Chapter 31

Chapter 31: Surprise

The following day, Mew called me in the morning through a video call. He was eating his lunch alone in his office.

He obviously looks like he was out partying last night and has a hangover.

I am currently getting dressed to return to the hospital and replace Tita in watching over Hughie. Gabo is somehow busy with his work lately so he cannot help us for the meantime. For now, it is only Hughie's mom and me.

I was up all night wondering if Mew was the one I saw in the video and why it wrote "active five minutes ago" after looking at his dms. I thought he was going to sleep?

"Are you okay?" I asked him.

"Yeah. Just tired with everything going on in the company," he said lazily.

"You seem so tired. You should take the day off and rest," I smiled at him weakly.

I want to ask Mew about my suspicions because they keep on bothering me. But what I want is for him to tell me himself, without me having to ask him. I want honesty.

Why did it seem like he was in the live video last night? And why do they keep tagging him? Who is Tommy Saavedra?

Maybe my suspicion is wrong so he has nothing to confess? Maybe I shouldn't worry myself too much? Maybe I should just trust him? I don't want to accuse him. Maybe I am just being paranoid.

I better just keep these thoughts to myself.

"It's not a good idea. The holidays are coming so we have to decide on what promos we should offer. I am really stressed out," he complained.

Of course. Many people will be returning to their provinces for All Souls Day, and surely many will also book their flights as early as now for the coming Christmas season.

I can still remember how busy my Dad used to be during this time of the year. I miss him so much.

"I hope everything goes well. I miss you so damn much. Come back here in Spain." I pouted my lips, trying to act cute.

"You can just come back here to the Philippines."

The way he spoke those words sounded accusing. I was surprised by his tone. I frowned and raised an eyebrow.

"What did you say?" I asked, a little angry.

"You've been so busy with Hughie lately. You often forget about me." Now he is angry too. "Can't you visit Philippines for just a week?"

I don't want to have a misunderstanding with Mew so I forced myself to calm down. Deep breaths, Gulf. Deep breaths.

"I'm sorry, okay? You're also busy with your work and then there's also this time-zone difference. You are often already asleep when I arrive at the condo so I can't call you anymore."

I don't want us to fight especially that we are far from each other. I don't want a simple fight to ruin our relationship. After everything we've been through? Hell no!

"What about our second wedding? Did we not plan to get married again before Christmas? Christmas is two months away!" He was sulking, a hint of disappointment in his voice.

"I don't think it's really appropriate with Hughie's situation right now, Mew. We're both still busy. I'm sure it can wait. Besides, we're already married. Why rush for a second wedding?" I explained.

"Tss. Our first time did not really seem that we were happy. We do not even have good photos."

"Is it my fault that you looked so sad on our wedding day?" I accused him.

"I already explained to you everything. Don't tell me we'll discuss it again?"

"Okay. Okay. I'm sorry. But I think we should really just postpone the wedding."

"You don't need to be busy about the plans. We can just get a wedding planner."

"It's not just about being busy Mew. Hughie is still fighting for his life. Still fighting against cancer. Don't be insensitive. Don't you think it will be inappropriate? We will have a second wedding while my dear friend is still at the hospital? And not just any friend, Mew. This is Hughie we are talking about. Don't be ridiculous!"

"Why are you shouting?" he asked.

"Because you are making me angry!"

"Okay. I'm sorry. You win," he surrendered. "I won't insist anymore."

"Look, I really want us to have our second wedding. Because it means a lot to me too. I just think that it's not the right time yet. I hope you understand my reasons."

We both fell silent.

I heard a knock on the door of his office.

"Come in," he said to whoever was knocking. "Hey, Tommy."

Tommy? Is it Tommy Saavedra? The one on Instagram?

Now I remember the time when Mew and I made a video call and we were interrupted by his secretary's knock. I remember his secretary saying that Mr. Saavedra is already waiting for him downstairs. Could it be that Mr. Saavedra and Tommy Saavedra and the Tommy who just entered his office right now is only one person?

"Gulf, I have to go. I'll call you later, okay? I love you."

"I love you too." I tried to give him a flying kiss but the call was already cut off.

Now my heart is pounding.

I did not waste time and quickly searched 'Tommy Saavedra' on Google.

He had a Wikipedia page. Thomas Saavedra or more commonly referred to as Tommy. The picture showed the same guy on Instagram. Confirmed! It is him!

Blue eyes and thick eyebrows. Chiseled jaw with a small face. Pointed nose and sexy lips. He has a fair skin and a body complexion just like me. He's handsome!

The only heir of Saavedra Shoes and Clothes. Board member of MG Airlines and is one of the richest bachelors in the Philippines.

I checked the "images" section and saw a couple of pictures of him and Mew. Are they close? Why don't I know him?

They've been to exclusive dinner parties and events. The latest was last month when Mew and I have not reconciled yet. Why didn't Mew tell me about him even once?

