Chapter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19

Chapter 1

Girl band named Easthanz:

Vicki Zhao (lead) – 20 years old

Ruby Lin (co-lead) – 20 years old

Cecilia Cheung (co-lead) – 19 years old

Kristy Yang (back-up) – 18 years old

Sammi Cheng (back-up) – 21 years old

Boys:

Alec Su – actor

Leo Ku – dentist (Ruby’s boyfriend)

Julian Cheng – working in an interior designing company (Kristy’s boyfriend)

Other characters:

Rebecca Zhao – Vicki’s younger sister

“No,” said Vicki. “We’ve thought it over, and we came to the conclusion that it would be – well, fun to start a girl band.”

“Wow! Imagine if you get famous!” Rebecca said excitedly. “I’ll be the sister of the great singer, Vicki Zhao! Mum, dad, you MUST allow her to become a singer. Don’t you want to have a famous daughter?”

“No,” Mr Zhao said grimly. Vicki looked at him pleadingly. “Please, dad? Pretty please?”

“What your father says goes with me,” Mrs Zhao shrugged. Vicki shot a desperate look at Rebecca, who immediately caught the distress signal and put on her honeyed voice. “Oh mum, dad, you can’t break Jie’s heart like that! You know how much she loves to sing – she’s singing everyday!”

“But you’ve always wanted to be a criminal lawyer, darling,” Mrs Zhao said, troubled.

Vicki shook her head emphatically. “Yes, I’ve always dreamt of being a lawyer, but being a singer is also one of my dreams! Dad, don’t deny me this. Please?” she looked so sweet and touching that Mr Zhao’s heart softened. “Oh, all right. But the moment you start on drugs or things like that, you’re out of show business. Do you understand me?” he said sternly.

A big smile formed on Vicki’s face. “Thank you, daddy! You’re the best!”

“I don’t think I’d have been the best if I hadn’t agreed,” Mr Zhao grumbled, and Vicki and Rebecca shared delighted grins.

Rebecca and Vicki shared a bedroom. They were extremely close to each other, and considered one another as the most important person in the world. That night, while Vicki was sitting in front of the mirror drying her hair with the hair-dryer, Rebecca said, “Jie, when you get famous, you won’t forget me, will you?”

Vicki turned around and smiled at her sister. “Why should I? You’re my sister. I’ll never forget you.”

“Well…” Rebecca shifted uncomfortably on her bed. “Aren’t famous people supposed to be snobbish and horrid? So much so that they might look down on their own family.”

“Nonsense! Nothing like that. Don’t be silly, Bec. Don’t you know me well enough by now?”

“I suppose so.” Rebecca looked pensive for a few moments, then she cheered up. “Jie, when do you intend to get married?”

Vicki gave her a surprised look. “Bec! I’m only twenty! I’m not thinking about getting married yet.”

“Ok, then – when do you intend to get another boyfriend? Ever since you dumped that Stanley you haven’t been looking for another guy.” Rebecca looked at Vicki quizzically. Vicki simply laughed and put down the hair-dryer. “When he comes, I’ll take him!” she said good-humouredly. “Now let’s sleep!”

* * *

Six months later

“Now let us welcome the new girl band which has just released their debut single, ‘Swansong’! EASTHANZ!!!” screamed the MC, and everyone cheered.

Five gorgeous girls leapt onto the stage and began to sing, their beautiful voices capturing everybody’s attention and their dance moves energizing every single person in the auditorium. Their debut single, ‘Swansong’, hit the No.1 spot on the Asian charts last week and the group had received fantastic reviews. Their good looks and slim, agile bodies contributed to their fame as well.

Somewhere in Taiwan, a young man was looking through the script of his latest show. “I’m getting more and more interested in acting in this show,” he remarked to his best friend, Leo Ku, who was studying to be a dentist.

“Hmm,” Leo answered, distracted by a pretty girl walking across the street. Alec looked up and grinned when he saw what had caught Leo’s attention. “Friend, it’s not that I want to remind you of Ruby, but I feel that I have to.”

“Oh, she’s not around,” Leo said flippantly. “She’s probably dancing like crazy in Japan right now.” He grinned. “Well, pretty as that girl is, she can’t match up to my Ruby!”

Alec shrugged. “It seems that her group is doing quite well, isn’t it? I haven’t had time to find out more about them. Who else is in it?”

“Kristy, Cecilia, Vicki and Sammi,” Leo replied. “I don’t know Kristy and Sammi all that well, but I like Sammi, and I’ve known Vicki for years. It’s a pity you never got to know Vic.”

“Plenty of time for that. Why, is she that hot?”

“She’s hot, sure enough. She dumped her boyfriend a few months back because she felt he wasn’t tall enough for her.” Leo snickered. “I heard that Stanley was completely heart-broken by her.”

“That effective, huh?” Alec was beginning to look interested.

“Trust me!” Leo assured him. “She’s a really nice girl, too. And she’s got a sister named Rebecca. Rebecca isn’t as pretty as she is, but I must say that Mr and Mrs Zhao do come up with good-looking girls.” He decided to stop goggling at the girls on the street and sat down instead. “Hey, since you’re an actor and I’m Ruby’s boyfriend, you can meet them any time you want to.”

Alec shrugged and went back to reading his script. “I don’t know if I’m interested,” he replied, his voice a monotone. Leo shook his head disapprovingly. “Lazy bum!” he commented, but Alec didn’t bother to answer.

Chapter 2

The girls hung around in their dressing room, totally zoomed in after the fantastic performance they had put up that night. Vicki was too tired for words and couldn’t move from the sofa, while Ruby was moving around slowly, making some tea for all of them. Kristy was half-asleep, Sammi was still breathing hard, and Cecilia was staring at the floor. “Well, look at the bright side,” Ruby said chirpily. “We had a fabulous show tonight.”

“Yeah,” Cecilia agreed. “Tomorrow we’ve got a few interviews to do and then we’re booked for ANOTHER concert.” She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. “Thank goodness I’m only co-leading.” She glanced at Vicki, who was too exhausted to reply.

“Good news, everyone,” Kristy announced. “My boyfriend Julian will be joining us later on in the week.”

“Really?” Ruby exclaimed. “That’s great news! My boyfriend Leo is coming too! We can introduce them to each other, and who knows? They might become the best of friends!” She laughed at the thought, and continued, “They might even form a singing duo called ‘Easthanz boyfriends’!”

Despite her tiredness, Vicki had to laugh at the thought of Leo being a superstar. “Ru, you can really conjure up some amazing stories. As for me,” she covered her mouth as she yawned widely, “I’ll be only too happy to drive back to our hotel and have a good six hours of solid, satisfying SLEEP.”

“Yeah, I think it’s time for us to go,” Sammi said, getting up and stretching herself. “Come on, girls. Let’s get going.”

Their driver was waiting patiently for them out in the van, and so were a dozen or so fans. They signed autographs, took a few pictures, climbed into the van and were on their way back to the hotel. During the journey Kristy fell fast asleep on Ruby’s shoulder. “Sleepy head,” Cecilia said, tousling up Kristy’s hair affectionately. “Doesn’t she look cute, girls?”

Vicki nodded and smiled. “If I had my drawing book with me now, I would draw her,” she announced. “So when will Leo be coming, Ru? I’ve missed him!”

“He says probably by Thursday,” Ruby answered. “And – oh yes! He says that four months later, he’ll be bringing someone along with him to introduce to us.”

“Four months later!” Sammi objected. “What is he thinking of?!”

“I can’t think of anyone he might want to introduce to us…” Ruby said slowly, “unless it’s someone that I know and you guys don’t. Oh!” her eyes brightened. “I think I know who!”

“Who?” Cecilia asked with interest.

“It MIGHT be…” Ruby stopped and shook her head. “No, no, I mustn’t tell you at all. It would be spoiling the surprise.”

Cecilia and Vicki continued to plead with her, but Ruby steadfastly refused to say anything. In the end both gave up and turned their attention to the buildings instead. Sammi, the quiet one, didn’t even bother to say anything to dissuade Ruby from her decision, for she knew that she would simply be wasting her breath.

* * *

“What? Are you trying to match-make me with this Vicki Zhao?” Alec said in irritation.

“No,” Leo said. “I’ve been thinking over it and I think you’re more suited for Cecilia.”

Alec snorted. “Well, thanks a lot for being so thoughtful and planning who should be my future wife, but can you stop all this nonsense?”

Leo, however, persisted in talking about Cecilia, and he talked until Alec got sick of the name. “Hey, shut up man,” he said. “Here am I, busy working and there you are with nothing better to do but to nag and brainwash me that Cecilia Cheung is the girl for me!”

“I’m just trying to be helpful,” said Leo, offended. Alec shrugged. “I suppose that’s your way of being helpful. But I’m not thinking of starting a serious relationship with any girl yet, Leo. I’m far too busy.”

Leo sighed and decided not to say anymore.

* * *

“Leo!” Ruby screamed. Leo looked up and noticed her. Waving his arm, he made his way towards her and the couple hugged each other tightly. Fans lined up on either side of them cheered and whistled, but the two of them didn’t care. “I’ve missed you so much! How have you been?” Ruby asked, smoothing back his hair.

“Great, Ruby. What about you?”

“Oh, hectic lifestyle…we’re touring day in day out…come on, let’s go and meet the girls. Vicki is waiting for you back in the hotel, and the other girls are waiting as well. Who is the guy you want to introduce to us, Leo?” Ruby asked as they got into the Mercedes and speeded out of the airport.

“Alec. Who else? His filming will be over in four months’ time, so I can pack him over to Korea – that’s where you’ll be, right?”

“Yes. All right, Leo, spill the beans. Who do you want to match him up with?”

“I was thinking – maybe Cecilia.”

“Cecilia!” Ruby exclaimed in undisguised astonishment. “Why Cecilia?”

“For one, she’s single.”

Ruby eyed him as if he’d just gone insane. “Yes, she’s single – so what? Vicki and Sammi are single too. I think you should concentrate more on Sammi and not Cecilia. Vicki is out of the question; ever since she dumped Stanley she hasn’t been interested in guys. As for Cecilia, she’s not interested either. Sammi is the oldest and she’s quite desperate.” Ruby chuckled. Leo shook his head disapprovingly at her. “Do you know how mean you are?”

“No. Tell me,” Ruby said, laying her head on his shoulder. He pinched her cheek gently as they continued to speed to the hotel.

Chapter 3

“Hey, Vic. Missed me?” he asked laughingly, hugging her back.

“Are you kidding? Of course I didn’t miss you. I didn’t even think about you,” Vicki said, grinning. “Ok, ok, you know Ruby and I missed you like mad.”

Ruby came into the hotel room. “Girls, this is my boyfriend Leo!” she announced proudly.

“Wow, Ruby, I’ve never seen him before, can I take a look at him?” Cecilia said, laughing. She got up and gave Leo a friendly hug. “Good to see you. How have you been?”

