Chapter 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
The main characters:
Vicki Zhao Wei- Wei Wei, Rose
Alec Su- Alec
Nicky Wu- Nicky
Ruby Lin- Ruby
Jimmy
***
In the old traditional days, the poor and the rich classes are like water and fire. The rich are getting richer and the poor, poorer. No one dares to mess with the high authorities thus silent cries of agonies and pains fill each and every house in the shattered little town. Just beyond that damp mushy place is another town own and run by countless rich families. The two worlds separate by a river, mind their own business. The rich blocks out the cries of the the less fortunate, and they in turn, get used to the laughter and parties from the other side.
At the edge of the river, a young girl, with a beauty surpassing any her age with white skin soft like cotton and eyes sparkle like stars from above, sighs. Her eyes are now waters with thoughts of her family and her lover... She sings:
Like rain falling from the sky,
My love for you pours,
With each drop is a rainbow,
Bringing you warmth and happiness.
Let's be lovers forever,
I never want to be far apart,
Or away from your protecting arms,
I will always be with you,
Let's never part, my love.
and her sweet voice fill up the empty silent atmosphere with love and hope, full of promises for a bright future. A future where there's only love, and love alone can conquer all
---------------------------------
Wei Wei stands up and smooth her skirt. Sighs. Another bad day at the market. She looks at the basket full of fruits and couldn't help but feel weary inside. What will the family eat tonight? The weather has been so harsh lately without any rain. Not just her family, but the whole village is starving without a single drop of water or food. Many have left to find a better place to live, but where could she go? Her father is old and her little sister, so fragile and easily sick. No, she must be strong for her family. Her mother begged her no matter what, she must keep the family together. They must never separate, no matter what. She won't go back on her promise now. Wei Wei looks across the river at the mansions and big houses just beyond the green grass. Separate by just a river, a totally different landscape with riches she would never have. She hated them to the depth of her bones. Wei Wei picks up the rocks and throw them across the river angrily, but they drops midway and sinks. Anger burns inside her like a flame, burning brightly and...
"Wei Wei... what are you doing standing here?"
She looks back to see Nicky, her best friend, no more than a best friend. She blushes at the thought. He has been with her through everything. Without him, she wouldn't be able to surive her mom's death and her father's sickness. She owes him everything, even her life. "I'm just thinking about them," she said and throws a couple more rocks angrily that way.
"Why do you want to waste your time thinking about them?"
"I wonder what they do all day? Sitting around in their big house and order their servants around. They go and throw parties and waste money and food on things that.. that they don't even need... and... and they never even think that somewhere in the world, other people are suffering.. SUFFERING!" Wei Wei stamps her foot with frustrations.
Nicky pulls Wei Wei gently beside him and let her calms down for just a minute. "Why do you go around thinking about them? Hey... look at me. Where is my happy little Wei Wei?"
Wei Wei smiles and looks shyly down. "I'm not little anymore you know."
"Yes! I've noticed," Nicky grins.
Wei Wei sighs as she looks at her fruit basket. What will the family eats tonight? She can't let her sick dad eat anymore fruits instead of rice. How will he regain his strength simply by eating a bunch of apples? Nicky as though understanding what she's thinking pull from his pocket two little coins. "Here, take this and buy some food for Pappy." Wei Wei looks at the coins with a special glow in her eyes. "No, I can't take this. You have to take care of Nanny too. My dad would yell at me." She pushes back and looks away.
"Wei Wei, who do you think I am? I can't let you and your dad eat fruits for dinner another day. And what about Little Ping. She's only five you know. Kids these days, they need nutritions and proper food. What would you do if she starts to get sick again?" Nicky persists. Seeing Wei Wei unhappy like this breaks his heart into a million pieces. What would he to do? Work is not easy to find these days, and his village, everyone is in the same situation. Not just his family and Wei Wei's. Seeing Wei Wei so sad, he almost forgot to tell her a good news. "Guess what?"
"What?"
"I've found work!" Nicky said excingly. "My friend and I went across the river and we found a family that needs labor workers for their factory. They're willing to pay 6 coins a day if we finish the work for them."
"Really?" Wei asks with excitement. She grabs Nicky and asks, "Do you think they will hire me?"
"No, it's way too heavy work for you. Just think, Wei Wei, 6 coins, that's more than the fruits you sell each day. All you have to do is stay home and take care of Little Ping and Pappy. You don't have to go to the market each day to seel fruits anymore."
"But Nicky, you have to take care of Nanny too. You can't just give me the money. Surely Nanny wouldn't let you, and I can't take your money either."
Nicky takes Wei Wei's hands in his and hold them tightly. He puts them to his heart, "What if we get married?" Wei Wei pulls her hand back suddenly and looks shyly away. Her face blushes with pleasure but worry at the same time. "Marriage... but we don't even have enough food for dinner. How could you even think about marriage?" Nicky looks at her affectionately, "Well, it doesn't have to be fancy, as long as both of our families agrees." Wei Wei looks down at her hands and teases him, "What makes you think I agree?"
Nicky peeks at her and looks worries. He knows that Wei Wei doesn't love anyone besides him, but he's not really sure, yet. He has always taken it for granted that she will always be his. But now, now, he's not so sure. "You're not serious, are you?"
Wei Wei nods and smiles at his panic expression. Deep down, she has always known that she would be his. In this little village, most of the guys are hardworking but none are like Nicky. He has a cuteness and child face even though in his twenties. His innocent and child at heart is something that really touches Wei Wei deep inside her heart. She has yearns to hold him at night when the rain pours outside the window making a clickly clack noise. She remembers his warmth and strength, and holds onto it for support. She knows, she knows...
Picking up her fruit basket, Wei Wei runs happily back home, leaving Nicky dumbfounded, standing there among the flowers and sunset of the afternoon. She turns around to give him a smile, a smile full of promise, and the answer he was waiting for all along. He nods with satifaction. He knew, he has known all along that Wei Wei would be his. Ever since that day, when he was ten, and Wei Wei was eight. They're been friends ever since that day. He remembers it as though it were yesterday. Nicky's mom was alive then, and he was being punished because one of his tricks has made Nanny very upset. His mom orders him to stands on his knees outside all day in the sun. Wei Wei's family was new to the village and moves next door. That day, when he almost faints from the sunlight and heat, this little girl came up and brought him some lemonade. She talked to him all day and makes him laugh with her funny faces and noise. Nicky stares at her in amazement and couldn't help but fall in love with her little smiles and big round eyes. From that day forward, he promises himself that he would take care of her and wouldn't let anything harm her. And slowly like that, they grows up together. The innocent days of child play no longer exists. They grow up and become the head of their families.
Nicky sits down along the river and think back at the wonderful times that they have been here, playing, running around. Hiding in the bushes till their parents leave and lie among the flowers. Wei Wei loves flowers, especially roses with their sweet fragance. One time, because she wanted to smell a rose from high above, Nicky has to climb the wall and picks the rose for her. But the thorn got in the way leaving his hand full of blood, Vicki cried and refuses to see the rose because she said it caused Nicky to bleed. He had to beg her the whole day to forgive the rose and showed her that his hand was okay after all. All these memories brings Nicky back, back to the days when they were still kids, innocent in their heart and little did they know that the world is full of hardship, and life, is not what it truly is.
"NICKY! Niiiiiiicky!!" Nanny's voice calls from the distance waking him up from his dreams. Nicky hurries home with 4 coins left from the day's labor and some good news for Nanny.
"Little Ping! Little Ping! Where are you?" Wei Wei yells above her lungs for her sisters. A little kid, about five, runs up and circle around her. Her face, full of childlike innocence and her big black eyes, sparkling, looking up at Wei Wei questioning. "Yes Wei Wei? Did you bring food?" Wei Wei sighs, deeply hurt by the question. She feels so useless and all the happy feelings from meeting with Nicky are gone, and has left her dry and feeling unworthy of her sister's love and trust. "No little one. I'm afraid we have to eat more apples for dinner." Little Ping looks sadly down and she understands. Even though she has to restrain herself from saying "AGAIN!" because she knows, it would hurt her sister a lot by hearing that. Wei Wei feels like she has failed. She didn't leave up to the family's standard.. Little Ping tugs at her shirt. "Don't worry, sis! I like apples." Wei Wei looks down at the little kid and smiles, "I'm sorry sweetie. I'll make you my specialty, apple pie?"
Wei Wei hurries inside to see her dad lying on the bed, half awake and half asleep. Not wanting to disturb him, she walks quietly to the kitchen. "Wei Wei," he calls her softly.
"Yes Pappy?" Wei Wei returns and come sits beside him. She fans him with a poster board beside the bed to sooth the heat. "How are you my little one?" Pappy asks gently.
"Oh I'm fine Pappy, why do you ask?"
"You're so skinny Wei Wei," Pappy sighs. He reaches up to touch Wei Wei's little face. How much she reminds him of his wife. He wishes he could comfort her, protect her, but it's not possible. He has to depends on her for everything. Just the very thought makes his heart tight into a knot. He's so weak now, with no strength to take care of anyone, and in turn, has to burden his little girl. He lies awake each night and just wishes that he could die so that Wei Wei wouldn't have to take care of him anymore. Wei Wei knew nothing about this, and he would never let her know. Little Ping is only five, and already lost her mother. He doesn't want her to lose her father too. So he has kept his thoughts in silence, and not let his daughters worry more.
"Did you sell anything today?" Pappy asks Wei Wei even though he knows the truth. The people of this village are poor, no one would have enough money to buy anything these days. It's been weeks since there's any rain. The weather become harsh with little rain. All the crops have been dried without anyone harvesting... Sigh. He knew the answer, but couldn't help but ask.
"No Pappy," Wei Wei replies silently. Her head are full of feelings of unworthy and she feels so helpless. "I'm sorry Pappy."
