If we do meet up again

 

Han Yu Pin Yin: Jia Ru Zai Yi Ci Xiang Yu
Author: Sakuki
Author Final Entry: 21/09/2003
Source: AAE Village
Translator: TS~*

Contents

Chapter 1 - 1.. 1

Chapter 1 - 2.. 3

Chapter 2 - Will You be celebrating my birthday with me?. 5

Chapter 2 - 1.. 5

Chapter 2 - 2.. 6

Chapter 3 - The person who will only love twice.. 7

Chapter 4 - The First Date.. 9

Chapter 5 - The stars are in pain.. 11

Chapter 6 - Valentine Day’s Chocolate.. 13

Chapter 7 - My memories, must I forget them too?. 17

Chapter 8 - Our promise to love each other again in the next life.. 20

 

 



Chapter 1 - 1

Note from the author: Well, Xiang Zhe lost his memory and since I don’t know what/how I would continue to write it in any other ways, so please forgive me. This is what I’ve read from the others and some even commented that my story seems to resemble Meteor Garden 2 and Winter Sonata ( It is all to blame on the fact that XZ and SM’s story is too perfect and what is to be expected next would be they would walk down the church, with wedding bells ringing and up next stories of their married life, they would have children and all these are really pretty boring! So I’ve decided after much pain that Xiang Zhe would have to loose his memory but I can guarantee you guys that it’s would not resemble the latter 2 stories)

Now, I’ve got to make some assumptions:

1. When XZ propose to SM, he’s 27 yr old and SM 24 (A younger age would be easier to write) J
2. The story is taking place after everything has passed for a year
3. After XZ lost his memory, his regained his past behaviour, the character before he met SM, so full of anger, pain and hatred of life and his father. As for SM, since XZ lost his memory, SM decided not to burden XZ with the fact/knowledge that she’s his fiancé for she doesn’t want to give him any pressure in asking him to remember her for she felt that she’s already hurt XZ too much. Therefore, so as to prevent XZ form feeling guilty as for not remembering, nobody reminded XZ of SM.
4. As for SM, due to heartache and the pain of knowledge of the XZ loss, she’s decided to quit her job as a news anchor and have now become a teacher in the kindergarten.

The story unfolds………..


First Lesson:
“ You’re also called Xiang Zhe??”

Today is the first day of the new term in the Kindergarten……

“Dear students, please queue up!” Today is the first day of the new school term and all the little kids are excited and nervous, Shan Mei can only be patient with her charges.

“Ok ! have everyone taken their seats? I would like to take the attendance now and before I begin taking the attendance, I would like to introduce myself. My surname is Zhen, you all can call me Ms Zhen. I hope we all can get along well in class! Kim Chen You, Lee Chi Chang, Jiang You Mei……Shen…..Xiang Zhe?” Looking at the class attendance list, Shan Mei suddenly felt an unknown sort or pain.

“ Yes Ms Zhen/teacher, I’m Xiang Zhe.” A cute little boy answered Shan Mei’s call. His sweet and innocent voice drew Shan Mei out from her deep thoughts

“Yes! I know now. This is a good name. You are a good boy!” Shan Mei patted the little boy’s head and said.

But unknown to all, this little Xiang Zhe did brought quite a bit of trouble for Shan Mei. He not only eats his food slowly, he will also wet his bed and sometimes, even pick fights with his kindergarten school mates.

MBS Building……
Xiang Zhe was just discussing his plans for the next day….

“Yin Xiang Zhe!” Yong Xi walks down the corridor from the opposite direction.

“Yong Xi, You really need to give me some face. How can you call my name so loudly! Where’s Senior Xian Da?”

“Yes, Director Yin. Senior Xian Da is still working, so I’ve got to wait for him.”

“Aiyo! You guys are really sweet. How I envy you.”

“ Don’t say that. If you do fall in love, I think you’ll love the person even more deeply than I do.”

“ Didn’t I said it before, I want to be single?”

“Yes!” Yong Xi sighed. Everytime she thinks of Shan Mei, she’ll feel the heartache and pain. If only Xiang Zhe can regain his memory.

“Oh yeah, By the way, Yong Xi, I think Manager Kim is trying to recruit/rope in someone (news anchor) from , please keep an eye on it for me ok!”

“Xiang Zhe, I don’t think your father will want you to have any major conflicts with Manager Kim.”

“Well if that’s the case, he shouldn’t have called be back.” Xiang Zhe is still unable to forgive his father for betraying his mother

“ May I know who is Ms Zhen Shan Mei?” a florist with a bouquet of roses walked in.

“Oh, It’s me.” Shan Mei replied as she receives the flowers from the florist

“Hey, Shan Mei, You really have got lots of admirers eh, how many bouquets have you received?” asked Ms Kim jokingly

“Don’t laugh at me anymore, you know I’m not interested.”

“But he’s not bad, such a loyal admirer. Since the day he sent his nephew to school, he’s been wooing you.”

“Stop it! Or I shall be angry”

“Ok…Ok I shall”

“ Ms Zhen, your student Shen Xiang Zhe got into a fight with his classmates again.” Ms Lee came hurriedly into the teacher’s room.

 

 

Chapter 1 - 2

“What!” Shan Mei ran out of the staff room hurriedly

“Shen Xiang Zhe, What happen? You got into a fight again?” Shan Mei pointed at Xinag Zhe and said

“Because he said Ms Shen is his, but I know Ms Shen is my teacher!” little Xiang Zhe said innocently

“Xiang Zhe, what you did is wrong! How can I, your teacher be exclusively yours? I’m everybody’s teacher. I love everyone of you!” Shan Mei explain patiently to little Xiang Zhe

“Really? Ms Zhen(teacher), my mum says that you’re a news anchor…have you been to the TV station before? Can you take me along?”

“Hmmmmm…………”

“Ms Zhen, We all want to go too.” All the little kids in the kindergarten class caroused

“hmm….ok!” looking at all the curious and innocent faces, Shan Mei agreed
“ But all of you need to seek permission from your parents first before you can go and you all must promise that you will behave well.”

“We will” all the little kids promised

Shan Mei made an appointment with Yong Xi and it was during the time when Xiang Zhe has already returned to work in MBS. Shan Mei brought all the kids along for an outing to the TV station.

“Little ones, this is the TV station. Remember not to run about in here ok. Do all of you want to go take a look at how cartoons are made?”

“YES!!”

“Zhao Di!” Shan Mei decided to look for her old friend to help her out. Now Zhao Di has become a very famous cartoon voice-over after the cartoon My little Kingdom was made. All the little kids liked and know Zhao Di’s voice as the princess in the story.

“Shan Mei!! You naughty gal! I thought you’ve forgotten about me.” Zhao Do gave Shan Mei a big bear hug.

“ Everyone, this is Zhao Di jie jie (am using han yu pin yin ‘cos sister Zhao Di would sound like a nun’s name). She’s the voice of the princess in My Little Kingdom. If you all want her signature, don’t forget to ask!” Once Shan Mei finishes her introduction, all the little kids rushed forward and surrounded Zhao Di.

“ Don’t run around!” Shan Mei reminded her students again

After everyone has completed their tour of the TV station, Shan Mei gathered everyone together to do a head count

“Ok! We need to leave soon. Please check if your partners is with you in the queue.”

“Teacher, Shen Xiang Zhe is missing!”

“What!!” Shan Mei panicked when she realised what happened. “Did anyone see him or where he went?”

