Chapter 8 - Sway

Part 1.

Back at Hans place, there was no sister who came back from MMU…it was just a diversion.

When we stepped out of our cars, "Sorry I had to make up a story about my sister in front of Johan. I blanked out for a moment and was lost with words…..", Hans apologized.

"Hmmm...I faham. You nak coverline.…. Anyway, I still feel that I’ve been tricked …..". Tika terpaksa bersetuju di dalam situasi tadi. I know Hans still wants me to be with him.

So is it alright kalau I parked my car here? You are positive your sister is not coming back later?", perli aku sambil melayangkan ‘flying kiss’ pada Hans dan berlalu pergi.

I cannot imagine the look on his face……I stopped and turn, “Come on Hans….”. Dia mengeleng-gelengkan kepala.

Sampai ke dalam apartment Hans I pour my self a glass of water and made myself comfortable on the sofa. I basically know my way around his apartment.

“Let me grab a quick shower and I’ll be right back. Just make yourself comfortable." Hans said.

“I am.....cheers…don't worry about me, you go a head.....”, aku berkata sambil melayangkan gelas yang berisi air. Hans smiled and left me in the living room before he made his way into the bedroom. Yeah, the bedroom where he stripped me naked the other night......

10 minutes later he came out smelling fresh and delicious….,“You’re doing ok, babe?”.

“Aha,….you know what I better leave….."I leaned over to give Hans a hug….oh my he smells soo good and my body started to shiver.....

“Kenapa you nak cepat balik. I want to spend time with you ….I want to cook you dinner and it will give us time to get to know each other better." Hans memujukku.

"Hans you memang smooth. I’ll go back and change then….."

"Tika….., Babe…..shhhhhh……Come….come with me." Aku merapati Hans dan dia menarik tanganku and lead me to his bedroom. We stopped by the side of the bed, “Don’t worry about changing. Happy birthday, babe. I hope you will like what I got for you." He just cupped my face with his large hard hands and kissed me….I…I……aahhhhh…..

Part 2.

"Tika?,……thank God you’re okay." Hans mengelapkan tuala sejuk ke mukaku….

"What happened? Aku cuba untuk duduk tapi Hans tidak membenarkan aku berbuat demikian.

"You passed out….." explained Hans.

"How?............I passed out?......Oooowwww...... yeah..... now I remember....." Aku cuba duduk sekali lagi  tapi kali ini Hans membantuku. I sat there menutup mukaku with full of embarrassment and started to giggled  and giggled non stopped. How could I passed out when being kissed by a gorgeous guy….?

Suddenly Hans pun ketawa and we were out of control bursting out laughing…..

“I am sorry Hans, I didn’t mean anything bad about it. You must be a darn good kisser and that made me passed out.” Aku cuba menghabiskan ayat bersilang seli dengan ketawa.

Hans tersenyum, “Perhaps you were tired and stayed too long under the hot sun today.", he answered humbly.

“Masuk ni dah 2 kali I passed out at your place…..I cannot take a third surprise….nanti I akan terus…jalan saja." aku berkata dan sambung ketawa.

“Hey now jangan cakap macam tu." Hans tried to catch his breath.

"I am really sorry. Ok let me explain. This is the thing….right after you came out from shower tadi,  you smell so good and then there was your hands on my face , the kiss….I just lost it." Tika cuba menerangkan situasi sebenar.

"So it really was the kiss?", Hans inginkan kepastian.

"Aha….you mean nobody told you that....." , dan aku tergelak lagi.

"Excuse me young lady, I'm afraid not. I don't go around kissing other women....anyway my two years training kissing the mirror finally paid off.....", then he sticks out his tongue.

Hans grabbed me by the arm and waist to help me up. I was still laughing and tripped into Hans arms. Then Hans sat me on the bed. He bent down  and kissed me on the cheeks, "How are feeling now? If you are feeling much better, you go and freshen up. You will find all you need to wear for dinner tonight are all in these D&G bags.  That's the birthday gift I wanted to surprise you with...and it wasn't the kiss......Fresh towel is on the rack in the bathroom. Do you still need to borrow my underwear?" Hans bertanya selamba.

Aku terus mencubit pehanya dan Hans ketawa sambil mengosok-gosok kesakitan, and said, "Ok, Ok I was just jokingla”.

“I know…mengada....”, aku mencapai comforter di hujung kaki katil and threw it at Hans. Aku cepat-cepat berlari masuk ke dalam bilik air.

“Don’t think you’re too safe in there.", jerit Hans.

Selesai mandi aku mengintai kalau-kalau Hans ada di luar…..all clear. Aku dengan hanya bertuala berjalan ke katil sambil membelek-belek kandungan di dalam paper bags.

He sure has good taste. Bukan warna kegemaranku but we’ll give it a try.

Aku mengenakan pakaian yang dibeli of Hans. "Minyak wangi?" Aku mencapai handbag dan mencari-cari minyak wangi yang aku sentiasa carry around for emergency purposes. After spraying the perfume on the side of my neck and wrist, I turn and looked myself in the mirror…..aku tersenyum. Why me Hans?

Aku berjalan keluar menuju je dapur dan Hans sedang menyiapkan dinner. Hans saw me and came over, “Stop…..stand still….ok…turn around for me…..is it alright for you?" I did as I was told.

“Yes Hans. Though it’s not my favourite colour but it matches well. Thanks Hans you spoil me everytime." Aku memeluk Hans and walked with him to the kitchen. He said, "That perfume again.....(he bend down and run his nose close to my neck.....it gave me the goose bums...) hmmmmm...the smell is so seductive....", aku menahan kegelian sambil mengigit bibirku.

“Dinner will be served in half an hour. I hope you are hungry…” he said and help me sit on the kitchen bar stool. He kissed my palm and continued with his cooking.

"Bila you pergi shopping and the sizes fits well even the shoes." aku bertanya.

"Well, you remember the first night you stayed over, I had measured every inch of your body....", dia tak tahan and tergelak...

"Its not funny....." aku membalas dan tersenyum sinis.

"Marah la dia....ok, its like this...I shopped online and they delivered to me yesterday....", He replied to satisfy my curiosity.

Aku mencebikkan bibir....."Tak I tak marah pun....you think of everything kan?" Hans tersenyum lalu membalas komen ku,...."Babe, what you see, is what you get......."

Aku menjelirkan lidah padanya.

Sambil memerhati Hans memasak, aku  bertanya, "So what do you enjoy cooking the most? "

“Pasta. It is simple, fast and you do not need lots of ingredients." Tossing his pasta, I was very impressed by his skills.

“Really impressive.....ya know, you are such a sweet guy.  I am glad that I am here tonight. Nothing else I can asked for but just to be with you…". Aku menampung daguku dengan kedua-dua tangan dan perhatikan kecekapan Hans di dapur. 

"Thanks Babe,....I juga suka when you are here with me too....ok..come....", Hans scoop me off the chair and let me down. “Please take a sit and enjoy your dinner”. We walked over to the living area and Hans put on ‘Sway’ by Michael Bublé.

