CHAPTER 13 – A Kiss Goodnight
2007 Words
I’ve been sleeping late for the past days now, and I know it’s because of her. I had no idea back then, but now I’m very well aware of the reason – I’m falling in love with Gabriela Mitchell.
The realization hit me hard as the desire to see her beautiful face or just hear her angelic voice provide me sleepless nights. Good thing, the mass is at 5pm, so waking up around lunch time is still early. I changed my clothes and went through my morning routine (though it’s not really morning anymore).
Since I still have a few hours, I went to the gym to work out and relieve some body stress. Then, I went to my favorite drive-thru for to get food for brunch before going back home. Since I only live by myself, I don’t bother much with cooking. I also refuse to have a maid or anything of that sore, for privacy and security purposes. Perhaps, when Gabby is already staying with me. Haha! In your dreams.
After eating some Chinese (food, that is), I started preparing for my afternoon itinerary with Ela. Finally, after looking into the hundreds of clothes that I got, I finally decided on what to wear for church. For Christ’s sake, you’re only attending mass, not your wedding!
I took time taking a bath. I wanna make sure that I look clean and smell good when I fetch her. Then I put on my thoroughly-selected outfit and my favorite cologne from my collection, I grabbed my phone, wallet and keys and went straight to the parking lot to my car. I gave her a call as heads up that I’m on my way to her.
It’s a n hour ride to her house, and I can’t wait to see her. If I can all go Fast&Furious, I’d do just that. But she would definitely freak out if I arrive surprisingly. Crap! I’ve never been this impatient all my life.
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Upon arriving in front of her house, I honked to let her know that I’m already here. As if on cue, she went out of the front door with a big bag on hand. I got out of my car and went to the other side to open the passenger door for her.
Like a bride walking down the aisle, Ela is a white sun dress that compliments her complexion. She has her hair tied on the side framing her oval face. Her legs are like a runway model’s with the heels on her feet. I think my world stood still. My jaw dropped and think I’m starting to drool as well. This girl never ceases to amaze me with her beauty.
“You’re just in time.” She said upon reaching me, bringing me back to reality. “Oh, and you clean up well today too.”
I immediately closed my gaping mouth and pretended to scratch my chin, to check any dripping saliva. Good thing there’s none.
I can feel the blush slowly forming on my face at what she mentioned regarding my get up. I really plan on wearing a blue button down shirt, since it’s her favorite color, and paired it with khaki pants.
“Oh my, did I just make Lee Yun Ho blush?” she giggled.
“Thank you.” I replied, trying to recover myself. “You clean up well yourself.”
“Gee thanks.” She responded. “You don’t really need to return the favor.’
“It’s true. I think you’re getting more and more beautiful each time I see you.’ I said in all honesty. She must’ve been surprised with what I just said, so I tried changing the topic. So, what’s in the bag?”
She was able to forget it immediately. “Oh yeah, this is your blanket. Luckily, it dried fast.” She added, handing the bag to me. “Here.”
I took it and out the bag on the back seat. “Shall we go?” I asked, gesturing her to get in the car.
“Yes, sir.” She replied jokingly, taking the passenger seat. We both laugh at it as I close the door gently, going my side to get in as well. As we maneuvered to the streets, I turned to her.
“Can you do me a favor?”
She looked at me for a while before answering. “You seemed to be fond of asking favors, mister. Anyway, it depends. What is it?
Ela haven’t met anyone of my friends, but she’s starting to sound like them. Maybe this dinner is not a good idea at all. “Don’t worry, it’s not as big as the ones I asked Tae Teon or Ji Won.” I replied in amusement.
“Also, no need to call me my whole name or even just my last name.” I said scrunching my nose. “And, if you could drop the ‘mister’ too, please.”
She chuckled before saying, “Alright, alright. Whatever you say.. Simon.”
“That’s better.’ I snickered, turning my full attention on the road.
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The mass was about to start when we came. We settled ourselves on one of the back row seats to avoid unnecessary attention. Whether inside or outside the church, my presence can create commotion. Personally, I want to concentrate on the ceremony. Thank God everything went well.
Truth be told, I wasn’t able to focus during the mass. Not only because of the idea that someone might recognize me, but due to the fact that I’m seated beside the girl I’m crazy in love with. Especially when we held hands earlier, I can’t even sing The Lord’s Prayer, coz I’m afraid that my sweaty hands would give her a wrong impression.
Eventually after going out of the church, I invited Ela for some coffee. She was a bit hesitant at first, but after some pleading, she agreed. We went to the same coffee shop we went to before. And since I’m a regular customer, people are used to my being there.