“No…” came everyone’s reply

Shan Mei had no choice but to ask Zhao Di to keep watch over her charges and go look for Shen Xiang Zhe on her own………

“ Please make an appointment with news anchor Ren Mei Wen for tomorrow.” Xiang Zhe had just came in from lunch and was talking to his sectary on the phone when he saw a little boy of about 3 or 4 years old crying in a corner.

“Little boy, why are you crying?”

“ I can’t find my teacher!”

“Teacher? I bet you’re here for the outing right? What’s your teacher’s…………”

“Xiang Zhe, what are you doing? Do you know I was very worried about you? Xiang Zhe’s question was suddenly interrupted by someone behind him. Hearing someone called out his name, he turned around curiously.

“Teacher!” seeing Shan Mei, Shen Xiang Zhe rushed forward towards her.

Shan Mei caught Shen Xiang Zhe and as she’s was really worried about him, Shan Mei started to cry as well.

“ Do you know how worried I was for you?” Observing this interesting scene unfolding before him, Xiang Zhe unknowingly smiled to himself. Where in this world would you find a teacher who likes to cry as well? And she seems to know me.

“ Xiang Zhe, where have you been? Didn’t I told you not to run around? When we get back to the school, I’m going to whack you!” Shan Mei said in between sobs, wondering why everyone named “Xiang Zhe” gave her so much pain and sorrow

“Miss…Opps…No…Teacher, what did I do wrong?” Xiang Zhe asked Shan Mei curiously

It’s Him? Why is it such a coincidence? Shan Mei’s thoughts were interrupted by the familiar voice. Looking up, she suddenly realised that she’s starring at the person she is still deeply in love with, her Xue Zhang (Senior). Shan Mei felt an overwhelming sense of happiness and pain, and a slight feeling of being caught in a joke. She felt happiness for she hasn’t seen Xue Zhang for a long time already; Pained for he hasn’t regained his memory and didn’t know who she is and a feeling that her situation is funny for because of Shen Xiang Zhe, she gets to scold the Director of a big TV station at his face.

Looking at how Shan Mei was starring at him and although he’s already used to being looked at, Xiang Zhe still feels uncomfortable.

“ Miss, are you all right?”

Shan Mei was roused from her deep thoughts and had to explain that actually the little boy’s name coincidently is also called Xiang Zhe. “Right? Shen Xiang Zhe?”

“Yes” Shen Xiang Zhe nodded his head

“Oh really~!? You’re also called Xiang Zhe? Looks like this is really a wonderful name huh!” Xiang Zhe patted the little boy’s head and commented

“ By the way, How did you know I’m also called Xiang Zhe? Do we know each other? I lost my memory in an accident so I apologise if I do not recognise you.”

Although it’s his first time meeting Shan Mei, he felt a sense of closeness. Unknown to him, what he just said hurt Shan Mei even more deeply.

After a while, Shan Mei gathered her thoughts and composure and replied “ oh, I was once a news anchor in MBS, but due to some personal reasons, I quit my job here. I’m Zhen Shan Mei, nice to met you!”

“Oh so it’s like that.”

“I’m sorry, the other children are waiting for us. I need to leave now. Xiang Zhe, thank this uncle and bid him good bye!”

“Goodbye Uncle, see you!”

Shan Mei held Xiang Zhe’s hand and left hurriedly…………

 

 

Chapter 2 - Will You be celebrating my birthday with me?

Chapter 2 - 1

He really can’t remember a single thing? Looking at Xiang Zhe’s distant ad impersonal behaviour, Shan Mei’s sad and disappointed. Even the doctor cannot guarantee that Xiang Zhe would regain his memory after the accident, so how can Shan Mei pressurize him to remember her? She knew that if Xiang Zhe realises that she’s his fiancé and yet he doesn’t even have a faint memory of ever meeting her, he would feel guilty and give himself great pressure to try remembering. Loving some one isn’t about only living in bliss. It’s about being able to give the person you love so deeply happiness even it means leaving him. Shan Mei decided to leave Xiang Zhe so as to give him the freedom to choose again as well as to allow herself to be happy again.

Giving/Greeting everyone a bright and lovely smile is Zhen Shan Mei’s beauty, isn’t it?

“Everyone, I’ve got some goodies to give you all. Look!” Shan Mei took out a bag of sweets as she said.

“ Wow! This is great! What’s so special about today, Teacher?”

“Oh! It’s my birthday today and like all of you who would bring goodies for your best friends to celebrate your birthday, I’m also sharing my sweets with everyone.”

“Really? So have you receive any presents, Teacher?”

“Yes I did. My friends send them to me.”

“Did you receive any presents from your boyfriend?” Yu Mei asked innocently.
The Kids nowadays are really fast and mature, thought Shan Mei.

“ Well, I don’t have a boyfriend so I didn’t receive any presents from him. Nobody is going to celebrate my birthday with me as well… so any little boys in calss is willing to be my boyfriend?” Shan Mei asked with a laugh

“Ms Zhen/Teacher, I want to be your boyfriend! I will celebrate your birthday with you tonight!” Shen Xiang Zhe raised his hands and said proudly.

“Huh!? Oh!” Shan Mei stalled. “ that would be nice, in that case, I’ll bring you out for a big dinner tonight!”

Once everyone heard that Ms Zhen wanted to treat Xiang Zhe to dinner, all the little boys wanted to be her boyfriend as well.

“ Well, Xiang Zhe will go with me this time round since he raised his hands first. I’ll bring the rest of you next time ok!”

That night, Shan Mei went to Xiang Zhe’s house and asked his parents for permission to take him out for dinner. Little Xiang Zhe, wearing a kid size tuxedo, accompanied a lovely Shan Mei who’s wearing a green elegant dress to dinner.

Shan Mei returned to the same open-air restaurant that Xiang Zhe brought her for her birthday last year.

All the shining stars up in the night sky seem to be smiling brightly down on Shan Mei, wishing her happiness.

 

Chapter 2 - 2

“Happy Birthday, teacher!” Xiang Zhe took out a little soft toy and gave it to Shan Mei

“Oh! This is really cute and beautiful, Thank You.” Shan Mei said as she tapped on Xiang Zhe’s little head.

“Teacher! How can you be so impolite to your boyfriend!”

Shan Mei was surprised that such a little boy could actually act like an adult

“Ah! I’m really sorry!” Shan Mei looked at Xiang Zhe apologetically

At this time, Yin Xiang Zhe who was on his way home after a business dinner with a client walked past them. “Oh! Aren’t that the kindergarten teacher I saw last time in MBS? An the little kid is present too!” Xiang Zhe coundn;t identify the feeling but he is fond of the teacher who likes to cry. Looking at them, Xiang Zhe decided to walk up and greet them.

“Ms Zhen! Hello! It’s you guys! It’s been a long time since we met! May I sit down?”

When Shan Mei saw Xiang Zhe she had a fright; Even though he has lost his memory, God still made him keep his promise to me? He’s really here to celebrate my birthday?

“Oh! Sure.” Shan Mei paused for a while and replied

“ Little boy, You’re here too!?” Xiang Zhe will definitely remember the little boy who shared his own name.

“Today’s teacher’s birthday. I’m teacher’s boyfriend so I’m celebrating her birthdy with her!”

“Really?” Xiang Zhe asked Shan Mei

“Oh, Yes it’s true. Today’s my birthday.”

“ I’m asking about whether if he’s your boyfriend.”

“As teacher didn’t have a boyfriend right now, I volunteered to accompany first!” little Xiang Zhe rush to answer the question. Beside him, Shan Mei could only smile embarrassedly in admission

“If that’s the case, I shall accompany you too!” Xiang Zhe didn’t feel like going home early today. He was lonely and by returning home, he would only be engulfed by the darkness and stillness on an empty house.

