tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78997334858509650752023-11-16T01:37:40.431+08:00For the girl who has everythingLeenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.comBlogger25125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-89511562651600574602009-04-23T16:15:00.000+08:002009-04-23T23:52:25.279+08:00About the story<span style="font-family:verdana;">After a bad break up, all Lisa wanted was to find comfort in her career. She never wished for anything else neither did she expect for something to drop from the sky. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Or something to crash behind her. She never thought the crash would make her meet people whom she never thought possible. Never in the nearest time, would she ever thought of love again, until she met him. Until they kissed.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Now Lisa has to know. Is he Mr Right? Correction, is there such thing as Mr Right? She has every answer in her hand except .. this. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">A Jay Chou fanfic that will guarantee you wanting more with each chapter!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">* I don't own Jay Chou or his mother or any celebrities mentioned in the stories. I do however own the other characters =D</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-70801186029214218182009-04-22T23:47:00.003+08:002010-03-01T23:46:24.716+08:00Chapter 24<span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I rushed back to the room and searched for my clothes. As I put it on, Tom came in and put on his T-shirt. </span><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;"></p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“Baby, I dunno how she managed to track me down. I dunno what she wants with me” </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“What are you talking about?” he asked. </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“That woman with the big LV bag from the store, the one you just let in” </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“You mean Anita?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Anita?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“My friend from the orphanage. She is here, two days earlier” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I sat down on the edge of the bed reality sank in. Tom’s friend is the bitch from the store.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Come on. I’ll introduce you to her” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“She was mean to me in the store. I told you” I insisted. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Honey, I think you got the wrong person. Anita is not like that”he frowned.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I frowned. Why does he made me sound like I’m a liar? Tom turned and headed to the bathroom. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis, let’s go meet her k. You will see she is not like that. It was just a misunderstanding” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I gave in, giving Anita the benefit of the doubt. Also because I don’t want Tom to think I’m so childish and sulky. Still, I applied some eyeliner and the cherry gloss that I knew Tom liked. Then I followed him down the stairs to meet Anita, who was sitting on the couch with her shades placed above her head. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Anita, this is Lisa, my girlfriend” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Well, at least he mentioned that fact. Anita smiled and extended her hand to shake mine.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You seem familiar” she raised her eyebrow.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yes, I think I seen you too” I tried to drop her a hint. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">She seemed to pause for a while and after a few seconds, she snapped her finger. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, I met you in the store about two weeks ago” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at Tom with the I-told-you-so glance. He shrugged.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m gonna go make some tea” Tom smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, I’ll do it” I smiled and left the room. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I will show Tom I meant to be pleasant, just in case she decided to turn nasty again. When I carried the tray back to the living room, my ring from my fourth finger dropped. It was my promise ring, given by Tom on our first anniversary. Tom picked up my ring and slipped it back into my finger. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Has it ever drop before?” he asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, this is the first time” I smiled weakly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You two look so sweet together. How did you meet?” Anita leaned forward.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Accidentally” Tom chuckled and poured tea into three cups.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">They sat down and talked, updating each other about their life. I noticed Tom didn’t mention he worked with Jay. Jay’s house has a few sections in his house. There is a door leading to the hallway where Jay’s room and studio is, perhaps that's how Jay keeps himself private. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom excused himself to the bathroom as Anita and I sat there, smiling at each other politely. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So Lisa, Tom mentioned he took you to our old orphanage house for a look” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yes, I did. The kids there were very adorable” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Time passed so fast. It was like yesterday the two of us were running around the playground” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“When did you leave the orphanage?” I asked, trying to be interested. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“About a year after Tom did. It was horrible without him. There was no one there who Listens to me or pays attention to me like Tom did” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You guys were quite close” I nodded. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, very close. The aunties there thought we might even be a great couple when we’re all grown up” she smiled fondly at the memory.<br /></p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I started to get uncomfortable with the situation. Luckily Tom came back and within 10 minutes later, I excused myself to go home and feed my dog. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tonight I’m going out with Tom. Although we are just going to the seafood restaurant, I can imagine both of us exchanging food. I like crab and Tom prefers squid so we always end up exchanging food. As I hummed my way to the bathroom, my phone rang. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“How bout I order an extra plate of squid tonight?” I grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom chuckled “I love you” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’ll see you in a while, right?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh baby, I dunno how to tell you this but my friend asked me for dinner tonight. He sounded really depressed” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Is your friend gonna be okay?” I asked as I sat on the bed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Then only the reality sinks into my head. If Tom had to go for dinner with his friend, then we won't have dinner together. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I think so. I’m really sorry baby. I will take you to the restaurant tomorrow night k?”</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I know you are and if your friend needs you, go okay? I love you” I gave in. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you too. Believe me Lis, I have been missing you for the past two days. Maybe tonight I will come over with some supper?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled “Go along now” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Tom sent me a kiss over the phone. Even though I am disappointed but I can see him tomorrow. I am not angry with him; its great Tom’s life is not revolved around me. I headed to the kitchen and grabbed my instant noodle cup. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">My eyes scanned around the club. Since I’m not going out with Tom tonight, I have been invited for drinks with the girls from the office. I’m not usually a club person but tonight I’m gonna put the boyfriend aside and party with the girls. Usually I turned down their offer on Friday night but suddenly tonight my schedule opened. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Look who is here! Where is the hunky boyfriend?” Barbara shrieked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“The boyfriend has a life so I let him out for a night with the boys” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">The other girls made way for me at the booth. We gossiped about the guys in the office when suddenly Jane dropped her voice to a whisper. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I think a guy is checking one of us out” she pointed with her eye direction.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Instantly I turned to look at the guy when the other girls hissed at me.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, don’t look” they whispered. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oops, sorry” I cringed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I left the booth and excused myself to get a glass of coke. I don’t feel like getting tipsy tonight, just in case Tom decided to come over later. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hello, I’m Jim” when I turned I saw the guy from the other booth just now. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hello Jim. I saw you checking out one of my friends there” I pointed towards their direction.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He laughed “So I’m Jim and you are ..?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I flashed him my ring for a second “Committed” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Jim smiled “Your other half must be quite secure, letting you out with the girls” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at Jim. He was good looking. I would definitely flirt with him if I was single. I looked over the booth where the other girls were, wondering are they jealous that the handsome guy was talking to me, then I saw him. I saw my other half sitting on a high stool with a beautiful woman. I could hear her giggled all the way here. Anita. I ignored Jim and walked towards Tom’s direction. I stood where he could see me and I kept staring. He saw me and when our eyes met, I couldn’t help it. My eyes welled up with tears. Tom got up and when I saw him heading my direction, I ran. I ran in my heels.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">How stupid was I to trust him, to misjudge and thought his friend was a male and Anita never even crossed my mind. I heard his footsteps catching up with me as I quickened my pace. I didn’t realize where I was heading until something caught my heel and I stumbled forward. In the dimly lighted car park, I caught a glimpse of shiny red blood on my knee. Before I could get up, Tom was all over me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Baby, you okay?” <span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I pushed his hands away and helped myself up. Without a word, I limped towards my car. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s not what it seems” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You lied to me Tom. You told me you were with a friend who had a problem and you have to cancel our dinner plan. You didn’t tell me it was Anita” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you but I didn’t want you to misunderstand” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Then now what? How can I trust you?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">It pained me that he didn’t tell me it was Anita. It felt like he was hiding something from me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“She really had a problem. She and her boyfriend just had a huge fight” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I guess she was more important than our dinner” I smiled sarcastically. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“At the last minute, she showed at my doorstep in tears. How do you expect me to throw her aside?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I sighed and took a deep breath “I would have understood the situation but I don’t understand why you feel the need to hide the truth from me. Do you really think I’m really that insecure?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Aren’t you being insecure now? I just had a drink with Anita and talked to her about her problem. I did not cheat on you” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You might as well have since you felt it was not necessary to tell me” I gritted my teeth. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Why?? Why didn’t Tom tell me he was going out with Anita? Why couldn’t he tell me the truth? </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry. I was scared that I might upset you. I really didn’t want to” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I sat down on the ground and bawled my eyes out. Tom held me in his arms and I sobbed loudly, letting my tears wet his shirt. He didn’t tell me to keep it down, he didn’t pick me up. Instead, he just let me cry to my heart content, cradling me like a baby.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I don’t want to lose you” I hiccupped. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What makes you think that? Damn baby, I didn’t know you would get this upset” he talked to me softly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m not blind. Anita is gorgeous. You will be attracted to her” I looked at him.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about tonight. I promise I will tell you everything from now on. I didn’t know how much it will upset you and you cried your eyes out. I feel awful” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t ever lie to me again. I can’t take it” I sobbed as fresh tears threatened to spill down my face. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I swear. Come on, I’ll take you home” Tom took my handbag. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What about Anita?” I looked back at the club.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Screw her” Tom scorned. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t you dare?” I pointed a finger at him, trying to lighten the mood. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">He chuckled and helped me back on my feet. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at Tom as he carefully cleaned my wound. How I love him so. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I never meant to make you cry Lis, you must know that” he dabbed on some antiseptic.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I felt threatened. She was a part of your life that I never was. She grew up with you” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Doesn’t mean I would like her. She is a friend but you Lis, you are the present and my future” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I mean, if I have a guy friend from the past who is super hot and both of us go out for dinner together, will you be okay with it?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom seemed to ponder a while before looking up at me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Point taken” he smiled and his dimple deepened.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, I would just like it when you are totally honest with me. Of course I might be uncomfortable with it but at least we are honest to each other” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I promise, I totally promise. I will tell you the whole truth next time when I’m out with any girl” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“In turn, I will tell you who I go out with. In fact, right before I saw you in the club, a guy tried to flirt with me” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I could feel Tom’s body tensed. He cleared his throat and looked at me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What did you tell him?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I told him I have a boyfriend” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom smiled and gave me a kiss on my forehead.</p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Tomorrow I’m going to see Jay for a while” I snuggled against him. Honesty starts now. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You know what Lis? It’s tiring to be both actor and director of the movie” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s Saturday. Why are you shooting today?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I want to get the movie done. I’m just having a quick lunch but between you and me, my back is killing me” he groaned. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I put down my sandwich “Is your back ok? Quit shooting for the day if your back is giving you problem” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I can’t quit all of a sudden. The papz are outside there, taking photos and I need to finish shooting for the day. I don’t want them to know about my back right now” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Come on Jay, your health is more important than those dogs around the area” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I just have another 3 hours left. I just need to take my medicine” he reached out for his medicine. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I watched him swallowed two pills and I noticed how tired and exhausted he was. <span style=""> </span>He even winced a little and I suspected he was suppressing his pain.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Jay, come on. You should take a nap or something” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No Lis, I need to finish this scene with the lead” he patted my arm and headed back to the set. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I sighed and took out my scribble pad. What to get for Jay? No 1 .. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I hate the newspaper. Today there was a small section where Tom was photographed with Anita entering the club that night. From the looks of it, they looked quite cosy with her hand on his arm. Even worse, I hate the content. The stupid media were speculating whether Tom and I are over and this ‘beautiful model’ is his new companion. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">My hands were shaking. I don’t care what the media say about us. I really don’t .. but why am I so effected by it? The doorbell rang, interrupting my thoughts. Gail is asleep and I don’t want to disturb her so I rushed to the door. It’s so hard for her to get a good sleep now that the baby kept kicking. Anyways, when I opened the door, Jay was there in his cap and black jacket. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis, I saw it in the papers. Is it true about what happened between you and Tom?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I shrugged “No, but it does looks like it, doesn’t it?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t worry. I’m sure it’s just some stupid rumour. Do you know the girl in the photo?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">We sat down and I told him about Anita, even the other day encounter when I met her outside the house gate. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, here to see Tom?” Anita smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded politely with a smile. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“We just had little chat just now. He’s still the same old great guy he used to be” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah , he is” I agreed.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re lucky you got him. I would have snap him up if he’s single and out there” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh well, I do consider myself lucky. He’s a keeper” I joked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, you cannot be too careful with a guy. No matter how great he is, he is still a guy” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom and I trust each other a lot” I defended us. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“Of course, of course. Just watching out for us girls” she winked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled and excused myself. When I was about 5 feet away from the spot we were standing, she called out to me again. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">“On second thought, Tom did have a crush on me back then. I wonder if he still does” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal">I swear I could see the smirk on her face as she walked away. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“She said that?” Jay asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded and then shook my head.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m being silly. I don’t know why I got all upset and clingy” I laughed a little. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, it’s normal. You must know something Lis, you are a beautiful woman yourself, don’t feel threatened by her. I know it, Tom knows it” Jay smiled. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">It’s times like this that I am grateful to have friends like Jay. I don’t see him as a celebrity; he’s just my second brother. By the way, I did not tell Dylan any of these insecurities. No way am I going to give a bad impression of Tom to Dylan.</p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I missed you so much!” Tom took me in his arms and swung me around. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded. It’s been three days and I was away in another city, getting some work done, requested by the boss. I did miss Tom so much. Well, before I see Tom, I had been home to greet my brother, my girlfriends and my dog. Snooky is growing up to be a handsome dog. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You know what I’m going to do to you?” he growled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tian Zhi, its 3 in the afternoon” I laughed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So? It’s been almost two weeks since we made love” Tom grinned and pulled me to him. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">We kissed for a few eminutes before we pulled the blinds shut. I climbed off the bed and headed to the bathroom. That’s when I saw it. A red bra. I picked up it with trembling fingers and walked back to the room. Tom was arranging the pillows on the bed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom, how come there’s this in the bathroom?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He looked confused “Baby, that’s yours” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, it’s not mine. Why do you have a bra in your bathroom?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“If it’s not yours, then whose is it?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I dunno, it’s a bra in your bathroom” I threw the bra at him. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I knew he brought Anita to the room for a tour the other day. He was on the phone telling me about it because he wanted to keep his promise to me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I dunno how that gets that. I seriously don’t” he shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Weren’t Anita in your room the other day?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Gosh, Lisa .. nothing happened ok? I dunno how the bra got there. Can we just forget about it and come to bed?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I was shocked “No! I’m not going to sleep with you, not now with the unknown red bra hanging in your bathroom” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Look Lis, Anita did come up here, I called you remember? We went downstairs within ten minutes” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I was agitated. How come there’s a red bra in the bathroom then? It’s definitely not mine. It's not my size. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Did you buy this or something?” I changed direction. Maybe Tom is a cross dresser.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom looked at me like I was insane or something.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis, why are you being so difficult?” he groaned. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You know I am this difficult, I just want to know how the red bra got here” I sulked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I don’t even know how it got there. I did not buy it and I did not have any woman up here in bed. Why are you being so insecure?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, the other day you said you love me despite my insecurity” I snapped. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Then maybe I shouldn’t love you after all” he threw his hands up in the air. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">That was a slap in the face. I took a sharp breath and picked up my handbag, rushed out of the door. I passed Jay but I kept running. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, no .. Lis .. I didn’t mean it” I could hear Tom screaming. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">This time I didn’t stop. I kept running and with every beat of my heart, I know I will never forgive Tom. I hate him! </p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-19092684178382227482009-03-20T22:24:00.001+08:002010-03-01T23:29:19.688+08:00Chapter 23<p style="font-family: verdana;" face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I could hear my ringtone blaring from the shower. Should I pick it up or ignore it? I took a second look in the mirror. My soapy hair had foam threatening to slide down my nose. When I stepped out of the shower, I noticed there were 2 missed calls. As I was about to return the call, my phone rang again. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“Hello” I smiled and flopped on my bed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How’s my girl?” Tom sounded cheeky. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I miss you. I haven’t seen you for a week” I pouted. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Me too. Sorry I been so busy with the security system and Jay’s promotion of his new album” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“He must be pretty busy then” I thought back on the day I last saw Jay. He left a kiss on my cheek, so tender and soft and left me stunned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting Ting, you there?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, was searching for something. What did you say?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanna come over tonight and cook you dinner” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You don’t need to work tonight?” I put him on handsfree.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I got someone else to cover me. So, what do you say about dinner?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Of course yes. Do you need me to get you anything?” I asked, searching for my green blouse. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Rest your pretty little head babe. I will be there with everything by 6 pm” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Can’t wait. My boyfriend is cooking me dinner” I clapped my hands together. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“That’s cause I love you” his tone was playful and lazy. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“I love you too” I smiled.</p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanna come in” I whined, clutching at the door frame. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you stay out there and wait for food to be serve”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom looked so handsome in t-shirt and khakis. He looked extra adorable with an apron and his newly dyed cut brown hair. So adorable that I tiptoed into the kitchen and reached out to touch his hair. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Do you like my hair?” he grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love it. Why didn’t you tell me about your hair?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It was a surprise for you” he pulled me close to him and kissed my head. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I love it. I absolutely love it. I love every moment Tom touched me, I love it that he cares. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Honey, whatever you’re cooking, it’s burnt” I laughed.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He turned back to his cooking and I peeped over his shoulder to look at what is in the pot. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No peeking. Go to your room” he pointed towards the door. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I smiled and pounced on him to kiss his cheek before leaving. My heart skipped a beat when Tom grinned. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">After I cleaned the dishes, I went into my room to see Tom picking up my clothes from the floor. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Baby, just leave it. I’ll get to it” I gestured to him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you won’t. Besides it’s just small stuff. I dunno how you could be such a messy bug”he grumbled.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I couldn’t help but to feel slightly annoyed with his tone. I snatched the clothes from his hands and dumped them into my cupboard. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m done with it. Happy now?” I threw my hands up in defeat. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom looked at me and I could see he was feeling a little guilty. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I didn’t mean to hurt you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom, I know I’m not perfect but to have the person you love call you childish name is not cool” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He pulled me into his arms and kissed my forehead.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you despite everything k.” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re lucky my brother and Gail are not in, or else you might have to cook for all of us”I tried to change the topic.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Where are they anyway?” Tom looked up.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lamaze class” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">It felt really good to know that my brother is out there, trying his best to be responsible and went with Gail for the class. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I bought you breakfast” Dylan pushed a plastic towards me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I unwrapped the plastic and smiled “Red bean pau! You’re the best big brother ever” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He poured me some milk in my glass and slides it across the table right into my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How was Lamaze class the other night?”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I didn’t have the time to talk properly to Dylan ever since two days ago. He recently got a job and I was busy with mine too. When Dylan didn’t answer me, I looked up to see him staring at his glass of milk. I kicked his leg under the table. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The whole thing is kinda scary” he leaned back on his chair. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The breathing technique?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, the whole being a father thing. I just realized my whole life will change” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Of course it will. Someone who is blood related to you exist and will be here in 5 months” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I will be the person this baby looks up to. I have to guide him through his life” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s a him? I’m gonna have a nephew?” I sat up straight. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, assuming the baby is a boy but Lis, do you know I have to be a role model from now on? I cannot screw up anymore” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You are allow to screw up, ge. You are a father, not Mr perfect” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The baby will be a fragile little human and I’m responsible for his upbringing. It’s like he’s a white flag and I’m suppose to colour him” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I bet dad was like you when you were born. Maybe he freaked out even more” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan sighed “This is all so sudden and unexpected” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Think about Gail. She’s going through what you are going through plus she’s carrying the baby. You’re not alone and you are gonna be fine. You will get there when you hold your baby in your arms and your heart swell with pride and joy” I stood up with dramatic effect. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How do you know that?” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I shrugged. “When I’m bored, Gail’s maternity books seems interesting” </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, the eggs are not meant to be poured in first” Tom chuckled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m not even a quarter of a cook you are” I sat down in frustration.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Not that terrible. Honey, can you help me get some sugar from the store?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I grabbed my car keys and jogged out of the premise. When I drove out of the area, I saw a reporter sneaking around the bush. I put on my shades and ignored him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When I reached the store, I grabbed the bag of sugar and walked to the counter, squeezing past this chick with a huge bag. She was wearing a skimpy blue top with micro mini skirt. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What the hell are you looking at?” she scoffed at me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Then she brushed her LV bag off invisible dust. I had the urge to slap the bitch right across her face but like always, I don’t have the guts too.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When I got back, I told Tom about the bitch I met in the store. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why are women so nasty to each other?” he shook his head. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Including me? ” I laughed.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re no woman. You’re an angel” he turned and smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I think the sugar is a little too sweet” I blushed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Suddenly Jay’s head popped in the doorway.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey you” I grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m bringing my mom out for dinner so you two can have your little candle light dinner here” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Aww .. you guys enjoy your date” I teased. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay stuck out his tongue at me. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“We will clean up, don’t worry dude” Tom waved his spatula at Jay’s direction as he laughed.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My hands were wrapped around his neck and his lips were kissing mine. It felt intense, it felt warm and it felt good. I let go of Tom and he looked into my eyes, like he was reading my thoughts. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting Ting, are you sure you want to do this?” he asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I couldn’t answer him. I reached out to touch his hair, and then I kissed him again. I reached over and dimmed the lights as Tom removed his watch. I watched him as he approached me and guided me to his bed. Sealed with a kiss, I slide his shirt off as he laid my head gently and the rest is history. <span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When I opened my eyes in the morning, I looked around to instantly recognize it was not my room. I looked for Tom and he was sleeping with his arm draped around me. Suddenly I felt self conscious in broad daylight. I slipped out of his arm and searched for my clothes on the floor. Where are they? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The nearest piece of clothing would be Tom’s shirt. I slipped it on and ran to the window to shut the curtains properly. I looked at Tom, peacefully sleeping and I started wondering. Will there be a change to our relationship now that I had given myself to him? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">No, you know Tom is not like that, I told myself. I crawled back into bed and kissed my boyfriend’s cheek when he grabbed me suddenly and I let out a squeal. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You thought I was sleeping eh?” he grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You were not?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I saw you checking me out so I continued sleeping” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He was looking at me so silently and I got freaked out. I sat up and looked at him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t look at me like that” I got out of bed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How can you be so beautiful? Inside out, every way around” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He pulled me back to bed beside him and I noticed the scar on his chest. I traced it with my finger, trying to imagine how hard it had been on him when he was on the streets. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tian Zhi, last night umm.. we ..” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“My feelings had not changed one bit. In fact, I thought I could not love you more but after last night I was wrong” he held my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled as he touched my face and pushed my hair back. It felt good that we had reached another level in our relationship. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you Angelisa Wang Zhi Ting, always” his eyes pierced into mine.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you too. You are very hot” I bit my lips. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Tom grinned and kissed me. We giggled softly and I closed my eyes as I enjoyed Tom's embrace.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you can’t wear this” I laughed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why not? It looks cool” Jay laughed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We were holding up this hideous red and black checker pants. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Suit yourself. You’re the boss” I threw the pants on the floor. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Would you like to come down tomorrow? I’m shooting a scene at the old school building” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay is shooting a movie called ‘Secrets’ and he’s playing a student, although I had laughed at how he is too old to be a student. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’ll try to drop in during my lunch time ok?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh yeah, I forgot to ask. How’s your brother?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Freaking out about being a father. I think as time goes on, I have to tie his legs together to keep him from running away from commitment” I joked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re lucky to have a brother. I wish I have a brother of my own. Too bad I’m an only child” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, it’s not always fun all the time. My brother used to pull my hair when I was 5. I would cry and he would deny it, big hoo haa back then” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay laughed. “That sounds fun. Sorry, I have been so busy with the movie and the directing. We hardly talk anymore” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, don’t apologize. It’s your job. I have no right to drag you away from your job. I have been pretty busy too with mine. That’s why I seldom come by” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“My mom told me she misses you. Although she has her dog now, she often wonders when will you be coming around” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I have been replaced by a dog? Don’t worry, next weekend I will have some spare time. I have wanted to go shopping too. Gail is getting too tired to walk too long and Cindy has been busy with her new man” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How's things between you and Tom?” he asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s normal. We see each other when we get some time “ </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Sorry he has been working quite a lot lately” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Give him more work if you have to. If you need him around, just call him” I felt like I was selling my boyfriend. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom stepped into the room and flicked my ear.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“My girlfriend telling my boss to give me more work” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, you should be helping Jay when he needs to” I stood up. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Jay, you have an interview about the movie tonight” Tom took out his blackberry. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh yeah, I gotta go get ready. You kids have fun” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He patted our shoulders and left the room. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you complaining to Jay about me?” Tom folded his arms across his chest. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I was not. Baby, I just told Jaythat he can have you working anytime. I don’t want him to think our relationship might take your time off your work. You know how Jay is, he wants perfection and I don’t want him to think I’m your distraction”<br /><span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom seemed to ponder for a while, and then he let down his defence and took me in his arms.</p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Your mouth is better off doing something else” he kissed me. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Breakfast in bed, what a nice treat” I took a sip of the orange juice. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You look sexy in my shirt. I like “ Tom climbed in beside me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom has prepared me a wonderful porridge breakfast. My boyfriend must be the best person in the world and probably a chef in the past life. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh baby, my old friend from the orphanage would like to drop a visit for a couple of weeks” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Will I still get to see you?” I was not very happy with it but of course, my boyfriend has other people in his life too right? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom chuckled “ Of course. The three of us can spend time together too” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“When will he be here?” I dropped the spoon into the bowl.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Two days later and it’s a she” Tom leaned over to pick up his shirt. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I’m glad Tom couldn’t see my expression. I turned pale. A she. No, not like this. What am I thinking about? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Is she staying here?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, she’s staying at a motel” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Whew! I was instantly relief. After breakfast, we read the newspaper together and solved the Sudoku puzzle. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why are you so beautiful?” he asked me suddenly.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I laughed. “Ask yourself why you love me. Aren't those life's mysteries?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I kissed his chin but he caught my lips on his. Last night, we made love the second time ever and we felt really good about it. Lest self conscious, more confidence. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">As I drowned in Tom’s kiss, the doorbell rang. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ignore it” Tom looked at me, his eyes burning with desire. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The doorbell was pushed repeatedly.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Who is trying to wake the whole house here?” he got up and put on his shorts. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I followed him to check it out. The door was directly facing the stairs and I stood at the top while Tom opened the door. I heard mumblings and then someone walked in as Tom turned to close the door. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I hid behind the wall and peeped. It was a woman, fairly attractive and when she turned, I gasped. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Shit! What did I do?? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It was that bitch from the store two weeks ago! </p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-83343029540270739942008-11-04T23:03:00.001+08:002010-03-01T23:13:23.445+08:00Chapter 22<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family:trebuchet ms;">I opened my eye a little and I saw Tom sitting on my chair, going through his organizer. I turned to my left side, covering my face with the blanket. What the hell is he doing here? I don’t want to see him, not right now when I am .. wait, how come I’m in my jammies? I closed my eyes again to recall what happened last night. </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I came home; half drunk and Jay had sent me home where Dylan had looked super worried. I don’t think he saw me drunk before. I shoved him out of the way and stumbled into my room. It all became clear to me. What time is it? It’s Saturday right? </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I heard Tom turning pages of the newspaper now and a tear fell down my face. The alcohol numbed my pain last night but now in broad daylight, it came back. What am I to do now that he is here? I am not ready to settle things with him yet. I could make a run for it. I threw back my blanket and pulled myself off the bed. At least I tried to before my legs gave way and I slumped on the floor. </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“Ting Ting .. “ he reached out to catch me. </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I pushed him away “I can help myself” </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, I wanna know what happen. You didn’t want to answer my call and you took off so suddenly. What happened?” </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I looked at him. He seriously has no clue, does he? </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“You are not someone I thought I could be with” I told him, straight looking into his eyes.</p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">The expression on his face was clearly seen.<span style=""> </span>He looked confused and hurt. </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“Why is that, Lisa? You know I’m ready to commit to you. I didn’t think that we are ready for marriage yet. I promised you that.. “ </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">I stopped him with a raised hand. “It’s not that” </p> <p face="trebuchet ms" class="MsoNormal">“I will marry you and make you happy. We can have a house and a small little one for Snooky” he took my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“A childless marriage” I stood up and fell back on my bed.