Honey Ko - A Novel

Chapter Twenty-Four

With the evening's drama behind us and the children sent off to bed, the rest of us gathered in the dining hall where the encounter with Edward was the topic of discourse. None of the men knew of my history with Edward, so I explained with little detail, just enough to satisfy their curiosity. They wanted to know more, particularly Frank, but with Edward gone now, his desire for revenge satisfied, I felt I had told them enough. I would explain more fully to Frank later, I was sure.

When the men realized I was not prepared to say more, Chip suggested we all go to a club he frequented in Subic City. The bar at Subic Bay Hotel was situated on a large pier over the Bay with plentiful tables and scenic views of the mountains. Chip recommended the bar as therapy for me. I'm sure he thought we all needed the kind of therapy a visit to a bar would provide.

"Good idea, Goody-Goody," I said. "I will enjoy some real alcohol instead of what Sister Arnalita dabbed on my cheek."

"Hey," Frank said, his voice filled with surprise. "Hey, I wondered where the kids heard of Goody-Goody. Chaplain Roland mentioned him earlier today, and it puzzled me how they could have known his nickname."

Sister Arnalita smiled at Chip and said, "The Master Chief has helped here for many years. Marie once called him Goody-Goody in front of the children. They liked it so much they continue to call him by the name. I also refer to him as Goody-Goody. I think it a fitting description of such a sweet man."

"But Marie and Amy both called him Goody-Goody at Rufadora."

"Yes. Amy lived here too. She also helps out when she can."

"Oh. Amy's adopted?"

"No. Poor thing. She grew up here, then moved to Olongapo when she outgrew the other children. We are the only family she ever knew."

"Okay, folks." Chip clapped his hands together. "Enough old history. I'm thirsty. Let's go, whoever is going."

The dining hall echoed with the sound of chair legs scraping the floor as the six of us stood.

Chip said, "We can't take a government vehicle to a bar. We'll have to go in Marie's car."

"Okay," I said. "But I do not want to drive. I am too nervous, and my cheek is sore. One of you must drive."

I looked around for my clutch, which held the car key. It was next to Frank on the table by the nurse's station. "Frank, hand me my clutch, please."

"Your what?"

I rolled my eyes but spoiled the effect when I smiled. "My purse, Frank."

"So, that's a clutch. Huh."

Sister Arnalita smoothed her habit as she spoke. "We are so happy you could come today. Please know how much I appreciate your assistance. Sam, it was so good to see you and Little Lucy together again. I hope you will come back often. Frank, thank you again for coming today. Please come anytime." She turned to the Chaplain. "Father Roland, are you accompanying the young people?" She winked at Frank. "And Chip?"

Chip guffawed. "Sister, you are such a comedian. Why, I'm younger than—well, I guess I am the oldest one here. I'd say the wisest too, but you're with us."

"Chip, you bring happiness and laughter wherever you go. God bless you. Come often."

"I will, Sister, I will. Bye now."

"Goodbye. Thank you all again." Sister Arnalita waved as the men walked to the car, then took my hands. "I will see you later, Marie? Are you sure you don't want to press charges against Edward?"