The lot of us checked in together as a group before Charlie went on with another round of briefing.
We will be doing a transit at Frankfurt before heading over to Hungary.
As the transit time is short, only 1.5 hours, we would need to clear the customs, hurry to the boarding gate and catch the connecting flight.
Someone mentioned that 1.5 hours is pretty long but Charlie replied that over there, please do not expect the efficiency you see in Singapore. It may take a while to clear the customs and security checks.
Charlie : So please look after one and other in your group yah. We don’t want anyone to miss the connecting flight.
Charlie was about to say something else when his phone rang.
He pressed 1 side of his ear close just to hear the other party speak.
I turned away to look at the girls
I watched the girls adjust each other’s clothes and I could really feel this heightened sense of relief in my mind. It was as if a heavy stone had been lifted off my chest.
They seemed so at ease with each other, casually chatting and commenting about everyday stuff as they fumbled and check their travel documents.
Ella : Let’s go grab breakfast shall we ?
Celeste nodded and just gestured for me to follow up with a cool shake of her head before linking arms with Ella.
I lugged my carry-on bag and fell in step behind the girls
There was so much I wanted to ask and talk to them about, both individually and together.
I turned to look at Charlie and saw that he was looking back at the check in belt we just left. His head was scanning about for a while before he reminded everyone to be punctual and board the plane before disappearing away into a crowd.
I gave it a shrug and caught up to the girls.
The questions immediately flooded back into my mind.
What happened from the period since we ceased contact?
Are they ok ?
Did they have a good talk about what happened ?
Did they have a falling out right after ?
I wanted to ask Ella why did she quit her job and has she found a new one ?
And for Celeste , I really do have feelings for her and I wanted to know how was she after this unfortunate episode.
Are we truly ok ?
It’s inevitable that she might feel hurt after I cheated on her, not to mention it’s her best friend.
I was really worried about me spoiling their relationship.
So many questions peppered my mind as we decided to check in and eat at the duty free area.
After clearing the customs, Ella got a small trolley to fit all our carry-on bags and left the heavy lifting to me.
We settled down at a café and ordered Kaya toast and more coffee.
The girls were excited about the trip and were talking nonstop about the places we would be visiting.
I felt a little ignored but I did not mind, at least I did not have to go on the trip alone.
I don’t know why but when I watch Ella sip her coffee and Celeste bite into her bread, I felt an erection stirring.
There was this familiar sense of arousal as I watch the 2 girls go about their chat.
The first thing that came to my mind was the sleeping arrangements.
I know for sure during the booking, Celeste and I would be sharing a room, Ella will be with Don for obvious reasons. Now that both of them are coming on this trip, does it mean we will be sharing the same room ?
Will I take turns with the girls ?
Perhaps they would ditch me and share a room themselves.
I was happily lost in my thoughts when a flash from a nearby camera snapped me out of my daydream.
Ella shifted her leg, uncrossing her leg and I felt it accidentally brush against mine.
I paused and looked at her but she ignored me.
I was wearing jeans, yet that quick brush of Ella’s leg against mine brought back so many memories. The smoothness of her hairless calves, the smell of her hair, I could almost feel an erection building up.
Then, without warning, I felt a kick on my shin as I saw Celeste eyeing me cautiously, her eyes narrowing at me while i stared at Ella.
I did not even realised I was staring at Ella.
James : It was nothing… i…. i… I was… just… just…. Lost in thought….
Celeste : No need to say anything James….. Just remember…. You are on thin ice…
Ella smiled without looking at me while Celeste made a face at me.
That insignificant incident made me horny for some weird unexplained reason.
Does that mean the girls are jealous of each other in some weird unexplained way?
The moment Celeste looked away, seemingly occupied with the array of duty free shops , Ella made eye contact with me.
There was something naughty about her eyes, as if there was this twinkle I could not explain.
It was a surreal moment and we just spent the next few seconds staring at each other while we sipped our coffee.
What happened to us the last couple of months flooded itself back into my mind, like the sudden opening of a dam. Emotions and feelings that I thought were dam up just filled up this void in me.
I wish I could describe that moment.
It really felt like a bit of disappointment, stemming from the realisation that Celeste and I will be making up with each other. Then again, there was this priceless look of relief on Ella’s face.
Perhaps she felt the same way I did.
Finally having a heavy rock removed from her chest.
What we did was wrong, and there is simply no reason for it to continue.
As I drained my coffee, I could not help but suddenly notice a change in Ella’s expression.
It was a sudden change.
A total deviation from the original emotions that she was feeling seconds ago.
Her eyes widened and she slowly sat upright.
She was not looking at me but I could see her eyes burning up with anger and resentment.
I was about to turn and see what she was looking at when Celeste happened to turn towards me.
The moment her body angled and she too widened her eyes.
Her lips were slightly parted and it was a look of pure confusion.
I immediately turned and I felt this solid lump in my throat drop into my chest, restricting my ability to breathe properly.
Barely 5 meters away, stood someone we never expected to see.
Don .
Charlie was talking to him about something before giving us a wave and disappeared into the liquor shop.
I could not believe my eyes.
It was Don alright but he looked different.
I gathered he had lost at least 5 kg. His face had sharpened visibly and the clothes he was wearing hung a little loosely on his shoulders. He looked like he did not shave for a couple of days and he just seemed so tired.
I immediately walked over.
James : What the fuck Don ? …. What are you doing here ?
He smells like he had been on a plane for a while, his clothes looked crumpled up close.
Before Don could answer me, Ella had stormed over.
She started her conversation with a push, shoving Don 2 steps from where he stood.
The sudden commotion drew the attention of 2 police officers who was having their lunch break barely a few steps away. I could feel their eyes on us as their hands slowly set down their utensils and just watched us quietly.
Ella tried to slap Don but Don stepped back and avoided Ella’s palms easily.
I held onto Ella and asked her to calm down.
Celeste was already on her way over and I half shoved and begged Celeste to take Ella away before things get ugly.
Ella finally spoke, the anger evident in her voice.
Ella : What gives you the right to be here !!
And when Don replied, I was taken aback with his nonchalant attitude.