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">When I looked up at Tom standing beside my bed, he had been hit with realization of where our problem is. He looked stunned. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You want kids?” his eyebrows raised. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Not right now but someday and you told me last night you are not up for it” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You never said you want kids” he looked at me.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I always assumed that you do. You were so good with the kids at the orphanage and you seemed to love them” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I do. I just didn’t want my own. Look what my parents did to me. I don’t want history to repeat itself” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What makes you think you will be like them?”</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What makes you think I won’t?” he asked me back.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I stood up and turned towards the door when Tom pulled me back by the wrist.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, please don’t leave me. We can work this out” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">The warmth contact of his skin made me burst into tears. Is this what I have to give up? I want to be a mother someday but I have to give up Tom? </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tian Zhi, I dunno ..” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“No, don’t say anything” he grabbed me into a hug. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I gave in, for now. For a moment, I let myself be weak in Tom's embrace.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So now you’re left with two choices. This got be hard” Cindy shook her head. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I know. Now you have to decide between motherhood or true love” Gail popped a grape into her mouth. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">We were having our movie routine but instead of chips, we have fruit salad to help Gail along with a healthier diet. It has been three days since I saw Tom and we had proceeded on our relationship like nothing happened. As though my heart had not been broken the night we were supposed to make love. It had been hard for the first week to recover from the disappointment and the pain but I think, deep within me, I held on to a shred of hope that hopefully someday Tom will change his mind. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What would you do?” I threw the question to the girls. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I pick hunky bodyguard. Where else are you going to find someone like him?” Cindy raised her hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I would have to pick baby. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that you are capable of giving life. I never felt so fulfilled and satisfied, in a way no man can fill” Gail rubbed her tummy. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan came out of the room and approached me.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Mei, did you get the ham that dad wants? You know the one he asked us to bring back for him last week? I put it in the kitchen in the red plastic bag” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yes, it is on the table and I will remember to put it in my bag tomorrow” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You guys are going to China for two weeks and I only have Snooky for companion” Cindy sulked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t bring bunch of guys up here” I wagged my finger at her. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Don’t worry. I will protect the house and your dog” Cindy said reassuringly.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I leaned on my seat and made myself comfortable. On my left side was the window and I peeped at the clouds and closed my eyes. Gail and Dylan were sitting behind us and they both seemed to be enjoying each other’s company. I turned to my left and settled down for a nap. Tom was reading next to me and I could feel his hand stroked my hair for a while. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You will wake me up right?” I turned to him. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Of <span style=""> </span>course. Do you want me to leave you sleeping here to the next flight?” he asked with a smile. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled and Tom looked at me rather fondly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You are gonna be a great mother” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Why you say that?” I sat up. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I dunno. The kids at the orphanage loved you and you took such good care of Snooky” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He had to talk in a low voice because the guy next to him seemed to be reading intensively. Luckily no one really recognized us around. There was one or two glances but the sunglasses seemed to hide well. Besides, I think I only get noticed when I am with Jay. Still, I don’t like girls ogling at my boyfriend. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Do you think you could be a good father?” I asked him. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He looked at me and opened his mouth but no words came out. Instead his look was just a mixture of guilt and heartache. <span style=""> </span>I turned away to my right side and looked out of the window. Lisa, don’t get your hopes up. You just hold on to him and then when you’re ready, break it off to find a man who wants the same thing you do. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">How am I ever gonna break it off? I love this man. Can I really give up children? Will I wake up one day; realize I’m 40 and childless? </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, can we talk about this? I don’t want you to look at me like I’m some evil child hating man” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I turned to him. Maybe it’s time I should listen to him instead of shutting him out and drowning myself in my own misery.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, you knew I was raised in an orphanage. They found me in a box, three hours after I was born by the road side. My own parents did that to me. My own flesh and blood did that to me, they just left me with a tag with a surname for me. I don’t even know if Yuan is my real surname or not. I was abandoned by the people who were supposed to love you the most” he held my hand as he talked to me slowly, like he was talking to a child. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I listened to him and tried to recall my own childhood. I had a lot of toys when I was little and I had a big brother who won’t hesitate to share his toys with me. I had little cute dresses to wear and I was never hungry. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry baby” I stroked his hand with my thumb. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I grew up, disliking myself so much because I thought I must have been a burden to my parents. I must be hated, I was unwanted. When those guys stabbed me and I was rushed to the emergency room, I thought I would be better off dead. I felt really depressed when I saw kids in the playground, being pushed on the swings by their dad” he looked down.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I rubbed his hand gently and I was shocked when Tom looked at me, he had tears in his eyes.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I was afraid I would turn out to be like my father, that I would naturally hate kids. I kept thinking it might be in my blood that I would hate kids” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tian Zhi, you were great with the kids at the orphanage. They love you” <span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah I know and I love them too. I love the bigger ones like they are my own siblings and well, I love the little ones like how a father would, I guess?” he shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom, I don’t want to force you to feel what you don’t want to” now it was my turn to speak slowly </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis, I have been thinking for the past week and I think I can give it a shot” his voice went lower </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I blinked and looked at him “What? Seriously?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He nodded “Only if you are the mother. I don’t want my kids to be brought up by anyone else. Kids love you, your dog love you, your friends love you, your brother wanted to break my neck when I made you cry”he joked.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What about your past? Your history?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Like you said, it’s the past, the history. Besides, I think I could teach the little boy how to play basketball and I’ll buy him some really cool robots. Did you know they have those talking one now? I will get him those black bike which a nice horn so that everyone would know he’s coming. <span style=""> </span>Then I can buy him those little tiny kid vest, he will look so cool”Tom explained.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I was surprised and quite amused by his sudden enthusiasm.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What if you get a girl?”I wondered.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“She will have the best dolls, I assure you and I would buy her everything pink and red. I would take her to the swings and get her those little shoes with the bows, then she can go for ballet classes when she’s older and I could get her a bike, with a flower basket in front and ..” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I got scared. Tom looked so excited, way too excited. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, I know I got carried away but I figured instead of being scared, might as well give them everything that I was deprived off”<br /></p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">"How come you changed your mind?"</p><p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">"I love you and I want a future for us" he held my hand.<br /></p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">My shred of hope came true after all. It also made me understand Tom better and he looked at me, suddenly shy with the tears still in his eyes. I leaned my head on his shoulder, suddenly so grateful to have him in my life. Tom planted a soft kiss on my head and I slept off with a smile. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I knocked on the door repeatedly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Ge, open up!” I yelled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Instead Tom opened the door, drying his hair with a towel. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, it’s time for dinner. Where’s the brother?” I looked over his shoulder. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Showering” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Our parents had been receiving well of Tom and Gail so far although dad was slightly stern when it came to addressing Tom. Normal, I guessed, to be extra protective of the daughter. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom put away his towel and we went downstairs together. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Remember, Gail is suppose to be resting so you offer to help with the dishes ok” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">He nodded. I never seen Tom so submissive before and he’s doing it to please my family. When we reached the living room, mom was sitting there with Gail. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So Dylan was with Sarah when you got pregnant?”<span style=""> </span>mom asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I didn’t know was it an accusation or was it a question. Plus Gail looked really caught so I interrupted.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Mummy, can we bring the dishes out right now?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, the fish is done. You can bring the cabbages and the chicken in too. The potatoes will be done in a minute. Oh, there’s the big pot of hot soup at the stove” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’ll get it auntie” Tom volunteered. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Mom nodded with a smile and Tom walked with me to the kitchen. I had given Gail the ham earlier to hand to mom hoping that it would bring some good thoughts of Gail.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Mom seems to like you” I smiled as I laid out the chopsticks and the bowls. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Your dad is still cautious of me, just like Dylan was” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well now you’re staying in one room with Dylan right? Don’t<span style=""> </span>worry, dad will eventually like you” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom is staying in Dylan’s room while Gail shares mine.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">When we finally settled down to dinner with dad at the head of the table and mom at the end, leaving me and Dylan facing each other, we told them about our life and how we are coping out there in the big bad world.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So Tom, I heard you are Jay Chou’s mother bodyguard” dad asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at Tom as he put down his chopsticks and told dad that he is not only guarding but also running the whole security system for Jay. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Then there was the question of how the job was. Gail was not spared from the questioning too, how was her photography work and lots of other questions were thrown in. Luckily Dylan was there to crack stupid jokes to lighten the atmosphere. Once dad lightened up, everyone relaxed. <span style=""> </span>Although the situation was better but I could still sense my parents hesitation hanging about.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">After dinner, Gail decided to follow me to the kitchen to wash up the dishes. I pulled Dylan to the side and told him to take care of Tom. When we had the dishes in the sink, Tom came and advice Gail to take a break. She nodded and went back to the living room to join my parents. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“How’s the day so far?” I looked at Tom. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Pretty well, I hope your dad likes me” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“He hasn’t been ill mannered to you, I take it as a good sign. Besides, I made sure Dylan had put in some good words for you and since dad always told him to take of me, I’m sure dad take his words in account” I reached for the first dirty dish. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What about Gail? Does your parents accept their situation?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“They can’t be that mad. I mean, after all they are going to have a grandkid” I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">We washed the dishes together and Tom helped me put them away. When I finally put the last one away, he pulled my hand into his. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I was curious when I was drying the dishes just now, your hand looks super smooth and I was right. It was” he grinned, just like a cat that got its milk. Man, that line was cheesy.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Somehow it made me blushed like crazy and I pulled away to motion him to follow me to rejoin the others. I managed to catch several words that Dylan mentioned.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Shopping? We’re going shopping??” I exclaimed excitedly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, me and Gail are going baby shopping” Dylan wagged his right index finger at me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, come on. I wanna go baby shopping too!” I pouted.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">As soon as that sentence slipped out from my lips, I could feel dagger stares from my parents. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanna go baby shopping for your baby. I’m the aunt!” I said quickly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, remember just buy what you need k?” Tom turned to me. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“It’s not for me, it’s for the baby” I smiled. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I’m telling you, Dylan and Tom had never looked so bored before in their life. Gail and I kept browsing through the same rack of clothes over and over again. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, get this one. I think this bottle looks cuter” I pushed the bottle in her face. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Gail laughed “It’s not big enough. Bigger is better” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at my brother and pushed him forward. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Maybe I ought to leave both of you to buy your stuff” I stuck out my tongue childishly and bounced back to Tom. I grasped his hand and clung on him, all spoilt rotten. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I thought you were lost in baby land, going awww at every single little thing you see. I don’t understand the diaper aww .. that is where baby poop”Tom tried to imitate me.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s cute! Imagine a cute little adorable baby wearing a diaper and walking around”I smiled.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom smiled a little and kissed my head. It’s like as if the world belonged to us.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Zhi Ting!” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Oh right, the world has mom and dad too. I let go off Tom’s arm and turned around to see mom approaching us.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“How come you’re not helping Gail with the baby stuff?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Let ge help her. It’s their baby, I’m just the auntie “ </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Just then Dylan called mom over and we escaped to walk around the whole store. We walked towards the prams. There were so many different types of prams. I ran my hand briefly through them.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Which one do you think is suitable for Gail’s baby?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Which one is perfect for our future baby?” Tom asked me back. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I stopped in my tracks “You’re already thinking of having a baby so soon?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom chuckled “Nope but we sure are having one someday right? We could just look around, get some tips from Dylan and Gail” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">To be honest, I am not ready for a future with marriage and children yet. Although I’m very sure I want that but at that moment, I just want us to be just the two of us. I look forward to take our relationship up to the next level when the time comes. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom, the other night when before I ran out on you after we fought, I really mean what I said and now I'm thinking back how cheesy I sounded when I said I wanna be a bad girl” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I covered my face against his chest in embarrassment and when I looked up, I saw Tom trying his hardest not to laugh.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Why do you look so constipated? Don’t laugh at me” I couldn’t help blushing again.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“It was cheesy but I ignored that because I love you and I was also thinking of that night too. I must have freaked you out when I said I didn’t want kids” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, for what it’s worth at least that incident had brought out the issue for us and we managed to solve it together. Isn’t that what our relationship is about?” I held his hand. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">That’s all we did. We don’t display any other affection in public. I have always believed in keeping our moments in private. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What are you doing?”my eyes were blinded as the sunlight streamed across the room. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Morning sleepyhead” Tom put down the jar and came over to give me a kiss on the cheek.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, none of that in the kitchen” Dylan appeared from the toilet, wiping his hands on his pants.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I was embarrassed to be caught as I wriggled away from Tom, then I saw the table was filled with breakfast. There were porridge and pancakes on the table with a jar of orange juice. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You guys made breakfast!” I turned to them. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Your boyfriend’s idea” Dylan pointed to Tom. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Is this a way to dig into my dad’s heart?” I whispered. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You could say that. Plus, I know you like pancakes” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Mei, where’s Gail?” Dylan took out his apron.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I think she’s still asleep” I pointed up the stairs. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan went upstairs leaving me and Tom alone in the kitchen. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What are you gonna do today?” I asked as I pulled out a chair. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What are you gonna do? I’m here on vacation and you’re supposed to be my tour guide” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, we can go have a look around, let you snap a few photos, buy some souvenir for auntie at home and then we can go dinner with mom and dad” I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Sounds like a wonderful plan and it’s fair that we spend dinner with your parents since I am going to have you for myself the whole day” he took my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Just then, my house phone rang and I turned around to grab it.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa!! I heard you are home” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Shit! Miley Chai. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh hi Miley” I tried to force enthusiasm. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I heard you’re in town and you got a new man in tow. You have to let me see him! How long have you been going out? “ </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Miley, I am just home for a few days. Nothing major and it’s nothing serious yet” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh don’t be silly. You must see me. I’m like .. what .. your best friend ever? I’ll see you at the old place for lunch k? At 1 pm and you must bring your new man ok” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">The phone line got cut off. I stared at the phone before putting it back on the table. I looked at Tom with distress as he looked at me with a concerned look.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“An ex friend of mine, Miley wants to meet me today for lunch” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, you can go to meet her. We can still have dinner” he shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“No, she heard I have a boyfriend and she wants me to drag you around” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">The realization sunk in and Tom let out a soft oh.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, you don’t sound like you like this Miley girl much” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Clever observation, honey. <span style=""> </span>I don’t like her because she gossiped like crazy. Last time, she told everyone in class that I liked this other guy in the neighbour class. I didn’t know how she found out. She then told everyone in the whole two classes and the guy actually liked me but then after the whole ugly confession, he freaked out and I freaked out” I sighed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Why did she do that?”he frowned.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Cause she’s a witch” I lowered my voice. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom let out a chuckle and pulled me closer to him.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Let’s just meet her and charm her. Let’s show her how successful you are right now” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you sure? I can’t stand the way she laughed. It sounded exactly like a witch crackling” I cringed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Honey, don’t exaggerate. Come on, it will be okay” he smiled. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I sighed. Poor Tom does not know what is going to hit him.</p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“How do I look?” I asked Tom for the tenth time. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You look great” Tom squeezed my hand tightly.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Just then this bubbly woman in purple dress swayed her way over to our table. She was wearing very little make up with huge chandelier earrings and tall heels. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa! I haven’t seen you for so long. You look so radiant! This is the fella?<span style=""> </span>He is so cute! Where did you find him? Point me the way to Hunkyville” Miley laughed. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hi Miley, this is my boyfriend Tom. How long will lunch be?” I couldn’t resist asking. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Tom nudged me a little and I just smiled back at him with a glare.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>“Don’t mind her Tom. I known Lisa my whole life and she is always like that. That’s what I like about her” Miley waved a hand to dismiss me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“So how have you been? What are you working as now?” I asked her with a fake interested smile. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I am an insurance agent. I am working full time and I am single. Ah, you know how it is like to be single. You were single before you met this hunky dude. Last time in school, remember how you liked Andy and then he liked you but you scared him away” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I gripped Tom’s hand under the table and put on my fake smile again. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, I did, didn’t I?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Actually it’s kinda a good thing because with the Andy fella out of the way, Lisa is mine now” Tom patted my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Miley smiled and sipped her orange juice as I smiled fondly at Tom. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, remember that time when we went to the bar and you jumped on the bar top ?”she exclaimed.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath as Tom glanced at me. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: trebuchet ms;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“That was you” I rubbed my forehead.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Guess who is back!” I exclaimed loudly. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Several heads turned towards my direction. Oops! Jay’s working crew. I mumbled my apology ,turned around and there was Jay.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re back! Where’s my souvenir?” he held out his hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I didn’t buy any for you, only your mom. I’ll come back later when you are not working”I whispered.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh no, I was on a break. Just recorded a new song”he looked embarrassed.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">We walked downstairs to the living room where auntie was looking at the small porcelain vase I bought for her. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh yeah Jay, here’s a little something for you. I don’t know if you would like it and you could get anything in the world so I hope you would not .. “ </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Just hand me the stuff Lis” he poked my side and held out his hand. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I threw his t shirt at him. He held it open in front of him and there it was ‘I’m a hot dude’</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m declaring to the world now that I’m a hot dude?” he raised his eyebrow. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Aren’t you?” I teased. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Come on, Jay should know he look hot. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Do you think I’m hot?” he asked with a smile. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh come on. Millions of girls around the world are worshiping you every day because you have the talent and the looks” I nudged hi. Jay laughed and went back to the studio. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“We miss you while you were gone. How was your parents reaction to Tom?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I talked to auntie a while about how things were back home. She on the other hand, has a surprise for me. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I got a dog” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanna see !” I jumped up. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">Auntie went to the back yard and came back with a little shiba dog. I got so excited and that made auntie excited that I went home to get Snooky over for a little play time. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, how come your mom bought a dog all of a sudden?” I asked Jay while we were in the kitchen. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“I guessed she got lonely when you were not around” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“How come she got lonely? She got you right?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lately I have been a bit busy with the new movie coming out and the album” he shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well at least her little doggie is keeping her company now” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, that little guy is putting a big smile on her face. How was home?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Home’s great. My parents are fine and they were cautious with Tom at first, especially dad but I think they got along just fine” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“What would your parents say if I come over your place?” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, no offense but I don’t think they know you. They know you're Jay Chou but that's it” I poked him. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Really?” he looked a little offended though. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, but this old bitch friend of mine is a huge fan of yours. She keeps rubbing her nose into my life and I have to resist telling her I knew you” I poured myself a glass of water.</p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You were in the papers with me” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“That was ages ago and besides no one can really tell it’s me. Plus, I don’t think she even cares about the news, even about you” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">I turned around to hand Jay his glass and I noticed he had a faraway look in his eyes. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Why you look like that?” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Nothing. I just thought of a song, need to run it with Vincent and make it a duet” </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, what is it about?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“You will hear it first. I gotta rush upstairs before I lose the thought” he turned and walked out. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">A few steps and he walked back in the kitchen, made a beeline towards me, leaned forward and kissed me right on the cheek. When he pulled away, I had to fight the urge to kiss him back. </p> <p style="font-family: trebuchet ms;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, you are special” he whispered as I closed my eyes. <span style=""> </span></p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-88898628022095861462008-11-03T21:56:00.002+08:002010-03-01T22:39:27.441+08:00Chapter 21<p style="font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I put the dolls into one cloth bag. I think I bought enough for the girls. After that, I arranged the plastic soldier toys into another bag. Tom is taking me to the orphanage this afternoon and I could distribute these to the kids. Luckily Saturday is an off day for me so I don’t have to dress up. Instead, a T-shirt with shorts would do. Snooky was watching me loading those presents into the bags.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Here, baby” I threw him a brand new ball. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">He leapt up, so excited and jumped around, pushing the ball to and fro with his front paws. Suddenly, the door opened and Dylan walked in. Snooky ran between his legs, chasing the ball and both of them rolled out of the door. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“What’s with your hyperactive puppy?” he asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“New toy. Snooky seems to love it “I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">Dylan sat down in front of me with his legs crossed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“How are things with Sarah?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Now I know where Santa Claus hid for the rest of the year” Dylan grinned, looking at the bags. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t change the subject. Have you told Sarah yet?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“I didn’t tell her yet. How am I supposed to tell her that I knocked up my sister’s best friend?”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Sheesh, such harsh word, knocked up. <span style=""> </span>You should have thought of it before you slept with Gail” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“So abortion is not an option huh?” he glanced at me.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I stood up, my hands on my hips with mock anger. My brother is the worst judge of character in the world. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“If I was the one who got pregnant and Tom wanted an abortion, how would you respond?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I would have beat him up and thank you for that disgusting image” he cringed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“So says the brother who slept with my best friend” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Fine, you win. I guess I would have to break Sarah’s heart” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">He couldn’t hear it but I was cheering deep in my heart. So long, you bitch! </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The kids loved you” Tom smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Really? They really love me or you’re just saying that to make me feel good?”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you know I don’t lie to you. They love you but not as much as I do” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We were in the kitchen, at Jay’s house making cookies after the visit from the orphanage. Auntie is gardening right out of the window so Tom is keeping an eye on her. Strangely though, now that Gail is pregnant, she craves for lots of weird food. Today, cookies. Chocolate chip cookies. As I bent forward to look for the tray in the cabinet, Tom went out of the kitchen. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Aren’t you helping me with the cookies?” I called out. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He came back with a small box in hand. “Got something for you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What is it?” I placed the spoon down and opened the tiny box.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It was a very thoughtful gift from Tom. A heart shaped bronze locket where he had inserted one of our photo together. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Is it okay?” he looked nervous. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled. Looks like this is the first time he bought a girl something. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love it. Thank you” I couldn’t take my eyes off the shiny locket in my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Then I reached up and kissed his cheek, just a quick one to show how much he meant to me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I was hoping you would say that. See, I was thinking of buying the silver one but then it was more expensive and I thought maybe I could trade this bronze one with the silver one on our wedding day because .. “ </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Wait, wait .. you wanna marry me?” I looked at him with astonishment.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">His lips curled into a small smile “What do you think?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you sure?” I whispered, as though as I was afraid it would all be just my imagination.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, not right now but someday, when we are ready, I wanna marry you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I kissed him right on the lips. This guy wants to marry me! He wants me to be his wife. He wants me to be there until death do us part. Wow, that was overwhelming. Tom kissed me back and suddenly I felt like we been pronounced husband and wife. What a silly thought! </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Those cookies won’t bake themselves, you know” I smiled. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Tom smiled and turned to the fridge. I turned around to grab a bowl and at the corner of my eye, I saw Jay standing there. When our eyes met, he smiled a little and walked away. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanna talk to the paparazzi” I folded my arms and laid back on the chair with a pout. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The more news you feed them, the more they will come after you” Jay gestured. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“But this is complete rubbish! What a stupid lie to come up with. They didn’t even ask me why was I at the clinic” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I am fuming mad. The paper this morning, in the entertainment section was a photo of me with Cindy and Gail the morning Gail found out she was pregnant exiting the clinic. Instead of asking me the truth, these sneaky paparazzi suspected I was the one who might be pregnant because I am the one in contact with Jay. The article continued to say that if I am pregnant, the baby might be Tom’s or Jay's. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Oh my God, I am pissed off. I am furious at them for defaming me, for misleading news and also because I am ashamed that Jay’s name had been dragged on to this. Jay however, sat across me, his face grim and serious. I softened my tone. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Jay, I’m sorry. This is entirely my fault. I should have never let your name to be printed in this article” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, it’s not your fault. This is what the entertainment business is like” he nodded. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry I always dropped by here and made them suspect stupid possibility. I’m sorry you took me out for meals and got caught in the news” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“And are you sorry for being my friend?” he asked me, his eyes piercing into mine. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I was taken aback “No, of course not” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Then don’t apologise. I should be the one who is sorry that because of me, your name is tangled up in stupid news. You are my friend, Lis and you make my mom happy. She finally has a friend who is always around, who is willing to listen and talk to her” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He patted my arm and I couldn’t help it, but I smiled back at him. Jay is such a sweetheart, it felt like light years away when we first met and had the wrong impression on each other.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Then what are we going to do with the news?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It will die down eventually. You’re not pregnant; sooner or later it will show” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It felt comfortable, sitting here in the studio, talking to Jay. Although it was nice to talk to auntie, it was a warm change talking to Jay. Of course I can talk to Tom, he’s my boyfriend but with Tom, there are still some subjects where I felt like I should let him learn slowly because that is what makes this relationship grows. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">On the other hand, with Jay I could be who I want to be, he is not someone I need to look pretty for, not someone who I need to feel coy around. I am being truest to myself with Jay. I think he felt the same way. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“I wanna see the white windmill video” I grinned. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>“I can’t believe we miss our stupid movie” Cindy grumbled </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Is there such thing as wrong timetable? The timetable stated the movie is at 8 pm but it started at 7 pm? “I whined. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, at least they gave us free tickets for the movie tomorrow” Gail waved the tickets in her hands. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I asked you girls where you wanna go and you can’t make up your mind so I’m taking you home” Dylan grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">From the back seat, I could see my stupid brother grinning. He was ‘forced’ to accompany us for a movie which was postponed due to the mistake the cinema people make. I made Gail sit next to him because secretly I knew Gail would be much better for him rather than Sarah. Plus, they are having a baby together. Speaking of Sarah, I’m so glad she made other plans tonight or I’m sure she would want to tag along. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My gutless brother had yet to break up with her so I still have to see her prancing around my apartment, not knowing that Gail is carrying my brother’s baby. So far, the evening had been pleasant and they had gotten along well. I swear, I could feel the sparks between both of them in the front seat. It was almost like there’s no Sarah. I do feel slightly annoyed that my brother had cheated on a woman because it shows how weak he is but I’m trying not to ruin my image of him as the stable and trustworthy role model. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What are you smiling about?” Dylan spotted me from the rear view mirror. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I rolled my eyes and flashed him a big grin, just to annoy the heck out of him. When we got out of the car, I saw Dylan held Gail’s arm and helped her out of the car. That’s my brother, although he might be dumb enough to make my best friend pregnant, he is still a responsible man.That's the brother I looked up to my whole life.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We joked all the way into the lifts and made plans for the night. It’s Friday night after all and I planned to spend time with the girls and the brother rather than Tom. We needed to have time for ourselves after all. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I will fry the sausages and Lisa, you call the pizza” Cindy grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What about me?” Gail asked as she turned to us. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You rest and let them do the work” Dylan turned to us. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m not sick, just carrying a baby” Gail said softly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I think it’s been only two months but you can see Gail has a slight bump on her tummy or maybe it's my imagination.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When we got home, Dylan opened the door and the three of us walked in just to see a man in our living room, standing there .. naked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What is this?” Cindy’s voice dropped. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan’s hands automatically covered my eyes and I struggled to push his hand off.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ge, I’m 24” I whined, wanting to feast my eyes on the fine young man in my living room. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Gail had turned around, feeling embarrassed while Cindy seemed to be stunned. Just then, Sarah walked out of the kitchen with a bottle of champagne. As soon as Sarah saw us, her face turned white and her arrogance crumbled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Dylan, how come you’re home so fast?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The naked man had covered himself with his shirt. Bummer. Dylan looked at me and I understood. I took the girls hands and tugged them along.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Come on, let’s go to my room” I lead them into my room. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Upon closing the door in my room, Gail broke out in tears. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Babe, what’s wrong?” Cindy asked, alarmed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It is all my fault. Look what happened between Dylan and Sarah. I shouldn’t have been so weak and fall in bed with Dylan. I feel so guilty now. I am the third party who probably will break them up” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Cindy comforted her. Usually Gail is the easy happy go lucky girl but I guessed hormones blew everything out of proportion. I opened the door slightly to watch the showdown between my brother and that bitch. That naked man was nowhere to be seen, I guessed he left. Sarah looked nervous and I saw Dylan turned to her, his face expressionless.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Dylan, it was a mistake. I forgot what I was doing and I was weak” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan nodded “I understand. You can pack your bags and leave, Sarah. It’s over between us” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I was surprised at how calm he sounded. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Dylan, I’m sorry. I never meant for you to .. “ </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan raised his hand to stop her “its okay. Just leave, I don’t need any explanation” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I watched as Sarah went into the room and chucked her belongings into the luggage. She didn’t look sorry, hurt or sad, just rather relief that Dylan did not give her a hard time. After that, she walked out of the apartment quietly. Dylan sat down on the couch. I glanced back and noticed Gail had fallen asleep on my bed, all cried out. Cindy was reading a magazine so I walked out and sat next to my brother.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You okay?” I asked, even though it sounded stupid but that was the first thought that crossed my mind.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, I am. Like you said, it is the best solution for all of us” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“That was the simplest break up I ever heard” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, I cheated on her too. It is not right if I yelled at her like she is at fault when I too did the same thing” he shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded in agreement. