Chapter 19
It wasn’t until she reached outside the studio did she hear footsteps behind her. “Wait, Amy!” Philip’s voice called after her. The night was dark and his face was barely visible.“Before you say anything else, I’m really hungry. I want to get some food before I faint on the pavement.” Amy replied.
He smiled “Sure, how about I treat my favorite assistant out to dinner?”
She rolled her eyes “I’m your ONLY assistant.”
“The better reason why you’re so special.” His sweet words were endless.
Amy had to laugh “Where do you want to go, since you’re treating.”
“Sushi?” he suggested. She nodded and then they were off to his car. He drove them to a nicer part of town, where fancy restaurants were lined up on both side of the streets. Amy looked around like a tourist “Never been to this part of Hong Kong?” he read her mind.
She laughed “I probably look like some gawking weirdo.” She sat back in her seat but continued to look outside.
“A ‘cute’ gawking weirdo.” He corrected. She smiled as she looked at him, he glanced over at her before pulling up at the valet. “What?”
Amy decided to keep her comment to herself “Nothing.” She shook her head and got out of the car. When they were seated in the restaurant she had another questioning gaze “What kind of restaurant is this?”
Philip wrinkled his forehead “Sushi place? Is your mind in space?”
She shook her head with a laugh “I know that, silly. I mean why didn’t you get mobbed. You always get mobbed in public.”
He smiled as he leaned in closer to her “Honey, this is the classier part of town, everyone has more money than I will ever have in my whole lifetime as an actor. They don’t care who I am. That’s why I like coming here.”
She nodded understandingly “I see.”
Philip sensed another question coming on “You’ve got so many questions tonight.”
“How did you do that?” she asked in wonder.
“Do what?” he replied innocently.
“Read my mind.” She whispered.
He laughed “I didn’t read your mind, I read your face. You know it’s easier without those awful frames in the way. I can see your pretty eyes.” He tapped on the corner of her eye affectionately.
Amy smiled shyly “Thank you.”
They ordered all types of sushi and a saki bottle for them. She raised her eyes at the expensive drink “It’s a celebration for you.”
“Why?” she asked suspiciously.
“Because you are going to be the biggest name in the Hong Kong entertainment biz after I’m through with you.” He winked secretly and took a gulp of the warm saki.
She sighed softly “Philip…” she began but he silenced her with his finger on her lips.
“Don’t say anything yet. Just hear me out.” She shrugged lightly, not seeing the harm in listening what he had to say. “The first day I met you, I thought to myself, she has this star appearance about her. But there would be some changes before people would look at you differently. The frames should not be there and the hair was too long. I would cut it.” Hearing him say that, she touched her long mane affectionately, she’s had it as long as she could remember. There would be no way she would get use to the short haircut. “When I learned from Johnny that you could sing. I begged him to convince you to sing, but you were so stubborn…”
“Wait.” She put up a hand to pause him “You were in on that trick earlier? You guys embarrassed me!”
He laughed “If that’s an embarrassment, then everyone would want that to happen everyday. You were wonderful! I am so hurt that you kept that angelic voice from me for so long.”
She smiled with her cheeks blushing when she realized he was being sincere “I was that good?” she asked weakly.
He nodded firmly “Beautifully! I knew I had my girl when I asked you to dance and your eyes relaxed my every nerve. Yes, I still get nervous….the big movie star that I am.” He brushed his hair lightly and Amy had to laugh at his gesture “But seriously, you had that vibe about you…that comfortable feeling that I got when we were dancing away…it was indescribable.”
Amy giggled “You speak like you’re in love or something.” She quickly stopped smiling when she realized what she just said “I mean…”
Philip shook his head “It’s okay. Just let comment pass. Your acting was superb, you know that?” she shook her head unable to believe him “How could you come up with those lines in such short notice?”
“Well, that’s the point. I can come up with my own lines. I’m horrible at memorizing stuff. I can’t do it.” She insisted.
He rolled his eyes “There you go exaggerating again.” She smiled and leaned her face on her elbow “You’re just digging for compliments aren’t you?” she widened her eyes and opened her mouth to speak but he put up his hand “No, don’t try to get yourself out of this one. You just want to hear that you are beautiful and talented and you have a voice of an angel. So there, I said it.”
Amy shook her head “I’m speechless. I never thought of myself as talented in any form. For years, I felt trapped at a dead end job that would go no where. And when I stood up to my boss, it was too late to turn around. I found myself standing in front of the station calling for an interview with the big moviestar. But when I passed the first round, I couldn’t even start to imagine the possibility of going through. And then over 4 months later, I’m sitting at a high class Sushi restaurant eating dinner with a well known and one of the most eligible bachelor actors in the industry today. Who would have thought?”
He smiled slowly “Are you saying what I think you’re saying?”
She nodded and pointed at him “If I fail at this, I will blame you.”
Philip laughed “You won’t fail because I never fail at anything, well except losing the courage to tell the girl that I liked her.” He stopped laughing when Amy’s smile disappeared “Amy, I really have to tell you something.”
Suddenly at the corner of their eyes, they caught someone snapping a picture at them. Philip looked up, his eyes full of emotions were changed to anger when he caught a reporter sneakily hiding his camera. He stood up suddenly and walked over to the guy. “Philip!” Amy called after him, afraid that he would do something he’ll later regret.
“What are you doing?” he snapped at the guy, who was flustered and tried to get away but was blocked by the manager of the restaurant.
“Do you want me to call the police, Mr. Cheung?” the manager asked.
Philip shook his head “I can handle this. Do you want to hand that over?” he put out his hand but the guy refused with his head shaking “You have no right taking our picture.”
“Oh come on, it’s just a picture. Everyone will know you two are a couple soon anyways.” The guy blurted out.
It only made Philip more angry “What the hell did you just say?” he didn’t care what reporters said as long as it was true. He didn’t want any slander against Amy especially now that she’s going to be featured in his cd and music video. The last thing they needed was trashy publicity.
“She’s just a fling, once the media is bored, they’ll leave her alone.” The guy did not know when to shut up.
Philip couldn’t hold it in as he reached his fist behind him and swung at the guy across the jaw. Amy let out a small cry, shocked that he would strike at someone. Philip wrung out his arm in pain, it was stinging from the punch. The guy had stumbled behind falling onto the manger “Philip…” Amy whimpered as she took a hold of his injured hand.
“I’m gonna sue you!!” The guy pointed angrily while holding onto his left jaw.
“Yeah, well good luck!” Philip snickered “When you lose, I’ll pay to get you a new mouth. Didn’t your mom ever teach you not to disgrace a lady who is present?”
The guy gaped at him in shock and anger. The manager pushed the guy towards the door “Get out of my restaurant before I call the police.”