Don : I paid for this trip. I have every right to be here.
Ella was about to snap and I immediately gave Don a shove, pointing my finger at his face.
James : Stop it !…. not here..
I immediately grabbed by bags and grabbed Don away from the girls.
We walked without a word for about 50m before Don shrugged me off.
Don : Let go la…. I’m ok…
James : What the fuck was that man ?
James : You cheated on her, left with a fucking PRC bitch and now you….. you just suddenly show up ? What the fuck ???
Don went over to a bench and sat down.
Don : I fucked up man James…. I really messed everything up.
James : You fucked up the moment you decided to side with Mimi many months back.
He buried his face in his hands and I just stared at him.
After what seemed like 5 minutes, Don suddenly grabbed onto me.
Don : Help me James….
I stared at him wide eyed.
James : help ??? what help ? … haven I done enough ? …..
I exhaled and looked away.
And the next sentence Don said sent a chill down my spine.
Don : Help me get Ella back…..
My heart almost stopped beating as I turned to look at my dear friend.
James : Are you out of your mind…..
Don : Please James…..please…. I was wrong…. I just need another chance….
It was my turn to bury my face in my hands.
I was at a lost for words.
I really did not know what to say.
We sat silently at the bench watching people walk by for close to half an hour before I realise it was time to board.
I nudged Don to snap him out of his day dream.
James : Let’s go…
Don : Will you help me….
James : I don’t know how to help you…. Leave me out of this….
I walked in front of Don as I tried to organise my messed up thoughts. All expectations of a nice Europe holiday had left my mind.
Don called out to me and what he said made me paused where I stood.
Don : I will get Ella back….. by hook or by crook…. I will do it even if you refuse to help me.
I took a deep breath and turned to face Don.
Our eyes met and I could not tell if the Don I knew was still in this human shell that was standing in front of me.
Don : I know Ella likes you…. Even more so now that I am out of the picture…
I kept quiet maintaining my silence.
Don : Only you can help me…..
Then from the corner of my eyes I saw the girls.
They were standing a distance away, looking at us.
I turned to look at them, their arms were folded.
Ella was glaring at Don.
Celeste was staring at me.
This is going to be an interesting Europe trip……………..
When the time came for us to board the plane, the entire situation became even more awkward.
The moment we cleared the security screening to the waiting area, Ella approached me to ask where I would be sitting.
It’s a 3 , 4 , 3 configuration on the flight.
[C][J][E] [][][][] [][][]
Celeste had the window seat while I got the middle and Ella got the aisle spot.
Ella : James…. Can I sit beside Ella ?
I found it hard to refuse and I agreed. What else could I do ?
I did not mind the aisle seat anyway, it’s easy to go to the bathroom and I could stretch my legs.
With the change, our seats was shuffled.
[C][E][J] [][][][] [][][]
Don too came over to check my seat and I told him not to bother, I’m not changing seats with him.
Don : I really need to talk to Ella, please James….
James : Don’t do this here please….. you have no right…
I checked his ticket and realised Don was seated quite a few seats back as he checked in separately.
I overheard him talking to other tour members asking if they wanted to switch seats with him.
Don : Oh… I just want to sit closer to my wife….. initially I was busy with work, but I manage to make it for the trip.
I could not believe what I was hearing from Don.
Just a few months ago, he would have found it hard to tell a lie.
Now he is so smooth with a blatant lie that he hardly blinked.
Nothing could describe the look of disgust on Ella’s face as she glared with him.
Seems like spending a couple of months with Mimi and her kind did change him.
Celeste was about to speak but Ella held her back.
I guessed they did not want to create a commotion.
Don did not give up easily, he went around asking most of the people in the tour, his eyes looking for that tell-tale sticker we all had on our shirt.
I kept an eye on him the same time I kept an eye on the girls who was talking harshly to each other. They whispered angrily to each other while sighs of anguish peppered their conversation.
I suddenly heard Don laugh as he settled down beside this family that was going on the same tour as us.
It seems 1 of them did not mind changing the seat with Don as it was nearer to the toilet, a seat he preferred.
I did not know what seat that was but seeing that Don was willing to make that change, it had to be closer to us.
Don spent the rest of the pre boarding time talking to the family.
When the time came to board, we followed the rest of the passengers and got up the plane.
I tried to talk to Ella but she just gave me a weak smile.
I tried to talk to Celeste but she gave me this helpless blank look.
In the end I tried to talk to the flight crew and all she said to me was ;
“ Sir, please move down the aisle, Thank you “
I had just helped the girls stow the bags on the overhead compartment when I heard Don behind me.
Don : Ella, please, we need to talk….. at least listen to what I have to say.
There wasn’t much space on the plane and with Don approaching, Ella just squeezed her way pass everyone and went straight into the window seat, blatantly ignoring Don.
I could tell she was angry.
What I could not believe was that Don actually tried to squeeze his way pass me and Celeste to talk to Ella, and in the process of doing so, he accidentally nudged Celeste against the elbow of another passenger that was stowing his luggage on the overhead compartment.
James : Hey… hey… wtf man …
Don paused as Celeste groaned.
The passenger apologised but it was not his fault.
Celeste took the opportunity to push me into the middle seat.
With a unfriendly frown on her face, she nudged Don aside and took the aisle seat.
I could not believe what was happening as I just stared at Don.
He exhaled and licked his lips, an action I had never seen him do and he took the seat beside Celeste.
[E][J][C] [D][][][] [][][]
This wraps up the seat configuration for our 12.5 hour flight.
I have never taken a flight that goes more than 12 hours before in my life and looking at how things are turning out, I’m guessing it would not be a pleasant one.
As the crew gets ready for the flight to take off, I could see Don kept turning over to look at us.
By us I meant Ella and me.
Ella decided to shut herself out of the whole thing, her headphones were plugged in and she refused to even turn and look at me for fear of catching an eye contact with Don.
Celeste on the other hand was a little grumpy about this unexpected show up.
When the engine of the plane started roaring for take-off, I had to be dumb and ask Celeste a stupid question.
James : How is the sleeping arrangements like ah ?
Celeste was in the midst of removing her blanket from the plastic bag when she pause, exhale and slowly turned her head towards me with a dagger like stare.
