“BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION”

"GOOD morning."

A sweet smile graced my lips as I stepped into the kitchen, finding Marius setting breakfast on the table. The sight warmed my heart, bringing a sense of comfort and happiness. The sun had barely risen, casting a gentle glow through the window, illuminating the cozy kitchen where Marius bustled about with practiced ease.

"Where’s Manang Sela?" I asked, curiosity getting the better of me, instead of returning his greeting. I knew she usually woke up early to take care of household chores.

“She’s probably still asleep. Let her rest. This way, we can have some time alone together,” Marius replied, his eyes twinkling with a mix of mischief and tenderness as he walked over to guide me to a chair he had pulled out for me.

"True, it’s still early," I agreed, glancing at the wall clock. It was just a little before six in the morning, and it wasn’t surprising that Manang Sela was still asleep, exhausted from yesterday’s journey. The clock's gentle ticking was the only sound accompanying our conversation, adding to the tranquility of the moment.

“I made sure to wake up early because I wanted to have breakfast with you. I wanted to cook for you, just like old times,” Marius said, his voice filled with affection as he began to serve me, the sincerity in his eyes made my heart flutter. His words brought back memories of simpler days, filling me with a sense of nostalgia and warmth.

I couldn’t find the words to respond. Instead, I took in the simple yet heartwarming breakfast laid out on the table: fried eggs, dried fish, hotdogs, tomatoes, and garlic rice. The aroma was comforting and familiar, evoking a sense of home and love.

A typical Filipino breakfast, but because Marius had prepared it for me, it felt extraordinarily special. The fact that he took the time and effort to do this meant the world to me. Besides, I loved him, and I cherished the feeling of being cared for by him. His gesture was a testament to his commitment and love, making me feel cherished and valued.

"By the way, Mang Tasyo dropped by earlier. It’s his birthday today, and he invited us to a small gathering at his house. Would that be okay with you?" Marius asked as he sat down at the head of the table, his expression hopeful. His eyes searched mine, seeking affirmation.

I fell silent for a moment, contemplating the invitation. Marius’s earnest eyes met mine, and I could see how much he wanted a positive response. His anticipation was palpable, and I didn’t want to disappoint him. Besides, I thought it would be good for our relationship and the family we were trying to build together.

"It’s okay with me. What time?" I asked, smiling at him as I began to eat. The food tasted even better knowing it was made with love and care.

"Tonight, anyway. But I mentioned we might not make it in the evening due to the heavy rain forecasted this afternoon and evening. Plus, I'm mostly concerned about MJ since he and Manang Sela are alone here, and Donovan has school," Marius explained, his tone reflecting genuine concern for our son and Manang Sela.

"So, what time should we go?" I inquired, trying to plan out the day in my head. My mind raced with thoughts of preparations and ensuring everything would be perfect.

"Maybe in the afternoon? What do you think? If we go this morning, they might still be preparing for the celebration, and we might disturb them," he suggested, his thoughtful nature showing. His consideration for others was one of the many reasons I loved him.

I nodded. "Afternoon sounds good. We can also buy a gift for him," I agreed, thinking it would be nice to contribute something to the celebration. I wanted to show Mang Tasyo our appreciation and celebrate his special day.

A wide smile spread across Marius’s face, his relief and happiness evident. "I like that idea," he said, his eyes sparkling with joy. His excitement was contagious, making me look forward to the day ahead.

*****

JUST AS we finished eating, Manang Sela emerged from the kitchen, her face reflecting the warmth and wisdom of years spent caring for others. Donovan had already left for school by then. He was in his first year of high school at a private school, where he was a scholar. This meant his accommodation, food, and allowance were all covered, much to Marius’s delight and pride.

"No problem, hijo. You two take care. It looks like the sky will pour down heavy rain. Even though it’s morning, it feels like evening already," I heard Manang Sela say, her voice filled with concern.

"Sure, Manang Sela. If you get hungry, there’s food stocked in the fridge. You can cook whatever you like. Just make sure to lock the front door because you’ll be alone here. Although, it’s pretty quiet in this neighborhood," Marius instructed her, his tone reassuring.

