AN: I have something to confess, hehe, I was just teasing you guys about the choosing part. . . actually, I have the whole story planned out; but whoever ends up with who will be revealed in the end. Hmm, that'll be in 8 chapters time(actually 7 since chapter 18 would just be like an epilogue). So just a little more patience, okay guys? Hehe, just some interesting facts though: 5 readers would rather see lei-jing and tl-xy, 6 would go xm-xy first leaving jing-tl, but also 3 readers had refuse to choose and both want lei-jing and xm-xy. Hehehe. Anyways, hope you all like this chap.
piglet: yup, you bet the look meant something real important. hehe, i want to tell u in advance that chap 13(the chap which would somehow explain the meaning of the look) would be dedicated to you, so please stay tuned! hehe, u are the 1 person that had been keen enough about tian li giving lei a strange look. hehe, since i'm such an OC myself, to congratulate you on your observations skills(and thus seeing a very vital hint to the story), i want to dedicate that chap to you, it's still three chaps to go before that but i sure hope you'll like it. well, thank you again. you never get tired of reviewing my fic, and i appreciate it a lot. thanks!!!
Shopps: well, as i've said before, i am incapable of making dms sad. about mz-xq thing, read this chap and tell me later what you think, ok? anyway about lei-jing-tl-xy-xm thing, in 7 chaps(8 if i add the epilogue) the story would end and thus the real pairings would be revealed, so watch it for it. hehe, just a question, are you a filipina too? if you are, are you here in the phils? hehe, just asking, i remember you saying 'salamat' before ksi. hehe. well, thanks a lot for reading and reviewing!
xib: oh, okay. i guess that's a good thing to me because it means i did a fair job on making tian li, right? hmmm, i'm glad you like the angsty chap, i was scared you guys wouldnt. anyways, thanks for reading and commenting again. i really appreciate it
a lot.
I-Smiles-U: thank for reading and reviewing. dont worry tsukushi(sc) and tsukasa(dms) would still have their own small special moments throughout the story. the last chap will be on their wedding
Disclaimer: This story is purely a product of a crazy fan's imagination. I do not take credit to any of the characters here except for Tian Li. Aside from that, all things you recognize from MG and HYD belong to their respective owners(Angie Cai and Yoko Kamio) and not to me.
This chapter is dedicated to sol. To sol, please read my reply in the comments page as to why I dedicated it to you. Hehe, hope you like the chap!
-------
Chapter 10: Between Mei Zuo and Xiao Qiao
"What if we lock them in a room together?"
Dao Ming Si groaned. "Shan Cai-"
"What? You don't think it's a good idea? I think it is. If only they could talk, I'm sure they'll work things out." Shan Cai waited for any signs of affirmation from her boyfriend. All she got was an exasperated sigh. "What's with the sighing?"
Dao Ming Si rolled his eyes. How does one argue with this woman? So stubborn. Patiently he began, "I already told you, Shan Cai." He took a deep breath, bracing himself from her temper that would sure explode after. "We are not going to butt into this business of Mei Zuo and Xiao Qiao."
Shan Cai's eyes quickly widen in annoyance just as her eyes had the day before and the days before that. Ever since Xiao Qiao had broken off with Mei Zuo, she had been harping for the two of them to 'do something to help Mei Zuo and Xiao Qiao out.'
Surprisingly, Shan Cai didn't start yelling at him for being such an insensitive pighead, instead, with eyes glaring though, she stated stubbornly, "Yes we will. I already reassured Lei and Xi Men that we would."
"What?! Why did you promise them that?"
"Because they're so worried for him," Shan Cai explained. "But their own lives are so complicated right now so that leaves us." Looking at Dao Ming Si, Shan Cai was annoyed he still didn't look any more willing than before. "Why are you like that? Aren't you worried for Mei Zuo at all? He's so depressed and it's been a week already."
"Of course I'm worried," Dao Ming Si defended. After a while, he sighed. "I know how he must be feeling now after all." Softly, he added, "I've been there remember?"
At first Shan Cai didn't know what Dao Ming Si was talking about, or more precisely which of all their 'break-ups' he was referring to; but in a sudden burst of instinct she understood him.
"That time on the fishing village. . . " she mused out loud.
Dao Ming Si nodded, wincing in the memory. "I guess each person response to depression differently. Well, with me, after you left, I was in a state of shock, and then I started drinking my hearts out. I think I became a bit violent too."
When Dao Ming Si first started, Shan Cai felt a little guilty, knowing it was her 'I don't love you words' that did those to Dao Ming Si. But by the end of his speech, she couldn't help but laugh.
"You've always been violent."
For a moment, Dao Ming Si frowned and he even opened his mouth to retort. With a playful smile on her lips, Shan Cai stared defiantly back at him. In the end, it was Dao Ming Si who once more gave up.
"Fine," he muttered. Shan Cai couldn't help but giggle. Rolling his eyes once more, Dao Ming Si changed the subject. "Anyway, the point is we don't know what kind of depression Mei Zuo is in right now. It's not like we could have a logical talk with him if he's in shock. And I can't go and be his drinking partner because I had to work now." Sighing he added, "Besides, what if he's violent and-"
Surprised, Shan Cai couldn't help asking incredulously. "You're scared that Mei Zuo might hit you?"
"Stupid woman! I am F4's leader Dao Ming Si. I am the hei-" Suddenly realizing he was about to say 'heir of the big Dao Ming empire,' Dao Ming Si stopped. For a second, he had almost forgotten he had already given up that title.
