DUMB FOUND 7

          The mute has been aloof to Gabby. He spent the whole afternoon at the beach, particularly where his cast-away house was built by him located.

           He did not like the idea of tutorial. He did not need it. He only wants a simple, quiet life. If he undergoes private tutorial, it means he will be with other person, aside from Gabby. He hated the presence of people, he does not want to talk. He has a fear of talking.

           If only he was not seen by Gabby, he thought, he would have been living in a serene life.

           Before he decided to go back to the mansion, he visited his wrecked rowboat. He was hopeful to rebuild it. When the going gets tough, it can help him escape from the danger in the island. It can also help him find a deserted island to be his new paradise.

           "Where have you been?" asked Gabby. It sounded worried.

          Pepe was a little surprised. He never seen Gabby slumped on the long couch. Before he could make a hand language, his employer was able to come near to him.

          "I'm worried." He patted Pepe's back. "Are you alright?"

          Pepe nodded. And, he tried to avoid the comfort of Gabby. But he followed him.

          "What's bothering you, Pepe" I can help you."

          He signed language. Gabby interpreted them in his mind. "Don't' think about it. We don't need to earn a living here. You're not obliged to catch fish. But don't worry, we're gonna fix your boat soon. If you're really inclined with fishing, you can do it again. But you are not obliged to do it." He smiled at him. The mute showed to compassionate employer a satisfied nod and smile.

          While Pepe was taking a bath, he was still thinking of the consequences of the tutorial. He hoped it will not be realized.

           The next day, Pepe was nervous. The fact that he's going to face with two new strangers such as the pilot and the tutor, made him so uneasy. Thus, before he was seen by Gabby, he left the house. He went to the woods. He's like a paranoiac. He keeps on looking for hiding place, thinking that somebody's running after him.

          Pepe's heartbeat grew faster as he heard the helicopter approaching the island. If before he is fascinated to the sound of a helicopter, to date, it gives him exaggerated panic and dreadful terror. He is like a little child hiding on the tree.

           "Where's the mute?" asked Gabby's father, as he got off the aircraft.

          Gabby was completely surprised to see his Dad. Mang Jack did not notify him about it. "M-may..be he's in the beach." He forgot to greet back the teacher. "Dad, why are you here?" He was obviously sad of his father's presence. He knew it might affect Pepe terribly.

          "Aren't you glad to see me?" He's annoyed but he sweetly uttered the words.

          "Sorry, Dad. Come in." He embraced his daddy. And, he greeted Mang Jack and the woman, "I'm glad you came, Miss..?"

          "Miss Fatima Cortez", the tutor timidly answered.

           "OK. I'll talk to you later. Come in. Mang Jack, did you buy the stuffs?"

          "Yes, Sir! I'll unload them now."

          In the woods, Pepe was in a great confusion. He did not want to show up to the tutor. He would rather meet the pilot than to see the teacher. He did not like to learn to talk, if it will only lead to disappointment or any problem. He still believed that people are innately malevolent. If possible, he wanted to live alone. Education is no longer applicable for a person like him.

           In the mansion, Gabby was also in agitation. He, for the first time, was upset for his Dad's presence. His father was giving him excessive tension, he could not explain. He did not like him to know that he hired someone they don't know the background and yet he was giving favors. How can he tell him the purpose of all of those? But, since it was not kept secret to him, he was willing to introduce Pepe to him and he will try to explicate Pepe's condition. He still believed that his dad will understand him, because he is a man with good heart. Hence, he decided to look for the mute friend in the beach.

           "Dad, I will look for Pepe in the beach, so I can introduce him to you." said Gabby to his Dad, who was indulging himself in sight-seeing through a binocular.

           Without looking at him, his father said, "Alright, Gab! I'm excited to meet him."

           Gabby's unpleasant feeling became agreeable upon hearing the word 'excited'. It means that his father is not mad of his decision to adopt a total strange person, without going through a background check. It only means that he is indeed a supportive one and his presence is not to intimidate or interrogate Pepe, but to make sure that everything is okay and will be for good.

           "Thank you, Dad!" he gladly said before he turned around and quickly left his father.

           In the living area, Miss Cortez was there, browsing a magazine. "Miss Cortez, I have to look for your tutee. He's in the beach for sure."

           "Yes, Sir." the tutor replied. She then gave him a smile.

           Gabby went out the mansion and found Mang Jack outside, who was unloading boxes and other stuffs.

            "Mang Jack, you never texted me.." Gabby was a bit reprimanding, but he managed to show his smile.

