Chapter
14
The scene from the roof is amazing: Below us, I could see hundreds
of brightly lighted homes with people walking passed their windows
randomly. And above us were myriad of universal sky jewels,
gleaming and sparkling with quiet joy.
I led Rick to a secluded corner, into a small spacing in between
the water tanks and there was enough space for two people to sit
around comfortably.
Then, I could see imaginary question marks hovering above his
head.
How did you know this place?
Whenever my dad gets aggressive and threatens to hit me, I would
always race along the stairs, go up to the roof and hide in
here.
But its so dangerous here. Lightning could strike any
time.
You know Rick, we are so different, I commented causally as I
peered through an aperture and reveled in the scenery on the other
end, the place you thought as dangerous is in fact my only safe
haven in this hellish place.
Rick paused and considered my words - it was as if he is putting
himself in my shoes and thought for a moment.
So what do you want to tell me Rick? I turned to him and my tone
become serious.
I am going army real soon...
Yes, you should, its about time I guess, I murmured.
And after that, I will be leaving for New Zealand to further my
studies
My heart sank when I heard this; I think Rick sensed my
disappointment because I thought I reacted pretty blatantly.
Somehow, in his presence, I cannot fetter by emotions because I
cannot concealed myself to someone who has seen all gamut of my
dramatic emotions.
Someone who have witness it all, albeit he will wont be able to
comprehend.
He eyes started avoiding mine and there was an awkward moment of
silence. Tucking my lips inwardly, I tried to shape a smile
simultaneously and outstretched my hands.
Congratulation, I wish you all the best.
Rick stared at my hands momentarily, before looking at me. I tilted
my heads a little towards my right and raised my brow, tacitly
imploring him to reciprocate my wishes. Then he did something
completely random; he dig his pockets for something and placed it
into my hands.
I opened up my palm and saw an Agnes B dog tag with his name on
it.
Just in case you forget who I am; this will jog your memory a
little.
Then, I leaned over and kissed his lips.
Thanks for everything
really
I whispered into his ears as I
clutched the gift fondly towards my heart, Do you still remember
you owe me one favor?
Quite reluctantly, but yes
joked Rick. I could see his face
flushing red from my affection.
Promise me that the day before you enlist into Army - date me out
one last time. I want you to be my boyfriend for a day until
midnight.
(To be continued...)
