Chapter 12 – You Win


In the end, there were two hearts that were hurting.
One, is that of the man-hater who learned to open her heart because of him.
And the other, is that of the playboy who have finally realized what it really is like to love a woman...

--

As soon as Rainie opened the door, Ella stormed inside the house. “Ella?” she called. She managed to see the tears in her eyes somehow, even though she ran away from her. She could only watch as Ella ran up to her room. “What happened?” Hebe asked, looking at Ella. Rainie let out a sigh. “I don't know... but I think this has something to do with a bastard named Wu Chun.” she said angrily. “Hey, let's not assume things here, all right? Maybe it has nothing to do with him.” Hebe said. “I have a strong feeling that he does!” Rainie said. Hebe shook her head, and then followed Ella up to her bed room. Rainie followed her as well.

As they opened the door of her room, they saw her lying on her bed, and they could hear her crying. “Ella?” Hebe asked. She walked up to her bed, and sat beside her. She brushed her hair to comfort her crying friend. “Ella... what's wrong?” she asked again. Ella sat up from her bed, and hugged Hebe. “It hurts, Hebe... it hurts...” she said as she cried. “It hurts to know... that... he only became close to me because of a dare... that he just used me... it really hurts...”

Rainie folded her arms, and was angered by what Ella said. “Wait, you mean to say that bastard became close to because of a dare?” she asked. Ella nodded her head slowly. “He... he had to make me fall in love for him in three months... or he'll lose his precious car to George. He... he did that because... because he wants to get back at me... for getting back at him... for hurting Rainie...” Ella said in between sobs. She buried her face on Hebe's shoulder, and then began to cry. “That bastard...” Rainie hissed. “Maybe Chun didn't mean to do that. I know he loves Ella so much, and he knows how she was hurt in the past. Chun will not do any stupid thing to hurt Ella.” Hebe said. “Knowing that jerk, of course he will just play with Ella's feeling. So much for his speech before! I knew he is just toying with our friend! It's enough that he played with my feelings before... but now that it's Ella... I can never forgive him for this!” Rainie said angrily. “I thought he love me... I really thought he did... that what he showed me... is real... damn I feel like a fool to believe him...” Ella said. Rainie let out a sigh, and then sat next to her. Ella turned to her, and hugged her. “I always tell you to guard your heart from him, Ella... look at what he did to you. He broke your heart as well. You knew from the start that he is a bastard.” Rainie said as she consoled her friend. “I... I knew that... I was wrong... I'm... I'm so sorry...” Ella said to her.

Rainie pulled her away, and looked at her friend in the eye. “Ella... you don't have to say sorry to me, all right? I knew this coming... and you... you just opened your heart to him right after you faced Ah Ru. It's just that, he's the wrong man for you, for me, for any girl. He isn't just the right guy that you should love, and definitely not the right guy to deserve you at all. He is the one that should be sorry, because he never understood how wonderful you are. He will find another you. Remember that.” she said. Ella wiped the tears from her eyes, and nodded her head. Rainie smiled at her. “You are much stronger than that, Ella. I know you. When Ah Ru left you, you just cried for a night, and then you moved on the next day. You should do that again. Prove to that bastard that you can live without him, that your world does not revolve around him. Prove to him that its his lost, not yours.” Rainie said. Ella smiled at her finally. “Yes. I'll prove to him that he's wrong that he messed up with the mighty Ella Chen.” she said. With that, the three friends laughed. The two hugged Ella, but as Ella held on to them and closed her eyes, the tears began to fall again.

--

And while Ella have found the courage to move on from all the things that happened with a little help from her friends, Chun, on the other hand, found himself alone at the bar, drinking himself to death. That night was supposed to be a happy night for him, he was looking forward to this night that he will propose to Ella. He was too close to having his happiness, and it was all ruined because Ella found out all about the dare.

“Hey, Chun... what are you doing here?” Show asked, sitting right next to Chun. He continued to sip his drink, ignoring his friend. “I thought tonight is the big night. Why are you sitting here all alone?” Mike asked. Chun looked at Mike, and let out a sigh. “Let me guess... Ella turned down your marriage proposal?” Show asked again. Chun shook his head. “Worst. She found out all about the bet. And she's mad at me. And she broke up with me.” Chun said. He let out a sigh as he lay his head on the table. “She broke up with me...” Chun said again sadly. He closed his eyes and bit his lips, trying his best not to cry in front of his friends. “She broke up with me...” he said again. Mike and Show looked at each other, and then turned to Chun. “Man, it's gonna be all right. Don't cry over her. Remember, it's girls that cry over Wu Ji Chun, not the other way around. It's just... a girl. You can find another one. There's a lot of fishes in the ocean, as they say. ” Show said. Chun sat up, and glared at him. “I don't want any other fish. If it's not Ella Chen, then I'd rather not be with anyone else. She is the only one I want, and need, all right?” he said angrily to him. Show lifted his hand to block himself in case the drunk Chun would attack him. “I get it, I get it. No need to be mad at me.” Show said.

Chun turned away from him, and finished up his drink. “I can't live without her. Hell, I don't even see myself without her... she's mad at me... I don't know what else to do to win her back.. maybe it would be better if I just die...” he said. “Man, don't be like that. Maybe you can talk to her when she calms down. Don't think of... you know... dying...” Mike said. Chun laid his head on the counter again. “I know her... when she's mad like that... she never give second chances... for her, we're over... I can't accept that... I can't... I want her so much in my life... I love her...” Chun said tearfully. “Maybe it is a good idea to commit suicide. At least if you do that, she'll feel sorry for you, and you win her back.” Show said. Mike glared at him. “Not a good idea, Show Luo.” he said. Show just rolled his eyes at his friend. Mike patted Chun's back, and as he looked up at him, he smiled. “Chun, don't worry... if you want, we can help you explain things to Ella. If you have to do those crazy things all over again to win her heart, we'll help you, all right? Don't drink yourself to death.” he said.

But Chun did not believe what he said. He just looked away from Mike, took his glass, and drink himself to death.

--

“Ella, since you and that bastard-which-must-not-be-named are over, I think it's time that you go out on a date.”

Ella's eyes widened at what Rainie said. “Me? Go out on a date?” she asked. Rainie nodded her head, and sat next to her. “I think it's a good chance for you to meet other people. And a good chance for you to meet the right guy for you.” she said. She let out a sigh, and leaned back on her chair. The thought of dating strangers makes her uncomfortable. “I don't know... maybe I should think about it?” she said. “All right, Ella. But make sure to say yes. Besides, I already arranged some dates for you.” Rainie said. Ella just let out a groan. “Fine... I will think about it.” she said.

--

“What do you want to order, Chun? Their cakes look delicious!” Mike said excitedly as he peeked at the glass display. Chun just stared at the kiwi cake on the display, and remembered the time when he ordered that cake for Ella. “Kiwi cake...” he muttered monotonously. “Yeah. I know you like kiwi cake. They said their kiwi cake is the best here.” Mike said. “Ella hates kiwi cakes. She's allergic to it. And I forgot... but I still ordered that to her... she got mad, and in the end, she dumped the cake on me...” he said. Mike turned to his zombie friend, and he could see that he was about to cry. Before a tear could fall from his eyes (and before he could make a scene at the cafe), he held his shoulders and turned him to face him.

