Embracing Uncertainty

CHAPTER 1 - Helping A Stranger

Today’s just like any other day. I woke up at 6 AM to do yoga, freshen up at 7AM, pick up the clothes that I prepared during the weekend and glam up, and when the clock strikes at 8AM, I’m already seated in my work station in my room, answering emails while sipping coffee. 

Even though I work from home, I still try to look presentable ‘cause my bed is just behind me and it would be a tease to just change into my baggy shirt and sweatpants, lay down all day and emerge into a whole new dimension-- thanks to my fantasy book.

I’m working as a Digital Marketing Manager of an international marketing and advertising agency and today’s a normal work day for me.

Since my team has laid out everything for the next three months and had everything approved by the clients, all we have to do now is execute while making sure that the analytics that we’re getting are stable, if not getting higher. 

“Everything’s going according to plan, Jess. You can just chill today and ping you for any concern,” my Creative Director told me over the phone. 

“Alright, I’ll just head out for a bit since it’s been weeks since I went out of my crib,” I replied, chuckling. 

“Sure, go ahead and have fun!”

The moment we bid our goodbyes, I quickly grab my phone and wallet to buy some Chinese food and head to the bookstore since I’m close to finishing my current read.

I’m so immersed in my thoughts that I was startled when a pleading and desperate voice pulled me back into my trance.

“Please, sir! Help me! I was robbed and all of my identification cards and money were taken from me!” a chinky guy, who’s about 6 feet tall is kneeling in front of an old man who looks like he’s in his forties.

“Don’t bother me! I don’t care if you lost your belongings, you stupid man! I don’t have time for you!” the old man angrily shouted and kicked the chinky guy, making him yelp in pain.

I looked around and saw that there are bystanders who seemed amused in what they’re seeing.

How dare they do nothing and look like they’re watching some TV show?

I jogged up to the chinky-eyed guy and helped him stand up.

“Hey, do you have any injuries? Do you want me to take you to the hospital?” I asked him worriedly.

He looks like someone who’s been loitering for a while now and there are even blood stains on his shirt.

“I’m fine. I just want to get back to my home country. Can you help me?” he asks me, hope visible in his eyes.

As I stare at his almond-colored eyes, I couldn’t help but to admire his eyes that complements his fair skin tone, not so proud nose, thick but naturally red lips, and sharp jawline. 

Damn, he’s like the ideal guy that I’ve always imagined myself to have.

“Sure, I can help you go to the embassy but first, let’s drop by the hospital to get yourself checked and while you’re at it, I’ll shop for some clothes and toiletries to freshen you up.”

“Xie xie! You’re heaven-sent!”

I was taken aback when he suddenly hugged me so tight. 

Even though he stinks a bit, I couldn’t deny the fact that I’m loving this gesture from him.

Oh boy, can I just take him home and keep him for myself?