“Oh, marvellous, simply fantastic.” Leo gave the rest of the girls hugs, then said, “Ruby emailed me and told me that a guy will be arriving here too. Whose boyfriend is he?”

Immediately Kristy blushed. “He’ll be arriving tomorrow,” she said shyly.

“Hmm, ok, I’ll wait for him. What’s your schedule for today?” Leo asked, sitting down in between Vicki and Ruby. Sammi looked at her watch. “Well, in an hour’s time, we have to head off to do a press conference, and then we’ll be doing yet another concert. On Saturday, we’re flying off to Taiwan to record our debut album, and then…” she stopped. “At this rate, I can go on for another ten years.”

“Busy, aren’t ya?” Leo said. “Oh well, at least you get famous.”

“Any news about Stanley?” Vicki asked. Leo gave her a funny look. “Yes – he’s still heart-broken. Why? Do you still have feelings for him?”

“Nah. I’m just asking for friendship’s sake.”

“Earth to Kristy,” Cecilia said, waving her fingers in front of Kristy’s face. Kristy jumped. “Huh? What? How?”

“Poor girlie, she’s dreaming about her boyfriend Julian!” Cecilia laughed. Kristy flushed. “I’m not!” she protested.

“Liar liar, pants on fire,” Vicki quoted. Kristy turned an even brighter red. Cecilia burst out laughing. “Boy, Vic, can you imagine if Kristy’s pants really burn?”

* * *

Leo and Julian became the best of friends, and were seen everywhere together. They had to accompany each other, anyway, because their girlfriends were so busy. They chatted nineteen to a dozen whenever they were together and Kristy, who was hopelessly in love with Julian, almost became jealous of Leo.

On Saturday, Vicki and Cecilia had to be shaken awake by the staid Sammi, for their flight was at seven o’ clock in the morning and it was an hour’s drive to the airport. The two of them woke up, yawning so much that their yawns combined almost became a melody. They found Kristy and Ruby eating breakfast in their room, both half-asleep.

“Geez, Sammi, it’s only five, for goodness’ sake,” Cecilia grumbled.

“Don’t complain! Our flight is at seven and we will take an hour to drive to the airport,” Sammi said. “You’re lucky that this group has me in it.”

“Christopher Columbus! What are you weirdos doing out here at this time of night?” Julian said loudly, stumbling out of his room into theirs. (all their rooms are connected by doors)

“Julian, you’d better wake Leo up too,” Sammi said. “We have to check out in forty-five minutes’ time.”

“Sammi is really God’s blessing to this group of lazy girls,” Vicki said, chewing on her bread and jam. She was too groggy and foggy to think clearly at the moment. Last night Cecilia had kept her awake by her incessant talking, so she’d had only five hours of sleep.

Leo was rudely awakened by a sponge soaked in ice-cold water being dropped onto his face. He sat up with a start and grabbed the guilty one. “Julian Cheng! Have you gone out of your mind?” he bared his teeth at Julian, who burst out laughing. “Boy, Leo, you do look comical like that. Get out of bed. The girls have to check out soon.”

“Huh?” Leo leapt out. “Why didn’t they tell us?”

“Forgot, I suppose. Come on, get ready.”

“I haven’t even packed yet!” Leo exclaimed, in a tangle of legs and arms. He scrambled to the toilet and emerged out five minutes later, looking as refreshed as he’d been before he stepped inside. “Help me, man, instead of standing there like a fool!”

* * *

Somehow they managed to get on the flight in time, and the moment all of them were seated and the plane was preparing for take off, each and every one of them knocked out and slept deeply. Plenty of people passing by looked at them curiously, but the bodyguards who had followed them on board the plane kept them from disturbing the girls.
When the plane touched down on the tarmac, once more Sammi had to wake all of them up. “We’re here,” she said, yawning widely.

“Sammi, you are a wonder woman,” Julian said in awe as he got up, stretched himself and reached up to collect his and Kristy’s luggage.

They were among the first to file out of the plane, and after they collected the rest of their luggage they walked out of the arrival hall and was astounded by the amount of fans gathered there. Banners of ‘Easthanz rules’ and ‘Easthanz rocks’ were held up all over the airport, and all the fans screamed wildly when they caught sight of them.

“Tell me I’m dreaming,” Vicki said, unable to believe her eyes.

“I wish I could do that, but I was never one to lie,” Cecilia said, equally as stupefied. However the girls soon came to their senses and received gifts, signed autographs, hugged about one hundred boys/girls, and smiled brightly at everyone. The bodyguards ushered them to the exit of the airport, and the fans were still screaming when they left in two limousines with dark-coloured windows.

The first car held Vicki, Ruby, Leo and Cecilia.

“I was so shocked when I stepped out of the arrival hall and saw so many people,” Ruby said, shaking her head in wonderment.

“Yeah – how could it have happened?” Cecilia said. “I mean, we aren’t that famous, are we? We’ve only released ‘Swansong’ so far.”

“Considering that it shot right up to No.1 and has stayed there for over two weeks, I should think that you guys are popular enough,” Leo said. “And it’s your debut single!”

“We’re so extremely proud of that fact,” Vicki said, stifling yet another yawn.

Chapter 4

“No, Alec! Can’t you see? I love you too but nothing between us is ever going to work out!” Maggie said, shaking her head violently. Her eyes were filled with tears. “We will have to go our separate ways.”

“I can’t live without you!”

Maggie turned and walked away, tears running down her cheeks.

“CUT! That was a good take. Ok, everyone, fifteen minutes’ break and be back here by 11:30,” the director announced.
Alec yawned widely as he sank into a chair and stretched his legs. His mobile rang loudly. Picking it up, he said in between yawns, “Hello?”

“Alec, wake up. It’s Leo.”

Leo? Leo who? Alec’s foggy mind couldn’t register Leo’s name yet.

“Leo Ku. You know, Ruby’s boyfriend. Your matchmaker.”

“Ah, yeah. Leo. What’s up?”

“Don’t forget, I’ll be down here in Hong Kong two weeks later to fly you to Korea.”

“Oh boy, Leo, you sure know how to plan one’s life for him,” Alec grumbled. “I never said I wanted to go to Korea, did I?”

“No. I just said it for you. Come on, you can’t back down on me now, man! Ruby’s eager to see you again, and surely you want to meet Easthanz?”

Alec groaned. Leo was SUCH a minx. “Well, thanks, I’m sure. I suppose I haven’t anything better to do.”

“Great! So I’ll be at your hotel two weeks from now, ok? Be there.” Leo rang off. Alec stared at his mobile and moaned again. God knows I’m NOT interested in meeting this new girl band!

* * *

The next single that Easthanz released within two months of ‘Swansong’, named ‘What A Miracle Is’, entered the charts at No.1 and stayed there for three weeks. The girls and their manager, Daniel Chan, celebrated it with glasses of champagne and a big dinner. Julian had to fly back home a month later, while Leo had to fly to Hong Kong to fetch Alec.

He found Alec sitting in his hotel room, typing on his laptop. “Hey, guy. I’m here. Are you all set?”

“What time is the flight?” Alec asked, his eyes glued to the screen.

“This evening at 6.”

Alec almost vomited all over his laptop. “It’s already 4:55! Why didn’t you TELL me? What’s with people nowadays, that they never want to tell anybody what time the flight is?”

“Stop complaining and get moving. I flew all the way down here to fetch you and you’re not even grateful!” Leo pretended to look offended. Alec made a face at him. “Yeah, right. You’re only too happy and excited to introduce me to Cecilia.”

* * *

The girls were being hurried from interview to interview when Leo and Alec reached Korea. They were engulfed by fans and reporters the moment they stepped out of the plane, but Alec’s bodyguards managed to fend most of them off.

“I thought no one knew I was coming to Korea?” Alec demanded.

“What can I say, news get around pretty quickly,” Leo said with a shrug. “The girls are having some interviews now, so we’ll just head back to the hotel and stay there.”

“Wonderful. It’ll be paradise,” Alec said sarcastically. Leo poked him. “Don’t be so mean and ungrateful, big guy! I know you’re a famous actor but that doesn’t mean you can talk to your best friend like that.”

“Best friend?” Alec chuckled. “Oh, ok, so you are my best friend. And my best matchmaker, too.”

They turned on Leo’s portable TV and watched it. “Ah!” Leo said suddenly.

“What? What?” Alec asked, all at sea.

“Easthanz!”

“Huh?”

“On TV!” Leo pointed excitedly to the screen.

“Why didn’t you say so? Man, I thought an earthquake or a tornado just hit Korea,” Alec mumbled. He watched the music video idly. “Who’s that pretty girl?” he asked, pointing. “That’s Ruby, I know – she doesn’t look too bad. Who’s that?”

“Vicki Zhao. Do you really think she’s pretty?”

“Hmm. Nice face. This one’s pretty too.”

“Oh, she’s Kristy Yang. She’s unavailable.”

“Boy, Leo, can you get your mind off matchmaking and girlfriends for a while? I’m just stating my opinion! Well, ALL of them are pretty, ok?” Alec was a trifle irritated. Leo shrugged and grinned. He was so thick-skinned that nothing could ever hurt him.

They arrived at the hotel, got through the fans who’d followed them all the way there, checked in and thankfully took the elevator up to Alec’s room which was on the same floor as the girls’. “Wonder what time they’ll be back,” Leo said. “Do you think I should call Ruby and ask her?”

“It’s up to you,” Alec said, searching for his room. “Ah, here it is.” He inserted the card into the lock and opened the door. “The bellhop will be up here with my luggage soon, I suppose. Get in.”

Leo pressed the buttons on his handphone as Alec pushed him in. “Hello? Hello? Ruby?” he could scarcely hear anything, the background was so noisy.

“Yeah,” he heard Ruby’s voice shouting above the din. “Leo. Where are you?”

“In Alec’s hotel room. When will you be coming back?”

“Around half an hour’s time. Wait for us.”

“Ok.” Leo stared at Alec, who was looking out of the window. “Say, Leo. Take a look at this.”

Leo walked over to Alec and looked down to see about two hundred fans holding up banners and screaming. “I don’t believe this,” he said, awed.

Alec opened the window and waved, causing wild screams to rise up from the crowd.

“Alec Su!” they shrieked.

“Cool,” Leo said, shaking his head. “Oi, close the window, will you? The air-con is being wasted.”

Alec shut the window and drew the curtains. “Sometimes I wonder if I made a mistake about getting into show business. It’s so tiring. I don’t even have a life of my own,” he said, flopping down onto the bed and staring morosely at the wall. “Look at all the rumours about me. Less than 3% are true!”

“Oh, Alec. You know these people have nothing better to do,” Leo said.

“So true.” Alec sighed.

Chapter 5

“Huh?” Vicki asked. Cecilia sighed. That wasn’t a very intelligent reply. The elevator stopped at floor 22 and she dragged Vicki out.

“CECILIA!”

