Chapter 37: Is this a joke?
For the next few weeks, even though it was still feeling slightly awkward, Roy dropped by almost everyday after school to hang out and bring me around the various sights of Taiwan. We went to the theme park, where he dragged me into rollercoaster rides that made me scream until my face went white when I got off. Played the various stall games and won myself several huge prizes. Actually he won some and gave them to me.
As I got to know him better, I could literally feel him opening up to me. Compared to the first time when I met him, he was so much more open, chirpy and animated. He would even play pranks on me!!! Of cos I am a blur queen, so there are some times when I don't even know I've been punked and I still look confused. But when I finally realise it, I would be chasing him around trying to get my revenge.
The few weeks was all very carefree and leisurely. We were acquaintances before. But now we were friends. Good friends. But that was all I could say. Nothing more. Don't let your imagination run wild. Guys like him won't even notice girls like me. Might not even treat me as a girl. Just a buddy. We were just good friends. But that was until my cousins came to visit. I stopped hanging out with him, and let's say I made myself unavailable to him.
I can't say that I avoided him totally. But I made sure I was busy with my cousins everytime he dropped by. Everytime he was so excited, but when I said I can't, I could tell that he was disappointed. But I didn't want to become too close to him, or I might just...
I don't know... I just didn't want to get hurt when I am alone in a foreign land... It was a natural protective shield...
But no shield could protect me from him...
It was destined that I would meet him that Christmas eve...
And that I would ask him back...
And that I would fall for him...
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Present... Back at Roy's house...
Roy pulled away the blanket and slipped himself inside and onto the guest bed. He snuggled up next to me and turned to look at me as I slept soundly.
Roy: I love you...
He leaned in and gave me a kiss on my lips. I stirred in my sleep and opened my eyes when I felt his lips touch mine. I saw him lying beside me on the bed.
Roy: Hello sleepyhead...
Ying: It's morning already? I fell asleep?
Roy: You fell asleep... But it's not morning yet...
Ying: Oh... Then go back to sleep then... It seems late... I'll see you tomorrow morning then...
I flipped over and closed my eyes to get back to sleep. I expected Roy to go back to his own room to sleep. But after some time I didn't feel or hear him getting off my bed so I turned back and realised that he was still there looking at me.
Ying: You're not tired?
He shoke his head.
Ying: You still want to chat, or do something together then? We can watch something on the TV...
He nodded his head.
I got up and walked to the TV and switched it on. It was showing a romance movie "Ever After".
Ying: Oh... Nice one... You wanna watch this?
Roy: Anything's fine...
Ying: Alright then. I sat up on the bed and puffed up some pillows to support my back against the headboard. Roy did the same and snuggled closer to me. Instinctively I placed my head on his shoulder and he placed his arm around me, pulling me nearer to his body.
Somewhere into the show, I was crying from the plot.
Roy: What's wrong? Why are you crying?
Ying: It's the show... Just ignore me... I'm a crybaby when it comes to such shows...
Roy: How can I ignore it when you're crying?
He pulled me to face him and wiped the tears from my face.
Roy: It's only a movie my dear... Don't be so sad...You're breaking my heart...
Ying: I can't help it... My tears just flow... Maybe I'm just a hopeless romantic that wishes that all love stories will end happily ever after...
Roy: I don't know about others... But I know yours will... Cos you've got me... I love you...
He leaned in and gave me a soft kiss. I reached up and placed my arms behind his back. When he felt my arms around him, he pulled me closer to him and kissed me harder and more passionately. In the heat of the moment, we made love to each other.
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The next morning...
I woke up with the sun shining into the guest room. I looked around but Roy was already not around. I got out of bed and got my clothes back on, and walked over to his room. He wasn't there either. I walked downstairs and the entire house was empty. I made myself a coffee while I waited for him. I noticed a note on the counter.
Morning sleepyhead,
Sorry I gotta rush off. Something cropped up. You can head on back first, as you've got classes later. I'll call you later.
Love ya,
Roy xxxx
I made myself some breakfast and cleaned up before leaving the house. I took a bus back to my hostel to change my clothes before going for my classes. I didn't hear from Roy later that day, soIi sent him a text message letting him know that I am already back at my hostel. I didn't get a reply even until the next morning. I was starting to get a bit worried.
I went to his hostel, and there was no one there. I left a note there too. Another week went by and there was still no response or news from him.
Wilbur: So we'll do it like this right? Ying? Ying... Ying...
I gazed up at Wilbur blurly. We were discussing some project and I was totally distracted with thoughts of Roy.
Milk: Ying... What's up with you these days... You seem so distracted...
Zax: Yeah... And I haven't seen Roy around for some time already... Did you guys have a fight? That's why you're so distracted?
Wilbur and Milk threw Zax a dirty look.
Once I heard Roy's name. I darted back to life.
Ying: Roy... Where is he? Is he here? You saw him? Where?
Milk: No Ying... He's not here... What's wrong with you guys? Are you okay?
Milk and Wilbur gathered around me to calm me down. By now I felt so desperate and depressed that I wanted to cry. Bottled up feelings flooded my mind and my eyes started to tear.
Ying: I don't know what's happening... One minute he was still around in his house... And the next he was gone when I woke up... Now I can't even contact him... He hasn't responded to my calls or sms-es or notes for two weeks already... I don't know if something's happened to him... Gosh I am going mad with worry...
Wilbur: There there... I'm sure he has his reasons... He's probably busy with school and practice so he can't reply to you...
Zax: Hey... wait a minute... what do you mean by "he was gone when you woke up"... you guys spent the night together at his house!!!
Milk, Wilbur and Zac looked at me. I nodded my head in between sobbing.
Zax: Ah... that explains it...
Ying: What do you mean by that?
Zac: He got what he wanted and... sayo.... *mmmmmmm*
Milk and Wilbur covered Zax's mouth before he could say out the most unpleasant news to me. But I heard it. And I understood what he meant. I wiped the tears from my eyes.
Milk: Ying... I'm sure it's not like what he said...
Ying: It's okay Milk... I can take it... But if you guys can pardon me... We'll continue this tomorrow? I need to take some rest now...
I walked off back to my hostel.
