Friday, July 2, 2010

About "Always and Forever" and "99 Love Notes"

If you have noticed, I started "Always and Forever" last year. This month, to be exact, I guess. I wrote it right after "99 Paper Cranes" was done, because I just can't get enough of Calvin Chen. But sadly, aside from my writer's block, I'm not so happy with the way the story is progressing. aside from the fact that I am not happy with what Calvin Chen is doing with his life. You see, when I was plotting this one, and when I was actually writing it, I realized that there are some loopholes in it. And when I thought of the ending, it's not as dramatic as I had for "99 Paper Cranes", "Say That You Love Me" and "99 Love Notes" (which I also fail to update

OK, so let's talk about "99 Love Notes". It was supposed to be the story of Chun and Danson right after they graduated from college. I was not able to update it before because I got mad with Calvin because Calvin broke my heart which makes me not want to update it because I also had a writers block. Ideas for new stories came, and I completely forgot my plot for this one, to the point that I got stuck writing the 9th chapter. And since this was supposed to be a sequel, I re-read "99 Paper cranes" and realized that the story can stand on its own without any sequels. The story have ended, and no continuation is ever needed for this. They all got the ending everyone deserve, although Danson and Hannah's story is kinda hanging, but I firmly believe that this story doesn't need a sequel anymore. A revisit story, maybe (like what I'm doing with "My Two Love, My True Love") but not a whole new story for these characters. Maybe I did the sequel because I got pressured from my readers who were rooting for a sequel of this one. But this is my belief: once a story has ended, there's no use continuing it. What has ended has already ended.

And so, I have decided that I will not continue "99 Love Notes" anymore. I have also decided to drop "Always and Forever". And in that case. "99 Paper Cranes" will be the first and the last Calvin Chen story that I will make. The next ones will still be CE, and Danson, or original or whoever fancies me.

I know some of you who are reading that story will kill me. Please forgive me for this decision. It was hard on my part as well. I wanted to finish the stories, but I don't have the drive, determination and the inspiration to do so.

But, there will be some interesting stories I will start soon. So far, I'm focusing on "Me and My Gay Boss", "Say That You Love Me", and "Paper Stars". And yes, the other stories will be continues one of these days.

So, that's the end of my speech, and hope all of you will wait for my next update



WeepingAngel

Labels: 99 Love Notes, Always and Forever, announcement, commercial

Sunday, November 8, 2009

99 Love Notes - Chapter 8

Chapter 8 – Life's Little Prank




Danson walked inside the hotel restaurant. His eyes searched among the crowd, and at one corner, he saw his father happily chatting with another older man. He took a deep breath, and walked up to them. “Dad?” he called as he walked up to him. His dad looked up to him, and smiled at him. “Ah, Danson. Have a seat.” he said. Danson took the seat next to his father. “By the way, this is Mr. Zhang. He is the president of Zheng Enterprises.” Mr. Tang said. Danson smiled at the old man, and then shook his hand. “It's nice to meet you, Mr. Zheng.” he said. “The pleasure is mine, Danson.” Mr. Zheng said. “I'm sorry for being late. There were some matters that I had to attend to at the office.” Danson said. Mr. Zheng just smiled at him. “It's OK, Danson. Your father and I have not started yet.” he said.

Danson looked at his dad as he took out a document from his bag. Then, he handed it to them. Danosn was discussing his proposal, when a young petite lady around his age came up to them. “Daddy...” she said, calling on to Mr. Zheng. Mr. Zheng looked up at her, and smiled. “Oh hi, darling...” he said. The girl gave him a kiss on the cheeks, and sat beside him. “Oh, by the way, this is my daughter, Joanne. Joanne, this is Danson and his dad, James Tang.” he said. Joanne smiled at them, and shook their hands. “It's nice meeting you.” she said to Danson as she smiled sweetly at him. “The pleasure is mine.” he said. “So, this is your daughter, Randolph... she sure grew up to be a fine lady.” Mr. Tang said. “Of course. Anyway, she just came back from her studies in London.” Mr. Zheng said. “So, what's your major, Joanne?” Mr. Tang asked. “I took up Art history.” she said proudly. Mr. Tang nodded his head. “I see. That's good.” he said.

The whole time, Danson was silent. He could sense that this meeting is not a business meeting at all, but rather, his father is trying to set him up to his business partner's daughter. “Danson here took up Architecture in St. John's University, but he does have plans to pursue his master's degree abroad.” Mr. Tang said. Danson glared at his father, and let out a smirk. “Yeah... I do. In Vienna.” he said in an annoyed tone. His father gave him a stern look after hearing what he said. “Really, in Vienna?” Joanne asked. Danson was surprised at her sudden interest in him. “Yeah. There's this school there which is close to my -”
“Ah, Joanne, is there anything that you want to order?” Mr. Tang said to Joanne. Joanne smiled at him. “I'm OK, Uncle James.” she said. “James, do you think your son looks good together with my daughter?” Mr. Zheng said. Mr. Tang nodded in agreement. “Most certainly...” Mr. Zheng said. Mr. Tang then turned to his son. “Danson, why don't you invite Joanne for a dinner tomorrow night?” he said. It was more of an order than of a suggestion. Danson glared at his father. “I can't, dad. I have plans.” he said to him. Then, he looked at Joanne, and smiled at her. “I'm sorry, Joanne, Mr. Zheng. I know my dad is trying to set me up to your daughter, but I am already engaged to be married to someone else.” he said. Joanne was surprised at what he said. “Y-you are?” she asked. Danson smiled and nodded his head. “Actually, I was suppose to visit her today in Vienna, but this meeting came up. I'm really sorry...” he said. He gathered his things, and then stood up from his seat. “I'm sorry to waste all of your time...” he said to them.

Then, he walked away from them. His father was calling him, but he chose to ignore it. He doesn't want to follow his father, not now. He can't be with someone else, when he knows Hannah trusts him with her eyes wide shut.

--

Kit sat on the bed and looked at the paper on her hand, and smiled to herself. Finally, after months of trying, she's finally pregnant with their first child. She knows Calvin would be very happy when he finds out all about her pregnancy. “Sweety?” she heard Calvin call her. She shoved the paper under the pillow, and turned to face him. “Hey, sweety!” she said cheerfully. Calvin just smiled at her. “Oh, and Mrs. Chen seems more happy today, huh?” he said. She just nodded her head. “Hey, sweety... I want to tell you something...” she said. Calvin gave her a confused look. “But I guess it can wait... Change your clothes first, then I'll prepare our dinner.” she said. Calvin smiled at her, and nodded his head.

Kit headed to the kitchen to prepare a special dinner for her and Calvin. As she was setting the table, she felt a pain on her abdomen. She chose to ignore it, and continued setting the table. Then, she felt the pain grew stronger, that she couldn't take it anymore. She leaned on one of the chairs for support. “Aww...” she flinched in pain. The plate she was holding fell on the floor. From upstairs, Calvin heard the plate breaking. He immediately went down, to see his wife flinching in pain. “Kit!” he panicked. He rushed up to her, and helped her up. “Calvin... it... it hurts...” Kit said as she cried. “Come on, I'll take you to the hospital.” he said. As he helped her walk, he noticed blood flowing from her legs. “Kit...” he said as he looked down on her legs. Kit looked down on her leg, and saw the blood. At that moment, she panicked. She got scared. “No... she said in a weak voice. “Not my baby...” she whispered before she totally blacked out.

--

“My wife is pregnant?” Calvin asked in a surprised tone. The doctor nodded her head. “Yes, Mr. Chen... and unfortunately, she lost the baby...” the doctor said. Calvin looked sadly at his wife, who was sleeping peacefully on her bed. It was their first child, and they lost it. Their baby is gone. Since they got into the hospital, Kit have been unconscious. He doesn't know how he will tell his wife that they lost her baby. “I... I have no idea how I will tell her about it. Kit... she's excited to have a baby, and now that we do have one... we lost it...” he said in a low voice. “Mr. Chen, you have to tell your wife as soon as she wakes up...” the doctor said. Calvin looked at her sadly, and nodded his head.

Shortly, after the doctor left, Joy, Jiro and Danson came. “Cal! We came as soon as we got your call.” Jiro said as they approached him. Calvin smiled sadly at them. “Thanks for coming guys... you don't know how much this means to me...” he said. “What happened to Kit? Is she all right now?” Joy asked. “I hope she will be... I really hope she will be...” Calvin said sadly. “Cal, what happened? Is Kit sick or something?” Danson asked. Before Calvin could answer his question, he heard his wife calling him.

“Calvin...” Kit called in a weak voice. Calvin rushed to her side. “Kit...” Calvin said in a low voice. He held her hand, and forced a smile on his face. “Good thing you're awake... you scared the hell out of me...” he said. Kit looked at him for a long time, and then a tear fell from her eyes. “I'm pregnant, Calvin... I... I was supposed to surprise you tonight but...” she said, her voice cracking. Her free hand touched her tummy, and in an instant, tears cascaded on her cheek. “I lost our baby, didn't we? We lost our little angel?” she asked. Calvin bit his lips. He was trying to be strong for her, but he couldn't help but be weak, seeing Kit helpless like this. “Kit...” he said softly. With the way Calvn looked at her, Kit finally understood. She have lost the baby. She sat up from her bed, and hugged Calvin. “I'm so sorry...” she said as she cried. “I'm so sorry, Calvin... I'm sorry...” she said. Calvin just hugged his wife, and let her cry on his shoulder. “Ssshhh... it's OK, Kit. It's not your fault.” he whispered to her.

He wished he could take away all the pain Kit is feeling right now. But there's nothing he could do right now but to hold her in his arms, and let her cry.

--

Hannah opened the door of th music room, and she was surprised to see Aaron standing outside. “Oh...” she said in a surprised tone. “Hi! Did I scare you?” Aaron asked. Hannah let out a laugh, and shook her head. “No... no... it's just that I didn't expect it to be you. I thought it's John, or someone else...” she said. “Well... surprise! It's me.” Aaron said. Hannah smiled at him, and nodded her head. Aaron entered the music room, and placed the violin case on the table. “So, you play the violin for the orchestra, right?” he asked. Hannah nodded her head. “But piano is my forte. Since the piano is already taken in the orchestra, might as well play the violin.” she said. “Piano is also my forte. But like you, I have no choice but to play the violin. I wanted so much to get into this orchestra, that's why.”

He then walked to the piano, and played a few notes on it. Hannah was surprised when he began to play her song – the song which Arron gave her. “You... you know that song?” she asked him. Aaron looked at her, and smiled. “I heard you play this piece when I came here. It's a lovely melody, I must say. Did you compose it?” he asked. Hannah shook her head. “A... a friend did...” she said. “Your friend is a talented composer.” he replied. Hannah just nodded her head. He continued to play her song on the piano, and somehow it freaked Hannah out. There was this guy who looked exactly like Arron, and he knew how to play Arron's song. As she watched Aaron play her song, she felt as if Arron lived in him. That Arron came back. “Stop it.” she said in an irritated tone. In an instant, Aaron stopped playing. He gave her a confused look. “Is there something wrong, Hannah?” he asked. Hannah shook her head, and looked away from him. “Just... just stop playing my song.” she said in a low voice. “It's enough that you looked exactly like Arron.. why did you have to know his song, and play it? Why?” she thought.

“Sorry, Hannah...” she heard Aaron said. “It's just that when I hear a beautiful melody, I can't get it out of my head and I would play it over and over. Since I heard you play this song, it got stuck on me.” he said. Hannah turn to face him, her expression turned into an angry one. “No one should play my song except for me. I... I don't want anyone else playing it. I hope you understand.” she said. She gathered her things, and turned her back on him to leave. As she reached for the door, she heard Aaron speak again. “This song must be very special to you.” he said. “It must be very special, that you didn't want anyone to hear it or even play it... am I right.” he said. “It... it's none of your business, Aaron. Just... just don't do it again.” she said. Then, she left him, closing the door behind her.