“You wait…” the guy pointed at them “The whole country will know what a jerk Philip Cheung really is. The headlines will ruin your career.” His threats only made Philip angrier as he lunged towards the guy but he was quick to run away.
Amy took a hold of Philip’s arms “Calm down, Philip.” She whispered. When they turned back, the whole restaurant was staring at them.
Philip glared at them angrily “What are you staring at?”
She turned to the crowd that broke out into whispers “Sorry, my boss had too much to drink.” She explained.
”No, I didn’t. I’m sick and tired of having to explain everything to the whole world, I’m only human. Can’t I have a peaceful dinner without some idiot trying to make an extra hundred by sneaking at picture at me?” he wasn’t yelling at Amy but it was directed to everyone who was listening.
The manager felt his anger as he said in a soothing voice “You’re right, Mr. Cheung. You should be able to enjoy a quiet dinner here without paparazzi hanging on your every move. We apologize for letting that guy in. This dinner is on us.”
Philip cooled down as he sighed “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to cause a commotion. And I wouldn’t hear of a free dinner. I want to pay for the meal…if not for the embarrassment.”
The kind man smiled “I won’t argue with that.”
Philip laughed as he quickly paid and walked out of the restaurant with Amy supporting his hand. The night was getting later and they were near the harbor so he drove them out there. They sat in the car for a while with complete silence. Each having their own conversation with themselves. When the silence was beginning to be deafening, Amy got up and took a walk down the pier. He followed close behind her until she came upon a bench and sat down.
She looked up when he was a yard away looking at her with a grim expression, she muffled a giggle as she turned to the dark ocean “What’s so funny?”
Amy shook her head “You looked pretty vicious when you’re mad.”
“Did I scare you?” he asked, his eyes full of concern.
“Scare me? No, but I couldn’t help but feel it unnecessary to hit the guy earlier. Violence is not the answer.” She said softly.
He took a seat next to her with a smile “In the words of Ghandi or Amy Chan?”
She laughed “Either one.” She turned to him with an earnest look “You could have injured yourself. What if he fought back?”
“Then it would have been one interesting fight.” He commented with a sly grin.
Amy shook her head “I guess I can’t control you.”
She gave a little shiver from the night wind as he wrapped an arm around her. She leaned on his chest instinctively “Do you know why I punched him?”
“Because you wanted to let out your anger?” she replied not looking up.
Philip smiled “Because I was tired of people like him selling pictures and stories to the media where they will slander everything that I have worked for so hard in my 10 years of stardom. It can disappear with one false move and maybe hitting that guy was not the best idea. But I did not want him to pass along the story that you and I lied about our relationship.”
She finally understood what he was thinking. Amy sat up right and turned to him with a smile “Whatever story they write, it’s all fake. Only you and I know the truth, shouldn’t that matter the most? Who cares what they have to say, we know they’re all lies.”
He stroked her hair affectionately “I know, I use to think that. But when you come to a point in your life where you’re just sick of it….it’s hard to rethink that idea.”
“How about I remind you when you feel like you’re forgetting?” she suggested.
Philip nodded “But that means, you have to be by my side everyday for the rest of my life.”
“It’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it.” Amy let out a long sigh of exaggeration making Philip laugh. The two returned to the car as he drove her home.
Chapter 20
Amy woke up the next morning in her bed in a happier mood than she has been since she can remember. She got up and changed in casual clothes, jeans and a white blue printed t-shirt. It was something she always preferred but the jobs she took always required her to dress nice. She was curling her hair and suddenly thought about what Philip said the night before. He told her she should be comfortable with herself. He would want to see her at her most natural because it was what attracted him to her.When she was done, her hair was wavy all the way down her back. She took the bus to the station and when she got off, she was startled when a microphone was jammed in front of her face “Miss Chan, have you read the morning papers?” Amy saw more reporters coming towards her, flashing cameras at every angle possible. She began to shield herself as she shook her head.
“Please, I have to get in the station.” She spoke up while pushing her way through the crowd of reporters.
“There are claims that you and Philip lied at the press conference last week and you two are indeed a couple. So why did you lie to the audience?” her accusations were endless as she went on “A gentleman spotted you two at a high class Sushi restaurant last night making out and when he took a picture, Philip used violence punching the man until he was unconscious.”
Amy stopped as she turned to the woman in shock “Philip did not hurt anyone to that extent.” She said grinding her teeth. How in the world did it get so out of hand. “Excuse me!” Amy cried when they began to block her way.
“Miss Chan, why the sudden change in appearance? Was this Philip’s idea?” another reporter asked.
She began to feel suffocated not to mention a migraine flying through her temples as she shook her head angrily. “Get away from her!” She looked up after hearing Philip’s booming voice. Johnny was behind him. He was quick to push through as he got a hold of her shoulders protectively “Excuse us!” his flaring eyes pushed their way through. Johnny shielded them from getting more flashes while Philip led them into the station. He passed by the front guard “Don’t let any of them pass.” He growled.
The three made it into the station in one piece. It wasn’t until they were in the recording studio when Johnny asked “You looked a little shaken up.” His concern was quickly overlooked by his teasing nature.
Amy shook her head “I’m okay. Just a little overwhelmed.”
Suddenly, Philip banged his fist against the table with anger in his eyes “Damn them! Sometimes the media can be so blind. I can’t believe that jerk sold the story to them and what makes me pissed is that they believed it without hearing my end of the story.”
Amy sighed as she tried to calm him “It’s not your fault. The story was bound to happen, I thought you would be use to it by now?” she soothed.
He laughed sarcastically “I would be, but I have never had this kind of media after me since I did my first break out role 5 years ago. I thought that was intense but this is beyond humane. I’m just sorry you had to be pulled into it.” He sighed with his hand smoothing her waved hair. Despite what happened, he was able to smile at her “You look adorable today.”
Her face was solemn as she turned away from him “Maybe this was a mistake.”
Philip frowned “Don’t start having regrets, Amy. I can’t lose you now.”
“Philip’s right.” Johnny stood up in his friend’s defense “If you quit now, the media will only crush him to pieces.”
“What use is it that I’m here? Haven’t I caused enough stir and not to mention the endless rumors. I really don’t know how you do it, Philip. I would have quit a long time ago.” She shook her head, tears brimming at the corner of her eyes.
He walked over across the room to where she stood, his arms slowly draped her shoulders “I’m not a quitter and I won’t let you quit. Ever. Sometimes I wonder why God gave me the courage to go on, but I’m sure he had good reason. Yes, the media can be cruel but you know what I learn each time they bring me down? It only builds up my confidence. If you give up now, they will hound you until you eventually move out of this country. It’s the way they work.”