Wilbur: Why would you say something like that to her?
Zax: But that's probably what's happening... You can't blame me if the guy's a bastard...
Milk: That's true Wilbur... Just let her have some peace and quiet for a while... We can't do anything to help her now...
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Last day in Taiwan...
After the painful break of news to me, I cried for an entire day. But I forced myself to get back to normal the very next morning. I acted normally for everything, classes, projects, etc. So that the guys won't worry about me. I told myself that I won't cry another tear for him. He was not worth it. And I managed to do it. I engrossed myself with school work until I had no time to think of other things at all.
My exchange soon ended. And even on the last day, I didn't receive anything from Roy. But I left him a sms saying that I was leaving Taiwan to go back to Singapore. I left Taiwan with a heavy, but broken heart. And I vowed never to trust anyone so easily again. I don't think I could bear another broken heart again. It was too painful.
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Two months later....
After my exchange, I was due to graduate in another month's time. After I graduated, I got a job working as a producer in a private media company. Work was very hard and tough, hours were long, and the pay wasn't exactly fabulously glam like how many thought the media industry was like.
One day during a shoot, I was feeling immensely nauseous. And I puked. Several times. Thinking it was a gastric problem I went to see a doctor after the shoot.
Doctor: Congratulations... You're 3 months pregnant...
Ying: What??!!!
Doctor: You're pregnant...
Ying: But this can't be... I... Wait a minute... How many months did you say?
Doctor: 3 months...
Ying's thoughts: Damn it...
Ying: Thanks doctor... I'll just be going now...
I texted Ning.
Doc said I am 3 mths pregnant... How ironic is that? Ha ha... I'm dead... What am I going to do?
I got a call back immediately.
Ning: What are you talking about?
Ying: I'm 3 months pregnant...
Ning: WHAT?!!!! YOU.... What you don't have a boyfriend now... Who's baby is that? Don't tell me it's...
Ying: Roy's...
Ning: Are you gonna tell him?
Ying: Even if I do... I don't know if he'll respond to me... Ah heck it... I'll just send him a sms... If he replies, then he replies, if he doesn't he doesn't... I don't care anymore...
Ning: But he's the baby's dad... He should take responsibility...
Ying: It's okay Ning... I can take care of the baby myself... I created this mess... I'll take responsibility for my own actions... Bye...
I sent Roy a sms.
Hi Roy,
It's been some time since I've last heard from you. I know this may be kind of abrupt. But just to let you know, I'm pregnant with your baby. I don't know what's your decision on this. But I'm keeping it, with or without you. That's all.
Regards,
Ying
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Another 5 months passed....
No news from Roy at all. I think you can pretty much say that I have given up all hope in him. I've worked like crazy to try to save more money for the baby. It was 2 more months before my due date. Wilbur, Milk and Zax had sent their well wishes and made prior notice to me that they wanted to be the baby's God Dads, whether it was a girl or boy. They didn't probe much, as they all knew from Ning that Roy was the dad. They just wanted to show as much support as they could at this fragile moment.
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One day on the road...
Milk was driving and he notice a familiar face driving in a car beside his. He looked over and stared. It was Roy. He horned at him. And Roy looked over and noticed Milk. They parked by the road and got off.
Roy: Milk!!! Boy am I glad to see you. It's been a long time... Have you seen Ying? How is she? Is she still in Taiwan?
Milk was boiling when he saw him. Needless to say when he heard Ying's name, he punched Roy.
Roy: What are you doing? Why are you hitting me?
Milk: Ask yourself what have you done. Where have you been all these months? She's already gone back to Singapore. She's not going to wait around here for a heartless cad like you...
Roy: Wait.... what do you mean? She's gone back? My grandma was seriously ill back then, so I left in a hurry to go see her. I didn't even have time to call Ying. And when I reached my grandma's I realised I had lost my handphone and all my contacts. I couldn't contact her at all. I only got back 3 months later... And then I saw her note in my hostel... But I guess by that time she had already left for Singapore... Cos when I went to look for her at her hostel, it was already someone else staying there... Oh my... she must think I was trying to dump her by disappearing... Gosh... I've gotta explain things to her... Do you have her address and contact number? I'll go look for her when I'm there for filming next week...
Milk: You better be telling the truth... Or you'll be sorry...
Milk gave Roy my contact details, and Roy thanked him profusely before rushing off.
Milk's thoughts: He seemed genuinely apologetic... Maybe we were all wrong about him... Oh no... If his phone is lost, that means he doesn't even know he's going to be a daddy...
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One week later... Void deck of Ying's flat...
Roy got off the cab and was looking around at the void deck, when I came down in a lift to purchase some things from the shop downstairs. When I saw him I got a shock. I didn't expect him to respond to my text. Neither did I expect him to be here. But he got a shock too. He didn't expect me to move on so quickly, and get married and get pregnant.
Roy: Hi Ying...
Ying: Hi Roy...
Roy: How are you doing?
Ying: I'm fine...
Roy: I see you are pregnant...
Ying: Yeah...
Roy: When is the baby due?
Ying: In a month's time... In October...
Roy: Oh...
Awkward silence.
Roy: So how's your erm... the baby's daddy...
He couldn't bring himself to say the word husband, as he could not accept the fact that the woman he loved had now belonged to someone else.
I felt like someone stabbed me in the heart with a 12 inch knife. I was bleeding inside.
Ying's thoughts: What do you mean? YOU are the baby's dad.... If you don't want to acknowledge the baby, why are you here? Doing this? Saying all these?
I took a deep breath and replied.
Ying: He's doing fine too... I guess...
Awkward silence.
Ying: Why are you here? For work?
Roy: I'm here for work... I'll be here for a month, until early November. Here's my card.
Ying: I see... Look I've gotta go now... I need to go to the restroom again... See you... Bye...
I walked off and got back into the lift.
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Next day at production meeting...
Director: These are our cast for the drama serial...
In walked Roy.
Ying's thoughts: Oh my god, this can't be happening!!!
Roy's face also showed shock when he walked in and saw me. But he remained professional and shoke everyone's hands and took his seat.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Serendipity 奇缘 - chapter 48
Chapter 48: Kissing in the rain...