Shan Cai, who caught unto his words too, lowered her head. Though incredibly touched that Dao Ming Si gave up everything for her, she still felt guilty about it. After all, her boyfriend lived the first twenty-two years of his life as a Dao Ming; she can't expect him to forget that, even for her.
Dao Ming Si, seeing the look that came into Shan Cai's eyes, was quickly filled with guilt. Reaching out, he took her hand and squeezed it lovingly. After a while, Shan Cai looked up and smiled in understanding.
"It's okay," she whispered reassuringly. She smiled at him and he smiled back.
How she loved his smile, when he smiled like that, she could truly believe everything would be all right.
"So what were you saying?" Shan Cai asked, a little disoriented. It was those eyes of his distracting her a bit too much. . . Such deep and expressive eyes. . .
"Huh?" Dao Ming Si asked out. He too had been quite distracted. Shan Cai seemed to grow lovelier as each day passed. "Oh, right Mei Zuo." Frowning he explained, "Well, you know how much Mei Zuo values F4's friendship, right?"
Shan Cai nodded. After all if Dao Ming Si's notable saying is 'If sorry is acceptable then what's the use of police?'; Mei Zuo's saying is 'F4's friendship is above anything else.'
Dao Ming Si sighed. "It's because of that I don't want to go and see him if Mei Zuo's being violent. I don't mind if he decides to practice some of his punches on me, after all our lives I've already given him much reason to, but I'm afraid after he gets tired of hitting me he'll feel very bad about it. Probably even get more depressed."
Biting her lips, Shan Cai realized he was right. She sighed wearily. Whoever said her boyfriend was a blockhead? She's finding out more and more that he could be quite perceptive.
"So what now then?" she asked.
Dao Ming Si shrugged his shoulders helplessly. "I don't know," he admitted dejectedly. Musing out loud he added, "Unless of course. . . "
"What? What?" Shan Cai asked excitedly. Did her not-so-blockhead boyfriend actually came out with a plan? "What is it?"
Dao Ming Si scratched his head. "Remember when you came back from the fishing village?" Shan Cai nodded. "For the first time, I didn't want to pursue you anymore." Shan Cai nodded again, this time a bit sadly because of the memory. "I really almost wanted to give up but Lei changed my mind."
"Huh? I don't get it."
Dao Ming Si shrugged again. "Well, I'm just thinking, Mei Zuo had lots of exes. Maybe one of them could say something to Xiao Qiao that could change her mind." He smiled fondly at Shan Cai, "When Lei told me he'll be pursuing you, it gave me a slap. Later, I thought after all I've already been through, why am I giving up now?" He gingerly tucked a loose strand of hair in her ear. "I'm sure all Xiao Qiao needed is a little shake too. After all didn't she wait for ten years for Mei Zuo already?"
Shan Cai smiled. Once more, Dao Ming Si had arrived at a logical deduction. Nodding, she agreed, "You're right. I remembered Lei had talked to me about not giving up too or I'll regret it." Thoughtfully she added, "So all we need to do is find a girl that could smack some senses into Xiao Qiao and Mei Zuo."
Dao Ming Si shook his head. "We don't have to look anymore." At Shan Cai's confused eyes, he added, "Aisha."
"Aisha? Oh yes, the Japanese girl. She was partly the reason of the problem too, right? Do you think we could talk her into helping Mei Zuo and Xiao Qiao out? What if she still likes Mei Zuo?"
Dao Ming Si sighed. "That's the problem. We can't force her to do this." He looked straight at Shan Cai.
"She needs to do this on her own will."
------
"I'm sorry, Mei Zuo but she still doesn't want to talk to you. I tried convincing her again and again but she kept refusing."
Mei Zuo sighed. It's been eight days since Xiao Qiao dumped him. Eight days and still she has not faltered from her resolution of an all-out keep away from him. She had not once returned any of his calls, not even once had she went to practice her cello, and now, even with prodding from her mother, she still didn't want to have anything to do with him. This was really really bad.
"Well, thank you Auntie. Sorry for bothering you."
After a little more thank you's and sorry's, Mei Zuo politely hang up on the call. He glanced at his watch.
Two-fifteen. Great. It was still fifteen minutes before his kid sisters were let out from their ballet class.
Leaning back on his seat and closing his eyes, Mei Zuo groaned. What was wrong with his mom? She must know he was suffering depression and she just had to demand that he pick his sisters.
"It must be your fault that Xiao Qiao did what she had to and I'm punishing you so even if you don't want to, I'm ordering you pick your sisters."
Mei Zuo groaned again. The last few days told him that surely the break-up must have been his fault. He had been too possessive, too jealous of everything. . . he didn't blame his mom for punishing him. . . But picking up the twins wasn't exactly a good idea. What would happen if. . .
"What are you doing Mei Zuo?"
His eyes jerking opened, Mei Zuo found himself, staring straight to Senda Aisha's eyes.
"Aisha," he started, suddenly feeling nervous. He cautiously looked around the place.
Aisha laughed. "Don't worry, it's not like Xiao Qiao would appear out of thin air."
Mei Zuo's small eyes suddenly turned big. She had just read him like a book.
"I just feel like you guys had a lot in common."
Xiao Qiao told him that once. Mei Zuo never really knew how right she was. He and Aisha really do have the same wavelength.
But did he really care? He loved Xiao Qiao now. And only loved her.
"Aisha, listen to me and understand," he started.
"What?" she asked innocently, sitting down next to him.
Mei Zuo quickly tensed up. Oh god! It's been more than two years! Surely, she still doesn't like him, right?