Amy let the tears flow as she tried to be strong. She crossed her arms but would not look up at him “I can’t do this, Philip.” She laughed with a touch of sarcasm “I always thought that the movie star’s life was so glamorous, all it is money and partying. I never once thought that actors worked so hard for your stardom until I became your assistant. I respected you SO much for all the hard work you put into it. But as for me? I don’t have dreams about being a star, God knows I don’t want to be one after having taste of this overnight stardom.” She spat with disgust.
Philip was desperate to show her that she had the abilities to make it big “Listen to me.” He gripped her arms tighter as he shook her gently “You can do this. I believe it, Johnny believes it.” He glanced at his friend who stood motionless as he watched them with a worried look “Remember what you told me last night?”
She shook her head “What the hell did I know?!”
“You know more than you give yourself credit for. Amy, I believe this country should not miss out on you. You don’t want to be a star, but it’s calling your name. Fate brought you here, so why would you leave empty handed. If you quit now, I will be so disappointed in you. Who was that strong and independent girl that I met months ago? I fell in love with a strong willed heart, not a weak one.” Philip said earnestly.
Johnny looked at them with wide eyes, a smile crossed his face as he opened his mouth to comment but Amy pointed to him “Don’t start with me, Johnny.”
He frowned “I was just going to congratulate you two.” He pouted sadly at her outburst.
Amy looked down to the ground but her chin was pulled up by Philip’s warm fingers. She had no choice but to look at him in the eye “If you walk out now…just pretend the last four months never happened.”
His comment left an ache in her heart as she dodged his eyes again “I’m sorry Philip.” She whispered while wiping a tear away. “I just can’t…”
Philip let go of her arms as he stepped backwards, he nodded with eyes so red that Amy quickly regret what she just said. A tear flowed from his eye as he turned towards the door and walked out. But before leaving, he turned to her “Running away doesn’t help, maybe one day you’ll learn to face the problem...Have a good life.” He opened the door roughly and rushed out.
Amy was crying openly as she sat down on the ground and covered her face in tears. Johnny let out a sigh as he sat down next to her “Hey…” he nudged her gently “It’s not the end of the world.”
She looked up with a glare “Easy for you to say. You’ve got the perfect job, the perfect girl, the perfect life….” Despite her tears, she looked at him strangely “Where is Liz, by the way?”
Johnny shrugged “She told me she wasn’t feeling good. She said she was feeling sick and I shouldn’t come to visit her until her house is germ free.”
Amy stopped crying as she sighed lightly “I can’t believe she didn’t tell you.”
“Tell me what?” he asked with curiosity.
She turned to him with pity eyes “Nothing…” she said reluctantly.
His face turned to concern “What do you know that I don’t? Tell me Amy. She acted really strange last night when I took her home. And I tried to call her this morning but her phone was disconnected.” Suddenly his worried expression was replaced by a knowing smile “Is this a joke? Did you plan this with her?” he quickly stood up “This whole thing is a scam isn’t it?” he pointed towards the door where Philip had exited and back at Amy. “I can’t believe you guys!”
Amy’s angry face appeared as she stood up hastily “Yes Johnny, we all got together to come up with this…joke…” she spat out harshly “because we wanted to get back at you. Since Philip’s career is not as important as a silly prank! And my life has never been important! I just lost the guy of my dreams and it’s all a joke! Yes… you’re right.” She clapped her hands sarcastically, tears still fresh on her face. He began to think twice about what he said as his face fell with sympathy “Who would have thought I could cry on demand? Hey, maybe I should have been an actor?” she snapped her fingers “Oh wait, that’s right. I just lost my chance when I turned down the love of my life when he was trying to convince me that I could make it in this industry!”
“Amy….” He began slowly but she shook her head sadly.
“Never mind, Johnny. It’s too late…” she let out a long sigh “I should go now.”
“Before you go, can you tell me where Liz is?” he asked softly.
Amy smiled sympathetically “There will be other fish in the sea.” She stroked his face sadly “She went back to Canada to be with her husband.”
The last line crushed him like an empty beer can under a foot “What?” he asked.
“Maybe you should talk to her. I don’t feel comfortable telling you this.” Amy smiled as she reached in her pocket “Before she told me she was leaving, she gave me her new cell number.” She handed it to him as he took it like a zombie. Amy left the room to give Johnny some privacy.
He looked at his cell phone like it was a foreign object. When his mind cleared up, he dialed the number in his hands. Liz picked up on the other line “Hello?”
It took a few seconds for him to comprehend as he muttered a “Hello…Liz?”
She was quiet for a moment “Yeah…so, you found out?”
“So it’s true?” he asked desperately “Why? Why would you lie to me about having a husband?”
“I didn’t want to hurt your feelings. I had a crush on you since the moment I met you when I was working for Philip. But when my family called me back to Canada, I decided to go back long enough to tell them that I was in love with someone in Hong Kong and I was planning to return.” Liz sniffed back the tears as she continued “But you can blame it on fate, I saw my high school sweetheart. He was not seeing anyone at that time and so we began talking. I felt like a school girl with a crush all over again. Before you knew it, we were engaged in two weeks and got married. I came back because Philip told me how much you missed me. I knew I owed it to you to come back and explain in person. But I’m a coward, I admit it. I couldn’t do it. I’m sorry you had to find out this way…”
“I can’t believe you…” he spoke softly and he could almost feel his heart breaking “I loved you…” he whispered.
Liz gulped back the tears “I’m so sorry…I didn’t mean to hurt you…I truly didn’t.”
Johnny thought his heard could not be anymore crushed but he heard a male voice in the background calling ‘Honey!’. He sighed “Is that…” he didn’t want to ask.
“Yes. That’s William. I’ll be there sweetie!” she called to the voice. Johnny closed his eyes when she referred to the guy he never met as ‘sweetie’. She called him that on occasion. “Well, I have to go now. Please don’t be angry. I know you’ll find a girl that’s a hundred times better than me. Maybe she’s standing at the door right now.” Liz gave it one last sigh before bidding him farewell “Good luck to you, Johnny. I have to go now.” When he didn’t reply she whispered “Bye.” And hung up her phone.
He listened for the little click and the phone went dead. He slumped down in his chair with his face on the table. His tears flowed freely as he let it go. There was a slow knock on his door as he cleaned his face but didn’t look up. Instead he pretended he was working “It’s just me Johnny.” Amy said softly “I forgot my purse.” She pointed to it on the ground. He nodded without saying anything while she looked at him sadly “I’m sorry Johnny.”
He desperately needed a shoulder to cry on as he got up and hugged her out of the blue. Amy stumbled back from the shock but she embraced him warmly “She’s gone….forever.” he groaned in pain.
Amy patted him on the back “I have a friend that I think would be perfect for you.”
He pulled away from her “No…not now, Amy.” He returned to his chair sadly.
