Begin Again 2024 - Life Cycles
Synopsis
In the bustling city of Macau, where glittering high-rises and traditional districts co-exist in the same space, there's always something interesting taking place. Free-spirited art curator Chen Jia Hui has lived in Macau for years but finds herself lacking inspiration. Unexpectedly, she crosses paths with professional race car driver Han Jun Hao, who's come to Macau to participate in the International GT Cup. Although he's past his career prime, he's determined to finally win – or lose – on the track.
Ambitious, career-minded Mai You Ge travels alone to Macau due to an urgent task from her company, but setbacks have her questioning whether she's made the right choices in life. She meets "Macau know-it-all" Xu Jun Le, whose carefree personality seems like the opposite of her own, but his upbeat demeanor might be just a front. Will the magic of Macau help them all find their place in the world?
The two main couples provide the main storyline in how relationships are formed, nurtured and eventually allowed to begin. The script writer and the director managed to provide a coupling that for all intent and purposes would almost appear to be somewhat taboo in the subliminal kind of way. The precocious preteen Wei Shi Jie/Mr Frank whose mind and feelings far exceeded his youth was able to form a bond and friendship with the much older Wu Kaitong/ Casey whose adult life was tormented by the scars of her youth. In his knowledge of himself he was able to guide Casey to heal herself to like the person she has become.
A Heartfelt Ode to Macau
Begin Again is a charming drama aired during the celebration of the 25th anniversary of Macau's return to China after over 400 years of Portuguese rule. Beyond being a simple drama, it serves as a love letter to Macau, showcasing the city's idyllic lifestyle, unique culinary heritage, and cultural blend of East and West. Macau is also a unique confluence of Mandarin and Cantonese, and the drama beautifully highlights this linguistic duality, adding depth and authenticity to its portrayal of the city.
Set against Macau's slower-paced lifestyle—a stark contrast to the hustle of nearby metropolises like Hong Kong and Shenzhen—the series weaves its story through vibrant visuals of local delicacies, historic landmarks, and contemporary attractions. Its promotional intent is clear, and it delivers beautifully on this front.
Storyline
The narrative takes its time to introduce the four main characters, whose chance meetings evolve into meaningful connections. While the overarching plot takes a backseat to Macau's scenic and cultural showcase, the character interactions provide a gentle framework for the drama's progression.
Character Analysis of the Couples
Mai You Ge and Xu Jun Le
Mai You Ge …..An advertising executive in Beijing who plans every minute of her working day leaving no time for personal interaction with possible suitors. Her company sends her on a special assignment to Macau to oversee a promotional video project for an international hotel. Events beyond her control lead her to meet Xu Jun Le….. a charismatic local who doubles as her informal guide and companion.
Xu Jun Le ….. a carefree and very laid back individual the complete opposite of Mai You Ge….. born in Macau he knows the city and it's inner workings and how to navigate through it. As a former race care driver he understands the hectic pace and the demands that are placed on individuals trying to succeed in the bustling metropolitan environment. His insight into enjoying what life gives you raises a question mark for Mai You Ge whose way of life follows the motto …one step forward …. Two steps backwards.
Chen Jia Hui and Han Jun Hao / Elvis
Chen Jia Hui …. A free spirited art director/ curator of a prestigious gallery within the confides of the Star Shine Hotel provides a glimpse into Macau's glamorous and artistic side. She crosses paths with Han Jun Hao during one of her motorcycle rides through the city streets . The glamorous and risk taker Chen Jia Hui hides her deep seated avoidance to let herself fall in love thinking that it can only lead to heartache and pain.
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis …..a professional race car driver in town for the thrilling Macau Grand Prix. Elvis now at the end of his racing career needs to prove himself that his prior years loss was a fluke and not his abilities. However his self doubt continue to haunt him causing him to loose faith in himself. His first encounter with Chen Jia Hui is a spontaneous and adrenaline-fueled motorcycle race—sets the stage for a story brimming with speed and passion and their journey of love , understanding and compromise.
Wu Kaitang / Casey and Wei Shi Jie/ Mr Frank
Though this third and quirkier subplot involves Wu Kaitang / Casey … the PR manager for the Star Shine Hotel is hand picked to manage the VIP agenda for the son of the head HR Department of the Corporate worldwide. He mission is to appease while babysitting the child piano prodigy as he prepares for his debut recital while still attending classes. Casey's past mirrors Wei Shi Jie's present in that they both have a hard time in trusting others and hold resentment for how their parents allowed them to grow
Wei Shi Jie/ Mr Frank….. A precocious boy in his preteen years projects himself more of an adult than a boy. Often left to his own devises accompanied by Mike his ever watchful attendant. He tries to please his mothers demands but he struggles to do what he would like to do.