Jumping, she turned round to see Leo charging up to her as if all hell was on his trail. “Leo? What’s the problem?” she asked, confused. “Oh, and when did you arrive? I thought you were in Hong Kong?”

“Just arrived,” Leo panted. “Where are the rest?”

“Arriving.” Cecilia’s arms ached with Vicki’s weight. She slapped Vicki lightly. “Oi, wake up!”

Leo reached out and caught hold of her arm. “Come on! The person I want you to meet is waiting for you in his room.” He shifted his gaze to Vicki. “What’s the matter with her?” he asked.

“Tired,” Vicki mumbled. “I need to sleep.”

“No time for that.” Leo pulled Cecilia and Vicki down the corridor to Alec’s hotel room. Baffled, both had no choice but to follow him. When they arrived at the room and saw who was inside, Vicki snapped awake and Cecilia gasped. “Alec Su?” both said at the same time.

“In the flesh.” Alec shot them a grin. “Hi. Glad to see me?” he asked, his eyes sweeping over both their faces.

“Leo, is this the guy you wanted us to meet?” Vicki asked weakly. Leo nodded enthusiastically. “Alec, this is Vicki Zhao and this is Cecilia Cheung,” he said, adding more emphasis on ‘Cecilia Cheung’. Alec chose not to take any notice of it. “Hi again,” he said, holding out his hand.
Vicki came to her senses before Cecilia did and shook his hand. “Hi!” she said, flashing him a smile. “I didn’t know that you knew Leo.”

“Vicki!” Leo said in horror. “Alec is my best buddy!”

Vicki looked stunned. “Why didn’t you ever tell me?”

Leo nudged Cecilia, who still looked a trifle dazed. “Cecy, why are you so rude? Go and greet this famous star!”

“H-hi,” Cecilia stuttered. “S-sorry, I didn’t expect y-you.”

Vicki grinned. “She doesn’t usually talk like that,” she assured Alec, studying his features subtly. Boy, he was one heck of a cute guy! Too thin, probably, but he was still breathtakingly gorgeous. Nothing like Stanley.

Alec noticed her subtle examining and grinned at her. “Do I pass the test?” he asked. Vicki looked startled. “You can’t deny that you were studying me. So what do you think of my looks?”

Vicki recovered from her start. “Oh, very handsome,” she said. “But can you put on like ten more pounds?”

Alec burst into guffaws. “Hey, I like you. You’re cute. Why don’t you help me put on ten more pounds?” he asked, eyeing her with appreciation. Vicki shrugged and smiled. She looked unbelievably lovely that day and she knew it.
Looking at the mystified expression on Cecilia’s face, she had to stifle a grin. Only very few situations could make Cecilia so silent. Leo pushed her forward. “Cecilia, what’s the matter with you? Can’t find your voice?” he asked.

“So YOU are Cecilia,” Alec thought. “She’s not bad-looking. But doesn’t Leo know by now that I don’t like this kind of look?” “Where are the rest?” he said aloud.

“They’ll be coming up soon,” Vicki said. “I can’t believe that all these years Leo and Ruby knew you and didn’t TELL me!”

Alec grinned and shrugged. “It’s not my fault whether they tell you or not.”

Leo watched as Vicki and Alec joked around. They did hit it off, didn’t they? New schemes formed in Leo’s mind and he smiled to himself.

When the rest arrived, all but Ruby were shocked to see Alec, but after they got over from the first bolt from the blue they were all very nice and treated Alec as an equal. Alec began to like them more and more as they talked. Why hadn’t he felt excited at the thought of meeting them? They were all such friendly, good-hearted, sincere girls! He felt the most comfortable with Vicki, for she could understand him better than the rest and knew how to respond to his jokes. He knew that Leo was thinking up of more new plans, but it didn’t bother him. If they involved Vicki, he didn’t mind at all! It was great just watching her beautiful face light up when she smiled or laughed.

For Cecilia and Kristy, both liked Alec tremendously, but felt no attraction for him. To them he was simply a very interesting, good conversationalist.

Sammi, on the other hand, had always been a big fan of Alec Su. When she saw how much more good-looking he was in real life, she fell for him like a ton of bricks. And he was such a wonderful person! She felt stirrings in her quiet soul and couldn’t believe that she actually liked a boy – or rather, young man – at last.

As for Vicki, she had not the faintest idea of what Sammi was feeling, and she didn’t know what Leo was thinking either. She thought of Alec as a very charming person, but wasn’t attracted to him. She wasn’t interested in starting a relationship yet, hence the indifferent feelings towards Alec.

Ruby, who had known Alec for a long time, noted his interest in Vicki with some amusement. She didn’t know about Sammi’s feelings either because Sammi managed to hide them so successfully, but she knew that Vicki wasn’t in the least interested in Alec. What a pity – they looked so compatible, too.

However, famous and busy people cannot spend all their time talking in a hotel room. A few hours later the girls were hurried away to do a press conference and have some photo shoots, so Alec and Leo were left alone once more. “Looks like you and Vicki can get along very well, can’t you?” Leo said meaningfully.

“Yes,” Alec said, looking at Leo out of candid eyes. “She’s very beautiful and alluring.”

Leo chuckled. “Many men have thought so, but only a few have ever managed to go out with her on ONE date. Vicki loves to play hard-to-get.”

“She does, does she?”

“Yeah and anyway, she’s not as interested in men as some of those female parasites.”

“What kind of a simile is that?” Alec said, highly amused. “Female parasites? What a name! If Ruby ever hears that you’re mince meat.”

“She won’t hear about it,” Leo said with perfect assurance. “Look, Alec, if you like Vicki, I can match you up with her, you know, and forget all about Kristy. It shouldn’t be too hard to get her to fall in love with you, since you’re twice as good-looking as that Stanley and…”
Alec cut him short. “Ok, Leo. I got the message. No, I don’t want you to help me out. Let nature take its own sweet time. And besides, who ever told you that I like Vicki?” he shook his head at Leo, amazed at what a busybody he was.

Chapter 6

“Which one have you chosen, Daniel?” Vicki asked.

“I was thinking of ‘Mine Own’. What do you say? It’s a good song with some powerful vocals in it. And the reviews on that song have been outstanding. I can guarantee you it will be another No.1.”

The girls were silent for a few moments, pondering over the song. What Daniel said was very true. It was a powerful, full-of-emotion song and if they released it it was sure to enter the charts at No.1. “Ok,” Sammi said at last, looking at the rest of the band for confirmation. “We’ll release it as a single.”

“Oh, and because of your tight schedules,” Daniel said, looking apologetic, “I’m afraid that we’ll have to leave very early on Wednesday. The flight will be at 2:30 a.m. You will be taking a private jet.”

They were evidently shocked. So far they had been through hundreds of concerts, interviews, press conferences and photo shoots, early-morning and late-night flights, but never one at 2:30 a.m.!

“2:30 a.m.?!” Leo, too, got a shock when he found out. “Is Daniel mad?”

Alec looked thoughtful. “I’ll be going back to Taiwan soon to film my latest movie and record another album. But I don’t think I can follow you on this 2:30 a.m. trip. I’ve got a few interviews to be got through.”

Immediately Vicki and Sammi’s faces fell. “Oh, why can’t you follow us back to Taiwan on the same flight?” Vicki asked, plainly very disappointed. “I can have a pillow fight with you on the plane…”

“Oh, spare us,” Cecilia groaned. “If that’s the case, then Alec, you’d better not follow us.”

“I can’t, anyway.”

Kristy got up and stretched herself. “Well, we better start packing. Come on, let’s go back to our rooms and pack up. Going back to Taiwan is good in the sense that we’ll get to meet up with our families, right?” she said, her eyes brightening. Kristy was a girl who loved home. The rest of the girls’ faces lit up as well, and all nodded. Seeing their families again would be wonderful.

As Vicki was about to step out of the room, Alec caught her wrist and drew her back. She stared at him in astonishment. Sammi was startled and suspicious. What was Alec trying to do?

Leo discreetly went out of the room as well, leaving the two of them alone. “What is it, Alec?” Vicki asked him.
Alec thought hard for a minute. He was quite sure that she didn’t feel the same way as he did. Better not to tell her about his feelings yet until he was certain that her heart was his. So he grinned roguishly. “Just wanted to tell you that I’ll miss you like crazy,” he said meaningfully.
Vicki smiled. “I’ll miss you too – in fact, all of us will,” she said. “But we’ll meet up in Taiwan again, won’t we?”

“I don’t know when you will be spirited away to some unknown country again!” Alec sighed and ran his fingers through his hair. “It’s pretty hard being friends when we’re celebrities. That’s one disadvantage of being famous and busy.”

Laughing, Vicki put her arms round his waist and, to his great surprise, gave him a kiss on his cheek. “Oh, we’ll make it, somehow!” she said, grinning mischievously. “I didn’t make friends with you for nothing, you know! And this is life,” she said, more seriously. “Famous life, I mean. It comes with its advantages and disadvantages.”

“You’re so right,” Alec said. That kiss hadn’t meant anything to her. It was just a friendly gesture. “Say Vicks…”

“Yes?” her candid eyes looked straight up into his, and he felt himself weaken as he looked into those big, luminous eyes which were so expressive and beautiful. I love you. No, he couldn’t say that. It was too soon. And besides, he wasn’t even sure if he really loved her. He’d known her for such a short period of time. She was so beautiful – he had to resist the urge to lean down and kiss her. Life was full of decisions. Now there were two doors before him – whether to kiss her or not. Where did each door lead to? Perhaps nowhere. “Nothing,” he heard himself say. “Just have a safe journey back to Taiwan.”

“Don’t worry, we will,” Vicki assured him.

Chapter 7

“Hmm.”

“Cecy, get your ass off that bed.”

“Hmm.”

Sammi and Ruby looked at each other in despair. “Come on, Vicks, it’s going to be 1:10 soon! Please wake up,” Sammi said, trying to wake Vicki. The results were negative.

Ruby had terrible eye blacks under her eyes, and Sammi was no better. Both looked tired and wasted, and they knew that there was no way they could appear in front of their fans like that. But that wasn’t their top priority. Right now, they had to shake awake two stubborn sleepyheads. “Get up!” Ruby hissed in Cecilia’s ear. At long last the girl opened her eyes. “Wassauwakinmefor?” she mumbled.

“We have to fly to Taiwan, dummy! Get up!” Ruby used all her strength – which wasn’t much since she was so tired herself – to push Cecilia up from the bed.

“Oh yeah.” Cecilia yawned widely. “The flight.” She stretched, yawned again, and forced herself to scramble out of bed.

Vicki had to be shaken awake somehow, and finally Sammi managed to wake her up. She, too, had to force herself to get out of bed. “I should sue Daniel for abusing us!” she grumbled, knowing that she must look dreadful. How could she have thought that being famous was wonderful? This was a nightmare!

When she stumbled into the bathroom and saw herself in the mirror, it took an enormous strength of will not to scream. Oh my goodness, what has happened to me? Why do I look like that? She thought in dismay, reaching for her toothbrush. Those eye bags were horrible! Her face was so pale, she looked like she’s just seen a ghost – or maybe she WAS the ghost! Hang Daniel!

