Shan-Mei Notebook - Married Life
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore] and others
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
CHAPTER 01 CHAPTER 02 CHAPTER 03 CHAPTER 04 CHAPTER 05 CHAPTER 06 CHAPTER 07 CHAPTER 08
CHAPTER 09 CHAPTER 10 CHAPTER 11 CHAPTER 12 CHAPTER 13 CHAPTER 14 CHAPTER 15 CHAPTER 16
CHAPTER 17 CHAPTER 18 CHAPTER 19 CHAPTER 20 CHAPTER 21 CHAPTER 22 CHAPTER 23 CHAPTER 24
CHAPTER 25 CHAPTER 26 CHAPTER 27 CHAPTER 28 CHAPTER 29 CHAPTER 30 CHAPTER 31 CHAPTER 32
(You can' t say, It's all right.
Why don't you just forget,
I really don't want you to be sad,
so I'll pretend I've stopped loving you…
You can't dream,
No matter when, I will be here.
No matter what happens,
my love will never change.)
Suddenly, I feel these two stanzas from the lyrics of the song are representative of what is presently in the author's heart. After putting my feelings into this, my love for Xiang-Zhe, my love for Shan-Mei and my love for all the support you have given me,
I, Lin Cai, feel that I have to put this story to an end. I would rather preserve the romance in this story and let it go on in your fantasy.
What is a coincidence," How long is forever? The author believes that it is Shan-Mei's smile and not coincidence that started it all; and that Xiang-Zhe's love really is forever.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their enthusiastic reading of my short story.
Thank you all. I hope that we will have the opportunity to meet again.
Second Edition Note: The original text had many typos and punctuation errors. We corrected these and improper English grammer and confusing wordings. Any alteration in the original meaning of the text was not intentional — All-About-AAE
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 1)
This morning, Xiang-Zhe drove his car into the company car park. At his side sat his beloved newly-wedded wife.
"I'll get off first and we'll meet at our usual place after work," Shan-Mei said as she released the seat belt and opened the car door.
"Let's go in together," Xiang-Zhe said to Shan-Mei just as she was getting out of the car.
This is their first day to work after their wedding and yet Shan-Mei was still reticent about letting their colleagues see them together.
"Better not! Anyway, I'm already late, see you tonight," she smiled, waving her hand at Xiang-Zhe as she quickly ran towards the lift.
Xiang-Zhe glanced at his watch. There was still time to go in together, but Shan-Mei had already disappeared from his view. Xiang-Zhe could only shake his head and smile.
When Shan-Mei walked into the office, the first person she saw was Chen-Shui who quickly stood up and addressed her, "Good morning, Madam."
Shan-Mei blushed and could only nod her head in reply.
Shen Qi-Dong walked towards Chen-Shui and knocked at the back of his head. "You and your flatteries," he then turned towards Shan-Mei with a grin, "Please put in some good words for me in front of the Director." He then added slyly, "Actually, you don't have to work so hard. If I were you, I would rather stay at home and enjoy life."
"This is impossible," objected Lee Qing-Xi, "Shan-Mei is the star of MBS now."
"Oh yeah! our Director still needs her to help him to make more money," Chen-Shui joked.
"All of you, please don't tease me anymore," Shan-Mei begged, wishing there was a hole so that she could bury herself inside.
"Now, everyone, get to work and don't be lazy. Don't forget that we have a spy in our department now,"even Xian-Da joined in to tease Shan-Mei. Everyone started laughing.
The day passed smoothly and soon it was time to go home. Shan-Mei switched off her computer and was just getting ready to go and meet Xiang-Zhe when she heard a familiar voice coming from behind her.
"Hello, everybody!"
Isn't that Xiang-Zhe's voice? Shan-Mei could not believe her ears. She turned her head and there he was, standing at the doorway. Everyone stood up and responded to Xiang-Zhe's greeting.
"Director Yin is such a good husband to come personally to fetch his wife home," Xian-Da could not resist making fun of Xiang-Zhe.
"Well, this is the price you pay once you get married," Xiang-Zhe replied. He then winked at Shan-Mei and added, "Isn't it?"
A flustered Shan-Mei could only keep quiet.
"We are going off now, see all of you tomorrow," Xiang-Zhe then took Shan-Mei's elbow and steered her towards the door and out of the office.
Once they were outside the office, Shan-Mei glared at Xiang-Zhe "Didn't we agree that we will meet at our usual meeting place? Why did you come to my office? Tomorrow, everyone will start to tease me again."
"When, Shan-Mei, did I agree with you on this? We are already married. Whoever heard of husband and wife meeting secretly outside the office. Don't you think that this is going to invite even more gossip?" Xiang-Zhe replied.
"But," Shan-Mei couldn't find a single retort, after all Xiang-Zhe did have a point.
"Moreover, the Company does not have a rule that says that colleagues cannot go to work together," Xiang-Zhe reasoned.
"But," Shan-Mei repeated.
"No more buts! Why don't you worry about what to prepare for dinner tonight, my dear wife. I am famished," Xiang-Zhe said, draping an arm over her shoulders as he led the way to the carpark..
"Who told you that I must cook dinner? Nor did I ever agree to!" Shan-Mei retorted, cleverly avoided Xiang-Zhe's hand and sidestepped him neatly before calling out to him: "Race you to the car. The loser will have to cook dinner tonight!" she challenged.
Watching Shan-Mei's fast disappearing back, Xiang-Zhe laughed happily. As long as she is by his side, happiness seem to surround him, which often make him wonder how he had survived the 30 years of emptiness of his life. Now, he felt as if he might burst from happiness. It seemed impossible for one heart to hold so much joy.
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 2)
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei finished their dinner and were in the kitchen washing up.
"Your dad is right," Xiang-Zhe said as he washed the plates.
"Huh?" Shan-Mei glance at Xiang-Zhe in bewilderment as she took the plates from him. What does he mean?
Xiang-Zhe pretended to frown and grumbled, "What have I let myself in for by marrying you? Not only do I have to cook, I also have to do the washing up."
Hands on her hips, Shan-Mei protested loudly, "The reason you lost the race today is due to your slow reaction. Sore loser!"
She suddenly smiled sweetly at him and added, "Xue Zhang, the BBQ pork rice you cooked today is really delicious. I will never get tired of eating it daily."
Meanwhile Xiang-Zhe dried his hands and took off the apron. He then leaned towards Shan-Mei and cupped her face in his hands. "You have a sweet tongue but you won be able to trick me so easily the next time. I will not cook for you everyday," he said firmly.
"This is not what I mean," Shan-Mei smiled her brilliant smile.
An idea suddenly came to her mind, "I have a good plan. Why don't you do the cooking on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and I will take over on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Sunday is our rest day and we can eat out."
Xiang-Zhe looked at the delighted expression on her face and his lips curved into a smile. She did not know that as long as she was by his side, he was willing to do anything for her.
A few days later, Shan-Mei was just getting ready to go home when her mobile phone rang.
"Shan-Mei, I can't go home with you tonight. I have an urgent meeting to attend," Xiang-Zhe's voice came from the phone.
"Today is Friday. Did you deliberately arrange this meeting to avoid cooking tonight?" Shan-Mei joked.
Xiang-Zhe laughed aloud. "No such thing! Moreover, you speak so loudly in the office, everyone can hear you. My reputation will be in tatters."
"Don't worry, everyone has already left the office. Your reputation is still intact," Shan-Mei assured him, failing to notice that Shen Qi-Dong and Chen-Shui had just stepped into the office. Both of them glanced at each other and quickly left the office, walking briskly towards the other end of the corridor.
"Do you want me to wait for you?" Shan-Mei asked softly.
"No, don't wait for me. I don't know when the meeting will end. Why not take a cab home and have an early rest? Don't miss taking your dinner," Xiang-Zhe ordered, though he was so reluctant to let her go home alone.
"Okay," Shan-Mei replied smilingly.
"Ah yes! Remember to put on your most sexy nightie and wait for me tonight. I miss you..." Xiang-Zhe murmured softly.
He could imagine Shan-Mei's expression when he said that. Although he liked to tease her often, nevertheless, he was speaking the truth.
Shan-Mei face immediately flushed a rosy pink and she quickly ended the conversation.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the corridor, Shen Qi-Dong and Chen-Shui were talking in hushed voices. "Did you hear that! Our Director has to cook dinner everyday," Chen-Shui, in shock, said loudly.
"Lower your voice," Shen Qi-Dong hissed at Chen-Shui. He quickly covered Chen-Shui's mouth with his hand and added, "Do you want news of it to spread around the office?"
Chen-Shui nodded his head rapidly and continued "I didn realize that married life is so scary, I think I will have to reconsider."
"Ah, yes! If such a dynamic man like our Director has to cook dinner at home, chances are," Shen Qi-Dong gave him a lookover and continued "You will definitely end up as a slave."
Upon hearing his words, Chen-Shui gave a shudder.
It was late in the night when Xiang-Zhe returned home. When he stepped into the house, he saw Shan-Mei at once, curled up on the sofa and sleeping soundly. He smiled at the picture she made lying there. Whenever he looked at her, he could feel his tiredness slipping away and a feeling of deep contentment spread over him. She had been like a ray of sunlight in his life.
Xiang-Zhe knelt beside the sofa and gently stroked her hair. He noticed that she was wearing a white nightie, covered from neck to toe and not what he had suggested earlier. He gave a slight smile. He should know that his wife will never be so obedient. But she did not realize that whatever she wore, as he loved her very much, she will always look sexy to him.
He swept her into his arms and Shan-Mei, half awake, put her arms around his neck.
"Xue-Zhang?" she murmured softly in her sleepy state.
"Who else were you expecting?" Xiang-Zhe asked softly into her ear.
Shan-Mei face flushed and she snuggled her face against his shoulders as he carried her into the bedroom.
Tonight is another wonderful night...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by JT
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 3)
Just before day break, Xiang-Zhe brought Shan-Mei out for a stroll along the pond in the garden.
"Mmm... the early morning air is so fresh and refreshing," said Shan-Mei as she took a deep breath and circled Xiang-Zhe's arm with hers possessively, "Right now, I feel really happy."
The simple things in life and gratis happiness? That is so like Shan-Mei, thought Xiang-Zhe as his heart was filled with boundless happiness!
Smiling, Xiang-Zhe looked at Shan-Mei tenderly "So happy! So easily contented! Looks like I am not of any value to you!"
"Who says you're not valuable?" Shan-Mei looked at Xiang-Zhe earnestly, "If my happiness is ninety percent, you would be the ten percent to complete that hundred." To have known Senior and have him, thought Shan-Mei, makes her the happiest woman in the world. Even Cinderella could not be more fortunate and blissful than her, thought Shan-Mei.
Hearing this, Xiang-Zhe felt his heart warmed. "So, it appears that I am only worth ten percent," he said playfully. On this, both Shan-Mei and Xiang-Zhe burst into laughter.
"Zhen Shan-Mei! Miss Zhen Shan-Mei!"
Hearing her name called, Shan-Mei looked around to see who was calling her.
"Is it really you, Zhen Shan-Mei? It really you!" An elated mother and daughter walked towards Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei.
"Excuse me, is anything the matter?" Shan-Mei asked unknowingly.
"It so good to see you. Our whole family simply adores you!" Pushing the little girl towards Shan-Mei, "This is my daughter, she loves watching your shows and speaks of you day in day out."
The little girl took out a booklet and looked at Shan-Mei with adoration,"Big sister, can I have your autograph please,"
Taking a glimpse at Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei crouched next to the little girl and signed her booklet. "Thank you," said Shan-Mei merrily to her little fan.
Just then, the mother took out her camera and asked Xiang-Zhe, "Mister, can you please take a picture for us?"
"Sure!" said Xiang-Zhe who readily played the role of a photographer.
Upon completing her mission, the woman thanked Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei ceaselessly, "Thank you so much, seeing you in person today allows me to brag to my friends for a while. You look really pretty in person! Bye."
"Bye Big Sister, bye Uncle!" the little girl waved to them.
"Big Sister and Uncle. Do I really look that old?" Xiang-Zhe thought smilingly.
"Bye!" Shan-Mei waved cheerfully.
"By the way, you have a really fine looking husband," commented the woman as she turned back to look at the couple again before leaving with her daughter.
This time, Xiang-Zhe who has been holding his amusement for quite a while, burst out laughing. Glancing towards Xiang-Zhe direction, Shan-Mei naively asked, "Why should you be so jubilant? This isn't the first time you hear someone praise you for your good looks?"
"I am amused with my status. In the past I was so and so bosses' son, now I've learned that I am so and so newscaster's husband. I theorize I must forever be living under someone shadow."
"Now you can understand what I have to go though in the office," said Shan-Mei pouting. "To the people in the office, I am so and so Director's wife. Especially the ladies; they would look at me so strangely, as if saying this vixen is not worthy of the Director," mimicked Shan-Mei.
"What nonsense are you saying? I wonder what have you contained in that little head of yours?" Xiang-Zhe patted Shan-Mei's forehead lovingly, then put his arm around her shoulders and steered her forward. Trust Shan-Mei to describe herself a vixen. Is there such an adorable vixen? Xiang-Zhe couldn't help smiling from within his heart.
Xiang-Zhe brought Shan-Mei home for lunch with Gui-Cheng and Zhen-Shu. After lunch, Gui-Cheng and Xiang-Zhe were chatting outside the front terrace. Xiang-Zhe related the morning incident to Gui-Cheng.
"Really! I would never have thought Shan-Mei have so many followers," Gui-Cheng said excitedly.
"You're right!" Xiang-Zhe could understand proud his father-in-law was as he too was proud of Shan-Mei. knew right from the start that Shan-Mei would make it.
"Of course, she is my daughter after all," Gui-Cheng smiled unrestrainedly.
Meanwhile, Shan-Mei and Zhen-Shu brought out a tray of fruits.
"What are the you two talking unreservedly about?" Zhen-Shu said as she laid the tray on the table.
"Mmm! This is really good," Shan-Mei said as she took a bite of a slice of apple. "Come, Dad, try this," Shan-Mei said as she put her half eaten slice apple into Gui-Cheng's mouth. Xiang-Zhe looked at the wonderful picture of the father and daughter and thought how lovely Shan-Mei looked. How can she be so exquisite?
Patting Shan-Mei hand, Zhen-Shu couldn't help but said disapprovingly "Really, Shan-Mei, you shouldn’t be behaving like a kid, now that you are married!"
Shan-Mei pouted and glanced shyly at Xiang-Zhe.
"It really doesn't matter," Xiang-Zhe said looking back at Shan-Mei.
"But of course it doesn matter," said Gui-Cheng still munching his apple.
"Before Shan-Mei was married, you indulge her and now that she married, you pamper her," Zhen-Shu pointed at Gui-Cheng then at Xiang-Zhe. "Can't put up with the two of you! Shan-Mei will never grow up at the rate you two are going."
"Auntie!" protested Shan-Mei, "I am not a child anymore."
"The pot calling the kettle black? You too have a share in pampering Shan-Mei," looking at Xiang-Zhe, Gui-Cheng added "Besides, Xiang-Zhe isn't complaining, you should not be such a nag."
"Oh Dad!" looking at Shan-Mei’s expression, Xiang-Zhe, Gui-Cheng and Zhen-Shu burst out laughing.
The gentle afternoon breeze mingled with the intermittent laughter from Gui-Cheng's terrace drifted across the front yard.
Writer:Lin Cai(Taiwan)
Editor & Translator: Nora & Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 4)
Xiang-Zhe was having lunch with Xian-Da at MBS empolyee cafeteria.They were having a casual chitchat about Yong-Xi when suddently Xiang-Zhe poped up a question to Xian-Da."Do you know what is Yong-Xi up to?" Actually Xiang-Zhe was planning to have a lunch date with Shan-Mei this afternoon, however Yong-Xi seems to be ahead of him and invited Shan-Mei to have lunch together.
Xian-Da shrugged his shoulders and said, "Who knows? She told me that sometimes women need their own private times among themselves."
Yong-Xi had wanted to have a woman-to-woman talk with Shan-Mei, sharing their secrets without having other people listening. Even Xian-Da was not allowed to join in their conversation. "In the modern society of the new century, men sometimes have to accede to the request from women and respect the oppposite sex by being willing to listen to their opinions." Xian-Da said sharing his views with Xiang-Zhe.
Xiang-Zhe nodded his head completely agreed with what Xian-Da had said. He feels the same way as Xian-Da in his views of respecting and listening to one's wife opinion as well. Besides, Yong-Xi always tends to express her opinion openly about everything.The way she reacts is very different from Shan-Mei.
"By the way,are you going to join the negotiation meeting this afternoon?" Xian-Da asked Xiang-Zhe candidly. Xiang-Zhe was puzzled by Xian-Da's question, as he was totally unaware of this meeting. Nobody had mentioned this to him, not even his secretary.
"Negotiation meeting for what?" he asked curiously.
"It's about the negotiation meeting between the News Department and the Program Department. Shan-Mei never told you before," Xian-Da countinued on his conversation. "Shan-Mei is getting more popular recently within the office. The fact of being married didn't have any influence on her popularity. In contrast, she won more attention from the audiences and attracted lots of people to watch her TV News program. No wonder an ordinary girl-next-door like Shan-Mei suddenly became the most popular female host of Wen Rong Corporation Group. Nowadays, the audiences both admired and adored her achievements very much," Xian-Da said relating to Xiang-Zhe of Shan-Mei's achivements.
Xiang-Zhe was finally beginning to understand the whole situation. The manager of the TV News Department hoped that Shan-Mei could start anchoring the 7:00p.m. News again in order to bring up the ratings of the program. They also had several programs in hand for Shan-Mei to do as a broadcaster. However, at present Shan-Mei was in charge of both TV programs "The Morning of Eve" and "The Cultural Artist Stage" plus the radio program " The Music Postcard ". She definiately had her hands full and had no free time to host other TV programs. The bad thing was that she simply can't refuse the request by the News Department manager. Because of her status role of being the wife of Director Yin, she felt that by rejecing this resquest it might reflect a bad impression on her position.
"Really! I didn't know about her predicament at all, Shan-Mei must have felt so annoyed with this kind of situation but I have never heard her complain to me about her problems when we were together," Xiang-Zhe added.
"Nobody is able to take out your program because Shan-Mei is your wife. Thus,no one told you about the negotiation meeting," Xian-Da replied.
Realising about the bad circumatance where Shan-Mei was in,suddently Xiang-Zhe felt so sad for Shan-Mei.Up till now he did not realise the pressure that Shan-Mei had experienced from being the competent wife of Director Yin. He had decided to take action and do something about this problem.
"When will the negotiation meeting begin this afternoon?" Xiang-Zhe asked Xian-Da in a serious tone. This kind of incident can't happen to Shan-Mei over and over again. He can't stand that something was unfair to his wife. Xiang-Zhe thought to himself.
The negotiation meeting started on time as sceduled. Xiang-Zhe walked into the room making his appearance felt by those in the meeting room. Without any notice, he took over to chair the meeting. All of a sudden, there was pin drop silence in the meeting room. Everybody seemed to feel extremely uncomfortable and didn't know how to react. Without beating around the bush Xiang-Zhe began to address the meeting.
"Shan-Mei is my wife." The opening address certainly surprised all of those present in the negotiation meeting. Even Shan-Mei was totally shocked and taken aback by Xiang-Zhe's action and even opened her mouth trying to say something. Xiang-Zhe looked around and then continued making his speech.
"The fact Shan-Mei being my wife, is not meant to be discussed or talked about in public especially in the office and I just couldn't hide the relationships between us, either."
Before Xiang-Zhe could continue, General Manager Jin En-Qi interrupted to speak out in front of the other colleagues. "What you mean is that Shan-Mei belongs to your department. If someone wants to ask her to be the broadcaster of the TV News, he or she has to get the permission from you, isn't it?"he asked sarcastically.
Xiang-Zhe didn't like to response to a person who he thinks are so self-centred. Ignoring GM Jin's question, Xiang-Zhe continued to explain to the rest of the empolyees about his point of view.
"No, definately not. In contrast to what GM Jin's opinion. What I want to say is that Shan-Mei should be treated in the same way as the other employees in the company. You guys don't need to get extra attention from her as she has to follow the same rules as everybody does in the office. That means, she is able to make her own decision and feel free to pick the TV program which she likes to do." Xiang-Zhe established the statement firmly about the issue of Shan-Mei's duty and position in the company. "Personally, I gave lots of points about what you guys have just done today by attending the negotiation meeting to work out the problems. Therefore, likewise there is no special privilege for the TV program of "The morning of Eve," either. Then, looking at Shan-Mei, Xiang-Zhe says "Apparently, Miss Shan-Mei must consider to make a decision in choosing between TV program "The Morning of Eve," and "The Cultural Artist Stage,". Subsequently, you could also host another TV program.
Shan-Mei felt so touched by Xiang-Zhe care and concern because he had pointed out her situation and problems by taking advantage of his own position in the company. She can't be his burden anymore, Shan-Mei thought to herself and she had finally came to a decision.
"I choose......"Shan-Mei lowered her head trying to make her decision known to her colleague. All who present were very quiet and kept the silence waiting for her to continue. She took a deep breath and said "I will give up hosting 'The Morning of Eve ' program."
Everybody couldn't believe their ears of what Shan-Mei had just decided. Xian-Da was looking at her with his big eyes. Jin En-Qi smiled to Xiang-Zhe smile to himself boastfully showing his victory of forcing Shan-Mei to leave Xiang-Zhe's program.
The meeting finally came into a conclusion. Shan-Mei would anchor the 7:00p.m. News and continue hosting both "The Cultural Artist Stage" and "The Music Postcard" program. At the same time, she would also be in charge of another brand new TV show.
Everybody was walking out of the meeting room. Shan-Mei walked towards Xiang-Zhe and tried to explain to him about the decision that she had made. "Senior?" Shan-Mei usually called Xiang-Zhe this way instead of calling his name. She looked at his depressed face and felt heartbroken. The feeling of sadness on his face was about to make her cry.
Before she could continue, Xiang-Zhe replied, "We will talk about it when we are home," he said without showing any expression on his face. Holding on her hands gently, Xiang-Zhe tried to comfort Shan-Mei's emotions. Slowly, he made his way out of the meeting room with a feeling of despondence leaving Shan-Mei by herself.
Looking at Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei was filled with sadness and remorseful. Suddently a wave of loneliness came upon her. Her decision must have hurt her beloved husband, she thought to herself.
On the way home while driving, Xiang-Zhe has not uttered a word, sitting next to him, Shan-Mei stole a glance at him but did not have the courage to say anything. Although Xiang-Zhe was not angry with Shan-Mei, nevertheless he could not help feeling disappointed with Shan-Mei's decision. He just could not believed that Shan-Mei had given up hosting the program that she likes very much, "The Morning of Eve," and he had always thought that had been her favourite program.
"Senior..." Shan-Mei said trying to break the silence between them.
"Never mind! You have the right to make your own decision in choosing the TV program that you prefer to host," Xiang-Zhe replied looking at Shan-Mei with a faint smile on his face. Even though, he was not in the mood, he still tried to calm the distraught Shan-Mei. He has always put Shan-Mei's feeling above his because of his deep love for her. Shan-Mei was at loss with the tolerance and concern that Xiang-Zhe showed her although she had disappointed him with her decision.
Looking at Xiang-Zhe lovingly, Shan-Mei tried to explain her decision. "Senior, the reason why I chose to give up "The Morning of Eve," program was because I truly believed in you."
Xiang-Zhe turned his head looking at Shan-Mei curiously wondering what she was going to say next.
With a tinge of sadness in her voice, Shan-Mei continued, "I strongly believe in your ability and the quality of the TV program "The Morning of Eve,"as well. This program received lots of attention and support from the audience since the day Ying-Mei hosted the show. The success of this TV program is not because of me being the host". Shan-Mei reasoned to Xiang-Zhe. "If I continue hosting or give special preference to your TV program instead of others, how could other empolyees think of you?" she continue expressing her concerned.
"Others will think that you 're not treating other empolyees equally, and mixing work and personal affairs alike. And the Manager from TV Program Department, GM Jin, will always find ways to put you down," Shan-Mei said. "I don't want you to be in a difficult situation because of me."
Hearing Shan-Mei's explanation, it is then that Xiang-Zhe realised he has misunderstood Shan-Mei's real intention. He felt completely touched by what Shan-Mei had done for him.She was actually trying to protect his reputation and preventing others from gossipping about him. He could not have thought that Shan-Mei, who was always very naive, was sensible enough to think about his well-being. Suddently, Xiang-Zhe turned his steering wheel and pulled over his car at the side of the road. Gazing at Shan-Mei with all his love and affection, he stretched out his arms and embraced her with full of tenderness. Shan-Mei was overwhelmed by Xiang-Zhe's loves for her, and broke into tears. Whispering softly to Shan-Mei, Xiang-Zhe said in a sweet tone, "What a fool you are!" while caressing Shan-Mei's hair lovingly. "After all, my sweet little angel is just too innocent to trust people like GM Jin. He will never change his attitude and always will try ways and means to vie with me in the company," Xiang-Zhe murmured, comforting Shan-Mei.
"Senior..." Shan-Mei said softly into Xiang-Zhe's arm. She looked deeply into his eyes, her tears flowing with the love she has for him.
"So sorry, don't cry anymore." Xiang-Zhe apologized for his mistake, then held her gently and securely hugged her into his arms. Closing his eyes, Xiang-Zhe couldn't bear to see Shan-Mei in tears because of his foolishness. He continued embracing Shan-Mei, comforting her until she finally stopped crying. Locking in each other warm arms they didn't realize the passing of time. After a while, he started the car and headed to their little abode to enjoy the rest of the night blissfully......
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 5)
It was break time in the afternoon. Shan-Mei sat down beside Zhao-Di with their drinks.
"Why am I always giving you treats?" Shan-Mei grumbled, not that it mattered to her but sometimes it was just not fair.
"What a joke! Of course, you have to pay!! Look at Wen Rong Group of Companies, I am sure it has such a huge fortune; you won't even be able to finish spending it in 10 lives! I am actually helping you to increase your wealth, you should thank me instead!" Zhao-Di replied boldly.
"Increase wealth?" Shan-Mei asked curiously.
"Ha, if you know how to spend, then only you know how to earn!" Zhao-Di explained exaggeratedly. Being an animation-dubbing artist, Zhao-Di has always been expressive.
"What weird reasoning?" Shan-Mei couldn’t help smiling at the silly explanation.
"Come on, tell me how is married life? Mm, how was it," Zhao-Di inquired with zest, she pushed Shan-Mei lightly with her shoulder, hoping to get something interesting out of her.
Shan-Mei lowered her head, feeling embarrassed, what's there to tell? Just like that."
"Ha, don't pretend! You think by not telling, nobody will know what happened?" Zhao-Di eyed at her, trying to spot any loopholes. "Your wedding night was romantic, wasn’t it? The gorgeous prince lowered his head gradually planting a kiss on his princess's lips while gently removing her fairy-like gown…” Zhao-Di said dreamily in her fantasy, Wow, so envious…”
"Hey, lower your volume!" Shan-Mei's cheeks blushed with embarrassment and she scanned around their surrounding, hoping nobody had heard her nonsense.
