Fate

Past vs Future

2010-11-03T00:55:00.001-07:00

Charmaine: Kev, will you marry me?

Kevin: ????

Charmaine: I said would you marry me?

Kevin: ????

He had just opened the door for her into his house, she was planning to move in with him when they came back from the holiday, but out of no where she had asked him that question. He didn't know how to respond. In normal circumstance it would have been him to ask her to marry him, and of course he had been tempted to ask that question a multi million times througout their time togetehr during the holidays. He wanted to say 'yes, of course i am willing to marry you', but somehow he couldn't. He felt that he was dreaming, is the girl of his dreams really asking whether he would marry him?

She stood there contemplating what had happen in Raymond's house, she had mixed feelings for him. She had though that she would hate him for what he had done to her, he had played her throughout their time together and she had lost herself trying to recover from the whole thing. But there was a small part of her that recognise his smell, his touch, his lips. There was a part of her that lingered onto what happened just now in his house. Instead of telling him off and moving on with her life, she had gone backwards. This was when Kevin opened the door and she blurted out the question. She didnt know why she said it. All she knew was that it was time to move on. Her life forward is with Kevin not Raymond. She needs to get away from the shadow of her formal self.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They had had passionate sex afterwards, she wanted to feel him and she needed to have him, but during the night when they were both suppose to be asleep the fire inside her didnt stop burning. The effect of Raymond's kiss had overpowered her beyond her imagination. She couldnt shake away his face, even with Kevin wrapped around her she couldnt stop thinking about him, their time together, their sunset boulevard, their laughter. She though she had recovered but in effect she was just hiding.

But what could she do? She and Kevin are going to get married, he had much to her delight said yes of course, and had afterward said that she had spoiled his romantic getaway plan and proposing to her, but of course he will marry her in a blink of an eye. But somehow deep inside her she was sad, she recognise the feeling, just like when she found out about Ray and Leila, the indescrible pain that goes right through the heart.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

'Hi Dad!, we have a good news for you. Me and Charmaine are going to get married'

Of course his dad was beeming with delight, Charmaine is the only women he had ever bought to meet his dad and he was finally willing to settle down, much to his delight. But the following events had happened way too fast. Kevin told this news to his dad over dinner in his house, just when Ray and Leila approach with his step mum (Leila's mum) from the entertainment room, they were all laughing at Ray who apparently did miserably in a dancing game. (which was wierd because when she first met him he could dance like michael jackson).

Kevin's dad: Hey Darling have you heard Kev and Charmaine are going to get married.

Somehow this news piece through Raymond's heart more painful then any heart surgery ever did. Leila looked across at Raymond and could see that he had gone pale, Leila promptly taking the hint and wanted to excuse both of them, and when Charmaine stopped them and asked her about good honeymoon places since she and Raymond has already went on theirs.

At this moment hell broke lose, everybody turned to Charmaine then to Leila.

Leila's mum: girl you are married to who?

Charmaine: To Ray of course? Didnt you know?

Kevin: Charmaine i think you must have been mistaken these two are nothing more then buddies.

Leila's mum: Yeah, no way would my precious daughter not tell me if she is married. Plus with Raymond no way! Where did you get that idea from?

At that moment Charmaine's mind just went blank, she had seen them in the house, the photos the clothes, what he said that she was the only one ever. She had heard the guard say that they were on their honeymoon, the guard had called them Mr and Mrs Lam. Suddenly she felt really sick, by now both of them had sat down on the table. Then she realised that they might be hidding their romance from everybody. Yes that must be it. Then she realised for the first time only Leila had a ring on her finger, Raymond didn't!!!!!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

bbrrrrr brrrr..... 'Meet you at the pier at midnight. You owe me an explanation. And i would be coming alone, i hope you do so too.'

He knew he shouldn't be going, but he couldnt resist seeing her again, the dinner was a torture, but he and Leila didnt know what to do apart from avoiding her gaze, meanwhile Kevin sensed that something was wrong but had to keep up the upbeat mode with his dad, and of course Leila's mum was busy chatting with her and warning her to never ever dare get herself married off without her permission for she would kill her instantly. (It could have been comical but he could sense that Charmaine was in deep pain.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Charmaine: you are early

Raymond: Yeah, just a bit, habit i guess.

Silence.......

Raymond: CONGRATULATIONS (TRYING TO FAKE A REALLY BIG SMILE)

Charmaine turns around and walks towards the pier and leans over the railing, the moon was bright and glowing.

Ray, let me tell you a story, about a year ago there was this girl who had just been headhunted to work back in HK, during her flight back home, it meet extreme trubulance and a pilot told her to keep her cool because he knew that his mentor would be able to get through it no matter how bad the weather was. The flight landed safely and they went seperate ways. 2 weeks later both of them met each other in a bookstore, maybe that was fate. They started going out and had a beautiful 6 months until things change all of a sudden, she caught him having an affair with another women. Then before she could get an answer the guy dissapeared, leaving no trace of whom he was or where he could be. For the next two months she tortured herself with all the alcohol she could drink and all the drugs she could lay her hands on. From a top class head hunted lawyer she dropped t nothing more then a drug addict to numb her heart and brain. Thank god she finally woke up. She had not anticipated to go into a relationship with another men so soon, but an angel came and saved her. He brought her light and peace and love once again. They had decided to get married. But then the girl found out that the first guy could not have cheated on her in the first place. What do you think the girl should do?

Raymond had no answer.

I think you owe me at the minimal an explanation.

Raymond stayed silent. He didn't know to say or what to do. He desperately wanted to tell her everything but remembered that his heart was far from fit and that Kevin would provide a way better life for her. Togerther with her he stared out into the ocean.

Charmaine its my turn to tell you a story. Once upon a time there was this boy, who was really mischeavious and could acheive nothin in his life. He and his brother was orphaned at a really yound age. He skipped school often and barely graduated from his piloting school, he started seeing the world as it was until one day he meet the love of his life in a bookstore. But god decided that maybe this kid has not done enough to deserve her and this was when he had to go away. He is sorry that he has cast so much pain of the girl and if he could he is willing to take all of those pain away in replace of his own happiness. But luckily the girl has since then found happiness and he feels happy for her. Its fate that they are not meant to be together. Now both of their lifes are no longer intertwined. With that he walked away

In the end Charmaine didnt get the answer she was looking for, but she let him leaved. At least she now knew that their love was true. But she had moved on. Raymond was the past, only Kevin was the future.

The moment

2009-02-16T14:34:00.000-08:00

Their meeting was a surprise, both did not anticipate that moment would ever come again, both shocked at each others appearance. Never in the world would she expect that Kevin's step sister would be Leila, although he had occasionally talked about her because apparently she is entitled to inheritance as she is to be considered as part of the family, he never mentioned that it was Leila. She was siting on the couch when she stepped into the house, and she immediately knew why Ray loved her so much, she's jumply and bubbly and cheerful, there was this distinct and unique smile that seemed to be only owned by her. At first Leila did not see her, she was too indulged into hugging her mum and step dad and talking to them. It was only when she saw who Kevin was about to introduced that shocked her. The change in her face was very apparent, pure shock, when she was introduced as her girlfriend.

However what was to follow up was even worst, Ray having just recovered from the surgery was just walking behind Leila, being tired from the plane ride and having been con to carry her bag and her souveniors, he totally did not expect to see him. He somehow looked different, slimmer and fairer, but he still had that charm. She totally did not what to do, she turned to Kevin who was equally stunned.

To both of them they have never ever anticipate this, at least not the moment when they get back, both did not know what to do, Leila being the more clear-headed one immediately suggested that she needs to go and wash up before the meal. Of course the mum obediently agreed but the next question that came striked all of them.

"Who is this guy?"

Leila did not know how to answer, whatever she was about to say or going to say is going to suffer heavy consequences, she was stuned. Ray knew that it was time to step up, his health has not recovered fully yet, and even if it was he knew that there would be no going back, although he secretly had hoped that Charmaine still liked him, but the fact that she is at Kev's house already showed something.

"I am her ......."

"OUCH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CRAP......... Ray come on i need to use take off these shoes.... follow me"

And with that they dissapeared into the second floor, Ray sneaking a glance at both of them who just starred plainly at each other.

Through dinner his identity was not asked again as more guest arrived and both Leila and Kev was keen to avoid each other but Charmaine could not contain her emotions, she did not know whether it was anger or love, but she wanted to ask Ray what happened. Everytime she was about to approach him, he was either dragged away by Leila or Kev stopped her. The night ended when she was sent home, their journey home was filled with silence, never before have they both been so quiet. Thoughs just come rushing to her mind, thoughts that included both Ray and Kevin, happiness and pain. She though that Ray was a thing of a pass, Kev was the future but she felt out of control. Kev witnessed her actions, he knew that she was disturbed and although that night they spend the night together, both of them knew that something has changed.

**********************

Days passed with nothing happening, they still talked on the phone routinely before and after work but somehow or rather they avoided seeing each other. Either she found and excuse or he was busy. She however needed to talk to Ray.

On the other hand Ray moved back to his home, Leila moved in with him but she stayed in the other room just like last time. He still need constant medication and rest. Although he looked normal he was technically still very weak. When the door bell ring he instinctively knew it was her, he did not know what to do. He could have pretended that he was not at home. But he knew that avoidance was not a cure.

Both of them were very awkward, when they settled down into the house, there was nothing to say, although she did try attempting to strike a conversation it did not seem successful. But he knew that the killer was coming soon.

Charmaine: 'Hows your married life? Leila is a good women, both of you look good...... when..."

Ray: i have something to tell you.... i still love you

'I still love you', 'I still love you', 'I still love you', those were the words that strike her head after and after again. She was just purely stun, for many times she had wished that he would say these words to her, for money dreams she hoped that Ray would come back and just by her side. But when he actually said it just now, the words somehow felt like arrows piercing right into her heart. She did not know how to respond.

