I will see you in my Dreams

Chapter 18 Aaron

Dinner is served. Ari was busy cutting the steak in Hannah's plate-like before they separated. He asked for coffee with cream, an additional portion of side vegetable, mash with gravy and avocado shake. Now, eat …its ready, Ari said. Hannah was speechless and obediently ate silently.

Since the long table was located in the center of the venue and facing the guests, they are looking at Ari how he prepared Hannah's dinner like years ago. Like nothing changed. Some are waiting for Hannah to snap but it never happened.

Then a little boy popped up from nowhere and squeezed himself between Ari and Hannah. Everyone was surprised, looking at Ari and Hannah's reaction. Ari's face turns pale and picks up the little boy then looks at Hannah.

Aaron this is Auntie Hannah, this is my son Aaron, Hannah.

Cute little boy you are …so your name is Aaron? How are you ?

I am not okay because I am uncomfortable with my shirt…..and I am hungry!

Sorry about your shirt Aaron, I think I've seen you earlier carrying a red box in the entourage.

Yes, that's me. I was the ring bearer.

I see…so you want to eat with me?

Yes, I would like to sit beside you.

Ohh okay, you want steak or mash with gravy?

Mash with gravy please….

Ari put a chair between him and Hannah for Aaron to sit down and ask his nanny to get him some mash with gravy.

Aaron adamantly opens his mouth to Hannah, waiting to get fed.

Oh okay, I will feed you.

Ari was so embarrassed for Hannah, but his boy was so upbeat and pushed himself to Hannah's side.

Finally, the nanny came to take him, but he would like to be seated between Ari and Hannah.

Alright, sit here between us and I will feed you, Hannah said.

Aaron shows his wide smile and puts his little head to Hannah's chest, which surprises her and the guests who are watching them.

Ari was so restless, embarrassed and anxious. He kept on moving from his chair.

Is this staged? Chie wonders…. Someone was trying to get Hannah's attention…hmmmm Gie said.

I think you're right Gie, Minel quips.

Let us observe what the next move by either Ari or that cute little boy.

It seems that Aaron was enjoying Hannah's attention. He finished the mash with gravy and ate some broccoli and carrots.

You're a good boy, you ate vegetables.

What other vegetables do you eat?

I ate cabbage and bok choy too.

Wow…good for you Aaron.

Now, you have to drink water or juice to wash it down.

Water or juice?

Water please…. Good boy…. I'm done, can I go play with Sheryl?

Of course you can, don't run okay! Okay!

Ari was observing how Hannah treated Aaron, and it seems that his boy was enjoying Hannah's company.

Thank you Hannah….appreciate that!

You're welcome, I have children, I still remember how to deal with them.

Ima was so mesmerized by what she saw, even Yael and Raul.

Ari whispered to Hannah's …….Can we talk?

Maybe? Is there anything to talk about? Hannah asked.

Yes Hannah….please hear me out.

Ari moved to Hannah's seat and about to start the conversation when the emcee interrupted them by requesting Hannah and Ari to please read the poem for the newlywed.

What? I am not prepared.

It is written on a piece of paper….It has to be read by the bridesmaid and groomsmen alternately.

Okay then……Ari and Hannah walked to the center stage with the piece of paper where the poem was written, handed to them to read. Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

Hannah started by saying....Congratulations to the newlywed Eddie and Claire, good evening everyone. Ari and I are going to read a poem prepared to the newlywed. It's the Recipe for Happily Ever After by Ilona M Blake, I admire the author of this poem, she always writes from the heart. Sometimes the content is lonely and sad, sometimes it is joyful and happy. Since this is a wedding, the start of a new beginning to the newlywed, Ari and I will try our best to recite the poem coming from the bottom of our hearts. Right Ari?

Of course my dear….guide me please. I am not good at this but I will try my best. He wink at Hannah that everyone noticed.

Ima was praying silently, please Hannah, give Ari a second chance, I am begging you.