"Aiyo! What there to be embarrassed about? If I were you, I would have even used the loud speaker to announce, let those women die of envy." Zhao-Di turned and looked straight into her eyes, "Look at you, so lucky, have got all the goods things in life…”
Shan-Mei smiled and acknowledged the fact that she was really fortunate in many ways.
Zhao-Di continued, "I should have traveled with you to England then, if I knew things would turn out this way! So the trick is to target at a Prince Charming with a luxury car and when the time is ripe, let him knock you down! You are the example."
"You have Chen-Shui!" Shan-Mei tried changing the subject by reminding Zhao-Di of the love of her life.
"Director Yin is like the abalone, what is Chen-Shui? Salted fish! You must be joking by comparing them! All he knows is how to annoy me," Zhao-Di answered angrily.
"Been quarrelling again?"
"He pestered me to marry just the other day but now, there is no sight of him at all! That jerk! don't let me catch him with any other women, I will definitely bash him up!" Zhao-Di explained with clinched fists.
"He’s not that type of guy!" Shan-Mei rebutted, defending Chen-Shui.
"Men are all the same!! What do you do when food has been served and placed right in front of you? Of course, you don't reject the invitation but rather gobble them down," Zhao-Di illustrated with munching and swallowing effect.
There she goes, talking about food again. Shan-Mei laughed at Zhao-Di's lively expression and chuckled with amazement at Zhao-Di's ability to connect almost everything with food.
"Don’t you dare laugh! You think being married is safe, "You better keep a close eye on Xue Zhang, haven you noticed that women in MBS drool at the sight of him?"
Suddenly, Zhao-Di started pulling Shan-Mei sleeve and whispered, "The Prince has appeared…”
Shan-Mei looked in the direction, Xiang-Zhe happened to be walking nearby with his assistant. True enough, with Xue Zhang's height and build, it is indeed not easy to ignore his presence!
Xiang-Zhe saw them too, took a small paper bag from his assistant and implied him to leave first before walking towards them. He winked at Shan-Mei and greeted Zhao-Di with "Hi!" Although he had met Zhao-Di only a few times, he knew that she was Shan-Mei's good friend, a very interesting one as a matter of fact.
Zhao-Di responded to the greeting with her best smile. No doubt, he was married to Shan-Mei but her heart never failed to skip a beat in his presence! In front of this fine-looking man, who wouldn’t be possessed by his charms, "Speak of the devil! We were just commenting…”
"Really," Xiang-Zhe laughed, his heart filled with delight, knowing that Shan-Mei has been mentioning him to her friend. "Gossiping behind my back?" he teased Shan-Mei.
"Yes! We were criticizing the mean boss of our company!" she replied deliberately.
Both of them laughed and forgot completely about Zhao-Di for a moment.
"So you have a program recording tonight," Xiang-Zhe resumed the conversation, aware that Shan-Mei had to work overtime.
Shan-Mei replied with a nod.
"Have a bite before recording…” With that, he shoved the paper bag into her hands. "I just had lunch with my clients, and thought you might need it."
"Thanks." Realizing Xue Zhang's thoughtfulness and him thinking of her at all times.
"Ok, I have to make a move. Give me a call after recording, I'll be in my office." He patted Shan-Mei on her back and waved Zhao-Di goodbye.
Zhao-Di waved back, memorizing his departing image. "How could this man be so perfect," She took a glimpse at Shan-Mei, filling with envy.
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 6)
Xiang-Zhe had to leave for Hong Kong to discuss the proposed joint venture between MBS and Hong Kong TV. The meeting would stretch for two days.
"You really can’t join me?" Xiang-Zhe asked while tying his tie, he just couldn’t bear the thought of being apart.
Shan-Mei gave him an impatient glare in the dressing table mirror, "Xue Zhang, that the third time you have asked; I would like to tag along but I have got work to do. Furthermore, I am scheduled to read the news this week."
"Well, the newscaster has some unexpected urgent matters to settle, of course they can have a temporary replacement. You can even ask Yong-Xi." He persuaded again, not giving up easily.
"But you know the trip isn’t unexpected nor important but rather a vacation, what would others think?" Shan-Mei reminded him, hoping he would stop.
"Not important to you? But it is to me…” Xiang-Zhe massaged her shoulders tenderly, giving his best shot to change her mind.
"Not a word more Xue Zhang, you don't have the air of Xue Zhang anymore." She smiled at him, knowing that one more word from him and she would give in to his temptation.
Shan-Mei is right, it is difficult to handle one position well by abiding to one principle. Love does make people lose their judgment
* * * * * * * * * *
Sitting by the window, Shan-Mei looked out to the starry sky. Even though she didn’t voice it out, she actually couldn’t stand the lonely moments without Xiang-Zhe. Realized suddenly how she has missed his presence, wishing that he was there, "Xue Zhang miss you so really miss you." Suddenly, the ringing tone of the phone disrupted her thoughts. It must be Xue Zhang! Shan-Mei picked it up immediately.
Calling Shan-Mei was the first thing Xiang-Zhe did when he returned to the hotel after the meetings.
"Everything alright? Have you secured all doors and windows?" He couldn’t help worrying for her at the thought of not being there to protect her.
"Yes, I have! Even the amour has been worn, very safe now!" Shan-Mei assured him by easing the tension from his voice.
Xiang-Zhe laughed at her prompt remarks, still so cheeky as Shan-Mei sweet voice being transmitted over the phone.
"How are things on your side? The meetings went well?" He felt warmth from her concerned tone.
"An, been smooth sailing…” The only unhappy thing was having to sleep without her tonight as he sighed in his heart.
"So you must be feeling great, have you been dating any girls secretly? Heard that Hong Kong girls are very pretty," she teased him deliberately.
"Um, that right Grab anyone from the road and she can be prettier than you!" he joked with her, wondering if she would get jealous.
"Huh? Aren’t you glad that I didn’t tag along?" she yelled back.
Xiang-Zhe laughed reluctantly, hating himself for not pulling her along instead of just persuading her. He just doesn’t like the feeling of missing her; he wanted to be with her at all times of the day. "What were you doing before I called?" What was she doing? Was she thinking of me too?
"I was watching the stars…” She paused…”What about you? What were you doing?"
"I was thinking of you…” He spoke softly into the phone…”really miss you…”
"So do I…” Shan-Mei answered in a lower tone.
At her saddened tone, Xiang-Zhe wanted to fly back this very instant to be by her side. The feeling of loneliness was too much to bear.
"Xue Zhang, can you see the stars at your side?" Shan-Mei asked suddenly, bringing life to her voice again.
Xiang-Zhe hadn’t the heart to do other things. Gradually he picked up the phone and walked slowly towards the balcony, ap! The night sky is filled with stars…
"Aren’t they beautiful?" her voice suddenly sound contented.
"Umm…”
"Xue Zhang, did you see the brightest star in the center?" she continued.
Xiang-Zhe looked up and searched, finally, "Yes, I see it…”
Shan-Mei beamed with happiness, if Xue Zhang could see the same star, wouldn’t it mean that we aren’t too far apart? The thought relieved her sadness
She never failed to take away his sorrow from her perspective to analyze the world, everything seemed much more beautiful and worthwhile With her around, the world just was’tn the same anymore
After hanging up reluctantly, Xiang-Zhe continued standing at the balcony, the night view of brightly-lit Hong Kong is stunning, except Shan-Mei's absence made the Pearl of Harbour appear darker. Once again, he glanced up in search of the brightest star…… really miss her this long, lonely night passing slowly..
In order to surprise Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei left for the airport right after work in a cab. She kept a sharp lookout for him at the arrival area, wanting Xue Zhang to notice her at first glance! The anticipation is unbearing!
Xiang-Zhe hasn't disappointed her, he caught sight of her once past of the gate. Merely two days away seemed like two long years. He has missed her terribly and that sunshine smile.
"Surprise!" Shan-Mei ran forward and grabbed his forearms with two hands, not wanting to let go.
He stopped his pace and looked down at her, "Miss me that much huh?
"Um," She nodded her head forcefully, “…Miss Xue Zhang BBQ pork rice!"
Xiang-Zhe laughed out whole-heartedly, coming home sure feels good!
"Is that present for me?" She pointed to the uniquely wrapped package.
Yes! He loves buying presents for her, just to see that sweet expression while unwrapping. Even a small simple gift can bring such pleasure to her. "So, who said it is for you? That's for the beautiful vixen at home!" He chuckled.
Shan-Mei laughed even louder, "Does that mean I get presents every time you travel? Mm, then the more Xue Zhang should travel!" His return is definitely a good thing, she didn’t bother to conceal her contentment.
"Such a heartless woman!" Xiang-Zhe sneered at her remarks. "Nevertheless, she has captured my heart."
"How then you realized that," She looked mischievously at him and shook his arm, “…it too late now…”
She sneaked in between the trolley and him as they pushed the trolley together, gradually towards the car park. Their laughter never fail to fill their surrounding with joy and envy.
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 7)
It was another evening after work. Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were in MBS car park getting ready to leave for home when there was a knock on the window. Xian-Da was smiling at them.
"Director Yin and Shan-Mei, care to join us for a drink?" Xian-Da offered while pointing to his car with Yong-Xi waving to them from the opposite parking lot.
"Mm, tempting, anyway it has been ages since I last gathered with Xian-Da and Yong-Xi, neither have I been drinking alone. Thinking back, since that night at the busy road junction, when I pulled her into my arms, there are practically no more reasons for me to drink."
"Come on Let’s go! I would like to go to…” Shan-Mei pulled his sleeve, like a child asking for permission. "After marriage, I have always been his top priority I don’t want him to sacrifice his usual lifestyle because of me."
Eventually, they went to their favourite bar and sat down at the table next to the bar counter. That old familiar scent and atmosphere brought back memories of those days where he sat drinking all by himself.
Four of them raised up their glasses for a good toast, cheers!
Shan-Mei face crumbled upon one sip of the liquor, so bitter! It tasted so awful!
Yong-Xi saw Shan-Mei painful expression and asked amusingly, "You don't drink?"
Shan-Mei nodded and challenged Xiang-Zhe, "Which is why somebody said I am uninteresting, unexciting because I don't drink!!"
Xiang-Zhe laughed at the statement, took the glass from Shan-Mei and bottoms up. "That’s right, very unexciting, very dull! But very cute!"
Yong-Xi was startled at his comments, really doubting the Xiang-Zhe she once knew. The one who claimed he doesn’t know love, yet he is a slave of love right now!! "Xiang-Zhe, you have changed tremendously, I was just doubting if I once knew you!"
"Ha, all thanks to Shan-Mei, the once stern-faced Director Yin has been greeting people with smiles. It is now much more relaxing and comfortable to have meetings with him." Xian-Da remarked teasingly, "Even sleeping hadn't been so problematic…”
Shan-Mei displayed a confused look. "Sleeping? Why?" Not as if Xian-Da had been sharing the bed with Xue Zhang she doesn’t understand the conservation.
Xiang-Zhe couldn’t help laughing, not denying any of those accusations because they were facts.
"Xue Zhang, do you come here often?" Shan-Mei inquired out of curiosity while surveying the pub, very interested in the Xiang-Zhe lifestyle before her entry.
"Xue Zhang? You still address him as Xue Zhang?" Yong-Xi responded in amazement, not believing her own ears.
"Uh..." Shan-Mei doesn quite get what Yong-Xi meant.
"Both of you are already married, don't you think you should change your method of addressing? You should at least call him Xiang-Zhe, what would people think when you still call him Xue Zhang?" This silly Shan-Mei, Yong-Xi shook her head, have to remind her of everything.
"Is that so?" The issue never crossed her mind, she glanced at Xiang-Zhe for an answer
Not really, the current addressing is pretty good Xiang-Zhe defending Shan-Mei and turning to her, "So long as you don’t call me Director Yin…” What Shan-Mei thinks and wants are more important than what others think.
"Can’t stand it! You only know how to dote your wife. Really can’t stand it anymore." Yong-Xi couldn’t help grumble at his protective manner.
"Senior! Xian-Da treats you well too!" Shan-Mei tried to state the fact.
"It's not the same! Xiang-Zhe dotes on his wife whereas I am the one who is being led by the nose, like the cow. Both matters are miles apart!!" Yong-Xi gave Xian-Da a good stare at his comments.
"Alright, please have mercy on me!" Xiang-Zhe raised both his hands into a surrender pose.
At the moment, the restaurant manager came forward once he learnt of Xiang-Zhe visit, "Director Yin, how have you been?" He passed a namecard to Shan-Mei and introduced himself, "Madam Yin, how do you do? I the manager of this restaurant, glad to be serving you!" Of course, he knew Shan-Mei. It was all over the news, the future heir of Wen Rong Group of Companies falling in love with Zhen Shan-Mei the newscaster. Their news was splashed on the front pages of magazines.
Shan-Mei felt uncomfortable with the attention and formal addressing, but still shyly bowed her head to acknowledge.
Knowing Xiang-Zhe's musical talent, the manager proposed to Xiang-Zhe, "Director Yin, would you like to play a tune since you are here?"
Xiang-Zhe turned to look at Shan-Mei; he does want to play for her. "Ok…” He stood up, took Shan-Mei's hand and headed for the piano, totally ignoring the surprised looks on Xian-Da and Yong-Xi faces.
Shan-Mei was partially confused as to why Xue Zhang is taking her, but she followed him. As he sat down and patted the vacant space next to him, only then Shan-Mei had second thoughts about sitting, at least not in front of the other diners. Nevertheless she sat down, feeling awkward.
His long fingers danced gracefully across the piano keyboard, producing melodious tunes that touched everyone's hearts, casting all their attention upon the both of them. He gazed at Shan-Mei, playing this piece especially for her, telling the tale of eternal and endless love
Observing Xiang-Zhe's gaze, the images of days at Cambridge were suddenly vivid, the songs he sung for her, the music he played, the times when he waited patiently for her and the pain she caused him. Memories were playing in front of her like a movie, as she thought: He has given me all his love, more than I can handle...
Both of them gazed at each other, lost in the midst of music, as a sweet contented smile appeared on Shan-Mei's face.
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 8)
After a whole morning of meeting, Xiang-Zhe finally had the chance to sit down in his quiet office.
"Director Yin!" Xian-Da ran into the room panting.
"Is anything the matter?" Xiang-Zhe asked him, what could be so urgent that he didn’t even knock?
"Shan-Mei... Shan-Mei... " Xian-Da tried to catch his breath.
Upon hearing Shan-Mei's name, Xiang-Zhe suddenly straightend up and focused.
"Shan-Mei has gone to the scene of a disaster to conduct some interviews this morning. Her team should have returned by now but there is no sight of them. Till now, there is neither any information nor calls from her, the electricity and water supplies have been severed in that area. We can’t get into contact with any of them.”
Before waiting for Xian-Da to finish speaking, Xiang-Zhe got up and grabbed his jacket.
"What are you doing?" Xian-Da stopped him in his tracks.
"I must visit the disaster site personally. I have to find Shan-Mei!" His brows furrowed with anxiety.
"I have already sent my men, they reported about the severed power supply. There is nothing you can do if you went," Xian-Da stopped him, "All you can do now is to wait patiently. I’ll inform you immediately when there is any news." He hoped that Xiang-Zhe would calm down.
It was way past office hours but colleagues from the newscaster room #1 hadn’t knocked off, they were still worrying for Shan-Mei.
"Shan-Mei! Shan-Mei is back.”
Finally Shan-Mei appeared at the doorway, very worn-out.
"How was it? You alright?" "What happened?" "You aren't hurt, are you?" People were crowding and firing questions at her like a machine-gun.
From their worry-sick expressions, Shan-Mei felt horrible so she summarized the day events at the site
"Well this is what happened. Equipment from the shooting department was damaged, but we managed to save the tapes.” At least, their effort didn’t go down the drain.
"So how did you get back eventually?" Qing-Xi asked curiously.
"Oh, we got the police to help because we told them that we have to deliver the tapes urgently," she continued to explain.
"How does it feel to sit in the police car? Wow, you must have felt important!" Chen-Shui couldn't hide his excitement.
"Nothing of that sort!! I felt like a thief, so humiliating.” Everybody, including her, laughed upon the comments
Xiang-Zhe dashed to the newscaster room #1 immediately upon news of Shan-Mei's safe return. He hadn’t expected to hear her joyous laughter since he had been worrying for her the whole day, and he couldn’t suppressed his anger anymore.
"Miss Shan-Mei ! Please come to my office immediately!" He ordered coldly.
He shut the door with force once Shan-Mei stepped into his office.
"Do you realize what you are doing?" He asked with anger.
"Xue Zhang, I…” Shan-Mei was confused at his temper.
"I don't understand why you can still laugh at what happened, you think it is exciting to be missing for a day? Or perhaps you think that it is fun to have people worrying for you?" His expression frightened her.
"I don’t…” She tried to explain.
"Why do you have to go to the site? don't you know it is dangerous?" He interrupted once again.
"Xue Zhang! I am a newscaster! You should know that I don’t have a choice in news selection," Shan-Mei started to feel unhappy about their conversation.
"Then what about me?" His rage took over his mind. "I am your husband! What are my rights then? Could I ask you to stay at home and not create trouble anymore!" It was already too late when he realized what he had said.
Shan-Mei stared at him fiercely, "What did you say? I am here to listen to your speech?" She turned towards the door.
"You're not allowed to leave! I am not finished!" Xiang-Zhe pulled her hand; then realized he has gone overboard.
"But I am, and it is time to knock off, Director Yin!" Shan-Mei shook off his hand, and left without turning back.
Later that night, at their home...
Xiang-Zhe sat on the bed planning his strategies on apologizing for his unreasonable actions earlier. Throughout the whole evening, Shan-Mei had been giving him the cold shoulder, not a word spoken, hence he must think of a plan.
Just at that moment, Shan-Mei walked out of the bathroom and straight towards the bed.
"Shan-Mei.”
However, Shan-Mei turned a deaf ear, picked up her pillow and turned to leave the room.
Her action spoiled his initial plan. "What are you doing?"
"Don’t bother!" she pouted. Does he think that after reproaching her, she would let him cuddle her to sleep?
He got off the bed and stood beside her, "Don’t you think your behaviour is immature?"
"I have always been immature! Now who is the childish one?" She headed for the bedroom door.
He pulled her back forcefully to reason with her but her stern expression told him to stay back. He reached for her pillow instead, "Forget it You sleep in the bedroom.”
The moment the door closed, Shan-Mei couldn’t hold back anymore. She pulled the blanket over her head and broke down in tears.
Xiang-Zhe lit a cigarette as he listend to the continuous sobbing from the bedroom with a heavy heart. There he sat in the darkness, experiencing the torture he brought upon himself for his harshness. God only knew how long he sat there! Eventually all was quiet; the weeping seemed to have stopped. He wonered: has she fallen asleep? He pushed open the door gently with a deep sigh. Looking at her swollen eyes, Xiang-Zhe felt a deep stab in his heart, removing the tears softly from the corner of her eyes. Can she understand his love for her? The deeper his love, the more his fear of losing her?
"Zhen Shan-Mei! I doubt your ability to understand my love with that pure innocent heart of yours! Why am I standing like a fool and blaming myself for what couldn’t be undone?" Hence, he laid himself lightly beside Shan-Mei and nestled her head on his chest with caution... and eventually drifted off to sleep with a contented smile.
Shan-Mei stirred near dawn, sensing the familiar scent of her man and snuggled closer to Xiang-Zhe, placing her hand on his neck cape, thinking: Mmm... Xue Zhang's cuddle is so warm. Xue Zhang? Suddenly Shan-Mei jumped up in bed.
Xiang-Zhe pushed himself up with one arm and glared at her.
"Why are you sleeping here?" Shan-Mei widened her eyes and stared at him.
"This is my room, where else would I sleep?" He replied duly.
"How could you do this? Have you forgotten that we are in the midst of a cold war?" How can he be such a jerk, she thought as she prepared to leave the bedroom.
As usual Shan-Mei didn’t seem to be that alert but today, her senses were exactly sharp. Xiang-Zhe couldn’t help feeling annoyed and amazed. He reached out and pulled her into his arms, saying, "I never had any intention to quarrel.”
She stopped.
He resisted all odds and kissed her, slowly he tasted her lips. Shan-Mei didn’t retaliate and returned his passionate kiss; she had long forgotten about retaliating!
Eventually, he lifted his head and looked deeply into her eyes, telling her, "Sorry, I apologize for what I had said yesterday." He tucked her hair behind her ears, "Please forgive me, I was so worried. You realize how much I fear losing you? My worry turned into anger at the sight of you talking about the events jokingly.”
"Because I don’t want people to worry for me, that's why the relaxing reaction," her mouth spouted, "I thought that you would comfort me, hug me and what do I get? A scolding!”
"So you were thinking of these matters?" He raised his eyebrows and revealed a mischievous grin, "That's too simple, I can reward you immediately.”
Shan-Mei hammered his chest shyly, "What nonsense!"
He cuddled her, once again bent his head, not wanting to lose the opportunity
The sky is finally clear after a long night of heavy pouring..
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 9)
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were shopping in the famous city area for Zhen-Shu's (auntie) birthday gift whose birthday was just around the corner.
"What do you think of this?" He pointed at the item in the window display.
Shan-Mei looked closely at the uniquely designed earrings and exclaimed, "They’re beautiful!"
"With your smile, they would be even more beautiful!" He patted softly on her cheeks.
"You're buying them for me?" She smiled with happiness but in a challenging tone.
"Of course! You have the right to select Zhen-Shu’s present how can I fight with you over that? I only have to be responsible for my wife, that's all..."
"Mmmm, he is right! After walking for a whole day, Shan-Mei still couldn’t decide on anything. Finally a pair of pink clay-made toy on display caught her attention. She took it off the shelf with care and examined the toys. "So cute!" The male pig depicted an innocent expression and the female pig was smiling jovially.
"Didn’t we agree on picking out a present today?" Xiang-Zhe raised his eyebrows, looking at the toys with doubt.
"Mmm, don't you think their expression remind you of dad and auntie?" Shan-Mei beamedat the cute toys, "I have just decided to buy these!"
Shan-Mei's logic in choosing presents amazed him as he recalled the bunny that sat on his office desk...That’s right, the sincerity is more important than the present itself. That bunny on his desk meant something to him, looking at it reminded him of Shan-Mei, allowing him to sustain calmness through the course of his work.
On Zhen-Shu’s birthday, Xiang-Zhe insisted on bringing the family to a classy French restaurant for dinner.
"You shouldn’t have," Zhen-Shu felt bad, "we could just have a simple meal at home."
"Aiyo, you are always grumbling that I don't treat you. It not often that we can dine in such places, so why don't you just sit back and enjoy?" Gui-Cheng teased her.
"Why can you stop uttering nonsense? If not for Xiang-Zhe, I would be having Kim-Chi instant noodles at home right now!" Zhen-Shu argued.
Shan-Mei couldn’t resist laughing at the family that she loved most and took out the present... "Auntie, happy birthday! Wish you be as youthful as before!"
"What is it this time?" Zhen-Shu examined the present before opening, "Wa!! The pigs are so sweet and adorable!" Zhen-Shu has been receiving gifts from Shan-Mei since young, thus she understands perfectly this child's sincerity and thoughts?
"Aren’t they cute? This is dad," Shan-Mei pointed, "and this is you, auntie. Be like them, don’t quarrel ok?"
At this moment, a waiter presented Zhen-Shu with a huge bouquet of flowers. "Madam Song, these flowers are for you."
Zhen-Shu accepted the bouquet, feeling surprised. Never in her life has she ever received such a big bouquet, she gave Gui-Cheng a startled look.
"Don’t look at me, it is none of my business!" Gui-Cheng is curious himself.
Shan-Mei eyed the flowers with envy, "Wa, they are beautiful! Auntie, could they be from an admirer?"
"What are you talking about? Where do I get admirers at my age?" In spite of saying that, she felt pleased though.
"Who could it be," Shan-Mei thought, "Xue Zhang, it is you, isn’t it?"
"It was out of sincerity," he looked at Zhen-Shu, "I haven the slightest idea of what to get you, really sorry about it, but hope you like them." Other than loving Shan-Mei, he had also extended his generous love to her family and friends, if not for You-Zheng, he would never had the chance to express his affection to Shan-Mei. He was extremely indebted for that and making Zhen-Shu happy was something, which he can do to convey filial piety on behalf of You-Zheng...
"Of course, I like it! I have never even received a single flower petal in my whole life!" She accused Gui-Cheng.
"Xue Zhang, you are so biased! Why did auntie get such a bouquet while I get only one stalk per day? You are so unfair!" Shan-Mei pouted her lips and grumbled.
"Both are different matters! For your case, sending flowers would have to be a lifetime hence, you only get a stalk daily. If I send more, I would have to spend more, so it's not worth it!" He mocked her.
"What!" So petty, Shan-Mei thought.
"Anyway it the thought that counts, why be so calculative?" He reminded her of what she once said.
Looking at the loving couple, Zhen-Shu's memory wandered," "If only You-Zhen was still around..." Her voice bore sadness...it would be merrier if You-Zheng and Ying-Mei were here...
"Auntie..." Shan-Mei tried to swallow the lump in her throat.
Xiang-Zhe frowned upon the situation, massaged her shoulders lightly, hoping to console her. Through Xiang-Zhe strong and warm hands, Shan-Mei returned a weak smile... You-Zheng, where are you now? Can you see all these? I am very happy! Really am!...
"Today is a happy event, let's not let the past affect us, shall we?" Gui-Cheng hoped to resume the happy mood.
"Happy?" Zhen-Shu gathered her depressed thoughts and transformed them into anger, "What have you done to make me happy?"
"Well you can say that, Xiang-Zhe is my son-in-law, his thoughts represent mine," Gui-Cheng answered boldly.
"You are indeed a pig!" She declared and threw the toy at him.
They laughed heartily and sent the sadness to the back of their minds.
One happy family, two merry couples in a remote corner, You-Zheng is smiling at them, sharing the happiness...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translation by: Tina [Singapore]*
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 10)
Once again, Xiang-Zhe brought Shan-Mei home to visit his dad. He seldom went home, even though his relationship with his dad had improved. That woman reminded him of his mom and her sufferings...Although facing the past with a different mindset, he still didn’t have any idea of how to face her...
Observing the little boy sitting in the corner, Shan-Mei thought, he must be Xiang-Zhe’s younger brother. He is always wearing that shyness and scared look whenever they visit, after all he is only a child. She initiated a handshake while introducing herself formally, hardly had the opportunity to do that before, "Hi! I am Zhen Shan-Mei."
He reached for her hand slowly because whenever his elder brother visited, he would become nervous and frightful.
"Have you seen me on TV? I am actually pretty in person? What do you reckon?" Her smile reduced some tension.
He nodded his head. She had looked like a fairy on their wedding day...even more beautiful...
"So impolite! Address your elder sister-in-law!" Xiang-Zhe dad said.
"Elder sister-in-law. That's so old!" She sat down beside him and whispered, "I prefer Juniors to address me as 'Sister'."
"Sister." He finally smiled, no longer tense.
"You should have brought Shan-Mei home more often; when was the last time the house was this noisy?" Xiang-Zhe's dad was overwhelmed by Shan-Mei's actions in communicating with a child.