--

Chun and Hiro went inside the hotel's restaurant to have their lunch. “Ah! This is the life...” Hiro said as they took their seat. “Hiro, make sure that the food here is really delicious or you'll pay for my lunch.” Chun said. “Don't worry about a thing, Chun-san. I assure you the food here is really delicious.”
“Well, I leave everything up to you. Anyway, do you frequent this place?”
“Always. Whenever I'm on a vacation.”
“With your girlfriends?”
“With one of my girlfriends.”

Chun just shook his head. Then, a waiter came, and handed them the menu. Chun scanned through the menu. “What's your special for today?” he asked. “Sir, we have herbed flank steak as our special for today.” the waiter said. “OK, we'll have that. And then we'll have the tomato mushroom soup, and the mango pana cotta for desert.” Chun said. The waiter took down their orders. Then, Chun handed him the menu. After a while, their orders came. It was a hearty meal for the two, and Chun was satisfied with what he ate. “The food here is really good, Hiro. You're right.” Chun said. “See, I told you. You just have to trust me.” Hiro said. “I wonder who cooked these food. It tastes exactly like how my mom used to make it...” Chun said. “I have a suggestion. Why don't we call on the chef so that you could compliment him... or her.” Hiro said. Chun nodded his head in agreement. They called the waiter, and told him that they wanted to see the chef. The waiter nodded his head, and headed inside the kitchen.

“Chef Maki!” The waiter called. Maki, who was dong her plating that time, looked up at the waiter. “What is it Ryu-san?” he asked. “A customer wants to see you.” the waiter said. Maki gave him a dubious look. “Are they going to complain about my cooking?” she asked. The waiter laughed and shook his head. “It's the other way around, I guess. Go and see them.” Ryu said. Maki took off her apron and headed outside the kitchen. She walked towards Chun and Hiro's table. She was not able to recognize Chun right away because she is facing her back. “Konichiwa. I understand you called for me?” Maki said as she bowed before them. Chun turned to her, and he immediately recognized her. His eyes widened in surprised upon seeing her again. This time, Maki caught a glimpse of Chun, and she also recognized him. “It's you again!” both of them said at the same time.

Chun let out a sigh as he shook his head. “Oh man, why do you have to be everywhere?” he said. Maki flinched at what he said. “Hey! I should be the one who should tell you that!” Maki shouted at him. “Don't tell me you're the chef who cooked our food?” he asked. “I wouldn't come here if I wasn't!” Chun sighed again. “Great! I thought the one who prepared our food is a great chef. She just so happened to be an amateur one...” Chun commented. Maki could feel the vein popping out of her forehead at what Chun said. “What? Amateur? For your information, I am the head chef at our Tokyo branch!” she shouted at him. Chun looked at her, and rolled his eyes at her. Then, he stood up and faced her. “Then, thank you for giving me that information. May I not step on that hotel, and eat your lousy food.”
“Lousy food? Lousy food?! I slaved the whole day just to make that food that you just enjoyed!”
“Well, since I found out that you cooked it, I want to vomit it all out.”
“Then, go! Do it. I don't care!”
“I will! I want to make sure that I didn't take in any poison... who knows... you might have put some poison on my food.”
“If I have known you will be here then I would have put poison on your food!”
“Well, does that mean I still have to thank you for not poisoning me?”
“Well, you should. You should be thankful I spared your life!”
“I will not thank you. Not ever. Not after what you did to me yesterday!”
“Oh... so just because I made a mistake yesterday, you're getting back at me, huh?”
“Oh, I'm not getting back at you. You food is really lousy. This hotel made a mistake in hiring you!”
“If this hotel made a mistake in hiring me, then go and cook your own food!”

Everyone inside the restaurant was staring at them as the bicker. Hiro was trying to stop them, but he couldn't butt in on them. “Guys... stop it...” Hiro said. “So, this is how you treat your customers, huh? I will complain you to your manager!” Chun said to her. “Then go and file a complain! I will tell them that you were harassing me!” Maki shouted. “Stop!” Hiro shouted at the two. He couldn't take their bickering anymore. At that instant, the two stopped fighting. “Look at the two of you. You two looked like little kids fighting over some stupid things. Heck, you guys looked like quarreling lovers. Sheesh...” he said. “Excuse me!” both of them said. “Even is she's the last girl on earth, then I'd rather be alone.” he said. “And if you're the guy I'll end up with, I'd rather be a spinster. You're such a jerk!” Maki said. “And you're a bitch!” Chun shouted at her. “Please, stop it! You two are just embarrassing yourselves!” Hiro shouted at them. Chun then turned to Hiro, and smirked. “You know what, I will stop now because it's not used picking a fight with a bitch.” he said. Then he stormed out of the restaurant. “You jerk!” Maki shouted at him.

--

My Dearest Danson,

How are you? Winter is coming here in Vienna, and as a new season comes, I look forward to the day that we will be together again. I always dream of you each night. You are always in it. You were with me, even in my dreams. And when I wake up each morning, I find myself disappointed to see myself alone, and you're not within my reach. I feel so alone... I feel so sad being all alone here. I do have friends. I do hang out with my colleagues, but it's different with you beside me. When I'm with you, I feel more secure. I feel happy and more contented. As long as I'm with you, I know I can do anything. You have always been there, encouraging me and supporting me... and though you're miles away from me, I could still feel that you're supporting me. And most of all, even though you're far away from me, I can feel that you do love me. Your love is enough fuel for me to keep on going. It's enough inspiration for me to continue my dreams.

I want to confess something to you... at this moment, I wanted to give up on my dream and go back to Taiwan to be with you. I wanted to give up everything just to be with you... but I know you'll be disappointed in me if I do that. Danson, I know giving up my dream would be worth it... it will be as long as I'm with you. You're worth giving up all the things I've worked hard for. I wanted to give up this dream because I'm scared... I'm scared that when I reach for it, you will no longer be there for me. I'm scared that one day, you'll be gone, and I'll be left here on my own...Maybe I'm just being paranoid. Maybe I'm just missing you too much that's why I'm saying these things...

Danson, I wish I can see you again. I wish to see your smiling face again, and touch your cheeks with the palm of my hand. I want to feel your warmth as you hold me close... and I wish it would be soon...

I love you always,

Hannah

--

Calvin opened the door of their bedroom. He took his wife's hand, and led her inside their room. Quietly, Kit sat down on the bed, and stared outside the window. It's been two days since they lost their baby, and Kit have been keeping to herself. It was breaking his heart to see his wife heartbroken this way. “Kit... do you want something to eat?” he asked. Kit slowly shook her head. “Do you want something to drink?” he asked again. Kit shook her head again. Calvin sat beside her, and then he hugged her tight. He let her head rest on his shoulder.

They were both silent. And he knew Kit needed this silence.

He leaned over her, and kissed her on her forehead. “It's going to be OK, Kit... you still have me... I won't ever leave you... I will always be here for you...” he whispered to her. Kit closed her eyes, and let a tear roll down her eyes. Calvin reached for her cheek, and wiped that tear away. “We can always try again, Kit... we're not in a hurry to have a baby, right? Besides... I think it would be better if it's just the two of us for now. I won't have to be jealous of a little baby who will always have most of your attention.” he said. With what he said, he heard Kit let out a faint laugh.

Kit looked up at Calvin, and smiled at him. “Thank you...” she whispered. “Thank you for being my strength in times that I'm weak. Thank you for always cheering me up...” she said. “You know I'll do everything for you, Kit. I love you...” he said. Kit couldn't help but cry. Depite of the tragedy that befell them, Calvin is still here with her, always supporting her. Then, she hugged him. “I love you too... I love you so much, Calvin...'” she whispered. As she let him go from her hug, Calvin gazed into her face for a long time. Then, he gave her a long and loving kiss on the lips.

“You need to rest, Kit...” he said. Kit smiled faintly, and nodded her head. She then lie on the bed, and Calvin tucked her in. “When you wake up, I'll be the first person you'll see...” Calvin said. Then, he kissed her on the forehead. “Calvin...” Kit called. She held on to his hands. “Please stay with me... I... I'm scared...” she said. Calvin smiled at her, and nodded his head. He then lie on the bed, and he put his arms around her. Kit snuggled up to him like a little child. He watched over her until she fell asleep. Then, he kissed her lips, and closed his eyes to slumber beside his wife.

--

She found herself walking through an field filled with flowers. As she looked on the ground, she saw a set of foot prints, a track. She doesn't know why, but she began to follow those footprints. At the end of the field, she saw a Sakura tree, and under the Sakura tree, she saw a man wearing all white, standing with his back facing her. She stared at him for a long time, and then she realized that it's Danson. “Danson?” she called. Danson looked back at her, but the smile on her face disappeared when she saw his sad expression. “Danson?” she called again. Danson turned away from her, and began to walk away from her. She followed him. “Danson!” she called again. She ran after him, but on her way, she fell down. As she looked up, his image faded. “Danson!” she called again.

“It's over, Hannah...” she heard him say. She looked back, and saw him standing. “I... I don't love you anymore...” he said. She stood up, and walked towards him. She could not believe what he said. How can Danson fall out of love with her? Is there something that she've done that made him hate her. “Danson... why?” she asked. She was on the verge of crying. “Why?” she asked again. “You pushed me away...” he said as he lowered his head. “You still love him, right? You still have feelings for Arron... and I can't be with someone who can't love me with all her heart...” he said sadly. Hannah shook her head. “Danson, I love you!” she shouted. “I love you...” she whispered.

“He was never yours to begin with.” she heard a girl said. She saw a girl in white walk up to Danson's side. She held onto his hand, and as Danson looked at her, he smiled. “Danson is mine!” she shouted in anger. “He isn't. He is mine. From the start, Danson is mine. And I'm taking what is rightfully mine.” the girl said. Then, the two turned their back on them, and walked away. “No! Danson!” Hannah shouted. However she shouted, Danson did not heed her call. He never looked back at her. “Danson, don't leave me...” she said softly. She made a step to follow them, but she felt someone hold her hand. “Hannah...” a familiar voice said. She looked back, and saw Arron standing behind her.

“No!”

Hannah sat up on her bed. She felt her forehead filled with cold sweat. She sighed with relief as she realized that it was all just a dream.

--

“Aaron...”

Aaron looked back, and saw Robert coming up to him. “You've been staring outside the window for quite some time now. Is there something bothering you?” Robert asked. Aaron let out a faint smile, and shook his head before looking outside the window again. “I know you, Aaron. When you look outside the window for a long time, it means that something's bothering you... Is it that girl?” Robert said. Aaron let out a sigh before he began to speak. “You're right... it's about Hannah...” he said.

Aaron turn to face him. Robert could see the sadness in his face. “Why is it that when I try to do something for her, it ends up so wrong in the end? Why does she always have to run away from me, like I'm a ghost or something. All I want is to be close to her, to be friend her, and it seems that she wouldn't want to be friends with me. Robert, is there something wrong with me?” he asked in frustration. “Does she know that you are a royalty?” Robert asked. Aaron shook his head. “I've kept it a secret. And what's the difference if she knows I'm a royalty?” Aaron asked. “Well, maybe I'm thinking she got intimidated by you that's why...” Robert said.

Aaron sighed, and then he sat in front of his piano. “But I did something stupid today...” he said. Robert gave him a confused look. “I played that song she's playing... and then she got mad at me. She told me not to play her song anymore...” Aaron said. “A song? Why would Ms. Hannah ask you not to play her song?” the butler asked. Aaron looked at him and shrugged his shoulders. “I don't know. All I know is that her friend composed it, and that she doesn't want anyone to play it except for her.” he said. “Maybe that song is really special to her. Maybe her friend gave it to her a memory, that's why she doesn't allow anyone to play it except for her.” Robert said.