“Oh come on, it’s the only way, you’ll get over Liz.” She coaxed teasingly. Johnny shook his head as he covered his forehead with his palm. But he could hear that she was opening the door.
“Ahem…” the girl cleared her throat. Johnny was frozen in his seat, the voice sounded like Liz’s…but it couldn’t be, she was in Canada? He just spoke with her. “Is this the way you greet a stranger?” his eyes popped up and indeed it was Liz. He couldn’t forget that voice.
“What?” Johnny shook his head in confusion.
Amy peeked in from behind Liz with a huge grin “Surprise!” she announced brightly. “Johnny, welcome to your payback.” She said in a deep voice, an evil grin plastered on her face.
“This is a prank??!” he cried in anger. He stood up “How about Philip??”
Amy turned her head and Philip appeared on the side of the door and wrapped his arms around her neck playfully “All part of the payback plan.” He grinned happily as he leaned downward and gave Amy a kiss on her cheek “Good job, babe. We got him good!”
Liz laughed as she rushed over and hugged Johnny “I’m sorry, they talked me into it! You know how easily persuaded I am!” Johnny was still in shock as he rubbed his head with frustration, mad that he let himself believe Amy’s words.
“We got you soooo good!” Amy laughed while pointing at him. She turned and gave Philip a high five. The girls giggled as they embraced as Philip rubbed Johnny’s shoulder. He soon had to laugh at it instead of being a poor sport.
“OH! This is a beginning of a war!” he threatened Amy.
She rolled her eyes “Please! Whatever trick you have up your sleeve is nothing to compared to being mobbed by reporters…trust me.” Philip nodded in agreement while Amy giggled happily. It felt good to play that joke on Johnny.
Chapter 21
The four decided to have a peaceful lunch together in the studio’s cafeteria. Every so often, Amy and Liz would look at each other and stifle a giggle. After the fourt time, Johnny dropped his fork with a ‘plang’ on the plate of rice and beef. “Okay, that’s enough. Do you wanna take this outside?” he asked directly at Amy.It made her burst into giggles at his outburst and soon Liz had to join in laughing “You should have seen the look on your face!” she pointed amusingly.
Philip smiled despite the scowl on Johnny’s face “It was funny.” He nodded in agreement with his new girlfriend. He turned to Amy with a smile “Now do you agree that you could be an actor? I was so into the part that I even cried after watching you tear up.”
Amy sighed “I’d do anything to payback at Johnny.” She turned to Johnny with a solemn look “Truce for now okay? I want to finish all the important stuff before we start our war again.”
Johnny smiled crookedly “Sure…” he replied slyly “The more time to think of the perfect prank to play on you.” The two shook hands happily.
Liz laughed as she shook her head “Okay, aside from all this fun talk. How are you two going to handle the press?”
Amy glanced at Philip with a shrug “I don’t think there’s anything we can say to convince them that WE are telling the truth.” He began before taking a bite of his fork full of food. He was about to stuff another but Amy quickly pushed his hand away causing the fork of rice fly towards Johnny, who was seated next to Philip.
“Wooh! I have enough rice, thank you.” He retorted as he wiped off the rice that flew on his jeans.
“What did I tell you about stuffing your face?” Amy scolded openly.
Liz smiled “I’m glad someone got a control of your eating habits.” She said to Philip.
Philip groaned “Aww, come on, I can’t change it over night. Just one more bite.” He begged with the food stuffed to one side of his cheek.
Amy looked at him sternly “Not as long as you’re eating with me.” He began to pout and she quickly added “I’m not going to record that song if you don’t listen to me.”
He wrinkled his nose “That’s not fair, you’re threatening me.”
She smiled sweetly “What’s wrong? You regret meeting me?”
“Never!” he cried out startling Johnny.
“Oh, come on guys! I’m eating. You’re gonna make me throw up my lunch and then I have to order another one. Then we would have wasted 2 hours of useless stuff…which reminds me, I want you two to finish recording that song.” He pointed his fork to the both of them.
Philip shrugged “Easy for me, tell that to Miss Amateur over there.”
“I’ll be fine.” Amy nodded with confidence, no longer shy about her voice.
“Don’t get cocky.” Philip teased with a grin.
*************
They returned to the studio and began working quickly at the song. It was Amy’s first time on the other side of the glass window. The soundproof room had a bit of an echo when she walked in. Philip was behind her as he took his place along his microphone “You can stand over there, Johnny will set up the second one for you.” He pointed a few feet from where he stood.
Amy nodded “Okay.” She stretched her neck and took a deep breath. He looked at her strangely and she laughed “I have to relax myself somehow.”
Philip placed the head phones over his neck as they sat perfectly around it, he waved her over to him “Is that all? I’ll help you.” She turned her back on him as he instructed while he gave her a comfortable neck massage. She hummed feeling completely at ease. “I see it’s helping.”
She closed her eyes “Hmm mm.”
Johnny opened the door to the room “If there was no window, people would think you two were going at it in here.” In his hands were the second microphone and wires for Amy’s part.
“Only dirty minds would think that.” Amy snapped her eyes open.
Johnny laughed “Liz doesn’t seem to mind.” Amy shook her head in disgust and it made him laugh even louder “Don’t make me laugh, I have to work!” he scolded. The microphone was set up within 10 minutes when Johnny announced “Done! Okay, let’s start okay?” he turned to leave but spun around at them “You kids behave okay? I can see you from out there.” He pointed to the glass mirror.
Philip shook his head as he placed the head phones over his ears while Amy stuck her tongue out at Johnny “Ha ha.” She said with sarcasm.
The song was recorded to perfection with Johnny correcting every little error. He wanted the song to be the most perfect on the album. “Amy, sing that line again but go softer on the end note.” He spoke through the intercom and she nodded. As he instructed, the second verse sounded better from that tiny change. “Okay, Philip, do your creative adlibs at the end of the second chorus.” He was so busy working that he forgot Liz was in the same room with him. He turned back to get the notebook he always had when he saw her smiling at him. He smiled questioningly “What?”
“You’re so cute when you look serious.” She teased while handing him the book.
Johnny laughed as he brushed his fingers over her hand as he grabbed the book “I can be serious all the time.” He flirted and she giggled.
“We can hear you!” Amy cried through the intercom. Johnny turned and found Philip making gagging faces and Amy laughing at him amusingly.
“Get to work!” he ordered. Johnny gave Liz a short wink before going back to work. The song was finished after another hour of their singing. He was clipping the parts he liked together when he complimented “Your voices are a perfect blend of harmony.”
Amy was leaning on Philip when she looked up “Was that a compliment from the all powerful Johnny?”
“I think so.” Philip nodded.
Johnny rolled his eyes “I am capable of complimenting people.”
“You’ve never complimented me.” Philip pouted like a kid causing the girls to smile.
