Love Needs No Voice (Complete)
Chapter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
“Hi!” a voice greeted him. He turned around and saw
his friend Zac. He plastered his usual friendly smile on his face.“Hi!
What’s up?” “Nothing much, my parents are flying off to Canada today for
business trip, I get the whole house to myself for the month! Wanna come over
for the “release from jail” party?!” Alec laughed. “I can’t believe
that they’re leaving you alone for that long! Last time they went off for the
weekend, the party we had costed you heaps in renovating! So they’ve finally
stopped grounding you for it?” Zac winced. “You won’t BELIEVE how bad it
was, all that yelling! I almost ended up in military school! Remind me this time
to NOT invite the whole senior class again, especially those jerks Vincent and
Nick.” “I can’t believe you’re still going to hold a party after last
time.” “Well, I’ve been rotting at home for the last two months! Any
longer and you can just bury me, I need to party.” “Ok then, when? Who’re
u gonna invite?” “Oh, ‘most anyone but those jerks. As long as you’re
coming, all the cute chicks will turn up.” Alec winced, the image of the bunch
of girls arguing over who he was to dance with next making him regret saying
yes.
“And hey, forgot to tell ya, we got a new student in our year, but she’s
“special” apparently.” “Really? What do u mean?” asked Alec, suddenly
interested. “I have no idea, that’s all I heard, god I hope it’s not one
of those charity cases…or some disabled one that starts slobbering over the
table.”
Alec grinned, and was about to reply when something behind Zac caught his eye.
It was Ruby, the ‘belle’ of the school, the most ‘in’ girl around…and
personally, Alec thought, the most ‘bitchy’, but hey, it wasn’t his
problem. She and the other bunch of ‘in’ girls were crowded around
something, or someone and laughing and talking. What was going on?
“I can’t believe they let you into this school,
what did you do? Get on your knees and beg?!? Opps, forgot you can’t even do
that! So what did you do? Lick the principal’s shoes?” Ruby’s high pitched
voice carried down the hallway to Alec and Zac, as the whole bunch of girls
bursted into laughter. Alec started strolling down the hallway with Zac behind
him, he could see that they were surrounding a girl in that wasn’t laughing.
“Oh come on! Tell us to stop and leave you alone, go on…” Ruby’s
irritating laugh was cut off when Alec pushed his way thru the group.
“What’s going on…Ruby, what are you doing…” his voice faded away as he
looked at the girl properly. She hadn’t said anything, but her eyes…her eyes
were like windows into a sea of emotion as she stared at him. Suddenly he felt a
sharp tug inside him, something he had never felt in his whole life. Shaking his
head, Alec made himself wake up. “ Sorry, she’s always such a bitch in the
morning, are you ok?” She only stared back at him rather hopelessly. Alec
started to speak again when Ruby sided up to him and latched onto his arm.
“Alec honey, what are you talking about? I was just saying that she’s such
trash, she’s got no right to be here!She should be in a MIME school or
something!”
Alec turned to glare at her as she laughed. “Hey, don’t hold your breath
waiting for her to thank you! She stuffed up here, you know?” Tapping her
head. “She’s a mute, can’t speak, mentally disabled and they put her with
us! What if it’s infectious or something!” Alec looked at her in disgust as
he detached himself from her. “Ruby you go too far!” The girl had turned
silently and started walking away. Alec ran after her, ignoring Ruby’s protest
and the other girls crying out that he was being mean to wonderful Ruby over
such trash.
“Hey!” Alec grabbed her shoulder. She turned around and looked at him with no expression on her face. “I’m sorry, are you ok? My name’s Alec, are you new here? What’s your name?” She nodded slightly, and then took out a little notebook from her pocket. *(Vicki). He smiled. “Hi Vicki, sorry about that, some people in this school are such jerks, but we’re not all like that. So do you know where you’re going? Have you got your timetable yet?” Vicki nodded, and gave him a tiny smile. She took out a piece of paper, and showed him her timetable. “Hey, your next class is same as mine…want to walk with me?” She smiled at him in agreement, and he started walking with her to their room, chatting away, telling her about himself and the school. He didn’t know why, he felt completely at ease with her, even though she would only look at him and smile or nod in reply, sometimes writing a reply on her notebook. The other students stared at the coolest guy in the school chatting with this beautiful, but strangely silent girl, as the two ignored them and walked thru the hallway.
Ever since this had happened to her, since that horrifying day, she had found that the only way to survive is to build up these walls around her, to hide herself, her true self from all these people who would hurt her, laugh at her. She would only give them an expressionless look, or a tentative smile…not knowing whether she was feeling pity for herself or pity for those who were so ignorant in thinking that in hurting her they were making themselves feel better. Was this good? She didn’t know, sure, hiding behind this inner shell made her feel less pain, but then…it also made it hard for her to open herself and trust people, really trust someone. And it was so lonely inside these walls…
“Vicki?” her thoughts were interrupted, as Alec asked her something. She gave him a puzzled look and mouthed, What? “I was asking, did you move here with your parents?” Alec was shocked as he saw the colour drained out of her face. “Vicki, are you ok? What did I say?” He felt a sharp tug inside himself as he saw her eyes filled with pain and sorrow. He unconsciously reached out and touched her arm. “Vicki?”
“VICKI!” a voice called from behind them. Alec dropped his arm as they turned around and saw a guy running towards them. “Where have you been? You scared the heck out of me, you were supposed to wait for me this morning, remember? My parents would have killed me if you got lost or something!” Alec recognised him as Josh, the computer wiz and a terrifyingly intelligent guy in science…the one that always sat in the back by himself. He saw Vicki suddenly grin, and felt an unrecognisable feeling. So this is what she looks like when she is really happy, he thought, how amazing she is when she really smiles…but why is she smiling at this guy? Who was he to her?
Josh paused, somewhat surprised to see Alec…what was
the most chased after guy in the school doing with Vicki? He knew very well what
Vicki normally went thru with people, so…but then, though he’s never really
known Alec, he didn’t think he was that bad a guy, for one of the ‘in’
group. “Well? Why didn’t you wait?” Vicki grinned and took out a
previously prepared piece of paper…Alec and Josh cracked up. It was a pig face
with ZZZ coming out of it, and JOSH on the forehead. * I tried to wake you up
you stupid idiot! I had to be here early to get timetable, and you sleep like a
pig! *
Josh laughed, as Alec watched bemused. “I am NOT a pig! Hey Alec, thanks for
looking after her, I was supposed to bring her this morning, but my conversation
with Zhou Gong (the sleep god!) was too interesting!” Alec smiled back
tentatively. “Um, it’s ok, I was having fun chatting with Vicki
anyway…what was all that?” He gestured around with his hands. Josh grinned.
“Oh, hand signals, is faster than Vicki writing down everything. I had to
learn it ‘cause my parents put me in charge of her.” “Are you guys…”
Alec didn’t know how to continue. “Are we what? Family? Nah, Vicki’s my
fiancée…” Josh laughed and dodged as Vicki tried to punch him. *Idiot!*
She shook her head at Alec, and scribbled in her notebook, (NO WAY! He is my
irritating, smart ass cousin who sleeps like a pig!) Alec laughed, feeling
strangely relieved. “Hey, don’t you love me anymore, Vic?!” teased Josh as
she rapped him on the head. *Stop it!* *Why? You like him? Afraid he get
jealous?* She rolled her eyes at him and kicked him in the leg. “OW!” he
complained, as Alec laughed, and Vicki couldn’t help herself but grin right
back at him.
Yes, Alec thought, she is definitely even more amazing when she looks really
happy. Her eyes look so…he didn’t know, so different from everybody else
he’s known. ALIVE, that’s it, he realised, she looks like she is actually
alive, full of life, not like the others, who just live, but feel no joy. It was
strange, it was only seeing her eyes filled with sorrow, that allowed him to
recognise her joy right now. Alec suddenly knew that life for him would never be
so mundane, so dull again.
Vicki tapped him on the shoulder, and he looked at her, surprised. She gestured
to her watch just as the bell went. “Oh shoot! We’ll be late! Come on Vicki,
hey Josh, she’s in my class, so I’ll take her, we’ll meet you in the
cafeteria later, ok?” Josh nodded, *Vicki, he’s not a bad guy, not one of
“those”, though he is popular. Don’t worry.*
He ran off to his class as Vicki hurried off after Alec, with a tiny smile on
her face. Maybe, just maybe…
They burst into the classroom just as the second bell
went. The teacher turned to give them the ‘look’ and a few people started to
giggle and whisper, but stopped when they saw it was Alec. “Just in time, Mr
Su? Can we be a little more punctual next time, hmm?” Alec just gave the
teacher a grin, he knew Mr Marcon too well to be afraid of his sarcastic manner.
“And this is?” Looking at Vicki. She smiled at the teacher, and handed him
her letter. He gave her a puzzled look at her silence, then read the letter. He
narrowed his eyes, then softened as he looked back at Vicki, and nodded.
“Class, this is a new student, Vicki Zhao, please try to make her feel
welcomed here..” At this, Ruby, who was in the back, snorted, then blushed as
Mr Marcon glared at her. “She has a speech problem, but her record shows she
is just as intelligent as the rest of you, probably more than some…” here
giving Ruby another look, as she was well known for getting others to do her
assignments as the calculator “ruins my nail polish”. “I want you guys to
help her with whatever is needed, and try not to make her life difficult…and
this includes you, young lady.” Looking at Ruby, who rolled her eyes, then
went red as some of the students giggled. HOW DARE HE? How could her teacher do
this to her, for this…this…nobody! How dare the others laugh, at HER!
Ignoring Ruby’s indignant look, Mr Marcon told them to sit down.
Ruby called “Alec! Here!” but he looked at her, then looked at Vicki’s
pale face, once again a mask, he sat down at one of the tables near the front,
and gestured Vicki to sit next to him. She smiled, her eyes saying ‘thank
you’ as sat down and opened her bag. She could feel the people behind her
staring, but what else was new? She’d known this would be difficult,
especially since her aunt had sent her to this posh school thinking it would be
better…she didn’t know that rich kids were even more cruel to misfits than
normal kids. But she had a friend now, Alec, she didn’t know why, but she
trusted him even though she didn’t want to at first, just in case…Maybe life
wouldn’t be so bad…though, after all that had happened, all the nightmares,
the shadows that still haunt her once in a while, there really wasn’t all that
much life could throw at her that she couldn’t, or wouldn’t, survive. Yes,
she thought, just live each day, one day at a time…
Vicki was totally ignorant of the thoughts going on behind her back, she was too busy listening to this great maths teacher, who was actually explaining the maths, not just expecting it all to make sense to them like the other ones she had before. That generally resulted in her tearing her hair out the day before the exam…maths was definitely NOT her best subject. I can’t believe it, she thought, half an hour ago I thought this would be yet another one of those ‘horrible’ days, and now, I’m sitting here in a not that boring maths class and feel…strangely, safe. She shot a look over at Alec next to her, it was all because of him, she realised. He’s treating me like a normal friend, the first person to do so in such a very long time…her mouth stretched into a silent grin as she saw his head nodding off. She couldn’t help it, she waited till Mr Marcon had wandered off down the classroom, then poked him in the side. He jerked up awake…then saw Vicki grinning like an idiot next to him. His eyes narrowed and scribbled frantically on a piece of paper before passing it to her. (Oh, you’ll pay for that girlie, just WAIT till you start falling asleep and see what I’LL do! I’ll be watching…) She blinked her eyes innocently at him. (Who me? I didn’t do anything, I swear…) (Yeah right!) (Fine, don’t believe me!) She shrugged her shoulders, then grinned.