"No, it's not your fault. We can survive on whatever we have. It's fine," Pappy nods understandingly. Wei Wei stands up and from her pocket, two little coins fall to the ground. What's this? She picks them up and realize that Nicky must have slips them in her pocker without Wei Wei realizing. Pappy looks at her full of questions and she stammers, "It's.. Nicky." He raises his eyebrows. "Nicky eh?" Wei Wei blushes at the thought of Nicky's proposal. Should she tell Pappy? Toying with the little coins in her hand, she's still unsure of what to do next.
Just then, high clanking everywhere and a bunch of people pushes their way into her house. Little Ping run up and hide behind Wei Wei's skirt. Her little table and chairs stumble everywhere. She looks up to see the chief of their village and his son standing there, looking down at Wei Wei. "Why aren't you on your knees," he growls.
Wei Wei slumps down on her knees and bows to the chief, unable to utter a word. "Your family owes us quite a large sum of money, Wei Wei. How are you going to pay it?" the chief continues to growl in his heartless tone.
"I... I'm sorry. But I haven't been able to find any money. I'll pay as soon as posibble. I promise."
"NO MORE PROMISES! I've heard them all. You have to pay today, or ELSE!!"
"But, your highness. We... I... " Wei Wei said tearfully. Her whole body shakes with fear and anger. When her mother died, there wasn't a coin left in the family to bury her. Wei Wei has to go to the chief to ask for a loan and promised to pay him back soon.
The chief walks toward Wei Wei and slaps her on the face, "Now you listen to me! My money doesn't grow on trees. Either you pay up, or I'll beat your father to death."
"No, please," Wei Wei cries. She crawls to where Pappy is lying and kneeling by his side, tears streaming down her face, she begs, "Please, please don't hit my Pappy. I'll take all the blame. Please, your highness. He's old, he won't be able to stand it..." The chief's son walks over to her and lifts her teary face up with his hands. He looks at his father, "Father, why don't you give her to me?"
"What? You like her, my son?"
"Yes, she is quite a beauty. It would be a waste not to let me enjoy her while I can," he grins and winks at Wei Wei.
"No... please! No.. I'll pay you back! Please...."
The chief spits on the ground, "Pay me back? With what? Your fruits?" He then orders his servant to take all the apples and grind them to pieces. Wei wei pulls at his knees, begging, "Please.. please! That's our dinner." She cries and her fragile body shakes while crawling on the floor asking for mercy. The chief and his son turns to leave but they said they will be back. "Don't even think about running away," he looks at Wei Wei. "No one can run away from me," he laughs.
Wei Wei slumps down to the floor and cries her heart out. She has never been so disgusted in her entire life. She wishes that she could just die from the shame and embarrassment. Everyone stands around watching, but no one was able to help. All of them feared the chief, and the misfortunes that could be bestow upon them if they lend a hand or a shoulder. Only when Nicky rushes in to help her up that Wei Wei realizes she has lost all her energy from crying and begging.
"Those bastards," Nicky murmurs. "Are you okay Wei Wei?" She nods, but not really. She feels as though everything around her is spinning, spinning out of control, out of her reach, and she closes her eyes, shutting out everything.
Wei Wei opens up her eyes to see Nicky starring down at her. His face wrinkles up from worrying and examining to see if she was injured or not. She reaches up to touch his face, catching his attention. He looks at her with a tender look and hold her hands in his. "You made me so worried, Wei Wei." She smiles, knowing that he cares was more than enough. Seeing him by her side makes Wei Wei feel so much safer and stronger. She holds on to him tightly, intertwining her hands in his, holding them close to her heart. Nicky looks down at her lovingly and strokes her hair, murmuring soft words in her ears. Wei Wei feels as though the whole weight has been lifted, and nothing really matters at all. She wishes that she could just stay in his arms like this, forever safe and sound.
Pappy coughs beside her on the bed catching Nicky's attention. Wei Wei turns to look at him. Her heart squeezes from the sight. Her Pappy, so fragile and frail. His whole body is just skin and bone, sitting there on the bed, so weak. He must have felt terrible, Wei Wei knows. Her Pappy has pride, and today, all his pride was gone. He couldn't even save his little girl. Wei Wei feels sad for him, and for herself. She's only eighteen, after all. But she doesn't feel eighteen at all. Wei Wei knows that she wasn't brought up to become a princess. She accepted destiny and fate. Having Nicky was more than enough. Wei Wei knows she doesn't even deserves him.
"Pappy, are you alright? Did they hurt you?" Wei Wei asks with worried. Pappy looks at her, his eyes moist from the tears that has been long dried. Seeing Wei Wei like this hurts him more than any beatings could bring. He cursed himself for being so weak, not able to protect his little girls. Little Ping hides in the corner, frightened from the day's event and steals occasional glances at Wei Wei.
"I'm okay Wei Wei. They didn't hurt me. I'm more worried about you. You're so pale. If it wasn't for Nicky, I wouldn't know what to do," Pappy sighs and continue, "I don't know when they're going to return again and what they will do next. Those people... They have money but just want to have their fun torturing people."
"I know Pappy. You don't have to say anything. I shouldn't have borrowed money from them," Wei Wei said weakly. Nicky sitting besides her, squeezes her hand tightly. "Why didn't you tell me you borrowed money from the chief? You could have asked me for money," Nicky grumbles, not at all pleased.
Wei Wei looks at him understandingly, and replies, "I didn't ask because I know your family were going through a hard time also. Your Nanny was sick so I didn't want to burden you anymore than I have to. Please understand Nicky."
Nicky sighs, of course he understands. He's the only one that understands Wei Wei. Her thoughts, dreams, hopes, everything about her already fill his life with longing and he embraces in them. He knows Wei Wei cares for him, thinks about him, and loves him as much as he does... But the thought of them, coming here demanding money from Wei Wei, it angers him. His heart aches as though someone use a knife to cut it into pieces. Seeing Wei Wei like this fill him with frustration and misery.
"What are we going to do? How much do you owe them?"
Wei Wei stutters, "A lot. Not a lot. But it's been a long time ago.. and .. and the interest is even higher than the loan. I.. I saved up some money but Pappy got sick and I used them up," Wei Wei sobs unable to continue. She buries her head in Nicky's chest and weeps. All her worries flow out like a river, full of sorrow and distress. "I don't know what else to do. I'm so... Oh I'm so worried. What are we going to do Nicky. What if they come back? I don't want them to take me away," Wei Wei cries. "I have to take care of Pappy and Little Ping. Litte Ping is only five. What are they going to do to me?"
"Shh! Shh!" Nicky soothes her. "It's going to be okay. I'm going to take care of everything. Okay? Don't you worry! Shh! You just rest now." He puts her head on the pillow and silence her with his hands. Drying her tears, she closes her eyes, wanting to relax under his arms.
After Wei Wei is fast asleep, Nicky stands up and walks outside. He stands there, five minutes, half an hour. Thinking and planning. Pappy walks up beside him and pats Nicky on the shoulder. Nicky turns to look at him, his face showing genuine concern and full of worries. He fears for their future, for a tomorrow that he knows will be full of hardship and force. Pappy understands and the two of them stands like that, leaning against the door, each chasing their own thoughts. Inside the tiny house, a little lamp lits up in the corner, its light flicker, not at all sure.
Early the next day, Wei Wei wakes up to find herself tired and weary, not at all ready to face the day. She picks herself up and stretches along the bed. Lying beside her is Little Ping, curling up fast asleep. It’s not even five in the morning yet and already people are outside getting ready to start their day. Wei Wei walks slowly down to the kitchen, careful not to disturb Pappy and Little Ping. She wants to gather up the fruits in the basket to see if she would have more luck today.
A little tap outside the window catches her attention. Wei Wei looks up to see Nicky standing there. His face is full of worries and anxious to get inside. “What are you doing here?” she whispers gently in his ears as she lets him inside through the back door. It is not proper for a young girl and a guy to see each other like this. Wei Wei knows that and she also knows that if Nanny finds out, Nicky would be in a lot of trouble.
Nicky takes her hands in his, “I came to see how you’re doing. I was so worried. I couldn’t sleep last night and couldn’t wait till the sun comes up to rush over here and see you.” Wei Wei blushes. She didn’t know Nicky cares for her that much. Of course their feelings for each other was never a mystery, but to know that he cares for her makes Wei Wei’s heart dance with joy. She takes away her hands and look out the window. “I’m fine. A little bit tired though.”
“Look at me,” Nicky asks her gently and turns her to face him. “We have a problem.” He silenced her with his eyes and continues, “I’ve heard rumors that the chief’s son likes you. That was the only reason why they came and asked for the money. I’m scared Wei Wei. I don’t want to lose you,” he grabs Wei Wei and hugs her close, not wanting to let go. She trembles with emotions and gently release Nicky, shock and stuns by the news. “Are you sure?” she asks shakily. Her knees grow weak and Wei Wei collapses onto the floor. Nicky quickly rushes by he side, looking alarm. “Are you alright?”
She couldn’t believe it. How could this happen to her? What has she done to deserve this? Wei Wei slumps down and weeps. Life has been hard enough with not enough food and clothing. Now, now she has to be drawn into someone’s game. A game, she sobs, a game that the object is her body. If her parents were still alive, none of this would happen. She cries for them, for herself, for the misfortunes that she has to go through each day to stay alive. Nicky was her only happiness, the only good thing in her life. And now, they’re taking him away from her too. What is the point of living?
Nicky’s heart fill with agony at the sight of her tears. Each drops is a knife, cutting his heart into pieces. Each sob is rock that weighs heavily down upon him. He doesn’t know what to do but let her cry. He wants her to let all of her anguish out before he can tell her their plan. Nicky has been up all night thinking and planning, but he’s still not very sure. Normally, moving is not a big thing, people move all the time. But in this case, they’re escaping, and it’s something entirely different. If it were only he and Wei Wei, then everything would be a lot simpler. But he has Nanny, and Wei Wei has Pappy and Little Ping. Leaving them here would be too dangerous, but taking them with him would be a burden. His brain aches from staying up all night thinking.