I quickly put up my hands, palms facing her and gave an awkward smile.
James : Ok…. Ok… just asking….
I turned to look at Ella who was leaning back and looking at her nails during the take off.
I thought of asking her the same questions but even while I procrastinate whether to open my mouth, Ella shot me a look to tell me I better keep my mouth shut.
I exhaled and shook my head as I plugged myself into the entertainment system.
I had barely registered my joy and relief of seeing the 2 girls back together and now I needed to deal with Don.
He is different alright but it still struck me by surprise how much he had change within that short period of time.
I could not think of any nice words to put it but somehow, he seemed more matured in a way, a far cry from the guy that was hooked by the PRC woman a few months ago.
What is Don’s story ?
What happened to him during that few months ?
And most important of all, what did he really want from Ella ?
His actions don’t really make sense to me either.
First you just divorced your wife, because you chose another woman.
Then barely before the wounds begin to heal, you popped up all of a sudden to join her for a trip.
As if that was not bad enough, you wanted to make up ?
Nothing seemed to connect at all.
My thoughts was disrupted by the stewardess asking if I wanted a drink and I took a glass of water.
Ella motioned for an apple juice and I passed it along to her.
Don was staring up into the ceiling of the plane. He’s deep in thought, probably thinking about what he had done and how he is going to get Ella back .
3 hours into the flight, after our meals were served, I was well into my 2nd movie.
Ella had timed her bathroom visit properly, choosing to go when she saw Don heading to the bathroom.
She literally straddled me, much to Celeste’s irritation as she made her way out to the aisle.
How she does it I don’t know.
She actually peed, washed her face and rinse her mouth and got back to her seat just when Don left the bathroom.
Celeste was still in 1 of the cubicles relieving herself.
Don saw that Celeste’s seat was empty and he was making his way over.
Ella was fast, she turned and caught sight of Don, like an experienced driver checking his blind spot, Ella immediately maneuverer herself into her seat without even giving me a chance to stand up.
She straddled me again, losing her balance at the same time pressing both her palms onto my chest.
My eyes widened as I felt her damp hands wet my shirt.
Don was barely 4 steps away when Ella completed her move and plugged her headphones on.
Don : Ella, I know you are mad at me, but at least give me a chance to explain.
I sat still, trying to lean back as Don directed his words at Ella.
Don : I know I was wrong, but… I have my reasons.
That was when I literally jumped in my seat.
Ella snapped back at Don.
Ella : Get out of my sight !
She said it so suddenly and I was unaware of her sudden change in demeanour that it caused me to jump slightly.
As if that was not bad enough, Don turned to me.
Don : James…. Say something… you helped me with Mimi..
My eyes widened and my blood was boiling.
James : Hey. Watch what you say…. What do you mean I helped you with Mimi…..
Celeste came back the moment I clarified to Don.
James : I tried to help you get rid of her….. you are the one who chose to stay by her side.
Celeste was none too polite as she folded her arms and asked Don to fuck off from her seat.
By then, it was pretty evident to the rest of the tour members within earshot that my travel party wasn’t such a pretty picture.
From the corner of my eye, I could see some whispering and raised eyebrows.
I’ve never felt that embarrassed before in my life.
30 minutes later, all was quiet.
Both the girls chose to sleep and Don too decided to grab a shut eye.
About another hour later, I did not realise I had fallen asleep halfway through my show and I was jerked awake by a small turbulence.
My eyes opened slowly and I was surprised to see Ella staring at me.
She looked beautiful where she sat.
The sun coming in from the slit of window she had left about ¼ opened lit up her exposed arms, painting it a healthy shade of gold.
Ella had the blanket wrapped over her shoulders, her arms were folded as she stared at me.
James : Are you ok ?
She considered my question for a moment before nodding her head.
I saw her eyes left mine as she looked past me.
I turned and saw Don looking at us.
I looked away, unwilling to deal with this for the moment.
Eventually I have to face it but not now.
Not on the plane.
Ella stretched a little and readjusted her sleeping position
I went back to my show and was rewinding it when I felt the pressure on my leg.
I immediately turned and look at Ella,
She had taken off her flats and helped herself to my blanket which I stuffed into the seat pocket in front of me.
Choosing to lean back against the window, Ella orientated her body, stretching her legs out and resting it on my thighs.
I felt a sudden surge in hormones as I felt the weight of Ella’s legs.
Not waiting for me to react, Ella did the unthinkable.
She opened up my blanket, unfolded it and with a suave throw, covered her legs, my thighs and up to the bottom of her denim shorts.
Ella refused to meet my eye contact and she went about doing her thing, propping pillows to make sure she got a comfortable position.
My left armrest was in the way, as such, Ella’s legs were angled really close to the seat in front of me and she was trying to work around that.
I could only stare in horror as Ella finally found a position that she fancied.
Back against the window, left leg stretched out straight, crossing my left thigh pointing to my right knee.
And her right leg.
Her barefooted right leg.
She went over the arm rest and rested it on my left thigh, really close to my groin.
I did not dare to move.
I could see Don staring at me from the corner of my eye.
I tried to concentrate on my movie, but the rewind button seemed to have stopped responding.
Or perhaps I stopped pressing onto it.
Either way, I was not that concerned about the movie anymore.
Ella was staring at me now but I no longer dare to meet her eye.
No, it’s not because I’m embarrassed Ella put her legs up on mine.
I’m panicking because Ella’s right foot never stopped moving even after finding the comfortable spot she wanted.
I could feel her foot slowly sliding towards my groin.
I turned to see Celeste still fast asleep and I quickly plead Ella to stop with my puppy eyes.
She did not seemed like she cared, it felt like she was doing it to spite Don.
But I am the innocent party.
I just want to go for my Europe trip.
Then without warning, Ella passed me her toiletries bag the airlines handed out to the passengers.
Ella : James…. Can you help me put on my socks…
My jaw dropped as I looked at Ella’s nonchalant manner and attitude.
I could feel a bead of perspiration roll down my neck as I stared at Ella with my mouth half open.
Ella : It’s easier for you to reach my feet…… no ?