I kissed MJ goodbye, and Marius did the same, both of us sharing a silent promise of safety and love. The mall was quite far from their place, and according to Marius, it took almost two hours to get there. It was just around eight o’clock, so we would arrive just as the mall opened.

"You know what? I’d love to have something like that," I told Marius as we passed by a large expanse of land planted with narra and mahogany trees. The sight of the tall, majestic trees swaying gently in the breeze always filled me with awe. Their presence was both serene and powerful, a reminder of nature’s beauty and resilience.

"Really? Why are you only telling me now?" Marius asked, amusement evident in his voice, a playful smile on his lips. His laughter was like a melody, bringing a sense of joy and lightness to the atmosphere.

I smiled at Marius, feeling a bit sheepish. "I don’t know," I replied, the simplicity of my response making us both chuckle. The ease with which we shared these moments made me feel even closer to him.

"Would you believe me if I told you those are mine?" Marius asked, his tone teasing but laced with amusement. His words were a revelation, a glimpse into the extent of his success and the life he had built.

I didn’t focus on the tone as much as the unexpected revelation. The surprise made my eyes widen in disbelief.

"Really?" I couldn’t hide the surprise in my voice, my tone almost disbelieving. The idea that this beautiful orchard belonged to him was both impressive and heartwarming.

It wasn’t hard to believe, knowing Marius was wealthy. But the fact that he owned the vast, seemingly endless orchard that I had always admired was something I hadn’t expected. It was as if the universe had conspired to bring me closer to something I cherished deeply.

"Why do you look so surprised?" he asked, chuckling at my reaction.

"Oh, please don’t get me wrong. I just didn’t know they were yours. To think I’ve always looked forward to seeing these trees every time we come here," I said, turning my gaze back to the orchard outside the car window, marveling at the beauty of it all. The trees stood tall and proud, their leaves rustling in the wind like a gentle whisper.

"We can stop by later on our way back if you want. So you can see the trees up close," he offered his tone gentle and understanding. His willingness to share this part of his life with me made my heart swell with gratitude.

I smiled at Marius again, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. "Really? Won’t that be a bother for you?" I asked, not wanting to impose.

"You could never be a bother to me, Sam," he replied in his gentle tone, the sincerity in his words making my heart flutter. His eyes held a promise of unwavering support and love.

I blushed at Marius’s words, and out of embarrassment, I looked away. I didn’t see him glance at me, so I was surprised by his next words.

"And you’re blushing again, huh," he said, his tone reminiscent of when we were intimate, causing me to blush even more and my heart to race. His playful teasing only made me more aware of the deep connection we shared.

"I’m just worried we might get caught in the heavy rain," I reasoned, trying hard to keep my voice steady. I succeeded in the end, though my heart still pounded in my chest. The thought of spending more time with him, exploring his orchard, filled me with excitement.

"That’s not a problem. This car can handle it," Marius said, referring to the Jeep Wrangler we were using, his tone calm and reassuring. His confidence in our plans reassured me, making me feel secure and ready for whatever the day might bring.

"Okay," I replied briefly, glancing at him with a shy smile. The anticipation of the day ahead made my heart beat faster.

I was delighted that I wasn’t a bother to Marius. I was thrilled that he didn’t withhold his time from me, even though I knew it was precious to him, running his own company. His dedication to us, to our relationship, was evident in every gesture and word.

The thought made me giddy. But I couldn’t let Marius see that immediately. After all, as I had told him before, I still had the reserve of a traditional Filipino woman, playing hard to get.

As we drove on, the landscape passing by, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of contentment. Despite the challenges we had faced, moments like this reassured me that we were on the right path. Together, we could rebuild what was broken and create a future filled with love and happiness.

The journey to the mall was filled with easy conversation and comfortable silence, each moment bringing us closer together. We discussed our plans, our hopes, and our dreams, sharing a vision of the future that was bright and full of promise. Because, as Manang Sela told me last night, Marius and I could understand each other even without words.