Credit to Awit4U and You Tube

When marimba rhythms start to play

Dance with me, make me sway

Like a lazy ocean hugs the shore

Hold me close, sway me more

Like a flower bending in the breeze

Bend with me, sway with ease

When we dance you got a way with me

Stay with me, sway with me

Other dancers may be on the floor

Dear, but my eyes will see only you

Only you have that magic technique

When we sway I go weak

I can hear the sounds of violins

Long before it begins

Make me thrill as only you know how

Sway me smooth, sway me now

Other dancers may be on the floor

Dear, but my eyes will see only you

Only you have that magic technique

When we sway I go weak

I can hear the sounds of violins

Long before it begins

Make me thrill as only you know how

Sway me smooth, sway me now

When marimba rhythms start to play

Dance with me, make me sway

Like a lazy ocean hugs the shore

Hold me close, sway me more

Like a flower bending in the breeze

Bend with me, sway with ease

When we dance you have a way with me

Stay with me, sway with me

When marimba start to play

Hold me close, make me sway

When we dance you have a way with me

Stay with me, sway with me

It was a casual dinner sitting in the living room eating pasta and drinking water. Listening to Bublé.

Pesto Pasta with nuts.

Baked cheese spaghetti

"Hans…..what do you expect out this relationship?" aku tiba-tiba bertanya. He looked up at me and answered, "My expectation? The truth….nothing what so ever. 

He stopped eating and changed his sitting position. He took my plate of pasta and placed it on the table. Now he is seated next to me and holding my hands. He kissed each of my fingers.....wow! I have to get myself used to all this sweet small gestures from him...........

"During my first marriage I had lots of expectation. From my marriage, my children, my business and my friends….then I  lost all of it just like that (snapping his fingers). It took quite a while for me to come to terms that I’ve lost everything. What hit me the most was the death of my baby daughter.....Then I met you. You are always here (pointing to his head)."

He continued....."Here, I've been given a second chance with you and I am taking it each day at a time.  Now there is a reason for me to come home. I have you who inspire me and my work. I want you to move in with me and love you with all my heart……"...wow! aku cair mendengar kata-katanya.

“But what happened kalau after marriage, things berubah? What I mean in general people will work their ass off to get what they want but when they succeeded things change. Will you change, too?" Aku inginkan kepastian.

"Are we heading that direction? Marriage? Babe, I cannot promise you everything is going to be smooth sailing and clear blue sky everyday. There will be hic-cups along the way but we have each other kan, we’ll make it happen, Tika with God’s willing…..", sambil dia meramas jari jemariku.

Aku terdiam dan memandang Hans, “This is good pasta Hans. You must give me the recipe.”

"Tika, thank you for the compliment. But you seemed uncomfortable when we talk about our relationship. I notice you have a habit of changing subject or switching conversation. You can always tell me when to stop if you are not ready to go any further. We'll slow down....". Tika masih merenung Hans and she realized now she is making Hans nervous.

"Ok, now you tell me, why are you here with me? I can see that you enjoy spending time with me.  I can also see the glow on your face when we're together. That must mean something to you kan? Or I am just a stop over…?"

"Hans….no, this is not a stop over! I am just afraid of being hurt….again. I seboleh-bolehnya perlukan seseorang yang betul ikhlas dengan I, yang boleh jaga I dan boleh membimbang I untuk menjadi isteri yang soleh....I am left in a limbo, not knowing my civil status.....I was humiliated by my relatives. You know, things like what's wrong with her sampai tunang pun lari.....Frankly speaking I sendiri pun tak pasti whether I am still engaged or not to him. Then something happened yesterday and this morning....as though I am being warned that something bad is going to happened to me. I think I should tell you what’s going on ……". Aku ingin berterus terang incident yang berlaku semalam.

"With Ghazz I presume? I am surprised Ghazz has been acting this way. I kenal dia dulu dari I kenal you. Kalau bukanlah dia yang introduce you pada I......I could have wasted myself drinking and clubbing dengan Johan. So, tell me what's going on between you and Ghazz." And he listen to every word. All about the bitter relationship between Ghazz and me….He sat there patiently, listening and holding my hands…., “I am not like him, Tika.”

He let go of my hands. He stood up and I can sense that he is standing behind me. He put his hands on my shoulders and message it gently. He kissed my head, “You look tense....how's that? Feel much better?” Aku mengangguk.

"If he ever calls you, text you or make any attempt to see you, let me know. It's about time I deal with him. I think dia tu dah melampau...." Hans warned me.

"Do you think he knows that we are seeing each other?" aku bertanya dalam nada ketakutan.

"Knowing him, he must have had you followed.....always careful babe....at anytime kalau dia ganggu you, just come over to my place.  I will prepare you an access card to this apartment. Jangan nak jadi hero, ok.....come over." Hans advised me.

"You wait here. I’ll be back.", and he kissed my head again.

Aku duduk seperti yang disuruh. Is this what I want? Will I be happy if I’m married to Hans? I’ll be an instant mother of two….diri aku sendiri pun aku tak terjaga inikan pulak nak jaga anak Hans. Macamana kalau Ghazz masih lagi ganggu aku? adoi….kusut, ….kusut,….

“Babe, ….(he sat right close next to me), I bukan pujangga yang pandai berkata-kata. I am just a normal human being and ada perasaan kasih and sayang towards you. Day and night I want you close to me. You are like my vitamins, kalau I tak take my vitamins I tak bermaya, Tika."

Aku memandang mukanya tanpa mengelipkan mata walau pun sekali. Aku terharu sebab ada seorang lelaki yang benar-benar appreciate kewujudanku.

He started to run his fingers through my hair and continued, "Like Bublé said, I can hear the sound of violin way long before it begins…..I could only imagine of you the last two years but now you are here…..this is reality. I want you be the first person I see when I wake up in the morning. I am not gonna lose you, Tika."

Aku rasa mukaku merah padam mendengar setiap perkataan yang keluar dari mulut Hans. Setiap sentuhan Hans dari rambutku, pipiku , tanganku, jari-jariku hingga ke pehaku very comforting. “I am very touched Hans…..I tak sangka you feel that way about me.”

“Yes, that’s how I feel…..are you ready to let go of your fears and share your life with me, Tika?" Pertanyaan yang rata-rata kalau di tanya pada setiap wanita sudah pasti mereka akan terima. They will melt. Tapi kenapa susah sangat aku nak terima……there is nothing wrong with Hans. Nothing at all.  

“Hans thank you for sharing with me your feelings. I really appreciate it. I guess I am just like my father susah sekali nak meluahkan apa yang terbuku di dalam hati especially when feelings are concern. We always keep it hidden and tucked inside. I have never said this to you Hans because I expect you tahu tanpa I beritahu you….I hang-out with you because I love being with. You make me happy. You treat me like I am the most important person in your life. I love every minute of it.….."

“I am sensing a but coming…..” , Hans said. I smiled and slide my tiny fingers between Hans fingers….

”Shhhh…I belum habis lagi……I wanna let you know that you mean the world to me and I….love …you….Hans.” as I squeeze his fingers. "I want to spend the rest of my life with you. No buts…..at all." That's it I have made my decision!

Hans couldn’t believe his ears….”Are you serious Tika?". Hans kissed his palms and covered his face, “Syukur,....I’m very surprised….. but happy at the same time." He sat much closer to me. Now my thighs are in between his legs….suddenly he took out a box…..and opened it in front of me….”I was planning to give this as your birthday gift….."

“Awww Hans this is beautiful…aku mengeluarkan sepasang diamond earings and Hans helped to put it on. He push the side of my hair behind my ears and , “There you go….they look gorgeous on you, babe. Go, look in the mirror….."