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh yeah, mom called today” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why? What happened at home?” Dylan asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Mom’s pregnant” I looked at him straight in the eyes. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">That was the best expression I have ever seen on Dylan’s face. Shocked, disgusted, terrified, surprised all in one go. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“She is? That is .. err .. gross” he cringed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, gross. You are not imagining stuff, are you?” I groaned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How can she be pregnant? She’s going to be a grandma!”<span style=""> </span>Dylan looked upset. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Nah, she’s not pregnant. I’m just pulling your leg” I shrugged it off. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You are so dead for giving me a heart attack” Dylan flicked my ear. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“She did however request that we spend next weekend at home. Fly back to China” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh, now she misses her handsome son eh?” Dylan grinned. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“There’s a catch. She wants to meet Tom and Gail” I cringed.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I yawned and walked to the kitchen, dragging my feet. That’s when I saw Gail sitting at the dining table biting a piece of cookie. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How come you’re up?” I pointed at her. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Morning sickness, then I couldn’t get to sleep. The baby wants cookie” Gail rubbed her tummy. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I scratched my head and wrapped my arm around myself. Tom’s shirt is so comfy to sleep in. It’s long and I don’t need to wear pants. Plus, it’s thick to protect me from the cold.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Thinking about those times eh?” Gail smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What times?” I sat down beside her and poured myself a cup of juice. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Those romantic nights making love with Tom” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, to be honest. We haven’t make any love yet”I confessed.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What? You guys are nearing your one year anniversary” Gail looked at me with disbelief. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I know, it’s just not the time yet” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Don’t tell me he is not interested in you. Unless he is gay” her eyes widen.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“He’s not gay and I know he is attracted to me. I just don’t feel ready and he don’t want to push me to it” I swatted her playfully. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, trust me. There’s never gonna be a right time, right place. Just close your eyes, trust your love and dive in” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Easy for you to say. You already dove in and you found treasure” I gestured at the baby. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Gail laid back with a smile, obviously agreeing with me. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I hope your parents won’t tear me apart” I heard Tom said through the bathroom. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Mom , no. Dad, maybe” I shrugged. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He emerged from the bathroom, drying his hair and half naked top up. Suddenly, I felt so shy. Luckily he didn't seem to notice that I was turning red.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Do you think Dylan will help your dad to tear me apart or will he put in good words for me?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why do you need him? Aren't my good words enough?” I pretended to look hurt. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re my girlfriend; you are supposed to say good stuff about me. It would help to have someone to back up that statement” he smiled as he kissed my head.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Sheesh, we are meeting my parents, not a court room drama” I put down the magazine and stood up.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I glanced at my watch.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom, you better hurry up. Our dinner reservation is in 15 minutes time and we need at least 7 minutes to get there. You’re not even dressed yet” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How much must I dress up? You look cute in that blouse and jeans” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Then just put on a shirt and slacks. I love to see you in slacks” I grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You are such a fussy fashion advisor. Also, such a good girl waiting for me” he smiled and kissed me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I dunno where I got the courage to but I kissed him back, in a whole new way I never did. The shirt in his hand dropped. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What if I don’t want to be a good girl anymore?” I mumbled against his lips. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Whoa! Where did that come from? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, are you serious?” his eyes were huge, looking at me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><i style="">There’s never gonna be a right time, right place. Just close your eyes trust your love and dive in.<o:p></o:p></i></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded and Tom kissed me again. We climbed into bed and my heart was racing. What am I doing? On the other hand, it felt right. I closed my eyes and anticipated the sensation of being loved. <span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Wait, let me get protection. Derek bought me a box of it as a joke” he got up and walked towards the drawer. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Do we really need protection?” I sat up and looked at him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What if we end up like your brother and Gail?” he asked, searching through his drawer. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How bad would it be?” I teased. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Very bad. Children are a big no no” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My blood froze, I swear. Suddenly it felt like there’s sand in my mouth where Tom had just kissed me. I felt numb, expressionless. I stood up slowly; Tom’s back facing me while he was still searching. This must be some mistake. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you sure Tom? No children? You love those kids at the orphanage” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah but I don’t want any of my own. I never want to have kids” he chuckled, as if it's something funny.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ever?” I held on the last shred of hope. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ever” he nodded, not realizing he had just smashed my heart into a million pieces. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My heart stopped feeling and my body only listened to my brain now. I ran out of the room. I need to be at somewhere safe right now. I ran to the studio and Jay was in there, writing some lyrics. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Please take me home Jay” I literally begged. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay stood up, surprised to see me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting! What’s wrong? ” Tom had put on a shirt and he looked really puzzled.<span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I cannot do this right now Tom” I shook my head and turned to Jay.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Please Jay. Please, I beg you” I tugged on his sleeve, near tears. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He nodded and we basically ran into his car. I was quiet for a while in the car and then it hit me as tears rolled down my face. Every time Tom called, I cancelled it. After 7 times, I sobbed loudly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, what happen?” Jay stopped his car by the roadside.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Jay, do you want children?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“As many as possible” he looked concerned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom doesn’t want children” I sniffed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you pregnant? Did he ask you to get rid of the baby?” Jay sounded alarmed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled a little. <span style=""> </span>“No, I’m not pregnant, which is a good thing” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, you guys will sort your problems. Every couple have their problem” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I shook my head “I dunno, I feel so hopeless, hurt and lost right now” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My head tilted and Jay lent me his shoulder to lean on. It felt good to have some warmth right now since my heart felt so cold. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Your make up is ruined “he grabbed a tissue and dabbed my face.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I closed my eyes and calmed myself down. Jay patted my shoulder gently and covered me with his coat.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It will be okay Lisa” he said. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Strangely enough, I believed him. </p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-17153152850089369732008-10-07T12:35:00.001+08:002010-03-01T22:15:52.960+08:00Chapter 20<p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">I glanced at the door again. It’s not time yet, I sighed and leaned back. Cindy and Gail were standing around. Cindy was leaning against the wall next to the doctor’s door and Gail sat next to me with a sigh. She reached for my hand and I held hers in mine. When I found the test, these girls were the first I approached, not even Tom knows I’m right here with them. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“How could this happened?” I asked quietly as I looked up at Cindy. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Sometimes protection fails” Gail answered just as quietly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“How do you think this news will hit him?” Cindy asked, lifting her body from the wall. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“I dunno. Probably he would be shocked” Gail looked at us repeatedly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">I just kept silent and smiled a little. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, the test says positive but we can’t be sure right?” I looked at them with hope. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The door opened and a nurse approached us. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“ Miss, it’s your turn” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We stood up and a rush of nervousness swept me off my feet. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“No matter what, we will face it together ok” Cindy approached us as the three of us hugged. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It will be okay” Tom nodded encouragingly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We were sitting at home in the living room, sipping coffee except me. I could stand the smell of coffee but the taste is just so nauseating so I was biting on a snack bar. Recently I had started to snack more on healthy food. I don’t get dizzy anymore. Cindy and Gail were sitting opposite us, both of them looked equally worried. I reached out and pulled an ultrasound photo from the table. I wasn’t sure if he was allowed to see this but a glance at Gail who nodded her approval and I handed it to Tom.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Wow, it’s so tiny” he wrapped his arm around my shoulder. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I could feel that Tom was appreciating the black and white photo he held in his hand. Suddenly I heard Sarah’s door opened and instantly I pulled the photo from Tom’s hand and hid it behind me. Sarah came out wearing a red dress and Dylan was right behind her, dressed handsomely in shirt.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Where ya going?” Cindy asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Bringing my lady to a lobster dinner tonight” Dylan smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“K, you kids have fun. Don’t come back too late. Drive safe” I grinned and waved from my seat.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh sis, I wanna borrow a bit of your powder” he smiled and went into my bathroom.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Floral scent, very manly” I rolled my eyes playfully.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Gail was looking at the newspaper and Cindy was filing her nails. Sarah was just standing there, waiting for Dylan and peeking at my boyfriend. Grr .. thankfully Tom seems to be engrossed in his schedule for tomorrow. I sneaked a peek at my boyfriend who was looking at his organizer.<br /></p><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">That is my Tom, always so organized and tidy. How his eyes were scanning through the dates. I loved how his fringe had been spiked up a little. His lips were muttering something but I guessed it must be some reminder from the organizer. I studied Tom for a minute right before my concentration was interrupted by loud stomping noise coming from my bedroom. Dylan appeared before us and he was really angry. I could tell when my brother is pissed. His ears turned red when he gets really pissed and in my whole life, he had only been that pissed with me twice. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What the hell is this?” he flung his arm and something landed with a thud on the table. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Uh oh. The test. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ge, this is ..” I stood up.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“YOU! You bastard! The nerve of you to knocked up my sister!” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Dylan grabbed Tom by the collar.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Dylan, listen. It’s not ..” Tom tried to break free from his grip. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>“Ge, I’m not pregnant” I shook my head.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“But I saw Tom sneaking off early one morning” Sarah added in innocently.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Yeah right, innocent my ass. Bitch! Why is she adding oil to fire? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You still touched my sister!” Dylan barked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I think he meant “touch my sister naked”. Gah, my brother can be so dramatic sometimes. I sat down on the sofa.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“He .. we never touch each other okay? The test is not mine and I’m not pregnant” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What?” his grip on Tom loosened and Tom freed himself. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Seriously Dylan, we are innocent” Tom let out a sigh. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Then whose is this?” <span style=""> </span>Dylan asked again.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I looked all around the room. My two girls sitting across me were looking back at me, Tom was holding <span style=""> </span>my hand, Sarah and Dylan were looking at me like they want an explanation.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa? Whose test is this?” Dylan asked, his voice slightly softer now. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Finally Gail stood up and told him “ Dylan, it’s mine” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I felt bad for Gail. Not only does that she have to tell the father of the child, now she had to confess everything to us openly in front of everyone, including Sarah. When I found the pregnancy test, I had been thinking it all over. Who do this test belong to? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“You guys, I found this in the trash in my bathroom” I held the test with a tissue. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Cindy and Gail looked at me and sat there for a moment before Cindy spoke first.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“You’re pregnant?” Cindy stood up and hugged me tightly.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Thanks for the hug but no, it’s not mine” I pushed her away gently. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Is it Sarah’s ?” Cindy’s voice dropped to a whisper. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">My eyes widen “ I hope not. If it is, then I’m forever tied to her by blood” <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Who says the baby is Dylan’s?” Cindy teased cheekily. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Gail had been quiet and we turned to her.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Whose baby do you think Sarah is carrying?” Cindy asked. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“The test is mine” Gail said steadily. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Who is the father?” Dylan asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Now that’s a sensitive question. When we asked Gail about it, she couldn’t even tell us. I think she might need some time to think things through before revealing to us who it is. Dylan should not have asked that question.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ge..” I tried to tell him to back off. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“It’s Neil, that guy from work” Gail answered, looking straight at Dylan.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Dylan’s face softened. HAH! I bet now he feel pretty silly for accusing me and Tom earlier.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Neil?” Cindy repeated. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Yeah, Neil” Gail looked away.</p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I was sitting in Jay’s studio with Vincent as he was in the recording studio, trying to record the demo for his song, White Windmill which was inspired by me. When I entered the studio, he was already in the recording room singing. He acknowledged me with a small smile. I realized Jay looked tired, due to the preparation of his new album. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Am I disturbing?” I asked Vincent. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He shook his head and I took my seat next to him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You know, this is one of Jay’s best work” Vincent explained. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Has he started filming the mv yet?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Vincent shook his head and we turned our attention back to Jay. He wore a white t shirt with the word “Everyone wants peaces and maney ”. Okay, I made a mental note, must buy Jay shirt with proper English. I love the way Jay’s hands moved around when he gets into the mood of the song.<br /></p><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It’s like he’s expressing his emotions and how he is moved by the song. Before I knew it, I was singing along with the lyric sheet in my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Within 20 minutes, Jay came out of the recording room and had a gulp of water. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Vince, you can go downstairs first. I’ll join you in a while” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Vincent smiled with a nod and went downstairs. Jay sat down next to me with a smile.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“My mom asked you over for dinner , I assumed” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded “ I have to turn down my brother’s offer to cook dinner together so that I can come over to see you guys” I grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Been busy with boyfriend eh?” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I blushed. Does Jay know? Did Tom tell him?</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yes, I know. You have been seeing Tom. Why didn’t you tell me?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He didn’t look angry or sad. Instead he looked sort of amused and curious, looking at me from the side, wondering what my answer would be. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“At first we just wanted the rumour to die down because everyone had suspecting about me and you, then Tom stepped in so that it seemed like I was going out with him and not you. I don’t know when I start liking him but I think the whole thing started from then” I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“He was the boyfriend you mentioned in the Loreal photo shoot, right?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I guess so. That was ages ago. How did you find out?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“These things cannot be kept a secret. I felt it, when you guys are in the same room together, I knew he was attracted to you, I just didn’t know you guys are going out” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m sorry we kept it a secret from you. I dunno why we never told you either” I blurted out </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis, we’re friends. You can tell me anything. I know we didn’t have a good start in the beginning but I am sure we are much better off now right? I might be busy, I might be unavailable but you can call me anytime to tell me anything” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded with a sudden comfort, knowing that Jay would be there for me no matter what. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Come on, let’s go. My mom says she’s cooking tonight” we stood up and he led me out of the studio. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I adjusted the web cam to a better angle, then I spoke into the mic which was on the stand right beside my keyboard. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Better now?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay gave me a thumb up; I could see it from his web cam. It’s been two days since dinner at his place and tonight I made myself free because Jay needed me to help him with some document handling. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“So you were saying that Gail is pregnant?” he said. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Okay, so we have also been gossiping but Jay promised he would keep my secrets. Besides he had been telling me some things too. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, I’m not sure if she told the father yet. I found the test and my brother thought it was mine. He blew up and almost wanted to beat Tom up” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Jay grinned. He looked good when he’s happy and stress free, just like this. Casual conversation and a cup of tea made him relax, he confessed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I understand where your brother was coming from. I think if I had a younger sister, I would have done the same thing” he bobbed his head repeatedly. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">Tom kissed me again after he locked my door. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“I don’t want Sarah or your brother to walk in and disturb us” he whispered. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">I smiled. How could I forget this man? As I ran my fingers through his hair and his face again, he nibbled on my ear. I could feel his hot breath near my ear. I felt excited and my fingers trailed slowly to his shirt. Tom kissed my hand, kissing each finger and I let myself drowned in ecstasy. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Do you want to?” the question was thrown to me. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">My eyes opened and I looked at Tom, the man who is looking down on me. I stopped and my mind raced. Do I love him? Gosh, I do. I really do but do I want this? <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“I’m not ready” I let go of his hand.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">I could sensed a little disappointment in his eyes but he smiled at me and sat up properly. <o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“Do you hate me?” I bit my bottom lip as I pulled myself up to face him.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style="">“No, I don’t want to force you. We should both be ready okay?” he kissed the top of my head gently.<o:p></o:p></i></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis?? Lis?? Are you okay?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I broke off from my thoughts. Jay was waving from the web cam, his eyes wide and concerned.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, I’m here. What were you saying?” I focused back on our conversation.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He chuckled “So how is she going to handle the baby? Is she going to keep it or abort it?”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Come to think of it, I never asked her” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I decided now would be the best time to ask her, least if I forget about it again later. I put Jay on hold and walked to Gail’s closed door. I raised my fist to knock but before I could, I heard voices inside. It was Gail’s and another guy. Perhaps that’s Neil. I shall ask her later then. If she chooses abortion, I am going all out to try to stop her. I don’t believe in taking the baby’s life due to the parent’s mistake</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;"><span style=""> </span></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Do you know what is way cuter than Tom sleeping like a baby? Tom sleeping like a baby with my pillow. It made him look less of a macho man and more like a sweetheart. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You want me to be feminine eh?” he smiled when he woke up. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What? It’s not my fault that you like my pillow so much you hug it to sleep” I grinned.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom ran his fingers through his hair and he eyed my floor then he got up and started to pick things up. My bag, a few of my clothes and some hangers. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Dear, I’ll do it later k” I glanced up from my laptop. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you won’t. You’re a messy little piggy. Since I’m here, let me do it for you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Recently I got a job as an assistant to a magazine editor, meaning I do work for her. Due to my job and Tom’s work time, we have been seeing lest of each other. That is why we treasure each moment together, like right now. Even though I’m busy preparing a report for Maggie, my boss, I still let Tom come over because as long as he is around, we can sneak 5 minutes or so for ourselves. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I went to the orphanage the other day. The kids were asking for Lisa jie jie” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Really? You are not bluffing right?” I turned to him.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It made me happy to know that they were asking for me. It felt good to be able to make an impact in their lives since they don’t have any family member to depend on.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why would I wanna lie? So, do you wanna go back there and see them?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I would. Just set a date and tell me, I will arrange my time. I bought them stuff too. Well, actually I haven’t decide what to get the boys yet” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I didn’t know you are so tentative to children” he looked quite surprised. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I didn’t know either. Oh yeah, Gail asked me to be her baby’s god mother” I clapped my hands together with glee.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Actually, me and Cindy both were asked. Finally Gail told us she is keeping the baby, she had talked to the father of the baby and we were to be god mothers. Although we were happy that she made her decision, we couldn’t help but to worry for her too. I could see it at that moment when Gail announced her decisions to us, there was something she is not telling but I don’t want to push it. Let her come to term with things her own time. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“So Gail is keeping the baby then?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded and turned back to my work. Not even 5 minutes later, Tom had pulled a chair right beside me. He sat there looking at me and I had to turn to look at him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What is it?” I wondered. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Our 9 months anniversary is coming up. How do you wanna celebrate it?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hmm.. how did we celebrate our 1<sup>st</sup> anniversary?” I asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The first one was kinda grand, remember? Balloons and candles ..” Tom recalled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tian Zhi, you pick what kind of anniversary you like, I’ll be fine with it” I touched his face briefly to let him know I cared but at the same time, I’m busy with the report deadline. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, you work too hard. Come on, 5 minutes break” he stood up. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“But I have ..” I couldn’t finish protesting. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Tom kissed me, took my breath away and work was out of my mind.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Bill, advertisement, bill, catalogue .. letter? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My name was written in front and I opened the envelope carefully. Inside was a letter, with the watermark of JVR music as a background. My heart softened when I saw it. Jay. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Lisa, <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">I knew I had treated you badly in the past. I know you must be hurt by my actions. For that, I am deeply sorry. Over the past few months, I have come to know you as a person and as a friend. I seen how you and my mom get along, she seems happier now that she has someone to share her stories with. You’re like the daughter she never had. I know that you would be around for a while, therefore I decided that instead of suspecting you, I would get to know you better. I liked what I saw in you, a compassionate, outspoken happy woman whom lit up a room with your presence. I saw that you were vulnerable and scared at the same time, of us, of the new environment and exposure from the media that you get. Still, above all, I am grateful that you became a friend to me. <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Throughout this friendship, ever since the Loreal commercial shoot, I felt like my feelings towards you have changed. I felt much more protective of you and when you smiled, I felt like I could do anything. Maybe I had a crush on you. I guessed I should have told you sooner but now that you are with Tom, I cannot say anything. Don’t get me wrong, Tom is one of my best friend and you are lucky to have a guy like him. His heart was wild and untamed. You entered his life and cleared the rumours that had been hanging around. <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">I am not trying to put you in a difficult position Lisa, trust me, I never intent to. I just want to let you know that you mean a lot to me and you are special. When you were in the studio the other day, I wanted to tell you all this but I was afraid you might think I’m insane or you might walk out mid way. It would have hurt so badly. The next time you see me, just pretend you never even seen this letter. I don’t want to make things awkward between us but I just got to let you know, I am a friend who will wipe your tears away when you cry <o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Sincerely, Jie Lun<o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I grabbed my keys and ran out of my apartment. I started my Toyota and drove all the way to Jay’s place. Mid way, tears poured down my face. I felt so touched, so moved. When I pulled up on his driveway, I wiped my tears. I must have looked silly, wearing a green dress with my hair done and my make up on, 2 hours into celebrating my anniversary and I’m sobbing. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When the door opened, I ran past the butler and straight into the studio. There he was, sitting on the table with the lyrics sheet. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey Lisa!” he smiled and jumped down the table. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I hugged him with gratitude. Tears formed at the corner of my eyes again as Jay recovered from his surprise and hugged me back. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What’s going on?” he asked softly.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Thank you for being my friend” I smiled through my tears.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re more than welcome” he smiled back and patted my back.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Suddenly my phone rang.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hello Lisa. I’m Gail’s baby father. I need to talk to you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What? How ..” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Meet me at the cafe now, please” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Then the line went dead.I looked at Jay and he looked equally concerned.<br /></p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How did it happen?” I asked after I recovered from my shock.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It happened two months ago, right after I took a shower. We just started talking, we got along, had some wine and things heated up” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Do you even like her?” I asked first, the most crucial question.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I won’t lie to you. I am attracted to her. It’s wrong but I am” he shrugged.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“So did you talk to Gail about it? She told you she wanna keep the baby. Is she doing it alone or what?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Seriously, I feel like punching his head if he says he is not going to be responsible. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I let her keep it but do you think we should opt to abort it?” he cringed as if he’s expecting me to stand up and slap him, which I thought would be a bit too dramatic but probably necessary.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You can’t do that! Imagine if I had been the one who got pregnant, I wouldn’t want my boyfriend to tell me to get rid of the baby. I would rather get rid of him first” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Would I? The words escaped my lips before I had a chance to think. He seemed to ponder for a while.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You’re right. Now this is my responsibility too” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How?” I asked, stirring my orange juice. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I have a girlfriend. What should I do?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It was my turn to cringe. “You’re asking me what is the right thing to do with my best friend. You knocked her up, you have no choice now but to break your girlfriend’s heart”I said coldly.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Sounds cruel but hey, I can’t leave poor pregnant Gail all alone while he still goes around with that woman right? He sighed and leaned back, looking like a man who is forced to the dead end, which is true. I forbid abortion and I will make sure Gail have this baby, not alone. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How was it?” I leaned forward. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How was what?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I bobbed my head a little “You know, the process of .. ” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa!” he looked horrified. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What? I’m curious. Was it good?” I grinned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He bowed his head lower “It was pretty amazing, actually” then he avoided my stare. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I giggled and gagged at the same time. He looked kinda offended. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Why am I sitting here discussing my sex life with you?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Hey, you called me out” I pointed a finger at him accusingly.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, you’re right. Just because I know you can talk some sense into me” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>“Hey, I thought Gail slept with ..” I asked.<span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, I’m the father, confirmed” he wagged his finger. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Then he kissed my cheek “Thank you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Always welcome” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I watched as he walked away. I’m still in shock though. I took another two sips of my orange juice and got up. I walked back to my car. Just in time to head back to the Jay mansion to meet up with Tom. As I walked towards the car, I couldn’t help it but my lips curled into a smile. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m going to be an aunt”<span style=""> </span>I finally let reality sink in. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-80885163825941936972008-09-29T16:15:00.001+08:002010-03-01T21:52:39.769+08:00Chapter 19<p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Honey, I want breakfast” I could feel his hot breath near my ear.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">I pretended to sleep, eyes shut tight. I wanna hear what Tom would do if I continued sleeping.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, I want omelette. You make the best omelette” he pleaded.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">I opened my eyes slowly to see Tom with his hair all rustled, like he just woke up from sleep.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Morning, you big ball of annoyance” I mumbled and turned to the other side of the bed.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Honey, I want omelette” he wrapped his right arm around me.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Daddy!” the door flung opened and our little boy walked in dragging a wheelbarrow with Snooky sitting on it. Snooky barked a little and jumped on the bed, followed by our little boy. At the same time, Tom’s arm pulled back. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Why are you up so early?” Tom asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" face="verdana" class="MsoNormal">“Mummy promise we would go to the zoo today” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, mummy is a lazy bum because she won’t wake up” Tom nudged me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I sat up in bed and reached out for my son. He looked exactly like his daddy. Mini version of Tom. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lis!! “ he called me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">What? Everything went black and when there was light again, I saw Gail standing on my bed, towering above me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Gail, what are you doing?” I groaned. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">That was just a dream? I felt like strangling Gail for waking me up. Grr ..</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What is it? I thought today is Sunday”I asked tiredly.<br /></p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;font-family:verdana;color:-moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Help Cindy move her stuff!” </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Are you sure your room has space for all this stuff?” I pulled Gail aside. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">There were about five big boxes around the living room. Gail chuckled.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I guess this should be okay. If there’s more, then I shall put them in your room” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Just then Cindy came in the apartment with a luggage bag. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m so sorry I have so much stuff. I could have more if the stupid water ruined it all” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I can’t believe that silver heels of yours were ruined by the water” I leaned on my doorframe.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I know! That was the best pair ever!” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The pipe leaked in Cindy’s apartment when she was out and a quarter of her apartment was filled up with water. Some of her stuff were drenched and totally ruined. In the meantime, we are setting her up at our place. Suddenly the place looked so packed. It used to be me and Gail but now we have Cindy, Sarah and Dylan. I wondered when Sarah should get out of my house. She has been pretty unfriendly and nasty to us. The other day, she complained that we don’t have a dishwasher, thus she had to wash the dishes herself. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Eh, what were you and Tom doing in the room the other night? I saw him went home in the morning” Gail nudged me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Shh .. don’t let ge hear you. He might get the wrong idea” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“He really did stay over?” Gail gasped. </p> <div face="verdana" color="-moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext" style="border-style: none none dotted; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I noticed Cindy had gone quiet and she was not even paying attention to what we were talking about. <span style=""> </span>She was just quietly opening her boxes, taking out her clothes. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Really? Again?” I looked at him with puppy eyes. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He nodded and took off his shirt. I gave a happy sigh and took off my sandals. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Alright Ting, I let you win” he kicked off his shoes. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I don’t want. I want to win on my own” I tied up my hair. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom put on his jersey and I put on my sneakers. I’m not gonna lose again today. I lost to him last week so never again. Suddenly a wave of nausea hit me but it was over as quickly as it came. Man, I need to start taking breakfast. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Play ball!” I picked up his basketball and ran across the court. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">That afternoon Jay would be in his studio, producing songs for his new album. Madam is down for a nap therefore we are using the basketball court. Last week, I lost to Tom at 20-5. I’m really not an athlete and Tom is taller than me. Last week after he won, he gloated in front of me by dancing. Although I pouted but actually, I was really amused to see him so happy. Not today though, I wanna defeat him. <span style=""> </span>Okay, even if I don’t defeat him, I still wanna try. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">After half an hour, Tom had won me by 10-4. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, wanna take a rest?” Tom asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I want water” I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">When Tom turned to grab for the bottle, I grabbed the ball from his hands and scored a goal. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You big cheater” he ran after me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I started laughing and well; I got a little scared because for a second, Tom looked a bit angry. I ran away from him and fell down on the ground. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ouch ouch” I grabbed my ankle. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ting, what’s wrong?” Tom rushed to my side. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I think I twisted my ankle” I moaned.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Come on, we should get you to the hospital” he rubbed my ankle gently.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I grinned and grabbed the ball, head to the goal and scored one. I turned back to see Tom shaking his head in amusement. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“10-6” I walked back to him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He stood up and threw the bottle of water to me. It fell down beside me and I reached down to grab it. Ah, how refreshing after a whole day of losing basketball to my boyfriend. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“2 points were cheat points” he chuckled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You gotta let me have some advantage. I’m a woman” I teased. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I turned and jogged across the court to get the basketball. I stepped on something hard and fell, scraping my knee. Before I fell, I let out a squeak.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Damn it” I mumbled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What happened?” Tom walked towards me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I fell down” I brushed my hand across my shorts. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Then I noticed my hands were cut too. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Not another cheat point trick?” he bent down beside me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I shook my head as he examined my right knee which was scraped and bleeding. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Little careless girl” he brushed the hair out from my face. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Then he picked me up with a swing.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I can walk” I insisted. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No, you can’t. I don’t want blood trailing all the way back to the house” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">All my life, my feet has been the one carrying me around wherever I go and now I finally have a shoulder I can leaned on. Someone who actually made me feel secure. I leaned slowly on his arm as he walked back to the house. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“It’s nice” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“What is nice?” I asked, looking up at him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“When I carry you like this, I felt like you are depending on me and I am able to make you feel protected” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I smiled and just looked up at my handsome man. His dimple tucked away, his hair pushed to the left side, his clean shaven face and his tender eyes. I swear, Tom has the sexiest eyes. I didn’t realize it until last week. I should spend more time staring into them. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you” he smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I love you too” I smiled back at him.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He leaned forward and kissed my forehead. It was an instinct that he lowered his lips and mine to kiss his. Even for just a second before we continued walking into the house. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I happened to glance at the house next door and I saw one of the room curtain moved, like someone had been watching us. Suddenly I felt cold and I looked away. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Nowadays I leave the house with barely any make up on. Well, I don’t want to look too pale so I do have some blusher on. Tom was waiting for me in the living room. He didn’t tell me where are we going but he looked really nice dressed in slacks and long sleeved shirt. Suddenly I heard a door opened and closed. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Oh well, I have to get ready. No to skirts, my bandages on my hand are ugly enough. I threw my skirts on the bed. Since Tom was being so mysterious about where are we going, I dunno what to wear. I pulled a simple t shirt and slipped on my jeans. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I opened the door slowly and I saw Sarah sitting on the same couch with Tom. She was wearing one of her low cut top with her mini skirt. Grr.. she’s out to get my boyfriend. Look at the way she sits with her right leg pointed out at him, almost touching his. Never mind the fact that she was flirting with my boyfriend, she was suppose to be my brother’s girlfriend. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“So you do work out” I could hear her sickening voice, dripping with venom.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I do, almost everyday actually” Tom answered innocently.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I saw her nearing him and reaching out to touch his shoulder. I saw the uncomfortable look on Tom’s face as he tried to move away. I walked out and slipped my arms in his.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Sorry I kept you waiting” I smiled. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom stood up “It’s ok” he held my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We had agreed that we would be as low profile as possible in front of friends and Dylan because let’s face it, some people frowned upon too much of public affection. Sarah actually stood up with us. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Without thinking much, I pulled Tom to me and kissed him. He kissed me back. I moved my lips off his slowly, all this time sliding my hands across his chest. He opened his eyes and looked at me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Wow” he smiled and I could see a spark of excitement in his eyes. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“That’s for being patient” <span style=""> </span>I took his hand and walked towards the door. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Oh Sarah, I’ll be back real late” I smiled as I watched her dumbfound face, standing alone in the living room.</p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom took me to a shelter house looking place and I was confused until I saw little kids all running out with smiles and gathered around Tom.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom ge ge!!” they were shouting. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">There were about five little kids, three boys and two girls. All of them were around the age of five. Although they greeted Tom with such enthusiasm, they were looking at me as if I’m a strange animal. Then one of the girls came and took my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Come see my dolls” she tugged my hand. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I learnt that the place was an orphanage. There were more kids playing at the field behind the house. There were about 30 of them there. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The little girl who took my hand was Lydia. As I was looking at Lydia’s self made dolls, an older woman approached us. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Tom!” she looked so happy.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Auntie” Tom looked equally happy to see her. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Who have you brought today?” she glanced at me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I stood next to Tom, feeling shy suddenly with all the kids around me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Auntie, this is my girlfriend Lisa” Tom put an arm around my waist.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Oh!!! Tom ge has a girlfriend” one of the boys teased. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“They seem to know you pretty well” I glanced at them. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I always visit whenever I can. Auntie, there’s some food in the car” he smiled and left us there. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Lisa, would you like to play with the kids?” auntie asked. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“If they would play with me” I looked around nervously.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The girls tugged on my hand to join them with their dolls tea party. As soon as Tom came back with the food supplies, the boys were all over him. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Five hours later, we were tired. I was playing with the girls and their dolls as they admired everything I own. They kept looking at my bracelet and my earrings but in a sweet way, not a I-Am-Gonna-Steal way. Tom were at the field playing soccer with the boys. We prepared their tea after that.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How is it? Looks like the girls love you” Tom whispered. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You should have told me we were coming here. I could have gotten them some pretty stuff” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I wanted it to be a surprise.<span style=""> </span>I wanted you to see where I grew up” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I looked at him “You grew up here?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He nodded “I’m glad I can share it with you. I hope you don’t think lest of me” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I shook my head “Never. Come on; let’s get these cookies for the kids” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“You do know the girls are not the only ones who love you right?” then he kissed me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Ehh!! Tom ge ge kissed Lisa jie jie” one boy pointed and ran out giggling. </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Now we will hear no end of it” Tom sighed and walked out of the kitchen. </p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I stood up and suddenly it felt like the blood just rushed to my head. I took another minute to regain control and walked out with the other plate of cookies. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">It was a pretty exhausting day as the kids’ crowd around while Tom sang them to sleep. Lydia, the first little girl that I came to know was laying on my lap, her fingers clutching her doll. When all the kids were asleep, we crept downstairs to inform auntie that we had to head home. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“The kids were adorable” I was already thinking of what to bring for them for my next visit.<br /></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">We strapped on our seat belts and Tom started the car.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I actually promised the girls I would buy them a bracelet each and for the boys, maybe a new football and action figures for some. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, they are. The youngest there was Lydia, she’s only 3. Her parents passed away in a storm”</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I nodded. No wonder she looked so lost and fragile. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I’m glad you get to see where I lived back then “ </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Well, now you live in a big house with Jay Chou, you can’t complain right?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Tom chuckled “Ting, when’s your orange juice commercial shoot?” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Next week. After that, I will be jobless again” </p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">“Don’t worry. You will never go hungry, I will make sure of that” he held my hand. </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">The song ended and Jay turned to me. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“How was that?” he asked, looking at me for approval. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“That was great! I love the tune. It sounded really romantic. Oh please, make a romantic video out of it”<span style=""> </span>I clasped my hand together. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">He laughed “I kinda have an idea in my head how I want the video to be. Something by the beach” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“That’s romantic. You gotta let me watch the video when you’re done with it” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“No problem. I’ll even do the first private screening for you” </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“Umm Jay, do you have water?” I asked, looking around his studio. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">“I have a new bottle in my room. I’ll go get it for you” he got up.</p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">What is wrong with me? I’m so thirsty and this is my fifth bottle. What time is it? 12 afternoon? I feltl so sleepy too. No, not sleepy. Just exhausted. I think I’m gonna fall sick soon. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I replayed the song again. This will be a big hit; I honestly knew this is one song every lady would swoon too. I laid back and listened to it, a glance and I noticed a piece of paper sticking out from the rest. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I pulled it out. On it was the lyrics to the current song that I was listening. At the bottom was written, music and lyrics by Jay. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span class="lyriccolor" style="font-size:85%;"><i style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;">Watching your silly grin, clasping my hand</span></i></span><i style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:10;" ><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span class="lyriccolor" style="font-size:85%;">I hope this dream has no end, so let's just walk till here</span></span></i></p><p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><i style=""><span style="line-height: 115%;font-size:10;" ><span class="lyriccolor" style="font-size:85%;">Because I don't wish for this bliss to end so soon</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span class="lyriccolor" style="font-size:85%;">It is a pity that there is no blessing, I don't feel lonely at all when loving you, I won't let you cry again</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></p> <div style="border-style: none none dotted; border-color: -moz-use-text-color -moz-use-text-color windowtext; border-width: medium medium 3pt; padding: 0cm 0cm 1pt; font-family: verdana;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">Inspiration ?<span style=""> </span>Angelisa Wang Zhi Ting.</p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="border: medium none ; padding: 0cm;">I looked up at the title again. <i style="">Bai se feng che</i> .. white windmill </p> </div> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">My hands trembled, I could really see it shaking with .. fear? Anxiety? <span style=""> </span>Shocked? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">To think this could be a turning point of someone’s life. Some may regard it as bad news, some may regard it as good news. Me? I dunno. Should I call Tom? Should I tell Dylan? The girls? <span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">No, not until I know what this little thing tells me. Will I be able to bear the knowledge that I know and not be able to tell anyone? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Who am I to tell? Who am I gonna ask? </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">Okay, no more hesitation. Let’s end this waiting game right now! </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">I turned the little white stick around and automatically I sat down on the toilet. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">There it is. Glaring at me, screaming it in my face. <span style=""> </span></p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal">A plus sign, positive. </p> <p style="font-family: verdana;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-20832104894942348772008-09-02T14:37:00.001+08:002010-03-01T21:35:48.880+08:00Chapter 18<span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><em>* Author's note :- please let the song start first before reading, hopefully it will enhance your reading .. and this might induce vomit so please read with your own risk =D </em></span><br /><br />It was such a surreal feeling, it felt so right and deep in me, I felt so relief because I thought I lost her. I really thought I lost her but the truth was, I cannot lose her. Not after all the shit I had been through during my whole life. Not when I grew up not knowing who my parents are but knowing that they don’t want me. I could be a mistake, I could be an accident. Right here, right now with Lisa in my arms, everything is worth it.<br /><br />I could feel her hands touching my face, so softly and so gently that I moved my lips from hers for a while and planted little kisses on her hand. Her eyes looked at me. Her bright shiny brown eyes looked up at me and they were filled with hope. I lowered my lips to kiss her eyes as they slowly closed. I closed my eyes as she kissed my chin softly and I smiled.<br /><br />I could feel her fingers on the side of my face and she touched my dimple. When I opened my eyes again, I could feel the warmth when she touched me. My heart raced, I wonder if she could hear it.<br /><br />“You are so cute” she mumbled.<br /><br />“I think you’re beautiful, Ting Ting” I neared her.<br /><br />Then I kissed her again, her soft lips covered mine and I thank God for bringing her back to me. I ran my fingers through her hair. Her red highlights are fading away, just like memories of Ryan. When I kissed her, a million thoughts ran through my mine. Suddenly I’m afraid.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><em><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">I hung up the phone tonight<br />Something happened for the first time deep inside<br />It was a rush, what a rush<br /><br />'Cause the possibility<br />That you would ever feel the same way about me<br />It's just too much, just too much </span></em><br /><br />I have this feeling I cannot explain. Happy? Of course. I have never been happier. What about Jay? A little voice in me asked. I can’t think about how Jay feels now. Lisa was mine. Always mine.<br /><br />“I’m so glad I remembered you” Lisa whispered near my ear.<br /><br />I responded with a happy grunt and kissed her ear. Where is this going with Lisa? Where is this leading to? Sure, she’s my girlfriend. We had been going out for a few months. I adore this woman, this woman that I hold so close to me.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><em><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Why do I keep running from the truth?<br />All I ever think about is you<br />You got me hypnotized, so mesmerized<br />And I've just got to know<br /><br />Do you ever think when you're all alone<br />All that we can be, where this thing can go?<br />Am I crazy or falling in love?<br />Is it real or just another crush?</span></em><br /><br />I held her hands in mine as I kissed her. Suddenly it became addictive, like if I let go off her, she would revert back to forgetting me. I cannot take the chance of that happening. Not after I almost lost her, lost her to Ryan and almost lost her to Jay. I’m selfish, I know but I can’t help it.<br /><br />I just can’t put my finger on what did Lisa do to make me feel the way I do now. She slided her hands on my chest and slowly stroked the scar that was left by the operation after the stabbing incident.<br /><br />“Does it still hurt?” she asked , looking at me for answers<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><em>Do you catch a breath when I look at you?<br />Are you holding back like the way I do?<br />'Cause I'm trying and trying to walk away<br />But I know this crush ain't goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />Goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy</em></span><br /><br />How can it hurt when she touched me like that? I shook my head, shaking off the faint sound of Chicken Little in the background. She kissed me once more and I got up from the bed slowly. She looked at me, her big brown eyes never blinked as I pressed the lock on her door knob.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(204, 51, 204);">********************************************************************************</span><br /><br />She looked so peaceful as she laid between the covers and her blanket. I wanted to brush the soft hair off her face but I feared she might wake. Pulling my shirt back in place, I walked out of the room. It was 6 am and it had been raining the night before. I looked back at Lisa and I walked back to the room. My coat was on the floor and I picked it up, slowly covering her with it.<br /><br />Then I headed back out to the kitchen to make myself a cup of coffee. I used Lisa’s Snoopy mug and carried the coffee back into the room. I can imagine what fuss she would make about the coffee smell in her mug. It’s alright though; I love it when she fussed about little things. The coffee mug warmed my hands as I looked out the window.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><em>Do you ever think when you're all alone<br />All that we can be, where this thing can go?<br />Am I crazy or falling in love?<br />Is it real or just another crush?</em></span><br /><br />The traffic looked the same. The cars were still going around the city, the rain drops were still falling. Everything seems normal except what I felt. It felt like overnight something has changed. I felt like smiling, I felt like I had paid my dues in the past and I deserve what I have now. I brushed my fingers through my hair and smiled as I recalled Lisa’s fingers running through them.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><em>Do you catch a breath when I look at you?<br />Are you holding back like the way I do?<br />'Cause I'm trying and trying to walk away<br />But I know this crush ain't goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />Goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy</em></span><br /><br />I heard stirring and I turned to see Lisa waking up. Her eyes fluttered open and she smiled. I put the coffee down at her table and approached her.<br /><br />“My mug is gonna stink, you goon” she said softly<br /><br />I smiled and she groaned when she saw the dimple. Seriously, I think I can use the dimple as an advantage. I picked up her hand and kissed it, then her cheek, then her bare shoulder. When I tried to kiss her lips, she looked away.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><em>Why do I keep running from the truth?<br />All I ever think about is you<br />You got me hypnotized, so mesmerized<br />And I've just got to know</em></span><br /><br />When she turned away, my heart stopped a while. Does she regret our time spent last night?<br /><br />“I have morning breath” she pushed my face away gently.<br /><br />“I have coffee breath” I laughed.<br /><br />She sat up and I reached out to sweep her hair out of her face. The knot in me got tighter as she took my hand from her face and kissed it.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><em><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Do you ever think when you're all alone<br />All that we can be, where this thing can go?<br />Am I crazy or falling in love?<br />Is it real or just another crush?<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I neared her and kissed her forehead.</span></span></em><br /><br />“Good morning” I smiled against her head.<br /><br />She closed her eyes and pulled my coat closer to her. I held her in my arms, slowly enveloping her in a hug. Her soft hair felt nice against my face. Her fingers intertwined with mine. This must be what everyone is talking about. Heaven. Bliss. Paradise.<br /><br />She looked up at me and leaned forward to kiss my chin. I leaned down and caught her lips on mine. She smiled and leaned in closer to me.<br /><br />“I’m so sorry I hurt you. I saw how much pain I caused you” she apologized<br /><br />“Not important at all. What is important is now”<br /><br />I remember when I first crashed the car behind hers. At that moment, she was just a woman but right now, right here she is mine. Just the sight of her every Sunday when I dropped by for a movie, it doesn’t matter if she was in her pyjamas or in huge t-shirts with shorts, make up less and messed up hair, I am still taken by her.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"><em>Do you catch a breath when I look at you?<br />Are you holding back like the way I do?<br />'Cause I'm trying and trying to walk away<br />But I know this crush ain't goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />This crush ain't goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />Goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />Goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy<br />Goin' away-ay-ay-ay-ayy </em></span><br /><br />“Thank you for encouraging me, believing in me, helping me, never giving up on me..” she counted with her fingers.<br /><br />I kissed her one more time and let out a huge sigh. The moment was right as we sat here on her bed, with my arms wrapped around her. The words just slipped out of my lips.<br /><br />“Lisa, I have fallen in love with you”<br /><br />Before she could react, I kissed her again. I needed her to know I’m not any Ryan or Sean who would hurt her and leave. I needed her to know how much she means to me. When she pulled away from me, I could see tears in her eyes.<br /><br />“I think I am in love with you”<br /><br />That was more than enough.<br /><br /></span><br /><br /><object width="300" height="110"><param name="movie" value="http://media.imeem.com/m/1vvU2veNkb"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><embed src="http://media.imeem.com/m/1vvU2veNkb" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="300" height="110"></embed><a href="http://www.imeem.com/ilurrvmusic/music/SfSq9zCx/david_archuleta_crushmp3/">David Archuleta - Crush.mp3 - </a></object>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-42434868712217138552008-09-01T14:54:00.001+08:002010-03-01T21:25:58.441+08:00Chapter 17<span style="font-family:verdana;">When I pulled back from Jay, he had a nervous smile as though he was afraid that he offended me. I smiled back in return and patted his arm gently.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I gotta go now. I’ll come back tomorrow ok" I smiled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I left with my sweaty palm and red face. Why am I so affected by that kiss? I ran my fingers through my hair where he had touched me. Forget it, just forget it, I mumbled to myself and climbed into my Toyota. I picked up my phone.. oh yeah, I have two phones now.. I picked up my old phone and pressed speed dial number 6.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Are you free tomorrow night?” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">**********************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh my, look at that huge biceps” Cindy was moaning lustily.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I couldn’t help but to laugh. We all looked like silly teenagers in our pyjamas, with rollers in our hair watching some movie with great hunks in it. I turned to my left, Gail was polishing her toe nails with some shiny blue glitter color. On the other hand, Cindy was trying to make an expression underneath her mask covered face. My poor brother Dylan had locked himself in the room, escaping from this whole girly world we set up in the living room.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Do we have any chips left?” Gail rummaged through the empty packets. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“If only that assistant of yours could see you like this “ I teased. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I think Neil won’t mind. He did mention he likes a girl who likes to eat" Gail smiled sheepishly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“His name is Neil?” Cindy grinned. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I enjoyed things like this. Where my girlfriends and I just sit down and spend time being girls. Instead of losing my mind about my memory loss, I decided to try to regain them and create new memories. I finally found my comfort zone in friendships with my supposingly two best friends.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hey, does your brother want any of our food?” Cindy asked, gesturing to our bowl of pasta</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I got up, picked up the bowl and head to dylan’s door. Before I could knock, I heard him talking inside. Impulsively I put my ear on the door</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I want to see you too but you have to ... no. Sarah. Listen to me, Lisa lost her memory and I.. Lisa? My sister” there was a slight pause. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Serious, she’s my sister, no I’m not cheating on you. What do you mean so what? She’s my sister, dammit” another pause. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh no no, I’m not mad at you babe. I just want to take care of Lisa until .. “ a sigh.<br /><br />“Alright, fine. I’ll talk to you later” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I heard the phone being thrown on the bed and another huge sigh as Dylan laid down on the bed</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ge” I called out and turned the knob</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He sat up with all smiles as I brought the bowl to him. What have I done? Is my mental condition a burden to my brother? I looked at him as he smiled at me, scooping some pasta in his hungry mouth. How much his heart is hurting, I wondered. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">********************************************************************************<br />“You look gorgeous” auntie smiled at me. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I admit, I do looked good. They must have done lots of airbrushing on my commercial. We had just brought Jay home from the hospital and it was that moment, we saw my Loreal advertisement on tv. Who is that guy running after me? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Who is that guy?” I pointed out </span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“He tried to ask you out after the shoot but you told him you had a boyfriend” I glanced at Tom and noticed he looked pained.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Who was your boyfriend, Lisa? Was it Ryan?” auntie asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It can’t be. You and Ryan were long broken up before the shoot” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Jay looked at me, like he was explaining it to me. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Actually I think .. “ I raised a hand gesture towards Tom</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I think that guy probably thought you're cute” Tom cut in quickly. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I looked at Tom curiously. Was he not my boyfriend during the video shoot? He was the one who showed me the newspaper clipping of us caught by the paparazzi so why.. wait, didn’t Jay know about us? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">**********************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ge, I think you should go back home” I said</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan looked stunned as if I told him to jump down the apartment.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Is it something I have done?” he looked concerned. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, no. I love you here but I think mom and dad need you” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, they are asking me to stay here to take care of you until you are totally fine”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What about Sarah? Don’t you miss her?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Silence as Dylan seemed to be pondering that thought. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I will go back as soon as I’m sure you got your memory back”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I got my memory back” I blurted out. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Yeah right” he nudged my head playfully</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Serious, ge!” then my phone rang</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hey,it’s me” a warm male voice greeted me on the other end. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hi Tom” I glanced at my brother. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Do you have plans tonight?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, I don’t think so” I sat down slowly</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Can I take you for dinner?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Yeah, sure. I would love that” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Great. 7pm ish?” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />Our dinner was going well where Tom was telling me about the time we went fishing by the lake a month before I lose my memory. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“So you’re saying I cast the fishing rod into the lake and we waited forever without a bite?” I asked with one eyebrow raised. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tom chuckled “Then you screamed ‘Tian Zhi, why is there no fish?’ and I pulled the fishing rod back to your side just to see there was no bait at the other end” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I started laughing in the end after Tom told the story. I cannot imagine how stupid I sounded like. Tom started laughing too. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Why didn’t I put a bait on the hook?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It was my fault. I forgot to hook the bait for you" he smiled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded. Tom had been really sweet to me. He had been telling me memories about us, taking me to places that we visited. I do find myself liking him more and more but the attraction is simply not there. Silence. Tom held my hand across the table gently. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m not giving up on you, Lisa. I know you are really confused but deep inside, I am confident you will be able to find that feeling again” he stroked my hand gently with his thumb.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded “ Thank you” and I leaned in to kiss his cheek. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">This is a man who deserves someone better than a girlfriend who is like an empty book. Silently I thanked him for being there for me, for having faith in me and for being a great friend all this while.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Does Jay not know about us.. when we were a couple?” I asked, looking him straight in the eyes.<br /><br />“No, we kept it a secret from him” he smiled</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">***********************************************************************************<br />I glanced at Jay sitting across me as he put the bowl near his lips and used the chopsticks to scoop some rice into his mouth</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, have some of the beans. It’s good” he picked some up and put in his bowl. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“How come auntie is not here?” I asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Mom prefers to eat at home. I’m sorry for eating like a pig, I’ve been so busy planning for the next album” he spoke with his mouth half full. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I smiled “I think November Chopin is a great album. I’m sure the next one would be equally good or even better. What are the songs in this new album?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He motioned me closer to him with a finger and I leaned forward near him. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s a secret that I cannot tell you or you might tell someone with your big mouth and ruin the whole suspense for the whole world” he teased. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I don’t have a big mouth” I tried to look insulted. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I think you do” he pinched my nose lightly</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I felt warm and for a moment, I was lost in his gaze. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You know what I want?” I asked slowly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What do you want?” he smiled. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I leaned back on my chair “I want ice cream” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He smiled and smacked the table gently.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Okay, we shall go get ice cream right after this” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">It didn’t go as planned because as we were exiting the restaurant, we were swarmed by a bunch of people. It’s like out of nowhere these people rushed up to us, enveloping us into a huge wave.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Damn these dogs” I heard Jay mumbled. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Then only I realized they were paparazzi. I followed behind Jay with my head bowed down. Jay walked forward and I tried to follow suit but they were hounding me mercilessly. Wait, where is Jay?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Miss, are you Angelisa?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Aren’t you with Tom? Jay’s bodyguard” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Look here!!” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">My head hurts with the camera flashes, so many blinding my eyes. I felt an arm grabbed me from the front and I screamed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s okay, come along” to my relief it was Jay. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">It was like a circus going on and I glanced around to see Jay’s bodyguards holding back the paparazzi and the fans. Among them , I saw Tom in the crowd and he had a pained look in his eyes. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />I dropped my keys on the table by the door and walked to the kitchen, holding the folded papers.<br /><br />“Ge, remember last night ..” then I stopped. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">My brother was with another girl. Judging by their expression and body language, I could sensed a thick air of negative emotions floating around. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Mei, you’re home. Gail left some noodles for you” Dylan stood up</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded as the girl turned to face me. She was pretty, slightly taller than me and has a lovely curvy body with long legs. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“So this is Lisa. She looks fine to me” the girl shrugged.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“She lost her memory, not a leg” Dylan snapped.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I cringed and stood there numbly, like Dylan just slapped me in the face.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I don’t mean it like that” he kissed my head and handed me the bowl of noodle</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Forgiven but can be used later to redeem something.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Mei, this is Sarah” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">So this unpleasant woman is suppose to be my sister .. correction, possible sister in law. Dylan ushered me to the living room with my noodles.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m so sorry she’s so cranky. She just got here an hour ago. Will it be okay for her to stay here?”<br /><br />“How long?” I guessed I sound a little less excited. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Just a few days. Don’t worry, she can have my room” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Then you?” I asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’ll be comfortable on the sofa “ he waved his hand dismissively.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />“It’s really that bad eh?” Jay chuckled. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It really is. She’s like hogging the bathroom the whole time and she wear these heels around the apartment which just goes click clack click clack” I grumbled. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Why don’t you just tell her off? It’s your apartment” Tom suggested</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I would but if looks can kill, she would have killed me long time ago” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tom laughed and got up to get some juice for the three of us</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh Lisa, I got something for you” Jay took out a box. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I was speechless and so was Tom. I watched in shock as Jay took out a beautiful turquoise bracelet from the box.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“This is for you” he slipped the bracelet into my wrist.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Thank you” I pulled back my hand slowly and slipped a glance at Tom</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He looked confused and kinda hurt. Oh dear.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I gotta go take madam out to the saloon” he mumbled and placed the juice boxes on the table and left. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I wanted to run after him, to wipe the look of pain from his face, to make him feel secure. Although we are not together emotionally, I do care for him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Actually Lisa, I got something to tell you. It was not appropriate with Tom in the room just now” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Why not?” I asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Cause I dunno if I should even tell you this” he let out a nervous laugh. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded. Why do I have a feeling what he is gonna tell me will break me apart even more? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, ever since I saw you at the Loreal shoot, I feel that we have managed to connect on a higher and much better level. I think I might have just like ..” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Suddenly my Rainie Yang ringtone cut in. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Sorry sorry” it was Gail.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Can I kill your brother’s girlfriend?” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />“I’m gonna get more popcorn” Tom got up. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Me and Gail looked at him as he walked to the kitchen, then Gail sighed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lis, are you sure you don’t like him that way anymore? He’s such a sweetheart” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I know he is. Sometimes I wish I could just hold his hand and well.. that’s it .. hold his hand. He doesn’t deserve a forgetter like me” I leaned back on the sofa</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m sorry to say this but Dylan has a horrible taste in girls” Gail cringed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">She was afraid she might offended me if she said so but when I nodded repeatedly, she looked relieved. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I agree with you. Right before they went out, Sarah walked past me like I was invisible or nonexistent!” I raised my arms in defeat. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What do you think Dylan sees in her?” Gail asked. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I dunno. Maybe she’s a witch who casted a spell on him” I shrugged. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Gail burst out laughing.”Imagine Sarah's long nose with boils and a pointy hat, sitting on a broom and stirring yucky stuff in a shimmering pot” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I couldn’t help laughing. Imagine Sarah turned into something so hideously she would scream her lungs out in her bitchy way. Tom came back in the living room. It had already became a custom that every Sunday he would come over in the evening with a movie and we would spend the whole night watching it, sometimes just us two, sometimes with Gail. Just hanging out as friends. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What’s so funny?” he asked, clearly amused by two very childish girls giggling. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“We were just talking about you” I put a straight face</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What about me?” now he looked curious</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa says you have a very cute butt” Gail burst out. I gasped. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tom turned to me with a grin</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You have been checking me out eh?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, not like that. You wish” I smacked him playfully. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He grinned and his eyes landed on my bracelet. His grin slowly disappeared and I smiled nervously at him as I pulled my hand back. Just then Sarah and Dylan came home together. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh boy, I left my earrings on the table. Be right back” Gail whispered as she got up to rush into her room</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hey Lisa. Guess what I bought for you” Sarah dangled a bag right in front of me. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Okay, why is she being nice to me? What is in the bag? A bomb? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Take it. Honey, I had no idea you were buying that for Lisa” Dylan looked touched. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Yeah, why are you buying me stuff?” I asked, trying not to sound too ungrateful or suspicious</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I thought I should get something nice for my boyfriend’s sister. Thanks for letting me stay here. I really appreciate it. Honey, you have a really awesome sister” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Okay, why is she being so nice to Dylan? I swear, even though she is his girlfriend, sometimes she treats him like he’s a little kid. Then she turned to Tom and at that moment, I saw her expression. Her fake oh-sorry-I-just-notice-you look</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, who is your friend?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I am so reluctant to tell her because I could see her eyes lusting all over him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Tom” I gritted my teeth</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh, nice to meet you Tom. What are you guys doing?” she sat down on the couch beside him. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“We were just watching Chicken Little. Wanna join us?” he gestured to the tv. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">NOOoOoo! Tom, what are you doing! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Sure. Oh honey, can you put my bags in the room?” she looked at Dylan. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan nodded with a smile and went in the room. I leaned back on the sofa with my arms crossed across my chest, wearing a sulk. I dunno why but I feel insecure, I felt like Sarah had crossed over my territory. Suddenly I feel so lonely, I got up and head back to my room, with tears brimming in my eyes. My big comfortable sweater wrist pad wiped my tears away</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hey Lis, what happened?” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I turned around and Tom was in my room. He looked concerned and when I covered my face, he walked towards me. Suddenly I caught a glint of light from the corner of the room. What is that shiny brown thing? </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ahh! Cockroach!” I jumped on my bed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Where?” Tom looked around. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“There! There! Tian Zhi, kill it please” I pointed at the corner. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The cockroach ran towards my door and Tom shut it to prevent the damn insect from leaving the room. Then he stomped on it. I cringed but I felt so much better when he flushed it down the toilet.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh thank you thank you thank you” I was standing on my bed, looking down at him</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s rather cute how you reacted to the cockroach just now” he laughed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What! They are just nasty” I shuddered at the thought of it. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tom looked up at me “You are the girl whom I really fell for. Cockroach phobia and all” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I looked at him silently with a smile. Suddenly I felt so shy, being all afraid and jumping on the bed. I looked around the floor for a spot to land when suddenly Tom grabbed my legs, pulled me down and landed me flat on my back. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Before I could catch my breath, I felt his body covering me his lips on mine. It was warm, inviting and most importantly.. it was familiar. I ran my fingers through his hair and suddenly I had images in my head. I remembered when I had to quit my job and he was there by my side, supporting me. I remembered when I was offered the Loreal job, he had brought me out for a romantic dinner. I remembered him making me lotus soup one cold morning. Then I saw something else. I saw short moments of us together, just laughing and holding hands. Then I realize who I was touching. Hi Tom</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He pulled away and looked a little embarrassed. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m so sorry, I shouldn’t have attacked on you that way” </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I pulled his face back to mine and kissed him again. He touched my hand slowly and as I put it down, I could feel the bracelet slipped and fell to the floor.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-86536707961623114422008-08-30T15:05:00.001+08:002010-03-01T21:01:18.419+08:00Chapter 16<span style="font-family: verdana;">Your brother ! My mind was screaming. I eyed a baseball bat Ryan left the night before when he came back from his game. I picked it up and Ryan saw me in the corner of his eyes and pushed Dylan off. I stood there, with the bat in my hand and looked from one man to another. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Honey, you wanna hit me? After all we been through?” Ryan put on a sad puppy face.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, put down the bat” Dylan tried to coax me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, how can you just run away with this man? Has he been there for you like I did? Where was he during the accident?” Ryan pointed a finger accusingly at Dylan.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You hid her away from us. What right do you have to do so?” Dylan was so angry, I could see his face turning red.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“The fact that I love her and she deserves to be with me “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You have no right to say anything like that. The bottom line is, she’s my sister. You love her? You were too busy shoving your tongue downs a whore’s throat! ” Dylan raised his voice.