Aaron paused, and realized Robert maybe correct. “Could be, Robert...” he said. “If you want to know if I'm right or wrong, then why don't you check on her background. You know you have the power do that, Aaron...” Robert said. Aaron shook his head. “I can't, Robert. Maybe... maybe she'll get mad at me.”
“Then, do you want to find out?”
“I can find out by myself.”
“I don't think Ms. Hannah would give out an information just like that. Like you said, she always avoids you.”
“Maybe Daphne knows something about her...”
“Or maybe not. Maybe she have a past that she have not told anyone...”

Aaron looked up at the elder man. He was contemplating at his suggestion to make a background check on Hannah. “And you want to be close to her, right? Maybe you can use that information to be close to her...” Robert said. Aaron looked away from him. It's wrong for him to investigate Hannah just because he wanted to find out why Hannah wouldn't let anyone play that song, and it would be silly of him to do such things just to be close to her. “I don't know, Robert...” he said. “I really don't know...”

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic

Sunday, November 1, 2009

99 Love Notes - Chapter 7

Chapter 7 – The First Love Note





“I'm Aaron Yan. I hope we can all be friends.” he said. Hannah finally looked away from him. She couldn't believe that there is someone else who could have the same face, the same voice and the same name as Arron. It's like fate was playing a trick on her. She knew Arron died a long time ago. She could still remember the last day they were together. He died in his arms, that she know. But upon seeing this man before her, she began to doubt that memory. She was only able to see Arron's face after the eye transplant. Each day since she got her eyesight back, all she did is stare at his picture, and there's no way that her eyes could be tricking her. This Aaron, who stands before her, had the same face as his first love.

“Hey, you looked like as if you've seen a ghost.” Daphne told her. Hannah looked at her as if she's still in a daze. “I'm s-sorry...” she said. “Aaron will join the string group. He will play the violin.” Professor Bruegmann said. Hannah was even more surprised at what he said. It means that she will be in the same group at Aaron, since both of them will be playing the violin. Fate is really playing a trick on her. “Hannah, are you OK?” Daphne asked. She noticed the expression on her face, as if she couldn't believe that Aaron will be joining their group. Hannah just nodded her head, but this did not convince her. Then, as Hannah looked up, she saw Aaron standing close to her. He smiled at her, and extended his hand to her. “Hi, I'm Aaron... and you are?” he asked. Hannah took his hand, and shook it. “I... I'm Hannah...” she said. She stared into his face for a long time, and Arron never took his eyes on her. As she held his hand, she felt that familiar warmth that she only felt from Arron. “How could this be? It's as if Arron became alive in him... even his touch seems so familiar... what is this? Why am I feeling this way?” she thought.

Aaron couldn't help but gaze into her lovely face. He could not contain his happiness now that he finally know her name, and now that he have touched her hand. It seems to him that the love he felt for her have gone stronger, much stronger than the time he first saw her. “Hannah... such a lovely name for a lovely lady...” he thought. He wished he could stare at her for a long time, and hold her. He wished the time would stop at that instant, so that he could gaze at her forever. Then, Hannah took her hand from him, and looked away from him. “I... I'm sorry...” she said. Aaron realized that he was holding her hand for a long time, and he knew it was a bad thing to do on their first meeting. “No, I'm sorry...” he said. Then, he looked at Daphne, and smiled at her. “Welcome to the orchestra, Aaron.” she said. “Thanks, Daphne.” Aaron replied. Hannah was surprised that he knew Daphne's name. “I know Aaron, Hannah. He is my childhood friend.” Daphne explained to her as soon as she saw the confusion in her face. “Oh...” she said. Then, she looked up at Aaron again. “Why is this happening to me? It felt like Arron became alive again... or maybe I'm just imagining things... maybe I'm just thinking too much of Arron that's why I'm seeing him in this guy...” she thought again.

Then, she heard Professor Bruegmann dismiss them. “Don't be late tomorrow guys... and good day.” he said before he left the stage. “Hannah, would you like to join me and Aaron for dinner tonight?” Daphne asked. Hannah shook her head. “I... I can't... I have to call back Danson...” she said. Aaron became sad when she turned them down. He was hoping he could get to know more about her, and be close to her, but it seems that she doesn't want to since she already have a boyfriend. “Daph... will you excuse me for a while?” Hannah told Daphne. Daphne just nodded her head. Then, she walked as fast as she could away from them, away from Aaron.

She went inside the music room, and as she closed the door behind her, she leaned on it. She closed her eyes, and a tear fell from her eye. “Why? Why is this happening to me? Why am I feeling this way? Why do I feel confused now that I met him?” she said to herself softly. At that instant, all the love she have kept inside her heart for Arron came back to her. And she felt it the moment she saw Aaron's face. She felt bad about it. She felt bad because she felt as if she was betraying Danson. She knew she will always be in love with him, but she became confused.

“I can't do this... I can't break Danson's heart because of him... I can't fall in love with him this instant... we just met and...” She closed her eyes, and let another tear fall from her eyes. That moment, she decided to keep her distance from him. She have to. Because she knows that if she got more closer to Aaron, she would eventually fall in love with him.

--

Hey you (whoever you are...),

I'm writing this letter for you. I'm writing to let you know what I am thinking right now. Right at this moment. I know you won't care at all. I know you wouldn't want to know what the heck the great Wu Ji Chun is thinking as of this very minute.

But I don't care.

I am writing this letter, and you have no other choice but to read what I've got to say.

First of all, I want you to know that this is the very first love letter I am writing you. I don't know who you are, I don't know how you look like. And hell, I don't care at all. All I care about is the feeling you'll give me that moment we'll meet. And all I care about is how I feel about you now. I've never written a love letter in my entire life, because if I did, I would have been married right at this instant. Married to a girl who have received my first love letter, and since I am still single, well, figure it out.

Next, I want you to know that I am waiting for you. I am patiently waiting till the day we'll meet. I even imagine where we are going to meet. Is it through a common friend? Will I meet you online? Will I meet you in a bar? In a hotel? In a train station? In a bus stop? I wonder HOW will we meet. Will it be like an accident waiting to happen? Or maybe I've known you all my life, that I fail to notice you... yeah, that seems to cliché'. If you know my friends, Kit and Calvin, you know their love story is like that.

Third. I want you to know that though I haven't met you yet, you know that my heart will always belong to you. Yeah, you can laugh at me. Laugh real hard. I know this line is too cheesy, and it's a line from the song, but I want you to know that I knew I loved you before I met you. I have been dreaming of you all my life. I don't even know your name, and yet I want to call you mine. So, for now I will call you Mine. Hey, Mine! Hahahaha... just kidding.

On a serious note, just always remember, I am here, always waiting for you. I am, really. OK, so I keep on dating random girls, but honestly, what I feel for them is lust. And I'm tired of this game I'm playing. When I meet you, I swear to God, I'll be a faithful man. I swear to love you and you alone. I promise to take care of you. I don't care about your past, or your present... all I care about is our future together.

If you are able to read this, then it means I have found you. It means you're laughing your ass out because of this stupid letter I wrote you. Really, I don't mind at all. At least I have let you know that long before I knew you, you have already this place in my heart.

I love you. I mean it.

Chun

--

It was midnight, and he couldn't sleep.

Chun looked at his side, and saw a girl sleeping peacefully beside her. He could only sigh as she watched her sleep. Then, he stood up from the bed, and walked towards the window. “God, until when will I be living this kind of life?” he thought. He have been in Tokyo for 6 months now, and all he did was work, party, and sleep with random women each night. It was exciting at first. He have enjoyed sleeping the Japanese girls each night, but now he felt like he's getting tired of all of it. He doesn't want to have a serious relationship and commit himself with the next girl, because he's not ready. He's scared that it won't work out. He's scared that the next girl might be the wrong one. “God... when will I meet her? When will you let me see the girl you have prepared for me? I don't want to break your commandments anymore... and I want to have my own happy ending like my friends...” he thought.

He looked back at the girl on his bed, and shook his head. “I need space....” he thought. He grabbed his shirt and pants, and dressed up, then went out of his pad. As he went down the apartment building, he noticed a teenage girl sitting by the stairs. It was Nana, his neighbor from upstair. “Hey, Nana!” he called. Nana looked at him, and smiled. “Oh, hi Chun-san!” she said smiling at him. He walked towards her, and sat beside her. “What are you doing here? It's already late?” he asked. “I'm waiting for my onee-chan...”
“Did she do some overtime or something?”
“I think she did. There's an event at the hotel where she's working, and she have to be there the whole day.”
“It's not safe for you to linger outside. Why don't you wait for your onee-chan upstairs?”
“I don't want to. It's boring in our pad.”

Chun smiled at her, and shook his head. He still wonders what Nana's sister looks like. He have been living in this apartment building for so long, but they still haven't met. “When will I get to meet your sister, Nana?” he asked. “Seems like the two of you are always busy... don't worry, one day I'll introduce you to my sister. But I must warn you, Makino doesn't like guys that much...” Nana said. “Why? Is it because she got dumped before?” Chun asked. Nana shook her head. “I can't tell you the reason, Chun-san...” she said. “OK... I really think your sister got dumped before.” he said. Nana could only laugh at him. Then, he stood up. “Nana, you really have to go upstairs now. You might catch a cold...” Chun said. Nana nodded her head, and stood Chun. For her, he is the most handsome man she met. Not only that, he protects her like his sister. If she could only have a brother like Chun, she would feel secure. “I'll go ahead, Chun-san.” she said to him as soon as they reached his floor. “OK, you better get some shut eye or you won't be kawaii anymore.” he teased her. Nana giggle at him, then she ran up to their pad.

--

He had another dream.

He found himself in a house filled with mirrors. He looked around, hoping he could find the exit. “Hello? Anybody here?” Chun asked. He looked around, but all he could see is his reflection. Then, he heard a soft voice. It was a muffled cry, calling his name. “Chun...” he heard a girl say. He looked around as he walked, trying t find where that voice is. “Hello? Where are you?” he asked. “Chun... help me.. find me, please...” the voice said. As he looked back, he saw an image in the mirror. It was an image of a girl wearing a white dress. “Miss?” he called again. He walked fast, still searching for that girl. “Where are you?” he shouted. Then he paused. He felt someone is walking up to him. “Chun... help me...” the girl said. He looked at the mirror, and saw the image of the girl in white dress. She was crying as she looked at him through the mirror. “Help me, Chun... help me...” she said.

Chun walked towards that mirror, and reached for the girl. But as the tip of his finger touched the glass, her image slowly faded. “No... don't go!” he shouted. He looked around, but all he can see through those mirrors are his reflection. “Where are you? Don't leave me!” he shouted. As he eyes another mirror, She saw the girl coming out of it. He smiled upon seeing her image again. “There you are...” he said as he walked up to him. As he got closer to her, she paused. He looked at her closely, and saw the crystal tear in her cheek. “Why are you crying?” he asked. He reached for her, but before he could, the girl turned away from him. “Don't... please...” he said. He gazed at her, and by the way she looked, he noticed how broken she is. He had this urge to hold her in his arms, and tell her everything's going to be all right. He wanted to assure her that he's here now, and nobody can hurt her again. Then, he noticed a wound on her neck. And from that wound, a blood flowed out. He immediately reached for his pocket, and took out his handkerchief. He walked up to her, and placed the handkerchief on her wounded neck. The girl looked up at him, and as he gazed into her eyes, he could see pain and sadness in it. His free hand cupped her cheek. “Don't cry now, I am here... I won't leave you ever again...” he said. Then, his face moved closer to hers, and then their lips met into a loving kiss.

“Chun! Wake up!”

