Almost, Always

34. A Simple Yet Complicated Thing

Emi's POV:

After finding out about what truly happened and having a heart to heart conversation with Anthony, everything became clear to the both of us. We both apologized and forgave each other. He said he will have a long conversation with his mom. He felt ashamed and disappointed. He made it clear that he no longer wants to be associated with such people. And truly, I understand and sympathise with him.

To be oblivious to everything and yet still be persecuted for something you weren't even aware of. I wont forget the last thing Anthony told me before we part ways:

"I hope we never meet again."

And for the first time in the long time, I felt happy to hear those words.

"Yeah. I hope we never meet again."

I said back.

My heart is partly at peace. Knowing that I've had my revenge to the Mortensons. I've had a conversation with Anthony. I've accomplished my deal with Curtis and to my friends to avenge them. Finally the spirits of the dead, the Bren's and my grandparents can finally rest.

I could finally let go of the hate.

I am now free. After so many years. I can finally say that wholeheartedly.

The only thing I have to deal now is my feelings and friendship with Elizabeth.

I don't expect her to return my feelings. Nor do I want her pity. I could only hope for her forgiveness and gain her trust enough to be friends again.

I will try my best to get my friend back.

—

I regret to say those words now.

Elizabeth has been obviously and painfully avoiding me.

She stopped attending the art and pottery classes during the weekends. My calls never seem to go through. My text messages were never returned. My emails go unnoticed. I was desperate to the point that I secretly visit her exhibit.

Elizabeth was nowhere to be found. No one seem to know where she went.

It's as if Elizabeth vanished from the face of the Earth.

So much for me for believing I could confess to her or stay friends with her, when I couldn't even find where she is.

Good thing I know just who to ask help for during times like this.

Mateo.

—

I contacted Mateo to ask him to find a lead who can tell me where Elizabeth went. We have been meeting every now and then to talk about Elizabeth and also other things about business.

I'm grateful for having Mateo with me right now. Having someone who listens to me really help.

After a while, I also started hanging out with Milko and Alyssa again.

It's as if nothing has happened between the two of them. Like it was just a bad dream that I witnessed that day, when I last saw the two of them together. I still couldn't bring myself in asking them about it.

I can only help slowly, Milko will open up to me again. I have informed my friends about what happened in Anthony's party. Also about the confrontation I had with him. They were both in disbelief. But they are happy and thankful that everything has been cleared. I wanted to tell them that ALMOST everything has been cleared, except my friendship with Elizabeth. I don't know why I couldn't bring myself to tell them that I have feelings for her.

Maybe in time, I can be honest. For now, I'd keep this secret with me.

—

I felt like my life is slowly started to get back to normal. I can breathe and sleep better.

Another month passed.

Mateo asked me to go out for a walk near his neighborhood. I agreed. I wanted to hear more details about Elizabeth's location. And also because it's good for me to be out rather than spending time in the office or being at home.

Mateo and I have been walking for a while when we both heard a honk coming from a car. We both turned around and saw someone familiar.

Dave

"Hop in. My house is just at the corner." He said.

Great. Out of everyone I've been wanting to see, of course it has to be the great David Monks.

I used to think he is just arrogant, snobbish, cold tempered man. But after hearing what Curtis told me before, I kinda started seeing him on a different light.

Maybe there's more about him that meets the eye. Otherwise, I wouldn't believe Curtis will fall for someone like that. Right?

I looked at Mateo as if asking what he think we should do.

"Alright. I have documents I needed from you anyway." Mateo answered.

"Mateo, right? I like how you think. A sudden shift to work more. That's how it should be." He said.

The two of us went inside Dave's car. I was thankful for having Mateo with me. It saved me from awkwardness. They were both just discussing about business.

We arrived at a grand estate with a long gated private drive with lush landscape garden with a striking water features.

We were greeted by his butler and house helpers. We were welcomed by the 30 inches entryway ceiling. There was a big family portrait at the very center of the grand entrance and a sweeping staircase on the side.

A portrait of David with his wife Miranda and their kids.

So this is what he had to trade for Curtis huh..? A life with a wife and kids. I wonder if his heart ever ache with the thought of not being able to have a family with Curtis instead?

I tried to picture what it would have been like if it was Curtis beside Dave instead.

What a silly thought.

Who am I kidding? Dave probably don't even spare of a thought for Curtis anymore. If he did, how come they aren't together again. He has no need for power, status, whatsoever. He could have easily divorced Miranda since it's just marriage of convenience anyway. Right?

Dave instructed us to go to his study where he spends most of his time. The documents Mateo needed was there. Mateo and I went in the room. We both sat down and waited. Dave had to leave briefly to take a call from Miranda.

I stood up and inspected the books on the shelves. I started walking around near his desk. There, I saw a photograph, I wasn't expecting to see.

On the opposite side of the photo of David's kids, there was a small rectangular picture frame with the photo of young David and young Curtis together standing side by side in front of a fountain. David's arm wrapped around the shoulder of Curtis. Both looking happily.

Wow...after all these years?

I smiled bitterly.

If only Curtis knew. David hasn't completely forgotten about him.

So I guess I was just being delusional and completely out of touch when I asked myself why David couldn't leave Miranda and reconcile with Curtis.. of course, it's easier said than done. He has a family now. He has kids to protect... now I came to the realization, certain battles aren't always simple.

Life happens. And sometimes, you don't always get to be with who you love. Sad reality for many. Including myself.

"What's the matter?" Mateo asked.

"Nothing. Nothing at all." I softly answered.

***