"Alright! I will bring her home more often in future!" Xiang-Zhe nodded, knowing that his dad truly liked Shan-Mei.
"Oh yes! Shan-Mei, this is for you." His dad handed a cream-colored envelope and a set of keys to her, "Your wedding gift."
As he spoke, he thought to himself: 'Somehow it would be more appropriate rather as an appreciation gift. This sweet girl has changed Xiang-Zhe and his attitude towards me. I am truly gratified for her help in regaining my son.'
"Wedding gift...?"
"Yes, you got married in a blink, I didn’t have the time to prepare a proper gift," he reproached gently.
Shan-Mei blushed upon hearing that and peeked at Xiang-Zhe and he was smiling at her. What’s there to smile about? Isn’t it entirely his fault?
"You don’t have to, I have almost every thing dad, you really don't have to..." She rejected the gift kindly.
"Come on, open it. It actually nothing special."
She was astonished to find a property contract in the envelope, and was lost for words for a moment...
"That bungalow was bought years ago, it is merely a change of ownership now. The scenery is excellent, both of you can take vacations there!" He felt they should like the place since it has been renovated recently.
"Thank you, Dad." Xiang-Zhe accepted the gift, realizing his dad’s love for Shan-Mei.
"Xue Zhang..." Shan-Mei gave him a push.
"Why not accept it? This is dad's idea and you know, he is actually bribing you. Hoping that you would treat his son better."
"Xue Zhang...!" She blushed again, always teasing her at the inappropriate times!
"How is work lately? Has it been tedious?" He had heard quite a bit from office about his daughter-in-law’s increased workload.
"Em." She could barely smile at that, "There are still some mistakes being made, a newscaster job is really difficult."
"Why not stop working if your work gets too tiring?" He suggested sympathetically.
"Oh, I can’t do that. It was a difficult process to enter MBS to start with, how can I give up easily? I will definitely give my best to be the best newscaster." Her eyes sparkled while explaining.
"Good! Excellent!" Xiang-Zhe dad nodded his head proudly, acknowledging her childhood ambition.
A voice spoke in the background, it was Xiang-Zhe’s stepmom, "Have some tea, the dinner will be ready soon." She turned with the serving tray.
"Auntie..." Shan-Mei stood up and offered, "Can I help?"
"But..." Shan-Mei offer had caught her off guard, not believing what she had heard since the hatred from Xiang-Zhe.
"Although I am clumsy at times, I am always a good help in the kitchen." She asked Xiang-Zhe, "am I right?"
Slightly uncomfortable with the sudden change in situation, he answered reluctantly with a nod.
That was the first time Xiang-Zhe had ever smiled in front of his stepmom, and she was delighted, "Of course, if you don’t mind..." she asked.
"If you don’t mind, actually..." Shan-Mei followed her into the kitchen.
"Your wife...is a capable lady," his dad commented upon their leaving shadows.
Xiang-Zhe thought: Yes, this little woman can transform the lives of people around her. She is indeed capable...
The lunch for this afternoon was extremely relaxing. Shan-Mei was like the summer sunshine bringing out the sunny weather in this family after years of gloomy weather...
Back home, Shan-Mei brought out two cups of fresh coffee and leaned against Xiang-Zhe.
"You don’t have to make yourself do all those things," Xiang-Zhe said in the midst of thinking.
"What?" Shan-Mei gave him a puzzled expression.
"I was saying you don’t have to go through the trouble to improve my relationship with them."
"No, it’s not what you think!" Shan-Mei rebutted, "Auntie is also considered as part of my family." She continued, "Auntie is important to your dad and your dad in turn, is important to you. You know, Xue Zhang is important to me too...since everyone is important, there no reason for me not to like her."
There is no complex philosophy in Shan-Mei's life, only the simple intelligence...
"So from what you said, I am the other key person in your life, other than your dad?" Xiang-Zhe tried to compress his contentment.
"No, Xue Zhang is as important as dad, both of you are...my most loved people!" Shan-Mei responded naturally.
Xiang-Zhe is no longer skeptical of Shan-Mei's love and with his existence being acknowledged, he held her tightly against him. "Are you hoping that I do accept her?" If it is for Shan-Mei, he is willing to give it a try.
She shook her head in his embrace, "I don't want Xue Zhang to do things against his wish."
"Want to hear about the past?" He doesn’t want to dig out the past but perhaps she won’t blame him for not being compassionate.
"No," she shook her head again, let his unhappiness vanish with the wind. Nobody can change the past, yet she doesn’t want history to repeat itself.
He stroked her hair tenderly and let out a sigh. She was always so understanding; able to give in to prevent unnecessary pressure yet extend her warmest help in times of need.... Fortunately, he had never given up, never let go...fortunately she was still in his embrace...fortunately...holding this beauty, Xiang-Zhe had indefinite contentment...
Author: Lin Cai
Translator: ariajo
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 11)
Weather: Sunny Mood: :)
The Charity Gala was just a few days away. Xiang-Zhe specially made time to accompany Shan-Mei to the designer they had always patronized.
"These are new arrivals, European style..." the designer knew exactly what Xiang-Zhe was looking for. "... just right for such a formal occasion."
Xiang-Zhe surveyed the recommended designs, stole a look at Shan-Mei and selected a champagne-colored dress from the lot. "This would be perfect."
Shan-Mei smiled as she took the dress from Xiang-Zhe. "I won't be a sec." Was she getting used to letting Senior run her life for her? No. It was the sweetness of dependency - relying on Senior to take care of her; and the tenderness of trust knowing that Senior saw the best in her and knew how to make her merits shine. It was the trust that no other heart can demand.
Our designer eyed Xiang-Zhe thoughtfully while Xiang-Zhe waited patiently outside the fitting room, noticing his brighter smile, softer lines, and total indulgance in the happiness of being a family man. Xiang-Zhe had changed, she thought. Like many others, she had wondered why Xiang-Zhe gave up a beauty, like Yong-Xi, for a girl next door, Shan-Mei. But now she knew. Yong-Xi was no doubt a beauty, but one that was to be appreciated from a distance. Shan-Mei, on the other hand, had a unique charm working like a magnet, drawing her admirer closer and closer...
The curtains of the fitting room drew back, unveiling the unique and charming Shan-Mei. Xiang-Zhe held his breath as he rose slowly from his chair admiring his angel approvingly. The simplicity of the cut and the demure skin-tone color enhanced Shan-Mei's exquisiteness.
"Wow! This suits you perfectly, fits like second skin," the designer applauded. "Mr. Yin, you really know how to bring out your wife's best advantage."
Beneath lowered lids, Shan-Mei eyed Xiang-Zhe in the reflection of the mirror. Xiang-Zhe's eyes burnt with love and passion, never getting enough of this tranquil sight. Overcame by shyness, she lowered her eyes...
The night of the Charity Gala...
Shan-Mei couldn't help feeling tense. She kept looking down at her dress, straightening folds that did not need straightening. Did she look all right? Was everything in place? Shan-Mei absent-mindedly held her hand to her chest.
"Nervous?" Xiang-Zhe asked as he gently placed his arm about her shoulders.
"Mmm... I've never been to such... such a formal occasion." Shan-Mei took another breath, desperately trying to calm her nerves. This was the first time she had appeared in public with Senior since their wedding. Nothing must go wrong...
"Don't worry, you are perfect. Just keep to my side and you'll be fine," Xiang-Zhe said as he slipped his arm around her waist, escorting her into the ballroom.
As if a star had descended on the Gala, all eyes turned. Many glanced over with approval. Others murmured softly...
"Mr. and Mrs. Yin. What a pleasure!" the Chairman of SBS greeted them as they approached.
"How are you? It's been a long time," Xiang-Zhe replied as he politely shook his hands.
"You surprised all of us with such a sudden marriage. Some even thought this could be a shotgun marriage. Hmmm, but looking at Mrs. Yin's perfect figure, I guess rumors are rumors after all."
"Really! There were such rumors going around?" For the first time since their wedding, Shan-Mei got her first glimpse of the spotlight they were under.
Xiang-Zhe smiled casually, tactfully changing the topic, "SBS programs have been doing very well recently, I heard. Plenty of good comments going around."
"Oh, that's nothing compared to your achievements. Really, Mr. Yin, you are a strategist, anchoring the best anchor at home, so she won't be poached." Chairman of SBS said with a pinch of sarcasm. He had recently lost many of his anchors to MBS' poaching. His tone was slightly bitter with that thought.
Just at this moment, Mr. Kim Jun Hao, the GM of Wen Rong Heavy Industry approached the party. "Mr. Yin," he greeted and turned to Shan-Mei with a smile, "Ms. Zhen Shan-Mei, you're getting prettier by the day."
"Thank you." Shan-Mei smiled brightly at him. What a relief to see a friendly, familiar face.
"So Mr. Yin wasn't joking at the 20th Anniversary, eh? You were really his fiance then."
"Oh, no... uhm... it's nothing like that." Shan-Mei blushed as she tried to rectify the situation.
"Actually, it was merely my wish then," Xiang-Zhe came to Shan-Mei's rescue as always.
"Oh, really? Well, that goes to show what a determined person our Mr. Yin is," Mr. Kim said. He knew in his heart that Xiang-Zhe was the future of Wen Rong Group. He felt certain that this capable young man would bring Wen Rong Group to its ultimate.
Melodious tunes lingered in the background and floated its way into the party's ears. Xiang-Zhe held out his hand to Shan-Mei gentlemanly and asked, "May I?"
Excusing themselves from the group, Xiang-Zhe steered Shan-Mei towards the dance floor...
Placing her hands in his, Shan-Mei allowed her body to sway and move with his flowing steps...
Xiang-Zhe showered Shan-Mei with comforting and loving gazes as their bodies moved in harmony. "Rumors and gossips are nothing new at such occasions. Don't take their words to heart, dear." There would be more of such occasions in future. Xiang-Zhe hoped that Shan-Mei would get used to it slowly. He didn't want her to back out after the first attempt.
Shan-Mei pouted her lips slightly and gave Xiang-Zhe a look. "It's all your fault. You and your insisting that we get married immediately."
"Of course. I had to insist." Xiang-Zhe grinned. "My heart can only be at ease with you safely tucked under my wings, close by my side." He could still remember how he nearly lost her when she was to go to London. The mere thought of losing her still sent chills down his spine.
Shan-Mei fixed her eyes on her perfect Prince Charming; passionate eyes, lustful lips, guarding by her side always. Suddenly she felt her heart beating fast, and her cheeks burning hot...
As if reading her mind, Xiang-Zhe leaned forward and whispered in her ears, "I hope you and I are thinking of the same things right now..."
Realizing what he was referring to, Shan-Mei averted her eyes quickly. "I don't know what you mean..."
"Let's go home right this moment, shall we?" Xiang-Zhe said hoarsely.
Shan-Mei couldn't help giggling, "But we just got here... I haven't even danced with the others yet."
"Ms. Zhen Shan-Mei," Xiang-Zhe exclaimed with mocked seriousness. "May I ask which 'others' are you planning to dance with? I've booked your dance card for the night. You're mine..." Xiang-Zhe tightened his embrace slightly.
"Yes, sir" Shan-Mei smiled sweetly. Such strong desire. Such sweet possessiveness.
Xiang-Zhe swung her around as they continued dancing through the night, arm in arm. Their affection for each other was so pure, unaware of all jealousies and oblivious of all envies.
Needless to say, Shan-Mei didn't danced with anyone else that night. Xiang-Zhe didn't give her any chance. This stunning couple was the talk of the town wherever they went...
Author: Lin Cai
Translator: ariajo
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 12)
Weather: Sunny Mood: :)
It was lunchtime. Shan-Mei and Yong-Xi were in the restaurant waiting for Xiang-Zhe and Xian-Da. The guys had been running from meetings to meetings the whole morning and were a little late.
Shan-Mei noticed the slight sign of fatigue on Yong-Xi's face. She inquired, "Senior, are you all right?"
"Sigh, I've been feeling lethargic lately. Don’t know why." Yong-Xi rested her elbow on the table and braced her head with her hand.
"You should see a doctor if you aren't feeling well," Shan-Mei said with genuine concern.
"Look who's talking," Yong-Xi teased. "Now... who was that person who wore herself out and fainted in front of the microphone?"
Shan-Mei smiled bashfully at the past recollection. "Shall I accompany you to the hospital?"
"It's okay, Shan-Mei. I'm fine. I just hope I'm not pregnant," Yong-Xi couldn't help feeling a little apprehensive.
"Pregnant?" Shan-Mei stared blankly at Yong-Xi as if that was a foreign word to her.
"Why look so surprised? Getting married, having a baby - those are the natural routines of life. I just don't want to be tied down by a kid just yet. I would like to excel in my career, give it my best," Yong-Xi voiced as she looked on her aspiration.
Shan-Mei nodded her head. She totally understood what Yong-Xi meant. Yong-Xi was after all a career-minded woman. One couldn't help but notice how brightly she shone at work. Certainly a great role model and mentor for Shan-Mei.
"What about you? Have you ever discussed this with Xiang-Zhe?" Yong-Xi probed, her mind coming back to the present topic at hand.
Shan-Mei looked down at her hands and shook her head lightly. "No, I haven't even thought about it." Shan-Mei felt slight heat rising up her neck, as she was still not used to discussing her married life in public.
"Hmm, from what I know of Xiang-Zhe, he probably wouldn't want a kid," Yong-Xi analyzed.
"Really?" Shan-Mei suddenly felt so distant from her beloved Senior. Did she really understand Xiang-Zhe well? She had gladly immersed herself in Xiang-Zhe's sweet pool of tenderness and affection. "Having a child?" She had honestly never given it a thought.
Seeing Shan-Mei lost in her own thoughts, Yong-Xi quickly added, "But then again, one can never tell for sure. Remember Xiang-Zhe used to be a celibate. But look at him now - willingly and blissfully bounded by wedlock."
Speaking of the devil, Xiang-Zhe and Xian-Da chose this moment to walk into the restaurant, joining their darlings for lunch.
"What's the secret?" Xiang-Zhe queried as he sat down by Shan-Mei. A charming smile accompanied his question as always.
"The secret is... something I can't tell you," Shan-Mei baited mischievously.
"I was just asking Shan-Mei about you guys' baby plan," Yong-Xi confessed, giving the suspense away.
Xian-Da saw the golden opportunity and cut in, "They're still young. They can wait. It's us I'm worried about. You know, if we wait any longer, our child might well mistake me for a grandpa," Xian-Da said somewhat helplessly, obvious anxiety written all over his face. 'It's about time his career-minded wife put reins on her passion for work,' he thought
"We're very contented with our current situation," Xiang-Zhe announced with a casual smile. He reached across the table and gloved Shan-Mei's hands in his.
"Was it his oversight?" He really hadn't thought about it before. The world just seemed so perfect with Shan-Mei by his side. Shan-Mei captivated the whole of him. Nothing else seemed to matter.
"Senior..." Xiang-Zhe's intimate gesture received a somewhat demure response from Shan-Mei. Her astonished eyes flew from him to their company across the table. Overcome by shyness, she reflexively withdrew her hands from his grasp while sending him a warning glance: 'We have company, can't you observe some modesty?'
Xiang-Zhe grinned broadly.
Witnessing such pure happiness, Yong-Xi couldn't help but protest, "Look at you, Xiang-Zhe. Life is so unfair - to let you find true love so easily after you broke so many hearts."
"Easily, I beg to differ, madam," Xiang-Zhe bestowed a knowing look on Shan-Mei. The quest of winning Shan-Mei's heart hadn't been an easy one at all. The agony of patient waiting, the storm of constant yearning, the self-mastery wield to take careful, measured steps towards her - it was an unique mixture of bitter-sweet taste that no others could ever comprehend... Their romance had been an eventful one...
"I totally agree," Xian-Da vouched with a grin.
Shan-Mei blinked blankly at the two grinning faces on her, not realizing that she had been teased again.
That night, Xiang-Zhe appeared momentarily distracted as they got ready for bed. He had been contemplating Yong-Xi's question throughout the day. He glanced over at Shan-Mei who was engrossed in her reading. Had he been too selfish? Had he been too self-centered, thinking just of his needs? What about Shan-Mei ? Did she want a kid? What would Shan-Mei be like as a parent? In Xiang-Zhe's heart, Shan-Mei was still like a kid herself sometimes exuding child-like innocence... then again, she was totally feminine in many other ways. A grin tugged at the corner of his mouth.
He leaned over towards his source of tenderness, "Do you like kids?" Xiang-Zhe asked tentatively, testing the waters for now.
"Of course." Where did that come from? Shan-Mei answered his question without giving it a second thought.
"Mmm.... do you like a boy or girl?" he quizzed cautiously.
"Both, if they are adorable." Shan-Mei clapped her book shut, snuggled up against Xiang-Zhe's warm embrace and said with pride, "I remembered when I was a kid, everyone said I was really adorable."
"You still are, my sweet!" Xiang-Zhe felt a sudden impulse brewing in him. What would their child look like? He suddenly felt the urge to know.
"If our child looks like you, he or she would definitely be the most adorable child in the world," Xiang-Zhe said softly as he smoothed his hands over her silky hair.
"Hmm..." Shan-Mei muttered in a sweet whisper. A smile formed faintly on her angel-like face.
"... then... let's have a kid," Xiang-Zhe concluded in a measured tone. Not a bad notion, really, - a fruit of their love.
"..." silence was all that Xiang-Zhe could hear in reply.
"Shan-Mei...?" Xiang-Zhe looked down into his arms and gazed at Shan-Mei in disbelief. She had miraculously dozed off at such solemn moment.
It seemed like Xiang-Zhe gave the topic a little too much thought. Shan-Mei didn't seem to be mentally prepared just yet. From the looks of it, they could postpone the discussion for now. Which meant, they could fully indulge in their divine love - just the two of them. Xiang-Zhe gave a silent sigh of satisfaction as his arms closed tightly around his angel.
Life was just so fascinating. The innocent angel who accidentally landed atop Xiang-Zhe's car, now slept peacefully in his arms. And who knows? One day, a little angel might decide to intrude into their lives...
Author: Lin Cai
Translator: ariajo
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 13)
Weather: Sunny Mood: :)
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were taking a morning stroll - just like they always did on weekends. Holding Shan-Mei's hands in his, Xiang-Zhe seemed particularly buoyant. Shan-Mei decided to take advantage of such alight-hearted mood to put forth her request...
"Interview?" Xiang-Zhe asked, slightly taken aback.
"Well, Jun-Mao says it's not really an interview per se... mmm... it's more like taking a few pictures... let's just put it that way," Shan-Mei clarified warily, her eyes searching Xiang-Zhe's face for clues of his temperament.
Shan-Mei's childhood friend, Jun-Mao, now a press photographer with a leading magazine, had approached Shan-Mei for a personal favor. To earn credit with his chief editor, Jun-Mao thought of featuring Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei on the cover of the upcoming edition. Naturally, Shan-Mei declined the offer politely. But Jun-Mao's persistence was not to be ignored. Shan-Mei felt her heart softening. After all, he was not only a long-time friend, but also You-Zhen's best friend. You-Zhen... Shan-Mei couldn't help but give in...
Xiang-Zhe's dark brows knitted together slightly. Shan-Mei could be a little willful at times. "Don't you think this would put yourself amidst unnecessary attention?"
It would. Xiang-Zhe was absolutely right. And Shan-Mei knew it. In her heart, she was well aware that Xiang-Zhe, with her interest at heart, had warriorously shielded her from all media attention. All press releases were to be handled by MBS' PR department. Their wedding was no exception - all interviews were declined and reporters could only take far shots of the wedding from designated locations. No amount of royalty fees could secure any media with an up-close and personal interview.
"Just this once..." Shan-Mei posed one slender finger pathetically by her cheek and pleaded with pouting lips, "ple...as..e?!!"
Knowing it best to let logic rule his heart, Xiang-Zhe reasoned steadily, "Our PR department would be in a difficult position should other magazines make similar demands."
"Which is precisely why I am seeking your opinion first..." Shan-Mei clung onto Xiang-Zhe's arm, working her innocent charm beautifully.
Xiang-Zhe looked deeply into Shan-Mei's clear dewy eyes, sparkling with anticipation and innocence. "You should learn to say 'no', my sweet." Shan-Mei put her faith in others much too readily. Her tender nature didn't make it any easier for her to say 'no'.
"I know you're right... but... but..." I failed, Shan-Mei thought. She bit her lips and flopped her head in disappointment.
Xiang-Zhe felt the walls his 'logic castle' crumpling under Shan-Mei's mournful look. He couldn't seem to help it. Those doleful eyes, those downcast lashes, those pouting lips - all tugged at Xiang-Zhe's heart, beckoning for him to surrender. The fight of the heart and the soul was the hardest battle of all. Xiang-Zhe gave a silent sigh.
"Very well..." Xiang-Zhe's mouth curved as he dotingly smoothed his hands over Shan-Mei's glossy hair. "But, just this once."
Shan-Mei's face lighted up with brief gleam of delight before it was overtaken by concern. "But... the PR department..." She would not want to put her beloved Senior at any inconvenience.
"Well, we'll just have to tell them it's 'wife's orders'. Now everyone would know that Director Yin is held at the wife's mercy," Xiang-Zhe pursed his lips in mock meekness.
"Oh, thank you so much, Senior!..." Shan-Mei threw her arms about Xiang-Zhe's neck as she flung herself into his arms. She felt too happy for words. The corners of her mouth no longer felt heavy with apprehension. They curved deeply upwards into a bright, cheery smile.
"Ah... I'm rather shy, you know. I'm not used to such a public display of affection," Xiang-Zhe teased, unable to conceal his broad smile. His actions totally rallied against his words as he closed his arms tightly around Shan-Mei, tugging her head under his chin.
One request for one loving embrace. Not a bad deal at all.
A few days later...
The actual shoot itself was more than just a simple photography session. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity called for the best cast. The publisher even reserved a deluxe suite as the shoot location. The team went all out to ensure that everything went smoothly.
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were on the last set of shots now. For this setting, Jun-Mao had arranged for Shan-Mei to lean by the arms of Xiang-Zhe's chair...
"Right, Shan-Mei, move in a little closer... that's right, now rest your hands on his shoulders... yep, relax your arms... good!"
"Alright, last one... ready, smile... good... OK!"
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei heaved slight sighs of relief. It had been almost two hours. Their cheeks almost numbed from the constant smiling...
"I thought you said just a few pictures?" Shan-Mei gave Jun-Mao a reproaching look.
"I'm sorry. I just couldn't resist the rare opportunity." Jun-Mao turned to thank Xiang-Zhe. "Director Yin, thank you so much. We really appreciate your taking time off to help us out. We are much obliged."
"My pleasure. The obligation is entirely mine, I can assure you. As I understand it, Shan-Mei has privileged much from your care and guidance..." Xiang-Zhe shook Jun-Mao's hand with genuine gratitude.
"Our Shan-Mei is reformed now. She has fitted nicely into the glass slippers," Jun-Mao said with a brotherly smile.
"What? You mean to imply that I'm Cinderella?" Shan-Mei retaliated.
Well, not exactly. It would be more appropriate to say that Shan-Mei had blossomed into a fine lady. Gone was the little girl tagging behind Jun-Mao and You-Zhen's shadows. Dressed in her demure pink suit, she exuded with poise and refined composure...
"My apologies, allow me to correct myself, Miss Swan. Hahaha how's that?" Jun-Mao joked and proceeded to lower his voice to a murmuring tone, "Don't forget to help me secure a post in MBS, eh?"
Shan-Mei replied with a stunned look, her lips slightly parted as she searched her mind frantically for the next best thing to say.
"Hahaha, just kidding," Jun-Mao reined his usual casual manners and thanked Shan-Mei again. "Thanks for your help. Dinner next time, my treat."
"Deal?" Shan-Mei asked as they parted.
"Deal! Farewell, Director and Mrs. Yin," Jun-Mao bid with a playful salute.
"Bye," Shan-Mei smiled and waved goodbye to the brotherly figure.
"You torment my heart with bitter jealousy whenever you smile so sweetly at other men," Xiang-Zhe jested as he put his arms around Shan-Mei, directing her toward their car.
"What! What a petty man. Certainly, you don't expect me to bid goodbye in tears, do you?" Shan-Mei wrinkled her nose adorably and poked.
"Now, do I get a reward for my splendid performance today?" Xiang-Zhe leaned towards her ears and mumbled seductively.
"Of course." Shan-Mei nodded her head with affirmation. Seeing the fierce passion gleaming in Xiang-Zhe's eyes, she beamed and broke off, leaving gleeful giggles in her trails.
Turning back, she gave Xiang-Zhe a triumph smile and announced, "Your reward is... very expensive... ramen!"
This is called: giving him a taste of his own fruits.
A charming grin lingered on Xiang-Zhe's handsome face. Waves of warmth rushed through his heart. His adorable Shan-Mei was the sunshine of his life, the source of his every happiness...
Writer:Lin Cai(Taiwan)
Editor & Translator:Nora & Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 14)
On the eve of Valentine's Day during lunch break, Zhao-Di dragged Shan-Mei along to shop around in the gift shop near the company. Zhao-Di wanted to pick a gift for Chen-Sui for Valentine's Day.
"Ha! Do you have any idea what to buy for your prince on Valentine's Day?" Zhao-Di asked with her eyes busy surveying the gifts on the display shelf. "What a noble prince he is! Xiang-Zhe deserves to get the most exalted and expensive present," Zhao-Di pointed out enthusiastically.
"I don't know what best gift to choose. I was thinking of making some chocolates myself," Shan-Mei said with a feeling that it will be the best homemade gift for Xiang-Zhe. Honestly speaking, Shan-Mei didn't feel anything special on this certain day. As long as "Senior" is with her, everyday is Valentine's Day.
"Making chocolate? Isn't that what high school students used to do? I can't believe what you just said," Zhao-Di commented with a startled look at Shan-Mei, disagreeing with her idea. "With your kind of reputation, at least you need to get a gold or diamond watch for your husband."
Shan-Mei refreshed her memory about the collection of watches which "Senior" had at home. He had plenty of watches in different styles. She had no special taste in watch selection. Her discerning ability is less than perfect compared to Xiang-Zhe.
"What gift are you going to get for Chen-Sui?" Shan-Mei pouted her mouse eyeing Zhao-Di for an opinion.
"Of course, the more special, the better outcome it will be." Suddenly, something caught Zhao-Di's eyes and she picked up a gift box. "Woo! This is a perfect one which fits my needs. Right on the track!" Zhao-Di exclaimed excitedly. "What is it?" Shan-Mei knitted her eyebrow curiously at Zhao-Di's discovery.
"Candy underwear! It's good for both eating and wearing. It's so wonderful! As soon as Chen-Sui sees this underwear, he is going to correlate it with my coquettish figure. Definitely, he will have a nosebleed. It is so great to give him lots of imagination to fantasize," Zhao-Di said to herself with a highly gratified dream of her perfect outlook. Shan-Mei took a deep breath and thought what a crazy idea it was though it was exciting.
"Come on! Come on! You had better buy one for yourself as a Valentine's Day gift. I am sure a gentle prince like Xiang-Zhe will certainly become a wild monster." Zhao-di bumped Shan-Mei's elbow with a cheeky smile, full of enthusiasm.