He felt someone shaking him. He looked up, and saw Hiro shaking him. “What the hell are you doing here?” he asked groggily. “Hey, you told me to come over so that we could go together at the Shinkansen station.” Hiro said. Chun sat up, and gave him a confused look. “We're going to Osaka for a vacation, remember?” Hiro said. It finally sinked in to him – he was supposed to go with Hiro to Osaka that weekend to have a break. “Oh, yeah... I forgot...” he said as he stood up from his bed. “You've already packed, right?” Hiro asked him as he eyed on him. “Yeah, I did...” Chun said. Then, he went inside the bathroom. “Give me 5 minutes to prepare... then we're going.” Chun shouted at Hiro.

--

“Are you sure you're going to be OK being alone?” Maki asked Nana as she stepped out of their pad. “I'll be OK, onee-chan. Besides, Ella-kun and Toma-chan would be looking after me, remember?” Nana said. Maki could only sigh as she looked at her sister. She was always scared of leaving Nana alone, especially when she have to go to their hotel branch in Osaka. “I'm staying with Ella-kun and Toma-kun, remember? Don't worry about me, onee-chan. Besides, I'm a big girl now.” she said. Maki smiled at her sister, and then hugged her. “I promise to be back by Sunday afternoon.” Maki said. “Onee-chan... you don't have to worry about me. I'll be OK, I assure you that.” she said.

Maki smiled at her sister, and gave her a hug. “I'm sorry, it's just that onee-chan is worried about you...” she said. “I understand, onee-chan. Just enjoy your stay in Osaka. I'll be fine here.” she said. Maki looked at her, and smiled. “You are a big girl now, Nana... I guess you'll be all right without me for a while. Don't stay out on the streets late OK?” she said. Nana smiled at her sister, and nodded her head. “I sure will.” Nana said. Maki kissed her sister on the cheek, and went on her way.

--

“What's with you?” Hiro asked Chun as they walked inside the train station. Chun let out a yawn, and looked at him. “What's with me? Man, you woke me up in the middle of my dream.” he complained. “You slept late last night, didn't you?” Hiro asked. Chun just sighed at him. Hiro let out a laugh, and shook his head. Even though he have known Chun for a short period of time, he could easily read through him. “You got it on with Miaka last night, didn't you?” Hiro teased. Chun stopped walking, and gave him a death glare. “What?” Hiro asked in a confused look. “Do I look like someone who got laid last night? And if I did, you should've seen me in bed with Miaka when you barged in to my apartment. Did you see any girl sleeping on my bed? None, right?” he said in an annoyed tone. Hiro stepped back at him, and raised his hands at him. “Easy man... I'm just teasing. Don't take it seriously...” Hiro said. Chun looked at him, then shook his head. Then, he handed hiro his black overnight bag. “Take this. Get our tickets. I'll go and find a rest room for a while.” he said. Before Hiro could further react, Chun have already left him.

Meanwhile, Maki went to the ticket booth to get her ticket. She put her black overnight bag on the floor as she speaks with the lady on the booth. She didn't realize that the man behind her was a thief. In a swift, the man took her bag, and walked away. “Let me just get my wallet...” Maki said. As she looked down on the floor, she realized that her bag was gone. “Oh. My. God.” she exclaimed. Then she looked at the lady with her eyes widened. “My... my bag just got stolen...” she said. She looked back, and saw a man in black jacket with her bag. She immediately ran after that man. “Stop! Thief!” she shouted as she ran after the man.

Chun got out of the rest room, to find Hiro waiting for him. “Take this.” Hiro said, shoving his bag on his chest. “Can you do it more harder, Hiro?” Chun said. Hiro just laughed as he went inside the rest room. As began to make a step, someone bumped into him. He looked angrily at the man, and before he could reprimand him, the man was dashing away from him. “Don't you even know the word sorry?!” he shouted at him. Then, he looked back, and saw a petite girl running towards his direction. Probably running after that man. She was too fast, and didn't notice him, that she bumped into him, making the two of them fall on the floor.

Maki bumped into a man, and she was on top of him. The man was wearing a dark jacket, just like the one she was running after. Then, she noticed the bag lying on the floor, which looked exactly like her bag. “Whoa! Do all Japanese love bumping onto other people and not saying sorry?” Chun said sarcastically. Maki immediately stood up, and so did Chun. Chun took his bag, and as he turned to the girl, Maki hit him in the face. He looked at him with shock. “What the -”

“Thief! Thief!” Maki shouted as she pointed at him. Chun gave him a confused look. “What thief? What are you talking about?” he asked. Instead of answering him, Maki stomped onto his feet, making him flinch in pain. Then, she took his bag on the floor. “You stupid thief! Don't you know that I know karate?!” Maki shouted at him. “What are you talking about? And can you give me back my bag?!” he shouted angrily at her. He tried to take his bag from her, but she took his arm and bended it to his back. “Awww! Cut it out! Let me go!” Chun shouted in pain. “That'll teach you a lesson not to mess with me, thief!” Maki said. “What thief? I am not a thief! Ouch! Let me go!” he said. But Maki didn't listen to him. Then they heard a loud whistle. Chun looked back, and saw a pack of guards running towards their direction. “Oh, man...” he said as he shook his head. He is in trouble. Really big trouble.

--

“She bumped into me!”
“He stole my bag!”
“Instead of saying sorry, she hit me!”
“I was trying to get my bag back!”
“It's my bag! Believe me!”
“I was paying for my ticket, and this man took my bag!”
“I just got out of the rest room, and she's accusing me of stealing her bag.

Both of them were speaking at the same time, that the officer could only shake his head in confusion. Maki looked angrily at him. “You did not steal my bag? You did not steal my bag?! It was with you when I bumped into you!” she shouted. “Look, missy... it's not my fault that you are so stupid that you let some random men take your precious little bag!” Chun said. “Who are you calling stupid?!”
“You are stupid!”
“Ha! Really? I'm not stupid, for your information. Who do you think you are, the smartest guy on earth?!”
“At least I always look after my personal belongings!”

The officer stood up from his seat, as he could not take their argument anymore. “Can the two of you please shut up for a minute?” he shouted. The two of them stopped talking in an instant, and looked at the officer. “Take your seats. We'll settle this in a very logical and peaceful way...” the officer said. Chun and Maki took their seats. Both of them were giving each other death glares. “Horikita-san, you said this is your bag?” the officer said. Maki nodded her head. “Can you tell me what's inside the bag?” the officer asked. “My clothes. I've got my uniform there, a cookbook, two notebooks, three pens, a small pink bag, and my red Gucci wallet.” she answered. Then, the officer turned to Chun. “Wu-san, can you tell me what's inside your bag?” he asked. “My clothes are there. My wallet is inside my bag as well. I also got my laptop inside, and a notebook with a picture of my friends inside it.” he said confidently. The officer stood up from his seat, and went to the bag in question. “Well then, let's see who's telling the truth.” he said.

The police officer opened the bag, and the two watched as he unzipped the bag. “Oh looky there...” the officer said, smiling at the two. He took out Chun's laptop. Chun looked at Maki, and smirked at him. “So, who's the thief now?” he said to her sarcastically. He let out a triumphant, yet vicious smile as he leaned on his chair. “B-but... how could that be? I'm positive he stole my bag!” Maki said. “Horikita-san, do you remember how the thief looked like?” the police officer asked. “He's wearing a black jacket... that's all I can remember...” she said. Then, she looked at Chun. “Oh, please... there are a lot of guys wearing black jacket at the shinksansen station. I am not the only one OK? The guy who bumped into me before you was also wearing a black jacket.” Chun told her.

Just then, two police officers came in. “Sir, we have arrested the man who stole Horikita-san's bag.” one of them said. Maki and Chun looked back, and saw the man being carried by the police. “That's the guy who bumped into me outside the rest room!” he said. “So, it means... this guy...” Maki asked. The police nodded his head. “Apparently, after he bumped into Wu-san, and as soon as the coast is clear, he went back to the rest room and tried to steal Mizushima-san's bag as well. Good thing Mizushima-san caught him, so he beat him up and called us.” he said. Chun stood up from his seat, and faced the thief. “So, you're the man who got me into trouble, huh?” he said. The thief just nodded his head. “Thank you, sir...” he said, smiling at him. Chun smiled and shook his head. “No... thank you...” he said. He clenched his fist, and then punched him in the stomach.

--

“Good thing I caught the thief our you will spend the night in jail.” Hiro said as they got out of the police station. “Let's just get out of here, Hiro. I want to go to Osaka badly and rest. This is so stressful...” he said. “You can say that again, Chun.” Hiro said. Chun paused, and looked at Maki, who was walking beside him. “Aren't you even going to say something, missy?” he asked. Maki glared at him. “What should I say?” she asked. “Didn't your parents taught you to say sorry, especially when you're at fault?” he asked. Maki folded her arms, and glared at him. “I don't apologize to jerks like you.” she said. Then, she walked away from Chun. “What the...” Chun said furiously. Then, he looked at Hiro. “What kind of a girl is that? Did you see that? He didn't even apologized to me! I wouldn't be a jerk if she hadn't been a bitch!” Chun said. “Relax man, it's just a girl. Don't waste your energy on her, you won't see her ever again.” Hiro said. “Well I really hope not to see her again! Our paths won't cross again, I swear!” Chun shouted.

And that's what he thought.

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic

Monday, October 19, 2009

99 Love Notes - Chapter 6

Chapter 6 – His Familiar Face




“I'm sorry, but Mr. Tang is not in right now.”

Hannah let out a sigh upon hearing what Danson's secretary said. “I see... can you tell him that I called?” she said. “i sure will, Ms. Hannah.” After Hannah ended the call, she sat on her bed. She looked outside the window sadly. It was another attempt to call Danson, but as usual, he's not around. He's not even picking up his mobile phone. She could understand that Danson is busy, but it have been a week since he last called, and she badly misses him.

“Why are you sulking there, Hannah?” she heard Daphne asked. She let put a sigh, and Daphne could tell by her sigh that she's rather frustrated. “Danson, isn't it?” she asked. “I don't know what else to do, Daph. I've been trying to contact him, but he's not around. It's just that I'm a little worried...” she said. Daphne sat beside her, and gave her a playful smile. “Are you worried that you're boyfriend is flirting with some girls?” she asked. “Of course not!” Hannah exclaimed. “I trust Danson so much. I know he loves me, and he could never cheat on me...”
“But you can't get hold of him.”
“It's just that he's busy I guess. I know he's dad is slaving him again. I guess that's why... why he isn't calling me. I'm worried about him...”
Daphne gave Hannah a warm smile, and then she hugged her friend. “Aiyo! Don't worry too much about that boyfriend of yours. I'm sure he misses you as well. He'll call you, I know that.” she said. Hannah let out another sigh, and forced a smile at her. “Well... I just have to wait for his call then. As for now... guess it's time to work.” she said. Daphne stood up from the bed, and then pulled her up. “Well then, I'll see you downstairs in 5 minutes, OK?” she said. Hannah nodded her head.

She walked towards her drawer, and opened it. She opened a small box, and took her watch. She was about to close that box, when something caught her attention – it's a picture of her and Arron back then. She paused as she stared at it for a long time. “Arron...” she said in a low voice. She took it from the box, and stared at his smiling face. The picture was taken a few weeks before he died, and she could still clearly remember what happened on that day.

[Flashback]

“Hannah...” she heard Arron call him. She felt him sat beside her on the bench. “You're late.” she said, pouting at him. She could hear him trying not laugh at her angry expression. “You're late, and you're laughing at me. You're crazy, Arron Yan!” she said. This time, Arron couldn't help but laugh at her. “Well, it's just that I find you really cute when you're angry and pouting like that.” he said. Hannah frowned at him. “Wei, Arron Yan Ya Lun. Even if I'm blind and I couldn't see how foolish I look like when I'm mad, you shouldn't laugh at me. And besides, you're late that's why I'm mad!” she said. “I'm sorry for being late, Hannah. But there is a good excuse why I'm late.” he said. He took a Polaroid camera from his bag, and let Hannah hold it.

