Something About Her

Chapter 20- More and More

Continuation...

-----Flashback-----

".... But she was no longer around to listen to it."

At that moment, Jennie realizes how she missed asking about her mother when they were exchanging conversations the whole day. It has now occurred to her how she neglected the part where she would and should have asked about her family more, knowing that Lisa had been sharing stories only about her dad. She suddenly feels so guilty and insensitive and selfish for not noticing how Lisa not once made mentioned about her mother. She should have noticed sooner and now she admittedly and guiltily blamed her lack of focus on the things that mattered more instead of every other interesting and admirable traits of the Thai beside her. She mentally scolded and cursed herself for this imprudent behavior of hers. She was so caught up with the way Lisa spoke with so much passion and sincerity that she even found herself lost in the world where Lisa only exists.

Jennie's heart crumbled into a puddle of sadness as she witnessed, for the first time, the saddest smile Lisa has ever showed her so far. And she wishes to never see such sorrowful sight again, specially from her- the person whom she has developed deep infatuation and care for. Guilt now consumes her, and she does not now how to express her thoughts to Lisa.

"Lisa, I... I am so s-sorry... I didn't..." She tried to speak but Lisa cut her off.

"You don't have to say anything, Jen... It's Okay."

Jennie can only hold her hand tight as she looks into Lisa's now glassy doe eyes. She wanted to hold her close and give her the warmest hug, but she held back, not wanting Lisa to feel muffled or obligated to respond to her idea of such closeness. She only let her thumb rub adoringly to Lisa's hands. She did not say anything and just let her have all the time she needed. Little did she know, Lisa wanted something of that kind. Having Jennie this close to her only gives her peace and much needed comfort. But her heart is crumbling, aching once again as memories of her mother flooded her thoughts. She can only close her eyes for a moment, releasing deep and steady breaths while feeling the warmth of Jennie's hands on hers. With much courage, she gathered her thoughts and decided to speak.

"2 years ago... Five days after my birthday, my wonderful mom passed away... She had a weak heart, and she needed a bypass surgery. But she never had it. She never wanted it. And it happened, she was gone... and a part of me died with her too." Lisa paused for a while as she let out a labored sigh. Jennie only listened, never looking away.

"I was scheduled to leave for Seoul the day she had the heart attack, a day after my birthday. We were happily having our lunch, enjoying the sumptuous meal my father has prepared as a send-off treat for me. It was a perfect and a wonderful day. I remember my mom reminding me to always eat well and have it on time. She kept saying that she was so happy I got to spend my birthday with them because the year before that, I was in Seoul, and they were in Thailand. She kept on saying that she was so proud of how successful I am in my chosen craft. She was just smiling so brilliantly at me, and I can feel how much she has longed for me. But the most memorable part of that day was when she told me several times that she loves me so much and that she will always be proud of me. If only I knew then, she was actually saying her goodbye to me... Right after that, everything happened so fast. The next thing I know, she was clutching on to her chest, pain painted on her face... She looked me in the eye and she suddenly..."

Lisa paused as she sobbed. She covered her face with her palms as she leans on the edge of the piano keys, causing some to sound as she hits it. Jennie cried silently along with her. Her hand reaches the back of Lisa, brushing in some comforting warmth as the Thai cries. She didn't say a word, but she felt the pain with her. After awhile, Lisa retreated back to her seating position. She decided to continue.