She got up to leave, but he stoped her. She did not want to listen to his excuses, he seemed very unreal to her, suddenly he was actually scared of this man. Both of them were looking into each others eye, she was analysing him, she had hope to come to congratulate them, settled the pass and carry on with the future. But things are more messed up instead. He wanted to kiss her, and he did. She responded. For a second both of them lived in denial. The pass 6 months was nothing more then a bad dream.

Then she felt the ring that Kev gave her, the images of him in the hospital, the image of their trip around the world. The guilt that was beginning to bubble. She broke the kiss. All she could say was

'You shouldn't be doing this to your wife'

and she left.

Chapter 16: ...."cause i love you"

2008-12-29T06:14:00.000-08:00

"How come you are here?"

"Cause i am psychic............. cause i love you"

Although she was glad to see him there and was very happy to hear him say those 3 words her initial reaction betrayed her. She still wasn't really ready to have him in her life yet. She awkwardly changed the subject to the weather. He felt her discomfort, but was determine to push forward.

"Charmaine, please..... please stop pushing me away, i don't care whether Ray is still in your heart, i do not need to own it 100% i would be satisfied with just 1%, because it means you have me, no matter how much i mean to you, you are still everything of mine"

He was grabbing her shoulders and starring straight at her by now, tears was starting to form, she didn't know how to react, but his following words changed her heart.

"What would have happened if the guy did not pull you out of you car in time? i might not have been able to see you, or tell to you anymore. Please just give me a chance, a chance to protect you, to love you, to care for you."

With that he pulled out a ring for her.

"Please at least give me this chance"

She starred back at him and smiled.

"Errrrmm..... are you going to just kill my shoulders or put on the ring for me?"

***********************

"Oi, so did you hear what the doctor said?"

"Yes, yes, yes omg you are so long winded, becareful that no one wants to marry you in the future"

"What happened to you marrying me???"

"Huh?? you think i had a brain op or a heart op? I swear i never said such thing, are you sure you are not thinking about Desmond?"

"Very funny, who was the one that kept teasing him that if he doesn't want me he would be the one that would marry me instead?"

"Haha you gotta be kidding right? You treat those kind of jokes as serious jokes?"

"LOL..... you don't have to be so scared i was only kidding.... who would fall for such a kid like you?"

Somehow his words pierced through her heart, she didn't know why she felt that way? Was she really mixing him up with Des? Or was she really falling for him? She was getting really confused herself.

***************************

People always said that happy times always fly by, she had to agree, since they left New York they decided to travel around, at first it was only US, then Kevin suggested hoping over to Europe, then he also wanted to explore Africa, they have been travelling non stop for more then 3 months. But she was very happy, Kevin loved her alot. He was very protective. He keeps saying that he would love her and only her forever. She never though that she could ever believe words from another man after the incident from Ray. But she did and because of this she actually began to despise Ray. For causing such pain.

But such thoughs were only instrumental. They only came when she was alone, which was rarely the case becuase Kevin was like super glue which was stuck to her permenantly, and she loved that feeling, she was scared that like Ray if she allowed too much freedom to Kevin he too, might change.

He was talking on the phone right now, she was wondering who was he talking to. He sounded very polite . She wondered whether it was a girl. After all he is wealthy, handsome and smart. Surely he must have a lot of admirers. She began to wonder why he actually liked her, after all shes just so normal. Was he playing with her? The phone call finally ended. She realise she was so fickle. One second she says that Kev loves her a lot but the next second her security levels are down the drain.

"Who was that? Was it a girl?"

Sensing her insecurity he decided to play a joke on her.

"Yeap it was, and also a very very pretty one"

"What did she want?"

"She asked me for a date."

"And did you agree to it?"

"Yeah, i did"

He is really playing her, her happy times are really about to end. She decided that no matter what she is not going to cry in front of him. But emotions were uncontrolable, she began to felt her eyes sting.

Suddenly he realised that he might have stepped over the line. He began to panick

"Hey i was only joking, it was my care taker. Please don't cry. You know you are the only one that i love now and forever. I promised myself that i would never ever want to see you cry ever again."

"You are so evil!!!! i hate you....... why are you laughing??"

"Because i know that you are jealous of my caretaker which means you love me"

"Evil!!!!!......by the way why did you caretaker call you??"

"Oh its my dads 60th Birthday next weekend we would have to go back to celebrate with him, plus i think its time that i show you to my dad"

"Hmmm...... well i think its about time that we call an end to this holiday as well."

**************************

Brrr Brr

"Wow Mum, what makes you call me??? You haven't done that in ages"

"How dare you even say that, you are the one that NEVER EVER CALL ME!!!, so where is my precious darling now?"

"In America, so what makes her royal highness pick up the phone?"

"Its ur step-dads 60th Birthday next week, i expect you to be home. You haven't been in Hong Kong for like 6 months already!!!!, the last time i spoke to you you told me you had an emergency and had to go to US!!!!, I don't care i want to see you next week k...... you know how much your uncle misses you"

"HAHA ok ok, since his royal highness misses me so much, her humble peasent would be honoured to make an appearance"

"Stop joking with me k, i am serious"

"Its my pleasure, ok mum i will come back no worries, but i gtg now, ttyl k, Bye"

As she put down her phone, Leila turned to Ray.

"Heiz.... mums asking me to go back, and i am not leaving you alone so.....you are coming along"

Miss you finally

2008-12-23T04:10:00.000-08:00

"KEVIN!!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING!!!!! DID YOU REALISE THAT YOU JUST MADE THE COMPANY LOSE 10 MILLION DOLLARS!!!!!.................... WHAT WERE YOU THINKING WHEN YOU SIGNED THIS CONTRACT!!!!!!! IF YOU WEREN'T MY SON I WOULD HAVE FIRED YOU RIGHT NOW AT THIS MOMENT!!!!!!!! GET OUT NOW!!!!! I DON'T WANT TO SEE YOU"

***************************************

4 weeks, 28 days, 672 hours, 40320 minutes, 2419200 seconds, the time that has passed since she walked out of his life. The numbers that represents her absence. The emptiness that was now his life.

Of course he have not given up on her with all the updates that he was constantly receiving for the body guard that he "hired for her". He didn't know why he did that, maybe it was becuase he did not want to lose "sight" of her, or maybe it was becuase he was scared that if he ever did totally let go she will forget him. But the called he received last night totally devastated him.

"Kevin......"
"Cha..........................."
"Please let me go......... please ask your man to stop following me......."
"I.....i..... ju....."
"i know you intend no harm...... but like i said i want to be alone...... i need time to be alone..... i need to do this alone. I know you love me. But if you really love me then let me go. Please do not make me hate you."

With that all he could do was stare at her picture, she accepted that his silence meant consent.

"if we are ever meant to be together we would meet again one day, somewhere in this world, maybe it would be Hong Kong, or Australia or England, as long as we are both alive and if theres fate we would be together one day, and that would be the day that i would be yours. Till then i hope we can let fate decide for us. Take Care Kevin. Bye"

The phone went silent, she did not even allow him a chance to say goodbye.

FATE??? whats fate??? He never believed in it, since the death of his mum he knew that he would need to strive for what he needs. Nothing is up to fate, he is fate. But this time he really did not have an answer to her. What should he do?

**************************

She was beginning to accept the fact that there was nobody there to rely upon anymore, she has to go through this herself, she no longer longed for the touch of Raymond, no longer yearn for his affection, no longer need him. She wants him but he is no longer her pinnicle for survival. Maybe it was just a illusion, a psycology button in her brain that has momentarily stopped working. But after 4 weeks of walking and seeing things she is really beginning to wake up.

Coming from a well to do family, she was always protected, even after she started working she was still the treasure of the family with a loving parents and a kind sister. That was probably also the reason why she fell so hard this time. She was always the player in previous relationships now shes the one that is being played. She could no longer differentiate whether she actually loved Ray that much or was it because she was angry. Whatever it is she has come to the conclusion that he was not as important to her as 4 weeks ago.

************************

"The operation is very successful, we have done a bypass and the clockaged has been reduced significantly, he should be awake very soon. But he should be careful as there is always a chance that his heart might stop working. He needs to take care of himself"

Seeing him laying there with all the incubators and all the masks marks the resemblances of Desmond. The way she was helpless in saving him, the way all she could do was cry, the way she could only see him suffocate and torture. These few weeks had been a roller coaster for her, with Raymon drifting in and out of conciousness and going in and out of the OT, she had returned to how it was 2 years ago. Each time he went in she was so scared that he would not come out. Each time he came out alive she was scared that he would not survive the next few days.

At the same time she seems to have developed something more of friendship for Ray, she realised that she was more worried then a normal friend would be. Was she getting it mixed up with Des? Is this a continuation of des? Second chance with the love of her life?

*****************************

Without noticing she is revisiting all the countries that Ray often flew, at least all the countries in which Ray bought her one of the small gifts, her freedom was total she could be in China one day and in France the next. She had no burden all she felt was the freedom she needed, the freedom to be excused from Torture.

And today she just reached New York, unlike the normal tourist, she never ever shops, she prefers to sight see, and of course in New York she would go to Niagara falls. She rented a car and began her journey, enjoying the cold autumish wind in the air. The scene was breath taking it was definately worth the drive. And since she was so near Canada why not drive there too?

*************************

The incident occured too fast, way too fast for her to remember what exactly happened all she knew was that she was lucky to be brake intime and that the Mercedes Airbag did actually come into use. She got off more likely then anticipated and someone dragged her out of the rumble that exploded within seconds for the cars in the collision. She was send to the hospital to recover from shock. She had to stay overnight. Suddenly she felt very lonely. She was tempted to call Kevin. But she felt bad, she was always the one saving her and just a month ago she had told him to leave her alone. Thus she decided to force herself to sleep instead.

************************

"Wei, omg you are finally awake!!!!, Can you stop being such a pig?? Do you know that i get bored"

"Haha.......... ouch..... stop making me laugh .... it hurts.... well at least i survived another time"

"Don't worry the doctor said that you are ok right now, you are luckier then those who were in the car crash down the highway this morning, 8 dead 3 wounded, cars were burned down to rubbles"

"Well, i guess i live another day for you to nag haha..... now get me out of this i feel like going down to the field"

As fate would have if you are destined to be together you would meet whereever you are in the world, but if you are not destined to be together even if you are at the same place at the same time you would not meet, he felt her presence, he heard her voice but he though it was just his illusion, maybe he missed her too much. He was always dreaming about her when he drifted in and out with the anasthetic. As fate would have it they missed each other by inches, she was there, just as she entered into the lift he turned into the hallway.