Hannah tried to guess what Arron gave him, and Arron could only smile as he watched her confused face. “Eh... this is a... I can't guess! What is this?” she asked. Arron laughed again, and took the camera from her hand. “Camera. You haven't touched one when you can still see?” he joked. Then, he saw Hannah's face turn into an angry expression again. “Hey, hey... I'm just kidding.” he said. “Well, it's not a good joke.” she said as she folded her arms. “I'm sorry... I promise I won't do it again...”
“But why do you have a camera with you?”
“I want to take pictures.”
“Pictures of what?”
“Of you. Of us.”

Hannah fell silent at what he said. “I want to make a lot of memories with you, Hannah. I want to capture every moment that I am with you...” he said in a low voice. He stared into her face for a long time, and he moved his face closer to her. He wanted to kiss her cheeks, but he was fighting that urge to let his lips touch her cheeks. He closed his eyes, not wanting to let the tear fall from his eyes. If only Hannah knows what has been happening to him, but he can't let her down. He can't hurt her now that he have gained her trust. “Arron?” he heard her call. “Why do you want to take pictures of us?” she asked. “Because I want to see you even if I'm not with you. And, I want you to see me... especially if... I'm... gone...” his voice was faltering as he said the last word. Hannah let out a laugh. “How can I see those pictures? I'm blind, remember?” she said. “I believe that someday, you will be able to see again. And you will be able to see these pictures...” he said.

He put his arms around her, and then placed the camera in front of them. “Smile!” he said. Hannah rested her head on his shoulder, and let out a sweet smile. She heard the camera make a clicking sound. Then, Arron put the picture on her hand. “This is for you...” he said. “So that you will always remember me...”

[End of Flashback]

“Hannah! Get your butt down here, or we're going to be late!” she heard Daphne say. “Coming!” Hannah shouted. She looked at the picture at her hand, and then placed it back inside her box. As she rushed down to meet Daphne, she took out her phone, and dialed home. Luckily, it was her brother who picked up the phone. “Hello? Chris? Yeah, Hannah here... can you do me a favor?” she said. Then, she paused, smiling to herself. “Purple daisies as always, for his grave...”

--

Aaron sat in front of his piano, playing his favorite tune, when Robert suddenly came in.
“Aaron?” he called. Aaron stopped playing, and looked up at Robert. “Yes, Robert?” he asked. “Miss Yeh called to remind you about your lunch date today.” he said. Aaron smiled, and nodded his head. “I didn't forget that, Robert. I couldn't wait to see Daphne. It's been a long time since I last saw her.” he said. Robert smiled, and nodded his head. Then, he excused himself, and left Aaron in peace. As soon as he is alone, Aaron began to play the piano again. As he was playing, he suddenly remembered the girl he saw a few days ago, who was playing a lovely yet sad and soulful tune. There was something about that girl that made him think about her often, and there was something about the song he played that made him want to listen to it again.

He put his hands on the piano keys, and closed his eyes. He tried to remember that lovely melody he heard. He pressed the keys, and before he knew it, he was playing it. He was playing her song. “I found you.... I hope I can see you again...” he thought. He remembered her smiling face as she play that song. He remembered the way she looked. It was as if she was one with her music, that her innermost feelings, all her love, is being expressed by that song. He couldn't help but admire the girl. And he's determined to know who she is.

“Aaron...” he heard Robert call again. Aaron stopped playing, and looked at the butler. “Yes, Robert?” he asked. “It's time. You don't want to keep Ms. Yeh waiting, don't you?” he said. Aaron gave him a confused look, and then he looked at his watch. True enough, it's almost lunch time. “I've been playing the piano that long?” he asked. The butler smiled and nodded his head. “You're too caught up with it, Aaron. It's the first time I've seen you too drawn into a composition.” he said. Aaron smiled, and shook his head. “It's not my composition, Robert. I just heard it... from that girl...” he said. The butler smiled at him. “Oh, that's why. She's as talented as you are, Aaron. I do hope you would meet her soon.”
“I hope so too, Robert.”
“But... you have to remember... Ms. Yeh...”

Aaron paused upon hearing his reminder. Robert could see the smile on his face slowly disappear at what he said. “I know, Robert... you don't have to remind me about it...” he said. “But it seems to me that the young mistress of the Yeh family have no clue about the betrothal. Who knows, like you, Ms. Yeh wouldn't want this betrothal as well.” Robert said. “Daphne and I grew up together. We studied together, except when we reached college. I know she only sees me as her brother... because you know... she was first engaged to Rico, remember? I know until now, she grieves for my twin brother's death.”
“And it's a big question why all of a sudden, your father decided to betroth you to her, when it is a common knowledge that she is still in love with Rico even upon his death.”
“You know my father, Robert. He would do anything to be more even powerful. And the Yeh family is the most influential family in Hong Kong. That's the reason why they decided to betroth us.”

Robert let out a sigh, and then smiled at him. “I guess we should end our conversation. I know you're not comfortable discussing about this.” he said. Aaron smiled back at him, and shook his head. “It's OK, Robert. Sooner or later, I have to face this. It's better for me to talk about it now.” he said.

--

Aaron waited inside the fancy restaurant. It's been fifteen minutes since he arrived, and Daphne is still nowhere in sight. “She's late as usual...” he thought. Just as he looked at the restaurant's entrance, he saw Daphne walking up to him. He waved at her, and Daphne smiled at him. “I'm sorry, I'm late. Orchestra practice.” She said. Aaron stood up from his seat, and helped her to her own seat. “I understand, Daphne. You're always late.” he teased her as he sat on his chair. Daphne just laughed at what he said. “I know... and since I'm late again, it's my treat.” she said. Aaron shook his head. “No, Daphne. I'm paying for our lunch. I promised you, remember?” he said.

Just then, the waiter came, and gave them the menu. “So what would you be having, Daph?” he asked as they read the menu. “I'm not quite sure...” she said. Aaron looked up at the waiter. “I'm having steak, and for the lady, it would be carbonara.” he said. Daphne looked up at him, and smiled. “You still remember my favorite.” she said in a low voice. Aaron just winked at her. The waiter took down their orders, and then left them. “So, how are you doing here in Vienna, Daph?” he asked. Daphne smiled at him. “I'm doing OK here. How about you? What brought you back to this city? I thought you hated to be here?” she asked. Aaron let out a laugh and shook his head. “That's what you want to think, Daph. I just don't like the fact that whenever I'm here in Vienna, I have to be treated like a prince.”
“That's because you are a prince, Aaron. You are the son of a royalty, and of the richest man in the world. You have to deal with it.”
“That's why I hated being here. When I came back here after studying abroad, mom insisted that I live at the mansion.”
“And knowing you, Aaron... you turned it down. Am I right?”
“Yes. Because I want to be a normal person for once.”
“So, does that mean that you're not going to take over the Yan Enterprise?”
Aaron shooks his head. “Business is not my cup of tea. You know that I prefer my music.” he said. Daphne nodded her head. “I know that, Aaron. So, it means you will let your brother-in-law handle everything?” she asked. Aaron nodded his head. “David knows more that I do. Let him handle everything.” he said.

After a while, their food arrived. “By the way, Daph... I have a good news for you.” he said. Daphne looked up at him, anticipating his news. “What is it?” she asked. “I'm going to be part of the Royal Harmonic Orchestra.” he said. Daphne's eyes widened with surprise. “Really?” she asked. Aaron nodded his head. “Yeah. So you'll be seeing more of me.” he said. “That's a really good news, Aaron! Congratulations! But... how? You didn't use your princely status just to get in, didn't you?” she asked. Aaron let out another laugh. “Of course not, silly girl! I auditioned, just like the rest of you. And the orchestra master have no idea that I'm the only remaining son of the duchess... and stop teasing me! I'm not a prince. My mom is a royalty, and not me...” he said. “But still you are Duchess Contance's son. It still makes you a royalty.”
“Royalty, yes. Prince, no. So stop calling me a prince, will you.”

Daphne laughed as she shook her head. Then, he noticed the smiled on her face slowly fade. “You're just like your twin brother, you know. Rico also hated it when I call him prince.” she said. Aaron looked at her sad face, then he reached for her hand, and held it. “Daphne...” he called. Daphne looked up at him, and smiled. “I'm sorry, Aaron. It's just that when I see you, I miss Rico. The two of you are really alike...” she said. Aaron smiled, and shook his head. “We may be twins, but he have differences, Daphne. For example, he's into dad's businesses, while I'm into music. He's a fierce guy, I'm the gentle one.” he said Daphne nodded her head in agreement. “I know that, Aaron. I'm sorry... it's just that I'm starting to miss him. God, it's been six years, and I haven't gotten over him... over his death...” she said. Daphne lowered her head, trying to hide the tears that were forming from her eyes. “Daphne...” she heard Aaron call. She looked up at him, and stared into his eyes. “You have not forgiven yourself, didn't you? You have not forgiven yourself for Rico's death?” he asked. “How can I forgive myself when I am the reason why he died... he tried to save me, Aaron... but... but in the end...”

Daphne lowered her head, and closed her eyes. This time, the tears couldn't help but fall from her eyes. It was hurting Aaron to see his friend like this. He knows Daphne is still in love with his twin brother, and she still haven't moved on. Six years have passed since Rico's death, and she still have not gotten over him, nor forgave herself. He reached for her face, and then gently wiped the tears from her face. “Rico wouldn't want to see you like this, Daphne...” he said. Daphne just gave him a faint smile. “I'm sorry, Aaron. It's just that when I think of him... I really couldn't help it...” she said. “Stop crying, Daph... or do you want me to do that funny dance again.” he threatened. Upon hearing what he said, Daphne laughed. She remembered the last time that Aaron did his funny dance. “OK... OK... I'll stop crying already.” she said. Arron smiled at her, then she reached for her cheek and pinched it. “Attagirl” he said.

--

“Denise, did someone call me?” Danson said as soon as he arrived from the meeting. His secretary smiled at him, and nodded her head. “Yes, Mr. Tang. Ms. Tan called a while ago.” she said. Danson smiled back at his secretary. “Thanks, Denise. And please bring the documents inside my office.” he said. He went inside his office and settled in his desk. It was such a long day for him. He had a lot of meetings that day, that week to be more exact, and he's getting tired of all of this. “I could use some break...” he thought. He glanced at his desk, and saw his plane ticket to Vienna for the weekend. He smiled to himself as he picked it up. He stared at it for a long time, imagining the surprised look at Hannah's face when he surprises her again. “it won't be long, and I'll be seeing you again, my love...” he thought.

Hannah have been in Vienna for three months now, and he missed her terribly. He wanted to regret that decision of letting her go to pursue her dream in Vienna, but he knows it's Hannah's happiness. He have no heart to take it away from her and make her lose that golden opportunity. “Wait for me Hannah... I'll come for you. It won't be long and we'll be together again...” he thought. His thoughts were interrupted when his father entered his office. “Danson...” he called. Danson looked up at him, and immediately hid the plane ticket inside his drawer. What he didn't know is that his father noticed the plane ticket he is holding, and that he know that Danson is planning to go to Vienna that weekend. He have already made a plan to make his son stay, and stop him from seeing his beloved girlfriend. “Yes, dad?” Danson said. “I just came to remind you that the board presentation will be moved this Monday.” he said. Danson nodded his head. “I know that. I've already prepared my presentation.” he said. Mr. Tang let out a contented smile at his son. “Good... and one more thing. We have an important meeting this Saturday. I expect you to be there, as Ryan will be gone this weekend to make an on-site visit.” Mr. Tang said. Danson was surprised at what his father said. “Meeting, this Saturday? But dad... I made plans with my friends...” he said. “Then cancel it. I expect you to be there. This is an important deal that we can't miss, do you understand?”
“Dad... can we reset it?”
“No. The client will only be available this Saturday,”
“But my plans...”
“I don't care about your plans for the weekend. Cancel it, I'm telling you. I need you in this meeting, and you must come to this meeting. Clear?”

