Love in a Miracle - Chapter 16-?

[Lanie]

Chapter 16

Kiu Wait takes out a piece of paper and starts writing quickly. He puts it in his pocket and runs down to the lobby to look for Mr.Koo. Kiu Wai is worried that he may not catch him on time. Luckily he sees Mr.Koo walking in. He then anxiously runs to him.

Kiu Wai: Mr.Koo, I have a big favor to ask from you. Can you please drive me to her?
Mr.Koo: We can’t Mr.Ton. We have to get ready to go back home. Mrs.Ton just informed me outside not too long ago.
Kiu Wai: I know, we still have several more hours. Please drive me there quickly and come back. I have to see her one last time.
Mr.Koo: You know you can’t see her.
Kiu Wai: I know I can’t see her. I just want to feel her presence just one last time.
Mr.Koo: Mrs.Ton will be very angry if she finds out.
Kiu Wai: How will she find out if you and I are not telling?
Mr.Koo, reacting with hesitation: I don’t know about this. I don’t want to lose her trust in me.
Kiu Wai pleads: Please help me Mr.Koo. Have you ever been in love before?
Mr.Koo looks down and nods: Yes I have.
Kiu Wai: Then you know how I feel. You’re the only who can help me right now. Please blindfold me and take me right away before we lose more time.

Mr.Koo and Kiu Wai both run quickly to the car. Mr.Koo hands Kiu Wai the blindfold and Kiu Wai ties it himself once he’s inside the car. Kiu Wai is memorizing every turn and timing it with his pocket watch. This is his fifth drive to the house, so he pretty much remembers all the turns and timings. As he has predicted, Mr.Koo reaches the destination in half an hour.

Mr.Koo gets down and opens the car for Kiu Wai.

Mr.Koo: Wait here Mr.Ton. There are guards here.
Kiu Wai: What? She’s being watched all the time like a prisoner? How can she being treated like this?
Mr.Koo: This is not my idea Mr.Ton.
Kiu Wai: Is it Mrs.Ton’s?
Mr.Koo: And Tat Wah’s.
Kiu Wai: What?! He’s in this too?
Mr.Koo: Actually, he’s the one who arranges this. Those guards are his men. They get a lump sum for doing this.
Kiu Wai, about to run forward: I can’t believe that woman! Trapping an innocent girl like this. Mr.Koo, I need to take her with me.
Mr.Koo, pushing Kiu Wai back: You can’t. I promised to take you here to see her one last time and that is it!
Kiu Wai, tries to take his blindfold off: I can’t go back to that family anymore! I need to take the woman I love away from this hell!
Mr.Koo: You have to think of the big picture. You cannot act wrecklessly like this. Going back home is not the end of the world. You can make better plans once you have more time to think. This will only hurt her, your family and your people. Do you understand?
Kiu Wai screams: What can I do? I don’t want to be a slave to that family. I don’t want to lose her. I don’t care about the consequences.

The moment Kiu Wai screams, Mei Ling is waken up from her sleep. She frantically runs to the door.

Mei Ling talks to herself as she tries to open the door: It’s him. He is here for me. I have to come to him. Why is he screaming? Something is wrong. I have to see him. I don’t care about the consequences.

The guy is guarding the locked door from outside so that Mei Ling will not be able to come out.

Mei Ling: Let me out of here! I have to see him!
Tat Wah’s guy: You are forbidden from seeing him.
Mei Ling: Please let me go. I’ve done what you guys asked me to already.
Tah Wah’s guy: I am sorry, I can’t let you out if I don’t have my big brother’s permission.

While one guy is stopping Mei Ling from running out, the second one runs to Mr.Koo and Kiu Wai to find out what’s going on. At the same time, Tat Wah pulls in with his car. Tat Wah gets down and runs toward Kiu Wai and Mr.Ton.

Tat Wah: Mr.Ton, what are you doing here? I was just informed by Mrs.Ton that this is over.
Kiu Wai pulls off his blindfold: I can’t believe that you do this for her! It’s cruel and dirty!
Tat Wah: Sorry Mr.Ton, this is my job. I do what it takes to make a living. I advise that you go back to make it for your trip.
Kiu Wai: I am taking her with me.
Tat Wah: I am not letting you leave with her. I am paid to accomplish this task and I see to it that she will have your baby. Leave this to me Mr.Ton. Go back to your wife.
Mr.Koo: Think about what I told you before Mr.Ton. You have nine months to come up with a better plan. You don’t want to risk her life right now.
Kiu Wai, nothing thinking about the outcome, runs toward the bridge as he hears her distant voice from the house: I am taking her away from here.

Tat Wah and his men run toward Kiu Wai and jump on him. Before he could reach the bridge, he is down on the ground with three men on top of him. Kiu Wai struggles with all of his energy to break away, but he fails. They pull him into the car and trapped between two men.

Tat Wah: Mr.Koo please take him away quickly.
Kiu Wai: Tat Wah, please wait. Please blindfold us and let us see each other before I go.

Tat Wah is a little reluctant: I really don’t want any more trouble.
Kiu Wai: I will stay here at the car. Just take her out here so that I can express my good-bye to her.
Tat Wah: Alright, just a few minutes only. Remember, you are not to say a word to each other, you understand? Stay put and I will have one of these men take her out.

Tat Wah sends one guy into the house to take Mei Ling out. Kiu Wai is putting his blindfold back on while Mei Ling is being escorted to the car.

Tat Wah’s guy talking to Mei Ling: Our client is here. He is leaving to go back home in a few hours. This is your good-bye to him.

Kiu Wai is reaching out for Mei Ling’s hands, and Mei Ling is the same. Both of their hands finally touch each and they hold on to each other tightly. Tat Wah is highly emotional when he sees this. He hasn’t realized the love that these two people have found in each other. Trying not to show his teary eyes in front of his men, he turns and looks away.

Mei Ling is sobbing heavily while hugging Kiu Wai. Kiu Wai comforts her by holding her and stroking her hair to let her know that it is alright. He quickly takes out the folded letter in his pocket and puts it into her hand. Mei Ling grabs it and puts it immediately into her pocket.

Tat Wah, trying to compose himself: Alright, that’s enough. Bring her back in.

One guy pulls Kiu Wai and the other pulls Mei Ling from each other’s embrace. Their hands are yanked out from each other as they are still latching on. Mei Ling is crying as she is being pulled back into the house.

Tat Wah: Mr.Ton, you will cooperate and go back home like you had promised.
Kiu Wai: Thank you Mr.Yam for giving me this opportunity.
Tat Wah: Mr.Koo, go on quick. Good-bye Mr.Ton.

Kiu Wai is forced to put back on his blindfold as Mr.Koo drives off. He is starting to collect his thoughts so that he can come up with a better plan later.

His heart is getting heavier by the minute as the car rolls away from the house knowing that he is getting further away from her. He has to accept this current situation right now because he has no control. At least he had the opportunity to hold her again and hands her the letter himself before he leaves. On the way back, all Kiu Wai can think about is how happy he felt when Mei Ling was in his arms.

[Lanie]

Chapter 17

Once by herself, Mei Ling opens the letter and reads:

My love, I want to apologize for leaving you right now. It is not my choice. I understand that it is very rough for you to be in the situation you are in. I don’t know how you came to be here, but I can feel that it was not your choice either. I am sorry for the changes I placed in your life and please forgive me.
I don’t want to leave not expressing to you my feelings. You must know that I too was forced to be in this situation, in the thinking that you will carry my baby. I never wanted to hurt you. As a matter of fact, I was very opposed to this idea.
In the midst of this frenzy circumstance, you gave me the real feeling I have never felt before, which is true love. For the first time in my life I get to experience the feeling of being in love. I can’t express more than enough to you how deep my love is for you. It doesn’t matter to me how you look or who you are, only one thing that matters to me is you.
Please try to be strong for me. I know it is very hard, but be strong for our sake. I will be back for you. This house is our mark to find each other. Don’t forget that. I hope you understand what I mean by this. And do understand that you are and will always be on my mind.
I cannot reveal to you my identity because of your safety in case if others get a hold of this letter. I don’t want to take that chance. If anything happens to you I will never forgive myself.
Wait for me my love and I will find my way to you. No matter where I will be, my heart will always be with you.

Love you with all my heart,

“The man who longs to be with you”

Mei Ling’s teardrops fall onto the letter as she reads. After she is done, she holds the letter to her chest and smiles, knowing that Kiu Wai loves her the way she loves him. Because of their love, she is willing to do whatever it takes to survive so that she will reunite with him again.

Two weeks later, Tat Wah makes a visit to an old friend of his, Yim Fong. Yim Fong is a retired Madam of a popular brothel in Guangzhou. She has made many connections in this city because of her previous profession. During her primetime, she has helped orphaned Tat Wah by teaching him how to survive on his own.

