Chapter 25: No Hay Problema
In good spirits thanks to our filled stomachs, the post-lunch conversation around the table quickly derailed. It soon became a teasing contest between me and Vicente about his time in Marinduque. And with all his failures trying to fit in with provincial life, the young man stood no chance.
Vicente shook his head and forced a smile, while Don Tiongson howled with laughter as I retold in detail that first time he volunteered to drive the carriage to the plantation. More modestly, and pleasantly to the ears, his daughters also laughed behind the cover of their handkerchiefs.
Don Tiongson wiped tears from his eyes and then smiled widely when he noticed something at my end of the table. "Oh, look—Paz is laughing... that's a first in a very long time."
I turned my head to the left. She was sitting beside Agapita, who was seated right next to me. Her laughter immediately stopped as she covered her face, but we still caught the healthy redness that bloomed on her cheeks.
For a brief moment, our eyes met before she quickly looked away and muttered something about her father embarrassing her, softly under her breath. I didn't know if it was just because of the daylight, but she seemed to glow brighter now.
"It seems your presence here is good for our Paz," said Don Tiongson with a toothy smile. "It would be our pleasure if you continue to stay here as long as you're in Malolos. We'll make sure to accommodate your every need, gobernador."
I chuckled, though I didn't fully understand what Don Tiongson meant.
I glanced at Vicente. "I'm sorry, Don Tiongson, but I actually want to pay Vicente's parents a visit in Calumpit."
Don Tiongson raised his eyebrows and turned to Vicente. "Is that so? I guess it's only right you repay the hospitality the governor gave you in Marinduque."