Chapter 25：Phenomenal Earthquakes

Morning came in and Seb turned on the television, expecting some news regarding the two quakes that shook the affected places. He resorted to watching TV as part of his strategy so that he can avoid from seeing her face, it's awkward anyway. Eventually, the TV anchorman declared that Philvoltecs detected those two quakes with magnitude 6.5 and 6.2 , while the agency had caught faultlines both in Tuluban, somewhere in Huimaras, Philippines.

Karla took her cellular phone, called Nomin as Seb followed her inside then she turned on the loud speaker.

" Nomin, how are you?" Karla breathlessly asked.

" I'm just fine, don't worry, we just need to continue today till tomorrow. How is it there, are you just alright? People here were in massive evacuation out of their houses which have been cracked and mostly damaged by the two consecutive quakes. I guess those were volcanic-related quakes because before the place was shaken, below us tantrums the most, nearby the portal. Nomin said.

" No, it's not, the report says it's tectonic and not volcanic. Whatever, why stay there that long, get out from there." Karla told Nomin.

"No, not yet, we're not yet done. We all have to take extra care, Banli's angels assumed that this has in relation to Demido's tactics in destructing Marlou's hard-earned company. Hmm...you take care and how's Seb? Tell him to call me a little while please.

" Here's Seb, good to hear that you're fine Nomin." Seb said.

" How's Karla last night? Nomin asked.

Karla has heard it all, cried and ran going outside the house. Seb was really very worried and followed her, leaving the phone while Nomin was talking till he stopped and the call has ended.

"My dear...I'm sorry, we just wanted to make you like a normal woman and like any other in your age. It's also Nomin's idea, we both have your husband in us, please don't be mad anymore at us, forgive me and Nomin. Well, it's really a mistake. Angels do commit mistakes too. I'm very sorry." Seb bowed down his head. Such a relief for Karla to hear such explanation and apologies then she started talking.

" It is for me to decide, not from both of you. Hope you won't keep secrets about me anymore, Seb. But...your honesty is enough, thank you." Karla explained.

She felt better and smiled at him but he was still shameful about what happened albeit tried to feel better.

He prepared himself very lifeless while waiting for Karla in the car. When boarded she smiled at him but he was not looking at her. Karla just opted not to start a chitchat for it's not easy for a man to be confronted such a way. Then there goes till they reached their office. In a while, Seb went up to the rooftop and called Nomin. When Nomin found out why they hanged up, the feeling was mutual, Nomin felt the same feeling with Seb. Demido's fall is the only way that all of their lives will put back on it's places.

He decided to proceed to their Admin Officer and consulted the department concerns for possible budget allocations the soonest time possible. However, he thought of going to the HR for a memorandum to address all offices for a mandatory checking and assessment of the possible building and structural damages. The HR officer immediately forwarded the order to the concerned heads and for immediate action. He did not go back to his office but went to a certain cafe outside. In a while, he enjoyed the cup of coffee alone when the cafe was already shaking and it was truly intense. The earthquake struck again that stuck him inside. It startled everyone as he ran back to his office and found Karla under her table. He brought her down and their bags and ordered everyone to dock, cover and hold. On their way, he ordered the HR to inform everyone through landline to vacate the buildings, including that of the annex for a three-day break in observance of the catastrophic quake that might strike again and again. When all the employees were already outside the building and ready to go home for their safety, Karla was a bit calmed down from panic. While in the car he called up the CEO regarding the situation and agreed to what he had just decided. Karla was just listening bearing her worrisome thoughts for Nomin. Next to the CEO, he called Nomin.

" How are you and the team?"

" We're a little okay although one of the surveyors had a wound. The problem is, the road near us is not passable due to big cracks though the locals are finding ways to possibly make a localize wooden bridge. If we can possibly return there tomorrow, the driver will just leave the bus at the Mandayan Hotel subject for some charges. Anyway, it can be a better option than by just leaving it at the site.

" How's our girl." Nomin smiled.

" Hi Nomin, I'm okay, be safe there for us. Don't be silly again.

" Oh dear...yes, sorry but, I miss you so much and can't wait to see you again. I missed our room. There are a lot of mosquitoes around here, but still fine. I'm in a company of smart ones, I've learned a lot from them. So there, take care, keep praying" Then Nomin turned off the phone.

Seb start driving while Karla broke the silence.

" Can we pass by at Cake and Pastries stall, I want to buy something." Karla sweetly smiled at him as he had caught it even if he tried to still avoid eye contact. When Karla went down he just heard it through the customers that the recent quake was 6.9 in magnitude. The store just posted a "CLOSE" signage. But Karla insisted to buy some chocolate cakes and still have given the chance by the owner, grateful as she left. Seb opened the door for her to get inside with his chocolate cake's box.

" I pray to you Father God for a more peaceful life among all of us. Father God, please take away my feelings, cut all my desires, bury all my pains, wipe my tears for me. I know I am loved...but I know it can make them all suffer. I pray for your guidance to fill in my heart. Make me always go after your will. Protect me oh God, bless me, heal me and forgive me from my sins. This I ask through the holy ghost. Amen. She tearfully prayed. Seconds after smelling the wind from the window, she smiled and opened her eyes. She was shocked seeing Seb, in front of her and greeted.

" Happy birthday, my dear and kissed her gently on the forehead. She cried as she looked at him.

" Thank you...Seb."