LILY
“Do you know them, Mom?” I asked curiously.
“Ahh, no, anak. The name just sounds familiar. I think I heard it mentioned in one of the business talks between your grandpa and your uncle,” Mom replied. Her words made my heart race, reminding me of when I saw uncle at the golf club. I grew silent on the line.
“Child, do you love your boyfriend? If you’re happy, I’ll always be here to support you. But, child, Nick’s family recently arrived, and your grandpa got angrier because Nick’s grandfather wants to meet you. What I fear the most is that your grandpa might catch you. I’ve told you before that Nick’s men are also looking for you,” Mom said, her voice trembling with concern.
“I’m not afraid, Mom. I can protect myself. It’s been almost a year since I’ve been away from you. Stop worrying about us, Mom—it’s your birthday. Forget about these things for now,” I reassured her. Mom listened and allowed me to change the subject.
I made her laugh with my jokes, and after our conversation, I got dressed. I tried calling Arlo, but he didn’t answer, probably because he was in a meeting. I decided to send him a message instead.
When I went down to the living room, I called Nikki, who came out with Alex, carrying a basket and a large Tupperware. I smiled at them.
Before we headed to Nikki’s house, I asked Alex to stop by a store so I could buy a gift for Nikki’s father. After a few minutes, I found a suitable gift and also bought two cakes from a bakeshop. While at the shop, I noticed a quiet yet beautiful woman sitting nearby.
“Kate, take care of the bakery for now,” the woman instructed before leaving.
“Let’s go,” I said to Nikki, and we returned to the car. Once seated, I rechecked my phone, but Arlo still hadn’t replied. He must be busy. I took a deep breath, preparing myself to finally tell Arlo the truth about who I really am. I trusted him deeply and knew he could stand up to Lolo for me.
“Ma’am Lily, we’re here,” Nikki said, pulling me from my thoughts.
When we got out of the car, we were greeted by a group of people, including many children. Seeing them reminded me of the kids back at Big Sister Violet’s house. Nikki introduced me to everyone, and they were surprised to learn I was Arlo’s girlfriend.
“Aunt, where’s Uncle Arlo? It’s been so long since he visited us. He’s so good at playing basketball and shooting hoops!” one of the kids exclaimed, waiting for my response.
“He’s still at work,” I replied.
“Is he not coming today?” another asked.
“I’m not sure,” I answered, and they pouted.
“Stop pestering Ma’am Lily about Sir Arlo. He’s busy, so don’t bother her,” Nikki scolded them. The kids obeyed, but it was only now that I realized Arlo enjoyed playing with children.
I glanced around Nikki’s small living room and noticed the wall clock at 4:45 PM. The kitchen was bustling with activity, and I assumed they were almost ready to start the celebration. People, likely neighbors, were gathering outside. I stood up and looked into the kitchen, intending to help, but Nikki’s mother didn’t allow me to.
Thanks to their teamwork, the preparations were quickly completed. They cooked plenty of food and set it up outside. I helped myself to a serving, much to the curiosity of Alex and Nikki, who were surprised at how much spaghetti I ate. It reminded me of Arlo’s spaghetti, which made me wonder about my unusual appetite.
“Ma’am Lily, try this,” Nikki said, pointing to a dish.
“Nikki, what is this?” I asked.
“Ah, Ma’am Lily, that’s “chicken sauce”,” she replied.
I secretly cringed upon hearing what “chicken sauce” was, earning a chuckle from Nikki and the guests.
Suddenly, a man approached me, startling me.
“Rock, if you don’t want to get beaten up by Sir Arlo, leave now!” Nikki warned him.
“Nikki, I wasn’t doing anything!” Rock protested before leaving.
Later, I decided it was time to go. I told Nikki and Alex to stay behind and instructed her to call Alex to take me home. Arlo still hadn’t messaged me, which added to my restlessness.
When we arrived at the mansion, I noticed a white car parked near the gate. It drove off as soon as we approached. Curious, I wondered who it could have been.
“Sir, who could be in that car?” I asked.
“Maybe they just parked, ma’am,” Alex replied. I just nodded.
I quickly went inside the mansion. I heard Alex calling the other staff to come out and keep a close watch. He must have noticed that I was uncomfortable.
Until now, there’s still no message from Arlo. Perhaps he’s busy spending time with his parents and grandfather. While waiting for him, I didn’t realize I had fallen asleep from exhaustion and being full.
