The way he winked at me reminded me of that night when I first met him in a business gathering. I was 16 then and had no idea of what was going on. All I knew was to play volleyball, eat fishballs and experiment with cosmetics. It was just my father who pushed me to join him 'because he wanted me to show what corporate world is' and prepare me to the 'big world out there.'
My dad was a businessman then who was trying to augment his income for our growing family. He had lost a lot of bids and he needed to get connections through business gatherings. He said linkages will help you get your way up especially if you are linked with influential people.
I accidentally bumped into Henry and his girlfriend at the gathering and poured pineapple juice to his girl's satin red dress. It was so stupid of me to just freeze and didn't say sorry or anything at all.
"What? You'd just look at me! How dare you do this to my new dress!? This costs more than your life! You cant even buy a decent one!"
"Honey, it was an accident. Let it go."
Henry was like a knight in shining armour when he took off his coat and gave it to his girlfriend with matching kisses on her forehead. Love was in the air and it felt awkward just standing next to them.
"But hon, what does a teenager have to do with business engagements like this! She should be studying or helping her mom cook dinner."
I saw some guests looked at our direction and I was so scared of the scene I made. My dad will definitely get monstrous if he'd learn that I created chaos. I knew I have to do something to sort things out or else, I'd end up getting beaten at home. I don't want to feel my dad's belt on my butt. Never.
"I---m... I—m sorry ma—aaam. Im I.. I wont be able to pay for your dress but.. but I can offer free make up service for you. Just tell me when maam and I'd run to your place to help you. My Elective teacher said I'd do big time if I enter the fashion industry as a make-up artist. She said I have a future in there. So, maam, let me offer what I can do."
I tried to say confidently. Our high school cosmetology class taught us how to mix colors and transform one's face. I am not saying she doesn't have a beautiful face but I can make her more attractive and even look like a queen. I believe in what I can do. I even won in an interschool competition and a trophy is in my room to prove it.
"Young lady, no need for you to do that. Everything is under control. Trust me. Just enjoy the night."
Henry made an okay sign and winked at me before he pulled his girlfriend and headed to the venue's sunken garden. My world suddenly stopped and I was 'lost in space.' How could such a handsome guy like him be in love with a witch who thinks she is the most beautiful woman in the world just because she is wearing a branded dress? He should look for someone who is far better than his girlfriend. 'He should be looking at me and not her.'
"Lorraine, do you hear me?"
I was brought back to my current world where Henry is no longer the knight I first met but a beast who has nothing but hatred for me. That wink he did earlier made me believe that everything is alright between us but I guess I was wrong.
"Ahmm..."
"I said you join me for lunch!!!"
"Alright."
***
"Fried eggs for lunch?"
It was just at the back of my mind but I heard myself saying it aloud which made Henry threw his spoon and fork. I know I have irritated him again.
"Do you really think that I'd ask our helper to prepare something extravagant for you? Common Lorraine, since you left this house you have become someone they do not know! And you don't deserve to be treated in special way."
"I didn't leave the house Henry, you pushed me away."
"Do not remind me to remind you that it is your fault. Not mine."
I was thinking of talking back but opted not to and started eating. I'm hungry and egg is better than nothing on my plate.
"The principal called up earlier. She said that the CCTV footage is ready. We will go to their school after you eat."
"Really? Then I'd be able to prove that I am innocent."-I was so happy knowing that finally, there will be a lead to where my kids are. That footage may lead us the way.
He stood up, went to me and pulled my hair. I wanted to scream but there was not voice that would want to come out. I felt helpless and weak.
"I see. Your innocence is far more important than knowing where they are."
"That's not what I mean. I am happy that we'd be able to see who the suspect is but..."
"There you go. All you know is to cry."
More than the physical pain that Henry is causing me, the thought of losing my children has brought me in tears. I have lost Henry but why lose them too?
"You know why? Because I was not able to do anything to save them. I should have stayed outside their school, wait for them to come and follow their school bus and wait for them to get in the house, even from afar rather than drowning myself with beer so I could sleep. This is all my fault. I should have not allowed the TRO to stop me from caring from them. From protecting them. God, they are just 10 years old. My babies are too young to experience this. I am one useless mother!!!"
I literally broke down and could not breath again. I felt Henry's strong arms held me tight. His hand patting my head.
"I love them so much Henry. I know I have done you wrong and hurt you and what I did is beyond forgiveness but why are my twins suffering? They are very sickly just like me. They dont have a phone so they can call you or me. They dont have anyone Henry. No one. My poor kids."
"Lorraine, please stop crying. Just eat your food so we can leave and see their principal."
Henry's voice has become calmer now and I know he is trying hard not to raise his voice.
"I don't think I'd be able to finish this. Let's just go to their school Henry. I need to know where my kids are. I need to find them Henry. I need them. I need my babies."