I backed myself into the lift and collapsed down onto the floor.
Kiki's thoughts: Why did I have to see him like this before today's filming? I just wanted to block everything out for the day. All my feelings, all my sorrow, all my love... And be totally professional today... It's making things so hard for me now... I'm so confused...
The lift announced level one. I gathered myself up from the floor and took a deep breath before walking out into the bright sunlight. I put on my dark aviator shades and started walking to the metro station to take the train to the film location.
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An hour before filming starts...
The cast arrive on-set to prepare for make-up. Today's scene only involved Jaejoong and the female artist. So there were only two people I had to take charge of. Easy work. But for me, everytime I had to walk over to the cast holding area, I dreaded it like it was the last thing I ever wanted to do in the whole wide world. But I kept my front up and was very professional. I just didn't linger longer than necessary to give my instructions. And he too remained indifferent to me, and was all solemn and quiet, except nodding his head sometimes to show that he knew what I needed him to do.
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Filming starts... Down comes the man-made rain...
I stood near the producer, but far enough to not see the monitor and the actual scene properly. I didn't want to see the actual thing happen on the monitor, or in the scene.
Director: CUT!!!
Producer: Kiki, hurry in with an umbrella and towel for Jaejoong!!!
I had missed out the fact that I had to rush in with an umbrella and towel for Jaejoong everytime the director called cut. So it wasn't much solace hiding where I was. I still had to face him now and then. And I made sure I looked at the floor or somewhere else when I was doing it.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
I rushed out from the scene with the umbrella and towel, and hid back to my hiding spot.
The scene entailed Jaejoong standing in the rain outside the female artist's house, pleading with her to forgive what he had done before in the past to push him away from him, cos he knows now, after Micky shows interest in her, that he is actually in love with her. She would be touched by his actions and rush out with an umbrella. That is where he pulls her into his arms, hugs her, and then... They kiss...
We had already filmed the portions of the female artist inside the house, and now we were filming Jaejoong's parts outside in the rain. After about two hours, and almost 15 times of me running in and out with the umbrella and the towel, he manages to finish all the lines in the rain, before the female artist enters the scene.
My heart started to pound faster and faster once the female artist entered the scene. I stole a glance at the monitor. She was walking nearer and nearer towards Jaejoong. I closed my eyes.
Director: CUT!!!!
I opened my eyes and dashed in with the umbrellas and towels for Jaejoong and the female artist. I didn't know what had happened before the director called cut. But I hope the worst was already over.
Director: We need to re-take that shot, it was an NG. Jaejoong, you need to look more in love when you pull her into your arms. Right now, your expression is not good enough... Remember, you are supposed to be in love with her... Okay?
Jaejoong nodded his head and turned back to face the female artist.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
When I heard what the director said, I felt like I almost fainted. I steadied myself and got out of the scene. Jaejoong stole a glance at me when I walked out of the man-made rain with the umbrella and towel in my hand.
Jaejoong's thoughts: There's no way I can get this over with... With Kiki around... I just can't think about anything else but her... how terrible she must be feeling... I wished that I could just get this over with in one take... For her sake and mine... But I can't... Unless... Unless I pretend that she is Kiki...
Kiki's thoughts: I don't think I can take this any much longer... It's even worst when I heard it from them... I'd rather see it with my own eyes... But... Please let this be over and done with fast...
I kept my eyes open this time. I looked at the monitor as the scene was shot. The way he looked at her, the expression in his eyes... the love in his eyes... was the same as when he looked at me... When he pulled her into his arms, I felt my eyes blurring as tears welled in my eyes.
Then it happened...
He kissed her...
Director: CUT!!!! Good take!!! Okay one more good take for safety...
I blinked hard to clear my eyes and rushed in with the umbrellas and towels again.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
And he did it again...
I felt my head start hurting from forcing my tears back into my eyes...
Director: CUT!!!! Good take!!! Okay now we need to take a reverse over the shoulder of Jaejoong.
I rushed in with the umbrellas and towels again, as the crew shifted the equipment around.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!!
I rushed out.
Assistant Director: ROLL CAM... ACTION!!!
And he did it again... And again... And again...
Director: CUT!!!! Good job... It's a wrap!!!
About another two hours later, the scene was finally finished. And he had probably kissed her about 10 times for the various angles required by the director. I was already half wet myself from running in and out with the umbrellas and towels.
Assistant Director: Kiki, you can let the cast change out of their wet clothes already. They're done for the day...
Kiki: Yes... I'll do that...
I went over to the cast holding area where the two were standing drying themselves.
Kiki: Guys, you are done for the day. You can go change out of your wet clothes first, pass them to the wardrobe coordinator, and you can take your leave. Good job... I'll update you again on your next filming date soon. Thanks.
Female artist: Kamsa hamnida Kiki-shi...
I smiled and took my leave.
Jaejoong looked at me as I walked away. He had wanted to make a comment about my wet clothes, but I avoided eye contact and turned before he could open his mouth.
Jaejoong's thoughts: You should get out of those wet clothes too... Don't get sick...
Seeing me busy myself with packing up, he left with the female artist and the wardrobe to get out of the wet clothes. And he left first with his manager, while I helped clear up the set and made sure everything was back to normal for the house owners before thanking them and taking my leave. By then all the crew had already left the location. When I walked out of the house, I stood at the wet front door for a while, looking at the puddles of water. There were ripples in the puddles caused by a slight drizzle. I lifted my palm up to check, there were drops of rain. I rummaged through my bag, and realised that my umbrella was also taken away by the crew when they packed the stuff earlier. I could hear the rain approaching, and it started pouring heavily. I looked up at the sky.
Kiki's thoughts: Are you crying for me? Or are you making a fool out of me?
I walked in the rain without an umbrella towards the metro station. By the time I reached the metro station, I was already totally drenched to my skin. Commuters stared at me when I boarded the train and left a pool of water where I was standing. I pulled my hoodie on and kept my head down and looked out into the window screen as the train moved, as I was feeling uncomfortable with all the eyes staring at me.
An hour later, I reached my station and got off. It was raining even heavier than before. I could hardly see the streets well. And the sky had already turned so dark from the storm clouds. I looked up at the sky. Many commuters were hanging around the entrance staring at the heavy rain. They were waiting for it to cease before they walked out.
