AAE Another Chance
By: dilettante Maia
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth John Yin
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
IT WAS THE SECOND MONTH of the second semester. The university grounds were teeming
with students, each busy or simply idling. Nicole Zhen was sitting at the bench
in front of one of the school buildings when her friend Cielo suddenly squealed
behind her at the same time poking her at her side.
‘Aha! You’re waiting for Kenneth John again right?’ Nicole glared at her and
shrugged her shoulders. ‘So? Kenneth and I are very good friends. What’s wrong
with that?’
‘It’s not what I heard from the other students. Kenneth John, being a campus
activist is very famous naturally, the studentry will talk. Don’t you know that
his fraternity brothers and sisters call you Mrs. Chairman?’
Nicole’s eyes widened. Kenneth John Yin is her friend way back in High School,
although he’s older by two years. Being active in his extra curricular activities
including being a campus activist, he seemed to neglect the academic side of
his studies, thus Nicole was able to catch up on him on his senior year in
college.
She looked down the length of her pink denim. Yes Nicole was aware that people
in the campus are teasing them, always asking them, ARE YOU TWO AN ITEM? Nicole
and Kenneth John, being humorous in nature, would often nod at those who asked
and would laugh their heart out once they’ve turned their backs. Being the
Chairman that year of the fraternity where he belongs, he got some teasing from
his co-frat men but she never expected that they would include her in the
teasing even if she’s not around.
Cielo was busy peering at her tiny mirror and batting her eyelashes at every
handsome student passing by. Nicole nudged her. ‘I’m waiting for him because he
promised to help me with my thesis questionnaire.’ Cielo just ignored her
explanation.
Suddenly they heard scrunching of leaves behind them and Nicole knew whose
footsteps it was. Funny, she thought, she recognized his steps. Then she
inhaled his cologne.
‘Hi girls, hi Nicole’, at the same time pinching her chin. Nicole blushed and
Cielo gave Kenneth John her sweetest smile offering her chin also. He laughed.
Nicole was used to it, it seemed to be his trademark greeting to her but she
cannot help being embarrassed especially now that people are talking about them
behind their backs instead of openly teasing them.
‘So are you going to help me with my thesis questionnaire Mr. Yin, and where
would you like to be treated this time?’ Nicole asked. Kenneth John is the son
of one of the richest man in Seoul, but it often delights him when Nicole gives
him a treat although most of the time, he insists paying, being the perfect
gentleman.
‘A kiss will do this time,’ he replied nonchalantly that made Cielo gave a
‘Wooooooh.’
Nicole punched his shoulder. He laughed at her blushing face and caught her
hand. ‘Of course I’ll claim my payment or treat when we’re alone and Cielo is
not watching.’ He looked at her almond- shaped eyes then his gaze dropped to
her lips. She cannot understand why that simple eye contact made her heart beat
double its rate. She has stared into his eyes a thousand times already; he had
held her hand a lot of times. Why this sudden awareness of his presence? She
tried to pull her hand, but he stood up pulling her with him.
‘Common let’s go, we’ll work at your house, I know auntie will add another
place at the dinner table tonight.’
‘Hey, what about me!’ Nicole glanced back, feeling sorry that she almost forgot
her friend. Cielo stamped her feet and gave them a pout. ‘Okay I can read the
do not disturb sign so I’m off your eyesight now,’ and gave Nicole and Kenneth
John a knowing smile.
AT THE ZHEN’S RESIDENCE, Nicole’s parents had retired to their room after
dinner leaving the two friends at the living room. She was seated on the floor,
laptop on the center table, typing what Kenneth John was dictating. He was
seated in the sofa, looking down at her.
She glanced up at him, raising her eyebrows indicating what the next question
is. He bit his lower lip and looked at the paper he was holding.
‘I think this is the last question, we’ve come up with 15 right, we have all
areas covered already,’ he mumbled.
Nicole looked at her laptop, fingers poised at the keys for the next question.
‘Number 15, hmmm… I…. love…. you…. Nicole,’ Kenneth said softly. She had
already typed the first two words when the meaning of what he said sank in. She
stopped and looked at him. Kenneth returned her stare, his face serious. She
blushed not knowing what to say or do. He simply waited for her reaction.
She looked at the screen and looked for the backspace key. ‘You’re teasing me
again Kenneth,’ she dared not look again at his eyes. She seemed hypnotized.
He reached for her hand and held them. ‘Look at me Nicole, do I look as if I’m
teasing. I’m serious,’ he told her earnestly. She was at a loss. ‘I love you
Nicole,’ he repeated. ‘I don’t know when it started but I just know that I love
you. No further reasons.’
She was at a loss for the right reply. Her lips trembled. ‘I don’t know what to
say Kenneth, I’m surprised. I really don’t know what to say. Please. I hope you
understand.’
He smiled at her and pinched her chin, ‘I’ll patiently wait for you curly
tops.’ That was the name he gave her when she was still in high school.
He arranged her books and gathered his things. ‘Goodnight Nicole, I’ll be
thinking of you. I hope you’ll do the same too,’ and winked, although his face
was very serious.
Tbc 12.23.05
ANOTHER CHANCE – 2
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth John Yin
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
NICOLE SAT at the center of her bed hugging her knees, her sight directed at
her pink-polished toenails. Kenneth John’s words kept on echoing in her head.
‘I love you Nicole…I love you Nicole….’ She stood and got one of her albums,
opening the pages where he was there: as her escort in her prom night, as her
escort in her debut, their picture at his fraternity’s anniversary as his date.
In all events in their lives at school, they seemed to be always together.
She recalled the first time they met; he was a transferee at the university and
seemed to be lost. ‘Ms. Curly Tops, can I ask where this room is?’ She seemed
offended by his calling her that name but upon seeing his sweaty face, she took
pity on him and gave him the directions. That was the start, after a few days
they met again at the university cafeteria and he went out of his way to thank
her again and asked for her name. And their friendship developed. She felt
comfortable with him, her confidante of her crushes and vice versa. She knew
whom he wanted to court, though now she noticed that he has not mentioned any
interest in any girl lately.
Kenneth John flicked on his bedroom light and flung his jacket on the chair.
‘YES!’ fist lifted in the air like a real activist, grinning at his reflection
in the mirror. He proceeded to take a shower, his grin pasted on his face. He
cannot forget the look on her face when he told her his feelings for her
tonight. Those incredulous eyes that haunted him for years, he didn’t realize
it was already love. Those trembling lips. He closed his eyes and let the water
cascade down his body. NICOLE YOU JUST DON’T KNOW HOW MUCH I LOVE YOU! And
hoped that his parents did not hear his shout.
ONE MONTH AFTER, Nicole accepted his love. It was only Cielo who knew first but
news started to spread, especially since Kenneth was a campus figure.
Eventually Nicole overcame her shyness at their new level of relationship and
did not mind the teasing and the whispers of those who knew.
‘It’s Valentine’s Day, why don’t you want to have a date?’ Kenneth John’s
patience was already growing thin at his girlfriend. ‘Really Nicole, stop being
so stubborn. Don’t you want to be seen with me? Aren’t you proud of me?’ he
insisted, raking his hands on his hair.
‘You know I’m stubborn, why do you want me for a girlfriend. It’s what I want;
I don’t want to be seen on a date on V-day!’ Nicole replied, her lips pouted.
She picked up her bag and walked away. Kenneth John sat on the bench, looking
dejected. Cielo approached him.
‘Aha having a quarrel again Mr. Yin. Don’t worry you’re angel is here to the
rescue. It’ll just cost you one meal at McDo.’ And Cielo followed Nicole.
That was how their relationship progressed. They were like cats and dogs. It
was so different when they were just friends. It was a period of perfect
harmony then. But Kenneth John loves her a lot and was willing to put up with
her being childlike at times. Nicole loves him too but she cannot understand
why she’s fond of making him angry at her. If she cannot see him for hours,
she’s very irritable and when she saw him coming, she would often ran to meet
him and flung herself in his arms. But most of the time, she’d like to pick up
a fight with him.
‘I brought you food, I knew you haven’t eaten,’ she sat at his armchair. He was
studying at their fraternity’s lounge. If there was something Kenneth John can
credit his girlfriend, it’s her thoughtfulness. Nicole can be the most stubborn
person he knew but when it comes to kindness; he could always give her a star
for that. She can be very loving if she wants to and can be a brat at times. He
smiled and looked around. There were just the two of them.
‘What are you smiling at, please share the joke Kenneth,’ she smiled sweetly at
him too.
He leaned and kissed her on the lips. She tried to pull away from him, standing
at the same time from her perch on his desk. ‘People might come in anytime.’
‘So if I’ll lock the door, will you allow me to kiss you again?’ He teased her.
She glared at him and shrugged her shoulders. They shared his meal.
WHEN THEY GRADUATED from the university, Kenneth John was sent by his father to
Singapore to train in one of their companies there. Nicole stayed in Seoul.
Thus, the start of their long-distance relationship. Kenneth John and Nicole
never failed to communicate with each other everyday and night, thru text
messaging, emails and long distance calls. Kenneth John would often surprise
her with flowers ordered long-distance. He even went traditional at times and
sent her cards via snail mail.
Nicole started to have a job herself in a bank, and with it came a new freedom.
One time she emailed him, telling him of her constant night out with Cielo,
Judith and other male friends. Kenneth John called her up immediately to remind
her to limit her going out at nights. She fumed but since she missed him also,
she eventually ignored it.
‘When can you have time to visit Seoul?’ she asked the longing obvious in her
voice.
‘I really don’t have an idea yet Nicole, perhaps before December. I miss you
very much Curly Tops.’ He replied.
She giggled, ‘it’s not curly tops anymore Kenneth, I had it straightened
yesterday.’
‘Well I know that any hairstyle would suit you sweetheart. Remember what I
said, limit your night outs. And don’t forget that I love you very much
Nicole.’ That was how they often ended their calls.
Tbc 1.15.06
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth John Yin
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
NICOLE WAS PACING back and forth in her room. She was about to go out that
night with Judith and Cielo when Kenneth John called. ‘Hmp! He lives up to his
initials KJ for Kill Joy,’ she muttered, mouth pouting. Her boyfriend had just
reprimanded her again because of her constant going out at nights with her
friends.
In the end, she defied him, after all he’s not here, I just won’t tell him, she
told herself.
That kind of situation went on not only for her constant partying but on the
other aspects of her life. Nicole felt like she was choking. Perhaps she has
not been used yet to another person dominating her life. Her parents were
protective but she was given a lot of room to move and was never restricted.
She had come up with her decision. She’ll talk to Kenneth John when he’ll
arrive home. His father has approved of his transfer to the Seoul main office.
Nicole seemed not to be happy with his impending return.
****
‘Why are you so silent?’ Kenneth John asked his girlfriend. He hid his surprise
at her cold reception at the airport. She even turned her head when he
attempted to give her a light kiss on the lips. He missed her and yet… ‘Aren’t
you feeling well?’
Nicole shook her head. ‘Please bring home now, I know you’re tired from your
travel.’ She hesitated for a while and said, ‘Kenneth I want to talk with you
tomorrow.’
He shrugged, ‘Sure sweetheart, I’m all yours for the day. I have lots to tell
you too,’ and patted the back of her head with his palm.
Kenneth John had a funny feeling that things were not alright, but he started
the car anyway and when he stopped in front of the Zhen’s residence, he leaned
to kiss her. She offered her cheek. They bid their goodnights, each having
their own worries.