Aisha leaned closer to him. "What it is Mei Zuo?" She boldly took his hand to hers. "You know I'll understand," she said, tone full of meaning and innuendo.
Mei Zuo pulled his hand away. He leaned away from her, suddenly he felt suffocated. "Sorry but I can't."
There was confusion in Aisha's eyes at once. "Why?" She looked away, her eyes suddenly wistful. "I came back here hoping to see you. You don't know how thrilled I am when I first saw your sisters." She turned to smile shyly at Mei Zuo, "Destiny, I had thought. But I found out about you and Xiao Qiao, I really felt sad."
"Aisha-"
"But you guys have broken up now, right?" Aisha continued, not waiting for him to say anything more than her name.
Mei Zuo didn't answer. For long moments, he just sat there, staring at Aisha.
Finally, Mei Zuo broke their stare. "Sorry," he whispered. He didn't want to hurt her but he can't give her any false hope. The only way now was to be completely honest with her.
"That time you left and told me that line, that very night I asked a bartender what it meat."
"I'll think of you when I return to Japan," Aisha whispered.
Mei Zuo found himself smiling slightly. "Right. You see though I'm a playboy, I'm different from Xi Men in the way that all my girlfriends knew exactly I just want some fun. Not one of those one hundred gave honest feelings to me. Some of Xi Men's girls on the other hand, are actually naive enough to believe his words. Though they knew he was a playboy, somehow they would convince themselves he was serious with them and so after a week, he would end up some slaps now and then."
Mei Zuo's smile grew wider, more fond. "I never got a slap. . . until Xiao Qiao came along."
Aisha bit her lip. "Are you telling me I should slap you to prove my feelings?"
"No." Turning back to her, Mei Zuo smiled. "You know you didn't have to slap me. Your words when you said you would think of me when you go back to Japan was enough." Reaching out, he ruffled Aisha's hair just like the way he used to before. "You were the first to give me such feeling, Aisha. Thank you."
He watched as Aisha's cheeks turned a little pink. She was really cute but she was also part of the past. "You know, I did like you too but I. . . "
". . . loved Xiao Qiao now?" Aisha finished for him.
Mei Zuo smiled. Once more, she read him like a book.
"But she had broke off with you. What if she didn't reciprocate your feelings anymore?"
Mei Zuo chuckled. "It's a nice feeling to know that you are liked, but Xiao Qiao taught me something more important. Through her silly story about loving a boy for ten years, she taught me that to love, than be loved, is more precious." He began to shake his head in his own memory, "You won't believe the things I did. Saved her cello, even though it was my rival, all because I knew it was special to her. . . " Mei Zuo smiled slightly at Aisha. "So it doesn't really matter if she doesn't love me anymore. If she would let me, I'll try my best to win her back."
Hearing his sappy speech, Mei Zuo could have sworn he saw Aisha smile a little. "You really love her, don't you?"
Mei Zuo didn't answer, only turned his eyes heavenward as if in a silent prayer.
Please, just let me win her back. . .
----
Jing brushed an invisible speck of lint from her long black skirt. Even though all her mirrors assured she looked decent enough, she couldn't help feeling anxious.
As she nervously ran her fingers through her hair for what seemed like the hundredth time that night, she groaned.
Pull yourself together, Teng Tang Jing. You're twenty-six, not sixteen in your first date! she scolded herself.
But in a way, tonight did feel like her first date. Not only was she scared of how media could get all excited about the fact that finally after the last two and a half-years, she was actually going out again; but more importantly the feeling of faint was also because of the thought of who her date was.
Lei. It was a good thing he had just asked her over on the phone or else he would have seen her reaction. Surprised. Hopeful. Apprehensive. The mixed feelings within her would have definitely alarmed him. And she definitely didn't want that.
After all that has happened in the last few years, Jing was truly afraid that her relationship with him had been scarred forever. But ever since she came back, Lei had been very warm to her. Not once had he blamed her for how things turned out. . . Not once had he made her feel regretful of the things she chose. . .
Forcing herself not to dwell on the past, Jing thought of the last couple of days instead. She placed gentle hand on her chest. Tian Li had not visited her ever since that day he drew her. Of course, he couldn't blame him. His wedding is less than a month away, how could she expect him to go and visit her?
But still, she felt a bit lonely. Tian Li was the only one who understood what she was going through right now. When he was with her, it gave her comfort, knowing even without saying a word he could hear the feelings in her heart.
But then knowing Tian Li was not with her because he was with Xiao You reduces her feelings of loneliness as well. Tian Li found love for the second time. It should give her some reassurance, some hope, that one day her heartbreak would heal too, right?
As their butler knocked on her room door, announcing her date's arrival, Jing couldn't help but wonder how her heartbreak would heal if this keeps up.
Getting up from her chair, she walked out of her room. Then slowly going down the stairs, Jing thought of Lei and how sweet and caring he had been to her the last few days. While, Tian Li stayed away, Lei continued his visits. Though it made her happy, in a way it scared her.
Lei. Why was he being so good to her? Was it because he truly cared enough to be so concerned of her feelings? Or was it because he pitied her? Or worse, what if it was to get over his own heartbreak?
Arriving at the living room, Jing pushed her thoughts aside. She forced a smile as Lei greeted her at once.
"You look great, Jing," he whispered, though a bit hesitant his voice had been sincere. His eyes also had this softness that warmed Jing's heart.
But as he led her out and towards his car, Jing couldn't help being apprehensive again.
She and Lei had come a full circle. First they were friends, then they shared a little more than friendship in Paris, but as if it was not meant to be, they only ended up all too soon.