Suddenly the teacher announced that the remaining half hour was for the class to work on the problems in the book, with free discussion if necessary, and the whole class erupted into a chatting session. “Yes, finally! I was sooo sleepy…” Alec saw Vicki’s surprised look. “Oh, it’s always like this, you get the last half hour to do the questions, or in most cases, chat about what we did on the weekend. He doesn’t care as long as we actually do the questions sometime.” Someone tapped Vicki on the back. She turned around, half in dread, no, please, I was just enjoying myself…she was surprised to see a girl smiling rather friendly at her. “Hi! I’m Melanie, did you know about me?” Vicki gave her an astonished look, huh? Melanie grinned at her confusion. “Trust Josh to forget to tell you! He was supposed to introduce us before class as I offered to show you around…and fend off any attacks by the “mob”, but from the gossip that’s been floating around, you’ve already got a champion!” Grinning mischievously at Alec, who made a face at her, somewhat surprised she was talking so casually to him, considering he’s never really known people like her before. Vicki gave her a wry look, and scribbled (yeah, my hero! All he needs is a suit shining armour, and a visor to hide the fact that he’s asleep!) Melanie laughed and Alec hit Vicki lightly on the shoulder. “Ungrateful girl!” he scolded as she laughed silently at him. He felt really light headed, he’d never had such a light “conversation” with a girl before, they always wanted to flirt, flutter their eyelashes and played with their hair, which always irritated him. There was always that feeling of fakeness, and their desperate attempts to ‘catch’ him made him shudder and back off. This, this was…refreshing.
Zac suddenly came and plopped down in the seat next to Melanie. He’d been dying to talk to Alec since the scene in the hallway, and the beginning of class, wondering what was wrong with him, and why was he hanging out with that new girl. “Hey man! What’s up?” he asked roundaboutly. Alec looked at him, then saw, from the corner of his eye, Vicki’s expression changing slightly. The walls were back up again. Why did she hide so often? I suppose I should be grateful that she comes out once in a while with me, but…he suddenly felt that he really wanted to help her come out from those walls entirely…to not be afraid anymore…ok, ease up Alec, he pulled himself short. You’ve only just met her, why the heck are you so concerned over her? That was a question he couldn’t find words to answer.
“Hey Zac, meet Vicki, she’s just moved here from…um..” looking at Vicki, who smiled at his sheepish expression. (Canada) “Canada” Alec finished, reading off the piece of paper. “Um, she can draw a pig that resembles Josh very much…” Melanie, who had grown silent with Zac’s approach, couldn’t help but laugh. Alec grinned at her, and continued “And she’s in most of our classes, and takes a delight in torturing poor souls who fall asleep in maths classes…ow!” as Vicki hit him lightly on the shoulder. Zac looked at her uncertainly, not sure what to classify her as, part of ‘them’ or ‘loser bunch’. But Alec likes her, and…Vicki saw his look, and decided, what the heck, might as well try to be friendly. She gave him a friendly grin, and she looked so refreshingly different, so…nice, it decided Zac’s mind immediately.He normally didn't give shit about "nice" kids, but...this was different. He grinned back at her. “I’m Zac, Alec’s pal. We’re the greatest, coolest guys in the school, and if anyone else says horrible stuff to ya, just tell us and we’ll beat the crap out of them.” Melanie couldn’t believe her ears. Alec was strange enough, but even Zac? This stuck up, snobbish, pain in the neck “in” guy making friends with Vicki?!? Was it even possible? But then, he looks very sincere, she thought. Vicki looked at Zac, she was too experienced with the nasty side of human nature, but now, she could tell he was sincere, more or less because of Alec liking her. She pulled a wry face and wrote (My my, what humility! Only kidding, I’m Vicki, thanks for the offer, I’ll keep it in mind…) The group of them laughed at her piece of paper as the bell went. They wandered off to the next class together, to the bemusement of the people behind them. The two most popular guys…with the new mute girl, and the computer freak?!? This required some thought…
Vicki just stared in amazement at her music teacher, there was no way she would have expected this! Miss Kwan smiled, and continued. *Hello, Vicki. I am so glad to meet you. I hope you enjoy my class* “Vicki?” whispered Melanie, seeing her stunned look. Vicki finally got a grip on herself, and smiled brilliantly in reply. *Hello Miss!* her wide gestures showing her excitement at finding her TEACHER able to understand her! *I am so happy to meet you! Why do you know hand signs? I can’t speak, but I can hear, so you do not need to use them to talk to me.* Miss Kwan gave an exaggerated sigh of relief, wiping her brow which caused the class to giggle. “Thank goodness for that! I learnt handsigns a few years ago because it seemed interesting, but most of that has gone back to my teacher! For a moment there I was afraid I was going to say something rude without knowing!” Most of the people in class laughed with her, Miss Kwan was well liked by everybody, as she was one of those rare teachers who actually enjoyed what she taught, and somehow could influence her students to feel the same way. “Well Vicki, as I was saying, you are definitely welcome here, as we are desperately in need of people for the talent show in two months, and…” “Yeah right, as if she could sing!” Ruby whispered loudly to her neighbours, causing them start laughing, but stopped abruptly as Miss Kwan shot her a reprimanding look. Ruby shut up, as gentle Miss Kwan was, however, NOT someone to cross. “Hmm, thank you for that INSIGHTFUL comment, Ruby, reminding me that I still need a female lead to sing the duet. However, I was thinking of getting Vicki to play the duet for us on the piano as an accompaniment instead, since she’s in level [I have no idea, but high!].” Vicki’s eyes widened. *But..* “No dear, I am pretty sure you can manage it. Perhaps you could demonstrate for me on the piano? I’ll get you the music.”
As Miss Kwan fiddled with her pile of music sheets,
Alec whispered in Vicki’s ear, “Don’t worry, I’ll be there, I’m
singing the male part, believe it or not!” Vicki gave him a surprised look as
he grinned wryly at her. “Miss Kwan can be VERY persuasive when she wants!
We’re still trying to decide the female part though.” Melanie, grinning,
intentionally speaking not too quietly either, “Yeah, Ruby really wants the
part, but last time she screeched so bad the windows almost shattered!” Alec
and Zac cracked up, and so did a few other people around them. Ruby shot her a
furious look, but Melanie just stared blandly back at her. Vicki knew Mel was
trying to hit back at Ruby for her, and suddenly felt really happy. In just this
one day, she suddenly had friends again, friends who really liked her!
“Vicki, I can’t seem to find it, I must have left it at home today! But
here, can you play this for me, so I can judge whether or not you will be able
to do our song for us.” Miss Kwan hands her a music sheet. It was “Right
Here Waiting.” Vicki nods and walks over to the grand piano and lifts up the
lid. She tries a key, this piano sounds so wonderful! *May I warm up first?* She
was totally enthralled by the piano, the music. Miss Kwan nods, and Vicki starts
to warm up her fingers before plunging herself into the music.
As she starts playing the whole class falls silent, listening to the music, seeing her face as she loses herself in the notes. Alec stares at her, the music was so beautiful, it was as if the music WAS Vicki, yes, she had no voice, but her words were spoken in the music, and it reached out to the hearts of everyone who was listening. As the class listened, a lot of them who were already unsure of how to ‘classify’ Vicki because of Alec and Zac’s acceptance, came to realise that this girl was not inferior to them, in fact, she was the same, if not better, than them…thinking this, quite a number of people came to accept Vicki as one of them and her difference didn’t seem to matter anymore.
Finally, Vicki reached the last notes, reluctantly she made herself wake up from the music. She lifted up her head, and was astonished as people clapped enthusiastically! She saw their approval, their respect for her and felt like the earth had moved under her! Unconsciously she looked at Alec for comfort, and found him staring at her with the pair of warmest eyes she had ever seen. Vicki suddenly felt a feeling of warmth and joy that she hadn’t known for a very long time, and she knew with a certainty, that life will never be the same again.
Vicki stared at herself in the mirror, brushing the fine strands of her shoulder length hair as she thought of today, her first day at this posh new school. She thought of Ruby and the bunch of girls who were nasty to her, which was not all that new an experience, of Melanie, her new friend, of her music teacher who could understand her, and…Alec. Her heart fluttered unexpectedly as she saw him come to her rescue again in her mind, his eyes, his smile…Vicki, get a grip! She scolded herself. What is wrong with you? You only just met the guy! And it’s not as if there hasn’t been others who are nice to you just to play tricks on you, you know some rich guys are like that! But even as she said that in her head, she knew instinctively that Alec was not that kind of person. Still, it could be that he just pities you, that’s all. Her eyes lost their brightness as she considered this. Yes, he’s such a nice person, he’s probably just feeling sorry for me. After all, why would anyone, especially someone as good as Alec Su, want a girl who can’t even speak? Her eyes glimmered with unshed tears as she thought of what could have been, if only she could go back in time and unlive that day…the day her life changed forever.
Ruby smiled, as she closed a manila folder, and handed the guy who was sitting across from her an envelope. The guy opened it, takes a look, and smiles, tucking it away in his pocket. “Thank you Miss Lin. If you ever need my services again, please just call.” Ruby gave him a haughty look. “When you walk out that door you will forget that we've ever met, or who I am.” The man laughs cynically. “Of course. That is part of my job, selective amnesia.” He gets up, bows, and leaves the café. Ruby tapped the file thoughtfully. Ah Vicki Zhao, I hope you’ve enjoyed the last couple days, now it’s my turn, she thought. I have all I need in here. She smiled spitefully, swigged down the last of her expresso, picked up her mobile and started calling the people she would need to help her with her plan.
Alec smiled to himself as he walked down the hallway
with an extra spring in his footsteps. He couldn’t help but compare what he
felt now to what he felt…what, was it only a week ago? Before he met
Vicki…he couldn’t believe how much of an impact she has made in his life.
Before he felt so tired every morning, he didn’t know why he had to get up,
why he had to walk down the same hallway every day, except for the fact that it
was just the thing he had to do. Now…now he actually like getting up, he
wanted to come and see this hallway, because he wanted to see Vicki’s big
expressive eyes greeting him every morning. He wanted to talk to her, to see her
smile, which made him grin like an idiot. I can’t believe this, he thought to
himself. No one has EVER made such an impression on me, made me WANT to see them
smile, made me go and beg Josh for that favour…he grinned as he thought of the
surprise he and Josh was cooking up for Vicki. That’s another thing, he
thought. She’s changed the way I see things, without even trying! A week ago I
would never have tried to talk to people like Josh and Melanie, and the
‘lower’ class, now I count them as my best friends! And it’s not just me,
there’s Zac, a week ago he thought of those ‘different’ people as, what
did he say? “slobbering over the desk” or something, and now, he would beat
the crap out of anyone who said anything bad about Vicki or Melanie. Hmm, Alec
mused, I wonder if Zac’s interested in Melanie…he’s been acting a bit
different…
Deep in his thoughts, he missed the side glances from a few people and their
whispering as he walked to Vicki’s locker.
“Hey Vicki!” he greeted her cheerfully as she closed her locker to see his familiar face. She smiled back at him, lifted her eyebrow in an expression he knew as her asking how he was. “Fine, my parents are coming back from NY in two week though, so I gotta start getting my house to not look so much like a pig sty! That’s what I’ll be doing this weekend…” he sighed exaggeratedly as she giggled silently at him. “Hey, it’s not funny, guys are not supposed to have to do housework…say Vicki, want to come over this weekend?” She gave him this look. (And offer myself as for slavery? No thanks! I have no intention of getting a career as a housemaid!) “Aw, come on…I’ll treat you to ice cream afterwards, cookies and cream, your favourite! Please help poor little me? I might get lost in the junk and never find my way out again!” Vicki laughed silently at him. (I’ll call the police if you don’t turn up after 48 hrs, ok?) “You cruel, cruel girl!” Alec, grinning at her. They walked into their classroom early and saw a whole bunch of people surrounding the blackboard, whispering. What was going on?
Melanie, who had been staring at the blackboard in horror, turned around and saw them. She paled, and ran to them, thinking to distract Vicki. “Hey Melanie, what’s going on?” asked Alec, surprised. Vicki also gave her a puzzled look. At Alec’s voice, everybody turned around, and fell silent as they saw Vicki. Ruby came up to them with a self satisfied look on her face, and latched onto Alec’s arm. “Oh honey, we just found out the most horrifying news! You better get away from her before she puts the curse on you too!” Alec looked at her, bewildered, as the people parted and gave them a view of the board.