I read a blog post saying that Tommy is still single because he is gay. Now I feel threatened!

It seems that my day was ruined because of what I found out. That is why I could not help but be grumpy with Hughie who is also grumpy with me. Every now and then I keep spacing out because of overthinking. Now I feel like a bad companion to Hughie.

When afternoon came, I got busy attending to his needs. The doctor said it would be beneficial for him if he gets to walk outside at least once a week so that's what we did in the afternoon even though he still looks weak.

I was so busy with Hughie that I forgot about my scheduled video call at two o'clock with Mew. But to my surprise, there was no missed call from him. And it made me wonder why. He is always the one to call first and I am surprised that there was no missed call.

I sent him a text but I did not receive a response.

I tried calling him when I arrived at the condo but he did not answer too. Probably asleep already. But my brain is still overthinking about Tommy Saavedra. Maybe they are together right now?

That thought has been bothering me the whole day!

The next day, I did nothing but wait for the clock to strike two because I did not want to forget our scheduled video call. I was up all night again yesterday. So I need to ask Mew about it and clarify everything because I know I will only have a hard time if I just let myself continue overthinking.

I need assurance from him. I need his honesty.

I called him at two o'clock and he was able to pick it up quickly. He is already home and is wearing his usual house outfit, a white shirt and black shorts.

"Hi," I said coldly. I was on the rooftop of the hospital.

"Hey baby. What's up? How is your day so far?" he asked. He pouted before smiling.

"I have a question Mew and I want you to answer me honestly," I said, ignoring his questions.

His face immediately turned serious. He sat on the bed.

"What is it?"

"Who is Tommy Saavedra and what is your relationship with him?" I headed straight to my point. I need peace of mind! Because that thought has been bothering me since yesterday.

"Where is this coming from?" he asked, frowning.

"Just answer the damn question, Mew!" I couldn't stop myself from raising my voice which surprised him.

"Tommy is a business partner and a friend. He is one of the members of the board. We have known each other for a long time because we are often together in board meetings. We've also been to events together before."

"That's all?"

"Yes. That's all. Don't worry Gulf, because you alone are enough to me." he winked at me before he chuckled. He stopped when he realized something. "Wait, wait, are you jealous?"

"No. I was just asking," I remarked defensively.

I also want to ask him about what I have been seeing on Instagram recently but I'm scared. Maybe it's enough that he made it clear that Tommy is just his friend and business partner. I also don't want him to think that I'm jealous. I don't want to make things complicated. If he says that they are only friends, then I shall believe him. I trust him enough.

I am very much relieved now. It was as if a fish bone was pulled out from my throat because he already made things clear. And that I have nothing to worry about.

"Hmm. Okay. If you say so," he let out a chuckle. "Oh, by the way, my birthday is next week. And on that same day, I have to attend an awards show. I am nominated for an award. And I was hoping maybe you could come to the Philippines even for just a day or two? I really want you to be with me," he said, feeling hopeful.

I almost forgot! It's his birthday next week! And he's getting an award too?

"Congratulations in being nominated for the award babe. I'm sure you worked hard for it. But you already know my answer for that. You know I can't leave Hughie."

"Please. A day will be fine. Come on," he pleaded. "Please, please please!"

"Believe me, Mew. I want to be there. I really do. But I hope you understand my reason. My current situation wouldn't allow it."

He sighed.

"I see. I just miss you so much. And I was really hoping that you could be with me on that very special day. We have never spent my birthday together." His voice was sad.

"Sorry, Mew."

"Anyway, I have to go now. I have to finish some paper work I wasn't able to finish in the office."

"All right."

The line went dead. I felt guilty. Maybe I could spare a few days? I'm sure Hughie would understand.

I got off the rooftop and went straight to Hughie's room.

He was watching a web series.

"Hey," I tried to get his attention.

As usual, he's grumpy again.

"Porque?"

"Will it be okay to you if I go to Philippines for a few days?" I smiled.

He turned to me before rolling his eyes.

"Why are you asking? I honestly wouldn't mind," he answered rudely. But even so, the sadness could not escape his voice.

"You're so rude to me. I'm just asking for permission!" I pouted.

"Tss. It would be better if you just leave me. I'm tired of you watching over me. I'm tired seeing your ugly face."

"Ouch! You are hurting my feelings!" I pretended to be hurt with what he said.

"Whatever," he rolled his eyes again.

Hmp! If he was not sick I would have kicked him in the ass already. I'm kidding. I know he does not really mean everything that he says to me. I know Hughie. And I know that he is only trying to drive me away. He does not really mean to be rude.

Kidding aside, I am worried and hesitant about leaving him for a few days. I am worried that something might happen to him while I'm away. I just hope that he'll be fine. I sighed.