I almost peed in my pants as I felt Ella’s right feet leave the fleshy part of my left thigh and angled itself sharply down towards my groin.
Her feet slid down a little before stopping.
There was no way she could go down further.
Not possible.
I shook my head at her but with her arms folded, and her head slightly angled, I knew there was no room for negotiation.
I turned to check on Celeste who was fast asleep and made eye contact with Don who obviously was aware of everything.
He exhaled and turned away, choosing to get some shut eye.
I heaved a sigh of relief and turned to Ella.
James : ok… ok… he’s sleeping already…. No need to do this for show…
Ella raised an eyebrow at me.
And when I felt the grip of her toes around my erection, all the hairs behind my neck raised on its end.
As if that was not torturous enough, Ella called out for Celeste .
Ella : Girl…. Wake up….
Ella : Celeste… hey….
I immediately took the socks and started to bunch them up before helping Ella put it on her left feet first.
Her toes gave a little squirm before obediently entering the comfy socks.
I pulled them over her tights before her left feet disappeared under the blanket, making itself comfortable on my feet.
Her right foot came out next and I repeated what I did, helping Ella with her sock.
She made a final adjustment to her position and settled back onto her pillow with a smile before slowly closing her eyes.
Celeste stirred and woke up.
With Ella all over me, I was holding onto the remote with both hands, looking innocently at Celeste.
Her eyes narrowed.
Her jaws shifted position and her fist was clenched before she gave me a light punch on my right cheek.
It was more of a playful hit but she had a frown on her face.
She too adjusted her position and slept with her head on my shoulder.
I gave a slow exhale and looked at the time.
8 More hours to go.
…………………………………………………………….
I tried to ignore all the external disturbance and did what I could to concentrate on the show but barely 5 minutes after the girls settled into their position, I felt this tickling sensation on my dick.
It was Ella.
I glared at her but her eyes were closed.
You would think she was fast asleep if you take a quick glance but her foot tells me otherwise.
I could feel Ella rubbing me gently on my groin with her foot, sending obscene amount of blood to my painful erection. I attempted to adjust myself away but it was near impossible.
I clenched down on my teeth when Ella somehow manage to prod me on the pee hole through my pants and boxers. I think the white of my eye showed for a second or 2 and I quickly grabbed hold of her right ankle.
Ella slowly opened her eyes, just like someone waking up from sleep.
She maintained an innocent look, as if I was the one disturbing her sleep.
I pleaded with my eyes but she just smiled and close hers.
Thankfully she stopped, but not before mouthing for me to massage her feet under the blanket.
I gave a half-hearted massage to her right feet for less than 2 minutes before she just smiled and wriggled away, tucking her chin into her folded arms with her eyes closed.
30 minutes later, the girls both changed their position and I was finally free.
I took the opportunity to use the bathroom and was surprised that Don was waiting for me outside.
Don : James , we need to talk..
James : Ya… what is it..
We loitered near the back galley, where there is a bit of space and Don started his story.
The initial bits were just random pieces of information.
What happened to xiaohua, where is Mimi’s hometown. He even related a version of what happened between Mimi and Walter but I just nodded in silence.
What is Mimi’s favourite food and Xiaohua’s crush on Mimi.
Information I have absolutely no interest in.
Then he started with a formal apology to me.
Don : I’m really…. Really sorry for all of this….. Sincerely….. from the bottom of my heart.
What I did not expect from Don though was for him to hold my hand in his.
James : Eh, knn la…. Don’t gay with me…
I wave him off, shrugged off his hands and told him to forget everything, but remember to pay me my money.
He promised he will definitely pay me back.
Don : Just give me some time to sort out my issues and get back on my feet..
He brushed his hair with both his hands, sighing with a loud gasp.
Don : I fucked up man…. I really fucked up this time..
Don starting telling me about how much he regretted going to Mimi and that he almost went mad when he was in China.
With a totally different culture over there, he realised he was unable to adapt well to the way of life. The food too were not suited to his taste buds.
Don : It’s all too salty and spicy…. It totally sucks over there…
My arms were folded and I guess my expression told it all. I was losing my patience with where this is headed and I was eager to get back to my seat.
Don : It’s…. I … I don’t know how to put it…… but…. But.. I realised I still loved Ella after all this.
Don : I realised that…. Mimi….. wasn’t for me…
I shook my head at Don.
James : But how did Mimi’s oyster tasted ? nice and fresh right? ….
I was about to go on but someone happened to walk to where we wear with a half asleep toddler and we kept quiet immediately.
Don gave me an exasperated look and looked away, we waited for the area to clear before we continued.
Don : We’re all men, don’t pretend you wouldn’t have taken the piece of meat on your plate.
James : Maybe I would…. But I would know how to wipe my mouth and fuck off after eating.
I jabbed my finger into his chest.
James : Whereas you, are still holding on to that piece of rotten meat like it’s some treasure….. and you did that in front of your wife….
Don shoved my finger away and threw in some unless details and answers that doesn’t even fit into the current conversation.
James : I’m not doing this Don, I helped you once…. This is your own doing…
Don held onto my hand right when I was walking away.
Don : James please….. one last time…. I promise….
He looked as if he had tears filling up his eyes and he could cry any moment.
Don : One more time…. I promise I won’t fucked up anymore….. you don’t want to see Ella and me in this state too right…. ?
I shook my head and I was about to reject Don when he told me something that made me do a double take.
Don : I got a good news man…I’m ok already…. As in…..my…
He gestured to his dick as I stared wide eye at him.
Don : I took some herbal stuff Mimi’s grandmother made….. I tell you… power….
Nothing could describe the look of disgust on my face.
Don : I confirm can liao now…..
James : What the fuck has that got to do with me man ?
It was at that very moment I felt like punching Don.
I could not believe the words that left his mouth.
Don : Mimi got pregnant…. A while back
He said with such excitement that it made me sick.
James : What the fuck… ?
He nodded his head eagerly.
James : Then why are you here. ?
Don went on to tell me that Mimi had an abortion because she did not want the kid, not with the one child policy and all, and definitely not as a single unwed mum in China.
Don : You see… I’m ok already…. Ella always wanted a child….