Vicki stared at the board and felt herself go cold. No, no, please…don’t do this to her, please don’t make her go through this again…she tried to get a grip on herself but failed. Her whole body felt weak, suddenly everything was falling apart around her…her walls, her mask, she couldn’t keep them up…she could feel the tears welling up in her eyes.
Alec saw the blood ran out of Vicki’s face and shot a glance at the board. “VOICE THAT KILLED!!!” in bright red letters, and a blown up picture of a newspaper article. That picture…that was Vicki!!! And the article heading, “FAMILY BURIED ALIVE BECAUSE OF SINGING CONTEST, ONLY ONE SURVIVES”. “See Alec, she cursed her family, her whole family died because she wanted to be in some stupid singing contest, and…”Ruby drawled off as Alec only looked at her, then turned back to Vicki. There were tears streaming down her face, she was crying, crying silently as she had no voice, not anymore. All the pain she had kept inside her was on her face for all to see now, she couldn’t hold it in anymore. “Vicki…”Alec whispered, reaching out to her, but Ruby got there first. Touching her arm as if caring about her. “Well Vicki, after your family dying for you, did you even get an award for the contest, hmm?” she drawled, driving it home. “And it’s such a shame, you losing your voice, you can’t even sing anymore when your parents died for it!” Vicki pulled away violently, and looked at them thru her tears, at Ruby’s smug look, at the others’ horrified expression, and Alec…she turned and ran out the door…got to get away, to get away from everything, everybody…
“VICKI!” yelled Alec and tried to run after her but Ruby still held his arm in a grip of steel. “Alec dear, why do you still bother with that nobody? Especially now that we know WHY she lost her voice, it’s a punishment for killing her parents!” Alec turned and gave Ruby such a fierce look that she backed away, frightened. “GET AWAY FROM ME!” He ran outside after Vicki, but she had already disappeared. Frantic, he ran down the hallway, ignoring the surprised looks from the teachers and students, ignoring the second bell, his mind concentrated only on finding Vicki.
“Alec!” Ruby called, and made as if to follow him, but suddenly she was pulled back. She turned around and saw Melanie’s stony face staring at her. “How dare…”she was stunned as Melanie slapped her straight across her face. “YOU…you DARE to hit ME?!?” she screeched, and made as if to hit her back when her arm was caught by Zac. “Don’t even think about it, Ruby! I don’t hit girls, but in this case I might make an exception.” She stared at him in stunned amazement. “Zac?!? What is wrong with you?!? You’re defending HER? She’s a nobody, just like that mute!” Zac flung her arm away. He walked quietly to the board, ripped off the article, scrunched it up, threw it in the bin. He wiped off the words with his hand, then turned to Ruby. “No, you’re wrong Ruby, YOU’RE the nobody. I can’t believe you did that. You’re so sick.” Ruby stared at him in stunned silence, as he turned to Melanie, who was looking at him as if she had never seen him before. “Come on, let’s go find Vicki.” Melanie nodded, and they hurried out of the classroom together. Ruby watched them go, then turned back to the rest of the students. They were all looking at her with strange expressions on their faces, expressions she had never seen before.
Josh sat in class, struggling to listen to Mr Osman drone on and on about the importance of knowing the hardware and software in the computer that you use. “Tell me something I don’t know!” Josh thought silently, bored out of his brain. He felt edgy, his eyebrow kept twitching…this was not good. He tried desperately to remember if it was the left or the right eyebrow that signified bad things, but he had this bad feeling…get a grip man! He thought, you sound like a old biddy! Suddenly a loud knock on the door, and before Mr Osman could say come in, Alec walked in quickly. Looking at Alec’s pale face, Josh felt a sinking feeling. Oh no, Vicki! Mr Osman looked at Alec, who went up to him and whispered in his ear. “Sorry sir, but I really need Josh Zhao, it’s a family emergency.” The teacher gave him a sceptic look. “It’s about his cousin, Vicki Zhao.” Mr Osman eyes softened slightly, he remembered the girl in his class. Well, Alec Su wasn’t one to play pranks, so, “Alright. Josh Zhao, could you go with Alec Su.” Josh practically exploded from his chair, grabbed his bag and hurried after Alec. Once the door was closed, “What is it? Where’s Vicki?” he asked, and panicked when he saw Alec’s expression. “I was hoping you’d know! Ruby pulled this prank on her, and Vicki just bursted into tears and ran off before I could follow her! I’ve looked everywhere, but she isn’t around!” Vicki? Burst into tears? Oh god, this was bad…Josh asked with dread, “What prank?” “She found some article about Vicki and her family dying…I don’t know, I didn’t take time to read it!” shouted Alec, worried sick about Vicki. Josh stopped dead, his face all stony. “God, I’m gonna KILL that bitch! I can’t believe this!”
Alec looked at him. “What?! You mean, it’s true? Vicki caused her family’s deaths?!” “No! I mean, not really, but she’s always felt guilty anyway…and it was that accident that caused Vicki to lose her voice!” Alec looked at Josh in shock. “You mean, Vicki hasn’t always been like this? Why? What happened?” Desperate to know, but Josh shook his head. “No, I’ll tell you later, but first we gotta find Vicki, she’s hidden all this guilt and pain inside her for so long, but if she’s lost control of it now…” his voice faded as he imagined the state Vicki would be in. Alec grabbed his arm. “Come on then, she’s probably left the school already, what places does she know and like to go to normally?! Think Josh!” Josh tried to think in the midst of the turmoil of emotions in his mind. “Um…there’s the fountain in Central Square, she likes to sit there, and White Lily Park, she likes the bridge that spans over the pond.” “OK, I’ll check out the park and…”Alec started, and Melanie and Zac rushed up, “We’ll take the fountain!” “OK! I’ll check home, and we’ll communicate via mobiles!” Josh decided. They all nodded, and started to run off to the main exit.
Alec ran all the way to White Lily Park, thinking, praying for Vicki to be there, to be ok. It was only as he gasped for breath as he went thru the gates to the park that he remembered he’d drove to school this morning. God, you idiot! He thought, thinking of all that time he could have saved. Oh, forget it! He scanned the park with his eyes, looking for Vicki. Please be here, he thought, as he ran along, dismissing mothers with kids, old ladies…kids wagging school…girl on the bridge. He stopped and stared silently at her figure in the distance. She was in her white dress, her shoulder length hair loose on her shoulders, her elbows resting on the bridge rail while her eyes stared into the depths of the waters, seeing absolutely nothing. This picture, he knew, would be in his mind forever. He suddenly knew what he had to say, right now. He walked slowly towards her.
Vicki stared into the waters, seeing her own
reflection. She saw a girl whose life was cursed, who could not be happy, could
not let people in, every time it only resulted in pain. She was cursed, she’ll
hurt anybody who made her happy, she can’t allow that to happen, not again…
“Vicki.”
She froze as she saw Alec’s reflection in the lake. No! She spun around and
tried to run, but he grabbed her arm. “Vicki! Don’t run, please! Please
don’t shut everyone out again! Josh told me that it wasn’t your fault, it
was an accident! You can’t keep torturing yourself for something that wasn’t
your fault! We’re all worried about you!” She pulled away from him, her eyes
filled with tears as she shook her head frantically. No, no, don’t come near
me! She pushed him away. Alec felt like his heart had stopped. His face was pale
as he watched her cover her cry, “Vicki, you can’t make me leave. You
can’t push me out of your life because I need you, I don’t believe such crap
about curses and neither should you! It WASN’T YOUR FAULT!” He grabbed her
shoulders and shook her for emphasis. She stared up at him, her eyes full of
pain. “I won’t leave you, and I won’t let build up those walls again to
shut me out!” he said determinedly. She shook her head slowly, no, no, he
didn’t…he COULDN’T feel that way! Her hands trembled as she took out her
notebook. Alec let go of her arms as he saw her trying to tell him something.
(You don’t love me, don’t fool yourself! I don’t need your pity, just
leave me alone!) Alec shook his head stubbornly. “I am NOT pitying you! I need
you Vicki, do you know how much you mean to me?!? You make me feel glad to get
up in the morning, my heart does the jitters every time you smile at me, when
you grin I feel like the sun comes up, when you play music I can hear your voice
in here!” He gestured to his heart. Vicki covered her ears, not wanting to
hear it, hear him say it, afraid that if he did she would let him in forever.
Alec looked at her frustrated, then remembered.
Vicki looked up at him in shock as he just tapped her on the shoulder. She stared as he slowly said…*I love you Vicki. You make my heart sing every time you smile at me, I feel lost when you’re not there, I can hear your words in every look, every smile you give me. I hear your voice in my heart Vicki, and it speaks louder than a thousand voices. I love you.* Alec eyes filled with unshed tears as he finished hand signing. *You’re my sunshine, my heart. I love you.* Vicki stared at him, stunned. Her mind was so confused, but her heart was already screaming the answer. Her eyes filled with tears as she ran and threw her arms around him, sobbing. Alec held onto the girl tightly, his joy, his heart, his soulmate, and he would never let go. He tilted her chin up and stared into her eyes. “Don’t hide from me? No matter what happens, we’ll face it together, ok?” Vicki gave him a brilliant smile in reply, and he felt so happy he couldn’t help but lean down and kiss her lips. He felt her lips curve into a smile, and as he stared into her eyes, he could hear her reply as clearly as if she’d spoken it. I love you too.
As they strolled out of the park and down the street, Alec’s face sobered, and asked quietly, “Vicki? Will you tell me what did happen sometime? You’ve got to bleed it out, you know, don’t keep it inside forever.” Vicki looked at him for a while…she didn’t want to think back, but…he was right, and she trusted him. She nodded, and wrote (I’ll tell you guys when we meet up at the house. I guess I should get it over and done with.) Alec smiled, relieved that she would open up, and not hide again. Her expression then lightened, and (Hey, so what other tunes have you got set in your phone?) He grinned at her mischievously. “Well…I’ve got the perfect one for Ruby…yes, she does have my mobile number, she bribed somebody for it, I swear!” he held up his hands in mock defence as Vicki looked at him. She raised her eyebrow. “It’s, ‘I’m a Bitch’!” He cracked up and Vicki laughed silently as she chased him down the street.
Sitting in Josh’s lounge room, Alec, Josh, Melanie
and Zac watched her as Vicki silently struggled with herself. She looked at
Alec, who squeezed her hand slightly, indicating his support. She nodded,
decided. *Josh, tell them. Tell them everything.*
Josh heaved a sigh and nodded. “Well, , since Vicki was a little girl, she was
always bright and cheerful. She made everyone feel happy just by being around
her, and she was always singing, humming to herself no matter what she was
doing. So when she was five…no, six?” he looked at Vicki for confirmation,
and she nodded. “When she was six, her parents started taking her to music
schools to learn to sing.” He smiled in remembrance. “Her first solo was
when she was eight. She was singing a carol at the Christmas concert…sounded
like an angel, stunned everybody there. Auntie and Uncle were so proud they were
fit to burst.” He looked at Vicki, whose eyes were filled with tears,
remembering her parents, how much they loved her. “Three years ago, Vicki got
into the finals for the Young Talent Show on Channel 10. [everybody, I’m just
making all this up on the spot, DON’T write to me and deny that there is such
a show!] and everybody was so excited. They were filming it on the 25th October,
but there was this big storm. It’d been raining for the last two days, but
auntie and uncle didn’t care, they would drive thru anything to get Vicki to
the show.” He paused, then reached out and held Vicki’s other hand,
comforting her before he continued. “Vicki won the first prize, but as they
drove back home, they went along Oldway Road, and at that time, there was a
landslide that spilled right over onto the road. It buried their car under a
pile of soil and mud.” Melanie, Zac and Alec stared at Josh in horror. “The
front of the car was crushed, the forensics said that auntie and uncle died
almost instantly, but Vicki…”Josh trailed off, looking at her
compassionately. “Vicki was alive, she kept screaming for help, for her
parents to talk to her. They didn’t get her out for almost two days.”
Flashback
It was so dark, she couldn’t see…her hands fumbled for the belt buckle.