The bonding process that Casey and Frank experience while together is almost like a reversal of their existing roles. Wei Shi Jie becomes the thoughtful and insightful teacher giving his wisdom of his youth to Wu Kaitang that doesn't know how to let go of her past hurts inflicted by her parents and their insistent demands while trying to grow up. Wu Kaitang allows Wei Shi Jie the ability to chose for himself what activities he wants to do while never forgetting his responsibilities to do what he is required to do.
Each storyline feels secondary to Macau itself, which remains the true star of the show….. however the relationships formed by the main leads are foreshadowed by the actual relationships of the supporting cast.
Wang Wan Zeng and Xu Zhi Qiang
Wang Wan Zeng and Xu Zhi Qiang the parents to Xu Ju Hao, Xu Jun Le and Xu Bao and owners of Zhen Qiang Ji Restaurant exemplified the relationship between two people that loved each other and endured what life sent their way. They built a foundation to a marriage that lasted for over 40 years giving each of their children a model to strive for.
Xu Jian Ming and Tang Wei
Xu Jian Ming and Tang Wei the divorced parents to Xu Jia Jia exemplified the relationship that crumbled under the pressures of couples not knowing what the other needs and wants due to rigid embedded guidelines of what marriage is suppose to be. Xu Jian Ming personifies a clueless marriage partner that still didn't learn the lessons from his first failed marriage.
Xu Ju Hao and Xu Jia Jia
Their marriage vows spoken in episode 17 personified the the relationship of two people with a 15 year age gap coming together with love and common understanding of each others points of view a mutual admiration and love for one another with the willingness to allow the other to fulfill their individual aspirations in life.
At its heart, Begin Again delivers a powerful reminder: the most important part of life is not about results, and it's not just about the journey—it's about the company we keep. The last two episodes are especially moving, as they highlight the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone and making changes when life isn't fulfilling. As Einstein put it, "If you keep doing the same thing over and over again, it will not give you a different outcome."
Episode 18 ends with a one year time jump
Mai You Ge with suit case in hand returns to the Zhen Qiang Ji Restaurant ….. the waiter hands her a menu … she notices the new item added… 288 Mc McMuffin…. That brings a smile to her face. She orders it
Scene shift to the Gallery exhibit of Josephine's paintings…. Chen Jia Hui walks in with everyone giving her congratulatory praise of her work. Isabella comes in with a bouquet of flowers
Isabella: Jo… Congratulations…. I'm so proud of you… These flowers are for you.
Chen Jia Hui takes the flowers and Hug: Thank you… Thank you all for coming… You all know that I am the curator… I've always been very timid before…. Because I did not know what others would feel after seeing my works….. I've imagined countless times… But Later on I realized… Sincerity is what matters the most. Whether it is facing others or myself, sincerity is kind of an adventure…. She looks over and sees Elvis smiling back at her causes her to pause…. So I decided to break some established rules and some hidden barriers between people…. To face the unknown and embrace the world bravely. ….. She looks to Elvis….. I also want to thank every important person who has entered my life…..Looking at Elvis….. Thank you.
Claps and applause from everyone the scene fits back to the Zhen Qiang Ji Restaurant
Mai You Ge takes her first sip of the McMuffin Soup
Xu Jun Le: May I sit here?
Mai You Ge pleased at hearing his voice shakes her head yes: You found the soup.
Xu Jun Le: I went to Fuqing….. I found that this soup is actually not rare….. different places have different ways of making it….with different ingredients….But I couldn't know what ingredients your bowl of soup used…. But later , I remembered what my dad said…. Gather as fate wills ….the reason the soup you drank was so special…. Is the love you have for your grandma….. that's why you can't forget it. Then I started to think…. If I also put my love into this bowl of soup… it would surely become a new memory. …. They both stare into each others eyes …Are you still working at that company?
Mai You Ge shakes her head no: I don't look like it…..right?
Xu Jun Le: Now you look like you've become an artist.
Mai You Ge: No….. I look like I'm on vacation…Right?
Scene shifts to the Gallery
Chen Jia Hui goes to Elvis….. who has is hand raised lowering one finger at a time: It's your fifth year….. congratulations.