His sudden surge of excitement was disgusting and unbelievable.
Don : I’m sure once we settle down with a family….. a child of our own…. Everything would be fine…. We will be ok ….
My jaws was hanging off my chin.
My eyes felt dry from the dry cabin air and it took me a while to digest what Don just said.
I struggled to get the words out of my mouth.
James : What makes you think Ella would want you back ?? After all that you’ve done…..
That was the nice version.
What I really wanted to say was what the fuck are you thinking ?
You really think your ex-wife would sleep with you again ?
I paused and took a deep breath.
James : I have friends who tried years for a child…. And you just fucking killed one …what the fuck man…
Don : Calm down…listen to me James…
James : Fuck you… don’t ask me to calm down….
Don : James please !!
With a sudden thud, Don knelt on the floor.
The commotion caught the attention of the air crew who were resting at the back and they came out to ask if everything is ok.
I struggled to break free from Don and he was up on his feet in no time as he followed me back to my seat.
Right before I reached my seat, Don added.
Don : James….i have no right to ask you of anything…. But at least ask Ella to listen to me. Her parents are growing old, mine too…… they always wanted a grandchild……. If…
Don : Just give me a chance to explain….she can reject me , she can scold me…. She can slap me….anything…. but at least listen to what I have to say. ..
He sighed.
Don : I’ll never ask anything of you again….
I ignored him and went back to my seat, utterly embarrassed that several passengers were staring at me including people from our tour group.
Ella was awake and she was just looking at her feet, no doubt having heard what Don said to me.
Celeste was playing with her fringe, eyeing me suspiciously.
I sat down and watch Don left for the bathroom again after realising none of us were looking at him.
Ella and Celeste asked me at the same time.
Ella & Celeste : What did he want ?
James : He wanted …..er…..erem…to.. to talk to you….
I motioned to Ella and she just looked away out the window.
Before the 2nd meal was served, I casually asked if the girls want to change seats, nudging both their arms at the same time I spoke.
I meant I did not mind switching with Celeste so she can talk to Ella, but it happened that there was an announcement on the PA system and I guessed Celeste could not hear me properly.
James : I’m in the middle of you girls…… you want to seat together ?
Maybe her ears were blocked or maybe it was the announcement, I don’t know, but Celeste definitely misheard and misunderstood my intention.
Celeste replied almost immediately.
Celeste : You are not sleeping between us James……
The moment Celeste finished her sentence, Ella who probably caught onto what I had said earlier, burst out laughing as I stared at Celeste with my mouth wide opened.
Ella : Haha… haha… dear…. James… said haha… ‘seat’ ….. not ‘sleep’
Celeste grew quiet for a moment before folding her arms and crossing her legs, choosing to fiddle with in-flight entertainment remote
Ella nudged me to pacify Celeste and I did, changing seats with her.
I put on my best smile and linked arms with Celeste, forcing my hand underneath her tightly held right arm which she tried to plaster against her own body.
I turned her to face me and realised how pretty and innocent she looked. The turtleneck covered most of her neck, leaving only her flawless face exposed. Her hair was silky smooth, almost bouncing with every movement as she looked at me.
I held her hands, feeling the cold fingers and rubbing them warm in my palms.
James : Give me a chance to make it up to you on this trip ….
Celeste looked away but I could see a smile slowly appearing on her mouth.
James : I’ll do anything for you….. and I’ll get you that castle….we can do it in a castle…
Celeste burst out laughing and just jabbed me on my chest.
I sat on the aisle and aside from some casual chat and questions from Don, nothing much happened.
I could feel the immediate change in temperature the moment we stepped out of the plane into Frankfurt airport. It’s a pretty long walk to the immigration and Charlie was spotted hurrying a few of the tour members along the way.
The queue to the immigration booth was a nightmare, the Germans don’t look too friendly and took their time scrutinising every detail of your travel documents. By the time the group of us cleared the customs for our connecting flight to Budapest, our eyes were puffy, our hair looked like they went through a dryer and no one was in much of a mood for small talks.
Ella and Celeste were pretty much zoned out, staring into empty space most of the time.
I too was feeling the after effects of the long flight.
Don borrowed money from me to get coffee.
Don : Sorry ah… I’ll pay you back.
He got 4 cups and since Ella refused to even look at him, Celeste accepted the coffee only after reinforcing the fact that it was because they were paid using my money.
We boarded the plane after finishing our drink.
Thankfully the connecting flight was only slightly more than an hour.
After another 15 minutes wait for the tour bus to arrive at Budapest airport, we finally started our tour.
By some twisted joke of fate, Don managed to sit beside Ella.
This was because he budged in the queue, and choked up the line heading up the bus. Everyone was eager to get out of the cold and Ella relented much to the disgust of Celeste.
Celeste cuddled herself into my arms as we settled a few seats behind Don and Ella.
I could see he had started talking to Ella but was not sure if Ella was listening.
As the bus pulled away from the airport, Charlie went on to give us a brief introduction of the country before handing the mic over to our Hungarian tour guide, Matt.
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is bisected by the River Danube, and the 19th-century Chain Bridge connects its hilly Buda district with flat Pest.
Matt : Basically, the part with the hills and contours is Buda, the flat part is Pest.
I smiled and turned towards Celeste, looking at her breast.
James : Do you think you are Buda or Pest ? haha
I would have expected a jab to the ribs, maybe a pinch to my nipples but I was surprised Celeste remained cool and unmoved.
She smiled actually and her reply made me behave for the rest of the bus trip.
Celeste : What about Ella….. is she Buda or pest ?
Like a tortoise whose head is about to shrink back into it’s shell, I kept quiet.
Peeking through the seats, I could see Don talking non-stop to Ella.
After a short drive, we got to the Buda district. The view from fisherman’s Bastion is spectacular. I’ve never seen such a view before in my life.
No towering skyscrapers, just the flat orderly rows of European architecture. There are so much details on the buildings itself, everyone surely has an interesting history of it’s own.
I’ve never been out of Asia before and as I bask in the splendour of Hungary, I forgot all about Don, Ella, and all the problems that came with this trip.