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">What is he talking about? Holy crap, here comes the headache again. I see myself crying, Ryan with another girl, Dylan punching Ryan. These thoughts all swirled in my head and I dropped the bat to clutch my head. Make the pain stop!! </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Sis, what’s wrong?” Dylan came to me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Before I could answer him, I saw Ryan picked up the bat and aimed for Dylan. Without a single thought, I threw myself over Dylan’s back before he realized it himself , then I heard a thud. There was no pain, surprisingly until I turned and saw Jay Chou passed out on the floor. I gasped and looked at Ryan whom looked shocked, then when I found my voice, I screamed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh my God.. oh man .. “ I started crying with hands trembling as my brother took out his cell phone.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“When I asked for your help, I didn’t expect you to do this” I gestured to his head.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Jay smiled a little. “My head is a tough nut, Lis” he joked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Yeah but if Ryan hit you so hard, then you will not remember how to make beautiful music anymore and everyone would abandon you then your career could have gone down the drain”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I sounded like a broken tape but I was really worried about him. Well, now less worried since he’s in the hospital with a bandage around his head.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You are really dumb, Lis” he laughed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I looked at him with disbelief. What? I’m dumb??</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You shouldn’t have covered yourself over your brother like that”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I blushed. Look at me, trying to act all heroine trying to protect my brother.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“But you’re cool” he smiled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You’re dumb too. Jumping on me like that. You could get hurt .. and I mean serious injury”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You’re my friend Lis. Of course I will try to protect you”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We smiled at each other and I sighed. So this is where I belong then. Ryan was just lying to me. Just then, the door opened and an old woman with Tom and Dylan walked in.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Jie Lun, are you okay or not ?” she rushed to his side.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I guessed this is his mother, the one I saw in the photo back home in my bedroom, then I looked up at Tom and our eyes just locked in place for a moment.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What happened actually?” he looked away and diverted his attention back to Jay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I called him .. “ I tried to explain but Jay cut me halfway.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I just slipped and fell down the stairs” he smiled goofily.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Isn’t it best if I tell the truth?” I looked at him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Before I could tell the truth, Dylan grabbed my arm and gently pulled me aside and he revealed the whole truth, from the beginning of my accident. After that several minutes, the old lady’s jaws had dropped to the floor and Tom’s eyes looked like they were about to pop out from the socket. It was like as if time stood still as the old woman came to me and held my hands.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Honey , I have no idea. I thought you don’t want to be our friends anymore”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom stepped forward a little too “Lisa, can I see you outside for a while?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded and walked out as he held the door open for me. Once we were outside, we stood across each other like strangers who never had any kind of intimacy before. I studied him. This is my boyfriend yet I’m studying him. Big hands, long arms, strong legs, built body and well, he’s actually quite handsome. He has the big brown soft eyes that make you want to hug him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ Lisa, did you hear what I just said?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">What? What did he just said?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sorry, I’m just trying to place you in my memory” I smiled apologetically.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He looked at me with a smile. A warm smile, not those creepy old pervert smiles who sat next to you in the bus. Oh . dimple ..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“We used to go out”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Used to?” I cringed a little.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Is he breaking up with me?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I dunno if you still wanna go out with me” he glanced down at the floor.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I could see from the corner of my eyes, he was turning red like he just asked a girl out and unsure of her feelings. Maybe it was that boyish charm that made me fell for him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I didn’t say I don't want to” whoa.. where did that came from?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He looked up at me and I could see hope in his eyes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Can I take you out sometime soon?” he smiled</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded with a smile. “I would love that”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I really want to know this guy again. Somehow one way or another, he must have meant a lot to me by the way everyone is talking about him. Wow, what a life I must have led eh. I know a celebrity and I have a gorgeous boyfriend.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Can I ask you something?” I asked timidly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">After getting the approval nod, I asked him about our history.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“That will be quite a story. Care for dinner tomorrow night?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ He has seen you in those gigantic t shirt with no make up and auntie hair”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Gail had told me when I asked her how ugly had I looked in front of Tom.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“And he still like me? “ I laughed nervously.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Tom is not that shallow. Come on, get ready for your dinner”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">To be honest, I was nervous. Its like I’m trying to impress Tom all over again, like a job interview or something. What does he like me to wear? Wait, what am I doing? He has seen me in my worst state and he’s still asking me out. That must count as something right? I was putting on my necklace while smoothing my blue dress out of wrinkles. This necklace has a little key hung on it. It looked odd but it looked quite expensive.. except the clasp is kind of hard to grasp.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Before I could handled it myself, Tom had slipped out of nowhere and took matters into his own hands, holding the clasp and putting it on me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I should have gotten the one with the bigger clasp”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">So this was a present from him. I turned to him and he was smiling, genuinely happy that I was wearing his present. I shouldn’t spoil it by telling him I don’t remember he was the one who gave me this. He looked adorable with a collar opened shirt, just the way I like.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You look cute” he stepped forward and kissed my forehead.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">By the end of dinner, I had almost understand why I had been going out with Tom. He had a background of a kid on the street, parents who don’t want him and most importantly, a plan for the future. At the same time, he talks passionately about Madam Ye, animals and cooking.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I never told you how much I like to cook” he laughed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Why not?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I think it’s a little feminine” he looked at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I felt like I have to say something. I couldn’t keep letting him on. He is my boyfriend and I need to find my feelings fast. Unfortunely I can’t seem to be attracted to him. We do have certain chemistry but the spark is not there.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Tom” I stopped walking.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We were taking a slow walk before going back home in his Lamborghini.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I know what you are going to say Lis. You’re gonna tell me you don’t remember who am I and you don’t have any feelings for me” he shrugged while he kept walking.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I walked behind him slowly. I could see his shoulder sagged a little and I didn’t want to approach him that way. That tone he just used sounded so hurt and disappointed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“If it helps, I really don’t want to feel this way. I really want to know why I got together with you. I’m frustrated with this memory loss”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He turned around and walked back to me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I think this accident is frustrating to me too. I lost my girlfriend and when I got her back, she doesn’t remember me. It frustrates me that I thought something happen to her after her commercial shoot and when I saw her again, she was in the arms of her ex boyfriend, the bastard. Do you know how does it feel to see someone you like in the arms of another man?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">That sounded very accusing.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Do you think this is fun for me? To wake up and dunno anything about yourself, then to be lead on by a man who lies to me and been torn apart from my family. The man who tells me that I have no one else in my life except him. Do you know how happy I was when I found Dylan? This is not a bed of roses for me Tom. I woke up as a woman who has no job and it terrifies me. The only good thing going on in my life now is I get up with the knowledge that somewhere someone out there needs me and cares for me. I’m 24 and jobless. It scares the shit out of me. It scares me when I dunno which is reality. Am I leading a double life? Am I a nutcase? ”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I practically broke down. I really didn’t want to. I want to be strong and confident but I’m so confused and it scared me that I have no feelings for Tom. The man who is now holding me as I spilled my tears on the sidewalk of the restaurant.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I didn’t realize how hard it was for you” he said softly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">One last try. I need to know how much I had meant to him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sorry I don’t have feelings for you” I blurted out.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">A pained look shadowed his face for a while but it passed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Can I at least be your friend?” he asked painfully.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I woke up with my phone ringing near my ear. Groaning and cursing , I shut it off. Alarm. Pfft .. why did I set an alarm anyways? It’s not like I need to go to work. Wait, I did not set up my alarm. As i struggled to sit up, the phone rang again. That phone call made me smile the whole day.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Ge!!” I threw my phone on my bed and ran out of the door to knock on my brother’s door.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He was stirring up as I threw myself on his bed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What is it? It’s not even 8 am yet” he glanced at his alarm clock.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I don’t care. Mr Chen called”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">It took him a moment or two to recall who is Mr Chen.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“The fella who got you the Loreal commercial?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded repeatedly like a broken toy bunny.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m getting my paycheck and he landed me in another commercial for orange juice!”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Dylan smiled. “Wow, I never seen you so happy for quite some time now”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I know! I’m gonna go tell Gail then I’m going to the hospital to tell Jay “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I rushed to the door when Dylan called me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Tell Tom too ok?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded obediently.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">********************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was stunned when I saw three ladies standing in the room with Jay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Hey, are you allowed in here?” the one with the short hair cut glanced at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“It’s ok. She’s a friend” Jay raised a hand up.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">One of them had long hair and dressed in a stunning silver dress approached me. She approached me! A nobody!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Wait. I met you before at Jay’s house. You’re that girl .. Lina right?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, actually. You know me? You’re Selina SHE right?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I couldn’t believe it. Who else do I know? Do I know any other celebrity? Do I know Oprah?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sorry. I didn’t know you are a friend of Jay’s”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">How could I be mad at Ella? She’s like the coolest Tomboy I ever known. Hebe was smiling at the corner but she was pretty. I liked her better with longer hair but oh well .. she still look gorgeous.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa did a commercial in Loreal” Selina explained.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Wow, she even knows this. It’s like as though we are close friends and she knows this stuff about me. I don’t think that’s possible but hey no one judge a girl for dreaming of her prince charming right? So no one should judge me for dreaming of being best friends with a celebrity.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I have another offer to be in another commercial” I smiled shyly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Jay smiled and gosh, dimple. Why am I always surrounded by dimple guys?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh, which commercial?” Hebe asked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Good, now she seems to be interested in me. I could tell by the big eyes of hers</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Just a small orange juice part” I brushed it off like nothing but deep inside, I was doing a little dance. I just can’t look too star struck. These people probably had done thousands of commercials.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We just sat at Jay’s hospital bed and started talking. Surprisingly I blended in well with them. Ella seems a bit tough and on the edge, Selina was prim and proper and Hebe was just shy and interesting. Wow, I’m actually chatting with SHE.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh, we gotta go. We have our new album to record” Hebe got up.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Already? That was fast” I was a bit disappointed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Ella smiled amusingly “It’s been an hour Lisa”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I blushed and they excused themselves</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I should leave too. I been bugging you for so long. I just wanted to come down here to tell you about the commercial gig that was offered to me” I stood up.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, have you told Tom?” Jay asked me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I shook my head “ I was thinking of telling him later”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m really happy for you. You do know that right? I know this is a big deal for you. I could see you were trying to suppress your excitement so that you don’t look like a fan girl in front of us but we were once human before we were superstar, Lis. We .. at least I understand”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Thank you Jay” I reached his hand for a shake.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Instead I was surprised when he held my hand and pulled me towards him and gently placed a kiss on my cheek with his hand pushing my hair to the back of my ear. For a moment, I forgot to breathe.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-71232916468440189412008-08-28T15:11:00.001+08:002010-03-01T20:51:47.306+08:00Chapter 15<span style="font-family:verdana;">I didn’t exactly know where I was going but my brother ( I am really quite convinced he’s my brother ) brought me to a luxurious looking apartment. The walls were creamy like and it just had a feminine touch to it. I wonder if this is his apartment. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Welcome home sis” he said, gesturing with his hands towards the whole apartment. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I walked around the hall, looking at the magazines stacked in one corner and a photo frame on the cupboard near the kitchen. I noticed the beige couch opposite the television and a book shelf on the right side of the room. Then I felt Dylan tugged my arm. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Let’s see whether you remember this” he guided me into a room. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The room was pretty messy but I had a sense of familiarity. Like I been here before, like I lived here.. did I ? Could this be where I used to live? There was a dog basket near the corner and there was a laptop on the study table. The bed was half made and above the bed, I saw a few photos lined up.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">One of them had me and Dylan with an older man and woman. I assumed this must be my family portrait. So this is how my parents look like. I looked closer. I looked like my mother. Next photo was me with two girls, the three of us look so happy and the photo looked like it was taken during a party. I ran my fingers across our picture. How I wished I knew who you are.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Those are your best friends. Gail and Cindy” Dylan explained.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded and moved on to the next photo. It was me sitting on the bench holding a dog. I looked as happy as the dog which looked content gnawing on his bone. Where have I seen that dog before? I frowned a little and suddenly I remembered.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You have a dog” Dylan said as he sat down beside me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Where is my dog now?” I asked as I recalled the other day.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan should have known that was my dog. Why did he abuse my dog? Why didn’t he tell me it was my dog? Didn’t he know I have a dog?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Gail must have taken it out for a walk” Dylan shrugged.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Are my friends on business trips?” I had to ask.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Which friend?” he frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Next photo was me with Jay Chou and an older woman. I gasped.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Yes, he really is your friend. Jay told us about you encountering him the other day at the mall. He said you were acting really weird and strange”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I cannot believe how I would be friends with him”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">So he was not lying about his mom too. I knew them.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Not only are you friends with Jay, but here.. “ Dylan took the photo and showed it to me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tears poured down my face. It was me leaning on a man as we held hands. I looked so happy and so does he. Our hands fit each other’s perfectly. I cried because I don’t remember who this is. I cried because this is not Ryan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“This is your boyfriend, Tom” Dylan said softly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But Ryan said ..”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan got up impatiently and headed to the drawers. He pulled out a black book and turned to a certain page as he handed it to me. I stared at the words written.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Dear Diary,<br />I’m so broken at the moment. Ryan ran off with Mandy and left me. I saw him kissed her like he never kissed me the same way before. I really thought he was the one for me. I hate my life. I really do. I don’t think this heart will ever heal again</span></strong><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan had some other woman? He broke my heart? That Ryan? Who am I living with? Where do I stand in the relationship? Is he still with this Mandy girl? Does he really love me? If he did, why he leave? My head ache and I put down the book on the bed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I don’t understand. I don’t remember” I stood up.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s ok. Slowly it will come back to you. Now you know some things are for real. Jay Chou is really your friend” Dylan touched my shoulder softly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I wanna go home” suddenly I just want to get away from this mess.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But you are home” Dylan frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, I wanna go home” I pushed past him and ran out of the room.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I cannot take these facts. The man whom I thought adored and loved me turned out to be a liar, a cheater and a user. The man whom took care of me turned out to be a fraud. He told me my friends are on business trips, he told me I dunno Jay Chou. He told me I have no family here. I really want to believe the man whom I smiled at and made breakfast for the past two weeks.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">But how do I explain Dylan? He’s my brother and he’s here. There is also the Jay Chou factor. Ryan said I dunno who is he but why does my brother and Jay himself said that we are indeed friends? How does Ryan not know I have a dog? Did he know it was my dog?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I walked out and glanced at the apartment that I just left. When was the last time I lived there? Didn’t I stay with Ryan before the accident? Maybe my brother doesn’t like Ryan and was trying to break us up. Yea, maybe that must be it but why didn’t Ryan told me I have a dog? Suddenly I noticed a man walking towards me and I gasped as I realized it was the same man from the photo I had just seen 10 minutes ago. He looked angry, confused and hurt and I froze.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, I don’t understand. I thought we had something special going on” he frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I gulped. This man was supposed to be my boyfriend. The question is, if he’s my boyfriend, then who is Ryan? If he’s my boyfriend, why didn’t he come to me after the accident?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“The next thing I know you called me to tell me Ryan is your boyfriend” he barked.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I did?” suddenly I don’t remember anything anymore.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You don’t have to hurt me like this ok Lisa. You could have told me you wanted to get back with him”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I gotta go” all this talk is making my headache worse.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Not before we settle this” he grabbed my arm.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I struggled from his grip and ran down the street.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Honey, why are you so quiet today? Are you okay?” Ryan asked.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded as he stroked my head. It was one of our in night where we lay in front of the television and watch a movie. Except tonight my mind was not on the movie. I was thinking about the incident in the afternoon. How Dylan looked all concerned like he was losing me. How Tom looked all confused and hurt when he confronted me about Ryan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">What am I? Where am I? Who should I choose to believe? Ryan, the man whom had been caring for me the past two weeks or Dylan, the man who claimed he is my brother. Ok, I believed Dylan is my brother but it seemed like the past that he was offering me to remember seemed way more complicated than what I have right now.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Something in me stirred and I snapped to realize Ryan was nibbling softly on my ear. I froze as his lips found mine and as he kissed me, I kissed him back. His hands were touching my knees and slowly wandered up my skirt.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">It was like as if I’ve been electrocuted and I jumped off from his embrace, tearing the kiss apart. I stood two feet from him as I pulled my skirt down.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What were you doing?” I asked as I blushed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s been a while babe. I thought it would be a the right time we make love”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I turned redder. Not like this. Not when I’m confused.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m not into it right now” I rejected him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh come on. We are ready” he came to me and grabbed my waist.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">A flash of memory strike me. I saw a warm protective arm around my waist as I looked up at whom the arm belong to. I had a big smile on my face and he smiled back at me as I laid on his shoulder and I could see the beach. It was so serene and wonderful. I gasped because it was not Ryan whom I just had seen.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m exhausted” I pulled away and ran into my room.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I jumped into bed and pulled the cover up to my chin. Second thought, I got up and walked to the door. I locked the door with trembling hands and climbed into bed with tears.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I am very uncomfortable being around Ryan. It was like as if he turned into someone different. The next morning when I was serving toast for breakfast, Ryan came out from his room.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Morning” he smiled and kissed my cheek<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I wondered what he thought about the rejection last night. I was waiting for his apology or some hint but as we sat down for breakfast, there was no mention about last night. When I got up to toast an extra bread, he stood behind me and slipped his hand under my shirt to fondle my stomach. What is it with this fella? Mating season? I squirmed and walked back to the table. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">After I finished toasting the bread, I went back to the room when suddenly my phone rang.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa? “ it was my brother.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The confusion set in again and my voice trembled as I tried to talk to him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I want chocolate chip muffin” what was I saying ?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, did you remember something?” Dylan sounded so excited.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Can you come over later?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I proceed on giving him the address. There was a knock on the door and I got up to answer it. Ryan stood there with a smile and his bag in his hand.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m off to work honey. Who are you talking to? “ he gestured to the phone I was holding.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh, just ordering pizza for lunch. Bye “ I smiled a little.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He leaned in to kiss me so I offered my cheek but he landed his lips on my neck. I pushed him away.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Why are you rejecting me?” he asked.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m not in the mood. Go to work” I mumbled.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I closed the door right in front of him. I'm terrified.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Half an hour later, Dylan turned up and I allowed him in.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, why do you still wanna stay here?” he asked when he browsed around the house.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Cause Ryan brought me here”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He panicked and looked at me with huge bulging eyes.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ You didn’t sleep with him right?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Is this a trick question? How would I remember my past?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I don’t think so” I scratched my head.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You made a promise to me you will tell me when you actually slept with someone “<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Was I that close with my brother? He was sitting there, looking so concerned. I wanted to cry, I </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">wanted to be somewhere else. I want to go. Oh gosh, I want to go home.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I wanna go home” I pulled his arm.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Which home?” he looked at me, searching for the answer in my eyes.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“My own home. I don’t wanna stay here anymore. Ryan scares me” I burst out crying.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What did he do to you?” Dylan looked alarmed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I shook my head “ I just wanna go home”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan nodded happily “I’ll help you pack”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I got nothing to pack” I cringed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Then you wanna go now?” he stood up.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh, there are a few cute skirts I wanna take along” I went into my room and pulled out a bag.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I’m starting to feel good. Yeah, I just wanna get away from Ryan. I want a brother, my dog and Jay Chou. Suddenly I felt like my life AML was just a lie. I smiled and sniffed. I’m getting the life that I want. Before this, I thought no one cared about me except for Ryan. Maybe Tom is my boyfriend, maybe not but I shall settle that later, I just want to get away from here.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I zipped the bag and took a look around the room. Goodbye room.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Should I leave a note to Ryan?” I asked my brother.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan shook his head. “That bastard had been lying to you. You don’t need to give him any explanation”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded. I am not sure about the Ryan lying to me part but I just want to get out of here. As soon as I opened the door, I saw Ryan standing there with a bottle of champagne. He looked stunned to see me and my brother.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, where are you going?” he eyed my bag which Dylan was carrying.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I don’t wanna stay here anymore” I told him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He grabbed me and pulled me closer to him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You wanna run away with a stranger? Are you cheating on me?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Dylan pulled me back to his side.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Watch it. I kicked your ass once, I can do it again”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan glared at Dylan and then at me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, are you sure you want to run away with a guy who you barely know?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“He’s my brother” I said firmly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Are you sure? Your brother is in China. This is just an imposter”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No!! This is my brother, Dylan! “ I shouted loudly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I am not sure why am I shouting but partly maybe because I am trying to convince myself at the same time I’m making a stand to Ryan. By saying this firmly and loudly, I am telling myself that I believed Dylan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m not letting you take her” Ryan blocked the doorway.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“She doesn’t want you anymore” Dylan smirked then he turned to me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Call for help” he mouthed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I walked back into the room and scanned my phone list. Only this one.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hello? It’s me Lisa. I need help”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Just then I heard a crash and looking out of my door, I saw them struggling and rolling on the floor. Who am I to help???</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-4495082777558224562008-08-26T15:16:00.001+08:002010-03-01T20:36:53.464+08:00Chapter 14<span style="font-family:verdana;">I picked up the tea cup with my perfect manicured fingers as I looked around the living room. After staying three days in the hospital, I came back two days ago. During my stay in the hospital, only Ryan accompanied me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Miss Wang had a head injury due to the impact of being hit on the head” the doctor said.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“How long will her memory be lost?” Ryan asked.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It would take six months for her full recovery but you can try to stimulate her memory by showing her photos and things that she had before. By the way, does her family member know about this?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I will inform them. Thank you doctor”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The doctor left the room and I grabbed Ryan’s arm.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I have amnesia?” I looked up at him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It will be ok honey, I will help you through this ok” he held my hand.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">That happened two hours after the accident. So I had no company except for Ryan the whole time I’m in the hospital. When I asked for my family, Ryan said they are all in China. When I asked for my friends, Ryan told me they were on a business trip. I put down the tea cup carefully and continued reading my book. That’s when my phone rang. Obviously it was Ryan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hey babe, wanna go for lunch later?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I guess” I wished I could be more excited but really, I’m still adjusting to life after memory loss, AML as I call it.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">As I put down my new blue handphone, I ran my fingers through my dark red hair. Ryan told me my phone was lost during the accident so he bought me a new one. Yesterday I had my hair dyed red because Ryan indicated that it had been my wish all along so this is a good chance to dye it as a start of a new beginning.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I didn’t know I live with Ryan before this but it does feel like home. My clothes are here, I’m pretty sure it’s my clothes, it’s my size and there are photographs of us everywhere. Although Ryan had insisted that we always share a bed before this, I still find it awfully weird to be in the same bed with him thus the two separate rooms.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I never thought I am that girl who shared a bed with a man just like that but then again, probably this showed how much I loved Ryan. I’m still trying to get the feeling back, bit by bit. I seemed to be the live in girlfriend while he goes out to work. What did I do when I’m home alone?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Well, I’m super bored today and I’m going out. I grabbed my purse and walked out to my car. I drove to the town centre and pulled up at a mall. Maybe I could buy a new set of golf clubs for Ryan. Or I could buy myself a diary. I thought I’m one of those girls who kept a diary but Ryan said no. A search around the house and he is right. It seems like there’s nothing sentimental in my room. Ryan said I liked to live in the future and I got rid of everything else in the past. So, I’m that kind of girl.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Hmm, what’s with the huge commotion in the middle of the mall? I quicken my pace and saw a huge movie poster. Curse of the golden flower, I read silently. Looks like something from the olden days based on the clothes. Look at how many female fans are screaming, gathering around an empty stage. I walked in the closest male clothes store and spent a good half an hour picking a nice shirt for Ryan. When I walked out, I saw the stage and three dominant figures up there. I gasped. Chow Yun Fat, Gong Li and Jay Chou??<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I stood somewhere near there and poked my head around to get a glimpse of what is happening. Before I knew it, the screams around me got louder as Jay Chou turned his head to our direction and the girls went crazy. He smiled and waved around a little before he spotted me, at least I think it’s me. He called a stage crew and whispered something and before I knew it, I was instructed to follow that crew member backstage.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Mr Chou would like to see you” he said and pulled me a chair as I sat backstage, listening to the girls out there screaming their head off.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Mr Chou? Jay Chou? Why would a mega superstar want to see me? Did I offend him in any way? I sat there backstage and fumbled nervously as thoughts of what did I do wrong to offend such a megastar like Jay Chou.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The curtain opened as the three actors walked in and I felt like my breath taken away. I watched as Jay Chou shook hands with the other two and once again, I felt myself blushing as I realized I was currently in the dream position of any Jay fan. They would kill me if they see me here.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, where have you been?” he sighed.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I looked up and saw Jay Chou. He knows my name! Wait, what does he mean?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Excuse me?” I asked, looking up to him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Don’t fool around. What did you do to your hair?” he asked.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It’s always been a dream of mine” I smiled, twirling my hair a little for effect.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Where have you been? Your friends are looking for you”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But my friends are on a business trip” I frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“That’s weird. I thought I saw Cindy yesterday” he mumbled under his breath.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Who’s Cindy? Before I could ask, Jay Chou shot me another question.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Where have you been?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Why is this superstar talking to me like he knows me? Jay Chou is weird.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I been living with my boyfriend”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He looked slightly confused “ Oh, I thought you and Tom had something on”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Tom? Ryan never mentioned any Tom. Did Jay Chou mistake me for another person? But he called me Lisa. Is he someone from my past? What are the odds that Jay Chou knows me personally? Yeah right Lisa. Who else do you know? George Clooney?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“So are you gonna tell me who is your boyfriend?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He certainly talked to me like I’m his best friend or something.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ryan”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Then he looked slightly confused.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh, I thought you and Ryan broke up”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, we are still together” I said slowly, sort of unsure what he wants to hear.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">What is going on? Is he really my friend? Okay people; bring out the candid camera out now. I had been fooled. Game over. Suddenly I felt dizzy but nevertheless I stood up.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I gotta go”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lisa, wait. What about my mother? Shouldn’t you call her? “<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I let out a laugh. What a joker Jay is.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Why haven’t you been answering your phone? We almost wanted to go to the cops”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You have my number?” this is a whole new level of weirdness.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Yes, unless you change yours “ he frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded. “ My phone went missing” and I took out my phone from my purse.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“You should have at least told us” he surprised me when he pulled my phone from my hand and </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">inserted his number in.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I didn’t know what to say. Am I supposed to tell him I have memory loss? I don’t think Jay is my friend but he certainly knows me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I gotta go. Bye “<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I left and never looked back.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">It was windy and I clutched my coat tighter around my body. My hands are warm tucked beneath Ryan’s arm. We were heading to lunch together and Ryan had mentioned it was just walking distance.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ryan, were we always together?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan gave a soft chuckle “ What do you mean by that?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Did we ever break up and then get back together?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">That was what had been bugging me the whole time<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, never. We are so in love and we have never been apart. Why ?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Cause someone told me we broke up before”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He turned to me with a serious face.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Who told you that?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Jay Chou”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan burst out laughing for the next few minutes. He laughed in such a way, I felt offended.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh honey, looks like someone had taken their dream a little too far”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But I did talk to him” I insisted.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Honey, I think you are bored out of your mind. Come on, there’s a billion fans out there and he talked to you? I think you imagined it all during your nap yesterday”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But he mentioned about someone named Tom”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I swore Ryan’s face turned white and his laughter died down.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Honey, you’re mistaken for someone else. End of discussion”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I wanted to protest but before I could, a small brown dog ran up to us and started jumping on it’s hind legs excitedly with it’s tongue hanging out. To me. At Ryan, it growled and barked. Then it sat down in front of me with it’s tail wagging.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“That dog is so adorable!” I bent down to touch it’s collar.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Honey, I think it’s dirty” he pulled my other hand.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, it’s adorable” I touched the round pendant on it’s collar.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">There was a big S in front and an address at the back.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ryan, this dog look lost …” I scratched it’s head gently.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No, look it’s fat and well fed “ he pointed at it.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The dog stood up on all fours and barked sharply at Ryan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“It doesn’t like it when you call it fat” I teased.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Stupid dog” Ryan picked up a piece of stone and threw it on the dog.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ryan!” I stood up, stunned by the cruelty he has done to the poor animal.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">The dog turned away, whimpering small cries of pain.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Snooky!” a voice called out from the corner.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Ryan grabbed my hand and tugged me along.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Run. The dog owner is coming”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Snooky? Where have I heard that before?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />I’m upset that Ryan was cruel to the dog and I’m also feeling the loneliness of being left behind when he goes to work. Upset and lonely. Not a good combination. When are my friends coming back? I should call my parents in China. I picked up the phone and realized I don’t have their phone number. Ryan should have my parents number right? I went into his room and looked through his drawers. I know I’m suppose to respect his privacy and not do this but he looked through each of my stuff when I came back from the hospital so I guess it’s only fair right?