Chen Jia Hui: I have ended my own commitment.
Elvis: The end is also a new beginning….. They hug tenderly and the series comes to an end… but does it?
Episode 19
Isabella comes rushing up to them as they are about to kiss: You're back…. Elvis do you have any idea how much this girl has missed you?
Chen Jia Hui: Stop it
Isabella: Jo...you know you missed him…. So go be with him….. I can handle it here… go be with your lover ….. now go….. I'll make an excuse for why you had to leave.
Elvis doesn't hesitate and grabs her hand as they run out of the gallery …. Once outside they have their passionate kiss that both have dreamed of this past year… their tongues inside of each others mouths … a passerby voice can be heard: Go get a room there are kids watching.
They arrive at Chen Jia Hui's place and Elvis picks her up and carries her to her apartment….. she olds on to his neck while nibbling on his ear: I've missed you so much….. how long can you stay with me before you have to leave?
Elvis: Who says I'm leaving?
Once inside the apartment Chen Jia Hui pushes him onto her bed … they both help each other remove their cloths as they resume their glorious reunion. Jo pivots herself while spreading her legs over Elvis's face and she grabs his very hard and erect cock into her hand…. While she stares remembering all the pleasure she had the first time they made love.
Elvis pulls her ass cheeks closer to his faces as his tongue begins giving little licks to her clitoris making her jerk and quiver slightly. She lowers her mouth lets her tongue roll around the head of his cock …then her lips begin to suck on it while her hand squeezes and strokes releasing his pre seminal fluid. They continue giving each other oral pleasure until each reach their climatic peak… Jo pivots herself once again and straddles his lap inserting very hard cock that is ready to explode inside of her. He sits up so that they are both at eye level ….. their lips meet so that she can taste her own juices on his lips that have completely satisfied her pussy. With her legs wrapped around his waist she begins twerking and rocking her ass so that her pussy is grinding against his pubic bone at a rapid speed. Unable to control himself any longer he pulls her tightly against him while he pushes upward releasing his hot semen in side her. Feeling the warm sensation filling her vaginal cavity she to lets go of herself and begins her orgasmic cycle of jerks quivers and pleasure moans making their glorious reunion memorable.
Chen Jia Hui: I haven't said this to any man… I love you….. please don't ever leave me.
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: I love you too and I won't …. Are you hungry since we've worked up an appetite?
Scene shifts to Zhen Qiang Ji Restaurant
Mai You Ge is amazed at seeing how Xu Jun Le has taken over his father's place…. The customers marvel at his cooking abilities and his knowledge of the different recipes….. he in turn never lets his eyes wander away from her …garnering her warm smiles as her dimples become even more pronounced. When the last customer that leaves…. His employees tell him to leave and that he can't keep his beautiful lady waiting much longer.
Xu Jun Le: They told me I have to leave and that I can't keep my beautiful lady waiting…. Do you want to take a walk so that we can catch up?
Mai You Ge: I didn't plan this trip very well …. It was very spontaneous on my part…. I don't have a place to stay… can you help me get a room? …. You have so many contacts.
Xu Jun Le: I have the perfect place for you…. How long do you plan on staying?
Mai Younge: I don't know…. I no longer have a job …. Can you believe it ….. me…..who has planned her entire life … I have no clue as to what I will do next.
Xu Jun Le: So you're in my hands now….. do you trust me?
Mai Younge: You haven't steered me wrong yet….. where are you taking me?
They arrive at the Xu family home
Mai You Gge: Where did you bring me?…. This isn't a hotel…. Is it a local BB ? …she continues looking around and sees the family photos of the Xu family … Is this your family home?…. I can't stay here…. What will your parents think of me?
Xu Jun Le: You think to much….. My mom told me to wait for the perfect timing for us to come together…. So tell me did you come back to Macau because of me or because of Macau?
Mai You Ge: you're making this so hard on me….. when I left last year the whole time I was on the plane I was having a mental argument with myself….. I met the most wonderful man I could've ever meet …but he didn't fit into my plan for my life….. those thoughts hounded me every night since…. I would pick up the phone wanting to talk to you but then I would hang up….. making me more angry at myself.
Xu Jun Le: So what made you decide? …. Did you get fired or did you quit?