Johnny gave his friend a disgusted look “Dude, I’m not gay. Why should I compliment you?”
“Well, actions speak better than words.” Philip said teasingly “Remember that one night you almost kissed me?”
Liz covered her gaping mouth in shock “What?!”
Johnny’s face turned a beet red “You promised you wouldn’t tell her!!!” he said with embarrassment.
“Oops…” Philip gave his shoulder a little shrug. He let it slip on purpose.
Amy decided to help out poor Johnny “They didn’t kiss.” She explained to Liz “I wanted to teach him a lesson for putting me on the spot in public, but I wouldn’t have wanted to witnessed it. I think Philip wanted to do it to make Johnny uncomfortable.” Philip broke out with laughter as he nodded in agreement to Amy’s wise observation.
“I’m sorry I missed it.” Liz said unfortunately.
***********
The following week, Philip held a press conference for the release of his new album. He was prepared for back lashing and Amy was cool and calm at the session. The reporters were buzzing with gossip as they were asked in an orderly fashion “You in the front row.” Philip pointed to a male reporter.
“So we should be expecting Miss Chan’s vocals on one of the featured songs right?” Philip nodded in reply “In your own opinion, what is your comment on her voice?”
Philip smiled “That’s an obvious question/answer isn’t it? With Amy being my girlfriend, of course I will have to say that she has a wonderfully warm and beautiful voice. There’s always room for improvement since she’s never had professional voice lessons, but I would say Amy has a born talent for singing.”
They were hanging on his second sentence as hands began to rise like a wave. Amy smiled at Philip knowing that it was his way of telling the media. She was no longer shy about it nor was she afraid of what people would say. She was just glad it was out in the open, no matter what rumors came along they would be able to fight it off with each other’s support. Philip laughed at the fact that almost all the hands were raised, he pointed to a girl in the back, who was on her tippy toes “I think I speak for every reporter in this room when I ask for you to confirm what you just said.”
He smiled with a nod “Yes, I think Amy is a born talent.” The crowd laughed at his tease “And yes, Amy is my girlfriend, you may quote me.”
“When did this all start?” she asked.
“It was all very mutual. But none of us dared to speak up. She was too shy towards the media, I wanted her to be more gutsy when dealing with the reporters, such as yourselves. I think a few of you might have scared her, but she’s very strong now.” He turned to Amy with a loving look as she turned away with a smile.
“In all honesty, I was very afraid of you, the media. But as these past months went by with Philip on my side, I came to realize how this industry worked. The rumors, the tabloids, the hounding reporters, it’s all part of this daily life. I think all actors would be afraid once the rumors and cameras flashing stops. It would only show the end of an actor’s popularity and interest. I guess I should thank you all for being so interested in Philip.” She smiled at everyone and a female reporter in the front caught her eye “Yes?” she pointed to the girl.
“Do you have any comments about the reports that Mr. Cheung beat a man at the Sushi restaurant about a week ago?” she was touching a sensitive subject and Amy knew Philip was not pleased when his eyes hardened but his smile was still there.
Amy thought before she spoke up “I think Philip is very misunderstood by the media as well as his audience/fans. He’s a very passionate person when it comes to his work as an actor or singer. He works so hard to getting everything perfect, whether it be a song or a short scene with no true existence in the movie he is working on. No one sees that passionate Philip that doesn’t care what time of day it is, he will get it perfect, but I do. You can call him a perfectionist, but he is not rude to anyone unless it is called for. In that man’s case, he took our picture at the restaurant without our consent. He even threatened to sell the story to the tabloid after Philip…hit him.” She knew it should come out in all honesty than rumors. The stir began to erupt but she brought their attention back “I am not making any excuses for Philip nor am I covering his mistake. He did feel bad after hitting that man, but he was worried about what the media would say about ME, never was he selfish and thought about himself. He truly is a gentleman in disguise.”
Philip smiled with compassion at his girlfriend’s words “Now who would no fall in love with this girl?” he grinned happily. After a moment, his smile faded “I do want to apologize to that man that I hit, but I do not regret hitting him. In more ways than others, he deserved it. I understand it is a cold thing to say, but I am only speaking the truth. Put yourselves in my shoes, you are having dinner with a girl/guy you were about to announce your love to. When suddenly, you get a big distraction. You approach the matter, the guy disrespects the lady in front of her face and brushes off our feelings claiming that our relationship is not important. As a human being, you would be offended, as a man in love you would punch the guy.” The reporters laughed at his description but most listened intently.
He nodded to a male reporter standing in the back who had his hand up “I believe that problem was cleared up by the manager of the Sushi restaurant. Apparently, he explained the whole situation and the newspaper even wrote an article explaining it and apologized to you and Miss Chan.”
Philip turned to Amy blankly “Really?” he saw a few nods, obviously of those that read the daily newspaper “Whatever. Its no longer important. I never read trash about myself, so why should I read apologies? But I don’t mind a little compliment here and there.” He hinted while a few smiled getting his joke.
Amy glanced at her watch, the time was over the limit of an hour “Well, I’m sorry to cut this short but it’s time for Philip’s autograph signing session at the City Mall. I hope all of you will support the album by buying the original and not the copy. We all know it’s getting out of hand, so a sure sign of responsibility will only help the younger crowd respect the hard work these singers put into their work.”
Philip couldn’t help but laugh “She sure has a way of making everyone remember their duties huh?” he wrapped an arm around her and the cameras began flashing uncontrollably but they no longer cared, it was out in the open now.
***************
The following week, it was strictly for shooting their music video ‘True Love’. The director had no problem having the two love birds in affectionate positions. Half of the video was shot in the studio and the other half was at the beach. Philip requested that the shots be done in a natural environment. Nothing was planned, it was all left up to his and Amy’s natural chemistry. They chased each other around the sand like kids looking deliriously happy. At one point, Amy ran to the water, staying ankle deep, trying not to wet her long summer blue dress. But the idea was useless when Philip came from behind her and picked her up with ease. Before she could stop screaming he raced deeper in the waters and threw her in along with himself getting them soaking wet.
The director had the whole thing on camera while the whole crew laughed at the kiddish gesture. Some were envious of their openness with each other. Their connection was beyond a special bond, it was pure love. Amy and Philip finally emerged from the waters as they walked to the crew dripping wet. She rung out her hair while Philip shook his head like a wet puppy. She giggled when the sprinkle of water splashed all over her.
The camera guy turned off the machine but the director stopped him “Wait. Keep filming, its most natural when they think no one is looking.” He looked up at Philip with a smile “That was great. Let’s take a break.”
The errand guy had ordered boxes of food for the whole crew to enjoy at lunch. Amy wanted to sit in the warm sand while she dried off for the next scene. Philip gladly joined her, he took a seat next to her while handing her a boxed lunched “Thank you.” She smiled happily.