Danson let out a frustrated sigh. He have no choice but to give in to his father. “I understand, dad...” he said in a low voice. “Good. I'll see you later for the meeting.” Mr. Tang said before leaving his office. As soon as he is alone, he opened his drawer again, and took out the plane ticket. “I guess I have to cancel my trip to Vienna this weekend...” he thought. He sighed again as he leaned back to his chair. Why is it that whenever he plans to see Hannah, work always gets in his way?

--

“Baobei... it's OK, really... don't be frustrated.” Hannah said to Danson over the phone. “I know I shouldn't be. But I've planned this for a month now, and it's rather frustrating that I have to cancel going to Vienna because of this stupid meeting...”
“But this is more important, Danson. Your work is more important. Besides, you dad will get mad at you if you won't come.”
“I'd rather face his wrath. I want to go and see you this weekend, baobei.”
“No... follow your dad's order, Danson. Your work should always come first. Anyway, I can always wait for you. And didn't you told me that you'll come and follow me here in Vienna so that we can live happily ever after?”
Danson smiled to himself at what Hannah said. He lied on his bed, and then let out a sigh. “it won't be long, baobei. We'll be together... just wait for me. I promise to be there on your birthday and on our anniversary, OK?” he said. “I know, baobei. I'll wait for that day that you'll come to see me again. I miss you so much...”
“I miss you to, Hannah. I love you...”
“I love you too...”
“I have to go now, baobei. I need to be up early tomorrow for another grueling meeting...” he said in annoyed tone. Hannah could only laugh at what he said. “OK... I won't bother you now. I love you, sweet dreams... dream of me OK?” she said. “I always dream of you, baobei...” he said.

As soon as Hannah ended the call, Daphne called her. “Hannah... are you done? The professor wants to see us.” she said. Hannah looked at her friend, and smiled at her. “Coming!” she said. They went back to their group, and when everybody have settled on the stage, Professor Bruegmann came. “Everyone is here, right?” he said. All of them said. “I have some announcement to make.” he began. “First, we will have a concert at Germany next month, so we have to practice hard. I'll be giving you a copy of the piece we will be performing in front of the audience. Next, a new member is joining us today. He is a talented musician just like all of you.” he said. Everyone murmured, asking each other questions who the new member is. “Who could that be? It's so unlikely of the orchestra to accept a new member at this time of the year!” One of her colleague, Johanna, asked her. She simply shrugged her shoulder. She was also wondering who that new member is. She looked at Daphne, and saw that she was quiet. “Do you know anything, Daph?” she asked. Daphne smiled and nodded her head. “You'll find out who this new member is.” she said.

Just then, a young man entered the stage. “Hello everyone...” he said. Hannah paused upon hearing that familiar voice. “It couldn't be...” she thought. She slowly shifted her head to where the voice is coming from. She was surprised to see the man standing before their group. “I'm Aaron Yan. I hope we all can be friends.” he said. Hannah was stunned upon seeing his face.

His face.
His voice.
His smile.
His name.

All about him. It was all familiar. It was as if she was in a dream upon seeing him. “But... but it couldn't be... he... he died and he gave his eyes to me...” she thought. She closed her eyes, and shook her head. She felt as if she was just imagining things, but as she opened her eyes, it was the same thing that he saw. The man standing before him is Aaron Yan. And he looked exactly like her first love, Arron.

--

Aaron looked up at Daphne's side, and noticed a girl staring at her. Their eyes met in a few seconds, but she close her eyes and shook her head. As she opened her eyes, he found her staring at her. Her face was pale, as if she have just seen a ghost. “Finally... I found you...” he thought. He smiled warmly at her, and the girl could only nod her head. She took her eyes away from him, and did not bother to look back at him. He felt as if she didn't like to see him. “I hope that now that I'm here... I could get to know you more...” he said to himself. Then, he smiled again.

Joining the orchestra had a benefit for him, for he will get to be close to the girl who captured his heart at first sight.

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Here's another 99 Love Notes poster

what do you think?

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic, poster

99 Love Notes - Chapter 5

Chapter 5 – Love In The Ice




Chun looked at the letter in his hand. He then clutched it, and looked up at the other side of the hallway, where he saw Trixie talking to her friends. He smiled to himself, and began to walk up to her. “Gay loser, nine o' clock...” he heard one of her friends says. Upon hearing that, Chun paused, and looked down, avoiding the glare from her. “Don't mind that sore loser.” he heard her say. Then, there were laughter. Defeated, he turned his back, and began to walk away from her.

It was another fail attempt to give Trixie his love letter.

--

“Calvin! I like you!”

Chun shouted. Everyone looked in horror at what he said. He looked at the people around him, and he could see the shock on Kit and Calvin's face. He looked at Kit, and could see her almost in tears. She shook her head, before she decided to walk away from that scene. “Kit! Wait up!” he heard Calvin said. Chun took a deep breath, and closed his eyes. “Great... what have I done? Just for some people's acceptance, I have to humiliate myself and break the heart of the girl who really likes me...” he thought. He sighed, and then smiled at the crowd before him. He have no other choice but to go with his lie. “Yeah, yeah... I'm gay... so what?” he said. Then, he walked down the stage.

As he was about to head out of the door, he heard someone call him. He looked back, and saw Lee Wei, the leader of the school org he joined, coming up to him. “Wu Chun!” he shouted. Chun turned to face him. “OK, I did what you asked me to do. I did the dare. Now, am I accepted?” he asked sarcastically. Lee Wei just let out a smirk. “You wish, loser.” he said. Chun pursed his lips, and then turned his back on him. “I'm giving you an A for effort, Wu. Continue with your act, who knows... maybe next year -” Before Lee Wei could finish his sentence, he turned to him, and glared at him. “Forget it, Lee Wei. You can have your stupid org by yourself, for all I care!” he shouted in anger. Then, he stormed out of the party.

--

“Callie!”

Calvin turned, and saw Trixie walking up to him. He sighed, and shook his head, then went on his way, ignoring her. Chun was walking behind Trixie, and was able to see that seen. He was angered by it. He clenched his fist as he watched Calvin ignore Trixie, and the latter following that guy. “Why him?” he asked in his thoughts. “Why do you have to like her, Trixie? I... I love you...” he said silently. He closed his eyes, fighting the tears from falling. Then, he turned his back, and left, with his heart aching.

--

As Chun walked through the lobby, he saw Trixie got out of the room. From where he is standing, he could see that she was crying. “Trixie!” he called. Trixie paused, and glared at him. “Go away!” he said. She walked away from him, but he was too stubborn. He followed her, until they reached the school's green house. “Trixie...” he called in a low voice. “What do you want from me? Do you want to laugh at me because of what happened? Do want to laugh at me... because of the stupid thing's I've done?” she asked. Then, she turned to face him. “Go ahead! Laugh at me! Tell me I'm the stupidest girl you've ever met!” she shouted at him. Chun lowered his head, and shook his head. “I... I wouldn't want to do that...” he said. Then, he lifted his head, and faced her. “I could never do that to you, Trixie...” he said. “Why?!” she shouted at him. “I've humiliated you a lot of times! This is your chance to get back at me! Do you want to know what my boyfriend just did to me?! Oh, I forgot... my ex-boyfriend! Do you want to know what I did why he hated me? I lied to him! I am not the paper crane girl! I told him that so that he could love me too. I told him that so I could have a chance with him! And you know what else I did? I harmed his precious BFF! I asked Mike to rape that bitch because she's always getting in my way! And you know what else happened? That bastard caught our moment on tape and gave it to my ex-boyfriend. Now, my ex-boyfriend found out I had a one-night affair with Mike, and he couldn't forgive me for that. He can't! Can you hear me?! And I was too guilty to even look in his eyes, that the only choice I got left is to break up with him!”

Trixie's tears were falling uncontrollably as she shouted at him. With every words she says, Chun could feel his heart breaking. “Trixie... I'm sorry to hear that...” he said. He walked towards her, but as he got close, Trixie pushed him away. “I don't need your sympathy!” she shouted at him. “i don't need you to be with me! Why don't you go to your friends and rejoice with them because Calvin and I are through. Did you hear me? We're through!” she said. Chun held her arms, and then she began to breakdown. He held her tight as he let her cry onto his shoulder. “Go away! I don't need you!” she shouted at him as she tried to push him away. “I don't need you... I don't need anybody...” Her voice was slowly fading, and her sobs were slowly taking over.

He could feel his heart breaking as she breaks down. Her rejection hurts him the most. “Trixie... why does it have to be him?” he thought. He held her to an embrace. “I... I love you... why can't you love me in the same way that you love Calvin?” he whispered to her. But Trixie was too deafened by her own sobs, that she didn't hear what Chun said.

He was rejected. At that moment, he admitted defeat. Trixie could never love him, or even see him as someone special. He have tried so hard to be there for her, to understand her, but all his efforts were thrown down the drain.

And for him, it's time to let go.

--

Chun stared at the ceiling of his room as he remembered his past. He smiled to himself. “Come to think of it, before, I was a dork that nobody wanted...” he thought. He looked at the digital clock on the side table. It was 12 midnight. And it's the first second of Trixie's fourth death anniversary. He sat up on his bed, and then sighed. “Trixie...” he muttered. He can consider Trixie as his first love. When he first saw her, he was mesmerized by her. He did everything he could so that she would notice him, but he always fails, because she only had his eyes on Calvin. “What is it that that guy have that I don't have? I also have a killer smile. My cheekbones are way sexier than his. Why him?” he thought. Then he sighed again. He knows it' not the right time to keep on comparing himself with Calvin, or even be jealous of him. After all, Calvin is his best friend.

Maybe the reason why he turned out this way is because of how his heart was broken by Trixie. He couldn't afford anymore rejection. He thought that if he invest his feelings again with someone, he would be hurt again. And he can't bear to have his heart broken again, and so he chose to play the field than take love seriously.

And somehow, Chun is getting tired of this game.

He stood up from his bed, and walked up to the window. He looked outside, admiring the night view of Tokyo. When he was offered to work here, he didn't hesitate to accept it. For him, it is a good start. He would be away from his friends and family, yes, but he needed this distance to think things through. He knew he messed up back home. His relationships with the other girls back then are memories that he wants to forget. He knew he have broken a lot of hearts. He felt bad about it, and his guilt was slowly eating him up, but he's just not ready for a long-term commitment, not with his past girlfriends.

Then, he thought about Kit and Calvin. He was glad that he was a part of their story. Yes, their's was not all happy ending, and it's not a smooth ride. But despite everything that have happened, they found their own happy ending. Then, there's Jiro and Joy, who's relationship is getting stronger as days passes by. And then, there's Hannah and Danson, whom despite their distances, was able to maintain their relationship. He wanted to have a story like them. He badly wanted to have his own happy ending as well.

His thoughts were interrupted with a ringing of his phone. He took it, and answered it. “Hello?” he said. “Hey, Chunnie bear!” he heard Kit say on the other line. He smiled upon hearing her voice. “Hey, Kitty cat! Calling me at the wee hours of the night? Calvin the great might get jealous! You know that possessive husband of yours...” he said. He heard Kit giggle on the other line. “Oh, don't mind about my possessive husband. Anyway, he asked me to call you. He told me to tell you that everything's set tomorrow for your favor... and this is not about a girl, isn't it?” she asked. Chun paused, and then smiled sadly. He knew exactly what day it will be.

It was Trixie's death anniversary.

“Oh, it's about a girl, all right. A dead girl, actually.” he said. “Oh, I know, I know. It's Trixie's death anniversary tomorrow. Calvin and I will be going to her grave tomorrow.”
“Yeah... I know... even if Trixie almost dragged you six feet under the ground, you still consider her a vital part of your story.”
“Trixie will always be part of our love story, Calvin. If it wasn't for her... there's no me and Calvin...”
“I know that, Kit.”
“And I also know that Trixie will always be part of your life...”