Mai You Ge: I received a promotion…. I was made Team leader with one stipulation… I had to train Amy the one that almost screwed up the Star Shine Hotel promotion….. and make her become me…. Can you believe that ?….. I worked so hard to get to where I was at….. that I actually tried to do what they wanted… but she did everything she could to undermine me….. she held a grudge for me making her look bad … so nothing I did was right… When I got blamed for her mistakes … I told myself enough is enough… without a powerful family backing you up it is to difficult to get ahead in these big companies.
Xu Jun Le: So what now…. You want to start over?
Mai You Ge: I don't know…. What I do know is that the time I spent with you was the happiest… but we're so different … you're so laid back and I'm so regimented…. Can we possibly make it together?
Xu Jun Le: My parents have been together for over 40 years… with three children that are completely different and they still love each other with a passion that most would envy.
Mai You Ge: What are you saying… we should try?
Xu Jun Le: Let me cook you something…. You think better with a full stomach?
Mai You Ge: Let me cook … you cooked all day …. We need to share responsibilities….. I was meaning to ask where are your parents…. Won't they be upset that you're having me stay here?
Xu Jun Le: they've taken Bao on a vacation they won't be back for another week…. So the house is all ours….. treat this as your vacation home…You can think about what you want to do next.
Mai You Ge: What do you want…. What are you expecting of me?
Xu Jun Le: When you left last year, I promised myself that if you returned to me …. I would never let you go again…. I want us to be married and live the life that we both want… so after you think about it… we will go get our marriage certificate and start our married life… that's what I want.
Mai You Ge's thoughts are all over the place as she tries to sleep in the spare bedroom that Xu Jun Le has given her. Her mind is filled with questions : He can't be serious that he wants to marry me?… He barely knows me….. Am I setting myself up for failure?…. He makes my heart flutter….. I haven't stopped thinking about him this whole year…. What did I gain by leaving him?…. I wanted him to make love to me at least once?….. What am I so afraid of?….. I'm happy when I'm with him…. Macau is so different than Beijing…. I can eat whatever food I want in the family restaurant…. Just do it… stop thinking about it.
With her heart pounding at a feverish pitch ….. she walks into Xu Jun Le's room….. gets in bed with him and gives him a hug waking him up from his dead sleep where he was dreaming of making love to her.
Mai You Ge: Let's start our married life now….. I can't stand another moment without making love to you.
Xu Jun Le rolls on top of her and begins giving her deep passionate kisses ….. their arms and hands begin caressing and feeling each others bodies letting their passion reach boiling point.
Mai You Ge: I've wanted you doing this to me this whole year…. I love you so much.
Xu Jun Le continues adoring her body as his kisses reach her hard elongated nipples that are aching for him to suck on them. His hand reaches her very wet and nimble pussy that begins gyrating as soon as his fingers enter her. Once he finds her G Spot her moans of pleasure become loud as her fingers dig into his back at the intense pleasure she is receiving.
They roll around as they each take turns being on top and on the bottom. After giving each other oral satisfaction they return to the missionary position … she spreads her legs and guides his very hard dick inside her as she gasps and moans with loud screams of pleasure. His thrusts are hard and deep making her loose her breath while she rotates and gyrates her hips feeling his cock touch every part of her sensitive pussy. Unable to hold his semen any longer he pushes deep and upward inside her letting his semen fill her vaginal cavity. The warm hot cum makes her begin her orgasmic cycle as she holds on to his neck …her stomach muscles tighten and she jerks repeatedly into letting go of each orgasm that follows. The intensity of her orgasms make her weak and listless … while giving him kisses of appreciation.
Having completely satisfied each other they sleep in each others arms.
After leaving the Marriage Registration Bureau ….. the newly married couple walk the streets of Macau hand in hand with giddy smiles on their faces …. Xu Jun Le brings her to a local jeweler to purchase wedding bands signifying their union.
Mai You Ge's smile with her dimpled cheeks can't believe that the past 24 hours has led her to this moment ….. she gives her husband a kiss: I will be the best wife you could've every imagined.
Xu Jun Le: I know that…. I promise to be that for you also…. Do you want to come with me as I go buy needed supplies for the Restaurant …. I still need to work…. I can't take off like I use to.
Mai You Ge: Now that I'm your wife you can't be at my beck and call all the time… I will use this week to browse around and to learn about my new home…. I also need to calll my parents and let them know of my new status change…. My mother is continually trying to set up blind dates for me to get married… my dear husband we may to go back so that I can introduce you to my family….. only when you have the time.
Xu Jun Le: we will have a lot of explaining to do…. But now that we're together …. We will get through it…. Have fun exploring Macau … I love you.