Kiki's thoughts: You must think I am a complete fool... Oh well... I guess I am... But this babo just wants to get home after work, and all you want to do is to make things difficult for me?
Thunder struck.
Kiki's thoughts: I take that as a yes... But you're not getting me down... I'm gonna get home, no matter what... You can rain all you want... I don't care anymore... I'm already drenched anyway...
I started walking into the rain. Without an umbrella. Again, everyone stared at me. But no one bothered to offer me an umbrella. Not even one soul.
As I walked on, tears started flowing down my eyes. My tears were mixed with the rain. Someone walking near me won't be able to even notice that I was crying. They would have thought that it was the rain.
When I reached the apartment building, I looked up.
Kiki's thoughts: He must be home by now. But... I don't think... I don't think I am ready to see him now...
I turned and started walking away without a destination in mind.
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Jaejoong was staring at the window out into the rain. He felt terrible for Kiki having to witness him kissing another girl. And for so many times. She must have been in so much pain. Cos he felt the guilt and regret rushing into him everytime the director shouted cut, and Kiki had to rush in with the umbrellas and towels with a straight face. He was in pain too. Probably as much pain as she was in.
Micky: Hyung, what are you doing over the window? How was filming today? Everything alright?
Jaejoong: I guess so... It took four hours...
U-Know: That's pretty fast... So no NGs?
Jaejoong: No...
Xiah: That's good to hear...
Jaejoong: Yeah... But we had to take several takes for each angle... So...
Max: So how many times did you kiss the female artist today?
Jaejoong: I don't know... I lost count...
Max: Wow... Let me guess.... 4 hours... Hmmm.... 10 times???
Jaejoong: I guess it was around there...
Max: So how was it?
All: MAX!!!!
Jaejoong turned and looked at them.
Jaejoong: I pretended that she was Kiki...
Micky: You WHAT???!!!!!
Jaejoong: I pretended that she was Kiki... I made myself believe that she is Kiki when I kissed her... That was the only way I could do it... If I didn't there'll be so many NGs, you won't be able to imagine...
U-Know: Hyung... You don't go pretending that someone else is the one you love, in front of the one you love...
Xiah: Yeah... Imagine how hurt Kiki will feel... when she sees you looking at another girl and kissing her, the same way that you look and kiss her...
Jaejoong turned back to stare out of the window. He looked down at the rain pounding mercilessly onto the pavement floor downstairs. He noticed a familiar figure walking in the rain towards the building, but he wasn't sure, as the rain was so heavy it blurred the person's face. Then he notice the person look up at the building for a while, and then walk away in the rain. Then he noticed the red crumpler bag that Kiki always carried to work on that person in the rain. He jerked up from the window sill.
The guys rushed towards the window when they saw him stand up suddenly. They could see Kiki walking away.
Max: Isn't that Nuna? Why is she walking in the rain without an umbrella? And why isn't she coming home in this weather? Where is she going?
Jaejoong rushed towards the door and grabbed an umbrella and his jacket.
Jaejoong: Don't worry guys... I know what I need to do... Just give me some time to get her back yeah... Mianeyo...
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I walked aimlessly in the rain. And found myself at a nearby park. No one was out due to the rain. I was all alone. I sat down on a park bench, and crumpled into a bundle, rocking myself to and fro and tears flowed down my face.
Jaejoong searched aimlessly in the rain. Uncertain where I had gone to, as I was already gone by the time he got downstairs.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Where are you? Where are you, Kiki? God, please let me find you...
He wandered around aimlessly for 15 minutes and walked into a park. He noticed someone bundled up on a park bench with the face hidden from view. Even though he couldn't see my face, he knew it was Kiki. He walked over to me.
I looked up when I heard the sound of rain falling onto an umbrella. Then I saw Jaejoong standing in front of me, with an umbrella over me. When Jaejoong saw my red and swollen eyes, he didn't know what to say. I got up and walked away from Jaejoong. He gave chase.
Jaejoong: Kiki... Stop... You're gonna get sick walking in the rain like this...
He tried to grab me and pull me under the umbrella. I flung his arm away.
Kiki: You don't want me bugging you... So just leave me alone and let me be... I won't be a burden to you... I can take care of myself...
Jaejoong tried again to grab me. I struggled to free myself but ended up falling down onto the slippery wet floor. Jaejoong flung the umbrella away and rushed over.
Jaejoong: Are you okay?
Kiki: Just leave me alone...
I tried to push him away and get up, but he had his hands firmly on my shoulders.
Jaejoong: Mianeyo... Miane... I didn't mean to shout at you that day... I was just jealous cos the guy was flirting with you... I was so angry... I...
I looked away. I felt his grip tighten around me.
Jaejoong: Please... Listen to me Kiki... Don't turn away from me now... Please...
He shook me and pulled me nearer to him.
Jaejoong: Let's just say anger got the better of me, and I made you the target of my anger... Even though it was no fault of yours... I just couldn't stand seeing you talking like that to another guy...
I looked up at him.
Kiki: You're being ridiculous... You know... It's just work... Like your... work... I have mine... We both know there are some things that we have to do... It's inevitable... And it's not like it's only the two of us, I'm getting everyone for the dinner... And... And...
Jaejoong looked with guilt and remorse into my eyes. I felt my heart soften. I placed my hand on his face.
Kiki: I already got you... In my heart... No one can take that place...
Jaejoong: I know... I am a bad-tempered, easily jealous and angry boyfriend... Will you still love me now?
He grabbed hold of my hand on his face.
Kiki: I think I already can't fall for anyone else... Since I've already agreed to your proposal... Unless you fancy someone else... And decide to call off your proposal... Cos you looked at the female artist so lovingly today during filming...
Jaejoong: *giggle* Then I guess my heart isn't going to be broken afterall... Cos there is no one.... but you... for me...
He pulled me into his arms and hugged me tightly.
Jaejoong: You know something?
Kiki: Huh?
Jaejoong: During the shoot, I pretended that she was you...
Kiki: HUH?!!!!
Jaejoong: I pretended that I was kissing you when I kissed her...