“You’re a born natural.” He said with a laugh.
“Really?” she asked unconvincingly.
He laughed “What’s the matter? You don’t believe me?”
Amy shrugged “I’m a natural when it comes to you. If I had to do a real movie with real lines, you might think twice about that compliment.”
“That’s a great idea!” he exclaimed.
“What?” she was lost.
Philip rolled his eyes “It was your suggestion!” she gave him a blank look as he continued with a sigh “Do a movie with me.”
“You’re kidding right?” she said covering her chewing mouth.
“No! I’m dead serious. I’m working on this new storyline with one of the top producers, he doesn’t have a lead girl yet. Why don’t you audition.” He sounded too excited.
Amy shook her head “One thing at a time, Mr. Cheung. I can’t jump from featured voice to big movie screen all in one day. Aren’t you afraid the movie won’t sell?”
He smiled sincerely “No. I don’t care if it’s a flop, but I’m telling you this, it won’t be. Because you’re going to be in it.”
“That’s so sweet…” she smoothed out the salt that dried on his face “But no.” she spun in a circle away from his face while she continued eating her food.
Philip took the last bite as he closed out his box and sprawled out in front of her on his back “Please? For me? If the producer doesn’t cast you then I won’t bother you about auditions ever again.” He promised.
Amy smiled as she closed out her lunch box and placed it on top of his “Promise?” He nodded with his eyes closed while the sun beamed on his face “Okay, you got a deal!” she stretched her arms out tirelessly.
“Tired?” he asked and she nodded with a yawn as he patted to his now bare chest after he took off his wet t-shirt. She smiled as she lied on his chest comfortably with her eyes closed while he stroked her face.
The director smiled at the sweet gesture, he knew it would look great on the video. Within a week, the video was brought out onto the small screen playing on the top tv-music channels. Amy and Philip were surprised at the finished work and she loved the beach parts, they looked so natural not like the studio scenes, which looked more rehearsed. Their song was played on every station possible with requests overfilling the lines to the radio stations.
As promised, Amy auditioned for the lead role in the movie entitled ‘Haunting Faces’. She thought it was a horror movie so she read her lines with fear and nervousness. When the director told her it was a love story, she felt embarrassed. But he let her do the scene again and this time she did it with feeling. When she left the audition room, he shook her hand “That was very good, Miss Chan. We’ll contact you on who we decide for this role.”
Amy nodded “Thank you.” She walked out of Studio 5M with a renowned feeling of confidence. Philip stood outside waiting for Amy, he smiled when he saw her come out “I probably didn’t get the part.”
He frowned “How can you be so sure?”
“Because I was not good.” She insisted. He instinctively took her hand in his as they walked towards his office hand in hand. She told him about her misunderstanding of the script and he blew up with laughter. She stared at him sternly until he stopped laughing “I was embarrassed.”
Philip reached over as he took her in his arms and rocked her back and forth “Aww, it’s okay honey. I still love you. No matter how goofy you get.”
She pushed him away with a laugh “I’m not goofy!” she retorted.
He was about to argue when his cell phone rang “Hello?” he picked it up. “Yes, this is he. Really? Wow, that is great news. Thank you for calling me….oh what?” his eyes turned to Amy’s questioningly “I see. Okay, I make sure the message is passed on.” He sighed as he took a seat next to her.
“What happened?” she asked slowly.
“That was the director for the new movie project. He found his lead female.” He sounded disappointed.
Amy shrugged carelessly “Probably the girl that came after me. That’s okay. There are other shots.” She was comforting him.
Philip smiled “So you would still continue to audition?” Amy nodded knowing that he would want that. “I’m glad. But it’s a shame you will be busy in the next three months.”
She furrowed her brows “Why?”
“Because you will be tending to my every needs during this movie. Hey, just because you’re my girlfriend doesn’t free you from your personal manager position.” He smiled when she pouted and his face changed as he snapped his finger “Oh wait, you can’t.”
“Why not?” she asked again.
“Because you’re going to be filming next to me the whole time.” When he said it a slow smile appeared on her face as she realized what he was saying.
Amy hit him across the arm roughly “You brat!! How dare you mess with me!” she laughed as she began tickling him, one of his weakest spots was on the side waist “So I got the part?”
He chuckled deliriously “Yes!! Stop…” he was laughing so hard that his stomach hurt. Eventually, he used all his muscles to tackle her down onto the couch they were sitting at.
Suddenly the door opened and appeared Johnny and Liz standing at the doorway gaping at them. Johnny’s apparent smile appeared as he wagged a finger shamefully at them. Philip sat up as he pulled Amy up beside him. He cleared his throat “Don’t you guys knock? I should get a lock.” He said turning to Amy who was smiling.
“A lock won’t drown out the giggles and groaning.” Johnny retorted.
Amy rolled her eyes disgustedly “Is that all you think about?” Johnny nodded vehemently and she turned to Liz “I feel sorry for you.”
“I do too.” Liz quipped and the girls giggled simultaneously.
“What are you guys doing here?” Philip decided to change the subject.
Liz smiled remembering whey they came “That’s right. We wanted to give you two this.” She handed a thick envelope to him.
Philip opened it while Amy stood next to him. It was a wedding invitation “You two are getting married?” Philip asked incredulously.
“Yes and don’t sound so shock!” Johnny laughed as he stood next to Amy with his arms around her shoulders. “Remember to come early.”
“They have to be!” Liz exclaimed “Being the maid of honor and best man that is.” She had a twinkle in her eyes.
Amy looked up with surprise “Really?” she asked “Wow, I’m so touched that you would ask.”
Johnny raised a hand to silence her “No, we’re not asking. We’re commanding. You don’t have a say in this decision.” He said firmly making Philip and Amy exchange smiles.
**************
The wedding came fast with Amy and Philip wrapping up their new movie. The wedding was the weekend before their movie debut. Liz was in a beautiful white laced gown, her veil was designed with tiny diamonds sparkling in the sunlight. The wedding was done at the clubhouse in which Philip belonged to. The garden of roses was the perfect setting for their outdoor wedding. Johnny never looked more distinguished in his white tux. But Amy only had eyes for Philip who stood next to Johnny in a black tux looking so handsome. They threw each other smiles and glances throughout the whole ceremony.
Philip looked at her adoringly. She was beautiful in the lavender silk strapless dress. The four looked like they stepped out of the Bridal magazine as they walked down the aisle hand in hand. The reception was inside the clubhouse in a large room decorated in purple roses and lilies. By the end of the night, the bride and groom began their first dance. Liz waved for Amy and Philip to join them after 5 minutes of their alone time on the floor. The two gladly began the trend as every couple got up to dance.