"I'm not going to buy it!. No way!" Shan-Mei's cheeks blushed pink with embarrasment. She quickly grabbed a box of chocolates. "Candy underwear for Valentine's Day! What a joke!" Shan-Mei mumbled to herself. She could visualize the crafty smile of Xiang-Zhe popping up before her eyes. Suddenly she felt her heartbeat racing up.
* * * * * * * * * *
On the night of Valentine's Day, Xiang-Zhe ordered dinner from a five-star hotel to be sent home. He wanted to have a romantic candle light dinner at home with Shan-Mei on this special night. He turned on the music and lighted the candles. With a wonderful romantic ambience, Shan-Mei should only belong to him tonight.
Looking at Shan-Mei who was sitting in front of him, Xiang-Zhe was reminded of Shan-Mei's confession. "I have no lover," she had told the audiences when she was a guest on the TV program "Talking With Your Enemy". At that moment her statement had hit him hard as if he was dropped from the top of a hill to the bottom of a valley.
Yet, now they were celebrating Valentine's Day together. No doubt, Yin Xiang-Zhe was the lover of Zhen Shan-Mei ; she was the only woman that he devoted to love, care and adore eternally. He took out a light blue box laced with red roses which he had prepared earlier and handed it to Shan-Mei. She opened the gift box and suddenly her lips curved into smile. The five words written on it, "The Time With Zhen Shan-Mei " caught her eyes. The gift was a TV program with a theme specially designed for her.
"I figured now is not the right time for you to host the TV program, but as long as you are ready we can start the program anytime," Xiang zhe had decided to make Shan-Mei's dream come true in hosting her own theme program.
"Senior!" Shan-Mei cried out with tears of joys welling up in her eyes. "Senior, thank you... I truly love you," she said with a choking voice.
"Because of loving you, I'm prepared to walk further together with you. Because of loving you, I have never dreamt that you would bring me so much joy and happiness. Because of loving you, I have decided to live with your every breath," Shan-Mei confessed her feelings to Xiang-Zhe.
Walking up towards her, Xiang-Zhe gazed at Shan-Mei lovingly. "You are not allowed to cry tonight," he said tucking her into his embrace.
"I didn't cry," she blinked her eyes trying not to let her tears flow out. Suddenly she felt embarrassed of the gift she'd bought for him. In comparison, her present was too tiny and simple. "I didn't know what to get for you," she shyly took out a bag which contained the chocolate that she had bought earlier. Xiang-Zhe unwrapped the gift and what a suprise.... he couldn't believe his eyes.
"I understand, you must be laughing at how ordinary I am," Shan-Mei lowered her head ashamed as she had only bought a box of chocolates for him.
"I didn't think like that of you, in fact I am surprised!" Xiang-Zhe replied with a big smile.
Shan-Mei looked at Xiang-Zhe, confused, and wondered why must he be surprised to receive a box of chocolates as a gift.
"Although it was not expensive, at least you can feel the sweetness from my heart when you eat the chocolates," she said with an agitated tone thinking that Xiang-Zhe was making fun of her humble gift. She felt that no matter how inexpensive the gift was, it was the thought and care that counted.
Ring..ring... Suddenly the ringing of Shan-Mei's cell phone interrupted her wondering mind.
"Hello, Shan-Mei!" It was Zhao-Di; she sounded nervous and lost.
"What's wrong?" Shan-Mei asked. Zhao-Di should be with Chen-Sui at this moment. Why is she calling her?
"I...You... Nuts! We both got the wrong gifts bags. The candy underwear which I bought is with you," Zhao-Di said alarmingly pointing out the serious mistake.
Shan-Mei was close to shock, with her mouth opened, she looked straight at Xiang-Zhe who was holding the gift...
"What about the chocolate which I bought for Xiang-Zhe?" Shan-Mei asked Zhao-Di, impatient for the answer.
"Well! it has been eaten up by Chen-Sui... he finished it up all," Zhao-Di confessed, swallowing her saliva.
"Chao Zhao-Di, how can you blame me! You also ate almost half of it!" Chen-Sui protested in a loud voice.
"So sorry! Shan-Mei, actually we just wanted to have a bite to find out how delicious it is... but it tasted so good thus..."
Xiang-Zhe who had been listening, finally realised what the commotion was all about. Covering his mouth, he tried not to smile. After hanging up the phone, Shan-Mei was in a daze,staring at Xiang-Zhe.She pointed out to the gift in his hand and said "That one, the gift..." she couldn't continue.
"You hope that as soon as I eat the chocolates, my heart will be filled with lots of sweetness," Xiang-Zhe teased Shan-Mei with an ambiguous smile on his face.
"I...I didn't mean that," Shan-Mei stuttered trying to explain to him. She felt the rush of her blood throughout her body.
"Alright! you don't have to explain," Xiang-Zhe smiled to Shan-Mei. Holding the glass of champagne in his hand, "Cheers! Happy Valentine's Day!" he toasted to Shan-Mei on this special night. It was their first Valentine's celebration since they got married; an interesting and funny one for them to remember.
* * * * * * * * * *
Did Xiang-Zhe finally get to eat the alluring Valentine's gift from Shan-Mei? Well!... it all depended on how well he managed to swindle it out from his wife....
Writer:Lin Cai(Taiwan)
Editor & Translator: Nora & Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 15)
The fall season had arrived and the maple leaves turned red. Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were inviting over their colleagues to their villa to spend time together for a vacation. They were busy shopping for groceries at the grand supermarket as Shan-Mei decided to prepare lunch for their colleagues.
* * * * * * * * * *
Checking against her lists, Shan-Mei went through the shopping items one by one and made a quick reminder to Xiang-Zhe in case they had missed anything.
"BBQ Curry, vegetables, salads......etc. Senior! Hurry up! Do you think we missed anything that we need to buy?" Shan-Mei elatedly asked Xiang-Zhe.
"What we are missing is a professional cook," Xiang-Zhe commented, showing a loverly smile at his wife as they pushed the shopping cart together.
"What do you mean? Don't you have any confidence in me?!" Shan-Mei retorted.
"It's nothing to do about having confidence but, I think my dear wife has been working so hard and now you want to hassle yourself with the cooking. You don't know how reluctant I am to let you do all this!" Xiang-Zhe expressed his concerned for Shan-Mei as he would rather Shan-Mei spend her time resting and relaxing over the weekend and in fact she could have ask someone else to take care of this trivial matter.
"Did you ever say that to other girls? The same honey words with sweet tone that you have just said to me?" Shan-Mei pried Xiang-Zhe for an answer. Senior was too perfect and many girls attracted and admired him. She could imagine the number of girls eyeing over him would just fit into a whole truckload. Which girls wouldn't be swept off their feet by Xiang-Zhe's charm? Suddenly a tinge of jealousy overcame her.
"Are you jealous of my popularity?" Xiang-Zhe asked jokingly giving a soft sigh of relief as he realised she had stopped talking about this sensitive topic.
"That's right! I probably missed lots of pretty girls by keeping the love relationship with an immature girl," Xiang-Zhe laughed wittily. Deep in his heart, Shan-Mei was the only one for him, no other girls had ever touched his heart before he met Shan-Mei who looked like a cute doll, and he couldn't think of anyone else beside her after they had met.
"Pretty girls? You have to be clear about it. How many beautiful girls have you spoken to?" Shan-Mei pouted her mouth with an air of anger. Pretty girls? Immature girl.. he's too much.
Shan-Mei looked cute and adorable when she's jealous, however he will be the victim if he let this teasing game continue too far, Xiang-Zhe thought to himself.
"Only one! The beautiful lady whom I had fallen deeply in love with is Miss Zhen Shan-Mei," Xiang-Zhe declared with a sweet tone and all of sudden he pulled Shan-Mei into his strong warm arms between the shopping cart. "After all, she finally embraced my heart and I nearly lost her."
"Really?" Shan-Mei raised her head looking up at Xiang-Zhe in a daze. Her eyes slightly blinked.
"Of course, I had to practice more because I never had much opportunity before," Xiang-Zhe continued with a smile on his face. Actually he is not someone who could express his love with honeyed words, however it seemed these words flowed out natually from his mouth in front of Shan-Mei.
Shan-Mei seemed touched and satisfied with Xiang-Zhe's assurance and confession. With a contented smile on her face, they pushed the shopping cart together continue with their shopping. It was obvious that not only the shopping cart was filled with plenty of food but also it carried the strong affection and deep love between them.
* * * * * * * * * *
The next day, Xiang-Zhe was busy setting up a long-table in the yard. He'd spread out the tablecloth, arranged the delicious food which was prepared by Shan-Mei, and not forgotten the bottle of wine. In such a clear and crisp autumn climate, the weather was nice and cool which was just a perfect time to have an outdoor party
Everything seemed set and ready, Shan-Mei slipped in holding a piece of sushi with a pair of chopsticks gently put into Xiang-Zhe's mouth.
"How's it? Do you think the taste of the sushi is very similiar to what did Auntie made?"Shan-Mei anxiously waited for Xiang-Zhe's comment.
"Umm...!" Xiang-Zhe nodded his head giving a gesture of thumbs up while enjoying the sweet taste of love that came with the sushi prepared by Shan-Mei.
"This sushi definitely tasted much more delicious than any Auntie prepared," Xiang-Zhe complimented Shan-Mei. No doubt, the food prepared by his lovely wife was better than any sumptuous meal he ever had. Blushing with the complimentary remarks, Shan-Mei gave a big smile to her husband.
"Good! Do I qualify to be a professional cook now?" Shan-Mei sarcastically asked Xiang-Zhe.
"That's right. However, you can only be my own personal chef," Xiang-Zhe lowered his head and sweetly whispered near her lips.
"Ding...Dong!" Suddenly the bell door rang.
"Oh! they are here already!" Shan-Mei sensed a chance to escape from Xiang-Zhe's advances, pushing him away and urging him to open the door for their guests.
"What a right time to come!" Xiang-Zhe murmured to himself as he unwilling let his wife escape from him. He was greeted by a bunch of familiar faces once the door was opened.
"Wow! So gorgeous, the castle for prince and princess to live is very different from our houses," Zhao-Di was totally amazed with what she saw in the luxurious villa. The villa, which was a gift to Shan-Mei from Xiang-Zhe's father, was located not far from the center of the city which was near the scenic area. The location was good for a view, the air was fresh, and the interior was especially designed with a taste of an European style which represented the gracefulness of the hosts.
"The house is a little bit larger than my house. Compared with our house, the villa probably only has more rooms and toilets," Chen-Sui mumbled to himself showing an expression as if he had just tasted the sour grape when he saw how Zhao-Di adored Shan-Mei for having the luxurious villa.
"It's a pity that the function of the wonderful villa is merely for a vacation," Shen Qi-Dong expressed his feeling.
"You could ask Director Yin whether he needs a maid to take care of his villa. Then, you will be allowed to live in this villa every day and be the caretaker," Lee Qing-Xi suggested with a laugh, making fun of Shen Qi-Dong.
"Lee Qing-Xi! Tell me the truth, are you looking forward to be the host of this villa for a long time? You still have plenty of time to think about the marriage proposal from me," Shen Qi-Dong hinted to Lee Qing-Xi, wondering why she still hesitated to accept his love.
Thinking that Shen Qi-Dong was very presumptuous, Lee Qing-Xi stared at him angrily. She can't image herself marrying someone like Shen Qi-Dong; she definitely needed a longer time to consider.
Shan-Mei's pretty smile looked like the blooming flowers. She seemed to enjoy the company of her guest and their antics, considering the happiness which they brought for her as very precious.
* * * * * * * * * *
"What an abundance of food! It looks good!" Yong-Xi was delighted at the whole banquet spread with all sorts of dishes.
"I think this delicious food is probably take out from the restaurant," Xian-Da said ignorantly aloud.
"You guessed. This food was all prepared by Shan-Mei herself," Xiang-Zhe stretched out his hands holding Shan-Mei's waist, gently showing his love and affection. He didn't need to keep the distance with his lovely wife because they were not in the office.
Shan-Mei can't help feeling shy, lowering her head in an attempt to hide her blushing face. She was still trying to get used to the little tricks and affection that Xiang-Zhe showed openly in front of her colleagues.
"Really! Once your father is aware of your situation, he is going to show off to everyone about his darling daughter," Xian-Da said to Shan-Mei excitedly. He was impressed and marvelled at Shan-Mei's progress. He couldn't imagined the girl who stood in front of him was once the teenager who always calls him 'Uncle'.
"Wow! Yummy. It looks very delicious!" Zhao-Di gaped at the mouth-watering spread of food, wondering which one to eat first. She looked around at the others and wondered why nobody had started eating the food.
"Did Shan-Mei prepared this delicious food by herself? Weren't they made by Director Yin?" Shen Qi-Dong sounded suspiciously surprised of what he heard from his colleagues. Those present at the gathering were totally puzzled by Shen Qi-Dong comments.
"Senior! You, told me not to tell anyone about the secret, didn't you?" Chen-Sui said loudly, reminding Shen Qi-Dong.
"I didn't mean it that way," Shen Qi-Dong stared at Chen-Sui with his big eyes. "You just told everyone that Director Yin has to cook dinner everyday, didn't you?" Chen-Sui continued to argue with Shen Qi-Dong trying to defend himself.
"Actually, you have just blurted out the secret to everyone right now! You fool!" Shen Qi-Dong got so angry with the foolish behaviour of Chen-Sui.
It seemed that not only they can't keep the secret to themselves but also were exaggerating it more than what they knew. Suddently, Shan-Mei became the centre of attention. She could not hide her blushing expression when she realized what it was all about. Looking at Xiang-Zhe, she felt apologetic about her mistakes. On the other hand, Xiang-Zhe was grinning broadly, in fact he was not bothered by becoming the target of his subordinates' teasing of his having to cook. He actually found joy in it as he considered it a gesture of his love to cook for his beloved wife and all along this has made him a happy man.
"It's a pity the two of you didn't made it as professional actors," Yong-Xi shook her head, amused by their comic behaviour.
"If you two keep gossiping, then both of you don't have to come to the office tomorrow!" Xian-Da exclaimed in jest.
* * * * * * * * * *
Realising that Xiang-Zhe was listening to their nonsense, Shen Qi-Dong and Chen-Sui hurriedly covered their mouths immediately with a fearful expression. Everybody started laughing at them, enjoying the party which was filled with pretty scenery, delicious food, plenty of laughter, and several pairs of lovers
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 16)
This weekend, the college which Yong-Xi and Shan-Mei graduated from was celebrating its 60th Anniversary. Both Yong-Xi and Shan-Mei were invited to this grand celebration as the outstanding alumni. The administrator of the college invited both of them to give a talk to the junior students.
Because it was such a big event, Zhao-Di asked Chen-Sui to attend the occasion together with her. Xiang-Zhe and Xian-Da, the two lifetime drinking partners, sat silently in the VIP seats giving support to their respective lovely wives.
Two of the most popular broadcasters appeared at the same time at the seminar which was packed with students and other attendees. Lots of people were eager to catch a glimpse of them in person. With her confidence and charisma, Yong-Xi drew the audience's attention, which deeply touched their soul. Shan-Mei's lovely smile and cheerful personality added vibrance to the seminar, which caught the heart of many students and her listeners.
"Should we be a broadcaster if we aren’t as pretty as both of you?" suddenly one of the students asked. Upon hearing this, Shan-Mei's mind wandered back to the time during her student days. "How familiar this question sounded! Shan-Mei remembered that she had asked the same question to Yong-Xi during the Mass Communication week. She wondered if Senior Yong-Xi also remembered it," Both Yong-Xi and Shan-Mei glanced at each other with a big smile.
"Not really! In my case, I am not so pretty but I could be a good broadcaster," she answered confidently, her eyes roving at the image of Xiang-Zhe who was sitting at the VIP seats. For some reason, Xiang-Zhe's expression was able to calm down her emotions, relieve her anxiety, and she felt the sense of security.
"Really! I guess that someone else doesn't think the same way," Yong-Xi jokingly teased Shan-Mei and stole a glance at Xiang-Zhe who was gazing at Shan-Mei lovingly. She smiled to herself and responded to the audiences.
"What do you think about Shan-Mei ? Isn't she beautiful?" Yong-Xi threw an easy question for the audience. "So beautiful!" Everybody answered loudly in one voice. This is the instant ability of Yong-Xi in reacting with the audience in the seminar.
"It's true. In my whole life, no one ever said to me that I am pretty. At the most, someone commented that I am only cute," Shan-Mei guessed that a girl who only had a beautiful smile could not be considered pretty as she tried to seek the eyes of Xiang-Zhe in the VIP seats.
Xiabg-zhe secretly smiled to himself. The person that Shan-Mei referred to was probably himself. He had never said to her that she is beautiful? That's terrible! Xiang-Zhe couldn't imagine how she will treat him after they go home. The truth was, in his mind, Shan-Mei was really much prettier than anyone. The beauty of Shan-Mei came from inside and it couldn't be replaced with anything. To him she was forever the most valuable and most beautiful.
"Actually, appearance is not the most important factor for one to succeed. If you all work hard and find your own personality, you will succeed both in career and life," Yong-Xi sincerely advised the students. Shan-Mei nodded her head in agreement with Yong-Xi. "Umm! I knew an individual who successfully developed her personality as an excellent dubbing artist," Shan-Mei waved her hands and smiled at Zhao-Di. "In fact, not only she is one of our alumni but also my good friend. Her name is Miss Chao Zhao-Di."
This was the personal unique attraction of Shan-Mei for the audiences. "What a daring little girl! You are really a friend of mine," Zhao-Di whispered to herself as soon as she heard her name being mentioned. She excitedly stood up and waved to the audience. Chen-Sui who was sitting beside her joined in waving and smiling to the crowd's applause.
"Shan-Mei didn't mention anything about you. Why did you wave your hands?" Zhao-Di disagreed with Chen-Sui's actions and she slapped Chen-Sui's hands deeply. "You are so stupid Chao Zhao-Di! I am helping to build up your reputation. The students will adore you more because you have an outstanding and handsome guy standing by your side." Chen-Sui as usual is full of his antics. "Handsome guy? I can't stand it anymore!" Zhao-Di mumbled to herself giving Chen-Sui a hopeless look. If only he looked at himself in the mirror.
"We want to see the performance by Senior Zhao-Di!" The students requested loudly. They were eager to see the professional mimic skills of Zhao-Di. In order to satisfy the audience, Zhao-Di went up to the stage to show her talents in different kinds of mimic skills. She imitated the voices of different kinds of animals which brought laughter from the audiences who seemed to enjoy the performance and this brought the seminar to its climax.
Xiang-Zhe who was sitting in the VIP seats never a moment lost sight of Shan-Mei, his eyes glued to her smile and her every body movement which completely attracted him and deeply touched his heart. "You shouldn't be staring at Shan-Mei for so long. Not only Shan-Mei, but even me, I will feel embarrassed," Xian-Da murmured to Xiang-Zhe. He couldn't stand it anymore. He found it hard to believe that Xiang-Zhe had never fallen in love before! Xiang-Zhe smiled to him without saying anything. He really couldn't take his eyes away from Shan-Mei. Maybe it was love. "Loving a person means you are able to love him/her wholeheartedly, if not then it is as good as not loving he or her..." Well! He definitely loveed Shan-Mei wholeheartedly...
* * * * * * * * * *
The students who attended the seminar were cheerful and full of enthusiasm about the day's speeches. They all wished and looked forward for the two outstanding broadcasters to visit them again. The seminar ended in high spirits. They were getting ready to leave, while walking down the steps with their respective partners, when the audience suddenly noticed Xian-Da and Xiang-Zhe just standing up from their seats.
"Well! Isn't that the ideal husband of Kim Yong-Xi?"
"Who is the one standing next to him? Umm, he is so handsome!" He seems to be the husband of Senior Shan-Mei." "Wow, he is such a good looking guy."Whispering voices in the audience could be heard. They seemed very curious about the background of Xian-Da and Xiang-Zhe. Mostly, they were more interested about the handsome prince who will inherit the huge business of Wen-Ron Corporation. All of a sudden, there was a commotion among the crowd of students. Their curiosity surprisingly drew people's attention. The situation was uncontrollable due to more and more students coming into the auditorium. Zhao-Di and Chen-Sui held their hands together trying to get away from the crowd. They looked at the messed up scene and decided to leave right away." Go! Let's go to the rooftop! We have to leave here quickly!"
"It took a while for Shan-Mei and Xiang-Zhe to leave the auditorium. After much effort, both of them finally managed to get into their car and slowly drove away leaving the campus. As the car passed by the campus, Shan-Mei's thoughts wandered back to the past as she gazed at the trees and grasses along the campus. It seems she was back to her first day at the school's opening ceremony. Lots of familiar faces flashed in her mind, her father, auntie, brother Yu-Zhen, brother Jun-Mao, and Yin-Mei. She couldn't believe that time passed so quickly. She remembered that she used to be a student not knowing anything, but today she was a well-known broadcaster not depending on anybody. Of course, along the way, she had suffered heartbreaking incidents and at the same time she had experienced plenty of happiness, sorrow, cheerfulness, and tears of joy in her life.
"I had better wear sport shoes the next time I need to accompany you to attend such events, or else I might have difficulty running away from the crowd," Xiang-Zhe said to Shan-Mei and glanced at her. Shan-Mei was still so deep in her thoughts that she didn't notice or hear what Xiang-Zhe said to her.
On the way of her life, it was so nice to have Senior always protecting her when she was in trouble. Right! It was all about Senior. He was always there for her, watching her become stronger and mature emotionally, as she braved the challenges in life. Shan-Mei was so thankful to Xiang-Zhe for all the care and concern he had shown her.
"Shan-Mei, what's up" What are you thinking about?" Xiang-Zhe questioned her as he noticed her silence.
"Senior...thank you so much," Shan-Mei raised her head and uttered to him with no particular rhyme and reason.
"Umm, what was that for?" Xiang-Zhe flashed his sweet smile to Shan-Mei, thinking that Shan-Mei was expecting an encomium from him for her beauty.
"I am willing to give my appreciation to you. You just need to say: 'You are welcome'," Shan-Mei answered in a sweet tone. She was very good at acting like a spoiled child.
"Yes, you are welcome, Miss Zhen Shan-Mei," he followed her thought and held her hands tightly. In fact, he was the one who should be thankful to Shan-Mei for being his wife, for making him discover the joy of loving and the unlimited happiness that she had brought into his life. Besides the love relationship, two of them felt grateful for their strong emotional dependency on each other within their two hearts...
Writer:Lin Cai(Taiwan)
Editor & Translator: Nora & Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook-Married Life (Part 17)
"Learning is a long, long way. Learning from school and from life is totally different. Dear Yin-Mei, today, while I was broadcasting, I’m in trouble again. If you were me, you won’t let yourself make the same mistakes, right? Working without you, is really depressing and empty."
Shan-Mei was sitting in front of the PC, writing a letter to Yin-Mei. It had become a habit of hers to share with Yin-Mei her work, her dreams….
Just after taking his shower, Xiang-Zhe walked to the foot of the bed and sat down, with damp hair naturally covering his forehead.
“Writing a letter to Yin-Mei again?” asked Xiang-Zhe with a laugh. She must be very concerned about Yin-Mei. Seeing Shan-Mei concentrating in her typing, Xiang-Zhe was remembering their days at Cambridge. At that time, he only knew that in receiving her letters, his feelings became excited. Without realizing it, she was already in his heart. This angel had not only knocked into his car, but also knocked the wall surrounding his heart to pieces.
“Oh, yes! Xue Zhang,” she replied as she walked over to Xiang-Zhe. “Next Sunday, are you free?"
“Besides work, all the time is reserved for you. You still need to ask?” Raising his head, Xiang-Zhe looked at her.
“Then, can we visit Yin-Mei again?” It was true. However, she still needed to ask Xiang-Zhe’s opinion.
“Alright, you can make the decision for this matter,” said Xiang-Zhe while he reached for her hand.
“Xue Zhang, you are really good,” she laughed happily. Xue Zhang really was doting on her.
Xiang-Zhe liked to see her smile most. Her smile could make him heavy for breath. Suddenly, he strongly pulled on her. She fell into his embrace.
“So good. By right, you are supposed to use actions to show your gratitude!"
Sitting on Xiang-Zhe’s lap, Shan-Mei looked at him speechless, thinking: This Xue Zhang is taking advantage of people again.
“Alright, based on your good performance," Shan-Mei slowly leaned closer towards him and placed a fluttering kiss on his forehead.
“Like that only?" he frowned to show his disagreement. This wife is too stingy!
He decided to fight for a deeper kiss by himself. Watching the embarrassed Shan-Mei, he held her arms, bent his head and kissed her soft and warm lips, deeply drank her sweet taste.
* * * * * * * * * *
At last, the day to visit Yin-Mei arrived. Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei went back to the convent again. The three of them were sitting in the guestroom, talking freely.
“I’m very happy that both of you came. But why bring so many things?” Yin-Mei saw they'd brought two big boxes of fruits.
“They are not for you but for the children,” Shan-Mei pouted and laughed.
“Shan-Mei, I really want to thank you. It is good having you as a friend,” Yin-Mei held Shan-Mei's hands. “You make me feel not alone.”
”Actually, you are not alone. Auntie had brought up a few times asking you to go back to stay with her,” she seriously looked at Yin-Mei. It would be great if Yin-Mei could go back to accompany Auntie.
“But I’m really very happy here. I feel that I naturally belong here.” Yin-Mei’s eyes looked peaceful and calm. The old Yin-Mei had already disappeared.
“I never thought that you really wanted to stay here," Shan-Mei voiced her regret.
“I also can’t imagine myself as a broadcaster,” said Yin-Mei with a laugh. She used to sit on the news desk to broadcast. "Really couldn’t imagine that." Now, telling stories to children was a very satisfying job.
“You were the most outstanding broadcaster,” Shan-Mei turned to Xiang-Zhe. “Wasn’t she?"
“That’s right,” Xiang-Zhe laughed and nodded his head. Which was true, besides personal matters, Yin-Mei was an outstanding announcer.
“Thank you very much for your encouragement. But I can’t remember a single thing of the past. You must be very disappointed,” Yin-Mei hopelessly said.
“It is not like that! I only hope that you will know you had a good side, too. Whether you can recover your memory or not, it doesn’t matter.” Shan-Mei reached out her both hands and hold Yin-Mei, comforting her. She really didn’t mind whether Yin-Mei could remember her past. It was enough as long as she could stay happily and peacefully. Brother You-Zhen, you also think like that, don’t you?
Treat the broken flower as your own garden,
Forever doesn’t see the yellow leaves falling down.
Please make the golden life as your own happiness,
Forever don’t think back of your sadness and hurtful life.
The administrator of the convent was walking towards them. She talked to Xiang-Zhe politely: “Mr. Yin, really thank you very much.” Actually, during their last visit, Xiang-Zhe had learned that the convent lacked media links due to its distance. He had specially arranged for sending the televisions, videos, computers and education materials so that the children could have a better learning environment.
“This appreciation is from the heart. You must accept it, please," the administrator gave him an appreciation gift.
“Thank you,” he gladly accepted it. “I will arrange for sending the children program material on continuous basis.”
