day one: Jaycee's day with the elderly

His name is Todd and he's 78 years old. He stays at the elderly home because his children were all working overseas. 

"It's lonely sometimes." He said when I asked him how his day goes by. "But I'm glad for young people like you, paying us a visit."

My heart just melted. 

I noticed a tattoo on the old man's arm.

All my trouble seems so far away.

I gave him a smile. "Want me to sing for you?"

He nodded. "You better be good kid." 

I started singing. I looked at Ivan who was also watching and gave him a wink. After the song ended I noticed a tear slipped out of Todd's eyes..and Ivan's too, looks like he's in the verge of tears. 

I walked up to him to see what's going on but he was able to put up a mask before I even reach him

"Didn't know you can sing." He said. 

"Of course you wouldn't know. You just met me this morning."

He frowned then rolled his eyes. "Well, yeah. But good to know." Then he left me standing. I guess I might have pissed him off with what I said. 

Oh well. 

I caught a glimpse of Ivan going out to the garden with a plate of greens. I did the same and followed him. 

He was looking up at the star studded sky. He's so pale, maybe because of the faint light. He smiled to himself and sighed. I want to watch him some more but I want to talk to him and know what's on his mind.

"Why did you suddenly walk out on me?" I said and sat down

"I'm hungry."  He said. "You're eating old people food too?" . 

I nodded. "I'm vegetarian."

"Oh." Was all he said. 

We were silent for a moment. I really like staring at his face, his soft features and pink lips, and his pale white skin. 

I poked at his cheek. "Why are you so quiet?"

He gave me a weak smile. "I'm just tired."

I stood up and offered my hand "should we go home?"

He ignored my hand but he did stood up and went back inside. I couldn't help but smile. He really is interesting. I followed him inside and found him saying goodbye to the other volunteers. 

"Let's go." Then we walked out. 

We waited by the bus stop. It was almost 8PM, Mom's probably looking for me. Better call. 

"Ma." She answered after the second ring. "I'm on my way home."

"Should I pick you up?" 

"Aahh.. I'm good. I'm with a friend." I glanced down at my companion who was seated, eyes already heavy from fatigue. "Better yet please do. I'll pin you my location."

I hung up after a few minutes and sat beside Ivan. His head instinctively leaned on my shoulders, eyes already given up and closed. I noticed and faint scar at the top of his head. I gave his hair a rub and got a whiff of cinnamon. 

He smelled sweet. I like sweets.