And now after being friends again, here they are daring to border more. . . foolishly again. . .
I can't do this. . . I don't want to set myself to get hurt all over again. . .
---------
"You know I've been to one of the world's most beautiful university but I can honestly say Ying De is just as beautiful."
Lei smiled. Jing had looked so relaxed and carefree the whole night that he couldn't help but congratulate himself on their date.
After finding out Xi Men Tian Li had not visited Jing in a week, Lei felt that maybe he had been overreacting. Maybe Tian Li truly was in love with Xiao You. Maybe Jing truly was over him; if anything, maybe it was time to give his relationship with her a second chance.
And to think he had almost backed out; before he finally gathered enough courage to ask her out, it took him five unsuccessful calls. He had quickly disconnected all of them the second he dialed her number. On the sixth try, Jing had answered at once so he was forced to finally ask the question. Though she sounded a bit unsure, Lei was pleased she agreed in the end.
After the call, Lei started planning their night out. On the middle of his planning however he suddenly realized why Jing sounded so hesitant about the night. Aside from her hesitation to open up to him, she could also be scared of the media. After all ever since she came back, they had been waiting for any opportunity to get to her. After all her she and Xi Men Tian Li came to the point were they were practically good as engaged, so how does she feel now that he was engaged and to some unknown girl to the society too?
Realizing that, Lei knew he couldn't let Jing go through any of that. So thinking it over, he almost had the urge to cancel their date; it's not like there was any place he could bring her that she wouldn't be spotted, is there? Just as he thought of that, an idea struck him and now, watching Jing's glowing face, he was very glad that it did.
After picking her up at seven, he surprised her when he brought her to their special place. Yes, that special playground on their old school. Jing's eyes quickly sparkled with delight and knowing he was the one who did that made Lei's heart jumped with happiness as well.
So there in that playground, they took fun in swinging. As they swung higher and higher, Lei had became transfixed at the image Jing made. Her long loose hair flying all around her. . . her dress flowing in the wind. . . the contented smile on her face, it was a sight he had craved to see for so many years.
After the playground, they went straight for the nearest McDonalds. Deciding people could recognize his silver Benz, Lei parked his car a good few blocks away. Then thinking they themselves could be spotted by anyone, Lei then handed Jing a cap and a pair of shades. Their disguises were perfect and they were able to order take-out without anyone noticing them. After on Lei's car, they had a good laugh on their little jaunt while they ate their food.
After all that, finally they were here, Ying De's famous rooftop. Jing had been admiring the scene for some time now. Lei, on the other hand, enjoyed himself watching her.
"This place is really nice," Jing said, pulling Lei out of his reverie. She turned to him, "How did you know this place?"
Lei half-smiled, recalling his college memories. "This is my hang-out. When I'm bored, I go here."
"Really?" Turning back to look over the grounds, she continued, "You could see all of Ying De from here." She turned a teasing smile towards Lei, "then you must have seen everything that was happening then."
"I don't know," Lei started. He smiled at Jing, "I don't care about others' business."
Jing laughed.
Lei smiled again. Then fondly he added, "Besides nothing interesting, except for Ah Si's daily tantrums ever happened in Ying De until Shan Cai." Obliviously how Jing's eyes suddenly flickered with a new emotion, Lei continued, "Before Shan Cai and I used to sit here and-"
Suddenly, Lei stopped, finally noticing the change in Jing. He realized with a pang that it must be of his mention of Shan Cai.
Shan Cai. Jing was probably thinking he was still pinning for her. But Lei only mentioned her casually. And he did it because day by day, he knew he understood more and more that she and Dao Ming Si belong to each other. And that alone had helped ease away his pain.
Jing turned away from him to look out over the grounds again. "You know I already told you this before but I'm really jealous of Shan Cai."
"Jing, you don't understand" he began. For some reason, he didn't want Jing to think he still thought of Shan Cai.
"Actually I do, Lei," she said, cutting him off. "F4 shared a lot of good memories with her. Though I knew you boys from our childhood, I feel that it's nothing compared to what you guys went through together."
Though Jing used the words 'F4' and 'boys' Lei could also feel that she actually meant specifically him.
Turning back to Lei, Jing forced a smile. "She's very lucky. Shan Cai. For she saw how my F4 boys turned into men."
A long pregnant silence followed. Finally, Lei broke it.
"Jing, we could always create other good memories."
His words were both question and statement. He watched for Jing's eyes for any sign of response, but they were impassive.
After a while, Lei finally decided to end this torturous silence. But all through the long drive back to her house, not a word was spoken either.
Finally they arrived in Jing's home. Before going up the grand staircase, Jing turned to Lei. "Thank you for the night Lei. Good night." Turning around, Lei suddenly had the need to try again. She may still be thinking of Tian Li, may be still reluctant to start something yet but it wasn't reason enough to stop him. In the back of his mind, Lei could almost hear Dao Ming Si urging some more persistence on his part. So even if before Lei would always let Jing go without a fight, this time he didn't want to. . .
He grabbed her wrist forcing her to look back at him.
"Jing, I really enjoyed tonight." He looked long and meaningfully into her eyes, "We should do this again sometime."
For a while, Lei thought he would once more get rejected as Jing pulled away from his grasp.
But she only did that so that she could touch his face. "I really enjoyed tonight too," she whispered. Then before turning and proceeding up the stairs, she gave him a small smile.
Watching her walk up, Lei remembered her small contented and sincere smile; he felt some sort happiness that he couldn't explain. Also even if she didn't exactly promised him anything, the feeling of her hand on his face gave him some hope that maybe they could really have a second chance.