"You're sure?" Lantas aku bangun dan berlari ke bilik tidur Hans dan mengamati anting-anting baru ku….

“I love it,” as I walked out of the bedroom.  With my arms wide opened I walked towards to Hans and gave him a hug…..”Thanks Hans”. Hans hugged me tight and kissed me on the cheeks. “I would have given you a diamond ring if I’d known how things turned out tonight.” Hans said.

“It’s alright….it does not make any difference to me…as long as I have you with me.” Aku cuba menenangkan Hans.

Aku masih lagi di dalam pelukkan  Hans. I tilted my back and Hans said, “Can I meet your family?”

Aku agak terkejut dengan permintaan Hans but it is expected if we want this relationship to move on to the next stage. “Let me speak to them and I’ll come back to you on the details ok?”

“Sure babe….. how do you want things to happen?  You tell me what you want….english wedding, garden wedding, beach wedding...We can do it in Bali......your pick.”  Hans asked.

Aku tak pasti apa yang aku mahu. Kalau ikutkan hati nak saja elope kat sempadan…..and that’s what I’m going to tell him. “Hans, kita kahwin kat sempadan saja nak?"

Terbuntang biji mata Hans mendengarkan pendapat aku. “Babe, you are not serious right?", and he lift me up to standing position.

"Itu kalau ikutkan hati I la……sebab kerja-kerja bertunang, nikah and wedding reception is such a waste of money." I explained.

“Well, I agree with you 100% but you you must understand bila kita buat wedding reception we are announcing to our friends and family yang kita telah disatukan.  Kita ada adat and let’s  do it according to our tradition. Make it simple. We can skip the engagement stage. Bila my family datang merisik, kita minta untuk dinikahkan as soon as possible. Yang penting is nikah….”

I totally agree with him. I nodded. 

And...the whole night we swayed to Bublé.

Intermission 3 - Taman

Thank you for following this far.

I hope you have been listening to the songs I shared in each posting. The songs are mostly related to how a certain character is feeling. There are also times when the story line derived from a particular song. Basically the songs here and story line are co-related.

A few feed back I received this week,

"Bila I baca, nak baca sikit-sikit saja sebab tak nak cepat habis......"

"Story line so far interesting. I confuse, yang bercerita ni atikah atau 3rd party?"

Saya hargai semua kritikan membina. Ianya akan di gunakan untuk memperbaiki mutu penyampaian cerita.   Setinggi-tinggi terima kasih.

Coming back to the story, it seems Hans and Tika's romance is still questionable....Hans seems to be patient and Tika.....is being Tika. Why is she resisting? But I would like to remain positive that both Tika and Hans do find love with each other....cinta mereka semakin bersemi di taman hati masing-masing.

What's Ghazz up to....curious? So do I.......Will he seek revenge after Tika humiliated him? Hmmm...........interestingkan?

And this is my gift to you, a song titled 'Taman' by Maliq and d'Essential and I dedicate to all readers. Please enjoy...........

Credit to Reza Ferdian and You Tube

Embun

Mengkilaukan hamparan bunga

Tersentuh sinar mentari

Di selayur daun cemara

Kala

Kita duduk bergandeng tangan

Memandang kabut yg mengambang

Dibawah langit yang cerah

Surga dunia tercipta di taman

Bermain sejak pagi datang

Hingga langit menjingga

Bertemulah kita disana

Uu ditaman uu surga uu

                                   

Malam

Disandingi bulan purnama

Mengajak kita 'tuk terus

Terjaga hingga fajar tiba

Surga dunia tercipta di taman

Bermain sejak pagi datang

Hingga langit menjingga

Bertemulah kita disana

Uu ditaman uu surga uu

Surga dunia tercipta di taman

Bermain sejak pagi datang

Hingga langit menjingga

Bertemulah kita disana

Dunia tercipta di taman

Bermain sejak pagi datang

Hingga langit menjingga

Bertemulah kita disana

Disana

Di taman surga

Surga dunia

Chapter 7 - Cry me a River Part 2

Part 1.

I had to say good bye to The Damai which carries lots of memories of Hans and myself. It was the best time we ever had by far. We had to cut short our stay since Hans had promised his friend , Johan that they will be participating in the Cyberjaya  Duathlon tomorrow. 

Johan called last night and Hans confirmed that he will make it in time for a final practice. He was so worried that I may be upset, “No, Hans I am alright. It’s not nice to disappoint Johan…we’ll go back, ok?” kata ku seolah memujuk Hans untuk tidak menghampakan harapan Johan yang sudah berhempas pulas keeping fit for the event. Hans kissed my lips and said, “Thank you for understanding”.

The flight to Kuala Lumpur arrived as scheduled. “I will take a separate taxi to my office to pick up my car. I left it in the basement.” Tika bersuara…

Hans was busy checking messages on his cellphone instantly replied, “No babe, I will send you to your office and I will see you go off myself.” Then he slide his cellphone in his jacket pocket and turn to me. Hold on…..strike a post!...............as much as I try to resist you, your charm really melt me, Hans. I wonder how does your brain works…….as he helped me stepped into the taxi first.

We arrived Cyberjaya quarter to 2 and it was a striking hot Saturday afternoon.  Half an hour later we went our separate ways but not after he convince me to come out and support him and Johan.  “Yes of course, I’ll be there….”, I promised.

That night, I made myself 2 slices of peanut butter and jam and sat in front of the TV flipping from one channel to another. Nothing interesting to watch so I switched on my laptop sitting next to me on the sofa. I remembered a video that Hans and I watched the night before of a young Indonesian DJ from Balikpapan on the TV reality program ‘X Factor’. I enjoyed very much his rendition of Cry me a River.  I’ve listen to Ms Fitzgerald’s version, Bublé ‘s version, Connick’s version, Krall’s version and even Sinatra’s version, Agus…….you’re my pick. In my personal opinion Agus look genuine and he made the song sound so sexy. If we talk just for this song , I feel a woman has the  best  interpretation among all songsters. But I still watched Agus sang it again and again…..

Credit to X Factor Indonesia and You Tube

Her concentration was distracted,

Ring……Ring…..

“Hi Atikah, it's me.” said the caller.

“Yeah I know who you are. What can I do for you?” Tika jawab dengan selamba sambil tangannya menutup laptop.

“I tried contacting you the past few days tapi tak dapat? Where were you? “ asked the caller somewhat threatening.

“Why do you care sangat, Ghazz? I thought we’re over and done with?” Tika menyindir.

“I know, it was my fault……I acted immature. We need to talk. I need to see you. It’s about us, Atikah….” Ghazz pleaded.

“Thanks Ghazz but I have moved on with my life and I have started seeing other people too….” kata Tika dengan berani.

“Please Tika, please. Listen...my parent was so mad when I told them that I’ve broken off our engagement. They gave me an ultimatum, if the engagement is off, I will lose my inheritance.” Ghazz explained.

"Oh….sekarang you wanna crawl back to me because of harta?"...Jantan sial! 

“I am sorry Ghazz, I can’t. You have to deal with it yourself. You should have thought the consequences before making the bold decision to let me go. So this is all about the money ya…..and bukan about us?”Tika tidak mahu masuk campur….sungguh rendahnya martabatku sebagai seorang wanita…..

