BEHIND US

VI

The sleek black sedan pulled up to the curb outside the bustling NAIA Terminal 3. Snack, her face a mask of stoicism, stepped out first, her tall frame casting a shadow over the shimmering asphalt. She turned, a silent invitation, and held the door open for Pailiu.

"What's the problem teerak?" Pailiu caress snack's hand

"Nothing hon." She said plainly

"Oh come on teerak. I know there is something wrong. Don't you dare snap out of me." Pailiu raise her voice

"I was just jealous. I'm sorry."

"Jealous of what?"

"You just smiled earlier to Alex."

"Oh my God teerak. It was nothing. I just said sorry for what you said earlier okay. I'm just thankful for their services for you."

"I'm sorry hon."

"It's okay. You know I'm yours only."

"I know it's just I feel a little jealous."

"Now smile. I don't want some bad atmosphere. You are still handsome even you are jealous."

"Such a sweet talker hon."

"I love you, my handsome baby"

"I love you too, mommy "

Pailiu smack snack's head and said "yah! Shut up"

"Why? I will marry you soon"

"I know. But you have the company to run big baby. You have to focus first and then we can do the marriage thing next."

"I know baby. It's all for you and to our future together."

"I know. So work hard, you dummy"

"You'll work with me honey. Don't forget that"

"I know how would I forget that? I will always see your handsome face. May be I should stay at your side everyday doing nothing at the office."

"Well that's the easiest job you can do my love."

"You and your silliness"

"We're here now honey"

Snack go out first and open the door for Pailiu.

"Mooooom, daaaad,welcome to the Philippines!" Pailiu run towards her mom and dad and hug them tightly.

"Welcome to our second home, mom and dad!" Snack kiss Pailiu's mother and father on the cheek.

"You look more handsome, Snack! It's been a while since we last saw each other" Pailiu's mom said

Snack the most shy person in the world when she's around with her in laws are blushing.

The warm Philippine air enveloped them as they stepped out of the car. The scent of tropical flowers mingled with the exhaust fumes of the bustling city, a unique aroma that was both familiar and exciting. Pailiu's mother, a woman with a bright smile and eyes that crinkled at the corners, beamed at her children.

"You two look so happy," she said, her voice laced with affection. "It's good to see you like this."

"We're always happy, Mom," Pailiu said, squeezing her mother's hand.  "Especially when we're together."

Snack, still slightly flustered from the earlier exchange, nodded in agreement. She felt a warmth spread through her as she looked at Pailiu, her joy contagious.

"Come on, let's get inside," Pailiu's father said, his voice booming with good humor. "We've got so much to catch up on!"

Engfa and Charlotte together with Snack's siblings are at the door waiting for them.