“Mum! Dad! Are you ok? What happened? Where are you, talk to me! MUM! DAD!
HELP! HELP ME!” she felt in front of her to her parents but all there was only
something wet, the mud! She pounded on the window, tried to open the door..she
was trapped! It was so dark, so silent…was she dead already? Dead and buried?
NO NO NO!!!! she screamed. MUM! DAD! HELP ME! HELP ME!!! Don’t leave me alone,
it’s so dark, HELP ME!!!
Vicki shuddered as it came back to her, to haunt her again. Alec was horrified at what the thought of being buried alive for two days…alone…screaming for help…he saw Vicki crying silently. His heart ached for her, he pulled her into his arms, comforting her as she sobbed silently on his shoulder. “It’s OK, Vicki, it’s over, I’ll never leave you alone, I swear…” he whispered in her ear. Melanie and Zac looked at them in surprise, but Josh, who already knew from the moment Alec asked for lessons in hand signs, just smiled. He cleared his throat. “When they pulled Vicki out, she’d almost run out of oxygen, and was in a coma for a whole week afterwards. Her voice box was hurt from all the screaming, but it was healed after a while. But Vicki…Vicki never spoke again.” “Why? What’s wrong?” asked Melanie, staring at Vicki with tears in her eyes. “The speech therapist referred us to a psychologist. Vicki suffered too great a shock that her inability to speak is a result of her mind, and not a physiological problem. She’s tried and tried, but nothing works. The doctor says that maybe it’ll take another big shock to make her recover her voice again.”
Here Vicki shook her head violently, looking at Josh. *I’ll never be able to talk again, it’s a punishment, I can’t argue with fate* Alec couldn’t read the signs, but could tell what she was trying to say from the look in her eyes. “NO! It is NOT fate, not a atonement. You will get your voice again Vicki, and even if you don’t…” he added lightly. “I’ll still love you just as much!” Vicki blushed as Melanie and Zac whistled, and grinned like idiots. "Trust me," he whispered in her ear. She hugged him, thank you Alec. Thank you.
Vicki felt Ruby glaring at her as they walked down the hallway, and she gave her a bland look. She didn’t want to start an argument, as if she could! Vicki thought amused, but she knew that Ruby would hate her even more now, especially since Alec, looking up at the guy who was holding her hand, since Alec insists that we openly show that we’re a couple. She’d rather not make a scene, but…she couldn’t help but smile sweetly. I still can’t believe this, I’m so happy, she thought. Alec noticed Ruby glaring at Vicki and his face went stony. He wanted to do something, yell at her, but Vicki tugged his arm, noticing his sudden anger. He looked down at her as she shook her head at him. He nodded stiffly, but couldn’t resist saying to Ruby as they passed her, “We really ought to thank you, Ruby,” he said in a bland voice. Ruby looked at him in surprise, and he gave her a sly smile. “If it wasn’t for your little prank yesterday, I wouldn’t have had the perfect opportunity to ask Vicki to be my girlfriend! Thank you.” He smiled and turned away, ignoring Ruby’s shocked expression and the giggles from the people around them. He looked at Vicki, who was trying not to laugh. *You’re so mean!* she scolded. Alec, proud he’d learnt the basic signs so fast, tapped her rosy cheek. *You sound like bossy wife already!* Vicki tried to hit him as he dodged, laughing and ran down the hallway with her chasing after him.
(How on earth did you manage to make THIS much of a mess in three weeks?!?) Vicki’s expressive eyes laughed at him as he read her note. He’d finally persuaded her to come help him clean up before his parents came back next week. “I don’t know, stuff accumulates! Guys don’t spend every minute dusting the furniture like girls do, ok?” (And obviously, guys do NOT know what a rubbish bin is for, either) Picking up a empty pizza box and wrinkling her nose at him. Alec laughs, pinching her nose lightly. “Come on Vic, you’re here to help me clean up, not to act as a fill-in for my mum! Take it as work experience, you’re gonna be cleaning up after me for a very long time!” *No way! Me not like smelly guy!* she laughed at him and ran from him as he tried to grab her. “Oh yes, you do!” Finally capturing her, dropping a light kiss on her lips. “You’ll be my ‘yellow-face lady’ [ie. Wife], there’s no way you’re getting out of it!” She wrinkled her nose at him, and he kissed it. *I’ll think about it* Alec released her with a sigh, “We REALLY should start, or there’s no way we’ll finish by tonight! And you have to get all nice and pretty for Zac’s party, hmm? So IS Melanie coming?” She looked at him blandly. *Why?* “Um, nothing, just wondering!” Vicki grinned at him. (So did Zac tell you that he wants to ask Melanie out tonight?) “How did you know?! Did Zac tell you? That idiot made me promise to keep my trap shut, after keeping me awake all night on the phone trying to convince himself to!” Vicki laughed at his sour expression, and shook her head. *No, I guessed* “Does Melanie know?” Vicki shook her head again. (No, I didn’t say anything, but she might’ve guessed. Girls are always smarter about these things, don’t you know?) “Oh, this from the girl who needed a guy to use sign language before she understood…”teased Alec, then ducked as Vicki threw some peanut shells at him. He was about to retaliate, but Vicki ran up and kissed him on the cheek. *Truce? Must start cleaning, or here forever* Alec sighed in agreement. Arming themselves with a bunch of garbage bags, they attacked Alec’s living room.
Melanie stared at herself in the mirror. She didn’t know which was more unbelievable, the fact that she was actually INVITED to an ‘in’ group party, or the fact that she’s actually going! She really didn’t know, she’d never cared about being popular, and watched the antics of the ‘in’ group as so and so broke up, so and so got a new car etc with cynical amusement. It was only since Vicki came that she’d even talked to a popular person! I mean, Alec’s ok, he’s always been one of the popular bunch who’s nice, but Zac? Here she paused in reflection, remembering how much she used to hate him, how he used to pull pranks on her, putting chewing gum in her hair, making jokes about her looks…but for the last few weeks it was like he was a totally different person…he’d defended HER, from RUBY. And now, he was inviting her to his party, his so called, “Night of Freedom before Parents come home” party, since Alec hadn’t even turned up to his last one. Should she go? She could imagine the shocked looks of the crowd as they saw ‘loser’ Melanie at one of their parties…but Vicki was going, and so was Alec, they’ll be there, and…really, a few of the ‘in’ groups had started being nice to her and Vicki…they weren’t that bad a people. And besides, she’d gone shopping with Vicki yesterday and they’d brought their dresses, and Vicki would be coming over so they can get ready together, she had to go. Yes, she thought, that’s it, that means I should go. She put the fact that ZAC had asked her to go, the strange feeling that it gave her, totally out of her mind, as she went off to take a shower.
Zac stared down from the balcony anxiously as people started arriving and hang out around his big living room. There were tables of food, the lights were set, the DJ had arrived and music was already playing. Where were they? Looking for Vicki and Alec. More to the point, he was looking for a certain person. Where was she? He laughed at himself, why was he so worked up? If someone told him two weeks ago that he’d get so worked up over the computer nerd Melanie, he would’ve killed himself laughing, but now…he thought of the conversations he’d been having with her, the way her eyes would sparkle behind her glasses as she laughed at his jokes…god, I’ve fallen for a girl who’s not even popular, who doesn’t have a model figure, who’s not even pretty…but, he did think she was pretty. Not gorgeous but fake like Ruby, just…Melanie. Arghh! He clenched his fist. What if she doesn’t like me? She’s so smart, and different, and I’m not exactly Einstein…what if she’s still pissed because I used to pick on her all the time? Struggling inside himself, his eyes lightened as he saw Alec, and next to him, a totally gorgeous girl in a shimmering light pink dress with spaghetti straps…Vicki? Wow, no wonder Alec still looked a bit shell shocked… he thought as he walked down the stairs towards them, his eyes still searching the area around them… “Hey guys! Wow Vicki, you look absolutely yummy…” he laughed at Alec’s look. “Ok, ok, I’ll stop gawking at your girl. Um, where’s Melanie?” he asked trying to keep his tone light, but Alec and Vicki grinned. Suddenly someone tapped him in the shoulder. “Looking for me?” He turned around and was shocked into silence as his eyes stared at the girl in front of him.
Melanie’s eyes were even more alluring without her glasses as she looked at him. He stared at her in this short, red dress with flowers imprinted lightly on the fabric, and her hair done up in a bun with wisps of hair hanging around her face. Vicki and Alec grinned at his astonishment, Vicki congratulating herself for doing such a good job at getting Melanie ready. Melanie knew she looked different, but really! Waving her hand in front of Zac’s face. “Hey! Wakey wakey!” Zac grinned slightly sheepishly at her. Hmm, he looked really cute today too, Melanie thought, but then, doesn’t he always? “Maybe we should call an ambulance, he looks like he’s having a heart attack.” Alec commented to Vicki who grinned impishly. “Hey, ease up guys!” Zac complained, and Melanie blushed slightly. This only made her look even prettier, and Zac couldn’t help staring at her again. Vicki grinned, reached over and shoved Zac lightly towards Melanie, and Alec laughed, “She wants you to look after her, we’re gonna disappear now!” “Vicki!” Melanie protested, embarrassed, but Vicki just grinned at her, and Alec said, “Hey, I want some time alone to gawk at my gorgeous girl too!” So saying, the two of them ran off holding hands, leaving Melanie and Zac staring at each other rather uncomfortably.
Ruby was standing by the punch table in a short, low-cut, black dress that hugged her like a second skin. She had a slight smile on her face as she watched the couple dance. We'll see how long this can last, she thought, as she waited patiently to make her move. Her eyes checked to make sure that the guy she needed had indeed gate crashed the party, and he smiled at her across the room. He would do anything that was 'fun' anyway, and this request had come from Ruby Lin! Vincent nodded, thinking of the fun that was ahead…
Melanie and Zac were also dancing rather awkwardly on the floor. Melanie felt so awkward, Zac was acting so strange tonight, and she felt funny without her glasses to hide behind. She'd never ever thought she could look good, much less than pretty, but the way Zac kept staring at her made her blush. She tried to make some conversation. "So, did you invite Josh as well?" Zac's expression changed, he felt a bit cold. "Um, I think Alec or Vicki might have. Why?" "Oh, just that I'm a bit worried about him. I haven't seen him since he'd started his project, that idiot, once he starts doing computer programs he forgets everything, eating and sleeping as well!" His heart was beating faster, he didn't know why, he liked Josh, who really wasn't so nerdy once you got to know him, but right now he wished the guy didn't exist! "Um, I'm sure he's OK, it's not like he's a little kid or something!" he said a bit strongly, and Melanie looked at him in surprise. "Zac? You OK? What's wrong?" Zac stared down at her uncomfortably. "Melanie, I…"
Meanwhile Alec and Vicki had wandered over to the drinks table. Vicki pulled a face as Alec offered her a glass of champagne, he laughed, got some orange juice instead for her and drank it himself. "I wonder how Zac and Melanie are doing?" he said to her, and they looked around, but couldn't see the pair as the loud music and flashing lights had started again. Vicki shrugged, *his problem now*, Alec laughed in agreement. *Where is the toilet?* Alec looked around, and saw Nicole, a girl who was in their Biology class and was quite a nice person. "Hey Nicole, can you show Vicki where the washroom is?" "Sure!" He looked at Vicki, "I'll go see if Zac's opened his big mouth yet, shall I?" She grinned, then smiled at Nicole as she followed her to the toilet.