“Please don’t say that Tika….think of our future…..?” Ghazz masih memujuk.

“Future? What future is there for us Ghazz? You don’t love me no more? All you care is about money…and bila you dah dapat apa you nak…., what’s going to happened next? Dump me again or worst gantung I tak bertali……” , belum habis Tika bercakap Ghazz interrupted…..

“Tika….I’ll come over to your house now….” Ghazz said.

“Don’t you Tika, Tika me. I tunggu you lama Ghazz…bukan setahun dua….ten years Ghazz, ten years.  I wasted those years and one day you wanna abandoned ship….ohhh….tak, tak….you ingat I tak ada maruah ke, Ghazz? You ludah kat I and now you nak jilat balik….? Get a life dude. You should listen to “Cry me a River” la….then you know how I felt……menangis darah sekarang pun dah tak guna dah…..” aku melepaskan geram ku and immediately hang-up.

"Cry Me A River"

Now you say you're lonely

You cried the whole night through

Well, you can cry me a river, cry me a river

I cried a river over you

And now you say you're sorry,

For being so untrue

Well, you can cry me a river

Cry me a river,

I cried a river over you.

You drove me nearly out of my head

While you never shed a tear, babe

Remember, I remember all that you said

You told me love was too plebeian

Told me you were through with me

And now you say you love me

Well, just to prove that you do

Why don't you cry me a river

Cry me a river

'Cause I cried a river over you, over you

You say you love me but you lie

Now, you say you love me

Well, just to prove that you do

Come on and cry me a river

Oh cry me a river

I cried a river over you

I cried a river over you

I cried a river

Now you can too

Cry me a river

Cry me a river.

Puas hati aku….nampaknya ada rahmat disebalik keputusan putus tunang hari tu…..now I know the real Ghazz!

Cellphone Tika berbunyi and she left it unanswered….Five minutes later……

buzz…..buzzz….incoming message

It was Ghazz .

>I am coming to your house<

Tika replied,

>don’t you dare. I’ll call the police<

Then there were no messages….is he really coming? Macamana kalau dia betul-betul datang? 

Ring………ring………Tika terkejut sambil mengurut-urut dadanya.

“I have told you to leave me alone and please don’t come to the house!” jerit Tika. “You tak paham ke?”

“Erk… I faham you tengah marah but I hope not at me….”, and it was Hans voice on the other line.

Aku terdiam. Malu pun ada, takut pun ada….mesti Hans wants to know why I'm acting this way…..

“Tika, are you still there? Who’s coming to the house?”….soal  Hans. Macamana aku nak jawab ni….

“Sorry Hans, I thought you were somebody else….my mistake”, Tika cuba berdalih.

“Obviously you were angry at someone…..anything I should know about?” Hans cuba his calm intervention.

“Don’t worry Hans….I know how to handle my situation. It’s under control.” I tried to convinced him. “Anyway, it was nice of you to check up on me. Are you at home and how was training this evening?". Aku cuba divert to another topic.....

“Of course I will call you from time to time to check on you, babe. Yeah I’m at home….training was good and you jangan lupa datang besok tau….”, Hans ingin kepastian.

“Sure, I will not miss it for the world. Are your children coming?” Tika  bertanya.

“Maybe. You nak jumpa mereka?” Hans sounded excited.

“Ok je I hope it’ll be the right time to meet them kan, Hans?”Tika agreed.

“It will, Babe….you make me happy Tika….”, suara sexy dia dah ternyiang-nyiang di telingaku…” I missed you and can’t wait to see tomorrow”.

"I missed you too Hans….Good night."

Part 2.

I am in a better spirit this Sunday morning. I got my camera with me and hope to get good pictures later.

Ring………ring……..

“Hello…” Nombor siapa ni?

“Hello….?”. Tika said again. Pekak ke orang yang call ni?

She hang-up.

As she was about to walk out of her house, her cellphone rang again….

“Hello….whose on the line?” aku bertanya.

“Atika….it's me….”suara Ghazz.

“What is it now Ghazz?....cukup-cukupla Ghazz. You told me once that you want to move on…and I did. Apa lagi? I can’t talk long. I have to go now.”, aku cuba memendekkan perbualan.

“Atika…I am waiting for you outside of your house. I nak jumpa you, now…..”, Ghazz berterus terang. 

“What? I told you not to come, Ghazz….what’s wrong with you. You tak faham cakap melayu? Or you nak I cakap French? Sortir de ma vie!!!!

Pagi-pagi buat aku hilang mood. Dah la aku lambat ni and he is outside. Apa aku nak buat? Should I just walk out and drive off? I don’t want him to know where I’m going…..think!...think!.... think!.....Tika.

Lebih 15 minit aku masih lagi terperap di dalam rumah. Aku mengintai dari tingkap bilik atas,….”shit, he’s still out there….”

I might as well settle with him once and for all…….Aku keluar dengan perasaan marah yang membuak-buak dan memberanikan diri untuk berjumpa Ghazz. Sampai saja aku di luar gate rumah, Ghazz keluar dari kereta Porsche Panamera….

“Tika, I missed you….”, dengan sayunya suara Ghazz….

“Stop being foolish Ghazz. I want you to leave, NOW! Maintanent! (in french)” . Tika meninggikan suaranya sambil tangannya mengarah Ghazz beredar dari situ. 

Kedengaran salakan anjing jiran sebelah juga memecahkan keheningan pagi ini.

“Ok….ok….tak payahlah you treat me macam sampah….”Ghazz cuba memujuk….

“Funny thing, Ghazz,…..I said the same thing once upon a time masa you dump me….or you dah lupa…masa you blah and tinggalkan I kat restaurant dulu….I still had hope of reconciliation dengan you….but you mendiamkan diri and left me dangling….terkontang kanting cari kat mana silap I selama ni…..cukup you malukan I and then you malukan family I…… no enough is enough….”aku meluahkan perasaan yang selama ini terbeku di dalam hati.

“Please Tika….I merayu sangat, kita give it another try…..” Ghazz merayu again and again….

“I am sorry Ghazz if it were a month ago or perhaps 3 weeks ago, mungkin...., mungkin ya, I boleh terima you Ghazz…but now I can’t….I have someone else in my life now”. Aku cuba memberi alasan kukuh supaya Ghazz faham yang aku tak perlukan dia lagi dalam hidup aku.

“Cepatnya you dapat pengganti I….” air muka Ghazz tiba-tiba berubah menampakan kejantanannya tercabar…..

Sambil mencekak pinggang aku berkata, “ You ingat I nak tunggu you lagi? Sorry Ghazz pada mulanya I felt sorry for myself but bila I tengok sikap you sekarang, I feel sorry for YOU….now, please leave sebelum I call the police….”.

“Tak pe Tika, how could you do this to me….you’ll see one day what I will do to you!” Ghazz melepaskan geramnya….sambil berjalan semula ke kereta mewahnya…..Hmmm hidup pun mak bapak yang tanggung…..

Tika membongkokkan badannya ke bawak sedikit sambil berteriak, “Is that a threat Ghazz? How low can you get?”

Ghazz switched on his engine and drove by me while pointing his pointer finger to me as though he was giving me a warning. Tiba-tiba aku terasa seram. Is he capable of hurting me?

Part 3.

Damned! I am late.....aduh ramainya orang....mana nak park ni? 

