Chapter Thirteen: Mum

I had gotten busy at the Pertels mansion. I closed my eyes, trying to comprehend the days I had being around. I wondered how Joanna would be coping with the restaurant and home. When I always asked her how things are, she would claim everything was fine. I left to serve the security guard his food. School had been tiring as always.

Just then, I spotted Brixan, who had left for a jog. He was sweating from the exercise. I wondered why he was so obsessed with exercise. I watched as he wiped his sweat. I knew why. So he could make serious hits at the girls. I turned around when I heard a familiar scream. The voice was so distinct and piercing. I turned around immediately to behold the owner of the voice.

" Honey" she smiled as she called

" Mum" I said, my eyes teary. We hugged each other tightly.

" I...I didn't know what happened. Why didn't you tell me? Do I always have to hear it from Joanna first" she cried

" I'm sorry, Mum" I said and she smiled " I didn't want you to get distracted. I had everything under control". She hugged

me tight that I got emotional again.

When we let go, we spotted Brixan.

" Good day, ma" he greeted and she smiled.

" Hi, handsome " she said sincerely and I frowned" The Pertels are so lucky to have a handsome son like you"

" Thank you " he said" Do you need help? I could show you around or get..."

" Mum, let's go" I said with a frown. She kept on smiling at Brixan as we left.

We sat down in the entrance of my cubicle. I watched as she sipped the drink I had gotten her.

" How could he be so reckless?" she said

" I know but I caused it, you know " I said

" You should have been more careful " she said

" I'm very sorry to bother you " I apologized" I wanted you to have peace at your workplace. I didn't want you to worry about me" I said

" Why would you say that? If I had stayed here with you, you won't get into trouble " she said" I'm a failed mother. I've failed in my duties "

" Mum, don't say that " I said" You haven't failed at all" I said

" How about I pack back? I could assist you with any job over here. I could also help with the Pertels. I could..."

" No, mum. I don't want you out there disrespecting yourself. I'm fine. I'm sorry I didn't tell you. I promise that from henceforth, I won't hide anything from you " I said" Don't worry. Keep on working. It'll soon be over, mum" I said and she cried

" Oh, honey" she said and I kissed her on the forehead.

***********

" What are you doing there?" Max asked

" Nothing" I said

" Is that her Mom?" he asked

" Yes " I said

" Are you watching them secretly?" he asked. He watched as I sat down, curled up on the kitchen cabinet, watching Hilda and her mother. I suddenly felt pity, something that I've never felt. I watched as they hugged. Hilda was a prettier version of her mother but I wondered where she got those little, pretty eyes. Max joined me in watching them. He hit my shoulder lightly. I watched her mum smile at Hilda.

I ruffled my hair, completely confused. Why am I feeling this way? I bit my lip as Hilda wrapped her hands around her Mum.

" Gosh" I bit my lip and Max looked at me

" Are you okay?" he asked and I nodded. I stood up and walked around for a while. I sat down again, watching them.

" You know, our maid is actually pretty, you know" he said and I watched him for a while.

" Hope you aren't thinking about something crazy" I said

" No. But I must say, she's pretty and flawless. Her voice is impeccable, soft irrespective of every situation. She has this strong spirit, never to say no, even when the times don't wish her well and aren't on her side" he said and my eyes fixed on her.

" What are you guys doing?" Nissa voice startled us and I jumped up , a bit frightened. Max burst into laughter while I ruffled my hair, obviously going crazy.

" Nothing. I mean...I... I...I was ...was..." I stammered

" Lost in thoughts. It's nothing serious " Max said and I bit my lip.

" Oh my. Is that Hilda's mum?" she said" I have to go " she said and rushed to meet them.

************

Nissa and my mum got along really well. I giggled as Nissa told my mum funny stories. She's really cool. Mum had visited for a week when Joanna had informed her about her daughter whereabouts. I missed her badly. I wished we met again when I was in a better position.

Undermining everything, we still had a good time together. Watching her leave got me emotional again.

" Love you, Mum" I said and she smiled

" I love you, honey" she said and I smiled. We kept on waving at each other until our distance got longer.

" I miss you, mum" I said, my eyes teary