Mai You Ge: I love you too…..They give each other a tender kiss.
Flash back to Wei Shi Jie / Mr Frank….Piano recital
Wei Shi Jie: Thank you all for coming to my concert….Actually , I've prepared a piece that isn't listed on the program…. I wrote it myself….. I was afraid that others won't like it, but my friend told me music is the soul's chocolate of humans….. As long as I express my true feelings, I will always resonate with you. I want to give my last piece of chocolate to my best friend…..
Wei Shi Jie begins playing and the music brings the feelings he garnered with his time spent with the older woman …. Wu Kaifeng / Casey ….the montage of events displayed their lasting friendship , bonding and the process of developing deep, meaningful friendships that can stand the test of time...Built on a foundation of trust, mutual respect, open communication, and shared experiences, where individuals feel a strong emotional connection and can rely on each other through life's ups and downs; essentially, creating bonds that last long-term.
Once Wei Shi Jie finished his concerto to Casey the look in his eyes said everything as he looked around to get a look at the woman that means so much to him and why this friendship is so special to him and to her.
Key elements of lasting friendships and bonding:
Active listening:
Paying close attention to what your friend is saying and showing genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings.
Open communication:
Sharing your true self, including vulnerabilities and concerns, while also being receptive to your friend's perspective.
Mutual support:
Being there for your friend during challenging times and celebrating their successes.
Shared experiences:
Engaging in activities together that create lasting memories and foster a sense of connection.
Trust and loyalty:
Relying on your friend to keep secrets and be there for you, even when difficult.
Respecting boundaries:
Understanding and respecting each other's personal space and needs.
Authenticity:
Being yourself and not trying to be someone you're not.
Consistency:
Making time to stay connected regularly, even when life gets busy.
Though their time together was short the impact of that time resonated in How to build lasting friendships and bonds:
Initiate meaningful conversations:
Ask open-ended questions, share personal stories, and engage in deep discussions.
Frank conveyed how he had to learn to be by himself and make decisions more like an adult than a boy…. Casey though a grown adult still held the scars of a child trying to understand why her parents couldn't show any love and appreciation while she was growing up
Be present when together:
Put away distractions and focus on your friend when spending time with them.
Offer support and encouragement:
Validate their feelings, provide practical help when needed, and offer positive reinforcement.
Celebrate milestones:
Acknowledge important moments in your friend's life with thoughtful gestures.
Be reliable and dependable:
Follow through on commitments and be someone your friend can count on.
Though just a boy Wei Shi Jie understood all the above principles of a everlasting friendship and bond
Once Wu Kaitong/ Casey transferred to another Star Shine Hotel in the US….. Wei Shi Jie found himself again isolated without the one person that understood him….. he began to keep a journal… whereby he recounted his thoughts and feelings as thought he was with Casey.
Mrs Lin saw how her son reverted back to his old ways of isolation after the Macau trip asks Mike ….his attendant …. If he knew what was the cause of this.
Mike not wanting to divulge their individual conversations….. he however provides a hint in that the young master's journal may provided the answers. ….. Mrs Lin asks the maids in their household if such a journal exists in Wei Shi Jie's room and if it does they are to bring it to he.
After reading different excerpts through out the journal, she realizes that she needs to act quickly to distract him from what is becoming an unhealthy childhood obsession with an older woman.
She contacts Wu Kaitong/ Casey and reads to her one of his journal entries.
Frank's Journal Entry: Casey will be so surprised the next time we get to meet….. I've grown….. I'm now at eye level with her… I'm no longer that little clumsy boy. By the time I'm done growing ….. I should be man enough for her.
Casey remains speechless after hearing that entry
Mrs Lin: Miss Wu/ Casey …. I didn't read you this …. To make any accusations that you may be complicit to any of this… I wanted you to know that he is now thinking of you more than just friends… I know my son… once he forms an opinion in his very bright mind …. It will be very difficult for him to change it. I'm asking you to help me change his mind... he needs to grow up as a normal boy.
Wu Kaitong/ Casey: What can I do?…. he is bright enough to understand that what you are concerned about can never be….. I would never let it.
Mrs Lin: I know that…. This is very hard for me to say….. but I'm asking you to break his heart….. growing up is hard and we all went through life's lessons on love and relationships … you've become his first love….. now I want you to become his first heartache….. so that he can return to becoming a growing boy.