Finally she found a spot 50 meters away from Burger King Cyberjaya....urgh...jauhnya nak jalan....

It's almost 9 a.m. and ramai dah sampai ke garisan penamat. I wonder how Hans and Johan did? Aku pun merayau-rayau and tried to get to a higher spot kalau-kalau boleh nampak Hans. 

Yes....found him...."Hans, .....Hans, look up here.....click. Hmm...dapat pun ambil gambar Hans. Hans melambai ke arah aku...."Babe, come down....".

Hans was so happy that both him and Johan managed to get a finishing medal for their effort. He was all sweaty and my world,...how can someone this sweaty still looks hot....hmmmm.

He kissed me and introduced me to his friend, Johan. "Tika, this is Johan....and Johan this is Tika...." he looked deep into my eyes as though reading my mind and that made me blush. 

"I heard so much about you..." aku memaling kepala menandang Johan. We shook hands. "Ah, Hans are your children here...?" Tika mengalih pandangan semula ke Hans.

"Sorry babe they are with Joe but I get to have them during this school holidays." Hans console me and squeeze softly my tiny fingers. It's really reassuring.

"Well not me...It is also....nice to meet you. Tika right?". Johan tersengih. Aku dan Hans serentak  memandang Johan.....lalu tergelak.

"So you kerja di mana?", Johan was digging information on me.

Aku berterus terang...."I kerja around here and it has been 8 years." ....Johan bertanya lagi,..."And tinggal di Cyberjaya jugak? "

"Aku menjawab, "Tak, but I live close to Cyberjaya....".

Hans yang tadi memerhatikan conversation aku dan Johan mula nampak jealous....."Excuse me, I'm still here.", Hans said and slowly slide his right arm around my waist.

"Aik, tak kan nak berkenalan dengan mata air kau pun tak boleh....so inilah the main reason you moved to Cyberjaya 6 months ago...?"Johan membuka rahsia.

Hmmmm....six months ago.....? why does it feel so important to me  to know what happened six months ago?... 

"Johan ini romeo....dah jangan banyak sangat tanya.....jom kita lepak jap and have a few drinks...Starbucks ok?"Hans suggested.

"On....aku on saja kalau orang belanja....", gelak Johan. Kami pun beredar dari Burger King dan menuju ke Starbucks. 

Sedang Hans beratur membeli minuman di dalam...Johan mengambil kesempatan untuk 'interview' aku..,"So you kenal lama dengan Hans?" sambil menghembus asap rokoknya.

"You are very interested to know about me...and I wonder why is that...? perli aku.

"Well it's like this ....Hans banyak berubah the past one year ni..... Dia pindah ke Cyberjaya secara tiba-tiba and sanggup travel to KL, his office, on daily basis....and basically he is now not the same old Hans...", Johan seolah-olah menunding jari kepada aku sebagai penyebab utama perubahan sikap Hans. 

"Johan right? Content and calm is the Hans I gotten to know. He has not shared much of his past and I am not going to asked. It takes a MAN to open up...", me imitating Johan..... aku belum habis bersyarah....

"And don't you think people change for the betterment of themselves? Ramai orang yang tinggal dari Nilai, Seremban and in fact Melaka pun berulang alik kerja di KL. What's so weird about travelling from Cyberjaya to KL, 45 minutes saja....", aku argued....

"Wah you ni quite spicy ya....?, Johan hampir mengalah. Hah, he called me spicy?

"And you, Johan, berapa lama you sudah mengenali Hans?", Tika bertanya sambil ingin menyalakan sebatang rokok.

"Oh you're a smoker....". He instantly light my cigarette and warned me, "You do know Hans doesn't smoke, right?"

Aku menjeling tepat ke arah Johan sambil menghembus asap rokok tepat ke muka Johan....."I smoke occasionally. Depending on the crowd I'm with....". Tika menjawab selamba....

"You masih tak jawab pertanyaan I tadi, how long have you known Hans?", Johan tak berputus asa. 

"I have known him for 2 years. We meet occasionally until recently. Happy with my answer.....?" seolah-olah memerli Johan.

"Yeah, yeah....you're alright....", as though Johan was giving his approval. "I think we can just get along fine.....", dan mengangguk-anggukkan kepalanya.

Aku tersenyum puas. "You're married?", aku pula jadi busy body.

Belum sempat Johan menjawab Hans arrived with our drinks. "Johan masih belum jumpa the perfect woman for his taste bud.....baik-baik tau dengan Johan ni, girlfriend keliling pinggang". Hans menyampuk sambil mencium dahi aku. "Your Caramel Latte, babe".

"Aku bukan tak nak kahwin Hans,....bukan nak cari yang perfect but I takut bila dah kahwin I'm tied down...itu je...", Johan menjelaskan.

"Kalau kau fikir macam tu sampai bila-bila pun kau tak akan kahwin." Hans tergelak. Aku hanya tersenyum sambil memikirkan situasi yang agak similar pernah aku alami....

Tiba-tiba cellphone aku berbunyi. Aku menjeling ke arah skrin cellphoneku.

Ghazz...

No way! Damn you Ghazz!

Aku terus mematikan cellphone ku. Hans memandangku, "Who's that?" and lantas aku menjawab, "I don't recognized the number...". 

The conversation went on for another hour and soon after we decided to head home. Hans asked me, "You're coming to my place right?", tiba-tiba dia menjeling ke arah Johan and seolah-olah terasa seperti terlepas cakap....."my sister is back from MMU...", pandai Hans cover line. Aku perasan Johan asyik memerhatikan aku. Apa agaknya yang difikirkan....He look so curious about my relationship with Hans.

"Sure, I'll follow you from behind....Johan do you wanna join us?"saja aku cuba mengambil hati Johan.

"Oh no you guys go a head. I have a dinner date.....Hans kau ada dinner date ke malam ni?, lawak Johan.

"Dinner and supper....", Hans jawab.

I giggled.....

Johan tersenggih.....

Chapter 6 - Cry me A River

Part 1.

2 days earlier…..

Sepermegian Hans ke Bali mempermudahkan pergerakan Tika menyelesaikan tugasan di pejabat. Bebanan kes yang rata-rata perlukan 'your immediate attention'. That’s the thrill when you race against time….the adrenaline rush feels like bursting.

Tetapi masih ada lagi hal penting yang perlu di selesaikan. It has been a while since I’ve spoken to him. Has he been very busy?

Perhaps it’s me who has been  avoiding him……..So, Tika decided to give Ghaz a call.

Ringing…….

Ringing……..no answer.

We’re sorry the number you have dialled is out of coverage. Please try again later.

Tika hang-up.

Out of coverage….? Dia pergi mana……..

Half an hour later Tika tried again but received the same out of coverage message…..is he avoiding me or worst does he knows about me and Hans. Pucat lesi Tika rasakan mukanya …tekak tiba-tiba kering and nak pitam pun ada….aku terduduk….

That night I decided to catch a movie at D’pulze. 'Apa ada dengan cinta 2' was playing at TGV. I was looking forward watching it as I am always a sucker for romance movie. The best romance story line I will never get bored was from watching The Bridges of Madison County. Clint Eastwood and Meryl Streep, two extra ordinary screen legend, what more can I say. Finished a jumbo cup of ice lemon tea and small pop corn with no Hans and no Ghaz. It's I, me and myself.