*************************

When she stepped out into the field she could not believe her eyes, she though that she was hallucinating, but Kevin was standing there, right in front of her. Smiling at her just like the normal old Kevin. She smiled back. Not believing that it was true. They did actually meet. She actually missed him, finally.

Chapter 14: Forget about me

2008-11-10T15:41:00.000-08:00

When she did finally wake up, she though that Kevin had left, when she took at her snoopy clock (the one Ray gave her) it was already near 11am, which meant that she was late for work, she contemplated to call in sick, she was not ready to face him yet, but when she stepped out of her room Kevin was there preparing breakfast for her.

It was kinda awkward between the both of them, Kevin knew that what happened last night was purely the devil of the alcohol, thus no matter how desperately he wanted it to be true, it was nothing more then a dream. She obediently sat down and ate what he cooked, she had no appetite, but had nothing to say to him so she ate obediently and he was scared to start a conversation for the fear that she might crush the tiniest of his hopes, both of them sat through the morning's breakfast in silence.

Back at her office, she totally could not concentrate, in her heart Raymond was still alive, he was everywhere, when she tried to read a document, the pen holder next to the files would remind her of him. When she tried typing a letter their photograph would remind her of him. Even when everything related to him was put into the drawer he was still there, Ray was in the air that she was breathing in. There was no way she could get rid of him. Miriculously she picked up the phone and dialed Ray's number, only to find that it had been cut off. Suddenly she panicked, was this actually going to be true? Had he really left? She couldn't hold back any longer and decided to check it out herself, she had to go to his house.

When he saw her leaving the office in such a hurry, he got kinda worried, he began to wonder what she was up to, had Ray called back? He followed her. When he turned into the fimiliar street, he realise that she was going to find him, yesterday night was really indeed a dream after all. Part of him wanted Ray to be there so that Charmaine could be happy but the other part of him wanted Charmaine to be his. Worried about her he followed her into the building. She rang the door for ages, and nobody answered it, she began shouting, demanding to see him, until the security guard came and the words came thrashing upon her

"Mr & Mrs Lam had gone on their honeymoon on a cruise on the caribbean, Mr Lam left 2 days ago and Mrs Lam came back yesterday to pack all their belongings. She said that they ain't going to be back for quite some time"

HONEYMOON!!!!! Her tears were just uncontrollable, suddenly a figure loomed, dreamingly she though it was Ray and spoke out his name only to realise that it was Kevin

" This time he really had left me, for real, once and for all"

*********************************

"The patient's operation was a success but we found out that the left side of his heart has started to swell up as well. Further surgery may be needed"

*******************************

The next few weeks of her life was a blur, she totally could not concentrate at work and had resorted to staying at home to rot, she did not want to talk to anybody or see anybody and did not go out at all, and apart from Kevin who frequented her house and taking care of her daily needs, she saw nobody else. She did not want him to visit, and had tried to force him out of her life but he kept coming back, thus she resorted to hiding in her own room when ever he came.

He knew that she was not eating properly, for everytime he came up with a new batch of grocerries he almost had to throw away everything he bought the time before, but he always noticed the empty beer and wine bottles piling up in the trash. One time he got so worried after seeing an empty bottle of pills and cans laying on the table that he immediately went to her room, when he found it shut he kicked the door hard to force it to open, he found her lying on her bed crying, thank god, at least she was alive, he didnt know why he did it but he too climbed up onto the bed and hugged her. She did not resist and in fact turned around to cry even louder.

**********************************

"The pacemaker although doing its job its not really saving him, his left side is 85% blocked, he needs a bypass, and if that doesn't work he needs a new heart"

*********************************

She didn't know for how long they were there for, but the next thing she knew was that she was back at home on her own bed and Kevin was crouched on her dressing table sleeping. Her head felt really heavy, she must have gone mad drinking again, she really began to despise herself. Her alcohol consumption for the pass two months must have been more then her whole entire life. It was definately a time to call stop. Plus it was late in the middle of the night and she couldn't fall back asleep. It was time for her to wake up.

When he woke up to find her missing his heart missed a skip, he automatically ran out of her room only to find her glaring out of her balcony. She was crying again, and once again he felt sorry for her, he began to question whether she would ever feel happy ever again. Did Ray actually have such a big impact of her?

She heard him coming out.....

Charmaine: I am leaving this place

Kevin: ....a........

Charmaine: Its really time to wake up, i apologise for all these trouble that i have caused you, but its really time for me to wake up...................

Kevin: aa...re u alright?

Charmaine: Exactly one year ago at this time i bumped into him on a flight back to HK, he was the pilot and was out for a rest at the cabin crew area before the plane started to hit tubulence and he sat next to me and calmed me down. Fate had it that we would meet again and developed this relationship but it was probably's fate's idea of testing how strong i could be when it ended. I have failed the test and i would need time to recover from it but from now on i would be strong.

Kevin: Where are you going to go?

Charmaine: i dunno i was planning to tell you then pack and board the next plane that departs from HK, which could be Japan or Europe or even Africa, i will leave it up to gods will. I am sorry i can no longer help you in your business. You were a nice boss and a better friend, i hope that we will be friends forever

Kevin: Ok, i get it, when you coming back?

Charmaine: i dunno, maybe next week, maybe next month or maybe never, we will just leave that up to god's wishes.

Shes, leaving? OMG shes leaving, what am i going to go? Plane ride? wasn't that the one that i was on as well, the one that had so bad trubulence that everyone of us though that we were going to die? Can i go with her?

Kevin: Char.... can can i go..........

Chamaine: Kev its time for me to stand up alone, if i keep relying onto you i would never ever be able to stand up alone again...... please undertsand........

Kevin: Promise me that you would call me..............

Charmaine: i will try..............

He went over to her and hugged her

Kevin: I will wait for you...... so please come back, no matter what i will wait... i swear

**************************************

"The Opeartion is a success, but there was a complication, there was a time where his heart had stopped for more then a minute and the pace maker could not revive him, he might therefore be in a coma. Whether he wakes up or not is totally depended on himself"

*************************************

He sent her to the airport with only her back pack and she forbidded him to go in with her, she did not want anybody to know where shes going, she needed time to be alone and maybe this trip will her realise that theres more out there in the world then Raymond. He desperately wanted to follow her but the earlier conversation struck her

Charmaine: Kev... you are a good man.... i know you love me.... but i do not deserve your love for at this moment i can't love you back, even in the future i might not be able to do so, thats how hard Ray has actually hurt me, i have changed. So don't wait for me...... just let me go......... if you love me, then forget about me

Chapter 13: Betrayal

2008-11-05T15:24:00.000-08:00

Betrayal

~ Love is whatever you can still betray ... Betrayal can only happen if you love. ~

*****************************************

Doctor: i am fear the worst that we have anticipated have happened

Leila: Yoo.....u...... mean that hes going to go?????? BUT I though you said he at least had a few more months before his heart will totally fail?????

Doctor: His heart for the moment is still working, i am going to put in a pace maker to make sure that it won't stop, but that won't last long he has to go to US to do the operation

Leila: But with his condition right now, you said that he won't be fit enough to handle it, his body won't be able to recover from it

Doctor: Well we have no choice now, i am going to make the arrangements necessary for the trip to US, i am afraid you will have to go with him. He consented to you being his medical proxy if he did ever fall into such a critical condition, so its up to you to make the decision now

Leila: OK, when should we go then

Doctor: I shall arrange for him to fly tommrow, btw he told me to give this to you, if this ever happens

Leila: ok ok whatever you say, i just hope that he recovers asap

**********************************

Oi! Haha, if you are reading this letter right now it probably means i am dying and i can't talk to you anymore, well i hope i have done what needs to be done. If i do die just let Charmaine think i am a Bastard, don't ever tell her what happened to me, she would be happier without me in her life.

Secondly if i do die please bury me next to Des i miss him :) PLUS i don't want you to have to go to two places everyyear right ;)

last but not least i made a will, you shall be my estate excutor, the lawyer would tell you what my plans ar. Sorry to have to trouble you again, hope this will be the last time i would have to trouble you ever again

Love:Ray

*******************************************

She could no longer hold back her tears, 2 years ago Desmond left speechless, Raymond made sure he did not make the same mistake of Des, he made sure that he had everything of his sorted out. Plus it was typical of him, he needs to make sure that everybody was happy and settled before he could leave, She felt that she has an obligation to save him. She know that they would be coming back together. BOTH OF THEM.

*****************************************

Whilst sitting in his office Kevin felt really really pissed, he was just scolded by his so called sister for the mismanging of a sale and purchase contract which could have cost the company at least $1 million dollars as well as the reputational lost. His sister was however lucky enough to stop it from going through before his dad killed him, and as a result he received a blast from her right in front of everyone. However he was also worried at the same time, the document was suppose to be prepared by Charmaine and that he know that she would never ever make such a mistake, and when he found out that Charmaine actually did not do it but instead was given to another lawyer from her team to do it he found it even more wierd, since she was a very responsible person and that she would not do that.

Plus she was not answering her phones and no one from the office was seems to be able to contact her. He tried calling "their" office only to find that no one was picking up the phone. He decided to make a trip to her home, and found that no one was at home. He began to really really worry. But he had a dinner appointment with a client so he decided to come back again to look for her after that.

***********************************

She felt cheated, used and decieve. It was the first time in her life that she invested so much upon one person, wait...... not invested because with an investment you aimed for a return. She had loved him, she had wanted to be with him forever and ever, have kids, grow old, and see them marry. But NO!!!!!! HE CHEATED HER FEELINGS!!!! She totally did not know what to do. The rational her told herself that she had to live a life which is better without him....... prove to him that she did not needed him.

