Perfect Strangers (formerly My Sweet Superstar)

CHAPTER 8 – Ride With You

He insisted on giving me a ride home. I don't really have any choice since it seems that no cab passes by the area. Now he doesn't just know my number, he'll eventually now where I live too.

            Just thinking of all the VALID reasons why he made so much effort in finding me is giving me a headache!

            It was obvious that both of us are trying hard to be comfortable during the drive. So, I decided to open a conversation. “So, what do you plan to do while on vacation?”

            He took a glimpse at me then focused back on the wheel, with a sheepish smile. “Actually, I don’t know yet. I was fixated on looking for you, not knowing that it would only take a while to do so.”

            I’m sure a blush is creeping on my face. Am I really that important for him to use his vacation on just locating me?

To break the awkwardness, I asked again. “By the way, why introduce yourself as Simon? Is that your English name or something?”

            “Yep, you got it.” He answered. “Besides, it’s shorter than my real name, right?”

Makes sense.

“You don’t really need to use that when you called. Though I already know it’s you.” I replied.

“Exactly my point.” He smiled mockingly. Yeah, right. That’s what I said.

“How about you?” He suddenly asked. “Don’t you have a nickname?”

“Well, most of my friends call me Gabby. I actually liked it.” I stated as a matter of fact.

            “Oh, okay.” Was his only reply, then focusing back on driving. His expression doesn’t seem to agree.

**********

When we arrived at my house, he immediately got off and went to my side to open the door for me. Wow, what a gentleman!

Before I was even able to step down, he asked, “So when can I see you again?”

Oh, you can see me anytime. I want to slap myself for that thought.

“Well, I think it should be up to you.” I responded. “Besides, you’re the one who’s gonna drive all the way here. But most probably during weekends.”

            “And please, don’t just show up unannounced like what you did today.” I added. “You’re gonna get both of us in trouble.”

            He made salute with a smirk. “Yes ma’am.” I can’t help but smile at the gesture.

            I didn’t allow him to walk me all the way to the door as there are a few people still outside their homes. Seeing a celebrity in the neighborhood would result to definite chaos.

            I waved him goodbye and turned to enter the house.

            “Ela! … I mean, Gabriela. Wait!” he unexpectedly called.

            “Yes?” I asked in confusion. “And what’s with the Ela?” As he got near, I feel a little agitated being ware of my surroundings.

            “I think it suits you more.” He said while letting out a deep sigh. “Is it okay to call you that?”

            “I think so.” I replied in amusement. “Is that all?”

            “Um.. I just want to thank you for finally talking to me.” His shy response. “I mean, after what happened to us. You know, it’s really awkward obviously.”

            Awww.. He’s really adorable!

            “You don’t need to thank me Simon.” I can’t help but smile in response. “I really appreciate your effort just to find me and clear things out.”

            Though we haven’t really cleared anything, I just don’t really know what to say. But, I need to assure him that it’s no big deal.

            “Anyway, thanks again for the ride.” I said ending the conversation.

            “You’re always welcome.” He answered with a million-dollar smile causing his eyes to turn to thin lines.

            We both stood there for a while just staring at each other, no idea what to do next.

            My mind is creating a kissing scene after. Or a hug maybe? A girl can dream, right?

            Earth to Gabby!

            “Um... Bye?” this came out more like a question.

            “Yeah... Bye.” He said scratching his head, red tints on his cheeks forming.

            He walked to his car but waited for me to enter the house first before leaving.

*********

            Upon closing the door, my phone rang just after I slid on my slippers. I looked on the screen with a gasp upon recognizing the number.

            Seriously? He just left!

            I tapped on my phone. “Hey, missed me already?” What did I just say?

            “Kinda..”He let out a short laugh. Good thing he finds it as a joke. “Actually, I just forgot to ask you something.’

            “What I so important that it can’t wait for you to at least get home.” I can’t help but giggle.

            “Well, just want to be sure about something.” He was serious, but with a tingle of delight. “Since I can call you know more often, and we can see each other on weekends, does that mean we’re friends now?”

            Is that it? Is that all you need to know? Of course, we are. We can even be more than that!

I silently cursed to myself.

“Would you take no for an answer?” I teased.

No answer, just a deep sigh can be heard.

I can almost imagine his admiringly gullible face, making me chuckle.

“C’mon Simon, I’m just joking.” I finally said. “Of course, we’re friends.”

I had to distance my phone to my ear as he let out a joyful cry.

“Asa! You said it, okay? No taking back. I had this recorded.” Hid gleeful reply.

“Alright, alright.” The smile not fading on my face. “Eyes on the road, will you? Be safe.”

He really is like a kid.