            "I'm sorry, Sir." He's apologetic.

            "It's okay." He smiled again. "Wait, I have to be hurry. See you later.." He then trotted through the beach. He did not know why he has to be in hurry. All he knew was that he's so excited to see Pepe learning.

            He made it so quickly. He could see Pepe's makeshift dwellings. "Pepe! Pepe!" he shouted, looking around. He then repeated it many times while changing his point of direction. He failed.

            Pepe could hear the call of Gabby. He instead went farther the woods, without thinking the danger. No, I'd rather be forever dumb than to learn how to speak, because it will only harm me, he thought.

            Gabby moved to the forest. He pursued calling out Pepe's name.

            Pepe decided to show up. He already believed Gabby's kindness. His offer is for goodness' sake. There are only few good people on earth and Gabby is one of them, he declared it to himself.

            He moved forward. His willingness to learn conquered his fear.

           Couple of minutes later, Pepe and Gabby met halfway. The mute defensively hand signalled to Gabby that he's looking for a tree, which is good for rowboat paddle.

           Gabby was not interested to his signals. He instead explicated to Pepe about his presence. His father wanted to meet him before he leaves the island.

          "Dad, he's Pepe." Gabby enthusiastically introduced his friend to his father. "Pepe, meet my Dad."

    

          Pepe was so timid. He did not know what to do. He was seeking help from Gabby by looking at his eyes. However, Gabby's Dad was so quick. He felt the uneasiness of the mute man. So, he shook hands with Pepe.

            "Nice meeting you, Pepe! Welcome to our family!" Gabby's father said. It somehow reduced the tense being felt by Pepe. "Gab told me that you're a victim of mischievous fishermen." Pepe nodded. "Don't worry. Our island will protect you from them. Just don't be shy. I all the way support Gabby's plans and decisions for you. I just hope you are trustworthy. Are you?"

           Pepe nodded again, but this time, he smiled a bit. His handsomeness showed up.

           "Oh, that's good, son!"

           Pepe abruptly looked at the good man's eyes as he called him 'son'. It was a music to his ears. No one called him son, except his mother. It almost made him cry for joy. He realized that Gabby and his father are indeed good persons.

           "Good luck to your tutorial. She's your teacher." pointing to Miss Fatima Cortez.

           Miss Cortez stood up. "Hello, Pepe! I'm glad to be your private tutor." Then, she smiled romantically, as if she knew Pepe for a long time.

            Pepe smiled back. His eyes glimmered.

           "Good luck to both of you, Miss Fatima and Pepe. Enjoy every day of your tutorial." The benevolent man said.

           Pepe's heart was filled of joy and gratitude. He never thought it would happen to him.

           "Thank you, Sir!" Fatima uttered.

           "Okay!" He then looked at Gabby. "Gab, enjoy your stay here with your new friends. Just call us if ever you need something."

           "Yes, Dad! Thank you for your support!" He thankfully embraced his father, who later patted his shoulder.

             "Good bye to all of you! We have to go." He looked around. "Where's Mang Jack?"

             "He's in the generator room, Dad!' He's so quick. "I'll call him.."

             Couple of minutes later, Mang Jack and Pepe were being introduced to each other by Gabby. Pepe had seen Mang Jack before, but it's his first time to meet him formally.

             "How are you, Pepe?" a fatherly voice came out from Mang Jack's mouth. He's not expecting for a verbal reply. He just wanted a sign from Pepe, which the latter did. "That's great, son! Enjoy! Someday, you'll have a good life. Gabby and Sir are good people. You're so lucky to be part of them." He patted Pepe's shoulder and smiled before he went outside to start the chopper.

             Pepe, Gabby and Miss Cortez followed to see the flight of the helicopter. No one spoke. Gabby waved his hand since his Dad was doing the same. 

                       When the chopper was totally invisible to their eyes, they came back to the living room. Gabby and Pepe were sitting in a long black leather sofa in front of Miss Fatima.

           Gabby opened the conversation. "I'm so glad that Daddy, although came without my knowledge, he accepted and supported this. Pepe, now that you're part of the family, I want you to feel at home. Take the teaching of Miss Fatima. It is all for you. No one will underestimate you if you are educated." Pepe was listening intently. He believed Gabby has a pure heart. "Miss Fatima.."

                      "Yes, Sir!" Fatima respond quickly. She leaned forward and looked at Gabby's eyes.

            "You are hired by Mang Jack. I trust him, thus I also trust you.."

            "Thank you, Sir!"

             "Your task is to educate Pepe. Teach him the basics. He also needs personality development, so you are obliged to improve it. Is that clear?"

