When the Fireworks Begin

Chapter XI

“Do you think I have to bring a lot of warm clothes?” Devon asked as she was folding her pyjamas into her suitcase.

“Baby, we are not staying in Baguio for a year. We’ll just be away for less than a week,” James tried to control his laughter. Devon was undeniably excited since he asked her about travelling. She was so eager to say yes.  

“I know,” Devon fretted. “But I can’t fit everything in the bag and I think I need all of this stuff,”  she said pointing to a pile of clothes and toiletries on their bed.

“Why don’t you let me do the packing,” James smiled and sat down beside her frustrated and excited wife.

Devon watched James as he carefully placed each piece of clothing on the bag.  When James talked to her about visiting some of the places she wanted to visit, she felt torn. Devon wanted to fulfil her wish list so bad, but that would mean they’ll be spending their money on something aside from her medication. 

“Are we really doing this,” Devon asked seriously. “This will cost us a lot.”

James offered Devon a bright smile. “We’ll manage. Besides, we are not spending anything on accommodations. A good friend offered his rest house in Baguio for free.”

Devon smiled.  She can’t wait to go on the plane and travel.  But she felt a question tugging at the back her mind and she can’t help but ask James.

“Are we doing this because I’m dying,” Devon asked softly, her voice almost a whisper.

James stopped packing and looked at Devon. “Of course not, we are doing this because this is something you wanted to do.” He pulled Devon and kissed her forehead.

She hugged him really hard. “I love you,” Devon said.

“I love you more,” James answered. He inched towards her lips.  He marvelled at the sweet taste of her lips.  Devon opened her lips more meeting, allowing james to explore.  Then they heard somebody knocking on the door.  “Talk about good timing,” he crossly answered and was about to stand up.

Devon smiled and pulled James back on the bed. “Don’t answer it and let’s just pretend nobody’s home.”

James chuckled.  “You are so naughty.” He wagged a finger at her and leaned towards her.  “But I like it…”

He was about to kiss her again when he heard the insistent knocking on the door and Sam’s loud voice.

“Argh,” James groaned. “They won’t go away.”

He stood up and pulled Devon up from the bed.  James went down the stairs and barely opened the door when Sam started firing him questions.

“What the heck are you doing,” Sam asked angrily.

James was caught by surprise.  He did not immediately understand what Sam was referring to.  Then Ivan stormed into the room, while Shey and Aleli quietly followed behind.  Shey was tugging on Ivan’s sleeve as if motioning him to leave. But Ivan brushed her hand angrily.