You Are My One and Only

Patricia was beautiful. In fact, she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. The sight of her alone cleansed his soul and made it still.

It was already eleven when the fireworks were done, and the kids were already woozy. Patricia took them into the room and put them to bed. Isaac was sitting outside, holding a cigarette between his fingers. The mountain was silent, save for the occasional laughters from the hot springs on the mountain across from them.

Liam stayed with him. He was staring into the night sky.

Isaac suddenly asked, “Liam, which comes first? Love, or family?” He wanted to marry her, even if she did have children of her own. He did not mind, but his grandfather could pass away at any moment. He could never go against his grandfather’s wishes, so he was in a dilemma. He wanted to make her happy, but he could not marry her for now.

Liam thought this was a tough question to answer. He said, “Family, I think.” You can change your partners, but you can’t change your family. Blood is blood no matter what.

Isaac took a drag of his cigarette and said nothing.

Liam looked at him. He could feel that his boss was upset, but he had no idea what Isaac had in mind, so he did not ask.

……

…

next day, and the SUV stopped at Snowflake Lane. Liam opened the door for them. Scott got out first, then he helped Sylvie out. Stellan was the last of the kids to get out of the

the second row’s window seat. He

said, “Thanks for

said, “Thank you, Mr.

welcome. I’d be happy enough if you work harder

Patricia nodded. “I

house, but when Patricia tried

gonna pay us back soon, Tricia? It’s been a couple of weeks. My boss wants

“Sorry, Gus. I’ll see if she has sold her house. We’ll give you the money if she

“Tricia, the interest is gonna pile up if you don’t pay us back

“We’ll give you the money before the week is

my boss you said so.

him profusely,