Cecilia came in and gasped when she caught sight of the mirror. “Oh my goodness, I look like a bloody ghost!” she said, echoing Vicki’s thoughts. “What has happened to the beautiful me?! Why do I look like that?”

“You must have read my mind,” Vicki said dryly. “Come on, make it fast. We don’t want Daniel at our throats yelling about how late we are, do we?”

“Hang Daniel,” Cecilia mumbled. She, too, was a sight to behold. Vicki could scarcely recognize her.

However a few rinses and a cup of strong coffee soon woke them up sufficiently, and they regained their cheerfulness. Kristy, who was the worst at getting up in the early mornings, continued to look very sleepy and spiritless. Conversation slacked as they got into the van and drove to the private jet. Even Vicki and Cecilia, the clowns of the group, weren’t in the mood to crack jokes and make everyone laugh.

Once they reached their plane and pulled themselves up the stairs, each step they climbed feeling like Mount Everest, they settled their baggage into the racks above and went in search of pillows. “Good morning, everyone, I’m going to sleep,” Vicki announced, grabbing some pillows and a blanket. Sinking down into one of the comfortable armchairs, she curled herself up and went to sleep almost at once. For some peculiar reason, she dreamt of a handsome guy who had entered her life not very long ago…

Cecilia slept on the floor while Ruby, Sammi and Kristy slept on the armchairs. The plane flew in complete silence for an hour.

* * *

Vicki, Cecilia and Ruby had to put on sunglasses when they got down from the plane, for they were experienced enough to know that there would be quite a few fans waiting for them. And, of course, they were right.

Regardless of how tired they were, they had to pass out hugs, kisses, smiles, and receive about a hundred gifts with grace. Vicki was half-dead by the time they got through the crowd. Seeing Ruby clinging on to Leo, and Kristy ringing Julian on her handphone, she felt a wave of sadness. True, she had not LOVED Stanley, but there were times when she still wished for that familiar touch round her shoulders, for that familiar feel of being in his arms…

Alec came into her mind again. She shook her head, trying to clear her brain. She knew very well that she wasn’t interested in Alec – in fact, she wouldn’t be too far from right if SAMMI liked Alec. She was very determined not to get into Sammi’s way. Wait a minute – what was she thinking? She didn’t like him – of course she didn’t. It was just coincidence that his face kept popping into his mind – just coincidence that she should keep thinking of him as someone to hold and to cling on to. He was just a friend.

* * *

“Recently you got to know Easthanz. What did you think of them? Who did you like best?”

Alec fell back as a flood of questions overwhelmed him. Although he’d spent quite a few years in show business already, somehow he still couldn’t get used to reporters harassing him. “They’re all very nice, very pretty girls,” he answered. “I like all of them very much.”

“Who did you like best?”

“I got along very well with Vicki and Cecilia,” he said, dodging the question as another came.

“Were you attracted to any of them?”

Alec groaned. Same old question. Man, these people were sickening! Didn’t they know what nuisances they made themselves? He nudged his manager Nicholas Tse urgently, and Nicholas rose to the bait with “I’m sorry, Alec Su won’t be answering any more questions. He has to go now.”

“Thank God,” Alec said half an hour later, slumped into his airplane seat. “I was getting a little panicky there.”

“What’s the problem? They didn’t ask you a very exceptional and difficult question. They simply asked you whether you were attracted to any of the girls.” Nicholas leveled him with a glare. “You aren’t, are you?”

Alec shrugged. He and Nicholas were great friends, but somehow he couldn’t bring himself to confide in him about his feelings toward Vicki.

“Well, whatever it is,” Nicholas continued, not satisfied with Alec’s reaction, “my advice to you is not to get involved with any of the girls. A relationship like that won’t work out. Your schedule is so busy, and I’m sure theirs is no better.

“Thanks for telling me that. But…”

“No ‘buts’, Alec. Trust me, I’ve been through this before.” Nicholas turned away, and Alec thought he saw his face darkening.

Vicki, Vicki, Vicki. Why can’t I take my mind off you? You’re haunting me. He touched his cheek lightly, remembering the touch of her lips against his skin, and smiled unconsciously. How would it feel to kiss her deeply, to hold her in his arms and know that she loved him? Wonderful, he thought as he watched the white clouds drifting past him.

Chapter 8

“Honestly, Cecy, there are simply too many girls,” Ruby said. She sighed and stretched herself. Last night all of them had had only a few hours’ sleep, and in three days’ time they had to fly to Hong Kong to shoot a video for ‘Mine Own’.

Vicki spotted him at last and leapt out of the car. “Alec!” she called, waving her arms frantically. He saw her and grinned widely. However he had to get through with all the hugging before he could go near her. The two of them hugged briefly and Vicki ushered him into the big, spacious van.
Once inside the van, all of them had a few minutes’ of greeting, then Alec said, “I’ve got good news for all of ya!” he was smiling so boyishly that the girls couldn’t help smiling as well. “What is it?” Kristy asked.

“I spoke to Nicholas about my Asian tour, and he has decided to ask Daniel if we can tour together!”

“Oh WOW!” Ruby exclaimed, her eyes widening.

“That’s great!” Cecilia said enthusiastically.

Vicki laughed joyously. “Knowing Daniel, he’ll agree to it.”

“Won’t that be an experience?” Kristy said. “The last time we toured with anyone, we were simply the supporting band!”

Sammi’s eyes glowed like lamps. This meant that she could spend at least three months with Alec! What else could be better?

Daniel did agree to it, thus establishing a firm place in all the girls’ hearts – if he had not done so already. “First,” said Nicholas, Alec’s manager, “we’ll be heading to Japan, then to Korea, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, and finally back to Taiwan. We’ll spend a few days in each country – possibly less than one in some.”

“Ok,” said Vicki, who was listening closely. She grinned at Cecilia. “Will we be allowed to go shopping?”

Daniel sighed exaggeratedly. “Don’t hope for it, Vicks. You’re not going for a holiday, you know. This is serious work.” He paused and seemed to remember something. “Oh yes, and there’s something I haven’t told you yet…I’ve been thinking over your success and I think it’s time to try and break into UK.”

Ruby almost vomited. Cecilia choked on the apple juice she’d been drinking and had a coughing fit. Kristy and Sammi looked at each other, astonished beyond expression. Vicki couldn’t believe her ears and rubbed them, wondering if she’d heard right. Alec was surprised too, but he couldn’t help being amused by their reactions.

“Don’t be silly, Daniel!” Sammi said sharply after recovering somewhat. “It’s impossible! The only Asian so far to have made it in Europe as a singer is Coco Lee, and even then she’s not so famous!”

“I’m not silly. I know exactly what I’m doing,” Daniel said in a very dignified tone. “We’ll see what we can do about it.” He sounded so sure of what he was doing that none of them dared to doubt him any longer. Break into UK! Vicki’s heart beat quicker as she thought of it, and she glanced at Alec, who caught her look and smiled warmly at her.

* * *

“Do you think we will be able to make it, Alec?” Vicki asked later on in the evening. She and Alec were in the latter’s room, Alec typing industriously on his laptop and Vicki looking out of the window. “I mean, breaking into UK. Daniel seems very certain that we’ll be able to do it, but I feel so unsure! No matter what, some people are still racist.”

Alec breathed in deeply and swerved his chair round to face her. “To tell you the truth, Vicki, I have as much confidence in you girls as Daniel has,” he said. Vicki stared at him. “Why?”

“Well…” Alec cocked his head. “Think about it. You have had two No.1 singles and a No.1 debut album already. ‘Mine Own’ is sure to top the charts again. It’s time for you to move into bigger things.”

“I don’t want to move into bigger things!” Vicki burst out. She flung herself onto his bed. “If I am to be perfectly honest with you, I’m beginning to get tired of this hectic lifestyle. There’s no time now for me to do anything,” she said wistfully. “I can’t do ANYTHING without being recognized! And there’s always this stupid image to uphold. I have to be drowned in make-up all the time. I scarcely have any rest. Even coming home and staying for ten days is a problem!” she sat up and looked at Alec. “Is this the lifestyle you want too?”

A thoughtful look came into Alec’s eyes. “I agree with you that being famous has got its disadvantages. But it’s pretty cool in other areas too, isn’t it, Vicks? At least you can watch yourself on the TV.” He smiled at Vicki, who didn’t smile back. “I’ve never regretted entering show business,” he continued. “All these drawbacks – they’re all part and parcel of being famous. You’re lucky that the rumours about you guys have been low-key.”

Vicki shrugged.

Alec looked at her intensely, an overwhelming desire to take her in his arms engulfing him. She looked so adorable – so cute…

“Vicki,” he began, “do you…”

Vicki got up and stretched herself. “Thanks for listening to me, Alec. You’re a great friend,” she said, walking over to the couch and plopping herself down on it.

“Yeah, I know I am.” Alec grinned. Great, she cut me short just when I wanted to ask her whether she was ready for a relationship. He scowled slightly.

“What’s the problem?” Vicki asked, and he realised that she’d caught him frowning. Rising up from his chair, he walked over to her and sat down beside her. “Nothing.”
Vicki looked at him, puzzled. He looked as if he had a lot on his mind. “What’s the matter?” she probed. “Tell me. I’m listening.”

“Well…” what he really wanted to tell her was that he’d grown enormously fond of her and that he wanted her to be his girlfriend. But somehow he couldn’t get the words out. “Nothing. Truly, nothing.” Man, he was so lame! He kicked himself mentally.

Vicki sat very still, watching his face. Suddenly, she knew exactly what he wanted to tell her. Leaning closer to him, she took hold of his hands. “You want to tell me something, don’t you?” she asked quietly.

Chapter 9

Vicki laughed lightly and raised her head from his shoulder to look at him. “You like me a lot? Oh, I like you a lot too,” she said in a teasing voice.

He coloured. However, before he could begin saying anything, Vicki pressed her lips to his and kissed him deeply.

Shocked, he allowed her to plant kiss after kiss on his lips without doing anything. Could it be that she felt the same? Exultation rose in him at that thought and he began to respond to her. He made her lie down on the sofa with him on top of her, kissing her without stopping. Heaven, how he loved her.

His tongue darted in between her closed lips, and she obligingly parted them. He probed her deeply, searching her mouth. At last he tore his lips away from hers and kissed her feverishly all over her face.

“So good,” he heard her murmur, and the desire in him strengthened tenfold. “I love you,” he whispered, his body tense as he waited for her answer.

Vicki pulled him down onto her lips, and he felt her smile. “I love you too,” she said, and he felt an exhilaration as he had never felt before in his life.
Someone knocked loudly on the door and the two of them parted at once. “Who is it?” Alec called.

“Your mother,” came the answer.

Vicki hurried over to the mirror to check if she looked normal while Alec went to open the door. Mrs Su came into the room. “Aiyoh, look at how messy your room is,” she scolded.