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I found a contact book in one of the drawers and browse through. Damn it! What are my parents name? After 5 minutes, I gave up and slipped the book back right to where I found it. That’s when I heard a faint thud at the back of the drawer. Something is blocking the book from being pushed in to the back. I reached in and pulled out a small box. I removed the box and opened it. A hand phone. Hmm.. it looks pretty.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I turned it on. There was 150 missed calls and 40 new messages. I looked at the missed call names.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Cindy, Gail, Auntie Ye, Jay, Ge and darling?” I frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Jay ? If this is Ryan’s phone, then maybe he knows Jay Chou too. I gasped. Realization hit me slower than I thought but this is my original phone! My phone which Ryan said was lost during the accident. Why does he have it if I lost it?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Who’s darling? I confidently pressed call and I felt pretty sure to hear Ryan’s voice. Within two rings, someone picked up.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Ting Ting, where are you ? Where have you been?” he sounded like he lost his child or </span><span style="font-family:verdana;">something.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">And it’s not Ryan.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Hello, who is this?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Don’t fool around. Do you know how worried we are? You disappeared after the loreal shoot”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Loreal shoot? What ?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Are you my friend?” I asked carefully.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I’m your boyfriend, Tom”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">My hand shook. Ryan said I didn’t know any Tom but Jay Chou did mentioned a Tom.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“But Ryan is my boyfriend” I blurted out.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I turned off the phone before I could hear what he has to say. Who is Tom? What does he look like? Ryan said I didn’t know any Tom. My boyfriend won’t lie to me right? Besides I have prove through the photos of me and Ryan that we are a couple but who is Tom?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I slipped the phone in my pocket, cleared up the mess and left Ryan’s room. I needed aspirin. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">***********************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I didn’t know who to expect. I just dialled the number and arranged to meet him here. I didn’t know how he looked like. Tall? Short? Old? I clutched the envelope closer to me. Maybe he can help me regain my memory. If he says who he is. I’m really confused right now.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I walked across the park and guessed which one is him. I didn’t have to, he came right to me and hugged me. Part of me felt relief and warm that I have someone else in my life besides Ryan but another part of me seems to think who is this guy? Where is the familiarity with him?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">When he let me go, I could see love in his eyes. I could see my eyes in his eyes.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh gosh, I miss you so much. Where have you been? Do you know we are all worried?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I been living with my boyfriend” I said quietly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“What? “ his voice rose and he frowned.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Why do people frowned when they found out I’m living with my boyfriend?<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I quietly handed the envelope to him and watched as he took out the sheet of paper. I didn’t know if this is the right person to show this paper to but I have to trust myself that he is someone from my past and I need to connect with someone from my past .. badly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I watched as his eyes bulged out and his expression changed from confusion to sadness as he read through the paper. It was my report from the hospital.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Memory loss?” he said it slowly as if he was digesting the fact himself.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I spilled the beans and told him everything, from the moment I woke up in the hospital up to the discovery of my phone. When I was done, he looked at me like I was from another planet or I had an extra nose on my forehead.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Lis, do you know who am I ? Do you know why you called me? “ he asked carefully.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I saw your number on my phone and I think I know who you are”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Do you remember my name?”<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“No” I shook my head honestly.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">He smiled and pulled out his wallet, then he pulled out a card and handed it to me. It was his identity card and as I held the card in my trembling hand because a memory strike at the back of my mind. A blur one but nonetheless, at least something. I saw this man, sitting beside me carrying me on his back as we ran in the park. There was something so sweet and innocent about the memory. I ran my finger over his name like I was touching gold or something precious.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Dylan Wang Zhi Yuan” I read silently with a smile.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-76600176781473095852008-08-24T15:22:00.002+08:002010-03-01T19:46:40.375+08:00Chapter 13<span style="font-family:verdana;">I hit enter again on my keyboard and moved my mouse to the save icon. There, my report on Jay is done. I leaned back on my chair and suddenly Tom came into my mind. Tom whom stormed out of my door when he realized that I was about to give in to my dream. I ignored the tears that were threatening to spill and decided to think the opposite way. It’s not my fault that James gave me this assignment in order for me to be promoted. It’s not my fault that I know Jay.<br /><br />Actually it’s my fault. If I have just driven away when Tom hit my car that night, I would not know all of them. Tom ..<br /><br />How could I be so selfish to let him go when he had been so nice to me? When I really do like him a lot and I owe Jay for saving me from Ryan. I switched off my monitor and climbed into bed, crying myself to sleep.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />This is it. This is final. I glanced at the printed report in my hand and knocked rapidly at Jay’s house door. The door opened and I saw Tom. The last time I saw him was three days ago and somehow he looked horrible. He looked unhappy all over . When I saw him, I saw how unhappy he was, I saw how things got bad for him.<br /><br />“Tom, what happened?” I was half afraid to ask.<br /><br />“What you think?” he asked, half agitated and half weary.<br /><br />He turned and walked in, leaving the door opened, indicating it is ok for me to walk in.<br /><br />“Where are auntie and Jay?” I asked quietly.<br /><br />“Still sleeping” he answered shortly.<br /><br />Tom sat down and stared at the table right in front of him.<br /><br />“Are you still angry with me?” I asked and retreated back a step.<br /><br />I was afraid he might blow up but he just sat there and sighed.<br /><br />“It’s my own fault actually. I knew you work for the media and I still fell for you” he looked at me.<br /><br />I felt like he just stabbed me with the stare of his eyes.<br /><br />“You regret going out with me?” I sat down on the couch opposite him.<br /><br />“No, because I was selfish. I done some thinking Lisa, it’s not fair for you to give up your dream job but it’s not fair to Jay for either” Tom said.<br /><br />“What about us? I knew this decision was selfish and this could mean the end of us. So here’s the report I made “<br /><br />I held up the report in front of me so that Tom could see what was written. I took out my lighter and lighted up the right bottom corner of my report and watched it as it engulfed in flames.<br /><br />“Lisa, what are you doing?” Tom grabed the report from me.<br /><br />I stood up and watched as the report became nothing but ashes.<br /><br />“I done some thinking and I realized I don’t want to lose you or Jay. This assignment had turned me into one of those dogs and I don’t want to get promoted this way. Most of all, I don’t care if I get promoted or not, I do care about what you think about me. I don’t want to throw away what we had” I wanted to cry because at that moment, I was so afraid of losing Tom.<br /><br />Imagine my relief when Tom came over to me and wrapped me in a hug. The tough wall in me broke as I realized I just sacrificed my job for Tom. Never in a million years would I imagine choosing a man over my career. He would be worth it, I kept telling myself.<br /><br />“That’s my girl” he kissed my forehead.<br /><br />Then he looked at me straight in the eyes and I cannot help it, I just burst out crying.<br /><br />“I quit my job too”<br /><br />Tom looked a little surprised but he nodded.<br /><br />“Are you sure?” he asked.<br /><br />I nodded “ Yeah , I don’t want to work at where I might have the possibility to hurt people I care about”<br /><br />Tom hugged me again. This is worth it. I already knew what is my next career move.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“Auntie, I’m here” I walked in from the door quickly and greeted Jay’s mom.<br /><br />There was a pretty lady sitting on the couch with her and I immediately felt embarrassed. When she turned, I gasped.<br /><br />“Lisa, this is Selina” auntie smiled.<br /><br />Selina from SHE??? Ahhhh!! Now I’m star struck! And I remained calm when I met Jay? My brain was laughing at itself.<br /><br />“Hi, you must be Madam Ye’s friend” she extended her hand.<br /><br />“I guess I am “ I smiled and shook her hand as I took a seat.<br /><br />“Lisa, Selina is here to talk to Jay about SHE’s new song” auntie informed me.<br /><br />I nodded thoughtfully. Does that mean the other two girls are here?<br /><br />“The other two are busy with their stuff so I was sent as representative” Selina seems to read my mind.<br /><br />Just then Jay and Tom walked in, both wearing basketball jersey and shorts. Oo la la. How taut my boyfriend’s legs are, I secretly indulged those firm muscles with a smile.<br /><br />“Oh, you are here” Jay looked at Selina.<br /><br />Then he looked up and saw me “Hey Lisa” with a smile.<br /><br />I realized Tom was holding a basketball and both of them looked like they had just had a game at the backyard.<br /><br />Jay escorted Selina upstairs to his studio while Tom stood beside me.<br /><br />“You kids have a chat, I’ll be right back” auntie stood up and walked to the kitchen.<br /><br />“So who won?” I asked , looking up at Tom.<br /><br />“Yours truly of course. Nah, master Zhou won” he grinned.<br /><br />“Tom, you are getting sweat all over me “ I stood up and handed him a tissue.<br /><br />“I should go shower. How is the job hunting going?” he asked as he took my tissue.<br /><br />“Oh, still hunting. Don’t worry, I’m not broke yet” I rolled my eyes.<br /><br />Tom nodded “ If you need any help, you must tell me ok”<br /><br />That’s what I like about Tom, he doesn’t push help in my face but he let me do my own thing yet supporting me along the way.<br /><br />“Do celebrities always come over often?” I asked excitedly.<br /><br />“Occasionally. Why? You’re star struck” Tom pointed a finger at me.<br /><br />“I’m only human” I grinned, still in awe of meeting Selina.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“What the hell do you want?” I sighed when I opened the door.<br /><br />It’s Sunday and I’m in my big t-shirt and shorts eating ice cream while watching soap operas and I grunted as I got up to open the door. Well, I was expecting Mcd’s. Instead it was Ryan.<br /><br />“Lisa, please let me in. I need to talk to you” he pleaded.<br /><br />“Aren’t you ashamed? You’re begging me to let you in a girls apartment” I hissed.<br /><br />“Ok, fine. I will say it right here. Lisa, I love you”<br /><br />I burst out laughing, ok mock laughing but still, it’s funny.<br /><br />“You love me? When did you realize this?” I questioned and cross my arms across my chest.<br /><br />“I always have. The other girl was just a mistake”<br /><br />“Yeah, the other girl was a mistake and so were you. How many times do I have to tell you Ryan? I’m over you. I moved on”<br /><br />“Don’t you think of me anymore?”<br /><br />“No, but I’m constantly reminded of you” I looked at him with dead serious eyes.<br /><br />“See, which means that we still have a chance together” he smiled.<br /><br />“I think of you when it is my turn to take out the garbage. I think of you when I see a dead rat in the middle of the road. I think of you when Gail killed a cockroach the other night”<br /><br />“Lisa, please don’t do this” he gulped.<br /><br />“I’m sorry Ryan. I moved on, why can’t you?”<br /><br />There was a door closing and footsteps approaching the door.<br /><br />“Ting, who is that?”<br /><br />Ryan’s face hardens. “Who is that? “ he rolled up his sleeves.<br /><br />“My brother”<br /><br />I enjoyed watching the color drained from his face as he turned and ran away. I closed the door to see my brother standing there with his hands on his hips.<br /><br />“Who was that?”<br /><br />“Ryan” I said sheepishly.<br /><br />“What?” he yanked open the door to look down the hallway.<br /><br />I had to drag him away from the door and shut it.<br /><br />“What the hell is he here for?”<br /><br />“What else? To ask yours truly back” I pointed to myself like I’m a princess of some sort.<br /><br />“That guy got nerve. Don’t tell me you are getting back with him” Dylan ordered.<br /><br />“No way. I’m so happily in love with Tom” I pranced to the kitchen.<br /><br />“What?” Dylan cringed.<br /><br />“Er, nothing” I smiled.<br /><br />Did I just said I love Tom? Really? Just as I reached for my tub of ice cream, I realized I was smiling.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“ I have something important to ask you” Jay said and motioned me to follow him to his studio.<br /><br />I exchanged worried glances with Tom as I followed him. We sat down in his studio. Yes, finally I’m allowed in his studio. I must have looked like an excited kid when I started staring at the controls right in front of me.<br /><br />“How do you feel about advertising?”<br /><br />Eh, has he heard about the assignment which I was suppose to do about him? That was a very odd question.<br /><br />“Jay, I don’t understand” I said confusingly.<br /><br />“One of my friend asked would you like to do a Loreal’s hair product commercial?”<br /><br />My jaws dropped down the floor. Literally. Me? Plain old me?<br /><br />“Why me?” I asked, still not believing it. There are tons of gorgeous celebrities out there.<br /><br />“He saw your face in the papers a few times when you were out with Tom. Mr Chen just wants have a fresh face, someone who is from the common ground and not famous”<br /><br />I should be offended by the comment but I am not. I tuned out after the words “fresh face”<br /><br />“Lisa? Can I pass your number to Mr Chen?”<br /><br />“Is my hair really worth it?” I asked absent mindedly.<br /><br />Jay smiled “He thinks so”<br /><br />“But if I do the commercial, then the whole country could see me” I said.<br /><br />He nodded “Yes they can” he looked amused by my noob-ness<br /><br />Yes, noob-ness is a word I created.<br /><br />10 minutes later, I walked out of Jay’s studio, silently making my own Oscar speech.<br /><br />I would like to thank my parents for giving me this hair. I would like to thank my friend Gail who always insisted that I must follow her to the studio whenever she goes. I would also like to thank ….<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />Life is good, I just had my commercial shot and Jay being a pro and an old face of being advertised was there to get me some pointers such as which angle looks best and which light to focus on. To be honest, I was shy because I had to wear a silver dress with heels and I had never felt so girly in my adult life.<br /><br />“You look beautiful” Jay had given me thumb ups.<br /><br />My boyfriend couldn’t make it because he was running an errand for auntie. I was feeling rather awkward because I had to shoot a scene where a male actor had to smile as I pranced around the set. Nevertheless, we managed to finish the whole commercial within 3 hours. Whew.<br /><br />“That was fantastic” Mr Chen smiled and I felt myself bursting with joy.<br /><br />I walked off the set and was instantly greeted by Jay.<br /><br />“You did great” he smiled.<br /><br />I nodded and tried to keep myself from jumping around with joy.<br /><br />“Hey Lisa right?”<br /><br />I turned to see my male counterpart standing behind me, with a shy smile.<br /><br />“Yes” I smiled.<br /><br />What does he want? An autograph maybe? Oh my, I became a star in a second!<br /><br />“Would you like to go on a date with me?”<br /><br />Okay, that was unexpected. I smiled apologetically.<br /><br />“I’m sorry but I have a boyfriend”<br /><br />Who I might be in love with, I added mentally<br /><br />“It’s ok. We can be friends right?” he smiled good naturedly.<br /><br />I nodded and we exchanged numbers.<br /><br />“You have a boyfriend? How come you never mentioned him?”<br /><br />Oh, Jay is still waiting for me. I assumed he didn’t know about me and Tom then. I just smiled and mumbled something like “ You will know”<br /><br />“Lisa, get your stuff. We’re going to send you home now” Mr Chen said.<br /><br />“Oh no, it’s ok. I wanna walk home. It’s such a lovely day”<br /><br />“Are you sure?” Jay asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, besides I live nearby here. Just 15 minutes walk” I grabbed my bag and smiled.<br /><br />I really wanted to walk or fly, if I could. I felt so happy and so grateful for this opportunity that came by. Suddenly I wished to hurry home and celebrate with Gail and Dylan. My supportive brother who insisted that I have become a star overnight. Then tonight I am suppose to go over to auntie’s and have dinner. Her way of celebrating this little success, then Tom, I remembered how happy Tom was for me. I smiled and also thought about thanking Jay and Mr Chen for this chance. I didn’t realize I walked past a baseball field. I heard the kids screaming but by then it was too late. The last thing I saw was a bat and it hit me as I blanked out.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />Ouch ouch ouch. My head hurts. I opened my eyes and looked at the ceiling. Where am I ? Wait, who am I ? I touched my body. What am I wearing? Hospital clothes? What am I doing in the hospital? I got up and walked to the end of my bed.<br /><br />“Angelisa Wang Zhi Ting” I read out softly.<br /><br />Is that me? That must be me right? Since I’m lying on the bed. Suddenly a man walked in holding a bouquet of flower.<br /><br />“You’re awake. Come on, you should rest”<br /><br />I let him lead me back to the bed while I kept looking at him.<br /><br />“Who are you?” I asked.<br /><br />He looked sad “I don’t think you remember me but I’m your boyfriend, silly”<br /><br />I have a boyfriend? He does look handsome wearing a shirt and slacks as he placed his wallet and phone to the table next to me before he placed the flowers in a vase.<br /><br />“What happened to me?” I asked.<br /><br />“You had a little accident. Might have lost a little bit of your memory. Don’t worry; I will take care of you ok. Trust me” he touched my face.<br /><br />It felt warm and gentle. This is it, this man is my boyfriend.<br /><br />“I love you Lisa” he said suddenly.<br /><br />He loves me! Wait, am I suppose to say I love him too? Or is this is his first time of saying it to me? I guessed since we are a couple, I should say it back to him.<br /><br />“I love you too ..” then I realized I forgot his name.<br /><br />He smiled and held my hands. I smiled back at him, pretty much adjusting to the fact that I have a boyfriend.<br /><br />“I’m thirsty” I said, licking my lips.<br /><br />“I’ll get some water for you ok” he stood up and kissed me right on the lips.<br /><br />That felt .. nice . I smiled as he walked out of the room. I am grateful; at least with my memory lost, I know I have a boyfriend who loves me. I laid back with satisfaction. Just then my boyfriend’s phone rang. I picked it up and noticed my picture was his wallpaper. I smiled and answered the call, a number which is not identified.<br /><br />“Where are you?” a woman’s voice was whining.<br /><br />I felt a chill suddenly. Who is this woman? I was about to ask her but she whined again.<br /><br />“Ryan, where are you?”</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-57989359356622393662008-08-22T15:26:00.002+08:002010-03-01T19:35:26.526+08:00Chapter 12<span style="font-family:verdana;">“What the hell?” Tom shouted.<br /><br />I put myself between the two men. Tom looked really confused and hurt while Dylan had a comical smile on his face.<br /><br />“I’m sorry Tom ,it ‘s not what it seems “ I shook my head.<br /><br />“ I love her , Tom” Dylan smiled.<br /><br />“Will you shut it? Can you go out for a while?” I had to shove Dylan out of the room.<br /><br />Dylan rolled his eyes and walked out of my room as I shut the door behind him and looked at Tom who looked totally shocked. So shocked that he sat down on my bed with a numb look.<br /><br />“ That was my brother” I said calmly.<br /><br />“You married your brother?” Tom looked somewhat disgusted.<br /><br />“No.. he was just messing with you. I didn’t even know he would be coming today”<br /><br />I sat down beside Tom. Ok, I think it’s time to tell him the truth, the whole truth about Dylan and our history.<br /><br />“When I was much younger, Dylan had always been the protective big brother and I was very spoilt by him. When I wanted the new doll at the toy store, he would get it for me with his pocket money. When I wanted a new pencil case and my mom said no, he got it for me secretly. When I was being picked on in school, he would come over and threatened those kids”<br /><br />“How old were you?” Tom asked, looking at me.<br /><br />“I was 10 and Dylan was 16. There were some girls who always made fun of my glasses”<br /><br />Tom smiled “ You must have looked so adorable back then”<br /><br />I smiled “ I came home crying and Dylan followed me to school the next day. He told them off and the girls parents came to find our parents”<br /><br />“So he got into a lot of trouble huh?”<br /><br />“For me” I nodded then I stood up to adjust my curtain.<br /><br />“The last time I saw Dylan was when I just ended things with Ryan. He was quite furious because he was friends with Ryan and I tried to be strong in front of him because I knew he could get pretty impulsive and I didn’t want him to get into any trouble. Still, there’s nothing much you can do to hide how you really feel and well, the result was Ryan ended up with a black eye and Dylan ended with a cut on the lips”<br /><br />“Which explains why your brother dislikes me ?” Tom chose his words carefully.<br /><br />“I think he’s just being cautious this time around. I hope you will give him time to accept us” I held his hand.<br /><br />Tom nodded and then he turned to me “He’s not in love with you or anything, right?”<br /><br />I laughed “ Eww .. no way! He has a steady girlfriend”<br /><br />“Good, cause I can’t stand rivals” he teased.<br /><br />“Oh well, I have to learn to give up this brother protection cause when he gets married, I will lose him”<br /><br />Dylan came in the room.<br /><br />“You’re not gonna lose me”<br /><br />“You been eavesdropping! “ I walked to him , pointing at him accusingly.<br /><br />He nodded innocently and my inner child came out. I hugged him and I felt secure once again when I thought back of those horrible girls who kept making fun of my glasses. The torment, the torture , the pain that Ryan put me through, the childhood bad memories all flooded back.<br /><br />“I miss you. Welcome to my place” I pulled away from him.<br /><br />Dylan smiled and turned to Tom..<br /><br />“Have you seen her cry? It’s like the largest human face waterfall” he teased<br /><br />“Ge!” I looked at him in disbelief. Why is he giving ugly facts about me to my new boyfriend?<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">* ge = a respectable way to address older brother</span></span><br /><br />“And it's way worse when she had make up on. It’s like a black waterfall “<br /><br />I grabbed a pillow and covered my face as the two men chuckled at me. Underneath the pillow, I smiled. At least they are getting along<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“So she’s gonna cook again tonight?” I asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, it’s been a while since she cooked” Tom nodded.<br /><br />We were walking around the market with Tom holding a shopping list.<br /><br />“Where do I get these ?” he pointed to the list.<br /><br />“Tomatoes eh? I think that stall over there” I tugged on his hand.<br /><br />“Hmm and I thought you don’t cook”<br /><br />“I don’t but my brother does” I laughed.<br /><br />“So the big day is tomorrow eh? I wonder what your assignment will be “<br /><br />“I wonder too. Tom, I’m so excited. You are looking at the future senior editor” I couldn’t help smiling.<br /><br />Tom kissed my head “I have no doubt about that”<br /><br />“Why don’t we separate the list and you get the other half of the stuff? Then we can get this to auntie faster”<br /><br />“You’re hungry aren’t you?” Tom grinned.<br /><br />I looked guilty “How did you know?”<br /><br />“Cause I am too. The faster we get this to auntie, the faster we can get to dinner and then we can go for a walk around the mall “<br /><br />“ You are the best boyfriend ever “ I smiled at him.<br /><br />We tore the list into half as I approached the tomatoes stall. Hmm, the spinach here looked fine too. Maybe I should get the spinach from this stall itself.<br /><br />“Yes miss, what I can get you?” the man behind the stall asked me.<br /><br />He looked like a mid thirty year old man with a white t shirt and had a towel wrapped around his neck ,sweaty and greasy looking.<br /><br />“I would like ten tomatoes” I said, looking at the list.<br /><br />“Oh, that’s a lot. Cooking for the husband?”<br /><br />I smiled “ I’m not married” and I took out my purse.<br /><br />“That’s a waste. I’m sure there are guys who are dying to marry you out there”<br /><br />I laughed “I’m not ready to be married yet”<br /><br />He laughed too. What a friendly old man.<br /><br />“ My son said the same thing to me the other day. He’s also looking for a girlfriend”<br /><br />“Oh, I hope he will find someone soon” I took the tomatoes from him.<br /><br />Then again, the spinach doesn’t look that fresh at another glance.<br /><br />“I think he would like someone as pretty as you”<br /><br />Is that a compliment or an offer? Before I could answer friendly creepy dude, Tom showed up beside me, sliding his arm across my back.<br /><br />“Hey , done yet? We should get going, it’s getting late”<br /><br />“I just need to get spinach and ginger” I said, glancing at the list.<br /><br />“Er miss .. I have them here” the guy held up his basket of ginger.<br /><br />“It’s ok. I already bought them” Tom smiled at me.<br /><br />“Wow, that was fast” I smiled.<br /><br />“Anything for my girlfriend” he held my hand and turned away.<br /><br />Was it me or did Tom stress on the last word a little way louder?<br /><br />“That guy was trying to get you as a daughter in law” Tom whispered.<br /><br />“He was just joking around” I teased.<br /><br />“I don’t think so. You belong to me and no one is allowed to take you away” he smiled fondly at me.<br /><br />Okay, jealous much? That’s when I realize we were heading to another stall.<br /><br />“I thought we’re going for dinner” I said.<br /><br />Tom let out a deep breath “ We need to get spinach and ginger”<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />I let my keys dropped on the table nearby the door. It clattered noisily and Dylan poked his head out from the kitchen.<br /><br />“Hey, the little kid is home. How was work today?”<br /><br />I smiled and plopped down heavily on the sofa. Dylan came to me with a plate full of muffins. I gasped and sat up straight. My brother’s chocolate chip muffins are the only thing I craved for after a long hard day at work.<br /><br />“I thought you might miss this and I bet Tom doesn’t make you these”<br /><br />“Of course he does. Even if he does, yours taste much better” I smiled.<br /><br />That’s true. I had been a fan of his home baked muffins since I was a kid when he learned that recipe from mom.<br /><br />“Let me ask you something. Your boyfriend is a bodyguard for Jay Chou right?”<br /><br />“Not only bodyguard. He’s also the driver, the ones who did the errands and such for Jay Chou’s mother” I smiled proudly.<br /><br />“I must say he is probably making big bucks but why is Jay not your boyfriend then?”<br /><br />I smacked him playfully “ How can you ask me this kind of things? It’s not like I chose who my heart fell for”<br /><br />“Yuck sis, that’s sappy” he stuck out his tongue.<br /><br />I laughed “Tom is a really nice guy ok ge”<br /><br />“I just don’t want you to get hurt again. I seen what Ryan done to you”<br /><br />“Ok, let’s make a deal. If .. if Tom hurt me, then you can go and bash him up”<br /><br />I mean, it’s a fair deal. If I’m hurt, doesn’t mean my brother can’t pay back for me right? Besides I’m sure Tom won’t hurt me.<br /><br />Dylan smiled and nodded. I wanted to cry, I wanted to just blurt out and tell my brother about the big woe that had set upon me today but I cannot. Not when he is still trying to trust Tom.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“What are you gonna do?” Gail was sitting opposite me hugging her legs together.<br /><br />“I dunno. This is such a shitty situation” I sighed and leaned back on the sofa.<br /><br />Dylan is out tonight so I can talk to Gail in the comfort of my living room.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“Ah Lisa, just the person I want to see “ James smiled when he saw me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I smiled too. After all, today is the first step of me becoming a senior editor.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“I have a proposal for you and if you manage to get this job done, then you will be promoted to senior editor, as you know" James said with a confident smile</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“What am I suppose to report about? “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Gosh, please don’t let it be something nasty like war or accident or something like that.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“It’s about the entertainment industry”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“Oh, I heard Brad Pitt got together with Angelina Jolie”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I tried to sound clever by throwing ideas at him so that he would know I am capable and willing to bring back a story for him but James shook his head.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“I understand you are seeing Jay Chou’s bodyguard”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Should I lie?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“No, it’s just tabloid news. We’re just friends “ strike one.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“Oh, then you must know Jay Chou” James raised an eyebrow.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“No, I never talked to him. I only saw him once or twice from afar” strike two.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Have the tabloid caught photos of me leaving Jay’s house too often? Too late to think now.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“ How much do you know to write about him?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“I could write about his new album November Chopin” I sat up straight..</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“No, I mean his personal life”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“You mean something private and personal?” I cringed a little</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">James nodded. “ Exactly”</span><br /><br />“How can I choose between my dream job and my friend?” I moaned.<br /><br />“If you don’t take this proposal, will you lose your job?” Gail asked.<br /><br />“No, but there won’t be another chance anymore, I’m sure” I sighed.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Tom : ting, wat assg did ur boss gv u? J<br /><br />I sighed and pressed my handphone keypad, fingers furiously working on the alphabets.<br /><br />Me : jz smtg bt fashion<br /><br />Tom: gr8. proud of u. muax</span><br /><br />I threw my phone on my bed. How can I lie to Tom without feeling guilty? I wiped the tears from my face and picked up my phone when I heard someone rang the bell. Who came? I stood up and I heard a knock on my door.<br /><br />“Lis, Tom’s here” Gail called out.<br /><br />I opened the door to see Tom holding a stalk of white tulip.<br /><br />“Congrats on the job Ting Ting, now I’m gonna stand by you and support you all the way” he walked towards me and kissed my cheek.<br /><br />I nodded and accepted his tulip. I cannot do this, I cannot do this.<br /><br />“Tom, I need to talk to you about the assignment thing”<br /><br />“What? Do you need my help? I can't promise I will be useful but I'll try” he looked so willing that my heart ache.<br /><br />We sat down on the sofa and I held my voice steady as I told him everything. After my whole explanation, Tom remained expressionless. Stunned.<br /><br />“Tom, speak to me” I pleaded, touching his arm gently.<br /><br />“Are you going to do it?” he asked as he turned to me.<br /><br />Silence. I stood up and turned away from him.<br /><br />“You’re gonna do it?? “ his voice got louder.<br /><br />I was scared. I was afraid that Tom used that tone on me. It’s either I let go off my long life dream or letting go of Jay and losing Tom.<br /><br />“Lisa, I cannot believe you would put all our future on the line here”<br /><br />He stood up, picked up his coat and left as I collapsed into a heap of mess.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-17722108112702626102008-08-20T15:29:00.001+08:002008-09-02T15:31:00.173+08:00Chapter 11<span style="font-family:verdana;">That early morning I received a call from james. That big assignment he was gonna tell me, he postponed it to Tuesday. After that 7 am call, I couldn’t sleep anymore. I walked around the apartment and lit a cigarette .. nah, just kidding. I don’t smoke. I poured myself a glass of cold milk and turned on my new CD, the one Jay presented to me. Suddenly Rainie Yang’s voice rose from my bed. Snooky woke up and pounced on my bed. I picked up my phone as Snooky pushed his head against my head. He needs to pee.<br /><br />“Morning” the voice at the other end greeted me<br /><br />“Hey, why are you up so early for?” I smiled and Snooky whined<br /><br />“Had to pick up madam’s dress” he sounded sleepy<br /><br />I put him on loud speaker as I dig around my cupboard for my t shirt<br /><br />“Well, what’s your work schedule today?” I asked<br /><br />“Oh, nothing much, madam is just gonna be at home today”<br /><br />I put on Snooky’s leash as he whined some more. My puppy looks so cute when he is holding in pee. I picked up my phone and continued talking to my boyfriend. I love saying that, it makes me all warm inside.<br /><br />“Babe, where are you?” he asked<br /><br />“I’m just bringing Snooky out for a walk. Don’t call me babe” I frowned but as if he could see that<br /><br />Babe sounded so loose, like a guy talking to a hooker. ‘ How much for one night babe?’ or a sexual harassment ‘Nice ass babe’. I cannot imagine being addressed like that.<br /><br />I pushed the front entrance of the apartment gate open. Imagine my surprise when I saw a black Lamborghini parked right outside and in front of it, leaning on the car itself was Tom. I was so surprised I practically let go of Snooky’s leash as he desperately ran off to the nearest bush. Tom chuckled as he walked towards me and slowly pull the phone away from my hand to end our call. I blushed; okay I think I look very stupid like that<br /><br />“If I happen to be a passerby, I would conclude that you are a dog abuser”<br /><br />“What are you doing here? “ I asked with a smile<br /><br />“ Told you I went to pick up madam’s dress, decided to stop by here and gaze at your window. Just my luck your little baby needs a pee” he smiled back at me<br /><br />Snooky came running back to me, satisfied after peeing. I picked up his leash as he sniffed around Tom’s feet.<br /><br />“Yes, he’s all done now” I grinned as Snooky took his sitting place beside Tom’s feet<br /><br />“ Fancy a walk, baby?” he cocked his head to one side<br /><br />I looked at him and cringe. No baby calling. He got the idea and nodded. We walked slowly and Tom reached for my hand. I gasped silently. Every step that I take in this new relationship is so foreign to me. I really like Tom, so I just wanna be sure to thread lightly first.<br /><br />“What are you doing up so early this morning? It’s the weekend, I thought you would still be asleep” he asked as we walked slowly to the nearby park<br /><br />I told him about my boss, james and his proposal for the assignment which could promote me straight to the job that I wanted all along<br /><br />“Oh honey, that’s great” he looked really happy for me<br /><br />“ Tom, no honey” I shook my head<br /><br />He laughed softly and we sat down under a pretty maple tree.<br /><br />“So you have no idea what is he going to ask you to write?”<br /><br />I shook my head<br /><br />“No, I hope it’s not something sick or sad like murder or war” I said as I propped my chin up on his arm.<br /><br />“Well, whatever it is, you know I have your back and I am confident you will be able to fulfill this long time dream of yours” he pushed back some of my fringe softly<br /><br />“ What about you ? What’s your dream?” I asked<br /><br />“ I want to open a shop”<br /><br />“Cool. What shop?” I asked excitedly<br /><br />He put his finger on his lips “It’s a surprise”<br />I pouted a little but since Tom was so supportive of me, it’s only fair if I do the same for him<br /><br />“I know I am dumb” he said<br /><br />“About the shop? No, I think that’s a brilliant idea”<br /><br />“No, I mean. I never had any proper education. I learnt everything myself and I learnt the basic in the orphanage. I will never be an engineer or a doctor”<br /><br />“Why are you telling me this for? As long as you’re willing to work hard, that is enough”<br /><br />I guessed Tom needs to tell I about his inner fears and his weaknesses and I really appreciate that; it makes him seem less perfect. Thank God, I almost thought I am dating a perfect robot. So just like anyone else, he needs assurance.<br /><br />“Thank you Lisa” he smiled<br /><br />I couldn’t help it, I reached out and kissed his dimple. He responded with a satisfied grunt and a kiss on my head.<br /><br />“Come on Ting Ting, let’s go for breakfast”<br /><br />I got up with him and smiled as I tugged on Snooky’s leash. That is one name I could get used to<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />“I wish I have a boyfriend like Tom” Gail sighed<br /><br />“There are better guys out there chasing you” I grinned<br /><br />I set my foot down on the floor to examine my newly polished toe nails. Hmm.. Tom did mention I look good with brown.<br /><br />“You know what I mean, tall, handsome , famous”<br /><br />“He’s not Jay Chou” I grinned<br /><br />“Obviously, but he’s the next best thing”<br /><br />“I’m more worried about Dylan” I frowned<br /><br />“Oh yeah, if Dylan finds out about you and Tom, it’s gonna get pretty ugly” Gail examined her fingernails<br /><br />“This is why I don’t plan to tell both of them about each other”<br /><br />“Isn’t honesty an important key in a relationship? Doesn’t Dylan read the newspaper? You’re like a celebrity now, only you’re dating a hot bodyguard”<br /><br />“I thought bodyguards are big and round” I pondered<br /><br />“This is why you’re the luckiest girl to nab the handsome one. Don’t let Dylan spoil your love story”<br /><br />“You are right. Speaking of love story, how is yours going on?”<br /><br />She blushed “ Still the same. I haven’t ask him out yet”<br /><br />My dear Gail has fallen head over heels for a guy at her workplace. Gail is a photographer for National Geographic magazine and that guy is her assistant. You never thought she is a photographer but that’s the only explanation why her room is full of different lens and tripods. Not to mention, the pile of free magazines in the corner, collecting dust.<br /><br />Suddenly there was a knock and when I opened it , I saw Cindy. She looked pretty happy.<br /><br />“Lisa! You’re okay! Gail said your ankle was twisted from the accident”<br /><br />I glanced at Gail and turned back at Cindy<br /><br />“Oh yeah, but I’m recovering slowly. Forget me! Where have you been? We been so worried about you”<br /><br />“So sorry we missed your birthday, that accident was such a bummer” Gail rolled her eyes<br /><br />“ What happened?”<br /><br />“We were on our way to the hotel when this stupid drunk driver came near us and we swerve and ended up in the big drain”<br /><br />“I’m sorry I didn’t come to see you guys in the hospital”<br /><br />“It’s okay. I was given out patient treatment and Lisa came home the next morning”<br /><br />I kept quiet all this while because I did not know how to get involved with the web of lies Gail is spinning<br /><br />“Where have you been?? “ I asked again<br /><br />“So sorry I disappear without notice. I needed some time off” Cindy sighed<br /><br />“Dear, what happened? “ Gail looked at me and then we looked at Cindy<br /><br />“Right before my birthday, Sean broke up with me “<br /><br />That bastard. i wonder if he told Cindy anything about the incident in the room<br /><br />“That asshole” Gail muttered<br /><br />“What happen?”<br /><br />“ He said the feeling was gone. He said he don’t love me anymore “ Cindy started sobbing<br /><br />We hugged her. At least now that Sean is out of her life, she can start healing and we don’t need to see that pervert anymore.<br /><br />“I really thought he was the one” Cindy mumbled<br /><br />Okay , those words just made me shudder a bit ..<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />I smiled as I unlocked the door to my apartment. Today has been such a beautiful Sunday. I just came back from lunch and a long chat with Madam Ye and Jay. Tom promised he is going to bring me out to somewhere beautiful and he’s downstairs parking his car.<br /><br />“Hey you!” I smiled like an idiot when I went in the apartment<br /><br />Gail was sitting on the couch, cleaning her camera lens and she stood up as I walked in<br /><br />“Er .. lis, there’s something I need to tell you “<br /><br />“Speak to me. Hey, do you have that beige heels that you wore to ..” I opened my bedroom door to see Dylan sitting on my bed<br /><br />“Hey you! Finally you’re home” he smiled and walked to me<br /><br />“What you doing here? “ I sighed<br /><br />“Had to check up on you”<br /><br />“All the way from China? You know there’s such thing such as phone calls and web cams right? “ I teased<br /><br />“Still, I flew all the way out here to see you” he smiled tenderly<br /><br />“No need to, Dylan” I rolled my eyes playfully<br /><br />He flicked my forehead<br /><br />“Owh!” I rubbed my forehead<br /><br />“Serve you right for calling me Dylan”<br /><br />“Look, I’m busy tonight and ..”<br /><br />“What’s going on here?”<br /><br />We turned and Tom was standing by my door, looking confused. I walked towards him<br /><br />“Tom, it’s nothing. He’s just .. “ I knew I sound like a babbler<br /><br />“Oh, so you’re Tom ? “ Dylan pulled me aside and stared at Tom<br /><br />“Who are you?” Tom frowned<br /><br />Dylan smiled, that smile which says ‘back off’. Oh no, this is gonna be really ugly, just like Gail said<br /><br />“I’m Lisa’s husband “<br /><br />OH NO!</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-52227819852720543582008-08-18T15:31:00.001+08:002010-03-01T19:24:01.262+08:00Chapter 10<span style="font-family:verdana;">Sean placed the knife near my neck as I silently prayed for a miracle. I felt so weak and my eyes were running out of tears as I laid on the bed helplessly, still handcuffed to the bed post. I was angry too but I’m not sure why. Was I angry because Cindy had such a bad judgement? Was I angry that Gail abandoned me?<br /><br />“Why are you doing this to me? What did I do to you? “ I hissed fiercely.<br /><br />“Why are you torturing me Lisa? With that pouty lips and smart ass attitude. I know you want me to, I have seen the way you look at me so why do you act like you don’t ?”<br /><br />I’m terrified to even answer him. Sean looked extra crazy. Crazy enough to think that I would ever want to sleep with him. I tried to sit up but he pushed me down.<br /><br />“Kiss me bitch and I swear, if you bite me again, I will cut out your lips”<br /><br />He pressed his lips on mine and his weight pressed on my bleeding arm. I winced in pain but Sean didn’t seem to care. I was whispering, begging him to stop when I heard the door being flung opened. It was the happiest moment of my life when I saw Gail and .. Tom??<br /><br />“Lisa!” Gail gasped and probably assumed I was betraying Cindy.<br /><br />I turned to her so that she could see my teary face and my bleeding arm. This is not some passionate rendezvous. Gail ran to me as Tom pulled Sean off. I could not remember anything much except I saw Sean swinging the knife around Tom and then my vision went black.<br /><br />************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />I managed to open my eyes just a little bit and I saw three figures. I closed my eyes and just let relief in.<br /><br />“She was bleeding but we managed to stop the blood in time. She had eight stitches and if all is well, she can get out of her in two days” I heard a man said.<br /><br />“Oh thank you doctor” that was Gail.<br /><br />I heard the doctor left the room and then I heard heavier footsteps walking towards me.<br /><br />“She is okay, you heard the doctor” I heard Gail said.<br /><br />“I’m just mad that Sean would do this to her. I’m furious to think that he managed to get away”<br /><br />“I shouldn’t have left her alone. The phone call was a prank” Gail said softly.<br /><br />“ You know, I thought Sean was Ryan” Tom sounded slightly surprised.<br /><br />“ Nah, Ryan is taller and has a bigger butt”<br /><br />I wanted to giggle. Trust Gail to notice these kind of details.<br /><br />“She look so worn out “ Tom said softly.<br /><br />It hurts to know that he’s only a foot away and I had to resist the urge to sit up and embrace him.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />When I woke up the next morning, I saw Gail sitting next to me peeling an apple.<br /><br />“Oh wow, for a moment there, I thought you were going to be sleeping beauty and I need to find your prince charming to come and kiss you awake”<br /><br />“Very funny Gail” I made a face at her.<br /><br />“What happened yesterday? Where is Cindy?”<br /><br />“Sean managed to get past Tom and don’t worry, I told Cindy that we got into a car accident on the way there. I cleared the sheets and dumped them in the washer at home to get rid of anything suspicious”<br /><br />That was a mouthful. It took me a second to register what Gail just told me.<br /><br />“ You stole the hotel sheet?” I looked at her.<br /><br />“ Oh come on. I have to. Why you never told me about Sean??”<br /><br />“I just think it’s better if lesser people knew and Tom forced it out on me. I didn’t want you to feel uncomfortable because he’s Cindy’s boyfriend”<br /><br />“Oh well. Now I know he’s such a bastard”<br /><br />“Where in the world did you find Tom to come and find for me?” I suddenly remembered.<br /><br />Gail looked excited again.<br /><br />“Remember the bunch of paparazzi we thought that Cindy hired to cover her birthday party? It seems that Jay was in the hotel room downstairs shooting a scene for his music video. It was such a coincidence that I found Tom while I was running down the stairs to get help when I heard you screaming and Sean yelling in the room”<br /><br />“Why did you run down the stairs when you could use the elevator?”