THE YOUNG COUPLE had dinner the following night in their favorite college
hang-out. Kenneth John missed the place and the food served there. ‘Here’s my
gift for you, I was not able to give it last night. It was still in my travel
bag.’ He clicked his fingers in front of her, trying to cajole her.
‘Thank you,’ she fingered the red ribbon not bothering to open it. He noticed
she was not her babbly self but he simply ignored that observation. They were
on their way to his car when he remembered what it was that Nicole wanted to
talk about. ‘Let’s walk for awhile Kenneth,’ she said leading the path towards
the seashore. They walked in silence until he put his arm around her shoulders
and Nicole stopped and faced him. She gathered her courage to look at him.
‘Hmm?...’ he playfully pinched her chin, letting his fingers stay there.
‘Ken….Kenneth, I want to be free.’ His fingers stilled.
‘Did I hear you right?’ she nodded not caring if he saw the action in the dark.
‘Why? What have I done wrong? Is this some kind of your jokes?’ he asked
softly.
‘I just want to be free from any commitment now Kenneth.’
He faced the sea and stared at the unseen horizon, blanketed by the darkness.
‘Is there someone else?’ he continued asking, hands clenched at his side,
jealousy suddenly seeping in.
‘No, there’s no one else.’
‘Don’t you love me anymore Nicole?’ she sobbed, she loves him very much but her
freedom was more important to her.
‘Please set me free Kenneth, even for just a short while,’ she begged.
‘No’ the reply was firm.
‘I’m sorry but this is goodbye Kenneth,’ she said softly, retracing her steps.
This time Kenneth John did not bother to come after her.
JUDITH WAS SURPRISED when she got a call from Kenneth John, asking her out for
lunch.
‘So how’s it like living in Singapore?’ Judith gaily asked when she was seated.
‘Judith what happened to Nicole? She wanted to break-up with me all of a
sudden.’ Kenneth John fired directly. Judith dropped the menu card. ‘She what?!
I didn’t know of this. Nicole loves you Kenneth John.’
He shrugged and looked outside the window. ‘I love her Judith, please help me,
I don’t want to lose her even temporarily.’ She nodded, promising to talk to
her.
Once Judith returned to her car, she called up Cielo and asked her what she
knew. The latter was at a loss also. Nicole made that decision without
bothering to let any one of them knew. Judith slapped the steering wheel.
Nicole can be very stubborn at times. And a shade of a spoiled brat sometimes
too. Once she has made up her mind, even Hercules cannot unbend that decision.
*****
‘So what gives? You don’t love him anymore? You should have told us first so
that I may have deferred accepting Alan’s marriage proposal. Kenneth John is a
very handsome man, else you have forgotten.’ Judith tried to lighten the
situation. She and Nicole were seated on the latter’s bed, while Cielo was
comfortably settled in the nearby sofa, drying her newly painted fingernails.
Nicole’s tears cannot be contained. ‘I don’t want to be restricted. I felt like
I’m choking Judith. You know I’m not used to someone always giving me the dos
and don’ts.’ Judith shook her head. She knew her friend to be a very obedient
child, but perhaps the Zhens have a different parenting style. Except for being
bull-headed at times, Nicole is a good person.
‘Nicole sometimes we have to change for the better not for someone else but
oftentimes for our own good. You have to grow up sometime you know,’ Judith’s
exasperation was already evident.
‘If you were to ask me, let her be. If Kenneth John and Nicole are meant for
each other, they’ll always return to each others arms,’ Cielo said at last.
Tbc 1.19.06
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth John Yin
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
THE FOLLOWING DAYS were rather strained for Nicole and Kenneth John. He hadn’t
given up and continued pursuing her: calling her at home, in her mobile, trying
to fetch her at work, sending her flowers. Nicole tried her best to avoid him,
bearing the teasing of her officemates every time a bouquet of roses arrives.
The friends started taking sides too; Cielo sticked with Nicole, Judith and
naturally her boyfriend Alan sided with Kenneth John.
In the end, Kenneth John gave up. ‘I have no right to hold you if you want to be
free, but just remember, I’ll always be here for you,’ he told her one
afternoon, when he had the chance to catch her after work. He caught her hand
and put his palm over her palm and closed her fingers. ‘Your freedom… and my
love.’
‘I’m sorry Kenneth but I just want to be fair with you, I want you to be happy.
I hope someday, you’ll be able to forgive me.’ She said misty-eyed.
‘I’ve long forgiven you curly tops for breaking my heart. Some good things
never really last. Ours was one of those.’
IT WAS MORE THAN A YEAR, Nicole went to the US for her masteral studies. When
she returned, Choy, one of their friends, informed her of Kenneth John’s
marriage to Erika Xu. Nicole took the news with a shrug. She does not want to
comment much. She knew of it. Kenneth John emailed her of his wedding. It was
just a quiet ceremony. Nicole was glad; she and Kenneth were able to mend their
friendship although not in the way it was like before. It lightened the guilt
she carried within her heart. She still hasn’t forgiven herself for hurting
him.
‘I just wanted him to be happy,’ she told her friends.
‘See what I meant before, you’re not meant for each other,’ the ever pragmatic
Cielo blurted.
You just don’t know my anguish when I realized my mistake. I was so selfish. She
wanted to tell them, but she knew it’ll be a secret between her and her pillow
that has been witness to her tears at night.
AT JUDITH’S WEDDING, Nicole and Kenneth John were paired as secondary sponsors.
Their friends were glad they were amiable to each other again. During the
reception, when Judith was instructed to throw the bouquet, she purposely
walked towards her friends’ table and handed the flowers to Nicole. ‘I’ll defy
the tradition, I want my friend to have this.’ Cielo was indignant making a movement
as if she wanted to grab the flowers. Everyone laughed. She’s really a comic.
Judith hugged Nicole and whispered in her ear, ‘Try to find your happiness too;
it will be lonely at the top you know.’ Cielo who strained her head to hear
that batted her eyelashes. She did not want to ruin her mascara. At last Nicole
and Judith are friends again; Cielo heaved a sigh of relief.
‘So how are you these days curly tops?’ Kenneth John sat beside Nicole. ‘I’ve
inherited your fight for freedom Kenneth, still a true blue freedom fighter.’
They both laughed at her remark. She pulled a white rose from the bouquet and
handed it to him. ‘Peace Kenneth John.’
He twiddled the flower in his fingers. ‘Friends forever Nicole. I want you to
be happy too. Give yourself another chance.’ He hugged her, patting her head.
MONTHS LATER, Kenneth John’s wife gave birth to a baby girl. Life went on
serenely until it was shattered one morning…
Nicole’s mobile was ringing. She groped for it in her bedside table and
answered still drowsy from her sleep. ‘Nicole, Nicole!’ it was Judith’s frantic
voice.
She sat up in bed. Something was wrong.
‘Nicole, Kenneth John is dead. He had a cardiac arrest this dawn.’ Judith said
between sobs.
Words would not form in Nicole’s mouth. Not even the tears in her eyes. She
dropped her phone. Kenneth is dead, Kenneth is dead, she kept on repeating the
words in her mind refusing to accept the true meaning of it.
She walked like a robot to the bathroom and stood under the shower,
nightclothes on. Her friend is gone. Someone whom she used to love and had hurt
once is gone. She cried.
It was at the wake that Nicole met Erika. Kenneth John’s daughter was very
cute. She was only a few months old.
‘So you’re Nicole. I saw you pictures in Kenneth John’s album. You’re more
beautiful in your pictures than in person.’ Then she smiled and hugged Nicole.
Nicole realized she was only teasing her.
TWO YEARS had passed quickly.
A car slowed down near the Yin’s cemetery lot. The car was an arrival gift to
the man who alighted from it. He removed his sunglasses. He’s a very handsome
man, six-feet tall, well built, eyes mesmerizing, his haircut obviously
indicating that he’s a navy man. He straightened his shoulders to his full
height and looked around. The man hesitated. There was a woman half-kneeling
near the Yin’s lot. He looked around again. He had his instructions right,
remembering the landmarks given him.
He stood for a while, he did not have the time to look at the family albums,
perhaps she’s Erika. Although from the snatches of conversations he heard that
morning, she has moved to Incheon and married a certain Warren Kim.
The man didn’t pay much attention to women even during the time when he was
still in the navy. But he cannot understand why he was suddenly interested in
this one. Who is she, he asked silently.
The woman inclined her head and smiled. She seemed to be talking to the tomb.
She has a very lovely smile. And a lovely face. Pretty. Beautiful. The man
smiled. Those words are seldom part of his vocabulary. If she’s Erika, where’s
her daughter? Left with her husband perhaps? I’d like to meet her daughter too,
the man mused.
Tbc 1.19.06
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin – XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
IT HAS BEEN NICOLE’S HABIT to visit Kenneth John’s grave if she has the time.
Today was one of those visits. She was talking about the past weeks happenings
when she sensed she was not alone. She glanced around and gasped. Nicole
hurriedly stood and moved backwards.
‘Kenneth John?’ she stared at the approaching man. He was carrying a bouquet of
flowers on one hand and a pair of sunglasses on the other. She pinched her arm;
perhaps she was dreaming or hallucinating. Is he a ghost?
The man bowed and smiled. ‘Good afternoon Miss,’ the voice has a different
timbre. She nodded, eyes unblinking forgetting to bow also. ‘Who are you?’ she
croaked.
The man smiled again, very confident of himself. ‘I’m Kenneth Yin and I also
came to visit my twin brother. Are you Erika?’
Nicole cannot speak. She just stood there rooted in her place. Kenneth John has
a twin and he’s even named Kenneth. Where did this man come from? She looked at
his parked car. It was the ‘trademark’ car of the Yins, a BMW. Is he an
interloper? But anyone in Seoul can have a BMW if they want to. She shook her
head. The man raised his brows and turned to place the flowers on the grave.
‘Excuse me,’ Nicole retreated, half-running to her car. Kenneth John has a
twin? Why didn’t she know about it during those long years they had been
friends. The man really looked liked Kenneth John, perhaps more well-built than
him. Perhaps he’s a navy/military man, or that was just the hairstyle he
preferred. Nicole glanced at him standing at the Yin’s cemetery lot. She
hurriedly started her car when she saw him looking in her direction.
**********
‘Kenneth John has a twin?’ They were at Judith and Alan’s house, Cielo echoing
the same question when she arrived. Nicole nodded, still pale-faced and haven’t
recovered from her shock.
‘I don’t know much about their personal life,’ Alan said, although he’s
presently working at the Yin’s company.
‘You ought to know better Nicole, after all you’ve been friends for years even
before we came to know him,’ Judith remarked.
‘No, no, he hadn’t mentioned anything, not even during the times when we were
on.’
‘Is he handsome?’ Cielo asked her standard question.
‘If Kenneth John is handsome, I’m sure his twin Kenneth is handsome too,’
Judith raised her eyebrows at her friend.
More handsome perhaps than Kenneth John, Nicole wanted to add and wondered why
she had that kind of observation.
LT KENNETH YIN parked his car in the garage. Nobody was in the living room when
he entered the mansion so he went straight to the room given him. He flung his
jacket in a nearby chair and went to the window, staring out at the gathering
dusk.
His life will never be the same again. He has been living with his parents in
the States not knowing that his life has a link here in Korea. He was a navy
officer and stayed there for quite sometime. But two months ago, he decided to
take a different career path. A management graduate at the University of San
Francisco, Kenneth was entertaining the idea of joining his father in the
family business in San Francisco. But fate can have its funny twists at times.