After getting a corner table by the far end of the shop and giving our orders, I tried reminding her of the dinner nest weekend. “So, about the dinner next week, you’ll be coming right?” My fingers were crossed under the table, praying she’d say yes.
She didn’t answer right away, her expression showing that she’s contemplating on her decision. After a few seconds, she nodded. “7 o’clock right? Yup. Rachel and I would be going.”
“That’s good to hear.” I sighed in relief. Yes! She agreed. Even if she’s taking her best friend with her. I’m sure she’s a bit nervous being there alone. “Don’t worry, they’ll definitely like you. I’ll make sure of that.. and Rachel as well, of course.”
She laughed at this. “I know that. But since they’re your friends, I need to have reinforcement of my own.” Can’t help but laugh as well with her. This girl is really funny. Rachel must be a good influence on her.
The waitress came in with our coffee, eyeing me in a flirty way. She seemed not to see Ela in front of me. Before leaving, she slipped a napkin with her number as she walked away, swaying her hips like they’re gonna be detached from her whole body. Eww.. that’s so disgusting!
“OMG! Mr. Lee, you really are quite that charmer.” She teased. Despite being a little too loud, she seemed not to care. And so do I. The sound of her laugh is very genuine, it makes her eyes sparkle.
“It’s a given obviously.” I retaliated, trying to show that I’m not affected by the server’s actions. “But what did we just agreed upon with the ‘mister’ thing?”
“Oh, yeah. I’m sorry.” She pouted her lips, trying very hard to suppress her amusement. “She put on quite a show.”
I tried averting my eyes from her lips. Damn it! Stop doing that or I might not stop myself from kissing you. I immediately composed myself as not to let her notice my stare on her mouth.
“It’s okay.” I responded, sighing then smiling back at her. “I’m glad you’re enjoying my company.”
We talked more about random things when we finally realized it’s getting late. After emptying our cups, we decided to exit the shop and go on our way.
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I parked the car in front of her house. I reminder her again. “So, I’ll pick the two of you (Ela and Rachel) by 6pm on Saturday.”
“Yes boss. This is the nth time you’re telling me this.” She rolled her eyes and smirked. “Just joking. We’ll be ready when you arrive.”
I got off the car immediately to open the door for her. She didn’t say anything when I accompanied her towards the apartment’s entrance.
“Thanks for attending mass with me.” I can see her sincere appreciation.
“It’s not a big deal. I was the one who asked to go with you anyway.” I said, bending down a little to kiss her goodbye. Woah, wait a second! Her eyes went big in surprise, so I grabbed the door handle instead and opened the it for her.
Nice move, Yun Ho. Really nice.
“Wh- Why thank you.” She finally said upon realizing what I did, and eventually composing herself. “Well, it’s really late, you should be going now.”
“You’re right.. uhm.. I’d be going now.” I said scratching my nape. “See you then.”
Yeah, see you. Drive safely.” She waved goodbye.
“I will.” I replied, waving my hand as well in return as I walk back to my car.
I was only a few steps away when I suddenly felt a grip on my left wrist. I turned and found Ela was the one who stopped me. “Yes?” I asked in confusion. Her hand was warm but sending tingles on my whole system.
I can sense that she’s hesitating, but I can also see the determination in her eyes. “Well, I just want to say something.” My confusion was enlightened by her next move. Ela held my face with both hands and closed the gap between our lips.
It was mean to last for only a few seconds. When I felt that she’s about to pull away, I can’t help but bring her closer. It started of a slow kiss. I can’t help but be addicted by it so I dared myself to nip on her lower lip to gain entrance.
When she opened her mouth, I started exploring it with my tongue searching for hers. She quickly picked up as our taste buds meet. I held her waist towards mine as I feel her arms wrap around my neck, bringing us closer. I savored the sweetness of her mouth.
We finally stopped to catch our breaths. “Wow.” Was my only reaction. I wanna do it again.
Gaining her composure, she slowly let go. No! I can see her face turning crimson. The prettiest shade I’ve ever seen.
“So uhm.. Goodnight, Simon.” she said in a hurry, not meeting my eyes. Aww.. Don’t be shy baby. She quickly turned around to enter the house, closing the door behind her.
That’s it? I stood there dumbfounded at just what happened. After the passionate kiss we shared? I was more confused now than before, but I know a goofy smile is plastered on my face.
“Goodnight, Ela.” I whispered in the air, hoping the wind will bring it to my girl. I stared at her door for a while, imagining she’s standing there with her sweet smile.
Shoot! I won’t be getting any sleep again tonight.
- Writer