Yim Fong: Little brother, it’s been a long time since I’ve last seen you. What brings you here today?
Tat Wah: Older sister, I’ve been very busy, but I think of you very often.
Yim Fong: What a sweet talker you are! How can I help you?
Tat Wah: Sister Fong, how do you know I need your help?
Yim Fong: Don’t forget I created you Tat Wah. I can see through you.
Tat Wah: I need you to take in a girl for me. It’s not convenient for a girl to stay with me. I think it’s more appropriate if you take her in.
Yim Fong: Please, I want some peace.
Tat Wah: I will pay you for this.
Yim Fong: I don’t care. I just want to be left alone. I don’t want to get involved in dirty business anymore. I am retired, can you see?
Tat Wah drops down a big stash of cash in front of Yim Fong on the table: Is this clean enough for you?
Yim Fong: Well everything is negotiable.
Tat Wah: Good, let’s negotiate right now. I need her to stay with you for about 10 months. I will take her away after that.
Yim Fong: Who is she?
Tat Wah: You don’t need to know. I am being paid to do this also.
Yim Fong: She better not be a trouble maker.
Tat Wah: I am hoping you can train her for me to be more cooperative. Anyway, she hasn’t seen my face or knows who I am at all. I will be coming here to check often. Only identify me as your friend, not her enemy. I want her to think of me as your friend and that is it. Do you remember this?
Yim Fong: Alright, too many regulations. When will you bring her?
Tat Wah: How about tomorrow?
Yim Fong: Fine. I will be ready for her.

Mei Ling is brought over to Yim Fong’s house the next morning by Tat Wah’s men. Yim Fong welcomes Mei Ling into her house and goes over with her the regulations. Mei Ling doesn’t know who this lady is, all she knows is that she will be stuck with her for a long time, and living in an unfamiliar place without her loved ones. Because of Kiu Wai, she is happily accepting her fate, and willing to cooperate with Yim Fong.

Yim Fong: Don’t think that you are just a guest living here in my house. You have to do housework to earn your stay here. These chores include cooking, cleaning, sweeping, gardening, and doing laundry.
Mei Ling: Yes, I understand.
Yim Fong: Don’t ever leave the house by yourself. You have to ask me for permission and I will escort you myself. Remember that?
Mei Ling: Yes I do.

Knock Knock.

Yim Fong opening the door: Oh Tat Wah, please come on in.
Tat Wah looking over to Mei Ling: Oh you have a guest?
Yim Fong: No, she is my niece coming here to stay with me for a while. Mei Ling, come over here to greet my friend. He’s Mr.Yam.
Mei Ling coming over to Tat Wah and looks down: Hi Mr.Yam.
Tat Wah: You don’t have to call me Mr.Yam. Just call me Tat Wah.
Yim Fong: Mei Ling, why don’t you go into your room? I need to talk to Tat Wah.
Mei Ling: Yes.

Tat Wah waits for Mei Ling to leave and continues: So is she behaving?
Yim Fong: She’s pretty obedient so far.
Tat Wah, with a surprise look: Oh? Is that so?
Yim Fong: Yes, I think I have my way with her.
Tat Wah: Really? I wouldn’t count on that. Anyway, thank you sister Fong. Please keep your eyes on her for me. Don’t let her out of your sight. And please let me know if there is anything going on with her.
Yim Fong: Like what?
Tat Wah smiles and leaves: You will find out, hopefully.

[Lanie]

Chapter 18

Mei Ling feels tired and exhausted as each day goes on. Despite her exhaustion, she endlessly performs her house work. When she’s done with cooking, cleaning, and gardening, she helps Yim Fong with embroideries. Her lack of rest compounds with her lack of food makes it harder for her to get through the day.

Yim Fong and Mei Ling are embroidering at the table after they’re done with their dinner.

Yim Fong: What is wrong with you? Why is your face so pale? I noticed you haven’t been eating that much lately.
Mei Ling: I don’t have any appetite to eat. I find the foods very hard to swallow.
Yim Fong: I am wondering if you’re sick. You look skinnier than I first saw you.
Mei Ling: Do I look that pale and skinny? I don’t know why I feel tired all the time and I don’t feel like eating.

The moment Mei Ling finishes the sentence, she was about to puke, but ran into her room on time. Yim Fong can hear Mei Ling puking inside her room. She anxiously waits for Mei Ling to come back out.

Yim Fong doesn’t see Mei Ling coming back out, so she knocks on her door.

Yim Fong: Are you alright Mei Ling?
Mei Ling: I feel so nauseous. I am going to lay down.
Yim Fong: I think I am going to bring the doctor here for you. Wait here Mei Ling, I will be right back.

Half an hour later, Yim Fong comes back with the doctor. Yim Fong accompanies the doctor into Mei Ling’s room and to have her pulse taken. After a few minutes the doctor finishes his examination.

Doctor, with a big smile on his face: Congratulations Miss! You’re 6 weeks pregnant.
Mei Ling, with a concerned look: What?! I am having a baby?
Doctor: Yes, nothing to be afraid of. You just need more nutrition and plenty of rest. You’ve overworked and have not much food in your body. You need to be well for the baby.
Yim Fong: I had no idea that she’s pregnant. I feel so bad doctor. It’s my fault that she’s overexhausted.
Doctor: Make sure that she has plenty of rest. Otherwise, everything is fine.
Mei Ling, with a smile on her face: Thank you doctor.
Yim Fong: Thank you doctor, let me escort you out.

While Yim Fong escorts the doctor out, Mei Ling is still in disbelief that she’s carrying her lover’s baby.

She puts her hands over her tummy and looks at it: I am having his baby? Should I be happy or sad? If he doesn’t find me, the baby will be taken away from me at the end. Well, I don’t know what will happen. Not matter what, I am supposed to have this baby. This was their plan from beginning. I just hope that the baby will be healthy. I will be strong for our baby.

That night, Mei Ling cannot sleep as she keeps on thinking about their forbidden love, the baby, and their uncertain future.

The next morning, Mei Ling sees Tat Wah talking to Yim Fong when she walks out from her room. Yim Fong asks Mei Ling to come over to chat with them.

Tat Wah to Mei Ling: I hear that you’re not feeling well. Are you alright?
Mei Ling: Thank for asking Mr.Yam, I am fine.
Tat Wah: Not Mr.Yam remember.
Mei Ling: Thank you Tat Wah.
Yim Fong: My cousin here is having a baby, so she’s probably shy to say it to you.
Tat Wah: Well, congratulations Mei Ling. You must be very excited.
Mei Ling: Actually, I am more tired than excited.
Tat Wah: Try to rest. Yim Fong, why don’t I come by more often and take both of you out to eat. Mei Ling looks like she needs to eat for the baby.
Yim Fong: Anytime Tat Wah. You can treat us anytime.
Mei Ling: Why don’t you both talk. I have to prepare some breakfast.

After Mei Ling excuses herself , Yim Fong and Tat walks outside to garden in front of the house to talk.

Tat Wah: Sister Fong, thanks for informing about her pregnancy. This news is very important to me.
Yim Fong: What is this all about? Who is the father of the baby?
Tat Wah: I will tell you all about it later. I have to send a telegram right now, if you excuse me. I will drop by later to take both of you out. In the meantime, don’t make her do such work, alright? I don’t want it to affect her baby.
Yim Fong: Brother Tat Wah, looks like you care for her.
Tat Wah: It’s my responsibility to make sure that she carries this baby to full term.
Yim Fong, with a smirk on her face: Don’t lie to me, I can see it in your eyes.
Tat Wah smiles and walks off: I will see you later.

At the Ton’s Mansion…..

Miss Yin rushes into Mrs.Ton’s office with a telegram in her hands. Mrs.Ton immediately reads it and smiles with satisfaction.

Mrs.Ton: My plan is working Miss Yin. She is pregnant.
Miss Yin: Congratulations Mrs.Ton. You are really brilliant!
Mrs.Ton: Please ask both Kiu Wai and Mei Chun to see me at this moment please.
Miss Yin: Yes, I am going to get them right now.

[fransisca]

urgh...!!!
pls let this done...
I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOOOO wanting to read the next episodes... till the end.
Pls dont make me so desperate

[Lanie]

Chapter 19

Kiu Wai is curious of what Mrs.Ton has to say as he’s making his way to her office.

Ever since he gets back from Guangzhou, he has been taken care of his mother who has fallen sick. She has been staying at the Ton’s so that Kiu Wai can provide her the attention and medical needs. Nevertheless, his lover is always on his mind. This is the motivation that helps him get through this difficult time.

His marriage to Mei Chun is not really a marriage. The distance between the two is widened by the day.

Mei Chun: What is it again Mother?
Mrs.Ton: Both of you, have a seat. She is pregnant.
Mei Chun angrily exclaims: What! She’s pregnant? That is not fair! I don’t forgive you or Kiu Wai.
Kiu Wai with a big grin on his face and walks toward Mrs.Ton: How is she Mother and where is she right now?
Mei Chun: How dare you ask about that woman in front of me?
Mrs.Ton: Kiu Wai, she is alright. There is an arrangement for her already. You don’t need to know where she is. Remember the agreements we have? I hope you honor them.

Mrs.Ton turning to Mei Chun: Mei Chun, you have to pretend that you are pregnant. You have to make it believable. As it gets toward the due date, I will send you both to a different place to stay for a while and come back with the baby. That way our plan will go smoothly. You understand?

Mei Chun angrily storms out of the room. Mrs.Ton leaves as Kiu Wai is still in his thoughts of Mei Ling and the baby. He is extremely excited that there is a baby resulting from their love, but at the same time he is very frustrated with his situation. Because he cannot leave at the moment to find her, he just hopes somehow his mother will get better before the time is up.