BUT HOW?? she did need him, she wants him, she dare not call him for the sake that the other women might actually pick up the phone, she dare not wait outside his house for the fact that she feared that she might see them together, she needed to talk to him in person and ONLY HIM. She therefore texted him

" I need to talk to you, see you tommorow at 8pm at our place"

But he did not turn up, she had waited the whole night, He had dumped her. He had seriously left.

For the first time in her life she seriously felt like getting drunk, she really did not want to have any feelings for all the feelings that are left in her heart are sadness, pain and torture. She needed to get herself happy. She decided to go clubbing, of course with her looks and a bit of make up she had no problem attracting attention, she danced the night away and at the extreme level even got some drugs off this junkie, it was nothing that bad just some mild heroin, which one course made her happy.

On the other hand the guy though he had landed on a catch tonight and proceeded to bring her home when he suddenly felt a jerk and as well as a punch that left him sprawling on the floor.

******************************

He saw her drunk and with a guy that had bastard written on his forehead, he didn't know why but his initial reaction was that he had to save her, and save her he did, he punched him and dragged her away and buzzed off in his car. In the car Charmaine was laughing like mad, she seemed happier then usual and this was beginning to worry him, he decided to send her home and when she realised that she attempted to jump out from the car. He was really scared he had never ever seen her like this before. But decided on the better side to send her home.

When they finally reached she wouldn't get out of the car, he had to practically dragged her out and carry her to her flat, the security guard was looking at him wierdly. But atlast they reached the house, he fiddled around her bag for the key and when they were finally in, he settled her on the bed and went to get a hot towel.

When he returned she was missing, the door closed with a loud bang and suddenly she was kissing him.

Kevin: Charmaine you are drunk, you dunno what you are doing

Charmaine: I totally know what i am doing, i know you always wanted to have me all along and tonight i am giving myself to you and you don't want me?

Kevin: I love you.......... But....... we shouldn't be doing this......

Charmine: Shuttup, if you want me to be happy then just do as i say

Kevin resisted at first he knew that whatever that was going to happen tonight ain't real, but the temptation was too strong, he could no longer resist her, he wanted to be with her, to be inside her, to hold her.

*********************************

Although she was a bit high she knew what she was doing, in her heart she needed someone to appreciate her, she wanted to be loved, wanted to prove that what Ray did for leaving her for another women was wrong. But on the other hand she also wanted the person to be Ray, instead of Kevin, she knew that if she continued there would be no going back, but Ray had left there was nothing to go back to.

*********************************

In the dark he could see her perfect body curve, although it was hidden under the duvet he could still feel her, she had drifted off to sleep, but he had stayed awake for he knew the dream would soon be over. The whole time he had not let go of her, he hugged her so that she could feel safe, feel loved and feel secure. He knew that it would be morning soon and that she probably would not remember what happened last night because she was so drunk, but how he hoped that at that moment the time would actually freeze by itself. How he wished that all this could be real.

********************************

His hands provided security, it was strong and safe. But they weren't Ray's, she could feel his breath breathing down onto her neck and his heart pumping onto her back, she could not see him but she figured that he would be asleep. She dare not move for the fear that she might wake him up. She didn't know what had gone into her last night, but she certainly had not predicted this outcome. She still felt sad about Ray's Betrayal, but out of a sudden she felt even worst for what had happened last night. Now not only was Ray the Betrayer but so is she, she had betrayed herself as well as Kevin, and with that she could only respond with a tear that rolled down her cheek.

Chapter 12: Pain

2008-10-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

Brr.... Brr.....

The message came as the biggest shock to her life

"Stop messing around Raymond hes mine."
She was pretty sure that it was a joke, plus the number was privated which means she did not know who send it to her, it could have been a pranked.
But the following one confirmed it all
"If you do not believe come to his house tonight, WE will be there"

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Leila did not tell Raymond what she did, she knew that he would be in too much pain to do it, he would not have the heart to do it, he has gotten pale and sick over this subject matter and was not eating and sleeping properly which was not good for his condition. It was his off day but Leila convinced him to tell Charmaine otherwise. Just when the sun was about to set she broke the news. He didn't know why he was not angry with her, the feeling was more of relieve and sadness, he finally HAD to let go. It was time. He promised to follow her plan. She did not know why she went to his house. He had told her that he was on a flight to Europe today, and was not going to be back until mid of next week. But his lights were on. He could see movements inside the house, in fact a shadow just moved in and away from the windows, she knew it was not him, the figure was petite, small and slender. Leila saw the car, it was time, plan in action................................

Although it was an old trick, it was still one of the best becuase it was bound to break a womens heart no matter how strong she was. No women on earth could tolerate her man cheating on her. But the best of all was to make sure that she had to feel unwanted. They purposely left the door unlocked and left a trail of their clothing, front door to window back to room......When she got to the door it was not locked, and inside there were some intimate sounds of kissing and banging of furniture, she didn't know why her foot stuck to the ground and her anger was boiling. She opened the door, she recognised raymond's coat, a pair of new man's shoes, women's stockings, heels. Laughter were coming out of the door, she heard them, she peeked into the gap, he was on top of her stroking her hair

Ray: You are so pretty normally, but in bed you are the goddess

Leila: Yeah, i bet you say this to every other women you bed

Ray: Hey you know that all the others are just proxies, we are the one that is set up by god, how many times have we hooked up and broke up?

Leila: Lets see since 16, on average we break up and hook up every half year so that makes about 8 times.... haha

Ray: Laugh somemore, you are always the one tormenting me, i never actually find the right girl that can take your place, they all suck

Leila: stop lying i heard from uncle that you were going out with this lawyer

Ray: Her!!! OMG, shes another one of those i can easily find in Lan Kwai Fong, she things i love her from all those small small things i do for her, but she does not realise i pay Janet to organise them for me. Shes so naive, so much for her being a lawyer.

Leila: Then how is she in bedRay: You don't actually think that i will bed someone i do not love at all?? DEAR I AM VERY LOYAL. Actually no its just that i love you too much to bed another women, you know they are all just a pass time flings for me.

Leila: How can i prove that

Ray: This is how i can prove it

Her moan, was one of satisfaction, she could not stand it any longer, yes they have never done it, but that was because she though he respected her, she wanted to keep the moment for their marraige. She felt betrayed, stupid and naive. How could she have believed in this man. The sounds in this house were getting louder, she could not stand it. She ran out into the living room, she halt at the rack in the living room, she did not realise that there were these extra photos, she finally saw who it was, the photos were in chronological order, from kids to teenagers, to lovers, to adults........ in all the photos she saw another side of Raymond a happy-go-lucky raymond, they were really sweet. She saw a Raymond that never existed in her life before, the Raymond that was never hers to begin with

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

By now Raymond was tearing, lying on top of her, he just had to cry, she felt awkward, but she dare not move, after all he was still topless, but he was sad, the moaning and groaning noises had stopped it was actually recorded anyway, and was surprise that Charamine actually felt for it. It sounded so fake anyway. She hugged him to make him to try to make him feel better but all of a sudden Raymond stopped. He laid lifeless on top of his. With all her might she pushed his over.

Chapter 11: Reality

2008-09-08T04:05:00.000-07:00

~REALITY~

~Humankind cannot bear very much reality~

***********

Leila: YOU WANT TO WHAT???

Ray: Miss Please calm down, i mean..........er......... can you PRETEND to be my girlfriend

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile downstairs in the car, she was too scared to go in, for the first time in their relationship she could feel that there was a chance she might lose Raymond, reflecting back on their relationship, it was always Raymond that was pampering her. From the country pins, to small presents to constant candle light dinners to surprises. It was always him that was pleasing her. Although she did try to do it the other way round, it never seemed to have the same effect that it did on her. In addition she was thinking back to the conversation that he and Kevin had back at the office. Why did he do it. Was it becuase he though that she was not happy enough being with her? Or was it becuase he felt that Kevin was better qualified then he. She contemplated to redial the number but was scared, and she didn't know why but her body seemed to have controled her mind and she drove away aimlessly into the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile upstairs Raymond told Leila about Charmaine, how he had planned to propose to her on Christmas eve. How he had planned to set the marriage on the airplane in mid air, how he had already chosen their marraige ring which could be combined into one to form one right, which meant that they were always meant to be the one and only one for each other. That was until he received his medical report today. He remembered how much Leila cried when Desmond left, he told her that she used to be a happy-go-lucky person, taking the world as it came along, but after Desmond left he rarely saw her smile. He didn't want Charmaine to be like her.

Leila felt bad for Ray, she know what he was pointing at, since Desmond left 2 years ago, she has not even gone back to work. She felt that life was meaningless, she and Desmond started going out at 15 and by 16 they had had their whole life planned out. They started working part time to earn money at the age of 18 and by 20 they had made their first million after a lucky investment. They spotted their luck and vowed to never depend on luck again so they had used the money to invest in both of their education, they survived on interest rates and had been financially independent since then. But when he left, her life left her as well. Until today she has not fully recovered. She left Hong Kong for the world and tried desperately not to come back unless it was Des's anniversary, she avoided Hong Kong. Plus the fact that Ray looked exactly like Des since they were twins and that she was scared that she would fall for him. She only wants Des in her heart and nothing more.

They had to do it smart, something sudden and abrupt would not make Charmaine leave, Ray knew her too well, they had to do it subconsciously. Meanwhile Ray promised Leila that he would accept treatment on the condition that she helped him.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

It was not easy to begin with, especially the part where he had to resist calling her or smsing her, but he knew it was for her good. He however continued with the off-day arrangement, lunch then dinner. But he purposely made Leila sms him more often during those lunch hours and would pretend to smile at them when he receives something. He could see that she was beginning to get suspicious but to his surprise she did not question him or even get angry at him. She was learning to be patient, but at the same time, Ray was flying to more obsure places with worst schedules, He could be absend from Hong Kong up to 4 or 5 days at a time and she knew that there was soemthing fishy about that.