“OK, buddy...” Mike said. “Listen to me. Just for today, do not, I repeat, do not think of Ella Chen, all right?” he said. “How could I not think about her? She's on my mind 24/7...” he said sadly. Mike sighed, and shook his head. “OK... then don't look at things that will remind you of her.” he said. Chun shook his head. “I can't. This is her favorite cafe. Do you know, she always comes here at 4 PM to have coffee? She loves cappuccino and cheesecakes...” he said. Mike took a deep breath, and counted to ten silently. He knew his friend is broken hearted, and he was trying his best to cheer him up, but it seems that Chun prefer to linger on his memories with Ella. “OK... do you want to go and eat somewhere else?” Mike asked. Chun shook his head. “Can we just eat here? Ella loves to eat here.” Chun said. “We can't. Especially if your mind is filled with Ella. And most especially, when you have that look in your face as if you want to cry. Now, gather yourself together, and move on.” Mike said.

Chun just let out a sigh. “Fine...” he said. As they turned to head the door, they saw Rainie and Hebe together. With the way Rainie looked at them, he knew both of them will be dead meet. Mike swallowed hard as Rainie got nearer to them. “Hurry up, Chun. Let's go...” Mike said, tugging his friend. “Hey, it's Rainie... she's Ella's best friend, did you know that? She was so protective of her...” Chun muttered. “I know that part, now, let's go.” Mike said, pulling him away. But still, Chun remained standing on his place as if waiting for Rainie to attack him. “Do you know... she, Hebe and Rainie have been friends since kindergarten. They were her only family, since her mom died...” Chun muttered again. “It's no time for some random Ella Chen trivias. Let's go, or you're gonna be dead!” Mike said.

“Wu Ji Chun!” Rainie shouted at them. She walked up to them, and as she reached them, she punched Chun in the face, making him fall on the floor. “Chun!” Mike exclaimed. He helped his friend up. “That is for breaking my best friend's heart, you bastard! I told you before, you break her heart I will definitely break you neck!” she shouted angrily at her. Chun sat up, and wiped the blood from his lips. “I know... I'm sorry...” he sad sadly. “Sorry?! Sorry?! Is that all you're gonna say? Let me tell you this, you jerk... my best friend deserve someone better. One day, she will find a man 1000 times much better than you! And you will regret why you ever hurt her! You don't deserve her at all, Wu Chun! You are a bastard!” she shouted at her again. After that, the two turned their backs on them, and left.

“Come on, buddy... let's go, all right?” Mike said as he helped him up. Chun is still in daze with what happened. “She will find another time 1000 times better than me... am I really that worse, Mike?” he asked. “Aiyo, Chun... forget what Rainie said. I still believe that you deserve Ella's love...” he said. “But I broke her heart... I don't know what came into me that I agreed to that bet... I wish I didn't do it...” he said. Then, he turned to Mike. “What will I do if he finds another man much better than me? What if she goes back to Ah Ru? Mike, I could not live without her, I really can't...” he said tearfully. With the way Chun looked, he knew that his friend will break down any time soon, and before that could happen, he pulled him out of the cafe.

--

Rainie tailed behind Ella as she walked around the living room. “Ella, listen to me... just this once... go out on a date with Gino...” she said. Ella sighed, and turned to Rainie. “Look, I don't even know this friend of yours...” she said. “That's why you have to go out on a date with him! So that you get to know him. He is a good man, Ella. Much better than Ah Ru and that bastard-which-must-not-be-named!” Rainie said.

Ella let out a sigh as she sat on the couch. It's just been merely two weeks since she found out about the dare, and since she broke up with Chun, but she's just not ready to go out on a date with another guy. She admits, she still have feelings left for Chun, but she could not just forgive him for what he did. “Ella, please... do this for me? It will take your mind off the situation for a while.” Rainie said. Ella looked at her friend, and saw her giving her puppy eyes. She let out a sigh, and finally nodded her. “All right...” she said. With that, Rainie shrieked with glee. “But...” she added. “just this once.”

--

Ella entered the restaurant, and looked around. At one corner, he saw a guy waving at him. She smiled at him, and the walked to his direction. The man stood up, and smiled at her. “Hi. You must be Ella?” he asked. Ella smiled back at him, and nodded her head. “And you're Gino?” she asked. He nodded his head. Then, he helped her to her seat. “Thank you...” she said. “I've been hearing a lot about you from Rainie. She's right, you're really pretty.” Gino said. Ella just laughed at what he said. “Thank you for the compliment.” she said. “I wish I could have met you before. I wonder why Rainie didn't tell me she have a pretty friend?” Gino said. Just then, the smile on her face slowly faded as she her mind drifted back to the the first time she met Chun.

[Flashback]
“So, where have you been all my life?” Chun asked her as she held her hand. Ella let out a fake flirty laugh. “What a lame pickup line! I'm probably hiding from you?” she thought. “You're such a charmer! I don't even know what your name is...” she said. Chun smiled at her. “I'm Chun. Wu Ji Chun. And you are...”
“I'm Chen Jia Hua.”
“So, Hua... do you believe in love at first sight?”
“Why do you ask?”
“Because when you walked in to that door, I found myself spending the rest of my life with you...”
[End of Flashback]

“So, shall we order?” Gino asked. Ella snapped out of her thoughts, and looked up at Gino, and nodded her head. “OK...” she said. She took the menu, and read it. “So, what do you want to eat, Ella? I heard their steak here is the best.” Gino said. “I'll go with the steak...” Ella said, still reading the menu. Gino called on the waiter to make their order. “Two beef steaks for me and the lady here, and for dessert...” He looked at the menu again to check on their desserts. “Ella, I understand that you're allergic to kiwi cakes, right? Is blueberry cheesecake cool with you?” he asked.

Ella found herself staring up at Gino. With the mention of kiwi cake, she suddenly remembered another incident involving Wu Chun.

[Flashback]
“Oh, hi Ella.” he said cheekily. Ella could only let out an evil smile at him. “Hello Mr. Wu. I don't know if you're stalking me, and wanting to kill me.” she said. Chun gave her a confused look. “Why would I want to kill you?” he asked. “Because you sent me a kiwi cake.”
“So?”
“I am allergic to kiwis.”
He felt as if someone poured cold water on him. He forgot that she is allergic to kiwis. He flinched as he let out an embarrassed smile. “I... I didn't know... I'm sorry...” he said. Ella glared at him. “Now, you know.” she said. Then, she dumped the cake over his head.
[End of Flashback]

Ella stared into nothingness. She could hear Gino talking, but her mind is not absorbing everything he was saying. There would be a time that he would pause, to ask her if she's all right, and she would just give her a blank stare and nod her head.

She still loves Chun.

As much as she wants to hate him for playing with her feelings, she still loves that jerk. She realized that this night seems to bore the hell out of her. Gino is not Chun, he will never be. He isn't as funny as he is, not without the corny pickup lines he always says. He maybe complimenting her, but only Chun could flatter her in a way that she could feel ever so beautiful and blush like a giddy school girl. He maybe as handsome as Chun, but he doesn't have the boyish smile that Chun have, which makes her weak in the knees.

She doesn't want to be with anyone else, but Chun.

And as she had that realization, a familiar song was played all over the place. A song, which was sung to her by Chun when he was still chasing her.

Don't be afraid
I can meet you half way
We cant always know
Where the road ends up
But with some luck
I know we can go
Where-ever we imagine

It was Chun that's doing all the chasing. It was him who met her, not just half-way though, but the whole way. It was Chun who did all the craziest and most impossible thing at her request. He brought Calvin back to her, so that she could find out the truth and finally moved on. He spent a night in jail because of her, and almost ended up being harassed by gay prisoners. He dressed up as a girl at her request, not minding the ridicule or being harassed by some perverts. It was Chun, only Chun, that would do everything to make her smile.

You ought to see
All your heroes in me
But if we get wise
We can break the walls we make
And you can see in my eyes
Whatever we imagine...