Little Ping runs up to Wei Wei and hugs her tightly. “Please don’t cry Wei Wei. Look, I brought you my teddy bear. He’s going to make you all better.” Wei Wei smiles and looks at Little Ping fondly. She’s so young and innocent. Wei Wei sighs. She wishes that she could be five again. Ma would still be alive. She was so happy then, running around the barn collecting flowers. Her Ma would always smile, saying that one day, my little Wei Wei will grow up to become a beautiful young lady. But now, where is she? Does she know what Wei Wei has to go through? Why isn’t she protecting her like she promised? Wei Wei longs for her with every part of her. But she knows, it’s just a dream. A dream that would never comes true, then why does she still go around hoping?
“Little Ping, why don’t you go and prepare tea for Pappy. Let Nicky and I talk okay?” Wei Wei pushes Little Ping gently and let her go. “Okay, but you have to promise Mr. Teddy that you won’t cry anymore.” Wei Wei smiles reassuringly, “I promise Mr. Teddy I won’t cry anymore. Now go.”
Wei Wei looks up to see Nicky gazing down at her. She sighs, “What are we going to do? I give up Nicky. Maybe it’s my fate, my destiny. To become someone’s slave.” And at that, she couldn’t hide the bitter in her voice. Nicky looks at her, surprise, he walks over and shakes her shoulder. “Don’t you dare say that again. You understand me? You’re not a slave. You’re a beautiful young lady that I’ve loved and will always love. Do you understand me?”
She stares at him, froze a moment and replies miserably, “Well what do you want me to do? Maybe we weren’t meant to be together. And this is just the way that they let us know.” Nicky grabs her, “Who? Huh? Who? Wei Wei, don’t give up so soon. I won’t let you give up on us. We are meant to be together. Oh I love you Wei Wei,” he hugs her close, not letting go. “I’m not going to let anyone take you away from me. Not now, and not ever.” He looks at her seriously for a few minutes before continuing, “I have a plan. We’re going to escape…”
Wei Wei gasps, “Escape? How?” Leaving with the chief’s permission, which has been done before is acceptable, but escaping? She shudders at the thought. What if they get caught? What would they do to them? Kill them? No, she mustn’t. She can’t let Pappy and Little Ping jeopardize their life for her happiness. No, it’s selfish. She won’t go through with it. Before letting Nicky knows her decision, Little Ping runs in, frightened. She points to the door and trembles, “They’re…. Back.”
Wei Wei rushes out just in time to see they begin to beat Pappy. She throws herself on him while begging the chief to have mercy on them. His son smirks by his side and looks at her with interest. “What do you want?” she asks him coldly. He snickers and replies in the same malevolence voice, “You!” and laughs hysterically. She looks up at him wide-eyed, “Why do you want me?”
The chief looks at her and growls, “Let’s cut this crap. I have more important things to do than stand here and explain to you. If you agree to serve my son here, your father and your sister will have enough food to eat and you, my dear, can leave this worthless place and live a worthy life.” His son standing by him adds in, “but you see. You have no choice. We’re not asking you, so pack up and get ready,” he snarls.
Pappy continuing bows to the chief, “Please, don’t take her away from me,” he cries. He tugs at the chief’s coat begging continuously. Little Ping pulls at his hands, tears falling down on her cheek. The chief push them away causing Pappy to fall on the floor along with Little Ping. “I don’t see what the big deal is. Wei Wei is going to live in riches, better than the life she has here. Let go of me, what is wrong with you people?” he cries in rage and leaves all of them there to cry, to beg, to give up.
His son walks over to Wei Wei and touches her on the face. “M..mm.. Such soft features,” and he grins evilly. He continues to run his hand down her arm giving her goose bumps. She shivers at his touch and moves slowly away from him. The farther she goes, the faster he advances.
“Get away from her,” Nicky yells from behind the curtain. He steps out, his hands tight into a fist. The chief’s son looks at him with interest and stop playing with Wei Wei. “Look what we got here,” he sneers, “and who might you be?”
Nicky advances in front of him, not at all afraid, which surprises the chief’s son. “I’m her fiancé.” The chief’s son, by the name of Kang, chuckles. “Who cares if you’re her fiancé? I don’t! Whatever I like, I take.” Nicky unable to control himself, punches Kang in the nose causing to stumbles backward and falls down. Kang picks himself up and gazes at Nicky intently, his hands circle into a tight fist. He growls at Nicky with fury, “How dare you?” and charges toward Nicky. Kang is a lazy man, and no match against Nicky. Before long, Nicky was able to nail Kang to the floor. “Arggh,” Kang cries in rage. He flips his arm and freed himself from Nicky’s grip.
“Men,” he orders his bodyguards, “come inside and beats him up for me.” Five full-size gigantic men rush inside, filling up the tiny house with their large bodies. Wei Wei shakes with terror. Nicky, even though strong due to hard working each day, is no match against them. They throw Nicky around like a piece of straw causing him to bleed from his head to his nose. Wei Wei couldn’t stand the sight anymore and crawls up toward Kang. She begs him to let Nicky go, and she will… she will serve him faithfully.
Kang laughs hysterically and agrees to leave. Wei Wei hugs Nicky close to her, giving him warmth and love. She touches his face softly, not wanting to hurt him. Nicky relaxes under her arms. “Shh..,” she whispers in his ears. “Everything is alright. Listen to me…” Wei Wei sings. Her voice full of sorrow for her, for him, for both of them!
When it seems like life has abandon you,
Please, don’t you cry my love,
I will always be here for you,
Dry your tears and look at the sky above,
Do you see the stars sparkling from afar?
Promising you my forever love.
I will dry your tears with my kiss,
So sadness will always be far far away,
With me you will always smile,
Full of happiness and a desire for life.
The next day, they come and brought in the so-called wedding gifts. To them, these seem very small and insignificant, but to Wei Wei and her family, it could save them for at least several months. The chief doesn’t want the outsiders to think they used power to take away Wei Wei, so they make it as though Wei Wei is being wed to Kang. Wei Wei looks at these gifts with disgust and anxiety. She would rather die than be wed to someone like Kang, but what could she do? Wei Wei collapses beside the chair and cries. Ever since yesterday, the tears that she shed for herself and Nicky are like river, flowing endlessly without stopping. Her tears are dried now, but her heart is dead. Losing Nicky and she loses everything, herself, her hopes, her dreams, life itself. She doesn’t exist without him. Wei Wei sighs. Love, sometimes is not enough to hold two people together. She knows that now. From now on, Wei Wei no longer exists. She had died and become Kang’s wife. She’s merely an obedient servant without any hopes, without dreams, and without laughter. Her whole world has collapsed that day, along with Nicky in her arms. She has given up on everything and life is just a big empty space to her.
Wei Wei laughs, but it comes out as a choking noise. She busied herself with the clothes that Kang brought in earlier and applies the makeup, tears rolling down on her face. “Stop it,” she told herself, “You have to be strong. Strong for Pappy and for Little Ping.” Wei Wei sighs again, but who’s going to be strong for Wei Wei? She buries her face in her hand, her whole body shakes uncontrollably. Little Ping runs up to Wei Wei and touches her lightly. She looks up, dries her tears quickly and manages a tiny smile. “Little Ping,” she says, “You have to take care of Pappy now that I’m gone. You have to listen to him and don’t argue okay? Don’t make Pappy unhappy. You have to take care of him now. Remember to make him tea each day, and when he’s sick, give him medicine. And… and… Make him smile, and…” Wei Wei babbles on. Little Ping stops her and says softly, “I know Wei Wei. I don’t want you to go.” She runs up and hugs Wei Wei tightly, lamenting and crying, “I don’t want you to go.” Wei Wei strokes Little Ping’s hair lovingly holding back her own tears from falling down, “I know sweetie. You have to be strong. Strong like me, okay?” Little Ping nods. Her eyes imploring Wei Wei, reaching out to her, and suddenly, a tiny tear drops fall from her eyes. She stops it with her small hand and look at Wei Wei bravely; “I’ll be strong for you Wei Wei. Please don’t forget us.” Wei Wei holds her close, “No, of course not. I’ll never forget my Little Ping. Never. I swear.”
Night comes quickly and it was almost time for her to leave. She kneels down besides Pappy asking for his forgiveness. “I’m sorry I won’t be able to take care of you anymore Pappy.” He picks her up, drying his own tears as well as her own. “You will always be my wonderful girl. You have your mom’s heart, Wei Wei. I’m sorry,” he whispers, “I’m sorry I can’t take care of you. I’m so sorry.”
“It’s not your fault Pappy,” Wei Wei answers sadly and follows Kang out the door. She keeps glancing back, hoping to see a glimpse of Nicky. She’s desperate to know if he’s okay or not. Ever since yesterday when he was beaten up, she hasn’t seen him. Maybe he has forgotten all about her and now that she’s Kang’s wife, he doesn’t love her anymore. That thought, it sinks deeply inside her and slowly, she realizes that it was for the best after all. Maybe he can move on with his life now that she’s not by his side anymore. That is her only hope, for now. The rest is gone. Nothing is important anymore. Nothing at all!
Wei Wei sits on the red bed, facing forward, expressionless. Her mind is blank, but for some reason, his picture keeps popping up. She tries to push it down. She tries to forget his smile. Their memories together, playing by the river, picking flowers, everything makes her heart aches. She still remembers the countless times that she leans upon his shoulder, singing to him and watching the sunrise together. Wei Wei shakes her head, trying to block him out of her head, her heart. What is the point of thinking about him now, when they never would be together? What’s the point when life is over, and the only thing that makes life worth loving doesn’t exist anymore?
