I woke up again, and this time around, the stinging sensation in my eyes and lips had subsided. Eager to be up and moving, I attempted to open my eyes upon regaining consciousness. I peeked at first, cautiously surveying the empty room, and then fully opened my eyes. The room remained quiet, just as it had been before. However, there was one notable change—the intravenous drip had been replaced by a bowl emitting a fragrant incense-like aroma. Intrigued by the pleasant scent, I refrained from inspecting it too closely, assuming it must have contributed to my improved health. Curiosity compelled me to turn my neck in the opposite direction, gazing toward the left side of the room. Surprisingly, the pain was less pronounced, encouraging me to turn fully and examine the previously unobserved area. It appeared to be a working room of a pack doctor, adorned with herbs, shrubs, and traditional paraphernalia. Despite the unfamiliar surroundings, I found myself unafraid. The reason fo
The barking of a dog woke me up this time. Still feeling groggy, I let my hand pat and stretch on the bed, stopping short when I noticed something. I was clothed. Who had done so? The first time, I hadn’t even noticed if I was clothed or not. The pain hadn’t allowed me that luxury of feeling anything. But the second time, I had been naked save for a thin gown which correlated to the normal hospital gown. However, I was in a pair of shorts and a thin polo now. How? Who had been in charge of my dressing? I hoped it was the female stranger. The thought of the man peeking at my body, even though he was likely the doctor and seemed sincere, didn’t sit well with me. I have always preferred female doctors. Should that be your headache now? My head taunted me and I scoffed mentally, unready to admit its accuracy; there were more things to worry about than who had been in charge of my wardrobe. I noticed then that I felt lighter; normal, no pain of any sort. I must be completely healed!
“Are you thirsty?” That was Diana. She must have noticed my insistent gaze on the blue colored ceramic cup and the golden water pitcher on the wooden table just beside the bed I had just laid. We were almost at the doorstep, but my quest for water had me taking a look at the source of thirst-quench for the umpteenth time.“Yes. I am.” I answered, standing still, my eyes peering down at her, my lips stretching in a thin smile when I saw the smirk cloak her lips. She found my desperation for water funny. Well, she could smirk away, as long as she got me what I wanted.“Okay then. Give me a second.” She said, before walking fast to the table to do my bidding. Seeing as she grabbed both the pitcher and the cup, I believed she had the foresight to know that just one cup wouldn’t be enough to quench my thirst.“Here you go.” She said, before handing over to me, the water pitcher and the cup. Without much ado, I opened the cup-for it had a cover, and poured some water into it; draining
We have been walking for about five minutes on a tiny path, west of the abode where I had been treated. Actually, I was not sure about the time frame. Diana has been talking non stop since we had embarked on this short journey to meet her parents, in the farmland. That’s where she said we were going to; the farmland. Turns out that this was really a village to the truest form. I lost track of time, because her stories were quite rich and interesting, containing facts I should know about the village, in case I got accosted by another villager, and got queried because I was a new face. I was even considering changing my name. From Diana’s tales, the ruler of the village was a queen, whose king had died some ten years ago. Diana believed the woman was strong and had chosen her as her role model. Well, I would be the judge of that when I encounter the said woman; not that I was any good judge of character. Adam was proof of that. Evil, yet dwelling in a handsome innocent body. I cou
The penetrating gazes of my saviors had me biting my lip nervously. I was nervous because I didn’t know what they would do to me, now that I was awake. Would they send me away, or would they keep me? I was hoping for the latter.“Maya…” The woman called this time around, placing her hand on my shoulder, her eyes a canvas of affection and care. These were loving people, and I wished to stay with them longer if they would take me in.“I am fine, I am just nervous.” I said, deciding to be upfront with them-that way I would know my stand and the next step to take.“About what?” The man asked. I still didn’t know his name.“Well, I am awake now. And even though I can't thank you enough for nursing me back to life, I was wondering what you will do with me now. Will you send me away or keep me? That is the reason for my nervousness.” I answered, looking everywhere but at them. It was as if my old timid self was coming back and I didn’t like it. This was a new place, and a good place to sta
Peter was right. Laura’s mac was the most delicious I have ever tasted. Damn! What the hell did she use to prepare it? I thought, as I scooped the last serving on my plate. With the tail of my left eye, I checked to see how the people around the table were faring, and found out that they were still eating gently, in little amounts.Well, they must be used to eating such a rich dish. I had to admit that Laura beat my mother hands down in mac preparation. I thought of asking for more, but shyness wouldn't let me. Fortunately, Diana saw the want and greed painted on my face.“You want more, Maya?” She asked me, and for a minute I was glad that she had read my mind, or my face, whichever one it was. At her question, Laura and Peter looked up from their plates and stared at me. There was a notable smirk playing on Peter’s lips that almost had me groaning for the victory which I knew he was already stewing in.I bit my lips under their gazes, and looked at the window, not ready to agre
Perusing the details of the house once again, I knew I would like it here, that is, if Peter and his wife would have me. They were yet to broach the issue. Hopefully, they would quell my curiosity after dinner.“Here, Maya. I think this is the last serving. I pray it will be enough to quell your hunger which is quite understandable. You haven’t really eaten solid food for more than three months. Every meal was squeezed to its liquid form and transfused into your system.” Laura said as she dropped a plate of mac in front of me.The smell dispelled my regret of raiding their pot. But still, I attempted to sound sympathetic over the issue. “I am sorry...” But Laura wouldn’t have any of it to my relief. “Don’t worry, Maya. Just eat on.” She said, before turning and walking to her seat. Turning aside, I caught Diana wink at me. I smiled then. She seemed to know that I was anything but sorry. The girl knew a lot more than her age. I wondered who her teacher was, or if there was a school
Although I was curious about the queen, I didn’t want to go to her yet; I didn't want to stay with her. I was already familiar with my saviors and wanted to stay with them for now whilst plotting my revenge.“You know what, Maya, I think you should stay here for now. But if the queen takes note of your presence, or if the villagers think it necessary to let the queen know of your presence-then whatever her decision concerning you, we will have to abide by that, no matter what we want. Do you understand?'' Laura asked after stating her decision on the matter, and immediately I nodded my head robotically, holding the smile threatening to break out on my lips.Diana would love this.“Thank you very much, Laura. I appreciate the goodwill that you and your family have bestowed on me. I thank you so much. Peter too.” I said, my mouth and words full of appreciation, a clear reflection of the gratitude that abided in my soul and heart. I was so happy. Now, I could have a stable environment to