He stood up for her. He protected her, he cared for her. Looking back, she finally realized that all the things he did before, it's because he truly loves her. It's not about having her on her bed. She was on his bed a few times, but never did he touch her or forced her. He changed because of her, and she was too blinded by her anger not to realize all these things.

[Flashback]
“Look, I don't know why you hate me, or all other guys for that matter. But let me prove to you that I am way better than that Calvin guy...”

---
“I can also make impossible things possible, Ella...”

---

“I'm not always a jerk. Besides, how can I make love to someone who is dead drunk and have been crying all through the night? It won't be that fun.”

---

“Have I told you that you're the most beautiful girl in this room?”
“How many times have you used that pickup line?”
“Don't you believe me?”
“You are a playboy, Chun. Do you expect me to believe that I am the first person you told me that?”
“For tonight, yes.”
“So, I should expect that by the end of the night, I'll be hearing you say that line to half the girls in this room?”
“No.”
“Or, should I expect that I'll be calling Rainie to pick me up here at the hotel, for you'll be going home with some random girls.”
“No.”
Ella let out another smirk at him. “Shut up. You think I'll fall for that I-only-have-my-eyes-on-Ella-Chen attitude of yours?” she asked.. “I'm not expecting you to fall for it. I'm expecting you to believe it, actually.”
Do you have an idea that it would take you more than this beautiful gown, or this fancy party to win my heart?”
“Yes. And I'm willing to do the most impossible and the craziest thing that you ask of me, Ella.”

---

“It's all about being with someone I can't live without.” he said. Then, he let out another boyish smile. “So, of all those girls you dated before, you never felt that you can't live without them?” she asked. Chun nodded his head. “I only felt that with you...” he said.

--

“Despite what you said to Joanne, I'm still wishing that you can need me the way that I need you, that you will want me as much as I want you. But don't worry, I won't give up. I will work hard so that you will realize that what I feel for you is real.”

---

“I have always loved you, and I don't care whatever it is that happened to you in the past. If you just give me the chance, I can help you mend your broken heart and your broken soul...”

---

I love you. I really do, Ella. If I have to make a fool of myself right here, right now... just to prove my point, I will. You know I will. All I'm asking is for you to believe. I never felt this way with anyone before... just with you...”

---

“I have more than enough love for the two of us, Ella...”

---

“When do you think will you get tired of me?” she asked. “When I turn 101, I guess.” Chun said.

---

“So, what if I fall for you?” she asked. Chun let out a smile at her. “Then, I'll catch you when you fall.” he said. “And the chase is over?” she asked. Chun shook her head. “It will just be the beginning.” he said.

---

“Wait... why are you asking me about my dream house. You are the one going to build the house here. What kind of house do you like anyway?” she asked. Chun smiled at her, and then looked at the lot. “Anything... as long as you're inside that house... it's my dream home.” he said.
[End of Flashback]

“Ella, are you all right?” she heard Gino asked. Ella looked up at him, and shook her head. “I... I'm sorry, Gino...” she said. She immediately stood up from her seat. “I... I can't do this. I really can't. There's someone else...”

She was expecting Gino to be mad at her, but then, she was surprised to see him smile. “I know. You still love him, right?” he asked. Ella nodded her head. “I knew it. I knew it with that look on your face. Don't worry, I understand, Ella. Go and chase after him. Tell him how you feel before it's too late.” Gino said. With that, Ella smiled at him. “Thank you, Gino...” she said. “Thank you for understanding...”

--

Chun sat alone on his favorite sport at his favorite bar. As he finished his first drink that night, he took the small velvety box from the table, and stared at it. It still contained the ring he was suppose to give to Ella - the wedding ring that will prove his undying love for her. But because of the stupid dare he made with his friends, everything ended abruptly. He was still wishing that one day, he would be able to give Ella that ring.

If there's such a thing as one great love, then Ella would be the greatest love of his life. He have done crazy thing, and endured being a fool just to be with her. He have never felt this way with any other girls. He could never love another woman, as much as he loved her. And no one would ever come close to her at all.

Maybe it's impossible for now to have Ella back in his life. Time will have to ease all the hurt she is feeling, and erase the bad memories she had of him. He doesn't know if he would be thankful with that bet or not. If he did not agree to that bet, he would not met such a wonderful woman. Maybe, if he didn't took that challenge, he would still be the same old Chun – living a lonely life and trying to be happy in the arms of different girls each night. He will still be the same Chun that will never know what love exactly is. He will be the same Chun that goes to this bar every after work to flirt with all the single ladies. He loved who he became to be when Ella came into his life. He loved himself more now, because there was this one woman whom he loved so much.

But then, that dare also ruined the two of them together. George have already apologized to him, and explained to him the reason how Ella might have found out all about it. Joanne forced him to tell her about the bet, and in return, Joanne told Ella about it. There's nothing he could do now to control the damage. Things that happened have already happened.

“Hey Chun, you're alone tonight? Want me to be your date?”

He looked beside him, and saw a girl flirting with him. He smiled faintly at her, and shook his head. “Sorry, but I just want to be alone.” he said. The girl left her alone to drink. Since he met Ella, the thought of flirting with other girls never came into his mind anymore. He just wanted to be with Ella, ont some random girls.

Ella entered the bar, and as expected, she found Chun in there. He was alone in at the counter, drinking his favorite drink. As she saw the girl walk up to him, she wanted to turn back, and leave, but then she saw him turn the girl down. She let out a smile as she took a deep breath to gather all his courage to approach him. Maybe Chun is mad at her as well, after all, she refused to listen to his side of story. But now, she is more than willing to listen to him. She is ready to forgive him, to forget everything and start anew with him. He is the only man she loves, and if its not Chun, she doesn't want anyone else.

“Chun...” she called.

That familiar voice made him froze in his place. Maybe he drank to much, that he was hearing Ella calling him. “It can't be Ella...” she thought. “Chun...” she called again. This time, he turned back too find Ella walking up to her. “Ella!” he exclaimed. He was too happy to see her. He wanted to pull her to him, and hug her tight, but he was scared that she would beat the hell out of him if he does that.

“I came... to find you...” Ella said as she walked up to him. “Look, it doesn't matter what happened in the past, all right? I... I love you, and... if I got mad, you know that I have all the reasons to be mad at you. I... I thought you played with my feelings because you agreed to that bet....” she said. Chun shook his head. “No... no, you don't understand. I conceded to George. I gave him my car to end the bet. I lose, Ella. I lose because I fell in love with you first. You won... you won my heart. Yes, I admit, I have bad intentions before, but the more that I get to know you, I realized that I am falling helplessly in love with you... to the point that I can't see myself not being with you. Each second that I'm not with you, it felt like a year. It was a bad thing to agree to that dare. But if I didn't, I wouldn't be able to get to know you more...” he said. Ella continued to walk towards him as he speaks. “You see, you challenge me. You made me feel all kinds of emotions all at the same time. I was mad at you, and yet I find myself being amused by you. You hurt my physically, but any other way, I wouldn't want anyone else to kick me in the groin like that but you.” he continued. He let out a nervous laugh, and Ella could only smile at him.

“I love you, Ella. That's the only thing I know right now. I only see myself being with you. And if it's not you... then I can go to hell... because heaven is not heave without you...” he said. Ella let out a smirk at him. “That's the lamest line I've heard from you.” she said. “Can you blame me? My life was... lame without you.” he said. She walked up to him, and smiled at her. “Me too... the two weeks I wasn't with you... it's worse than hell...” she said. He put his hands on her waist, and then leaned down to her. “I love you, Ella. Will you take me back? Will you give me another chance to make things right?” he asked. “Only if you promise not to mess up this time. This is your last chance.” she answered. Then, he leaned much closer to her and kissed her on the lips. And kissed her again, and again, and again...

