Aphrodite (Complete)

Chapter Forty Three

Chapter Forty Three

A trip down to memory lane

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I woke up feeling bad. So, so bad. Kinapa-kapa ko ang tabi ko but it turns out I was the only one in bed. Kaspar left without me noticing it. I sat up straight and listen to my surroundings, trying to sharpen my auditory organ. Nasa bahay lang pala siya, singing to his favorite song on the radio. I heaved a heavy sigh.

I wanted to sleep some more. Last night drained me. Both physically and emotionally. But I forced myself up. I still have work to do.

Pero mukhang ayaw ko pa'ng makaharap si Kaspar.

Not after he poured his feelings out to me and I rejected it.

I felt like the most heartless person alive.

I sigh again. This time, bumangon na talaga ako. I wore my house sandals and walk to the door. My hand was inches away from the knob and I can't seem to find myself the courage to open the door. I stared at the door for a moment, contemplating.

Hey, Kaspar. Good morning.

I shook my head. That won't do it.

Got a good night's sleep?

That question seems too heartless. Of course he can't have a good night's sleep.

Or I could say hey! Can I borrow the newspaper for awhile? Good morning.

No. It isn't right.

I'm sorry Kaspar. I'm sorry. I wasn't worth it.

And that isn't enough.

The door knob turned that sent me off the hook. I inched backwards as the door opens. With a bright smile and wearing the same neon printed KISS THE HOT COOK apron, Kaspar sure looked like he forgotten what happened last night. He was all bright and glowing, like he used too. "Good morning, V! Breakfast is on the table. Hurry up." He says, voice all perky and enthusiastic. Lies! Alam ko, pinipilit niyang maging okay. Hindi siya okay. Gaya niya, hindi siya makakalusot sa'kin.

Nice try Benedicto.

I cleared my throat. "Y-Yea. I'll be going. Maliligo muna ako."

Before I could turn around, he grabbed hold of my arm. His lips poke out in a childish pout, like he used to. "Kain muna tayo!" He says in a childish voice. "First time kong nagluto ng fried rice. Ikaw 'yong kauna-unahang taong makakatikim ng fried rice ko. Maging supportive ka naman sa'kin, o!"

I stared at him for a while.

Kaspar?

Umiling ako sakaniya. "Are you being serious right now?"

Tumango naman siya. "I am!"

I rolled my eyes. "Fine."

"Sinabing mahal na mahal mo ako e! 'Di mo 'ko matiis!"

I was taken aback by his words. Natigilan ako... and so was he. We were both shocked by the moment, the atmosphere is getting suffocating by the minute. I have to do something. Why am I having a mental block? What's the usual response do I say to him?  Ano na? I cleared my throat again. "K-Kapal." I stammered.

Gumalaw na rin ang kamay niya na nakahawak sa braso ko. Napakamot siya sa ulo. "Ah, he-he." He let out an awkward grin. "Shall we eat now?"

I nodded in response.