Shan-Mei was very surprised, and happily looked at him. Xue Zhang had done a lot of things but she didn’t even notice. After a whole afternoon of talk, they smiled and said goodbye to Yin-Mei, making an appointment for the next visit.
* * * * * * * * * *
“Xue Zhang, I’m very very touched today. You are really a very generous person.” He had made her feel very proud.
“I’m not as good as you said. I’m not a generous person.” He had learned from her in pouting. “Only a pitiful man wants to be good to his wife.”
“Anyway, I’m really touched.” She sweetly held his hands.
“You're so touched, that you use actions to show it?” Xiang-Zhe said and moved nearer to Shan-Mei. “Ah! Use actions to show it again.”
Shan-Mei was stuck there. "Not now, we're not at home!!" she complained, showing her displeasure.
“Making a face now?” Her face really looked cute, prodding him to want to disturb her. “You really are a coward!”
Had she forgotten their first kiss at the busy road junction? At that time, she didn’t even show any reluctantance.
Writer:Lin Cai(Taiwan)
Editor & Translator:Nora & Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook Married Life (Part 18)
After a hard day at work, both Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei had just finished dinner. Sitting close to each other cozily, they were enjoying watching a brand new soap opera series currently shown on MBS TV.
"As soon as women get married, their lives become so miserable," Shan-Mei commented with her eyes glued to the TV screen. She thought that the leading actress in the soap opera did her best to take care both her mother and father in law and husband. However, people think that women should do things like that. Shan-Mei totally disagreed with the way it went in the script.
"It's not unusual to exaggerate in the soap opera, but in our home the men are much more miserable than you think," Xiang-Zhe said sarcastically, while acting innocently.
"Why do you think you are too pitiful?" Shan-Mei questioned Xiang-Zhe, looking a bit puzzled. Everytime, Xiang-Zhe is the one who liked to joke around with her. Although he did the bad things first, how can he tell people that someone did something bad to him?
"Don't you ever notice that? The leading actress has to serve her husband. She has to help her husband take off his clothes, turn on the faucet and prepare the water for bath, and clean his back," Xiang-Zhe said to Shan-Mei with a mischievous laugh. "I am more miserable than you think, just to get a chance of taking a bath with my wife is such a difficult task."
Xiang-Zhe's words really made Shan-Mei blush. She remembered when they were on their honeymoon, there was a huge bath especially designed for the married couple in the hotel room. No matter how hard he tried to trick her, she was unwilling to consent to taking a bath together. She'd felt it very embarrassing to be without any clothes in front of Xiang-Zhe. Why did Senior mentioned this silly thing? No one says that a couple must take a bath together.
"Ring...ring ..." the ringing of the telephone rescued her from this awkward situation and covered her embarrassment.
"Hello! How are you? Hi! Uncle, haven't seen you for a long time?" Xiang-Zhe answered the phone. It was Young-see's father on the other end. Young-see's father called to inform and warn Xiang-Zhe about GM Jin En-Qi who had been buying lots of shares of Wen-Rong Corporation. In addition, he had something up in his mind for a long time to bribe the big shareholders, hoping they would support him as CEO in the next Board of Directors' meeting. The best friend of Xiang-Zhe's father, he was extremely worried about Jin En-Qi's plan to harm Xiang-Zhe's position in the company. Therefore, he reminded Xiang-Zhe to handle this matter cautiously and seriously.
Shan-Mei, looking at Xiang-Zhe, noticed the sudden changed in his expression: his eyebrows became knitted, his eyes turned frosty cold, and a determined and firm expression distinguished his face.
"What's happening to you?" Shan-Mei inquired with a feeling of uneasiness as she realised he seemed disturbed after ending the phone conversation.
"Nothing!" He replied, not telling her anything as he did not want her to start worrying.
His reticence only made her more concerned: What's wrong? What's happening to the company? Senior looks mad!
"Has something bad happened to the company?" Shan-Mei curiously popped the question again to Xiang-Zhe. She seldom saw Xiang-Zhe react this way. He must be worried about something related to the company.
"Umm! Its something about the company." He was trying to think of a solution for the problem while talking to Shan-Mei.
"It's something related to General Manager Jin?" She concluded trying to confirm the truth with Xiang-Zhe once again. She was always willing to share his burden and take his sadness away.
Xiang-Zhe showed impatience on his face as he never wanted to hear anything related to Jin En-Qi.
"I will not let the things happen as he expects," Xiang-Zhe said to Shan-Mei firmly. Except for the TV program of "Cultural Artist Stage" Jin En-Qi had nothing on his hands.
Suddenly Shan-Mei couldn't recognise the man who stood in front of her anymore. The nice and always considerate Senior had suddenly disappeared. The one who stood in front of her was Director Yin. It was a strange feeling for her.
"You have to keep the situation like that?" She looked at him and said with a feeling of distress and sorrowfulness.
"You have to make a strong defense against the attack, don't you?" Shan-Mei said expressing her concern to Xiang-Zhe.
"That's the way to survive in the real world. At least, I have to do it in the business field," Xiang-Zhe replied. He had lots of evidence on his hands to show the shareholders. He had enough evidences to strike down Jin En-Qi if he started a war.
Really! That was the way to live in the real world. People must fight back when someone attacked them. Never leave a place for people to survive! Shan-Mei was too innocent and unware of the rules in the business field. She only knew that this had made Senior very unhappy. Without any smile on his face, Shan-Mei couldn't recognize who he was!
"I don't like it. I don't like the way Senior reacts," Shan-Mei mumbled to herself putting down the cups, she then walked to her bed room with a feeling of sadness and a worried mind.
Looking at Shan-Mei's back, Xiang-Zhe knitted his eyebrows deeply with a heavy heart as he could feel the hurt. He realised how Shan-Mei must have felt. He was aware of Shan-Mei's kindness and tolerance. It was good that he could count on her. The only way here was to find the best solution for the problem like the first light of the dawn.
Except you, I could give up anything, Xiang-Zhe thought to himself.
* * * * * * * * * *
At night, in the arms of Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei slightly stirred and Xiang-Zhe realised that she was not asleep. "You can't sleep?" He lowered his head slightly and whispered to her. "Are you still angry at me?" he continued.
"You definitely knew that I am not angry, but I felt so sad every time when I hear about the tension between the two of you," she sighed in lamentation. "In fact, both of you belong to the same family. You can't take advantage of him if something happened to him," Shan-Mei continued the conversation.
"What do you want me to do?" Xiang-Zhe started caressing her hair lovingly.
"I don't know," Shan-Mei answered with no alternative or solutions to offer. She wished she knew how to deal with this tough situation. She herself didn't know how to handle the relationship with Yin-Mei. Thus, lots of unpleasant things happened which messed up her life.
"Alright! Don't think too much." Xiang-Zhe held her shoulders tightly, coaxing his little wife to sleep.
"Try to get some sleep! I'll promise you to handle this matter seriously and carefully without hurting anybody. Ok?" he assured her. Shan-Mei nodded and nestled her head into his warm broad chest. With the feeling of comfort and warmness, she began to fall asleep.
The next morning...
As Xiang-Zhe had expected, GM Jin En-Qi was looking forward to get his hand on the CEO position. He had planned everything to benefit himself. The biggest stumbling block for him was the man called "Yin Xiang-Zhe". Jin En-Qi had a low impression of Xiang-Zhe and always labeled him, "an immature young kid!" After he attained the position of CEO, he planned to never allow Xiang-Zhe to live happily, En-Qi thought to himself as he walked into Xiang-Zhe's office.
"Well! Are you busy with something?" En-Qi asked as he made himself comfortable on the sofa.
"What are you here for?" Xiang-Zhe replied without even greeting him, as he felt too tired to entertain this uninvited guest. He was sure that En-Qi must have some purpose in mind to come to his office, and it was probably nothing good.
"I am here to tell you something. The election for the Board of Directors will be held next week." En-Qi said with a cunning smile on his face. Xiang-Zhe looked at him and thought how fake the smile and the behaviour of his rival was.
Next week? Xiang-Zhe thought. En-Qi had already mentioned about the exact date and time during the conversation. He must have planned all this ahead and not just decided.
"I heard the Board of Directors will select the new CEO by taking a vote. I would like to listen your opinion," En-Qi continued; he wanted to know what Xiang-Zhe thought about the election.
"Do you have to do it this way?" Suddenly Xiang-Zhe was reminded of Shan-Mei's question when they were having a conversation the previous night. Shan-Mei's voice kept ringing in his ears. He asked himself what did he fight for in this war with GM Jin? Only for the position of CEO? It would be meaningless even if he wins this war but in the process lost Shan-Mei's smile; even if he is able to own the whole world.
"Good! I don't have any comment to make," Xiang-Zhe answered En-Qi curtly.
"As you know, you are too young to handle everything, even though I am totally satisfied with your performance," En-Qi said sarcastically. He hoped Xiang-Zhe would stop competing with him for the CEO's position without doing any action.
"I don't like this kind of Senior," Shan-Mei revealed her feeling to Xiang-Zhe. With the thought of Shan-Mei, Xiang-Zhe continued, "I am not interested in this kind of thing." Xiang-Zhe stated his decision. He did not want to do something that Shan-Mei didn't like. It is the first time that he didn't want to succeed in his whole life.
"I am going abroad next week. Thus, I am not able to attend the CEO election," Xiang-Zhe said. He doesn't care anymore; Jin En-Qi can do anything that he wants to do. It's all up to him.
"Really!" En-Qi asked him again. "Did I hear correctly?" This "immature guy" is not going to fight with me? he was taken by surprise by Xiang-Zhe's decision.
"Who will be the CEO has nothing to do with me. I will agree only if the decision benefits the company," Xiang-Zhe acted calm as he spoke his mind.
"No wonder you......" En-Qi suddenly stopped short saying a word because he thought that Xiang-Zhe had some plot in his mind against him.
"Right now, the value of the shares and the viewership rating of our program are very stable. I am sure that the shareholders will know how to make their judgements. Is it a good time to make any changes at this moment?" Xiang-Zhe stood up and tried to end the conversation.
As soon as Xiang-Zhe finished saying his piece to GM Jin, suddenly En-Qi realised and figured out what Xiang-Zhe meant. In order to move to the position of CEO, he had needed to buy up all of the shares at higher prices. He was going to lose everything if the value of the shares went down and the rating of the viewership declined. En-Qi could not take such a big risk. Thus, he had to reconsider planning his next step.
After En-Qi had left the office, Xiang-Zhe grabbed the Peter Rabbit figurine from his desk and looked at it deeply. He smiled and covered his chin. "My dear Shan-Mei ! What kind of curse have you've put on me? I don't even recognize myself at all," Xiang-Zhe talked to himself....
Writer: Lin Cai
Translator: Wen
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 19)
Just before work, Xiang-Zhe was in front of the mirror, about to put on his tie. Shan-Mei put down the comb in her hand and turned towards him.
“Wait, let me try,” Shan-Mei stood up, and took over the tie from Xiang-Zhe’s hands
“Why?" Xiang-Zhe was shocked at Shan-Mei's sudden actions.
“Senior Yong-Xi said that she’s the one who always put on Senior Xian-Da’s tie for him.” While talking, Shan-Mei's hand was busying fiddling with Xiang-Zhe’s tie. “But I haven’t done it for Senior before."
Xiang-Zhe covered his mouth and laughed. What was she doing? The fact that Yong-Xi did Xian-Da’s tie doesn’t mean Shan-Mei must do the same thing for him!
"That’s weird. It looks simple," she frowned and clumsily kept on trying to figure how to do it.
“Come let me do it myself,¨ Xiang-Zhe held the pair of hands fiddling around on his chest, and stared at her interestingly.
Shan-Mei sat down in despair and was vastly discouraged, “I can’t do anything right! Why did you marry me?"
Since young, she was without a mother. She never knew what a wife should do for her husband. She must be an unqualified wife, she thought to herself.
He stooped down in front of her, “Why did I marry you? Do you want to hear it one more time?" The three words “I love you---- though he had told her hundreds of times, but he is more than glad to repeat for another hundred times.
“ But,” she pouted her lips and looked as if she was going to burst into tears any moment.
“And I married you not to become an old hag at home," his eyes shone clearly and looked at her gently.
“I don’t care," Shan-Mei snatched the tie from Xiang-Zhe’s hands, “I want to try again!”
He smiled and let her do whatever she wanted to do.
Finally, she nodded her head satisfactorily. “This should do,” she thought to herself.
“You are to go to work in this tie today!”¨ She reminded him specially, “You cannot remove it! Neither can you re-adjust your tie, ok!
What a willful wife! But all he felt was blissfulness and a tinge of sweetness.
“Yes, Madam!” He held her in his arms lovingly.
Deep in the embrace of Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei smiled. She felt so fortunate, “It’s always so good to have Senior," she thought. She was always like a child in front of him, forever having her own way.
"Remember the times when we first met in London? I was 20 years old then, and you were 25. Not only was Senior beside me tall and handsome, but also exuded a sense of security, making me feel like a little girl who could always look to you for attention, always spoiling me. Time flies. Now, I’m no longer 20 and you are not 25, our relationship has changed. I’m no longer the little girl and Senior is not just Senior. Luckily, the difference in our age will never change. You will always be 5 years older than me and I can forever be under your love and care, always running to you for attention... Ehmm, how wonderful!"
It was nearly noon and Xiang-Zhe was going through the last report. There should be time to have lunch with Shan-Mei later, he thought to himself. He looked down at his tie and could not help smiling into space.
“Director Yin, Miss Zhen Shan-Mei — oh no! — your wife, is here,” his secretary spoke through the telephone.
Shan-Mei ? She seldom came to the office to look for him. In the office, she tended to maintain a distance away from him, except for that time because of You-Zhen and Ying-Mei. As he recalled that very day, he felt really bad.
He put that thought aside. His precious wife was here to see him now and it was more than what he could ask for.
As Shan-Mei pushed open the door, he put down his work and smiled at her brightly.
“Why? Missed me terribly today, is it?” he teased her purposely, “Or is Yong-Xi massaging Xian-Da now?"
I’m here to tell him something serious, and here he is, trying to be funny! “What’s this?” Shan-Mei pouted her lips, shoving a rolled document at him.
“Oh? It’s this matter,” he smiled and nodded his head, “Xian-Da’s work efficiency is really getting higher.”
But he’s not answering the question at all! “Why did you apply a week’s leave for me?" she stared hard at him and asked. Why hadn’t he discussed it with her?
“I wanted to give you a surprise. I had intended to tell you after I had prepared everything,” he replied light-heartedly.
"Surprise? What surprise," Shan-Mei was very curious and looked at him suspiciously.
“I have decided to give Jin En-Qi a chance to prove himself, and not do anything that would make him lose face.” He is very sure Jin En-Qi would not succeed, but if he was present, he would surely be in an awkward position. From Shan-Mei, he had learnt the true meaning of dealing with his competitor gracefully.
“The current programming season is ending soon, so we can make use of this opportunity to return to London.” He had long wanted to do that, but because of both their busy work schedules, they didn’t even have time to go for their honeymoon and could only spend their time in the country.
She flashed a bright smile, not because they could go to London but because Senior was not going to be at odds with his uncle anymore; she was really overjoyed when she heard that.
“Really?" She was a bit perturbed, however. Will this affect Senior’s work?
“Ehmm. think carefully, even if he becomes the manager, it is no big deal, because I will make sure you would grow to like Director Yin too!” He held her hands and said, “I promise!”
“Senior.” overwhelmed by mixed emotions, she felt her vision blur.
“But, this week, it is going to be hard on you,” though he did not bear to see her working so hard, but still she must not let it affect her work.
“Yes! I will work hard!” She raised her hand and gave him a salute. On the thought of being able to spend their time together in London, everything else did not matter, no matter how hard she had to work, it was worth the effort.
He laughed out merrily. She was still as mischievous as ever!
“It’s almost time.” He looked at his watched and pulled her to her feet. “Let’s have lunch together.”
“I just received my pay yesterday, so I can give you a treat today!” she replied, smiling at him sweetly.
He looked at her adorable face in sheer self-satisfaction and deeply engrossed, once again found himself immersed in the happiness and sweetness she had brought to him.
With such a lovable wife, what more can a husband ask for?
Writer: Lin Cai
Translator: Wen
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 20)
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei finally realised their greatest wish, to be able to return to London again.
Of course, Shan-Mei's aunt in England was at the airport to receive them, and at the same time, dished up all the specialty dishes she can come up with, to welcome the much-envied loving couple.
“Shan-Mei, you married so early, your father must be very upset to part with you so soon, right?” Aunt laughed and said. Shan-Mei had always been the apple of their eyes.
“As if! Pa really wanted to marry me off immediately!” Shan-Mei gave a frown and thought of that day when Senior went to her house to ask for her hand, not only did her father agreed immediately, he even drank with Senior to celebrate!
“No wonder! With such an outstanding son-in-law, of course he would have nothing to worry about.” Aunt looked at the good-looking and talented Xiang-Zhe, she had always liked this man and felt a special bond with him.
Even Aunt felt that way! Shan-Mei stole a glance at Xiang-Zhe secretly, and her eyes fell just onto his. Just look at his gleeful look, so proud of himself!
“I really did not expect you to fall for our Shan-Mei,” Aunt laughed and turned to Xiang-Zhe. “At least I have not given you the kim-chi for nothing!”
“Yes, I really have to thank you, Aunt, for your special care last time.” He had always liked this lady boss, so it was really great now that they had become relatives.
“You two should have come to London earlier. Why wait till now?” She had thought that the couple would be here for their honeymoon.
“I’m really sorry. Because our wedding date was a last minute decision, that’s why we couldn’t accommodate the timing,” Xiang-Zhe explained. At that time, marriage was first on the cards, he had got to marry Shan-Mei and have her at her side first before he could make any other plans.
“Yeah, you should have told me earlier that you two were getting married! I couldn’t even make it back in time for your wedding,” Aunt lamented with a laugh.
“Sorry, Aunt! The arrangements will improve the next time I get married!” Shan-Mei joked cheekily, not noticing a sudden change in Xiang-Zhe’s facial expression.
“You, little child, always like to talk back at me, forever so cheeky!” Aunt pinched Shan-Mei's cheeks lovingly, “Enjoy your meal, I have to go back to work.”
“Aunt, you need any help?” Shan-Mei volunteered her help as she saw the stream of customers in the restaurant.
“There’s no need, Shan-Mei. You still want to earn your Aunt’s pocket money, is it?” Aunt teased Shan-Mei while keeping herself busy.
After Aunt left their company, Xiang-Zhe vented out his unhappiness. “Who do you want to marry the next time?" Xiang-Zhe asked, with a grave, unhappy look.
"Huh???" Shan-Mei nearly couldn’t react promptly. “I was only joking!”
“How could you joke about such a serious matter?” Although he knew she did not do it on purpose, he still didn’t feel good.
“Sorry!” Shan-Mei pouted her lips and apologized.
“The next time you make this kind of joke again, you will face severe punishment!” he warned her seriously.
She smiled and nodded and leaned towards him. “Aren’t you tired after such a long flight. I will give you a massage later!”
This was meant to be an apology as well as vying for his attention and affection. Towards him, she was always acting like a child, getting her own way whenever she liked. She obviously knew Xiang-Zhe’s weakness.
He looked at her interestingly. “Massage? Are you sure you can?” This suggestion had certainly raised his enthusiasm.
“I. of course I know how,” she replied confidently. "What’s so difficult about it. Trust you to look down on me!"
The facts proved that Shan-Mei was just blowing her trumpet. How would she know how to massage?! Not only were her actions clumsy, she had little strength! In the end, of course, it turned out that he was the one massaging his wife instead!
With Aunt’s car as the means of transport, their itinerary was smooth and relaxed. Xiang-Zhe, as expected, playing the role of a tour guide, couldn’t wait to bring Shan-Mei back to relive their old memories. They went to all the significant places that they went to the last time in London, leaving traces of their love everywhere. They looked at paintings, went on a river cruise, fed the pigeons and attended musicals! Being with the person they loved most, every simple little thing made them laugh heartily.
After being in London for so many years, he used to think that “upon living in any place for quite a period of time, it will just only remain the same.” only now did he realize he was completely wrong, Why is it with your presence, the world seems such a different place?
A day before going back home, Xiang-Zhe brought Shan-Mei specially to the southern side of London, another city a far cry from the sights of London and Cambridge, the outstanding architectural structures of Brighton reflecting a unique feeling in a foreign land; they took a stroll at the peaceful quiet beach in front of The Palace Pier.
A grey-haired old couple walking hand in hand, strolled past them.
“They are so happy together!” Shan-Mei looked at them in envy. She also wanted to spend her time with Senior hand in hand till they grow old.
“Don’t worry,” he held the small hand in his tightly, “Even if you become old and ugly fifty years later, I won’t let go of your hand.”
“Does it mean that even if Senior becomes bald with a big tummy, I will also have to bear with it?” She exaggerated and imagined the sight and just couldn’t control breaking into loud chuckles.
“At least you know your limits,” his face broke into a smile. Deep inside, he knew he would never grow tired of this miraculous little woman, he only knew it was too short a time to spend only a lifetime with her.
In a moment, he suddenly recalled something, looking back at the footprints they had made on the sand of the beach, carefully inspecting the footprints!
“What are you doing?” she asked curiously. What’s there to look for in footprints!?
“There is a saying here, that if you are to meet your loved one again in your next life, you will have to remember the other party’s footprints, so that both can find each other successfully,” his big black eyes gazing at her deeply, “So, I want to keep your footprints embedded in my heart forever. Using the anklet to tie you down first, and make you walk to my direction, thereafter remembering your footprints, if you lost your way, I could then follow your footprints to look for you!”
Her eyes became red while she looked at him, tears were fighting in her eyes! Or was it that you had made such a promise in your last life? If not, why would I have came all the way to England to get acquainted to you here?
“Must you even cry over this?” his fingers glided over her face to wipe away her tears, he couldn’t bear to see her cry. "Because I’m worried that you, the forgetful and blur little girl, would not remember, that’s why I want to make a date with you to be with you forever, for all our lives, to be in love with you in my every life!"
They gazed at each other deeply. He couldn’t control his feelings! Slowly, he pulled her close, lowered his head, and gently touched her lips!
This time round, Yin Xiang-Zhe could kiss his angel freely for all he liked. Here, no one would bother to set their eyes on them! The breeze of England, the love of England, his Shan-Mei in England! When we reunite in our next life, I know I will still love you as much as I do now!
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 21)
The "Cultural Art Stage" show had once again achieved new heights and been branded as MBS' highest rating program. To strike an iron while it was hot, the production team had decided to invest in refurnishing the recording studio for better visual effects in appreciation to their audience.
Xiang-Zhe walked into the dressing room just moments before the recording...
"Good day, Director..." The make-up artist bowed and greeted him when she saw his figure in the mirror. Everybody in MBS knew how Director doted on his wife. Ensuring that Shan-Mei's make-up was alright, she made her departure quietly, leaving the couple to have some moments.
Looking at the well-built and relaxed body standing by the door, Shan-Mei couldn’t help asking, "Are all heads of departments so idle?"
"Who said I’m idling?" he replied seriously. "I’ve come personally to reward my well-performing staff."
"Reward? What reward? I thought it was our basic responsibility to give our best in the programs!" Shan-Mei sparred.
Walking towards her slowly, he placed his hands on her shoulders. "Who said that? The more hard-working ones should receive different rewards..."
She blinked in confusion, curious to know about the different rewards... Not even waiting for her to respond, he had already planted his lips onto hers... Eventually, she lifted her head blushing. What kind of reward was that? she pondered.
"Aiya, now I have to reapply my lipstick!" She pounced on his chest playfully while protesting.
"Oh, I can make myself useful for that small matter." Saying that, he tilted her chin up.
"Hey, no need for that! Just leave the room!" She pushed him towards the door hostilely, his presence in the room had made her uneasy.
"Alright, I’ll leave..." He turned back as he reached the door and added, "but Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, you are not to mention a word of the reward I gave you. Otherwise, the others would say that I’m biased." He gave her a mischievous wink and left.
Looking at his departing figure, Shan-Mei had nearly suffered a locked jaw, not knowing how to react to his comments, to be angry or to laugh. She sighed, defeated by him again... she sniffed and went back to her preparations.
As per normal, Xiang-Zhe took his position behind the camera and gave his fullest concentration on Shan-Mei's program. He watched quietly, intended to capture every expression and movement of her with his eyes.
Soon the recording started, and Shan-Mei greeted the audience with her famous smile, "Good day, everybody! Welcome once again to today’s 'Cultural Art Stage' show, I’m Zhen Shan-Mei..."
Her smile was pure and sunny like a sky without any clouds. It didn’t seem like she was hosting a program but rather sharing the information with her guests. Perhaps her mannerisms made the audience feel relaxed, resulting in her rise in popularity over a short time, as she was voted to be the most popular program host.
GM Jin stood beside Xiang-Zhe arrogantly, taking the opportunity to acknowledge his competency and credits. "Doesn’t the studio look more impressive after the refurbish?"
"I assume there isn’t any problem?" Xiang-Zhe asked, feeling uneasy.
"After the enormous amount of investment on renovation, what could go wrong?" GM Jin was extremely delighted with the outcome of the renovation plan.
"I was referring to the safety features and issues for the stage. Have all materials and equipment gone through the safety inspection? Are they safe for usage?" Once again Xiang-Zhe emphasized on the safety issues.
"Of course... the materials were checked thoroughly... How could such an important matter be overlooked?" The rascal! Who needs you to teach me how to administer my work? Actually the installation was completed only in the afternoon, he himself had forgotten about the final inspection… But what could happen anyway!
"For our program today, we will introduce the 'Asia-Pacific Film Festival'..."
The cameraman and light operator manevour their equipment comfortably, then just as the hosts were moving into the main topic, there was a loud, terrible and unmistakable breaking noise...
Before anyone could react, a light fixture detached from the light panel...
"Shan-Mei...!" Xiang-Zhe seemed to have lost his mind, found himself lunging forward to Shan-Mei, pulling her tightly into his arms. He covered her with his body as a shield, to him there was only one person, one thought, nothing must happen to Shan-Mei...
"Are you alright?" He searched over her rapidly checking for any injuries.
Shan-Mei knew she would be safe in his warm embrace but… she felt sad when she saw his selfless act to protect her, "I’m fine..." she replied in a faint tone.
"Cancel today’s recording immediately!" Xiang-Zhe commanded loudly and shot GM Jin a cold hard stare!
The staff started clearing the mess in the studio without a word. Today, they had witnessed the other side of Director Yin, which was totally different from his usual calm, collected and sensible self.
Xiang-Zhe took Shan-Mei directly into his office, sat her down cautiously on the sofa and requested a glass of water from his secretary...
"Come, have some water..." He lifted her up gently and nursed her tenderly. She had been very quiet since they'd left the studio, she must had been traumatized.
Shan-Mei held her head low, as unexpectedly large beads of tears trickled down her cheeks...
Xiang-Zhe was frantic when he saw the tears, "What happened? Are you hurt anywhere?"
"Yes, my heart hurts badly! How could you have done that...?" she was also angry, worried and hated his actions!
"What was what?" Xiang-Zhe was puzzled at her abrupt respose.