One night his parents called him in his dad’s study room. He was shocked at
what he learned. He was only an adopted son. ‘Your Mom and I cannot have a
child. My brother and his wife were still living here in San Francisco when we
learned that they were having twins, we begged my brother to allow us to adopt
one of the twins.’
The twins were born in San Francisco. In the end, Kenneth’s biological parents
agreed to give him up to be adopted by his uncle and aunt. His real parents
believed that they’ve been blessed with so much and they knew their son would
be loved by the people who asked for him. Both brothers agreed to live
separately, communicating secretly. So that explains his father’s constant trip
to Korea. It even occurred to him to visit this country someday to trace his
roots.
He was named Kenneth and his brother John. But his real parents added the name
Kenneth also to his twin because somehow they wanted to have a part of their
other son.
His parents risked his anger and told them the truth. Kenneth recalled that
incident, he was crying too while hugging his Mom. ‘We want you to be happy
Kenneth. Please visit them. They’ve lost a son and your presence will be of
much help. They’ve shared a part of their life with us and now, we wanted to
repay them for their kindness.’
If ever Kenneth was hurt, it was because he was not given the chance to know
his twin brother. He loves the two people who have shaped his life. It’s true
then what they say of twins. He remembered the time when he experienced
agonizing pains, he surmised that was the time Kenneth John had a heart attack.
A month ago, his biological parents visited San Francisco, not secretly this
time. His real father was much older than his uncle/father. And who wouldn’t
love Mrs. Yin, his real mother. He laughed at the stories they told him when
they visited SanFo and followed him around. Just a glimpse of him was enough
for them.
Now his parents in the States are giving him the freedom to choose the life he
wants. The Yins had lost Kenneth John; his uncle believed it was time for
Kenneth to return to where he really belongs. But the choice was still his.
Tbc. 1.19.05
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
KENNETH SIGHED. Life will never be the same again indeed. He heard a tap on the
bedroom room and his mother’s voice calling him. He opened the door. Kenneth
bent to kiss her on the cheek. It made her smile, she never dreamed that she
would be able to come this close to her other son.
‘I visited Kenneth John’s grave a while ago,’ his mother looked at him
wistfully. Except for the voice, at first glance, there’s no mistaking the
similarity.
‘There was a woman there too Mom,’ calling Mrs. Yin Mom came naturally too. She
smiled again. ‘Maybe it was my brother’s wife.’
‘Erika visits Seoul only occasionally now and makes it a point to drop by here
so our granddaughter can visit us also. Perhaps it was one of Kenneth John’s
friends.’
‘She’s very beautiful, with almond-shaped eyes, has a sunny smile, hmm nice
legs,’ the latter he said with a grin. His mother shook her head smiling.
Kenneth seemed to be different from his brother in a lot of ways.
‘Oh, I think it’s Nicole then, Kenneth John’s former girlfriend.’ She looked at
her watch. ‘Come to the family room, I’ll show you the family pictures. We
still have plenty of time before dinner.’
Kenneth stared long and hard at his brother’s picture. Yes they really look
alike. He picked up another album. From the looks of it, it was from his
brother’s college days. He started flipping through the pages when he stopped.
Nicole’s blown-up picture stared back at him. So she was curly-haired before,
he smiled wondering why she intrigued him. His mother glanced at the page too,
‘Is that the woman you saw?’ he nodded his eyes not leaving the album page.
‘That’s Nicole Zhen, such a sweet child.’ his mother said looking lovingly at
her picture.
‘She’s very beautiful, why did Kenneth John married someone else?’
Mrs. Yin chuckled. ‘Charge it to the follies of youth. Whatever transpired
between them, only the two of them knew it. But I was glad until the end,
they’ve reconciled their differences.’ She sighed, ‘I always wanted Nicole for
a daughter-in-law, but then not all wishes do come true son.’
Kenneth smiled mysteriously, his eyes was drawn back to the beautiful face. His
mother smiled secretly too and quietly left him. He did not even notice her
departure, so engrossed in his admiration of Nicole’s pictures. When he too
left the room, he was carrying that particular album, a silly smile in his
face. For the first time in his life, he was attracted to someone. He threw his
body on the bed, opening again the album page and hugged it to his chest.
Forgive me Kenneth John for admiring her. Lt Kenneth Yin felt like a teenager.
He closed his eyes recalling their encounter in the cemetery that afternoon.
Her face was so sweet with amazement, her luscious lips forming an ‘O’ when she
saw him. He laughed; perhaps she thought she saw a ghost. He surely must have
scared her, remembering her ashen face. He sat up suddenly. Tonight he’s going
to call his parents in the States. He has made up his mind. He’ll stay in Korea.
‘And they have to thank you for it,’ Kenneth winked at Nicole’s picture and
went off to have his shower.
KENNETH AND HIS FATHER were in the study room having their coffee. Moments
later his mother came in. ‘I’ll assign you to head the investment department
son. Being in the navy for years, you’ll surely awe them with your strategies,’
Mr. Yin said proudly. Kenneth looked at his cup, his mother looking at him
expectantly.
‘Will you accept me if I’ll decide to stay?’ he asked teasingly.
‘Accept you, hah! What kind of question is that! You’re even included in my
will even if you’re not aware of us. I have to train you son because someday
everything I have will be yours.’
Tears streamed down Mrs. Yin’s face, ‘Welcome home Kenneth.’ He was misty-eyed
too as he hugged her.
THERE WAS A GRAND GATHERING at the Yin’s company social hall. A party was held
in honor of the Chairman’s other twin son. Earlier that day, a press conference
was held, Mr. Yin and Lt Kenneth Yin regaled the press people with the story of
his adoption, The Yins decided to be transparent about the whole thing. But the
press was more interested in his life in the navy, and Kenneth enjoyed
bantering with them. When someone asked about his love life, he was surprised
that Nicole Zhen immediately came to mind. ‘No I don’t have a girlfriend but
there is already someone special in my life now.’ A statement which became a
sub-headline the following day in the papers.
Nicole and her friends were invited and in fact Mrs. Yin gave called her up to
remind her. Mrs. Yin was a bit surprised herself when Kenneth requested to
include his brother’s friends in the guest list.
She maneuvered her car in the parking space. Nicole was dressed in a simple red
gown with a matching wrap around her bare shoulders. She regretted wearing it;
the dress was too sexy hugging her body like a second skin. Why did she allow
Cielo to sweet-talk her into buying this one?
Her heart seemed to be thudding loudly when she met the man’s gaze. He was
standing at the entrance of the hall with Mr. and Mrs. Yin. Where are my
friends?, she cannot explain it but she wanted to turn back.
Tbc 1.19.06
By: dilettante Maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
‘Nicole dear, it’s good of you to come. Your friends are already inside.’ Mrs.
Yin hugged her.
‘Son you should never forget Ms Nicole Zhen’s face, she’s one of the bankers
you’ll be dealing with,’ Mr. Yin teased.
‘How can I forget a beautiful face?’ Kenneth smiled at her, bowed and extended
his hand. ‘We’ve met a few days ago Ms Zhen, please forgive me, I’ve mistaken
you for someone else. Lt Kenneth Yin at your service.’
Nicole had no choice but smiled also and offered her hand for a handshake. He
brought her hand to his lips, still smiling at her. She nearly snatched her
hand away if not for the presence of the older Yins. She blushed and she wanted
to run.
‘I will be greatly honored if Ms Zhen can be my instant date tonight,’ there
was determination in his voice which secretly made his mother wish he’ll fall
in love with Nicole.
The sly, I’m not a paid woman, Nicole was fuming. She’s beginning to hate him.
He’s surely different from Kenneth John. She discreetly tried to snatch her
hand but he placed it in the crook of his arm and glanced down at her. ‘Shall
we lead them to the dinner table?’
‘I’m sorry Lt Yin but I have to look for my friends.’
‘Kenneth,’ he replied, mesmerizing her with his smile.
Nicole’s wandering eyes found Cielo seated with Alan and Judith. Nicole looked
at her, eyes begging for help, but Cielo’s hands were clasped in front of her,
her eyes dreamy as she looked at them together. The ever cautious Judith has a
worried look on her face.
Kenneth was chuckling silently. He knew she was panicking. ‘I’m sorry Ms Zhen
but I won’t ever let you go,’ he whispered to her. She shuddered.
She was glad that even if she was seated beside Kenneth, Mrs. Yin was at her
other side. She ignored him during dinner and conversed only with the older
woman.
Everyone enjoyed the sumptuous food. It was Mr. Yin who formally introduced Lt
Kenneth Yin to the Seoul business and social circle referring to him as the
missing jigsaw piece in the Yin family.
When Mr. Yin approached his wife for a dance, Nicole stood too wanting to
escape. Her so-called date was talking earnestly to another business associate.
Kenneth sensed her movement. Don’t underestimate my military skills Nicole. He
excused himself and followed her. She went to the powder room. A few minutes
later, she emerged, craning her neck for Cielo or Judith.
‘Looking for me?’ she jumped. ‘Let’s dance’ and Kenneth took her hand without
waiting for her acceptance. He led her to the dance floor. She was already
angry especially when he deliberately pulled her closer to him as they danced.
‘Are you blushing or it is just a reflection of your dress?’ Kenneth asked
softly. Nicole looked at him wanting to slap him with her purse which she had
no time to leave in a nearby table. It was then that she noticed his eyes. It
has a different color from Kenneth John.
Nicole had counted three music, she tried to ease from his hold, has he fallen
asleep? She dared not look at his face again. They kept on dancing until she
noticed that he was leading their steps to the nearby porch. It was dimly-lit,
with a few steps leading to a little garden.
She struggled from his hold, ‘Will you please release me Mr. Yin, I’ve been
controlling my temper over your behavior the entire night,’ she pushed at his
chest.
‘It’s Kenneth. Forgive me Nicole but I’ve been wanting to do this since you
entered the hall,’ Kenneth bent to claim her lips with his. Nicole was not
prepared for the onslaught of his lips. She struggled, hands and purse
pummeling at his chest. But his arms were like a band of steel around her slim
body. His lips were demanding until he got the response he wanted from her. She
was kissing him back. He pulled her closer to him, his lips trailing down her
lovely neck. ‘Kenneth’ she muttered, confused.
He brushed her lips with his and smiled at her. ‘Now you’ll know who’s kissing
you Nicole.’
Nicole was so ashamed. How can she give in to what he wanted? ‘I thought you
were Kenneth John, ‘ she lied. There were tears in her eyes now. ‘Leave me
alone,’ she hissed running down the porch steps.
He put his fingers to his lips and smiled. He picked up her wrap which has
fallen while she was running. ‘I’m sorry Ms Zhen but I can’t leave you alone
now. I’ve fallen under your spell,’
The way she was driving, it was a surprise that Nicole arrived home in one
piece. She was glad her parents were asleep already. She threw her purse and
stomped around her room, tears rolling down her cheeks. ‘I hate you Kenneth
Yin, I hate you! Why did I respond to his kisses?’ She lied, using his brother
as an excuse when in fact she was well aware who was kissing her. ‘I’m sorry
Kenneth John.’
She stopped in front of the mirror and touched her lips, still tingling from
that brute’s kiss. She reddened at the memory. STOP IT. She shouted at her
reflection. She slumped at the foot of the bed, fear starting to creep in. She
does not want to fall in love again. No she’s not attracted to him, she should
hate him.