Perfect, thought Ruby, as Vicki left and Alec started wandering amongst the people looking for Zac. She shot a glance at the guy who nodded, then put on her best smile and strolled thru the crowd towards Alec…
Where were they? Thought Alec as he scanned the crowd. He was pushed side to side by the huge crowd dancing to the heavy metal music. Suddenly someone grabbed his arm, and he turned around, "What Vicki, back already…" he trailed off as he recognised it was Ruby pressed up against him. "Aw come on Alec, one dance for me?" she smiled seductively at him. "Ruby? No, I can't, I'm looking for…" She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed herself against him. "Don't be so mean Alec, just for awhile, don't make it look like I'm molesting you, everyone will laugh!" as he tried without much success at getting her arms from his neck. He saw others around them giggling at him, and he gave up, waiting for the music to end…
Vicki was busy laughing at Nicole's jokes as they walked back to the living room when she heard people talking. "Look at Alec and Ruby dancing together! Hey, you reckon Ruby's won, Alec's tired of the mute already?" Nicole saw the blood drain out of Vicki's face, as she stood frozen, her eyes scanning the crowd. Her face became stony as she saw Ruby in her skimpy dress pressed up right against Alec…who was just letting her do that! "Vicki…" Nicole started, slightly worried about her, but Vicki didn't reply. She was too stunned, she didn't know what to do…was this even happening? A guy suddenly came up to her, "Hey Vicki, dance with me?" She looked at him, she'd seen him around in school, but didn't know who he was. There was something in his eyes that would normally have warned her, but Vicki's mind was in too much of a turmoil right now. Without waiting for her reply, he grabbed her hand and dragged her out to the dance floor, ignoring Nicole's protest. He wrapped his arms around her, Vicki didn't know what to do…she was so confused….Nicole watched them in dismay. God, Vicki didn't know what type of person Vincent was! And Alec…she saw Alec finally catching sight of Vicki being smothered in Vincent's arms. Oh dear, she thought, this is going to be bad…
Alec felt a sharp pain the heart, his face went all stony. He felt like his blood was boiling…there was fire in his eyes as they stabbed at the picture before him. He was furious, plain furious. Ruby noticing where Alec was staring, gave him a sweet smile, "Oh look, there's Vicki and Vincent, don't they look good together?" she asked innocently. He pushed her away violently, Ruby was about to comment again when she noticed the anger in his eyes and was stunned silent. No one had EVER seen Alec Su lost his temper before, but now…she stared as he pushed thru the crowds towards Vicki and Vincent. He grabbed Vincent's shoulder and dragged him away from Vicki, who stared up at him, at his furious look with no expression. Everyone grew quiet as he said in a dangerous tone, "Excuse me, I need to talk to my girlfriend." Without waiting for a reply he grabbed Vicki's arm and dragged her outside…Ruby smiled slightly. This was fun…
Alec threw back another beer as he stared mindlessly at the table. God, his head hurt, he kept thinking about Vicki, about the words he said, about the look on Vicki's face…I can't believe we had a fight! He thought miserably for one minute, then felt his anger rising in the next. But she was with that jerk! His eyes clouded as he remembered how close they were dancing together…he gulped down some more beer. What was Vicki doing now? Someone tapped him on the shoulder. He turned around half thinking it might be Vicki, but then his smile faded. It was Nicole. "What?" he asked abruptly. "Alec, where's Vicki?" she asked, worried. "Who knows? I don't care!" he replied heatedly, knowing he was lying and was even more angry because of it. "Alec! Stop being such an idiot!" Alec was shocked at Nicole's tone, and stared at her in surprise. "Vicki saw you dancing with Ruby, she was so shocked you should have seen the look on her face! Then Vincent came up and dragged her onto the dance floor before she could say anything, it's not like she was enjoying herself!" Nicole's voice softened as Alec tried to absorb this. "Alec, I know you guys care about each other, so don't be so stupid, ok? I saw Vincent going after Vicki…she doesn't know what he's like, I'm worried about her…" she stopped as Alec exploded off his chair, "Where are they?!?" "I don't know, that's why I came to get you…" She hurried after Alec as he ran off.
"Melanie, will you go out with me?" Melanie froze, staring at Zac who was standing in front of her. Did she hear correctly? Seeing her expression, Zac hurriedly continued. "I know I used to be such a jerk in the past, but I really like you, you're so different from all the other girls I've met! I don't know why, but you make me feel so good when I'm around you, I feel like I'm someone who matters instead of being just a useless rich kid, Melanie, give me a chance?" he gave her a pleading look. Melanie felt her heart racing, he DID like her! What should she do? She stared into his eyes, there was something there that made her face burn…she nodded slightly. Zac stared at her…did she say yes? Oh god…he broke out into a huge grin and threw his arms around her! "Melanie!" She laughed as she hugged him back. He looked her in the eyes and leaned down… "ZAC!!!" They both jumped, the spell was broken. Really irritated, Zac looked up at Alec, about to bite his head off when he saw his face. "What's wrong?" he asked quickly, all anger forgotten. "You guys seen Vicki?" Alec asked frantically. Melanie looked at him. "No, isn't she with you? What's happened?!" Alec's face went grave, "I had a fight with her…she ran off. Nicole saw Vincent following her, she doesn't know what he's like! I'm worried that…" he voice trailed off as the two stared at him in horror. "OK, Melanie and I will look around outside, Nicole, you keep looking here, Alec, look upstairs!" Without another word, everybody ran off.
“Vicki.” She turned around, her heart in her mouth as she thought…no, it was that guy. She looked at him in puzzlement. What did he want? Vincent stared at the girl, who looked absolutely gorgeous, even with her tear stained face. “Are you OK? Did you and Alec have a fight?” She nodded slightly and looked out into the night. He edged closer to her, putting his arm around her as if to comfort her. She turned around in surprise and found herself in his arms as he wrapped the other arm around her, rubbing her back. “It’s ok, you can cry if you want to…” he coaxed, his voice dripping with honey. “I know how much it hurts…” She tried to push him away, but he tightened his arms…get away from me! Vicki wanted to yell, her eyes flashing in anger, but Vincent only grinned down at her, his greasy face hovering towards hers…
Alec saw Vicki struggling in Vincent’s arms and saw red. He uttered an incoherent oath as he started running towards them, his only thought was to smash the jerk’s face in…suddenly he froze, and stared in astonishment. Vicki slapped Vincent straight across the face, then as he loosen his hold, she grabbed his shoulders, pulled him down and kneed him hard in the stomach! Vincent collapsed on the floor, gasping for breath as Vicki started to walk away and paused when she saw Alec gaping at her, his mouth open. He stared at her flushed face, not knowing what to say. Vicki felt her anger rising, this time at Alec, she turned her back on him and started to walk off when Alec rushed up and grabbed her arm. “Vicki! Don’t run off again, I’ve been looking everywhere for you! I’m sorry, will you listen to me?” She looked at him silently, her expression unreadable, but she let him lead her off downstairs, outside into the cold biting air.
Alec’s mind was a mess, he was still reeling from seeing Vicki defend herself so fiercely, and her cold silence right now made him feel uneasy. “Vicki, I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have yelled at you,” he began, not certain of what he wanted to say, what he HAD to say. She looked at him without expression, those walls were back up again! Silently he cursed himself for being such an idiot. Just tell her everything, he thought to himself. “I didn’t mean to hurt you Vicki, I was looking for Zac when Ruby came up and latched onto me like a leech. I tried to get her off, but she wouldn’t let go, and it looked so stupid, me trying to disentangle from her that…that I thought I’ll just wait for the music to end, and…” he faded as he realised how pathetic that really sounded. From the look on Vicki’s face, she obviously thought so too. “OK, I know that sounds so lame, but it’s the truth! Then I saw you and Vincent, it just made me so mad I lost my head! I know I shouldn’t have yelled at you, but…my heart felt like it someone had stabbed it with a knife.” He pulled the stiff, silent Vicki into his arms. “I’m sorry I yelled, but I only acted like such a jerk because you mean so much to me. I was afraid of losing you,” he whispered. Vicki couldn’t stand being mad at him, not when she loved him so much, and…and he stilled cared about her, he did! She could hear the sincerity in his voice, she could feel his anxiety as he waited for her reply. Tears welled up in her eyes as she looked back up at him. Alec felt a sharp pain at seeing her tears. “Don’t cry Vicki, it’s all my fault, please don’t cry!” he whispered hoarsely, kissing her tears. She threw her arms around his neck, and he hugged her tightly, thanking all the stars in the sky that she was still his.
After a long while, when Vicki’s tears had stopped, and her eyes started to sparkle like normal, Alec sighed in relief. “Forgive me now?” he asked lightly, and watched Vicki smiled impishly. *I’ll think about it* He laughed, then suddenly remembered the question in his mind. “I was coming to your rescue, but you didn’t need it! Where on earth did you learn to do that?!?” Vicki grinned at him, grabbed her notebook. (I used to take self-defence classes, because auntie was afraid people would try to take advantage of my being unable to scream. I reserve it only for jerks, so the next time you try to bully me…) she grinned up at him as he held up his hands in mock defence. “Me? I wouldn’t dare, Miss Kung Fu!” He laughed as she made to punch him. “Come on, let’s go back inside, the others will be worried about you…they’re gonna have a heart attack when I tell them that you’re not as weak and defenceless as you look, that’s it’s only a disguise…ow!” Vicki punched his arm lightly. He smiled down at her. “You won’t believe what I did, I was so worried about you, I interrupted Zac and Mel just as they were…” he whispered in her ear, and she cracked up silently. She pulled his arm, wanting to go find them now, and he grabbed her hand. Hand in hand, at peace with each other once more, they strolled back into the party.
Melanie, Zac and Nicole exploded into gales of laughter when Alec, with a merry face, told them about what Vicki had done to Vincent. “Oh, to see that sleaze-bag’s face…!” gasped Melanie, a fresh bout of giggles overcame her as Vicki blushed slightly. “He..hehe..teeheehehe..hahaha!” Zac collapsed, he couldn’t speak, that word was too painful, it just made him laugh more. He struggled to speak, “He must have been sooo shocked, getting beaten up by the defenseless girl…” Vicki hit him in the shoulder, Stop it! Nicole, wiping tears from her eyes, “I’ll bet he’s going to think twice before he messes with girls again!” They all cracked up again, Vicki grinning as well as she held tightly onto Alec’s hand. He looked down at her and smiled.
Ruby couldn’t believe it, what went wrong? She stared at the couple from across the room, they were sitting together, holding hands…but it should have worked! Did that jerk Vincent stuff up her plan? Her eyes burned as she watched Alec lean down to drop a kiss on Vicki’s cheek. That should be me, she thought, that nobody is sitting in my place, holding onto my guy…her eyes narrowed, fine, this just means I’ll have to use my last resort. Don’t blame me, Alec Su, staring at the guy, I didn’t want to do this, but if you won’t break up with her by yourself, I guess you’ll need some other…encouragement. She smiled to herself, next week, next week she can finish this off. Next week then, Alec, next week you’ll have to dump the nobody, and you’ll be mine.
“NO! My parents are coming back tomorrow, somehow the gossip’s already reached them, they insisted on meeting Vicki on Saturday.” Zac whistled, and Melanie gave him a worried look. “What did Vicki say?” Alec looked at her perturbed. “She tried to come up with five million and one reasons why she couldn’t go, I begged and pleaded, she almost resorted to tears…but I won in the end. So we have to go shopping today, she’s all worked up about having nothing to wear, nothing to take with her, what if she buys something my parents hate…I’m surprised she can even sit this interview.” Melanie looked at him seriously. “Alec, does your Mum know that…that Vicki’s…” “What do you think?” he rolled his eyes. “How on earth could the gossips have missed THAT part of the news! That’s why Vicki has to come on Saturday, once they meet her, I’m sure they’ll realise how sweet and wonderful she is, no matter…no matter what.” He sounded so confident that Zac didn’t want to say anything. He knew Mrs Su too well, Mr Su was well known to be easy to get along with, but Mrs Su? He shuddered inwardly as he recalled their ‘discussion’ about him and his better not having a ‘bad’ influence on Alec when he was twelve. She only wanted the best for Alec, but really… How will Mrs Su, who’d always wanted some 'perfect' girl like Ruby Lin for a daughter in law, react to poor Vicki?