“Sorry, mum. I’ll tidy it up later,” Alec said with unusual meekness.

Mrs Zhao’s sharp eyes scrutinized her son’s face and seemed to be satisfied with what she saw. “Tonight, you will have to disguise yourself, because your father and I have decided to treat you to dinner in a French restaurant,” she told him. Turning to Vicki with a pleasant smile, she added, “You’re invited to join us as well, Vicki.”

“Oh no, Aunty, I won’t intrude,” Vicki responded as politely as she could.

Alec went over to his mother and put his arm round her. “Mum,” he said seriously.

“Yes?”

“I need to ask you a question.”

“What is it?”

“May I have Vicks as my girlfriend?”

Vicki was startled then, as she encountered Alec’s eye, she felt a warm sensation coming over her. Mrs Zhao laughed. “I knew there was something going on between the two of you! Yes, yes, of course. You know I love Vicki very much, Alec,” she said, looking affectionately at Vicki.

Vicki blushed and looked down at the floor. Mrs Zhao, after giving her a motherly hug, exited the room and Alec came bounding over to her.

“Hey! You didn’t ask me to be your girlfriend,” Vicki said, pouting.

Alec looked surprised. “Oh, sorry, Vicks. Well, I’ll ask it now. Will you be my girlfriend?”

Vicki smiled. “Hmm – my lips can’t stop pouting. They will only stop pouting if you put your lips on them…”

“Like this,” Alec said, bending down and kissing her.

* * *

Sammi couldn’t understand the news at first. Alec and Vicki were going steady? But how? As questions rose up in her mind, she saw Cecilia jump up and rush over to hug Vicki. “Vicks! Alec! Congratulations!” she heard Ruby say, and suddenly it hit her. Alec didn’t want her; he wasn’t in love with her. He loved Vicki.

Her face hardened.

“Sammi?” Vicki’s concerned voice broke into her thoughts, and she realised that she was the only one who hadn’t gone up and congratulated her. She stiffly stood up. “Congrats,” she said, trying to sound as happy and amiable as she could. “I’m very happy for both of you,” she choked out.

Vicki was so happy that she didn’t notice anything amiss. “Thanks, Sammi,” she chirped.

However, observant Kristy had seen Sammi’s change of expression and she knew instantly that Sammi liked Alec. When, a short while later Sammi left the room with the excuse of going to the bathroom, she quietly left the room as well.

Sammi turned on the tap and thrust her hands into the hot running water. The heat brought tears to her eyes, but the pain was nothing compared to her heartache. She stared numbly at her hands which were fast becoming red. How much pain did the world contain? She wondered.

Someone knocked on the door. “Who is it?” her voice broke. Clearing her throat, she said again, “Who is it?”

“Can I come in?” It was Kristy.

Heaven, no! Sammi thought in terror. No, I can’t let the baby see me like this…she frantically turned off the tap. “Go away, Kristy. I’m in the toilet, for goodness’ sake. You can’t charge inside here when I’m around.”

“I know you’re sad over this thing about Alec and Vicki, Sammi. Do let me in. I want to talk to you.”

Sammi sank down onto the floor and drew her knees up.
Kristy took the silence as encouragement. “Come on, Sammi, unlock the door.”

For my sake, leave! Sammi screamed silently. It seemed as if Kristy had heard, because no further noise came from her. Sammi leant her forehead on her knees and gave vent to her tears. “Sammi!” her heart stood still. Not Vicki? Kristy couldn’t have brought Vicki, could she?

There was a sound of the door being unlocked, and Vicki came in holding a key in her hand. She shut the door, locked it and came to sit beside her. “Sammi,” she said softly, putting her hand tentatively on Sammi’s shoulder. “Please talk to me. Kristy told me that you aren’t happy about me going steady with Alec.”

Sammi shrugged her hand away. “I’m happy,” she said in a mocking voice. “Oh so happy. Go back to him now, he must be waiting for you.”

“No, Sammi. Talk to me, please. I hate seeing you like that.”

Sammi lifted her eyes to Vicki’s face in a venomous glare. “Why did you steal him away from me?” she demanded.
Stunned, Vicki could only stare.

“I love him, and you had to take him away,” Sammi accused. “Why? Why did you and I have to like the same guy? And why did he have to choose YOU?” the anger left her as suddenly as it had entered her and she began to shake like a leaf. “I know you’re prettier than I am, that you’ve got a better voice, better figure, you’re younger – everything! But why did he have to choose you over me?” she cried brokenly.

“Sammi, please,” Vicki said, distressed. “I didn’t know you felt like that.”

“Even if you had known, what then? He doesn’t feel anything for me. Not even one damn whit – do you know how much I’m hurting now?” Sammi covered her face as her body trembled with sobs.

Vicki could only put her arm round her friend. Sammi didn’t shrink from her touch.

After the crying, Vicki and Sammi had a real heart-to-heart talk, and when they emerged from the bathroom, no trace of Sammi’s recent crying could be seen except for her red eyes.

Chapter 10

One muscular guy, the director’s son, had been brought in and Vicki, who was the lead singer, was to act as if she was madly in love with him. Alec, who had found the time to go with them, knew that she was only acting, but still he grew hot with jealousy when they hugged and kissed. Vicki didn’t know how he felt and chatted lightly to the guy when they stopped for lunch break. He was obviously smitten with her charms, and Alec grew even more jealous.

Later on, he had an argue with the director. “Why does Vicki have to act as if she’s totally in love with him? And why is it that the girl must be Vicki? Why can’t it be someone else?” he demanded.

The director stared. “Alec, look, Vicki’s only acting. We are doing this for a good music video. I’m sure you want it to be fabulous, don’t you? Besides, Vicki’s a great actress. I won’t be surprised if she becomes an actress one of these days. She’s certainly good enough.”

“I don’t care whether she can act well or not. I don’t want to sit down and watch her kiss your son.”

“Alec, talk sense. You’re over-reacting.”

“I over-react? For goodness’ sake, Vicki’s supposed to lie down in bed with that guy and kiss him! How do you expect me to take it?”

Vicki stepped into the scene at this point in time and was astounded to see Alec arguing with the director. “What’s going on?” she asked.

Both turned and saw her. “Oh, Vicki,” said the poor director with a twisted smile, “your boyfriend is having a – ahem – discussion with me about your love scene with my son.”

“With Michael? What about it?”

The director decided to be discreet and left the two of them alone. Alec went up to Vicki and grabbed her hand. “I don’t like seeing you kiss that Michael,” he said, his rage and jealousy showing in his voice. Vicki was dumbfounded. “But Alec, it’s just for a good music video.”
“That’s what that director of yours said too!” Alec ranted. Vicki laughed and caressed his cheek. “Don’t be stupid, Alec. After all, when YOU act in your movies, you have plenty of love scenes as well, don’t you? How do you think I feel when I watch them?”

Alec shrugged. Vicki smiled soothingly and patted his hand. “A music video is so unimportant compared to a movie or a TV series. We’re both in show business, Alec. It’s crazy to go mad the moment I kiss someone else.”

Alec decided to be gracious and change the subject. “Anyway, the director says you’re a fantastic actress. You could become an actress next time.”

“Really? But of course I won’t be.”

So when Vicki had to kiss Michael, Alec quietly left the room and went to get himself some coffee instead. There was no point flaring up like that when it couldn’t do any good.

* * *

The next day, they left for Japan on a private jet. Leo couldn’t follow them since he had to go to University, and Ruby was feeling blue about it, so Kristy, who was sitting beside her, got the full blast of her grumbles and complains. Vicki, sitting beside Alec, turned to look at Cecilia who was sitting behind her. “Sorry I’m not sitting with you on this flight, Cecy,” she said apologetically. “Right now my boyfriend’s more important than you are!”

Cecilia pouted. “Oh great. Your boyfriend’s more important than your best friend, huh?”

“Nah. I prefer being with you than with him.”

“Hey!” Alec objected. Vicki grinned. “You BELIEVED that? You don’t deserve to be preferred above Cecy!”

“Oh ok!” Cecilia’s face brightened. “Come on, let’s change seats!”

Alec poked his head behind to look at her. “I don’t want to sit alone for the rest of the journey! Vicks stays with me!” he said determinedly, so Cecilia’s hopes were all dashed. She leaned forward and whispered, “It looks like Sammi’s getting quite intimate with Nicholas. Do you think there’s anything in store for both of them?”

The three busybodies gossiped about Sammi and Nicholas, who were sitting together and talking in low tones, for the entire journey.

Chapter 11

The first stop was Japan, and when all of them got down they found thousands of fans lined up at the airport to receive them. Passing out hugs, kisses, and receiving a million and one gifts, they were somehow pushed into a van and driven away. “The reception at the airports never change,” Cecilia said with a chuckle. “I pity our bodyguards.”

“I had this really nice Rolex watch given me,” Alec said, showing off his Rolex. “I’m going to keep it.” He laughed at the faces the girls made at him. “Hey, considering it came from a fan, it’s valuable, isn’t it?” he said self-defensively. Vicki leaned against his chest, yawning widely. “That was such an unprofessional yawn,” Ruby remarked.

“Excuse me. I’m a human, and now I’m a very tired human,” Vicki replied with another yawn. Sammi smiled a little and looked out of the darkened windows. Kristy noticed her friend’s expression and quickly began talking about the concerts they were going to give. They had decided to team up with Alec and do a duet with him, and as he and the managers were very agreeable to it, there was nothing to stop them.

Cecilia looked through the lyrics of the duet, and said in satisfaction, “It’s actually quite a good song, girls!”

“It took you THAT long to find out?” Vicki said in amazement, shaking her head. Cecilia stuck her tongue out at her, and Ruby dozed off on Kristy’s shoulder.

They arrived at the hotel a little while later, and were once more pushed into the lobby. The managers checked in for them and they went up to their suite, hoping that none of the over-zealous fans would get into their rooms and invade their privacy. The suite was enormous, and evidently the best in the hotel, with four spacious rooms, a little neat kitchen, two television sets, a sitting room and a dinning room.

Alec and Vicki took one room while Kristy and Ruby took another. Sammi and Cecilia furnished themselves in the third room. “This is so cool,” Kristy commented. “This is the first time we’ve ever stayed in a suite!”

“I agree,” Ruby said. “So when will Julian be coming again, Kristy?”

A soft blush rose to Kristy’s cheeks. “I…I don’t know,” she said shyly. Ruby laughed and decided not to pursue the subject any longer.

“This room is nicer than my own one at home,” Vicki said wistfully as she ran from window to window, staring out at the magnificent scenery. Alec laughed as he unpacked. “Well, we’ll be staying here for two days, so you can stare out of the windows all you want.”

Vicki went to help him, and while she folded and unfolded she said, “I feel pretty bad at ditching Cecy. We’ve never slept in separate rooms before on tours.”