KENNETH PLACED the wrap on the pillow and laughed. ‘You have to pay ransom for
this Nicole.’ He slept with a smile on his face, a picture of total happiness,
his hand clutching Nicole’s wrap.
Tbc 1.21.06
by: dilettante maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
NICOLE WAS AT HER OFFICE ALREADY organizing her desk when she noticed the
morning paper. Her anger was re-ignited when she saw Lt Kenneth Yin’s picture
in the front page. It was about the press conference and the sub-headline reads
‘No I don’t have a girlfriend but there is already someone special in my life
now.’ Poor girl, Nicole thought. She stared at the picture remembering the
color of his eyes. An officer and a gentleman, never, she shrugged and placed
the paper aside in the small table.
Just then her mobile rang. Cielo’s chirpy voice greeted her. ‘My, my, no wonder
you disappeared from the party, understandable Nicole, who are you to resist Lt
Kenneth Yin. Just looking at your pictures here makes me want to take your
place.’
Nicole gasped, ‘I’m sorry I went ahead without saying goodbye, anyway what
pictures are you talking about?’
‘You haven’t seen the inner pages of his story? The caption even read, what
about the special girl Lt Yin mentioned.’
Nicole picked up the paper again and was dumbfounded. It was a picture of her
and Kenneth Yin dancing, and to anyone who does not know them, they looked like
a real couple. She didn’t realize that his hand was intimately spread on her
back. She blushed. There was another picture of him being so attentive to her
at the dinner table.
‘Pictures lie Cielo, I was requested to join them at their table. That was
all.’ She exhaled deeply. Did anyone saw what happened at the porch? She
clenched her fist, wanting to cry again. She cannot understand why she felt
suddenly uneasy just thinking about him.
Nicole was glad Cielo did not pursue the teasings and Judith was out of town
that week. The day passed without further hitches and if ever the people at the
bank noticed the papers too, nobody dared mention it to their junior officer.
Nicole is one of the kindest persons but she can be very mean at times.
A few days later, Nicole was surprised to receive a red rose. The card did not
have a sender’s name except the word TO. An hour later another red rose was
delivered, this time there was the word A. She giggled, who would be foolish
enough to send this. He should have sent one petal at a time, Nicole thought.
Three more roses were delivered separately, each card containing the words
BEAUTIFUL, SEXY, LADY. She was not happy anymore. It seemed to be a warning of
tumultuous days ahead. She had a feeling she knew who the sender was.
That afternoon, she was back to her sunny mood as she left the office,
mysterious roses' sender almost forgotten. She was on her way to the parking
lot when he saw him leaning on his BMW. He was casually dressed. Kenneth smiled
and straightened when he saw her. ‘Good afternoon Nicole,’ he bowed. Nicole
wanted to slap him. He seemed to be holding something behind his back.
‘Good afternoon Mr Yin,’ she nodded and proceeded to walk but he blocked her
way.
‘I have something here of value to you, which you may want to pay ransom
Nicole,’ and presented her wrap from behind his back.
Nicole gasped. She forgot her wrap, did she left it at the party? She blushed
remembering the incident. Kenneth Yin saw her reaction, he too was remembering
that. He smiled. ‘A simple dinner would be ransom payment enough Cinderella,’
and dangled the wrap in front of her.
She tried to grab it but Kenneth was quick. He laughed and hid it again behind
his back. ‘Dinner Nicole.’
‘You’re despicable! You can keep it! For all I care!’ and pushed him out of the
way and went to her car.
Kenneth leaned in his car and watch her start hers. He was smiling tongue in
cheek. Nicole on the other hand wanted to shout and cry. Why does he infuriates
her so much! And what did he do with her wrap for days instead of returning it
to her. Her anger subsided when she saw the façade of her favorite mall. By the
time she has found a parking space, her mood had lightened. Shopping is Nicole
Zhen’s therapy.
A few hours later, she has several shopping bags in her hands, mostly shoes.
She smiled. She’ll drop by her favorite boutique and see what’s new there. Then
she’ll go home. She was comparing a red and a black blouse when a now familiar
voice said behind her, ‘I noticed that you preferred the color red, it becomes
you.’
She sighed and turned. ‘You again, what are you doing here?’ and realized that
was a foolish question. He might be looking for something for his someone
special. He can buy the whole store if he wanted to and I don’t care. She
stooped to pick up her shopping bags but they were not there anymore. It was
then that she noticed Kenneth Yin carrying those bags in his hands.
‘Will you please give them to me, Mr Yin?’ he did not budge but continued
smiling. Nicole was angry again. ‘Very well, you can keep them together with
the wrap and give them to your harem!’
she stormed out of the store. Kenneth smiled at the store personnel and
explained quietly, ‘Lovers’ quarrel’ as he hurriedly followed her. She ignored
him when she saw him entering the elevator, shopping bags and all. Serves him
right! She went directly to the car park expecting him to give her the
bags but she was surprised when he deposited them in his car too. She zoomed
past him.
Kenneth was smiling while trailing her car. Now I’ll know where you live
Nicole. She slammed her car door. Kenneth followed still carrying her shopping
bags. She faced him, eyes glaring. ‘What is it do you really want Lt Yin?’ she
almost shouted.
‘You,’ was his simple reply.
Tbc 1.24.06
by: dilettante maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
NICOLE WAS TAKEN ABACK BY HIS FRANKNESS. Her lips trembled in fear and anger.
"You’re so different from Kenneth John," she muttered, eyes flashing
in anger. Kenneth Yin shrugged his broad shoulders and eyed her lazily.
"That’s good. At least you’ll know who you’re with," Kenneth
remembered the night he kissed her and she told him she thought he was Kenneth
John. "Am I asking too much by asking you to have dinner with me Nicole?’’
She hastily looked away. Even in the dimly-lit street, his eyes seemed to
hypnotize her. She shook her head. "I cannot," she mumbled.
"Cannot or do not want to?" he retorted softly.
Nicole looked at the tip of her shoes and with all the strength left in her,
she lifted her eyes to his. "Please leave me alone Mr Yin. I don’t belong
in your league." There’s no doubt he’s a ladies’ man and she does not want
to be included in the long queue. Besides she has her own fears where romantic
relationships are concerned.
"I’m sorry Nicole," Kenneth offered her the shopping bags. She
hastily grabbed them and hurried inside, but not before she heard his last
remarks. "I’m sorry Nicole but I don’t want to leave you now. I’ll wait,
I’m a very patient man too." His laughter rang in the quiet night.
She stopped in her tracks but did not look back.
Fear was really seeping in her system and she did not like that at all. For the
past years, after her failed relationship with Kenneth John, she did not have
many problems with her suitors since she just rejected or ignored them and they
would stop pursuing her. If she’ll do the same with Lt Kenneth Yin, she doubted
if he’ll do the same. Giving up seemed alien to him. Well she hoped it was just
a passing fancy for him. For all she knew, he was just teasing her.
A few hours later, Nicole had finished arranging the stuff she bought. She just
wanted to forget that despicable man. She switched off the light, leaving only
the one at her bedside and proceeded to close the drapes. She was astounded
when she saw him outside, sitting comfortably at the hood of his BMW, smoking, eyes
directed at her window.
She moved stealthily to the side of the window without bothering to touch the
drapes or else he’ll know that she saw him. I think he’s crazy, she thought.
Military men sometimes become mentally and emotionally affected by their war
experiences. It’s been hours since she left him and he’s still there. She was
tempted to call the police but she knew he’ll surely come up with an excuse
that would put her in an embarrassing situation.
Kenneth brooded over her statement as he sat at the hood of his car, smoking
one cigarette after another. "Please leave me alone…I don’t belong in your
league." Her impression of him was that of a ladies’ man perhaps? A
playboy?
He smiled, remembering his foolish attempts at courting women before during his
college years. In the end, he would just stop in his pursuit because he’d lost
interest in the woman. He did not notice that he paid less attention to the
opposite sex the past years, dedicating his time and energy in his work. Until
he saw Nicole Zhen.
He puffed, watching the smoke spiraled in the dimly-lit air. That was one game
he enjoyed doing with his ensigns. Creating smoke rings in the air.
Kenneth looked at her window. He assumed that was her window considering that
the lights were switched on after a few minutes of her entry into the house.
The lights were out already. She’s probably in bed now. A mischievous grin
appeared. Is Nicole a pajama or nightgown person? That’s very interesting to
know, he almost laughed at where his thoughts were going.
His face suddenly became serious. Nicole is so different from the other women
he’d met the past years. Women who were mostly introduced to him by colleagues
in the navy. He smiled cynically, he was not even interested to date them and simply
ignored them.
He cannot explain it but there was something in Nicole’s smile that makes his
heart leap. Unfortunately, Nicole Zhen hasn’t bestowed that smile on him yet.
One of these days, you will, he thought.
From what he’d learned the past days, she’s good in her work. She handles the
Yin Company accounts and studying those reports, Kenneth was impressed. Beauty
and brains, he thought. Theoretically, he knew he’ll have a penchant for a
brainy woman. But he knew it was not only the physical beauty and the
intelligence in Nicole that attracted him. There was something special in her
that seemed to draw him to her.
He sat there contentedly until he decided it was time to go home.
"Goodnight my love, please dream of me," he murmured seriously. He
was already in front of the steering wheel when his words sank in. "My
love…my love." It surprised him but it did produce a boyish smile on his
face.
Nicole kept on tossing in her bed. She thought of Kenneth Yin catching a cold
for what he was foolishly doing. So what, it’s his fault, who told him to be
our night watchman. She giggled at the thought, her anger fading. You deserve
the cold, she murmured. It was almost 2am when she was awakened by a quiet
murmuring of a car’s engine. She stumbled out of bed, and peered, seeing the
tail lights of the departing car.
tbc 4.9.06
by: dilettante maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
NICOLE’S PREDICTIONS WERE CORRECT. The five roses sent the first day after the
party at the Yins was a sign of disastrous days that followed. The word giving
up or surrendering was alien to the ex-navy man. He never runs short of
‘military tactics’, Nicole thought, smirking as she looked at the bouquet of
roses delivered that day. Her office would look like a flower shop soon if that
man would continue doing this, she shook her head.
She rubbed her eyes; it has been another tiring day. She already had a phobia
going to the parking lot, 90 per cent of the time Kenneth Yin would be lurking
there. Oftentimes she just ignored him and he would just follow her car with
his flashy BMW, as if he wanted to be assured that she’s home safely. Doesn’t
he have anything sane to do after office hours, Nicole wondered.
Then there were the endless phone calls. In her office phone, her mobile. As if
on cue, her mobile rang. Nicole tentatively picked it up and almost dropped it
when she saw the caller’s name. She let it rang. She was waiting for her
friends’ call. Then her private line rang. She raised her eyebrows. Must be her
Mom or Dad or an important client considering it was after official hours.
‘Hello good afternoon…er evening,’ she hastily corrected when she swiveled her
chair and saw outside the window that it was dark already.
‘Pleasant evening Nicole, this is your stalker,’ and Kenneth Yin’s laughter
echoed through the line.
She almost put down the phone. ‘What is it this time Lt Yin? Perhaps we can
discuss it tomorrow at the company’s meeting.’
Kenneth was smiling at the other end. How he missed hearing her voice. His hand
was itching the whole day to call her but he restrained himself. Even if his
calls would be ended by a hasty ‘If that’s all you have to say I’m sorry Mr Yin
but I’m busy.’ Or with ‘Please leave me alone Mr Yin!’ he could just imagine
her glaring eyes. She really looks so adorable when she does that and so
kissable when she pouts her luscious lips.
