My Last And My Only

Chapter 141: Under the Backyard Lights

By the time Chico's van turned into the driveway, the sun had already begun its slow descent.

The girls looked pleasantly tired.

After spending the day in Oslob, everyone had taken the time to shower and change before heading back to the city. Sun-kissed skin had replaced the saltwater and sand, damp hair had given way to neatly brushed strands, and comfortable clothes had taken the place of swimsuits.

Even so, the day's adventure still clung to them in the best way.

Every now and then, someone would laugh at a memory from the beach or bring up the whale sharks all over again, as though none of them were quite ready to let the day end.

Christine stretched the moment she stepped out of the van.

"I've reached a conclusion."

Francheska closed the van door behind her.

"I'm almost afraid to ask."

"I was born for vacations."

"You've been saying that since breakfast." said Nica.

"And I've collected enough evidence to prove it."

Everyone laughed as they made their way toward the house.

Then they stopped.

The backyard was glowing.

Warm string lights hung from tree branches and wooden posts, casting a golden glow over the garden.

Long tables had been arranged beneath them, covered with cream-colored tablecloths and simple flower arrangements.

A barbecue grill smoked gently in one corner while soft acoustic music floated through hidden speakers.

For a moment...

Nobody said anything.

Christine slowly looked around.

"...Is someone getting married?"

Mr. Alicaya laughed from beside the grill.

"No."

Christine pointed toward the beautifully decorated tables.

"Because this looks expensive."

Mrs. Alicaya smiled.

"We simply wanted everyone to come home to something special."

Dean looked around proudly.

"It was mostly them."

"They wouldn't let us help very much."

"They're being modest," Lou said with a smile.

"Everyone worked hard."

Mr. Alicaya waved a hand dismissively.

"It's not every day our home is this full."

"So tonight..."

He smiled at the girls.

"...we celebrate."

Cheers erupted almost immediately.

The backyard quickly came alive.

Christine volunteered to "supervise" the grilling.

Nobody allowed her anywhere near the fire.

"I'm offended."

"We're protecting dinner," Yves replied.

"From me?"