Aku dan Ghazz  met when we were studying  abroad and we were crazy in love. Eight years later we got engaged upon both family request and a grand wedding planned a year after. This is all part of family business arrangement.  Aku terus setuju sebab I loved him with all my heart. Kami macam belangkas, ke mana saja mesti berdua.

But, it has been three years and I kept swallowing, “I am not ready to get married” from Ghazz. I don’t know how long can I afford to wait. I am not getting any younger.

One day while having a dinner, Ghazz shocked me with his proposal.

“Kalau kita putus saja macamana?", Ghazz suggested….." after all we do not have feelings for each other lagi."

"Ghazz kenapa you ni? Are you insane? " Tika berasa agak marah dengan cadangan Ghazz. "Don't you have feelings for me, anymore? We still can make things work, Ghazz. Kalau bukan untuk kita, at least for our family".

"There's no point Tika. We both know, seriously ok, yang perassan kasih sayang kita dah lama pudar. Why do we need to deny it?"

"Nampaknya you sendiri yang sudah buat decision tanpa discussing it with me kan...?"Tika bertanya.

"Isn't this what we're doing now? We will let both family know when the time is right…", Ghazz keep on insisting dengan keputusannya.

"And bila tu….the time is right?", Tika seakan-akan meyindir.

"We just know……", jawab Ghazz dengan ringkas.

"So all this years ….you, me this is it....sucked into the drain? Oh…hold on, I see I get it. You have someone else ya Ghazz…….that’s why you beriya-iya nak break-off our engagement.", Tika meneka.

"Do you think we are going to be satisfied pretending in front of everybody the fact that how much we want to get out of this mess? I did loved you Tika,…..once…….".

"This mess....is that what you think? Thanks a lot Ghazz……you make it looked so easy...". Tika hampa dengan tindakan Ghazz.

"I just wanna move on Tika…..maybe I've found someone….", Ghazz menarik tangan Tika to get her full attention.

"Let's think this over Ghazz. Malu I........., and malu family I.....", Tika mula menangis.

"I am really sorry....................", he took one look at Tika and fled off. Tika terpinga-pinga, "Ghazz...!"

Perhaps, Ghazz was right….Ever since that day we have not seen or contacted each other.

Dalam masa itu pula aku bertemu semula dengan Hans. Aku perlukan seorang lelaki yang can take of me, appreciate me for who I am…..Every pros and cons has been in favor of Hans. Mungkin sebab dia pernah melalui perceraian and more mature when dealing with feelings. "Ghazz, may be we are not meant for each other." Our family will be devastated by his decision at least in the beginning but I'm sure they will pull through the embarrassment after some time......detik hati Tika.

Lamunan Tika terhenti di situ. "Wow that was devastating", Tika said it out load. "What was devastating?", Hans voice appear and she turned to this gorgeous guy sitting next to her…she just smiled.

"Are you sure you want to continue on watching the TV?", Tika asked. "I think I wanna hit the sack. Good night", as Tika lean over to give Hans a kiss.

"Let me walk you back to your place.", Hans berkata sambil bangun dari sofa.

"No, no, I’ll be fine. Dekat je...", refuse Tika....."and thank you for the dinner".

It was only 100 meters separating their villa. As she reached her villa entrance, she retract and decided to walk around the villa towards the lighted pool. She sat by the pool and switched on Sportify to Julie London’s 'Cry me a River' while dipping her legs in the cool pool water.

Credit to mothraBlues and You Tube

She's enjoying the quite night while singing to the tune…….”Is there anything bothering you, babe?”

It's Hans…..she didn't turn but smiled to herself.....sambil menjawap, “Who me?” Nah, tak ada la…..just clearing my mind and trying to figure out things….”.

"You know, when you're alone it's easier to think......", Tika explained but Hans cut in...."Like what?". Hans stepped forward closer and the closer he gets she could just smell his cologne. Hmmmmm…….you smell so good.

"You know, things….we all have things to think about? Don't you?", Tika membalas pertanyaan sambil menjeling ke arah Hans.

"But I wanna hear yours. What's bothering you?" asked Hans.

"Nah, don’t wanna bore you.....". Tika malas nak bercerita.

"There’s only you and me here and no one else."….he sat behind me and slide his legs into the pool too….with me now in between him. He wrapped me around his arm and kissed the back of my head. Charming……

"Can I hold you like this when you’re thinking?"Hans asked softly. Oohhhhhooooo smooth Hans……just don't let go....

"Well,....it will definitely clear my mind....", and followed by a soft giggle.

Tika took one breath and snuggle her pint size body in Hans huge physique, and said, "Thanks for taking care of me.".

We were swaying and rocking in each others arm just enjoying to Julie London selections of old songs................delightful night.

Part 2.

Tika had a good night sleep. After her long shower she is all dressed up to travel to Kuta. She is still wondering what could be so important that she had to make decisions on some drawings. "Pelik pulak rasanya..."

"Good morning precious.....", Hans greeted...."Let's grab breakfast then we head off to Kuta. We are meeting Bapak Yoka around 10:30 a.m.", Hans held out his hands. Tika hold on to Hans while she slide on her sandal for balance...."Ok, I'm ready...". said Tika.

As we drove out I see a view of a beautiful misty mountain backdrop. The Damai is quite and  secluded located in the hills overlooking Lovina Bay of northern Bali. This part of Bali is  surrounded by rice paddies. In a close by small fishing village here you can go for dolphin watching and enjoy underwater activities. 

After 2 hours of driving and non stop conversation or rather debate we finally arrived at Bapak Yoka Sara's office. We passed what looks like the drafter section that led us to where Bapak Yoka was standing in the hall way. He greeted us and both updated themselves on a house design. So is this how my life would be like if I'm married to Hans? Like a puppy following his master....

"Babe....come over....", called Hans...Tanpa segan silu memanggilku 'Babe' depan strangers...makes me look cheap. 

"I have been designing a house by seaside. I got a small land in Port Dickson and we are finalizing the floor plan on the house. I am just going to explain the design to you and let your imagination run wild.". And now am I being told how to think .....? 

I participated in the discussion and to the agreement of all parties, I approved the drawings and contracts were signed.

"Terima kasih Bapak Yoka...terima kasih."Hans looked so happy. 

"You are smiling from ear to ear. This house, means so much to you..... " Tika is happy for Hans too.

"Bapak Yoka agreed to build my house according to my design and my specification, which is a rare acceptance", Hans shared details of agreement.

Not an expert in the architect world,  Tika acknowledged and said, "I'm impressed....", caressing his back while walking out the office. Hans grabbed Tika's right hand and kissed it once, "Thank you for believing in me". Tika smiled and responded, "You did all the work, Hans and not me....."

"Because one day when you are ready, I want you to move in that house as my wife"......Hans stopped and turn facing me. "I know you have your life and I have my life....I waited you for 2 years and I can tell you I don't give up easily........it has always been you. You inspire me, Tika.", and kissed her forehead.

"Come let's celebrate!"

Part 3.

"Hopped in", Hans mengajak ku menaiki a convertible classic car. It looks so smooth and slick...., "Wow, cool nya?", tegur Tika.

We started our personal tour just the two of us and Hans was the driver for the day. He asked me, "Tell me, who is Tika? Let me understand her likes and dislikes so I can learn how to make her love me." Tika tossed her head back in the air and smiled under streaks of hair covering her face.....