Feeling happier than he had been in years, Lei too smiled.
----------
"Xiao Qiao, darling someone is here to see you."
From underneath her bed sheets, Xiao Qiao groaned. Could this someone be another of Mei Zuo's cronies? After all for the eight days, he had not ceased to surprise her with all the people who he had managed to employ to get her see or simply talk to him, but now, the ninth day since their break-up, she doesn't plan to be surprised whoever it'll be. After all four days ago it was their butler. Five days ago her music professor. Yesterday, it was her mom! She was tired of all these, unless it was father, who was unlikely, who was now waiting to convince her, Xiao Qiao didn't planned to be any courteous at all.
"Xiao Qiao, dear," her mother called again from the outside her room.
With great reluctance, Xiao Qiao got out of her bed and walked towards the door. Opening it, she resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the sight of her mom's cheerful face.
"Who is it this time?" she asked.
Her mother ignored the evident sarcasm in her tone, instead she began to lead her towards the second floor living room.
When they finally arrived at the room where her guest awaits, Xiao Qiao could only take a sharp intake of breath.
Oblivious to her current situation, her mother continued with the formalities. "Dear, this is your guest, Senda Aisha."
Aisha smiled, getting on her feet. She bowed in her polite Japanese greeting. "I hope I didn't disturb you, Xiao Qiao," she said.
Xiao Qiao could only stare at her. Surely, Mei Zuo didn't ask Aisha to go and talk to her, did he? Oh! This was too much for her to take.
Still not noticing the unhealthy tension between the two ladies, Mrs. Ying turned to Xiao Qiao.
"I already gave her some tea, but if you need anything just say so." Then turning back to Aisha too, she excused herself from both.
An awkward silence befell the two ladies. After about a minute, Xiao Qiao gathered her wits enough to motion for Aisha to sit down. Aisha bowed, thanked her and did just that. Xiao Qiao, on the other hand, sat herself across from her. Once more a long silence followed.
"Well," Aisha said, finally breaking the silence. "I came here to ask you something."
Xiao Qiao didn't say anything. She looked down at her lap.
"You see, Xiao Qiao, I think I know what's wrong."
Looking up, Xiao Qiao asked, "What do you mean?"
Aisha smiled. "I mean, yours and Mei Zuo's problem, it's not really that you're incompatible, is it?"
Xiao Qiao's eyes widen in this girl's forwardness. "I'm sorry to be rude but I don't really think that's any of your-"
"Actually, I think it is," Aisha interjected. Xiao Qiao wondered whoever insane person ever said Japanese girls were polite?
"You had broken up with Mei Zuo because you believed you and him are incompatible. On the other hand, you think him and I are, so I think in a way I have a right to have a say in this matter."
Xiao Qiao lowered her gaze unto her lap again. Though it was her home, the words Senda Aisha said suddenly intimated her.
"You know when I met Mei Zuo, and it was really nice. We had quite a time together so when I left I told him I'll think of him. I know he had enjoyed our time too and so I kept thinking, hoping that maybe he'll go and pursue me. Even though I was in Japan, I wanted to believe that he would look for me. Surely, if he wanted to, he could. He had proven me the power of being a F4 member to convince me that he could definitely find me if he really wanted to."
Before continuing, Aisha took a deep breath. "Many months passed but my wish never came."
Hearing the sadness in her voice, understanding exactly the feeling, Xiao Qiao looked up to Aisha.
"You still like him, don't you?"
Instead of answering, Aisha returned the question to her, "And you still love him, right?"
Xiao Qiao couldn't answer after that.
Finally, she said, "But I'm too tired. I already waited ten years."
Aisha looked at her in amazement. "Ten years?" Suddenly, she laughed. "I really admire you, ten months after I told Mei Zuo that I'll always think of him, I met another guy and fell in love."
The reaction in Xiao Qiao was priceless.
"I don't understand. . . " she began.
Aisha smiled. "Look, Xiao Qiao, I'm sorry for coming back and causing problems with you guys but I only came back to teach dancing for a couple of weeks, the thought of running into Mei Zuo didn't even seriously crossed my mind." Her smile turned a little shy, "I've met this guy and we're really in love."
"What?"
Aisha couldn't help but giggle. "And to think you thought Mei Zuo and I have the same wavelength? Hah! He couldn't even tell I was pulling his leg when I told him yesterday that I still liked him."
Incredulous, Xiao Qiao could only stare at Aisha. Despite all the things she felt about her, at that moment, Xiao Qiao knew Senda Aisha truly was a nice girl.
"Pull his leg? But why did you do that?"
Aisha shrugged. "Well, I can tell you really love him and I want to know his feelings."
The moment she said that, Xiao Qiao's eyes turned glassy.
Aisha watched Xiao Qiao's expressions closely. She had her own suspicion of what Xiao Qiao's problem was and now it was time to find out if it was right. "Mei Zuo told me yesterday that you taught him that to love is more important than to be loved." An expression flickered in Xiao Qiao's eyes. It was definitely pain.
And so it must mean her guess was right. "That's it, isn't it? That is actually the reason of all this, right?"
Just when Aisha thought she would never answer, Xiao Qiao whispered softly.
"Yes."
----------
Smiling to herself, Xiao You stole a glance towards her fiancée.
He was so beautiful, both inside and out. Xiao You couldn't even described the feeling to happiness and luck for have a man such as Tian Li to herself.
More than a week ago, she had cried her eyes out, thinking the man she loved had changed. Enveloped in Xi Men's arms, she realized that Tian Li was drifting away from her. And in a way, it was her fault. . .