Kiki: WHAT!!!!
I pushed myself away from him and looked at him with wide open eyes full of shock.
Jaejoong: That was the only way I could do it... Otherwise I'd be NG-ing over and over again... I didn't want to prolong the pain for you or me... So I did what I thought would be the best...
Kiki: You don't go around pretending someone else is the person you love... It's unfair to the person as well as to the one you love...
Jaejoong: I know... But I can't kiss someone I don't love... I just can't... I admit... I'm not a good enough actor... I can't make-believe...
Kiki: Well then, you sure did a good job today... Everyone believed that your character loved hers when you kissed her...
Jaejoong: That's cos I pretended I was kissing you...
Kiki: Don't ever do that again... I'd rather see you NG a million times, than to know that you're imagining that you are kissing me when you are kissing someone else... The feeling is just not right... The way you looked at her... I can't accept it... Call me jealous or whatever... But when you say that you are kissing me, I want it to be really me that you are kissing... Not someone else that you are imagining to be me...
Jaejoong: I understand... I'll only kiss you from now on then...
He leaned forward with his eyes closed. I blocked his advance with my hand.
Kiki: I didn't say I'm letting you kiss me now... Haven't you already had enough kissing for a day?
Jaejoong: But it's not REAL kissing, when it's not you that I'm kissing...
He pulled me nearer to him, tilted my chin up and leaned in and gave me a kiss.
I backed myself into the lift and collapsed down onto the floor.
Kiki's thoughts: Why did I have to see him like this before today's filming? I just wanted to block everything out for the day. All my feelings, all my sorrow, all my love... And be totally professional today... It's making things so hard for me now... I'm so confused...
The lift announced level one. I gathered myself up from the floor and took a deep breath before walking out into the bright sunlight. I put on my dark aviator shades and started walking to the metro station to take the train to the film location.
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An hour before filming starts...
The cast arrive on-set to prepare for make-up. Today's scene only involved Jaejoong and the female artist. So there were only two people I had to take charge of. Easy work. But for me, everytime I had to walk over to the cast holding area, I dreaded it like it was the last thing I ever wanted to do in the whole wide world. But I kept my front up and was very professional. I just didn't linger longer than necessary to give my instructions. And he too remained indifferent to me, and was all solemn and quiet, except nodding his head sometimes to show that he knew what I needed him to do.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Filming starts... Down comes the man-made rain...
I stood near the producer, but far enough to not see the monitor and the actual scene properly. I didn't want to see the actual thing happen on the monitor, or in the scene.
Director: CUT!!!
Producer: Kiki, hurry in with an umbrella and towel for Jaejoong!!!
I had missed out the fact that I had to rush in with an umbrella and towel for Jaejoong everytime the director called cut. So it wasn't much solace hiding where I was. I still had to face him now and then. And I made sure I looked at the floor or somewhere else when I was doing it.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
I rushed out from the scene with the umbrella and towel, and hid back to my hiding spot.
The scene entailed Jaejoong standing in the rain outside the female artist's house, pleading with her to forgive what he had done before in the past to push him away from him, cos he knows now, after Micky shows interest in her, that he is actually in love with her. She would be touched by his actions and rush out with an umbrella. That is where he pulls her into his arms, hugs her, and then... They kiss...
We had already filmed the portions of the female artist inside the house, and now we were filming Jaejoong's parts outside in the rain. After about two hours, and almost 15 times of me running in and out with the umbrella and the towel, he manages to finish all the lines in the rain, before the female artist enters the scene.
My heart started to pound faster and faster once the female artist entered the scene. I stole a glance at the monitor. She was walking nearer and nearer towards Jaejoong. I closed my eyes.
Director: CUT!!!!
I opened my eyes and dashed in with the umbrellas and towels for Jaejoong and the female artist. I didn't know what had happened before the director called cut. But I hope the worst was already over.
Director: We need to re-take that shot, it was an NG. Jaejoong, you need to look more in love when you pull her into your arms. Right now, your expression is not good enough... Remember, you are supposed to be in love with her... Okay?
Jaejoong nodded his head and turned back to face the female artist.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
When I heard what the director said, I felt like I almost fainted. I steadied myself and got out of the scene. Jaejoong stole a glance at me when I walked out of the man-made rain with the umbrella and towel in my hand.
Jaejoong's thoughts: There's no way I can get this over with... With Kiki around... I just can't think about anything else but her... how terrible she must be feeling... I wished that I could just get this over with in one take... For her sake and mine... But I can't... Unless... Unless I pretend that she is Kiki...
Kiki's thoughts: I don't think I can take this any much longer... It's even worst when I heard it from them... I'd rather see it with my own eyes... But... Please let this be over and done with fast...
I kept my eyes open this time. I looked at the monitor as the scene was shot. The way he looked at her, the expression in his eyes... the love in his eyes... was the same as when he looked at me... When he pulled her into his arms, I felt my eyes blurring as tears welled in my eyes.
Then it happened...
He kissed her...
Director: CUT!!!! Good take!!! Okay one more good take for safety...
I blinked hard to clear my eyes and rushed in with the umbrellas and towels again.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!! ROLL CAM... ACTION!!
And he did it again...
I felt my head start hurting from forcing my tears back into my eyes...
Director: CUT!!!! Good take!!! Okay now we need to take a reverse over the shoulder of Jaejoong.
I rushed in with the umbrellas and towels again, as the crew shifted the equipment around.
Assistant Director: STANDBY!!!
I rushed out.
Assistant Director: ROLL CAM... ACTION!!!
And he did it again... And again... And again...
Director: CUT!!!! Good job... It's a wrap!!!
About another two hours later, the scene was finally finished. And he had probably kissed her about 10 times for the various angles required by the director. I was already half wet myself from running in and out with the umbrellas and towels.
Assistant Director: Kiki, you can let the cast change out of their wet clothes already. They're done for the day...
Kiki: Yes... I'll do that...
I went over to the cast holding area where the two were standing drying themselves.
Kiki: Guys, you are done for the day. You can go change out of your wet clothes first, pass them to the wardrobe coordinator, and you can take your leave. Good job... I'll update you again on your next filming date soon. Thanks.