He had to be smart about his plan, but theory was different from practical, often he could not resist holding on to her or kissing her and he was finding it very difficult to break up with her. He wanted to do it in the least suffering way for her and the only way would be that she hates him. But how could he make her hate him when he loves her so much???

Leila knew it was time to step up, she too did not want another person to suffer like her, the feeling of not being able to let go becuase the man did not abandon her but becuase god abandoned them. When Desmond wanted to break up with her she knew she had to stay becaused she loved him and it is becuase of the same love she need not another women to suffer on earth. She had to be more passive.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

She was beginning to lose focus at work, she could feel that there was somethign wrong, although he might be with her physically, but his heart has flown off, she wants to know whats happening, but she didn't know how to ask. They were not as affectionate as they were before, now they barely held hands or even kiss. Suddenly she fells the fear of losing him. However on the other hand she began to take more notice of Kevin, she realise that he was exceptionally nice to her, being at her position she was definately qualified to have her own working room but the one shes at right now is definately almost as big as his, he always brought her out to his meetings, everybody thought that they were a couple although both of them strongly denies it. He however would not bother her after work, once the matter was so urgent that there was a chance that he might lose millions of dollars if that particualr document was not altered correctly but instead of calling her to do it together, he stayed up all night.
But the thing was the more he treated her that way the more she pushed him away and the more she wished that that was Raymond.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

He felt that she knew his feelings for her, the more he tried to controlled it the more subconciously he acts towards her, he knew that he had to control it but it was relatively hard. She was beginning to avoid him, making unbelievable excuses such as having lunch with Raymond when he knew that he was off in another country (lol.... her phone won't ring that often). Or was he a bit too sensitive, she might just want to keep their relationship simple. Just friends and nothing more.

However he sensed that there was something on her mind, something that was bothering her, her work performance had dropped dramatically. But he dared not ask, he was in no position to ask. He feared that she might feel that her life has been intruded into.

Chapter 10: Life's ending

2008-08-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

Raymond had just gotten his report from his required annual medical check-up and was stoning outside the hospital. He didn't know what to do, for all these years he had worked so hard to achieve what he had now, his life, his career and of course her. But now...............

He didn't know where to go and mysteriously drove back to the airport, he strolled along the counters looking at families happily checking in, people being excited about flying to another country for a holiday. He remembered the day he graduated, he was really happy becuase he finally could fly his grandpa around the world, just like he had promised. But that also became one of his biggest regret because soon he fell sicked and had moved on to another life. Suddenly life seemed so bleak. He questioned why he had to be he person choosen, why out of so many ppl in this world he was the one to get it, why did he get it when he had never ever even harmed a person. He screamed in agony, screamed at the world, screamed at god.

Charmaine had been trying to call him for the whole day, it was his off day and according to their routine it would mean that he would go to her office and take her to lunch and then wait for her to finish work by strolling in a mall nearby and they would then enjoy rest of the night in each other's company. But today he had told her that he had something to do in the morning, but she did not see him during lunch and now its getting late and his phone was off plus he was not at home. She was getting pretty worried about him.

It was getting dark, and he had been walking for the whole day, and decided to go home, just as the lift opened he was surprised to see a person waiting outside the door. Small but tough figure with a back pack sleeping, when he came face to face with her, he realised it was leila. He was pretty shocked and surprised at the same time. He woke her up and when she came to her senses se finally realised that the stupid idiot was back. The phone inside the house had been ringing like a church bell for hours and she had been through and back to the house for a dozen times before getting too tired and falling asleep at the doorstep.

They went in just as the phone rang again and this time she flew to catch it but the other end was dead silence and she wondered who it was. He knew that it was Charmaine, but he did not have the heart to face her yet, he didn't have the courage to break it to her and did not have the bravery to make her have to suffer. In conclusion he was at a lost and he needed time to plan his next move. He decided to calm hiimself down in a bath.

He was oblivious to the fact that he had left his medical check up report outside on the dinning table and as expected leila has had already held it in her hands when he came out

leila: y-you got it too??

ray: Yeah, funny right, since dad never got it but Desmond has died from it and now its my turn, come to think of it i must be really lucky to fall into the 0.02%.

leila: RAY! stop it, you know its not funny, you can die from it!

Ray: Yeah i know, but what do you want me to do!!!!! Like you say i am going to die

Leila (already crying): i-its, n-not ....fu....nee you know, If, only... if he could have found out earlier he may not have died....... we were supposed to get married!!!!

Raymond suddenly came to his senses, Leila and Desmond were one happy couple, since Desmond's death, Leila had changed completely, she was a top class financial analysis, along with Desmond they both made their first million at the age where most ppl would still be studying, 20. Seeing the danger for their lack of education and the fact that they were lucky, they used the money to continued their education, and saved most of it for their marraige after that. They had a happy life in front of them until the day Desmond had fainted in the house and was later pronounced dead when he was rushed to the hospital from sudden cardic failure. He had been healthy and strong, and nobody expected this to happen. Leila since then stopped whatever she was doing and decided to back pack around the world to fulfill Desmond's dream.

But remembering how Leila suffered also brought Raymond back to his senses, he needs to keep Charmaine away from all these pain, he was determined that Charmaine CANNOT BE Leila No 2. Plus theres Kevin, which can provide better life for her. He had to get rid of her. He turned to Leila, he needed her to help him, he needed her to save Charmaine.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally someone picked up the phone, she had become so paranoid that she decided to drive to his house to see what was happening, and when the phone went thru she was surprised to hear a women's voice. She immediately ended the call, she didn't know why she felt so frigthened to hear her voice, Raymond had never ever told her of a close female friend or relative, he had said that he was the only person in Hong Kong, his family had all died. So who was this female? How come shes in Ray's house? Maybe she had dialed the wrong number but when she checked her phone it assured her that she was wrong. She stopped the car below his house. She didn't know whether she should go up or not.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ray: Ling i need you to help me!

His face was serious, she though maybe that he is going to go for treatment. But his next words stunned her

Ray: I need you to be my girlfriend.

2008-08-21T07:35:00.000-07:00

Meaning of Love

~I'd rather mean nothing to you than be a faint memory of regret...~

Chapter 9: Recognition

2008-07-29T04:23:00.000-07:00

He was still cautious of Kevin and this prompted him to spend as much time as possible with Charmaine, he was still pretty confident of their relationship but maybe its because of another person's intervention, his world was now more focused on her. He even became more childish, making up secret codes whilst in the air or sending her stupid jokes whilst in another country and of course sweet talking his love for her. But this strengthen their relationship. She seems to enjoy the attention more then ever and was happy to reply to them whenever she could. He made an effort to be with her whenever it was his off days, he didn't know what made him do what he did but it was probably out of fear, fear of losing her, fear of missing her, fear of being abandoned.

Meanwhile Kevin was trying his best to control his feelings for her, the appearance of Raymond has acted as a catalyst for his love towards her, but he also knew that he had to stay off her. She was his, and he was relieve that she did not know about his feelings for her. At least this was what he though. He had begun his private business and they have secretly been carrying out transactions behind the company's back, all without the knowledge of Annita (their step mum) and Kelly (the step sister), however the father knew about it and understood why the son was doing what he did. He was careful not to exploit any resources or opportunity that belonged to the company as he did not want to be held responsible for any fraud or anything. He kept all of his tansactions overseas and this meant that they often had to work over time or outside the company to avoid any leeking of information. He was curious whether Raymond knew about this, he wanted this to be their little secret, one that only belonged to both of them, then aty least he knew that there was something in the world that only belonged to both of them.

Her normal job duties were already a big burden for her, now she had to handle jobs from the "outside company" as well, what made it worst was the fact that Kevin was beginning to spend very little time back in teh company and Kelly has alrady begun asking questions. She now understood why Kevin didn't like her, she was bitchy and annoying, not the sort of caring sister that the magazines protray. She was nice to everybody in the office, sort of like a hypocrite but when she talks to his "little brother" she could see the bitchiness in her. This prompted her to help him even more. However she didn't knwo whether she could tell this to Raymond, she had felt the difference in his attitude towards her, he had begun to be so much more possessive of her and she felt that she now had difficulty breathing, on one hand she did not want to betray the trust that Kevin had imposed on her but on the other she did not want to lie to Raymond

Raymond was beginning to get suspicious, for both the time that she was beginning to spend with him after work and also the amount of calls that they were getting from each other. Whenever he asked she keeps saying that they were handling a big project and that it was at a crucial stage. But everytime she said this she would not look into his face but rather change the subject abruptly and snuggle into him or kiss him to avoid him from questioning further. He was going to propose to her, he felt that he had to do something to secure her, he wanted her to belong to him. He didn't know why he was feeling so desperate. But first he had to make things clear, he needed to see Kevin.

He had followed him one day from the office to his house, he didn't know how else he could find him without her knowing, that was the only method. He had waited in his car outside the carpark until he appeared, he had lied to Charmaine saying that he had a medical check up to do and that he could not see him tonight, he though that she sounded happy that she did not have to spend time with her. Whilst following him he did not know what to do, he wanted to planned out a dialouge but he was too scared to think straight. He knew that it would not work out anyway but he keep reminding himself that he had to remain calm.

Following him he came to realise that he was not going home, he was going to another office. He wondered what he was up to. But whatever he was doing he knew he had to speak up, and he kept following him until he reached a vacant office. Which says KC realty ltd. He pondered whether that was a good time, and decided that he had to take his chance. Before the door closed he stepped in, Kevin was surprise to see him there, maybe Charmaine really did tell him about their little secret, he asked him whether he was here to find her only to be stopped by him.

Ray: I know i sound a bit upfront but i had to clear this up with you, you like Charmaine right?

Kev: Er......

Ray: I know, i can see it in your eyes,

Kev: Er............i think you have been mistaken

Ray: Come on pal, you don't have to lie to me, i can see it

Kev: Er............

Ray: Please don't humiliate me, i KNOW it, and please don't be offended, i did not come for a fight, i just need to clear this up. She's a beauty plus shes kinda hearted and hard working its not a question why guys would fall for her. In fact i now began to question why shes with me, lol.... i ain't that rich compared to you, maybe better looking but looks don't mean money right.