"Do you know what you did earlier was dangerous? Didn’t you promise me not to fall ill or be harmed?" she asked and looked at him with her teary eyes. True enough, natural disasters were unpredictable but to his promise, she was dubious.
"Sorry..." He shifted towards her, feeling apologetic for the cause of her worries. He didn’t tell her but he too wouldn’t want her to be harmed or ill. He definitely forbade her to leave him, leaving him alone......My love for you is so deep that I can’t bear to leave you behind even if mishaps occurred, yet the thought of days without you is simply unbearable...
"I was so scared, what if something happened to Xue Zhang, then what would I do?" She was really terrified by the situation and her tears fell involuntarily again. Shan-Mei cried, sobbed uncontrollably like a child, so powerless and vulnerable.
"Nothing will go wrong..." He held her and rocked lightly, "Really, nothing will happen..."
Xue Zhang, please believe in me, I will cherish and protect myself. Your love had given me the strength and courage to go further, like a small blade of grass brave enough to take up any challenges because the tree had provided it with abundant of strength and encouragement...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 22)
Shan-Mei intended to have dinner with Xiang-Zhe but since he was busy as usual, she decided to treat Zhao-Di to dinner instead. They went to Cream Cake House, where Xiang-Zhe had always brought her...
At the counter, as Shan-Mei was footing the bill, she smiled to Zhao-Di, "Congratulations, once again!"
Zhao-Di hooked up her arm through Shan-Mei's arm. "Thanks! Shan-Mei, I admire you for this point, you are always such a buddy." She was satisfied with the food though, as it tasted excellent!
"But that was weird, I was the one who treated you to dinner when I became the broadcaster. Yet now you become the official dubbing artist, dinner is still on me?" The more Shan-Mei thought, the more puzzled she got.
"You little imp! Don't you understand the 'you help me, I help you' theory?"
"This doesn't refer to that..." Shan-Mei stopped in mid-sentence...
Xiang-Zhe had just walked into the restaurant with a beautiful lady. She was the current most celebrated movie actress. Despite a little thick make-up, she was really pretty!
Zhao-Di stared at the scenario with wide-opened mouth. Oh my goodness! She thought, this could be the biggest gossip ever! My Prince Charming Director had openly gone on a dinner date with a famous actress, and he was such a gentlemen to pull the chair for her... What was more frustrating, they were chatting happily...
"Oh my God! What had happened?" Zhao-Di finally managed to speak, still not believing her eyes, "Come on! Let's go over to them..."
Shan-Mei pulled her back, "What do you intend to do?"
"Catch them in the act! We have to give that shameless woman a lesson she won't forget!"
"Aiyo, have you gone mad," The situation isn't as you imagine, let's leave now..." Shan-Mei dragged Zhao-Di out of the door.
"But..." Zhao-Di kept turning back to look, couldn't believe what Shan-Mei had done. Having a husband that handsome could really cause problems!
The dinner tonight was held with the intention to change the mind of this movie queen on returning to the television screen. Television Director Lee and Xian-Da were slightly late, but things went as planned eventually. Furthermore, she seemed exceptionally interested in the drama script and soon they were discussing the contract issue. After which, Television Director Lee sent her home...
Staying behind for a while longer, Xiang-Zhe said to Xian-Da, "We really have to thank you." All thanks to his connections.
"Oh, that was nothing! We've known each other for years now," Xian-Da commented, and then suggested, "What do you think? Should we change the venue for another drink?"
"Maybe next time." Xiang-Zhe just wanted to return home to his wife, not wanting to leave her alone at home.
Xian-Da read his mind, "Going home to keep your darling wife company?"
Xiang-Zhe lowered his head, couldn't find an excuse to deny.
"You haven't answered my question." Again, Xian-Da brought up the old familiar issue, "What do you really like about Shan-Mei ?"
"She..." Talking about Shan-Mei, he couldn't hide his happiness, "loves to cry, is obstinate, blur and sometimes behaves like a child. Actually, I have no idea what I like about her."
"But from your tone, you seemed to have fallen for her shortcomings!" Xian-Da replied unthinkingly.
Was it so obvious? "Then why bother to ask since you knew the answer?"
"Every day in the office, we have to work according to your serious and demanding self, only the mention of Shan-Mei can extinguish that identity," Xian-Da said arrogantly.
Xiang-Zhe joined in the laughter. That was a fact and the one thing which he couldn't work on because Shan-Mei was his weakness...
Upon reaching home, Shan-Mei took a comfortable shower and dressed in her casual clothes. However, images of Xiang-Zhe and the actress chatting merrily, kept playing in her head. Although she had 100 percent faith in Xue Zhang, she felt irritated. Just as Zhao-Di had said, Xue Zhang was too attractive, women were drooling at the sight of him...
What a hateful Yin Xiang-Zhe! "Why are you so handsome?" she thought and stared at her own image in the mirror, annoyed.
Suddenly, a pair of strong hands grabbed her waist from behind. "Talking about me...?" Xiang-Zhe exchanged glances in the mirror.
"Xue Zhang? How come you are back so early?" she was surprised, "Why did the dinner end so soon?"
"Soon? I thought it was slow enough. You should know that I don't like this sort of dreary business dinner," he said with a sigh.
With a sour expression, she said, "How could it be? Having dinner with such a gorgeous lady, how could dinner be dull?"
"How did you know?" He looked at her light-heartedly, "Has someone been reporting on me?"
She turned around, "Of course not. I saw you with her myself."
"Zhen Shan-Mei ! You aren't telling me that you saw me in a public place and you pretended not to know me, are you?" He wasn’t happy for a fact.
"I..." From what he pointed out, why did it seem like it was her fault? Unwilling to be defeated, she snapped, "but both of you were talking 'happily', enjoying each other's company."
He leaned towards her cunningly, studied her jealous expression. "Oh, you are jealous?" He was overjoyed at the discovery.
Refusing to admit the truth, she said, "Hey, don't think too highly of yourself. I thought it was nothing so I didn't interrupt you."
He merely loved her stubbornness. "And? You decided to become a generous wife?" He teased her, "Then...in future, I can date any women openly, maybe bring them to movies or have dinner?"
"To movies? Who would talk business in movie halls?" She widened her eyes, what does he take her as? Stupid?
"Em, you aren't that dumb after all," his eyes filled with amusement and added, "with such a tigress at home, would I be that daring to fool around?"
"What tigress?" She gave him a shove angrily.
Her action made him realize his bliss, "Doesn't this response resemble a tigress?"
"Doesn't matter actually..." She pretended not to care, "Anyway, I have promised a date with another man."
"What are you talking about? Who have you promised a date?" He frowned immediately, now his turn to be anxious.
"En... with the company's..." She struggled her hand free from the firm grip and walked away haughtily, "...dumb Director!"
He stood stunned for seconds; unbelievably this little woman had checkmated him! "Zhen Shan-Mei...!" and ran after her.
The end of this chase was just the beginning of another loving scene......
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
[translation: azhuang]
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 23)
This night, Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were attending JBC Director Zhao's birthday party. They held hands as they walked through the crowd - they were the perfect couple well loved by everyone: good looking, loving...
"You look very beautiful today," Xiang-Zhe told Shan-Mei softly at her ear.
Shan-Mei, smiling sweetly, replied, "Well, its the clothes you bought that are beautiful". This was a fact: the light purple evening gown hugged her figure perfectly. Xiang-Zhe beamingly smiled and said while nodding his head, "Right, I’ve good taste in choosing clothes and also a partner (wife)."
Shan-Mei glared at Xiang-Zhe, oblivious to the crowd around her and her cheeky husband.
"Mr and Mrs Yin", Director Zhao greeted them personally, "Welcome and thanks for the present, you shouldn't have."
"It's a must; we wish you thousand happiness," Xiang-Zhe shook Director Zhao's hand immediately.
Director Zhao wanted to discuss with Xiang-Zhe about some collaboration matters. Xiang-Zhe looked at Shan-Mei uneasily.
"It's ok, you go ahead. I'll look for someone I know to talk to", she urged him to go ahead.
"Go get something to eat. I'll be right back", he was unwilling to let her go.
"Really don't worry, take your time," she said, smiling beautifully.
"Mrs Yin, I'm sorry, I'll return Mr Yin as soon as possible," Director Zhao joked and left with Xiang-Zhe to the study.
Without Senior, Shan-Mei felt so lost. But she had gotten used to it for marrying such a capable man. She told herself to move on. After some ten minutes, Xiang-Zhe came out of the room and looked for his wife immediately. He saw her with a stranger, drinking a lot: rosy cheeks, dreamy eyes, sweet smile, and her form-fitting gown.
Shan-Mei looked really stunning! He was jealous and hated himself for buying the gown!
He went over to them and took away the glass of wine the stranger had given to Shan-Mei. "I'm sorry, she’s drunk".
"Senior, this is Mr Zheng, also graduated from Mass Communications and just came back from New York", Shan-Mei happily introduced them.
So this guy just came back, no wonder he doesn't know Ms Zhen is attached – Senior thought to himself.
"I'm Steven, pleased to meet you."
"Pleased to meet you. Yin Xiang-Zhe," Although he was jealous, Xiang-Zhe graciously shook hands with Steven.
"Mr Yin, you are so lucky to have such a cute Ms Zhen as your Junior."
"Actually..." Shan-Mei suddenly remembered she had addressed Xiang-Zhe as Senior, that's why Steven had misunderstood.
Xiang-Zhe quickly continued what she wanted to say: "Right, I'm really lucky cos Ms Zhen Shan-Mei is also my wife." And he put his hands around her waist.
Steven was shocked and disappointed.
Back home, Shan-Mei was still talking about the jokes Steven told her.
"How much did you drink? You think it's coke?" Xiang-Zhe was not interested in the jokes.
"It doesn't matter. I won't get drunk with wine," Shan-Mei said.
"Won't get drunk? Do you know how red your face is now?” she looked really stunning with the rosy cheeks.
She touched her face and said, "But Steven is really funny."
"Zhen Shan-Mei! First you drank so much with a stranger and now you're telling me how humorous he is! I’m so angry!" If he was not out of the room sooner, she might have been taken away too – he thought to himself.
"I'm sorry." She felt Senior looked really angry. She said innocently, "If you continue to be angry, I’m….going to shower first".
Looking at her back, Xiang-Zhe thought of his love for Shan-Mei. He shouldn't have been so petty, acting like a possessive husband. He decided to apologise to her and smile.
In the bathtub Shan-Mei was smiling. She felt like laughing out loud. Senior always said she's a kid but he's acting like one tonight. But she's happy because she knows she meant a lot to Senior.
Just then Senior came into the bathroom, without knocking on the door first!
Surprised at his sudden arrival, Shan-Mei quickly slid her body under the thick layer of bath bubbles, so only her head could be seen above the water. "What's the matter, Senior? I'm not done yet," she complained.
"I'm sorry, It's all my fault tonight," Xiang-Zhe apologized as he approached the bathtub, anxious to put their differences aside.
Shan-Mei saw that his gaze was fixed on her, capturing the scene into his memory. Suddenly she is aware that the bath bubbles were rapidly disappearing into the air. "Can't you wait till I'm done?" she pleaded, blushing profusely.
He refused to obey her frantic plea."To prove my sincerity this matter can't wait," he insisted, the sincerity in his voice belied by the devilish glint that came into his eyes.
And right there Xiang-Zhe decided to join Shan-Mei in the bathtub... giving her no chance to say no.
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 24)
This morning, the news department had gathered every broadcaster and backstage crew, from all levels for an open meeting. In addition to the examination of the season’s performance, they decided to include some English broadcasting in the second half of the daily news. Their object was to enhance the broadcast of International news and publicize their images, and the 7PM news was to launch the campaign. If the outcome were positive, they would then continue with the 9PM news and eventually expand to all MBS news coverage.
"Alright, that's decided. From next week on, the last 10 minutes of every Friday's 7PM news, we'll use English to review the main topics of the week. We'll end the meeting here. Keep up with the hard work!" the head of department for news concluded the meeting in an affirmative voice.
Upon the dismissal of the meeting, Shan-Mei sat in her seat looking worried. She had no problem with her news casting but in English... she knocked her head lightly, now that would be a headache.
Xian-Da saw the reaction and walked to her, "Is something wrong?"
"Leader, I'm not confident about this..." she frowned and answered honestly. "This matter was decided too quickly and I'm worried that my pronunciation and grammar won't be professional. It might cause a negative opinion on the other casters."
"You are already practising professionalism when you have put in thoughts about this issue," Xian-Da patted her shoulder. "Keep it up! I have confidence in you."
Since the time of 'they were a bunch of bastards' and her mobile phone incident, she had become a household name. This supervisor had known her potential better than anyone and fully understood her capabilities; her success wasn’t based on luck or coincidences!
Xiang-Zhe returned home tired after working overtime, he found his wife in neither the living room nor the bedroom. He stood there wondering when he heard some murmuring noise from the study room, he turned on his heel and walked towards it, only to discover his wife seated at the table surrounded by lots of news scripts, newspaper clippings and a dictionary...
"Oh, so hardworking! Once of these days, I might really be frightened off by your powerful English," he smiled and sat down beside her.
Shan-Mei's tongue felt like a knot from those practices and he was still being sarcastic!
"The English version of International news will be implemented starting next Friday, how can I not practice?" Shan-Mei gave him a glare and returned to the books.
"The news department did submit a proposal on this issue but I didn't expect the 7PM news to commence." Actually, he wasn't too surprised since the 7PM news had always been their prime program.
"Still talking about it? I'm so nervous," she grumbled without looking up.
"What's there to be scared of? You still have me," he moved nearer, promoting himself.
"That's right. Xue Zhang's English is so good, why didn't I think of that?" She spoke with a tinkle in her eyes, thinking: What was I thinking? Wasn't my savior sitting right in front of me?
"However, I must warn you I don't teach for free," he revealed a devious smile and hinted.
"No! I have to practise my pronunciations the whole night," she rejected him directly. Who doesn't know what was on his mind, surely his hug wouldn’t last for 5 minutes, definitely no kissing. I must not fall for his trick.
"What were you thinking?" He returned a naughty gaze, "I was merely asking for you to make a cup of coffee."
"You..." her face was red like a tomato, from his pathetic look, she really wanted to stomp on his foot!
"Ok, that's enough fooling around. Let's start our lesson!" He picked up the news script and taught her word-by-word.
Having a teacher who had been living overseas for years, the vast improvement of her English was something Shan-Mei had not anticipated...
* * * * * * * * * *
Using English to broadcast had won the audience's support. Again, the 7PM news topped the weekly television ratings and Shan-Mei's performance had in turn, amazed her colleagues. On the same night, Shan-Mei was invited for a 'LIVE' interview on another program by MBS...
"Miss Zhen Shan-Mei is a household name for a broadcaster, I'm sure the path to what you are today must have been very tough! Is there anyone you would like to thank?" The host fired off the first question.
"Those that I want to thank! Oh, too many of them! First of all, my dad. Other than being a wonderful father, he also took up the role of mother. It was tough but he nurtured me well, gave me lots of care and love. There was also reporter Jin You-Zheng and his mother, they were like my family so I have never lacked any family warmth..." She pondered for a second, "then there is a very good friend who I want to thank, broadcaster Miss Ying-Mei. We matured together, and quarrelled a lot, but I learned quite an amount from her. Too much actually, I don't think I can summarize it all..."
"In my opinion, so long as they are friends or relatives of Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, they are all important to you!" The host gave a conclusion on her answer.
"Err... I guess that's true," she smiled.
"Recently, MBS's 7PM news was in the limelight, Miss Zhen Shan-Mei's presentation was excellent, especially your English. Honestly, I didn't know your English was so fluent!" The success this time around had added to her existing status, bringing her to another level.
"Actually, my standard of English wasn't that good but I have an excellent tutor. He was very patient with me, which was why I could speak fluently. Oh yes, I nearly forgot to thank this tutor. He has always been supporting me, giving me the encouragement and teaching me along the way."
"I assume the tutor you were referring to was your husband – Mr. Yin Xiang-Zhe?" The host spoke boldly.
"That's correct...!" Shan-Mei nodded her head, this was the first time she had talked about Xiang-Zhe with the public.
"I guess the audience are as curious as me, could you tell us what sort of role did Mr. Yin play in your life?" Following her direction, the host asked what the audience was all interested in.
"Well..., he doted on me like my father, took care of me as a brother, taught me like a student, and treated me as a good friend. Most importantly, he was also my boss, without him, I wouldn't have gotten my pay check!" She joked. She also fully understood that Xue Zhang had slowly became a necessary part of her life...
"Then, what about you? Where do you think you fit in his life?"
"I presume I'm just a nuisance to him since I'm always giving him problem," she couldnt help laughing at her own comments.
Xiang-Zhe who was watching the program from his office, was trying to restrain himself from rushing into the studio to give her a big hug. A nuisance? Yes, since the day she bumped into his car, she had became his loveable and can't-do-without headache!
Two soft knocks on the door and he knew immediately that Shan-Mei had completed the interview. He opened the door and pulled her in.
"Sorry to make you wait for so long..." Shan-Mei didn't even get to finish her sentence when she was pulled into an embrace.
"According to you, I have to play so many roles, so many identities!" He stroked her silky hair, breathing in her nice fragrance, "but I only wish to be Miss Zhen Shan-Mei's husband..."
"Why?" She pushed him away gently, doesn't he want to be her Xue Zhang, her friend and her teacher?
"Because only being your husband gives me this special privilege..." He sealed her lips with his.
"We..." He possessed her lips again, even before she could start her sentence. She had wanted to tell him that it was time to go home but she couldn't resist the wonderful feeling of his kiss. Slowly, she hooked her arms around his neck and was soon drifting away in the sea of love...
The journey home didn't seem as far as before, but the kiss was long and lasting......
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 25)
MBS had organized a huge celebration party for its staff to welcome the millennium's first Christmas. What came as a surprise were the hosts because this year MBS had not followed the norm of using well-known artists. Instead Director Yin had appointed Shen Qi-Dong and Cui Chen-Shui to host the event. The decision had triggered discussions about their competency since they were neither very well known nor had they co-hosted any events before. Furthermore, never before had sports commentators been selected to host any formal events.
However, their performance for this night proved the people wrong because the new partnership had introduced a new and humorous style of hosting. Their entertaining conversations and comical expressions had brought tremendous joy and endless laughter to the crowd.
President Yin (Xiang-Zhe's dad) was full of smiles today, "Now this is what a Christmas party should be like. As compared, previous parties and gatherings were too formal and solemn." He turned to Xiang-Zhe with satisfaction, "Heard that you had appointed them."
"That's right! Actually I wanted to test their co-ordination. Currently, I have a new sports program in planning and am still in the midst of a program host selection. The notion to try them out with this party is rather appropriate. Well, they have proven themselves!" Xiang-Zhe explained.
"Oh, that was not a bad idea!" President Yin nodded in agreement, proud of his son. Xiang-Zhe had brought about many new ideas and creative concepts since he took over part of the management. "I have to admit that my son does have a sharp vision in this industry."
"Oh yes, dad, I will be bringing Shan-Mei home tomorrow. We have prepared some Christmas presents for aunt and you."
"Really? Oh..." President Yin started to ponder about the change in Xiang-Zhe, he had never given him any gifts through the years, not even for him to mention the word 'aunt'. "Actually, you can save on the presents...grandchildren would be more appropriate."
"Huh..." Shan-Mei who was concentrating on the party was surprised at his comments. Her cheeks felt hot suddenly.
"Yes, we will! We will work harder," Xiang-Zhe held her hands tightly under the table while answering his dad in a serious tone. Shan-Mei wanted to hide in a hole upon hearing the response; didn't he realize that the terms 'work hard' cause people to think otherwise?
"Excellent!" President Yin exclaimed upon the guarantee, beamed with happiness.
At this moment, Chen-Shui introduced the next segment of the party. "Coming up is the last segment of tonight's party – The Entertainment Contest."
Qi-Dong continued, "Since both of us are male, we of course will fight for privileges for our species so this contest is limited to the males only. The winner will receive a prize, which is..."
Xiang-Zhe thought about Chen-Shui and Qi-Dong as he sipped his wine, he had not misjudged them. Shan-Mei was right; everyone is potential once they found their hidden talents.
"...A kiss from Miss Zhen Shan-Mei !" Shouted the hosts simultaneously, announcing the 'mystery' prize excitedly.
Shan-Mei seemed to be rooted to the ground upon hearing her name. Xiang-Zhe was not faring any better as he coughed lightly, nearly choked on the wine...
"Participates interested in taking up the challenge, please come forward!" Judging from the response, there was no lack of contestants.
What had happened? Since when have I become a prize? Just as Shan-Mei was still wondering, Xiang-Zhe stood up and walked swiftly to the stage. "As a member of MBS, I believe I should be entitled to the same rights as any other men present, hence I will participate in this contest!" His gentlemenly behaviour had never failed to capture any lady's heart, and thus won some supporting cheers.
"No problem, of course you are welcome," Qi-Dong gave Chen-Shui a push, things were going as planned and they were merely waiting for the 'actual' show to begin!
One could not wonder if the game was too easy or the other contestants gave in to Xiang-Zhe? He won every round, defeated all contestants and emerged as the final winner!
Shan-Mei who was watching anxiously let out a heavy sigh of relief, she almost had a nervous breakdown being the prize. Thought she had escaped the clutch of the 'evil game'...how wrong she was...
Xiang-Zhe was grinning as he strolled across the stage and took over the microphone, "Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, why are you still sitting there? Aren't you coming up to present the reward?"
Huh? How could he join in the fun that Senior Qi-Dong and Chen-Shui had intended? The audiences turned their attention to Shan-Mei and waited eagerly. In the end, Shan-Mei surrendered with a reluctant smile and approached Xiang-Zhe. She gave him a warning glare before standing on tip-toe, brushing her lips past his...
He reached for her shoulders and pulled her closer when he tasted her lips. He returned a deeper kiss. To end with, Xiang-Zhe held Shan-Mei close beside him and spoke to the amazed audience, "As all of you have witnessed, I don't give up easily on matters related to Miss Zhen Shan-Mei. Hopefully you understood my point and not make me go the full mile again!"
His confession of love got everyone's cheers and applause, Xiang-Zhe had once again proved his point that Shan-Mei is his and his only!
* * * * * * * * * *
Winter approached inevitably as the weather turned colder each day. Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei were sitting in front of the Christmas tree, enjoying the small fire they had started earlier. Dressed in identical cream colour turtleneck sweaters from her and a Cartier gift watch on her wrist from him, they were merely engrossed in the quietness and warmth of Christmas.
"What's on your mind? If your mind was on somebody other than me, I forbid that!" He studied her for a moment but her thoughts were on the card in her hands.
"Xue Zhang, thank you..." She could hardly express herself for his gratitude. "You have given me the most meaningful Christmas present ever."
"Heh?" He looked at her with a confused look, true enough, the Cartier watch did cost him a bomb but wasn't that meaningful though.
"You have no intention to tell me?" She waved the card in her hand, "Well, Ying-Mei has told me all the details..."
"Dear Shan-Mei,
I would like to wish you Merry Christmas!
Honestly, I haven't the slightest idea on how to thank Director Yin and you for all the things you've done. Really thankful for sending the Santa Claus to the orphanage, his presence and the Christmas gifts he brought fulfilled all the children's wishes.
Your kindness has brought out the true spirit of Christmas, which has been missing for ages in this home. Everyone in the home appreciates your kind heartedness for letting us have such a wonderful and enjoyable day of the year..."
"Oh, about that? That was nothing, I did it because I didn't want you to worry too much for Ying-Mei and the children so I..." The true intention was for you to be happy. Well, I was selfish but who wouldn't? I wanted you to have all the happiness you can and for that to happen, nothing will and can stop me in realizing that!
"I feel really fortunate," She looked at him with appreciation, let out a sigh of content, knowing Xue Zhang was really the best present ever! "Seems like all wishes could come true on Christmas! When I was little, my dad always told me that Santa Claus distributed presents only to obedient children. That's why, whenever Christmas approached, I would be extremely obedient..." Her eyes sparkled with a child's innocence as she spoke of her childhood.
"Em, I really envy you. Days like these in the past were merely another day on the calendar, totally meaningless to me. The times while in England, although there were festive moods, I didn't find any connection with me." He was like a far and remote island in the middle of the ocean before knowing her, never did he care for others or bother with how they felt for him.
"So what about now?" She could feel the pain from his tone.
"Now I look forward to every Christmas, being able to decorate the tree with you, prepare gifts for the family, then...I can spend the Christmas Eve cuddling you..." He stared at her face and saw the resemblance of an angel from the reflection of the burning fire.
Snow fell quietly like the white shower across the window…
"Wow! Xue Zhang, it's snowing..." Shan-Mei sat up and pointed at the window, "Let's go outside and view the snow!"
"No way!!" With that, Xiang-Zhang turned and pinned her under him on the sofa, his eyes reflected the passion inside his heart...
"Why not?" Her eyes displayed a state of confusion. Xue Zhang had never rejected her requests!
"Because..." She felt the warmth of his hand sneaking under her blouse to her abdomen, "We have to start preparing our present for next Christmas..."
Snowflakes glided gently from the sky as if in a dance whilst the house was filled with warmth and contentment...Once Director Yin made up his mind, even broadcaster Zhen had no chance of resistance. However there was one thing, which was certain, Director Yin's gift for the coming Christmas had been decided...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 26)
Shan-Mei's throat felt uncomfortable when she woke up. Not wanting to wake the soundly asleep Xue Zhang, she coughed lightly but still woke him...
"What's the matter?" He frowned and looked at his darling in his embrace with uneasiness.
"Nothing, just that my throat felt sore," she answered honestly, in case Xue Zhang over worried again.
He touched her forehead, well, no fever, "Sure you are really alright? Why not take a day off today? Director Yin permits you a day off specially!"
"No need for that! Who needs the special privilege? Anyway, I am quite fine," she pursed her lips.
In the face of her adamant stand, he gave in and acquiesced to her wishes. Why couldn't this wife of mine be more obedient?
* * * * * * * * * *
Later in the day, Shan-Mei completed her broadcast of the seven o'clock evening news despite her sore throat.
"Shan-Mei, you are really alright?" Xian-Da asked with concern.
"Eh, I'm fine." She returned a smile, felt awful about having others always to worry for her.
The long awaited Xiang-Zhe rushed from the control room to the broadcast stand, "Still in denial? Can we process home for some rest now? What a disobedient wife!"
"Nobody is in denial," not accepting the accusation.
"Your voice has turned hoarse, still want to argue?" He tapped on her nose as a gesture of gentle rebuke.
"Won't you two lovebirds stop being mussy in front of me? Treating me as invisible, hah?" Xian-Da demanded with a stern face but jokingly.
"Yap we know, we will vanish immediately from your sight and continue our mussy matters at home," Xizng-Zhe retorted as he held Shan-Mei's hand preparing to leave.
"Xue Zhang..." Shan-Mei was wary of her surroundings as he dragged her outside. Couldn't stand him, getting bolder in his behaviour in the company.
"Director Yin! Remember to take good care of our broadcaster Zhen, or else the audience wouldn't let you off easily..." Xian-Da shouted at their departing figures, shaking his head in amusement. Only a blind would overlook Yin Xiang-Zhe's display of deep affection for his wife...