Philip wrapped has arms around her waist while she reached around the back of his neck. The two locked eyes looking happier than the bride and groom “Don’t they look adorable?” Amy asked after glancing at the new couple.
Philip nodded in a daze “Do you want us to look adorable?”
Amy smiled slowly understanding his little hint “Maybe.” She teased coyly.
He widened his eyes “Really?”
“Depends…if your proposing.” She smiled flirtatiously.
Philip shrugged “Maybe if you look in my pocket, you will know.” He played the game just as well. Amy narrowed her eyes suspiciously as she reached into his pocket and felt a ring. She pulled out a diamond platinum ring. He stopped dancing when she let out a small gasp. “Is that a yes?” he didn’t wait for her to answer as he took the ring from her hand and placed it over the appropriate finger. Amy was speechless, she was engaged “If you don’t answer, I’m going to take that back.” He teased.
She giggled as she hugged him tightly “Yes. That’s a yes!” she breathed.
Liz caught their magical moment as she moved Johnny closer to them “Looks like you won’t need the wedding bouquet after all.” She teased Amy.
Amy couldn’t wipe out the smile on her face “No, I guess not.” The girls giggled together as they hugged.
Johnny congratulated Philip and hugged Amy “This doesn’t get you off the hook. I’m still gonna do that prank.” He gave her a wink meaning that he was just teasing. The two were called to cut the cake as the whole placed thundered with applause. Amy leaned on Philip happily clapping her hands.
“We’ll be up there in due time.” He whispered as he wrapped his arm around her waist from the back. Amy smiled as she looked up at him. “I love you.” He mouthed before leaning down and kissing her on the lips.
The End
Chapter 22 Synpose
********** 3 years later ************It was the annual barbeque get together at Philip and Amy's mansion. They wedded about 3 months after Johnny and Liz got married. It so happened the girls were pregnant at the same time. The fathers were estactic at the hospital with their new borns. Philip had a girl and Johnny had a little boy.
Amy sat on a chair under the umbrella table where their green grass back yard of the mansion as she watched the kids playing happily. They were the best of friends, she could already tell. Her smile was content, there was nothing in her life that could make her frown. "Honey, don't play with that!" she cried when little Angie picked up a handful of sand from the sandbox Philip and Johnny built for the kids.
Her little girl was almost three, wearing her little blue dress she was cute as a button next to Jimmy who was dressed in shorts and a t-shirt. A blue jean cap on his head made him look like a little man.
"You have to let them be kids." Liz's voice appeared from the back of Amy.
She looked up at her friend and happily took the cup of ice coke "Thanks. I know it's hard not to keep an eye on them. But sometimes you just have to make sure that they don't eat something they're not suppose to eat."
Liz laughed as she turned back to where the guys were. They were busy barbequing and laughing at each other's stories. "Don't tell Johnny, but that other day I found Jimmy picking up a cockroach he found in the kitchen."
Amy let out a gasp as she covered her mouth "What? Did he eat it?" she asked in horror.
"No, of course not! Johnny would yell at me for not taking care of the kitchen. I caught him on time. I put out little bug killers in the kitchen now to keep them away." She glanced back at Johnny again "That just comes to prove to you that kids have a mind of their own. You cannot be too careful and you can't be too overprotected. Kids will be kids."
Amy nodded with understanding "You're right." she let out a small sigh "They grow up so fast don't they?" Liz nodded in agreement with a motherly smile on her face.
Soon the guys joined them at under the umbrella table "Snack time!" Johnny announced as he put down the plate of barbeque chicken and ribs. "This one is for you Amy, I know you like the wings." he used the fork to place it on her plate.
Amy eyed him carefully "Did you put hot sauce on this?" she knew he was still trying to get her back. So far she has caught him in the last few attempts.
Johnny looked hurt as he pouted at her "Amy! I'm so offended. How could you think I am that childish that I would still hold that grudge from that trick you played on me over three years ago?" he said haughtily.
"Because I know YOU." she retorted but took a sniff at the chicken but nothing was fishy about it.
"Honey, just eat it, I cooked those myself." Philip coaxed as he waved the kids over. They happily obliged while running over with cries of laughter between the two.
"You don't even trust your husband?" Johnny asked incredulously when Amy wrinkled her nose at the chicken wings. "Anyways, when was the last time I tried to pull something on you?" he asked Amy.
She smiled not remembering the exact date "After you failed to convince me that Philip was cheating on me, I figured you would never give up until you get me. But it has been almost over a year."
Johnny nodded "See, it's been too long. I've grown up alot."
After saying that Liz began to choke on her food as she laughed. She patted her chest in pain but a smile was plastered on her face "Honey, you almost killed me there. Don't say that again."
Amy laughed "Even your wife doesn't believe you!"
Philip shook his head "That should be in the next headlines, Johnny thinks he's more mature." he laughed with the girls while Johnny scowled at them.
He turned to his son who was patiently peeling away the chicken skin before eating it "What do you think, Jimmy?"
The boy raised his eyebrows innocently "I don't know." he said sweetly.
Johnny frowned as he scolded "Oh what do you know, you're only three. Eat your chicken!" his face brightened as he turned to Angie "How about you sweetie? Uncle Johnny is a good person right?"
The little girl looked up with a peeled chicken in her hand with Amy's help. Her face was smeared with ketchup, she shook her head at him "Uncle Johnny funny!" pointing to him. Making the other adults blow up with laughter.
"Oh, even you don't agree? I guess I don't belong at this table. I'm going inside to eat by myself!" he said heatily stomping his foot all the way into the kitchen through the back door.
Philip and Amy glanced at each other and turned to Liz. She looked up after stuffing her mouth full of salad "What?" she mumbled.
"You're not going to see how your second son is doing?" Amy asked.
"No. When he starts to behave, we'll allow him to join little Jimmy and Angie." she smiled sweetly at the kids, who were well behaved.
Amy felt bad for Johnny since she was a little responsible for his outburst "I'll go." she sighed after a moment.
"Be careful, honey." Philip warned as he watched his wife walk away with a quick wave at them. He turned to Liz with a smile "Any way we can stop that war between them?"
Liz laughed with her head shaking "Maybe if we're lucky, the two of them will play each other to death."
Inside the kitchen, Johnny was sitting on a stool at the tile counter. His head was on the counter while his arms were dangling beside him "Hey, you're not mad are you?" Amy asked carefully.
He let out a small sob "No one likes me."
Amy laughed "Since when did you get so sensitive. I thought you were use to being called a clown?" she took a seat next to him.
"Not when I feel like I've matured." he sighed pulling his head up, his back slouching with exaggeration.
She shook her head "You have!" she insisted.
"Really?" he looked up at her "Is this your way of messing with my feelings?"
