SEA'S BRIDE (PHILMYTHO ROMANCE II)

CHAPTER 55

Dipudo Island Private Resort

Ilagan, Isabela

It was already past noon when we reach the dock near a beachfront resort with white sandy beaches, hidden from the world by the famous Sierra Madre mountains, surrounded by jungle, clustered with coral reefs with an array of unexplored adventure escapades.

I believe I have a very little information about this sole private island somewhere in Isabela. This tropical oasis is surrounded by kilometers of sea life abundance, with a vibrant reef to snorkel straight from its shore. Diving enthusiasts will definitely enjoy explore multiple dive sites here while getting the chance to see assortment of tropical fish, large turtles and lobsters.

The locals call the area the Boracay of the north for its white sandy beaches. Currently an unspoiled and well kept secret because Dipudo Island is situated in the undeveloped and isolated area of North Eastern Luzon, Isabela. Thanks to my training as tourist guide, I get to learn that this island is indeed wholly private and the only resort on the island.

But to my surprise, I suddenly noticed the whole island to be too quiet. Aren't there any people here?

"Where are all the people?" I suddenly ask.

Florante just looks at me with a questioning look as well when he return back a question, "What do you mean people?"

"People? Human? Hello? Are there any people staying here aside from us?"

He really looks so disappointed. Was asking a question bad for his taste now? Here I thought he was being considerate of me, yet now he's back to his normal side. Florante swiftly combs his long hair at the back of his head before saying, "Let's get something to eat." how I hate it when he actually looks too attractive doing that.

I followed him until we both reach the resort's bar & restaurant, down on the beach and pool at the center. I find the vicinity quite entertaining too, especially for those with a competitive spirit. The area has darts, a pool table and an assortment of board games and cards. I could imagine it like an arcade bar by the beach.

As we both settled on the dining table, I realized that this would be the first time that I would dine with Florante in an Al fresco setting--the real one and not just the artificial garden under his dome. The whole setting could've been perfect if it hadn't been for Florante and his tinkering phone scheme. Why does he always do this with me whenever we dine. Who is he texting right now when he is actually in front of me?

I was so close to confiscate his phone but realized soon enough that 'why would I?" or rather, who am I to do that? I don't even have the right to touch his things since it is his property. I have to remind myself that just because he considers me as his future bride, it would mean access to everything he personally owns.

Even if I were his real girlfriend, I don't think I even have the least right to invade every bit of his personal space. For me, that's a bit suffocating for a relationship. Then all the more for our case since Florante and I aren't really in a mutual relationship. But I just only wish he'd be able to realize how humiliating it is to be disregarded by someone over their phones. Was that too complicated for him to realize long before?

I wonder.

Once he finished whatever he is doing on his phone. A waitress came to our table as if her arrival was perfect timing when Florante is already diverted away from his phone. She handed over the menu first to greet us, "Welcome to Dipudo Island. Allow me to introduce our cuisine which is a fusion of Mediterranean, Asian and Pacific Rim dishes, and our produce is organically grown on the island where possible. We serve quality meats which are imported from Australia, New Zealand, USA and Europe along with freshly caught fish, lobster, prawns & crab from our very own waters. We also have local delicacies like duck and quail if you wish to try." She showed so much enthusiasm with her chatter. What a good way to counter the bad vibes. It's a relief I saw another person aside from Florante who has just disregarded my existence over his phone a few moments ago.

"Do you like anything from the menu?" Florante suddenly asked that startled me. I wasn't ready to choose, not that I can't pick one but it's just that, I don't have any idea which one to order as a matter of fact.

I folded the menu and answered, "You choose for me." I told him, since he seems confident about his taste. I'd like to see if he can be that confident I will actually like what he'll chose for me. He didn't even ask me twice if I am sure when he instantly inform the wait of the order, "For the entrée, we'll have the cream of tomato and anise soup. Then give us a serving of Australian Wagyu Steak and Cajun Chicken for the main course. And then, Mango Penna Cotta for my lady's dessert." he emphasis the words my lady as he looked at me. That didn't even flinch me, I still feel bad about his texting issues.

"And your drink, sir?" the waitress asked while scribbling down the orders.

"I'll have the Merlot--Villa Maria."

"Is it the same with the lady?" She asked to clarify.

"No. Just fruit punch for her. No alcohol."

"All right. I'll be right back to serve your appetizers in a short while."

Shortly after the waitress left, Florante and I was left alone in the windy atmosphere of the bar, the skies are hued in pitch dark and island is beginning to go as the lights were turned on. And still, despite the beauty of the scenery it seems that it will still be a dead air for the two of us.

"Is something wrong?" He suddenly asked, breaking the odd silence.

"No--nothing. I was wondering, is this the thing you wanted to show me."

I remain still as I wait for his response but Florante was just looking at me like a comely mannequin giving me but a neutral expression. His phone came to ringing just before he could even give me his response. And as I expected, he gave it a priority to answer it first before entertaining me.

Florante took a few steps away from the table leaving me alone. Good thing though that the waitress was already back with a tray. "Ma'am, we'll now serve your appetizer." She said while preparing each of the bowls for me and Florante.

While looking at her, I can't help but feel to ask something. It's actually what has been bugging me ever since Florante and I arrived in this island. And she happens to be the only person I've seen here so far other than me and Florante.

"All served." She said after finishing the serving.

And before she could even take another step to leave, I immediately called her back, "Excuse me, can I ask you something?"

She came back with a gentle smile to answer me, "Sure, what is it Ma'am?"

"Well, I haven't notice any other people around except for me and Florante, and now you as well. I was just wondering, where did the people here go? I mean don't this island supposed to have other bookings than us?" I finally asked of her.

She was showing a puzzled expression. Somewhat wondering why would I ask of such a thing. I tried to ignore that factor for I might just overthinking her expression as I wait for her response. And I was surprised to hear her when she said, "Oh that's strange, I was informed that our guest had made a week-long reservation of the whole island. That's why you won't be able to see other guest but there are other employees here so rest assured you'll be well attended and secured."

Florante just booked an island for the two of us alone, for an entire week? Just what exactly are we going to do here for that long period?

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