Several months have passed by and Mei Chun’s belly pillow is getting bigger in size. Every step of hers is carefully monitored and escorted by her maids. She is not allowed to lift a finger, except for eating nutritious foods that are carefully cooked by the main chefs.

Everyone in the Ton Family believed that she is carrying the baby, which is a big milestone for this family. Her uncle truly believes in this and has high hopes for this baby to be a boy to carry their name. This is exactly the plan Mrs.Ton wants, for her brother-in-law to buy this convincing story so he will give up the competition of inheritance.

As everyone in the family is excited and anxious for Mei Chun’s baby to arrive, Kiu Wai is disgusted with the sight. As he thinks to himself, how can a woman who is truly carrying the baby suffers while the one who has a fake pregnancy is being lavished with so many luxuries?

To Mei Ling’s astonishment, her belly is growing enormously every passing day. Tat Wah visits her very often to make sure that she and the baby are doing fine. Tat Wah has been able to form a friendship with Mei Ling and also becomes her confidant. However, Mei Ling still has no knowledge of Tat Wah’s true reason for being in her life.

Even with her big belly, Mei Ling still does her house chores for Yim Fong. She and Yim Fong have also bond a great relationship like sisters.

Yim Fong: What are you writing Mei Ling?
Mei Ling: Sister Fong, can you hand this letter to him for me?
Yim Fong: Who is he?
Mei Ling: You ask the Big Brother, he knows who this person is. You’re the only person who can help me.
Yim Fong: I will try, but I can’t promise.
Mei Ling: I understand.

The next day, Yim Fong comes to Tat Wah’s house and hands him the letter.

Yim Fong: Please do this for her. Can’t you see that she has suffered enough? She just wants to express a few lines to him. I know that you don’t have a cold heart. You have been her friend for the last several months. Don’t you want to help her as a friend?
Tat Wah: I will think about it.

A week later, the letter has arrived at the Ton’s mansion for Kiu Wai. The servant places the letter on the table in his room and informing to Mei Chun that it is for him. With her curiosity and fear that it has to do with the baby, Mei Chun opens the letter and reads. Kiu Wai walks in as Mei Chun finishes the letter.

Kiu Wai: Why did you open my letter? Who is it from?
Mei Chun with an angry face: How can you be married to me and have feelings for another woman.

Kiu Wai runs over and grabs the letter from Mei Chun’s hand. Mei Chun runs out of the room to inform her mother about the letter.

Kiu Wai disregards Mei Chun and reads the letter.

My Love, you may already know that I am carrying your baby. My hope to be with you has diminished as every day passes. I really don’t hope for anything much except for our baby to be well and healthy, and to be taken care of by you after he or she’s born. I know that in this lifetime I don’t have this luck of being his mother. It is really painful for me to think of this right now because I have been so attached to the baby as he is getting bigger. I don’t want to ask for anything much except for one request. Because of our love, please let me know the name of our baby after you name him. Please engrave his or her name on the wooden bed post. On every birthday, I will silently wish him a happy birthday. Please do this for me if you truly honor the love we once shared. You and our baby will be forever in my heart. I wish you both the best in life.

My love and thoughts will always be you both,

The woman who silently loves you

[Lanie]

Chapter 20

Mei Chun angrily storms into her mother’s office and interrupts her work. Her mother looks up at her with a concerning look.

Mei Chun: See what you’ve done Mother?!
Mrs.Ton: What have I done?
Mei Chun: You made him sleep with another woman and now they’re in love with each other.
Mrs.Ton: How do you know? Please don’t jump to conclusion like that. Kiu Wai is loyal to you.
Mei Chun: Loyal? Hah! Go ask him yourself!
Mrs.Ton: What’s gotten into you?
Mei Chun: That woman had some guts to write to him. She tries to make contact with him. She loves him and he loves her. All he thinks about is her. I can see it in his eyes. Are you satisfied?
Mrs.Ton: I want to ask him myself and I want to know more about the letter.

Mrs.Ton and Mei Chun head back to Mei Chun’s room to confront Kiu Wai.

Kiu Wai is siting at the table with his eyes still fixating on the letter that is in his hands. Mrs.Ton comes closer and takes a peek at the letter.

Kiu Wai stands up and folds the letter and puts it in his pocket.

Kiu Wai: Mother, you ask for me?
Mrs.Ton: Is it true that that woman wrote you that letter?
Kiu Wai turning to Mei Chun: Do you have to report everything to your Mother about our business?
Mei Chun: Answer her!
Mrs.Ton: No need for the answer. Your expression tells me already. She knows the consequence of contacting you.
Kiu Wai angrily asks: What do you want to do to her?
Mei Chun: I curse that she will die from childbirth! She will die from childbirth!

Kiu Wai then extends his arms and slaps Mei Chun’s face with all his force.

Kiu Wai screams at Mei Chun: Don’t you dare curse her! I won’t let you people hurt her.
Mei Chun touches her face and cries: You are guilty for not being a loyal husband. Don’t think that I don’t know how you really feel ever since we came back. When I look into your eyes, I know that you think of her, night and day. You really don’t love me anymore. You don’t deserve my love. I won’t let her have you. I want her to die.

Kiu Wai looks at Mrs.Ton: I am not going to sit here and let you commit more sins. I am going to take action into my own hands. I won’t let you kill an innocent woman.

Kiu Wai immediately runs out of the room without telling neither one of them where he is going.

Mei Ling is getting more uncomfortable by the day. The more she is uncomfortable, the more she misses her mother. She and her mother are kept separately ever since she comes to stay with Yim Fong.

She has asked for her mother to come by for a visit before her due time.

Mother: How have you been my daughter? Have they been treating you good?
Mei Ling: Yes Mother. You don’t have to worry about that. Actually I ask for you to come for a purpose.
Mother: What is it?
Mei Ling sheds her tears and starts whispering: I am very attached to this baby. I don’t want to give it up. I don’t want them to take my baby away from me.
Mother: Oh my daughter, I understand. I will try my best to help you keep your baby.
Mei Ling: Thank you Mother.
Mother: What are planning to do?
Mei Ling: I am planning to run away tonight. I need your help along the way. Can you do that Mother?
Mother: Of course my darling. The three of us will have our own lives far away from here. Wait, does Yim Fong know about this?
Mei Ling: Not yet. I am going to tell her right now.

Mei Ling and her mother come into to Yim Fong’s room close the door behind them.

Yim Fong: You must miss each other very much. Are you ready? I will take you back.

Mei Ling and her mother bend down and kneel on their knees in front of Yim Fong. Yim Fong is astonished with this action.

Mei Ling cries: Sister Fong, I am very grateful that you’ve been treating me like your own sister. But I need one big favor to ask from you and I am begging you.
Yim Fong: What is it Mei Ling?
Mei Ling: I want to keep my baby. I am not letting them take my baby away from me. Can you help me escape? Please Sister Fong, I beg you.
Mei Ling’s Mother: Please Miss Mui, help my daughter. We will forever be grateful to you.
Yim Fong: This is a huge favor that you ask from me. You put me in a very difficult situation.
Mei Ling: I know that it is very hard for you. If you place yourself in my situation, you will do the same thing. I have been carrying this child for over eight months and I love him more and more everyday. I can’t be away from my own child. I will do anything to repay you. Please help us escape.

Yim Fong can’t hold back her tears, so she cries together with Mei Ling. They both hold each other and cry.

Yim Fong: Alright, I will help both of you get out of here.
Mei Ling: Thank you so much Sister Fong. I am very grateful.
Mei Ling’s mother: Thank you Miss Mui.

[Lanie]

Chapter 21

The three women quietly sneak out in the middle of night. They run out to the stable where Yim Fong keeps her horse and carriage. Yim Fong and Mei Ling’s mother help Mei Ling climb up onto the carriage. Yim Fong jumps on the seat in the front to direct the horses.

Mei Ling holds her mother’s hands tightly as the carriage twists and turns around the twisted road.

Yim Fong stops the carriage and pulls over to the side. Yim Fong jumps down and helps Mei Ling and her mother to get down.

Yim Fong: The sun is rising. I have to get back.
Mei Ling kneels down on her knees and cries: Sister Fong, I am forever grateful to you. You have done me and my baby a big favor. Don’t worry, I will move on from here.
Yim Fong: I hope the three of you will be fine. Just follow this road. It should take you out of Guangzhou. Go now before they discover that you’re gone.
Mei Ling: Thank you. Let’s go mother.

When Yim Fong gets back home, Tat Wah is standing in the front waiting for her. Yim Fong is very nervous, fearing that Tat Wah will interfere with their plan.

Yim Fong, pretending nothing has happened: Why are you here so early?
Tat Wah: Where did you just come from?
Yim Fong: Taking care of some business?
Tat Wah: This early in the morning?
Yim Fong: Yes? And?
Tat Wah: And where’s Mei Ling? Can I speak to her?
Yim Fong: Right now? She’s still asleep. Are you crazy?
Tat Wah: Stop lying to me. She has escaped! My men came back here to take her mother back and discovered the three of you were gone. They ran after but they lost you. Why did you help her?
Yim Fong: I only know that I did the right thing for the right reason. She deserves to be with her baby. I don’t care about your business deal. It’s plainly cruel. I am very disappointed in you Tat Wah.
Tat Wah: Where did you drop them?
Yim Fong: I am sorry, I cannot tell you.
Tat Wah: You know that I care for her too. Don’t you? I would hate to see if something happened to her. Please show me where she was at last.

