The Dark Side

Dark Side 20

It's been days after I accepted Aga's offer to help and I can say, I felt a lot better. Before, I only pretend to be strong because I know no one will be there for me and I can't afford to breakdown.

I stopped stirring the coffee and looked ahead where Aga was seated. A small smile formed in my lips but I stopped myself. Get a hold of yourself, Lea. All of these are temporary. He's helping you and you're just helping him to drain his feelings for you.

He saw me staring and showed a smile which I returned with nothing but a straight face. I walked towards him to bring his coffee.

"I don't know how you like your coffee but I hope this will do."

"Hindi naman ako maselan, Lea." He said and took a sip. "But I like it, thanks."

I decided to sit beside him and ask what's bothering him. Aga got a call from the office earlier and from then he seemed troubled. I can see him furrow his brows from time to time.

Although he told me not to be nice to him, I can't be too insensitive to someone who's been so good to help me.

"Uhm.. Aga, you seem to have a problem. You look worried, kanina pa." I said and finished looking at him.

He looked back at me playfully before massaging his temple.

"Actually there's something to be done in the office but it can wait naman." He then took another sip of the coffee and avoided my eyes.

I had my mouth slightly open in surprise. Aga isn't the type to forsake his responsibilities but then I realized it was me who's keeping him from going. He visits me daily and I kind of get used to the feeling of having him for a week -straight.

"Sana sinabi mo agad. I'm okay na Aga. Pwede ka naman nang umalis."

I felt somewhat guilty about having him for myself when he has more important things to take care of than minding my issues.

"Are you sure?"

I nodded.

Suddenly, his phone rang.

"I'll just take this." He said.

I mouthed sure.

"Rob?" He called the person from the other line.

Upon the mention of the name, it felt like my whole body froze in fear. Aga's eyes bear a concerned look and seemed to be asking me what's wrong. I can only force a smile to hide the turmoil in my head.

His eyes never left mine as he continued to talk with Rob over the phone.

"Yes, I'm not in the office. Why?"

I tried to listen but the other line sounds too low and I can't understand anything.

"I'm with-" Aga started but I held his arms and shook my head. Panic took over me as I looked at Aga as I plead. Please don't tell him. I prayed silently.

He easily understood the message and smiled reassuringly.

"-I'm with a friend. Hindi mo din kilala." He laughed then continued. "I'm about to go back." He said before looking at his watch to check. "I'll make it right on time, don't worry."

After what seems like some more reminders, he ended the call.

"Aga, can I ask one more favor? Please don't tell anyone." I said almost immediately.

He looked at my hand that was still holding him and covered it with his. "I won't. I'm sorry I almost slipped earlier."

I pulled my hand and turned my attention on the floor.