to take their eyes off it. If I were on the same shoe with them, I'll probably do the same. I also really weakness the handsome ones. Include a good body. And extra points if kind too.
"Ice Cream!" Ayanna suddenly shouted, pointing to the photos posted on top of the ice cream shop.
"Aishem!" anas naman ni Gresia.
Its cute!
"You like Aishem?" I held her little hand.
"Want Aishem."
I chuckled and pinched her cheeks. When really young, even limping is still fun.
"Cute," Spencer said, almost a whisper. He is staring right into my eyes.
Is it the child or me?
I craned my neck. He has always been so blatant towards his affection on me. Not once did he hesitate to convey the true cry of the heart. Until I get used to it too. Until it just seems like a normal scenario between the two of us.
I"m mad to say I never once felt a thrill in everything he did. With sticky stares, and melting smiles. He still had an effect on me. But I don"t want to acknowledge that. I don"t want to let it get into the whole system. I will never cheat on Zion. As long as his memory is alive and the position in my heart remains strong, I have no one else to love. I am alright being friends with anyone. Anything more than that is out of my league.
"Cute ..." I mocked and made face at him, "You're ugly."
"This ugly thing regularly makes you nervous," he shrugged our shoulders.
"Stay away. I'll be infected with the virus you brought," I scolded him.
He just smile. He already knew me very well. It knows when I"m serious, and when I"m joking. He got used to hearing my half-meant jokes. We are also able to tolerate each other's differences.
"She's really tired of you walking," Marie almost whispered as she held Gresia in my arm. She is sleeping peacefully. At seven o'clock in the evening we returned to the orphanage and many of the children were still awake at this time. However, no matter how loud the noise around, it did not prevent the child from falling asleep. Is it because of the crowd we went to before, I was also very tired.
"Next time," I took a quick peck on Gresia's cheek.
"Be careful," from me, Marie's gaze approached the outside of the gate. Where Spencer's car was parked.
"All right ... I'll visit here again, right?"
"You're always welcome Gee."
I have left a few notes here regarding Greece. She looked like the child's mother. I just want to ensure her safety. Though I know Marie is a good babysitter.
"What time are you leaving tomorrow?" Spencer's opening question as soon as I opened his car.
His left arm rested on the steering wheel, the other one is playing on his lips. His pale eyes never leave me. Even when sitting in the front seat it was just staring.
"Four o'clock maybe."
"Will you deliver?"
"Don't," I shook my head.
"I am willing to-"
"Just go with Ayanna," I interrupted her.
"O-kay?" he heaved a deep sigh. It"s not sure of the answer.
"Don't you try to follow me there huh?" I narrowed my eyes at him.
He was worried that the trouble that had happened the first time we had landed on the island might have happened again. He said that I might face my opponents and help them.
But I am confident nothing will happen to me. I also have the courage to face Aryel.
"Just make sure you'll be safe."
"I promise," I smiled sweetly at him.
He immediately looked away. It seems to have expired in my look and smile.
"Don't smile at me like that Geline," he lowly growled.
"Why?"
"I'm thrilled ... Tangina!"
For the first time, I saw him blush.
"It's me again," I smiled as I immediately recognized the banker.
He was the one who brought me and a group of tourists to the island in the past. Now, I will make another request for it to agree. Friday and the pirates are definitely sowing havoc. Do I still need to be scared? I already face them. They only had guns, I have my brain. And I have a plan for how to handle them.
I will gather a lot and enough evidence. For when I decide to expose the depravity of criminals in a place that should be peaceful, I have a lot to show. Another thing, I also had to uncover their handler's identity. For I know whom to watch out for. Who should be opposed? How to knock it out?
In fact, I can count on the authorities to solve this problem. They, in turn, must be the ones looking for a way to provide a quick and adequate solution to the rampant evil on the island. But when else? How long will people suffer? How long will they cry out for help, plead, and wait for a savior? I can't fight them by force, but I can do it through my voice. I will use my influence to raise awareness and call for help. Although it would be even more effective if I had enough evidence to show.
This is a fatalistic mission for me. But am I even thinking about my own well -being now? I can't even appreciate myself anymore. If it just disappears as well, I will make sure to leave a good reputation in this world. Even at the last moment, my parents could still be proud of me. And of Zion, wherever he is now.
"It's Friday ma'am. You're not allowed-"
"I already know about that."
"Yes?"
"I already know one of the members of the group you dread. I'll go back there to talk to him," I casually threw the equipment into his boat. I carry a lot with me now, compared to the previous ones. I'll be staying in there for a bit longer.
"Are you sure?" the banker tilted his head. It was unbelievable to hear.
"Yes."
"Maybe you're just lying ma'am. It's dangerous what you're going to do."
"I'm not lying brother. Just take me there. I'll pay you triple now."
It's very scratchy on the nape. Unable to speak immediately. That's just the hesitation to agree.
