[Raymond’s Point of View]
I didn’t know what else to do besides holding an awkward smile in front of her. Bernice was back and it’s a fact, but the only problem is, what is she and I now?
“So…um…when did you come back?” I asked, hoping to escape the awkward silence I hated so much.
“I just came back yesterday. How have you been?” she asked me, her voice a little bit different from before. It was softer, and a lot more mature.
“Fine…it’s been okay…” I replied. “Um…so what are you planning to do now that you’re back? You’re staying here permanently right?”
“Yeah…” she nodded, smiling. “I got a degree in business and marketing…so I guess I’m looking for a job in that field.”
“Well…if you want to…I mean…my dad’s company is still looking for some positions to be filled…like…you could join…” I spoke, searching for the right words but obviously I failed.
“That’d be great! Thanks Raymond…um…so I guess I’ll visit the main office sometime soon okay?”
I only nodded.
My hands were stuffed in my pockets, as I spoke with her. Bernice had changed, and she’s definitely shown more of her upper class raisings. As for me, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself. The thought came to my mind. Now that she is back, what about us? In the past, we only came apart because of the distance between us, but now, I’m not too sure. I watched as she walked out the door, her soft smile still held on her face as she headed down the street. I would walk her home just like before, but I can’t tonight. I don’t know where she lives anymore, and I don’t want to rush things between us.
~*~
The lights in my house seemed to be too bright tonight. Usually it would just be me and Michelle, and we don’t use too much light to begin with. The lights in my parents’ room is on, so is my dad’s study, our family home office, Steven’s room, and of course the living room. I knew why there were on, and I couldn’t help but be glad about it. Quickly I shoved my keys in my pocket as I jogged up to the door.
“I’m home…” I announced, walking in and closing the door behind me.
“Raymond!” dad spoke, running up to give me a hug, making me feel like a child in front of him. “I haven’t seen you for two months!”
“Yeah…me too…how was Taiwan?” I asked him as we walked over to the couch beside mom.
“Well…long story…but let me tell you it was quite interesting over there.” Dad laughed as we sat down.
“Dominic, you should let him relax. He just got home!” mom interrupted.
“Well I’m gonna go up to my room to put away some files. Sorry I’m home so late.”
“Don’t worry.” Both my parents laughed in harmony.
I jogged up the stairs, couldn’t help but smile at the happy couple sitting in the living room. Through all the years my parents have never grown annoyed with each other or anything basically. They were also considered a role model couple in the Hong Kong Tycoon meetings. I was too happy to put in words. Now that dad’s back after two months in Taiwan, I can be sure he won’t go anywhere for too long again.
The door to my room was half open. I could’ve sworn that I closed it this morning, and my mom rarely ever goes into my room when I’m not there. I walked up slowly, pushing the door open so I can squeeze in without making a sound. Once I stepped in, my bathroom door suddenly shot open, steam escaping like a gas house finally opening its doors. A tall, familiar figure stood in the door, a white towel around his waist, totally shirt less.
“Oh my god!” Steven yelled, jumping back and wrapping his arms around himself.
I laughed at my childish cousin who was supposed to be older than me. “What are you doing in my shower?!” I exclaimed.
“Well mine wasn’t working so auntie said I could use yours!” Steve replied, walking out, his hands around his towel fearing I will rip it off.
He worried I would rip it off, and if his hands weren’t there to protect it, I probably would’ve. I watched as my cousin waddled down the hallway to his room, leaving a trail in the thick carpet we had installed several months ago. Since I’m an only child, having Steven here really helps out. Not only does he assist dad in business affairs, he also serves as entertainment for the whole family. I still couldn’t believe he is older than me.
“By the way…you’re out of soap!” Steven yelled before closing his door.
I closed the door, laughing at the idiot in the bath towel.
~*~
[Tavia’s Point of View]
Morning came by quickly, and luckily for me Nancy had thought ahead. This morning she brought me a brand new office appropriate outfit, and it fits perfectly. I was a bit worried I couldn’t call her last night, but she’s here today. I wanted to ask Nancy what was going on last night that I couldn’t contact her, but judging from her tired eyes she would only avoid my question and begin to interrogate me instead.
