The Kidnapped Billionaire

Driver

Kuya

Ever since I was in my teenage years, me and my family have been working for the Talas. It started when my great grandfather worked for Arturo Tala, one of the founding members of their companies. Back then, Santa Corazon was nothing. The people were not using their resources properly, the beaches were just used for fishing, and everything was in chaos. Arturo Tala trusted my great grandfather– it was like they were best friends. They helped each other grow until the next generations of the Talas. And here I am now, driving for the Tala clan.

It was lunchtime. I was sitting on the front porch of Tala’s Mansion when my phone suddenly rang. It’s Ms. Elani calling.

“Yes, Ms. Elani?” I answered.

“Hello, Kuya. Can you do me a favor?” She asked.

“Of course, Ma’am. What is it that I can do for you?”

“I can’t contact Achellous. I don’t know if his phone is dead, or if he is in the middle of a meeting. Please tell him that my flight has been canceled, and will not be moved until the day after tomorrow. I can’t contact Mae either. I think she’s busy. You’re the only person I was able to reach.” The line was getting choppy.

“It’s my job to serve the Talas, Ma’am. I will go to the office now. Please take care. I will update you as soon as I’ve delivered the news to your family.” The line got cut. I hope she was able to hear me.

I got up from my seat, walked to the car, and started it. I drove off quickly. Whenever I am driving by myself, I always turn on the radio to listen to music. Today’s my lucky day. My favorite song “Thank You” by Dido is playing on the radio. I sang along to the song.

This song helped me go through one of the saddest days of my life. It was when my father passed away because of depression. He took his own life when I was only twelve years old. I’ve always had our picture in my wallet. It is my most prized possession.

When I arrived at the company, I used the elevator to go to the second floor, where Sir Achellous’ office is. I knocked three times on the door, tried twisting the knob, but it was locked. I ran back down to the conference room. Here they are. I entered the room quietly. Everyone was looking at me when I entered. This is really awkward.

“I’m sorry, ladies and gentlemen.” I bowed my head as a sign of apology.

“What do you need, Kuya? We were in the middle of an important meeting. Whatever it is, say it now. Don’t waste any more time,” Sir Achellous asked. Sir Achellous is the meanest Tala. He and his father are nothing compared to their ancestors.

“ I apologize for interrupting, but your wife told me she was not able to contact you. She asked me to tell you that her flight has been canceled, and will not be moved until the day after tomorrow. She was not able to contact Ms. Vea too.” I politely answered.

“That’s it?” He coldly asked.

“Yes, sir.” I answered.

“Very well. You can go now.” He ordered.

Wooh. I can now breathe properly. I was nervous that he would humiliate me in front of his colleagues. I’ve heard rumors that he likes humiliating people in front of his business partners. I don’t think those stories are true, but they can be.

As I was walking outside the office, my phone beeped. It was a text message from Ms. Vea.

The text message said, “Kuya, please pick me up. I am currently in the 7-11 store beside the playground. Thank you.”

I went to the van, and started driving again. When I turned on the radio, Take A Chance On Me by ABBA was playing. I sang.

This song is one of my wife’s favorite songs. Makes her dance her happy dance. Wooh, this song is fun! I finally arrived at the playground.

I saw Ms. Vea through the glass windows of the convenience store. She saw me too. She waved at me, and signaled that I should go inside the store. I walked away from the vehicle, then entered the store. Ms. Vea was eating ice cream in a cup.

“Do you want one, Kuya?” She asked.

“I’m lactose intolerant, Miss. But thanks.” I scratched the top of my head.

“Oh my gosh, I am so sorry, Kuya.” She giggled. I chuckled too.

“Do you want anything dairy free, Kuya?” She asked again.

“No, Miss. I’m full. But thanks, again.” I smiled at her.

She picked up her things from the table. I offered that I'd carry her stuff but she refused. We were walking towards the car. I suddenly remembered what Ms. Elani said to me.

“Ms. Vea, your mother was not able to contact you. She told me to tell you that her flight was canceled, and will not be moved until the day after tomorrow.” I opened the car door for her.

“Oh, that’s sad. I was looking forward to seeing her today or tomorrow. But things happen for a reason.” Ms. Vea shrugged her shoulders.

We rode the car, and drove off home. This was a long day indeed. Ms. Vea was sleeping in the backseat. I hope she'll have a peaceful rest.