On the outside, Kang and his friends are drinking wine and partying. Everyone is congratulating Kang on marrying such a beautiful wife. He keeps laughing and drinking as they pour him glass after glasses of rich wine. Nicky creeps silently along the wall not wanting to attract any attention. He wants Kang and his gang of friends to drink till they’re drunk out of their mind so that his plan would work. He has no time to think of the consequences now. There is no time to waste, and he has to save Wei Wei. He can’t lose her, because losing her is losing everything. His life is meaningless without her. How can he live knowing that Wei Wei is married to that… that sick man? No, he rather kills himself.
Clutching the bundle close to his chest, Nicky moves slowly toward Wei Wei’s room. He peeks inside and Wei Wei’s sight makes his heart drops. Her face has never been so white, even with the make-up on is pale and dim. That face used to be so rosy and cheerful with a smile is now replaced by a white emotionless Wei Wei sitting on the bed. What happened to the Wei Wei that he knows and loves? He moves closer to Wei Wei but she didn’t even notice. Wei Wei seems to be in a trance and doesn’t even know that he’s close. He’s right beside her, looking at her, touching her.
She looks up in surprise, her mouth wide open. “What are you doing here? Did they see you?” she looks out the door in alarm. He looks at her, taking her hand in his, and holding her close. Wei Wei pulls from his touch.
“What are you doing? Get out of here,” she whispers fiercely pulling out of his reach.
Nicky pulls her hand, “I’m going to get you out of here. Come with me.” Wei Wei looks at him with horror. “Go with you? Nicky I can’t.”
“Why not?” Nicky asks in surprise.
“If I leave with you, Pappy and Little Ping will be in danger,” Wei Wei answers logically. Nicky paces back and forth, his head full of anxious thought. What can he do to make Wei Wei understands? He sighs heavily, “Look Wei Wei, listen to me. If you leave, Kang will be too embarrass to go and asks your father since he lost you on his wedding night. Don’t you see? They will be fine, trust me.”
“No I can’t trust you,” Wei Wei steps back, “How can I be sure of their safety. No I can’t risk that. It’s too selfish. I can’t believe you.”
“You can’t believe,” Nicky responses with shock, “You can’t believe what Wei Wei? That I can’t live knowing that you would be so unhappy? That my life doesn’t exist without seeing your smile? Don’t you remember anything? Our memories together, the songs that we used to sing? Wei Wei, everything I do, is for you.”
Wei Wei looks at him, speechless. Tears fill her lovely face and roll down endlessly. Wei Wei nods in agreement. Nicky smiles and hands her the bundle. “Now change quickly, we must leave as quietly as possible.” He looks away while Wei Wei change quickly into regular clothing, removing all accessories from her hair and body. Nicky takes her hand and together they move slowly outside.
Kang looks up from his dinner and notices a shadow by the window. He motions his friends and they hurry outside. “Catch them,” he bellows to his friends and all of them hurry after Nicky and Wei Wei. Nicky pushes Wei Wei forward, running faster with all his might. Wei Wei’s heart race, she breathes heavily trying to catch her breath. “Nicky, I can’t go on,” she pants sucking in the fresh air surrounding them. “You have to keep moving!” Nicky insists, pulling her faster and faster and faster.
Wei Wei collapses on the floor, unable to move on. Kang and his friends are close behind making rackets as they try to catch Nicky and Wei Wei. Nicky out of panic, picks up Wei Wei and puts her on his shoulder. Even though she’s light, his strength is very limited. Nicky runs along the river, panting out of breath. There is no way he’s going to get caught, not after what he has been through to get Wei Wei to leave. “Put me down Nicky,” Wei Wei pleads him, “I can run, really.”
Nicky puts Wei Wei down, looking at her with concern. Kang and his friends are close behind. He could hear them running after them with his bodyguards. Nicky pulls Wei Wei into the bush beside the river. Wei Wei’s heart beat faster, out of terror and exhaustion from the run. “Maybe I should go back,” she whispers.
Nicky holds her close, refusing to let go. “No, I won’t let you. Not now, not ever.”
When Kang and his bodyguards got there, they search the whole place, getting closer. Nicky and Wei Wei move closer to the river, hiding behind the bushes in the shadow. “Now listen to me,” Nicky murmurs, “I want you to swim. Swim as fast as you can.” Wei Wei looks at him, still not understanding what he’s saying. “I want you to swim away from this place and hide till the morning. Then I’ll come and find you.”
Wei Wei looks at him, still confused. “How come you don’t go with me now?” Nicky shakes his head. “I have to hold them off from swimming after you. Now move.” Nicky pushes Wei Wei into the river and order her to swim.” Wei Wei pushes with all her might. Swimming is something she does often, but today, it seems so hard. Her body seems heavier and her hands, so tired. Wei Wei couldn’t tell which direction she is swimming in. She couldn’t even see her hands in the darkness. Behind her, she could hear Nicky yelling.
At the side of the river, Kang and his bodyguards beat up Nicky ordering him to tell where Wei Wei is. “I don’t know,” Nicky answers shakily, blood flowing from his nose. Kang moves up and pull Nicky from the grass, “Now you tell me where she is,” he screams, “Or I’m going to kill you.”
“I won’t… tell… you… where… she… is,” Nicky answers fiercely.
“Kill him,” Kang roars with hatred.
Wei Wei swims on, in her mind, she could hear Nicky yelling at her to swim and swim. She pushes her hand forcefully, ordering it to move faster and faster. “Must swim,” she urges herself. Her head bumps heavily into something and it stuns her for five minutes, a long time. She’s not sure, not sure of anything. Wei Wei can taste the blood in her mouth, her mind slowly drawing a blank. She panics, gradually fainting. Her mind centers on the word swimming and must go on. Her hands refusing to listen, drops by her side, and Wei Wei, no longer exist.
(in a dream state)
Wei Wei sees herself being surrounded by such white light. Her body feels so
feathery and weightless that she could lifts herself up from below. A stairway
leading up to the clouds, and out of curiosity, Wei Wei walks. With each step,
she feels better and more carefree with much energy. She walks faster, a sense
of peace and tranquility rise up in her mind and heart. Suddenly someone grabs
her from behind. Wei Wei, startled, stumbles and slips backward. Falling....
falling...
"Ahh!" she suddenly sits up, sweat falling from her forehead as the first thought comes to her, "Where am I?" She looks around, feeling strange and abandon. Her arms ache and her head is bandanged, screaming with pain. Surrounding her is white, but obviously a hospital room. What is she doing here? A more disturbing question rise up, Who is she? Funny, she doesn't remember how she got here? Or what she did that makes her end up in a hospital. She tries to remember but it comes out, everything comes out, as a blank. Her head hurts from all the thinking and she hits the bed with frustration, causing her arms to ache. "Ouch!"
"Looks like our beautiful patient is up and playing," someone comments. She looks up to see two young men starring at her. One is obviously a doctor in his white robe, and the other, comfortably dressed in regular nice looking clothing. She looks at both of them with confused expressions and frown slightly. The one who's not the doctor moves up and sits beside her.
"Show I know this person?" she aks herself, looking at him, studying his face, trying to remember. He looks back at her, his eyes twinkling. "Do I have something on my face?" he turns back to ask the young doctor and breaks into a grin. "I must be the ugliest person she has ever seen, or else she wouldn't be looking at me so strangely, right?" he asks again, knowing fully well that's not true. She looks at him and smiles a little. "Alright! I've made contact. Look! She knows how to smile," he exclaims.
"Now stop with this teasing Alec," the young doctor says, getting businesslike. Alec looks at him mockingly. He cocks his head to one side and immitates a deep voice, "Yes, sir!" he salutes playfully.
Jimmy shakes his head and moves closer to the patient, extending out his hand. "Hi. My name is Dr. Lin, but call me Jimmy." He points to Alec, "that's Alec. He's the one that brought you in. Do you remember anything that happened?" Both Alec and Jimmy looks at her thoughtfully. She shakes her head, still not speaking. Alec stares at her, amused. He jumps up from the chair and speculates.
"I think you were running away from something. Hm... maybe some guy sees that you're so beautiful and wants to ahh.. um.." he stops, realizing that it was him who wanted... She looks down blushing. Her white face turns pinks and glows under the sunlight.
Alec stares at her, mesmerize by her beauty. Jimmy looks from Alec, back to the girl, and back to Alec again. "Ah hem!" he coughs, breaking the silence and catching Alec's attention. Alecs looks at Jimmy. "Of course! Maybe if I tell you how I found you. Then it might trigger your memory, somehow." She nods agreeing, hoping with all her might that she would. Right now, her heart beat faster each minute, panic rising in her. She still doesn't have an identity, a past.
Alec paces back and forth. "Okay, to start off, Ruby and I were arguing whether we want to go fishing or have a barbecue that day. Ruby wanted to go fishing and I wanted a barbecue because um.. uh I was hungry. Being such an.. ahem... perfect gentleman that I am," Alec coughs lightly and grins. Jimmy cuts in, "because you lost the bet." and laughs. Alec looks at him with warning and his eyes narrow causing Jimmy to laugh even harder. "Don't listen to him<" Alec continues, "We went fishing. Actually, I did most of the fishing and..."
This time, Jimmy coughs, his eyes twinkling. Alec looks at him and mutters, "Some best friend you are." Jimmy shrugs his shoulder and she couldn't help but smile at the two best friends. Alec continues, "Anyway, my fishing trod jerks and I was SO excited," Alec's voice gets faster. "I yelled to Ruby to forget her fish and come help me because mine is definitely bigger. Ruby, relutantly agrees and we both pulled with all our strength. Ruby, is quite weak, you know, so I had to do most of the pulling."
She sits on the bed, getting caught up in the story that she doesn't remember at all. Jimmy continues to cough and laugh occansionally wit Alec's version of the story, which gets more exciting by the minutes.
Flashing back to that day.
"Pull Ruby, PULL!" Alec yells to his sister, his face all wrinkle up from pulling. "I think I see clothing," Ruby yells and waddles herself into the river, pushing against the current. She looks back at Alec, "Get your butt in here and help me. I think I see a body." Alec looks at her frowning, "Are you sure?"