"It'll take a whole day to discover who she is." Tika said.....enjoying the ride.

"A haa...that is where she is wrong. Tell her that I want to discover Tika my whole life!" and the whole afternoon they were all over each other.

We visited Tanah Lot which is a temple which sits on a rock formation. During low tide you can see a path way leading to the temple.

We stayed the whole performance of 'Kecak Dance' and enjoy the sunset.....in Uluwatu.

Finally we arrived at The Four Seasons for a romantic dinner by the sea in Jimbaran.  We dine under a sea of stars in one of their secluded foreshore gazebos. The smell of exotic flowers circling the air. We experienced an exquisite four-course dinner, which included seafood, and lots of seafood. We allow time passed by slowly as we don't want  the night to end.........

Credit to The Four Seasons and Google Search.

But all things must come to an end....so does our time in Bali. I learnt that Hans is a man of full surprises. I, once told Ghazz that I hate surprises but now I'm loving every moment of it with Hans......

At nights, he likes to hang out at my villa whenever I take a dip in the cool swimming pool. He sits on the wooden pool chair and have casual conversation with me while watching me swim. I am grateful for the time I spent with him because we will never know if there will be a next one..............

Chapter 5 - Fly me to the Moon

Part 1

"I want to let you know that I am taking you to my in-law’s house.  I nak check on my children." Hans memberitahu Tika.

"Err…Hans, maybe I should not come along….if you need to deal with your family matters, please do so but I rasa tak sesuai I’m in the picture this soon in our relationship." alasan Tika.

"Why? I thought we’re supposed to share things about each other…." Hans inginkan jawapan.

"Yes, I know but isn't it too early in our relationship? Maksud I, we practically started going out the past 2 weeks…and you are ready to introduce me to your in-laws, or rather ex-in-laws? Segan la Hans…" Tika explained.

 "Ah…so that is the real reason….segan ye….I assure you mummy and babah are very open minded kalau tak takkan I married Marianne dulu…." Hans assured Tika.

Tika serba salah….di rasanya pembalut luka di dahi dan melihat bajunya yang ketat,"I think I am not dressed for this occasion, Hans."

"What? Your blouse looks ok. I like what I see..." dia menjeling nakal sambil memerhatikan pangkal dada Tika yang agak terdedah…Tika perasan and tried to cover her chest with her hands. Hans menurunkan tangan Tika dan memperbetulkan blouse Tika. "There, ok you look smashing...don't worry okay....".

"How about your kids wouldn't they feel intimidated by my presence?", lagi alasan dari Tika.

"Babe, it's going to be just fine, alright....I kan ada.....", again Hans tried to convince Tika that she has nothing to worry about.

Setiba mereka di sebuah rumah yang tersergam indah di Subang Jaya, kami turun dari kereta. Sunyi sahaja….lalu Hans memetik door bell…beberapa saat kemudian terlihat seseorang datang membuka pintu.

"Oh Tuan Hans….sebentar ya….Nyonya, nyonya…..Tuan Hans datang." sambil dia membuka pintu pagar.

We were greeted by an elderly lady perhaps in her mid-sixties with brown permed hair. Quite tall and aging gracefully. Not the usual 'nyonya' I was expecting.

“Hans, lu cari anak lu ka? Mereka keluar dengan Ah Joe pergi Morib this morning (sungguh pekat loghat baba-nyonya nya) Itu pun satu, sudah kahwin 10 tahun pun tak ada anak….".

“Hans datang nak bawak dia orang keluar….in that case then I’ll call Joe nanti….”

"Hans biarkan mereka dengan Ah Joe. Ah Joe tak ada anak dia laki bini memang suka manjakan budak berdua tu. Siapa yang lu bawa ni?"

"Sorry mummy, Hans introduce kawan Hans, this is Atikah. Atikah this is my mother in-law Madam Rozario….",  dan mereka bersalam.

"Mother in-law apa….call me mummy saja", and she hugged Tika.

"Waaaa….banyak cantik Hans. (tersengih Hans bila girlfriendnya di puji) ....Pandai lu pilih. Ah Joe ada beritahu mummy dia jumpa girlfriend baru lu  (Joe kau memang nak kena ni) …..Atikah bila mau kahwin dengan dengan anak mummy ni? …. Hans, lu sudah lama bujang lu cepat-cepat kahwin la tak payah tunggu-tunggu lagi. Lu punya anak pun sudah besar dia pun mau tengok daddy dia happy. Lu punya bini tu sudah gila dengan jantan orang putih. Lari oversea kahwin…Atika lu kahwin sama Hans and make him happy.".

"Mummy ni kalau cakap strainght to the point…", Hans ketawa.

"Ya la buat apa mau bengkak bengkok. Hati sudah suka kahwin la. Mummy tengok satu kali sudah tau Atika very special....lu bukan lagi muda Hans…"

"I am ready mummy but Hans tak tau kalau Tika is ready. (Hans menjeling ke arah Tika) Anyway, babah mana?", tanya Hans.

"Haiya, lu punya bapak ar,…itu orang tua, weekend saja cium itu padang golf la…". Jawapan Madam Rozario membuatkan Tika ketawa.

"Ini mummy Hans ada bawa new games utk budak-budak tu….nanti surah dia orang call Hans ya, mummy…" pesan Hans.

"Ya la, ya la….both of you go….suka-suka. Jangan risau…budak-budak banyak baik." jawab Madam Rozario. "Nanti mummy masak lu datang makan. Bawak lu punya kawan ni....". Hans mengangguk.

Tika tak pasti dia nak ketawa atau feel embarrassed of the conversation that just took place.  Dia banyak tersenggih and mengangguk kepala….wah kecoh jugak mother in-law Hans ni….hihihi….

 As we walked out of the house I terdengar Hans humming and I said to myself he must be in a good mood.

"Didn't I tell you not to worry...?", Hans bersuara lalu membuka pintu kereta untuk Tika.

"She is quite a character kan Hans?" tegur Tika.

"She’s like that…memang direct tapi you jangan ambil hati apa dia cakap. She is like that with everybody that's why Marianne selalu tak sebulu dengan mummy dia. Marianne degil while her mother cakap direct and sincere.". He smiled.

"And who is Ah Joe?"tanya Tika.

"Oh, Joseph is her son and Marianne’s younger brother. He's the doctor who treated you the other night. Nice guy but belum ada anak lagi. Selalu pinjam anak-anak I for weekend’s out thing…hahaha….I don’t mind, the kids are safer with Joe rather than with Marianne." explained Hans.

Tika berhenti di situ dan tidak mahu bertanya lagi. Nanti apa pula kata Hans….

Sejak akhir-akhirnya aku selalu juga mendengar Hans asyik humming the tune of ‘Fly me to the Moon”. He loves listening to Tony Bennett. Hmmm…what a surprise I love the song too but Frank Sinatra’version which is more upbeat . Pertama kali aku dengar this song was when I watched ‘Once Around’ some 20 years ago. It was a good movie by Richard Dreyfuss and Holly Hunter.  For some reason this song has been in the air quite a lot lately.

Credit to marcinoski007 and You Tube

Part 2.

"You keep humming the tune?" tanya Tika.

"What tune?", Hans asked me back.

"Fly me to the moon....", aku jawab.