<br /><br />Imagine Gail running down the stairs in heels .. hmm.<br /><br />She looked embarrassed “I forgot ok.. I just panic but think about it, it’s destiny. I was meant to bump into Tom. Speaking of him, he was right here with you until 5 am just now, sleeping on this chair. Lis, he cared for you. I saw how devastated he was when he rushed you to the hospital.”<br /><br />“What are you saying?” I asked her softly.<br /><br />“You are important to him”<br /><br />************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />I pressed cancel on the phone and pushed my phone back into my bag. It’s been two days since Cindy’s birthday and I can’t seem to get her on the phone. Neither can Gail.<br /><br />“Don’t worry Lisa. This is not the first time she ‘disappear’”<br /><br />True, Cindy was known to ‘disappear’ without telling anyone. It was her way to cope with stress and she came back to tell us her problems. I looked out of the window and I saw the city view passing by and then my glance fell on my arm. My wounded bandaged arm.<br /><br />I’m grateful that Tom rescued me from Sean, I really am and the thought of him carrying me was probably the last touch between us. For the past two days, I have not seen him, ever since that night I heard him talking to Gail.<br /><br />“I just want to lie on my own bed again” I smiled as I put down my bag on the sofa.<br /><br />Snooky ran up to me , yelping and whining until I picked him up and make a big fuss about him, which he always love.<br /><br />“You should go and rest” Gail steered me to my room.<br /><br />When I opened the room door, I didn’t expect to see what I saw. I saw a bouquet of beautiful white tulips but what took my breath away was the man holding the flowers.<br /><br />“Welcome home” Tom looked nervous.<br /><br />“ Hi, what are you doing here? “ I asked as Snooky ran off and sniffed his feet.<br /><br />I noticed him, I noticed everything about him. His aftershave. His rolled up sleeves, his big hands and then I noticed, a cut on his cheek.<br /><br />“What happened?” I asked although I knew it was a wound from rescuing me.<br /><br />“Oh, just a little cut from the tip of the knife” he smiled.<br /><br />Cue dimple. Sigh ..<br /><br />“Lisa, I knew I had been confusing you with the kisses but the truth is , I really really like you .. I was not even aware when all this feelings started but I guess when we first kissed ..”<br /><br />Then he stopped “ Oh gosh, I sounded so corny” he chuckled nervously.<br /><br />I let out a soft laugh. In fact, I find that boyish charm adorable and my heart was fluttering , beating so fast and making me blush.<br /><br />“I’m always the guy who felt like I have to be strong and independent because I had been looked down upon since I was living on the streets but I dunno how to feel when you are around me. You give another meaning to my life and I .. when I thought I was going to lose you, I was so afraid and I’m scared because I have felt this way before “ he gulped.<br /><br />If you think Tom is the kind of guy who is hard to understand, he’s not. I have learned that his feeling showed through his eyes and I saw the fear and the tenderness in his eyes at that moment and I couldn’t help it but I started crying. Oh dear, I cannot imagine being without him either.<br /><br />“ Lisa, don’t cry” he hugged me and I let him.<br /><br />I let him touched my wounded arm as I looked up at his face with a cut.<br /><br />“Be mine ok?” he whispered<br /><br />“For the press?” I asked , half teasing.<br /><br />He grinned “ For us”<br /><br />Then he planted a soft kiss on my forehead and I melted. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />“I cannot believe you’re still blushing. It’s been two hours” Gail exclaimed.<br /><br />“What?? Don’t tell me you didn’t plan to smuggle Tom into my room” I looked at her.<br /><br />“Yes I did but it worked out right?” she asked cheekily.<br /><br />“I love you, do you know that?” I laughed.<br /><br />Suddenly the phone rang, I reached for it.<br /><br />“Lisa? This is James. I have a special project for you. Can you come to my office tomorrow?”<br /><br />“Tomorrow? Sir, Tomorrow is Saturday” I asked, confused.<br /><br />Why my boss wants to see me on a weekend? Am I being fired? Am I in trouble?<br /><br />“ Nothing big. Just a new assignment for you and if you do it right, the job of senior editor will be yours”<br /><br />I took a sharp breath. Seriously? This is what I had been waiting for this whole life!!<br /><br />“ I’ll be there! At 10 am? Ok”<br /><br />When I hung up the phone, I shared the news with Gail and as usual, she burst out in excitement for me.<br /><br />“You are so gonna get that job.” Gail assured me.<br /><br />No matter what assignment that I’ll be assign to, I’m sure I will be able to do it. Want me to interview the man who eats kids? I’m there. Want me to travel to the end of the world to get the story? No problem, I’m the girl.<br /><br />The phone rang again.<br /><br />“Maybe its Tom” Gail teased me.<br /><br />I picked it up.<br /><br />“Hi, may I speak to Lisa please?”<br /><br />There was no mistaking that accent.<br /><br />“Dylan?” I cringed and made a face.<br /><br />Gail gasped.<br /><br />“Dylan?” she mouthed.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-90932457815539466772008-08-16T15:34:00.001+08:002010-03-01T17:43:55.019+08:00Chapter 9<span style="font-family: verdana;">If my heart could be heard breaking, it would be heard by these two guys. I looked so stupid there and I realized my hand was still wrapped around Tom’s big manly hand. Instantly I pulled away. The guy named Derek started chuckling. What is so funny?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;"> “Man, she’s funnier than the first nurse we pulled this on” he winked and pointed at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Am I on some prank show? I turned to Tom for answers and he was smiling at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, meet Derek. My best friend from college”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded, still very much confused.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ Derek is your .. “ I asked suspiciously.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh no, I’m married” Derek waved his hand in dismissal.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“It’s a thing between us to tell people we’re gay just to prank the nurses and visitors. You should have seen the first nurse we prank on. Her mouth was wide open and she dropped her clip board”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“This is not funny” I pouted.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I know. Why am I pouting? I cannot help but to pout in order to stop the tears from falling as I was overcome with relief and shock.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’ll leave you guys alone” Derek gave me a warm smile and walked out.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Don’t be mad Lisa. We were just fooling around” Tom said softly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“So you are not gay?” I asked innocently.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom smiled “Don’t believe those rumours”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">So he had heard the rumours of him being gay? Why didn’t he stand up for himself? Say something about it instead of letting everyone to assume it was true.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I had a girlfriend who wasn’t happy being who she was” he said.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He pulled me down and I sat across him, my ears perked up to listen carefully. Ok, so maybe his ex had some major attitude problem or she was either too thin or too fat. Maybe that’s why she didn’t like who she was.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What do you mean? What happen to her?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“She made major decision without telling me” Tom continued.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“She left?” I tried to guess.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Not that. She chopped off her boobs” he made cut motion in front of his chest.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I cringed. Gosh, she wanted to be a guy??</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You mean, remove her breast?” I tried to rephrase it so that it sounded less violent.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom nodded “ And she cropped off her long beautiful locks and trade it in for this short boy cut”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded. So she didn’t like the lady ship and decided to jump off board. Or rather, join the dude ship.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“How did you take it?” I asked softly because I knew this could be a sensitive topic to tread on.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“At that time, I was devastated. I didn’t care if she had cut her hair or lose her boobs. I just wanted her back so impulsively I grabbed her and kissed her”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“That’s when the flash bulbs spark off” I finished the sentence for him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom nodded again.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“When the rumours spread, I thought it would be better this way rather than to humiliate her in public. Imagine the headline ‘ Sally turned Stanley’. I just let it be”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Are you still in contact with her?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom looked thoughtful.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“No, not for a long time. It’s been two years since then. You’re the only one I’m telling this to”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded as I stood up. I felt like both of us needed some time alone. I had to absorb all this new knowledge and Tom needed some time alone to forget about his ex.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I gotta go now”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Will you be back tomorrow?” he looked at me like a five year old begging for candy.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Promise”</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">***************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Er.. where’s the damn recipe? I’m in the kitchen, lifting up pots and pans, frantically looking for my piece of paper. It’s been two days since I visited Tom in the hospital. I knew I promised him I’ll be back the next day but work got in the way.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What are you doing?” Gail asked, halfway yawning as she dragged her feet into the kitchen holding her phone.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Making porridge” I reached for the pepper.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“But you don’t cook. Is it for Tom?” she asked with a big grin.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“At least I’m learning” I smiled and practically avoided the question.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Did you go out this morning? I thought I heard the front door opened and closed”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Yeah, I bought eggs. You finished it, didn’t you? “ I pointed the fork at her accusingly with mock anger.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Gail smiled guiltily.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Sorry I haven’t bought a new pack. Was it urgent?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“For the porridge, yes”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, you really like this guy eh?” Gail looked serious.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I lowered the fire and looked thoughtful.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I guess so” I said softly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You guess? Lis, you don’t cook but look at what love has brought you to do now. This is so sweet” Gail cooed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I rolled my eyes with amusement and turned to have my wrist came in contact with the boiling pot.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Ouch” Gail had a short pained look and seemed to focus her phone on me</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I turned on the tap and let the cold water run over my hot skin. Thank God it wasn’t burnt, just red.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Gail, please don’t take photos of me now. I look like a grandmother”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I indicated with my other hand the messy hair, the big baggy shirt and the holey shorts.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Relax, I’m just text messaging” she lowered her phone.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Alright Gail. I need to go shower now and after that, I’m heading to the hospital”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh, I’ll just run off to buy some bread” Gail put on her heels.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">That’s my Gail, running to the grocery store around the corner in heels. I chuckled and went in my bed room.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">***************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I opened the door and peeped inside. Tom was sitting up in bed, looking at his phone.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I brought you something” I walked in.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Please tell me its food” he smiled at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Suddenly I felt nervous. Will he like it? Yes, I did taste the porridge that I made but would it be okay for Tom? What if all this while he developed a rich man’s tongue through every meal cooked in perfection by Jane at the mansion home? What if he throws up? I poured some into his bowl and the nervousness was eating me up inside while I observed him eating.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Lisa, thanks for the food. It is delicious” he smiled after he finished a bowl.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Really? You’re not lying, are you?” I looked at him suspiciously.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom grinned and shook his head. In fact, he finished the whole container.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You got skills to cook” he smiled, his beautiful dimple showing.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">For the next hour, we sat there talking about food and our experiences.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“How could you eat snake meat? “ I gasped when Tom told me about his experience of camping in the jungle when he was just a boy scout.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Well, it was either eat or die” he grinned.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Your scout master threatened you to eat snake meat?” I gasped.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Then I caught a glimpse of his eye and realized he just lied.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Ok, which was the lie?” I pretended to look angry.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“The scout master one” Tom nodded.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Not the snake meat one? Eww .. Tom .. snake??”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Tom laughed, then he looked at me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You know what, I’m going home tomorrow”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh great! Now you can take care of Madam again” I was really happy on his behalf.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">A guy like Tom should go back to his job and not lie in the hospital, feeling miserable and useless.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“And to say thank you, I want to come over and cook for you. I promise I will bring my own eggs”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">When I looked confused, Tom whipped out his phone and played me a video, a video of me and Gail’s conversation that morning.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Text messaging, my ass” I mumbled under my breath.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Don’t be mad at her. I think you looked adorable.”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I looked up at him and he was looking at me. I dunno if he’s trying to picture me in that horrible combo that he saw in the video or something. Why is he looking at me like that? Is he just being polite when he said I looked adorable? Before I knew it, Tom was kissing me. His lips were warm and inviting and I did kiss him back, until something in me snapped. I can’t keep letting Tom take advantage of me. I pulled away and picked up my stuff.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sorry. I gotta go”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">***************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was sitting beside my window and thoughts were going in and out of my mind. Why is Tom confusing me? I like him very much and all this kissing stuff is really bothering me. Am I being used and played? Does he really like me? I’m so messed and then I decided. I’m done with the whole clan. A waste though since Jay and I just hit it off as friends and Madam treats me like her best friend. I heard the door creaked and Gail walked in.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Are you mad at me?” she said softly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I shook my head as she came up to me and wrapped her arms around me. I embraced her gratefully.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I think I’m going to cut all ties with Tom and the rest”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“But you are crazy about Tom” Gail muffled in my hair.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“He confuses me. His kisses confuses me and I don’t want to go through Ryan number two anymore”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Aww sweetie. Should I go talk to Tom?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“No, Gail. Let’s just leave it as it is “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“But you can’t keep avoiding him forever”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Gail was right. It’s been a week since I last saw him in the hospital and I never answered his calls. He had dropped by twice but I made Gail lied for me, by saying I was not home. I cannot keep using this excuse anymore. Time to come clean.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">***************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Within the next few days, me and Gail were busy preparing for Cindy’s upcoming 24th birthday. She was going to have a party in the hotel ballroom and I was supposed to meet her in the hotel room which she booked to get prepared. Gail and I were rushing through the lobby with our bags full of stuff which we brought along for ourselves.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What time is Cindy coming?” I turned to Gail</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“In about an hour” she said, glancing at her watch.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">We stopped by the receptionist counter and identified ourselves as Cindy’s trusty room key holder. As we headed upstairs, I noticed there were press everywhere.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ What the hell is going on? Did Cindy hire the reporters to cover her birthday party?” Gail chuckled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Knowing how public my best friend could be, I would dared agreed. As we entered Cindy’s suite, we noticed it was a five star suite.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Woah, look at this” Gail pointed to a pair of handcuffs on the bed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Uh huh” I was really unsure of what to think.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Cindy and Sean are gonna get freaky tonight” Gail grinned.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">No, I did not tell Gail about Sean. I figure, the less people know, the better. The two of us were busy applying makeup in front of the mirror when Gail’s phone rang.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Really? Ok, I’ll be down now”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">She looked at me confusingly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Seems that my car is parked at a no parking bay”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You go and check. I’ll be here”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Gail smiled and nodded. She took the key with her and I was supposed to be in the room, not to leave. I finished my makeup and was busy curling my hair. Damn, this side of the hair is so stubborn. Let’s try again. Within a few minutes, I heard the door opened.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ That was fast. How was your car?” I turned.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">It was like a nightmare came true. Sean stood there with the key in his hand. I stood up and blinked a few times. No, it’s Sean, no matter how much I wished, it’s not Jay again.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Surprise to see me?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What are you doing here? “ I asked, my heart pounding with fear.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Hey, this is my girlfriend’s suite. Why can’t I be here?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">True. I had no rights to argue about that.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Well, me and Gail are here to dress up so I would appreciate it if you come back in an hour’s time “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I looked at him coldly. He looked stupid, standing there grinning like a donkey. I rolled my eyes and walked past him to get into the bathroom. The next thing I knew, he pulled my hair and pinned me to the wall.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Don’t try to act all arrogant with me Lisa” he threatened.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">And then I saw it, one glimpse and I saw a knife sticking out from his boots. My eyes widen with fear. He must have smelt my fear as he pressed his hand on my neck.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You like what you see? “ then he pulled out his knife.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">All I could smell was his breath, his nasty breath and all I could hear was my heart pounding and my breath quickening. I silently prayed that Gail would come back soon but Sean seemed to read my mind.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“If your little friend or whoever walks in the room, this knife will go straight to your heart, understand?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Then he grabbed me and before I knew it, he used the handcuff and chained one of my wrist on the bed post.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“One movement and you’re dead” he warned me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I watched as he walked to the table and ransacked through our purses. There goes my credit card and my watch, into his pocket. My eyes wandered to the vase near the table and I struggled to reach for it. I aimed for his head but when I threw, he turned and managed to miss.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Now you’re pushing it too far Lisa. I told you to stay put right?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He brought the knife on my neck and then he kissed me. I pushed him away but he moved his knife to form a cut on my arm. I winced in pain as he pushed me to the wall.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Sean, let me go ” I started crying, maybe by pleading he will stop.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He took a step back and smirked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You look prettier when you’re in tears. Too bad nobody will see how pretty you look ”</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-72504413391108365162008-08-14T16:29:00.001+08:002010-03-01T17:31:37.324+08:00Chapter 8<span style="font-family:verdana;">I stepped back and instinctively my mind thought of the pen knife Gail had kept in the drawer behind me.<br /><br />“What the hell do you want from me?," I raised my voice with my fist clenched, ready to punch.<br /><br />“Woah, why are you so worked up for? “ then he looked at me.<br /><br />It was Jay. I felt like a huge elephant just got up from my chest. The relief was so overwhelming that I sat down on the floor.<br /><br />“Hey, are you okay?” he came and knelt down beside me.<br /><br />It was a risky move but I removed the cap and blinked a few times. Yep, without a doubt, it was Jay.<br /><br />“You look scared. Did I scare you?”<br /><br />I let out a deep breath and shook my head then I stood up.<br /><br />“What are you doing here?” I asked.<br /><br />“My mom was wondering about you. It’s been a little hectic around the house”<br /><br />“What do you mean hectic?” I asked as we sat down.<br /><br />“It’s just that my mom is at home alone and I’m busy with video recording. My uncle came over and visited her around three days ago when Tom was admitted to the hospital”<br /><br />What?<br /><br />“Why is he in the hospital?” I tried to sound casual but I felt sick inside.<br /><br />Imagine Tom lying in the hospital with tubes connected everywhere to his body and the heart rate machine beeping. I shook my head, getting rid of that image.<br /><br />“He had a high fever and collapsed on duty” Jay cringed a little.<br /><br />I nodded and I didn’t what to say. Snooky was looking at Jay as he sat down on the floor.<br /><br />“Does he bite? “ Jay was looking at Snooky.<br /><br />“Why did you come here? You could have call” I ignored his question.<br /><br />“I thought it would be better if I drop by to see how you are and also to visit your home. Hope you don’t mind. Nice place you got” his eyes scanned around my living room.<br /><br />I smiled a little at his compliment before I noticed Snooky was resting next to Jay’s feet.<br /><br />“Snooky, you little rascal” I chuckled. Jay laughed too.<br /><br />“I know this is a bit too much to ask but .. “ he looked at me.<br /><br />Ding Dong ! Both of us leapt up from the couch and looked at each other in panic.<br /><br />“I can’t be seen here” Jay put on his cap.<br /><br />” Umm .. just pretend you’re the pizza guy again” I threw my hands up in desperation.<br /><br />“What is the pizza guy doing in a girl’s house?” Jay whispered in a hiss.<br /><br />Ding Dong !<br /><br />“Babe, are you gonna open up?”<br /><br />“Gosh, it’s Cindy. Quick, hide” I pushed Jay towards my room.<br /><br />Jay confusingly obeyed me and I rushed over to the front door, messing up my hair a little to give the impression that I had just woken up from a nap or I was just combing my hair.<br /><br />“Finally!” she gave a mock yawn and lifted two plastic bags up.<br /><br />“You been grocery shopping?” I asked with one raised eyebrow.<br /><br />“Yup and it’s all for you. Hello Snooky” she greeted my puppy and walked around him. Then she stopped and sniffed around.<br /><br />“What’s that smell? “<br /><br />Oh shit! Jay’s cologne.<br /><br />“Er.. just something Gail bought” I dismissed it with a wave of hand.<br /><br />“Smells like a guy had been here” Cindy mumbled.<br /><br />I laughed nervously as I helped her unpack the stuff. I took the bottle of pepsi to the kitchen while thinking of what this bottle of sugar would do to my hips. I heard Snooky running around as his little collar bell was ringing.<br /><br />“LISA!!” Cindy’s scream sent me running to the direction of her voice, straight to my room. Dammit ! Cindy was standing at the door, looking terrified.<br /><br />“Lis, I know this will freak you out but I think there’s a man in your room”<br /><br />Sure enough, there was a pair of feet sticking out under the curtain.<br /><br />“And he’s wearing Gail’s perfume. Don’t worry, I’ll call the .. “<br /><br />I stopped her half way with a raised hand and stepped towards the curtain.<br /><br />“For a successful top selling album guy, you suck in hiding” I rolled my eyes.<br /><br />Slowly the curtain opened and there stood Jay. Cindy gasped.<br /><br />“It’s Jay Chou” she let out a whisper.<br /><br />Then she looked at me , my messy hair and then at Jay.<br /><br />“You guys were ..? “ she was pointing her fingers accusingly.<br /><br />“Were what.. no ..hell no” my eyes widen when I realized what she was hinting at.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />When I was in the kitchen , refilling the popcorn bowl, Cindy came in.<br /><br />“I didn’t know you know Jay” Cindy said.<br /><br />“Er, I thought I told you before” I looked at her, puzzled.<br /><br />“But I never thought you know KNOW him”<br /><br />I let out a chuckle “Told you he apologize about his attitude”<br /><br />“He’s hot. Too bad I have Sean” Cindy sighed.<br /><br />Sean. Yuck. Asshole.<br /><br />“Regret?” I asked about the sigh.<br /><br />“No, content. Sean might not be Jay Chou but he’s my superstar”<br /><br />I wanted to vomit. Luckily my gag reflex is stronger than I thought. As we brought food back to the front, Jay stood up.<br /><br />“I have to go now. Lisa, can I talk to you for a sec ? “ Jay pointed to a corner of the room.<br /><br />We went to the corner and Jay spoke in a low voice.<br /><br />“Listen, is it okay if I request you to follow my mom to the hospital these few days? She’s looking after Tom but I don’t want her to get too tired. I can’t go, I’m having some video shoots and you know, crazy paparazzi’s on my back. Can you go on my behalf? If you want, I can pay you” he put his hands in his pockets.<br /><br />I shook my head.<br /><br />“No need to pay. I would be happy to accompany your mom” and to see Tom.<br /><br />Jay smiled. “Thank you” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />Cindy groaned “ You are officially out of your mind”<br /><br />I looked at her innocently. She looked at me and rolled her eyes.<br /><br />“You could have asked for a million bucks”<br /><br />“Just to accompany his mom to the hospital??”<br /><br />“You get what I mean!!”<br /><br />Was Cindy right? I couldn’t think anymore as auntie pushed the door open to Tom’s room. There he was, lying on the bed with his eyes closed. As soon as he saw us, he lifted his head a little then smiled with his pale lips.<br /><br />“You came. Hey Lisa”<br /><br />Aww, he looked so handsome even though he was pale.<br /><br />“I just drop by to see how you are doing” I smiled.<br /><br />Honestly, I dunno how to feel. We kissed and went silent for a week and now I see him , he looked so tired and pale, I don't have the heart to be mad at him. Tom tried to sit up so I helped to prop him up and fluffed his pillow.<br /><br />“Has your temperature gone down?” auntie asked.<br /><br />“Yeah, I felt much better. It’s just been pretty boring” he gave a small sigh.<br /><br />“You know why you get sick? You don’t eat enough vegetable” auntie nagged.<br /><br />“You don’t eat veggie?” I asked, surprised.<br /><br />“Look at Lisa. She consumes veggie, no wonder she is so healthy” auntie praised me.<br /><br />Tom chuckled “Perhaps that’s why she looks prettier day by day too”<br /><br />I found myself blushing “Veggies don’t make people pretty” I teased.<br /><br />After an hour of chatting, what I learnt from Tom was he loves swimming and he will pick pineapple of the pizza. Aha! Perfect guy has flaws.. who doesn’t love pineapple?<br /><br />“And I find animals amusing” he smiled.<br /><br />“Like Snooky?” I wondered what he thinks of my puppy<br /><br />“Exactly like Snooky. Madam, Lisa has a little brown adorable puppy”<br /><br />“Do bring her along one day” auntie turned to me with a smile.<br /><br />Then she got up and looked at us.<br /><br />“I have to go to the saloon now. These white hairs need to be taken care of. Lisa, do you wanna leave or stay here with Tom?”<br /><br />I looked at Tom , who nodded at me.<br /><br />“ I think I’ll stay for a little while more”<br /><br />After madam left, Tom’s shoulder slumped.<br /><br />“You okay?”<br /><br />“Just a little tired” he smiled weakly.<br /><br />I dunno why I did so but I put my hand forward and felt his forehead.<br /><br />“You’re burning up again. Here, lay down”<br /><br />I slowly pulled off the pillow and helped him to lay down. Here was a guy whom I liked and he’s sick. Suddenly I miss the old Tom, the Tom that was healthy and strong but taking care of him made me warm inside.<br /><br />“All better?” I asked<br /><br />“Never been better. Oh wait, had been better” he smiled.<br /><br />Then he frowned.<br /><br />“Lisa, can you scratch my shoulder, it itches. I wish I can do it but my hand is kinda stiff”<br /><br />I stood up and tried to figure out where his itch was.<br /><br />“Oh left a bit .. lower .. nope.. there” he gave a sigh of relief as I scratched his annoyance away . I could almost feel his taut skin and his muscles as I touched him. After half a minute of scratching his itch, Tom indicated he wanted a sip of water.<br /><br />“Damn , I dunno how I can fall sick. Kinda worried for Madam”<br /><br />“People fall sick Tom. It happens” I sat down beside him.<br /><br />“You must be thinking we abandoned you and I just used you as a publicity stunt”<br /><br />I kept quiet. That’s what I thought before Jay dropped me the visit.<br /><br />“Did Ryan bother you?” he asked, his eyes looking at me for answers.<br /><br />“No” I shook my head while I was thinking it was not Ryan, but that snake, Sean.<br /><br />“Lisa, did Ryan bother you?” Tom’s voice was firmer.<br /><br />“No”<br /><br />“Lis, are you sure?” he raised one eyebrow.<br /><br />Did my eyes give away my inner self? I gave in and told him about Sean.<br /><br />“Man, that guy should be beaten up” Tom said.<br /><br />“But he’s my best friend’s boyfriend” I tried to defend Cindy.<br /><br />“Still, doesn’t give him the right to make such suggestions”<br /><br />I shrugged, the There’s – Nothing – I – Can – Do shrug. Tom slowly took my hand in his and I looked at our hands, then at him.<br /><br />“ I want to protect you” he smiled.<br /><br />I felt really puzzled. I really don’t know what to think of our situation now.<br /><br />“I hope you feel better soon” I smiled back at him.<br /><br />He stroked my hand slowly.<br /><br />“Me too. I wanna go find that Sean guy. Nobody hurts Zhi Ting this way”<br /><br />The way he used my name was so gentle and my parents were the only ones who used that name to coax me when I was 5 years old, but with the way Tom looked at me and how my name just passed his lips, I almost had the urge to kiss him.<br /><br />“Zhi Ting, I got something important to tell you” then he gulped.<br /><br />I looked at him and suddenly my heart raced. My palms started sweating and I wonder if he noticed it. If he did, he certainly did not show any sign of knowing it.<br /><br />“I think I like .. “<br /><br />Suddenly the door burst open and another tall guy walked in, glaring at me.<br /><br />“Hands off missy. What are you doing?” he pointed at me.<br /><br />I was alarmed. Me?? Who is this dude? I looked at Tom for answers but he seemed to panic.<br /><br />“ De .. Derek. Calm down, it’s not what you think” Tom was stammering.<br /><br />I stood up “ Who are you?” I asked the dude at the door.<br /><br />“ I am Tom’s boyfriend”</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-76666139052637493202008-08-12T16:33:00.001+08:002010-03-01T17:13:45.168+08:00Chapter 7<span style="font-family: verdana;">My eyes opened and I noticed the ceiling was different. It took me a moment to realize that I’m not in my room. I closed my eyes and snuggled with the pillow. What happened last night? I smiled as I bit my lips with excitement, recalling the event that took place last night.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">I cannot believe I’m kissing Tom and when we finally broke off, I pushed myself to sit up. He sat opposite me and I was trying to look for signs of regret but he was smiling at me as he touched my hair.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">“It’s getting late. You should get some rest” he said.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">He stood up and I walked him to the door.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">“Good night” he kissed my forehead.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">“Night” I said softly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana; font-style: italic;">Then he walked out, leaving a scent of his aftershave in the room.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Why do I feel such a longing? Just then there was a knock and I thought it might be Tom but it was just Jane.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Miss Wang, would you like your breakfast in bed or downstairs?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Breakfast in bed? That would be too much.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’ll be down in a minute” I nodded and as soon as she went out, I changed into my own clothes, and as I washed my face, I realized I’m washing away Tom’s touch. When I went downstairs, I saw Madam eating breakfast with Jay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Morning auntie” I smiled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Both of them looked up and Jay looked at me, giving an overall look.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Finally the princess woke up” he smirked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">A frown from auntie made him returned his attention back to his breakfast plate.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Morning Lisa. Come and have some breakfast” she indicated the table.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh, it’s okay. Thanks for letting me stay for the night” I bowed a little.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Jay turned to me and swallowed his bread.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Come on, just stay for breakfast” he sounded slightly annoyed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I gave in and sat down. The table was filled with all sorts of food. Somehow I had to fight the urge to ask where Tom was. Did he regret about last night? How does he feel because when we kissed, it was clearly not a quick snog. I picked up a slice of bread and spread some jam on it. Just then Tom walked in wearing those long sleeved shirt not un tucked. My heart gave a leap but his face gave away no clue about last night.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Madam, your foot massage appointment is at 9” he said casually.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I glanced at the clock on the wall. Half an hour to go. Auntie nodded and turned to Jay.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Jie Lun, you take Lisa home ok?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was alarmed. First of all, Jay hates me and I do not want him to think I’m such a trouble.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh no, I can go home by myself” I protested.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Don’t be silly. Jie Lun can take you home. He will be going for a commercial shoot anyways”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded and thanked her. Luckily Jay does not look that annoyed. Then I got up with my plate full of crumbs and headed to the kitchen. Auntie said the maid could clean up but I felt it was unnecessary. As I was washing the plate, Tom walked in the kitchen to pour himself a glass of juice.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Sleep well?” he asked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">How could I not, I thought as I mentally recalled the kiss.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Quite well, you?” I turned to him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He smiled and stood next to me, a glass of orange juice in his hand.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I slept with the biggest smile on my face”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I giggled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“How could you know if you were smiling when your eyes are shut?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He shrugged “ I just know” then he washed his glass.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I turned to leave as I could hear chairs being pushed back. Auntie and Jay are getting up. Suddenly I felt a tug on my arm and when I turned, Tom kissed my cheek.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Take care” he smiled.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">As we pulled up at my apartment, I unbuckled my seat belt and turned to say goodbye to Jay. It had been an uncomfortable ride as he hummed to himself most of the journey.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Wait, Miss Wang”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I turned back to him; well he looked nicer and less annoyed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I know we did not get on a good start. I know I been harsh. I’m sorry”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded, so he doesn’t hate me anymore?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“It’s okay” I managed a small smile.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I hope we can get along, cause within this one month , I have seen my mother happier than before because now she has a friend to talk to “</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sure your mother has other friends”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He shook his head.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m not even sure who her friends are. She has many leeching friends, trying to be nice to her as I am the one who is making the money or girls who are after me“</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Then what about me? Aren’t you afraid that I’m like that?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“My mom trusts you. I don’t think you will want to see her sad or hurt, right?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Jay was looking at me and I could feel that he was trying to trust me. After all, he just wants to protect his mother. This is my chance to proof to Jay that not every one is after his money and not every reporter will talk about him all the time. Of course he doesn’t know I’m a reporter. I smiled and shook my head. That’s when Jay smiled, first time at me. Then he reached to the back seat and brought out a CD of his newest album and signed the cover.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I want you to have this” he handed the CD to me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I was touched by Jay’s gesture. To me, this shows how he sincerely wants to apologize for his behavior.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I pressed pause on my MP4 player just to accept my juice from the waitress. The window beside me overlooked a man made waterfall. The rushing sound of water was calming, so serene. I smiled as Tom came in my mind.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Hello babe”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I turned and saw Sean, Cindy’s snakey boyfriend grinning at me. Goodbye serenity.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What are you doing her?” I rolled my eyes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sean always gives me the creeps. Personally, I don’t like him and I don’t even think he’s good looking.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m here to tell you Cindy will be a little late” he smiled, that sleazy smile</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I nodded a little and turned back to face my juice as I pressed play on my MP4. My thoughts wandered off to Tom. It’s been a week since the kiss and I haven’t heard from him or auntie. Was Jay’s nice gesture a sign of telling me I won’t see them anymore?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Why do you hate me?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Oh gosh, he’s still standing there.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I just don’t think you’re the right guy for Cindy”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">There, that’s the best way to put it, excluding the word sleazy, jerk, annoying, asshole, playboy and the list goes on.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m sorry you felt that way” he said quietly.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">He looked remorse and sad, I almost felt guilty for saying that to him.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Why don’t one day the three of us have dinner at the famous diner around the corner?”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Sean looked excited and hopeful that I couldn’t help but to pay attention to what he was saying. Perhaps I had misunderstood him. Just then he leaned down and whispered in my ear .</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“After that, we can all drive back to my place”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“What the hell for?” I asked, although I guessed the sickening answer.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I stood up and stepped away from him. I think I knew the answer but I refuse to believe my best friend would fall for someone like Sean.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You know you want a good time with me. Just the three of us. Or if you like, the two of us” he smirked.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">My jaws dropped. A threesome? I was so stunned I couldn’t think straight.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Are you for real? Gosh, you are the worst guy ever. I’m your girlfriend’s best friend. You are pure disgusting” I looked at him like he’s the grossest thing in the world, which he is.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Oh baby. Why are you acting all innocent now? As if you never thought of it”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I have a boyfriend” I blurted out. Wait, where did that come from?</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You mean that publicity stunt with that popstar’s bodyguard?” he laughed.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Yes, there’s nothing funny about that “ I was getting uncomfortable.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">‘That’s not your boyfriend. He’s gay” Sean grinned.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">My eyes widen “He’s not” I felt like I had to defend Tom.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“F-A-G-G-O-T” his face came near mine then he tried to kiss me. I bit his bottom lips and walked away while he groaned in pain.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“ I’m a real man!”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">As I walked away, I could still hear him shouting.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“You like it nasty, huh babe”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">I couldn’t help it but I started crying.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">************************************************************************************</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">The truth was, Sean had hit me right in my guts. Why has Tom been so silent for a week? Was it true he’s gay? Maybe that kiss had been a confirmation for him. Oh, I kissed a girl and I don’t feel anything so I guess I’m gay? Had I been an experiment? Is that why he said take care? Was that why Jay was so nice to me? Suddenly I felt used, by the whole Jay household. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Since Gail is out clubbing tonight, Snooky was my only companion. Rainie Yang’s voice drowned the TV sound suddenly. I searched frantically for my phone, buried somewhere, underneath some throw pillows. Disappointment sets in when I saw Cindy’s name. I told her I was having a headache earlier, that's why I left. I couldn't bring myself to tell her about Sean.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Hey babe” Cindy sounded happy.