“Yeah, I know how close you and Cecy are,” Alec said comfortably, “but hey, she doesn’t mind does she?” he winked at Vicki. “Do you know how beautiful you are, girl?”

“No, but I’d love to be told how much,” Vicki said, looking at Alec out of her soulful dark eyes. Alec grinned as he went over to stand close to her, gripping her hands. “The most beautiful girl in the world,” he said as he leaned closer to her.

Cecilia walked into the room in the middle of a major making out session, and stopped in horror. The couple broke apart and stared at her in amusement and irritation. “Cecy…” Vicki began. Cecilia put up her hand. “Uh, I’m so sorry,” she apologised, without budging. “I didn’t see no nothing!” she grinned guiltily. Vicki sighed exaggeratedly. “Ok, so what do you want?” Cecilia looked confused. “Uh…” she smiled apologetically. “I wanted to borrow your red midriff.”

Vicki rolled her eyes at Alec and nodded with a sigh. Cecilia dived into her friend’s suitcase and brought out the midriff triumphantly. “Ok, guys, I’ll get lost now, fine? Don’t look daggers at me…I didn’t do no nothing…” she backed out of the room, still grinning. Alec shook his head and lowered his lips down to Vicki’s again, determined not to let that slight interruption distract him. He kissed her urgently, his arms holding her tight against him, and she raised her hands to the back of his head, pushing him nearer. She could feel his tongue in her mouth, and it was so wonderful that she couldn’t help but moan a little in pleasure… “Uh oh. Hey, I’m not here…I didn’t see anything…” the two of them turned once more to see Ruby with her hand over her eyes. Vicki smiled in bemusement and annoyance. “Well, Ru, what is it?”

Ruby uncovered one big eye and saw that they were apart. She dropped her hand and giggled. “Well, um, I was just going to ask you if you wanted to have a practise of the duet.”

Alec groaned: the end of his kissing session with Vicki, for he knew he couldn’t refuse it. “Ok, ok,” he grumbled. Vicki slipped her hand into his and laughed. “Ok, Ru. We’ll be out in a moment.”

When Ruby had disappeared, she planted a kiss on his lips now thrust into a pout, and said laughingly, “Oh, don’t look so moody! We can finish up tonight,” she said, winking. Despite his irritation, he smiled at her beauty and sweetness. Thank God for giving him someone like Vicki to share his life with!

Chapter 12

During the tour, Alec and Vicki grew even closer and more in love with each passing day. Everyone who saw them were touched and amused by their devotion to each other. They spent every possible moment together, and were hardly seen alone. Cecilia named them ‘The Inseparables’, and indeed they were! They even began to sleep in the same hotel room later on in the tour.

The tour was a very pleasant, though busy, period of time. All of them enjoyed it immensely while it lasted. But all good times must come to an end, and when it ended – everything changed.

Because of his tight schedule, Alec had to be away for months at a time, filming movies, TV series or recording songs, while Easthanz had to try their best at breaking into Europe. Vicki suddenly found herself in one part of the world while Alec was in another. They continued to contact each other through phones, email and chats, but they couldn’t be on the laptop all the time. They were simply too busy for that, especially Alec, who was filming day and night and scarcely had any time off. It was terrible and Vicki could practically feel them drawing further and further apart.

At this horrible time Julian broke up with Kristy. Just like that. No one knew the reason why; he just broke up with her. Kristy was stricken to the heart over this matter. She had given Julian all the love she could possibly give and suddenly he rejected her – without even giving a reason!

“Oh, Kristy, don’t be so sad, things like that happen,” Ruby said while trying to comfort her.

“If only he’d given me a reason – if only he told me WHY!” Kristy sobbed into Ruby’s shoulder. Sammi got up and walked away. It wasn’t that she was heartless – she simply began thinking about Alec and how messed up she had felt when he got together with Vicki.

“Darling, he’ll come back to you. I’m sure he loves you just as much as you love him,” Ruby said soothingly, patting Kristy’s hair and mentally cursing Julian for causing Kristy so much hurt.

Yes, no one knew why – except for one person, and that was Vicki.

One week after Julian broke up with Kristy, he came secretly to visit her. She had let him in silently, wanting to show him how angry she was with him.

“Vic,” he began, “I know all of you must hate me right now…but you have to understand why I broke up with Kristy.”

“Why?” she asked tightly.

“You,” he answered.

Vicki blinked, unable to believe him. What on earth did he mean?

“Ever since I first saw you, Vic,” he rushed, “I’ve fallen in love with you. I couldn’t stop myself from thinking about you. I did try, believe me! I tried to be a committed boyfriend to Kristy. But I just couldn’t! And in the end it became so bad that I felt as if I was cheating on her, so I thought it would be best if I broke up with her and told you the truth.”

Vicki stared at him speechlessly. He stared back at her. “I know you love Alec,” he said softly. “I’m not asking for you to love me, Vicki. I simply don’t want you to continue being angry at me – because that’s one thing I can’t stand.” He saw the loneliness in her eyes. Heaven, why did she look so – so alone? Had anything happened between she and Alec? His heart began to beat faster.

She stepped forward, barely knowing what she did. All she knew was that Alec was so far away that she couldn’t reach him anymore, and that right here in this room there was a man telling her he loved her. She reached forward and took hold of his hands.

Their lips drew close.

Chapter 13

At last he was logged on, and whistled cheerfully as he checked his email. “Great! A mail from Vicks! Pity she isn’t online,” he said cheerfully and continued to whistle as he read her message.

The whistling stopped. His jaw dropped. His face turned completely pale.

‘Alec, it’s been a very long time since I’ve last seen you, and a lot of things have happened since then. The both of us are so busy that we haven’t had any time to meet up, and I feel that this relationship is going nowhere. Besides, I’m with Julian now…trust me, it’s very difficult for me to type this down, but I’m with him. He’s broken up with Kristy, and I know it’s horrible of me to go out with Kristy’s ex-boyfriend whom she’s so in love with, as well as leaving you, but I’ve got no choice. I’m sorry. Really, I am. I hope you can forgive me someday, and we can be the friends we once were. Vicki Zhao.’

Alec read the mail, scrolled to the top and read it again. He couldn’t believe his eyes. He’d been away from her for a month and now she was – dumping…him? The first thing he felt was anger; he was so angry that he wanted to kill her…then the sense of loss that filled him was incredible. He’d lost her to Julian. He’d lost her.

* * *

“I can’t believe you two are doing this to me!” Kristy screamed. Julian stood watching her, cool and composed. Vicki sat on a chair, guilt written all over her face. “You dumped me for HER?” she swung round to face Vicki, who avoided her eyes. “I thought you were my friend!” she yelled. “How could you do this to me? VICKI ZHAO! I’m talking to you! Look at me!”

“Don’t talk to her like that!” Julian shouted, getting angry.

“I have every right to talk to her the way I want!” Kristy shouted. “I treated you as a sister! And now you’re doing this to me? Count yourself as my friend? You’re bullshit!”

“Shut up!” Julian yelled.

“You stay out of this! This is none of your business!” Kristy flashed back. Vicki sat very still, her conscience screaming at her. Maybe she shouldn’t go out with Julian after all. It caused Kristy so much pain, and it was true that she and Kristy were as close as sisters – all of them were.

Ruby, who was sitting in one corner observing the whole scene, now stood up. “Come, Kris,” she said, putting a hand on Kristy’s shoulder. “Don’t say anymore.” She guided Kristy to the door, squeezing her shoulder comfortingly. But when Kristy left the room, she turned and looked at Vicki. Vicki never forgot that look. Then she turned and walked out.

Vicki was stunned. In all her years of knowing Ruby she had never before seen Ruby look at someone with so much hatred and disgust. Julian, who had caught the look and seen Vicki’s reaction, began to feel worried. He went over to her and put his arms round her. “Vic, it’s ok. You still have me.”

“No,” Vicki whispered, defeated. “I can’t be with you, Julian. I just can’t.”

“Why?” Julian demanded. “Just because two girls are blaming you for loving me? Vic, you KNOW that love cannot be controlled. Don’t break up with me just because of them. Kristy and Ruby are understanding girls, they’ll come to their senses eventually. Believe me, they will.”

Vicki didn’t feel convinced.

* * *

Alec flew all the way back to Taiwan, and went straight to Vicki’s place. He had to see her and clear things up with her. Vicki opened the door and let him in silently. The house was empty. The moment he stepped in he asked, “Was the mail true?”

Vicki nodded slowly. “I’m sorry, Alec.”

“Sorry?” he let out a hard laugh. “If you were so sorry, you wouldn’t do such a thing to me!” he glared at her, and she looked away. He could see that she was going through a hard time too, but he didn’t care. “Why do you have to do this to me? Do you hate me so much? Do you?”

“I don’t hate you,” she almost whispered.

“Then why? WHY?” Alec sat down on the sofa and buried his face. To Vicki’s horror, his shoulders began to shake with sobs. “Why, Vicki? Why did you have to leave me for HIM?”
“Alec, don’t cry,” Vicki exclaimed in distress. She’d never seen him cry before, and she knew that this was the first time in years that he’d started crying. “I’m sorry, I really am.”

Alec leapt up and looked as if he was about to hit her. Vicki immediately took a step back. He stared at her for a long moment, turned and kicked the wall so hard that his feet swelled at once. But he didn’t seem to feel the pain. He stared at Vicki again, his eyes full of deep anguish and pain, then left the house abruptly.

Who could fathom the depths of his hurt and loss?

Who could ever understand and help him?

No one.

This Romeo is bleeding, but you can’t see his blood
It’s nothing but some feelings that this old dog kicked up
It’s been raining since you left me
Now I’m drowning in the flood
You see I’ve always been a fighter
But without you I give up

Now I can’t sing a love song
Like the way it’s meant to be
Well, I guess I’m not that good anymore
But baby, that’s just me

Yeah I, will love you, baby
Always, and I’ll be there forever a day, always

I’ll be there, till the stars don’t shine
Till the heavens burst and the words don’t rhyme
I know when I die you’ll be on my mind
And I’ll love you always

Now your pictures that you left behind
Are just memories of a different life
Some have made us laugh some have made us cry
One that made you have to say goodbye
What I’d give to run my fingers through your hair
Touch your lips, to hold you near,
When you say your prayers, try to understand,
I’ve made mistakes, I’m just a man

When he holds you close, when he pulls you near
When he says the words you’ve been needing to hear
I wish I was him cause those words are mine
To say to you till the end of time

If you told me to cry for you, I could
If you told me to die for you, I would
Take a look at my face there’s no price I won’t pay
To say these words to you

Well there ain’t no luck in these loaded dice
But baby, if you give me just one more try
We can pack our old dreams and our old lives
We can find a place where the sun still shines

Chapter 14

Ruby squeezed Kristy’s hand. “You don’t have to go through all this, Kris. You can quit the band.”

Kristy’s head shot up and she stared at Ruby incredulously. “Quit the band? How can I? It’s always been my dream, Ru!”