Yim Fong stares at Tat Wah and thinks for a few seconds: Alright, but you have to promise me that you’re not going to hurt her.
Tat Wah: Actually, I got an order to kill her after she delivers the baby.
Yim Fong: What?! I won’t let that happen! Are you planning on doing this?
Tat Wah: Sister Fong, I am not that evil, and besides I do care for her. Please take me to her.
Yim Fong, feeling that Tat Wah is truthful with his words: You promise me that you will help her, not hurt her.
Tat Wah: I solemly swear.
Yim Fong: Drive me.

Mei Ling’s mother helps her with the strides along the road with the intense sun beaming down on them. Mei Ling is getting exhausted by the minute and pouring with sweats on her forehead.

Mei Ling stops and holds her belly: Mother, I think it’s time. I don’t know how long I can go on for.
Mother: Oh my, hold on my dear. Let’s walk further until we see someone or a house.

They continue to walk further while Mei Ling is in pain.

Mei Ling: Mother, which road are we going to take? There are several paths, how do we know which one?
Mother: Let’s rest for a few a seconds and let me think.

Mei Ling looks to the path on the right and sees magnolias along the side. Her spirit is suddenly lifted as if she knows that this is the guiding light.

Mei Ling, pointing to road on the right: Mother, let’s take this one.
Mother: Are you sure?
Mei Ling: Yes. Let’s go quick before the baby comes out.

Mei Ling’s contractions come every three minutes and she is overly exhausted with the pain. She then sees a wooden house with a bridge. She smiles and knows that this is meant to be.

Mei Ling: Mother, that is the house. I want to have my baby in there.
Mother: Alright, I will help you get there.

All of the memories rush into Mei Ling’s mind as she enters the house. At the same time, she is struggling to breathe to get through her contractions.

Mother: Why don’t you lie here on the bed and I will go out to get help.
Mei Ling cries painfully: Hurry up mother. I think the baby is coming soon.
Mother, feeling panicked seeing Mei Ling in such pain: Breathe Mei Ling. Hang in there and I will be right back.

Few minutes after Mei Ling’s mother runs out to look for help, Yim Fong and Tat Wah rush into the house.

Yim Fong runs over to attend Mei Ling and grabs her hand.

Mei Ling: Sister Fong, how did you find me here?
Yim Fong: Let’s not talk about it now. Save your energy.
Mei Ling: My baby is coming soon. I don’t know what to do. My mother has ran out for help.
Yim Fong: I will try my best to deliver your baby if time is running out. Tat Wah, please go get me some water and towels now.
Tat Wah: I think I have some in my car. Let me go get them.
Yim Fong: Quick Tat Wah.

As Tat Wah approaches his car, he sees a car dropping a man off. To his astonishment, it’s Kiu Wai.

Tat Wah runs over to Kiu Wai: What are you doing here?
Kiu Wai: You know well who I’m looking for.
Tat Wah: She’s not here. There’s nobody in there.
Kiu Wai: I am coming to this city to look for her. I am going to stay here until I find her.

As Kiu Wai finishes his sentence, Mei Ling’s scream is heard loudly from where Kiu Wai and Tat Wah are standing.

Kiu Wai shockingly looking over to the house and then at Tat Wah: Who is that?
He pauses and runs toward the house. Tat Wah pulls Kiu Wai back and pushes him to the ground.

Kiu Wai screams out while struggling with Tat Wah: Is that your voice my love? Are you inside the house?

[Lanie]

Chapter 22

Mei Ling can hear Kiu Wai’s voice outside, but she has no strength to respond back loud enough for him to hear as her labor progresses. She can only mutter to herself, “I am in here. I am having our baby!”

Mei Ling then screams: Ahhh! Sister Fong, it hurts so much! I don’t think I can make it!
Yim Fong: Hang in there! Most people say the same thing when they are in labor. I am right here for you. Breathe!
Mei Ling: I think the baby is coming! Ahhh!

Kiu Wai continues to hear Mei Ling’s screams as Tat Wah pins him down on the ground.

Kiu Wai: Let go of me! I have to go to her! She’s having my baby! Please let me go! She’s in pain!
Tat Wah: I am really sorry Mr.Ton.

Suddenly, a cry of a baby freezes both men. They both look at the direction of the house. Kiu Wai finally breaks away from Tat Wah’s handle and runs over the bridge.

As he’s approaching closer to the door, Tat Wah’s men are right behind him. One guy strikes on the back of his neck with a big piece of wood. Kiu Wai immediately falls to the ground. Tat Wah orders them to carry an unconscious Kiu Wai into the car and take him back to the Ton.

Mei Ling is relieved with a smile on her face when she sees Yim Fong holds her baby.

Mei Ling, tiredly asks: Is the baby alright? Is it a boy or a girl?
Yim Fong: Oh, the baby is fine. It’s a boy! Congratulations Mei Ling. You have a precious little boy.
Mei Ling, smiles with joy and asks softly: Can I hold him?

All of sudden, her smile turns into a painful expression. Mei Ling grabs her belly and screams with pain.

Mei Ling: Ahhh! The pain!
Yim Fong, shocked and terrified: Oh no! What’s wrong Mei Ling!
Mei Ling: I am still in pain! Ahhhh!

A worried Tat Wah makes sure that Kiu Wai is driven away before he returns to Mei Ling. He rushes into the house to check on the baby and Mei Ling’s condition.

To Tat Wah’s disbelief, Mei Ling is lying lifelessly on the bed as he comes running in. In front of his eyes are two babies in Yim Fong’s arms.

Several days later at the Ton’s…….

An unconscious Kiu Wai lying on his bed is waken up by the cries of his babies.

He opens his eyes and sees the ceiling. He looks to his right and left to figure out where he is. Then, he immediately sits up as the cries get louder and louder. He then figures that the cries must be from his baby. As he gets toward the door, Mrs.Ton and Mei Chun walk into the room.

Kiu Wai, panickedly asks: Where’s my baby, Mother?
Mrs.Ton: Sit down, Kiu Wai.
Mei Chun, sarcastically remarks: I can’t wait to see it.
Mrs.Ton, sticking her head out of the door: Miss Yin and Mr.Koo, please come in.

Miss Yin comes in with a baby and hands over to Kiu Wai. Kiu Wai smiles, takes the baby, and holds the baby close to his face.

Mrs.Ton: This is your son, Kiu Wai.

Mrs.Ton, turning to Mei Chun: Mei Chun, you are now his mother.

Then, Mr.Koo walks in with the second baby. Kiu Wai’s eyes are wide opened with astonishment with this sight.

Kiu Wai, confusedly asks: Whose baby is that?
Mrs.Ton smiles: That baby is also yours Kiu Wai.
Kiu Wai grins with excitement: You mean she has twins?
Mrs.Ton: Yes, she did indeed.

Kiu Wai comes to Mr.Koo and takes the baby into his other arm.

Kiu Wai while cradling two babies in his arms asks: Mother, where is she? Please tell me Mother. I beg you!
Mrs.Ton: I am sorry to tell you this Kiu Wai, she has died from childbirth.

Kiu Wai couldn’t believe what he has just heard. He is about to collapse onto the ground, but Mr.Koo and Miss Yin catches him on time. Mr.Koo and Miss Yin each take one baby from him so that he can grab a hold of himself.

Kiu Wai sits on the ground with his hands over his face and starts crying: I can’t believe it! She’s dead? I don’t believe you!
Mrs.Ton: It’s the truth! She took her last breath after the second baby comes out.

Kiu Wai angrily stands up and come up to Mei Chun and slaps her face as hard as he could.

Kiu Wai: You! It’s all your fault! She died because of your evil curse! You are an evil woman! She wouldn’t have died if it weren’t for your curse!
Mei Chun, touches her face: So what if it’s my fault? She tried to steal the only man I love. Don’t you understand that? I love you and I am your wife legally, not her!

Kiu Wai, turning away from Mei Chun, and walks toward his babies: I am taking my babies with me.
Mrs.Ton: No you are not!
Kiu Wai: She’s already dead! Are you both satisfied?
Mrs.Ton: Your mother is still sick and don’t forget that she’s still residing here. The drought has not helped your villagers much. They have been depending on me for jobs.
Kiu Wai, screams out loud: Why is this happening to me?

Kiu Wai sits down at the table and grabs his head with both of his hands.

Mrs.Ton, takes the baby and hands to Mei Chun: Mei Chun, this is your son. Love him like he’s your own from now on. This is the only way to hold onto your marriage and our family together.

Mei Chun takes a peek at the baby as her mother hands her the baby. Surprisingly, she falls in love with the baby at this first glance. She smiles to the baby as she holds him closer to her.

Mrs.Ton hands Mei Chun the second baby. To Mrs.Ton’s surprise, Mei Chun pushes the second baby away.

