(Phone Chats Conversation)
Jannah : Where are you madame??
Jannah: I came by at the office and your boss says your on sick leave??
Jannah: I searched your apartment to ensure that you were okay, but unfortunately, I couldn't find you. Please let me know how you are doing
My reply: Sorry Jannah, it's an urgent proposal. I'm currently in Tagaytay.
My reply: I mean, not yet, but in an hour, we'll arrive.
Jannah: WHAAAAAAAAAAT??
Jannah: Holy shit??
My reply : Gosh your making me nervous. I too don't know why I accepted the offer to come with him.
Jannah: Stay safe there, Khadija. Remember to think before you act and avoid making any rash or unwise decisions. Your well-being is important, so please be cautious and make smart choices!
Truthfully, I'm not sure why I agreed. I think I was just looking for an adventure or new experience. I haven't charged - I still have a tendency to not think about the consequences.
And guess what? I haven't ridden on a plane before, and I'm still ignorant about the check-in and check-out procedures.
I refuse to feel humiliated just because I am the only girl with them. Fortunately, I know Ali Kemal, who has been in the Philippines for seven years. Despite being a Casanova, he still respects and values women."
We were picked up by a van from NAIA Terminal 3 and swiftly transported to Tagaytay, a journey that took roughly two hours. As a result of our exhaustion, we remained silent throughout the trip, with no words exchanged among us.
"Is there anything I can assist you with, my lady?" Ahmed inquired firmly, extending his hand as I got off the van. We have arrived in Tagaytay.
Ahmed and his two friends are enthusiastically celebrating Oman National Day, and he confidently shared to me that there are many other Arabs who also join in the festivities.
Upon entering the Highlands hotel, I felt his reassuring hands around my waist. It was interesting to see a group of Arabs wearing their traditional thobe and iqal.
As I looked at myself on the mirror wall, I couldn't help but feel like a true adventurer. I looked great! My outfit was on point with black denim shorts, a black spaghetti strap top, and a white long-sleeved polo on top. And let's not forget my plain white Vans shoes, which were the perfect finishing touch to complete my look. Ahmed offers to carry my small backpack another gentleman gestures of him. The only bag that's I'm carrying now is my small sling bag.
As soon as we stepped into the lobby, I couldn't help but notice something unusual. To my surprise, every single person in the room was staring directly at Ahmed. It was a bit unsettling, but I quickly gathered my thoughts and regained my composure. Ahmed noticed my reaction and calmly guided me forward. Ahmed's hands came to my rescue and I decided not to make a fuss about their all eyes looking at Ahmed.
As soon as Ali Kemal finished negotiating with the front desk officers, he handed me a key card. I noticed that there were only three key cards, instead of four. We walked outside and waited for the van to take us to our villas, where we rested before the ceremony started in a few minutes.
"Ahmed, thank you so much!" I exclaimed, my voice oozing with gratitude. With a swift motion, I secured the key card into my sling bag.
Ali Kemal was left in the lobby to chat with some other Arab nationals.
As we transferred to our destination, I couldn't help but notice the VIP Van was exclusively reserved for us. Gazing outside, I was immediately struck by the breathtaking beauty of the view. It was an award-winning and top-notch experience, and I felt privileged to have the opportunity to witness such a magnificent sight.
"Please feel comfortable, my lady! Sorry for this urgent offer!" he said and gave me a sincere look when I transferred my sight to him. "Perhaps you're wondering why I invited you on this trip? I wanted you to witness a special celebration that happens once a year, a celebration of Omani Arab culture."
"I really appreciate everything, Ahmed. Thank you for arranging the accommodation and transfers," I said sincerely as I gave him a smile. "This is actually my first time traveling with someone who isn't a family member, Ahmed," I said with a wide smile.
"Listen up, Khadija. Every time I'm around you, I make sure to put a smile on your face. And let me tell you, you're stunningly beautiful," he stated, with a confident grin and a wink, noticing how shocked I was by his boldness.
I couldn't help but chuckle shyly in response to that compliment, but it definitely had an effect on me. My body seemed to betray me, heating up in response. I'm pretty sure my face turned red.
"You're kidding, Ahmed," I said, laughing and lightly slapping his shoulders.
"Ouch!" he exclaimed, clearly in pain. I immediately checked the spot where I accidentally hit him. I caressed the part where I hit him. "Just kidding my lady! "
"You scared me!" I said rolling my eyes and he noticed it thats why he was laughing all the way.
The van pulled over at two different villas and Ahmed confidently stepped out first, gesturing for me to follow. He offered his arms as support while I disembarked the van. It's impressive how Ahmed always takes the lead and makes sure things are done smoothly.
"Do you like it?" he asked when he noticed how amazed I was at the beautiful front of the villa. I couldn't take my eyes off the scenery in front of me. It left me speechless, as the beauty of the villa was truly breathtaking.
As soon as I nodded, he took charge and carried both his and my bags inside without any delay. He courteously opened the door for me, and I confidently strode into the compact living space. To the left, there is the bed, and to the right, you'll find a sleek glassed bathroom. It's simply stunning. The displays are aesthetically beautiful, flaunting with displays. Furthermore, the couch is very minimalist.
"Time for me to leave, my lady. My villa is right in front of yours," he stated with a firm tone, placing my bag down. His eyes scanned the area before returning to me, his assured looks making me feel at ease. His gaze had a commanding presence, imparting a sense of security that put me at ease. "By the way, my lady, the ceremony will begin in a few minutes. It's taking place in the Convention Hall. It's completely up to you if you'd like to attend and watch!" he said with a smile, waving goodbye as he closed the door behind.
I gave him an appreciative nod, feeling grateful for this new and exciting experience. As someone who grew up in the province, I haven't had many opportunities for adventure and exploration, so I'm excited to step out of my comfort zone. After taking a refreshing shower and drying my hair, I took advantage of the opportunity to explore the area. I patiently waited outside the villa for the van, eager to embrace this new adventure as a first-timer.
Two vans passed by, but they were already full. The next vehicle that arrived seemed to be privately occupied. After waiting for about half an hour, the following vehicle stopped in front of me. As the only available seat was in the front, I quickly grabbed it.
I didn't check the passengers at the back seat, but I could tell they were mostly Arab nationals by their accents and way of speaking.
"Excuse me ma'am?, are you also going to the convention hall?" asked the driver, keeping his eyes on the road.
"Yes I am!" I replied. "Are there any other places to explore around here?" I ask, keeping my eyes on the stunning scenery we pass by.
"Ma'am, it's not possible to tour all the places within an hour. However, I can certainly provide you with a map to help you plan your visit efficiently. Please note that it's essential to allow yourself enough time to enjoy and explore each attraction fully." He gave me a smile and handed me the map.
"Thank you so much!" I exclaimed as I opened the map. I planned to study it later when I got bored at the convention hall.
Upon arrival, a kind individual opened both the front and back doors for us, offering their assistance. With gratitude, I stepped out of the van and gracefully climbed the stairs. Before opening the door, I made sure that my fitted maxi dress was neat and that the collarbone details were highlighted. With a sense of purpose.
As I was firmly pressing my dress with my hands, someone suddenly appeared at the door. It turned out to be the group that had been tailing me in their van. Without hesitation, I attempted to move away, but the individual who came forward was none other than Mr. Dedhari.