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Hi Cindy” I tried to sound happy when the truth was, I been wiping silent tears for the last ten minutes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“I’m picking up some food and I’m coming over to cheer you up”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“It’s ok Cindy, I’m fine” I reached out to pat Snooky om his head. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Don’t be silly. I’ll be there in 20 minutes” then she got off the phone.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Perhaps it would be better to have Cindy over; at least I’m not lonely. Snooky started to jump off the sofa as I flicked channels. Suddenly there was a knock.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Pizza delivery”</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Did I order pizza? I did not!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">“Wrong house” I shouted annoyingly</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">The knocks persisted. What is wrong with this guy?? I got up and yanked open the door. Before I could say anything, the pizza guy pushed me into the house and closed the door. My eyes glanced at the chin poking out beneath the cap.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: verdana;">Oh my gosh, it’s Sean.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-293231258707425862008-08-10T16:37:00.001+08:002010-03-01T17:01:18.204+08:00Chapter 6<span style="font-family:verdana;">“Gail!” I shouted for my housemate as I yanked the door open.<br /><br />“Gail, Snooky .. “ I was loss for words when I saw Tom sitting on my couch with Snooky on his lap. My dog looked so contented there as he propped his head when Tom stroked the top of his head.<br /><br />“Oh, I’m sorry. I assume this is your dog? It followed me out”<br /><br />“Ah, it’s okay. I just thought he went missing. I’ll be right out”<br /><br />As I closed the door, I leaned behind the door and took a deep breath, and then I smiled to myself. Looks like Snooky approved of Tom. I wonder if Tom approves of me.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />I decided to wear just my simple new jeans and my new yellow top. When we arrived at Madam’s house, she was in the garden watering her plants.<br /><br />“Auntie, you don’t need to ask Tom to fetch me every time. Just call and I can come by my own” I smiled.<br /><br />Madam chuckled “ Silly girl. We just want you to be safe”<br /><br />I nodded and looked at her beautiful garden. I had never really looked at the garden before.<br /><br />“Tom, bring Lisa a tour around the garden”<br /><br />Tom came up next to me and held out his hand. I turned back to Madam.<br /><br />“Don’t you wanna come with us?” I asked.<br /><br />“Oh, no. I should go in to check on dinner. Tom will take care of you”<br /><br />Madam came over and took my hand and placed it in Tom’s hand. His hand is holding mine.<br /><br />“Tom, take care of Lisa. I don’t need you always, I’ll be safe” Madam teased.<br /><br />It felt really weird walking around with Tom’s hand in mine. He doesn’t seem to be feeling anything though like he’s already used to bring girls a tour around Madam’s garden. I felt a stab of jealousy of that thought.<br /><br />“Madam planted all these by herself” his other hand gestured the surrounding.<br /><br />“Really? I thought she have gardeners doing all these” I was surprised.<br /><br />There were tons of flowers around the whole garden. We walked from the right side of the house all the way to the back and came out from the other side of the house.<br /><br />“Yeah Madam’s hobby is gardening. Her garden is her second baby”<br /><br />“Wow, her second baby. She’s a pretty remarkable woman huh? “ my eyes roamed around.<br /><br />By now, I had let go off Tom’s hand to hug myself as it was getting windy outside but I still want to enjoy the beauty of the garden.<br /><br />“She is a remarkable woman. That’s why I like to work with her”<br /><br />He gestured the bench to me and we sat down together.<br /><br />“Madam has given me a job or else I might probably still be fighting with gangsters on the street” he looked at me.<br /><br />“What do you mean?” I asked curiously.<br /><br />“I’m an orphan who grew up at the orphanage. When I was 18, I was constantly beaten by a group of gangsters because their girlfriends apparently had a crush on me “<br /><br />“But that’s not fair! You didn’t went after them “ I wanted to raise my voice.<br /><br />Imagine that, Tom with his good looks being beaten just because he’s good looking.<br /><br />Tom remained calm as he nodded.<br /><br />“It got so bad until I was admitted to the emergency room with two stabs, one on the wrist and one on my chest. After I recovered, I worked as a bartender at night. In the morning, I helped an old man to sell fruits. That’s how I met Jay”<br /><br />“How did you meet him? Did he came over and bought some fruits?”<br /><br />He smiled at me “ That old man is Jay’s father”<br /><br />My jaws dropped.<br /><br />“Why is he selling fruits when his son is earning millions? “<br /><br />“Well, he still wants to be independent”<br /><br />“ Wow, I never thought you had such an interesting past”<br /><br />Tom nodded “ Actually Tom is not my real name, my name is Tian Zhi”<br /><br />I nodded and looked at him “ Tom is for the bodyguard image, huh?” I teased.<br /><br />He chuckled and nodded then quietly he said.<br /><br />“ My parents didn’t want me”<br /><br />Before I could say anything, he held up his left palm and pulled back his long sleeve a little to reveal his inner side wrist. I looked and he traced his scar with his right hand finger and as I traced his scar too, his fingers closed around mine.<br /><br />“Your hands are icy. Come on, let’s go in and have Madam’s soup” he stood up.<br /><br />“She cooks too?” I couldn’t help smiling.<br /><br />************************************************************************************</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><br />Somehow back in the garden, I had felt a soft side of Tom. I wanted to wrap my arms around him so badly, I wanted to try to erase the pain his past caused him, doesn’t matter if he likes me or not. Instead, I could only pat his hand and give encouraging words. I looked across the table and Tom was busy picking up food with his chopsticks. He looked like he belonged here and auntie doesn’t treat him like a bodyguard, more like a son. Tom looked so handsome, even when he’s chewing his food, I could see his jaw line move.<br /><br />“Lisa?”<br /><br />“Hmm..?” I turned to auntie at the same time Tom looked at me.<br /><br />She looked amused “ Is the food ok?”<br /><br />I grinned after I swallowed my food in the mouth.<br /><br />“It’s delicious; I haven’t had good home cook food since a long time. Gail and I are experts at making sandwiches but nothing else”<br /><br />“Your home is far away?” auntie asked.<br /><br />I nodded “My family lives in China. I came here with Gail”<br /><br />“You’re a special guest today. Usually Madam won’t even cook” Tom grinned.<br /><br />“Oh, then I’m honored” I bowed my head a little.<br /><br />“I can’t take all the credit for it, Tom helped me earlier “ she smiled gratefully at him.<br /><br />Man, he can cook? Damn, is there anything he can’t do? I practically melted at the thought of him in the kitchen. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />“I should be going home soon” I glanced at my watch.<br /><br />Outside it was raining heavily, maybe I could make a cup of hot chocolate and snuggle in my bed, read my book while Snooky lay beside me. As Tom opened the door, the wind blew the rain in and I was half drenched.<br /><br />“Oh dear, come inside” auntie lead me in as two maids appeared with towels.<br /><br />While I was drying myself, I looked at Tom who was also wet and drying himself with the other towel. He looked messy and his wet shirt was pressing on his body. I had to look away to hide my face, which I knew was turning red.<br /><br />“Lisa, why don’t you stay here tonight? The rain is pretty heavy and it is dangerous to go out like that” auntie said.<br /><br />“It’s ok. I don’t wanna trouble you .. “<br /><br />“No trouble at all. I’ll be more worried for you and Tom to be traveling in a storm like this”<br /><br />Her phrase ‘ you and Tom’ made me gooey inside. Since auntie had a good argument, I decided to stay for the night.<br /><br />“Jane, bring Miss Wang up to the guest room”<br /><br />I followed the maid upstairs. I never been upstairs before. As I walked past, I saw a room with a big window. A glance and you know it’s a studio. Jay was inside, a pair of headphone on his ears and his legs propped up on the table. He glanced at me.<br /><br />“Ah miss, sorry I clean the room a bit” Jane said apologetically.<br /><br />I smiled with a nod. Jane went in the room as I stood outside.<br /><br />“How come you’re still here? “<br /><br />I turned around and saw Jay standing there, looking at me like I’m an intruder. Irritation built up in me. What have I done wrong? He’s the one who accused me of being paparazzi in the first place. Sure, I was grateful he saved me from Ryan but what did I do to piss him off?<br /><br />“Your mother insisted that I stay over because of the storm” I said calmly.<br /><br />He looked a little taken aback by the tone of my voice.<br /><br />“Just don’t go into the studio” he looked at me.<br /><br />I wanted to reply ‘ Who wants to anyways’ but I just nodded. Jane came out of the guest room and indicated that it was clean. I walked in and closed the door in front of Jay and lean on the door. Why am I not star struck by Jay? Cause he's an arrogant ass, that's why.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br />Hmm.. should I shower or not? If I don’t, I’m all icky and sticky but if I do, then I have to wear the same wet clothes? Suddenly Jane knocked and walked in with a pair of pajamas and another set of clothes.<br /><br />“Madam would like you to have these clothes”<br /><br />I would decline because it was too much I’m taking from auntie but I can’t possibly argue with Jane so I gratefully accepted the clothes. Looks like I can have a shower then.<br /><br />The guest bedroom was lovely, queen size bed with fluffy pillows. A dressing table was provided with choices of beauty products. Heck, it looked even more complete than my room. I dropped my wet clothes and went in for a shower. The hot water felt so good, so refreshing. Should I just climb into bed?<br /><br />No, I should go downstairs and say something to auntie, I put on the clothes auntie gave, t shirt with shorts. Hmm, just my size. As I pulled open the door, Tom was standing outside my door, ready to knock. He looked surprised, happy and dry.<br /><br />“Hi” I suddenly felt shy.<br /><br />“Can I come in?” he smiled.<br /><br />How come I never notice his dimple before? I nodded and let him in.<br /><br />“How do you find the room?” he looked around.<br /><br />I shrugged “Pretty neat. The room is bigger than my room and bathroom combined”<br /><br />I sat down on the bed as Tom pulled a chair and sat across me. Inside, I kinda wish he would sit next to me.<br /><br />“Were you trying to run away just now? “ he teased.<br /><br />“No, I just want to go and thank auntie”<br /><br />“Funny. She asked me to check on you” Tom ran his fingers through his hair.<br /><br />“Tell her thank you for the shelter” I looked out of the window.<br /><br />The wind blew hard against the window and I could see the tree swaying violently. Imagine driving home in this weather. I made the right decision. I bit my lips and decided to ask.<br /><br />“Why does Jay hate me ?” I turned to Tom.<br /><br />He frowned a little “ He does? I don’t think Jay hates you”<br /><br />“But he’s not happy that I come around” I stood up.<br /><br />“He just takes time to trust people” he stood up with his hands on his waist.<br /><br />“Maybe I shouldn’t come here anymore” I mumbled, getting lost in my thoughts.<br /><br />Tom frowned “Lisa, I know you are a reporter”<br /><br />My heart almost stopped. I looked up straight at Tom.<br /><br />“How .. you found out ? “ I looked away, unable to look at him.<br /><br />“I did some research and you’re working for local papers. Your column appears on Tuesday and Thursday”<br /><br />Suddenly I felt so violated and I felt a spark of anger.<br /><br />“Why are you digging information about me?” I snapped.<br /><br />He raised his voice a little “ It’s my job to protect Madam. I have to know who you are”<br /><br />I could not blame him. After all he’s the bodyguard. Silence for a while.<br /><br />“Why would auntie let me in her house then?” I asked quietly.<br /><br />“She doesn’t know”<br /><br />“Why you never tell her? “ I walked closer to the window.<br /><br />“Cause I trust you” his voice was gentle.<br /><br />Somehow that made me warm inside. Oh gosh, how much do I like this guy? The rain had decreased and I opened the window to let some fresh air in.<br /><br />“Lisa, I trust you” he repeated.<br /><br />Just then I saw a flash across the sky and before I could move, Tom had pulled me away from the window. We both fell on the floor as Tom put his hand forward as he shielded my head. A white flash lit up the room and I managed to see the lightning strike near the window where I was standing.<br /><br />“That was very dangerous” he said.<br /><br />I was still in shock and suddenly I’m aware of how close we were. Tom’s eyes darted to me and I realize we were breathing hard either from the shock of how I almost got killed or because Tom was half on top of me, with his right arm still shielding my head. I kept looking at him as he stroked my head with his fingers.<br /><br />“Are you okay?” he said gently.<br /><br />I took a deep breath and I knew my face must be red. Tom smiled and I closed my eyes, hoping it’s not a dream to have Tom so close to me. Then I felt his lips and instantly my insides melted. His lips were warm, inviting and gentle. His hand rest on my face as his right arm was still shielding me. He broke it off and I opened my eyes to see him opened his as he suddenly look red.<br /><br />“I hope you’re not having a fever” he grinned, his thumb stroked my left cheek.<br /><br />I blushed, my face must be burning. I shook my head with a smile as I felt my heart raced faster. Tom kissed me again and this time, I kissed him back. His hands were still protecting me. I felt a connection in that kiss and one thing is certain, he is not gay.<br /><br />“Tian Zhi” I mumbled between the kisses and I felt him smile against my lips.<br /><br />I will never regret what happen tonight, I’m pretty sure. As Tom kissed me again, I felt a tear drop by the side of my eye.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-63988471353353035942008-08-09T16:40:00.002+08:002010-03-01T16:47:46.731+08:00Chapter 5<span style="font-family:verdana;">Gay?<br /><br />“He’s gay??” Cindy exclaimed loudly.<br /><br />“Shh .. pipe down. I don’t want Gail to know” I whispered.<br /><br />Cindy glanced at the door and half expected Gail to burst in.<br /><br />“Well, how could he be gay and date you at the same time?”<br /><br />“Hey, I’m not sure is he gay. Jay just said its a rumor”<br /><br />In my heart, I was hoping it’s not true, how could someone so good looking be gay? It’s not fair.<br /><br />“Oh yeah speaking of Jay, how is he in person?” Cindy asked excitedly.<br /><br />“He’s not very friendly. At times I feel like he hates my presence” I put on a sad face.<br /><br />“But his mom seems to like you very much” Cindy pointed that out.<br /><br />That I had to agree. Madam Ye seemed to enjoy my company a lot.<br /><br />“She’s just lonely” I shrugged it off. I didn't want to make it seem like a big deal.<br /><br />My phone rang and I hesitated when I saw Tom’s name.<br /><br />“Your boyfriend’s calling” Cindy raised an eyebrow.<br /><br />I took a deep breath before answering the phone.<br /><br />“Angelisa? Can I ask if you’re free this Saturday?”<br /><br />He’s asking me out? Suddenly my heart beats faster.<br /><br />“Yeah, sure I’m free” I glanced over to see Cindy’s smile.<br /><br />“Madam ask would you like to accompany her to go shopping”<br /><br />Oh, it’s for the old lady.<br /><br />“Oh, it’s okay. No problem” I couldn’t help sounding disappointed.<br /><br />He chuckled “ I’ll come and pick you up at noon”<br /><br />Hmm.. why did he chuckle like that? I'm amused.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />I was aware there are people who were looking at us as we went in shops. Not many people would recognize auntie but Jay fans do. Either that or girls are drooling over Tom. Suddenly I’m a little envious of them. They don’t know that Tom is gay. No, maybe gay. As Madam went into another shop, I noticed she went to the men’s section. That’s when I felt a hand held my arm and a voice whispered into my ear.<br /><br />“I can’t stand the girls stalking me” his voice sounded desperate.<br /><br />“Who told you to be so hot?” I teased jokingly.<br /><br />I could feel myself blushing furiously as Tom chuckled. I was also aware his arm was so close to mine.<br /><br />“How can I help you?” I whispered back.<br /><br />“Just pretend we’re going out” he nodded.<br /><br />He looked at me and I practically melted. I agreed and we just walked together. Madam smiled when she saw the girl stalkers gradually decrease.<br /><br />“I thought you would love girls after you. Isn’t that what every guy wants?” I smiled.<br /><br />“Hmm .. but I’m not like every guy” Tom gave me a grin.<br /><br />My heart stopped for two reasons. That was the best looking grin in the world. Reason number two:- is Tom trying to hint to me he’s gay? My thoughts were interrupted when auntie asked me to accompany her to the ladies.<br /><br />***********************************************************************************<br /><br />“Thank you for helping me to get Jie Lun’s birthday present” Madam smiled.<br /><br />Just then Jay walked in the door and when he saw me, he acknowledged me with a nod.<br /><br />“I heard my name. What is it about me?” he smiled and sat beside her.<br /><br />“Nothing. I just thought about how well your album is selling” she smiled.<br /><br />“Oh, you have been out the whole day. What did you buy?” Jay tried to peep into the bags.<br /><br />“Nothing much. I have just been walking with Lisa”<br /><br />Jay looked at me<br /><br />“Thanks for taking my mom out today”<br /><br />“No problem. I hope she enjoys it as much as I did”<br /><br />Jay nodded and escorted his mom upstairs which leaves me and Tom alone.<br /><br />“Thanks for playing along and helping me” he said.<br /><br />“No problem. It’s okay. This won’t stir up anymore rumors, will there?”<br /><br />Tom shrugged “I don’t think it will. Don’t worry; I won’t let you get hurt, I promise”<br /><br />“I’m not afraid of getting hurt. I’m just afraid my ex might see me in the news”<br /><br />“Oh, have I caused you any trouble?” he frowned.<br /><br />I told him about the encounter I had with Ryan last week<br /><br />“Wait, why did Jay pick me up?” I asked<br /><br />“Madam told him to do so. Jay might look cool and snobbish but he always listens to Madam”<br /><br />I nodded before Tom continued on.<br /><br />“If he ever finds you again, you have to tell me ok?”<br /><br />At that moment, I felt Tom turned into a caring soft hearted man. His serious tough bodyguard appearance was gone. I nodded in agreement, relief I could count on Tom if I have Ryan problems.<br /><br />“I’m sorry I dragged you into this charade”<br /><br />“Not your fault” I smiled and patted his hand casually.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />It’s been a week since I last stepped into Madam’s huge house. Tom did text me almost every other day to ask if Ryan had been bothering me. As expected, when I woke up on Sunday morning, in a tiny quarter of the entertainment section, three different snapshots of us in the mall just the day before. An article confirming we are indeed dating.<br /><br />“You guys look awesome together” Gail gasped.<br /><br />This time the stares and glances increased. It was somewhat disturbing that reporter actually came up to me and asked me about my ‘relationship’.<br /><br />“Are you close to Jay Chou?” one even asked.<br /><br />I answered them with no comment, a tactic which Tom taught me. If I give them a response, they will not leave me alone. Two days into next week, Tom came over to pick me up. I was caught completely off guard, sitting on my bed reading my new book with my hair tied in a bun. Snooky was running around the room. That’s when Tom came in the room with Gail. I almost wanted to scream in horror.<br /><br />“Tom dropped by so I invited him in” Gail had that naughty glint in her eyes.<br /><br />“Angelisa, Madam invites you to dinner” he smiled; obviously enjoy seeing me in a mess.<br /><br />“Er .. ok. Umm, can you wait outside for a while? I’ll be ready soon” I got up.<br /><br />I cringed when I saw my bra hanging on the closet knob. I rushed to it and pulled it as I threw it into the closet. I saw Tom grinning with amusement. Damn cute!<br /><br />“Alright, I’ll be right outside” he excused himself.<br /><br />“Oh gosh, he’s here. What should I wear Snooky? Oh, why do I bother? He’s gay. As if he’s interested in me. Still, oh damn. Where’s my comb Snooky?” I was talking to my dog at the same time running my hands through my clothes. Weird.<br /><br />“Snooky?” it was weird my playful puppy is not around.<br /><br />My heart raced. Where did my baby Snooky go?</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-72403633897848317672008-08-08T16:42:00.002+08:002010-03-01T16:39:22.701+08:00Chapter 4<span style="font-family:verdana;">I turned away and opened my car door as Ryan grabbed my arm.<br /><br />“Lisa, listen to me” he begged.<br /><br />“I have no time. I need to get to work” I struggled to be free.<br /><br />“Then can I see you later?”<br /><br />“I’m sorry, I’m super busy” I pulled free and drove away.<br /><br />I looked at the mirror and I saw a disappointed Ryan. Stupid asshole! What does he want from me. Then the flashbacks came. Of our first date, of how he used to hold me and then how he used to look at Mandy. Tears welled up in my eyes as I blinked them away. No, I’m not gonna cry over this asshole. I don’t wanna waste a single tear on him anymore. Today was supposed to be a happy day. Suddenly Rainie Yang’s song broke the silence.<br /><br />“Hello babe. I saw you on the papers today. You move fast eh? I thought you said no man. How did you land such a hottie?”<br /><br />Cindy was teasing. I smiled and realized I cannot let her know about Ryan.<br /><br />“It was just a rumor” I laughed it off.<br /><br />“Pictures speak a thousand words ok” Cindy reminded, her voice a little distracted.<br /><br />I can imagine her admiring her new nail art or playing with her necklace. Ah, good ol Cindy.<br /><br />“Cin, call you later. I’m driving”<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />I pressed the elevator button. It’s been 3 days since my 15 minutes of fame in the newspaper. I have to admit at first I enjoyed the spotlight for a while as I get longing glances and whisperes from people everywhere I go. Now I'm tired of the attention.<br /><br />“I don’t understand why they would wanna bother printing the story. It’s not like I’m a dating a celebrity” I was talking to Cindy earlier.<br /><br />“Indeed he’s not but he’s a celebrity’s mother’s bodyguard”<br /><br />“That doesn’t make sense. So?” I was glad Cindy couldn’t see me frowning through the phone.<br /><br />“Did you notice him Lis? He’s super hot!”<br /><br />I had to bite my bottom lip to keep myself from grinning.<br /><br />“Yes, he is”<br /><br />I smiled to myself as I got out of the elevator and walked towards my car.<br /><br />“Lisa” I turned around. Big mistake.<br /><br />Ryan stood there, looking like he just finished running a marathon. He was sweating and gasping for air.<br /><br />"Cin, talk to you later" I glared at Ryan.<br /><br />“Lisa, please listen to me” he took a step forward and I took a step back.<br /><br />“What the hell do you want from me?” I raised my voice.<br /><br />Why is he tormenting me like this?<br /><br />“I was so happy when you were with me. That Mandy seduced me and ..”<br /><br />I interrupted him with a mock laugh.<br /><br />“She left you” it was more of a statement rather than a question.<br /><br />It hit right to his guts as I realized a look of pain washed over his face.<br /><br />“Lisa, please. Why .. don’t you love me?” he reached out.<br /><br />I felt really uncomfortable and as I took another step backward, I felt someone was at my back and a gentle touch landed on my arm. I turned and saw a man with cap, sunglasses and a cloth covering his mouth.<br /><br />“Why are you disturbing this lady?” the man asked, his voice harsh.<br /><br />“Hey, this has nothing to do with you” Ryan pointed an accusing finger.<br /><br />“It has everything to do with me” the guy pulled my arm and led me into my car.<br /><br />“Give me your keys” he demanded.<br /><br />Oh gosh, am I being carjacked? With trembling hand, I handed the key to him as I proceeded to open the passenger door. Ryan was just standing out there looking dumb. Stupid asshole, letting me being carjacked. The carjacker started driving and it took me five minutes before I dare to open my mouth.<br /><br />“Where are you taking me?”<br /><br />“Tom wants to see you” his voice had changed.<br /><br />Wait a minute. He sounds familiar. I looked at him closely. He glanced at me and pulled his cap lower.<br /><br />“Why Tom wants to see me?” I asked, losing my fear slowly.<br /><br />“I dunno. You’re his girlfriend” he said, still staring ahead.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br />Somehow my mind was playing the scene of how it would be when I meet Tom again. I thought it would be like in the movies where he would run over to embrace me then twirls me around. It was nothing like that. After the carjacking dude left my car with the valet at Madam Ye’s house, we walked into the house; he yanked off his sunglasses, cap and cover. As I suspected, it was Jay.<br /><br />“Miss Wang, we need to talk” Tom came and whispered to me.<br /><br />Uh-oh. Wait, am I his girlfriend? Jay glanced at me and walked out of the room.<br /><br />“The other day, we knew paparazzi were outside the house and in order to keep the rumor away from Jay, I had to pretend you’re my girlfriend”<br /><br />Oh, only pretend. Damn, hey I was set as bait. I was used!<br /><br />“We’ll just slowly let the rumor die down” Tom nodded.<br /><br />Then he stood up and leans down towards my face and kissed me, on the cheek. Wait, there are paparazzi in the house? My eyes roamed around for camera but I found none.<br /><br />“Angelisa?”<br /><br />I turned to see him looking back at me.<br /><br />“That was for real” he smiled and walked out of the room.<br /><br />************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />“I’m so glad you came back” Madam Ye patted my hand.<br /><br />She’s the only one in the house who I’m most comfortable with. Tom confused me and Jay doesn’t seem to like me.<br /><br />“I promise I will be back” I smiled at her.<br /><br />“I’m sorry Jie Lun had been rude to you the other day”<br /><br />“Oh, it’s ok auntie. I already forgotten about it”<br /><br />Really, I have. Probably because part of me is kind of grateful he saved me from Ryan today.<br /><br />“Jie Lun had been very protective of me ever since the paparazzi broke into the house”<br /><br />“How did it happen? Wasn’t Tom around?”<br /><br />“Tom wasn't hired yet. It happened two years ago around in the evening. I was just reading in the living room when I heard the window being opened. As I approach the sound, I heard Jie Lun shouting. Seems like a paparazzi crept in the window. After that, within the next two days he hired Tom”<br /><br />“Oh .. well at least Jay loves you very much. You have no idea how much the media always compliment him on being filial “ I said as the old woman smiled proudly.<br /><br />“Yes, I’m glad he never forgets his roots and he’s still the same boy whom I brought up”<br /><br />With a smile, there were silence for a while before she touched my hand.<br /><br />“How is it being Tom’s girlfriend?” she asked, a mischievous glint in her eye.<br /><br />“Well, since we’re only pretending, I guess it would be ok. People recognize me at first from the papers but since then , nobody really pays attention anymore”<br /><br />She nodded “ Good, at least you’re in the headlines to accompany him, the rumors would probably go away”<br /><br />“Oh, don’t worry. I’m not some famous person, I’m sure the media would forget who I am. It will not jeopardize Jay’s career” I don't know what I'm saying actually.<br /><br />“It’s not that rumor I’m worried about” she frowned a little.<br /><br />Not that rumor?<br /><br />“Which rumor? “ I was slightly confused.<br /><br />“ That Tom is gay”<br /><br />I turned around and saw Jay standing at the stairs.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-43929436422773020862008-08-07T16:45:00.002+08:002010-03-01T16:28:40.586+08:00Chapter 3<span style="font-family:verdana;">“How did you get in here?” he asked with a frown.<br /><br />I looked around as I picked myself up. I think Jay is talking to me??<br /><br />“Didn’t you hear me? How did you get in here?” he asked again, this time his voice raised.<br /><br />Before I could reply, he grabbed my arm harshly. I mean, really harsh. I could feel his fingers dug into my flesh.<br /><br />“Let go of me” I squeaked as he dragged me out of the kitchen. To my relief, I saw the old woman and Tom heading towards us.<br /><br />“Jie Lun, what are you doing?” she asked.<br /><br />“Mom, are you okay? I caught her snooping in the kitchen”<br /><br />My jaw dropped. Me snooping in the kitchen?<br /><br />“Tom, please fulfill your responsibility. We cannot simply let this pest break in”<br /><br />“Jay, she is .. “ I could see Tom was trying to explain.<br /><br />“Lun, she’s my guest. I invited her over” madam said calmly.<br /><br />It seemed like she had gone through this situation many times before. Jay looked at me and for a split second, I was stunned when I looked into his eyes. I thought I saw something soften but it was gone after a blink. At that instant, he let me go and turned his back to his mother.<br /><br />“I’ll be in the studio” then he went upstairs.<br /><br />I stood there, numb for a while then I turned to them.<br /><br />“I would like to go home now” I said quietly, too stunned by what just happened.<br /><br />Madam touched my arm gently with a sad smile.<br /><br />“I’m sorry my son hurt you. I hope you will still come to visit” she said sadly.<br /><br />At that moment, I never wanted to come back to this horrible place but I couldn’t tell an old lady who had been super nice to me that right? I just nodded with a smile. Tom escorted me to the door and before I could reach for the knob, he slipped my arm around his.<br /><br />It was like an electrifying shock as our skin came in contact. I wanted to ask or pull away but I was melting in his touch, how is it possible to push such a gorgeous guy away? We walked arm in arm to his car as he opened the door for me. Is this real? I felt like we were on our first date. Unfortunely the only topic that Tom mentioned in the car was Jay.<br /><br />“He’s usually not like that” Tom explained.<br /><br />“Then why is he like that today?” I couldn’t help but to snap.<br /><br /><br />“He just thought you were a threat, paparazzi”<br /><br />Well, that makes sense but it still doesn’t justify the fact that he was harsh and he tried to hurt me. However, I refused to discuss further about him so I kept quiet. When we arrived at my place, Tom got out of the car and walked me straight to the door. Then he leaned forward and whispered in my ear.<br /><br />“Your car will be done in two days”<br /><br />I nodded, although my insides were turning into jelly. Why does he have to whisper in my ear? My mind couldn’t think of any reasoning at the moment as he smiled and I went in the elevator.<br /><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br />Hmm.. my hair looks dry. I pulled out a bottle of my conditioner and was about to squeeze some on my palm when Gail ran in screaming, holding today’s newspaper.<br /><br />“Guess what is on the entertainment section?”<br /><br />“Let me guess. A celebrity sex scandal ” I put down my conditioner.<br /><br />“No, you!” Gail turned to page three and showed me.<br /><br />The big headline ‘Zhou Mama’s bodyguard has new girl’. There were three photos, one of Madam Ye with Tom escorting and *gasp* two photos of me and Tom yesterday, one of him escorting me to the car and the second one … I squinted my eyes and looked closer.<br /><br />“He kissed you!! Even the caption says so” Gail had this big grin on her face.<br /><br />It was my turn to gasp loudly as there was a photo of us being really close. Tom was actually whispering into my ear but it was taken at such an angle, it looked like he kissed me right on the cheek.<br /><br />“No, he didn’t kiss me” I shook my head.<br /><br />“Oh, don’t be so modest” Gail dismissed me with a wave of hand.<br /><br />She walked out of my bathroom, reading some other news. When I’m alone, that’s when reality sets in. I’m in the newspaper as a hot guy’s girlfriend. Sure, it was only half a page but still… did Tom do this on purpose? Does he really want me to be his girlfriend? I grinned like an idiot and picked up the nearest pillow as I screamed into it. Hmm .. I’m rumored to be with this hot guy and I know Jay Chou’s mother.<br /><br />Suddenly life doesn’t seem so bleak. Eat your heart out Ryan, I declared with a smile. A glance at the clock made me realize it’s almost work time. I put on my best top ever because today I really feel like flying. As I walked to my car, I noticed this pair of old couple strolling by and the old man kept looking at me with a big grin. Creepy! Luckily his wife noticed this and pulled his ear.<br /><br />“Stop looking you pervert old man. She already has a handsome boyfriend, what makes you think she wants anything to do with you”<br /><br />With that, the old man gave a grunt as the couple walked by. I couldn’t help but giggled. So, people do read the papers.<br /><br />“Excuse me, are you Tom’s girlfriend?”<br /><br />I mustered a big smile and turned around only to face my ex boyfriend, Ryan. Needless to say, the smile from my face was gone. Time stood still as I feel my heart beat raced.<br /><br />"What .. " I started.<br /><br />“I still love you” he interrupted, his eyes brimming with tears.</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-33359007709373484882008-08-06T16:46:00.001+08:002010-03-01T16:22:15.630+08:00Chapter 2<span style="font-family:verdana;">Never in my twenty four years of life I had ever seen such a gorgeous guy. He was in a normal T-shirt and three quarter cargo. His hair was spiked up, his body built. It’s amazing how I managed to analyze everything within that few seconds as he walked over and tapped on my window. Dazed, I let down my window just a little. Hey, I was being cautious. You never know, he might be a handsome carjacker.<br /><br />“ I’m so sorry miss. Can we drive to that store and park there so we can discuss the situation?”<br /><br />I nodded and drove my car to the store car park. Mentally memorizing the Lamborghini plat number just in case he decided to escape. True to his word, he got down to discuss. As I exited my car, the gorgeous guy came over.<br /><br />“ My name is Tom. I’m sorry I hit your car. Are you alright, miss..?”<br /><br />“ Angelisa. Yes, I’m alright” then I turned and saw my car’s bumper.<br /><br />The head light was broken and there were visible scratch marks. I cringed and Tom ( the super hot guy ) looked at me and smiled.<br /><br />“ I will pay for the damage, I assure you “ he said.<br /><br />Then he went to his car’s back seat and said something to the passenger inside and then turned to me.<br /><br />“ I’m sorry but I have to get home now. I will call you later”<br /><br />He handed me his phone to key in my number. This hot guy, who is so gorgeous he, could beat off any Matt Damon and Brad Pitt is asking for my number. I gave the phone back to him and he nodded. I saw through the light tinted glass window, an elderly woman sitting at the back seat. She must be someone powerful. Hilary Clinton? Queen Elizabeth? Get real, Lisa!</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">************************************************************************************<br /><br /><br />The latest song from Rainie Yang woke me up.<br /><br />“ Hello?” I mumbled and glanced at the time. 11 am. Gosh, I’m such a pig.<br /><br />“Morning miss. This is Tom”<br /><br />It took me a minute to register in my mind who Tom was. I sat up straight and untangled my hair with one hand. As if Tom could see me over the phone.<br /><br />“Oh yes Tom, from two nights ago”<br /><br />Okay, that sounded slutty, idiotic and wrong. I mentally bang my head on the wall.<br /><br />“ Yes, from two nights ago” he chuckled.<br /><br />Please forget this, I silently prayed.<br /><br />“Anyways madam wants to ask you to come over to discuss about your car”<br /><br />I got little scared. What’s with these discussions? Madam?<br /><br />“ Erm ok.. Where to meet? “I fumbled around for a piece of paper.<br /><br />"I’ll come over and pick you up. Is that okay?”<br /><br />Then he asked for my address. I gave it to him.<br /><br />“Be right there in an hour”<br /><br />An hour? Have to get ready in an hour? I jumped out of bed and rushed to the bathroom. I managed to get ready within 40 minutes. I know I’m not ready for the dating game yet but if Tom is coming, I can’t look like a housewife right? As promised, there was a knock on my door at 12 pm. I heard Gail opened the door and smiled to myself. Lest than two minutes later, she burst into my room.<br /><br />“Lis, there’s a hot guy outside waiting for you” she whispered.<br /><br />I smiled. “ I know. That’s Tom”<br /><br />“Tom? You never mentioned about any Tom” Gail looked surprised.<br /><br />I briefly told her about the incident that happened and I could see how Gail was so caught up in my story.<br /><br />“I can't let Tom wait. See you later, Gail” I picked up my sandals and rushed out to see Tom waiting in the living room. He escorted me out of my house and opened the door to the Lamborghini. All the way to his place, I was beginning to wonder if this is Tom’s job. A driver? I studied his arms holding on the steering. Hmm.. such strong arms. I wonder how it feels to be held by those arms. Hey, why does he have such strong arms for? Maybe he’s a gym instructor. That’s when I noticed him smiling.<br /><br />“Miss Wang, what are you looking at?” he smiled teasingly.<br /><br />“Uh, nothing. Just daydreaming” I looked away.<br /><br />Dreaming about you, I mentally added. Tom is so hot, I wonder if he has a girlfriend. Of course he does! He might even be married. Suddenly a pang of disappointment set within me. Bummer! We reached a condo house and the gate automatically opened. Wow. Beautiful garden. Tom parked the car along the driveway. I noticed a few more cars. Tom must be wealthy. As I got out of the car, I was welcomed by another older man.<br /><br />“Miss Wang, I’m Henry. Madam is expecting you” he bowed a little.<br /><br />I was brought in the house and I noticed it was quite grand, not too much but just right enough. The living room has a homely feel to it and when I was left alone, I couldn’t help but notice a few photo frames on the cupboard. It was a photo of a woman with a little boy. The photo looks old.<br /><br />“That's my son”<br /><br />I was startled and turned around to see a smiling old woman walking towards my direction. She was dressed in a simple blouse with knee length skirt. So this is Madam.<br /><br />“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to pry” I was embarrassed at being caught.<br /><br />“It’s alright. Come and talk to me” she indicated the sofa.<br /><br />Once we sat down, I automatically apologized.<br /><br />“I’m sorry for the other night but I just came back..”<br /><br />She put up her hand to stop me.<br /><br />“You’re not wrong dear. It was our fault” she smiled.<br /><br />Really? Oh whew.. wait, what am I here for?<br /><br />“I wanna make it up to you”<br /><br />Make Tom marry me. I teased myself mentally.<br /><br />“Oh, there’s no need to.. “ I shook my head.<br /><br />“Have dinner with us while we get your car fix” she smiled.<br /><br />“I don’t think dinner is necessary”<br /><br />“It would be lovely to have some company. My son is rarely home”<br /><br />She sounded lonely so I gave in. then from there on; we just hit it off, talking. I told her about Gail, Cindy and James but not Ryan. It’s not something you want to tell a stranger about, even if she’s a friendly old woman. After half an hour of chatting, I excused myself to the washroom.<br /><br />On the way to the kitchen, I heard some commotion and the gates were opened. I wanted to check it out but my bladder was begging for mercy.<br /><br />After the washroom break, I walked out and heard a man’s voice in the living room. Madam had another guest, perhaps? I walked cautiously to the living room but when I opened the kitchen door, a man with his back turned walked towards me and before I could avoid, he bumped into me. I fell on the hard floor.<br /><br />When I looked up, I gasped. The man was none other than the king of music, Jay Chou. I was dazed, sitting on the floor blinking because I couldn’t believe what I saw.<br /><br />I swore I saw anger in Jay’s eyes. </span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7899733485850965075.post-20333935526860467592008-08-02T16:47:00.001+08:002010-03-01T16:09:11.999+08:00Chapter 1<span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Alright I’ll be there as soon as possible” I stood up </span><span style="font-family: verdana;">and</span><span style="font-family:verdana;"> rushed to the dressing table to brush my long wavy brown hair. I checked my face. No running-down-the-face mascara. No smudged lip gloss. I grinned, satisfied and picked up my bag.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ See you later darl” I gave a quick wave to my flatmate.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Gail gave a wolf whistle as I walked to the door.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Who’s the lucky guy?” she asked. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I’m just meeting Cindy” I smiled and left before further questions were asked</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I smoothen my top and trod to my car. My precious little Toyota. Within ten minutes, I stopped in front of Burger King. When I walked in, I could spot Cindy. She was waving at me and I smiled as I looked at my own outfit. It’s a far cry from hers. Cindy believes in bling bling and you can spot her from a mile away. Tonight she’s sporting a yellow top with silver skirt. Her hoop earrings, her long necklace were screaming LOOK AT ME!! . </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">All that aside, Cindy was the one whom cuddle me to sleep when it was over between me and Ryan. She was the one who brought me chicken soup every morning when I had a flu attack. I love her ( along with her bling bling )</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Angelisa!” her call broke my thought.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Okay, I must looked like an idiot standing and staring in front of the fast food restaurant. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I hurried over to Cindy and took my seat. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I haven’t seen you for so long!” Cindy sounded so excited to see me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I know. I’m sorry I been so busy lately” I apologized and set my hand bag aside</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">When I looked up, Cindy was grinning at me.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ So spill, who is he?” she was pointing her fork at me. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Who is who?” I asked innocently although I knew what she meant</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ You got a man in your life !” Cindy pointed her straw at me accusingly</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ Lower your voice. No. the only man in my life is Snooky” I laughed. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Snooky is a dog. Come on Lisa, spill” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I just had been busy with work. That’s all. No man after Ryan” I smiled</span> <span style="font-family: verdana;">with a shrug.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Cindy leaned forward and squeezed my hand. I patted her hand in return, grateful for her comment. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“So besides Snooky, how’s your career going?” Cindy asked, changing the topic. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“I think I might be promoted soon to senior editor” I whispered.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“Oh my! I’m so excited. You must take me for dinner once you’re promoted!” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">All my life, I had wanted to be the chief reporter. Currently I’m one of the best reporter ( not to brag but it’s true ) for a column in the local papers. Twice a week. Cindy then proceeded to tell me about her boyfriend Sean. Actually I don’t like Sean much. He has that flirty vibe. I always feel that he tries to act all cool in front of me whenever Cindy has her back turned. Or maybe he treats everyone like that. Maybe I’m being too sensitive. Wait, what was Cindy saying about Sean? </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I think I’m falling in love, Lis” Cindy said dreamily.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I looked at her. I think my expression was obvious as she just smiled and patted my hand.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I know it’s early. I have only been dating him for four months, only four but I know the feeling is right” </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ I thought after one year, Ryan was the one. Turns out, he’s totally the wrong one” I smiled regretfully at Cindy.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Mandy Li. I remembered her so well. Every morning, I greeted that damn receptionist and she smiled at me. I had seen how she and Ryan exchanged smiles. I thought it was normal until the day she quit her job. That evening, I returned to my apartment and prepared a romantic dinner for Ryan. He turned up late with a grim look as he goes on using the cliché, </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ It’s not you, it’s me” speech. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I could not accept and I was numb all the way until he excused himself off. I looked out the window and I saw them. I saw Mandy got out the car and they embraced a short kiss. I guess they felt me staring and left hastily, without looking back. That’s when I broke down, my heart shattered to pieces, I picked up the phone and in ten minutes when I opened the door, I collapsed into Cindy’s arms.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Now six months later, I looked at Cindy, afraid of the mistake she might make. Afraid I might watch her repeat my mistake. Cindy took my hand in hers and gave a comforting rub. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ You will meet the one someday Lis and he won’t make you cry” she said softly</span>.<br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I nodded, although I doubted so but Cindy was so sweet, I couldn’t argue with her. After two hours, I left and drove home thinking of Cindy and Sean. I thought about James, my boss and tomorrow's work. I thought about Snooky, my adorable chihuahua. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">I didn’t realize the car in front of me stopped. I sudden brake in time and before I could breathe in with relief, I heard a sickening crash from behind. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Damn! The black Lamborghini behind me couldn’t brake in time. Not my fault. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Great, what an ending to a perfect night. What should I do now? Call the cops? Just drive on? Before I could do anything, I noticed the driver side of the car opened. The driver stepped out.</span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">“ No way” I gasped as I let go off my safety belt. </span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;">Angelisa Wang Zhi Ting, tonight might not end so badly after all .. .</span>Leenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17400532431299769482noreply@blogger.com1