              Miss Cortez just nodded, smiling.

              "Are you related to Mang Jack?"

              "Yes! He’s my uncle." She feared that it would not be okay.

  

               "Well, that's great! Mang Jack never told me before that he has beautiful niece, who happens to be an education graduate."

               "Thanks, Sir!" she's relieved.

               "You're 21 years old, according to your resume.. Okay! You can start today!" declared Gabby. "Later this day, we will talk about your monthly wage and benefits. Your contract is based on your tutees' learning. Do you have any question?" Fatima shook her head. "Okay! I will leave you two here. Have fun!" Before he left, he patted Pepe's shoulder and shook hands with the tutor. 

DUMB FOUND 6

          “I changed my mind!” Gabby exclaimed. He was holding a comforter. “I don’t like the idea. You’re not going to sleep over that tent. You’re not safe there.” His eyes were sympathetic.

          Pepe was listening intently. He did not know what to say.

          “Last night, you’re feverish.”

          The mute man thought that Gabby saw him last night while he was in delirium. He then concluded that Gabby was indeed true to his intention.

          “I can’t afford to see you on that situation again. Please!”

          The word ‘please’ echoed on Pepe’s mind. Why he had to say please when he’s my boss?, he thought.

          “Stay in this room. Own this. You’re safe and comfortable here. Is it okay?”

          Pepe nodded. He did not smile but he gave Gabby a sign of gratitude for his care and sympathy. Gabby was glad for it. Then, he oriented him about the room and facilities. “I’ll leave you here now. Feel at home. Do whatever you want to do. Have a good night!” He patted Pepe’s shoulder before he left the manly room.

          Quickly, Pepe uttered a bizarre word merely to call Gabby’s attention back.

          Gabby turned his back with a bit of amazement. He began to interpret hand signals of Pepe. “You’re ax?”

          The mute nodded.

          “Wait. I’ll get it in my room.”

          “Aaah.” Pepe stopped Gabby then he made a long sign language, which perplexed Gabby. He repeated it.

          “You’re giving me your axe?” He was joyful.

          Pepe nodded. He signed a language.

           “No! You don’t have to pay me gratitude. I’m doing it without asking for return. But, I really liked your axe. So, I will take it.’’ He smiled. “..as a token of our friendship. Is that right?”

           Smiling, Pepe agreed.

          It was already ten thirty in the evening. Pepe was still watching TV, while Gabby was planning for Pepe’s welfare. He wanted the mute to learn about sign language. He then got up and went downstairs.

          Three consecutive knocks on the door were heard by Pepe. Before he was able to open it, Gabby has unclosed the door.

           “I can’t sleep.” with a smile. “Would you mind, if I’ll stay with you while I am having these?” Gabby showed him the cans of beer.

          Pepe nodded with a handsome smile.

          Krrrst! It’s a sound from the opened can of beer.

          “It’s yours.” Gabby offered it to Pepe. He knew the mute is not drinking.

          Pepe was so quick. He accepted it without further ado.  He believed that beer is not too bad for the health. It made Gabby grinned--- smiled. Then, he opened another can for himself. And, he raised it cheerfully. “For your new life!” offering a toast with Pepe. 

          Pepe raised his own can. He was glad for Gabby’s presence and effort of cheering his new-found life. His decision of joining him is worth it. He will learn how to drink, he thought, if it is what Gabby wants. He knew that if it is not the only time they will bond.

          Their first cans of beer were almost empty. Pepe was not okay. It was his first time. Gabby’s the same one, as he entered the room. He wants more. He has something to say to Pepe so he must gain confidence.

          Gabby gulped the last drop from the can. “I’ll get some more.”

          Pepe wanted to say no but he did not verbalize it. He couldn’t afford to disappoint Gabby. Okay, he said silently. He’s a new man now, nothing to worry about budget and finances. He’s free. No one would reprimand him if he’s drunk although he was a little bit scared of himself that he might disgorge.  It’s okay. He believed Gabby is understanding. He would do it, as one way of thanking Gabby.

          When Gabby returned, he has two plastic bags on his hands. “Lets’ celebrate!” He put out the potato chips, two glasses, a bucket of ice cubes, cigarettes and a dozen of canned beers. “Ah, thank you ‘pala’ for not disappointing me tonight.”

          Pepe smiled. He made a sign language.

          “No, don’t thank me yet.” offering him an opened beer. “I haven’t changed your life yet. Besides, you’re here to serve or to secure our place. What you will get is your income. Huh?”