“Really?” She can celebrate her birthday with him this year; after so many things have happened? Although Shan Mei no longer hope that Xiang Zhe will remember her, she still misses him a lot. “This is the greatest birthday gift I’ve ever received. Thank you.” Shan Mei said with tears welding up in her eyes

Looking at a teary Shan Mei, Xiang Zhe was concerned about her sudden change of mood. “Are you all right?”

“It’s nothing… I’m fine. Ok… Please help me pop the champagne! Didn’t you promise to celebrate my birthday with me?” Shan Mei answered as she took to champagne bottle from the table.

“Cheers…..”

After sending little Xiang Zhe home, Xiang Zhe drove and sent Shan Mei home

“Ms Zhen, I need to buy something, can you wait a while?”

“Sure!…

After a while, Xiang Zhe returned with a big bouquet of lilys/tulips (sorry… I’m not sure what bai he hua is… but it’s definitely not roses ‘cos I can only identify mei kui :P)

“Happy Birthday!” Xiang Zhe said as he gave the flowers to Shan Mei

“Is this really for me? Thank You!” At that very moment, Shan Mei felt that she’s the luckiest and happiest person in the world. Her dream of being with Xiang Zhe again could really come true?

“You don’t have to be so touched, it’s just a bouquet of flowers!”

It’s not like that. I thought I would be celebrating my birthday alone today since all my family members are busy, I didn’t expect to be able to celebrate it with 2 Xiang Zhes as company. I’m so happy. Oh by the way, how should I address you? Do I have to call you Director Yin?” Shan Mei had to hide her feelings

“I’m not your superior and you do not work for MBS anymore. So you can call me Xiang Zhe.”

“Oh in that case, do I have to return your favour?”

“You really want to return the favour of me celebrating your birthday with you?”

“Of course, as long as it not too expensive!”

“Well, in that case, can you accompany me for a drive out to the countryside this weekend?”

“Erm…….” Shan Mei’s wondering and considering the kind of relationship she’s suppose to maintain when with him.

“Is that a difficult decision to make?” Xiang Zhe asked

“ No… not that… of course I can go with you”




Chapter 3 - The person who will only love twice


“Hello! I’m Zhen Shan Mei!”

“Is this Ms Zhen? Are you ready? I’m already waiting for you outside your house!”

This is a bright and sunny Saturday morning… the weekends… to rest and be with the people whom you love…….

Shan Mei didn’t know that receiving Xiang Zhe’s call early this Saturday morning could bring so much happiness. The fact that he still can't remember her doesn’t seem to matter much anymore….

Today, Shan Mei looks lovely. She’s wearing a white blouse with rose prints matched with a red coloured knee length skirt. With her long black hair flowing loosely, she looks cute and demure.

“ Wow! I didn’t know you’re so pretty!” Xiang Zhe couldn’t keep his compliment and commented.

“ So all along you didn’t think I was pretty?” Shan Mei acted like she was angry and said

“I’m sorry, actually I’ve always thought that you’re very pretty just that you look prettiest today!” Xiang Zhe explains hastily, afraid that Shan Mei would really get upset.
(gals/women… we like to be flattered… :P)

“I’m not that petty ok, didn’t you say you want to go out?”

“oh…yes”

After an hour of car ride, they finally reached the outskirts/countryside of Seoul City.

“ Wow! This place is comfortable and lovely! Thank You so much for bringing me to this great place”

“You’re really so happy? It seems like you’re easily contented huh! If anyone is to marry you, the guy should be very lucky and happy!” Xiang Zhe said

It’s this same words again? Don’t he know that he’s actually that ‘lucky and happy’ man?

“Are you all right?” Noticing Shan Mei’s sudden change of emotions, Xiang Zhe was concerned

“I’m fine, what do you need me to do? Didn’t you say I need to return you a favour?”

“Oh.. In that case, I want you to talk to me or you can just sit beside me, just like that, here.” As Xiang Zhe speaks, he patted the grass patch beside him.

Shan Mei sat down slowly and taking a look at Xiang Zhe, analysing his emotions she asked “ Do you have something that’s bothering you and would you like to share it with me?”

“Haha! What problems would I possibly have? I’m a happy man!” Xiang Zhe said with a laugh

“Well, it’s hard to say, even the little kids in the kindergarten will be troubled by many things and they will always share their problems with me. I’m a good listener. So, how about it? Do you need a teacher as well? ” Shan Mei smiled at Xiang Zhe and said

Actually, Shan Mei do not really understand what Xiang Zhe feels and thinks, whether is it before he lost his memory or after he did. This is so as Xiang Zhe always keeps his problems to himself and gets weigh under great pressure all the time.

“In that case, you can tell me about your life, the kindergarten, your family or even the lovers that you’ve had. By the way, you really don’t have a boyfriend? I find that a little hard to believe!”

“It’s true. I don’t have lover/boyfriend. Do you want woo me?” Shan Mei teased him

“Do I have that honour to do so?” Xiang Zhe asked jokingly. Xiang Zhe is still hunted by the failure of his parents marriage. He’s cynical towards love for he do not believe that he would be able to love anyone and for that metter, he wouldn’t want to hurt anyone else, like his parents did.

“Where’s your family?” Xiang Zhe continued

“My family? I family consist of my father/daddy, auntie and of course there’s also me! I love them very much and I believe that they love me too.”

"And where’s your mother?” Xiang Zhe regretted his question the moment he asked it. “If she’s got a mother why didn’t she say it in the first place?...What an idiot I am! (I added this for a nicer/better feel to the story :P) ”

“My mother passed away not long after I was born.”

“I’m really sorry!” Xiang Zhe apologised

“It’s ok, I’ve always felt that God has treated me well enough. Although I do not have a mother, I’ve got the world’s best father. I do not lack anything, be it my material or emotional needs 'cos daddy provided everything I could ever asked for. And I also have an auntie who loves me like a mother. Once someone told me that I’m a lucky person and I guess I’m.”

 



Chapter 4 - The First Date

What kind of feelings does he have towards Ms Zhen Zhen Shan Mei? Xiang Zhe did not question himself deeper. He really likes being with her, enjoying her company. He feels a sense of contentment and happiness every time he’s with her.

‘Why did you ask to see me? I’m still working!” Due to Xiang Zhe’s sudden visit, Shan Mei was caught off guard and didn’t know how to react.

“I remembered you said that you’ll tell me the reasons why you decided to quit your job as a news anchor at MBS if I bring you out for dinner last weekend.”

“Haha. Is my story so interesting? But I’ve got to work late today. I need to make sure that all the students have gone back home before I can leave.”

“I’ll wait for you then.”

“Come back at five o’clock!” Although Shan Mei’s a little upset Xiang Zhe’s sudden visit, she’s delighted to be able to met up with her Xue Zhang (senior) but she wonders when she’ll be able to call him Xue Zhang again.

As if Shan Mei will always be destined to end up with anyone named Xiang Zhe, Shen Xiang Zhe’s mother called that afternoon and said that some family situation as came up. She needed to trouble Shan Mei to send her son home later. Shan Mei had no choice but to bring along the little boy to her five o’clock date.

“Oh! This little boy is here too?!” Xiang Zhe was a little taken aback and a little disappointed. After all, for all he can remember, this is the first time he did ever asked a girl out.

