State of Grace

Chapter 24: She Did Something Bad

SKY

"Ready na ako! Let's go?"

I looked up from my desk and saw that my girlfriend had changed her clothes, from her business attire to her casual dinner outfit. Even in her modest style, she's still stunningly beautiful.

I stood up and gave her a kiss on her temple. "You look lovely, Savannah."

"Thanks." She giggled as she playfully pinched my cheeks. "You're not so bad yourself, Kairos. Napaka-gwapo mo talaga!"

I just chuckled in flattery. She's so generous in complimenting me, even though I don't fish for one. If anything, her loving words surely make my day.

We left the office together and she drove her car this time. Nagkataon kasi na alam niya kung saang restaurant gagawin ang dinner party ni Jaycee. This is also the first time a woman has driven for me. In all fairness, she's good, even though she hinted that she can drive recklessly when absolutely necessary. I'd like to witness that one day as I'm an occasional reckless driver myself.

Despite the Friday night traffic, we reached our destination in less than an hour. Our families were already there when we walked in.

"Ay! Nandito na ang ating couple of the year!" Amy was cheering when she saw us, prompting applause from everyone at our table.

"Naks naman si Kuya! Ang higpit ng hawak sa kamay ng jowa!" Lumiere chuckled. Natawa na lang din kaming dalawa ni Sage.

After greeting our families, my girlfriend and I also exchanged greetings with Jaycee, who thanked us for coming over, and then dinner was served after a toast. I idly remember the last time we were all in the same place. The difference is everyone is much more comfortable now with all the bantering while enjoying our meals.

Not everyone in the family was present on this occasion. Sancho Lucas returned to New York with his family not too long ago, while Sandara apparently declined Jaycee's invitation. As to why she chose not to show up, we don't know.

Even though Jaycee is seated on the other side next to Sage, it's no longer an issue for me. I quietly appreciated that she kept holding my hand while talking to her ex. I guess it's her way of telling everyone that she's proud to have me as her boyfriend. Well, the feeling is mutual.

During dinner, I also couldn't help but observe Philip, who kept stealing glances at Amy. By the looks of it, he's still not over her. I guess I was wrong with the assumption that he only sees her as a fling, although I couldn't do anything about it either. Hindi rin naman kasi siya pinapansin ni Amy, at nilinaw na niya kay Philip na hindi siya ang type nito.

Also, the last time I heard from her, Amy was busy with her new book that will be published soon, as well as preparing for the book signing event that would go with it. So she doesn't have time to mingle around.

As for this restaurant, which is located on the outskirts of the Metro, it brings out a cozy vibe that is complemented well with great food. Sage mentioned that she's been here more than once with her family and she's happy that I get to experience dining here with my family. We will surely visit again in the future.

We were about to cap off the meal with desserts when Sage got up from her seat and took her bag with her. "Washroom lang ako. I'll be back in a bit. Tirhan mo ako ng dessert ha?"

I just chuckled. "Okay. Bilisan mo ha? Masarap pa naman ito."

She kissed my cheek just before she stepped out.

However, she hasn't returned yet after around half an hour. Nakapagtataka.

I called her cellphone but immediately got the tone that her number was unattended. Nagsimula na akong kabahan. Shit.