And as she continued to cry, a helpless Xi Men could only do so much to sooth her. Obviously not knowing much in serious relationship, his best advice had been to her was to try talking things out with his brother.
So, desperate more than anything else, Xiao You followed Xi Men's advice. That very night, she had cried all-out once more. Not in front of Xi Men this time but in front of Tian Li.
The moment her tears started, his gentle arms quickly went around her. "Xiao You, what's wrong?" he had asked, his warm hands, stroking her back.
She sobbed, burying her head deep into his shirt. "It's silly but. . . " Looking up, she pleaded with him. "Please don't see Teng Tang Jing anymore."
Tian Li's face quickly registered shock.
"If you want, I'll even break whatever I have now with Xi Men. There's nothing to forgive and forget anyway, I'm over him. I don't have to speak to him, if you want I won't even look at him-"
Whatever Xiao You's next words were lost as Tian Li's lips tenderly pressed against hers. His kiss continued for a few heady and breathless moments before finally pulling away. Opening her eyes, Xiao You found Tian Li softly gazing down at her.
"You really are silly." Playfully, he tweaked Xiao You's small nose. "You don't have to stay away from my brother, you said you're over him, and I believe that because I love you and I trust you." Kissing her forehead first he added, "And if you don't like me seeing Jing, I'll understand too."
Tian Li pulled away a little, so he can look into her eyes. "I won't go see Jing anymore," he had promised.
And so, though her request had been a truly selfish one, her fiancée did it without a word of complaint. And now, more than a week has passed and not once did Tian Li left to visit Teng Tang Jing. She was so happy that even if he said that he didn't mind, Xiao You had kept her distance from Xi Men. After all, there really isn't anything to heal anymore, right?
She was over Xi Men, that was it.
Clearing thoughts of Xi Men away, Xiao You focused on staring lovingly at Tian Li instead. She silently thanked all the gods up in heaven for giving her such a great man. A great man who was in less than a month would be her husband.
After a while, Tian Li finally noticed Xiao You's intent gaze on him; he turned away from wedding paper work he had been so busy with.
"What?" he asked, his voice light. "Is there something in my profile that is more interesting than the guest list you should be finalizing?"
Xiao You shook her head, laughing. She hadn't really even noticed how long she had been marveling about her fiancée. She smiled back at him. "Not much really. I just got distracted a little."
"Just a little?" Tian Li teased. "I've always believed I looked good enough to distract girls big time."
Those were of course said jokingly and it instantly worked. Xiao You found herself giggling again.
Leaning her head on his shoulder, Xiao You added, jokingly too.
"My. I didn't know you had such an ego." Then taking his hand lovingly into hers, Xiao You said with full sincerity.
"But then again, I think you have every right."
-----------
"You're perfect, you know that?"
Silently watching by the doorway, Xi Men winced hearing Xiao You's words. He had been watching Xiao You and Tian Li for a while now. After dreamily staring up at his brother, Xiao You had just leaned her head into his shoulder. It was such a mushy scene that Xi Men honestly wanted to run and gag, but his feet had refused to move. Stubbornly they remained nailed to the floor and so forcing him to listen more into the conversation.
Tian Li shook his head. "No one's perfect, Xiao You."
"But I really think you are," Xiao You whispered. In Xi Men's opinion, she looked so damn comfortable and contented in Tian Li's arms.
For the millionth time in the last few days, Xi Men mentally kicked himself. Though it would have been selfish, he shouldn't never urged Xiao You to resolve her problem with Tian Li.
If only he did some confessing of his feelings, maybe now the wedding was off.
Or if only he did perhaps some begging, maybe Xiao You would be in his arms now instead of still Tian Li's.
Ultimately, if only he did something, anything, then maybe he wouldn't be in this big a predicament right now.
Xi Men sighed. But he was. Taking a deep breath, he prepared to do what his mother wanted him to do.
Stepping away from his hiding place, Xi Men tried his best to stroll into the room as casually as he could. His brother, who was not really fond with public display of attention, tensed up a little. Xiao You herself pulled away from Tian Li too.
"Sorry for the interruption," Xi Men said, trying to keep his voice neutral. Glancing at the papers in the table, he added, "I hoped you guys aren't finish yet with the table arrangement for the guests."
"No we aren't," Tian Li said. "Why? Is there something you want as to do? Seat you next to some lovely girl, perhaps?"
Trying not to blush, Xi Men wondered whatever happened to his stiff and serious brother? Since when did he enjoy making jokes all of a sudden?
"Actually," Xi Men began, stealing a furtive glance towards Xiao You. She wasn't looking at him at all. "It was Ma's idea."
Tian Li laughed. "Oh matchmaking, I see."
Still Xiao You didn't look up. Obviously, she didn't care. Wasn't interested at all.
With a pang, Xi Men realized how once more Xiao You was keeping her distance from him. Sure, she would still talk to him, but the formality was so painfully there.
Xi Men shook himself inwardly. At this rate, with twenty-seven days before Xiao You and Tian Li's wedding, he should just probably just admit defeat. Clearly Tian Li and Xiao You loved each other, he should just accept it already.
It's really really hard though, Xi Men thought as she watched Xiao You fumble with a pen and paper.
"So what table should we put you?" she asked, voice all business and detached.
Xi Men tried to force a smile. It was so hurting to have Xiao You treat him like this. "Guo, please," he replied, trying to act casual.
But apparently, his brother didn't see something normal about it. He began to laugh; Xi Men felt a sudden pit in his stomach. It was both of annoyance and resentment.
