Chapter 89: The Parents

RYKER

“Are we back home?” Her eyes darted around, taking in her immediate surroundings while the question lingered in the air. A feeling of uneasiness pervaded the air as if she were waiting for confirmation.

Claire’s eyes shifted to mine as I cautiously undid her seatbelt. “Yeah,” I said with a simple nod. “How was you sleeping?”

We decided to go back to the familiar surroundings of Manila after a few more days in the picturesque town of Sagada. I was tired and weary after the long drive. My limbs, too, were weighed down by throbbing pain. To be sure Claire was okay, I drove very slowly and steadily.

There was a palpable feeling of hurry when the safety belt was undone. Quickly, I extended a hand to help her out of the car. I took her hand in mine, my voice full of worry as I pleaded, “Please, my love, be careful.”

At Claire’s teasing chuckle, I couldn’t help but look in her direction. She reassured me that there was no need for me to offer my help and that she was well on her own.

M