We were sitting in the office; waiting as Raymond, his dad and Nancy’s father were in the room having a long meeting. I guess this was typical for office life, but I couldn’t really complain since I didn’t have to do anything and yet I still get paid. Was it me or is this job too easy for what it’s worth?
“Excuse me! Are you Mr. Wu’s daughter?” a girl came up and asked Nancy.
Nancy nodded, her eyes opening a bit wider showing her attention.
“I’m Selena Li…and Mr. Ma just asked me to bring this file to you. Oh and he also said something about keeping it a secret and that you’d know…so I guess that’s it.”
“Oh thank you.” Nancy replied, taking the file. “Um…Selena right?” she checked. “Did Kenneth say anything else?”
“Um no…well I guess I’ll be going. Oh and here’s my card if you need anything. I’m sorry I’m new at your company and it’s my first day.”
“It’s fine. I guess I’ll be seeing you when I get back right?” Nancy replied, her voice a little monotone. Obviously she is tired.
“Yes Miss Wu…nice meeting you!” Selena smiled.
“Nice meeting you too…and please call me Nancy.” She spoke, seeing Selena’s nod as she left.
Nancy hadn’t spoken too much this morning, and this was no exception. She only shoved the envelope into her large tote bag. I wasn’t too sure but I saw her eyes quickly glancing at her father. Nancy was hiding something from me, and it kills that she still isn’t going to tell me. I didn’t want to ask, since I’ve never really asked Nancy about her family’s company before and I definitely don’t want to start now.
“Tavia are you free tonight?” she asked me, her voice a bit more audible than before.
“Yeah…why?” I replied though knowing what she needed is some girl to girl confession time.
“Come with me to the fountain tonight…” she spoke.
I knew exactly what Nancy meant. When she said the fountain, I knew she was talking about the large water fountain in the park, the place where we’d always come to hang out when we were still in school. It was also where we first met, a very important place to the two of us.
“And bring your box too…” Nancy finished.
My heart stopped. When Nancy said bring my box, we both obviously only had one box in mind. The question is why would Nancy ask me to bring it, and even if I was to bring it, do I have the courage to look inside? I’ve already stumbled upon it last night, thinking I’ve forgotten about that box but I haven’t. I thought Nancy had forgotten, but she too hasn’t, and the thought is still fresh in our minds. I don’t know if I should bring the box or not, but no matter what I knew I wasn’t ready to look back at what was inside.
“Why…” I began asking her but her phone suddenly rang.
“Hello?” Nancy answered as she picked it up. “I’ll be there right away…” she answered, her voice shaky.
“What’s going on? Who called?” I asked her, beginning to worry all over again.
“It’s nothing…” she lied. “I have to go…but tell Raymond I’ll pick you up tonight. I’m sure he won’t mind. Call me when you’re done.” She spoke quickly, disappearing into the elevator.
~*~
[Ron’s Point of View]
The sun was beginning to set, and her car has just arrived. Though I know Nancy changes cars often, there is always an unknown feeling amiss when she is around. Something I couldn’t explain. I was watching closely as she stepped out. It’s only been a few years and she’s changed a lot. I remember when we used to date, Nancy would always hold a smile on her face even if she is sad. I remember how she used to have long straight hair and bangs like an innocent school girl. I guess with time she’s grown up. Now looking at her, I don’t see an innocent and naïve Nancy Wu any longer. In her place is a much more grown up, a much more thoughtful and observant beauty. She now wore her hair shoulder length, cupping nicely around her face.
“Why did you ask me to come here?” she asked me, her tone cold and I could sense that she was tired.
“Two things…one…You’re dad has returned…I want to know why your name was on the list of shareholders…and you hold a strong 50%.” I spoke.
“What does it matter to you?” she snapped at me. “It’s my father’s decision and I don’t care what he does with his business.”
Nancy was still Nancy, stubborn, just like before. Thought now we’re both grown up, and I needed to warn her. This private company her dad had going on, if the plans were to fail then the list of share holders would suffer. It is hard to believe but her father had put her up on a gamble he was bound to lose. He was trying to buy up portions of my company, and even a man with common sense new that it would be a hard task to do.
“Nancy listen to me. You’re father put your name as holding 50% of the private company. If his plans fail then you could be at risk with the government.” I unknowingly grabbed her hand.