Ruby puts her hands on her hip, narrowing her eyes. "Of course I'm sure. Now hurry up! She might still be alive." Alec hurries, grimace at the cold water. Both of them pull the girl from her river, unconscious. Ruby puts her head on her lap and tries to find a pulse. Alec runs back to the phone to call Jimmy so he can send in an ambulance.
Meanwhile, the girl stays unconscious, her whole body is wet from the water. "How long do you think she's been in the river?" Ruby asks Alec, concern showing on her face. He shakes his head, "A couple of hours. I'm not sure. If you didn't drag me out of bed so EARLY to go fishing, I don't think she would be alive by the time someone finds her. When she wakes up, I'll definitely have her thank you." Alec smiles.
"Here comes the ambulance," Ruby yells. "Come on, you carry her, I don't think I can." Alec picks her up and carry her in his arms. Her face, white from the coldness of the water, still reflects the beauty of a young girl. Alec's heart stir with sympathy and... and something else?
***
Jimmy looks at her, studying her face, "Do you remember anything? Why you were in the river? Were you running away from something?" Alec also stares at her, expecting an answer. She shakes her head violently, tears flowing down. "I don't remember anything," she chokes out. Jimmy and Alec looks at each other, concerned.
"You just woke up, maybe you should get some rest and it will all come back to you, I'm sure," Jimmy comments getting ready to leave. He looks around, "Where's Ruby?" he asks Alec.
"Um.. I think she went visiting a co-worker when she heard he was sick," Alec answers simply, still looking at her. Jimmy's eyes clouds over, his face losing the carefree looks. "Oh," he answers with disappointments.
The two guys say goodbye and leave. She looks after them with longing, not wanting to be alone. She looks at herself in the mirror and the questions keep popping up, Am I a good person? Who am I? What am I doing here? Do I have any family? She wraps her arms around herself and sighs. Looking out the window, the sun shining brightly with birds chirping. She wishes she could be like those confident people out there walking, right now. She looks down at herself, in a soft quite hospital robe, and her eyes moist again. Breathing in deeply, she told herself. I have to be strong. I have to be strong. I will…
Ruby rushes into the hospital, she spots Alec with Jimmy and quickly hurries over to catch up with them. “Alec, wait up!” she yells. The two guys turn around and Jimmy gives Ruby a broad smile. “Ruby! Fancy seeing you here,” he grins. His heart jumps with joy at the sight of her smile. He quickly looks away, afraid that his face would reveal everything. Ruby didn’t even notice and grabs Jimmy by the arm. “Quick, I need your help.”
“Hey calm down,” Alec smiles, amused to see Ruby in such a hurry, “What’s the rush? Don’t even have time to say hello to your brother?” Ruby looks at him and frown, “Hi! Happy?” She looks over at Jimmy again and tugs his shirt, “So can you help?”
“Help with what?” Jimmy asks, unsure of what Ruby is asking of him. His heart still doing cartwheels at the sight of Ruby, but still, he says nothing. Ruby sighs, “I guess I have to tell you everything then.” Jimmy and Alec nod, “That would be wise.” The three of them sit on the bench inside the hospital and Ruby started, “Yesterday, when I went to the factory, I heard that one of my co-worker didn’t make it to work so I asked around.” Alec interrupts, “Wait a minute, why do you care?”
Ruby looks at him, annoyed. She hits him hard on the arm, avoiding the question all together. Jimmy, on the other hands, pay close attention and his heart drops at the blush on her face. Who is this person anyway? Jimmy asks himself. Ruby is a sweet girl, but she never goes around asking for trouble. He waits impatiently for her to continue. Ignoring Alec’s question, Ruby gives him an angry glare and continues, “Anyways, I went to his house and he’s covered with blood. I’m telling you, the sight of it make me feel so bad for him,” and Ruby sighs again. Truthfully, her heart aches to see the sight of him like that. Lying on the bed without anyone to care for him. She wishes that she could be the one beside him, giving him warmth and comfort. Ruby blushes at the thought and quickly look away.
Jimmy and Alec both look at her with surprise expressions written on their faces. Ruby tugs at Jimmy’s shirt, still asking the same question, “So, can you help?” Alec looks at her thoughtfully. “Ruby, who is this guy? Where does he live?”
Ruby looks down on the floor, she mutters, “On the other side...” Alec and Jimmy exclaim, “the other side?” Ruby stares at them, “What is wrong with that?” Jimmy looks at Ruby, and a feeling of jealousy rise up in him. He doesn’t want to help, because obviously this guy means a lot to Ruby. His face turns gloomy and he looks away. “I’m sorry, I’m busy right now,” he mutters.
Ruby stares at him in disbelief, “Busy? Come on, Jimmy, please help!” The more Ruby begs, the angrier Jimmy gets. If Ruby didn’t show that she cares for this guy so much, Jimmy would have been glad to help. As a doctor, he always feels the need to help people. That was the whole reason why he chose the profession in the first place. No matter how far the patient may live, no matter how poor that person is, Jimmy would always be willing to treat without questioning. However, this time, it’s too personal. How would Ruby know that? She steps on his feelings with no mercy, and Jimmy wishes he could kill this guy, let alone treat him.
Alec looks at both Ruby and Jimmy, getting frustrated. Ruby is a smart girl, yet what Alec can’t understand is how she could not have noticed Jimmy’s feelings for her. Alec is a carefree guy, who doesn’t even know love, yet he could clearly see that Jimmy’s jealousy is boiling hot. Ruby stamps her foot, getting mad. “I can’t believe you refused to help! Jimmy! How could you!” Jimmy look intently into her eyes and answers firmly, “I’m busy!”
Alec laughs easily to ease the tension, “Come on guys. We’re friends here. Ruby, you bad girl! Of course Jimmy is busy. He’s treating that new girl we brought here. Remember her?” Ruby’s face brightens and she hits her head playfully, “Oh yeah! I totally forgot! How is she?” she asks Alec, ignoring Jimmy. Alec looks at Ruby, making a face, “Don’t be so hard on him, he has a reason you know.” Ruby shakes her head, muttering her disapproval as Alec drags her to see the patient.
“Calm down,” Ruby pulls back. She looks at Alec teasingly, “Why do you want to see her so much? My brother has feelings?” she laughs. Alec shakes his fingers at Ruby, his face turning red. “Now don’t you dare start on me. You know how I feel about the whole lovey mumbo jumbo! Now stop that grinning!” he demands Ruby, but couldn’t help smiling at himself. He couldn’t quite describe that feeling whenever he’s with her. The way her eyes look at him, as if reaching into his soul. Her face, so bright with a touch of sadness reaches into his heart in a way that he couldn’t believe possible. He just want to make her smile and to hear her laughter makes everything worth more than life itself. Those feelings, he thinks, they will go away. Right? He asks himself, not quite sure.
Reaching at the door, Alec turns the knob hesitantly, not wanting to disturb her. She stands at the window, looking out to the garden. A feeling of piece and tranquility wraps around her. Jimmy shuts the door quietly, but enough to catch her attention. She turns around and Ruby gasps. She’s beautiful! Exquisiteness is not only on her face, but her eyes. They reflect the sunlight and sparkle with radiant that brighten up the whole room. They reach into each person’s soul and rest there. Ruby stares at her, unblinking! No wonder Alec likes her, Ruby thought to herself. There’s something about her that just attracts attention to everyone, even myself. A vulnerability along with an inner strength that makes her able to go on with life.
Ruby walks over and extends out her hand, “Hi! I’m Ruby.” She smiles warmly, “Thank you for saving me.” Ruby nods and return the smile. The four of them stand, uncomfortable, not speaking. She moves slightly away from the window and invites them to sit down, trying to make a conversation. Jimmy looks at her thoughtfully and repeats his earlier question, “Do you remember anything?” She shakes her head.
Ruby looks at them with confusion. “What do you mean?” Jimmy looks at her, glad that she’s not mad at him anymore. He explains, “It seems like she lost her memory during the unconsciousness. I think they call it temporary amnesia! It usually happens due to some shock in a person’s life. It’s not permanent so don’t worry! But the time period that it takes to restore the memory will varies.” Ruby looks at her with sympathy but realizes that she’s a lot stronger than she looks. A touch of sadness passes by her face and quickly disappears. She looks at them and smiles gently, “It’s okay. I take it as a way for me to start over.”
Alec jumps up and cheers, “That’s the spirit! Now you will need a name of course and a place to stay,” he gets more excited. Jimmy and Ruby looks at each other and laugh. “You’re getting a little bit too excited there Alec. Are you sure there’s not...” Ruby teases him. Alec sits down and quickly replies, “Of course not! I’m just trying to help!” he grins.
Ruby gets up and comes sit beside her. Taking her hands, she says, “Why don’t we call you Rose? That’s my favorite flower, and you remind me of it.” Rose smiles, she looks at Ruby with gratitude. “Rose,” she says her name, “Rose, Rose, Rose. Yes, it’s a great name. Thank you.” Ruby continues, “Now you can come and stay at our house. Of course it would be not fair to the others if you don’t do anything, so would it...”
Alec jumps up, defending her, “You don’t want her to become a maid do you? I disagree.” Ruby looks up at him, grinning. “Of course not Alec. Calm down! Are you sure...?” He glares at her. “Okay, just kidding!” she laughs. “Yes, unfortunately, but it’s only temporary till I can find you a job at the factory. You can be our cook. Do you still remember how to cook?”
Rose smiles, “That’s great. I don’t mind, really! Yes I remember how to cook, I think. Once I’m in the kitchen, I’m sure I’ll familiarize myself. Don’t worry, I won’t let you down.”
Ruby gets up, “Then it’s decided. For now, get plenty of rest. I’ll come back and visit you soon. For some reason, I feel like I’ve known you for so long. You must have been my sister in law or something in the previous life,” she winks at Alec. He pokes at her hard on the side causing Ruby to squeal with laughter. But she stops abruptly and looks at Jimmy, “Now will you help me?”