Female artist: Kamsa hamnida Kiki-shi...
I smiled and took my leave.
Jaejoong looked at me as I walked away. He had wanted to make a comment about my wet clothes, but I avoided eye contact and turned before he could open his mouth.
Jaejoong's thoughts: You should get out of those wet clothes too... Don't get sick...
Seeing me busy myself with packing up, he left with the female artist and the wardrobe to get out of the wet clothes. And he left first with his manager, while I helped clear up the set and made sure everything was back to normal for the house owners before thanking them and taking my leave. By then all the crew had already left the location. When I walked out of the house, I stood at the wet front door for a while, looking at the puddles of water. There were ripples in the puddles caused by a slight drizzle. I lifted my palm up to check, there were drops of rain. I rummaged through my bag, and realised that my umbrella was also taken away by the crew when they packed the stuff earlier. I could hear the rain approaching, and it started pouring heavily. I looked up at the sky.
Kiki's thoughts: Are you crying for me? Or are you making a fool out of me?
I walked in the rain without an umbrella towards the metro station. By the time I reached the metro station, I was already totally drenched to my skin. Commuters stared at me when I boarded the train and left a pool of water where I was standing. I pulled my hoodie on and kept my head down and looked out into the window screen as the train moved, as I was feeling uncomfortable with all the eyes staring at me.
An hour later, I reached my station and got off. It was raining even heavier than before. I could hardly see the streets well. And the sky had already turned so dark from the storm clouds. I looked up at the sky. Many commuters were hanging around the entrance staring at the heavy rain. They were waiting for it to cease before they walked out.
Kiki's thoughts: You must think I am a complete fool... Oh well... I guess I am... But this babo just wants to get home after work, and all you want to do is to make things difficult for me?
Thunder struck.
Kiki's thoughts: I take that as a yes... But you're not getting me down... I'm gonna get home, no matter what... You can rain all you want... I don't care anymore... I'm already drenched anyway...
I started walking into the rain. Without an umbrella. Again, everyone stared at me. But no one bothered to offer me an umbrella. Not even one soul.
As I walked on, tears started flowing down my eyes. My tears were mixed with the rain. Someone walking near me won't be able to even notice that I was crying. They would have thought that it was the rain.
When I reached the apartment building, I looked up.
Kiki's thoughts: He must be home by now. But... I don't think... I don't think I am ready to see him now...
I turned and started walking away without a destination in mind.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jaejoong was staring at the window out into the rain. He felt terrible for Kiki having to witness him kissing another girl. And for so many times. She must have been in so much pain. Cos he felt the guilt and regret rushing into him everytime the director shouted cut, and Kiki had to rush in with the umbrellas and towels with a straight face. He was in pain too. Probably as much pain as she was in.
Micky: Hyung, what are you doing over the window? How was filming today? Everything alright?
Jaejoong: I guess so... It took four hours...
U-Know: That's pretty fast... So no NGs?
Jaejoong: No...
Xiah: That's good to hear...
Jaejoong: Yeah... But we had to take several takes for each angle... So...
Max: So how many times did you kiss the female artist today?
Jaejoong: I don't know... I lost count...
Max: Wow... Let me guess.... 4 hours... Hmmm.... 10 times???
Jaejoong: I guess it was around there...
Max: So how was it?
All: MAX!!!!
Jaejoong turned and looked at them.
Jaejoong: I pretended that she was Kiki...
Micky: You WHAT???!!!!!
Jaejoong: I pretended that she was Kiki... I made myself believe that she is Kiki when I kissed her... That was the only way I could do it... If I didn't there'll be so many NGs, you won't be able to imagine...
U-Know: Hyung... You don't go pretending that someone else is the one you love, in front of the one you love...
Xiah: Yeah... Imagine how hurt Kiki will feel... when she sees you looking at another girl and kissing her, the same way that you look and kiss her...
Jaejoong turned back to stare out of the window. He looked down at the rain pounding mercilessly onto the pavement floor downstairs. He noticed a familiar figure walking in the rain towards the building, but he wasn't sure, as the rain was so heavy it blurred the person's face. Then he notice the person look up at the building for a while, and then walk away in the rain. Then he noticed the red crumpler bag that Kiki always carried to work on that person in the rain. He jerked up from the window sill.
The guys rushed towards the window when they saw him stand up suddenly. They could see Kiki walking away.
Max: Isn't that Nuna? Why is she walking in the rain without an umbrella? And why isn't she coming home in this weather? Where is she going?
Jaejoong rushed towards the door and grabbed an umbrella and his jacket.
Jaejoong: Don't worry guys... I know what I need to do... Just give me some time to get her back yeah... Mianeyo...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I walked aimlessly in the rain. And found myself at a nearby park. No one was out due to the rain. I was all alone. I sat down on a park bench, and crumpled into a bundle, rocking myself to and fro and tears flowed down my face.
Jaejoong searched aimlessly in the rain. Uncertain where I had gone to, as I was already gone by the time he got downstairs.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Where are you? Where are you, Kiki? God, please let me find you...
He wandered around aimlessly for 15 minutes and walked into a park. He noticed someone bundled up on a park bench with the face hidden from view. Even though he couldn't see my face, he knew it was Kiki. He walked over to me.
I looked up when I heard the sound of rain falling onto an umbrella. Then I saw Jaejoong standing in front of me, with an umbrella over me. When Jaejoong saw my red and swollen eyes, he didn't know what to say. I got up and walked away from Jaejoong. He gave chase.
Jaejoong: Kiki... Stop... You're gonna get sick walking in the rain like this...
He tried to grab me and pull me under the umbrella. I flung his arm away.
Kiki: You don't want me bugging you... So just leave me alone and let me be... I won't be a burden to you... I can take care of myself...
Jaejoong tried again to grab me. I struggled to free myself but ended up falling down onto the slippery wet floor. Jaejoong flung the umbrella away and rushed over.
Jaejoong: Are you okay?
Kiki: Just leave me alone...
I tried to push him away and get up, but he had his hands firmly on my shoulders.
Jaejoong: Mianeyo... Miane... I didn't mean to shout at you that day... I was just jealous cos the guy was flirting with you... I was so angry... I...
