Chapter
8
I got off the cab and scanned the area around for the nearest
Kopitiam. Lucky thing, it was within sight; across the road.
'What should I buy for her?'
'Sian...I think I will eat what
you eat...' - I remembered this phrase and smiled. Touching
my tummy for a while, I knew what I wanted to buy.
'Uncle ta bao chicken rice. One packets please.'
Double checking my phone, I moved into the direction of her block
after purchasing the meal. I took the lift to the seventh floor and
turned right. In less than ten seconds, I found her house.
'Eh, I am outside your house now.'
The door opened and a shocked looking Rain stood in front of
me.
'I THOUGHT YOU WERE JOKING!'
Woman should never take man for granted, especially a serious folk
like me. Hiak!
'Anyway, it's good that you called; the door bell is spoilt.'
I entered the house and the sight nearly took my life: The hall was
barely furnished and had minimal necessity - a mat, a small
television and a mini coffee table. The wall was flaking and was in
need of serious repainting. It was a sorry sight and I tried my
best not to look too awkward.
'Sorry, my house is crap.'
'I disagree; it may be simple, but it's certainly not crap.'
It was a little bleak and I wanted to switch on the lights. Then
came my second nightmare: nothing happened.
'The bulb had fused long ago. Don't worry about it - I am used to
the dark.'
I never knew the girl I have been chatting with for the past couple
of months had such sorry reality. Recovering the mental stun
quickly, I handed her the packet of food and we sat down at the
kitchen. I could see in her eyes that she was touched by my
actions, but trying her best to conceal them.
Now, I felt a duty to look after her.
'Why are you living alone?' I asked, wondering if it was
appropriate to ask.
Rain quietly ate her food and she looked as if she was miles away
from her thoughts.
Something triggered my hands to move; I put my hands on her wrist
and squeezed softly.
'Don't worry. It doesn't matter to me because the way you are, is
the Rain I want to know as a good friend, not what you have or what
you own.'
Rain continued eating, but I could see her eyes grew a little red.
Abruptly and suddenly, she choked and coughed.
'You are such a baby,' I said while patting her back, 'let me get
you a glass of water.'
Quickly I poured her some water and she drank them carefully.
'Aiya, let me feed you lar,' I whispered as my fatherly instinct
came onto me.
(To be continued...)