Perhaps she has recorded it or she seemed to have memorized those lines already.
‘Kenneth,’ he corrected her use of his family name. ‘Did you like the flowers?
I saw you wearing a peach suit today and thought peach roses would match your
outfit.’ And where did he see her? Nicole knitted her delicate brows.
Nicole seemed jazzed by his voice. But she shook her head immediately. ‘Mr Yin
please stop sending me those flowers, it has caused a lot of embarrassment here
for me.’
Kenneth smiled. ‘I’m sorry if it has that effect on you. I just wanted to give
you those as an expression of what I felt for you Nicole.’ He said softly and
closed his eyes. He can’t forget their kiss at the party. ‘Please have dinner
with me.’
‘I’m sorry Lt Yin but I already have a date with my friends. Thanks for the
invitation. Goodbye.’ She sighed as she placed her face in her hands. She’s
having mixed emotions where Kenneth Yin was concerned. Their kiss was still
fresh in her memory. She hastily stood and gathered her things.
====
Kenneth sat in his chair, brooding. What is he going to do to make her agree to
have a date with him? He wanted to kick himself, he started on the wrong foot
with Nicole Zhen. His inexperience with the female specie was evident. He
shouldn’t have kissed her that night. Then he smiled. So what, he would not
barter that kiss for all the tea in China.
Perhaps it was what they call love at first sight. Or rather love after a few
sights. He has to admit that at first it was physical attraction. He was
mesmerized by the beautiful lady at the cemetery and he even thought it was
Erika. He hasn’t experienced how it is to fall in love, true love, but he knew
that what he felt for Nicole Zhen goes beyond physical attraction. He simply
loves everything about her.
ALL ABOUT NICOLE, he grinned when he saw that. Kenneth wrote that in a piece of
paper three days ago when they were having a meeting with Nicole’s bank. She
had a lot to say but Kenneth did not remember anything. He had to review the
folders again. He just sat contentedly doodling and listening to her voice and staring
at her beautiful face.
He shook his head. He must not allow that incident to happen again once he is
in the middle of a business transaction. Kenneth had lost his presence of mind
where Nicole Zhen was concerned.
He was on his way to the elevator when he saw Alan approaching from the other
end. The two men smiled at each other, Alan giving a slight bow considering
that Kenneth Yin was their senior now.
‘Have a date with your lovely wife?’ Kenneth asked. He and Alan had become
friends during the first weeks already since they work in the same department.
‘Yes and with some friends too.’
Kenneth recalled Nicole’s statement, she’s having a date with friends. He knew
now who her circle of friends are. When Alan volunteered the name of the
restaurant, encouraging Kenneth to try dining there sometime. Kenneth simply
smiled. ‘Have fun’ he called out at Alan’s retreating back.
He went to the car park, another ‘military tactic’ forming in his mind.
=====
Nicole was indeed having a grand time with her friends that night. It was a
celebration of Alan and Judith. After being married for quite some time, the
couple’s desire to have a child had been granted. As usual Choy was the
entertainer of the group. He was bragging about his recent exploits in Bali
where he went for a vacation.
Suddenly Nicole felt uncomfortable, it was that feeling she felt every time the
person she wants to avoid was around. She closed her eyes in silent agony when
Alan signaled to someone. And there was no need for her to look who was
standing just behind her.
Alan stood up. ‘Mr Yin, it’s nice to know that you considered my recommendation
to try this place. You wouldn’t regret coming here.’
‘I know I wouldn’t regret coming Alan, and please Kenneth would be more
comfortable,’ he signaled for the head waiter coming his way. Just then Alan
invited him to join them if he has no reservation. It felt like a bombshell for
Nicole.
Kenneth acted as if he was hesitating but Judith chimed in also. ‘If you
wouldn’t mind joining us Mr Yin it would be a pleasure for us.’
Cielo was grinning form ear to ear nodding her head in agreement. Nicole
stiffened, it was a table for six and the vacant seat was next to her where she
placed her bag. She had no choice but to gather her things. It was a good thing
the place was dimly lit, she was afraid she was blushing.
Pleasantries and formal introductions were made again by Alan. Kenneth laughed.
‘I remember the faces and names, remember I was introduced to my twin’s friends
during my ‘debut’.
And everyone at the table laughed. It was indeed an icebreaker except for
Nicole. She sat there silently toying with her food. His ‘Hi Nicole’ elicited a
slight nod from her.
‘Are you on a diet?’ Kenneth whispered. Nicole blushed looking around the
table. Fortunately Choy was telling another story and they did not notice him
whispering to her. She glared at him. Kenneth smiled. ‘Relax, I won’t eat you.’
‘Try this, one of my favorites. My mother in the States would often cook Korean
food for me,’ he said to the group in general at the same time placing the food
on Nicole’s plate.
‘Thank you…I’m full already,’ she stammered.
‘Was life in the navy exciting Kenneth, you wouldn’t mind if I call you by your
first name too? Cielo asked him sweetly. Judith slapped her thigh.
‘Were the girls at the watering holes of the navy men amazingly beautiful?’
Choy butted in.
Kenneth laughed. And he started sharing some experiences he had in the navy.
Nicole can’t help being mesmerized by the low timber in his voice. Before she
knew it, she was laughing and smiling at the funny stories he told and even
gave her comments. But Choy asked again about the beautiful girls and the spell
was broken for her.
‘Hmmm…there are plenty of beautiful women including some high ranking navy
officials. However, nobody caught my fancy there,’ Kenneth drawled, his eyes
slowly gliding to Nicole by his side. Their eyes clashed and he smiled and it
seemed that the world stood still for Kenneth Yin as he looked at her
almond-shaped eyes.
‘You were not interested because you already have someone special, very lucky
lady,’ Cielo commented taking the opportunity to bring up the topic Kenneth
said during the press con of the Yins and was published in the papers..
‘If she’ll have me, I’ll be the lucky one Cielo,’ Kenneth replied seriously his
eyes returning to Nicole’s profile.
Judith raised her eyebrows; she did not miss the looks Lt Yin gave their
friend, or the meaning behind those words. Was he referring to Nicole, but it
was only recently that he came home to Korea. Judith remembered Nicole telling
them they met at the cemetery.
Nicole just wanted to be blown to outer space. How could he imply those things
in front of her friends! Until now, she hadn’t told anyone about his endless
pursuit of her because for her Kenneth Yin was not serious. Besides she’s
afraid to have another serious commitment again.
She felt relieved when the final toasts were made, so they can go home and let
Judith rest. Nicole did not use her car that day as she decided to take a cab
that morning and rest her mind. She can’t do that if she’s behind the wheels.
‘Nicole we’ll drop you home.’ Alan and Judith offered. Kenneth pretended to be
checking his mobile. He knew that Nicole took a cab that morning.
‘I’ll bring you home safely Nicole,’ he offered smiling at the couple. Cielo
giggled, her matchmaking mind working overtime again. Choy simply shrugged and
appeared not to be bothered by such arrangement.
‘I can always take a cab,’ now Nicole wanted to berate herself for not bringing
the car that day.
But Kenneth was already standing at her side, his hand on her elbow. Nicole
looked at Judith helplessly. The latter looked worried but when she looked at
Lt Yin’s face, she saw the devoted look of someone, just like Alan’s face when
he shows how much he cares for her.
Nicole didn’t have much choice and she did not want to create a scene in front
of her friends. She let Kenneth escort her out of the restaurant but once
outside she hastily shook her arm free from his gentle hold. He simply shrug
his broad shoulders silently escorted her to his car. She seemed hypnotized as
she went to his car. He opened the door for her.
Kenneth whistled while driving. In the end Nicole can’t help smiling, it was a
nursery rhyme, ‘Twinkle, twinkle little star…’ When he glanced at her, he hid
that satisfied look on his face. She’s smiling already.
‘Do you want to watch the stars?’ He asked softly. She’s lovelier now that
she’s smiling a little.
Nicole shook her head. ‘Please bring me home, Kenneth.’
He wanted a give a whooping laugh. She called him by his first name already.
Kenneth wanted to stop the car, go out and thank the stars for such a small
miracle. Although on the night he kissed her at the party, she called him
Kenneth but she defended herself saying she was thinking of his twin, Kenneth
John.
Suddenly he made a U-turn that made Nicole panic. She did not say anything but
looked at him. He was grinning. Nicole looked at the street signs and realized
he was taking the longer route to her house.
He winked at her and Nicole blushed. She wouldn’t dare looking at him again.
Her heart was doing a somersault already. She seemed suffocated.
When the car stopped in front of the Zhen’s house, Nicole fumbled with the
seatbelt hastily. ‘Thank you for the ride home Mr Yin.’
‘Ouch I thought it’s Kenneth already.’
She glared at him again and Kenneth smiled. ‘Thank you for giving me the chance
to drive you home Cinderella.’ He took out from the dashboard something
wrapped. It was her shawl.
‘Now that we had dinner already, will you please stop pestering me, Kenneth
Yin?’ she wanted to be angry with him but his boyish demeanor seemed to soften
her heart that moment.
‘Oh no Nicole, we’ve only just begun. It was not our date and I was just
invited impromptu.’ He protested.
When she went out of the car, he followed her. ‘Please stop acting as our night
watchman again. I don’t want my father to catch you here.’
‘Aha so you’re aware that I sometimes stay here serving as such Ms Zhen. And
you did not even bother to acknowledge my services huh.’
Nicole gave a nervous laugh. ‘Thank you and goodnight.’
He grabbed her arm and turned her towards him. Her nervousness increased. But
Kenneth merely caressed her cheek with his knuckles smiling down at her.
‘I’ll be away for a few days. Please take care of yourself Nicole. You don’t
have your night watchman to guard you,’ he said huskily.
‘Why….why are you telling me this?’ Nicole tried her best to gather her
thoughts.
‘Because you are very special to me Nicole Zhen.’
Nicole stared at him wide-eyed and saw the seriousness in his eyes. He
reluctantly released her arm and bid her goodnight.
She went inside her room without bothering to switch on the light, the wrap he
returned clutched close to her bosom. Nicole Zhen was becoming afraid not of
Kenneth Yin but from herself. She felt that she’s falling in love with him and
she does not like it at all. She slowly went to the window and looked. He was
still there, leaning against his car, smoking, looking up at their house. She
inhaled deeply and leaned against the wall.
Kenneth just stood there, smoking, deep in thought. He sensed a mellowness in
Nicole tonight. Does that mean she’s slowly considering positively his
courtship of her? Kenneth got inside the car and gave the house a last look.
Maybe he has to change his ‘military tactic’ in pursuing her.
Tbc.6.25.06
I apologize for the long hiatus of Another Chance… hope you’ll like it and
until I’ll have another chance…
by: dilettante maia
CAST OF CHARACTERS
Kenneth Yin - XZ
Nicole Zhen – SM
Cielo - ZD
Judith – YX
Choy
THE PAST FOUR DAYS spent by Kenneth in Singapore had been very arduous. He
literally threw his body in bed upon reaching his hotel room. He closed his
eyes, the vision that forever haunts him was more vivid now.
"Nicole…" he whispered in the empty room. He had been calling her
only at night to make sure she was available and has no reason to refuse to
talk to him even for just a few minutes.
