SEVEN

CAMILLA

As he continued to stand up holding Aria, his eyes rose to mine, and I could see a flicker of recognition. My heart pounded as he walked over to me, his gaze fixed on my scar.

"Young lady," he whispered, his voice low and urgent. "I know you. You're the stranger I helped that night."

The world was spinning around me. How did he…? Why did he….?

Archie searched my eyes for some answers, and I felt so naked that the mist seemed to absorb the diner; we just stood in one vague image of silent agreement.

At last, he said, "Come with me," in a firm and gentle tone. "We need to talk." I hesitated, not exactly clear on how I was to reply. Something told me that I could trust him somehow, and I nodded my head in the affirmative as he led me out of the diner.

Outside, we reached a swing chair under the bamboo shade. Much silence went on between us, and then I coughed to clear my throat.

I am very thankful to you for helping that night…. Many people passed by and did not help. I felt so broken, feeling so lost that night….I didn't have your number, or else I could have contacted you to appreciate your kindness. I scoured around the room for an indication that I could find a clue on how to reach you, but I couldn't find one. I thought you were an angel in human that God sent to relieve my unfortunate day with a tip of kindness.

He smiled warmly at my words. Thank you for the appreciation, young lady. I just did that because I thought it was customary to help you out. Whether rich or poor, all of us get to a particular stage in life where we would need help from somebody. The money you have or the position you are in might not be able to save you that time, but the kindness or the help of some person would.

"Thank you very much sir".

“Do not call me sir, call me Archie, he said with a cold gaze in his eyes. ''.

I can’t read his expression. I can not tell whether he was nice or I was just lucky that day. I can not say whether he would have a good character or reputation to suit his physical appearance.Is he that loving, or just pretending to care for Aria because they're outside?

A lot of questions kept popping into my brain that I nearly asked him, but I fought my demons so that I could keep my composure. This is the first time I saw one of Aria's parents. I had always thought they were not alive or they didn't make contact with her because of the way she never let go while hugging me,anybody would know she lacked her mother's love.

His question buzzed me out of my thoughts. Do you own this place?

I laughed dramatically… Own? Where do I get money to own this business in this country?

He looked at me surprisingly… I bet he has never smelled poverty for once.

I have been working here part-time. I am still looking for a full-time job, probably a remote job, but I have not been able to secure one yet. Maybe it is because I am still a student. I have two more years at the university.

I have an offer for you is more like a request…he said directly. "Uh, what is that?" I'd be glad to help. I am not an ingrate.

I don't know if you can cook for Aria in our house. I don't like what I witnessed here today. I care so much about my daughter. I am so surprised to see her gulping those cookies and ice cream. She doesn't eat well at home. The kitchen maid told me she used to force her before she could take two to five spoons of meal, he uttered.

Really?. I was in disbelief because Aria would eat 2 to 3 servings of my cookies whenever she came here. What you requested for is something good for your daughter. I've never known many fathers who do care for their daughters. Plus, I like Aria because she is a very good, kind girl. There was once a time, she said, that she could give me all her money should I ever need assistance… We ended up laughing at that. But I'm working here to make money to survive.I somehow will not be able to work that into my schedule…. I remarked.

What if you turn out to be her chef and carer all combined in one? Please, I am asking this as a favor. I would pay tenfolds of the salary you're getting here. Perhaps you know Maria, her nanny? She is going very soon and will not come back. She told me this morning. Aria grew up in her hand. I'm so concerned she will have difficulty getting used to a new face. I saw how she was so affectionate toward you. She has never been like that to me… he said.

I love Aria. I care too much for her just to throw away her father's request like that. At the same time, this man has helped me at my lowest point. This is not too much to do. I will earn money while I get showered with love by little Aria. I did not hesitate but said yes.

We exchanged contacts. I told him it would take a week to round up, and he concurred. Of course, I will miss Clara, my shift mate and best friend at work, but what choice do I have other than to help Aria as much as I can? I'll be guilty for life if I don't.

We did not tell Aria about the decision because we wanted to surprise her. The most exciting part was that the weekend was Aria's 5th birthday party. Already in the diner, we met Aria, who was already eating her third serving routinely. It was time to leave; Aria ran up to me, and she gave me a squeeze and peek habitually. Nothing felt so good than that. I can have it every day now while being paid..