Mei Chun: No, I don’t want her! She will always remind me of that woman. I am only taking the boy.
Mrs.Ton: Alright alright my darling. You can keep the boy. You don’t have to keep the girl. Miss Yin, please take the girl away.

Kiu Wai snaps out from his state of shock when he hears this, and interrupts Mrs.Ton.

Kiu Wai angrily exclaims: I am not letting you take her away. She’s my daughter and I am her father. If you don’t want her, I will raise her myself!
Mrs.Ton, ignoring Kiu Wai: Miss Yin, throw this baby in the river!
Kiu Wai, trying to stop Miss Yin from taking the baby away: Give her back to me! She’s my daughter!

Kiu Wai falls onto the ground as Mr.Koo takes a big vase and hits him on the back of his head.

[bbtgr]

whoahhhhhhhhh......thanx for the long update Lanie....bet your fingers are about to fall off by now...heheheh....

poor poor KW always get his head knocked out eh??? and my heart is sunken that ML died at childbirth....and they still didnt' have a chance to see each other...what a tragedy you got going on here Lanie....hope things will be different.....surprise me would ya....heheheh...you know what I meant.....wink wink... *_~ thanx girl...keep it going...

[Lanie]

Chapter 23

Six years later……….

Mei Chun is chasing a little boy in the garden as he is trying to get away from her. She stops to catch her breath before she continues again.

Mei Chun, running and calling out: Wai Sun, stop running and come back here. If you don’t I will tell your father.

When the boy hears “father”, he stops. Mei Chun runs over to him, standing at the koi pond with a grasshopper in his hand.

Mei Chun: Why don’t you ever stop and when Mother asks you to?
Wai Sun, with a devious smile on his face: I want to play with the grasshoppers.
Mei Chun, sighing: Playing all the time. If your father finds out, he will punish you. And you know that I get really hurt when you get punished by him. Please come back with me to finish your literature session with the teacher.
Wai Sun: I don’t want to learn. It’s no fun. Why don’t you take me out Mother?
Mei Chun: Father will scold me if I do that. Do you remember last time? I don’t think it’s a good idea. He thinks I spoiled you too much already. Please finish your session, then I will play with you.
Wai Sun: No No No!

Wai Sun takes off again and heads off toward the North Wing of the mansion. Wai Sun is looking down as he runs. As he’s approaching the main entrance of the mansion, he’s bumped into a man with a hat. The hat falls onto the ground.

Wai Sun immediately recognize this hat and picks it up and hands it over to this man.

Wai Sun, with fear in his voice: Father, here is your hat.
Kiu Wai: Why are you running without looking? Where are you running to? Wait, aren’t you supposed to have lessons right now?
Wai Sun: The teacher has a stomache. He’s in the restroom right now.
Kiu Wai: Why aren’t you in the library waiting for him? Don’t use this lie again. Go back to your class!
Wai Sun: I hate that teacher. He’s old and no fun!

Kiu Wai angrily grabs Wai Sun by his arm walks him back to the library.

Kiu Wai: You are such a spoiled brat! Your mother and grandmother have been spoiling you too much. They can tolerate your bad manners, but I don’t. You come with me and finish your session. After your session, I will punish you.

On the way to library, Mei Chun and her mother come rushing to Kiu Wai.

Mei Chun: Kiu Wai, please don’t punish him. He’s just a kid.
Kiu Wai: He’s a naughty boy. You spoiled him too much!
Mrs.Ton: Please Kiu Wai, let it go this time. I will talk to him and it won’t happen anymore.
Kiu Wai: You should know how many times we change teachers because they can’t tolerate his bad manners. Mother, he’s spoiled like this because you and Mei Chun give in so easily to him. He doesn’t know what is right and wrong anymore. Too bad I am too busy with work, I don’t have the time to discipline him.
Mrs.Ton: Wai Sun, my adorable grandson, why don’t you go back to class. The teacher is waiting for you. Grandma will give a treat when you’re done alright?
Wai Sun: Promise?
Mrs.Ton: Yes, I promise. Now go on.

Wai Sun walks into the library while Mei Chun, Mrs.Ton, and Kiu Wai are still outside talking.

Mrs.Ton: Kiu Wai, I need to talk about business with you.
Kiu Wai: What is it about Mother?
Mrs.Ton: It’s about Fengshan. I need you to come there.
Kiu Wai: I thought we made a decision about this couple of months ago?
Mrs.Ton: Yes, but I’ve been thinking about it. I think we should go ahead with the project there.
Mei Chun: How long will it take?
Kiu Wai: Possibly 2 to 3 months.
Mei Chun: Wai Sun and I will be far a way from you for that long?
Mrs.Ton: I’m afraid so Mei Chun. This will create big revenue for our business. It’s important that Kiu Wai is there.
Kiu Wai: When do you want me to go?
Mrs.Ton: In a few days.
Kiu Wai: Mei Chun, my request to you while I’m away is try to discipline Wai Sun. Don’t let him control you. You must have a handle on him. I don’t want him to become such a rude useless person when he grows up.
Mei Chun: Don’t worry Kiu Wai. I will spend more time disciplining him. Just take care of the business and get back to us fast.
Mrs.Ton: Let us know how you are once you’re there. I just want to make sure that things will go smoothly.
Kiu Wai, assuring his mother-in-law: Don’t wory Mother. I will keep you informed.

[Lanie]

Chapter 24

Three days later on a bright, hot summer day in Fengshan…..

Fengshan is a little town known for coal mining. Kiu Wai is here to direct a group of union workers on the mining process. This is his first attempt in this line of work. Even if this is his first attempt, he does not want to fail. Failure had not been an option for him for the past six years.

Over the past six years, he has been taking over eighty percent of her business tasks. Kiu Wai is now a well-known established businessman who has earned a lot of respects from many in his province. However, with many successes he has over the past six years, he is not happy. Eventhough he has put away his painful memories with Mei Ling and his heartbreak deep down inside his heart, he still cannot forget.

To avoid feeling the pain, he submerges himself in work. He vows not to fail in business because in love, he has already too much.

He has never talked about Mei Ling since that painful day. There is rarely a day that he shows a smile on his face. Even Mei Chun is more fearful of her serious husband.

Kiu Wai is walking toward a group of fifty workers with tools in their hands in front of the caves. They are discussing about something and there seem to be frustration among the workers. All eyes are on Kiu Wai as he is approaching. The workers stop talking.

Sui Fai, a young worker steps out from the group: Are you Ton Kiu Wai?
Kiu Wai: Yes, are you one of the workers?
Sui Fai: Yes, I am. There is a problem. We cannot start mining.
Kiu Wai: What is the problem? We have a very tight deadline on this. We cannot waste any time.
Sui Fai: I am sorry Mr.Ton. We are not going to do anything or make any decisions until our leader is here.
Kiu Wai: Your leader? Who is he? And what does he know that I don’t know. I have read the reports already. I think it’s fine to start.
Sui Fai: Not yet. We have to wait.
Kiu Wai, speaking to the whole group: We have to finish this in a month. Please everyone, cooperate with me and start. The sooner you start the sooner you all get paid.

As everyone starts to get ready and picking up tools from the ground, a woman in her early 30’s walks over. She dresses very simple with two braids, and a handkerchief tied over her head.

She loudly voices out: Stop!

Everyone turns to her direction including Kiu Wai.

Kiu Wai is surprised to see a woman here, and especially that she has the power to command this group of men.

Sui Fai walks over to her as she is approaching. She stops in front of Kiu Wai. Kiu Wai’s attention is immediately fixated on her eyes.

Sui Fai, in the middle between the young woman and Kiu Wai: Mr.Ton, she is our leader I mentioned to you, teacher Ling.
Kiu Wai, smiles and nods his head: Nice to meet you teacher Ling.
Mei Ling: Mr.Ton, I need to speak to you about this project.
Kiu Wai: What is the problem?
Mei Ling: It is not safe for these workers to work in there. There is a substantial amount of methane in there. This is a great hazardous for a fatal explosion. I don’t care how high you’re paying them. But if it’s costing them their lives, then it’s not worth it.
Kiu Wai: There won’t be any hazard if we take things in precautions. We already told you from beginning that this has to be done in a month.
Mei Ling: Yes, but I also found out about the methane.
Kiu Wai: What do you want me to do?
Mei Ling: Hire more workers to drain it before the mining.
Kiu Wai: Do you know how long that will take Miss? I can’t delay this project. It’s been long enough already.
Mei Ling: It will only take 2 weeks at the most.
Kiu Wai: They already signed the contract to work. I will pay them more if it’s not enough.
Mei Ling, with an angry tone, and her big round eyes are getting bigger: It’s not always about money Mr.Ton!
Kiu Wai: I will assure you and them that it’s going to be fine.

Kiu Wai, turning to the group: Attention everyone, I will double your salary if you agreed to start. It’s fine if you don’t.

Most of the men pick up their tools and head toward the caves.

Mei Ling try to stop them but unsuccessful, because most men have to feed their families during this drought.

Mei Ling is very upset at this situation, but there is nothing else she can do except to pray that there wouldn’t be any accidents. She stands underneath a tree and watches most men begin to work.