* * * * * * * * * *
Xiang-Zhe sent his wife into bed once they reached home. He then prepared a nutritious and rich dinner of love, brought it to the bedside and intended to supervise her while she dined.
"Come on, finish your dinner first." He assisted her to sit up and placed a pillow for better cushioning, so that she could enjoy her dinner in comfort.
"This...is too much, how can I finish it..." Shan-Mei was stunned at the full tray of dishes.
"You don't have to worry about that, I'm very patient. Come on be good, open your mouth...aahh..." As if he was coaxing a child, he held a spoon of food in front of her mouth.
"I can eat by myself..." She mumbled words of protest.
"A sick person shouldn't have any complaints," he ordered and fed her slowly spoon-by-spoon. With his persistent feeding, she managed to finish up all the food, not leaving any bit.
"Thank you..." Thanks for your caring, thanks for your arrogance.
"Don't have to thank me, personally I prefer a practical gratitude..." He lowered his head, wanting to kiss her.
"No...Don't want! Might spread the cold virus to you!" She ducked.
"I'm in pink health, I won't get infected by you..." He could expect that, never did he misjudge.
* * * * * * * * * *
In the wee hours, two nights later, Shan-Mei was aware of some warmness around her. She opened her sleepy eyes and wondered about the increased in room temperature. It's Xue Zhang, his body was scorching hot, "Xue Zhang! Xue Zhang...!" She shook him hard to wake him but to no avail. He seemed to be unconscious, unable to hear her calling.
After a night of struggle, Xiang-Zhe was finally in a stable condition. Seated by his hospital bedside, Shan-Mei felt terribly guilty and heart pained, Xue Zhang had cared for her endlessly for the past few days. In addition to that, he still had to handle his office work till late hours before resting. What was he thinking? That his body was made of steel like a robot?
While waiting for him to regain consciousness, she recalled the first time Xiang-Zhe waited by her bedside throughout the night. What sort of feeling did he have to spur him on to care for me? What feelings had he experienced then through those heart-stabbing times when he swore to let me go? The more she thought, the more she couldn't hold back her tears, "Xue Zhang..."
Xiang-Zhe regained consciousness gradually but somehow felt unease. He seemed to hear crying from a distance, was Shan-Mei crying? What had happened? He panicked, Shan-Mei, please don't cry, I don't want you to cry… …He lifted his hand and reached out to comfort her, "Shan-Mei..."
"I'm here! Xue Zhang, I'm here...!" She held him tightly, responded quickly to assure him of her presence.
"Don't cry..." As compared to your tears, my illness is nothing, your crying brought more pain than anything. Never forget this, whenever you cry, that will be the worst heartache that I will ever suffer...
"Who said I'm crying?" She wiped her tears instantly, "I'm angry! Angry that you broke your promise, angry that you didn't take good care of yourself, angry that you made me worry..."
"I'm sorry..." He caressed her face tenderly and studied her.
With his zealous glance, all the grudges that she bore had diminished into a simple sentence of "Xue Zhang, I love you..."
The news of Xiang-Zhe's illness had spread throughout MBS like bees to honey, the very next day. Visitors came endlessly, filling the hospital room with flowers and fruit hampers. Shan-Mei was kept busy having to entertain the visitors and care for Xiang-Zhe...
"Are you tired?" She asked tenderly as she sat down by the bed, after a few Senior managers had left.
"No, not at all. Just that I didn't get to spend some private time with you." Without much thought, he cuddled her. It didn't seem that bad after all to fall sick occasionally, meals and medicine were meticulously taken care of by my wife and on top of that, she didn't even stay far from me.
"We can spend more private time together if you recover soon, can't we?" Her finger circled on his chest.
"Yes madam!" Clinging lightly onto her waist, he shut his eyes to enjoy the touching moment. So engrossed in their own private moment that they missed the faint knocking on the door.
Xian-Da and Yong-Xi entered the room, only to find the two lovebirds in each other's embrace.
"You two are so in love! Still so intimate when one is sick!" Xian-Da commented casually, not knowing how to react.
"Oooh, Qian-bei..." Shan-Mei struggled to sit up, blushing like a ripe tomato.
"No! It's our fault," Xiang-Zhe scratched his head. "I'll put up the 'Do-Not-Disturb' sign next time round."
"Xue Zhang..." She had nearly fainted from the embarrassment.
"I told you to look after Shan-Mei, yet you yourself fell ill. Didn't all this end up at the same conclusion? Shan-Mei still couldn't continue with the news casting," Xian-Da joked.
"Call yourself a true friend? You didn’t even enquire about my illness. On the other hand, you worry about her being unable to do news casting!" Xiang-Zhe couldn't retain his amusement any longer.
"Eh, look at your vivacious state, there's nothing for us to worry about," Yong-Xi stood by her husband.
Due to the late hour and, being past hospital visiting hours, Xian-Da didn't want to 'disturb' the couple much longer. As they left, Shan-Mei also turned towards the sofa...
Xiang-Zhe grasped her wrist, "Where are you going?"
"To sleep," she pointed at the sofa in the corner, "You should have an early night too."
"You have to sleep with me," he shifted his body and offered half the bed.
"No, a sick person shouldn't have any complaints. Be good, sleep now...!" She let him have a taste of his medicine and lay down on the sofa.
Oh dear! Now he finally understood the unpleasantness of being sick, his precious is just so near, yet so far. So what did the witty Yin Xiang-Zhe had in mind?
"Aiya......" He decided to cheat by faking his pain...
"What happened? Which part of you is unwell?" The naive Shan-Mei walked directly into his trap, rushed to his bed and checked out his pained expressions nervously.
"My whole body is unwell..." He pulled her onto him and refused to let go.
"You liar!" She stared at him crossly, making her worry for nothing.
"I didn't lie to you, you know I've to cuddle you every night, in order to sleep. That has developed into a habit..." He looked as if he had gone through dramatic traumas.
"But...what if the nurse saw us?" She reminded him.
"So? Let them see. I can't be bothered anymore, I'm not going to sleep without you," he said in an alluring tone.
"Alright..." She gave in and lay down warily, "but you are not to misbehave."
"Misbehave?" He raised his eyebrows, his eyes already filled with mischief, "Don't worry, I promise only to hug you to sleep. Of courde I definitely won't misbehave..."
The usually stern-looking Director Yin, behaved like a child when he's sick. Not only did he require coaxing and caring, he also had mischief up his sleeves. Only 'innocent' people like Shan-Mei would fall for his trick, for his 'promise'...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook - Married Life (Part 27)
The sunrays shone through the curtains, lighting the whole bedroom. Xiang-Zhe stroked the hair of his doting wife, loving the way her hair stayed in his palm. He had awoken before dawn, he was used to sleeping late and rising early due to his workload. No adjustments to his daily routine despite knowing Shan-Mei, only that he was no longer eager to get out of bed.
He loved the moments of watching her, holding her and waiting for her to wake. His love for her had not diminished one bit, even after their marriage, only fallen deeper in love. The sight of her when he opened his eyes every morning, the ability to touch her, to kiss her... ...was too wonderful for words. Even by dedicating my whole life to love, care or suffer, I still wouldn't be able to fully express my gratitude and affection...
"Ring~~~ Ring~~~ "
The ringing of the phone woke Shan-Mei up, she opened her sleepy eyes but saw a long arm reach past her and pick up the phone. She looked at herself covered only with the blanket and took another look at the half naked body partially on top of her, then she recalled what happened last night and blushed instantly. Despite that they were married for quite some time, intimate moments made her feel embarrassed nevertheless...
"Is that Xiang-Zhe? Hey, it's me..., did I wake you up?" Xian-Da was on the other side of the call.
"It's alright..., so what caused you to call so early?" He glanced over at Shan-Mei, found her awake, and gave her a smile of contentment.
"Don't blame me for shattering your wonderful dreams but on the sake of that 5 minutes consolation, now it's your turn to congratulate me for 5 minutes," Xian-Da sounded excited.
"Just what is the matter that made you so happy?" That caught his curiosity.
"I'm going to be a dad," announced Xian-Da haughtily.
"Really? Oh, that's excellent news. Congratulations to both of you!" He smiled, truly happy for his old friends.
"How about it, Director Yin? I beat you again, haven't I told you before, the ginger is better when old? Ha Ha..." Xian-Da took the opportunity to tease him again.
"Ok..., ok..., I admit defeat..., sure no problem..., I will definitely treat both of you to dinner another day..." He spoke with all smiles, hung up, turned over and gave Shan-Mei a morning kiss.
"What was the good news?" She asked sweetly, presented with daily morning kisses, why wouldn't it be delightful?
His big hand swept and placed her head onto his shoulder, "Yong-Xi is pregnant, he was so happy till he lost sleep so he called this early to show off."
"That was indeed lovely!" She jumped up with joy.
"What's so good about it? He managed to marry first, and now he beat me again in having a child..." He let out a sigh of disbelief.
"You compare on these matters?" Sometimes Xue Zhang can be such a kid.
"It must have been me, not putting out enough effort!" With that, he tossed and landed on top of her, "it seems like we have to buck up!"
She pushed him back by his shoulders, "No...! Get up quickly! You have forgotten about our Sunday date?"
"But we can always change the venue...to our bed..." He suggested.
"No! You promised me to have a picnic today." She pushed him harder.
Sigh! He only had himself to blame, so brainy to invent a Sunday date for them so he dragged himself reluctantly off the bed and put on his robe. However, his elegant movement attracted Shan-Mei: Xue Zhang is really handsome, the distinct body outline, the muscular chest, the well-shaped pair of legs, they looked as perfect as a sculpture...
Sensing her observe him, he responded wickedly, "Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, I'm afraid we might not go anywhere if you continue to admire me..."
Shan-Mei got frightened by his statement and hurried into the bathroom. He guffawed after seeing her adorable escape of fear.
* * * * * * * * * *
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei had reserved Sundays as their day for dates, there was nothing special about it. Just like any couple in love, they strolled, travelled, had picnics, went shopping, caught a movie and attended an outdoor concert...spending quality time together was just that straightforward! Time of pleasure always passed quickly, dusk soon replaced the day; they stood side-by-side watching the beautiful sunset...
"Mother Nature is so incredible, regardless of dawn, dusk, cloudy or rainy days, they all have their exquisite uniqueness..." She turned and asked, "They are really lovely, aren't they?"
"Yes, really beautiful." He wasn't referring not to the sunset, but instead of the lovely woman beside him.
Looking at the sunset, she thought aloud, "Everyone has different emotions and perceptions while standing under the same sunset. Some would regard a sunset as a wonderful ending whilst others would be enthusiastic about the new day to follow..."
This moment reminded him of their very first date where the girl was trying her best to bade farewell her first love, where he experienced an inexplicable heartache...
"What about you? Which type are you?" He hugged her from behind and held her tight against him.
She turned slightly and gave him a pleased smile that told him, her moment of beauty was owed to him. He felt the level of bliss rise within him…
"Xue Zhang..." Leaning on his chest, she found security and familiarity when a thought suddenly struck her, "What would have become of us if I had taken the offer and gone to England?" At the same time now, would they have been apart? And looking on at the separate sunsets, what sort of loneliness and emotions would they have?
He replied confidentially, "Things will still be the same, nothing will change."
"How would it remain the same...?" She tipped her chin, unable to justify his comments. There should be changes nonetheless, well, at least they wouldn't have gotten married, not being together everyday...
He laughed with a sarcastic tone, "You would have come crying at me within a week, because you could't bear the thought of missing me."
"Ha, of course not! I would definitely study hard and inform you of my well-being."
"Eh, then I would give my best to terminate the England correspondent contract." His serious tone indicated he meant business.
"How could you abuse your authority?"
"Then? Unless of course, you can bear the thought of having me miss you, to wait for you?" He pouted, not changing his 'intimidating' character, "Anyway, you were destined to marry me!"
The sky darkened as the sun slowly made its exit... No doubt another day had ended but the couple was still enjoying each other's company and welcoming the arrival of their wonderful future...
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook – Married Life (Part 28)
To welcome the coming new year, Shan-Mei and Zhao-Di decided to give themselves a “refreshing” look. They were delighted when they stepped out of the beauty salon……
“Shan-Mei, how come you still look the same? You’re not the least creative.” Zhao-Di did have some comments on Shan-Mei's “unchanging” hairstyle.
“I want to be as daring like you too! But I am a broadcaster, so can’t be too exaggerated. Don't you agree?" Shan-Mei pouted.
“Luckily I didn’t get in to be a broadcaster, forever having to maintain the same image. It’s so boring!” Zhao-Di showed a “relief” expression and then waved her new hairstyle and said, “Talking about the image, how’s it? What do you think of my new image?"
Shan-Mei nodded her head and said, “Not bad, I think it suits you well.”
“Then I will help you with a new image next time,” and she stepped back and looked at Shan-Mei with much confidence, “and I guaranteed that there will be a totally brand new broadcaster Zhen Shan-Mei.”
Shan-Mei quickly waved both of her hands and said, “No need,….no need…..” She still remembers vividly the make up which Zhao-Di did for her that made her nearly faint of shock.
“Are you sure? Although you are married, a women must always have the fresh appeal so that her man will be interested,” Zhao-Di got more energetic as she blabbered….
Shan-Mei is assured that Xiang-Zhe is absolutely not interested in someone with heavy cosmetics who looked like a “ghost.”
“Not necessary! Really!” Shan-Mei is trying to divert Zhao-Di’s enthusiasm from the topic.
“Let’s go, let’s take a look at that shop over there!” She clung on to Zhao-Di and directed her towards the delicate brand name shop especially for the clothes.
“Hm….Shan-Mei, the price of the brand is really expensive!” Zhao-Di’s eyes popped when she saw the signboard of the shop.
“Just take a look. We don’t have to buy, moreover shouldn't we dote on ourselves once in a while?”
“Do you still need to dote on yourself? Doesn’t your Prince Director dote on you enough?” Zhao-Di commented with envy. She sounded like she had tasted the sour grapes before.
“That’s different….” Shan-Mei's heart feels sweet and contented like the spill of honey at the mention of Xiang-Zhe.
Just then, Shan-Mei's cellular phone rang. “Senior…right…” upon hearing his voice, she smiled even more brightly. “Alright… I see...”
When Zhao-Di saw Shan-Mei's smiling brows, how she slightly showed the pettishness to Senior and acted like a spoilt child. How Zhao-Di envied her! God is really unfair to the rest of the people!
When Shan-Mei hung up the cellular phone, Zhao-Di came up immediately and asked, “ Is it the Prince Director?”
“Mm… yes, he’s coming to pick me up later.” She showed such happiness on her face that even the passersby could sense it.
“Damn little girl! What kind of amulet water have you given to Director Yin? Doesn’t this man have any fault? I'm so mad!"
Shan-Mei went forward and squeezed on Zhao-Di’s cheeks and said, “You are spouting nonsense! How about you? Do you want me to ask Senior to give you a ride home?" The thought suddenly flashed into her mind.
“Of course!” Zhao-Di’s voice turned shrill unconsciously. “Damn little girl, are you going to leave me to take a bus home while you and Prince sit comfortably in a luxurious car?”
The thought of such a scene made these two good friends, who grew up together since they'd studied in the University, laugh loudly….
* * * * * * * * * *
The next day, during lunch break, Shan-Mei met a depressed Chen-Sui along the corridor. What’s the matter? Wasn’t he jovial this morning?
“Chen-Sui?” she called his name directly and said, “What’s wrong with you?”
He lifted his face with a glum look and said, “I really can’t stand how women react! She always flares up for no reason!”
“Both of you quarrelled again?” Shan-Mei is used to this scenario, as this couple just seemed to like quibble.
“Quarrel? No! I was scolded by her!” Since then, Chen-Sui was still trying to figure out why he was being scolded.
“What actually happened?"
“She asked me out for lunch just now... later, all of a sudden, she asked me how does her hair style look like,” Chen-Sui began to narrate the details to Shan-Mei.
“Oh…I see! What did you say then?” Shan-Mei asked.
Chen-Sui raised his hand to scratch his forehead, and he continued, “I said to her, “in my opinion, it’s nothing special!”
"Do you consider this a compliment?" Shan-Mei asked, breaking out in cold sweat, “and then…..?”She prompted Chen-Sui for the rest of the compliments.
"I'd rather not think of Zhao-Di’s new hair style. After close inspection, I didn’t like it at all.” He didn’t sound like he was joking.
Shan-Mei was unhappy and tapped her heels with annoyance. “No way! How could you say that!”
“I am telling the truth!” He felt that he was being accused and was trying hard to defend himself. “My parents taught me not to tell lies since I was young.”
“Haven’t you heard that 'girls are pleased with compliments to their looks'?” Zhao-Di must be very sad now. Even Shan-Mei felt a bit upset.
“What should I do now?” Chen-Sui would always mess things up whenever he tried to cheer girls up.
Shan-Mei knew Zhao-Di very well and she told Chen-Sui how she felt. “You must have hurt Zhao-Di's self-esteem deeply, and it’s not a matter of apologizing to quickly solve the problem.”
“What do you think if I take hold of this opportunity to propose to her seriously?"
“I think that it’s a good idea,” she agreed completely because the wedding that they always discussed was never put into action.
“But it's all Team Leader (Xian-Da) and that fatso’s(Shen Qi-Zhong) fault! They stole my ideas for proposing….Shan-Mei...” He pulled her sleeve, begging, “You’ve got to help me this time.”
“Well…” This situation really floored her as it’s not an easy task. She never proposed to anyone before, how can she help him?
“How did Director Yin propose to you?” For the girl who needed to go abroad to work on the next day, he must have demonstrated a lot of skill to win your heart, aske you to stay, and marry him.”
“Ah?” She was dumbfounded, “he…he…that is…he took out the ring….then he told me not to leave….”
“That simple ah!” Nothing-greater than that?” he continued to ask, “Where is this take place?"
“At…at….” How can she tell him? “On the street…” She felt that her face was hot enough to fry eggs.
“On the street?" He didn’t notice the bashful expression on Shan-Mei's face. “Not good, not good! That’s nothing special at all. Can you help me to think of another one?"
Shan-Mei accepted his request immediately to prevent him from asking further questions.
To propose on the street is really nothing special, but to kiss passionately and feel the whole world turning upside down is really something rare event to her. …..
* * * * * * * * * ** * * * * * * * * *****
Xiang-Zhe has been sitting on the sofa to the left of Shan-Mei. As soon as he stepped into the house, he paid lots of attention to her. It’s a pity that she did not even take a glance at him. She was concentrating on the screen, not giving him the chance to allow him to surprise her that he had planned for a long time. She was really hardworking tonight, watching the video and taking notes at the same time……
He couldn’t bear it any longer. “Shan-Mei! I am feeling bored… don’t look at the screen, take a look at me….” He used his old tricks, hoping to attract her attention.
“Senior, I am sorry….I must come up with a few methods of marriage proposal, I can’t keep you company!”
“Pro…posal?” Is he not mistaken in what he just heard? His wife is going to propose to someone else?
“Emm…I promised to help Chen-Sui….It must be a success and not end up with the failure in this case!” She felt the stress racking her brains…
“But I don’t even have the slightest experience, and I can only steal ideas from movies. It’s really stupid, isn’t it?”
Stupid? He must be a super stupid guy then? The procedure for proposing is not important, the most important thing is that he got what he wanted.
All of a sudden, he took out a bouquet of roses from behind his back and presented it right before her eyes…..
She was a little shocked and held the bouquet in her hands and asked, “What’s the special occasion today?"
A bashful smile ran across his face and he said, “I don’t need a special occasion when I want to give you flowers. The moment is so romantic whenever I have the desire to give you flowers and say ‘I love you’.”
“Thank you…!” She bowed her head to smell the fragrance of the flowers, her mood just as beautiful as the bouquet.
“I don’t need a special occasion when I want to give you flowers. The moment is so romantic whenever I have the desire to give you the flowers and say ‘I love you’.” Shan-Mei repeated his words in her thoughts...
“That’s it! This is the one! Put the proposal ring in the middle of a big bouquet of flowers, and then… that’s it! Zhao-Di will definitely be touched,” Shan-Mei said excitedly.
She leaned closer to him, using her both hands wrapped round his waist and gushed to Xiang-Zhe, “Senior! Thanks….You are really fantastic!”
Being embraced by her in such a manner, he felt the happiness of being relied upon. “So…that’s the difference between a stalk and a bouquet of flowers?” He said teasingly. “Next time, I must get a even bigger bouquet….”
“By the way, is it more romantic to present flowers in public?” she suddenly raised her head and asked.
He carried her in his arms. “Hmmm….” Obviously, he was not interested in her topic.
“Then…should Chen-Sui go straight to Zhao-Di’s office and proposed to her directly?" She put her hand around his neck and continued with the conversation.
“Did anyone tell you that you are very naggy?" He sealed her lips with his….
Who is willing to think about how to solve the problem for other people at this time….?
A bouquet of flowers, not only added some romantic sentiment to the lives of Mr & Mrs Yin, but also brought together another happy couple…
Writer : Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translator : germaine
Editor : Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook – Married Life (Part 29)
The Prime Minister of Korea will set off to America for a diplomatic visit next week. The news department of MBS appointed Yong-Xi to follow up with the interview. However, her unexpected pregnancy gave this mission some last minute changes. They had to look for another suitable candidate to take over this important task. The Head of Department (HOD) from the news department, Xian-Da, and Yong-Xi were all in Xiang-Zhe’s office to discuss how to solve this tough problem.
“Had the doctor said that the early stage of pregnancy is not good for long distance flight, I would definitely not even give up this rare opportunity.” Yong-Xi had become more beautiful after her pregnancy, but she doesn’t look happy at all.
Xian-Da’s eye’s rolled, thinking: there she goes again, “ Liu Yong-Xi, you're not to think just for yourself, you should also think of the others who are working together with you. They are going there to work, not to look after a pregnant woman.”
“So here I am, sitting down right here with all of you discussing the topic,” Yong-Xi had always admired Xian-Da’s impartial capabilities.
Xiang-Zhe turned to Yong-Xi and smiled, “ Don’t worry about it, there will be more opportunities like this in the near future.”
“Actually, I have someone in mind,” Yong-Xi said seriously, holding back her unhappiness.
“Oh! Who’s it?” Xiang-Zhe wondered. If that’s the case, things will be much easier to handle.
“Shan-Mei is the first choice in my mind! Shan-Mei is more than capable to accomplish this important task.” As she had guided Shan-Mei personally, she was very satisfied with her performance.
“Shan-Mei …” Xiang-Zhe knitted his brows lightly to show his disagreement because this is the last answer he wanted to hear.
“Miss Zhen Shan-Mei is indeed a proper candidate!” The news HOD supported the suggestion. Xian-Da also nodded his head, implying that he also approved of this suggestion, and added, “ Moreover, it will be a good opportunity for her to gain more experience.”
Looked like Yong-Xi was bent on looking at him being troubled by love….
Xiang-Zhe breathed deeply and turned to Xian-Da, “Okay, this will be what we have decided on for the time being, but you still have to seek her personal opinion first.” However, deep in his heart, he hoped that Shan-Mei would look for an excuse to successfully cancel this business trip.
* * * * * * * * * *
On their way home that day, Shan-Mei took a few glances at Xiang-Zhe and pouted her mouth. She seemed to have the intention to speak out, but….
“What’s the matter?” He spoke first. She was usually like a sparrow, but why was she so quiet today,"
“Emmm… that is ….” She looked at him cautiously, “ the thing is….regarding to the overseas interview that Senior Yong-Xi is supposed to do, she is pregnant, so she can’t go…”
“Thus you are responsible for carrying such a big burden on your shoulders again?” He helped her to complete her sentence, for he always knew that she would definitely place more importance on her job.
Shan-Mei quickly shook her head and said, “No, no, I haven’t promised Team Leader yet.”
A sense of happiness rose from the bottom of his heart, “You rejected it?” Then he didn’t have to go through the torment of thinking of her when she was not around….
She shook her head again, “ Not really, I was thinking that it would be better if I can discuss the matter with you first.”
“Actually….you can’t bear to leave me alone and you do not want to go, right?” He purposely teased and took a glance at her.
“Who can’t bear to leave you? Be more serious, okay?" She smiled and glared at him, “I am discussing something serious with you…”
There was silence between them. Finally Xiang-Zhe broke the silence, “If you really have to go, then you just go…” To speak out this sentence to set her free was really not easy.
He cannot obstruct Shan-Mei from soaring, she should be a happy kite, and he was willing to be the breeze to embrace her to fly higher than the usual heights!
“I thought Senior would not want me to be away for so long….” She felt relieved now.
“This is your job, isn’t it," It was to be only a week, and how could he be so selfish to bury a good broadcaster? He totally understood, he would be happy only if she was happy….
She smiled and leaned closer to him, “Thank you…” Shan-Mei said to Xiang-Zhe happily. Thankful to him for his understanding, and even more touched by his strong support for her career.
“Zhen Shan-Mei, I am driving now, you don’t seduce me….” He said feebly as he felt the heat in his body rising…
“Have I?” Her cheeks turned rosy, and she felt bashful…
She did not know that he had already stepped on the accelerator, anxious to get back to their home….
* * * * * * * * * *
On the day when the team was supposed to set off, Shan-Mei and the rest of her colleagues had just finished checking in. She bent down to carry her luggage and was about to follow the others to the departure hall….
“Hello, everyone!” The familiar hoarse voice of a male rang through the ears.
“Hi, Director Yin!” Everyone was sending their regards and greeting him, wondering how strange... why has Director Yin come to send us off personally? But within a second, they immediately figured out the reason and turned to look at Shan-Mei. They were waiting to see how this couple was going to bid each other good-bye for many days…
“If all of you don’t mind, I would like to have a talk with Miss Zhen Shan-Mei in private,” he said politely and firmly. How can anyone say “no” to his request?
“Of course…of course… there’s still plenty of time. You can take you time and chat.” Everyone could only leave in reluctance, “Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, we’ll wait for you inside…”
Shan-Mei nodded her head shyly, and turned to look at Xiang-Zhe with sorrow in her eyes. She said to Xiang-Zhe, “Didn’t I ask you not to come? But you still came here!”
“The meeting in the morning was cancelled in the last minute….” In order to answer her doubts, he raised his hand to swear, “It’s true!”
“When you get fired, I won’t bother!” She can’t hold herself back any longer…
A gentle smile ran across her face. Xiang-Zhe opened his arms to hug Shan-Mei …
Her long slender arms slipped under his arms and she embraced his broad chest.
“English style?" she smiled to Xiang-Zhe and asked.
He embraced her tightly on his body and said gently, “Lover’s style.”
Resting on his shoulders, she reminded him again, “ When I am not around, remember to take your 3 meals regularly, don’t work too late, smoke less, drink less wine. Do you get it?”
“My request is much simpler. You must remember to think of me!” That was his forcible but gentle request to Shan-Mei.
Shan-Mei thought, “For sure, I will think of you. I am already thinking of your body temperature when I am still in your arms….”
The deep affection and unbearable departure had made them unaware of things around them and they continued to their embrace…
“It’s almost time to leave. I need to go in now….” Shan-Mei controlled her emotions and pushed him away gently.
“Be careful on the road…” When he spoke to Shan-Mei, his eyes were filled with reluctance. “Bye…” Xiang-Zhe had to let her go now.