          He nodded and raised the can of beer, asking Gabby to toast.

          They toast.

          “You know what?! Sometimes, living solo is miserable. Although it could help me a lot in healing my problems, but most of the times, I craved for companion, who is.. who is.. you know.. someone I can trust and someone whom I can entrust myself.”

          You already found that someone, Pepe said in his mind.

          “I thought I already owned everything but the truth is I’m incomplete.”

          Pepe knew what Gabby meant by his words but his incapable of talking. He’s afraid he might be misunderstood when he speaks. T’s been a long time since he orally spoke up. It was when his brother was still alive. Then, the night when his brother died, flashed back to his mind.

          It was a night of December, thirty first, when everyone was happy. A twelve-year old Pepe and his eight-year old brother were commanded to buy a bottle of cooking oil.

          In a store, there were four suspicious men who irked his brother by pulling down his shorts. I hailed him. We’re about to go to another store when they saw a passer-by fell to the ground and the four men ran away.

          “Hey! You killed him!” cried by Tommy, Pepe’s brother. He ran after them. Before Pepe could stop him from shouting and tracking the goons, Tommy fell to the stony ground, half-dead. Pepe quickly ceased his brother.

          “Tooommy!”

          One of the four men came back. “You wanna die?” He’s pointing a revolver to Pepe’s mouth.

          “No.. no!” He was so sacred.

          “Good!” The goon then ran away.

          No one was there. NO one saw the murder of two different people. Only Pepe knew exactly what happened. He could not forget the faces of the culprits. However, he decided to gag his mouth. He didn’t want to die.

          Pepe stopped the tears that were about to fall.

          “Hey, are you okay?” Gabby saw him wiped his eyes.

          He nodded and quaffed his beer, bottom up. He opened another one. The, he made a sign language. It was not understandable to Gabby, though he repeated it.

          “Okay…  okay!” Gabby cleared his throat. He’s half-sober, half-drunk. “I have a proposal for you. It is okay if I hire someone who can help in your muteness?”

          Startled, Pepe was asking by raising his eyebrows.

          “For you to enhance your sign language. Or so that I can learn your language. Is it okay?’’

          Pepe thought awhile. Then, he told Gabby that he wanted to learn how to write and read.

          “So..I will tutor?! It’s interrobang. It was a question and exclamation. “Okay! At least you can write your name, alphabet and others and you can read whatever. It’s a very nice idea. I’ll tell Mang Jack about it.”

          Pepe was blank. He was so glad yet nervous. Inferiority complex struck again. He thought, he would not learn. He’s an oaf. He’s a dumb. Learning is too late for him.

          Gabby noticed his silence. “Don’t problemize the payment. Isn’t it you’re gonna receive a monthly wage? I will not let you pay the whole. Fifty percent of your tutor’s salary will be shouldered by me.”

          Pepe made a hand language. It’s what he’s thinking. It’s the hardship that a tutor will encounter in teaching him.

          “I believe you’re not an idiot. Believe in yourself. Education and learning are ageless. It’s not yet late.” He gave him a handsome smile and offered Pepe a toast. They toast. “Lets’ celebrate!” He turned off the TV and turned on the component. He played an alternative rock music CD. “Coz when you look beyond/ real friend remains.. oh/ Yes. It is certainly true/ I will stay the same.” He sang along while simulating a guitarist’s act.

          It made Pepe smile. He’s great, he thought.

          The two enjoyed the night. They have drunken seven cans of beer each. They almost heard all the tracks in one compact disc. It just replayed.

          “Thank you, Pepe.. You don’t know how much.. Pepe?”

           Pep ran through the toilet. He vomited there.  Gabby was so abrupt. He rubbed Pepe’s back as he throws up. “It’s okay! I’ve experienced it when I first drank liquior.”

          He helped Pepe in walking back to the room. He lied him down the bed and began cleaning the mess.

          It was already two o’clock in the morning.. The room was reorganized already. Pepe was unconscious on the bed. He’s across it, feet on the floor. Gabby noticed the terrible sweats on Pepe’s entire body. So, he undressed him and put him to the pillow.

          He’s about to leave when he remembered that the aircon was on. Pepe might get cold. He would put on his comforter. But before he did, he made a good look of Pepe’s entirety and nakedness. Pepe has what it takes to be what I am, Gabby thought. I wonder why he has no girlfriend. Then, he noticed Pep’s covered part. He felt ashamed of himself and immediately covered him with the comforter.

          Before he made an exit out of Pepe’s room, he felt that his schlong became tough. He touched and fondled it, as he was walking away outside. “No! He exclaimed. He was glad but very much disappointed. “I’m not gay!”