"Guo? I should have guessed."
Xiao You turned to her fiancée. "Why?"
Though he already knew he should give up, Xi Men couldn't help hoping that Xiao You was asking because of him. But then again, she could only be interested because Tian Li said he guessed so.
"Because Mrs. Guo is Ma's good friend and her daughter was Ah Lang's childhood friend."
Even through her profile, Xi Men saw how Xiao You's eyes flickered with surprised then supposition.
"Yeah," Xi Men found himself saying.
Xiao You turned to him and the moment felt so surreal to Xi Men. It has been days since she last looked at him in the eye.
Looking back at her innocent eyes, Xi Men wondered however he managed to say the name he said.
"It is Xiao Gen."
----------
Looking at his reflection in the mirror, Mei Zuo resisted his urge to button up the first button of his shirt. But remembering his resolve of changing his lifestyle, all to please Xiao Qiao, he decided against it.
Mei Zuo, a man used to teasing girls with his suggestive dance moves and sexy fashion sense, knew he looked ridiculous in the plain button down white shirt and simple denim pants. The conservative look obviously just doesn't go with him; but its been exactly a week and three days since Xiao Qiao had ended their relationship, after calling her up endlessly, looking for her at her music school and pestering even her mother had not helped him, he knew this was his last shot. If needed be, though it was too late to start learning now, Mei Zuo was ready to study music. All these for Xiao Qiao. . . only for Xiao Qiao. . .
With one last look at his new image, Mei Zuo turned on his heels and left his room. He was going to visit F3. After all, he didn't want them to worry anymore; he knew his depressed mood had already lately. The four of them were brothers; he knew they were worried for him. After all, he had been there.
But it's been like a billion years ago, that time Dao Ming Si had helplessly cried in front of him and Xi Men. He didn't understand why his bossy and difficult friend could be so hang up with one woman.
But the moment, Xiao Qiao said "it's over" Mei Zuo finally understood Dao Ming Si. Losing the love of your life wasn't exactly the greatest feeling in the world. . .
Suddenly, Mei Zuo stopped on his tracks the moment he stepped into the front living room. Was he seeing things? Had his depression progressed another level again? After going through denial, pain and then desperation, was he now hallucinating as well?
But she looked so real. Sitting there smiling and hugging the twins to her chest. . .
"Xiao Qiao."
Three pairs of eyes turned to him in shock but Mei Zuo was only drawn to Xiao Qiao's. . .
She smiled slightly, uncertainly. "Hi," she whispered, voice not hinting anything that she could be feeling or thinking at that moment. Then turning to the girls in her arms, her smile grew bigger. "I have to talk to your ge ge for a while, I'll go see you two before I leave okay?"
The twins nodded reluctantly. They hugged Xiao Qiao again first before pulling away. Walking up to their brother, they both gave him a look. Mei Li with simple encouragement. But with Mei Lun, aside from the support there was that some threat.
Don't hurt her again, her eyes were practically saying.
Then with that, the two girls raced off leaving Mei Zuo alone with Xiao Qiao. Oh gods, finally. After the last ten days, finally she was once more in a reachable distance from him, in a way it gave Mei Zuo some hope.
He took furtive steps towards her, afraid she would decide on leaving before he could have a chance to say what he wanted. He stopped three feet from where she sat. He tried to say something but his mouth refused to form any words.
Seeing his predicament, Xiao Qiao pitted him and decided to be the one to kill the tension between them. She smiled and began, "I'm sorry for dropping by without notice like this. When I arrived a few minutes ago, your Butler Fred was about to call on you but the twins saw me first and I told him I'll talk to you later. I'm sorry to have surprised you."
For the first time in days, Mei Zuo smiled. "It's nothing. It's a very good surprise." His words caused a slight blush on her cheeks. There was a little look of something in her eyes; she turned away for a second but turned back to him on the next one. "Xiao Qiao-" he began.
"Mei Zuo, please let me have my say first," Xiao Qiao quickly interrupted.
Mei Zuo nodded.
Breathing deeply, Xiao Qiao began the speech she had been practicing ever since Aisha came to see her, "These past few days had been very hard on me. You must know how hard it is for me to avoid you like that but I honestly think it's the best for both of us."
"Why? Because we are so incompatible?" Mei Zuo asked, not being able to stop himself. He agreed to let her say her piece first but suddenly his heart was screaming for him to say his emotions. Suddenly, he couldn't hold out anymore.
"Xiao Qiao, if that's it. I'm willing to change my lifestyle for you." The surprised look in her eyes gave Mei Zuo much adrenaline. He saw how she finally took notice of his much more tame appearance; for a second she seemed a bit pleased but the look quickly disappeared.
"I'm touched but I don't want you to change yourself just because of me," Xiao Qiao finally said after a while. Lowering her eyes, she continued, "I had liked you for who you are." Then her voice dropped lower, almost barely above a whisper, "Actually if anything, I want to be the one to change myself. Maybe in that way, you could like me more."
"Xiao Qiao-"
Looking up at his eyes, Xiao Qiao bravely continued. "Remember when I asked to go work out with you? It was because I though you might find me cuter that way. You told me about Aisha then; compared to the way you are with me, I think you enjoyed each others' time more. Then all of a sudden she showed up, and though I denied it before, it's true that I can't help feeling jealous." Lowering her eyes once more, she added, "Actually more than jealous, I was insecure. . . "
Her last words were whispered softly but they reached Mei Zuo's ears just fine.
Insecure? Why should she be insecure of Aisha? Sure, he had admitted that he like Aisha but he loved her, didn't she know that?"