We took photos, enjoyed wine on the river cruise, dined on the famous Vaci Utca street, one of the main pedestrian thoroughfare in Hungary.
Surprisingly though, Ella allowed Don to stick with her longer than I expected , still Ella made sure to join Celeste and me when we eat.
Don ate a sandwich and had a beer with Charlie.
Singapore is 6 hours ahead in terms of time. The long flight took it’s toll on most of us and more than half of the tour group were in a dream like state.
By 9.30pm Hungary time, which is 3.30am in Singapore, we were a little disorientated. My eyelids felt super heavy, and I felt I could collapse onto any surface and just fall asleep.
We checked into the hotel in Buda district, facing a nice hilly neighbourhood.
I was too tired to think about room arrangements.
Yes, given a choice , of course I wanted to sleep with Celeste.
Come on.
It’s a no brainer.
Then again, given the situation, I was already mentally prepared to share room with Don.
When the keys were distributed, Charlie gave Ella and Celeste 1 room each. I was sure by then the issues within my party had spread throughout the tour group.
Without a word, Celeste passed me a key and said she will be sleeping with Ella.
I was too tired to raise any objections.
Our rooms were beside each other on the 3rd floor and the moment my door closed, I went on to take my shower.
Don tried to talk to me about helping him when I came out but I told him to go wash up and have a rest first.
James : It’s a long flight and we are all tired. …. Let’s talk about this tomorrow….
Don : But James…. I really need your help….please…
James : Ok… ok… tomorrow we discuss about it…. Over breakfast…. Gum bo…
Don : Ok… I talked to Ella earlier…. She doesn’t seemed that angry…
I rolled my eyes behind his back.
Don went in after me and once I hear the water flowing, I went to look at his luggage.
He only had a few pieces of clothing inside his bag, there were bags and plastic bottles strewn around.
A few pieces of RMB coins, a calling card and a toiletries bag.
Papers with scribbles and I found lubricants.
No, not those KY jelly you use for foreplay.
It’s pre seed. 2 bottles of them.
One that you use when you are trying to get pregnant
There was a vitamin C effervescence tube container, I opened it and saw it contained money.
Bundles of RMB, probably a couple of thousands.
A small key pouch had about 200 SGD.
A medicine bag with an array of medications, mostly written in Chinese.
They were scribbled so badly that I found it hard to read them.
There were syrups that looked like cough mixture and pills together with tubes of medicated powder.
There’s even a bottle of medicated oil.
I checked Don’s phone but it was already flat.
I plugged in my phone to the charger and without realising it, I fell asleep.
7am Singapore time, my default handphone alarm rang and I jumped, taking a good 5 seconds to realise that i had only slept for 3 hours.
It’s about 1am in Budapest.
I massaged my head and turned to my side.
Then my heart dropped.
Sitting upright, I looked around the hotel room.
Don was nowhere to be seen.
I sprang out of bed and rushed to the bathroom whose light was not even on.
There was no one there
James : Fuck.
Don is missing.
I started to get dressed.
I barely threw on a shirt when I heard the click of the door lock.
Immediately I threw myself back into bed.
The door swung open, spilling a quadrant of light into the dark room.
I could make out Don standing at the door.
He was not moving, just looking at my direction.
My eyes were opened, I was sure he could not see that. Not when his eyes have yet to adjust to the dark room.
Don came into the room and shut the door as quietly as he could.
I watch him slowly make his way to the dresser table where my phone was.
His face lit up and he quickly pointed the phone away before putting it down.
Next he went to my wallet and I saw him took 2 bills from it.
I watch Don pace around for a while before he went towards the door again.
I was wide awake by then and I saw another spill of light before hearing the click of the closing door.
Immediately I got out of bed and got dressed in double quick time.
Rushing to the door, I looked out the peep hole.
The corridor was empty.
I hesitated for a moment before opening the door.
I have nothing to hide.
I could always say I’m looking for Don if he sees me, after all, who the fuck would go missing at 1am from the hotel room in a foreign country.
Choosing to take the stairs, I went down to the lobby.
The stairwell was not heated and it felt like I entered a fridge.
Descending down the stairs, I got to the ground floor in no time and I peered through the glass panel opening.
There he was.
Don.
Talking to one of the hotel staff.
Moments later, money changed hands.
My money.
Then the staff passed Don 2 additional key cards, 1 after another.
I saw Don turn away and I immediately ran up the staircase and got back to the room.
I could hear the chime of the lift right before I close the room door.
I threw my clothes off and kicked away the shoes, diving into bed.
Seconds later, the room door opened for the 2nd time.
I was trying to control my breathing, my lungs desperate for air as I fought the urge to wheeze.
Don went straight to the dresser again but I was lying on my side, so I could not see what he was doing.
When he came into view again, Don quietly undressed and got into bed.
His back was facing me and I was staring at him.
Without warning, Don turned towards me.
My eyes closed instinctively.
You know the feeling you get when someone is staring at you even without looking ?
That was what I felt.
That piercing stare in the dark room.
Something dawned on me that morning at that exact moment.
Don did not need my help all along…..whatever game he is playing…..
He just needed me out of his way…..
25th September 2010
Budapest
Sunday
6.20am
I drifted off to sleep without realising it and when my eyes opened again, it was already past 6 in the morning.
Don’s back was facing me and I stretched myself in bed.
I got up and drank some water, the cold dry air made my throat parched and dry.
I could hear Don stirring when I switched off the charger from my phone and checked my messages.
Don : Arghhhhhh…..grrhhhh…… the bed quite comfortable man……ooooofffff…..
James : Is it ? …. When was the last time you had a good sleep ?
Don laughed and said he had actually been bumping around since he left China 4-5 days ago.
I leaned against the table while sipping my water and asked Don about Mimi.
James : Does she know you are here ?
Don hesitated before shaking her head.
James : So you just …… ran away ?
Don : Wah…. Don’t say until like that la….. it’s just that…… we’re all adults…
I added almost immediately that if only he had ran away after fucking her a few months back we would not be in this situation now.
He could not think of a reply and went off to the bathroom.
7.15am
The girls were up too and after a call to their room, we decided to meet for breakfast at the lobby.