“Yes! Xiang Zhe, call uncle!” Shan Mei said, a little apologetically

“Hello Uncle!” Seeing this ‘Uncle’ again, Xiang Zhe feels a little jealous

“Oh! Right!” Shan Mei suddenly remembered that there’s two Xiang Zhes in her presence

“Shen Xiang Zhe, since this uncle is also named Xiang Zhe and since teacher will surely mixed the both of you up, I’ll call you Little Zhe (Xiao Zhe) okay?”

“No way! I don’t want to be called Xiao Zhe! Why can’t that uncle be called Little Zhe (Xiao Zhe)? I’m bigger than him, I’m teacher’s boyfriend!”

“Wah… oh…” Shan Mei was shocked beyond words… Is this a kid she thought?

“Ok, I’ll be known as Little Zhe then.” Xiang Zhe volunteered. He knew that if he didn’t pacify the little kid and get into his good books, he wouldn’t hear the end of his tantrums and wouldn’t be able to get on with his date.

……….Xue Zhang as little Zhe (Xiao Zhe)?
Thinking about what Xiang Zhe had just decided he should be addressed as by her, Shan Mei laughed out loud.




Commercial Break
- Note form the translator: How do you translate the word ‘Xing Fu’? It’s a question I keep asking myself. I always feel that this Chinese word ‘Xing Fu’ encompasses so many emotions and thoughts. Words like happiness and contentment alone never seem to be enough to express the complexity of this word. I always feel that my knowledge of English is inadequate to explain ‘Xing Fu’. Perhaps it’s also because ‘Xing Fu’ is an emotion and each and everyone’s definition of what it is, is different. Guess it’s the beauty of the Chinese language huh and the shortcomings of not being able to express the word well is also due to my limited storage of vocabulary. Many regrets!




In the car…….

Due the little kid’s insistence, Shan Mei gave in and accompanied her ‘Xiang Zhe’. Both of them ended up sitting at the back of the car and Xiang Zhe had to be their ‘chauffer’

“Shan Mei, where do you want to go for dinner? Do you want to try out the new western restaurant? It’s got a good ambience.”

Shan Mei was about to reply when little Xiang Zhe rushed and answered
“Let’s go to eat hamburgers! I want to eat hamburgers!”

“In that case……” Xiang Zhe obviously didn’t want to spend his first date eating hamburgers with Shan Mei

“In that case, let’s go for hamburgers. Shall we!” Shan Mei said. What other choices does she have? She’s after all that little devil kid’s ‘boyfriend’.

Xiang Zhe drove them all to a fast food restaurant. Since ‘Xiang Zhe’ wanted burgers, how can ‘Little Zhe (Xiao Zhe) ignore orders?
While Xiang Zhe was eating heartily and ignoring his two guardians, Shan Mei softly asked Xiang Zhe “ Do I really have to address you as Little Zhe?”

“It looks like that’s the only choice you have”

Recalling, Xiang Zhe found his predicament amusing. After 10 years old, he has never been called ‘Xiao Zhe/Little Zhe” anymore. Not even his mother has called him that after he was 10. Xiang Zhe wondered how his subordinates would react if they found out that their high and mighty Director Yin is being addressed as ‘Xiao Zhe’ by a mere 3 year old kid and a kindergarten teacher.

“Xiao Zhe, tell me truthfully, are you trying to woo my teacher?” the little devil did not forget to ask, still enjoying his burger

“Don’t you worry. Your teacher has promised to be your boyfriend so I can’t take her away from you even if I want to!” Xiang Zhe said, feeling Shan Mei’s glare falling upon him.

“Xiao Zhe! If you want to eat, hurry up!” Shan Mei said strictly

Xiang Zhe dared not make anymore suggestions, but he hasn’t already fall in love with Shan Mei has he? Shan Mei gave him a feeling that he never felt before, perhaps that’s love?

After am exhausting night, they finally sent little Xiang Zhe home

As Shan Mei lived near by, they decided to take a stroll

“Well, I’ve treated you to dinner. Aren’t you suppose to tell me why you quit your job at MBS”

“Because……My programme was a big flop! Since no one wanted to watch it, how do I still have the cheek to continue?” Shan Mei had no choice but to tell a lie

“How can that be possible? Who don’t look like someone who’s not well liked by the audience.”

“Do you really have to be so serious? I was only joking with you. Actually, I loved the kindergarten job more. The children world less complex and more innocent.”

“Really?”

“Ok. Can we talk about something else?”

“Ok! You need to reward me! This is our first date!”

“Is this a date? Maybe! Reward…?” Shan Mei suddenly recalled something they said from the past

“I’ll reward you with…………. a bowl of very expensive instant noodles! Hahaha…..” Shan Mei gave him a wide smile as she finished her remark

Her smile’s really lovely!




Chapter 5 - The stars are in pain


After the first date, Xiang Zhe would find all sorts of excuses to take Shan Mei out for dinner. High TV ratings, the 100th day they met, lunar Moon cake festival were just some of the excuses.

No matter if he’s happy or upset, Xiang Zhe always enjoys being with Shan Mei. Who was it that said sharing your happiness with someone would double it and sharing your troubles will half your sorrows?

Xiang Zhe couldn’t explain why he’s able to share all his joys and pains with someone who he has just met recently. Even his childhood playmate, Yong Xi is not able to make him feel so happy like Shan Mei is able to. Although he hasn’t known her for a long time, he feels a sense of closeness with her. Perhaps they were once friends when she was working in MBS?

When he did question her about it, Shan Mei told him that their previous relationship were just that of a superior and subordinate. There are still many unanswered questions lingering on Xiang Zhe’s mind but he acknowledged the fact that he likes Shan Mei. No, the feeling is much stronger than just liking her. It’s love! Xiang Zhe loves Shan Mei.

He couldn’t measure how much love he felt for her. He only knows that she’s on his mind 24 hrs a day. While he’s eating, he’ll wonder if she has eaten and when he’s going to bed, he’ll wish that she too would have a good night dream. He loved her whole-heartedly. And what about her?

She always shows him her lovely/endearing smile. Even it’s just sitting quietly beside him. Shan Mei feels contented and happy. She places great importance on all their dates. Based on his male instincts, he could sense that she likes him too.

“Xiang Zhe, Look! There are so many stars tonight! They are so lovely” Shan Mei often repeats the conversations that they had in the past unknowingly.

“You’re right! It’s amazing that we can still get see so many stars from Seoul City. Our luck must be really good!”

“Xiang Zhe, Do you know that I always feel that we, human beings, do not understand the stars very well. It’s really sad and pitiful to be a star.”

“Why do you say that?”

As Shan Mei speaks, her eyes reflected the unspoken pain she suffers in silence. Xiang Zhe is pained by her sadness. He always wondered if her pervious relationships brought her much unhappiness. She has confidently told him that she’ll only fall in love twice. Is it due to her unhappy and hurtful past relationships that made her think this way? Xiang Zhe is curious about the person who broke Shan Mei’s heart.

“Because…..” Shan Mei continued “People always comment that the North Star is very unpredictable for it changes its position without following any seasonal change. But in reality, I always question that statement. Who changes the most? It’s us, humans not the stars. The unknown stars beside the North Star are even more pitiful. They are always firmly stacked in their places, waiting patiently for people to notice them; for the people that will never belong to them.”

“ In that case…… Are you also waiting for someone then? The person is really hateful, how can he hurt our pretty Shan Mei! I’ll make sure he suffers.”

“No! I hope that he’ll be happy and live a wonderful life. Really, you mustn’t hurt him.”

“Shan Mei!” Looking at such a kind-hearted and generous Shan Mei, Xiang Zhe’s deeply moved.

