Chapter Seventy-four
Chapter Seventy-four
Three days later, the hospital finally discharged me. Thanks to Harry's help, I've recovered quickly. We went back home in his new Merc. I knew how excited he was for our boy to come out, as he'd been planning everything: clothes, room, toys, even the school where he wanted our child to study, etc. I couldn't help but laugh at him. Our experiences in the past must have taught us the importance of readiness for the future, but of course, he left some room for surprises.
Vivian and our friends welcomed us in front of the mansion. I didn't expect Harry to throw a party like this. He had mentioned it a few days ago, but not the exact day. He really loves to surprise me.
"Congratulations, Georgia," Magdalene said, kissing my cheeks. "You're still as beautiful as ever."
"You too," I replied.
"Oh please, don't flatter me," Magdalene said.
"I'm not flattering you. Anyway, thanks for coming."
"Of course we'll come. You and your husband have done a lot of favors for us, so we can't miss this occasion. Also, I heard that there'll be a lot of food," she said.
I laughed. This is what I like the most about my friends. No matter how serious or bad the situation may get, they could still see the silver lining and the positive side of it. It didn't mean that they don't have problems; they just don't let problems control them, as they know that nothing is permanent, for even stars die.
"Alright. Enough introductions, and let's get inside," Harry said, his hand on my side, while I held Kaya in my arms.
We led the troops inside the mansion, and they sat on the couches. I was about to go outside with Vivian to help prepare the banquet, but of course, Harry wouldn't let me do that, especially since I'm still on my convalescence and I have to take care of our boy. He told me to sit down and do nothing, like a mother scolding her child.
I frowned, sitting on the couch like a grumpy little girl whose parents wouldn't let her play with her dolls. I just have this version of me that wanted to help others, even though I can't help myself.
"Stay there," Harry said firmly before following Vivian to the kitchen.
"You should be grateful that you have such a kind and understanding husband, Georgia," Magdalene said. "I'm so jealous of you."
"Correction: an overprotective husband, but thanks," I replied, trying to smile. "Anyway, I didn't see John around. Is he alright?"
"Yeah, he's fine. Even better. He's having a good time with his boyfriend," Magdalene replied. "You know, that super hot daddy he met online?"
"Right. I remember." I didn't want to be negative, but I kind of have a feeling where their relationship was going. I hope John wouldn't get so hopeful with that guy, or it'd be painful for him.
"You don't seem happy for him," Magdalene said, looking at me. "I know what you're thinking. I also think the same. John had dated a long list of men before, and nothing worked out. This is his first time meeting someone who's interested in him, so he's hopeful about it. It might not turn out well, but we should be happy for him."
"I'm happy for him." I forced a smile.
"That's the fakest smile I've ever seen," Magdalene replied.
"I'm just worried he'll only have his heart broken again," I sighed.
"Don't be so pessimistic, Georgia. There's nothing wrong with being a little optimistic. Besides, we know nothing about that man yet, so let's give them a chance," Magdalene said.
"You're right. That's John's life, not ours," I agreed.
Perhaps I got so pessimistic that I haven't noticed myself intruding into someone else's happiness. If hooking up with a hot guy could make John happy, then so be it. It's his life and has nothing to do with me. I should support and be happy for him instead, like what Magdalene said.
A few moments later, Harry came back and told us that the banquet was ready. I stood up and slipped my hand in his arm, and we walked side by side through the crowd of white flowers, draped chairs and tables, and white carpet leading to the rostrum where Matt, Ryan, and their friends were ready to perform for the night.
I have left Kaya in his little crib. Vivian is there to look out for him for a while. That woman jumped in excitement when she saw the little boy. I'm sure she also misses her children.
We got onto the platform. Harry took the microphone and welcomed everyone. He gave a short speech about my successful delivery and Kaya, the reason why we are celebrating. He told everyone not to hold back, to drink and eat all they can.
Aside from our usual friends, there were others who came from the orphanage and a few others from the bar. This night makes me remember my wedding. How happy everyone was. How happy I was to finally get married to the man I love. Though there were some shadows lurking around, like my father's death and that mysterious man. Still, I was happy just like now.
"Would you mind if I danced with you, milady?" Harry asked, kneeling in front of me like a prince asking for his princess' hand, and of course those who were looking couldn't help but scream.
I blushed. "You don't have to kneel for me." I gave him my hand, and we danced to the slow music under the pale moonlight.
It's a lively celebration; everyone is smiling, dancing, drinking, and eating. Our musicians are as good as always. Their songs are both lively and meaningful. Sometimes I wonder how they could do that. When my womb had grown bigger, I paused playing my musical instruments. Harry just wouldn't let me do things, even the lightest tasks. But I understand that he was just protecting me and our child.
Talking about safety and protection, Harry had already reported the mysterious guy to the police. The cops told him not to hesitate to call if that man does something wrong, for they'll be there to arrest him. Still, we know that we aren't fully safe.
When midnight strikes, most of the visitors have already gone home. Only a few are left, such as Magdalene and our musicians, who asked us if they could sleep over for tonight, and of course we said yes, as friends are always there for each other, and besides, our mansion is so big that even if we had a dozen children, there'd still be a lot of space. Even the individual rooms are big enough to accommodate ten people. Harry told them that they could choose their rooms but, of course, maintain cleanliness because Vivian would surely get mad if there was a lot of mess.
I knew there'd be a hell of a lot of cleaning tomorrow. But let's not think about that for now. I went to check on my little boy while Harry led our drunk guests to their rooms. I found Vivian already sleeping on the bed beside Kaya's crib.
Kaya was also sleeping soundly like a kitten. I wanted to kiss his cute little face before going to bed, but I didn't want to wake him up, so I woke up Vivian instead and told her that she could go to her room already. I felt sorry that she had to spend the night looking out for Kaya while we were enjoying the celebration.