--

Of course, we heard the playboy tell the man-hater those three little words, but should we end this story without the man-hater telling those words to him as well? Of course not.

It was an ordinary day. Things are going well to everyone else. Ella is out to have lunch with her two best friends, when suddenly, the people going inside the building where she is working suddenly started to hand her a long-stemmed lavender rose. “What's going on?” she asked Hebe and Rainie. The two just shrugged their shoulders. “Beast me.” Hebe said. “It may be the work of that bastard boyfriend of yours.” Rainie said. Hebe laughed, while Ella gave her a glare. “Rainie, please be nice to Chun, all right?” she said. Rainie rolled her eyes at her. “Whatever.” she said.

The people continued to give her lavender roses, and as she was halfway through the stairs, she saw Chun, Show and Mike downstairs. Just like before, Show had a guitar on his hand, and was starting to play her favorite song.

Don't be afraid
I can meet you half way
We cant always know
Where the road ends up
But with some luck
I know we can go
Where-ever we imagine

Why should we wait
Later on maybe too late
Cause where can we run
When you see there's half a chance
That we might really become
Whatever we imagine

And I imagine you and me
Just taking shots at what we see
And if we falter
Take away the dust
And just outlast them all

You ought to see
All your heroes in me
But if we get wise
We can break the walls we make
And you can see in my eyes
Whatever we imagine

And I imagine you and me
Just taking shots at what we see
So let the walls go down
And we can try it again
Cause nobody can stop us now

Dont be afraid
Cause I'll meet you half way
You're not far behind
If we climb this hill
I know there's still a chance we can find
Whatever we imagine in our life

Ella could only laugh as Chun was struggling to sing her favorite song. She felt herself blushing with the way Chun looked at her. As the song ended, he walked up to her, and then handed her a bouquet of lavender roses. “For you.” he said. Ella smirked at him. “So, what stupid thing have you done this time?”
“Do I always have to do something stupid whenever I give you roses?”
“Let's just say that I love assuming things.”
“Then, stop assuming things, because whether you like it or not, I will give you roses everyday, for the rest of our lives.”

With that, Ella smiled at him. “OK...” she said, taking the bouquet of roses from her hand. “Oh, and one more thing, Ella...” Chun said. He took one rose from the bouquet, and took something from its inside. It was a solitary diamond ring. Ella was surprised to see that ring on his hand. Before he could say anything, he knelt down before her. “Ella Chen Jia Hua, I love you. I want to be with you forever and ever. Will you marry me, and be with me forever?” he asked. Ella's jaw dropped at his answer. She looked around her, and everyone was cheering on her to say yes. “I... I love you too, Chun. Yes, I will marry you.” she said. With that, there was another loud cheer from the crowd. He slid the ring on her finger, and stood up to hug her.

“You know, it's like music to my ears when you say that...” Chun said to her. Ella gave her the confused look. “Say what?” she asked. Chun looked at her, and smiled. “Say that you love me too...” he said. Ella could only smile at him as well. “Of course... I do... I love you, Chun.” said said to him. He leaned down to her, and kissed her lips. “I love you too, Ella. I love you more than you love me.” he said. Then, he pulled her close to him, and hugged her tight.

This time, he will never ever let her slip away.


THE END

Chapter 11 – And When She Finds Out...




Of course. This should have been a happy ending. Ending theme should have been cued right here. The man-hater and the playboy lives happily ever after...

Not! For now.

It would have been a boring story if there's no conflict, right? Imagine, if Romeo and Juliet's parents approved their relationship, then maybe Juliet would have not been a stupid girl who acted as if she's a suicidal, lovelorn girl. And Romeo would have not fell for it and drank up to poison whom he thought have killed his precious Juliet. And imagine, if Cinderella's stepmother is not that evil, then maybe the prince would have found her easily. But it would bore the hell out of us, right?

So, as we thought that things are oh-so-going-well with Chun and Ella, someone have totally forgot his promise of keeping the bet to themselves. And someone is out to use that to ruin their not-so-perfect relationship. And yes, get ready to kill George now.

If only he didn't went to Joanne's Sunday afternoon party, and drove in his newly-acquired Lamborghini Gallardo, then maybe secret will still be a secret. But George let the cat out of the bag. Joanne forced to let the cat out of the bag.

--

It was a boring party. Of course, for Joanne, it is a boring party, because the love of her life is not coming. Ever since the news about Chun confirming that he is seriously dating one of the most-sought-after architect of Taiwan, it was hard on her part to talk to him and invite him to her party. Alone.

“Joanne, dear...” Charlene said as she joined her at the bar. “Don't feel bad about that bastard...” she added. Joanne glared at her friend. “I so hate him and that bitch!” she said. “You know, the old Chun just didn't take you seriously, as well as the other girls he dated back then. Why don't you just move on, and find someone much better than him?” Charlene said. “He's the only one I want, Charlene.” she said. She grabbed her wine, and drank it up. “Chun is the only one I want and need...” she muttered. Charlene could only shake her head in dismay. “Joanne, there are a lot of guys lining up for you. Don't waste your time with him.” she said. Joanne glared at her again. “If you won't say anything nice... shut up!” she hissed at her.

The two became quiet for a while. Just then, they heard a commotion at the party. “Cool car, George!” they heard someone said. Charlene and Joanne looked back, and saw people surrounding George. They walked to him, and made their way through George. They saw him standing beside Chun's Lamborghini Gallardo. “Where's Chun?” Joanne asked him. “He's not here.” George said. “But... his car is here.” she said. George let out a smile at her. “Not anymore. I am the new owner of this Lamborghini Gallardo.” he said. Joanne rolled her eyes at him. “Oh, shut up!”
“But it's true! I am the new owner of this car.”
“Chun loves that car more than he loves his life. How could he sell it to you? I don't think he is going bankrupt...”
“He did not sell it to me... he gave it to me.”

Joanne and Charlene gave each other a confused look, then turned to George again. “You are lying.” Charlene said. “I am not! He gave it to me!” George argued. “Why would he give it you, unless he is desperate...” Joanne said. George smirked at the two girls. “Oh, he's desperate, all right.” he said. “What do you mean?” she asked. He shrugged his shoulders again. “I'm not telling.”

Joanne knew that something fishy is going on. She knows Chun. He loved his Lamborghini Gallardo more than he loved all of his girlfriend (if he really did love them). So, why would he just give it to George? Unless he did something really bad, and bribed George so that he won't say anything. “So... what did Chun do this time that got him into trouble?” Joanne asked. “Chun is not in trouble, alright?”
“I know he is. He did something stupid so he bribed you. I think this time, he really messed up big time.”
“No. You're just being paranoid, Joanne.”

Joane smirked at him as she folded her arms. “I think you're covering up for him.” she said. “I am not!” George said defensively. “I know you, George. You and your friends tends to cover up for Chun each and every time he is in trouble. So.. what did he do this time?”
“Chun didn't do anything, all right?”
“If you won't tell me, I'll tell your girlfriend all the things that happened in Hawaii last year.”
She let out a smile at him as she walked up to him. “If Kimi finds out your little affair last year, I am so sure that the wedding will be off in no time.” she said. George's eyes widened with shock. He swore to himself that he will keep his affair in Hawaii a secret, since he is about to get married to Kimi Ren. And if she found out about it, he knew he is doomed for his death.

He let out a sigh, and decided to tell Joanne the truth. “All right... all right... I'll tell you. Just keep my affair and this one a secret, all right? Kimi and Chun will kill me...” George said. “You know that I keep secrets well...” she said with a smile. “All right... Chun gave me the car, because he conceded to me in a dare...” he began to tell.