“You know what, actually it’s me who’ve always let him down. I did lots of things that have hurt him deeply. His life is already complicated enough and I added on to his unhappiness. So, it isn’t him who’ve left me, it’s just that I do not wish to hurt him anymore.” Shan Mei hoped that Xiang Zhe would get her meaning and understand why she has done what she did. She wants him to be able to love himself better.

“Shan Mei…….if … you compare me with that person, who do you think is better?”

“Huh!?”

Xiang Zhe’s question stumped Shan Mei. How is she to answer him? They are the same person after all!

“I feel that…….it’s very difficult for me to compare the both of you as you’re both very much alike. The only difference is that……. I wish to be with the person more.”

“Shan Mei…..” Xiang Zhe cannot stop himself from asking the question that he has kept in his heart for a long time anymore. “Shan Mei….. Do you like me?”

“Of course I like you. You think I’ll just ran out and date anyone off the street?” Shan Mei replied

“Then……..Do you love me?”

“How about you?”

Although the person asking the question is not anyone else but Xiang Zhe, Shan Mei still feels shy. She answered his question with yet another question instead.

“I…., in my memory, I think I’ve never felt this special way for any other girl before, but… I really want to be with you. When you’re sad, I want to be there to console you and at the same time, when I’m sad, I wish that you would be by my side, giving me strength. It’s just this feeling I have. I suppose that is love I feel towards you.”

“Why do you have to explain to much? If you love someone, love her and if you don’t then that’s not love. Can’t you look at life in a less complex way?”

Shan Mei’s only wish is that Xiang Zhe can lead a carefree and happy life. This is her love for him.

“Why? I’m not naïve enough?”

“”Yes! You’re always so stressed up, all so full of trouble. Look at you, your eyebrows have almost crossed each other.” Looking at him, Shan Mei reached forward to smooth out Xiang Zhe’s eyebrows.

“You should be like the Xiang Zhe in our kindergarten, only in this way will you be truly happy!”

“In that case, can I naturally become your boyfriend as well? Just like Xiang Zhe!”

“Oh! The way you defend and fight for your cause is indeed very much like him.” Shan Mei implied, pouting her lips.

From her expression, Xiang Zhe got the answer he wanted. Not able to resist himself, he lean forward and kissed Shan Mei. Before she realised what just happened, Xiang Zhe has already pulled her into his arms and embraced her.

This sweet kiss is filled with the painful memory of the past-That beautiful night, all so full of hope for a wonderful future for them both, that night where he placed the ring onto her finger…..

All the bits and pieces of the past, flashed across Shan Mei’s mind, overwhelming her senses…Slowly, tears flowed down her cheeks…….



Chapter 6 - Valentine Day’s Chocolate

With a blink of the eye, Valentine Day is here again.

One week before Valentine Day, Shan Mei has already started planning as to how she’s going to spend/celebrate the day with Xiang Zhe. Although they’ve known each other for a long time, this is still a first that they’re spending Valentines’ Day together; ‘officially’ as a couple.

At first, Shan Mei thought of buying chocolates for Xiang Zhe but later she felt that buying a present is not meaningful and sincere enough so she decided to make one for him.

After spending one whole weekend in the kitchen, she finally baked a reasonably presentable chocolate for him. (Do you bake chocolate?? I’ve no idea…sorry :P)

Her initial plan was to bake a heart shaped chocolate but it turned out triangular.

[Aww, Xue Zhang, Please don’t blame me for how the chocolate turned out, I’ve already tried my best. Who call you to fall in love with a dumb/silly/blur girl like me; it’s already a feat that the chocolate can turn out this way and you should be glad; but it looks delicious, so that’s a consolation okay. Anyways, as long as this gift is one that’s sincerely from me, you should be happy.] Shan Mei thought to herself

She took out a piece of blue wrapper and carefully bundled up the precious gift for her beloved. Although there’s still two more days to Valentines’ Day, Shan Mei can picture Xiang Ze’s expression when he receive her gift, at that, her heart is filled with sweetness and happiness.

[Oh, Right! Perhaps she should also bring along some chocolates for the kids in the kindergarten. Although she normally do not agree for the children to eat lots of sweets, but since it’s Valentines’ Day, she can make an exception for once!]

Shan Mei went to the supermarket and bought a bag full of chocolates that the kids loved. These are the chocolates that have a toy in it which make the kids ‘crazy’ over them.

(Kinder’s Delight is the name of the chocolate I think…. Haven’t eaten them in a while. I only like the toy..the chocolate isn't that nice :P)

“Ring…..”

“Hello, I’m Zhen Shan Mei!”

“It’s me!” Xiang Ze’s confident and deep(sexy) voice sounded at the other end.

“Is there anything up?”

“Must I have a reason or a problem before I can call you?”

“No lah, I’m just saying” Shan Mei explained hurriedly

“I’m just teasing you, you don’t have to be so upset and worried over it. Actually….I’m wondering if you’re free next Monday.”

“Next Monday? Let me think about it!” Shan Mei said playfully, planning to tease Xiang Ze

[Silly fool, It’s Valentines’ Day, how can I not remember and reserve the day specially to spend it with you?]

“Do you have to take so long to think about it? It’s……”

“Valentines’ Day!” Shan Mei rushed and completed Xiang Ze’s sentence

“You teased me?” Xiang Ze finally realised the prank that Shan Mei pulled on him

“Who make the rule that only you can tease others?”

“Okay… I cannot win you on that. Then…I’ll pick you up after work!”

“No! My colleagues will start talking again if they see us!”

With someone who’s so famous like Xiang Ze, it’s better if they’re more low-keyed/profile with their relationship. Before, she’s lost her 9 o’clock news anchor job because of her relationship with him; she’s learnt her lesson.

“Am I so un-presentable and scary that you cannot show me to your friends?” Xiang Ze sounded hurt; like a wronged child.

“Of course NOT! Don’t you start thinking silly thoughts? It’s just that I’m still not used to you picking me up from work!”

“Okay!” Xiang Ze surrendered “I’ll meet you at our usual place then!”

“Okay!”

This Valentines’ Day should be an unforgettable one. Both of them are looking forward to it.

Finally, it’s Monday again. Monday is also Valentines’ Day.
Shan Mei pleated her hair for this very special day. She looks extremely cute and lovely.

“Ms Zhen, what do you have in that bag? Don’t tell me that it’s the present you’re giving to your boyfriend. If it is, I’m sure he’s going to cry. It’s Valentines’ Day and you’re only giving him that!”

Shan Mei realised that she’s attracted lots of attention from her colleagues when she walked into the Staff room carrying a big bag of chocolate eggs, but she did not expect such a situation of being teased by her colleagues. She did not know whether to cry or laugh.

“Of course its for him. To be my boyfriend must be very tough on him!” Shan Mei started to laugh at herself

“You’re serious?”

“Of course not. These are for the children in the kindergarten. Isn’t there a saying which goes like: Rather than enjoying the happiness alone, it would be more wonderful to share it with others?”

“Oh no wonder the children like Me Zhen so much. It seems like you’re born into this world to bring joy for others!”

“No, it just so happen that today is Valentines’ Day as well!”

Although Shan Mei did not tell her students that she’s going to bring chocolates for them, Shan Mei can imagine the joyous look on their faces when they receive the chocolates. Oh! If only Shen Xiang Ze that little devil could give her less trouble, she’ll have to thank God.

“Good morning Ms Zhen (Teacher)!”