The tour bus would pick us up at 8.30am and we would need to be ready by then.
I was really surprised that Ella did not mind Don dining at the same table despite Celeste rolling her eyes.
It was still a weird configuration though.
I sat beside Ella, while Celeste sat opposite her, leaving the empty seat opposite me for Don.
We hardly spoke over breakfast, everyone just pretended that our food was the most interesting thing to focus on.
7.45am
Don excused himself from the table, saying that he needed to go to the bathroom.
Immediately my heart skipped a beat, he’s heading up to the room alright but whether is he using the toilet, no one will know.
I would have wanted to find an excuse to leave the table too but Celeste asked me to go walk in the park beside the hotel after breakfast.
7.50am
I left the lounge together with the girls as we took photos and explored the small park beside where we stayed.
It was a beautifully maintained garden.
The flowers were colourful and the shrubs and species looked so different from the tropical plants we had in Singapore.
As the girls got busy with taking photos and making me do weird poses, my eyes was on the hotel and the small row of shops across the road.
Hardware store, a florist, 24 hour pharmacy, a 7-11 and a burger joint that serves beer too.
This was a good opportunity for me to check out the surroundings.
We will be staying for 2 nights according to the tour itinerary, which meant whatever Don was planning to do, he will be doing it that evening.
Aside from the main hotel entrance, I noted a side entrance that led to the small bar in the lobby. There was a card reader on the door to open it.
I casually strolled and left the girls behind and I went over to the small door.
A couple of guest came out and lit up some smokes.
I casually brought my keycard to the reader and the blue light flashed red.
The door would not open.
I tried it again but it didn’t work.
One of the guest, a burly man with thick moustache that looks awfully like a character in Harry potter said something to me I could not understand and helped me unlock that access with his card.
James : Thank you…
I pushed the door open and saw that the girls were on their way over to me as well.
8.15am
I told them I needed the bathroom too so I headed up to the room.
When I got to our floor, I was surprised that my room door was wide opened.
I would have thought it was house keeping but it was not.
Don was sitting by his bed, rummaging through his luggage.
James : Eh…. Why never close door ?
Don : Air circulation…
I nodded and went to use the bathroom.
When I came out a minute later, I could hear the girls passing by our room.
Don immediately called out to Ella and went out the door.
I quickly took out my key card and tried the reader on my door.
It doesn’t work as well.
Ella did not feel like talking to Don then and barely seconds after I kept my keycard, Don was back.
I laid down on my bed and tried to make sense of the situation.
What would I do if I were Don ?
Don has switched out my card, effectively cutting my access to the hotel and room, a fact that he thinks I am still unaware off.
If I were him, I would get my hands on the girls room key too.
Don : James…..James….
James : Yah…yah ?
Don : Time to go..
I looked at the clock and got out of bed.
When I got to the lift lobby, I suddenly exclaimed that I needed the bathroom again.
James : Aiyah, I need to pee again. Don’t know why…. You go ahead first.
Don reacted immediately that he forgotten something too, cutting his way in front of me to get to the room and unlocking it.
He made a show of opening his luggage while I entered the bathroom.
30 seconds later, I flushed and got out. I did not want to give Don any reason to suspect I was on to him and I hurried him along too after leaving the room first.
8.30am
The bus picked all of us up on time and we began our tour again.
The girls were already settled in their seat so I sat with Don.
About one hour drive later, we arrive in the equestrian park of the famous Lázár Brothers (word champions in carriage driving).
It is located outside of Budapest in the picturesque valley called Domonyvölgy close to the former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth in Gödöllő.
Don’t ask me how to pronounce those words, I copied them from the tour page.
Anyway, we were treated to a spectacular Hungarian horse show and had a nice 3 course lunch in a very comfortable restaurant.
Don chose to sit with Charlie and the bus driver for lunch and the girls were glad they get to enjoy lunch without feeling awkward.
The fresh air, the cool temperature and the simply radiant colours of the park worked like a magical cleanser for the soul. I felt so free and relaxed just strolling down the ranch with Celeste by my side after we ate.
We chatted, laughed and my hands attempted to roam a little further down south as I placed them on her hips but Celeste hit my hands away.
Celeste : Castle ! James….. a Castle !
Ella walked on ahead of us and Don was a short distance away talking intently to Charlie.
1.30pm
When we boarded the bus again after lunch, Don made sure to get a seat near Ella. Celeste wanted to sit with me so she left her bags beside Ella, effectively denying Don of a spot.
That did not deter him at all as he removed the bags and placed them on the overhead storage before planting himself beside Ella.
And they started talking again.
I have no idea what the conversation is about as I was a few seats away.
James : Any idea what are they talking about ?
Celeste : I’m not sure…. But Ella seems a little troubled and moody after her talk with Don yesterday.
She went on to tell me that Ella refused to share anything with her too.
2.30pm
We continued our tour of the city, visited a few churches, Hero square and the great market hall.
It was starting to feel like a holiday to me as Celeste never left my side that afternoon.
The feeling of going on a date came rushing back to me, feeling my body and mind with fuzzy warm emotions.
Perhaps it’s the allure of a foreign city, or maybe I was indeed falling in love, or could it be the comfortable cool temperature that just made everything feel so different.
Eventually I decided it was the cozy feeling of being wrapped in warm clothes and holding Celeste’s freezing hands that made everything different.
I could not remember how many times I rubbed her hands between mine that afternoon, trying to keep them warm as she stomped the ground under her feet, blowing misty warm breath into my face.
When the time for dinner draws near, all thoughts of Ella and Don were gone from my mind and all I could think of was Celeste.
Her white sweater, although a little puffy still tapered like an hourglass around her body. Celeste’s black thermal tights were like magnets.
Clinging tightly to her skin yet at the same time, pulling my eyes closer, tempting my hands nearer.
I had the opportunity to stroke her thighs on the coach en route to the restaurant where we will be having our dinner. My awareness heightened as I feel the smooth velvety material of her tights on her legs.
I rubbed it so many times that Celeste looked at me coyly, trying to tempt me further.
Celeste : The inner lining is quite comfortable…. Got a fleece lining..
