Chapter 1. Leaving San Francisco, California

As Boeing 747 joined the friendly skies of San Francisco, California en route to Manila, Savannah was seated beside the window admiring the view inside the aircraft. With a book on her lap, she intends to enjoy the 14-hour non-stop trip. She is going to see her friends from high school, finalize the transfer of her parents' landholdings to her nephews and nieces, and tie some loose ends from her first relationship. 

Earlier this year, she learned that her ex-boyfriend from many years ago was still hurting and blaming her for his behaviour... He was always on the lookout for a relationship, he never stopped, while he was married for many many years. Savannah thought that she had this huge responsibility to fix it. She didn’t know-how. She decided to have a long talk with Eli. Maybe, just maybe, he would listen to her. She was in deep thoughts, not noticing a guy sitting on the aisle seat.

Hi.... I am Adam, your seatmate on this 14-hour trip, extending his hand to Savannah.

Savannah acknowledges the handshake. Nice to meet you! Still in deep thoughts, thinking of ways how to approach the issue. It’s been more than 10 long years. She is determined to fix it for her peace of mind. Did he forgive me already? What if he refused to see me? I haven’t seen him for many many years. Savannah was having mixed feelings.

Adam knew that Savannah was in deep thoughts by glancing at her from time to time. He assumed that she wanted to be left alone. 

Adam's heart is pounding rapidly. He doesn’t know why. He is excited. He would like to know her. We have 14 hours. I will make sure that I get her attention. 

A year ago, Adam went home from work earlier than the usual time when he discovered that his wife of 15 years was in bed with a friend. He was devastated. At the same time, their daughter also came in and witnessed all of her mother’s infidelity.

Adam left the house and got himself an apartment near his work. He filed for divorce and was granted after a year. His daughter is in her early twenties and moving in with her boyfriend of 5 years.

It was a rough 2 years for Adam.

His sister Susan lives in Tarlac, Philippines. She manages the farm that her family-owned for the last 40 years. Since you’re retired, already help me manage the farm. You can relocate here and look for a wife.

I am not interested in looking for a wife Susan, though I am willing to relocate there for a change. I will contact my old buddies. I will let you know when to expect me and thank you for thinking of me. I do appreciate that.

We are family, Adam I am so concerned about you. It's not a good idea to grow old without someone beside you. I will not force you. I will respect your decision and boundaries.

Meanwhile, Savannah opened her laptop and started typing when the light went off.

Let me help you with that. He turned on the light on Savannah’s head and directed the light to her laptop. There you go, you can type now! Adam said.

Thank you seatmate [she forgot his name]

You’re welcome. It’s Adam. My name is Adam.

Sorry, I am into a lot of things. I apologize for not remembering your name.

It’s okay, yes I can see that you’re pretty occupied. If you want to talk, I am your seatmate in the next 14 hours. Sure.... I don’t mean to ignore you and thank you for understanding.

Adam was observing Savannah. She was tall, pretty face, no ring, just simple stud diamond earrings but a lot of bracelets on both wrists. She doesn’t even wear make-up. Maybe she is in her late 40’s. She was avoiding eye contact, distant, sweet smile, slim delicate fingers, unpainted nails, and her hair was shoulder length. She looks sophisticated, reserved, alluring and professional. Adam is attracted to Savannah, at first glance. It's like the first time I’ve ever seen your face...

"The first time ever I saw your face I thought the sun rose in your eyes and the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave to the dark and the endless skies".

Adam was humming the song repeatedly calling Savannah’s attention.

I know that song. Savannah said.

Really, it's an old song. The lyrics are very romantic. Adam responded.

Yes, it was Adam. I remembered when I was in high school, someone gave me a tape that could be played on an old tape recorder. That was in the mid 70’s. Tape A...that song plays for 90 minutes and the backside is " You are so beautiful by Joe Crocker." 2 songs in 180 minute tape....that was so romantic then and now maybe for someone who is hopelessly romantic. Sad because until now I did not find out who gave that tape to me.

Adam thought, now we can talk. 

That was so romantic indeed. He did not come forward? Adam asks

No, so until now I am still guessing and wondering. Savannah quips.

So sad for him, so what brings you to Manila Savannah?

I am visiting my mother’s province and tying up all the loose ends regarding my parents' properties. I am the eldest, appointed as executor of the will. It is my responsibility to finish the transfers. And another issue about my past mistakes that I have to close the book.

So this trip is very important.Yes, it is. I have to finish all of it because I have no intention of coming back to my birth country.

You sounded so bitter....

No I am not...'she smiles at him.

She had a sweet smile. She’s more beautiful when she smiles. I have to get to know her now.

It is okay to talk, it’s a 14-hour trip. May I sit beside you. I don’t want to be shouting here.