Kevin was rather shocked at that point, he didn't know whether Raymond was here for a fight or whether he was just doing what he wanted to do. He decided to keep insisting that he has not fallen for her. But he knew that he knew that he liked her and there was frankly not much point of denying it. He had told her that KC meant Kevin Commercial Realty but in reality he had wanted it to mean Kevin and Charmaine.

Ray: Kevin please tell me the truth

Kev: OK OK! To be honest at first i did kind of fall for her, but that stopped after i found out that you were going out with her. I have no intention of breaking up both of you, i treat her as a friend and nothing more.

Ray: Then why is she so secretive behind my back

Kev: Oh............. (so after all she didn't tell him a single thing)... hmm.... frankly its kinda coporate secret, but i assure you there is nothing more going between us then friendship.

He appreciated his sincerity, but questioned whether he was honest especially the part where he said that he now only treated her as a friend. He didn't know what else to say, and he continued to assure him that they were NOTHING but friends. He proceeded to leave and he followed him out after grabbing a particular file. He noticed that the name of the company was KC and instinctively questioned whether it stood for kevin and Charmaine. He suddenly seemed at a lost and didn't know what to do. But he recognised his love for her, it was more powerful then his, he was willing to give up her so that she could be happy, he wondered whether she knew about it.

She just stood there is total silence, she had come up to the office to get a particular document that she needed for the meeting next day with brokers, she hadn't told Kevin that she was coming here, and was shocked to over hear the conversation that just happened. She could feel that Raymond was feeling insecure and had tried her best to ensure her love for him. But she was more shocked to discover Kevin's feelings for her. She was now a bit confused. She stood there for ages scared to go out, scared to see Kevin or Raymond, she didn't know what to do and was relieve when both of them finally left. She needed time to digest the information but one thing she was sure was the person she loved the most was still Raymond.

She had had many guys before this but none of them was able to make her feel this way, for mostof them she did not even mind when their relationship ended to her it was more of a chore to keep dating them. But with Raymond it was different, she felt sad for his hurt, she wondered how much he must have suffered from her insecurity, the fact that he was a rational person and had stormed to Kevin's office interogating him just now. The fact that he said he wondered why she liked him. She began to tear and for the first time in her relationship with Raymond she recognised both their love for each other. She loved him more then she had realised, and she began thinking back to the time when they first started.

2008-07-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

LONG DISTANCE

~Distance does not matter if two hearts are loyal to one another.~

Chapter 8: Retreat

2008-07-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

He was missing her more and more as each day passed by, he began to question whether what he was doing was worth the effort, after all he wanted to be with her in the future but the future he could see right now was more and more clouds rather then more and more of her. He was extremely tired but he was desperate to see her, since he had missed dinner with her she went to her place, only to find out that she was not home yet. He began to wonder what happened since it was getting pretty late at night and normally she would be home by now, plus he couldn't get through her phone.

She wanetd to call Raymond but her handphone was dead, after the coffee mini picnic by the beach, they had stayed on to talk until late in the night whereby the stars were shining and only did they realise how late it was. Kevin had however discovered how much similarities they have such as reading, listening to music peacefully and the dislike of noisy places, he had the feeling that they were a match. A perfect match. It was getting kinda late but they were hungry too, and she came up with the idea of having dinner in another "tai pai tong". Dinner went smoothly and soon it was time to go home.

She was pretty exhausted by then and feel asleep in the car with his soft music and comfortable chair, when he reahced her house he woke her up and walked her up to her flat, there was however a guy standing in front of her door. She did not realise that Raymond was standing there, his expression was one of anger and sadness. She realised he must have waitied at her doorstep for quite a while instead of going home to rest. She took the chance to introduce both of them to each other.

The look on his face told him that he liked her, she had assured him that their relationship were only one of friends and nothing more. But he knew. He didn't know why he felt so insecured at that moment, maybe it was becuase of the distance that they were now facing. Suddenly he felt as if the whole world was collapsing on him, was it because of his job? was it becuase of the time that they now could not spent together? or was it becuase of the fact that not only was this guy rich and famous but also the fact that he looks decent and is probably smart as well. He saw himself as inferior to him. He could picture a better future for her to be with him insetad of himself.

She could see the dissapointment on Raymonds face, she questioned whether it was his tiredness or whether it was the meeting between them and decided as a matter of fact that it was the latter, she wanted to assure him that nothing would change her love towards him, but she knew that words alone would not make that guarantee, and instead she choose to cuddle him, she wanted him to feel that her heartbeat was beating along with his, they were working together as one couple in the same direction, not two lonely souls each walking seperately. Suddenly he could feel her back into her world, the feeling that he had yearn for days, her warm, her soul, her breath. He knew from that moment she was the only thing that he needed in her life, she might not be as rich as Kevin but money does not mean everything in the world. SHE WAS THE WORLD.

He looked up back to the unit she was staying and saw both of their shadows, whcih were entwined within each other, they were kissing each other, each unwilling to let go of the fire and passion that had been build up from the days that had passed. He was the delight on her face when she found him standing by the doorside. Although he had never heard about him, he could feel that they were serious, she loved him, and this meant that he had to RETREAT.

Chapter 7: Sunset vs Sunset

2008-07-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

After settling down back to routine work he began to have much more contact with her, the fact that he was also the Director for Sales and Development of estates. He had to be careful with every one of his purchases as his step-mum is constantly looking for him to fail and his step-sister just can't wait for him to make a mistake so sheould asurp his authority. His father has however realise the seriousess of this and had assured him that as long as he is still alive nobody is going to touch him.

He knew that outside his office people always gossip behind his back and that there were eyes from both the step mum and sister spying on him. He has to make every decision carefully and wisely and had to outlook over all the legal aspects of every purchase and sale, especially those that involved international laws. He did not trust most of his affiliates as a mistake or error could bring down the company, thus only small figured transactions goes through them the others he handles it themselves. However he somehow had the feeling that he could trust her, trust that she would not betray him and trust that she could handle the gigantic projects, trust that with both of them they would excel with the company.

He was now looking into a new market for himself. He knew that he had to stop relying on the company and his father sooner or later, he knew that although he would inherit most of his assets, there was bound to be some obstalcles in it and he was the type of person that does not wish to fight for it. He had open up another company with the consent of his father and were looking at real property in UK, since he had stayed there before and was also looking at some other countries like New Zealand, China and Singapore. He had found out that Charmaines connections for both UK and Singapore were pretty good with relatives staying there and that she had studied the law there whilst he was confined to Australian law and according he wanted her to help him. But he didn't know how to ask.

Over lunch one particular day he let it slipped about his "new company", she was actually pretty shocked about it since he seems to be in control of the company that he was working in now. The look on his face meant that he had to tell her everything, not that he wanted her to help him or anything but so that she would not misunderstand him as a person that betrays and cunning. He disclosed about the complicated family background, the fuels and fires in within the family, how careful he had to be, how obedient he had to follow.

She was pretty surprised at his frankness, but more surprise at the complicated underlying background, on newspapers and other tabloids, the family was seen as a loving and caring family especially more so when both children did not belong to the current Mrs Tong, she could see that he was not lying. She believed him when he said that he had to find someone that was willing to help him that was not going to betray him the reason why he keeps travelling overseas with his failure record and story of partying was so that he could stay under the radar. He did not want any conflict within the family especially from his sister. Not because of the money as those that were invested were his but becuase he did not want to give any trouble to his dad which would then be stuck in the middle. And at that instance she knew she was going to help him.

Just when they were about to leave she received an sms from Raymond saying that he had to go to the airport early and would not be able to make it to dinner. She was a bit dissapointed but didnt mind becuase she knew that he was working hard so that he could get promoted. He was trying to fly as many hours as possible and trying to impress the boss when ever he could. He started to take up slots that nobody wanted to do especially to remote places with long hours, she knew that he was doing all these for her, he wanted to be able to match her not just finacially but capability as well. But this meant that they now saw less of each other.

He could see the disspointing look on her face and wonder what was troubling her, she said nothing, but he knew that there must be something. On a spur of the moment he dragged her out of teh restaurant and told her that the rest of the day was a day off and that he was going to bring her some where, he stopped by a row of shops and returned with a bag which he dropped off at the boot, and then continued their journey.

As he was driving she began to miss Raymond even more, of course the honey moon period was over and that both of them were workinig towards a better future but she couldn't help missing him, missing his face, missing his hugs and missing his smell. They had talked about moving into the same place, but whats the difference when both of their working times were so imbalanced. They tried not to argue about this but both knew it was a time bomb which needs to be solved as soon as possible, he argued that as soon as he got the promotion he could fly better routes on better schedules.

He could see that something was on her mind, and he did not want to force her to say it, at last the car came to a halt. She asked why were they here and he said it was because somebody was sad, he told her that there would always be a better day coming after the sun sets, only did she realise that they were near the beach and the sun was beginning to set. This reminds her of her sky sight seeing trip with Raymond and made her even more depressed, he got out of the car and went behind for the coffee and cookies, what more then to enjoy the sunset with a good cup of coffee and great cookies. Finally she was able to smile, she realise that he was more considerate then what his expression showed and the sight was actually quite nice, plus the aromatic coffee was partially tempting her.

He knew that he was falling for her, her grace her charm her beauty. She wanted to know more about her and soon they began talking by the beach, about her family about her studies but never did he asked whether he was single, he was scared of the answer. She now regarded him as a friend, as a friend who understands her, a friend whom she could work with a friend whom she could talk to.

2008-07-25T05:11:00.000-07:00

KISSING

“When [he] kisses you he isn't doing anything else. You're his whole universe..and the moment is eternal because he doesn't have any plans and isn't going anywhere. Just kissing you...it's overwhelming.”

Chapter 6: Crossing Paths

2008-07-24T04:58:00.000-07:00

She had told her father that she wanted to stop working in a law firm but instead exploit other opportunities such a corporate career, her resume of great successes in the law courts had meant that she had already achived what she had aimed for. She had been made partner in less then 4 years almost a record in everybodies eyes. She was only 23 still young and plenty of chances lied ahead of her. She wanted a job that did not involve going to courts which she had come to dislike. Her father therefore recommended to his close friend's company. A real estate developer and growing business, who needed a real experience in house law adviser.