Suddenly he sat up in bed. The past days that he was away, it was only tonight
that he noticed the change in the way she talks to him over the phone. He
smiled boyishly. Kenneth wants to believe that she’s really mellowing. Like
last night, they talked for almost an hour. Although it was mostly about their
respective work but for Kenneth Yin it was already a big leap. His smiled
turned into laughter echoing inside the room.
As Kenneth was arranging his things, he remembered also the way the people at
their Singapore office treated him with reverence. He encouraged them to talk
freely about Kenneth John. He wanted to know more about his twin. And from what
he learned, his twin brother was a very kind man. It’s a pity that fate did not
give them the chance to meet.
NICOLE WAS PACING to and fro in her room. She kept on looking at her watch.
Surely by now he’s back in his hotel room. She stopped in mid-track. Oh no
what’s the matter with me? Why am I bothered by that scoundrel? For all I know
he’s out now having the time of his life with all those beautiful Singaporeans.
And I don’t care!
She looked at the flowers she brought home that day. Even if Kenneth Yin was
away, he did not miss giving instructions to his favorite florist to deliver
roses to Miss Nicole Zhen. And the colors vary everyday. Nicole was fingering
the petals of the red roses in her vase when her mobile rang. She jumped to her
feet, giving an OUCH at the same time as her fingers were pricked by the
thorns. She reached for her mobile first before pulling a tissue to stop the
droplets of blood. It was him.
"Good evening," she tried to sound as distant as possible.
"Hello Nicole, how I missed your voice," it was Kenneth at the other
end. "How are you, have you dined already? Are you home now?" he was
always worried for her safety.
"Is this the Spanish Inquisition Kenneth? One question at a time
please," she was smiling despite the pain in her finger.
Kenneth laughed heartily. He can sense her smile at the other end. He wanted to
whistle and shout with joy. It has been "Kenneth" already the past
weeks and not "Mr Yin". However when silence ensued for a few seconds
at the other end, he became worried again. "Nicole are you still
there?"
"Oh I’m sorry I was attending to my finger. It was pricked by the roses’
thorns," she replied without giving much thought to her words.
"Did the red roses I sent prick you Nicole?" he wanted to tease her
further but it pleased him that she valued the flowers he gave her. For sure
she was holding it why else would she be pricked.
"Most of the time you’re so arrogant Kenneth Yin, you’re not even sure if
the flowers that pricked me came from you," she pouted over the phone.
It was Kenneth’s turn to be silent. What if it came from another suitor? The
green-eyed monster’s bugging him now.
"Have you fallen asleep Kenneth, perhaps we should end this call now. You
must be very tired."
"Thank you for your concern, but to hear your voice is a soothing balm
already Ms Zhen." She blushed and suddenly felt shy at the other end. She
decided to ask him about his day’s transactions.
They ended the call with a lengthy goodbye to each other. Nicole sat in the
middle of her bed, a worried look on her face. NOW WHAT? She chewed on her
lower lip, her emotions a mixture of fear and excitement. She can’t help liking
the former navy man but she’s afraid to commit the same mistake. She’s afraid
she might not be able to sustain a relationship and hurt Kenneth also.
Do not ask to have your life’s load lightened, but for courage to endure;
Do not ask for fulfillment in your life, but for patience to accept
frustrations;
Do not ask for perfection in all you do, but for the wisdom not to repeat
mistakes;
And finally do not ask for more before saying THANK YOU for what you have
already received.
Nicole silently read the poem by Brenda Short on the framed poster in her
bedroom wall. It was given by Kenneth John when they were still in college.
Tears started to roll down her cheeks. She bowed in silent prayer for the
Almighty’s guidance. It seems she does not only like Kenneth Yin, she’s falling
in love with him.
A FEW DAYS LATER, when Kenneth returned to Seoul, he decided to visit Kenneth
John’s grave. He was about to park his car when he noticed Nicole’s familiar
car park at the other side. He made an abrupt halt among the thick shrubs. He
got out of his car and looked at her standing there by his brother’s grave,
deep in thought. Suddenly an unexplained dread came over him. What if after
all these years Nicole’s still in love with Kenneth John? What are his chances
against the memory of his brother?
He leaned against his car, he remembered the first time he visited the cemetery
and saw her there. He even mistook her for his twin’s wife. Kenneth decided not
to disturb her now. He has his own thoughts to conquer. He watched her back as
she returned to her car and left in the opposite direction. Slowly Kenneth
walked towards his brother’s grave. He stood there for a long time, offering a
prayer, his thoughts full of Nicole.
Kenneth John I wanted you to know that I’ve fallen in love with her and I
want to marry her. I promise to protect and love her the way you did or even
more than you did. The moment I saw her, I knew there’ll be no other for me.
She’s indeed a remarkable lady, isn’t she?
Moments later, he returned to his car with a determined stride.
‘GOOD MORNING,' Nicole greeted her secretary. The latter smiled noting the
changed demeanor of Ms Zhen. Something’s seemed to be bugging her the past days
and the younger lady was glad Nicole Zhen was back to her sunny disposition.
As for Nicole, visiting Kenneth John’s grave a several days ago had lightened
her feelings. It seems that unburdening what’s in her heart in the graveyard
was better than sharing them with Judith and Cielo. She smiled, her friends
would surely berate her for clamming up on them. Her mobile rang.
‘Hello Ms Zhen, you seemed to ignore us lately, although I noticed that you
frequent Kenneth John’s grave hmmm,’ Judith’s teasing voice admonished her.
Nicole laughed. ‘So you’ve visited him also,’ although she knew that like her
it has become a habit for their friends to visit him occasionally.
‘Are you alright Nicole, it seems that Kenneth John’s at the receiving end of
your heavy burden?’ Judith teased further. She sensed that there was something
bothering their friend but she wanted Nicole to be the first to open up with
her. Lately, Alan had dropped hints that Kenneth Yin seemed to be interested
seriously with Nicole Zhen but Judith and Cielo had not received any
information from Nicole herself if they were dating or the ex-navy man was
courting her. Now Judith is dying of curiosity and wanted to try her luck.
‘I’m okay Judith thanks for the concern. I’ve been busy lately that’s why I
haven’t been in the night-out scene,’ she tried to assure her friend.
‘Oh it seemed you’re busy indeed. I tried calling you several times at night but
it seems you’re mobile is often busy,’ Judith wouldn’t let it rest at that.
Nicole blushed, she was glad her friend can’t see her now. If ever her phone
was busy at night it was because Kenneth Yin had been monopolizing her line.
‘I’m sorry Judith, sometimes I have to talk with a client even at that hour,’
it was a half-truth since Kenneth’s company was their client.
Judith smiled at the other end and shook her head. ‘Okay just take care of
yourself and don’t work yourself too hard. Let’s have dinner Friday night, we
wanted to introduce a handsome friend to you.’
‘Judith, not again please. I don’t know if I’ll have the time for him anyway,’
Nicole pleaded as her friend ended the call with her laughter.
NICOLE LEANED in her chair and massage her temples. She eyed her mobile phone;
it has been days since she hadn’t heard from Kenneth Yin. There was silence on
his part lately since he returned from Singapore. Perhaps he’s out onto another
conquest. The dinner invitations had even stopped. Perhaps he got tired of her
constant refusal.
She pouted her lips, why should that bother her anyway. It’s the silence that
hurts, she tried to justify her reaction.
She was arranging her things on her desk, putting an end to another day. No new
roses even. Stop that Nicole, she chided herself.
Just then her secretary opened the door and hesitantly said, ‘Ms Zhen I just
received a call from the Yin Company, there is a meeting in an hour. They will
be sending the company car for you.’
She flipped her planner, ‘But the meeting with them is still two weeks from
now. What’s in the agenda? The company’s seems to have no problem. At this
hour?’
Her secretary simply looked at her blankly and murmured an apology that they
did not give any reason for the suddenness of the meeting.
‘Very well, I’ll take care of it,’ and Nicole thanked her as she was handed the
folders of the Yin Company.
There was a certain excitement in the knowledge of seeing Kenneth Yin again,
and she suppressed a smile, she felt like a schoolgirl. She frowned when she
noticed the driver glancing at her in the mirror.
Arriving at the company’s building, she hurriedly took the elevator to the
floor where the company always holds the conferences with their bankers. She
bowed and smiled at the employees she met at the corridor, chattering on their
way out. But she was surprised to find an empty conference room. She looked
around, almost everyone were in a hurry to go home. She hurriedly went to
Kenneth Yin’s office.
Nicole hesitated outside the door, trying to regain her composure before
knocking. She hadn’t dared entering the premises since Kenneth Yin started
working here.
‘Good afternoon Ms Zhen, or rather good evening. Come in, Mr Yin’s waiting for
you,’ Kenneth’s secretary pleasantly greeted her.
Kenneth was standing with his back to the door when she entered. He was
watching the gathering dusk. She cleared her throat.
‘Good evening, Mr Yin, ….I….understand there’s some emergency matters to be
discussed now,’ she said hesitantly.
Kenneth turned and gave her his enigmatic smile. ‘Good evening Nicole. Mr Yin?
I thought we’ve graduated from the formalities.’
Nicole stood rooted in her place. There was something different with him now.
Then without thinking what she was saying, ‘Your hair has grown longer, you’ve
lost that military look.’
Kenneth laughed. He was flattered that Nicole had noticed even the trivial
things in his appearance. He moved around the desk and stood in front of her.
‘I missed you Nicole,’ he said softly, his eyes boring into hers.
She stepped back and tried to broke free from his gaze. ‘What is it you want to
discuss Kenneth?’
He lifted his hand over her shoulder and Nicole stiffened but what Kenneth did
was to flick off the light’s switch behind her. Fear enveloped her and she
closed her eyes bracing herself for whatever it is Kenneth Yin was up to.
Seconds passed but nothing happened and when she opened her eyes, it was to
find him still staring at her, the room was aglow in candlelight.
She looked around and found at the farthest corner of the office a table set
for two, complete with food. Dinner by candlelight. He pushed a button
somewhere and soft music drifted across the room.
‘Now may I have the honor to request the company of the lovely Nicole Zhen for
dinner?’ he said as he gently held her elbow and ushered her towards the dinner
table.
‘Why did you trick me Kenneth?’
He looked at her seriously as he settled himself on his seat. He seemed to
weigh his reply. ‘This is the surest thing I can do that will make you agree to
have dinner with me Nicole. Are you angry?’
She looked at her hands in her lap. They sat there in silence for infinite
seconds, until she raised her head and smiled at him.
‘I’m not angry with you Kenneth.’
‘Thank you Nicole, you made me the happy with that,’ he again gave her his
dazzling smile and Nicole was lost.
Their conversation during dinner started awkwardly, but eventually both were
able to regain their composure and Nicole became her bubbly self again. Kenneth
proved to be the perfect gentleman, serving her with the food, poured her
drink, and amused her with stories of his life in the military.
He gave her a small box and when she opened it, she found a pair of starfish-designed
diamond earrings. She raised her eyebrows questioning him. A token from his
Singapore trip.
‘Starfishes often capture my attention whenever I see one on the shores. I’ve
noticed your fondness for earrings of varied designs,’ he chuckled as she fingered
the gift.
‘Thank you Kenneth,’ she smiled at him but almost pulled back her hand when he
held it. Nicole blushed as he continued holding her hand. She felt the warmth
from his hands transmitting into her body as he enclosed her hand with both of
his.
‘Don’t I deserve a proper thank you?’ he teased her to ease the tension in the
room.
