Four—A Favour

Sophia and I had dinner. She bought me a burger. I am so happy. I thanked her for the treat. She does not mind at all; she wanted to treat me more, but I said the meal was enough. We talked about many things during supper. And she shared something personal. She’s dating someone which she refers to as “commoner”. Sometimes I forgot that she’s super rich. I am always curious why she works in a company where she can do anything with her money. Like build a business on her own. Oh, well.

And also she shared she was forced by her parents to a marriage. She does not want to. That’s why she went to the hospital telling her parents she’s not feeling well and needs some rest. And that’s the reason she called me for my help today at her office.

She sought for my advice about her problem and I said nothing, but I asked her if she has no choice in her marriage or if she already talked it out with her parents. She just shakes her head. It means no.

“H, um, I know I am asking for too much. Can you please save me one last time? I’ll pay you.” She’s serious.

“Sophia, I don't mind helping you. You don't have to pay me. But know, I don't want complicated situations.” I said.

“Well, you see. This coming Saturday, my parents prepared for a party. This is to announce my engagement to who knows. Can you help me sabotage this party? “

“Sabotage? You crazy? I don't like complicated things, Sophia. My life’s already complicated. “

“Hear me out first, please.”

“I am listening. Go on.” But in my head this is not a good thing.

“So, what I am thinking was, you go find this unknown soon to be fiancé in the party. He will wear a crimson suit. He’s the only one wearing that. Then, asked him to go meet me at the pavilion. While I talked with my parents. Make sure he stays.”

“Wait. You want me to find a man wearing a red suit with no name? This is ridiculous. And how certain are you he’s the only one wearing that suit?”

“I am positive of it. My mother told the guests to wear any color except for crimson. And she made clear that they will pair my dress with him. H, I swear I do not know the man’s name. Please help me. You only have to ask him and make sure he stays on the pavilion until I arrive.” She said.

Sophia’s begging me. Her tone was serious and her voice almost cracked, as if she will cry. I was thinking about many things. First, my part-time jobs. Second, my final draft for Writer’s Luck competition’s not yet done., this plan of hers will be, I don't know, a complication.

“All right. I’ll help you. But I have a problem.” I hesitated to tell her.

“What's that?” she asked.

“I don't have a dress.” I was too shy to mention it to her. But it’s the truth. I don't wear dresses.

“Oh my goodness, H! Don't worry about it. Go to my flat on Saturday morning, okay? Thank you so much for agreeing! “She hugged me.

“This will be the last time I'll help you with this kind of thing, okay? “I said to her. 

She nodded, and we laughed.

Sophia drove me back home. She hugged me again and said thank you before I said good night to her.