I looked away. I felt his grip tighten around me.
Jaejoong: Please... Listen to me Kiki... Don't turn away from me now... Please...
He shook me and pulled me nearer to him.
Jaejoong: Let's just say anger got the better of me, and I made you the target of my anger... Even though it was no fault of yours... I just couldn't stand seeing you talking like that to another guy...
I looked up at him.
Kiki: You're being ridiculous... You know... It's just work... Like your... work... I have mine... We both know there are some things that we have to do... It's inevitable... And it's not like it's only the two of us, I'm getting everyone for the dinner... And... And...
Jaejoong looked with guilt and remorse into my eyes. I felt my heart soften. I placed my hand on his face.
Kiki: I already got you... In my heart... No one can take that place...
Jaejoong: I know... I am a bad-tempered, easily jealous and angry boyfriend... Will you still love me now?
He grabbed hold of my hand on his face.
Kiki: I think I already can't fall for anyone else... Since I've already agreed to your proposal... Unless you fancy someone else... And decide to call off your proposal... Cos you looked at the female artist so lovingly today during filming...
Jaejoong: *giggle* Then I guess my heart isn't going to be broken afterall... Cos there is no one.... but you... for me...
He pulled me into his arms and hugged me tightly.
Jaejoong: You know something?
Kiki: Huh?
Jaejoong: During the shoot, I pretended that she was you...
Kiki: HUH?!!!!
Jaejoong: I pretended that I was kissing you when I kissed her...
Kiki: WHAT!!!!
I pushed myself away from him and looked at him with wide open eyes full of shock.
Jaejoong: That was the only way I could do it... Otherwise I'd be NG-ing over and over again... I didn't want to prolong the pain for you or me... So I did what I thought would be the best...
Kiki: You don't go around pretending someone else is the person you love... It's unfair to the person as well as to the one you love...
Jaejoong: I know... But I can't kiss someone I don't love... I just can't... I admit... I'm not a good enough actor... I can't make-believe...
Kiki: Well then, you sure did a good job today... Everyone believed that your character loved hers when you kissed her...
Jaejoong: That's cos I pretended I was kissing you...
Kiki: Don't ever do that again... I'd rather see you NG a million times, than to know that you're imagining that you are kissing me when you are kissing someone else... The feeling is just not right... The way you looked at her... I can't accept it... Call me jealous or whatever... But when you say that you are kissing me, I want it to be really me that you are kissing... Not someone else that you are imagining to be me...
Jaejoong: I understand... I'll only kiss you from now on then...
He leaned forward with his eyes closed. I blocked his advance with my hand.
Kiki: I didn't say I'm letting you kiss me now... Haven't you already had enough kissing for a day?
Jaejoong: But it's not REAL kissing, when it's not you that I'm kissing...
He pulled me nearer to him, tilted my chin up and leaned in and gave me a kiss.
Serendipity 奇缘 - Chapter 47
Chapter 47: Filming with TVXQ
Two weeks later...
Filming was to commence, and my ankle had already recovered fully, with the help of a very insistent Jaejoong bugging me everyday to not walk too much around the apartment, and to take my medicine on time, not to work too long, etc, etc.
First week of filming went smoothly and the guys provided loads of free entertainment for the entire crew, cos they were always up to some crazy antics, monkeying around the set when they were waiting for their turns. Micky would pick on Xiah on some small matter, and the rest would join in and mass-bully Xiah. When I realised what they were doing, I would have to separate "the root of the problem" from the rest - which is Xiah, not Micky. Once Xiah was called away from the rest, they would quieten down for a while, as the "victim" was gone. But after a while, Jaejoong and Max would start some silly brawl, hitting each other continuously or chasing after one another. For these two, I just had to walk over and glare at the two of them silently. They will get the cue to stop it now, or bear the cost of getting it from me later when we go back to the apartment.
When we were into the second week of filming, it would have seemed to the rest of the crew that they were already very comfortable with working with me, the foreigner, as they started to tease me like the rest of the SM staff whom they worked with. But none of them could detect that we already knew each other before I came to Korea, all assumed that they were just comfortable working with me cos I was nearer to their ages than the rest of the foreign crew. Which is a blessing, cos we didn't have to be so formal in public anymore. We could just be ourselves. Max started calling me Nuna again, cos he popped the question in the van one day when their manager was around, and he agreed that Max should call me Nuna, since I was close to their ages, as long as I was alright with it.
But with Jaejoong it was less restrictive than before, but he still has to adhere to our agreement conditions or he would get the cold shoulder from me. I would just ignore him and walk away, if he went too far. Like once he tried to plead with me like how he does to the rest of the members, attempting to look all cute and innocent, holding my hand and all. I just ignored him, pretended that I didn't know what he was talking about, and walked away.
As the filming went on, I realised that it was closer and closer to the episodes where the plot changes occur. Soon it was already time to film those much dreaded scenes...
Jaejoong: WHAT ARE ALL THESE???!!!!!
Producer: It's a plot change. There's new characters coming into the show to spice things up. Women and girls all like to see these kinds of things like romance.
Jaejoong: But we're TVXQ, don't you think it's a bit unsafe for the female artistes that act opposite us in such scenes? You know how our fans are like...
Jaejoong looked pleadingly at the rest of the members to back him up.
U-Know: Yeah... Our fans... They can be a bit over the top when it comes to such things...
Manager: No worries guys. Your fans can tell that it's just acting. Different from real life. It's not as if it's you with your girlfriend kissing in front of them.
All five looked at each other, unsure of what to do next.
Micky: But Hyung... you know our fans...
Manager: It's fine guys... I've already discussed this with the production team, and we'll make sure it won't be touchy for the fans... So don't worry unnecessarily...
All five nodded dejectedly.
I knew it was no use for them to oppose the plot change. It had already been decided before they knew it. I knew it, but I couldn't let them in on it. And it made me quite upset to have to keep secrets from the one I love, but I had no choice. It was for his own good, cos I knew he would have such a huge reaction to it.
Kiki: Come on guys, cheer up... You should be happy you get to date pretty girls in the show!!!
I forced a smile on my face.