--

Chun stopped his car in front of an empty lot. He got out of the car, and soon after, Ella came out of the car as well. “So, is this part of your plan for our date? Taking me to some empty lot... for what?” she asked as she folded her arms. Chun looked at her, and smiled. She walked up to him, and as she got near him, he put his arm around her. “I just want to show you this newly acquired property I got.” he said. She folded her arms, and smirked at her. “So, why are you flaunting this piece of land to me?” she asked. “I am planning to build a house here. Since you're an architect, maybe you can help me decide on the design of the house.” he said.

Ella gave him a confused look. “Why do you want to build a house all of a sudden?” she asked. “Because my condo unit is getting smaller for me, that's why. So tell me, what design do you have in mind? What's your dream house?” he asked. Ella looked away from him and stared at the empty lot before her. She let out a smile as she sighed. “Well, you can make it a three storey house. There would be three to four bed rooms on it, and a terrace of course. The house should not occupy the whole land, but there should be a lot of space for the garden. You can also put a swimming pool on it, since this is big lot. There should also be a lot of windows, so that the lights will get inside the house during the day. And, the color should be white.” she said. Then, she turned to him. “Wait... why are you asking me about my dream house. You are the one going to build the house here. What kind of house do you like anyway?” she asked. Chun smiled at her, and then looked at the lot. “Anything... as long as you're inside that house... it's my dream home.” he said.

Ella felt herself blush at what he said. She bit her lips as she looked up at him. “Wu Chun... that's the sweetest pick up line I've heard since I met you. You're improving, huh?” she teased him. Chun just laughed at him. “And I'm glad you fell for that this time.” he said. “You're not proposing marriage to me right now, right?” she asked. Chun shook his head. “Why? I don't think this is a very special day to propose to you. Plus, the moment we have now is not too dramatic. I want it to be very very special, so special, that you will end up crying when I pop that question to you.” he said. “Well, I'm looking forward to that day, Wu Chun. No rush. You still have more time to think things through... if you really want to get tied down to me...” she said. “Oh... no rush needed. I've made up my mind about you... about use... that I want to be with you forever... and I knew that since the very first night that I met you.” he said. Ella smiled at him again, then she rested her head on his shoulder.

--

“I'll see you later tonight, all right? Bye. Love you.” Chun said over the phone. He called Ella that afternoon to remind her of their date that night. A smile was plastered on his face as he ended the call. Tonight is a special day for them. It's their 100th day anniversary, and he really prepared for their date tonight. He reserved the whole Bon Apetite, her favorite restaurant, for the night. He instructed the chef to cook all of her favorites. He ordered her favorite lavender roses to decorate the whole place, and he hired a group of musicians to serenade her tonight with all of her favorite songs.

He leaned back on his chair, and then opened the drawer. From inside, he took a red velvety box. He opened it, and stared at the solitary diamond ring inside it. “Ella Chen... tonight is the night... I will finally ask you the question. I hope that you will say yes to me...” he said to himself. He smiled to himself as he took the ring out of the box. “I will prove to you tonight that what I'm saying is true. And tonight, I will definitely keep my promise. I sure will, Ella...” he said. He threw the ring up in the air, and then catch it with his hand.

And as he practiced how to ask her to marry him, he felt excited about this very special night.

--

“Why don't you try this dress on?” Hebe said to Ella as he gave her a blue, haltered dress. Ella took it from her, and looked at the dress for a long time. “Not my type.” she said. Hebe let out a sigh, and took another dress from the rack. “This?” she asked. Ella shook her head again. This time, Ella took a white tube dress from the rack, and showed it to Hebe. “This one?” she asked. Hebe looked at it for a while, and gave her a thumbs up sign. “Perfect!” she said. Just as Ella was about to head to the fitting room, she bumped into Joanne and Charlene.

“Look who we have here. One of Chun's flings.” Joanne said in a mocked tone. Ella let out a sigh at her. “I'm not hearing anything...” she thought. She chose to ignore her, but as she walked away, Joanne held her by the arm. Ella glared at her. “Excuse me, but you see, I am in a hurry. I have a date with your ex-boyfriend tonight.” she said. Joanne smirked at her. “Oh, so now you are admitting that you are dating Chun, huh? What happened to that part where you said that you two are just friends, and you don't need someone like him in your life?” she said. Ella rolled her eyes at her. “Well... can't two friends go out on a date?” she snapped at her. “You tend to eat up all your words, Ella Chen. First, you told me that you don't like him, but you are already dating him. You're such a liar...”
“Well, first... it wasn't my fault that your ex-boyfriend fell for my charms. It just so happened to be a very charming girl. At least I am not as clingy and obsessed like you are.”
“So, you're saying that you did seduce my Chun?”
“Your Chun? Excuse me, but I didn't see any tag on him saying that you own him. And so, finders keepers, losers weepers.”

Joanne folded her arms as she circled her. “Let's see who gets to weep in the end.” she hissed at her. She let out an evil smile as she faced her. “Aren't you even wondering why the guy have been chasing you? Because, you know, honestly, you're not as pretty or as prim and proper as the girls he used to date.” Joanne said. “Well... does these girls you're talking about includes you? Because if yes, I could understand why.” she said. “Did he make you believe that it was love at first sight for him when he met you that night?”
“He flirted with me.”
“He does that to every girls he meets at the club, dearie... what makes you think you're different?”
“Because he chased me even after that night...”

Joanne let out a sigh. “Oh, you're so naïve...” she said. Ella gave her a confused look. “I know what happened the night you two first met. And he told me that he was pissed off by you, because of what you did... you know... pouring that drink on him and punching him in front of his friends.” Joanne said. “W-what are you talking about?” Ella asked in a confused tone. It seems like this conversation is not turning up the way she was expecting it to be. “You pissed him off that night... you know... when you tried to get back at him for dumping your poor little best friend. He wanted to get back at you for what you did to him. So, he made a deal with his friends. If he gets you to fall in love with him, and he lures you to his bed within three months, then he wins George's villa. If not, he loses his precious car.”

Ella was shocked at what she just heard. She felt as if someone struck her at her heart. She can't believe that Chun made her fall for him just to get back at what she did that night. And worst of all, she was the subject of a bet between him and his friends. “Of course, Chun wouldn't want to lose. So, he did everything he could to make you fall for him, and he won. By now, I bet Chun is enjoying himself in his newly acquired villa in Kaoshiung...” Joanne continued. Ella glared at her. “Stop it. That's not true!” she said. “Chun is a liar, Ella. You should have known that, especially since he lied to your best friend, telling her that he loves her so that he could have her in his bed. The things he showed you, it means nothing to him. You mean nothing to him, Ella... just like all the girls that came into his life.” Joanne leaned over the still shocked Ella. “You lose.” she whispered to her. Then, she left Ella alone.

At that very moment, Ella felt the rage burning in her heart. Chun lied to her. Chun pretended that he does love her in order to win the bet. She was hurt all right, and she will do everything tonight to make Chun feel how hurt she is.

--

Chun sat in the restaurant, and looked at his watch. 9 PM. He let out a sigh as he leaned on his chair. Somehow, he is getting worried about his girlfriend. Ella is never late, and even if she is, she would tell her beforehand. “What happened to her?” he thought. He reached for his mobile phone, and dialed her number. As he heard it ring, he looked up and saw Ella walking up from the door. A smile escaped Chun's lips. He stood up from his seat, and walked up to her. “Ella! You worried me... anything that came up at the office?” he asked. Ella looked at him angrily, and that mad expression on her face made him confused. “It's just a long day at work...” she lied. Chun nodded his head. “Come on, let's have dinner. I prepared your favor-”
“I'm not in the mood for dinner, Chun.”