Wu Kaitong / Casey: he is such a great kid with a beautiful heart…. I don't want to scar him the way I was scared…. Can I think about how to make him forget me?… without hurting him deeply….. I owe him so much …. His kindness and understanding has helped me greatly in removing some of my past scars… which is almost hypocritical … a kid helping and adult understand themselves….. but he did .
Mrs Lin: Please think about it …. The longer this stays unaddressed the longer he will become more obsessed.
Mike informs Frank that he needs to be careful in what he posts in his journal entries… His feelings for Casey have put her in a dilemma that will be very difficult on her.
Scene shift to Present Day
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis and Xu Jun Le accidentally run into each other and begin to reminisce about their last meeting
Xu Jun Le: It's great to see you again…. Are you here to prepare for the big race again?
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: Last year's race was my final grand-fix race….. I can't continue to risk my life for a trophy….. I'm now doing consulting work for up and coming drivers and I realized that it's time to settle down.
Xu Jun Le: Have you come back for the girl …. That same one from last year?
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: What was I to do….Falling in Love wasn't something I had planned to do…. But Jo was not someone I could easily forget… He notices the wedding band on Le's finger…..What about you…. When did this happen…. Why didn't you invite me to the wedding?
Xu Jun Le smiles: Their was no wedding…. It was one of those spur of the moment impulses … When You Ge showed up back in Macau I didn't give her a chance to get away from me again….. best decision I ever made. … Hey…. Why don't you bring Jo to the Restaurant and I'll introduce You Ge to both of you…. She doesn't know that many people in Macau.
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis calls Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: Hey babe… don't make any plans for dinner….. A friend of mine invited us to his Restaurant and I told him we would be there.
Chen Jia Hui/Jo: Which restaurant… maybe I know it?
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: I think it's called the Zhen Qiang Ji Restaurant
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: OMG…. That's one of my favorite places to eat…. The food is phenomenal….. How do you know the owner?
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: Le is a former racing buddy of mine…. He gave up racing awhile ago to come back to Macau… you won't believe what he did…. Last year he met this girl and fell in love with her on the spot…. I guess the timing wasn't right and she left after her job was over….. She just came back to Macau and he married her immediately… it should be an interesting night.
Mai You Ge helps out at the Restaurant by acting as a hostess in seating people at their tables…. She immediately recognizes Chen Jia Hui from last year when she was working for Wu Kaitong/ Casey….. after their orders have been taken Xu Jun Le and Mai You Ge join them for dinner.
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: Elvis told me a little about you two… I'm dying to know the whole story….. did you two stay in touch since last year?
Mai You Ge: I was such a coward back then…. I thought my job was everything to me…. Was I ever wrong….. I regretted everyday that I left Le …. He was the only one that I felt happiness with and I foolishly walked away from him…. Elvis …. Do you remember seeing me at the airport when you left last year…. You left Macau the same time I did… What made you come back?
Han Jun Hao/ Elvis: I guess our stories are very similar…. The racing circuit controlled my life … but Jo controlled my heart and mind…. Racing became meaningless with out her in my life.
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: One big difference to your two stories…. She's married and you're not.
Le and You Ge both smile while Elvis has a surprised look on his face
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: You Ge….. how did you two get married so quick?
Mai You Ge: After quitting my job and deciding to come back to Macau …the first place I came to was this restaurant….. when I saw that Le had placed my favorite soup on the menu I knew he hadn't forgotten about me… to make a long story short… that night he brought me home to his parents house since I hadn't made any plans to stay anywhere… He placed me in the guest room and all my regrets came rushing in my mind…. The next thing you know…. I found myself in his bed and our passion for each other took over… his biggest wish was to be married to me … the next morning we went to Marriage Registration Bureau and got our Marriage Certificate.
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: just that simple…. She gives a stern look to Elvis…maybe you need to stake some lessons from your racing buddy… benefits come with commitment.
Han Jun Hui/ Elvis: wait a minute ...You may not believe it but I was planning on us having a big beautiful wedding with all our families and friends…. I've always wanted to marry you… you're the one that only wanted the passion without the after effects.
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: That was then not now….. I love you ….. I'm now committed to you.
Mai You Ge: Don't be so hard on Elvis … having to explain our sudden marriage to my father in law wasn't something that we would want to do again.