She couldn't believed her luck, now she would be able to have more time for Raymond, with her job switch not only did she actually have more time she actually had a pay rise too. She was now assistant legal director, which meant that she overlooked the whole department but had to report to the director himself. She was pretty curious about this so called director as he is never in his office. For the first week there she was already doing a lot of documents but never once did she see his superior, lucky enough all the documents only had to be approved by her and did not involve him or else the company was sure to lose billions.

Raymond knew that he was partly the reason why she switched her job, and was very grateful to her although he strongly objected to it, he knew her opportunities and future were so much better in the law field, she has been named as the top 10 upcoming lawyers in Hong Kong and was liked by everybody because of her hardworking attitute. But after she assured him that it was because she was too tired and wanted a rest he gave in. In fact he now loved the fact that she would be free on weekends to accompany him and he did his best with excuses to prevent flying overseas on weekends. He knew that she disliked noisy places and other then inside the house he would bring her to parks and have walks with her instead

After two weeks of work she finally "heard" from his superior, actually it was more like a scream, when she was summoned to him the first word that he said to her was actually, " Blue suitcase girl", she was pretty confused at that moment only to realise that the pink shirt guy was actually him. He looked pretty different, smarter and more confident. It had already been 4 months since their first meeting and, which also meant that it was already 4 months since she and Raymond was going out, a pretty good four months of her life time. Although he has been away, he seemed to know all about the department and jobs, he inquired into stuff that he had left behind and asked about the developments that had occured for the three weeks he had been away.

She was totally different then the last time she was her, elegant, pretty and charming. Thinking to herself that she must be just one of those blondes, has looks but no skill and had gotten into this department through connections, but he was surprised when she was able to answer each and every of his questions precisely and in detail. He had come to admire her attitute and of course her charm. She definately feeled into the category of pretty. But he wasn't going to be charmed by just that. He needed to know her more and instinctively he asked her out for lunch, and the excuse he used was that he needed to know more about what had happened in the time that he was away.

She had expected that his superior would be one of those high and mighty person as she had come to acknowledge his status as future CEO of the company, with the founder being the founder and the sister the Managing Director now. The mum although not active in the administration of the company was a majority silent shareholder of the company. He is the only son of the founder and his family history seems to more in a mess then what could be seen on the surface. His mum was apparently not the legitimate wife and was the third party, she had died whilst giving birth to him and accordingly the current Mrs Tong, was the fourth wife of Mr Tong, but ain't the mother of any of the 3 children of Mr Tong. However it was her money that was the foundation of the company and accordingly the sister hates both the borther and mother, vice versa with the other two.

She was therefore surprise with his friendly attitude and happy go lucky look, he always bore a smile on his face (at least until now), and was surprise when he insisted having lunch in those run down restaurants rather then 5 star high class hotels.

Over lunch, she updated dutifully but was later stopped when he asked her to eat instead of talking and told her that work should be left for in the office. She found him to be a really funny person and was relief that her superior was actually nice.

Later after work she met up with Raymond and told him about Kevin, his intellectual capabilities and his friendliness. He inquire about whether he was cute and she could sense a certain degree of jealousy. She began to laugh and seeing that he was pretty serious he assured him that she was his forever and ever.

Little did they realise that it is the Tong family that brings their life to a dramatic halt with a twisted future in the years to come.

2008-07-24T04:55:00.001-07:00

FAITH

“Faith is a knowledge within the heart, beyond the reach of proof.”

Chapter 5: Lovey Dovey

2008-07-24T03:55:00.000-07:00

Their love towards each other was passionate and romantic, although he did not have much time in Hong Kong and especially with the requirement of his job, it meant that they did not always have time or should i say the right time for each other. But nevertheless Raymond knew he was deeply attracted by her, he always though about her, even when he was working and counting down the hours till he could see her again. She would spend hours on the web cam with her just staring at her work in her office not willing to go to sleep if he was on the other side of the world.

In his mind she was pretty, elegent and smart, she was hardworking and didn't mind working long hours to help those that were in need. She did a lot of social work that impressed him even more. Often she would stay up late after office hours to work on pro-bono cases, and never did she once complain about tiredness working on them. When he asked her why she was doing them she kept saying that the smiles on those people you actually help is priceless.

When he was in Hong Kong, they would spend quality time with each other, he always prepared romantic candlelight dinners whenever he was free and when she had to work. His habit of buying her a pin to every new destination continued and soon they had a banners full of pins.

On the other hand she was extremely impressed with Raymonds efforts, she had never ever met a guy whom could dedicate so much of his time to her. All her previous attempts at finding a long lasting relationship failed on two aspects either that they complained that her work took up too much of their time or that she was not commited enough. To her Raymond never ever once complained but instead whenever they could be together they would be doing something that she liked, like watching a film quietly in the house instead of going out to the movies or playing a game of chess or just sitting in their balcony under the moonlight enjoying the peace. She knew that she had to make more of an effort and had began to do stuff for him. It was almost christmas and she wanted to give him something special, she decided to make him a scarf, never in her life had she ever done anything like this, but this time she was determined.

In addition she made efforts of doing what he liked to do as well, he was an outgoing type of person and she made an effort of going out with him to dinners and drinks with his friends, although she knew nobody from the group the smile on his face was pretty precious, she would sit down and pretend to talk to them and enjoy the whole thing although in reality she would often get uncomfortable with the noise and sounds. He noted her sudden change in attitude, and he knew that he was doing all of these for her. This made him love her even more, she had settled his court case for him and was now prepared to buy themselves a house so that they could moved in.

One evening after he was suppose to fly to Canada, he pretended to be sick and got a friend to substitute in for him. He then went to her office almost had to half beg, half dragged her out into his car, and drove him to the airport. He keep telling her it was a surprise and eventhough she had a ton of work to do back in her office, she was extremely happy to see him as he was already away for more then 2 days and she had been too commited in a meeting about a present case that they did not even have the chance to talk. When he was there she saw a helicopter, and he was already getting ready to go on it.

She didn't know what to do next until he screamed for her to wear her gear, she protested but he insisted, and she gave in, he promised her it would be a once in a life time experience. She was actually pretty scared to go flying with him only, but put all fear on his trust instead, when he started the plane, it gave a loud sreech before the engine finally came on and before she knew it she was already up in the air, at first she did not understand what he was trying to show her but slowly when the sun began to set she realised it.

"Where other then up in the sky to see the best sunset"

~Their magical sighting~

At that moment she was really touched by him, never in her life had she felt so much happiness. Raymond goes through all sorts of effort to please her, he had grown to become part of her, without his heart beat beside her she would feel unconcentrated and uncomfortable. It was him that was helping her survive, it was he that she needed and nothing else. She promised herself that she had to give more of her time to him, she decided it was time to find herself another less demanding job.

Seeing her precious look, he knew what he did was worth it. He had done research to ensure that their flight would catch the sun set, he was pre booked the plane in advance and had made sure with her secretary that she had no appointment that night. He was on his own heaven with her.

2008-07-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

LOVE

~Love is a choice you make from moment to moment.~

Chapter 4: Together

2008-07-22T03:41:00.000-07:00

They met sooner then expected, going back to office the next day she was unexpectely transfered to the real property department, was assigned two chambering students to her and thrown down a huge bundle of files. She did not mind where she was working but she hated land law, it was the one subject that she did not do well in law school and avoided whenever possible and now she was stuck with it.

However just when she was about to settle down into her new office, she was paged and there was a new client in the waiting room, when she went in he turned and gasp, he certainly did not expect her to be her new lawyer handling his grandpa's claim. She was astonished when she realised that he would meet him just after a little more then 10 hours. But this time she had to be professional it was business time.

He told her that his granddad had left him a house in one of the squatter areas but the fact was that his grandpas friend from China had stayed in the house before he passed away and since then he had continued there with no intention to move away. Now when he asserts a claim to the house legal rights he claims that he was a beneficial owner in that he had contributed to the mortagage repayments when he needed money to finance his studies 4 years ago. After looking into all the details she was quite sure that he had a legal claim as least to part of the house and told him that he would look further and see what she could do.

After their meeting it was already almost lunch and he invited her to lunch as a special thanks for helping him, over lunch he got to know more about her, she was two years younger then him, but had graduated early with good results and had been mad partner in a record time of 4 years. She was always going over back to England where her head quaters was and her family were a family of lawyers, all working for the same firm. Mum and Dad are now permenently based in Hong Kong whilst the brother is in Singapore and Sister is still chambering in UK. She is now staying with her parents. Whilst he exposed that he was a pilot, with no relatives in Hong Kong but was left a few properties to him by his granddad and parents who died in a tragic car accident when he was 18. Since then he had romped around the world burn some money and finally decided to become a pilot after seeing that he was on the plane most of the time. As time passed and as he became more daring he asked her whether she was single and having been asked this question unexpetedly out of the blue she told him an honest, yes. She had never gone out with a guy long other there were a few dates here and there.

As the case got along they meet more frequent to discuss about court dates and exchange of evidential information. Often insteed of meeting in the office they went out for lunch instead and this sort of got off into a routine whereby he would have lunch with her when it was his off days. However having a job as a pilot this often meant that they only meet around twice a week. However everytime he went to a new place he would try to get her a pin of that place and gave it to her along with a small card. This meant that every time she meet him she was guaranteed a small present which she though were better then flowers which were immaterial and impracticable.

He was going to surprise her that evening, he had told her that he could not make it in time for the meeting that lunch because there was a flight delay which meant that he would have to stay back for another day in Dubai. In reality he was already back in Hong Kong and was preparing a romantic dinner on his yatch in an attempt to ask her to be her girlfriend. When everything was settled he had phone her and had pretended to be in Dubai when he said that he had left her something on his ship in the racing club for the case which he had forgotten to hand it to her and asked whetehr she could go and get it for him. Since she had nothing to do she agreed, as expected the ship was black when she got there and when she went on he came to her with flowers and music was on the back ground.