Chun became silent at what she said. “Chun... I know that it has been four years since Trixie died, and you haven't gotten over her...” Kit said. Chun let out a nervous laugh. “Me? Haven't gotten over her? Are you kidding me, Kit?” he asked. “I may not know how you truly feel, Chun. But I could sense it. You were hurt when she rejected you, and -”
“Kit, I have to go. I... I still have a meeting tomorrow.”
He didn't want to talk about it. Although Kit knew that he was in love with Trixie, it's one thing that he can't open up to anyone, especially her. He ended the call after Kit said goodbye. Then, he went back to his bed, and stared at the ceiling. “Yeah... Kit's right. It's been four years, and I have not gotten over that pain...” he thought. He closed his eyes. As he drifted to sleep, he told himself to get over it. After all, past is past, and he have to live a new life.

--

“Hey, Chun!”

Chun looked up, and saw Hiro peeking at his door. Hiro is one of the managers in their company. “Oh, Hiro-san. What can I do for you?” he asked. He turned his eyes on the screen as he continued doing his program. Hiro entered his office, and sat on the chair in front of him. “Want to go out tonoght? I've got this cute date. She's bringing her cute friend with her.” Hiro said. Chun just let out a smile. “How cute is this cure date?” Chun asked. “Oh, she's a model...” Hiro said. Chun paused, then he looked at him. Then, he smiled at him. “You got yourself a deal.” he said.

--

She felt she couldn't breath.

She was runninng for her life. She made a turn at a dark alley, but then she found it to be dead end. She felt hot tears falling from her eyes. “No...” she thought helplessly. “No...” She was about to make a turn, but she felt them. She felt them blocking her way. “Help me, please...” she prayed. She felt them slowly walking up to her. She could hear their evil laughter. Someone held her by her shoulder, and then turn to face them. Their evil smirks, their fearful eyes, that's all she could remember. “Please... don't...” she pleaded. “Please, don't...” one of them mimicked her. Then, she was pushed against the cold brick wall. She felt their hands gripped her limbs, as one of them began to tore her school uniform. “No!” she shouted. But no matter how loud her cries where, there is no one there to hear her.

“No!” Maki shouted as she sat up on her bed. She took a deep breath, before she realized that it was all a nightmare. Just another nightmare. She curled up, and then buried her head on her arms. Then, she began to cry. She tried so hard to forget that night, but it seems that it will always be a part of her. “Onee-chan...” she heard her sister call. Nana walked up to Maki, and sat on her bed. She lifted her sister's head, and she could see the fear in her eyes. That same fear she had almost eight years ago. “Nana... they're after me. They... they...” Maki said in between sobs. Nana pulled her sister, and hugged her tight. “Ssshhh... onee-chan... it's just a dream... it's just a dream... you don't have to be afraid anymore...” Nana whispered to her. All Maki could do is cry on her sister. It was breaking Nana's heart to see her sister like this. It's this one of these moments that she would see her so weak and helpless. She wished she could do something for her sister to appease her fear, but the only thing she could do now is let her cry.

--

Vienna.

“Aren't you going home yet, Hannah?” Daphne asked after their rehearsals that evening. Hannah looked at her, and smiled at her. “Let me linger around here for a while.” she said. Daphne nodded her head. She gathered her things, and left Hannah inside the music room. As soon as she is alone, Hannah went to the piano, and sat in front of it. She have been playing the violin for the orchestra, and she have missed playing the piano. She smiled to herself as her fingers trailed it's ivory keys. As her fingers touched the smooth surface, she felt more than contented. Before she knew it, she was already making music, and the music she was making is a familiar song that she have not heard for a long time. It was her song, the song that Arron have made for her before he died.

As she hears this familiar melody, she could feel Arron's presence beside her. She felt she was with him once again. She missed him so much, and this is the only way she felt she could be with him. “Arron, my dreams are finally coming true...” she thought. “Your dream... my dream... You're always with me to help me have it, right? I wish... I wish you're here to see it. I wish you're here to see how happy I am. But maybe... from where you are... you can already see it. I bet you are helping me achieve all the best things in this life...” she said to herself.

Aaron was walking through the hall, when he heard a melody coming from the music room. He paused, then he closed his eyes and listened to it carefully. It was a soulful melody. He could feel that the one who composed that song must be full of love. “Who could that be?” he thought. Then, he found himself walking towards the music room. From the narrow glass on the door, he peeked inside, and saw a short haired girl playing the piano. She was all smiles as she played that soulful song. Then, he found himself smiling to himself. He continued to watch her as she played the piano, but it's not the melody that has caught his attention, but the petite girl. “It's her...” he thought to himself. He stared at her, watching her more closely. Her eyes were hidden behind those thick frames, but it could never hide how her eyes sparkle. Her smile was a sweet one, her cheeks showing her little dimple on her right cheek. As she looked up, and close her eyes, he saw her let herself be one with music. And he enjoyed watching her this way.

--

“Young master...”

Aaron's thoughts were interrupted when Robert called him. He turned his eyes on him. “I told you not to call me young master, Robert.” he said. The elder man could only smile at him. “I'm sorry, Aaron.” he said. Aaron turned away from him, and continued to look outside the glass window. “The mistress would like to know what happened at the Royal Harmonic Orchestra?” Robert asked. His mind drifted to that sweet memory before he left the Orchestra's center. “Oh... what happened at the Orchestra?” he asked again. He could see Robert's reflection nodding at him. He remembered the petite girl at the piano. He remembered the soft melody she was playing. His thoughts were filled with her, and her only. “It... it's OK, I guess. It went on smoothly...” he said.

Robert nodded that Aaron was smiling giddily at himself. “There is something else that happened, right?” he asked. Aaron looked at him again, and laughed. “What made you think that something else happened?” he asked. “Oh, I know you, Aaron. I know you since you were a young toddler. I know that something interesting happened to you when you smile like that. Tell me, Aaron. What interesting happened to you when you went to the Orchestra's center?” Robert asked. The elder man could see his cheeks turn crimson red. “Oh, there is, Robert. There is...” he said. Robert smiled at him as he folded his arms. “Oh, then tell me, Aaron. I want to know.” he said. “Remember the girl that caught my attention on my first day back here in Vienna?” he asked. Robert nodded his head. “I found her again, Robert.” he said. Then, Aaron smiled at him. “I found her again.”

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic

Sunday, September 27, 2009

99 Love Notes Poster

I have installed GIMP on my laptop a few weeks ago, and I'm happy with it! It works in the same way as Adobe Photoshop. And since I have this photoshop-like software on my PC, I've experimented on making a Fan Fic poster for 99 Love Notes.

So, what do you think? Any comments?

Labels: 99 Love Notes, poster

99 Love Notes - Chapter 4

Chapter 4 – Something New



I guess I wanted something new in my life...
A new key to fit a new door...
Through where I can see a different view in life
The one that I've been waiting for...

--

Chun stepped out of the airport, clutching his luggage at one hand, and another bag at the other. “Tokyo...” he said to himself. He could not believe his luck. First, he got promoted, and now, he was sent to their branch in Tokyo. Since he was young, he have been fascinated with this city. And he couldn't believe that he was able to step into this foreign land. “It's going to be one hell of fun, Chunnie!” he said himself.

“Excuse me, but are you Wu Ji Chun?” he heard someone ask him. He looked back, and saw an old friend from high school – Ikuta Toma. He took off his shades, and looked at him with his eyes almost popping out. “Toma-chan?” he asked. Toma smiled, and nodded his head. “The one and only.” he said. “Man! It's so cool to see you again! Don't tell me you're the one who's going to pick me up?”
“You working for Tricks Inc. right?”
“Yeah, that's the name of my company.”
“And you're our newest head programmer, right?”
“Yeah...”
“Yeah, I think you're the right guy I'm going to pick up.”

Toma helped Chun with his bags, and led him inside the car. Along the way, the two long-lost friends talked. “So, how's it going, Chun? Still not married?” Toma asked. Chun smiled and shook his head. “Nah... still playing the field. How about you?” he asked. Toma nodded his head. “I got married two years ago, and you won't believe who I married.” he said. Chun gave him a confused look. “Who?” he asked. Toma only gave him a smile. “Who else, but Ella Chen.” Toma said. Chun was surprised at what he said. “That's great... seems everyone from high school are getting married...” he said. He looked away from him, as the smile in his face slowly faded.

Suddenly, he felt that familiar pain in his heart again. He felt the loneliness filling him up over again. Ella and Toma were his best friends back in high school. Back then, he had a crush on Ella, but he knew that Ella liked Toma. He even helped the two to get together, and he was glad that they finally got married. But with that fact, Chun could not deny the loneliness he is feeling because of being alone. “Why don't you settle down? Maybe you could find a cute Japanese girl here that you can marry.” Toma said. Chun just let out a laugh. “The girl who would make me settle down haven't been born yet.” he said. “Or maybe, you haven't met the girl whom you want to spend the rest of your life with. Who knows, maybe you'll meet her here in Japan.” Toma said. Chun laughed again. “No way, Toma... no way...” he said.

The car made it stop to a 4-storey building. Toma got out of the car, and Chun followed him. “Anyway, since you'll be here for long, the company rented you an apartment. You'll be staying right next to us.” Toma said. Chun looked at him with a surprised expression on his face. “S-stay right next to your apartment?!” he exclaimed. Toma simply smiled. “Isn't it great? You're our new neighbor.” he said. Chun sighed as he followed Toma inside the building. It seems that things are more complicated than he thought. Next thing he knew, they were standing in front of his new apartment. “Here's your key... anyway, take a rest for. Ella will be making dinner for us. Our apartment is right across yours, so don't hesitate to knock if you need anything.” Toma said before he left his apartment.

As soon as Toma left, Chun immediately grabbed his phone from his pocket, and made a long distance call to Calvin. “Hello?” he heard Calvin on the other line. “Cal... you wouldn't believe this.” he said. “What is it?”
“Remember that Japanese exchange student from high school? Toma-chan?”
“Yeah, I know him all right...”
“Well, he's working in the same company as I am...”
“Isn't that great? Aren't the two of you really close back then? Why the gloomy tone?”
Chun let out a sigh before he speaks again. “And remember Ella Chen?” he asked. “Yeah, she's one of your buddies right? What about her?”
“Turns out that she's Toma's wife...”

Calvin became silent for a while. “Wait,wait, wait... Ella Chen? Toma Ikuta? Are you kidding me?” he asked. He heard Chun sigh on the other line. “I wish I am...” Chun said. “Isn't it great? My two best friends in high school ended up together? Lucky me, I'm stuck with another couple!”

--

“Maki!”

Maki looked back, and saw her friend, Ella, coming up to her. “Oh, Ella-san. What's the rush?” she asked. “Are you going to the market?” Ella asked. Maki smiled and nodded her head. “I need to buy something for dinner tonight. It's my off, and I promised my imouto I would cook her favorite.” she said. Ella smiled at her. “Then, can I go with you? Maybe you can help me. An old friend came here today, and I wanted to serve a really good Japanese food for him.” she said. “No worries, Ella-san. You approached the right person.” she said. Then, the two girls headed to the grocery to buy food.

Maki have known Ella since college, and they were room mates back then. They were inseparable, even until now. When Ella got married, she and her sister also moved into to the same apartment building where they live. Her younger sister, Nana, would usually baby sit for their daughter, Yukiko. “So, what are you planning to cook for your guest?” Maki asked as they walked through the aisle of the supermarket. “I'm not sure, Maki-san. Jacky is really not that picky when it comes to food, but I want to impress the guy with my cooking skills.” Ella said. Maki just smiled at Ella. She handed her a cabbage, and Ella put it inside her cart. “He really is a good friend, huh?” she asked. Ella nodded her head. “He is my classmate back in Taiwan. He is also Toma's good friend. It's been a long time since I last saw him, saw I want this dinner to be very memorable to him.”
“Is he here for vacation?”
“No, he's here for work. Actually, he's going to live on the apartment next to ours.”
“I hope I could meet your friend sometime, Ella...”
“I would love you to meet him. But I must warn you... Jacky has a reputation for being a playboy. He was a heartthrob in our school back then... so you might fall for his charms.”