Amy smiled sincerely "You know I wouldn't do that...again. I promised never to make a guy cry again. You looked so devastated when I told you Liz was married. You remember?"
Johnny had a distant look in his eyes "Yeah, I don't think, I'll ever forget it." he pushed himself off the chair "Okay, enough sulking, I'm getting lonely in here." Amy began to follow him when Johnny's leg fell out from below him.
She watched in shock as he fainted before her eyes "Johnny?" she bent down and shook him.
His eyes fluttered open "What happened?" he asked softly pushing himself up.
"You fainted..." Amy said suspicously.
He frowned "I did?" he let out a sigh "Well, it's not the first time...sorry I scared you, Amy." the sincerity in his voice was too real.
She let her guard down after catching the sad tone in his voice. "It's happened before?"
Johnny quickly looked around and then back at her "Promise you won't tell Liz?" Amy nodded blankly, wondering what it could be "I've been getting this faint dizzy spells lately. I saw the doctor about a month ago and he took an head scan. He found a parasite inside."
Amy wrinkled her forehead with concern "How did that happen?"
Johnny shrugged his shoulders "He said it could be something I ate. Maybe dirty food or uncooked food, could be in sushi, I don't know."
"Can it be destroyed?" she looked at him carefully to catch any signs of a lie.
He shook his head sadly with a soft sigh "The doctor said if it was anywhere in my body, they could trace it, but because it's living inside my brain it will be too hard to find it. If they operate, I could die."
Amy let out a small gasp as she covered her mouth "Oh my God...you have to tell Liz!" she insisted.
Johnny shook his head "No, I don't want her to worry about me anymore. If you were in my shoes, you would not want to tell Philip. Don't worry, I'll let her know one day."
"When? In your death bed?" she asked incredulously "If it happened to Philip, I would want to know." she insisted.
Johnny reached for her hand as he gave it a little squeeze "You promised Amy. Give me time...I'll let her know."
Amy nodded after a moment "Fine. But if you don't tell her in one month, I'll going to tell her myself."
************** 1 month later ************
The four were having dinner at Johnny and Liz's house one night when Philip noticed Amy and Johnny exchanged strange glances "What are you guys up to? What's with the looks?"
Johnny shook his head "Nothing..." he gave Amy a desperate pleading look for her not to say anything but she brought it up.
"She should know!" Amy cried out. She quickly turned to Liz "Have you seen the doctor reports?"
Liz frowned and then nodded "How did you know?"
Amy turned to Johnny "So you told her?" he shook his head blankly "You found the x-rays?"
Liz nodded "Of course, it was sent to me. At first I was a little concerned, but Johnny and I talked about it. No matter what happens, we'll try our best to be happy."
"You're not worried?" Amy asked incredulously.
Philip frowned "What are you guys talking about?"
Amy shook her head at her husband "I'll tell you later. So when you looked at the x-ray...did you...see it? What does it look like?"
Liz laughed with her head shaking "Its just doubled the size of one." Amy winced with disgust "Yeah, that was my same expression, but when I looked clearly, it looked harmless. I told Johnny if he died from shock then I would find someone else to take care of me and my kids."
Amy was shocked at what she heard "What?! I can't believe you could say something like that."
Philip was more confused than ever "Would someone mind telling me what's going on?"
Amy began to open her mouth but Johnny quickly pulled her up "Can you help me get the ice cream, Amy?" he practically yanked her into the kitchen.
She was in shock but let him lead her away. Her breathing quickened at the outrage she just heard "I can't believe she's already thinking about remarrying after knowing that a parasite is killing you!"
Johnny was trying to hush her "Shhh...not so loud..." suddenly he grabbed his head in pain. "Ow..." he whispered softly. Suddenly he fell down into the floors, his fists gripped in pain until he passed out. His body relaxed next to Amy who looked frantically around.
"Johnny!" she cried out "Johnny! Wake up...stop playing!" she hit him across the arm but he was motionless. "It's not funny." she warned but again he did not answer.
Amy began to comb her fingers over her hair "Oh my God...." she whispered. She pushed herself off the floor and stood at the door of the kitchen "Philip! Liz!! Come in here..." she pulled herself down at the ground and flipped his body around "Johnny...." she whispered.
Philip and Liz appeared at the door with frowns. "What's.." Liz didn't have to finish when she saw Johnny sprawled out on the tile floor "Johnny!" she bent down to where Amy was "What happened? Did you push him?"
Amy shook her head "No...he just fainted." she looked up at Philip with a scared expression "Should we call the ambulance?"
Philip bent down "Wait." he held back Amy who was about to get up. He quickly felt Johnny's pulse "It's pretty normal. But maybe we should call the police."
Johnny snapped his eyes open as he sat up abruptly startling the girls. They let out small shrieks "I'm not that normal." he said through an evil grin.
Philip rolled his eyes while Amy hit him clear across the arm "You dork! That wasn't funny!!"
Liz hit him on the head "Yeah!" she agreed while clutching her heart with another hand "You scared the crap out of me."
Johnny laughed "Sorry, I just wanted to scare Amy. I didn't expect her to freak out like that."
"You'll be sorry you ever met me once I'm through with you." Amy threatened as she moved in closer to Johnny who was now up and trotting to the living room.
"I'm the WINNER!!!" he began crying out happily while bouncing up and down on the carpet. He began rolling around doing cartwheels while laughing hysterically. The kids seemed to be intrigued by Johnny's happy mood. They stared at him with a smile on their face while sitting on the couch peacefully.
Amy turned to Liz with a sigh "How could you stand that man?"
Liz snickered "Man? What part of him is a man?" she turned to Philip who opened his mouth, her finger pointing at him menacingly "Don't answer that!" she looked over at Amy who was shaking her head "You want to adopt him? I swear, he'll just sleep, eat and poop all day...you don't have to give him any love." she shook her head convincingly.
Amy laughed "No thank you, I already have a dog." her head shaking as the three walked out to join the giddy Johnny. The four sat down and continued their meal. Every so often Johnny would look up at Amy and stifle a laugh. "Okay, I get it...it's funny. Can you act like a civilized boy?" she snapped.
Johnny smiled "Someone's sounds like a sore loser. Don't be mad because I won this war. I've waited three years! Just when you let down your guard down...BAM!!! That's how I attack."
Amy rolled her eyes as she was about to take a bite "Wait...Liz, were you in on it?" she pointed to her friend.
Liz shook her head "Oh no, don't pull me into your little war...I had nothing to do with it." she said honestly.
"What were you talking about x-rays and stuff." Amy asked.
Johnny and Liz exchanged glances "We're having twins. I just took my first ultrasound today...two heartbeats." she said excitedly. The four exchanged smiles, they knew whatever grudge or war that Johnny and Amy had, it would soon pass from this wonderful news.
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