Vicki finished the last notes to “Miss you finally”, her mind preoccupied by the same question in Zac’s head. She sat there in silence, thinking, dreading Saturday. She would go, for Alec’s sake, but she didn’t know what would happen afterwards. She could very well guess his parents reactions, after all, who wouldn’t want a perfect girl for their son? And she…she was so very far from perfect… “Vicki?” Miss Kwan’s voice cut through her thoughts. She looked up at her teacher, and smiled wanly. *Was that OK? I’m sorry I got distracted* Miss Kwan smiled at the girl. “No, that was fine. In fact, you’re the best student I’ve heard so far. I’ve only got…” looking down at her list, she winced slightly, “I’ve got Ruby Lin for ‘voice’, deary me, and that’s it. I’ll probably come to a conclusion by tomorrow, but will have to confirm it with the principal before I send it off.” Looking at Vicki’s pale face, “Don’t worry about it Vicki, you’ve done your best, you’ve got such potential I’m sure you’ve got a long way to go in the music field.” She smiled up at her, her eyes suddenly full of life again. Miss Kwan sighed, thinking of the duty ahead of her, “OK, you better go, I’ve got to get this over and done with. Besides, I think poor Alec’s been sitting outside impatiently for long enough, hmm?” she teased her student. *Thank you Miss* Vicki smiled at her before leaving.
Hurrying along the hallway to meet Alec, she paused as she saw Ruby approaching. Vicki gave her an expressionless look as Ruby saw her, and smiled spitefully. “So how was it? Don’t get your hopes up, there’s no way you’re getting any scholarship when I’m around, just as there’s no hope for you once Saturday’s done.” Vicki shot her a surprised look, as Ruby gave her an innocent look. “Why, your meeting with Alec’s parents, everyone knows about it, but there’s one thing you don’t know, you nobody.” She smiled spitefully as she leaned closer to Vicki. “You don’t know that Mrs Su always wanted me, the perfect girl, for Alec. Once she claps her eyes on you, she’s going to send you packing, you mute, and there’s nothing Alec’s going to do about it! He always listens to his mom, he’ll dump you, and YOU, you can just go back to whatever MIME school you came from!” With this, she tossed her hair behind her shoulders and pushed pass Vicki, walking confidently to the room as Vicki stood like a statue, staring into nothing.
Alec was starting to get worried about Vicki, why was she taking so long? She said it would only take half an hour, tops, and now it was starting to get dark! He was about to go thru the gates to look for her when she came out, a pale little figure walking desolately along the path. He ran up to her and took her hand. “How did it go? Was it bad? Hey, don’t worry, there’s always a next time!” he tried to cheer her up, but she didn’t look at him. “Vicki? What’s the matter?” She could hear the concern in his voice, poor Alec, he was such a nice person, but she…she wasn’t good enough for him, she’d always known that, if only…if only she could speak…but she didn’t have the courage to give him up…not yet. She looked up at him and smiled wanly. I’ll go through with it, for his sake, I’ll stand and let them judge me, and if…if we do have to separate, then…at least I get these last two days with him. Two days! Only two days to fill with memories to last her her whole lifetime, for she knew that she would never love anybody else. Suddenly she threw her arms around him and hugged him tightly. Alec, shocked, held her in his arms as he whispered, “Vicki, what is wrong?” She only shook her head, crying silently, just hold me Alec. Just hold me.
They stood there in silence as Vicki cried her heart
out. The last words to the song she had just played kept going through her
mind…
You played with my heart,
you played with my mind
But I miss you finally
Right from the start,
my love made me blind
But I miss you finally
Saturday. D day. Vicki stared at her breakfast in the morning, seeing nothing. Josh, who didn't know but could guess the thoughts going through her head - how could he not? He'd known her for so long, and he was not as naive as Alec, he knew damn well what people would think of Vicki. Josh cleared his throat. "Vicki, if you don't eat that soon, the cornflakes will taste like mush." She didn't reply. Josh winced, he hated to see his beloved first cousin like this, he wished furiously that that day hadn't happened, that Vicki was still that cheerful, exuberant girl from his childhood, that she'd never lost her voice. She was like the sister he'd never had, and to see her like this…he reached over and squeezed her hand. "It'll be alright, Vicki. Trust me." She looked at him, her mind showing her a different face, a different guy whispering the same words to her, a guy that would soon disappear from her life. She smiled painfully. *Josh, I know you care about me, I'll be fine. I've lived through so much pain already, this can't kill me. I just wish…* her hands faltered as she felt tears well up in her eyes. Josh knew what she was going to say, it was so ironic, if only Vicki could speak, she would be the perfect girl for Alec, there would be nothing that could come between them. But…
Alec rang the doorbell, fidgeting impatiently. Of all days to go to the park! But he'd promised Vicki already, and he would rather die than to break a promise to her. Besides, his parents had said they had heaps of catching up to do, so would be out until dinner tonight. Vicki opened the door. "Morning love," he said, kissing her on the cheek. If she stayed a bit longer in his embrace, he didn't notice. "Ready to go? I've packed a picnic, and rode here on my bike so we can go bike riding in the park, OK?" She smiled delightedly and nodded, that glimpse of sadness in her eyes he had caught was momentarily covered. She turned around, *Bye Josh, I'll be back around 3pm.* "Bye Vicki, Alec, have a great time!" Closing the door, she went to the garage and took out a bike. "Josh's?" Asked Alec, she nodded in reply. Securing her helmet, they rode slowly down to White Lily Park.
At Lin's residence, the Su couple had just sat down to chat amiably with Ruby's parents. "Where is the dear girl?" asked Mrs Su, looking around for Ruby, who usually was the first to greet her, and sit wide-eyed listening to her. Mr Su hid a grimace, he was enjoying himself up till now. He really like the Lin couple, they were good friendly people, but their daughter! To say she was a spoiled brat was an understatement, she acted so fake around them, he was surprised that his wife actually liked her. In this respect, he heartedly agreed with his son, who had responded to his mother's questions last night with, "Mum, I'm going out with Vicki because she's kind, beautiful and makes the world looks bright. What do mean, what about Ruby? I don't care about Ruby!" Ruby came into the room, giving Mrs Su a small smile. She was in a little pink dress…the perfect little girl. "How are you, Mr Su, Mrs Su?" She did a curtsey, Mr Su only nodded in reply. Mrs Su got up and gave her a hug. "How have you been dear?" Ruby let loose a tiny sob, with just the hint of a tear in her eye. "Oh dear, Mrs Su, I…" her voice wavered slightly. "Let's go talk up in your room, shall we?" asked Mrs Su, her eyes compassionate as she looked at the poor heartbroken girl. Ruby nodded, and as they went up the stairs, Ruby had to hide her triumphant smile.
In the park, on the very same bridge that Alec had 'spoken', and Vicki finally admitted to herself that she loved Alec, the two of them stood together, watching the lilies moving in the wind. Vicki felt so safe, so secure in Alec's arms, she wished it could last forever. Remembering what was to come, she felt her eyes burning with tears…life without Alec? Was it possible? She'd felt so happy for these few weeks, so very happy, must she go back to that pain, that dark lonely place again? To have to hide behind those walls again, after knowing what freedom was like? She didn't want to think about it, not yet, and snuggled back against Alec. Alec looked down at her, this beautiful, amazing…angel almost, who had changed his life forever. "It was only few weeks ago, but it feels like it's been forever, doesn't it? Only a few weeks ago, we stood here, and you told me that you loved me too…"Alec smiled in remembrance. Vicki nodded, her head resting against his shoulders. Yes, it felt like she'd known him, she'd loved him forever. Picture of Alec in her mind, *You're my sunshine, my heart. I love you.* She wanted to cry, did he know that he was like that to her too? He was the sun that shone into the dark loneliness of her soul, the light in her life. How will she go on without him? Suddenly she threw her arms around him, ignoring where they were, who might be watching, she kissed him passionately, as if to store up all the sweetness to last her lifetime. Alec, stunned at first at her actions, but then wrapped his arms around her and kissed her back. Vicki felt her heart bleed as she thought, goodbye, my sunshine.
So this is the girl, thought Mrs Su. Not bad, quite pretty in fact. No wonder she managed to 'trap' Alec, and break poor Ruby's heart! She pursed her lips as she stood up with her husband. "Hello Vicki, how do you do?" she asked civilly, knowing fully well that she couldn't speak in reply. Mr Su shot her a glance, what was with her? He smiled warmly at Vicki, "Hi Vicki, I'm Alec's dad, how are you this evening? I'm so glad to meet you finally, after all that I've been hearing about you from Alec!" Vicki looked at them, and smiled pleasantly in reply. This is not going to be pleasant, she thought, after seeing Mrs Su's expression, but she took out her notebook. (Good evening Mr Su, Mrs Su. I'm so glad to meet you. I hope Alec hasn't said anything bad about me!) "Oh no, there's no chance of that!" replied Mrs Su, her tone a little sarcastic. Alec shot his mum a glance. "Please sit down Vicki, don't be courteous," said Mr Su hurriedly, trying to smooth the tension. They all sat down, and a maid served them tea. Alec saw Vicki's tension, and squeezed her hand, lending her support. Mrs Su saw this, and was even more irritated, remembering Ruby's miserable face this morning. Who was this girl, this Vicki, who wasn't even… 'complete', to come out of nowhere and put her son under such a spell?
"Hmm, Vicki, Alec told me a lot about you, so what are your plans for the future? Are you going to continue studying?" Doing what, she thought to herself, what CAN you do, as you are? Alec spoke for her. "Mum, Vicki's applied for a music scholarship at Blake College, she's so great on the piano, maybe we can get her to play something later…what is it?" as Vicki tugged his arm. She'd plain forgotten! She couldn't believe she forgot to tell him. (I forgot to tell you, yesterday's interview, it was with Miss Kwan and her music teacher, who is the professor at Blake College. I played for him, and he's decided to give me the scholarship!) Alec broke into a brilliant smile, "Congratulations Vicki!" giving her a hug, and Mr Su reached over and shook her hand, adding his congratulations. Mrs Su just pursed her lips. She looked at the clock. "We'd better get going." Alec gave her a questioning look. "Your dad and I decided we'd eat out for a change, we booked a table at Princess Court and…" "Great mum! I love that place, the food is really good there Vicki, you'll love it." Mrs Su wanted to say something, but her husband and her son started chatting like two galahs at that girl…she gave up, might as well go with it. "Shall we leave now?" She asked pointedly, getting up.
At the five star restaurant, the Sus were greeted by the manager. "Good evening Mr and Mrs Su, Mr Alec. How are you this evening? I have reserved the best table in the house for you Mrs Su, as you ordered, for your family dinner." Alec squeezed Vicki's hand, feeling so happy at the words, 'family' dinner. So his mum was going to accept Vicki as family, just as he'd hoped. This was so great… "Mrs Su, Mr Su, Alec!" His blood ran cold as he heard that voice. No…they turned around. It was Ruby, in her darling pink dress, with the sweetest smile on her face. "Ru..Ruby?" stammered Alec, shocked. Mrs Su went up to her and kissed her little face. "Ruby dear, you look wonderful, I'm so glad you could make it." Alec shot a look at Vicki, all the blood had drained from her face, her eyes an expressionless window. He felt a sharp pain in his heart, he was so confused. "Mum! What is going on?" he asked desperately. Mrs Su looked at him with a grave look on her face. "This is a family dinner Alec, so of course I had to invite my future daughter-in-law," she said determinedly, "Ruby." "MUM!" "Helen!" from Mr Su, but Vicki only stared at her without any expression.
She glared at Vicki, wanting to drive the point home. "Miss Zhao, I don't care how pretty you look, or how pitiful you can act, you may fool my son but you cannot fool me. I will NOT welcome you in the family, you will never fit my son, so I advise you to walk away now before I get really angry at the way you've tried to break up him and Ruby." Vicki felt like the world was coming to an end…she didn't move, couldn't speak. Alec tried to defend her, but Mrs Su cut him off. "No Alec, you are too blind, can't you see she's only playing you for your sympathy? And even if she does love you, she is not fit to be my daughter-in-law, she's got a mind problem, I will only accept Ruby, so you must break it off right here, right now." Alec could only stare at his mother in shocked horror, unable to say anything. He couldn't believe this, he'd never thought this could happen. Vicki, who'd known this would happen, only she'd never thought Mrs Su could be so cruel, could only look at him, at her, with the saddest eyes Alec had ever seen. Tears streamed down her face as she turned around, and ran out of the restaurant.