          When he was in his room, he put off his clothes, as well as the underpants. And saw the erected penis of him. He missed it. He was happy that he has no penile problem. Yet he was worried that he might has a gender crisis.

          He turned on the air conditioner and went to bed. He enjoyed the sight of his erection while he reminisced the drinking session he first experienced with Pepe. It’s nice, he thought.

          Five-twenty in the morning, Pepe woke up, astonished when he saw his nakedness. He was not used to it. He wore shirt and shorts every time he sleeps. Then he saw his clothes near the pillow. They were folded. He did not think deeper about it. He knew gabby did it to him like his mother did to his father every time he’s drunk. He felt so ashamed to Gabby. He threw up and he forgot himself.

          His head was aching. He craved for cold water. Thus, he went downstairs after putting on his shirt and shorts. He consumed two glasses of cold water.

          Feel at home, Pepe heard it in the corner of his ear. So, he made a hot coffee. He took it ibn between munching of chocolate cookies, he found in the cabinet.

          Pepe peeped on Gabby’s room. His boss was still asleep. He closed the door slowly and went to the beach. He was fascinated by the sunrise. He appreciated the birds that flocked in the shore. He merrily exhaled the freshest morning breeze. These lose his headache.

          He decided to pick up the non-biodegradable matters in the beach because they ruin the beauty of nature. He must do it every morning. He proposed to himself. It’s not only the task to Gabby but the responsibility as a human being.

          It was eight-thirty in the morning. Gabby was taking a hot bath. Pepe was wandering in the shore, picking up plastics and any other jetsam.

          The sun was causing a pricking sensation to Pepe’s skin. He decided to stop. He rested in a shady place and began to contemplate. Minutes later, he saw his wrecked rowboat, thirty meters away from the shore. He hurriedly took off his clothe and swam to its direction.

          Gabby was preparing pancakes. He’s doing it in a hurry. He often glanced in the lock.

          Pepe swam back the shore, pulling the rowboat. It was his boat. He needed it. Someday, he would come back to their barrio, not to revenge but to give his buried family decent tombstones.

          Panting, Pepe successfully made the pulling.

          He missed his boat. It was manifested in his excitement and happiness. He planned to repair the rowboat in the soonest time. He would make a paddle.

           Pepe! He heard Gabby’s voice. He was calling him, he couldn’t reply so he pulled again his boat to the grassy part of the beach, where the tide could not awash it. Then, he grabbed the trash he collected and ran to Gabby’s direction, after putting on his clothes.

          “Let’s have breakfast. It’s already nine. What’s that?” gabby asked.

           Pepe spoke through his hands.

           “Nice idea!” Gabby patted his shoulder.

          Pepe smiled. He doesn’t know what to say…

          After breakfast, Gabby phoned on Mang Jack. Pepe could hear everything. He was told to do so.

         “Pe, what do you want Mang Jack buy for you?” He waited for Pepe’s response. “Anything.”

          He thought for a while.

          “Bolo?’’ asked Gabby, confirming his sign.

          Pepe nodded.

          “Mang Jack, please add bolo in the list. Okay? Okay! Bye! See you tomorrow.” He smiled to Pepe. “Tomorrow, your tutor will arrive. Are you excited?”

           Pepe tried to smile.

          “Come, I’ll show you the rumpus room.”

           In the rumpus room, Pepe’s eyes widened. He couldn’t believe a room like that existed in the mansion.

           “This is where I entertained my friends. They liked this place very well. We play billiards while sound-tripping. In the evening, we would watch movies and most of the time. We bond in this mini-disco, where variety of liquor is in abundance. It’s indeed my favorite room!”

          Pepe was speechless. He couldn’t react due to amazement. It is really great, he thought. But he believed that a single person will not enjoy the place alone. He or she must be with a group to satisfy the offering of the entertainment room.

           “I showed you this room because you’re part of me... of this house. You can come here anytime you want.” He smiled fist. “But, you’re off limit when you are being tutored. Is that clear?”

          Pepe nodded. Gabby laughed. They laughed together louder, when Gabby says “especially when you’re not with me, because it is not good to be alone.” He showed him the slogan posted on the wall. “Here!”

          They played billiards. They’re laughing because every time Pepe hits the ball it jumps. However, Gabby showed eagerness to teach him, who was learning fast.

           Then, they played computer games. It reminded Pepe of his younger brother, who loved to play same game in their barrio. He used to accompany him whenever there was time. Now, he understood the joy it brings to the player.