“Xiang Ze, What can I do for you?” Looking at a secretive Shen Xiang Ze, Shan Mei smell trouble brewing for her.

“This is… a chocolate for teacher!”

“Ah!” Shen Mei stood, surprised. She did not know whether to laugh or cry at the little devil’s actions. “Xiang Ze, Do you know that it’s for the girls to give the guys chocolates on Valentines’ Day and not the other way round?”

“Really?” In that case, does teacher have any chocolates for me?” Shen Xiang Ze’s really a very quick kid. Luckily Shan Mei has come prepared.

“Of course! Teacher has got chocolates for all of you.”

“Where?! I wan to eat it!”

“Okay, I’ll give them to you in a minute!” As she reply, Shan Mei picked up the bag of chocolates and took out a chocolate egg for Xiang Ze

“The rest are for the others! You’re not to eat them okay!” As she says, Shan Mei took out the blue package of chocolates meant for the adult Xiang Ze. She didn’t want the kids to see it in the first place but unfortunately, the little devil was again too quick for her.

“Teacher, Who are you giving this pack of chocolates to?” A sharp eye Shen Xiang Ze saw it at once

“This…. Is…oh!” Shen Mei couldn’t find an excuse to save herself

“You’re giving them to Little Ze right? Teacher is so bias, you’re giving him the bigger pack of chocolate, I’m then teachers boyfriend!”

“I’m not being bias, it’s just that he’s older than you so by right he should get the bigger pack of chocolates. Didn’t I tell all of you the story Kong Yu giving away his present before (Chinese story: moral of that story is respect for your elders)?

“But I’m your boyfriend so I’m the biggest!” Looking at an almost crying Shen Xiang Ze, Shan Mei couldn’t bare for him to cry.

“Make it this way, I’ll give him my chocolate egg and you give me that big pack of chocolate, okay?” Shen Xiang Ze gave Shan Mei a hopeful look and pleaded, making her unable to reject him.

“This…..”

“Everyone, quick come and look at the chocolate that Teacher bake herself!” Listening to Xiang Ze’s loud announcement, all the kids in the class came rushing out for chocolates. It was in this way that the chocolate was completely devoured by a bunch of kids.


There’s definitely no more time to bake another chocolate. It’s won’t be easy even if she wants to go out and buy some imported chocolate as it’s almost time for her to meet up with Xiang Ze and it cannot be changed…..she won’t be on time even if she rushed

Looking at the remaining chocolate egg on the table,---serve you right Yin Xiang Ze. Since you lost your memory and forgot all about me, this shall be your punishment! Shen Mei laughed at her own prank.

-------------------------------------------

At the place where they are to met up, Xiang Ze is already there, waiting anxiously for Shan Mei

“You must’ve come here in a rush right? I’ve already told you that I can pick you up!” Xiang Ze said, re-arranging Shan Mei’s wind-blown hair.

“In that case, how would I have the time to get you a present right!” Shan Mei replied, smiling, her eyes twinkling with merriment

“All this while, you’ve been preparing the present? I’m a little curious about it”
He’s not only a little curious but VERY curious about it. After all, this is the first Valentines’ Day, in his memory, that he’s spending it with his Valentine.

“Then….did you prepare anything for me too?” Shan Mei asked, experimentally.

“About this…..” Xiang Zhe purposely dragged his answer, “of course I have!” As he complete his sentence, he took out a stalk of rose and placed it in front of her.

Shan Mei acted like she’s disappointed with the present: “Only this? This is after all our first Valentines’ Day together!” Actually, being able to spend Valentines’ Day with Xiang Ze has already made Shan Mei very happy. It’s the best gift she could have ever received.

“Not enough?” I thought you’ll be happy with it. “Where’s mine then?”

“Yours?….It’s here.” Shan Mei took out an exquisitely wrapped box and handed to over to him, smiling.

“Aww, it’s so cute! Let me take a look.” Xiang Zhe’s delighted and twinkling eyes froze the moment he saw his present…. “ it’s just a chocolate egg?”

“Isn’t it good? This is a present that can satisfy 3 wishes” Shan Mei continued to give him her mega watt smile.

“But…Don’t you think it’s not very suitable for me?” It’s these same words again! Shan Mei can only reply it with “But it’s very suitable for me ah! As long as the person who’s giving you the gift is sincere, you should be happy!”

“Okay! I’ll keep it. So it’s not only a gift but it’ll also grant me three wishes?”

“Oh! I’ll have to consider your performance first!”

The same sentences; again allowed the very same person to feel happiness enveloping him and made him laughed out loud. He will spend his life time loving her, treasuring every moment with her…..

Although both did not receive presents that they are satisfied with, they spend a lovely and sweet Valentines’ Day together nevertheless.

----------------------------

Outside her house---

“Okay, I’m going in now.” Shan Mei opened the car door and stepped out of the car

“Hey, wait a minute!” Xiang Ze called out softly to stop her

“Is there anything else?”

“This…..is the real present that I wanted to give you for Valentines’ Day” Xiang Ze took out a exquisite box from his pocket and gave it to Shan Mei

“Can I open it?” Shan Mei is surprised by the sudden gift

“Of course!” Shan Mei opened the box slowly. In it is a crystal butterfly hairclip. She can imagine the crystal sparkling brightly when she wears it on her head. It’s really beautiful

“Do you like it?”

“I loved it. Thank You!”

“Between lovers, there’s no need to say thank you!” Xiang Ze said

“But I still want to thank Xue Zhang. Thank you for loving me!”

“Then…aren’t you giving me a reward for my good work? Really…only a chocolate egg?”

“Actually….Actually I was planning to give you the first chocolate I’ve baked myself but…it’s now all in Yin Xiang Ze’s stomach!” At this, Shan Mei cannot stop herself from laughing

“What!” Xiang Ze looked like an upset, big kid who couldn’t get his sweet and throwing his tantrums. “In that case… I want something else!”

Before Shan Mei can react, he’s already wrapped her in his arms, sealing whatever she was planning to say with a passionate kiss. This time round, Shan Mei can feel herself returning his kiss.

This is a night that belongs to all the lovers under the stars. To do anything else is a pity.

Though Xiang Ze’s heart is filled with the thoughts and images of his Shan Mei, loving her, kissing her….and there’s still----- Shen Xiang Ze. [You little devil…you just wait and see…………….]

 



Chapter 7 - My memories, must I forget them too?

“Hello?” A bright and sunny weekend morning, a called from Xiang Ze roused the sleepy Shan Mei who was planning to sleep in late.

“Lazy bum/Sleepy head, such a wonderful weekend, let’s go out for some workout, don’t stone around at home.” Xiang Ze said teasingly

“Where do you want to go?” Shan Mei asked, looking out from her window, the sun is already up high and bright.

“Top secret!”

“Ah! If you don’t tell me, I wouldn’t dare to go out with you.”

“Get out of bed quick! If not we won’t be able to make it” Xiang Ze hurried her

“Okay! Give me 20 minutes”

Today, Shan Mei wore a pink blouse matched with a cream coloured khaki skirt. She looks fresh and pretty. She always captivates Xinag Ze’s attention. To Xiang Ze, Shan Mei is such an amazing girl, whenever she is around, his black and white world will always be filled with the colours of life; living will no more be only about hatred and the chase of power and money. With Shan Mei, there’s more to his life, it’ll also be filled with kindness and love.

“What are you looking at?” Shan Mei is still not used to him looking at her like that.

“You’re……really cute! It’s true!” He meant what he said.

“About that, you don’t have to tell me. I already know!”