Jimmy sighs, not able to refuse Ruby of anything, follows her outside. Alec shakes his head. What will become of this? He dares not to find out.
Ruby knocks heavily on the door, “Open up! Nicky! It’s Ruby! Open UP!” she knocks again. Jimmy stands from behind, his face expressionless. Ruby looks anxiously through the window and knocks again and again. The door crept open, slowly, a small child’s face peers out from behind. “Yes?” she asks hesitantly, fear clouding her face. Ruby runs over and grabs the child gently, “Where’s Nicky? Is he okay?” The child shakes her head and starts to close the door. Ruby pushes it open, wanting to go in. “Nanny! Nanny,” the child yells inside.
“Little Ping! What is it?” an old lady moves toward the door and opens it wider. “Miss Ruby,” she exclaims, “What are you doing here?” Ruby moves up to greet her. “Nanny, I brought a doctor. Is Nicky okay?” Nanny smiles at Ruby, “Oh bless your heart. He fainted just a little while ago.” She sighs. “Poor people like us, when they want to beat us up, they just go ahead and do it. Nicky is my only grandson, without him, I don’t know how I could survive,” she wipes off the tears on her face. Little Ping hugs her leg and she pats the child on the head.
Ruby and Jimmy rushes to Nicky’s side. The sight of him makes Jimmy’s heart stops. His face is so white and lifeless, lying there with only a thin blanket to cover up his wounds. Blood dries up on his chest and arms, covering his whole body. No matter how much he doesn’t like this guy at the moment, Jimmy knows that he must save him. Ruby stands on Nicky’s side, urges Jimmy to hurry with the procedure. Nicky stirs and groans with pain as Jimmy bandages him up and wipes away his blood. He puts on the medicine as quickly as possible, trying not to cause any unnecessary pain.
Nicky’s arm keep moving, making it harder for Jimmy to treat him. His mouth keeps muttering, “Wei Wei… Wei Wei…” Ruby looks at Jimmy, “What did he say?” Jimmy shakes his head, not sure himself. “Wei Wei… Wei Wei,” Nicky continues to repeat her name. Where is she? Where is she? His whole body aches with pain, and he desperately needs her by his side. Just the touch of her, just seeing her face, that’s all he ever wanted. He keeps reaching for her, but she’s so far away. Reaching for her…. Reaching for her….
Ruby grabs Nicky’s hand and squeezes it gently. He relaxes with her touch, thinking it was Wei Wei that’s standing by his side. His face loosens up into a smile and he stops reaching. Finally, Wei Wei is by his side again. Now he can sleep peacefully. Yes sleep, he’s so tired. So exhausted. Must sleep. Ruby gently takes away her hand, but Nicky grabs it firmly. No, don’t let go of Wei Wei, he thinks to himself. He must hold on to her, he must.
Jimmy looks at Ruby with irritation. He gives Nicky a shot to make him sleep and gets up to leave. Ruby follows him outside. “Thank you for your help,” Ruby smiles, still holding her hand. Jimmy frowns, “No problem.” Nanny also follows them outside and thanks Ruby. “I don’t have any money…” Ruby quickly puts out her hand, reassuring Nanny. “Don’t worry Nanny. Once Nicky is back at work, he can pay me back,” she says, knowing that Nicky doesn’t like to take favors from anyone.
Jimmy takes from his pocket some medicine and a little bit of money. He hands them to the old lady and tells her to apply it to Nicky’s wound when he wakes up. Nanny looks at him with tears in her eyes and keeps thanking him repeatedly. Jimmy nods and walks to his car, leaving Ruby behind. His heart fills with sadness for the old lady and Nicky, but another part of him feels irritated inside. Jimmy, you’re so selfish, he keeps telling himself. Helping Nicky was a right thing to do, he knows that. But part of him still feels so uncomfortable. He kicks the grass with frustration. Jimmy wishes he could yell out really loud, to everyone, that he has feelings for Ruby, but he just couldn’t. Pride has kept him from revealing his feelings, and now, now he may have just lost the only girl that makes his heart pounds every time they’re together.
Ruby runs up beside him, “Are you okay?” she asks with concern. Jimmy looks at her for a moment before nodding his head. There’s no point why he should be mad at her. It was his own fault for not telling. “You look happy,” he comments seeing Ruby smiling. She blushes and didn’t even say anything. Even if she didn’t answer, Jimmy knows that her heart only fills with Nicky, Nicky and Nicky. It has no space open for him, not anymore.
They both get into the car and on the way, Ruby asks him to stay for dinner. Jimmy agrees right away. A chance to be with Ruby, there’s no way he will refuses.
Meanwhile, back at home. Alec hurries back and forth trying to pour water into the stove. Rose crouches in the corner, coughing. Her face is covered with dust from the smoke that keeps circulating in the air. Alec opens up all the window and fans away the smoke, his eyes still watered. He looks at her concerned, “Are you alright?” If he didn’t get home in time, Alec was quite sure the whole kitchen might be covered with water and smoke.
She coughs harder, nodding. “I don’t know what happened,” she choked out. “One minute I was just standing there cooking, the next, the whole thing just got on fire.” Alec looks at her, laughter fills up his eyes. He tries so hard to stop himself from bursting out. She looks at him, pretending to be angry. “You think this is funny, don’t you?” she asks. He shakes his head, trying hard not to smile. She glares at him. “Laugh why don’t you. Just laugh!” Alec couldn’t hide it anymore and starts laughing his head off. The sight of her, with her hair pointing in every direction, and her face black from the smoke, half make him just want to pull her in his arms and hug her and half tickle him to death with laughter.
Rose sits down on the floor, holding a pan in one hand. Part of her wanting to hit his head to stop Alec from laughing, and part of her is glad that he’s there. She wants to cook a decent meal for the Su siblings to thank them for saving her life. After cooking the first dish, she moves on to the second but the stove refuses to light up. She puts in more wood and blows on it hard but nothing happened. Then suddenly, the whole stove lights up with a big boom and she panicked. Alec starts rushing in and takes out the fire while she hovers in the background, trying to help. She couldn’t believe it’s her first day, and already such a disaster. She scolds herself for being so careless, but part of her fear that Ruby would not like it.
Alec is an easygoing guy, she knows. That’s why he takes this as a big joke, but Ruby, she is a serious girl. Rose fears that she will not take this whole incident as lightly. She looks at Alec with frustration as well as gratitude. He stops laughing and comes over to comfort her. “Don’t worry. It’s not that big of a deal,” he says when worried clearly shows on her face. He hates himself for laughing at her, but he couldn’t help it. Alec examines her face and when he sees that she’s okay, he nods. “Don’t worry,” he says again, trying to release tension. “I’ll tell the workers to come in and tidy everything, it will be fine.”
Rose looks at him with anxiety, “Are you sure?” she whispers. Alec nods at her, still smiling. She looks so pretty sitting there, he thought to himself. That feeling rise up in him again, and this time, Alec didn’t even try to suppress it. He wants to hold her hand so badly, touch it softly and hugs her close. He just wants her to smile and laugh and be with him. Is that too much to ask?
The car slowly approaches the house, and Ruby looks at the smoke with fear. She grabs Jimmy and both of them hurries inside. The sight of the kitchen makes both of them stop in their track. Ruby’s mouth drops open and she froze. Alec quickly rushes by her side, trying to calm her down. “What happened?” Ruby exclaims. “Um, an accident,” Alec mutters looking at Jimmy for help. Rose looks down on the floor, not speaking.
Ruby loves the kitchen and wouldn’t let anyone go near it. This time, a thing like this happened; Alec knows she will not let it go so easily. He looks at Rose and could see that she’s trembling with fear. His heart melts at the sight, and he feels like he should be protecting her. She’s so vulnerable, and alone.
Alec moves closer to Ruby and clears his throat. “Hrm.. Well, it’s my fault.” Rose stares at him in disbelief and starts to protest. Jimmy silences her with his eyes and she closes her mouth. Ruby turns toward Alec and hits him really hard in the arms. “Ouch!” She glares at him pointing. “YOU!” Alec backs away, putting up both of his hand. “Sorry Ruby. I was teasing Rose and… well,” he sweeps the kitchen with his gaze. Ruby starts hitting him again and Alec runs, trying to take cover. She chases him around the house and Alec always manages to free from her grasp. “I’m sorrrrrry!” He yells at Ruby. “Not as sorry as you will be when I get you,” she hurries from behind, trying to catch him.
After a few minute of running around, both of them make it back to the kitchen. Ruby looks exhausted and her face no longer looks mad. She grins at Alec, “Fine I give up! BUT only if you cook us a decent meal to say you’re sorry.” Alec agrees right away. He salutes Ruby, “Yes ‘m! One dinner, coming right up.” Jimmy laughs and Ruby shakes her head. “See what I have to put up with each day?” she turns to Rose. “I hope you’re okay Rose. I could never stay mad at Alec and he knows that that,” she grins.
Rose breathes, “I was afraid you would be angry,” she says softly. Ruby laughs, “Nah! I was only kidding. Alec and I always do that. I’ll just tell the workers to come and fix it. No problem. Why don’t you go change and come eat dinner with us. Alec is a wonderful cook,” she grins. Rose nods slightly and hurries upstairs. She passes by Alec and smiles, thanking him for taking the blame. Alec squeezes her hand, causing Rose to blush even deeper.
Nicky stares aimlessly out at the river. His heart aches for the sight of Wei Wei. It has been a week, no even longer, he couldn't remember. Time passes him carelessly, and he didn't even noticed. He searched up and down the stream for her sight, but nothing. Tomorrow, he has to go to work again. That means he has to forget about Wei Wei. No, impossible! How could he forget her? Where is she? His head screams her name. Each night, he lies there awake, thinking about her. Where could she be? Why isn't she with him? Nicky hit himself hard, not feeling any pain. It was his fault. He should have held onto her, not letting go. He groans with frustration. What was wrong with him? How could he let her go? Nicky's heart beat wildly, thinking, wishing, blaming. He feels like a trap animal, in a cage, wanting to escape, but scared, confuse, hungry. He needs strength, and the only strength he has is Wei Wei. But now, she's gone. Away from him, maybe even dead.