Several days have passed. The men and Kiu Wai have been working 12 to 14 hours a day. Mei Ling in on site everyday to make sure that everyone is alright. She and the other wives bring them food and water.

Everytime she sees Kiu Wai, she turns away and ignores him. She is not happy with him at all. On the other hand, Kiu Wai tries to catch her attention because there is just something about her eyes that drawns him to them, and he doesn’t know the reason yet. He senses familiarity, but he can’t pinpoint it. Sometimes he nods and smiles to her, but she pouts and turns away.

On one afternoon, one of the wives run to Mei Ling and tells her to give one worker in the cave a message. Mei Ling runs into the cave and looks for him. Once she sees him, she tells him that he should go home because his wife is having a baby. While Mei Ling is inside, she checks out the condition. Seeing everyone sweaty and tired, she tells them to go outside for a break and have some snack that she just brought for them. As the last man leaves, Mei Ling asks him if there is anyone left in there. He tells her that there is just one person, Kiu Wai. She tells him that she will go look for him.

Few steps further in, suddenly Mei Ling senses the ground and cave shaking. Coals and small rocks begin to fall down right behind her. She turns around to see what’s going on, and to her disbelief, her worst nightmare is coming true. It’s pitch black. The explosion is rocking the whole site. She doesn’t see the light at the exit anymore. It’s being blocked by a big rock.

She screams out and she is leaning onto the wall: Help! I am in here! Please get me out of here!

Her foot knocks over the lamp. She realizes what it is and bends down to pick it up. She quickly turns the lamp on so that she can find her way around and to find Kiu Wai.

The light of the lamp helps Mei Ling with her steps as she is running deeper in the dark cave.

Mei Ling yells out: Miu Kiu Wai! Where are you? Please answer me. Miu Kiu Wai!

Mei Ling suddenly hears a voice from a distant: Yung Mei Ling! I am here! I can hear your voice! Yung Mei Ling! Please don’t stop calling! I need to know where you are!

[bbtgr]

omg Lanie...you can't stop there girl..you have to go on....I'm dying to read on about them...please update soon...it's getting interesting by the minute here girl.....thanx so much for writing...HUGS

[Lanie]

Chapter 25

“I am here! I can hear your voice getting closer”, Kiu Wai yells out. “Continue this way!”

All of a sudden, their two hands meet.

Mei Ling and Kiu Wai pull each other together and hold one another tightly. In this instance, their flashbacks with their lovers in the wooden house flicker in their mind…..the kisses, the embrace, the touches, and the blindfolds……zap their mind like flashes of lightning at an accelerating speed.

Kiu Wai: Are you alright?
Mei Ling: Yes, I am. I am so glad that you’re alive.
Kiu Wai: I am relieved that you are too. I was worried when I heard your voice calling out to me.

They look at each other’s face with the little light shine out from their oil lamps. They then realize that they are still holding each other. Mei Ling abruptly pulls out from his arms.

Kiu Wai: I am sorry. I am just glad that you are alright.
Mei Ling: That’s alright.
Kiu Wai: Let’s go to the rest area I have over here.

Kiu Wai leads Mei Ling to a little area where there is a small supply of water and food. They sit down next to each other on the stools that Kiu Wai had set up.

Kiu Wai: What are you doing in here?
Mei Ling: I was going to ask you to come out for a break and some snacks. I didn’t know that this is going to happen.
Kiu Wai: I am so sorry for this accident. I should’ve listened to you from beginning. I owe you an apology.
Mei Ling: Well, it happened already. I am just relieved that no one gets trapped in here besides us. I just hope that they can rescue us before we die.
Kiu Wai: They will Mei Ling. Don’t worry. We’ll just wait alright? By the way, you called me by my real last name while you were searching for me. Do you recognize me now?
Mei Ling: I recognized you the moment I saw you here.
Kiu Wai: Why didn’t you say anything?
Mei Ling: What for? When did you recognize me?
Kiu Wai: Several days ago, but I wasn’t sure. Everytime I wanted to come closer to ask you, you turned away. I never got a chance. Until you call my name just now, I am sure that it’s you for sure.
Mei Ling: So that’s why you called my whole name right?
Kiu Wai: I can’t believe that it was eight years ago already that I had asked you to marry me. We haven’t seen each other for that long already?
Mei Ling: I can’t believe it either. It seems like a lifetime ago.
Kiu Wai: You have changed a lot.
Mei Ling: You too. You are not the same Miu Kiu Wai that I talked to eight years ago. What happened?

Their oil lights began to dim as the oil is running low. Mei Ling notices it and alerts Kiu Wai.

Mei Ling: What are we going to do? I am very scared of the dark. Darkness is my worst fear.

Kiu Wai is a little surprised when he hears this.

Kiu Wai, comforting Mei Ling: Don’t be scared Mei Ling. I am here with you. You are not alone. Look, I have a lot of matches in my stock here. I can light it up one by one until we run out. Will that make you feel better?
Mei Ling: Oh yes, thank you Kiu Wai.

Mei Ling and Kiu Wai pause for a moment and return to their earlier conversation.

Kiu Wai: Yes, you are right. I am not the same Kiu Wai anymore.
Mei Ling: What had happened to you Kiu Wai? You don’t look that happy.
Kiu Wai: There is no happiness in my life. I lost the only woman that I loved.
Mei Ling: I am so sorry to hear that. Where is she?
Kiu Wai’s voice starts to tremble: She is somewhere up there in heaven looking over me.
Mei Ling: Somehow I have a feeling that she is not your wife.
Kiu Wai, looking down trying not to show his teary eyes: No she is not my wife. I don’t even know her name. My heart has died when she left this earth. I haven’t loved again since.

Kiu Wai looks down and remains quiet for a minute.

Kiu Wai looks up at Mei Ling: Let’s talk about you. How was your life the past eight years? I want to know all about it.
Mei Ling sighs: Oh, I don’t even know where to begin. So much has happened to me. I literally have died and come back. I have been through so much that I didn’t think that I was going to live. But, I am still living. I vow to myself to live stronger than ever.
Kiu Wai: Have you gotten married or found anyone that you fell in love with?
Mei Ling: Yes, I did. Not too long after we talked to each other last, I fell in love with a man. He is the only love in my life.
Kiu Wai, surprised and not expecting her answer: Who is this lucky man?
Mei Ling: I don’t know who is he or where he lives. I may never get to see him for the rest of my life.

Mei Ling wipes away the tears that are running down her cheeks as speaks of her lover.

Mei Ling, with tears in her eyes: My wish is to find the man I love. I don’t know where he is, but all I know is that I have to find him.
Kiu Wai, staring at Mei Ling: I really admire your determination Mei Ling. He is really a lucky man. I really wish you the best and I hope that you will reunite with your love.
Mei Ling: Thank you.
Kiu Wai: You left me with a great impression eight years ago and now you impressed me even more. Can you tell me how you end up in this town?
Mei Ling: I have lost so much in my life. Because of this pain, I wanted to help others. I move from one town to the other to teach children, help people, especially the illiterate ones, and to also look for him. I’ve been in this town for a year already, teaching the children who don’t have the opportunity to go to school.
Kiu Wai: Wow! You amaze me. You never gave up.
Mei Ling: You too Kiu Wai. You should not give up.
Kiu Wai: You are luckier than I am. There is a chance that you will see him again. Not for me. I will never have the chance to see her at all.
Mei Ling: Well, that is true. But life goes on. She died, but not your love for her nor your heart. You should live and have a mission in life. This is how I am able to live stronger and go on with mine. I wouldn’t know how I would be if I didn’t live for others.
Kiu Wai: Yes, you are right. I will take your advice.
Mei Ling: Kiu Wai, the oil is running out. The flame is going to go out very soon.
Kiu Wai: I have the matches right here.

The moment Kiu Wai finishes his sentence, it’s completely dark. Mei Ling reaches her hands out to feel Kiu Wai’s. He grabs her hands and holds them.

Kiu Wai: I am right here Mei Ling. I will light the matches.
Mei Ling: Thank you.

Kiu Wai lights each match one by one as it goes out.

Kiu Wai, seeing Mei Ling very tired: Mei Ling, why don’t you put your head on my shoulder and rest.

As Mei Ling puts her head on his shoulder, flashes of memories dashing in and out. There is something about Kiu Wai that reminds her of her lover when she touches him. She doesn’t know why, but she figures that she’s been lonely too long that being this close to a man brings her all the memories back.

At the same time, as Kiu Wai lights up each match, he can feel Mei Ling so close to him. Memories of him and her in the wooden house come rushing into his mind like thousand shocks. He is not sure why that this is happening. There is something about Mei Ling that reminds Kiu Wai of his deceased lover.

They are still daydreaming of each other when Kiu Wai realizes that all the matches are used up. Then, it’s completely dark again.

[bbtgr]

whoahhhhhhhhhh!! thanx for the update Lanie....Guess I have to keep my end of the bargain and update TWT for ya now...hehehe.....love their unknown love feelings there L.....only if there is something for them to spill it all out and find out that the one they've been longing is each other..... but guess that won't be anytime soon....hehehe....I know I know...I'm impatient when it comes to MB love....want it all clear and out in the open.... if you know what I mean.... *_~

[Lanie]

Chapter 26

Kiu Wai holds Mei Ling’s shoulder tightly as her head lies on his shoulder, for he knows her fear of the darkness.