“You and I can form another one. I’m sure our fans wouldn’t really care.” Ruby looked at Kristy. “It’s a good idea, Kris. Life would be bitter for you if you had to stay on in this group…” she shook her head, sighing softly. “And I who considered Vicki Zhao as close as a sister…” she said, almost to herself.

Kristy shook her head violently. “Oh, I’m not angry at her now, dear. I see now that it isn’t her fault…after all, Alec isn’t available most of the time now, and she’s so lonely without him. I don’t know if she really loves Julian…but I don’t hate her anymore, and I’m not angry with her anymore. It’s just the – humiliation.”

“Dearest!” Ruby said admiringly, amazed by Kristy’s ready forgiveness. She had never known how much Kristy had in her before.

Someone knocked on the door, and the two girls looked apprehensively at it. “I think it’s her,” Kristy said in a whisper, then, lifting her voice, she said, “Come in.” There was a pause, then the door opened slowly and Vicki came in. In the darkness (for they had not turned on the lights), she looked very tired and almost ghostly white. Kristy looked at her silently. Ruby stood up. Ruby wore a white dress and was standing against the dark backdrop, but Vicki didn’t see her. “Kristy,” she said, “I don’t want this to break up our friendship…I’ll break off with him as soon as possible.”

Kristy looked at Vicki for a few moments, and saw nothing but love and regret in her friend’s eyes. For a second she wanted to lash out at her, but remembered all the times she’d had with Vicki…how close they were, and the many things Vicki had done for her when she was a child…why, she’d known her longer than she’d known Ruby, and from young Vicki had always protected her and taken care of her…what right had she to get angry at her just because of this trivial thing? Silently, she held out her arms, and the two friends were locked in an embrace which swept away all the blaming and anger on one side and the remorse and guilt on the other.

* * *

Vicki did as she said and broke up with Julian, who took it terribly. He ranted, raved, went on about how she was too good for him, and even began crying, but Vicki stood firm and unrelenting. However, the later days were even worse. He continued to linger around, speaking occasionally to Sammi and Cecilia, who were the only ones who talked to him, and Vicki felt his eyes following her in whatever she did. She felt his love in every turn she made, every step she took, every room she entered. She was a captive in his love, and no matter how much she longed to be free of it, she couldn’t do anything. And more than anything, she missed Alec. She knew now that she had never loved Julian; had only been too lonely; that the only person she had ever truly cared for was Alec – but her pride and self-blame made it impossible for her to go back to him. Besides, she was absolutely certain that he would not take her back. Who would? She had humiliated and dumped him so heartlessly…any sensible man wouldn’t even look at her, much less become her boyfriend again.

In all the tours and concerts, she sang mechanically, smiled mechanically, danced mechanically, entertained mechanically…this was what she had been doing in the past and this was what she had enjoyed…but now everything seemed like a burden – because all the heart had gone and this was just another job to be got through. She slept alone in her bed, but every night her dreams would take her back to the time when she had her other half beside her, loving her as no one had ever loved her before. And every morning she would find her pillow wet with tears. All because she had, in one foolish moment, pained the one she loved and gone with one she didn’t love. What silly decisions people make sometimes, she thought one night as she sat in her hotel bed, staring at the lyrics of a new song she held before her. Cecilia was sleeping like a log. ‘When one door closes, another opens’ she remembered, and laughed at the stupidity of the phrase. What door is there before me now? She thought drearily. Every day it’s the same routine…meeting the fans, singing, dancing, entertaining, being interviewed, going to press conferences, flying round the world, posing for photos…isn’t there anything else to life? Once I thought it was wonderful to be famous…now that I’m famous, I don’t want to be. It’s so strange.

Yet, she thought, if it wasn’t for what I’m doing now, I
think I would have been so alone that I might have committed suicide. It’s Julian’s love too…why do I feel as if I’ve just murdered someone? Alec, wherever you are, I hope you know that I still love you…and if you can ever find it in you to forgive me for what I’ve done to you, let me have your friendship at least…

Two lonely tears rolled down her cheeks as she stared at the words, now becoming a blur in front of her. What a wreck I’ve become, she thought, and laughed at herself mentally. A wreck. A fool. But I want Alec so badly. And the knowledge that I’ll never have him again is killing me. Why is life so confusing? Maybe I’m just making a mountain out of a molehill. Yes, that’s it. I’m not going to think about it any longer. I’m just causing myself more pain. It’s silly. I won’t think about it any longer. Just…won’t think about it anymore. Not anymore.

Thought it wouldn't matter
If we didn't stay together
And if it was over
Baby, it was for the better
I was thinking I'd be all right
'Til I thought it all through
Now I know that I ain't really living
If I have to live without you

I don't wanna live without your love
I don't wanna face the night alone
I could never make it through my life
If I had to make it on my own
I don't wanna love nobody else
I don't wanna find somebody new
I don't wanna live without your love
I just wanna live my life with you
With you

Guess I had to go away
So much I had to go through
Guess I had to lose you
To realize how much I love you
Can we make the fires burn again?
Burn a little stronger
'Cause I've been alone, and baby
I can't be alone any longer

Chapter 15

“Just take a puff, it won’t harm you.” Jessica thrust the marijuana at Sammi, who instantly shied away from it. “Come on,” Jessica coaxed. She looked really hyped up that night, with her eyes gleaming wildly in excitement and her dress so low cut and backless that even Sammi was quite shocked. “Are you sure?” she asked doubtfully, eyeing the dry grass.

“Trust me,” Jessica said assuredly. She leaned closer to Sammi and said confidentially, “Remember Alec? How sad you are over him? Take this and you’ll forget everything.”

Sammi’s eyes widened. Forget her hurt over Alec and Vicki? The thought was so wonderful that she grabbed the marijuana at once. “Are you sure?” she asked Jessica again. Her friend nodded vigorously.

Sammi took one puff...

* * *

“What a wild party!” Vicki shouted over the noise to Nicky Wu, whom she was dancing with. “This is so great!” for the first time in a long, long while, she felt absolutely able to let go and have fun. Nicky laughed and nodded. “One of the best I’ve ever been to!” he shouted back. “And your friend Sammi looks as if she’s having fun!”

Vicki looked across his shoulder at Sammi who was dancing with Jimmy Lin and looking very energized. Even Kristy looked very happy. She smiled at Nicky. “It’s the party!” she yelled.

Someone went up on the stage. The lights shone on him. It was Dicky Cheung. “Hey guys!” he shouted. “Having fun?” he was met with whoops and yells of “right on, man!” “We’re going to have a singing competition now!” he said loudly. “Any volunteers to come up to the stage and SING for us?”

Everyone laughed and several people shouted, “Yeah!” “I’ll be first! Whoo! ‘Day and night’, babe!” Sammi yelled, her eyes dancing. Vicki stared at her in amazement. She’d never seen calm, level-headed Sammi like this before. But she didn’t take much notice of it – after all, it WAS a party. Dicky invited Sammi onstage, and she sang ‘Day and night’ in a lackadaisical way which made everyone laugh. Vicki couldn’t help laughing too…and then she caught sight of him.

Alec was standing alone, and he was staring straight at her.

She turned away and cursed herself for doing so. It would be so convenient to walk up to him right now…but she couldn’t.

“All right!” Dicky yelled. “Three cheers for Sammi of Easthanz! Who else?”

Gigi Lai, Theresa Lee, Nicholas Tse, Nicky Wu…Vicki watched as one after another went up on the stage and sang all the rock songs. Suddenly she had an inspiration and yelled, “I’ll be next!”

“Right man! Vicki Zhao, come on up!” Dicky shouted and offered the microphone to her as she made her way to the stage. She took it from him and said, “I’m going to sing ‘Hard to say I’m sorry’ by Chicago and I dedicate it to a very special person here tonight.” She searched all the faces and saw the one she wanted to see. Looking straight at him, she sang with all her heart:

Hold me now
It's hard for me to say I'm sorry
I just want you to know
Hold me now
I really want to tell you I'm sorry
I could never let you go
After all that we've been through
I will make it up to you
I promise to
And after all that's been said and done
You're just the part of me I can't let go

Alec found his eyes swimming with tears as he looked at Vicki. It was evident that she was singing this song for him…that she was sorry and she couldn’t let him go. He could see the love in her eyes as she sang, and a thrill ran over him. I love you, she was saying silently, I love you. Forgive me.

Only when the song finished did she break the eye contact.

* * *

“She loves Alec,” Kristy said delightedly to Ruby. “I knew it! I’ve always known it!”

“I do hope he accepts her,” Ruby said with bated breath.

“Look!” Kristy squealed, “she’s talking to him! Ru, tonight both of us must pounce on her and get her to tell us what went on between them.”

“I’m with you!” Ruby said emphatically.

Chapter 16

Alec looked at her pretty, blushing face and its embarrassed expression and hardly knew what to say. “Hi,” he said. “So how’s it with you and Julian?” he willed his voice to be steady as he said ‘you and Julian’.

Vicki’s heart dropped. He sounded so casual. Had he stopped caring for her? She raised her eyes to his, and there was an unconscious look of pleading in the dark depths. “I’ve broken up with him,” she said simply. “I didn’t love him enough.” She swallowed hard. “He wasn’t the one I loved,” she said in a low voice.

“Vicki…” Alec began. “Look, I don’t know what you’re feeling now, but…I just want to make this clear, ok? I don’t…have the same feeling for you anymore. I’ve forgiven you…and anyway, it’s all in the past; I just want to be friends with you. Like we were before. Is that ok with you?”

Vicki dropped her eyes, stunned. She hadn’t expected this answer from him. She had expected him either to accept her or to be so angry that he wouldn’t talk to her. Now he wanted to be friends. How was that possible? But then, she reflected bitterly, he probably didn’t love her anymore. As he’d said, he didn’t have the same feeling for her any longer. “Yes,” she said, her voice hollow.

Alec smiled a very difficult smile and patted her shoulder. “I hope you have a nice time at this party,” he said courteously, and walked away.

* * *

“Woohoo! Wasn’t that one heck of a party!” Sammi shouted in excitement as she entered the hotel suite. She leaned on Ruby, half-drunk and still very hyped up from the drugs she’d taken. Ruby tried desperately to support her.

“Oh no, please, spare me,” Vicki muttered. She walked to the room she shared with Cecilia and closed the door. Cecilia and Kristy exchanged glances. Vicki wouldn’t be in such low spirits if Alec had accepted her. Then Sammi made a vomiting sound. Immediately Ruby and Kristy pushed her into the toilet where she vomited into the sink. Cecilia left them quietly and entered her bedroom, which was totally in darkness. The air-con was on and the toilet door was closed. She blinked and distinguished a figure lying on one of the beds. “Vicks?” she said softly.

Vicki rose into a sitting position. She was fully dressed. Cecilia stared at her. “Ok, Vicks, you can tell me what’s troubling you, but first I have to take a bath.” She took a towel and her pajamas from a cupboard and went into the hotel bathroom. Fifteen minutes later she emerged, looking very much refreshed. “Ahh, that was good. Aren’t you going to bathe, Vicks?”