After his approval, I immediately booked a flight a day before Mew's birthday. But I will not let Mew know about it. I want to surprise him on his birthday. I also did not tell my mother about it because she is such a blabbermouth. She will be so excited and her tongue might slip. She won't be able to hold her tongue so for sure she will tell Mew. And before I know it, it isn't a surprise anymore.

Maybe I'll just ask Mew's secretary where the event will be held so I can go straight there. I myself am getting excited with my own surprise! I cannot wait to see his reaction!

If he thinks that he's the only one with surprises, well he is definitely wrong.

In the days that followed, Mew and I were both busy. Our video calls have become infrequent. Maybe he is really too busy that even his texts seem to be frugal as well.

Or maybe he's upset that I told him that I can't be there for his birthday and award show?

His special day is tomorrow and I am leaving Spain tonight.

Before heading to the airport, I decided to go to the hospital to say goodbye to Hughie.

"Goodbye Hughie. I'll be back in a few days. Don't be too stubborn, okay? Because I'll really beat you when I come back!" I threatened him. His mother laughed while sitting on the sofa here in Hughie's room.

He did not respond. Instead, he turned his back and faced the other side of his hospital bed.

"I'm about to leave but you are still mean to me." My voice was sad.

I hugged him and kissed his cheek before finally leaving.

"Bye Hughie. See you soon."

'I love you.'

As much as I want to say it loudly, I chose not to. I love Hughie. Maybe not as much as I love Mew, but I love him. As a dear friend.

---

I am now in front of Resorts World Manila where Mew's awards show is being held. It is already seven o'clock in the evening and there are a lot of people outside the venue. The 18-hour flight was exhausting but I didn't have time to rest. The only items I brought were the black suit I will wear for the event and my wallet. I changed my clothes at the airport and went straight to the venue.

Like any other event, there were many guests present. There was a red carpet but the event was already starting when I got here so everyone was already inside the venue. My plane has landed hours ago but because of the heavy traffic jam, I got late.

The venue looked sophisticated and elegant.

I did not pass through the red carpet because I used the second gate. At first, the organizers did not want to let me in. But after telling them that I am Mew's husband and showing them some of our wedding photos, they finally let me in.

When I got inside, I only realized that I really shouldn't have missed it. This is a big event for Mew! Fortunately, I am here for him. Now I just need to find him.

The hall was filled with different personalities and celebrities. I saw a lot of artists and some were business persons. Most of the women are in their gowns while most of the men are either in suits or tuxedos. The event was obviously grand!

I tried to find Mew but he was nowhere to be find. I stayed behind the crowd as I searched for him.

Many awards were already given when I got here. I'm not sure if Mew's category is already done.

A man approached me.

"You're Gulf right? The famous model in Spain?" he asked curiously.

I just nodded.

"Can I take a selfie with you?"

"Sure."

After we took the picture, I went back on looking for Mew.

"The next award is recognition for the most commendable businessman who had a big contribution and left a big impact on our country's economy. Here are the nominees for Business Man of the Year," the emcee declared..

I looked at the photos of the nominees on the big LED screen up the stage and saw Mew's picture.

This is it! This is his award!

"And the award goes to ..."

My chest throbbed with excitement. Lord, please let it be Mew. Please let it be Mew!

* drum rolls *

"Matthew Darth Fletcher!"

The crowd applauded. I could not stop myself from screaming because of my happiness. I started jumping in joy, proud with his achievement. A lot of people glanced towards my direction.

I saw Mew stand up. His seat was up front. He is wearing an ash gray suit with a cute black bowtie.

"That's my husband guys!" I screamed but only the people in the back heard me because I was far away from the stage.

Mew climbed up the stage and accepted the trophy.

He smiled broadly and lifted the trophy up.

"Thank you so much for choosing me for this award. I have always worked hard to achieve where I am today," Mew began his speech.

I could not stop myself from clapping again. Tears began streaming down my face. I can't do anything but feel emotional. I am just so proud of his achievement. I can never be more proud!

It was a wise decision coming here. I would have missed this wonderful moment if I did not come. I would really regret it. I wiped away my tears.

"Thank you to all the people who supported me with everything. Especially to Tommy who's here with me tonight." Mew pointed out a man, who I believe was Tommy. I looked at the man and saw him standing and applauding.

I was stunned and confused. They came here together?

"Thank you everyone! Have a nice evening," Mew concludes with his speech.

The crowd once again applauded but I still could not recover from being confused. I watched Mew walking back to his seat.

Did they come here together? How close are they? Mew took him here tonight?

Tommy opened his arms, suggesting a hug. Mew accepted it and hugged him tightly.

My chest began to feel heavy. Jealousy enveloped my heart and I felt tears forming in my eyes.

Do friends hug each other tightly? Why is the hug so tight? And why do they look so happy together?

Tears trickled down my face. I tried to wipe them away.

But their movements were fast.

My body stiffened but my knees softened. I felt my heart slowly breaking. It was such a painful scene to see.

Tommy and Mew's lips were together. They were sharing a kiss.