In that instance he asked her to be his girlfriend, without waiting for a reply their lips were locked in a passionate kiss. Each unwilling to let go of the other, as both their lifes take a different turn to their destined paths.

Chapter 3: Never judge a book by its cover

2008-07-21T04:59:00.000-07:00

Like most people after the plane landed all 3 of them went seperate ways, each with their own lifes, each with their own routine, either realising that they were slowly succumbing to faith's path.

Chamaine was having to dealt with the hectic and rushing atmosphere of office live in Hong Kong once again and was having a little trouble with it, she was running to everywhere through and fro without rest and without space to relax. Working hours were from 9 in the morning to 4 the next morning. Her boss has promised her that she would be having a holiday after settling her copyright dispute case at hand. She had been on the losing side at the beginning but after evidential prove that the company she was working for had already had that logo since 100 years ago is discreet chinese symbols plus evidential prove that her opposition's great grandfather has seen this symbol whilst in China before moving to Indonesia meant that the case was more then settle. She could finally have some time to herself.

Seeing it was her first time to relax she went to walk around and mysteriously became attracted by a book that was displayed in a book store, the book was titled "Fate", she thought that the title was a bit boring but the book's cover seems fairly interesting, oh well so much for not judging a book by it's cover.

~~~~~~~~~~

It was his off day and after having breakfast with his family and meeting up with some old friends he was kinda bored. His next shift was the day after and most of his close friends whom he meet in piloting school were either up in the sky or in the office. His world has seem to revolve so much around his work these days he practically did not know what to do when off days came. He passed by a book shop and noticed a really fimiliar girl, something tells him he has meet her before. He wanted to approach her, but thinking too himself he might just seem desperate to her he continued walking.

Feeling childish he decided to romp into the arcade center and decided to go onto the dancing machine, he used to be really good at it that he could hog the mahcine for hours he wondered whether his skills was still there.

~~~~~~~~~~

There was a group of people surrounding something, her curiosity nature brought her towards him, she was amazed by the fellars skill, little did she realise he was the cute pilot and when he slipped and fell and lost his balance he was booed. She stayed there and continued watching him. His slip was a pretty bad one and when he turned around he saw her. She just stold there smiling at him. He got up and just smiled at her and introduced himself as Raymond, junior pilot in Cathay. As an exchange she told him that she was a junior partner lawyer in Hong Kong, Chamaine. Deciding that they could dinner together they went to this restaurant in the mall and began talking.

Raymond exposed his love for books and flying, whilst Charmaine told him after the aim of visiting the whole world. She told him that she just bought a new book called Fate, Raymond having read the book told her it was a good romance story but it was too unreal, and told her not to be tempted by the cover. Embarassingly she told him that she bought the book because of the cover, One thing let to another and before they knew it they had hit off immediately, the exchange of phone numbers and emails with the promise to introduce more good books to her coupled with pictures that he had taken whilst he were in other countries. When dinner ended both wondered when they were going to see each other again. Raymond being more aggresive this time asked her whether she would be free this friday night as he wanted a date with her. Instintively she noded her head.

2008-07-16T05:33:00.001-07:00

Love

“A woman knows the face of the man she loves like a sailor knows the open sea.”

Chapter 2: The End of the Beginning

2008-07-08T04:34:00.000-07:00

The whole plane started shaking vigarously and the speakers came blaring "Please fasten your seatbelt", the cabin crew that were serving tea suddenly began retreating into their compartments and also sat down. Oh well another one of those trebulance issues, she was so sick and desperate to get home that this was beginning to annoy her, as usual in a moment all these commotion will die down and the place ride will go along as usual.

Suddenly she felt herself being pulled upwards and objects were actually flying up, the plane has plunged at least 500 feet in those seconds, the screams of "please fasten your seat belt" was still ringing around the plane and screams of horror and fright could now be heard. Thinking to herself, how unlucky she could be to be boarding the 1 in a million plane that actually has an accident.

Along with all the commotion she did not realise a guy was then seated next to her next to her supposing empty seat, when she turned around he saw him being calm and composed and he told her not to be scared, it will die down in a few moments, and he had this very calm and confident smile on him. She actually on the spot believed him and the plane did actually go into a smoother ride after 10 minutes or so. Meanwhile he introduced himself as Raymond and said that he was on of the junior pilots on the ride and that he has faith in his mentor who had 25 years of piloting experience and has gone through more plane rides then anybody in the industry. However before they could actually venture further, an air stewardess came by and whispered into his ear, and he said that he had to report back for duty. She smiled and waved goodbye, thinking to hersefl her was actually kinda cute.

The plane finally landed and she could finally go home, just head out and get her luggage and then head straight home, and that shouldn't be difficult as her luggage is a bright blue one, big and easy to spot. The crowd was already beginning in the baggage area but like she anticipated hers was easy to spot, there it was just circulating out. Meanwhile on the other side Kevin was strolling across leaisurely to the baggage area and checking out the shops at the airport, and he was sure that his lugagge would be there by then and as he anticipated it was there circulating. Thinking to himself it was good to not have bags that are almost identical to others, and since there are only 2 copies of this bags made in the world it is almost impossible that another person would have the same thing here right here in Hong Kong.

Little did he realise that his curse was about to come true, he figured that his luggage seems a bit heavier then he remembered and when he turned it around his favourite pistol lock on the bag was missing, not believing what was happening he attempted to open the luggage on the spot and realise that the combination does not work. Checking the tag it did not state his name, OMG!!!!!! Thank God there was a contact number

Bzz, Bzz..... OMG! how can they know i already landed so fast, before she realises that it was not a recognised number.

"Miss, i think you mis-took my bag"
"Huh"
"Yeah.... can you please check where there is a pistol lock on the front of your bag?"
"OMG! Yes! I AM SO SO SORRY"
"its alright where are you now?"
"i am on the taxi back to my house"
"where do you stay"
"Plaza Sentral, Sentral"
"Wau you must be really lucky then, i stay near there too, i will come to your lobby now please wait for me there"
"oh ok thanks"

Finally, i can take a rest, thinking back to what happened in the flight and the coincidence of bags plus the exchange, it really did kinda exhaust her, the guy with the suitcase was actually kinda cute with his boyish smile and lether coat. Oh well, got to go sleep and reminds herself not make the same mistake ever again

Little did she realise that the meetings between these two people were faith and whether the upcoming times would be not what she expected in her life

Chapter 1: The Begining

2008-06-30T05:31:00.000-07:00

As a long time tradition the chinese believe that there must exist 'fate' for people to be together, be in father and child, brother and sister or husband and wife. It is fate that brings them together for without it they would be just like any other unknown people to the world.

Above in the sky 35000 feet above the ground there are four distinct individuals, unknown to each other, oblivious to each other's existance. Each travelling with their own distinct paths in life, unaware that it is this particular plane ride that brings their paths together and unconscious to the fact that their lifes are about to turn into a totally different era.

As the stewards and stewardess runs up and dial the aisles, he begins to countdown the time before touch down occurs, stressed at the fact that she has already watch all the interesting series that is currently on showed, and annoyed at the fact that this was her 14th hour being confined to a tiny chair with no leg space to monoveure and worst of all to the uncle that was snoring so loudly next to her. She couldn't wait for the next 3 hours to fly pass where she would land, head right home, have a warm bath and of course to the fimiliar dishes which she has been permenently been deprived for a month.

She could not understand how the oversea people could stand home sickness, it was probably one thing in the world that can't be cured by any medicine, oh well, got to hang on to the remaining 3 hours and then she would be home.

Whilst behind two rows, Kevin has busy cracking his head on how to accomplise his task at hand, he had gone to London to look at the possible options that his company has but to his dismay he has returned ALMOST empty handed, apart from the news that the opportunities in London aren't as good as it seems, after wasting 3 weeks in London with nothing acheive his mother would surely think that he had spent on his time clubbing or chilling and not working, which was totally true, at least he went to look for the possible shop lots for 3 days. Oh well he figured that he still had 3 more hours until the terror might as well enjoy his moment of silence for as long as possible.

And meanwhile in the cock-pit the two pilot were just doing their routine check and Raymond was looking intensely into the outside world, just outside the sun has begun to rise and it was definately a view to watch, the golden sea with shiny sand reflected from the clouds. He loved his job, not only does it pay well, it allows him the freedom to venture around the world, the freedom to control a gigantic machine and of course the chance to enjoy the sunrise or sunset. I mean who else has such privilege to watch the sun from where he was watching? Although his mother has always nagged him to come back to help the family business he has always turned a deaf ear. He know that he was not needed, the company was extremely successful without him and ultimately he still has places he needs to go before he completes his list of places to go.

All of a sudden......................

Book 1

2008-06-30T05:28:00.000-07:00

FAITH

“Faith makes all things possible.... love makes all things easy.”

Introduction

2008-06-29T00:18:00.000-07:00

In this modern society one may question their path for their future, was it always planned? Did all things have to happen the way it did? Or were they the ones who caused what happened to happen?

Paulo Coelho once said
'“It (destiny) is what you have always wanted to accomplish. Everyone, when they are young, knows what their destiny is. At that point in their lives, everything is clear and everything is possible. They are not afraid to dream, and to yearn for everything they would like to see happen to them in their lives. But, as time passes, a mysterious force begins to convince them that it will be impossible for them to realize their destiny.”

Whilst Kamran Hamis said
"Fate is for those too weak to determine their own destiny.”

Does that mean that the way we live our lifes has always been predetermined??? or rather like what Henry Miller Claimed

"We create our fate every day we live”

These questions might be faced by many people in the world, people who wonder, people who thinks, people who regrets. Though by the wise by the naive, though by the old and by the young, though by the wise and by the dumb. Are they what they are because of WHO they are or because of WHAT they are?

As Heinrich von Pierer said “Control your fate or somebody else will”

But for the following chapters the four different individuals from around the globe contest this particular word 'FATE'............................. was it meant to be their DESTINY or was it cast by themselves.