Unpredictable Connection

11.Invitation

Engfa's POV

After a slow, sleepy breakfast, we all drifted into the living room. Freen and Nam sank into the couch beside me, unusually quiet—each lost in their own tangled thoughts. I was just about to bring up the day's plans when my phone buzzed on the coffee table. A familiar name lit up the screen: Aunty Chankimha.

I excused myself with a quick smile. "Be right back," I said, already walking toward the hallway.

On The Call:

"Good morning, my child," came her warm, familiar voice.

"Good morning, Aunt. How are you?" I leaned against the wall, bracing myself for what was coming.

"I'm doing well. Just a friendly reminder—you're all coming over today. No excuses."

I sighed quietly, already knowing I wasn't getting out of this. "But Aunty—"

"No buts, Engfa. It's been a month since I saw my girls. I miss you. Badly."

I couldn't help the soft chuckle that escaped. "Alright, alright. Can we bring... a few new friends along?"

There was a pause, then a teasing lilt in her voice. "Friends or girlfriends, Fa?"

I shook my head, a grin spreading on my face. "Friends, Aunt. We just met them a few days ago. They're juniors from college."

"My bad. I thought maybe my little firecrackers finally found their future wives."

"Aunt!" I laughed, feeling a blush creep in. "We're just kids."

"Oh yes, 22 and 23-year-old kids!" she teased with that classic hearty laugh of hers. "Fine, bring whoever you want. But be mindful, Fa. You're not the only one paying attention to these... budding friendships."

That made me pause. "What do you mean?"

She lowered her voice, more serious now. "Let's just say... one of your girls might already be drawn to someone."

I frowned slightly. "...I'll be careful, Aunt."

"Good. Now come before lunch. And don't you dare be late."

"Yes, ma'am."

When I walked back into the living room, everyone looked up like they'd been waiting.

"Who was that, P'Fa?" Noey asked, eyeing me with curiosity.

"Aunty Chankimha," I replied with a small smile. "Change of plans—we're visiting Freen's mansion today. So everyone, get ready."

"What?!" Freen groaned instantly, flopping back against the couch.

I turned to her, raising an eyebrow. "Freen, don't even try. You know she doesn't take no for an answer."

She rolled her eyes dramatically. "Ugh. Whatever."

I turned to the juniors now. "You three are coming too. I've already told Aunty."

They exchanged quick glances—nervous ones. Irin subtly nudged Becky, who looked the most unsettled. Her brows furrowed, lips pressed into a line. Something was definitely off.

Becky finally nodded, her voice softer than usual. "Okay, P'Fa. We'll come."

"You're invited for lunch and dinner. We're staying overnight, too."

Char piped up helpfully, "I can drive, if that makes it easier."

"You can, but if you'd rather not, you're welcome to stay with us at the mansion," I offered casually, watching their reactions closely.