"VICKI!" he yelled, as he saw her by the side
of the road, crying hysterically, trying to flag a taxi. She heard his
voice…no, no Alec, just leave me alone, I…I can't do this, I can't watch as
you choose your family over me…she tried to run, but he was faster. He caught
her arm and swung her around to face him. "Vicki! Vicki don't run, you
promised you wouldn't run from me again!" Vicki tried to break loose, but
his arms tightened around her. "Vicki, look at me, look at me!!!" He
paused, waited as Vicki reluctantly looked up at his beloved face. "Vicki,
I won't leave you, and I won't let you shut me out, I won't break up with you,
we'll go back and tell them together, ok?" She shook her head violently. NO
NO!!! *I can't! Go away Alec, please! I can't 'fit' you, I can't even TALK! Go
get Ruby, she's your girl* Alec grabbed her shoulders, shaking her. "No
Vicki! You're the one, you're the one who I love, I don't care if you don't say
anything at all, I hear you, I hear you! I don't care what other people think, I
don't care if you can't speak, if you're blind or even deaf! You'll still be my
Vicki, I don't care!"
*But I do* He froze as she pushed him away violently, tears streaming down her
face. *Alec Su, I can't be the one for you, this ends here. Goodbye*
No, no, he thought hysterically, it can't end, this can't be happening, staring
at Vicki's white, determined face. *Vicki, I love you* he signed with tears
shimmering in his eyes.
Vicki felt someone stab her heart, she couldn't control it anymore, she started sobbing again, she had to get away, tear blinded she turned around and started running. Suddenly the screech of tyres split the silence of the night! As if in slow motion, Vicki turns to gape at the bright light hurdling towards her, she heard Alec's scream "NOOOO!!!" and felt herself flying through the air….
The driver, who had gotten out of his car, legs shaking, had already called the ambulance on his mobile…he approached the silently sobbing girl, and felt the earth start moving again when he saw Alec's chest still moving. "Miss, he's still alive! I've called the ambulance, we can't move him in case there's other injuries." Vicki looked up at him, her eyes suddenly filled with light…Alec? Alec was still alive? The man saw her hope, and said, "The ambulance will be here soon, just keep talking to him, he'll be fine…" I hope, he finished silently, as he watched in puzzlement as the girl cradled the boy's head in her arms, without saying anything. How could he know that Vicki was screaming silently to Alec, talking the only way she could? Alec, Alec, don't leave me, I can't live without you, you're my heart, my sunshine, my light in the darkness, don't leave me, I love you….
The doctors rushed Alec into the emergency room as Vicki, Ruby and Mr Su, holding his now awake wife, waited frantically outside. Mrs Su was sobbing loudly in her husband's arms, Ruby held her hand as Vicki sat on the floor across them, her face as white as snow, as tears flowed silently down her face. God, please don't take him, please, if someone must die, then let that be me, don't…she covered her eyes as imagined the world without Alec. Ruby looked at her and felt her anger rise. She ran across to Vicki and slapped her. "It's all your fault! You stupid nobody! If it wasn't for you then Alec wouldn't be like this, YOU should have died instead you useless BITCH!!!" Vicki only stared up at her, her eyes unseeing. "RUBY!" growled Mr Su, she turned and looked at him, his bleak face, and shut up. Mrs Su didn't say anything, she didn't know what was going on, she wanted so much to blame Vicki for Alec's accident, but deep in her heart she felt the slightest twinge of guilt. It had been her conniving…her son…he was going to die…
Suddenly the doctor came out of the operation room. "Who here is Alec Su's family?" Everyone rushed up to him. "We are, we're his parents, how is he? Is he going to be ok?!" asked Mrs Su frantically. Vicki felt her heart in her mouth as the doctor looked grim. "He's lost a lot of blood, he needs a blood transfusion right now but the hospital is low on O type blood, can one of you help." Alec's parents paled. "But our blood types are A and B!" The doctor looked at them grimly. "Oh, so it's one of those rare cases#…then you cannot donate for him…what about these ladies? Otherwise we'll have to get some from another hospital, but it might be too long a delay…" Vicki ran up and grabbed his arm, frantically nodding her head. "Miss?!" he was momentarily confused. "She can't speak…Vicki, are you an O type?" Mr Su asked urgently. Vicki nodded frantically and pulled up her sleeve to show her willingness. "That's good, Nurse, could you take the young lady…but it might take too much out of her…"looking at Ruby, who had paled slightly. "What about you miss?" Ruby looked uneasy, as she knew Mrs Su knew that she had O type blood too. "Um, I…I have low blood pressure," she said hurriedly, "and I'm afraid of needles! They hurt!" Mr Su gave her a look of utter disgust, and Ruby blushed at Mrs Su's wondering look. The doctor only stared at her, then turned away. "Well, please sit and wait, we must get the blood transfusion for Alec if we are to save him." He hurried back into the emergency room as Mrs Su stared at Ruby, who sat back down and tried to look pale and weak. Mrs Su's mind was filled with turmoil, her son, and Ruby's sudden change of behaviour…
Vicki felt her arm go numb as the blood flowed out of her body, but she was happy. Good, take it, take it, take it all if it will save Alec, she thought, her eyes filling silently as she remembered Alec's face, Alec's arms around her, Alec's silent words…*I love you*. She had prepared to lose him, to have to say goodbye, but not like this! Ruby was right, if anyone should die, it should be her, Alec had so much to do, so much in front of him…the world got hazier as her blood flowed. No, mustn't faint, must let them take more blood, must save Alec…as the nurse finally pulled out the needle, the world went black.
Four hours later, the light above the operation room went off. Mr Su stood up with his wife, his face pale as the doctor came out. He couldn't speak, only stared mutely at the doctor who looked at them gravely. "Alec is fine, we managed to save his life, but he is unconscious right now. We're putting him in the intensive care unit, as he suffered concussion, which might have resulted in brain damage, and we're afraid he may slip into a coma." Mrs Su wavered on her feet and her husband grabbed her, holding her steady as he stared grimly at the doctor. "When will you know for certain?" "We must observe him for 24 hrs, if doesn't wake up by then, the probability of waking up would be less than 20%." The doors opened, as the nurses pushed a silent, pale Alec out. Mrs Su gave a strangled cry and reached out her hands, but the doctor caught her as they continued pushing him down the hallway. "Madam, you can see him once we put him in the ICU."
"How's Vicki?" Mr Su asked, suddenly remembering the girl who'd saved his son's life. The doctor looked grave. "She blacked out during the transfusion, we have her resting in one of the rooms now. She kept insisting she was fine, and made the nurse continue. Someone will inform you when she wakes up. " Mr Su nodded in relief, and Mrs Su felt shaky. The girl who she tried to drive away, the girl who didn't 'fit' Alec…she saved her son's life? And…suddenly she noticed there was only the three of them. "Where's Ruby?" Mr Su's mouth tightened, what was wrong with his wife? Couldn't she see, is she that blind? "She left two hours ago. She said she had to go home to get some rest, and come back tomorrow. That's how much she cares about Alec," he finished in a sarcastic tone. His wife didn't answer, he sighed, "Come, we better go check on Alec."
Alec's parents held his hand as they watch their son sleep…he looked so pale, so peaceful that their hearts almost broke. "Alec, I'm so sorry, do you hear me? Mum shouldn't have muddled with your affairs, I shouldn't have tried to tell you who to go out with, I…I won't try to rule your life again, just wake up! Don't leave mum…" Mrs Su broke into sobs again. Mr Su hugged her as he looked at his son, at that damned ECG that just keep beeping steadily without change. "Come on son, you can do it, didn't you tell me you wanted to be a doctor? Well, what are you doing there? You're meant to be healing people, not lying there!" he tried to sound cheerful. Suddenly a commotion outside disturbed them. He frowned as he saw it was Ruby, who had shown up again once it was morning. He looked at his wife, that's it, she has got to see what this girl is really like, I don't want to see her again!
"But why can't I see him? He is alright now, so why won't you let me in? They're in there!" Ruby demanded in a high pitched voice, as she took some imaginary insult to the doctor's denial. "Miss, it is only for family members." "BUT I AM HIS…oh, Mrs Su.." she cried as she saw Alec's mother. "They won't let me see him!" Mr Su suddenly said, "Well, if you really want then you can be our daughter-in-law, you can see him. The doctors say that he's in a coma, with almost no chance of waking up, and even if he does, he'll probably have brain damage. We'll be so grateful to you Ruby for looking after him from now on," Mr Su said, smiling at her. Mrs Su and the doctor didn't say anything, somewhat shocked, and Mr Su had to hide a grin at the way Ruby's face paled, and stammered hurriedly, "Brain damage?!? You mean, he'll be crazy?" She looked at the doctor for confirmation. Dr Rose hid a smile, and said sternly, " Well, not necessarily, sometimes brain damage might just mean he loses some sensory control or light handicap…" Ruby shuddered, and interrupted him. "I'm not feeling well, I think I better go, Mr and Mrs Su." She tried to walk off, but Mrs Su grabbed her hand, finally seeing what Ruby was really like. "But don't you want to be with Alec?" "No! I mean, not when he's like this, please Mrs Su, I've got other stuff to do!" She flung off her hand and strolled off. Mr Su turned to grin after her, but went pale as he saw Vicki, sitting silently on her wheelchair staring at them with tears streaming down her face. Oh god, she heard it too! He opened his mouth to explain, but stopped as Ruby looked at Vicki. "Well, guess what you nobody? You've won, you're welcome to him now, you'll be a perfect match…a mute and an slobbering idiot…me? I've got better things to do." So saying, she tossed her head and walked off.
Vicki only stared at Mr Su, eyes asking, pleading that it wasn't true. Mrs Su seeing this, could not resist doing the same test. "Yes, Vicki, Alec's probably not going to wake up, and if he does, there's a chance he will have brain damage. Do still want to see him? We don't want to force anyone to that sort of life, you can walk away now if you want." Vicki only stared at her, her heart breaking, no, this can't happen to Alec! I don't believe it! And even if it's true…I won't leave him! Her eyes flashed defiantly. She shook her head, and got up determinedly. Walking to the doctor, she gestured to the room, wanting to go in. "Are you sure? Vicki, think about it!" Mrs Su, not giving up. She was satisfied when Vicki turned back to her with a defiant expression, scribbling on a piece of paper. (I don't care whether Alec wakes up or not, whether he has brain damage, whether he is blind, deaf or mute! I won't leave him Mrs Su, and you can't make me!) She was totally unprepared for Mrs Su to wrap her arms around her. "Thank you Vicki, I'm so sorry," she said, hugging her. Vicki was too stunned to respond, and as she heard Mrs Su say, "Please let her go in doctor, she is family," her thoughts were only on Alec.
The seconds ticked by as the doctor's deadline of 24 hrs came and went. Alec's parents sat in the room, tired, cold, afraid, waiting for the doctor's appraisal. His face was grave as he said, "I'm sorry Mr and Mrs Su, but Alec's state has still not settled down. If his body doesn't return to normal soon, we might lose him." Mrs Su started to cry in her husband's arms as the doctor gave them an apologetic look and walked off to give them time alone. Vicki was holding Alec's hand, as she had been for the last few hours, silent but her eyes were full of tears. Her face was pale white as she sobbed silently, her heart screaming, Alec, wake up! Alec, don't leave me, I love you, don't leave me! I can't go on without you, I can't! Alec, please…the shriek of the ECG pierced the night…like a spear into their hearts. NOOOOO!!!!! Alec's parents started yelling frantically for the doctor. Vicki felt the world go dark, the sky was falling down…she started screaming in her heart, in her mind…NO!!! NO, ALEC NO! DON'T LEAVE ME! DON'T LEAVE ME! "DON'T LEAVE ME ALEC, I LOVE YOU, DON'T LEAVE ME!!! NO!!!"