           While preparing lunch, Pepe and Gabby talked about girlfriend, which later came to the copulation matter. Gabby was astonished to know that Pepe was still inexperienced. It doesn’t matter, Gabby told him.

          Pepe started to handsign. Gabby’s comprehension was so quick. He translated it to his mind. “Have you gotten her name? Or number? OR address?”

           Pepe shook his head.

           “Do you see her often?” Gabby was interested, not to the girl, but to the story.

          The mute spoke with his hands, telling Gabby that the girl is a city-dweller and once took a summer vacation in their community. He also told him about the sadness in the girl’s eye.

DUMB FOUND 5

          “I want to call you Pepe.” Gabby proposed. They were already in the mansion.

          The mute man was not paying attention. His eyes wander around the colossal house’s interior. It was his second time in the mansion but it was the first time he could fully view and appreciate everything around and every detail of the wondrous structure, as well as the modernity of the furnishings and designs.

          “Do you want me to call you Pepe?” Gabby repeated with a lower voice. He did not sound like insulting the dumbness of Pepe. It is given that every mute person is being called or named by that name.              

          A bit shy, he nodded. He tried to meet Gabby’s eyes. He actually wanted to say that the name ‘Pepe’ is the exact name, that people in their barrio were calling him. But he could not afford to make a vague sign language. He was sure his newly-found boss is not used to his language.

          “I’m Gabby.” he showed off a smile. “It will not of course demand from you to call me Sir because you are not able to express verbally.”

          Pepe smiled back. He knew that his employer is a kind one. He just wondered why he treated him this way. His distrust to everyone is not yet diminished> He was sure time will come, he will be shooed away from this isle although he has no intention of ruining the trust Gabby bestowed him. He has always been a good person. He could not remember if he has done ill-will to anybody before. He’s a sinner but God knows he’s not mean.

          I’m sure, you’re hungry.” Gabby stood up. “Stay here or if you want, you can wander around the house. Feel at home, while I make your breakfast.”

          He was so kind and accommodating, Pepe thought. It gave him uneasiness and timidity. He’s not used to it.

          Feel at home. He could still hear it. Thus, before he was covered with negative thoughts, he stood up and began roaming the vast living room. He touched every marvelous thing that was new to his eyes, with an iota of envy and frustration. Closely, he approached the striking painting of Malang, above the antique cabinet. Glancing at it did not content him. He ran his finger through the canvas. It was fascination as well as ignorance.

           It was more than a minute that Pepe’s eyes were nailed in the artwork. When they were unhooked, he was attracted by the array of framed photographs on the cabinet, He immediately recognized Gabby. He then believed that the two persons besides Gabby are his parents, not because they resembled to their son but because the three were very close in almost five pictures there. Also, the image of the elderly man struck his sight. His uncle. He thought. And, he admired the rapport between Gabby and his uncle.

          Birds’ noises changed Pepe’s pace. He went to the direction of the terrace. Again, he felt he was gone astray. He was supposed to be there. The place was very different to the one he was accustomed to.

          He seized up the binocular. He knew what it was. He searched for a view and found the bluish ocean ---the silent and innocent ocean. But suddenly he quitted it. There was something he saw that gave him rage in his heart and made his teeth gritted.

          “It is a nice view, isn’t it?” Gabby was holding out a tray of foods and drink. His presence confused Pepe, who did not know how to manage his uneasiness.

          The two made a deafening silence for the few seconds. Both asked wordlessly where they would put the things they were holding. Gabby was so quick. He put down the tray with hot coffee, sunny-side-ups and loaves.

           “Here’s your breakfast!” Gabby was cheerful. He wanted Pepe to feel comfortable and lax. “Don’t be shy. We’re only two here.”

          Pepe spoke in signs. Gabby received the telescope from him. “It’s okay!” Gabby answered. “You sit here.” while he positioned himself in front of the chair.

          He was really starving. Thus he did not mind the presence of Gabby, who changed the eye contact.

          Later, Pepe elaborately signed that he was apologetic of stealing Gabby’s hotdogs on the fridge. He just did it due to capricious want.

          Gabby stopped him from apologizing. “it doesn’t matter anymore to me”, truthfully, he uttered.

          Pepe thanked him and pursued eating. He was now beginning to gain comfort with gabby. He believed what Gabby was showcasing was not a trick.

          The sun was highly set. Sea birds were joyfully soaring up around the isle. They were making merriment as if there was something to be glad about.

           The isle was a total picturesque view from a neighboring island.