‘Kenneth!’ she panicked when he stood up and held out his hand.
He slowly pulled her and it was then that Nicole realized he was inviting her
to dance.
They moved slowly in silence.
‘I think I scared you away the last time we danced Nicole. I’m sorry. I was too
taken by your beauty that I behaved like that.’
She punched his shoulder lightly with her free hand. ‘Must you remind me of
that embarrassing night Kenneth Yin?’
‘I did not regret it Ms Zhen,’ he replied as he gave a hearty laugh before
twirling her around even if the tune did not call for it to prevent her from
retaliating. Nicole did not notice when he gently pulled her closer towards him.
Instinctively she leaned her head against his chest and closed her eyes,
accepting silently the fact the she likes to hear the beat of his heart.
Kenneth felt so happy to have her in his arms again, and with their hearts
beating in unison, they continued dancing.
Tbc 10.26.06 ^_^
[My apologies for the long hiatus...i hope you'll like this little chapter i
shared...after the 4th revision. thanks again. ]
by: dilettante maia
MR & MRS YIN were having their coffee after dinner in the study room when
Kenneth knocked softly. He knew at this hour where to find them. Mrs Yin was
surprised when she saw him, making Kenneth chuckle as he sat beside her.
"I know?I know why you looked surprised Mom. It’s a rare moment that I’m
home at this hour. My apologies for being absent at the dinner table most of
the time," Kenneth looked at his mother, his eyes pleading.
"It’s all right son, we understand you’re a busy man. In fact didn’t we
advice you to get an apartment near the company so it wouldn’t be too tiring
for you?" Mrs Yin reminded him of their earlier suggestion.
"I cherish every moment that I’m here at the house Mom. You have nothing
to worry about. Besides I have my own hide-out now," he winked at his
mother.
Mr Yin made his presence felt as he cleared his throat. "Kenneth it seems
you don’t have any social life since you’ve arrived. You should relax a bit
son, go out and meet some beautiful ladies. Perhaps we can ask your Mom to
organize a party so you can meet our friends’ daughters."
The remark made Mrs Yin looked at her husband with a frown and a slight shake
of her head, indicating to let Kenneth decide for himself.
He got up, chuckling softly. Mrs Yin gave a soft sigh, relieved that their son
was not offended by his father’s suggestion.
"Thank you for the reminder Dad, but I’m taken already."
"She’s the one you mentioned to the press before, your someone special? Is
she from the States?" Mr Yin was smiling now.
Kenneth did not reply but walked towards the window, his hands on his pockets.
His face turned serious as he thought of Nicole. She’s his special someone, but
what about her? He wanted to laugh out loud and give himself a kick. He must
hurry now or else?
He turned to his parents and smiled. "In due time, I will introduce her to
you."
*****
Kenneth was whistling in his car as he drove to work. Today is another special
one. Nicole had agreed to have dinner with him. In fact, after that dinner at
his office a few weeks ago, they’ve become extra friendly with each other. It
seemed that his perseverance was slowly paying off.
He would often invite her on the pretext of discussing work. He really enjoyed
hearing her voice, seeing her smile. He has really fallen in love with Nicole
Zhen.
Moreover, their dinner dates had become a habit for them. Slowly, Kenneth had
captured Nicole’s trust. On the other hand, Nicole was discreet with her
friends with regards to their budding relationship and Kenneth understood that.
He knew that just one small mistake would send her scurrying from him again.
Kenneth was careful where he brought her for dinner, places which he
half-guessed were not frequented by her friends. Most of the time, she would
allow him the choice of their date’s venue.
******
Nicole was agitated; she came earlier in her waiting place. She cannot help but
smile? She’s saving on gasoline and food nowadays. Suddenly, she pouted, shook
her head and frowned. She’s falling in love with him but he looked contented
now with being friends with her. Was he joking before when he said he wanted to
court her? Was his earlier obvious pursuit just a passing fancy? Is she in for
another heartache? These were some of the thoughts that often bothered her.
Her facial expression was not lost on the man who was sitting behind the wheel.
Kenneth wanted to surprise her too. He did not miss the smile she tried to hide
from the passing people and he did not miss the frown and pout that followed.
He wanted so much to smooth that frown on her brows and kiss the pout from her
lips. He slowly glided the car beside her.
"Penny for your thoughts Miss?" he drawled in a deep voice.
Nicole was startled and stepped back. But she glared at the man behind the
wheel when she realized who it was.
"You scared me, don’t ever do that again," she admonished him.
He chuckled and helped her with her seatbelt. "You seemed to be lost in
your thoughts, so I decided to wake you up."
"If I screamed, I’m sure that policeman over there will surely make your
day."
Kenneth pursed his lips, "Oh, I’ll just tell him my girlfriend was having
a tantrum and was giving me a difficult time."
She blushed at what he said but did not want to repeat his words. "My
girlfriend" made her heart flutter. She looked out of the window, she knew
she was blushing. Kenneth stole a glance at her and bit his lips, realizing
what he had just said. Did he offend her?
He heaved a sigh of relief when she was her bubbly self again during dinner.
They were almost finished when her mobile rang. She excused herself to answer
it but Kenneth overheard what was the topic. It was a movie. He tried to recall
what was being shown that week but to no avail.
"It was Cielo, bragging about the movie they’ve just watched," she
looked at her mobile on the table, her lips pouting.
Kenneth smiled secretly, she’s really like a little girl at times. "I
assumed the lead’s one of your faves, and your friends invited you today to
join them but we had a dinner date that’s why you declined?"
She did not reply immediately but Kenneth can tell from her expression how much
she wanted to see it. He looked at his watch. "It’s alright Kenneth, I can
look for a DVD later."
"Come on Nicole, time to go."
When she looked up at him, her smile was back, the smile that he loves so much.
He was flattered, realizing that she gave up being with her friends in favor of
him.
He drove in silence until they reached the movie house. Nicole gave him a
surprised look.
"Don’t tell me we are going to watch the movie?"
"Hurry little girl or else we will miss the last show," he winked at
her.
He enjoyed her company, her silent chatter inside the movie house, but Kenneth
watched only half of the movie. Most of the time, when she was silent and was
concentrating on the big screen, he just sat there, angling his head discreetly
so he can watch her. "I love you Nicole Zhen," he silently
transmitted the message to her lots of time that night.
****
It was a fine weekend, summer is definitely here, Nicole thought as she swung
her tote bag. She was restless waiting beside the garden set. She did not want
to appear eager for this outing with Kenneth but she’s excited where they were
going today. A picnic he simply told her yesterday.
He had a business dinner with some clients last night but arranged for this
weekend treat before he went. He was insistent and she knew when he was in that
mood, Kenneth wouldn’t take no for an answer. They haven’t seen each other for
weeks, she surely missed him.
A car screeched but Nicole tried her best not to look at the gate immediately.
Until she heard a whistling tune. "Take my breath away” She hid her smile
before turning her head.
"Wow, you’re really breathtaking miss. I came to collect Ms Zhen but you’re
sexier than her, I think I’d rather have a date with you," Kenneth gave
her a wolfish grin as he stood outside the gate.
Nicole slumped against the garden chair, and crossed her arms. She blushed,
regretting why she wore this spaghetti-strapped dress. Why he has to mention
the way she looked, she hissed silently.
"Then you’d better wait for Ms Zhen. I’m waiting also for a gentleman, not
a roguish ex-military man," she glared.
Kenneth laughed enjoying the sight of her beautiful face when she’s mad.
"Oh but I’m also an officer and a gentleman Miss."
Just then Nicole heard the front door opening and knew that either of her
parents would be coming out. She hurriedly picked up her bag and went out,
shrugging her shoulders as she passed him. That earned her another whistle from
him.
Once inside the car, he reached for something from the backseat and gave her a
single red rose.
"Good morning Ms Zhen, I’m offering you the ‘olive branch’ The engine
wouldn’t start unless you give me your lovely smile."
They sat there for a few seconds until Nicole found the situation hilarious and
prevented herself from giggling.
"You’re infuriating at times you know," but Kenneth knew she did not
mean it when she turned and smiled at him.
He can’t take his eyes off her, remembering the night he kissed her. She looked
out of the window, remembering the same incident. It pleased Kenneth that
lately she seemed to favor the pair of earrings he gave her.
"Where are we going?" she asked curiously.
"You just wait and see. I hope you’ll like the place. But I think you’ve
been there before."
Her lively chatter spiced up their travel. Kenneth often stole a glance at her.
She looked lovelier today in her casual clothes. And sexier, he thought
mischievously. In fact for Kenneth, every time that he saw her, she had become
more beautiful.
"You’ve grown your hair longer, really Kenneth, are you trying to create a
fad among the young executives?"
"This is my fashion statement for now, I’ll have it cut short again when
the lady I love accepts me as her boyfriend." He again stole a glance at
her, she was blushing, and he was satisfied by her reaction. Actually he had a
haircut last weekend but still it was unnoticeable because of his preferred
style nowadays.
After an hour, they arrived at their destination. In fact Nicole was excited
when she realized they were headed for the beach. She watched the beach house
in awe. It was strategically located from the shoreline.
"Have you been here before?" he asked tentatively, afraid to open old
hurts and memories of Kenneth John.
She shook her head, eyebrows raised, a question in her eyes.
"This is owned by the family, I discovered this a few weeks after I
arrived. Since then, it has become my retreat whenever I want to get some
breather for a while."
Nicole remembered that Kenneth John had mentioned when he was still abroad that
the family had purchased a beach property, but then they parted ways and she
never had the chance to visit the place.
"Then come on, I’ll show you around," he offered his hand and she
took it tentatively. Kenneth seemed to be walking on clouds instead of the
sand. And it was only her hand he was holding. He hid his smile as he led her
inside the house.
After a brief tour of the house, Kenneth led her to the family room while he
went out to get something to drink. Nicole offered to help him unload whatever
he brought, but he declined. She was sifting through the different movie
collections when he returned.
"All yours?" she asked noticing the varied
war/detective/action-related movies. They were surely not Kenneth John’s type
of movies.
He nodded. "I brought them all the way from the States. In fact I forgot I
have them until one time I became nostalgic and hoarded them here. Perhaps I
just missed my friends in the navy too."
She nodded her head and smiled at him, her eyes full of understanding. Kenneth
wanted to ask why she was not able to visit this place before with Kenneth John
but held his tongue.
"Oh you also have this," Nicole laughed softly as she picked the
movie Top Gun. She had watched the movie many years ago with Judith and Cielo.
"Your favorite foreign actor?" he tried to guess, seeing the
happiness in her eyes.
"My once upon a time crush," and this time the room was filled with
her laughter.
"How I envy the guy," Kenneth sat down on the sofa and looked at her,
his lips mimicking her usual pout. She glared at him, not wanting to follow
where the conversation was leading.
Nicole returned the DVD and leaned against the shelf. "Was life in the
navy similar to that movie?"
Kenneth leaned his head against the sofa and closed his eyes, a smile hovering
around his lips. Nicole stared at his face, mesmerized.
"Rigid but fun. Although we didn’t have any gorgeous instructor like what
Tom Cruise had in Top Gun. How we wished! Instead we were given balding
men." He chuckled and opened his eyes at the same time, surprising Nicole,
who immediately looked elsewhere.
"Do you know how my ensigns got back at me? Like that movie, they made me
play the piano at our favorite watering hole. I’ll have little time to drink
why they enjoyed carousing."