Kiu Wai: Mei Ling, how do you think we would be like if I had married you eight years ago?
Mei Ling: We would be happily married with several children running around us. I would be a school teacher in your village, and you would still be their devoted leader. We may be very poor, but at least we wouldn’t have to go through the heartaches.
Kiu Wai: You’re right. Sometimes I think about that. And I have to admit that I do regret for not marrying you. I should’ve just taken my own destiny into my own hands instead of relying on the Ton’s. I am sorry, I wasn’t a real man.
Mei Ling: Don’t be Kiu Wai. So many years have passed already. You and I had led our own lives and we did fall in love with other people didn’t we? Do you regret that?
Kiu Wai: No I don’t regret for loving her. But at the same time, I wish I wasn’t in that situation.
Mei Ling: I wish I wasn’t in my situation either, but I don’t ever regret for loving him.
Kiu Wai: Sounds like we have that in common. You are the only person now who can understand my feelings. Thanks for listening to me. I haven’t shared with anyone my feelings in the past years.
Mei Ling: While you’re still here in this town, my ears are all yours. And that’s if we can be rescued from here.
Kiu Wai: We will be. Why don’t you sleep and by the time we wake up, we will be out of here.

Mei Ling falls asleep before Kiu Wai finishes his sentence.

Sounds of tools breaking the rocks and debris are coming closer.

“Mr.Ton, Teacher Ling, are you in there? Can you hear us?”, Sui Fai yelling out.

Kiu Wai and Mei Ling are waken up and respond: We’re here. We’re alright. We can hear your voice getting closer.

Half and hour later, Kiu Wai and Mei Ling are taken out of the cave safely. All the workers and their wives are cheering as Kiu Wai and Mei Ling step out. Everyone hugs them for their safe rescue.

Kiu Wai calls for attention to everyone: Everybody, I need to say something.

Everyone focus on Kiu Wai.

Kiu Wai continues as Mei Ling looks over to him: I owe all of you an apology, and especially to Teacher Ling. I was too reckless by letting all of you work in here instead of taking her advice. I am also grateful to all of you for rescuing me despite my recklessness.

Sui Fai jokingly exclaims: We only wanted to rescue Teacher Ling. We had no choice, you were with her.

Everyone bursts into laughter.

Kiu Wai with a big grin on his face: To thank everyone for their hard work and dedication to this project, although it’s not complete yet, I want to throw a big celebration. You should all take your family to this event so that we can all have fun with each other.

Mei Ling is quite surprised by his gesture, but more so the happy smiles on his face. She hadn’t seen a single smile from him ever since he came here. Mei Ling nods and smiles back to Kiu Wai as he looks over to her as if he’s seeking for her approval.

Kiu Wai walks over to Mei Ling: Thank you.
Mei Ling: For what?
Kiu Wai: For showing me the real meaning of life, and for bringing the smiles back to me.

[bbtgr]

thanx for the update Lanie....but where is chapter 27 and 28 girl......I'm waiting.....can you hurry it up...don't mean to rush ya and all...but....heheheh....when it comes to MB can't take slacking too long ya know....kekekek....(bbtgr is definitely not talking about herself)


Thanx Lanie...keep it coming would ya......

[Lanie]

Chapter 27

Kiu Wai has changed ever since the accident in the cave with Mei Ling. Mei Ling has given a new beginning, something special to look forward to.

Kiu Wai has worked endlessly the next couple of days without feeling exhausted. Mei Ling comes out to support him by bringing special foods that she cooks. They often take breaks together and this is something he looks forward after long hours of work. They talk about life, their childhood, and their family back in the village.

Everyone can see the smiles on his face and the difference in him. For Kiu Wai, he hasn’t been this happy in a very long time.

Mei Ling and Kiu Wai are happily chatting underneath the tree when Sui Fai runs up to them.

Sui Fai: Someone is here to see you Teacher Ling.
Mei Ling with a smile: Yes, who is it?
Sui Fai: There she is. She’s walking this way.

Mei Ling and Yim Fong are running toward each other. Mei Ling welcomes Yim Fong with a hug. She takes Yim Fong by her hand and brings her over to Kiu Wai to introduce him to her.

Mei Ling: Kiu Wai, I want you to meet a very good friend of mine, sister Fong.
Kiu Wai: I’m very happy to meet you sister Fong.
Yim Fong, happy to see Kiu Wai and Mei Ling together: Likewise Kiu Wai.
Mei Ling: I wouldn’t know where I would be if it hadn’t been for sister Fong.
Kiu Wai: Oh really?
Yim Fong: Oh don’t mention it Mei Ling. Mei Ling is like my younger sister. I would do anything for her.
Mei Ling: Oh that is so sweet of you. Oh what brings you here?
Yim Fong: I just miss you that’s all. It’s been a while since we last saw each other.
Kiu Wai: Sister Fong, why don’t you catch up with Mei Ling. I have to get back to work.
Mei Ling: Kiu Wai, end work early tonight. We’ll have a big dinner tonight to welcome sister Fong.
Yim Fong: That would be nice! I’ve been craving for your cooking.
Kiu Wai: Wow, I can’t wait. I’ll see both of you later then. At your place Mei Ling?
Mei Ling: Yes, we’ll see you there Kiu Wai.

Kiu Wai still looks back at Mei Ling with a smile on his face while walking back to the caves.

Mei Ling’s eyes follow Kiu Wai’s steps. However, they’re being observed by Yim Fong.

Yim Fong smiles and asks: So is this Kiu Wai your special new friend?

Yim Fong’s question brings Mei Ling back to present.

Mei Ling shyly denies: New friend? Oh no. We’re old friends and we’re just friends. We knew each other long time ago. It’s a coincidence that we meet each other here.

Yim Fong is a little confused, but she wants to spend some more time to figure out this Miu Kiu Wai.

Mei Ling: Seriously sister Fong, you’re here just to see me? Is everything alright with you?
Yim Fong: Of course I am fine. I’ve just been reading your letters. It gets boring after a while. I thought I should come out here to see what you’re really doing. And just to make sure that my little sister is doing fine.
Mei Ling: Thank you for concerning about me. I am fine and I am still on my mission.

Yim Fong sadly looks away when she hears this.

Mei Ling continues: Sister Fong, I still can’t find them. Please tell me where they are.
Yim Fong: I am really sorry Mei Ling. I’ve told you many times already that I don’t know where they are. I didn’t have control over this. I could only save your life at that time. I am sorry I can’t help you with this.
Mei Ling’s tears are rolling down her cheeks: I am very grateful that you had saved my life. But there are many times before I wished I was dead. The pain of separation from my own flesh and blood was too unbearable. Never a day goes by that I don’t think of them. It hurts when I look at the children that I teach and wonder if anyone of them is mine.

Mei Ling starts sobbing on Yim Fong’s shoulder.

Yim Fong: I am really sorry. I know how hurt you are. I really wish I can help.

Mei Ling wipes her tear away, afraid that others would see her in despair.

Mei Ling: What would you like to eat? We’re going to have a great dinner tonight.
Yim Fong: It doesn’t matter, as long as I get to chat with you the whole night. It’s more important what Kiu Wai likes to eat.
Mei Ling shyly looks down and smiles: It’s for you, not for him.
Yim Fong: You can’t lie to me. I can see it all in your eyes.

Yim Fong suddenly coughs and covers her mouth quickly with her handkerchief.

Mei Ling curiously asks: You have a cold?
Yim Fong: It’s almost gone.
Mei Ling: Come on, let’s go back to my house.

While Mei Ling is not looking, Yim Fong quickly folds up her blood-stained handkerchief.

[Lanie]

Chapter 28

The three are laughing and talking over dinner. Kiu Wai gets to eat homecooked foods that he’s been craving for so long. His heart is filled with complete happiness and joy when he is around Mei Ling.

Kiu Wai: Thank you Mei Ling for cooking these dishes that I miss so much.
Yim Fong jokingly comments: Isn’t she special Kiu Wai?

Mei Ling smiles and shyly looks down: Sister Fong, please don’t praise me like that. I am just a normal girl.
Kiu Wai stares straight at Mei Ling: Sister Fong is right. You are very special.

Mei Ling can’t handle the compliments so she suggests that she puts the dirty dishes away.

Yim Fong: That girl has a hard time accepting praises. Kiu Wai, take a walk with me outside will you?
Kiu Wai: Sure.
Yim Fong to Mei Ling: We’re going to take a little walk outside. Join us when you’re done alright?
Mei Ling pulls Yim Fong aside and whispers: Promise me you won’t say anything foolish. I know what you’re up to. He’s married and I am not interested.
Yim Fong: Don’t worry Mei Ling. Trust your older sister will you?
Mei Ling: I will see you both later.

Yim Fong and Kiu Wai are strolling slowly on the narrow streets. Small children are playing and running around after their dinner. Their parents are nearby talking and spending time with them.