Xu Jun Le: My dad is very old fashion…. It was hard on him last year when my older brother informed the family that he was getting married within a week after introducing his young bride and the family had no say in the wedding preparation. Can you imagine the scene when they walked into their house after they were on vacation with my little sister and Ge and I are making passionate morning love in our bedroom…. If it wasn't for my mother … I don't know what would've happened.
Chen Jia Hui/ Jo: That's to funny… what happened next?
Mai You Ge: Mother Zeng knows her husband … she got him calmed down and explained to him that we didn't do anything wrong…. We got married and were simply exercising our marital rights … she pointed out to him in how much he liked me the first time he met me …. Now that I'm his daughter in law what's there to be upset about.
We had to agree to do a wedding reception so that no one can gossip about us.
Xu Jun Le: At the end of the month we'll be having a wedding reception that the family is preparing for us…. You two are invited.
Wedding Preparations
The four Xu women….. Mother Zeng, Daughter Bao, Daughter in Law Jia Jia help newest daughter in law You Ge pick out a wedding dress only to find Chen Jia Hui fitting her own dress
Mai You Ge: When did this happen… you're getting married now?
Chen Jia Hui: after we left you guys at the restaurant Elvis and I had a heart to heart talk…. I'm the one that has always been hesitant about getting married….I thought marriage would ruin the passionate romance that we've been enjoying…. But when he said in front of you guys that he really wanted to marry me… I thought what am I afraid of?…. so after a night of incredible sex… we did what you and Le did and got our marriage certificate…. So here I am trying on wedding dresses.
Xu Jia Jia: I can attest after a year of marriage the romance is still at top form.
Mother Zeng: After 40 years of marriage it's not like it was in the beginning…. But now it's even better…. We know each other and we're more comfortable not having to go through the learning process.
Xu Bao: Mom… this is so much fun… It gives me something to look forward to.
Mother Zeng: Don't go saying that in front of your father… he still hasn't gotten over how your brothers got married without telling him in advance. Jia Hui is your family planning a the reception?
Chen Jia Hui: Elvis is leaving everything up to me… he's not taking any chances with me getting scared off…. Whatever I want he's ok with…. You all will get an invitation once I decide on a date and the venue.
Mai You Ge: Why don't you have it at the Gallery?…. It would be perfect …. From what I saw of your exhibition You're paintings will showcase the romance aspect of your love…..You have an added bonus the Xu Family will be at your disposal when it comes to the food and you already have a working relationship with brother in law Jun Hao in providing the catering staff from the Star Shine Hotel… What a grand wedding reception that would be?
Chen Jia Hui: You have such grand ideas… what is your wedding reception going to be like?
Mai You Ge: Since I'm the newest member of the Xu family …. Whatever my in laws want is fine with me… now that I'm married to their number two son… I've gotten what I wanted.
Xu Jia Jia : Sister in law you're a natural when it comes to event planning…. Have you considered opening and event planning business in Macau?…. I think I would be interested in doing something like that…. I could recommend travel destinations.
The wedding of Xu Jun Le and Mai You Ge along with the wedding Han Jun Hao and Chen Jia Hui was that catalyst of the start of the Xu Family Event Planning Business which became vary popular in Macau due to the XU Family connections.
On the 50th Anniversary of the marriage of Wang Wan Zeng and Xu Zhi Qiang…. Mai You Ge along with her partners Xu Jia Jia and Xu Bao prepared an event befitting the patriarch and matriarch of the Xu family….. family, friends and business associates came to celebrate the Xu family contributions to the community and to the city of Macau.
This anniversary celebration brought together the life cycles of those from the past as Xu Zhi Qiang gives his thank you speech.
Xu Zhi Qiang: I marvel at the fact that I've been married to my beautiful devoted wife Wang Wan Zeng for half a century…. Without her I would be nothing….. she provided me a life filled with love comfort and compassion with a heavy dose of guidance. She gave me three of the most wonderful children any man could ask for. To my daughter in laws my sons are blessed to have you two as their wives….. you've learned your lessons well from from their mother. This event is all their doing.
Xu Bao: Dad don't forget me….. I'm their partner also.
Xu Zhi Qiang: How could I ever forget my little precious one… not so little anymore….. a warning to all those young men that have set their eyes on her… her father and her two brothers are watching you. … to my in laws thank you for giving birth to daughters that have made my sons lives complete.
Xu Jiang Ming stands: Can I say a word….. 10 years ago I was on the verge of loosing my second family….. when this man told me to look at myself and see what I was doing wrong….. Li Ming thanks you and our young son thanks you … without your advise he wouldn't have been born.