Chun let out a sigh. “OK... it seems you are a litle tired...” he said. Ella looked around the restaurant, and let out a laugh. “You really went through a lot of preparations for tonight, huh?” she said. Chun is getting even more confused with the way Ella is acting. “Yes... it's our 100th day anniversary, remember?” he said. Ella folded her arms, and glared at him. “Yes... I forgot... we know each other for more than 3 months now, right?” she said. Chun nodded his head. Ella let out a wicked smile at him. “So... in those 3 months... you sure did everything you could to woo me... and make me fall for you...” she said. Chun nodded his head. “I told you... I love you ever since that night we met...” he said. Ella gave him a skeptical look. “You do?” she asked sarcastically. “Weren't you mad at me for pouring a drink on you, and punching you? I must have given you a black eye...” she said. “I... was... a little mad... yes...” he answered slowly. “If I were in your position... I would plan to get back at me... you know... like making that girl fall in love with me...” she said.

Chun felt his heart beating fast. He sensed that Ella knew something about the bet. “Ella...” he said softly. She looked at the table, and noticed a box lying on top if it. She took the box, and opened it. “Oh, a diamond ring...” she said. She took the ring out, and placed it on her finger. “You sure do know that diamonds are girls' best friend, huh? So, tell me... how many girls received a diamond ring from you?” she asked sarcastically. “Ella... what is going on?” Chun asked. “I ask you... what is going on, Chun? Why are you playing this game with me?”
“Playing games? What game? I am not playing games?”
“Are you sure?”
“I am.”

Ella glared at him again. She took a deep breath as she faced him. “George's villa, just make me fall in love with you for three months. If you lose, George will get to keep your Lamborghini Gallardo. Tell me, what kind of a game is that? I think I know what it is... it's called a 'betting on the man hater' game!” Ella shouted angrily at him. Chun was shocked to know that Ella found out all about the dare. “Ella... let me explain...” he said as he held her hand. Ella pushed him away. “No! I'm not going to hear your lies anymore, Chun! It's obvious that you played with my heart. All the things you did... it's all nothing. You pretended that you did love me, when obviously you're not! I am not a toy, all right? I am not someone whom you can make fall for you so helplessly, and dump the next second. I have too much pride in myself to fall those kind of games. If you think that I am like those naïve girls you used to play with, them let me tell you something. I am not that kind of girl.” she said. “I know you are not that kind of girl. I know you will not fall that instantly with me... that's why I worked hard to gain your attention...”
“For what, Chun? To win that bet with your friends? I thought you have changed. I thought that the playboy Chun I used to know is gone the moment I gave him the chance to love me. But I was wrong. What you're showing to me right now... it's just a facade... a disguise. And I'm so stupid to fall for you. I was stupid to break my walls and let you into my life. But I can't be stupid anymore.”

She turned her back on him, but before she could make the step to walk away, Chun held her arm to stop her. “Listen to me, Ella...” he pleaded. Ella paused, and looked at him. “Listen? Are you going to lie to me?” she asked. “I stopped it. I stopped it before I could break your heart. With what happened to you... with all the things you've gone through, I knew that the last thing you needed is another heartache. So I ended the bet. I conceded to George. I am willing to lose just for your sake. That's how much I love you, Ella.” he explained. Ella stared at her for a long time. Then, she slapped his face. “It doesn't change anything. You took the dare. I am still the bet. You broke my heart because you pretended to love me. I gave you my trust, but you abused it. I let you into my life, but you just ruined everything for us.” she said.

A tear fell down from her eyes as she closed it. “If there's one thing that I am regretting for the rest of my life, that would be meeting you. I wish our paths never crossed again after that night.” she said. Then, she took the ring from her finger, and threw at him. As the ring rolled on the floor, Ella left Chun.

And Chun could only stare at the ring with tears on his eyes, wishing that he could turn back time. Because if he could, he will never ever do that stupid dare. Because of that dare, he met the woman he loves, only to lose her after finding out about it.

Chapter 8 – The Date



Ella was busy scanning the documents, when suddenly, her phone rang. “Hello?” she answered. “Ms. Chen, Mr. Wu on line 1.” she heard her secretary say on the other line. “All right, please connect him.” she said. After a while, she heard Chun's voice on the other hand. She let out a smile upon hearing his voice, but then she let out a sigh to show him that she is annoyed, though it's just an act. “What do you want, Mr. Wu?” she said. “Awww... someone got up at the wrong side of the bed?”
“Stop wasting my time. What do you want?”
“Well... remember our deal?”
“What deal?”
“That if I could bring back your gay ex-boyfriend, you'll go out on a date with me?”
“Well, you did bring back my gay ex-boyfriend. But he isn't the guy that he is before.”
“As much as I want to turn him into a straight guy, I refuse to. I don't want any competition with your heart.”
“Well, I was thinking about you dressing up as a girl again and dating him.”

Chun let out a laugh. “Funny. Very funny, Ms. Ella Chen.” he said. Ella leaned on her chair, and let out a smile on her lips. “So, you were saying about the deal?”
“Yes, you owe me a date.”
“Do I?”
“Of course, you do. You can't say no this time. And so, you will be my date at the Taipei Charity Ball on Saturday.”
“This Saturday? Are you kidding me? Tomorrow is Saturday. You should have told me before hand so that I could have readied myself!”
“Don't worry, Ella... I've got everything taken care of.”

Just then, she heard a soft knock on the door. “Come in.” she said. Angela went inside her office with a big package on her hand. “Ms. Chen, this was delivered just now.” she said. Ella could only watch in confusion as Angela put the box on the coffee table. “Thank you, Ms. Zhang. You may go back to work.” she said. She took the phone, and talked to Chun again. “Sorry... got a delivery here...” she said to Chun on the phone. “Oh, so I see that you got it.” Chun said. Ella narrowed her eyes in confusion. “Got what?”
“My special gift for you? That large box...”
“So, that came from you...”
“Yes, so why don't you take a look at it?”
“OK, give me a sec to get that box.”

Ella stood up from her chair, and then put the box on her table, and then opened it. She smiled upon seeing a pink gown inside it. It was pink tube gown, the upper part of it is in light pink, and the skirt part is ruffled (like little roses) and is in dark pink. She ran her finger through it in amazement. She took the phone again to talk to Chun. “Chunnie?” she said. “So, have you seen my gift? I hope to see you wearing that tomorrow.” he said. Ella smiled giddily as she touched her gown. “I love it.”
“I know you'll look lovely in it. So, I'll pick you up tomorrow at 7 PM?”
“All right... I'll see you tomorrow then.”
“Can't wait to see you.”

As she ended the call, the smile on her face could not be erased.

--

“Is he there yet?” Ella asked Rainie as she walk down the stairs. Rainie looked at her best friend, who was struggling to get down the stairs in her gown. “You stay right there, young woman. I will face your date, and he will be tormented by me.” she said. Hebe folded her arms, and she sighed at Rainie. “Look, this isn't a prom date, Rainie.” she said. “I know, but we all know who Wu Chun is. He is the biggest player I know. And I'm only protecting my best friend.” Rainie said. Ella could only sigh as she went back upstairs. “Fine...” she said as she retreated.

