You Found Me

Nine

9

        My heart jumps at the sight of him in front of our doorsteps. I almost breathe a sigh of relief seeing that he still sticks with his usual get up.

        He asked me earlier if he should wear a tuxedo, to which made me chuckled and shook my head. No matter how tempting it is to see him in a tux, I think it's not necessary since this is not really a formal dinner.

        He takes off the beanie he's wearing then flashes a charming smile, displaying his dimples and chinky eyes.

        “Merry Christmas, Mugglepie.” He's about to hug me when he catches Dad's presence standing behind me.

         He suddenly straightens up, immediately putting up his best behavior, while trying not to look so obvious.

         He slightly bows down his head in apology and flashes a shy smile. "Merry Christmas everyone."

         Lucy greets him back while Dad just remains silent in his place.

        “Um, this is my sister, Lily.” I'm hoping that meeting her could help loose his nerves somehow.

        His eyes gleam as he squats to level her. “Hi there, Lily. Can I give you a hug?”

         Lily gives a shy nod. I just watch in awe as Hapon pulls her into a hug. 

       “You're so pretty,” he tells her as he pulls away looking up to me with a knowing smile. “Just like your ate.”

         Lily gives him her most sincere smile as if Hapon immediately got her side.

         “Thank you. Ate said you're pretty too.”

         He teasingly glances at my direction before he shifts his full attention back to her. “Really? What other things did your Ate said about me?” he whispers with a wide smile.
        
         I playfully swat his shoulders when he stands up. But he is quick to take my hands and intertwine it with his.

        He always does that every time I'm about to bat him.  I think he just forgot the fact that were not the only ones in the room today.

        We both jerk away, taken back to our senses when Dad meaningfully clears his throat.

       We usher to the dining table. Like I said, it's just a small dinner but Lucy cooked like there's a banquet, making our table filled with food.

        We sit next to each other. Lily sits across from us, along with Yaya Nel who assists her, while Dad and Lucy are on each end of the table.

        “It should've been more fun if Ate Cleo's here."

         I stiffen at what Lily suddenly said. Dad and Lucy shift their attention at me, like they're waiting for me to say something. I know at some point they will bring this up. But no matter how prepared I am, I always feel caught off guard.

        "Why, Lily?  Are you not having fun with me today?"

         I smile at him feeling grateful for that one. I know that he noticed my discomfort.

        "It's just that I want her to be with us too. But I'm really happy that you're here,” she amends, making Hapon appease.

        “So why are you called Hapon? Are you Japanese or something?” Dad changes the topic.

         I remember how he told me that I will only get bored if he explains the reason behind it. I wonder how will he dodge it this time?

         “Actually sir, as far as I'm concerned, and I'm sorry to disappoint,” he add, smiling. “I really don't have any foreign bloodline.”