No, he can't think about that. Wei Wei is not dead. She can't die!! He refuses to listen to himself, listen to anyone. Wei Wei cannot die, because if she die, then, then life is not worth living anymore. What is life, without her smile. No, he must not give up hope. He must go on, searching for her. He must! He must! Tomorrow, after work, he will go along the stream again, looking for clues. Searching for her sight.
Work, he reminded himself. Nicky sighs, that means seeing Ruby. He has a mixed feeling toward her. Why is she being so nice to him? He feels uncomfortable with her, not knowing what to say. She is, after all, his boss, a rich girl. What does want with him? He feels like owing her something, something, but what? He has nothing. Nicky winces, looking down at his cast. She came at a time when he needed someone the most. Nicky reminds himself, he must say thank you, but how? Ruby is a nice girl, but she's not Wei Wei. She's far beyond his reach, far to rich to understand him. Only Wei Wei, only her, can share with him life's burden and joy.
Wei Wei, where is she? "WEI WEI," he screams into the silent afternoon.
Rose jerks up from her bed with sweats falling down on her face. That was such a weird dream, she recalls. She was swimming, wasn't she? Rose couldn't remember. Everything was black, and someone. Someone was calling out to her. But she's not sure. They couldn't have been calling her name, could they? Rose tries to remember. Her forehead wrinkles up and she wipes off the sweat. In the darkness, she was sure. Someone was calling out to her, trying to reach her, protecting her. Rose's heart beat with anxiety. Could this be her past? Is she running away from something, someone?
Rose gets up and walks around in her room. That dream was so real, yet not very. She couldn't see clearly in the darkness. But Rose is sure, that girl, it must be her. She could hear someone calling, but Rose, she stops, trying to recall the words. Nothing seems familiar anymore, and she looks up with frustration. She wants desperately to remember, to have a past. Is there someone waiting for me? She asks herself. She wonders, if somewhere in this world, someone is searching for her, waiting for her, to come home. She sighs, wishing with all her heart that she could dream again. And that once she sleeps, she can connect with herself, her past, and that someone in her dreams that's waiting for her. She's sure of it. Yet again, it's only a dream.... a dream....
Alec pokes his head in, smiling cheerfully, "Hi Rose, are you up yet?" Rose looks up in surprise, her face lights up at the sight of him. A strange feeling that Alec brings to her, yet she knows. She could feel that he's not right for her. But she couldn't stop herself, her heart, from jumping at the sight of his face, the sound of his voice, the sparkle in his eyes. There have been nights when she tries to sleep, to forget him, to remind herself that she's only a servant, someone not worthy of him. Yet she couldn't. Deep inside, she couldn't stop herself, from falling. "Hi Alec," she replies, smiling back at his face. She feels as though the world lights up around him and her life, so beautiful and perfect with him. The dream, she soon forgotten.
Alec walks in and drags her outside. She blushes at his touch, so warm and friendly. "What's the rush?" she asks, trying to ignore the thumping of her heart at the touch of him. Alec looks back at her, grinning broadly, "Ruby has something to tell you."
At the sigh of Ruby, Rose pulls away from Alec's grasp. "Hi Ruby," she greets her. Ruby smiles warmly and runs to her side. Her face flushes with excitement. "Guess what Rose, tomorrow, you have a new job." Rose looks up at Ruby with confusion, does Ruby not want her to work here anymore? She knows that the kitchen accident had been a disaster, but she did try to fulfill her duties after that. The meals that she cooks eventually get better, and Rose feels very proud of herself and satisfy with her job. She stammers, "I... I don't understand. You want me to leave?"
Ruby shakes her head and Alec frowns, "No, of course not," Alec replies quickly, shaking off her concern. Ruby continues, "No, I found you a better job at the factory. It turns out that we're doing better than ever and I'll be needing an assistant to help me keep up the factory. From now on, you don't have be our cook anymore. I'll take you to the factory tomorrow to introduce my new assistant to the workers. From now on, you will be in charge of them"
Rose jumps up with excitement, "Really? Are you serous? You want me? Me? To be your assistant?" Ruby nods, "Yes Yes, you!" she laughs. Alec holds her hand and dances around in circle. Ruby teases him, "Why are you so happy Mr. Su? It's not like I gave you a new job or anything." Alec grins, feeling embarrass, "No... I....I'm just feeling happy for Rose, that's all." Ruby pulls him aside, feeling suspicious.
"Come on Alec, spill it," she demands. Alec looks at her, asking, "spill what?" She punches him lightly in the arm and threatens, "If you don't, I'll chose a new assistant." He gapes at her, "You wouldn't!" She respond just as quickly, "Try me."
"Fine," Alec answers resigning. "I want Rose to have this new job so that she won't feel like a servant to us anymore. If she doesn't feel like that, then ... then..."
"Then what?"
"Then I'll have a chance," Alec finishes with a sigh, "Are you happy now?"
Ruby laughs and nods, "I knew it!" Alec hits her on the shoulder, "Shhh!" She grins. Alec studies her for a minute and asks, "Why are you so happy?" Ruby looks away, her face redden. "I don't know what you're talking about." Alec grabs her arm playfully, "Oh really? If you don't tell me, I'll go tell Jimmy that you likes him." Ruby looks up in alarm, "You wouldn't! You know I don't." Alec folds his arm, "Then tell me."
Ruby glares at him, "Fine, if you must know. Nicky is coming back to work tomorrow," she answers quickly and the sentence stumbles out leaving Ruby feeling more embarrass than ever. Alec nods, trying hard not to make fun of his sister. Then he turns serious, "he's your worker, are you sure?" Ruby looks up at him in surprise, "Rose is only a worker too," she responds hotly. Alec understands, but he feels sorry for Jimmy. After all, Jimmy is his best friend, and Ruby is his sister. He wants her to be happy, but he also doesn't want her happiness to be the cause of his friend's sorrow. Alec shakes his head, and wonders. Love, really does have a heart of its own. Alec looks at Rose, and couldn't help but smile at himself.
Breathing heavily with sweats, Rose swims. She moves faster and quicker. Must swim! Must swim! She could hear from behind someone calling out to her. Rose could feel it. She must go back to him, she must. Her arms refuse to move, and she feels herself grows weaker and weaker. Her breathing comes fainter and Rose feels herself surrounds by blackness. She gulps in a breath of air and tries to move. Her arms and legs weight like a million ton and she couldn't move. Her body froze and Rose couldn't move. She tries, she tries, but she couldn't. Rose feel like a piece of ice, cold, and unmovable. She struggles with herself, trying to move.
"Ah!" Rose screams into the thin night. She sits up breathing heavily. Each breath of air comes sharply and she looks around frantically. Alec busts into the room looking worried. "Rose, are you okay?" She looks at him with an innocent expression, confuse. "Huh!" she looks around, looking at Alec but not really at him. "Where am I?" she mutters. Alec shakes her shoulder, "Rose! Rose! It's me Alec, are you okay?" Rose looks at Alec, her eyes open with fear. "Alec... Alec," she repeats.
Alec holds her close, "Rose, please don't scare me. Are you okay?" he pulls her into his arms, trying to sooth her breathing. She relaxes in his arms, closing her eyes. Rose drinks in his scent, feeling his warmth. Alec... Alec... she murmurs. She wraps her arms around him. It feels so good. Her heart beats normally again, but she doesn't want to let go. No, not yet. Being in his arms, she feels so safe. The frantic feeling no longer exist, but replace by it is a feeling of warmth being in Alec's arms. She pulls away, not wanting to leave his arms.
He looks at her softly, "Rose, are you okay? I was so worried." Rose shakes her head. "I've had this dream. Oh it was so weird. It must be connected to my past somehow. I was trying to move, but I couldn't. I tried! I tried so hard. So hard... so hard." Alec holds her hands. "It's okay. Everything is alright Rose. I'm here. I'm not going to let anything happens to you." Rose blushes and looks away. "I'm okay. Why don't you go back to sleep." Alec stares at her carefully, "Are you sure? I don't want to leave until you absolutely fine." Rose reassures him by nodding her head. Alec refuses to listen, "I want to sit here till you fall asleep. Then I'll leave."
Rose lies down on her bed, her body tingles with a warm feeling of pleasure. Alec looks at her tenderly. She's so beautiful. Alec has to resist himself from gathering her into his arms. She's so vulnerable, so fragile, so lovely. The image of her imprints into his heart so deeply that he knows he would never forget this night. He looks down at her sleeping peacefully there, like an angel from heaven above. He touches her ever so slightly and slips out the room quietly, not wanting to wake her up.
The next day at breakfast, Rose pulls Alec aside. "Thank you so much for your help last night Alec." He grins, "No problem. Anything to help." Rose smiles at him with sincerity, "You're a great friend Alec." He grumbles, "but I want to be more than a friend." She peers at him, "What did you say?" Alec looks away. "Nothing, nothing!" he mutters.
Ruby walks into the room smiling. Rose bounces over to greet her, "Hey Ruby! You look happy this morning." Ruby blushes. Rose walks around her, studying her, Rose's eyes sparkling. "Hm... hmm! If I'm guessing right, you must be meeting someone special today." Ruby looks at her, gasping, "You... of course not." Rose grins brightly, "Let me guess, it must be someone you really like, huh?" Ruby shakes her head violently, "No no no! I'm just excited for you, that's all." Rose laughs quietly, "Uh huh! Right... of course." Alec laughs, looking at Rose. The girl from last night and Rose this morning feel like two different person. Each brings to Alec a special feeling of delight as well as making him feel warm and tingly inside.