Just then, the doorbell rang. Ella immediately rushed down the stairs. “It's him!” she said excitedly. Rainie glared at her again. “What did I just tell you a while ago?”
“That you will torment him?
“Yes. So go back upstairs, and don't come down until I call you.”
Ella sighed again as she went back. Meanwhile, Rainie grudgingly walked up to the door, and opened it. She was not surprised to see Chun on the door. “Good evening.” he said, smiling to his ex-girlfriend. Rainie folded her arms as she looked at him from head to toe. “What are you doing here?” she asked. “I'm here for Ella. Is she ready yet?” he asked. “Ready for what? Ready to get laid by you, or ready to brokenhearted by you?” she asked sarcastically. With that, Chun fell silent. “Look, mister. I know what you are up to. Let me tell you this... Ella is the most fragile girl you'll ever meet. I don't want you to play with her feelings, all right? She deserve something much better than you, and much better than that stupid gay lanky ex-boyfriend of his. She have gone through a lot of heartache, and I will not stand it if you will only hurt her. She's my best friend, you break her heart, I'll break your neck.” she threatened.

And our man-hater's best friend's threat is enough to scare our lover boy. Chun's eyes widened in shock at what she said. Sure, he is scared. “Rainie Yang, I told you it's just a date!” Ella said as she walked down the stairs. Rainie looked back at her, blocking Chun's view of our lovely heroine. “I told you not to come down until I call you!” she told her. “Relax. I'm 27, not 17. It's just a charity ball, not a prom night. As if something bad will happen to me!” Ella said. “Something bad will definitely happen to you as long as you keep on hanging out with this jerk!” Rainie said. Ella could only sigh, as she walked past her. “Sorry about her...” Ella told Chun as she pointed at Rianie.

At the sight of her, Chun's jaw dropped. He was left speechless, mesmerized by the way she looked tonight. She looked lovely in the pink gown he bought her, more than lovely that he thought. She had her hair pinned up, giving him a closer look at her lovely face. She wore a light make up, which complimented her beauty. If he could, he'll just stare at her the whole night. “Chun, are you all right?” she asked worriedly. Chun let out a boyish smile, and nodded his head. “Sorry... it's just that... I was too caught up by your beauty...” he said. Ella let out a shy smile, and swore to herself that she is blushing like a high school girl. “Oh, shut up. You say that pickup line to all the girls you meet!” Rainie said. Chun looked at her, and smiled sarcastically. It seems that Rainie, a.k.a his-ex-girlfriend-slash-man-hater's-best-friend will make it hard for him to make a move to the love of his life. “Aiyo, stop teasing me, all right. Let's go. My mom here told me that I have to be home before midnight.” Ella said, eying her best friend. “And what happens after midnight, you turn into a cabbage?” he asked. Ella smiled, and shook her head. “Worst. I'll be grounded for the rest of my life.”

--

Chun held Ella by the arm as they entered the grand ball room of the hotel. All eyes were on them as they entered the ballroom. The flashes from the camera almost blinded her as they made their way through. All the girls looked envious of her, and were giving her dagger looks. Why not? After all, she is the reason why they lost a chance to date Taiwan's hottest bachelor tonight.

“I'm not apt to this...” Ella told Chun as she looked nervously at the other girls. Chun held her tight, and smiled at him. “Relax. You'll get used to it.” he said. “Will I get to used to it? Come on, if looks could kill, you're dating a dead girl by now.” she told him. “And if looks could kill, then you'll be dragging a dead man by now.” Chun said. Ella just smirked at him Then, Chun paused, and faced her. “Have I told you that you're the most beautiful girl in this room?”
“How many times have you used that pickup line?”
“Don't you believe me?”
“You are a playboy, Chun. Do you expect me to believe that I am the first person you told me that?”
“For tonight, yes.”
“So, I should expect that by the end of the night, I'll be hearing you say that line to half the girls in this room?”
“No.”
“Or, should I expect that I'll be calling Rainie to pick me up here at the hotel, for you'll be going home with some random girls.”
“No.”
Ella let out another smirk at him. “Shut up. You think I'll fall for that I-only-have-my-eyes-on-Ella-Chen attitude of yours?” she asked.. “I'm not expecting you to fall for it. I'm expecting you to believe it, actually.”
“Do you have an idea that it would take you more than this beautiful gown, or this fancy party to win my heart?”
“Yes. And I'm willing to do the most impossible and the craziest thing that you ask of me, Ella.”

Ella could only smile at him. “End of conversation.” she said. “Why is it that when I open up the topic of us being together, you end it up?” Chun asked. “Remember, I'm still recovering from that gay ex-boyfriend of mine.” she said. Chun could only sigh as he shook his head. “It will always be about him...” he said. “It doesn't have to. By recovering, what I mean is I'm still on the process of permanently moving on from his memories and giving other guys a chance.” she said. With that, Chun looked at Ella with hope in his eyes. “So... you're saying... I could have a chance?” he asked. Ella just shrugged her shoulders. “Maybe. If you are willing to put up with the crazy me.” she said. Chun's lips curved into a smile upon hearing that. “I can put up with the crazy you.” he said.

Just then, a new song began to play, and everyone before them began to dance. “So, may I have the honor of dancing with the beautiful Ella Chen?” he asked as he extended his hand to her. Ella smiled at him, and held his hand. “I'd love to...” she said. “But then you have to protect me from those girls that's wanting to kill me.” she said, pointing at the girls by the table. Chun looked back, and saw the girls giving dagger looks at her. Chun turned to her, and gave her a playful smile. “I will, don't worry.” he said. He bowed before her, and kissed her at the back of her hand, making the girls even more jealous and angry at Ella. “You sure know how to tick those girls off, don't you?” Ella told him. Chun just winked at him, then he led her to the dance floor.

--

“Bitch...” Joanne said as she glared at Ella, who was happily dancing with Chun. She took a glass of champagne from the waiter, and drank it up. “Who is she anyway?” Charlene asked as she joined her friend. “I heard she's that man-hater... that upcoming famous architect.” Gillian said. Joanne continued to glare at her. She could not forgive Ella for stealing her supposed to be date tonight. She should be the one whom Chun is waltzing right now, not some nobody in the high society. “She's such a social climber. Ugh!” Charlene said in disgust. “So, what are you planning to do now, Joanne?” Gillian asked. “What else?” Joanne said, finishing her drink. “I will win my man back tonight. And that bitch can go to hell.”

--

“Look over there...” Chun said, pointing at an elder man talking to another man. “He is Mr. Dennis Yu. He owns 40% of Ting Hua Corporation's shares.” he said. Ella let out a sigh as she folded her arms. “Boring...” she said. Chun gave her a confused look. “You mean to say, you memorized the names of all the people in this room?” she asked. Chun nodded his head. “So, do you know them personally?” she asked. Chun shook his head. “I knew them because my business partners introduce them to me.”
“So, you mean to say, you only know them professionally.”
“Yes.”

Ella let out another sigh as she folded her arms. “Wow... that sure is tough... memorizing the names of all the people in this room without even knowing them personally. Well, let's see, Chun. Do you know anyone in this room whom you don't know professionally, but you know from head to toe?” she asked. Chun smirked at her. “Why do you ask?” he asked. “I'm just curious. Instead of telling me those bigwigs of the Taiwan business sector, how about you telling me those ex-girlfriends you had in this room.” she said. Chun let out a laugh as he shook his head. “Why do you want to know who my ex-girlfriends are?”
“I want to know. If you want to be with me in the future, I want to know your past. You knew my past somehow, and you met my ex. It's only fair that I know who I will be having a catfight with in the future.”

Chun just nodded his head. Then, he pointed at a short-haired girl in yellow dress, who was happily chatting with a group of girls. “That is Pets Zheng. We dated back in college, but it didn't worked out.” Chun said. “Why didn't it worked out?”
“She realized she liked Chen De xiu more than me. So, she broke up with me.”
Ella let out a smile. “Aha! So, she dumped you?” she asked. Chun nodded his head. “I guess she's the last girl I really took seriously, but she broke my heart.” Chun said sadly. “So, did she, and that Xiu guy ended up together?” she asked. Chun nodded his head. “They are happily married now, with 2 kids.” he said.