Yim Fong: What do you see Kiu Wai?
Kiu Wai: I see families spending quality times together. Although these people are poor, they are rich in happiness.
Yim Fong: I sense some unhappiness in your tone.
Kiu Wai: It’s a shame. I now have whatever I want in terms of money, but eternal happiness seems so out of my reach.
Yim Fong: Kiu Wai, we create our own happiness. Nobody will fight it for you unless you fight it for yourself. I don’t know you too well, but just by talking to you today, I know that you are a man of righteousness and compassion. Basically, you’re an ideal husband.
Kiu Wai: You’re too nice Yim Fong. I am not proud of who I am. I do have regrets in my life. I also have heartbreaks.
Yim Fong: Heartbreaks? Can you tell me a little bit about that?
Kiu Wai: I’ve been putting this story in the back of my mind for a very long time now. I haven’t told anyone about it. I only told Mei Ling briefly about this person, but she doesn’t know the whole story.
Yim Fong: No wonder I can sense some deep pain underneath your smiles. Is there hope for you and this lady?
Kiu Wai: Will never be. She’s in heaven.
Yim Fong taken by surprise by Kiu Wai’s answer: In heaven?
Kiu Wai: We will never be reunited.
Yim Fong is saddened by Kiu Wai’s situation: Was she the love of your life?
Kiu Wai: Yes she was. And my heart is still with her
Yim Fong: You are a very loyal person Kiu Wai. I am very honored to meet someone like you. Not too many men are like you.
Kiu Wai: Mei Ling has given me a new happiness. I don’t know what it is but everytime when I am around her, I feel like we’ve known each other forever.
Yim Fong: You do.
Kiu Wai with a confused look: How do you know?
Yim Fong tries to divert her answer: Oh, Mei Ling told me you proposed to her eight years ago. I find it to be such a serendipidy that you both meet each other again under this circumstance.
Kiu Wai smiles: Yes indeed. I wouldn’t know what I would become if I hadn’t met Mei Ling here. She is very special in my heart.
Yim Fong: That is very comforting to know. She deserves a lot of happiness. She had suffered so much in her life.
Kiu Wai with curiosity: Can you tell me a little about her life before she came here? About her misfortunes and the man she loves?

Before Yim Fong has a chance to answer, Mei Ling catches up with both of them.

Mei Ling: Wait up for me!
Yim Fong jokes: Why do you have to interrupt us in the middle of a very interesting conversation?
Kiu Wai jokes back: Mei Ling, can you leave us alone for a little bit more so that we can talk more?
Mei Ling smiles: Hmmm, talk about whom? Me?
Yim Fong: Yes, about you, behind your back. I was just telling Kiu Wai how mean you were to me back then.
Mei Ling turns to Kiu Wai: Do you believe that?
Kiu Wai: Yes I do.
Mei Ling: Hah! I have to kick you right now. That’s what you think of me after I cooked you a great dinner?

Mei Ling chases Kiu Wai around like two little children. Yim Fong is laughing hysterically as she’s watching the two running around her. The other children nearby join them and they’re all chasing each other around. Kiu Wai and Mei Ling are lost in their childhood and laughters, forgetting about their lost loves and their sad pasts.

Before Kiu Wai heads home, he shares some thoughts with Mei Ling in front of her house.

Kiu Wai stares into Mei Ling’s big round eyes: Mei Ling, thank you so much for giving the joy that I haven’t had since my childhood years. Being around you is a blessing for me. Every moment I spend with you is a miracle. You are not only my best friend, but also my soulmate.
Mei Ling: I have a lot of fun when I’m around you too Kiu Wai. You give me a sense of familiarity. I guess familiarity of home.
Kiu Wai: It’s funny, I sense that too. I don’t know what it is, but I suspect that it’s home that I have the connection with you.
Mei Ling smiles: Yes that must be it. Kiu Wai, Sister Fong wants to have a big party with all the workers and their families before the project is over. Speaking of that, how close are we to being done?
Kiu Wai: In a week.
Mei Ling: That’s great.

At the same time, Mei Ling realizes the reality once this project is over.

Mei Ling changes the expression on her face and speaks softly: Well then, after the party we will all go on with different paths in our lives.

What Mei Ling has just said is like lightning in Kiu Wai’s heart. He has been so disassociated with his reality that he has not thought once while he’s been spending time with Mei Ling. His facial expression has changed from joy to sadness.

Mei Ling looks down and speaks in a low voice: Good-night Kiu Wai.
Kiu Wai bends down and looks at her face: Mei Ling, are you alright?
Mei Ling looks up with a big smile, trying to hide her sadness: Of course. We’re friends aren’t we?
Kiu Wai looks a little concerned: Mei Ling, I am….I am…
Mei Ling: Yes?
Kiu Wai: I am afraid of losing you from my life.

The moment he finishes his sentence, Kiu Wai grabs Mei Ling and holds her tightly to his chest.

[Lanie]

Chapter 29

Why am I so easily attracted to KW? It’s more than comfort that I feel with him. I feel safe, loved, and treasured. My Love gave me this same feeling. It’s true that Kiu Wai left me a great impression eight years ago, but that was such a long time ago. So much has happened in my life since then. I fell in love. I am searching for the man that I love. How is it possible for me to love someone and still be so drawn to another man? Am I being unfaithful to him? How would he feel if he knows that I am in the arms of another man? Why am I allowing myself to be in this situation? What am I doing? I am so confused and torned.

These questions pound Mei Ling’s mind as she is in Kiu Wai’s embrace. Being confused with love and attraction, she still allows herself to be held firmly by Kiu Wai.

To Kiu Wai, time is standing still and the world stops spinning.

I lost the love of my life, but re-united with the love that was meant to be. Is this a miracle for me? Is this my second chance in love? What is this if it’s not love? I don’t want to lose Mei Ling. It would kill me not having her in my life.
My love in heaven, please understand for me that I am beginning to get on with my life. I have been a dead person for the past six years until I met Mei Ling. She gives me hope and happiness. I have to admit, the strangest thing is that when I’m around Mei Ling, I feel that I am very close to you although you are up there. I really don’t know why. I hope you understand that no one can take your place. You will be forever in my heart. My love, please bless me with Mei Ling because I want to lose another Love.

Mei Ling can feel Kiu Wai’s heart beating at the same rhythm as hers as she takes her arms and wrap around his waist. Kiu Wai can feel Mei Ling’s cheeks against his chest, and his hands can feel her back. The feelings seem so right to both of them, as if this is not their first hug. They’re still holding each other for a couple of minutes as questions linger in their mind and reminiscism of their old flames re-ignite their new passion for each other.

Yim Fong’s voice from inside the house: Mei Ling, where do you put the oil for the lamp? The oil is running low.

Yim Fong’s call out to Mei Ling snaps Kiu Wai and Mei Ling out from their embrace.

Mei Ling steps back and look down shyly: I have to go. Yim Fong is calling for me.
Kiu Wai has big grin on his face while scratching his head: I am sorry, did I make you feel uncomfortable?
Mei Ling shyly smiles and respond softly: No. It’s alright. Don’t worry.
Kiu Wai nods happily: Sweet dreams Mei Ling. I look forward to seeing you tomorrow.
Mei Ling turns and walks toward her house, but she turns back and replies with a sweet smile: Sweet dreams Kiu Wai. I’ll bring you food tomorrow.

Yim Fong had peeked through the crack of the door while Mei Ling and Kiu Wai were in front talking. The moment she witnessed their embrace, she smiles to herself with satisfaction.

Yim Fong’s thoughts:

Mei Ling, I guess I don’t need to worry about you anymore. It looks like part of your wish has come true. You have found the man you have been searching for. I can leave this world in peace any moment now, knowing you will be taken care of. It is really destiny that you both belong to each other, no matter how great the force was to keep both of you apart. Not even time can be a barrier to your eternal love. I hope you will soon reunite with your children, then the four of you can become a family with a lot of happiness that you all deserve.

That night, Kiu Wai keeps on smiling to himself while lying in bed. He feels like a teenager who has just fallen in love. He has never imagine to feel this way at all, especially at his age. He only sees Mei Ling everytime he closes his eyes. He slowly falls asleep as the image of Mei Ling in his arms start to fade away.

The next morning, when Kiu Wai strolls happily to work, words of Yim Fong’s death among the workers shock him. Kiu Wai then quickly run to Mei Ling’s house. The moment Kiu Wai enters through the door, Mei Ling turns around and runs into Kiu Wai’s arms. Mei Ling sobs heavily on his shoulders while he’s holding her and stroking her back.

Kiu Wai: I am here for you Mei Ling. My shoulders are for you to lean on. They will always be here for you.
Mei Ling: I lost another person who is so close to me. I feel so alone.
Kiu Wai: You are not alone. You have my heart.

Mei Ling is taken by surprise when she hears this. She pulls her face from his shoulder and stares into his eyes. His words are not only comforting, but also deep. She is very happy to hear this, but confused at the same time. Confused of not only because of her situation but also his.

Mei Ling: Thank you Kiu Wai. You are a very good friend.
Kiu Wai: Mei Ling, I don’t want to be just your friend.
Mei Ling, showing frustration: What are you capable of being other than being a friend?
Kiu Wai grabs her shoulders and stares into her teary eyes: I want to be…….

“Father, I am here!”

Wai Sun’s voice from the front of the house stuns Kiu Wai and he immediately turns around. Behind Wai Sun is Mei Chun.