Who would believe in a small, slender woman? We are talking about island pirates here. The group offered nothing but shock to the feelings of the people. Who would dare talk to them? I think I was the first to think of it.
I was the only one who dared.
After a while, I forced the banker as well. He can't do anything either. Because even without permission, I had already boarded its boat. And I don't have any intention to get off. Not until he'll take me to where I want.
Right in front of mang Ri's house I delivered. It's hard to stop in the center of the island. Lots of eyes, and pirates are definitely there now. Also, I also avoid encountering the gang that was fighting back then.
"Will you stay here ma'am?" the banker asked uncontrollably after he dropped my luggage in front of the door.
"Yes! Thanks for the delivery ..." I handed him the right amount of money promised.
Opponents can follow him at any time. Especially since they know that it has a huge income. It is said that every Friday, even though the number of passengers is rare, the grace is there because passengers like me overpay. Especially when on this island forced to deliver.
"Thank you ma'am ... My family and I have been a huge help," he said with a smile.
"Nothing," I bowed slightly.
It was glad to leave in front of me. Like him, I'm happy too. It's heartwarming to think that I can help my family even with simple things. Besides, he deserves his income today. It is no joke to venture into this place. Many can face misfortune with him. Yet despite his mind's refusal, he still assent to my request at the end. Cause he knows how to look at those persons truly sincere of its want and need. Unlike other bankers in the harbor who had just heard the name of the island, retreated immediately. They are not risk-takers. Though I can understand them. Taking someone here during friday is a real suicide.
I waved goodbye at him. He was the same to me. I waited for the boat to disappear from sight, before turning the body in front of mang Ri's closed house. It has a chain and padlock. Apart from the owner, no one else can open it.
If I don"t wait for him to arrive, it looks like I"ll be forced to rent a cottage. But when the crocodiles found out, I had to expect disaster. They allegedly roam this place for a day every Friday. And when unfamiliar faces are seen, they immediately swarm. Just like it did to me in the past.
"I'll just wait here," I murmured to myself.
I'll be safe here with manong Ri. This is the only unique place I know to live beautifully.
At eleven o'clock in the morning, manong is definitely still in the sea. I'll have to wait here for an hours long.
Can I do it?
If I'm lucky the opponents can't catch up here, I'll wait until later.
I looked around. There was not even a single human sign. The whole place is very quiet and peaceful. Only the beating of the waves and the melody of the birds give life. I moved to the opposite side of the open window to peek at it. Did manong become too complacent, or did he forget to close it?
Pretty high, so I even had to squat to see the entirety of the living room. It's okay that I still remember the equipment. Everything is complete, from the rectangular chair, dresser and cutlery to the kitchen.
I got swamped familiarizing all the things I remembered. I looked at them one by one to make sure nothing was missing.
"Ehem!"
I jumped a bit in surprise. Almost out of balance. Good and recovered immediately.
I nervously turned to face whoever it is. Its forehead is furrowed and an evil stare is thrown at me. His hands were tucked in the pocket of his shorts. A brown T-shirt covers the upper body, and a pair of cheap slippers for the feet. He was so simple to look at. So enough to explain how simple his living was.
If he is handsome in the photo, he is more handsome in person. His hair is in a clean cut, his nose is piercing and his thin lips are moist. His dark eyes are like black holes. Very dangerous and deep.
"Why are you here?" his jaw clenched.
His voice was baritone. I felt like he can murder someone, just by talking. I already imagined his brutal image. But not the kind of robust gaze he can possible hurl on me.
"Aryel 'diba?" I raised my forehead to match the intensity of his gaze. If I don't have courage, nothing good will happen in my life.
"Why are you here?" he repeated the previous question. The voice sows even more.
"I'm here to talk to you," I sighed heavily. It's really, I'm facing the person who will answer my questions.
"Why did you save me? And why are you following me to a child? Who are you?"
In a flash, the line on his face suddenly changed. His gaze became pale. It was as if someone had seen something else in my person.
"I'm sorry ... I didn't know you right away," he bowed a little.
Huh ?!
This is so confusing!
I was the one who frowned now.
"Why did you save me?" I crossed my arms over my chest and craned my neck.
I got no answer from it. He turned, and walked away.
"What? Answer me!" push me to follow him.
"I don't have to tell you anything," he said sparingly.
"You have a lot to say!"
He angrily turned to face me.
"I don't know either. If you really want to know ..." he paused for a moment. His gaze shifted to my back.
"He's the one you ask," he said as he lifted his hand, pointing whoever from behind.
I quickly turned around to find out who he was pointing at. His pair of cold eyes is what I saw first. He is staring directly at me. Holding a net, while one hand is a small bucket.
As the first time I met him, I could no longer see a single emotion in his eyes. I was as if being pulled back in the past. The feelings I felt the very moment I saw him went back to me. You feel like the world has stopped spinning, and I can hear nothing else but my raging heartbeat. He"s the only one I see this time.
Am I seeing the right person? Is this true?
To be continued...