Then, Chun looked around the room again, and saw the tall, long-haired girl in white tube gown. “And that's Tiffany. We dated a few years back, but I grew tired of it.” he said. “Let me guess... she wanted a serious relationship, and you can't give it to her?” Ella asked. Chun shook her head. “She got bored with it, I got bored with it, sex wasn't that great anymore. End of story.” he said. Ella folded her arms, and looked firmly at him. “Does it always have to be around sex?” she asked. Chun shrugged his shoulder. “When I was much younger, I could say yes. But now...” then, he looked into her eyes. “It's all about being with someone I can't live without.” he said. Then, he let out another boyish smile. “So, of all those girls you dated before, you never felt that you can't live without them?” she asked. Chun nodded his head. “I only felt that with you...” he said.

Ella looked away from him, and let out a smile. “So, can you tell me more about your exes in this room?” she asked. Chun let out a laugh, and as he looked in front of him, he saw Joanne walking up to them. “And that is Joanne.” he said. Ella looked in front of them, and saw her. “She just couldn't accept the fact that I don't like her anymore.” he said. Ella laughed at him again. “Let me guess, and obsessed ex-girlfriend of yours?” she asked. Chun nodded his head.

“Hi, Chun.” Joanne said, smiling sweetly at him. Then, she looked at Ella, and let out an evil smile. “So, who's this date of yours? A new victim of yours?” she asked. Chun put his arm around her, and smiled at Joanne. “She is my date, all right. Joanne, please meet Ms. Ella Chen, owner and founder of Polygon Designs. Ella, I want you to meet Joanne Zheng, she's the daughter of Joseph Zheng, the CEO of TMH Networks.” Chun said. Ella smiled at her, and extended her hand to her. “Nice to meet you, Joanne...” she said. Joanne smiled at her, and took her hand. “Nice meeting you.” she said. Then, Joanne turned to Chun. “Chun, would you be a dear, and you get yourself and Ella a drink? I want to have a small conversation with her for a while.” she said. Then, Chun turned to Ella. “Are you going to be all right?” he asked. Ella nodded her head. “Come on, the only person I've been talking to the whole night is you. Let me and your friend here talk for a while. Go and get us some drinks.” she said. Chun nodded his head, and then left the two girls.

As soon as Chun left, Joanne cricled Ella, looking at her from head to toe. “So, you're Chun's new... playmate?” she asked sarcastically. Ella narrowed her brows as she looked at her. “Excuse me?”
“Chun's new playmate. Or... flavor of the month?”
“Chun and I are just friends.”
Joanne let out a smirk as she put her hand on her waist. “Really?”
“Nothing is going on between him and me.”
“I know Chun. Judging by the way he looked at you tonight, there must be something going on.”
Ella folded her arms, and smirked at her. “And, you're jealous?” she asked. Joanne let out a laugh. “How can I be jealous. Chun have always been mine.” she said. She moved closer to her, and glared at her. “So, you better back off from my man, all right?” she said. “Your man?” Ella asked. Joanne just answered her with a smirk. “I don't see any markings on his forehead telling the whole world that he is your man. So, he is owned by no one, right?”
“But he is mine.”
“I never heard him talk about you... except for tonight. He said you're one of his obsessed ex-girlfriends, and he was right.”

Ella folded her arms, and it's now her turn to circle around her. “Poor little you... you've been trying so hard to make Chun notice you, but too bad, you, just like the rest of his girlfriends are nothing to him.” she said. Joanne could only glare at her in anger. “If I mean nothing to him, and so do you!” she hissed. Ella got back at her by smiling sweetly. “Who says he means something to me? He's just someone I know. I could live without him. I am a very independent woman, and I need no man in my life, not even Chun. I don't have to beg for his attention, because I could have it anytime that I want, not like you, who had to make a scene for him to notice.” she said.

Angry, Joanne took a glass from the roving waiter, and then splashed it on her. But before it could reach Ella, Chun pulled her away, making his suit wet with wine. Everyone's attention was on them, and Joanne could see the disgust look veering towards her. “I left you for a minute, and you're intimidating my date. Great, Joanne. Very great.” he said. Then, he looked at Ella, and held her hand. Then, she turned to her, and glared at her. “I hope this will be the last time I'm going to see you. Good riddance.” he said. Then, he pulled Ella away from her.

--

Outside the hotel's garden.

“Are you OK?” Ella asked as she handed Chun her hanky. Chun took it, and wiped the wine carefully from his black suit. “I'm OK, don't worry about me. Are you OK?” he asked. Ella nodded her head. “No one dares to insult the mighty Ella Chen...” she said. With that, Chun let out a laugh. “That's my girl...” he said.

Ella sat next to Chun on the bench, and let out a sigh. “You heard everything I said?” she asked. “Do you want the truth, or do you want me to lie?”
“Truth.”
“I did.”
Ella paused as she slowly looked up at him. “You don't need someone like me. You can live without me. I can understand that, Ella. I've accepted that a long time ago.” he said, still smiling at him. Ella let out a faint smile, and slowly looked away from him. “But I chose to be with you...” she muttered under her breath. “What did you say?” Chun asked curiously. “Oh, I said you're such an eavesdropper.”
“Sorry, I couldn't help but wonder what you two were talking about. So.. I eavesdropped.”

Chun took her hand, and then stared into her eyes. “Despite what you said to Joanne, I'm still wishing that you can need me the way that I need you, that you will want me as much as I want you. But don't worry, I won't give up. I will work hard so that you will realize that what I feel for you is real.” he said. He reached up to her face, and caressed her cheek. “God, I love you, Ella...” he thought. As he moved closer and closer to her for a kiss. Ella looked away from him. “Ooooppps... sorry...” Chun said. Ella shook her head as she laughed nervously. “I think we should go back inside? You ex-girlfriends might be looking for you.” she said. Chun laughed, and then helped Ella up from her seat.

As they entered the ballroom again, Ella paused upon seeing a familiar face among the crowd. She felt as if someone poured cold water on her. “D... dad....” she muttered. She saw him smiling and laughing with another group. A young girl walked up to him, and from what she could hear, he was proudly introducing his daughter to them. She felt her heart breaking again upon seeing his face, and the memories for her bitter past seem to flow into her mind.

She turned away from him, only to bump into Chun. “Hey, there's Robert Chen. Let me introduce him to you.” he said. Ella looked up at him, and shook his head. “No.... no...” she said. Chun noticed the sadness in her eyes, and she looked as if she was about to cry. “Ella?” he asked. “Get me out of here... please... get me out of here...” she pleaded. Without any second thoughts, Chun nodded his head, and got Ella out of the party.

--

Ella retreated back to her bed room, and as she lay down on her bed, the tears she was trying to hold back since she saw her father began to cascade from her eyes. Suddenly, she remembered that night when he left them.

--

As soon as he got inside his pad, Chun got his phone, and called Show. “Show... I need your help again...” he said. Then, he let out a sigh. “I want some information about Robert Chen...”

--

“I hate him...” Ella said as she bit her lips. “I hate him so much... he... he is the reason why... why mommy died... I hate him...” She wiped the tears on her cheeks, but the tears couldn't help but fall from her eyes once again. Rainie and Hebe looked at each other, and the only thing they could do is to hug her tight. “Ssssshhhh don't worry, Ella... everything will be OK...” Hebe said.

--

“There's something that you have to know, if you are really willing to win Ella's heart.” Chun heard Calvin said on the phone that evening. “What is it?” he asked. There was a long silence on the phone before Calvin could speak again. “Ella...” Calvin said. “had heart broken by her very first love...”