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 2 - Will You be celebrating my birthday with me?
Chapter 3 - The person who will only love twice
Chapter 5 - The stars are in pain
Chapter 6 - Valentine Day’s Chocolate
Chapter 7 - My memories, must I forget them too?
Chapter 8 - Our promise to love each other again in the next life.
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 - 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.
---------
“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.)
------------------THE END------------------------