216 Too Soon (2/2)

”What is it? ” She asked. The place was too quiet when they came in.

”It's them. ”

”Who? ” She asked further.

”Our group,with the addition of Giselle and Brian. ”

She sighed. She knew that she would be again the subject of their teasings.

___

At the Wayne's House in Jian's Garden

It was a hot afternoon and the father and son gathered in the gazeebo for a fresh air.

”Ton,what is your plan now that your contract has ended? ”

Anthon did not reply right away as he himself was afraid that his dad might not like the idea of getting married so soon with Jia.

”Do you want to marry Jia but you just don't know how you would break it to me? ”

”Yes, dad. ” He said shyly.

”Do it as soon as possible. ”

”The problem is Jia,herself. ”Anthon confided. ”She's not ready yet. ”

”It's not about her readiness. It's about her fear that your marriage would ruin our name. And besides, it is still two years since Jim passed away. ” Mr. Wayne explained.

”Are you also thinking the same way? ” Anthon asked,wondering about his opinion in this matter.

” You knew about my mistakes before but believe me,son,I am now a different person. ”

”Thank you,dad,but please help me convince Jia.She's avoiding me especially when you're around. ”

Anthon's house was sold and all his properties were occupied so he stayed with them, using the guest room.

”I will. ” Mr. Wayne assured him.

Kuya Nap then joined in and soon their topics went anywhere as they were catching up those many things which took place during Anthon's absence.

Jia,then, came in later to bring them food. As they were wrapped up with their conversation,she just smiled and kept silent as she placed the food on the table. When she was done,she turned to make a silent exit but Anthon caught her hand.

”Stay with us. ” He said while he tenderly looked into her eyes.

Since they went home after the reunion, she returned to be distant especially when Mr. Wayne was around. She almost didn't talk to him anymore.And Anthon was playing the cat - and-mouse game to get closer to her.

”I'm going to fetch the kids. ” She said,stealing a glance at her dad who was just observing them.

”I'll go with you. ” Anthon offered.

”No,just stay with dad and kuya. ”

Then, Mr. Wayne interrupted,his eyes were on Jia.

”Darling,why are you avoiding Tonton? ”

Jia, suddenly,got awkward. ”Dad,I'm not. ”

”You are. I have been observing

you. You don't even look at him. ” Mr. Wayne smiled.

Anthon laughed,feeling triumphant at his dad's intervention. Then, he stood up and clawed an arm over her waist,making her melt down in front of Mr. Wayne. She glared at him by throwing a sideway glance.

”Why?Dad knows that I love you even before Jian was made. ”

Mr. Wayne laughed and pitied Jia's sense of awkwardness.The more she fidgetted as she seemed to be floating in an inexplicable feelings.

”As I said,dear, I have no objection should you decide to marry again.

And I would be happier if you choose Tonton. ”

”Plan your wedding as soon as possible so that I could still play with my future grandchildren. ”

”Don't worry,dad. I'll start making one grandchild tonight! ”

Immediately,his ear almost peeled off as her long fingers twisted it into a 360- degree turn!