CHAPTER 14

CHAPTER 14

The screen went blank as I stared to the phone. Heavy thoughts and sadness crept in as I the thought of leaving my father in this kind of situation. I handed Ben the phone which he received immediately. Calling the nearest maid, I ask where father could be.

"I think Mr. Sandoval is in the garden room ma'am. I can escort you the way." I nodded in response. The maid then started to walk back inside the mansion and turn into an alley in the left part of the mansion. A few more turns, we stop at the huge double doors. The maid bowed and left. Deciding to confront him, I open the doors languidly. Blinding shine pass through the creak of the door, until it bathed my whole eyesight with fresh green and white colors. The ceiling to floor windows allowed the sunlight to fill in the huge room and warm up the plants and flowers stored inside. Multiple tables and chairs are set up for some tea party. In the middle of the room, sat my father with his back on me. I can hear the cluttering of the utensils and plates as his hand move to sip a cup of tea. Alongside the freshness brought by the plants, jasmine tea is prominent inside.

"Dad..." I called. I don't really know what to say. He must have been worried upon hearing the news.

The sound of the chair scrape against the tiled floor heightened against the silence. He stood and turn to me. His wrinkled face shows nothing but worry and upon seeing me, relief washed over his features. Slow steps were taken by him while I took up big steps as I went to him. As we meet in the middle, I almost jump into his embrace. Warmth spread like a wildfire inside me. His hands caressing my back, patting it like saying everything's fine.

"I'm so glad you're safe hija. So glad." Tears threaten to fall but I keep it at bay. I tighten my hug and buried my face into his arms.

"I'm sorry I made you worried dad."

"All I want for you is to be safe hija and I'm happy that John is here to protect you from harm. That's why you need to aboard the helicopter now hija. You'll be late. It's not safe to-"

"Dad! Why did you even agree to that! I won't leave unless you'll come with me!" I declared. Almost glaring at the old man while he eyed me with those soft eyes.

"I know that you are worried for me. But rest assured that it be better for me to stay here Makaria. I'm old, not fit for travels in helicopter and such." He replied patiently. He's making me understand why he needs to stay here alone.

"That's my point! You're old that why you need me! We need to stick together dad! I'll never leave this place without you in that vehicle with me." I insisted, arms crossed in my chest. I'll not give in to whatever they had decided.

"Of course you can leave Lualhati. That trip is supposed to be your trip with your husband to be, isn't it? The difference is, rather than next week, your trip is now moved today. John and I already talked about this." my father retaliate, his voice laced with conviction and sharpness.

" You can't just decide something about my life without me knowing! I'm old enough to decide things on my own dad! "

" I know that Makaria. You can fairly decide and make things on your own. Just let me decide this time. You're life is at stake here. I almost lost you with the last incident you were involved. Now, as long as I can control things, I'll keep you away in harm's way. In my own terms. " Father stated with a stance of no room for argument. Like everything is settled and final.

With the turn of events, I keep myself level headed and weigh things accordingly. I know that they all wanted for my safety to be priority and I truly understand that. I heave a sigh and swallowed all the words I wanted for him to hear. Instead, I nodded my head like a little girl and let him ushered me outside. Like with what I thought, dad lead me back in the helipad. Everyone is already waiting for me. Pilots are now in position. Ben and Carl lining up as they wait for me to aboard the vehicle.

"I entrusted you to John and I trust his judgment. Please bear with this hija. You don't have to worry about me. I'll be safer here. I'll call you still to check up on you. Keep safe." With a soft farewell kiss, I climb up the vehicle. The pilots then bring the helicopter into life. Blades then started to rotate creating its usual sound.

I wave goodbye at my father as we were lift up into the sky. Their figures soon become tiny until all I could see is the vast landscape of lush green trees and garden.

Evsn if I am squeeze tight in the middle between Ben and Carl, I can't help but admire the aerial view. The two o'clock afternoon sunrays brightly seeped into the cluster of white and soft looking clouds. Group of birds are flying with suave, taking their time and enjoying the freedom they have.

I'm free, yet why do I feel quite suffocated?

The vehicle started to fly downwards. Roof of a huge establishment is seen above. As we draw nearer to land, multiple people in black dress arein queue in the helipad. As the helicopter finally settled, Carl and Ben descended and help me out. Streaks of sunlight shine against the crystal blue ocean in the horizon. Cool, sea breeze greeted me and made my hair dance in its tune. Scooping my hair in one hand, I turned around and the multiple people in black dress turned out to be housemaids. They all bowed in unison and greeted, "Welcome to Casa Junto al Mar miss Makaria!".

Their huge and radiant smile are promising. I hope too, that in my stay here, things are hopeful and promising.