Chapter 96: thinking about it all
After dinner, I decided to unwind on the porch, surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature and the warmth of the fading sun. I settled into my favorite chair, cradling a glass of rich, red wine in my hand, and picked up my phone to catch up on the latest news. The screen lit up, casting a gentle glow on my face as I scrolled through articles about the upcoming fashion line that had been generating buzz in the industry. The designs were stunning, and I couldn't wait to see them come to life on the runway.
Just as I was engrossed in an article about the inspiration behind the collection, the door creaked and slammed shut behind me. I quickly set my phone aside and looked up, my eyes adjusting to the soft, golden light of the setting sun. That's when I saw Tricia standing beside me, her gaze drifting aimlessly into the air. Her eyes seemed lost, as if her mind was a thousand miles away. I could sense a hint of sadness in her demeanor, and my instincts told me to reach out.
I gently took her hand, feeling the softness of her skin, and pulled her closer. "Hey, join me," I said softly, trying to break the spell that seemed to have cast over her. "The evening breeze is lovely, and it feels amazing on the skin." I smiled, hoping to coax a smile out of her.
Tricia sat down beside me, her eyes lingering on me for a few moments before she looked away. I picked up my wine glass and took a sip, savoring the rich flavors as I waited for her to speak. The silence between us was comfortable, but I could sense that something was bothering her.
As we sat there, the sounds of nature filled the air – crickets chirping, birds singing, and the distant hum of cars driving by. The world seemed to slow down, and all that mattered was the present moment. I glanced at Tricia, and she was staring at me again, her eyes searching for something. I set my wine glass down and focused on her, putting my phone aside.
"Everything okay?" I asked softly, my voice barely above a whisper. Tricia's gaze dropped, and she shook her head slightly. I reached out and gently lifted her chin, my fingers brushing against her skin. "You can talk to me," I said, my voice filled with empathy. "I'm here for you."
Tricia's eyes locked onto mine, and for a moment, I thought I saw a glimmer of tears. But she blinked, and it was gone. "I just...I don't know," she said softly, her voice barely audible. I pulled her into a gentle hug, holding her close as the world around us melted away.
In that moment, words weren't necessary. The warmth of the evening, the gentle breeze, and the sound of nature's symphony were enough to soothe her frazzled nerves. As we sat there, wrapped in each other's arms, I knew that sometimes, all someone needs is someone to be present, to listen, and to care.
"Now talk to me girl," I said with a warm smile, releasing her from my arms. My eyes sparkled with curiosity as I waited for her to open up.
"You know...I think the world is really small," she said, her voice soft and thoughtful. "It's possible to meet people from the past."
"Why do you say that?" I asked, my brow furrowed in concern. I could sense that something was on her mind.
"Nothing," she replied softly, looking away. Her eyes seemed distant, like she was thinking about something far away.
"Did something happen at the office?" I asked gently. I could tell she was trying to hide something.
"Yes, but I handled it," she said firmly. However, I could still see a hint of worry in her eyes.
"Are you sure?" I pressed, looking for reassurance. I wanted her to know I was there for her.
"Yes, dear. I have a question for you, Monalisa," she said, changing the subject. Her expression softened, and she looked more relaxed.
"Yes, what is it?" I replied, curious about what she wanted to ask. I leaned in slightly, interested.
"What's Donald's full name?" she asked, her voice casual but with a hint of curiosity.
"Why do you want to know?" I countered, my eyes sparkling with amusement. I was intrigued by her question.
"I just want to know. Tell me. I'm really curious," she said with a playful grin. Her eyes danced with mischief, and I couldn't help but smile.
"Fine. Diego Donald Duke," I said finally, a small smile on my lips.
"Diego Donald Duke... that's his name?" she repeated, surprised. Her eyes widened, and she looked intrigued.
"Sshh... don't say it out loud," I warned, my expression turning serious. My voice was low and cautious.
"Why not?" Tricia asked, her curiosity piqued. She was eager to know more.
"Because you're not supposed to know his real name. He's okay with Donald," I explained. My eyes locked onto hers, and she could see a warning glint in them.
"What? What's going on?" She asked, confused. She didn't understand why his name was such a big secret.
"Look, his grandma named him Diego before she passed away," I said softly. "Only two people can call him by his full name – his mom and me. So, please don't say it."
"I won't," Tricia promised, nodding. She could see the seriousness in her eyes.
"Good. I don't want any trouble between you two," I said, my voice filled with concern. "Why were you interested in his name?"
"No, Monalisa Diego Donald Duke," Tricia teased, enjoying the sound of the name. She couldn't resist saying it one more time.
"Hey!!! Don't!" I exclaimed, laughing. My eyes sparkled with amusement, and I playfully covered my mouth.
"It sounds cool," Tricia said, chuckling. "The evening breeze is nice, isn't it? How's Melissa doing in her new apartment?"
"She's doing well. She's already got a roommate," I replied, smiling.
My face lit up with happiness for her friend.
"That's great!" I said, genuinely pleased. "I'm glad everything is working out for her."
Donald joined us at the porch with Joshua. He took a seat next to Tricia, while Joshua reached out for me to carry him. I happily obliged, and let him sit on my laps. As Donald settled in, I noticed Tricia's gaze drift toward him. Her eyes seemed to hold a mix of curiosity and affection, and I couldn't help but feel a little protective of Donald. I prayed silently that she wouldn't end up calling him by his full name, Diego Donald Duke. That was a secret only a few people knew, and I didn't want anything to stir up trouble.
We chatted about my childhood, sharing stories about the fun times I had growing up. Tricia teased us, saying we looked good together, and I blushed slightly, feeling a little self-conscious. Donald just smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
Then, Tricia turned to Donald with a mischievous glint in her eye. "Hey, Donald, did you save any girl's heart when you were younger?" she asked, her voice playful.
My curiosity was piqued, and I stared at Donald, waiting for his answer. Donald leaned back in his chair, folding his arms across his chest. Tricia and I both looked at him, eager to hear his response.
Donald seemed to take his time, a small smile playing on his lips. "Well, I think I've been pretty lucky in my life," he said finally, his voice low and smooth. "I've had some amazing people around me, and I've learned a lot from them."
Tricia and I exchanged a look, both of us curious about what he meant. "That's not an answer," Tricia teased, laughing. "Did you save a girl's heart or not?"
Donald chuckled, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Maybe I'll tell you someday," he said, his voice teasing. "But for now, let's just say I've had my fair share of adventures."
I smiled, feeling a little intrigued by Donald's response. Tricia grinned, seeming to enjoy the mystery surrounding Donald's past. Joshua, who had been quietly observing the conversation, suddenly giggled and reached out for Donald, saying "Dad, may I stay with you? Donald's face lit up, and he took Joshua from me, holding him close.
As we sat there on the porch, surrounded by the warm glow of the setting sun, I felt a sense of contentment wash over me. It was moments like these that I cherished, surrounded by people I cared about.
Then, my mind was cast back, the moments I spent with Jayden. Our lovey dovey moments, how naughty and romantic he was.
He would steal kisses from me and hug me with his manly arms.
How he would lift me up in his arms and spin me around.
How he cuddled me and shower me with kisses and love.
our love making session.
I immediately shook it off and focused on the present. After all, that's all that matters, the present and the future and not the past, not the past.