Alec was floating, he felt so light, so free, he was walking into a bright land… "NO!" He heard someone cry, and suddenly he wanted to turn around, to see who it was…it was like turning in water…with effort he looked around…it was the bridge…there was a figure in white standing on it, with black hair flowing on the wind behind her. The picture looked so familiar, dimly he felt his heart drawn to the figure, who smiles at him and stretches out her arms… "Don't leave me Alec, I love you, don't leave me…" As if drawn, he tries to walk back towards her…his feet feeling they were dragging through mud…
The doctor rushed in with nurses, and the resuscitating equipment when…the ECG started beeping again by itself. Everybody stared, stunned, at the signal, then at Alec who suddenly gasped for breath. "Alec?!?" called Mr Su, then to the doctor, "Please check on him, is he going to be ok?" The doctor steps forward, but is stopped by Mrs Su's hand. They watch silently as Alec's hand moves, and his eyelids flicker open. Vicki, who was still sobbing, suddenly felt her heart pounce again. "Alec?" she asked in her heart, as he opened his eyes and looked at her, his light, his sunshine. He struggled to speak, and she leaned down towards him, holding his hand so tight, she didn't want him to slip away, ever. Ever so softly, she could hear Alec's voice. "I…I heard…you…saw…you…call..me...back." She could only sob uncontrollably, unable to believe he heard her heart calling him, yet thanking all the powers that be that he came back, that he didn't leave her. Thank you, thank you for not leaving me, her heart in her eyes, her soul telling him. "I love you." The two of them only stared into each others' eyes, vowing their never ending love, neither noticing the gasps of delight from the people around them.
It was astonishing that all the students, from the 'in'
bunch down to the 'loser' group, were concerned about Vicki and Alec. Alec was a
general favourite, but Vicki, the silent, beautiful and kind girl had found her
way into their hearts without even knowing. People started talking about how she
would brighten up the day with her brilliant smile, how she would help people
she didn't really know with homework and assignments, how she was a genius with
her music, and how very kind and unsnobbish she was to everybody. When Josh told
Nicole that Vicki was undergoing therapy at the same hospital as Alec, he was
floated with get well cards to give to her, and bombarded by questions on why
she was there. He didn't say anything though, he only told them that they will
be fine.
While his parents were still a bit concerned about him, who wouldn't be, when
they watched their son die and come back to life, Alec insisted on leaving the
hospital a few days before the prom. "Mum, I'll be FINE," he
emphasised, zipping shut the bag. "I am SO sick of this room, and besides,
I need a day or two to get ready for the prom…" he paused, looking around
to make sure Vicki hadn't come yet. "Dad, you DID order that bouquet for
me? And the tux…you DID get that, right?" sounding worried. His dad
grinned at him. "Yes, yes, I was too afraid of you killing me if I forgot!
Don't worry, everything is ready for Saturday night." Alec heaved a sigh of
relief, he'd been so irritated at being trapped in the hospital undergoing five
million tests, "just to make sure", when he wanted to get out and do
things! He looked at the door anxiously. His dad noticed, and grinned.
"What? Can't even walk without Vicki, hmm?" Alec gave him an
embarrassed smile. "Dad!" he complained, as his parents laughed at
him. His eyes brightened as he saw her come through the door, smiling at him.
She was in a white dress…just like that vision he'd had…his angel.
"Vicki!" Giving her a hug. "So how did the therapy go? Are you
fine now? Shall we get out of here, I am so sick of this place!" Her eyes
laughed up at him as she nodded, and his parents quietly left the room to go get
the car. "Come on, let's get out of here! And we can go and visit Miss Kwan
after this, we've got that thing to prepare!" So saying, Alec grabbed his
bag and, holding Vicki's hand, they left the hospital together.
All the students in the ballroom fell quiet as the couple entered. Alec, in his smart tux with a white rose pinned to the side, and Vicki…she was in a long, light blue, shimmering dress with spaghetti straps, her hair done up with silver threads intertwined in the strands, and little white flowers in it. She held a small bouquet of white lilies, and her smile was absolutely breathtaking. They looked around, somewhat shocked at the silence, then everybody started to clap. Students came up, all in their finery, welcoming them back, asking how they felt. Vicki's eyes were round, she'd never believed Melanie when she said that everyone had missed her, she'd never believed it could be true. But looking at all the friendly faces around her, talking to her, she suddenly felt like crying, she was so happy! Melanie, in a light green dress looking stunning, noticed her face, and said, "Ok guys, we'd better stop now, or Vicki's makeup might run!" Everybody laughed, and the crowd started to disperse. Alec was too busy laughing at Vicki's almost shed tears, and admiring how beautiful she looked, Vicki stared back at him. I can't believe he's here, that I'm here, that this is happening, she thought happily, trying not to cry. Instead, she dragged him behind her as she went off to say hello to Miss Kwan. Melanie noticed Ruby, in her skin tight red dress, was glaring at them, and she shot her a cold look. Don't even THINK about it Ruby Lin, she thought silently, there is no way you're going to hurt them again! Suddenly an arm slipped around her waist, and Zac kissed her cheek. "Come on, girl, you're my date, remember? Quit wasting time with that girl, and dance with me!" Melanie smiled up at her date, and nodded.
Vicki and Alec didn't see anything else or anybody, they were too happy just being together. Vicki felt like she was floating as she waltzed in Alec's arms, as she saw his eyes twinkling down at her. This was like a dream, but if it was, then she'd rather she never woke up. As the music ended, Alec leaned down and kissed her softly on the cheek. "I love you," he whispered, and her eyes shone her reply back at him. "Ladies and gentlemen, first of all, I would like to say, congratulations on being the CLASS OF THE MILLENIUM!" Everybody cheered the principal as he tried to finish his speech. " Well, without further ado, I will hand over to Mr Marcon and Miss Kwan to announce the Prom King and Queen of the class of 2000." Miss Kwan came up to the microphone, and grinned at the unrest in the crowd. "Well, after all the votes have been counted, these are the results. Prom King of the Class of 2000 is…ALEC SU!" Everyone cheered, it was as expected, and Alec, though somewhat surprised, was kissed on the cheek by Vicki and pushed towards the stage. He had to lean down for tiny Miss Kwan to place the silver crown on his head, and she kissed him on the cheek. Everybody hooted and cheered as Miss Kwan grinned at him.
Mr Marcon then starts, "And the Prom Queen of the class of 2000…" the microphone crackles as he opens the envelope. Ruby's heart was in her mouth…Ruby Lin…Ruby Lin… "Vicki Zhao!" The whole ballroom exploded into cheers as Ruby's face paled, she couldn't believe it, this isn't happening, what happened? Why…how come…people voted for HER?!? But…she opened her mouth, but suddenly she was elbowed in the side. It was Melanie, with the biggest grin on her face. "Too bad Ruby, I guess you aren't that popular afterall!" Ruby was about to retort when she saw Zac, who was hovering protectively over his girl. This was unnoticed by Vicki, who was standing stock still, her mind in shock. What? Her? How…what…it wasn't possible! But everyone around her keep congratulating her, pushing her towards the stage, and Alec was grinning like an idiot and holding out his hand to her. But…but why??? She was still stunned as Mr Marcon placed the crown on her head and kissed her softly on the cheek. "Congratulations Vicki, you deserve this," he said, smiling at her. He gestured Alec to the microphone for the customary speech.
Alec cleared his throat, uncertain of what to say. "Um, I guess I should thank you guys, all of you, for voting for me, I'm…I'm still a bit shocked. Well, this is it now, isn't it? We don't really have that much time left, the exams are coming, then graduation, and we all go our separate ways. But I'll like to take this opportunity to tell you something I've learnt recently, from my accident, and it's just that, time is very precious. I don't think it ever crossed my mind about how much time I had left here, and it made me realise how much I've been putting off to be done later, all the while expecting there WILL be a later. But there are no guarantees in life. Please, go away from here today with this thought, GO out there and just do it. LIVE your life, don't put things off till tomorrow, because tomorrow might never come. And appreciate what you have, because everything in life is very precious. Thank you." The crowd clapped as he stepped back, and took Vicki's hand, looking her straight in the eyes. It was customary for the Prom Queen to speak next, but no one expected this. No one expected Vicki to take a deep breath, and walk up to the stand.
"Thank you." Just two simple words, and the whole crowd exploded into confusion, did they hear that? What was going on? How…WHAT?? Seeing Vicki, looking so very much like a princess, waiting for them to settle, everyone stilled to listen to a girl they never expected to hear. "Wow, I never expected such reactions from two words," she smiled, her voice sounded light, almost like music, as she continued. "I never thought that I would be standing here today, as Prom Queen, being able to SPEAK again, to thank all my friends, all of you. Thank you, not only for the vote, but also for caring about me, accepting me for who I was, and for being so concerned over my illness. Alec was right in saying that our time on this earth is very precious, and we should cherish what we have. Ever since my accident, I've been hiding inside myself, refusing to let others in, and thought that each new day was going to be but a disappointment. It was not until I almost lost the most important thing in my life," here she blushed slightly, "that I could break down those barriers and protest. Now I can speak, and sing, and understand that this world is a wonderful place, and we should make the most of our time here. So, I would just like to thank you again, thank you all, let us go from here and make this world an even better place. Thank you."
Stunned silence followed her speech, then slowly, one by one, people started clapping. People cheered the girl who they had thought different, who they'd thought 'beneath' them when all along, she was had been better than them. Miss Kwan took the microphone. "We'll now have the Prom King and Queen lead the dance, to this very special song that had been meant for them to sing all along." She indicated to the DJ to put on the song that they had recorded only the day before, for Vicki's application for a 'singing' scholarship. Vicki and Alec looked at each other, then he took her hand and led her back to the dance floor. His arms closed around her waist as she twined her arms around his neck, staring at each other as the song started. People gasped as they heard the song, the female voice, it was Vicki! Vicki, who had sang all her life, could sing again!
'We were strangers, starting out on a journey, never knowing, what we'd have to go thru…'
Vicki's voice sang from the speakers, stunning the crowd. Alec leaned down to her ear and whispered, "Well, I guess Ruby's going to be pissed, she ended up not getting the part after all!" She gave him a laughing look, then her eyes went misty as his part came on.
'No one told me, I was going to find you, unexpected, what you did to my heart, now here we are, and I'm suddenly standing, at the beginning with you…'
As they waltz to the music, that so fitted their story, some people eyes' started getting misty. It was so beautiful, the music, this song, "At the beginning" was what was in their hearts as they danced on the floor, their whole world was each other.
'And life…love…life is a road,
now and forever, wonderful journey.
I'll be there when the world stops turning,
I'll be there when the storm is through
In the end I want to be standing at the beginning…with you…'
Vicki and Alec's voice sang together, and as the song ended, Alec leaned down and kissed his sunshine, his light, his life. "I love you" they both whispered, as the crowd broke into huge applause.
"Vicki…" he hesitated. She looked at him, surprised. "What is it, Alec?" her clear voice sounded slightly worried. He reached into his pocket and pulled out a jewel box, and opened it. It was clear diamond ring. "Vicki, will you marry me?" She stared at the ring, at him, in stunned silence. He took a deep breath. "I know that we're still young, and that ahead of us we still have so many paths to tread, but we can walk them together! I want to hold your hand all our lives, to know you're there, to feel you next to me no matter where the road takes us, to hear your voice. I want to be an old man and still be able to hold your hand as we walk on this bridge.Vicki, marry me?" She stared at him, her eyes filled with tears, seeing the hope and promise of joy and happiness, of companionship and neverending love. She smiled brilliantly and nodded. Alec felt his heart jump, he grinned like an idiot as he took the ring out of the box, and slid it slowly onto her finger. They both laughed, and as tears of happiness flowed down their faces Alec wrapped his arms around her, holding her tightly, because he would never let go now.
"Alec?" "Hmm?" "I love you." "Hmm," he replied, burying his face in her soft hair. "Alec?" "What is it?" looking at her. "Will you love me forever?"Vicki asked, staring up at him. He smiled down at her tenderly. "No, Vicki, much MUCH longer than that." She smiled that brilliant smile at him, the one that had captured his heart from the very first time they met. He leaned down, and they kissed, sealing the promise of everlasting love.
The End!
