Love, Take it Off

SEVEN

It's been 2 hours, 4 minutes, and 2 seconds since I arrived. Each tick of the seconds blends with the sound of people's footsteps echoing in the airport, matching the rhythm of my heartbeat as I wait for my family.

My Papa, my Mama, my Brother . . .

And my future wife, too.

I stand here, feeling uneasy. It's not just because of my wound; it's the unsettling feeling that comes every time someone walks by me.

I don't mind waiting usually. I prefer to take things slowly to avoid any chaos. But right now, all I want is for time to freeze. I wish I could pause everything until they're right here in front of me, and then let the clock start ticking again.

As I fidget, I scan the crowd, hoping to catch a glimpse of familiar faces. I shift my weight from one foot to the other, feeling the slight ache from my wound. With every passing moment, my anticipation grows stronger. I take a deep breath, trying to stay calm and focused, but my eyes keep darting to the entrance.

Hindi maalis sa isip ko ang mga maaring mangayari sa kanila while they're on their way here.

I should have known better. Zereid's idea for me to book our flight turned out to be a terrible idea.

I can't help but worry when I can't see them, especially knowing what Yesenia's family can be like.

I glance at my phone again, tapping its edge anxiously, waiting for Zereid's text.

Then, out of nowhere, the message pops up.

Zereid: Parking now. Chill, lover boy.

In that instant, the tightness in my chest begins to fade. I let out a heavy sigh, one that feels like a weight lifting off my shoulders.

Finally, I think, I can't wait to just relax with Yesenia.

I lean back against the cool wall of the airport, my shoulders relaxing. I look around, watching people reunite with their loved ones, and I imagine how it will feel when Yesenia is finally here. I picture her smile and the way her eyes light up when she sees me.

With a small smile creeping onto my face, I check my phone again, hoping for another update, all while tapping my foot impatiently on the floor.

***

I grab the handle of my suitcase and start dragging it behind me, making my way toward my family.

I know it's selfish. I admit it. It feels very selfish to focus all my attention on the delicate woman standing in front of my mother.

Yesenia is wearing jeans and a white shirt—clothes that look just like what my mom usually wears.

I can't help but bite my lip as I watch her. It hits me hard to see how empty her hands are; it seems like her parents didn't give her any of her belongings to take with her.

As I approach, I notice how small she looks, almost fragile against the bustling crowd. I take a deep breath, trying to steady myself. I want to comfort her, to tell her everything will be okay.

The closer I get, the more I can see the worry in her eyes, and it makes my heart ache. I quicken my pace, eager to bridge the distance between us. When I finally reach them, I can't help but smile at her, hoping it will ease her nerves.

"Naiinip ka ba?" Zereid quickly asks, raising an eyebrow with a teasing smirk.

"Bakit ang tagal niyo?" I ask, my eyes still fixed on Yesenia.

My heart races a bit; I need to make sure she feels welcome and safe here.

"Nag-away sina Mama at Papa." Zereid says, his tone light but serious. "Tutol si Papa sa mga plano mo."