Tang Wei nudges her assistant and now full time lover Chen Shiqu: That old fool still won't give me the credit….. I'm the one that told him not to make the same mistakes he made with me….. I told him he has a young wife …. And not a housemaid that just takes care of his ass.
Chen Shiqu: Do I take care of your ….you know what?
Tang Wei: Stop being so bad….. you know you do.
Xu Zhi Qiang raises his glass: Thank you ….. each and every one of you… Thank you. for helping us celebrate this milestone event.
When the celebration is about to end Chen Jia Hui comes up to You Ge: An old friend has come back into town and would like to have drinks with us ….. have your brother in law and partner join us….. she would like to discuss something with us.
Mia You Ge: Who is it ?
Chen Jia Hui: Wu Kaitong…. You remember Casey… she is now back in Macau and wanted to catch up.
They arrive at the new hot spot in Macau ….. when Casey waves them over…. They give each other welcome hugs and well wishes.
Chen Jia Hui: The states must have agreed with you… you haven't changed a bit… look at you you look fabulous.
Casey: You're to kind , but the years do take their toll… you're now a very famous artist… and a mother … and you You Ge… you opened your own company… even back then I knew you weren't meant to be someone's lackey…. You're a mother also... you two have certainly changed your lives.
Mai You Ge: That first visit to Macau changed my life… I found the man of my dreams…. The life I never imagined and now I have a family and business of my own. It's amazing how my life turned out….. Nothing as to how I planned it… I thank god everyday for it.
Chen Jia Hui: Tell us what you've been up to?…. Are you here just to visit or are you back permanently?
Xu Jun Hao: Casey…. I was wondering who the company was sending to replace me?
Casey: Actually, I'm not your replacement….. Hao…. The company felt that you did such a good job in running the Macau Location and I become the new laison for it's newest up and comer be assigned here to get his feet wet. You will have your hands full replacing retiring Mrs Lin.
A fully grown Wei Shi Jie comes behind Casey
Wei Shi Jie: Hello… I'm Wei Shi Jie ….. you can call me Frank….. The last time we met I was much younger ….. however, with time everything changes.
Xu Jun Hao and Chen Jia Hụi look with amazement at how different he looks from when he was a pre teen boy….. Standing at 6'2''… with hair styled for his looks. His body is no longer the angular boy starting to have his first growing spurt….. he now has broad shoulders, muscular chest with his pretty boy face that now comes across handsome and manly….. when he walks through a room all the girls eyes turn to him. He has grown into every girls fantasy.
Wei Shi Jie and Xu Jun Hao go to the bar and begin to have their conversation as to how the transition will be. The girls take Casey to the side to have their own conversation.
Chen Jia Hui: Casey… is this the same boy that had that longing crush on you and he is now your boss.
Casey: Yes… you forget…. He was my boss back then also.
Chen Jia Hui: Has he gotten over his little boy's crush on you… the way he use to look at you wasn't normal.
Casey: When I first went to the states he would text me and send me flowers… he even kept a journal as to how he was going to approach me when he was old enough...it got to the point that his mother contacted me and asked me to somehow break his heart so that he could forget me…. All of a sudden he just stopped… with no explanation...I was almost sad because he is so special to me….. even at his young age he knew me better than I knew myself… so for me to deliberately hurt him, I just couldn't do it. ….. now he is back ….. when he looks at me he sees right through me. He is no longer that little boy…. He is a man that any girl would want to be with….. At times I find myself being very jealous…. What is wrong with me.?
Xu Jia Jia: So what is the problem ... be with him if he turns you on…. Hao is 15 years older than me…. My father is 25 years older than my stepmother … I even now have a baby brother as old as my son. If you want an example that fits your situation… my mother has a lover that is 20 years her junior… This is a completely different age than when you were young.
Chen Jia Hui: She is right...I use to be so afraid of committing to one person I almost lost the love of my life.
Mai You Ge: I use to think work was everything until I met Le …..but once he made love to me I couldn't think of anything but him.
Xu Jia Jia: Maybe you need to have a heart to heart conversation with him….. who knows maybe you're just over thinking this….. he is no longer that little boy with a little boy's crush... from the looks of him you'll be in real trouble if you end up in bed with him.
Casey: That's what I'm afraid of.
Chen Jia Hui: What ever you do don't let him near Isabella , she'll have him in her bed before you can blink an eye.
Isabella comes up to them: Somebody mention my name?