           Pepe and Gabby were in a room. The latter opened the built-in cabinet. “Feel free to choose anything you want to wear.” Gabby offered.

          Pepe was frozen.

          “These are unused,” handing down the underpants to Pepe. “I’m gonna prepare our lunch. I’ll leave you here. Feel free!” Gabby patted Pepe’s shoulder, as a sign of a brotherly love. He then left.

           Pepe was so touched. He couldn’t believe it. He blinked his eyes many times, assuring he was awake and not hallucinating. If it’s a dream, I don’t want to wake up anymore, he thought. But if it is a reality, I love it.

           It was so hard for Pepe to believe the reality of the things that are taking place. After the defiance of the people and of the world to him, he does not even know the difference between love and hatred: good and evil. After several emotional and physical pains he had gained, his heart was already shriveled but this time, he realized that not all is tyrant. There’s still a benevolent one, who is empathetic to his fellow.

          In the kitchen, Gabby was humming a familiar song, while stirring something in front of the gas range.

          Pepe was hesitant. He stood wordlessly, waiting for Gabby to notice him. Instead, his eyes wandered around the high technology and state-of-the-art kitchen. He wowed mutely, as if he never had been in the area yesterday. He also could smell the sweet and spicy odor from the dish being cooked.

          “You can use the bathroom in my room.” Pepe was startled hearing Gabby’s voice and seeing him smile at him. “There are three bathrooms in this house. There’s one in the guestroom. Other is beside you.”

          Pepe did not exactly know how many times he heard the words “Feel at home” of “Feel free” from Gabby’s mouth. Those expressions alleviated his timorousness anyhow.

           He opted to bath in a room beside him.

           It was a spacious room. It was as big as my house, Pepe surmised. But it is absolutely very handsome one. More comfortable.

           He immediately took off his tattered clothes, with excitement. He untied also his bloody gauzes in his feet and palm. Then, he looked for pail and dipper. He found nothing and thought that the mansion is not using ones. Instead, he turned on the knob of the shower. Like a child, he ignorantly turned it off and on repeatedly, before he soaped his entire body.

           The table was set when Pepe went out the bathroom. Gabby was not there. He felt guilty for spending long hours in bathing and doing personal grooming.

           Gabby was in his room’s bathroom when Pepe entered to put on his clothes. He did it quickly so that Gabby would not see him there.

          In the living room, Pepe was skimming the variety of magazines, while waiting for Gabby. He could not read thus he merely looked at the pictures. The photographs of different modern technologies bewildered him. He never thought that he was indeed ignoramus in the gizmos and trends. Nevertheless, he did not craved for any of them. These gadgets had nothing to do with his life and dreams.

           It was already noon. Pepe and Gabby were silently enjoying their meals. Though there was silence between them, their minds were in motion. Pepe admired the delicious taste of the foods, trying to reiterate the last time he had eaten sumptuous meal like the cooking of Gabby. While Gabby wondered the slight changes in Pepe’s physical attributes. He envied Pepe’s tanned complexion. How he wished he also had the same color. He hate being fair-skinned, like women’s.

           They were done eating. But they did not leave their seats. Pepe did not know what to do next. He wanted to start dishwashing but he could feel that Gabby has something on his mind. He kept on gazing at him. Thus, he spoke in a sign language, telling Gabby that the menus were great. He, then received a truthful smile.

           “Are you sure you’re full?” offering Pepe some bowl of dish. And before Pepe could react, he remembered something, “Wait, I forgot!” He opened the fridge and took out the leche flan. “Dessert!” He got dessert plates and sliced two portions. He offered one to Pepe.

           Gabby grasped for words. He wanted to open up a conversation –one that Pepe would surely participate. However, Pepe was incapable of verbal communication. He thought of Pepe’s oral problem. If he could only help him. Instead, idea popped out from his head. He would just talk and talk. In that way, he was making a channel. Comfort and confidence would be established as well.

           “You know what?! Gabby started. “Leche flan is my favorite dessert. I’d rather have it than chocolates.” He made sure eye contact was present. “Our fridge is containing twenty percent of this.”

           Pepe’s delight about it was manifested in his facial expression. Gabby thought that the mute was interested. He continued. “My Mom loves it too.”

           Gabby cheered up silently when Pepe asked him non-verbally.

           “Yeah, my Dad, too!” he exclaimed happily. “How about you? Did you like it?”

           Pepe smiled and nodded like a kid. He then used his hands to speak.

           Gabby translated it. “Your mother often cooked jelly or jam?”

           Pepe nodded.

           “I love it, too, especially in hot pandesal.”