Suddenly, it hit Mei Zuo like thunder. He never did tell Xiao Qiao that. Sure, he knew he loved her with his whole heart but he hadn't exactly given her that reassurance yet.
Like a cataclysmic flood, Mei Zuo remembered that time more than a month ago when he brought Xiao Qiao home. He had been thinking of how to tell her his feelings but when she had absentmindedly mused about Tian Li, he growled in jealousy. Then when they finally reached her home, he suddenly grabbed her. With their faces mere centimeters from each other, he saw her eyes going wide with hope and at that moment, he honestly had meant to tell her he loved her but in the last second he chickened out. Only now did he realize the way disappointed tears quickly formed at her eyes. Also, only now did he realized that was when Xiao Qiao started to act strangely.
"Oh god, Xiao Qiao I'm sorry," he whispered, feeling more pain he ever felt before. Yes, it had hurt him deeply when Xiao Qiao ended their relationship but the knowledge how much he was actually hurting her was more even more painful. How could he be so insensitive? How could he do this to the woman he loved? Didn't he say already before, he had already made her wait for ten years; why had he let himself hurt her more?
In three steps, he was down next to her on the sofa. He took her in his arms just as she started to cry. He stroked her hair, her shoulders and her back, soothing her. After a while when her tears quieted, he pulled away so he can look at her eyes.
"Xiao Qiao, I love you," he began, voice thick with emotion. "I'm sorry for not telling you sooner but please believe that you are the first girl I loved. I love you more than I ever thought, more than I ever wanted to love anyone."
As Mei Zuo's hands brushed away her fresh tears, Xiao Qiao couldn't help saying, "I'm so happy right now. Thank you, Mei Zuo. You don't know how long I waited to hear you say that." Then smiling, she corrected herself, "Wait you do know how much I waited."
Mei Zuo smiled too at the irony of that truth.
Feeling happier by the second, Xiao Qiao leaned her head on his shoulder; her arms went tight around his waist. "I love you Ling Mei Zuo. I came back here in Taiwan determined to win your love. You knew already how I felt about you but you never told me your feelings and I thought it was selfish of me to force myself on you if you don't have that strong feeling for me too."
Smiling into her fragrant hair, Mei Zuo was thankful he finally was able to let his feelings out. Before it felt good to know she loved him. . . to have her heart beating against his. Now he can let his heart beat openly and without reserve beat together with hers in that beautiful rhyme of love.
"I love you, Ying Xiao Qiao," he whispered, his lips brushing her ear. "I was a coward for not telling you earlier but from now on I promise to never again hold back in saying the feelings in my heart."
Pulling away, Xiao Qiao smiled playfully at Mei Zuo. "Don't say that if you can't keep it because I'll really hold you on that promise."
Mei Zuo smiled back. In the back of his mind, he wondered if anyone could look lovelier than Xiao Qiao at that moment. Surely even angels couldn't be as beautiful.
He leaned close to his love. "I promise." His words kissed her lips, in a way sealing his vow of love. Pulling back, the last ten days of yearning and missing for her came back to Mei Zuo in full force. He dipped his lips to hers again, tilting her head so he could kiss her deeper.
Finally after long seconds of pleasure, Xiao Qiao pulled away.
Her face was flushed beautifully but there was mirth in her eyes. "Hey you, stop this distraction of yours. We're not completely done yet. We still haven't figured out what we could enjoy together," she said voice full of merriness.
"We'll think of something," Mei Zuo promised. "Later." Then leaning over again, Mei Zuo kissed Xiao Qiao again. At first she tried to resist but she quickly gave up her losing fight and responded with equal passion. In that single kiss, the past ten days, all the pain and tears, vanished as the two lost themselves in each others' kiss.
Then after what seemed like an eternity, the two broke apart, both breathing heavily.
Xiao Qiao's eyes were shining with overwhelming happiness. She became even more glad to see the emotions in Mei Zuo's eyes.
His eyes were twinkling with happiness as well. And most importantly, his eyes were finally openly glowing with love. . .
"I think I just found something we could really enjoy together," he whispered half-mischievously and half-seriously.
Xiao Qiao could only smile in response. Then disregarding the rule that guys should initiate it, she leaned over and answered her beloved's proposition with another kiss. . .
-----------
Next chapter: Things just keeps on getting even more complicated; with less than a month before their wedding, Xiao You and Tian Li are haunted by their own first loves. Between a bittersweet past and a promising future, why should there be even a reason to be confuse? Find out next chap in Between Memories and Heartbreaks.
Well, I have been quite fast in updating this time around wasn't I? Hehe, I'm excited to write chap 11-13, I know I would really love to read the reactions you guys would have. . . anyways, how was this chap guys? Hope I made MZ/XQ fans happy with how things went with them; anyways, so for the next mission, the complicated love polygon of lei-jing-tl-xy-xm. . . Hehe, please review(the longer the better!) this chap I'm a little frustrated. sigh Can someone tell me how to get over a situation when you find out the a guy you've been seriously crushing on turns out to be a non-so-distant cousin? double sigh I still can't believe that guy is my relative. . . oh well, I'm rambling, do excuse me.
PS. Since I update with big time gap from each chapter, you guys might be wondering what scene MZ was referring to. It was in chapter 2 just for the record. Read it you liked or have forgotten. Hehehe
PS2. Sorry for MZ's saying. For some reason, I can't remember exactly his 'saying.' I know it goes something like what I wrote. I had meant to research on it but I didn't have the time so would someone be so kind and just refresh my memories, please?