Honey Ko - A Novel

Chapter Twenty-Seven

Frank

The inquest into Edward's death ended after months of legal formality and a finding that Sister Arnalita was justified in using lethal force against Edward. I held Marie's hand as we left the Olongapo courthouse with Sam and Chip and walked to Triangle Park. Marie, on edge for months as the investigation unwound, gave a deep sigh.

"I am so happy. Not that Edward is dead, of course, I would not wish that for anyone, but that the whole thing is over. I have not slept well since the... since it happened. To put it all behind me is like starting a new chapter in life."

"A new chapter with a new mother," I said.

"Indeed, Frank. I still cannot believe Sister Arnalita is my mother. Looking back though, a lot of things I puzzled over for years make sense now. Her tenderness toward me, why it took so long to be adopted, the way we remained in touch. She had to let go of me, yet wanted me within reach."

"She's an amazing woman. Did you know she and your father fought with the Filipino underground in World War Two? That he was killed while attempting to rescue allied prisoners of war?"

"I had no idea until the inquest. She never spoke of the past or her guilt over killing so many Japanese soldiers. It also explains my parents' apprehension whenever I told them I was going to visit the orphanage. They must have worried I might discover the truth. God bless them, for all they did for me."

Our relationship had blossomed during the ordeal. Marie relied on me for strength and support during the months of the investigation and inquiry. For my part, I had found in Marie a companion, someone whose company I looked forward to rather than turning inward and seeking the solitude of my own thoughts. I had discovered the truth in Marie's words about the stages of love. I had also shared my life story with Marie after years of keeping my inner life private from all but a few people. Marie occupied my thoughts throughout the day, and I found her part of my dreams at night. I was deeply, completely in love with a woman for the first time in my life.

"All of a sudden," she said, "I am so relaxed with the pressure gone. I could fall asleep right here."

"Sleep as long as you like, Marie. I'll be here when you wake."

"Ohh, thank you, Frank. But I would not have you bored while I sleep like Rip Van Winkle."

"How do you know I would be bored? I like watching you sleep. You are the quietest sleeper I know."

"You make up for it by snoring enough for four people," Sam said.

"I don't snore. I'm a heavy breather."

Marie leaned against me and said, "He can snore all he likes, Sam, as long as he is there when I wake."

A jet from the base roared through the sky, making talk impossible. When it passed, Chip rose and stretched. "You know, it's a good thing Sister Arnalita kept that rifle after the war. She said she would never be caught unprepared again."

"I can't believe the shot she made," I said. "I felt the bullet fly past my ear. Had I moved an inch to the left, I wouldn't be here now."

Marie leaned forward, looking far away. "I saw only the knife in Edward's hand, and the next moment his body on the floor. Thanks to God that Paul woke when he did." She leaned against me again and nuzzled my neck. "I am most happy that you were there that night."

Chip said, "Hey. What about Sam and me?"

"Yeah. Why does Frank get all the attention?" Sam, his head in his hand, lay stretched out on the park bench. "Chip and I are jealous. We want some loving too."