She said with a naughty twinkle in her eyes and I could feel a tingling sensation running down my spine.
She knows I was excited by what she said.
Celeste brought up her legs, resting them on my thigh as she angled herself against the window, adopting a similar position to Ella on the plane.
Her brown timberland boots looked new and the moment the smell caught my nose, I could tell it was a new purchase.
Her snow white socks were thick and wooly, neatly folded once upon itself before disappearing into her boots.
Celeste wriggled her boots and just stared at me, aware that she was pushing the right buttons.
My voice lowered into a hush whisper.
I asked what bra was she wearing ?
Celeste asked me how I would like to take them off ?
I asked if she would like a warm body beside her when she sleeps ?
Celeste asked if I would like one on top of me when I sleep
Trying to control my breathing
I asked Celeste if she could keep the volume down if we were to try something naughty.
She asked in an innocent manner if it’s going to be painful , her doeful eyes looking straight into mine.
My lips felt dry and parched as the bus trotted along the roads of Budapest.
I adjusted my painful erection as Celeste looked on, clearly satisfied that I had lost a simple game of verbal sparing
It’s been a while and I would definitely want to feel the warmth of a human body beside mine that evening.
It was this exact thought though, that brought me down back to earth.
I did not want to be stuck with Don.
I casually asked if I could sleep in her room that evening.
James : Can I share your…… blanket tonight ?
Celeste laughed before covering her mouth and whispered.
Celeste : What about Ella ?
James : ermm… can I like buy her a beer or something ?… ask her to wait at the bar for an hour or so ?
I must have looked and sounded serious and Celeste actually nodded in agreement before breaking into a laugh and slapping my on my shoulder.
Celeste : Don’t be silly la…
Not wanting to give up easily, I rubbed my hands on Celeste’s legs, giving her calves a massage.
James : I can do so much more than this……
As my fingers applied pressure on the right spots, I saw Celeste’s face break into a frown before the corresponding pleasure spreads outwards from her limbs.
She bit her lips and said she’ll talk to Ella about it.
Right at this moment when Ella’s name left Celeste’s lips, there was a sudden smacking sound that rang out in the bus.
This was immediately followed by the hush whispers of a few other members. The whispers lasted less than 3 seconds before the mid section where Don and Ella was sitting at erupted.
“What happened ?” , “ Are you ok ?” , “is everything alright “ were some of the words that I picked up as I stood up and looked towards Ella and Don.
Charlie and the local tour guide were already by their side and moments later, Don left the seat and went right to the end of the bus.
Several passengers whispered to Charlie as he tried to pacify them, telling them everything is ok.
Celeste left my side and went over to Ella.
I went to the back and asked Don what happened.
James : What the fuck was that man ? Ella slapped you ?
Don withdrew into himself and refused to talk to me and I left him alone.
Over dinner, Ella clamped shut too and we could not get anything out of her as well.
8.30pm
The bus deposited us back at the hotel and we were free to explore the town if we wished to.
I gave Celeste a kiss before she went to her room with Ella.
Don cut in front of me as we approached the room, saying that he needed the bathroom. He disappeared into the toilet after unlocking the door.
I fiddled with my phone and let Don shower first as I exchanged dirty messages with Celeste.
After Don came out, I took my time to shower and came out feeling refreshed and rejuvenated under the torrent of hot water.
It was a good 15 minutes of liquid pleasure.
Don went back into the toilet once I came out.
I was about to do a bit of packing when I heard this loud retching sound from the toilet.
Buralkkkkrasckckkkkkk…belehhhhhh….
I jumped and I rushed over and knocked on the door.
Don opened and the smell almost made me want to vomit.
James : Knn…..what happened ?
Don had puke out his dinner.
I could see bits of food and chunks ok them were floating on the toilet bowl.
Fuck that sight made me want to throw up too.
Don retched again before saying he’s not feeling well.
James : What happened ?
Don : Must be something I ate…..
He crotched and sat on the floor and vomited again. A long stream of water left his throat and that was my limit and I took a few steps back.
Don : You have Panadol ? … I have a bit of a fever I think….
James : I don’t…. I’ll get you some…
I wanted to get some water for him but there were none.
I tried to call the girls to ask if they have any medications but It’s not getting through.
Another loud vomiting sound filled the room and I rushed over, seeing Don almost submerging his head into the toilet bowl caused me to lose my orientation for a moment.
James : Hang tight…. I’ll be right back.
8.45pm
Without hesitation, I grabbed my wallet and phone as I dashed out of the room and into the waiting lift.
I sprinted across the road to the pharmacy without my sweater cursing at the cold breeze.
The doors of the pharmacy opened with the chime of bells and my eyes widened and if there was a mirror, I was sure I could see the veins in my eyeballs.
There was this dull ache in my stomach as if someone had just knocked the wind out of me.
That lump in my throat got wider and bigger, choking the passageway of my lungs of air.
Celeste froze, her eyes as wide as mine as she cradled a paper bag of drugs in her hand, the store keeper, a man in his 60s too looked at us, bewildered.
I wanted to speak, but no words came out.
Celeste spoke first.
Celeste : Aren’t you sick in bed ?
James : What ! ?
My heart skipped a beat as my brains tried to make sense of what happened.
I immediately cursed as I exited the pharmacy, checking my phone.
Aside from 3 miss calls from Celeste, The last sent message was not written by me.
James sms : Dear, feeling quite sick…..probably food poisoning.. vomited and having fever.
James : FUCK! …. DON!
I wanted to punch someone so bad.
A column of cars, including a trailer carrying tree trunks took up the whole road, they were moving at a considerable speed, making it impossible to cross.
Celeste came rushing from behind.
Celeste : I knocked on your door, Don said you were vomiting in the toilet before you shower…. I can’t call through your room phone too.
I told Celeste I’m ok, and that I’ll fucking kill Don for this.
Amidst my thoughts of beating the shit out of Don, I had another gut wrenching feeling.
I turned to Celeste.
James : Where’s Ella ?
Celeste : In the room of course…. She was showering when I rushed out to get medicine…. Why ?
I spotted a clearing in the column of cars and I grabbed Celeste’s hand and we started running.