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As we continue chatting, I can’t help but admire her even more. She’s a kind-hearted person, and I can see the love she has for Alex in her eyes. The little boy, who had retreated into his own world, occasionally glances in our direction, curious about our conversation.
I seize this opportunity and decide to keep the conversation flowing. “Nice to meet you, Amber,” I reply, genuinely pleased that she’s willing to engage. “And your son is wonderful. I hope I can make it up to him.”
Amber shakes her head gently. “No, he’s my nephew. I’m his guardian now.”
I nod, sensing there’s more to the story, but I don’t want to pry. “You’re doing a great job with him,” I comment sincerely, gesturing toward Alex.
A faint smile tugs at the corners of Amber’s lips. “Thank you, Derrick. It hasn’t been easy, but we manage.”
Chapter Nine
Amber
Aswecruisethroughthe clouds, a feeling of warmth slowly replaces the initial chill between Derrick and me. I can’t help but let go of my guard. Alex is sound asleep, cocooned in his dreams, and the cabin is now quieter, allowing us to converse without waking him.
Derrick’s apology still lingers in the air, and I decide to accept it. I mean, what harm could it do? He mustered the courage to say sorry, and I’ve always believed in giving people a second chance. “It’s okay,” I say softly, offering a small, forgiving smile.
Derrick seems relieved by my response, and he genuinely smiles back. It’s amazing how a simple apology can transform an atmosphere from icy to friendly.
“So,” he begins, his voice tentative but warm, “is this your first time visiting Japan?”
I nod, feeling a spark of excitement. “Yes, it is. I’ve heard so much about it, and I’ve always wanted to come. Now, I’m finally getting the chance.”
Derrick listens attentively, and I can sense his genuine interest in our conversation. “That’s wonderful. What brings you to Japan?”
I lean back in my seat, resting my head against the cushioned headrest. “Work, mainly. I’m a freelance artist and photographer, and there’s a project in Kyoto I’ve been commissioned for. It’s an incredible opportunity, and I couldn’t say no. But besides that, it’s a permanent move. At least, till whenever.”
Derrick raises an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. “An artist? Wow. That’s impressive. Tell me more about your art. What exactly do you specialize in?”
We continue to chat about my art and photography, his work in marketing, and other casual topics. It’s easy and comfortable, like reconnecting with an old friend.
“How about you?” I ask. “What’s Japan have in store for you?”
“I live there,” Derrick answers and smiles. “I have for a while now.”
As we converse, I can’t help but appreciate the kindness in Derrick’s eyes and the warmth in his smile. He seems like a genuinely good person. And I notice he’s quite handsome, too, though I don’t let my thoughts linger on that too long.
We share snippets of our lives, careful not to dive too deep into personal matters. It’s a delicate dance, maintaining a polite distance while trying to know someone. But it feels nice to engage in light conversation, especially after the initial tension.
Soon, the flight attendants begin to serve snacks. I get mine, and reserve some for sleeping Alex.
As the flight hours stretch on, I notice that the once vast and dark expanse outside our airplane window is beginning to transform. It’s as if the sun itself has woken up from slumber, casting its brilliant light across the sky. The Pacific Ocean below shimmers in shades of blue and green, creating an awe-inspiring canvas.
Alex, my young companion on this journey, wakes. For a while, he is surprisingly quiet for some time. His wide eyes have been glued to the window since we boarded, but now, with the dawning day, it’s the perfect opportunity.
“Hey, Alex,” Derrick says, leaning over and gently placing a hand on his small shoulder, “do you want to see something incredible?”
The little boy turns to me, his curiosity piqued. His face is a mixture of anticipation and excitement as he nods vigorously. I affirm with a smile, and he turns to Derrick and nods. I help him unbuckle his seat belt for him to step down and walk toward Derrick.
He makes his way to the window, to where Derrick is. He offers us a faint but friendly smile. It’s a momentary connection between people who started as strangers on this long-haul flight.
Once at the window, he lifts Alex up so he can have an unobstructed view. His small hands press against the glass, and his eyes widen even further as he takes in the vastness of the Pacific Ocean below. It stretches out endlessly, meeting the horizon with a soft, almost imperceptible curve.
I watch his reaction closely, and for a brief instant, I’m reminded of the magic of a child’s wonder. It’s a sight that many of us, as adults, have become desensitized to over the years, but through Alex’s eyes, it regains its splendor.
The sunlight dances on the surface of the water, creating a shimmering path that seems to lead to infinity. I can’t help but feel a sense of calm wash over me as I witness this breathtaking moment through the eyes of a child.
Alex’s awe is palpable. He points at the water below, his words a jumble of excitement.