“No…” Vicki said slowly. “Cecy, I need to talk to somebody. If I don’t talk to someone, I’ll…I’ll burst,” she blurted out, distraught and heart-broken. Cecilia got into Vicki’s bed and took Vicki’s hands in hers. “Ok, spill the beans. I’m listening.”

Vicki leaned against Cecilia’s chest and told her what had happened between she and Alec. Cecilia listened gravely. “I…know it isn’t his fault,” Vicki said with a strangled sob. “Why did I ever do it, Cecy? I don’t understand! Why did I hurt him so badly? Why did I let him go? Now what am I to do now?” Tears ran freely down her cheeks but she didn’t bother to wipe them away.

“I must be the world’s greatest fool,” she sobbed.

* * *

“I need more, Jessica,” Sammi said anxiously. “I need more!”

“All right, Sammi,” Jessica said soothingly. “Here. Take it.”

Sammi grabbed the marijuana greedily.

* * *

That night, the performance Easthanz gave was a little strange. For one, the quiet Sammi suddenly became noisy and full of exhilaration, and the noisy Vicki was very quiet. There was even one part in the concert that she had to turn sideways to rub her eyes. Her voice was full of tears, even on the wild, fast songs. However the concert turned out to be fantastic and the audience went mad clapping, stamping and cheering.

But at night, Vicki often wondered…was this what she really wanted? It was getting more and more difficult to put on a smiling mask all the time.

* * *

“It’s not enough,” Sammi groaned. “It only makes me high for one hour. That’s not enough!” she looked anxiously at Jessica, who thought for a moment. “I can offer you another kind of medicine,” she said.

“What is it?” Sammi asked.

“Cocaine,” said Jessica.

“Thank you,” said Sammi.

“That’s what friends are for,” Jessica said with a smile.

Chapter 17

Ruby and Vicki, hearing the screams from the other room, dashed into Sammi’s room to find her hand bleeding profusely. Both were too shocked to even move. Sensible, level-headed Sammi like THAT? What on earth could have happened to her? Sammi swung round to them, her eyes red and bloodshot. “I don’t want cocaine anymore,” she said, crying. “I want something else.” Her head shot up. “Something else!” she demanded.

“Cocaine?” Vicki gasped. “You’ve been taking cocaine, Sammi?”

Sammi nodded confusedly. Ruby gasped. “I can’t believe this…” she said slowly. “Who’s been giving you cocaine?”

Sammi’s eyes were filled with terror. “No one…no one,” she stammered. “I took it myself! Out of my own will! I won’t go to a Drug Rehab Centre! I won’t, I won’t!” she screamed. Ruby and Vicki looked at each other helplessly, not knowing what to do. Sammi flung herself on the bed. “I want to sleep. Get out of my room,” she instructed as she closed her eyes and sank immediately into a deep sleep.

* * *

“Heroin,” Jessica said with a sigh. “I hope you’re thanking me for this, Sammi.”

“Oh, I am, I am,” Sammi said, her hands reaching out for the drug that Jessica held. “I slipped out of the house without any of the girls knowing. I thank you, Jessica, with all my heart. Give it to me.”

Jessica handed her the heroin.

* * *

“It’s been three months since the party,” Vicki sighed. “I haven’t seen Alec since that night. I wonder how is he?”

Cecilia reached out and took Vicki’s hand. “I’m sure he’s thinking about you, wherever he is,” she told Vicki assuredly. “Meanwhile, is Julian still hanging around you?” she groaned when Vicki nodded. “I have a feeling that he truly loves you, Vic, and he’s not about to let you go. You won’t find it easy to get rid of him.”

Vicki shrugged hopelessly. Life was very bleak to her now, and nothing left an impression on her anymore. Not the fans, not the singing, not the stage, not anything. She simply felt very empty inside…as if someone had taken out everything and left her only with bones and skin…and heart, which beat painfully away inside her all the time. “Thanks for being so good to me, Cecy,” she said.

“Hey, what are friends for?” Cecilia said with a grin. (note: compare her with Jessica)

* * *

Sammi emptied everything into the pan. She turned up the fire and watched it melt, thoughts running through her head. “More, more, more,” she mumbled to herself. “More.” When finally it melted, she got out a syringe and put the melted heroin in. She injected herself. Almost at once a happy feeling spread through her. “More!” she injected herself again and again, heedless of everything.

From her hand dropped the syringe. Sammi was by then so high that she could scarcely concentrate on anything. Then, suddenly, her knees gave way and she pummeled to the floor. Darkness flooded her mind. (is that how you have a drug overdose? Don’t ask me! I’ve never seen anyone have an overdose in my life!)

* * *

Alec’s mobile rang loudly, impatiently. With a moan, he answered it. “Hello.” His voice sounded flat and disinterested…which was what he was. “Hello,” he said again when he was met with silence.

“Alec,” came Cecilia’s voice through the phone. “Are you in Taiwan now?”

“Yes, why?” he asked, tensing. Had anything happened to Vicki? Something must have had, for Cecilia sounded so worried.

“Sammi’s just had a drug overdose. Come straight to Greenway Hospital, will you?” (is there such a hospital? Definitely not. I made it up myself) Cecilia hung up. Alec was left standing with the mobile, shocked beyond words. Sammi…drug overdose? How?!?! He was jerked into action by the chiming of an old grandfather clock in the sitting room. At once he grabbed his keys from the table and rushed down to his car, not caring if a traffic policeman caught him for speeding.

Chapter 18

“Where are the rest?” he asked.

“In the waiting room. Go there now.” Kristy rushed into the lift before it could run away from her. Alec walked towards the waiting room, each step getting slower and slower as he thought of Vicki. She would definitely be in there. Once he reached the door, he took a deep breath before opening it. Ruby was sitting beside Leo, both looking very white and troubled; Julian, pacing up and down, Vicki, who was lying her head on Cecilia, and Cecilia, who was frowning deeply. There was another young woman there…Rebecca, he recalled, Vicki’s sister. Leo got up to welcome him. So did Ruby. Julian pointedly ignored him, while Cecilia and Vicki stared at him.

Hours of waiting came after that…during those hours people walked in and out, nurses hurried down the corridors, doctors walked up and down and whispered to each other.

Alec, sitting there, began to feel out of place. He glanced at Vicki, who was leaning her head on Cecilia’s shoulder. She looked very pale…too pale for her own good, and he wondered whether she was sick. He had never seen her so pale before. There was tremendous dark rings under her eyes, too. He began to feel remorseful about what he had said to her during the party.

Leo pulled Ruby up to take her for a walk outside the hospital and let her breathe in some fresh air, while Julian walked down to the cafeteria. Rebecca, Cecilia and Kristy all went to the toilet, leaving him and Vicki alone. He had no intention of going near her or speaking to her, but a stifled sob drew his attention to her. She was wiping her eyes discreetly and looked so sick that his heart smote him. Before he knew it, he had gotten up and was walking towards her. “Are you ok?” he asked.

She looked up with a start. Her eyes, huge and black, stared into his helplessly. “Yes,” she said, and lowered her eyelids. He sat down beside her silently, scarcely knowing what to say to her.

Minutes ticked by, and still the others did not return. Alec turned his head slightly to look at Vicki. She was sitting with a drooped head and lowered eyelids, and as he looked a tear slid onto her eyelashes and, a moment later, dropped onto her skirt. It shone brightly there for a minute, then vanished. “Don’t cry,” he said without thinking. She looked at him, her eyes swimming with tears. “Sammi will be fine. Don’t cry.”

They stared at each other for a few moments, then suddenly Vicki laid her head on his shoulder and began to sob uncontrollably. The stress and worry over Sammi combined with her own personal problems and deep sadness proved too much for her. She couldn’t take the strain any longer. Alec sat awkwardly, then decided to put his arms round her. They sat like that for a long, long while.

Chapter 19

Ruby made a sound in her throat and fell against Leo, who held her tightly as a tear rolled down his cheek. Kristy stepped backward, not able to believe the doctor. Neither could Cecilia and Rebecca. Sammi was a living vegetable? No, not a vegetable, but she would be like a newborn baby!

Vicki looked hopelessly at Alec, and he smiled warmly at her…but not so warm as to deceive Vicki. His eyes were filled with sadness and anxiety. “She is very lucky, though,” the doctor continued. “She could have died.” He cocked his head. “Ah, here she comes now,” he said.

All of them saw a nurse wheeling a wheelchair up to them. And on the wheelchair sat Sammi, looking none the worse for her stay in the hospital. She began to smile when she saw them, and Vicki, seeing that familiar smile, felt her heart ache so much that she could barely stand the pain. Sammi could not even rise to her feet and walk.

She was taken back home the next day.

But that day would forever be imprinted in Sammi’s memory. And for the rest of her life she would remember that at that very hour the nurse wheeled her up to her friends she had mentally promised herself that some day she would be onstage again…singing and dancing, just like what she had used to do.

* * *

Two years later

“Oh, it was a sad time,” Vicki agreed readily. She leaned back on the bench, the breeze ruffling her hair, a smile tugging at the corners of her lips. “It’s a good thing that Sammi recovered so fast.”

She and Alec were best friends now; and though Vicki longed for him to be more than a friend, they never seemed to progress any further. It was partly Alec’s fault. He completely refused to commit himself, and so Vicki could not do anything. However it had not harmed their friendship.

Alec gazed thoughtfully at the sea which stretched into the distance, calm and serene, with the little waves rippling up the shore. “Yes,” he said. “She is almost what she was before she started taking drugs. And she has ended up with Nicholas too! Well, wasn’t that what you, Cecilia and I expected years ago on the plane?” Vicki nodded. “Julian and Kristy never got together again though. I hardly expected them to, anyway. Julian’s quite contented working in an enormous company in India now…and Kristy’s far happier with her new boyfriend than she ever was with Julian. He has finally managed to let you go, Vicki.”

Vicki smiled. “Ruby will be giving birth soon,” she remarked. “Leo is as happy about it as a dog with two tails.”

“Though why a dog with two tails should be happy I never could understand,” Alec said. “I mean, wouldn’t it be very troublesome?”

Vicki opened her eyes widely and began to laugh. Alec looked at her beautiful, laughing face and suddenly a decision which had been hovering undecided in his mind for the past two years was made. He stretched out and grasped her arm, looking at her so tenderly that she stopped laughing immediately and stared at him, her eyes huge. He leaned closer towards her and kissed her, knowing that this was what he wanted. After two years of friendship, he could bring himself to love her again. No, that was wrong. He had always loved her. But it had taken him a long time to be able to express his love for her again.

When finally they drew apart, he said with a smile, “Will you be my girlfriend again?”

Vicki was so happy that she could not speak even if she had tried. And she did not. She only nodded her head, her eyes telling him more than volumes of books could have.

Hence let us not intrude on them any longer, for their story is told and now the book must close.

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