She shook me off, her eyes showing pain as she looked into mine. “Ron I really could care less. My father can do what he wants, and besides, I have confidence in him that his plans really will work.”
I could tell she was lying. She was worried, she was hiding it, but I could see it all. Even thought she may push me away now, after all this still involves me whether I like it or not. I might as well lend her a hand when she needs it, but judging by how stubborn she is, it will be hard. I only needed to let her know about her father’s risk, and also about the second thing I had in mind.
“What’s the second thing?” she asked me as if she’s read my mind knowing I’d tell her sooner or later.
Slowly, from my pocket I pulled out a small velvet box. With the same hand I’m holding it in, I flicked the lid open to show her what was inside. I could see her eyes tearing up with pain, but she is still hiding it all deep inside. She is now showing me a simple icy façade as she stared at the diamond ring in the velvet box.
“I’m going to propose to my girlfriend soon…” I spoke, my heart suddenly pounding inside my chest.
“Why are you showing me this though? I don’t even know your girlfriend.” She spoke, her voice shaky and drying. It pained me but I still have to let her know that we can’t be.
“I want you to come to our wedding…and…I want to say sorry…but by this ring…our relationship is officially over…” I closed my eyes, unable to bear the pain of looking at her, heartbroken.
“So you’re showing me an engagement ring…just to say that we’re over?” she asked me, her voice somehow a lot clearer. “Ron Ng…you sure live up to your name. But let me remind you something…from the moment you left me without a word four years ago…I’ve already moved on. There’s nothing between us…so if it bothers you, please don’t. I’ll come to your wedding and I’d like to wish you and your girlfriend happiness.”
With that she turned and walked away. I don’t know if by doing this I’m doing her a favor or am I hurting her even more. When I decided to tell her, I knew it would hurt, but I wanted to let her know not to worry and care about me anymore. For some reason, it hurts as I watched her leave. It was like she’s leaving me and this is a permanent good-bye. Even though I know for a fact we’ll see each other again, a part of me is screaming that Nancy and I will never be the same again.
~*~
[Tavia’s Point of View]
I think the office life is starting to get a little too boring. I’m about ready to quit, but something is still holding me back. The entire day, the meeting went on between Raymond, his dad and Nancy’s father. I as a personal assistant am just sitting here, outside the foggy glass board room and waiting. The glass wasn’t clear enough for me to see their faces, so I couldn’t tell what the current atmosphere inside was. It was kind of considered a curiosity of mine to see how intense a real board meeting was.
The door opened, and I stood up, my legs numb from sitting too long. Finally they were done, and it makes me wonder to know how they can sit there in a meeting for so long. I guess this is a setback to the easiness of office work. The only bad part that I can point out in an office is the boredom.
“Tavia…have you seen Nancy? I thought she’d be with you.” Mr. Anthony Wu spoke as she shook my hand and smiled.
“No…she left earlier and didn’t tell me where. I’m sorry.” I apologized.
“It’s okay…I’ll talk to her later. By the way…it’s good that you’re working in the company now. I know it may seem boring but don’t worry…you’ll be drowned with work in no time.” Anthony laughed as he waved good-bye, heading to the elevator.
“Hey…sorry it took so long. I promise I’ll repay you for making you sit here all day.” Raymond whispered to me.
“It’s okay…” I smiled.
“Oh…I forgot to introduce you to my dad.” He suddenly spoke as the last man walked out of the room.
My smile suddenly faded within a flash. I recognized his face. Even if he was to turn to ash I could still recognize him. My entire body tensed up, and I’ve never had the urge to break something as much as I did now. This couldn’t be happening. The world can’t be this small. I scanned his face closely, hoping that I’m not mistaken. The more I looked at him the angrier I got. Luckily I was careful to keep a calm act in front of everyone, but inside I’m burning up. This man, walking out and smiling at me doesn’t deserve any of this. It hurts me to look at him, but I wonder how he could smile so freely after everything he’s done. Then I wonder if he still recognized me. Of course he wouldn’t, after all, it’s been twenty very long years. My hatred for this man is still burning inside my mind. It seems even if I opened the box now, it wouldn’t hurt as much as looking at the man in front of me who is still smiling as he shook my hand.
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