At the factory, Ruby looks left and right trying to find Nicky. Where is he? Rose looks at her teasingly, "Who are you looking for, Miss Ruby?" Ruby giggles, "Don't call me that. I'm just looking to see if all the workers are here or not. That's all." Rose smiles and nods, "Uh huh."
Everyone around them points and look at Rose with interest. Ruby pulls Rose to the front and clears her throat. "Everyone, this is Rose. She will be my new assistant at the factory. Everyone has to follow her order from now on like you follow orders from me. Everyone understands?" They all nods. Ruby continues, "Okay, today I will take attendance, but starting tomorrow, it will be Rose's job."
Ruby moves down the list and pause at Nicky's name. "Where is Nicky?" she asks everyone. "He's working outside," someone answers her. "Alright everyone. Back to work." Ruby looks at Rose smiling, "So what do you think?" Rose hugs Ruby, "Thank you so much. I just don't know what else to say." Ruby looks at her, "You don't have to say anything. I'm sure you will be great. And I need your help." Rose grabs her hand, "I won't let you down Ruby. This factory will grow bigger than ever. I'll show you." Ruby nods and looks hurriedly out the door. "Come on, I'll introduce you to Nicky."
Rose hesitates, knowing full well that Ruby wants to be alone with this person. She laughs understandingly, "No, you go ahead. I'll meet him some other times. Right now, I want to go look around the factory and see the paperwork to familiarize myself."
"Are you sure?" Ruby asks happily, a chance to be alone with Nicky is something that she wants so badly.
"Absolutely," Rose nods and pushes Ruby playfully out the door. "Now go meet your Romeo." Ruby calls back, "Thanks Rose."
Nicky tries to avoid Ruby without much success. She found him working outside and they start talking. He still feels awkward in her presence. Mostly because she is after all, his manager, his boss. What can he say to her? Ruby keep chatting away, not having noticed Nicky's uncomfortable silence. She asked about his health and family, showing great concern. She keeps looking at him and every time she notices him looking back, her face would turn red, a deep blush rising up. Nicky pretends not to have notice it and continue working. He has to finish his work early, he wants to go home. He needs to go home. He has to look for Wei Wei because something inside him knows that she's still alive, and waiting for him.
Ruby notices him working hard and leaves him alone. She turns and walks inside, looking for Rose. Even though seeing Nicky brings her great happiness, but another feeling rise up in her. She feels as though he rejects her, somehow. And the thoughts bring tears to her eyes. Ruby believes that one of these days, he will accept her. No, he will see that she will wait for him, no matter what happens. What Ruby doesn't understand is that they could never be together. Society will never allow his status to marry someone like her. She's too innocent, too believing, and doesn't understand that fairy tales don't exist. But what about Alec and Rose?
"Hi Alec," Rose greets him. "What are you doing here?" He grins, looking at her and shrugs his shoulder, pretending to look around. What is he doing here? He has to ask himself that same question. The answer, even though Alec doesn't want to admit it, is the fact that he misses her. He missed her terribly. She's usually at home, his house, cooking, around this time. But today, her first day at work, and the house seems so quiet without her. Alec couldn't stand it. He sits around remembering her laughter, her frustrations, everything about her that makes his heart beats faster and faster. He has to see her. He couldn't stand the empty house anymore, not seeing her face.
"Alec!" Ruby interrupts his thoughts. "What are you doing here?"
Rose smiles. "I was asking him the same thing. Apparently he's still thinking."
Alec looks at both of them and gives a nervous chuckle. "I was just in the neighborhood and decides to stop by, that's all." Ruby looks at him a minute as though seeing right through him, "Oh really." Alec nods giving Ruby a warning look. She grabs her chance and says right away, "Don't worry Alec. I'm glad you stop by. Now you can take us to lunch." Alec couldn't be happier. "And pay..." she concludes.
Rose declines the invitation saying it's her first day at work making Alec's heart drops. His whole face lost its happy expression and Ruby notices right away. She persuades Rose to take a break to come and celebrate but Rose keep refusing. Suddenly Ruby has an idea. "Why don't we stop by Jimmy's work place and the four of us go to celebrate your new job. You can't refuse now, since it's our treat and it's bad luck to turn down such an invitation." Rose laughs at Ruby's effort, "Oh alright. I've been meaning to thank Jimmy anyway. Since it's my first day, how about my treat." Quietly to Ruby, "You can take it out of this month's salary."
The three of them heads over to the hospital to look for Jimmy.
"Ruby!" Jimmy yells from behind. "Fancy seeing you here." Alec adds, "and us too." Jimmy smiles at Rose, "Hi Rose. You look a lot happier today. Congratulations on your new job." Rose nods thanking him.
Jimmy looks at Ruby, his heart fills with love for her. If only she would know his feelings.. If only he has the courage to tell her how he feels. If only... he sighs. "What wrong Jimmy?" Ruby asks, unaware of anything. He shakes his head, "nothing." Ruby continues, "Well, today is your lucky day because Rose is treating us to lunch," turning to Rose, "right Rose?" Rose nods. Jimmy laughs, "Great! I never turn down a free meal, " he jokes. Alec knows better, with Ruby there, no way would Jimmy refuses. He winks causing Jimmy to look the other direction.
During lunch, Jimmy and Ruby carries on most of the conversation. They talk comfortable with each other about medicine and business, laughing as they chat happily away. Rose, busy with her own thoughts, doesn’t even notice Alec starring at her. He looks at her wondering if there would be one day when she would be his. One day when they can talk to each other freely without holding back his feelings. What is she thinking? He concentrates on his food, not bother to join into Jimmy and Ruby’s discussion.
Rose chases her own thoughts, thinking about her past. Looking at Jimmy and Ruby, she feels a twang of sadness crossing her heart. Here she is sitting with her new friends, but what about the friends in her past. Does she have any? The family she left behind, what about them? Each day Rose wonders if they are out there, searching for her, looking for her, without her knowing. The dreams that Rpse keeps having always flashing back to her causing all happiness to fade away. She sighs and stands up, walking away from them.
Alec quickly follows her. “Rose, are you okay?” Rose turns her back to him. He stands behind her, both of them enjoying the beautiful scene of the river in front of them, quietly enjoying each other’s presence. Rose turns around and smiles at him, “Hi Alec. Finish your lunch?” He nods, “You haven’t. What are you doing here?”
Rose smiles and turn to the river “Look at that river. Isn’t it so beautiful? I can’t imagine that day when you found me lying there unconscious. I tried to remember how I ended up there. I just couldn’t. You don’t know how much I’ve tried. I’ve tried so hard,” she kicks the grass with frustration
“Rose, look at me,” Alec turns her toward him, “It doesn’t matter what your past is. It’s not important you see. It doesn’t matter to me, to Ruby, to Jimmy. We accept you for who you are. We don’t care about your past.”
“But I care! You don’t understand, everyday I think about my past, the people in my past. I look at Jimmy and Ruby talking and I feel as though I’m an outsider. I know somewhere in this world, I have a family, people that care about me. I want to know the person I used to be…” Rose tries to explain to Alec, hoping he would understand.
Alec grabs both of her hand, “But to me it doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter at all Rose. Don’t you understand? Your past means nothing to me at all. It who you are now that means everything to me.” Rose looks shockingly at Alec, her eyes open widely. “What are you saying?”
“What he is saying is that his heart is now filled up with an image of someone,” Ruby yells from behind and burst out laughing. Rose blushes deeply and takes her hand away quickly. Alec grimaces and glares at Ruby causing Ruby and Jimmy to burst out laughing once again. Ruby turns to Rose, “Do you know what my brother used to say?” Rose shakes her head. “He used to say that he doesn’t believe in the lovey dovey things that couple say to each other. It makes him sick hearing about it. But now,” Ruby giggles, “Now you understand how he feels about you? It must be so hard for him to say those words to you. You’re not going to disappoint him are you?”
Rose looks away, feeling embarrass. “To tell you the truth, I feel the same way toward Alec. But I know I shouldn’t have. I can’t have. I’m not entitled to love someone with someone like Alec. I’m only a worker, he’s the son of someone so important, his money is beyond my imagination. He can’t possibly love someone like me…”
Ruby interrupts, “Yes you can. To him, it doesn’t matter at all. All that money, doesn’t even worth as much as your smile.”
Rose peers at her, “How do you know?”
“Well, just look at him,” Ruby grins, “He looks like he’s going to jump into the river any minute if you refuse his love.”
Rose smiles with pleasure. Her heart soars with happiness and feels like nothing in the world can go wrong. Her face lights up with smile, her heart beating rapidly. Alec runs over and pulls her close. This time, Rose didn’t pull away. She nestles in his arm. It feels so right to be there. “Rose,” Alec murmurs her name with affection. “I’ve been waiting for this for so long. Rose, don’t ever leave me.” She hugs him closer and tighter, “I’m never going to leave you Alec. Never.” Those words sound so familiar. Did she say that to someone else? Rose brushes away that thought and relaxes herself in Alec’s arms.
They walk back, hand in hand smiling at each other. “Ruby! Jimmy!” Rose waves. Ruby runs up toward them, “Aww. You two looks so cute together.” She teases Alec
Rose looks from Ruby to Jimmy and points at them. “You know, you TWO would make a perfect couple!” She looks at Alec and smiles mischievously. Ruby denies right away. “Jimmy, no way! I’ve known him since we were babies. The only thing exist between us is friendship and sometimes a little bit of hitting. That’s it! Right Jimmy?” Turning to Jimmy, he nods hesitantly, agreeing with her. He looks away, trying to hide the emotions that are starting to form on his face. Alec and Rose got the message and didn’t continue the conversation. They hold each other’s hand tightly as though never wanting to let go. Alec’s heart beat wildly at her touch and he smiles contently. Never would he think the day would come so soon. He has been dreaming and wishing, and couldn’t believe that Rose returned his love so passionately as he feels for her. He wanted this day to last forever so that nothing can go wrong. Suddenly thinking of his future with Rose, Alec starts whistling. Life is beautiful!
