Mr. and Mrs.Pon had five children. Their youngest and only son Onie and his family lived next door but they never had the time to even join Mr. and Mrs. Pon for dinner. Their eldest, Cora, lived on the in the city and only visited during special occasions. The second daughter, Eula, frequently saw her parents every weekend with her family, but when her kids reached college the visits became fewer. The two other daughters lived outside the country. They came home every 2 years before, but now they hardly even called.
Mr.Pon was a tall and lean built man. He was the stereotypical strict father figure. Mrs.Pon was aloof and rarely showed affection, but she was very devoted to her family. She did all household duties expected of a mother and wife.
The couple is now in their mid 80’s and lived alone in their big two story-house.
The old couple believes that they have been fulfilled with their children who are successful in their respective careers and families.
But living in a big house as an elderly couple is very lonely and quiet for Mr. and Mrs. Pon. It was unlike before when their grandchildren filled the big house with fun and laughter. Their children and grandchildren are now busy with their lives and didn’t have time to visit them anymore.
One day, Mrs.Pon invited her hairstylist at home, Mrs.Keish. “How are you Neena? It’s been ages since you asked me to come.” Mrs.Keish asked. Keish was also Mrs.Pon second cousin and younger to her than a few years. “I just felt like having myself pampered today. Besides, I realized that I missed you” Mrs.Pon replied. “How are your children, Onie still lives in the area? Asked Keish Curiously. “Yes, he does. He was also promoted to Branch Manager just recently. His children are all grown up now. They attend an elite academy in the city” Mrs.Pon said proudly. Mrs.Keish looked up to the Pons and thought highly of them because of their achievements and financial capacity. Mrs.Pon had always been there for her as well, it makes her a beloved cousin. But she was sad to see that her cousin’s children were rarely there now that Mr. and Mrs. Pon needed them the most.
“Hello Keish, it’s nice to see you” called Mr.Pon. He came in the front door bringing a plastic bag full of vegetables from the market. Mr.Pon frequented the market because he enjoyed walking and talking to the people in the neighborhood. He did not stand as tall as he did before. Age had caught up with him. “You should have someone here with you Neena. It’s difficult for the two of you to live alone. You’re both not as active and strong as you used to be”. Suggested Mrs.Keish. ” Nonsense Keish. We are perfectly cable of taking care of ourselves. We have each other, right Neena?” Mr.Pon smirked. Mrs.Pon smiled.
Mrs.Pon agreed with Mrs.Keish, but she didn’t want just anyone to accompany them at home. She wanted her children or any grandchildren. But Mrs.Pon was not a pushover and she didn’t want to force her children to visit her just because she said so. Mr.Pon also kept a lot of emotions to himself and does not bother to insist his children to come, he is content seeing his children succeed on their own.
“Oh don’t be stubborn you two” Mrs. Keish expressed. “I actually know someone who can accompany you here. I think you will like her. She can help you with housework.” “No, no there’s no need. You don’t need to worry about us Keish.” Assured Mrs.Pon. “Give her a chance, I actually really want you to meet this girl. She is very special” Mrs.Keish said eyeing Mrs.Pon intently.
Mr. and Mrs.Pon looked at each other skeptically. Mrs.Keish was very insistent and wanted Mr. and Mrs.Pon to meet the girl she met and took in her home.
The next day, Mrs.Keish came over again but only to deliver the coconut pie that she baked. Mrs.Pon thanked her and invited her to stay longer for lunch. But Mrs. Keish rejected the offer and told Mrs. Pon that she needed to go back immediately Mr.Pon noticed something was different from Mrs.Keish but didn’t bother to think about it long after she left.
“I wonder if we cam consider Keish’s suggestion.” Mr.Pon said to Mrs.Pon. “oh, why do you think so?” “I know she won’t introduce someone to us if she doesn’t trust them and if there was no good reason.” “You have a point. But I’m still unsure.” Said the worried Mrs.Pon. “We can try meeting with her first. I will call Keish.” Mr.Pon, though never expressive, misses having a child at home. It was very lonely and it’s been months since their family visited them. They called, but having them around was different. He longed for a family, his family.
Mrs. Keish arrived at lunch with a young skinny girl. Ban was very young. Hardly hitting puberty yet. She had ash blonde hair, pale skin, and a melancholic face, but she had a very peaceful presence. Mr. and Mrs. Pon felt very comfortable with Ban. She didn’t talk much, but she made Mrs.Pon feel at ease which was very important. They agreed to have Ban come over and help with chores and errands for Mr. and Mrs.Pon and go home at Mrs. Keish’s after work. They knew Keish had a reason why she introduced Ban to them, but they didn’t know yet.
“Where did you find her?” Mrs.Pon curiously asked Mrs.Keish. “She’s a child at the play center my daughter volunteers in. She was the only one who didn’t have a family to go home to and we didn’t want to force her to go to an orphanage. She’s a smart and nice girl, she offered to help and look for work after Mimi told her that she can live with us temporarily. ” Explained Mrs.Keish. “How nice of generous of Mimi to do that,” said Mrs.Pon. “But, be true to us Keish. Why did you want us to meet her?” Mrs.Pon firmly asked.
Ban had been working at the Pons for 5 months and she is now familiar with the couple’s daily routine and needs. Importantly, she can buy their regular medication at the pharmacy on her own now. Ban had an apparent development in her body as she was not as skinny as before now. Mrs.Pon prepared delicious meals when Ban was over and she taught her how to cook. Mr.Pon was also thankful that Ban was very interested in Carpentry. He praised Ban for not making her gender a hindrance to her interest in the hobby. “Anyone can make a chair, boat, or table. It’s just skill, practice, and strength as well. I am very surprised at how strong you are Ban!” Praised Mr. Pon. Ban smiled.
Jen Orillo 