“You’re so confident about it?” Xiang Ze couldn’t help but tease her.

“Of course! Oh, by the way, where do you want to take me to?”

“To my house”

“What?” Before Shan Mei had enough time to think and react; she was already pulled into the car by Xiang Ze.

After losing his memory, Xiang Ze had moved to a little bungalow by the seaside. It’s a picturesque and quite place.

“Welcome to my house. Please come in”

“Hmm… the place is really tidy and neat! You can pack very well eh!”

Although a bachelor, his house is still very well kept. This is his habit. It wasn’t packed just before she came. She knows his habit of being tidy and organised for she had done ‘spot checks’ on him before in the past.

“Thank you! What do you want to drink?”

“Anything will be fine!” Replying, Shan Mei looked around his little living space. Is this how he is living now? She couldn’t believe that fate would have her become his girlfriend and to be able to see his personal and private domain again.

“Wow, this bag…” Looking at it, Shan Mei recognised his original briefcase.
(Joke: briefcase: a case where briefs are kept~!! Hahah :D lame… I know)

“Oh! I used to have it before I lost my memory; I keep trying but couldn’t recall the number combinations to the lock so I can’t open it “ Xiang Ze explained

“Usually, people will used a birth date or telephone number as a password” In fact, Shan Mei knew the combinations to open the lock but she still wanted to test him. Take it as a punishment for forgetting her, she thought to herself.

“Yes, I know. But I’ve tried all the possible ones I could think of but still can’t open it.”

“In that case, why don’t you let me try.” Shan Mei volunteered bravely

“Okay! If you can open it, I’ll give you a big reward!” Xiang Ze said jokingly. He do not believe that she, being just a former employee will be able to know the numbers that he place importance in or know his secret passwords.

“You’ve got a deal!” Shan Mei is full of confidence that she’ll be able to open the briefcase for him. Using her birth date as the numbers to the lock, she opened the bag easily.

By God! How did she know so much about him? Is she really just an employee?

“You knew the passwords didn’t you? If not, how can you open it on the first try?”

“Oh~, don’t say that, I’m a lucky angle, didn’t you know? Such a simple and small task, it’s not difficult for me to guess the right combinations~!” Shan Mei said evasively

“Really?” Xiang Ze found it hard to believe her.

“Really! Oh right, I have yet to know… why did you bring me here? Up are you up to this time round?”

“Right! I planned to bring you here to help me open my briefcase. Can I?”

“How could that be? Unless you can look into the future, how would you know if I would be able to open your briefcase?”

“But I’ve got telepathic powers, didn’t you feel the vibrations!” Xiang Ze said, unwilling to lose out to her.

Telepathic powers? In the past, I’ve always been unable to receive Xue Zhang’s telepathic messages, so right now; you’re also unable to receive mine. Is that why you’ve forgotten about me? Shan Mei suddenly felt sad as she thought about the past.

Although she is able to be with Xue Zhang right now, he is still not able to recall/remember about her. It pains her heart to know that.

“Why? You’re going to cry again? Why do you have so much tears?”

“A very…very long time ago, someone too, once told me about telepathic messages, he’s always foolishly standing behind me, waiting for me; and often, he would bring along a stalk of rose and appear quietly outside my house.”

“Shan Mei” Why does she, as his girlfriend always tells him about another man in front of him? Xiang Ze didn’t like the feeling of being No. 2

“Can you just look straight at me, nobody can live forever in the memories of the past, in front of you is Yin Xiang Ze, not anyone else.”



“Do you know how I feel towards my past, how much I treasure my history? No one knows!” Unable to contain her frustrations and pain any longer, Shan Mei unleash them in a tirade of angry words.

Yes, no one will know how much heartache and pain she had to live with. In order not to burden him with more guilt and pressure him to recall her; their shared memories- she’s the only one keeping it save for them now. Her love for Xiang Ze; it’s the love she has for him from the past till the present. Looking at him, she’ll naturally recall the past; their every moments together.

Must she, because of how he is now, also forget about the past; throw away all her memories too? Thinking about everything that has happened, tears spilled her cheeks. She ran out of his house….

When Xiang Ze realised that Shan Mei has ran out, She’s already disappeared out of sight. He couldn’t find her anymore. What is left behind on the carpet, was their promise to love each other again in their next life-the pearl and meteorite chain that he had once given her….




Chapter 8 - Our promise to love each other again in the next life.

Mentally reviewing the images of Shan Mei running out on him and the pearl, meteorite anklet she dropped, Xiang Ze’s mind is in a complete blank but a familiar voice in him keep repeating the sentence “ Let us promise to love each other again” Is it her? Did he make this promise to her before? Shan Mei, she must have been a very important person to him in his earlier life, isn’t it like that? He cannot conceal and calm his curiosity and emotions anymore, if she’s been a broadcaster at MBS, he’s sure that there must have been some personal information on her, in the company.

He drove to the office and in the storage vault, he finally found the answers that revealed all and shocked him-“Fiancée of Wen Rong Conglomerate and preceding CEO, Ms Zhen Shan Mei” She was his fiancée? How is it possible that he could have forgotten about such an important person? And Shan Mei, what make her stay by his side even though he’s forgotten about her? She must have suffered a lot in silence.

“Xiang Ze, what are you doing in the storage vault?” Yong Xi was surprised to see him there.

“Yong Xi, what is going on here?” Xiang Ze asked, showing her the information he was holding tightly onto, shaking uncontrollably.

“Shan Mei left the company for she didn’t what to become your responsibility. She didn’t want you to feel guilty or pressure you to recall her, when you can’t. Please understand how she felt. Aren’t you in a new relationship with someone now? Don’t hurt another girl anymore; treat your new girlfriend well. Shen Mei left, giving you her blessings and wishing you well.”

“But….” There were tears in Xiang Ze’s eyes. “The girl I’m currently dating is still her, but she didn’t tell me anything about the our past.”

“Dear God!” Yong Xi couldn’t believe what she just heard.

“If that’s the case, don’t ever let go of her hand anymore/again! In the beginning, I’ve always thought that you’ll lock away your heart and put up a barrier; rejecting any one who showed you care and concern. Not even me, your childhood buddy could get you to open up and share your thoughts. Until one day, you told me that you’ve fallen in love with a girl, I was really upset then; who could have made you love again, something that I’ve tried so hard and failed, who could have done it so easily? But after I get to know Shan Mei better, I realised that she’s really meant for you. She’s kind, innocent and generous. She’s someone who you and I will never learn to become if not for her. She’s made a difference in all our lives. I’m truly happy for you when I realised that. But you lost your memory; you couldn’t even recall a slightest thing about her. She didn’t you to feel bad about having to recall her, so she decided to leave. But now you fall in love with her again without realising who she was to you before. You two are meant to be together. Don’t lose her again or you’ll regret it for the rest of your life.”………. Yong Xi finally told Xiang Ze how she felt.

Just like before, Xiang Ze drove to Shan Mei’s house to wait for her.

“Let’s have a talk!” He said “I’m sorry. I’m sorry that I couldn’t remember about you, about us!”

“Forget it! I don’t blame you. These things are beyond our control. I didn’t want you to know in the first place, I just wanted to be quietly by your side, even if it’s just for a short period of time, I thought it’ll be enough but I was wrong. I told you once, before, about the person I was waiting for, he’s the guy who walked into my life when I was 20, the Xue Zhang who walked with me thru rain and shine. I want to be with that Xiang Ze. You’re a perfect man. No matter was it the before or now. I cannot deny that up till now, I’m still in love with you, but I’m unable to stay by your side any longer for I’ve got too much memories of our past.”

