Lila’s Panic
After Derek collapses at the café, Lila panics. At first, she thinks that Derek is joking. However, she realizes that he has collapsed. He recounts, "The hair on the back of my neck rose as I leaned over Derek and started shaking him. First gently, then harder and harder as he refused to respond." Although they are not on good terms, Derek's sudden fall shocks Lila. She is not sure what has happened to him. She anticipates that shaking him vigorously will wake him up. She fails to detect his breath and wonders if he has died. This experience is shocking because Lila had served Derek some food and expected him to continue eating it as he usually does.
Chopsticks
Derek demands chopsticks, although he knows the café does not have them. When Derek asks Lila how he will consume noodles without chopsticks, Lila tells him, “You know we don't have chopsticks…the kind serving food from a country that doesn't use them." The café predominantly serves Filipino meals. Chopsticks are not common in the Philippines, so Derek's demands are intended to stir trouble.
Coconut
Coconut is a versatile agricultural product. It is used in cooking, desserts, and beauty products. Regarding the role of the coconut in beauty, Lila recounts, “Using the small jar of coconut oil I carried everywhere with me, I took my makeup and splashed my face with warm water to get rid of some of the blotchiness.” The oil is used in clearing the makeup of Lila's face. Therefore, it is an essential item that she carries with her. It is natural; thus, it enhances her brown skin's glow and health.