Along the way, she suddenly turned around and made a funny face at him. Once again, this naughty angel had made him laugh again.
The business trip was only 5 days long, not 3 years. Why was this departure even more unbearable than the one in England?
Even when her figure was completely out of sight, he was still standing in the empty hall.
* * * * * * * * * *
While discussing some office matters with Xiang-Zhe, Xian-Da noticed that Xiang-Zhe was glancing at the TV screen again. This was already the third time! There will be a satellite news transmission on Shan-Mei's interview from abroad. No further prompt was needed for Xian-Da to consider that Xiang-Zhe was waiting anxiously for the image of Shan-Mei. The one that he had been waiting for day and night.
“Looks like CBS is still in the lead,” Xiang-Zhe turned his head back quickly, trying hard to concentrate on his report.
The new programme “to hit the Sport News” had first broadcasted the new partners of Cui Chen-Sui and Shen Qi-Zhong yesterday. However, the results did not turn out as well as expected.
“They have invited the most popular basketball star to co-host the programme; that’s why they have managed to maintain the audience ratings.”
“A sports star is indeed a selling point…” He did consider this idea, but he wished to have a sport programme which was closer to the needs of the people.
“However, according to the survey, the audience was satisfied with the performance of Shen Qi-Zhong and Cui Chen-Sui. I think….”
Xiang-Zhe raised his hand to interrupt Xian-Da, “Shhhh….” His eyes were glued to the TV screen to listen to the familiar voice of Shan-Mei on TV.
“Hello everyone, this is Zhen San-Mei, reporting from the White House, in Washington D.C.”
Shining under the rising sun, her shoulder length hair being blown gently by the breeze also brought out his good mood. Looking at her brilliant smile under the sun, he touched his forehead and secretly displayed a smile himself.
Xian-Da felt that the expression of Xiang-Zhe, at this moment, was just like that of a fly stuck on a flytrap. Xiang-Zhe was completely stuck to Shan-Mei no matter where she went!
He purposely pulled out his handkerchief and passed it to him. Xian-Da said to Xiang-Zhe, “She is your wife already, wipe away your drooling saliva as soon as you can…”
Undisturbed by his friend’s teasing, Xiang-Zhe fell into deep thoughts…
“You’ll be back tomorrow, right? I realized that I am getting less patient to wait. Really miss you and did you receive my telepathy?" Xiang-Zhe mumbled to himself from the deepest corner of his heart…
Writer: Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translator : germaine
Editor : Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook – Married Life (Part 30)
The atmosphere in the Announcer 1 Team office was one of raptuous celebration. Shen Qi-Zhong and Cui Chen-Sui were too excited to hide their emotions, and embraced each other with tears and laughter.
“Congratulations to both of you! The two of you might emerge as the most popular broadcasters soon,” Xian-Da was announcing the good news. After nearly two months of battle, the MBS Sports programme had finally beaten its CBS rival. For the first time, the MBS viewer rate was 3% above CBS. Finally, the two broadcasters with no fame at all were proud of themselves after a tremendous victory.
“Senior, it’s your turn to give us a treat,” Shan-Mei looked at Shen Qi-Zhong and said. She felt so happy about the achievement of her two colleagues. Besides, she was so proud of what Xiang-Zhe did for them. Unlike the others, Shan-Mei knew more than anyone the amount of effort that he had put in.
“Sure! Lunch is on me!” Shen Qi-Zhong patted Chen-Sui’s shoulders and said to him, “And you are only responsible for taking the bill.”
Chen-Sui unthinkingly nodded his head at that time. Only later did he realize that something was wrong and questioned, “How come it's my turn?”
“Because we are the best partners! My treat is equivalent to you giving a treat. When you pay for the bill it is equivalent to me paying for it. This is the secret to unbeatable cooperation!" Shen Qi-Zhong explained to Chen-Sui in a serious tone. Chen-Sui scratched his head because he was confused by Shen Qi-Zhong’s action.
Chen-Sui mumbled to himself and said, “So, that’s the way it goes. How come it sounds a bit weird?"
Xian-Da smiled at them and really caught attention by the pair of joke makers, “And more good news coming up, in order to encourage us to work hard, Director Yin has decided to give everyone a trip as a treat. As for the destination, its up to us to decide.”
“That’s great! Then, we must travel far away,” some colleagues said to Xian-Da.
“Can we bring our spouses along?” Shen Qi-Zhong glanced at Lee Qing-Xi and suggested to Xian-Da.
“That’s right! Only if we go with our loved ones, will the trip be enjoyable.” Chen-Sui was hoping that Zhao-Di could share this honour with him and go with him as a spouse.
“You have to ask Director Yin yourself, I can’t decide on this,” Xian-Da said to the colleagues.
“Shan-Mei, we are good friends, aren’t we?" Chen-Sui quickly turned his attention to Shan-Mei.
“Well….” Shan-Mei looked at him for a while because Chen-Sui had put her in a difficult situation.
Shen Qi-Zhong also joined the team hoping to persuade Shan-Mei. He said to Shan-Mei, “Shan-Mei, please,.our welfare depends on you now!”
“I’ll try, but I can’t guarantee a result,” Shan-Mei gave in and nodded her head to show her support.
Obviously, this time around, everyone was more confident than Announcer Zhen herself. As the saying goes, “A hero will definitely fall for a beauty….” Director Yin, would once again be unable to resist a plea from a beautiful lady.
* * * * * * * * * **
In the month of April, in Cheju Island, the mountains are covered with rape flowers. Besides the famous tourist spot of Hana mountains and Tian Di Yuan waterfall, no one would miss the beautiful beach of Xi Gui Bu Town. Whoever visits here must definitely goes under the water. Otherwise, they can’t tell other people that they have visited the beach. Eventually, everyone can choose their own activities on the sea such as diving, swimming and snorkeling. It was really fun to do what they wanted to do on the beach.
Xiang-Zhe helped Shan-Mei to put on the safety vest thoughtfully and said to her, “Relax! Don’t be too nervous.”
Shan-Mei nodded her head and said, “Of course I am scared! This is my first attempt at snorkeling….”
“Don’t be scared, this is much easier than swimming. You just need to relax and do it.” Xiang-Zhe held her hands tightly, hoping to reduce the unnecessary anxiety.
“Senior, you can’t let my hand go even for a moment,” Shan-Mei reminded Xiang-Zhe over and over again because she was afraid of losing the support from her Senior.
“Don’t worry, I won’t let you go.” There was such a tenderness shining in his eyes. Xiang-Zhe hoped that Shan-Mei would remember deeply what she just said to him….
Under the tender care of Xiang-Zhe, Shan-Mei was able to do it successfully without any problems. Looking at the beautiful array of colourful fish swimming back and forth near her side, she smiled a lot and started to point out the different species of fish passing by. She immersed heself completely in this colourful underwater world.
All of a sudden, a huge wave heavily slammed into their bodies.
“Aiieee…..!!” Shan-Mei screamed fearfully, gulping down some water in the process, holding onto Xiang-Zhe tightly for dear life. But when she opened her eyes, full of fear, she noticed that in contrast Xiang-Zhe was giving her a big smile.
“What makes you so happy?" Shan-Mei grumbled for she was scared out of her wits. How come he could still smile?
“I extremely enjoy your embrace!” Xiang-Zhe replied with a cheeky grin. Then, he moved his face close and whispered in her ear, “Don’t you think that you’re holding me too tightly?”
Shan-Mei looked down and suddenly realized that both her arms and legs were clinging to him like a Koala bear.
“You…. you are taking advantage of me,” Shan-Mei complained to Xiang-Zhe about how she felt. Although her face was flushed red and hot with embarrassment, she was still afraid to let him go.
Xiang-Zhe gave her a teasing smile and said, “According to the previous incident, you are the one taking advantage of me.”
“You…” She was about to clench her fist to get her revenge…..
“Shhh…quiet! Look! What is that?” Xiang-Zhe pointed to the sea further away from them to distract Shan-Mei for a moment.
Shan-Mei's eyes followed the direction he was pointing but saw nothing. The beach was empty. While they were under the water, everyone else had moved on, and they were completely alone. As soon as she frowned and turned her face back, she noticed that his eyes were filled with mischief. Shan-Mei soon learned that that it was all a trick. Before she could say anything to stop Xiang-Zhe, her red tender lips were captured by a powerful kiss.
Trapped by the encirclement of his powerful arms, what else could Shan-Mei do but surrender to him what he had stolen whilst she was unawares? Locked in an embrace of rising passsion, not just her face but entire body growing flushed with heat, she found that she really wasn't minding it at all...
* * * * * * * * * *
At the celebration party that night, the dinner was held at the most famous seafood banquet in Cheju Island. As everyone was accompanied with their own partners, they were in the mood to have a few more drinks. Xiang-Zhe not only needed to deliver toasts to the others, he was also busy sharing the toast from other colleagues with Shan-Mei as well. He was the one who drank the most in the celebration party that night.
After sending their colleagues off to their rooms, Shan-Mei asked Xiang-Zhe how he felt. “Do you feel better?” As soon as Shan-Mei asked him, she gently moved her hands to rub both sides of his forehead in order to help him to release the discomfort.
“Mmmm….” Xiang-Zhe answered softly. The tender touch of Shan-Mei make him feel like he was in heaven.
“You should drink less. Do you have to drink when everyone toasts?” Shan-Mei questioned Xiang-Zhe. She knew that Xiang-Zhe always had the headache after drinking too much. Couldn’t he have more self-control when drinking wine?
“When one is in a good mood, he would like to drink more for sure,” Xiang-Zhe smiled at the way she was preaching to him like a teacher.
“Is that the case?" Shan-Mei felt depressed.
“What’s the matter?” The sudden emotional change in her tone caught Xiang-Zhe’s attention.
“Nothing…” Shan-Mei murmured softly.
Her mind had wandered to the contradiction of fate: why was everyone here happily toasting for joy, but brother You-Zhen was tasting the bitterness of beer? Even a car accident brought two outcomes; was one able to bring out her wonderful life, yet another took away the precious life of brother You-Zhen. Thinking of this, tears began to well up in her eyes again….
“And you said that you are alright? Look, you cried again.” Glancing at those crystal and transparent eyes filled with tears, Xiang-Zhe definitely felt the pain. He stretched out his hands and brought her to his chest, locking her in his embrace….
Shan-Mei allowed her tears to flow freely within his embrace, letting the emotions that had been hiding in the deepest corner of her heart burst out completely. Shan-Mei also assured her strong dependency on him. It was the pair of arms that always held her so tightly no matter whether she was angry or sad. He was always there for her. Xiang-Zhe held her till the anger vanished and the sorrow disappeared.
“Were you so used to crying when you were young? Then your father must have prepared lots of handkerchieves for you……” Knowing that she kept memorizing the sad incidents in her life, Xiang-Zhe purposely tried to tease her, prodding for her answer.
“It was not the case!” Shan-Mei refuted and said to Xiang-Zhe, “I like to smile more than anyone else…….” Shan-Mei tried to convince Xiang-Zhe that she was a happy girl too.
Finally, they began to talk about their childhood and family members, their happiness and sorrows, the past events of their separate lives, and also about the future they would share. Till the dawn came, they slep in the embrace of sweet breath for each other.
However, the next morning, everyone was questioning with their unbelievable eyes, staring at both of them. None of them believed that the Director Yin and Announcer Zhen didn’t do anything in bed when they both appeared with the eyes of “dark circle which looks like panda eyes”. Could such innocent behaviour of “covering up with a blanket and chit-chatting throughout the whole night” really happen with them?
Writer : Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translator : germaine
Editor : Na Na
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook – Married Life (Part 31)
For the past two days, Shan-Mei had been to a few animal shelters in order to prepare for the week’s theme of “Here Goes, Broadcaster!”. She had finally finished filming the programme and really felt exhausted. Recently, probably due to the humidity and the hot weather, Shan-Mei felt tired so easily and had no appetite. Walking towards the ladies' restroom, she was wondering about the changes she was experiencing…….
There was some whispering coming out from the ladies' restroom. “Have you all heard of it? Looks like General Manager Jin will soon be kicked out off the Board.”
“That’s right! How could Director Yin would be so cold-blooded, not considering the fact that they’re relatives! He really got rid of him?!”
“That’s for sure! He’s the son of the CEO! No matter how powerful GM Jin is, he can’t possibly beat him.”
“I heard that this time round, Director Yin is going to sack all those followers of GM Jin.”
“The competition in a family business is really terrible….”
“That’s right….and….”
The two colleagues continued their conversation and they did not realized that Shan-Mei was just standing near the door, having heard every word of what they said.
Is it true? Shan-Mei didn’t think that such a silly thing would happen. Could Senior really not care about anything?
The relationship between Senior and General Manager Jin En-Qi had been an open issue to almost everyone in the company. However, if their conflicts in ideas and dragged the innocent along, it would really be unfair. Those people had always devoted themselves to the company. They should not be sacrificed under the competition of anyone.
She decided to get to the bottom of it.
* * * * * * * * * *
“…………right now, there are many animal shelters like those of ‘Homes of the Mama Cui’, their mercy for these animals are being tested. I hope that everyone is willing to give a helping hand to these stray animals…… reported by Announcer Zhen Shan-Mei.”
Xiang-Zhe was shocked when he saw Shan-Mei on the screen. Gosh! What was she doing? She was surrounded by a group of beasts (huge dogs) reporting the news. And what made him especially sweat was this brave girl was trying to touch an Alsatian that jumped on her!!!
Once again, he realized that he needed to have a very strong heart when he married her. Otherwise, sooner or later, he would die of shock!
Xiang-Zhe bowed his head down to smooth his brows. No! He can’t wait any longer and must discuss the specific topic with Shan-Mei immediately. Just as he was picking up the handset, Shan-Mei pushed the door open and walked in.
His bright eyes sparkled with familiar gentleness when he saw her. “Telepathy... I was just about to call you and you came.”
“I’ve got something to ask Senior,” Shan-Mei sounded serious.
“That’s good! I’ve got something to tell you too.” A big smile ran across his face. Hopefully they are referring to ‘the same thing’.
"Regarding the news that GM Jin and his colleagues are going to leave the company, does Senior have any comments about this? Is Senior familiar with the surprising news?"
Xiang- Zhe nodded his head and said, “Yes, I am aware of this news.”
Seeing that Senior did not deny, Shan-Mei asked, “Senior, don’t you think it’s too much?”
“Shan-Mei ….” Xiang-Zhe knitted his brows.
“Isn’t it? Isn’t everyone trying to do his best for the company? Even if there are times when ideas are not the same, you can’t drive them to a dead end,” she said furiously.
Seeing a fuming expression on Shan-Mei's face, Xiang-Zhe also got angry.
“No matter what other people say, I don’t care. But when you join in the battle, I am truly disappointed as well.” Shan-Mei couldn’t believe what other colleagues just said. She hoped to get the answer directly from Xiang-Zhe himself.
Shan-Mei was really sad and did not wish to discuss the matter any further. She stood up and turned to leave….
“Wait! There are things I haven’t said……” he called to stop her from leaving. To him, ‘Another Thing’ was the most important …..
“I hope that you can stop ‘Here Goes, Broadcaster!’ temporarily and some of the outdoor shootings because…..”
Shan-Mei stared at him and felt even angrier. “You don’t have to explain everything to me, Director Yin.”
What did he base his opinion on to make her stop the shooting of the programme? Was it because she had not put in her best effort? Shan-Mei thought. “You can do whatever you like.” Shan-Mei said coldly.
Watching her leaving his office, still fuming, Xiang-Zhe sighed helplessly….forget it! He will explain things to her when they reach home.
* * * * * * * * * * *
However, that day, after work, Shan-Mei was still angry and did not meet up with Xiang-Zhe. She went back to her father’s house alone instead. After receiving Gui-Cheng’s phone call, Xiang-Zhe rushed there without delay.
But once he saw Shan-Mei sitting on the sofa, his heart then settled down slightly.
“Okay, okay! It’s very common that couple would squabble. Make peace! Don’t be angry anymore,” Gui-Cheng and Zhen-Shu tried to be their mediator.
In the presence of his father-in-law and Aunt, Xiang-Zhe decided to clear the misunderstanding.
“I don’t know what you have heard from others, but the reason why General Manager Jin wants to leave MBS, is because he needs to take over another media group which our company has acquired recently. He has picked all the managers on his own. As far as I know, he was very satisfied to be given such an opportunity.”
So that was the reason. And to think that she misunderstood Senior again. Why was she always so childish and in such a rash? It’s all her fault, but……
“Then why was my outdoors shooting cancelled?" she bowed her head low, pouting her lips and asked softly.
“That’s because….” He glanced at Gui-Cheng and Zhen-Shu, wanting to say but did not know how to put it into words….
“I remember Senior once said, we are not the only ones working in the company. But now, you want me to give up part of my job which belong to my duties, what would the others think?”
“That’s because,” Xiang-Zhe considered how to put it into words, “You might be pregnant, those jobs are not suitable for you.”
“Moreover, the Team Leader said that my performance is getting better and better…..” Realizing what Senior just said, she suddenly raised her head. “What did you say?"
“You—are—pregnant!” He repeated every single word with gentleness.
“I…….I…… What?" Shan-Mei felt that her mind was completely blank. She couldn’t believe what she just heard. Then, she quickly dragged Xiang-Zhe towards the bedroom on the second floor.
Gui-Cheng and Zhen-Shu were really dazed for a few moments. “Did I hear correctly?" Gui-Cheng slowly turned his face towards Zhen-Shu. “My daughter is going to be a mother?”
This lady is really blur and adorable.
* * * * * * * * * *
Closing the bedroom door quickly, Shan-Mei asked in an uneasy manner, “What did you say just now? Who’s pregnant?”
Xiang-Zhe placed his hands onto her shoulders tightly and said, “Believe me. Your menstrual cycle is a few weeks late.”
Shan-Mei did not know he had observed her for the past few weeks.
Xiang-Zhe continued, “Nauseous, feeling tired easily, temperamental, loss of appetite….these are symptoms which can be found in the early stages of pregnancy as stated in the books.”
Shan-Mei felt really ashamed! It’s her menstrual cycle, yet Senior knows better than herself????
“Then why didn’t you tell me earlier?” Covering her fully blushed face with both hands, she felt embarrassed and did not know what to do.
Xiang-Zhe shook his head and smiled, “I thought that is the authority of the wife. I, as a husband, should be the one waiting patiently for you to break the surprise.”
Zhen Shan-Mei, you are really stupid! Don’t even know you are pregnant! And let Senior worry about you while hiding the truth!……. Shan-Mei reprimanded herself.
Staring at Shan-Mei, seeing that she was still reprimanding herself, Xiang-Zhe felt that he was melting. Pulling down her hands, adoring her, he moved her gently towards his embrace.
“It’s all because of you! What shall I do now?” She remembered the expressions of her father and Aunty. She didn’t know how to face them later.
Looking at her with a gentle smile, he said, “What to do? Of course we have to announce the good news to them! They will definitely be very happy for us!”
“How about Senior then? Senior, are you happy?" Shan-Mei was really concerned about how he felt.
“Besides having you, I have never been so happy before!”
The slightly yellowish lights reflected the deep love for her hidden behind his eyes. The man, who has the most long eyes lashes blinking like feathers, kept the heart of Shan-Mei so warm.
Cradling the back of her head in his hands, he filled up with all of the satisfaction and happiness flowing like refreshing water from her lips……
Seems like the two elders who were eagerly waiting for the good news downstairs would have to wait a while longer…….
Writer : Lin Cai (Taiwan)
Translated by Jules
2nd Edition 2016 by: All-About-AAE
SM Notebook – Married Life (Part 32)
It already late summer. Xiang-Zhe was gazing lovingly out the window. The world this inside this window had always been his sanctuary. As for the world outside, he has finally learnt to understand and cherish it for what it was. After he welcomed this little woman into his world, she had taught him about family, love, friendship, and all the other wonderous things that world containws. She was the only one who could move him so that his whole world now rotated around her. Now, he cannot imagine how meaningless and empty his life would have been if he had not found her. If he had not fallen in love with her……
He picked up the tray and silently padded over to his lovely wife. Listening to her soft breathing, drinking in the beauty of her in her sleep, he felt totally contented. Ever since her pregnancy, he founnd her each and every movement even more entrancing, her beauty even more breathtaking. Even now, as she sat sleeping, he was dumbfounded by his attraction to her. It terrible how he could be so mesmerized by a pregnant woman!
He knelt down beside her, unable to stop himself from caressing her sun-kissed face.
"Time to wake up, lazy pig!"
Shan-Mei stirred, rubbed her eyes, and then slowly opened them. "Oh no! Did I fall asleep again?"
"Come on, have something to eat."
"Again? Xue Zhang, are you trying to fatten me up like a pig?" Shan-Mei stifled a smile as she looked at the bowl of seaweed soup.
He smiled and reached out to her softly rounded belly. "I'm not trying to fatten up you, it this little one that I'm feeding."
She looked shamefully at her fat stomach. Xiang-Zhe hands were so big and strong, yet so gentle. She knew she could always rely on them for comfort and protection.
"Oh yes! Xue Zhang, about the wedding," she said as she started on the seaweed soup.
"Do you really feel you have to personally attend it?" he asked. He didn’t like the thought of her attending such a large, public event in her condition. Ever since she announced her decision to temporarily withdraw from all broadcasting activities last week, MBS had been flooded with phone calls and letters from her fans trying to persuade her to continue with her work in front of the cameras.
"Of course!" she replied, "both Zhao-Di and Chen-Shui are my good friends, both Seniors have also been very helpful throughout my career. How can I not celebrate and congratulate them on their big day?"
"I understand your point of view. However…”.
She snuggled into his arms, leaning into him
"Alright," then he said, still not liking the idea.
"I knew you would understand, Xue Zhang. you're the best!" She snuggled even closer.
With her in his arms, her smell enveloping him, he could not help but let go of his reservations.
"Why are you always so petulant? What sort of an example will you set to our child, always wanting things your own way?" (I really can’t think of a good way to translate Sha Jiao here)
Even as he said the words, he knew in his heart he would always be happy to give in to her.
"What’s wrong with that?" she asked without guile As long as he learned the art of being petulant, he will always get his own way, like I do!
"Miss Zhen Shan-Mei, since you always get your own way, can you please grant a request of mine?" Saying this, he dipped his head and had his own way with her luscious, sensuous lips.
In the warm sunshine, the heat of the kiss ignited their passion for each other…….
* * * * * * * * * *
After several trials and tribulations, Qi-Dong and Chen-Shui finally succeeded in wooing their respective brides. Having been through so much together, they decided to also get married together. Having four main stars of MBS at the same wedding ceremony, Xiang-Zhe naturally could not refuse to officiate at the event. True to form, the grooms almost married the wrong brides, and Zhao-Di managed to break the heel of her stiletto, and Chen-Shui and Zhao-Di did not stop their bickering, even for the wedding ceremony. It provided great entertainment for all the guests, and the event was happy and noisy right until the end.
Xiang-Zhe and Shan-Mei left the venue, only to walk into a sea of cameras and photo flashes. Xiang-Zhe immediately pulled Shan-Mei into his arms, shielding her from the protruding cameras and intruding questions from the press. Even though he was prepared for media attention, the number of paparazzi waiting for them far exceeded his expectations.
"Miss Zhen Shan-Mei …” "Miss Shan-Mei, please look this way" "Miss Zhen, Could you please comment?"
The jostling crowd of press was getting out of control. Every one was trying to get in a good shot of her.
"Sorry, for the safety of my pregnant wife, could every one please keep your distance…” Xiang-Zhe held her tightly in with one arm, the other arm pushing a safe passage for his precious cargo.
"Miss Shan-Mei, are you really going to retire....? Miss Zhen, the audiences don’t like what they are hearing!"
"Can everyone please calm down! I will take your questions one by one. There is no rush," Shan-Mei finally spoke up. Having been a reporter herself, she understood what it was like, and did not want to make things difficult for all concerned.
"Shan-Mei..." Xiang-Zhe looked at her uneasily
"It’s Okay, Xue Zhang, don't worry…” She smiled at him and squeezed his hand, letting him know she would be alright.
Yes, he thought, she will be alright. His Shan-Mei had grown strong and brave under his care. She can now take care of herself. After a bit of debate, Xiang-Zhe convinced himself to let Shan-Mei take the questions on her own. He ordered someone to get hold of an auditorium on the premises, and invited the reporters there, making it sure she had a comfortable place to sit, giving order to the situation so it was more like a media conference.
"Can you confirm that you’ve decided to retire from the media spotlight now that you’re pregnant?" Now that the situation was under control, the reporters took the opportunity to fire all their questions at her.
"Well, it's not really retirement. I'll still take on special broadcast roles in the manner that I used to do," she answered calmly.
"From the audience reaction, it appears your decision to retire is an unpopular one. Are you still determined to withdraw completely from your current role as anchorwoman?"
Shan-Mei smiled and nodded,. "I am very grateful to my fans for their love and support. However, the work of an anchor demands complete dedication, 24/7. In my present circumstance, I would be unable to devote myself sufficiently to do so. I really want to take some time out to prepare myself for the birth of my child, and I hope my fans will be able to understand this, and support me in my most important role as a mother."
"Miss Zhen, is this your decision, or are you doing so on your husband's request?"
"No, it not my husband’s request. When I decided to do this, even my husband was surprised." She looked serenely over to Xiang-Zhe, who was standing nearby. She did not inform him of her decision before the announcement, and he still could not understand how she could so easily give up her anchor post.
"In that case, Miss Shan-Mei, do you intend to completely retire from the spotlight after the birth of your child?"
Shan-Mei put her hand to her face, her expression uncertain. "If I am able take care of my family, my career and my child all at the same time, I would naturally want to continue with the work that I love. However, I believe that I will still need a period of adjustment to be able to put everything in order."
"As the First Lady of the Wen Rong Conglomerate, do you feel pressured about what gender your child would be?
"I don’t really feel any pressure on that front. However, I personally hope to have a boy, because a boy would surely grow up to be as handsome as his father," Shan-Mei replied with love and happiness in her eyes.
The reporters fired question after question. Shan-Mei calmly took it all in her stride, answering each and every one honestly, and to the best of her ability.
"The strong love between you and Director Yin is almost legendary. Can you please share with us the secret of your success?"
Shan-Mei smiled in embarrassment. "We’re actually no different from any other couple. We sometimes fight and we sometimes argue. However, I am really grateful to my husband for all he has done for me. I feel that I am so lucky, so blessed (xing fu), to have married him. It not because he’s the heir to any fortune, or the son of some tycoon. It’s because he..." She looked Xiang-Zhe straight in the eye and said it, "because you’re you."
At the end of the session, Shan-Mei stood up and graciously bowed to the reporters. Then, with love in her eyes and contentment in her smile, she calmly walked into the crowd, slowly but surely making her way towards the man who had been silently waiting in the wings, never taking her eyes off him. As she walked up to him, she said in a gentle whisper, "Xue Zhang, I love you."
Everyone observing the couple could see from the expressions in their face the strong love and deep commitment they had for each other. Every one was certain that Director Yin and Announcer Zhen Shan-Mei would have countless more episodes to make in their life together…….
The End.