“You told me once, that no one can live on their past memories, but perhaps to you, I’ll forever be that kind of person, always reminding you of the things we did together, that you’ll never ever remember. In that way, both you and I, will become very tired. Let’s…… break up! Form now on, we’ll lead our separate lives, I believe that someone more suitable for you will come into your live one day. Perhaps in two, three or ten years time, when you have kids, you can tell them about the lady who lived on her memories, who have loved you once. This is our engagement ring, I do not wish to see you buy more than one engagement ring in your entire life, if you do have a girl to propose to in the future, wear on this ring for her! I’ve got other errands to run so I’ll take my leave now.”

Shen Mei couldn’t hold back her tears any longer; turning around, she left.

Looking at her retreating back again, Xiang Ze wasn’t able to voice out any words to stop her. Perhaps, letting her go is doing good for her; he thought to himself. Just then, he remembered her anklet in his pants pocket. He called out to her and ran up.

“Shen Mei, I’ve to return this anklet to you!”

Thinking about it, Shan Mei felt like crying again.

“Thank you. This was a present from you. When you wore it for me the last time on my birthday, we made a promise to love each other again in our next life. I’ll treasure it. If…..if there’s really a next life, you must promise to remember me, don’t ever forget again.”………………..

 

 

( 9-The End)

(I’ve thought of many endings…. More room for imagination~!)

Chapter 9 - The memories that came back with you.

She’ll leave! Shan Mei couldn’t bear the feelings of dejection any longer. For Xue Zhang and also for the sake of the people who love her, she needed to get away to start all over again.

Go to England, that’s the place where they started: In the beginnings of the new season, the gentle breeze; at the corner of that fated crossroad, she needed to go back there to bury all her memories, to rest a ghost that hunted her.

“Miss Zhen, are you planning to leave?” Shen Xiang Ze, who got wind of her imminent leave, came around to ask.

“Yes, teacher will be going to England to study.”

“Xiang Ze will miss you, Miss Zhen. Can’t you not leave the kindergarten?”

“My little foolish boy, when you grow up, you’ll leave this kindergarten too; you’ll leave Miss Zhen and go to another school too. Besides, you can always visit me in England!”

“No, I don’t want to do that! I want to be able to see you everyday. When I grow up, I want to marry teacher too!” The little cutie pie was clearly upset and close to tears.

“Okay, I promise you that I’ll come back and visit you often, how about that?”

“Really? Okay.. let’s cross our fingers”

“Okay….”
-----------------------

“Xiang Ze, do you know that Shan Mei is leaving?” Yong Xi is worried about these two ill-fated lovebirds.

“She……leaving?” Although he’s a little surprised and upset, but who is he to her now? What can he offer her to ask her not to leave?
“What kind of reaction is that?” Yong Xi is really worried for them now.

“We, we broke up already. Perhaps, having to be with the new me is really unfair for Shan Mei. I know she’s a good woman, hopefully she can find greater happiness away from me.”

“Are you really the Xiang Ze I know? The Xiang Ze I know can give up everything and anything; can be cold and hard-hearted about all matters in the world but he’ll never give up on Shan Mei. Even when he talked about her, he’ll always be filled with pride and love for her. How can you still sit here so calmly and treat it like just another mundane day when you know that she’s leaving? Okay, I don’t care anymore! She’s leaving tomorrow, you think about what you want to do!”

Looking at the retreating back of Yong Xi, who walked out on him, Xiang Ze is in despair. ----To make her stay? But what can I offer her? Pain and hopelessness enveloped him.
---------

Today, Shan Mei will leave Seoul. To Xiang Ze and Shen Mei, it hold different meanings and feelings.

To Shan Mei, she wanted very much to be able to see Xiang Ze send her off but then again, she didn’t want him to see her retreating back…to see her leaving him.

To Xiang Ze, he’ll miss Shan Mei, even though he’s lost all his memories of their time together, he knows in his heart that he still loved her. She’s still the sunshine that warms and brightened up his heart. He didn’t want to or dared to imagine how his life would be without her, but, he also didn’t want to give her any unnecessary pressure. In the end, he had to bottle-up his feelings and stop himself from telling her how he felt. He set her free.

“Director Yin, this is a package for you.” His sectary brought in a package as big as the size of a book and handed it over to him.

The sender--- Zhen Shan Mei.

Is this a package from Shan Mei?
He opened the package carefully. In it, is a videotape.

“Xiang Ze, I’m sorry. Right from the beginning, I didn’t want to give you any pressure or make you feel guilty but in the end, I still did, by sending you this package. But I really can’t think of a better place to keep all these memories anymore, so I choose to make you keep them for me. If you feel that this will make you suffer and unhappy, please get rid of them as you deem fit, in your own way.”

Shan Mei’s face appeared on the screen. “Actually, it’s you who gave me this tape, so in actual fact, I’m just returning it back to the rightful owner. In this tape, you told me words that touched my heart and soul. Your promise, I’ll keep them forever in my heart.”
Finishing her sentence, she forced herself to give him her best smile.

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“This feeling is really a awkward, but I do not care if it feels awkward anymore, I still want to give you this. The reason is---Zhen Shan Mei, Please don’t cry anymore….” Accompanying Xiang Ze’s words, images of Shan Mei’s progress and growth at MBS appeared on the screen. The short video clip; every image of Shan Mei is engraved deeply in Xiang Ze’s heart. As for the long lost memories, they all seem to start surfacing and appearing across Xiang Ze’s head.

“Using my eyes, I’ll take pictures of you!” These aren’t empty words, in Xiang Ze’s heart, there will forever be a corner, where every action and smile of Shan Mei is taken and stored. Even though he can’t find it now, it’ll never disappear, at this moment, they’re all coming back to him. Shan Mei is like the key to his soul, the key that’ll open up all the locked memories. Xiang Ze suddenly thought of something and he ran out of his office in a hurry………….

“Shan Mei! His voice is filled with emotion.
It’s him? Shan Mei stopped on her track; Xiang Ze walked right up to her.

“Xiang Ze, why……why are you here?”
“Follow me!” Xiang Ze grabbed hold of Shan Mei’s hand and held on it tightly, making her walk with him.

At the restaurant that they had always went; borrowing the piano, he sat down and played the very first song that he dedicated to her---Tomorrow… “All the youth and precious time I’ve lost…. They’re all coming back to me now……”

The accident at the road junction and their chance meeting; the sights and walks they took and saw in London; a stalk of rose, a lunch delivery filled with love; the anger of being kept in the dark about his background; the anklet birthday gift and their vow to love each other again in their next life; the pain and heartache of parting in the rain; the courage of winning and returning again into his arms; the marriage proposal and a lifetime of promises….. recalling all these, Shan Mei was overwhelmed with heartache and tears started to fall……….

“Zhen Shan Mei, please don’t cry anymore. Because I made a promise to always make you smile, have you forgotten?”

“Xiang Ze…….”

“Didn’t you prefer to call me Xue Zhang?”

“Xue Zhang, is that really you? You still remember me?”

“ I said before that I want to use my eyes to record everything down for you, not a picture less! We…we’ll never separate again. Even if I’m to meet you again or to meet you a thousand times again, I’ll still love you!”

“Xue Zhang!” The Xue Zhang she knows has returned. Shan Mei walked into Xiang Ze’s arms, the lost ship has found her safe harbour again. He held on to her tightly.

Really, they’ll never leave each other again.

(This is a happy ending, I hope everyone liked it.)

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