           Silence took place. Pepe stood up and began to clean the messy kitchen. Gabby was thinking, why he was making all of these to a strange, mute man. I need a friend, he thought.

          In the living room, the LCD television was on, while Gabby was in front of his laptop. From the kitchen, Pepe came in.

           “Join me, Pepe. Come and watch TV,” handing him the remote control. “Choose a channel you want to watch.”        

           Pepe took it and sat in front of the wide-screened TV set. Gabby was on a single seat couch, sensing Pepe, who did not change the channel. It was a noon-time news program. Pepe was more interested on the gadget Gabby was into. He kept on glancing it.  

           “Wanna try?” Gabby offered.

           Smiling, Pepe shook his head. He said, “You’ve got lots of friends.” in sign language.

          “They were my barkadas”, Gabby was referring to the images on the screen of his laptop. “We used to hang-out here every Friday nights.” His face gloomed. The gleams disappeared.

          “What happened?” Gabby interpreted Pepe’s actions, as if it was the actual words he said. “We’re not friends anymore. It was my fault, anyway… I fooled them. I have been unfair. I never listened to them.”

          It made Pepe interested. He leaned forward, facing Gabby and maintaining eye contact. He then asked for more.

          “I woke up one day that I had nothing.” He stopped. He doubted if he would reveal his problem or not. “I mean, one morning, I wanted someone to talk to. I had a big problem. However, I remembered that all of them are mad at me. I had a fight with some of them, physically. Some scorned and condemned me.” He paused awhile to shut off the laptop. “I hang up the phone realizing I lost my friends. Instead, I decided to stay here and anticipated someday, someone will call me.”

           They were both dissimilar individuals to each other--- from color to wealth and from education to social status and ability. However, Pepe regarded Gabby as a person like him who was suffering from humility. They both needed solace and peace of mind.

          The sign speaker signalled again.

          “Did I apologize to them?” Gabby made sure.

          Pepe nodded.

          “Many times, I sent them text messages and e-mails. But I received no reply from them.” He was sullen. “We can’t live without friends, can we?”

          Pepe agreed but abruptly shook his head.

          “What do you mean by that?” Gabby was confused. “You mean, you can live without friends, but sometimes you can’t live without them?”

          The mute man pantomimed. It was an indefinite expression that Gabby could hardly understand. He repeated it when he saw Gabby’s slightly curved eyebrows.

          “You have no friend at all?” Yes Gabby interpreted. “You preferred to be alone than to mingle with others?”

          Another yes.

         “And your deceased brother had been your friend?”

          Pepe looked down, breaking a direct eye contact to Gabby before he confirmed it.

          “Why?” Gabby was excited to know. “Why he passed away so early?”

          That question created a wide clear conversation tween Gabby and Pepe. It took place in the midst of signing language and interpretations. They spent three hours in the living room over that issue. The two had latently built a bridge. The gap has gone. The queer language of Pepe had been understandable to Gabby. Laughters were confidently voiced out. Smiles were abundantly made.

           After their conversation, Pepe visited his encampment. He was now more at ease and comfortable with Gabby.

          Pepe glanced directly to the island, where he resided for more than two decades. He missed it somehow but he did not crave to reside there anymore. He just wanted to come back yonder so that he could get some of his memorable and valuable stuffs and belongings. However, he was not sure when the opportune time will come.

          It was 5:30 when Pepe came back to the mansion.

          Gabby was on the terrace, holding a mobile phone. He could hear Pepe’s footsteps. Thus, he met him halfway.  “Come with me. Take your snack, as I prepare our supper.”

          Pepe followed him silently.

          Gabby made a fresh mango shake and served it to Pepe with reheated hamburgers. “What dish you like me to cook?” He noticed a bit of shock in Pepe’s facial expression. He waited.

          Pepe signed that he was letting Gabby decide.

           “Okay!” He started checking out the stocks. After a while, he was determined to cook chopsuey and fried porkchop.

            “I really didn’t have talent in cooking. I just used to it when I regularly settle here. It made me independent. Besides, cooking is not a tough job. I enjoy doing it.”

           Pepe was listening.

          “My friends enjoyed staying here. They liked my menus, especially the calamares. It’s our favorite ‘pulutan’. Anyway, are you drinking liquor?”

           Pepe thought a while before he nodded. He wanted to say that he was only drinking ‘tuba’, a juice collected from coconut flower or inflorescence. But he was sure, Gabby could not understand him.       

          Speaking of tuba, he remembered his ax. Where was my ax?, he thought . He expedited his eating.