Hans tersenyum meleret. He has such a good smile membuat ku jantung ku dup dap, dup dap. And he  took his time to answer to my question.

"Nothing unusual about it....why do you asked?"Hans tersengih....

"Entah? Pelik rasanya...well maybe perasaan I je kot...", Tika answered. Hans left the conversation as it is.....

"Anyway, where are we going now?", Tika bertanya.

"I need to drop by my office sekejap to collect my air tickets. I'm flying off to Bali tomorrow with Bapak Yoka." Hans said.

"Oh really? And baru sekarang you are telling me? Besok dah nak pergi and hari ni baru beritahu I?", bertubi-tubi soalan dari Tika. Geram pun ada. No wonder asyik dengan lagu Fly me to the Moon.....

"Sorry Babe it was a last minute thing and Bapak Yoka wants me to view some drawings he design for a private house here in Port Dickson.", Hans explained.

Tika rasa tak puas hati dengan rancangan Hans...."Always last minute...", rungut Tika. Hans buat selamba saja.

Setibanya mereka di pejabat Hans, Tika insist to wait at the lobby downstairs. Dia segan untuk naik ke pejabat Hans kerana takut terserempak dengan orang yang dia kenali, Hans came down after 20 minutes and passed an envelop to Tika and said, "Open it..it's for you.....".

"What's this? "Tika asked.

"Well you wouldn't know if you don't open it....", Hans terus keluar dari bangunan pejabat dan terus ke keretanya. "Come on!"

Tika terkial-kial mengekori Hans dari belakang. Envelop tadi Tika terus masukkan ke dalam handbagnya....

"So you dah buka ke belum?", tanya Hans sambil membuka pintu untuk Tika.....Tika mengelengkan kepalanya....."Babe, trust me open it, you will not regret it....", kata Hans.

Tika pun mengeluarkan envelop dari handbagnya. Di menelek sampul surat berwarna putih dan di intai isi kandungannya. Terdapat 2 tiket penerbangan, satunya tertera nama Hans dan sekeping lagi,....

"You are taking me to Bali? Tomorrow?", Tika terkejut. Hans tersenyum lebar.

"Of course, I will take you everywhere Tika. I only want you to be with me.....".  Hans has a habit of surprising me at the wrong time.

"You always buat surprise last minute macam ni. I have a job too you know and my job is also important to me......" jelas Tika.

"I know....this is very important to me. I want your decision too when we take a look at the designs. Please? " pujuk Hans.

Fikiran Tika melayang memikirkan kerjanya yang semakin menimbun. Rabu dah apply emergency leave, Thursday and Friday Doctor Joe given me 2 days medical leave. Tak kan aku nak ponteng kerja lagi?  And this relationship is moving too fast....sesak rasanya. Maybe I should take a break.....

Tapi macamana nak beritahu Hans?...............

"Hans, since the trip is so important to you why not you pergi dulu and I will follow you after 2-3 days. I need to review pending work and settlekan sebanyak mungkin. I will reschedule the flight to Thursday and we spend time together until the weekend....how's that? I belum boleh tune to your 'last minute adventure'."Tika suggested.

Hans mengetap bibirnya tanda tidak berpuas hati dengan cadangan Tika. "You promised you will fly to Bali on Thurdays and we will stay until the weekend? "

"Yes, Hans. I promise......, "sambil mengangkat dua jari tanda girl scout honors. Hans mengangguk tanda setuju.

Tika berasa lega.................

Part 3

Nasib baik cutinya diluluskan as she had already reschedule her flight to Thusday. She booked the last flight out to Bali on MAS at 3:15 pm and expected to arrive Denpasar Airport around 6:20 pm local time. Hans was not exactly happy with the rescheduled travel time based on his response but said he said look forward seeing Tika at the airport. "Don'worry Hans, I will be there....", Tika assured him. I guess he was expecting me to arrive much earlier..........

The flight to Bali was smooth as Tika slept throughout the flight. She opted not to have any meals semata-mata mahu tidur semasa dalam flight. She wants to catch up on her sleep. These past 2 days has been very hectic with meetings, discussions and datelines.

Upon arrival, Hans was already there waiting to greet me with his wide smile and sparkling eyes at the immigration center. We hugged and walked hand in hand as we past immigration and walked through customs without any hassle. The hotel limousine was waiting and directly transported to our hotel.

I can see that Hans was so elated that I was finally in Bali and Hans said, "we will go to the hotel which is about 2 hours drive from the Denpasar."

"2 hours Hans, macam I travel dari KL to Bali (perli Tika...jauh sangat hotelnya.....) sounds very secluded and too far from city center....are you kidnapping me?", Tika was curiuos.

"Kidnap? Well if you wanna put it that way, why not....but I can guarantee you that you will love the place and you don't want to go back to Kuala Lumpur", Hans said. Tak balik KL?.....tak mungkin lah!

After several drinks and small talks in the limo, they arrive at The Damai. Upon checking in the bellboy showed them to their accommodations.

Couldn't see much of what going on as it was almost dark but the sunset was beautiful. It was like walking through a forest. Padanla Hans excited gila....memang taste dia.

"First thing I need to do when I arrive to my room, is change and take a long hot shower. Tika laid out her plans for the evening.

"Mam, we have arrived at your villa......" said the bellboy. Ternganga mulut Tika....she was expecting a room not this.....! Holly macaroons....it is gorgeous she couldn't believe her eyes...."This is where I'll be staying?", she asked Hans....

"Yes Babe this is where you will be staying. I am staying in another unit close by here. Are you fine with this....?"

Tika is still stunned...."Yeah.....yeah....will I be fine? I think I'm falling in love with this place....", she smiled and walked around the villa. There was an outdoor private pool and the bed is facing a clear view of the pool and sky.

"You make yourself comfortable and I see you in a bit."Hans kissed Tika on her cheeks and left her to digest her new solitude.

After unpacking, Tika took a really long shower. When she came out from the dressing room Hans was already standing by the mini bar fixing a drink.

"Hey I didn't hear the door bell, how did you get in?"Tika asked. Hans smiled, "Kat sini all open. As you can see you left the glass door wide open...."

"Seriously...?", Tika was surprised by Hans response. Hans ketawa tak henti-henti...."Yes, seriously Babe." Tika hanya memandang ke arah luar.....

"Memang cantik ya tempat ni..... Thank you for asking me to come with you....", she went over to Hans and hugged him passionately. Hans have been waiting this moment...just the two of them. Then the tilted Tika's chin and kissed her on the lips. Tika rasa lemah dalam pelukan Hans.....I, too, have been waiting for this moment Hans.....

"Thank you, for being here.....I love you so much....."Hans said and kissed Tika again.

They sat down and talk about their plan for tonight....."So, where's the best place to eat? I'm kind of hungry",

"Sure, anything you wanna do, Babe. We'll have an early dinner. Food is halal and I had a muslim chef friend of mine cooked and bring the food to my villa.". Hans explained. "Then if you are up to it, we'll check out the in house live band. Otherwise we can stay indoor, watch a movie and order room service. Tomorrow we will go to Kuta and meet Bapak Yoka. I wanna show the designs I mentioned to you in KL."

Looks like Hans has everything planned for their trip this time. Nice to have everything being taken care off kan? All I need to do is get dress, take a ride and do nothing at all....ooolalala.....