"Oh you play the piano as well. Really you are like Mr TC," she
teased him to cover up for her embarrassment at being caught staring at him.
"So are you in love with me already?" he shot back and winked at her
as he stood.
She followed him reluctantly. Does he know that she has fallen in love with him
already? Nicole felt her face getting hotter. He was unloading the picnic
basket at the porch. He stopped and looked at her, his face serious.
"You’re?"
"Infuriating," Kenneth finished the sentence for her. She can’t stay
mad at him for long. She gave him a light jab on his arm. He pretended an OUCH.
Kenneth stole a glance at her while preparing their food. He requested his
mother last night to prepare something special for a picnic and Mrs Yin,
without asking more questions complied with excitement knowing that her son was
having a date. She bit her tongue from asking more questions of the lady’s
identity. As long as Kenneth was happy.
While Kenneth was reclining in one of the deck chairs, he looked at Nicole
staring serenely at the sea. It was indeed a special lunch.
"Would you like to go for a swim later, when the sun’s not too hot?"
she smiled at him and shook her head profusely. Kenneth was glad he did not get
a glare this time from such suggestion.
"I’d like to take a walk later, though, when the sun has cooled down,
before we leave," there was a plea in her eyes.
"Of course Nicole, we can walk up to the horizon if you want to," he
laughed softly as he stood and pinched her chin before he went inside to get
her a pillow.
"I used to be a shell collector when I was a kid. I gave up when my room
started to look like a shoreline and Mom was often harassing me to throw
them."
"Ms Zhen used to collect sea shells from the seashore? they both laughed
remembering that nursery rhyme.
When she became silent for a while, Kenneth realized she had fallen asleep and
started to close his eyes too. He wanted to reach out for her hand but checked
himself.
****
When they strolled later in the afternoon, Nicole can’t help picking up some
shells. "They’re not rare, right?" there was doubt in her eyes as she
bit her lower lip, staring at her hands full of shells already.
"Don’t tell me you’re going to throw them. It was a joint effort,
remember. Here, let’s put them in my pocket. Perhaps I can line them up in the
shelf in my room until you’ve decided what you’re going to do with them,"
Kenneth offered.
She retained a rare looking one, it was actually one of his picks, and put it
in her pocket. Kenneth did not bother to ask but had a sheepish smile as he
followed her. Oh, you just don’t know how I love you so much Ms Zhen.
They continued walking and talking quietly. She saw a starfish, newly washed
ashore by the tide, and she ran to retrieve it.
"Look Kenneth, a starfish, I haven’t seen one again since my teenage
years!" she was giggling as she ran back to him and placed it in his palm.
"It’s still alive, let’s give it another chance to live Kenneth" she
said as she inspected it.
Kenneth nodded his head, although he was more interested watching her profile
as she bent her head. She’s so caring and kind, he thought even if he had known
that already.
He let her release the starfish back to the water, then as he waded beside her,
he asked softly, "When will you give yourself another chance to be love
again Nicole?"
She slowly turned her head and they stared at each other for a long time. Tears
started to form in her eyes. She’s afraid that she might hurt him in the end
also. She wanted to run away from him but there seemed to be a magnetic force
pulling her towards him, and as tears started to roll down her face, he moved
towards her and gathered her in his arms.
He let her cry in his chest. A few seconds later, he tilted her chin and wiped
her tears with his thumbs.
"I don’t want to see you cry Nicole. Promise me this will be the last time
you will do it. Smiling is your forte." He sighed deeply and continued,
not wanting to release her. "From the first time I saw you, I knew there
was something special about you. I knew you were the one for me and no one
else. I’ve love you since then, you were the special someone I was referring to
when I was interviewed. You’ve caught me Nicole hook, line, and sinker from the
moment we met at the cemetery though I was not aware of it."
Nicole just stared at him with her big round eyes, she can’t hide the love in
her eyes now.
"I love you Nicole, I’ll always do," he said softly, and as his lips
descended to claim hers, she did not resist. It was a very gentle kiss, so
different from the first time he kissed her during that dance. When he lifted
his face, he was smiling, she touched his cheek tentatively and nodded her
head, tears of happiness were visible in her eyes this time. Kenneth hugged her
and murmured a husky thank you.
tbc. [7.27.07]
by dilettante maia
Kenneth and Nicole continued walking along the shoreline, hands clasped. They would stop every now and then to simply look at each other, smile and if Kenneth was lucky, he would steal a kiss from her. He would get a pinch on his arm as her silent retort, but he did not care at all. He just can’t believe his luck today. Kenneth did not expect that it would be his happiest day.
"Kenneth I think we should return now, haven’t you noticed the clouds. Seems there will be a downpour," Nicole tugged his arm.
He looked at the dark clouds, they failed to notice the sudden change in the weather and had wandered far already from the beach house. "A sudden rain in summer," he agreed.
"It’s your fault Nicole, you captivated me with your charming smile. I did not notice the surroundings," he teased her, but there was truth in it. He was so enamored with his girlfriend, he failed to notice anything. His girlfriend, he was so ecstatic he suddenly hugged her. They stood like that for seconds, until he felt the first drops of rain.
"Dare to race against me?" Kenneth asked as he held hand and pulled her, urging Nicole to run.
They were giggling like schoolchildren when they reached the beach house. Both were drenched. Kenneth hurried her inside and led her to his bedroom. He draped a large towel around her shoulders as she was shivering already, and grabbed another one to dry her hair.
Nicole suddenly felt embarrassed with their situation. They were in his bedroom, the towel he draped around her still had traces of his scent.
"It’s alright, I can manage Kenneth, I think I’ll have a quick shower," she said, teeth chattering.
He held her shoulders and looked deeply into her eyes, his worry reflected in his eyes. She smiled at him to give him some assurance. He opened his closet and looked for something.
"I’m sorry Nicole, Mom has no clothes here, so I think you have to wear my shirt while I’ll dry your clothes," he said as he ransacked the few things in his closet. Actually most of the things he kept at the beach house were his military stuff. He found a camouflaged shirt.
"I hope this will do for the meantime. It’s large enough? he did not finish his sentence when he saw her blushing profusely this time.
Nicole averted her eyes when he looked her up and down, she did not want to see what was in his eyes. It was not mischief, she was sure of it. She grabbed his offered shirt and headed for the bathroom door. "You must hurry and change into dry clothes too Kenneth," she murmured.
She was already inside when Kenneth said, "I’ll wait for your wet clothes here." That floored her. Does that mean she has to entrust her every piece of clothing to him?
"Can I꿤an I … I’ll dry them after my shower." She stated firmly at last.
"I’ll wait for them, it would be faster that way, so we can leave early," he commanded outside the door.
Nicole had no choice but to follow orders. She opened the door slightly and handed him her wet clothes. There was a bang as she closed the door again and Kenneth laughed as he went out of the room.
The shirt was indeed too large for her but it just reached her knees. She panicked. There’s no way she’ll go out of this room dressed like this. She gingerly sat at the edge of the bed and hugged the loose shirt close to her. This must be a special shirt for him because he had it hidden among his military mementos. Perhaps he still wore it when he’s at the beach house. Suddenly she felt so sleepy that she curled in the middle of the bed and fell into a deep sleep.
Meanwhile, Kenneth tried to rummage from the cupboards for something to eat while they wait for the rain to abate. He peered out of the window and whistled. It was raining cats and dogs. Moreover, it was very dark outside already. He shook his head and proceeded to reheat the soup. The weather can sometimes be so unpredictable. It was so sunny when they went out that morning.
He glanced at his watch and looked at the short flight of stairs leading to his bedroom. Perhaps their clothes are dry now. What took Nicole so long to come out and join him? Then he remembered her predicament with her clothes and smiled mischievously.
"Nicole, I have instant soup prepared here. Would you like me to bring it over there?" he started to eat but after a few minutes of waiting, he lost his appetite and became worried.
"Nicole are you alright?" Kenneth knocked lightly. Still there was no response. He tried the doorknob and slowly stepped inside the room.
Kenneth stopped abruptly with what he saw. He didn’t realize that a camouflaged shirt could look sexy. Nicole was curled like a little girl in the bed, his bed. The pose might be that of a child, but she was all woman as Kenneth looked at her. He hesitated before going near her. She’s so beautiful, he mused as he tried to avoid looking at her exposed legs. His hand was trembling when he smoothed the hair on her forehead. Kenneth bent to kiss her, but straightened suddenly. He can’t bear to stay in the room with her.
He stepped backward, and hurriedly went out of the room. Lt. Kenneth Yin was afraid of his emotions. He was smirking as he went out of the house and walked in the heavy rain. This is better than a cold shower, he thought as he kept on walking until he reached the shoreline.
The house was still quiet when Kenneth returned. After changing into dry clothes, he sat on the sofa, glancing at Nicole’s folded clothes and at the bedroom door. He laid down his tired body and soon he too had fallen asleep.
===
Nicole hurriedly sat up and looked around the room. "Kenneth?” she called softly. The house was so quiet. Why didn’t he wake me, she pouted as she stretched the shirt. When Nicole opened the room, only a lamp shade was lighted in the living room. She saw Kenneth sleeping on the sofa. As she tiptoed to get her clothes, she was not aware of a pair of eyes eyeing her.
Kenneth smiled at her antics. He had no desire of letting her know he was awake already. He wanted to laugh when she tried to stretch the shirt as she took the short flight of stairs back to his room. His girlfriend is definitely adorable. And desirable, he added.
He closed his eyes when he heard her footsteps again. He knew she was near when her scent assailed his senses. You’ve got to pay for this torture Nicole, he smiled inwardly.
Nicole peered down at his handsome face. She lowered her eyes to the expanse of chest exposed by his opened shirt. She was surprised he still wore his dog tag. She blushed and averted her eyes. It was then that she met Kenneth’s stare.
She fumed and tried to hit him. "You tricked me, you were not asleep. You were awake when I went down earlier to get my clothes, right?"
He pulled her suddenly making Nicole lose her balance and ended sprawled on top of him.
"I was asleep. In fact I was dreaming of a sexy lady in a camouflaged shirt tiptoeing up the stairs to my bedroom," Kenneth replied innocently, mimicking her pout.
"You뭨e … but she was not able to finish her sentence as Kenneth started kissing her. He intended it to be a light one, but it deepened, and with her eager response, his resolved vanished.
Her hands started moving instinctively, touching him also. It was only when her hand touched something cold on his chest that she grew still. She started pushing at him.
"Kenneth … please we have to return."
Nicole’s face was burning as she stood up and straightened her clothes. Kenneth sat up too. He pulled her gently beside him and was glad when she did not resist but sat hesitantly.
"I’m sorry," he whispered as he smoothed her hair with trembling hands.
They sat there, Kenneth wasn’t aware how long. It was only when Nicole lifted her head and smiled at him that he knew he was forgiven. He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear and smiled back at her. Words were not necessary as their eyes spoke volumes of the love they have for each other.
*****
It was already past midnight when they reached Nicole’s house. Neither of them wanted to part with each other, their goodbyes and hugs seemed unending.
Both can’t sleep until the early hours of the morning. Nicole can’t forget the events that transpired during the day. She knew she was blushing when she recalled their heated kisses. There were many of what ifs running through her mind. On the other part of the city; Kenneth’s mind was also full of the day’s event. Even if he closed his eyes, Nicole’s lovely face and desirable form were still so vivid.
"Thank you for giving me a chance to be a part of your life Nicole." He whispered to the empty room as sleep claimed him.
Tbc [11.23.07]