Maki just let out a laugh at what Ella said. “Me? Fall for his charms? No way! You know that I've already swore off guys. There's no way I could fall in love.” she said. Ella smiled and just shook her head. “Easy for you to say. Once you get to meet Jacky, you might fall in love with him.” she said. Maki shook her head again. “No way, Ella-san. No way. I promised myself I will never ever fall in love again.” she said. Ella looked sadly at her friend. She knew exactly why she was being like this. Her friend had a bad experience before, that's why she promised herself not to fall in love again. “I know, Maki-chan. And I also know that you will not fall in love until Nana graduates from college, right?” she said. Maki smiled at her, and nodded her head. “You bet!” she said.

--

“This is just great...” Chun said to himself as he plopped on his bed. “And I thought I could get away from those love-dovey couples... and what do you know, I would bump into Mr. And Mrs. Ikuta here...” he said. He let out a sigh, and closed his eyes. When he found out that Toma and Ella are married, he was happy. But then, he couldn't help but feel envy. Not that he still have feelings for Ella, but because his friend have finally found the love of his life. Most of his friends have found the one they love, but as for him, he haven't. All the while, they all thought he's enjoying his life as a bachelor. All the while, they all thought he's enjoying playing the field, and dating a lot of girls. The truth is, he's getting tired of the kind of life he's living.

He's only 24. He's still too young, he knows that. Yes, he dated a lot of girls, but he did that hoping he could find “the one”. He have been searching for so long, but it seems that he couldn't find the right girl for him. It seems that those girls that comes into his life are all the wrong ones. He always gives the excuse that he's not ready for a long-term commitment, but the truth behind is, he just couldn't see himself being with the wrong girl for a long time. He only wanted to have his own happy ending, just like how his friends found theirs. He only wanted someone whom he could give his love to. Someone whom he could share his inner thoughts, someone who would understand him, and who would accept him for who he really is. He wanted someone who could see him through his facade.

He sat up from his bed, and looked outside the window. “Would I be able to find that girl here in Tokyo?” he thought. He smiled to himself, then he shook his head. “I'll be staying here for a long time... who knows? I might finally meet the girl of my dreams.” he thought to himself. He laid down on his bed again, and stared up on the ceiling. He was in his deep thoughts, that he didn't realize that he have already fallen asleep.

--

Chun found himself standing before a grassy field. He looked from afar, and saw a carousel spinning around. He smiled to himself, and walked towards it. His eyes glimmered as he watched the porcelain horse go round and round. Then, at one of the horses, his eyes caught a petite, short-haired girl in a long white dress. She was leaning to the pole that holds the porcelain horse in it's place. He paused, and took a glimpse of her again. As the horse came into his view, he saw her, and was able to see a closer look at her. She have a pretty pair of big black eyes, and her skin was as smooth as silk. She was smiling sadly, and as he caught a glimpse of his eyes, he could see the loneliness in it. He felt his heart ache upon seeing her sad eyes. He wanted to take her sadness away. He wanted to make her smile.

He waited again until she came into his view, but a few rounds have been made, but she was no longer there. “Where are you?” he thought. His eyes frantically searched for that girl. “Don't leave... where are you?” he thought. He was about to make his move to find her, but then he heard a girl calling his name. “Chun...” he heard a soft voice calling him. He looked back, and saw the girl at the carousel standing before him. Her white dress was almost torn into pieces and disheveled. Her face was smudged with black mascara. There was also a fresh wound in her arm. “Chun...” she called again. As she looked at him, tears began to fall from her eyes. He made a step towards her, but the girl began to step backward. “Don't...” she said. “Don't come near to me... you... you will only get hurt...” she said. Chun shook his head. “I... I don't care. I love you.” he said. Then, he ran towards her, and as he got close to her, he pulled her to his embrace. “I love you...” he whispered to her. He felt a tear fall down from her eyes again. “Chun...” she whispered. Then, he felt her hands lift up as she hugged him tight.

Chun woke up from the constant ringing on his phone. He slowly opened his eyes, and then sighed. “What a dream... and someone just interrupted it!” he thought. He sat up on his bed, and took his phone to answer it. “Whoever you are, this must be good. You've just interrupted my beautiful dream.” he said. He heard Danson snickering at the other line. “Wow! Someone just woke up at the wrong side of the bed...” Danson said. “Wow, and you just called me to tell me that?” Chun said sarcastically. “Of course not! I'm checking on my buddy. How are you doing there in Japan?” Danson asked. “Doing fine, thank you very much. Now, if you'll excuse me, I've got a dream to catch.” he said. Then, he ended the call, and turned his phone off. He went back to sleep, but he was interrupted by a knock on the door. He dragged himself up of the bed to open the door. It was Toma.

“Hey, dinner's ready!” Toma said as soon as he opened the door. Chun let out a yawn, and then nodded his head. “I'll be there. Give me time to fix myself.” he said. Toma nodded his head, and went back to their apartment. Chun headed back to his room to freshen up, and change his clothes.

Meanwhile, at Toma's apartment, Maki was busy helping Ella make a desert for Chun. “Done!” Maki said as she placed the tiramisu on the tabkle. She took off her apron, and then turned to Ella. “Ella-chan, I have to go. I promised Nana I'll help her with her assignments.” Maki said. “Don't you want to stay, Maki? I would love you to meet our friend...” she said. Maki smiled and shook her head. “Maybe next time, Ella. I promise that.” she said. “That's too bad...” Ella said, frowning at her. Then, tomo got inside the kitchen. “Ella, dear... you're not trying to set up Maki with our friend, right?” he asked. Ella turned to her husband as he kissed her on the cheek. “Of course not! I just want Maki to meet our good friend.” she said. “I promise you, Ella. Next time.” Maki said. Ella just smiled and nodded her head. “Well, can't wait for you to meet him.” she said. Maki said goodbye to the couple, and then went out of their apartment.

Just as Chun opened the door of his apartment, Maki just made her turn to the stairs to head back to her apartment. Chun walked to Toma's apartment, and then knocked. After a while, Ella opened the door. “Hi, Mrs. Ikuta!” he greeted. “Jacky!” Ella said. She gave him a big hug. “Wow! You're more handsome than before. I bet you made a lot of ladies cried back in Taiwan, huh?” she teased him. Chun just laughed, and shook his head. “Of course not. And please, stop calling me Jacky. How many times do I have to tell you to call me Chun, mushroom face!” he said. Ella just laughed at him. “You know I like teasing you with your English name. Anyway, welcome to our humble abode, Chun.” she said.

Chun entered their apartment, and Ella let him sit on the couch. “Wait here a while. I'm preparing our dinner. I'll call Toma to entertain you for a while.” Ella said before she headed to the kitchen. Chun's eyes roamed around the place. He saw Toma and Ella's wedding picture at the table. He took it, and looked at it closely. “They look good together...” he thought. Then, he sighed. He wondered, when would he see himself in a wedding picture, with the right girl beside him? “Aki Chu?” he heard someone say. He looked down, and saw a cute little girl, around 2, smiling at him. “Oh, hello there, princess.” he said, smiling at him. “Aki Chu?” the girl asked again.

“That's my daughter, Yukiko.” he heard Toma said. He carried Yukiko up, and then he sat beside Chun. “She's turning two this October. Which reminds me... she have the same birthday as you.” Toma said. Chun smiled at the girl, and then pinched her button nose. “Such a cute kid.” he said. Yukiko giggled at what Chun said. “Hmmm... since my little hime is fond of uncle Chun. Don't we, baby?” Toma said as he face his daughter towards him. Chun watched as Toma rubbed his nose against Yukiko's nose, which made the little girl giggle. “Pa... pa... pa... pa...” the little girl mumbled. Then, Toma turned to Chun. “She's my little angel. You know, you should have one, Chun. I tell you, your life will really change when you got yourself a child.” he said. Chun just laughed, and shook his head. “I'm not really good with kids, Toma. Maybe I am, but with other people's kids. Besides, having a kid is a huge responsibility. I'm trying to avoid long-term commitments, then I'll get myself a child? No way.” he said. Toma just shook his head. “You know, Chun... once you get to find the girl you will love for the rest of your life, your views will change, I tell you. Maybe the one who's going to tie you down is here in Japan. Who knows...” Toma said. “Please, Toma-chan. I told you, there's no way I'll settle down.” he said. “Let's just wait and see.” Toma said.

Just then, Ella emerged from the kitchen, and called them for dinner. Toma and Yukiko stood up, and followed Ella at the dining room. Chun stood up, and watched the happy family before him. The truth is, he badly wanted to have the life that Toma have know. He seems so contented with his life. He have a beautiful wife, and a beautiful daughter who looked exactly like Ella. The smile on his face slowly faded at that thought.

He is lonely.

And all he wanted is a family as warm as this one.

--

Dreams like everyone
I've have a few in my life
Who knew that time
Would come true in my life
I knew the moment that you touched me...
You touched me...

--

Aaron Yan Ya Lun.

He walked outside the airport, and smiled to himself. “Vienna... finally...” he thought. He looked up at the blue sky, and let out a sigh of content. “Guess this is a start of a new life for me...” he thought. Just then, a black Mercedes Benz stopped before him. A man in his late thirties came out, and gave him a warm smile. “Welcome back to Vienna, young master.” he said. Aaron smiled, and nodded his head at him. “Thank you, Robert.” he said. Robert opened the door for him, and Aaron got inside the car. Robert got inside the car as well, and sat beside him. “So, shall we head to the mansion first, young master?” he asked. Aaron shook his head. “I don't want to stay at the mansion, Robert.” he said. The elder man looked at him with confusion. “But young master...”
“I didn't specifically asked for the mansion, Robert. Besides, I came back here, not as the great Aaron Yan. I came back here in Vienna to live a new life.”

Then, he faced Robert, and smiled at him. “I want to live an ordinary life, Robert. Do you understand that?” he asked. Robert smiled and nodded his head. “I understand that, young master. But you see, the mistress have arranged the mansion for you. You know how worried she is about you always... after what happened to your twin brother...” he said. “I know that, Robert. I know that. But since I'll be living here on my own, I want to plan y life according to how I want it. I don't want to be pampered, or let anyone treat me like an important person. I am a new person now...” he said. Then, he turned to his butler. “And one more thing, Robert...” Aaron said. Robert looked at him again. “Stop calling me young master. Call me Aaron, or Ya Lun... whatever makes you comfortable.” he said. The elder man just smiled, and nodded his head. “As you wish, Aaron.” he said.

As the car roams the street of Vienna, Arron looked outside the window, enjoying the view before him. Then, something caught his attention – it's a petite girl walking the opposite direction. The car stopped, and he was able to gaze at the girl for a long time. She had a short hair, and her almond eyes were hidden beyond those eye glasses. He looked at her closely, and smiled to himself. “Chinese... she's definitely Chinese...” he thought to himself. As he looked at her, he found himself being drawn to this girl. She may look plain, but the more he looked at her, the more that she's becoming pretty in his eyes. Then, the girl made her move, and crossed the street. His car made a move, and his eyes were on her until she is no longer out of sight.

“Someone caught your attention, Aaron?” he heard Robert asked. Aaron looked at him, and smiled. “Someone interesting.” he said. He looked outside the window. He wasn't paying attention to the view of the street. Rather, his mind was drifting to that girl he just saw. “Will I see her again? I have to see her again... I have to...” he thought to himself.

Labels: 99 Love Notes, fan fic