Kiki's thoughts: And... to kiss them...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A day before the dreaded kissing scene....
Crew member: Hey Kiki-shi... You left your stuff over here...
I rushed over to the crew member, who was flashing my file in the air.
Kiki: Oh thanks so much... I almost forgot about it... Would be in huge trouble if I lost it... Can't thank you enough... What can I do to repay you?
Crew member grinned at me.
Crew member: Hmm.... How about.... A dinner treat from a pretty foreign girl.... Not bad... *hee hee*
I blushed and smiled embarassingly.
Kiki: Ha ha ha... Don't tease me... I'm NO WHERE near the word pretty... I'm just plain... And I'll be asking the other crew along too... Nothing like a good meal to end the day's work... Ain't it?
Crew member: What? Nothing special for your lifesaver? *ponders* Well alright then... It's a date... See ya...
I smiled and watched as he went off.
Kiki's thoughts: Gosh... These men are so... Can't they be more normal and work more professionally... How I wish I am a man now...
I took my file and walked towards the guys who were doing their make-up not far away. Jaejoong was looking at me when I walked over.
Kiki: Jaejoong-shi, is there something wrong?
Jaejoong glared at me angrily.
Jaejoong's thoughts: What does she think she's doing, flirting with another man in the public like that?!!!! Can she not SEE that that lecherous man is trying to do? Can she not SEE that her fiancé, me, am around!!! SO INFURIATING!!!
Jaejoong kept silent and stormed off, leaving me confused. I gave chase.
Kiki: What's wrong Jaejoong-shi? Are you not feeling well? Do you need anything?
Jaejoong stopped and turned to face me.
Jaejoong: YES!!!! I JUST NEED YOU TO SHUT UP AND LEAVE ME ALONE!!!!
I was taken aback by his sudden outburst. I blinked a few times, trying to register what had just happened. He turned and stormed out of the studio. Max and Micky who had just finished their make-up had witnessed the entire scene that had happened earlier and his entire outburst. Micky gave chase after Jaejoong, leaving Max to tend to me.
Micky pulls Jaejoong into an empty toilet and locks it from inside.
Micky: Hyung... What happened? Why did you shout at Kiki? It's so unlike you to do something like this...
Jaejoong: Didn't you see what was happening just now? That crew was flirting with her and she didn't reject him!!! IN FRONT OF ME!!!
Micky: Hyung... Don't be so daft... He made an advance, but that doesn't mean that she will have to accept it. Didn't you hear her say that she's inviting the rest of the crew too?
Jaejoong: But I can't stand it!!! I don't want her flirting with other men, with me around, or without me around... I don't want her talking like that to other men... PERIOD...
Micky: You're being unreasonable, hyung... It's all part of her work to work with all these crew from all walks of life... You can't blame her for having to go along with their harmless teasing, it's just teasing... It's not her fault... And furthermore, it's not like she's engaged to them... She already has you in her heart...
Jaejoong: I guess... But when I saw it, I just couldn't bear it... My anger just rose...
Micky: Just apologise to her later when you get back yeah... She doesn't deserve this...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile...
I stood frozen at the spot. Unable to move an inch. Too shocked.
Max: Nuna... Are you okay?
Silence.
Max: Hyung was just being daft... It must be one of his bad moods again... Don't take it to heart...
Silence.
Max: Nuna...
I closed my eyes and swallowed hard and took a deep breath. I was shattered.
I didn't know what was happening at all. I didn't know why Jaejoong was moody. I didn't know what made him angry. Was it something I did? Or say? Was he too stressed from the filming of the much dreaded scene? I didn't know. But one thing I did know. The filming had to go on.
So I forced myself to swallow back my sorrow and tears and put on a brave front.
Kiki: I'm fine Max. Don't worry about me. I've gotta go and check on the rest of the cast now. Just stay around here. We'll be starting filming soon.
And I dashed off to the make-up area before he could say anything more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I busied myself with the other cast and didn't re-appear until they were all gone on set for filming. I stayed near the producer, and made sure they had no chance of talking to me at all. When the filming was almost done, I excused myself saying that I had to get back to office to settle the next day's materials, and left early. I didn't want to deal with the guys. And most of all. I didn't want to see Jaejoong. At least not for now. I felt very confused.
I got back to the office and started working like crazy with tomorrow's schedule, etc. After everything was done. I re-read the script. Again and again. I wanted myself to be able to envision the scene before it was filmed tomorrow, so that I would be mentally and emotionally prepared for it. Even though now I was even less prepared than before, after Jaejoong's sudden outburst before today's shoot.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Producer: Thanks for the hard work everyone!!! It's a wrap for today!!!
ALL: YEAH!!!
Max: Hyung, where's Nuna?
All of them looked around searching for Kiki.
U-Know: Weird... I thought I saw her beside the producer while we were filming?
Xiah: Yeah I hardly talked to her today. She was always beside the producer.
Micky looked at Jaejoong, who was frowning.
Micky: Hyung... I think you really upset her this time...
All of them keep quiet when they saw their manager walking towards them.
Manager: Guys... Let's head on back to the apartment now... Get some rest, cos tomorrow is the big scene!!! Especially Jaejoong...
All: Huh? What do you mean?
Manager: We're filming the love declaration scene for Jaejoong tomorrow... The girl who had been chasing him all this time, he will realise that he had actually fallen for her... And he will declare his love for her in the rain...
All: WHAT??!!!!!
Manager: Ha ha ha... Is that excitement I'm detecting from Jaejoong? Or jealousy from the others? Ha ha ha... You'll all get your chance... It's just Jaejoong's turn first tomorrow...
All five looked at each other and forced themselves to act normally.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Fifi: WHAT!!!!!???
Theo: Tomorrow is the love declaration scene and...
Fifi: It's stormy on the frontline for Jaejoong and Kiki...
Theo: U-Know, isn't there anything you guys can do?
U-Know: I'm afraid not...
Xiah: We don't even know where Kiki is now... We thought she'd come back here...
Max: But she's not even here... And she won't even take my calls... It's all your fault hyung...
Micky did a zip-it signal to Max. But it was already too late.
Max: You've drove Nuna away from us all...
Everyone looked at Jaejoong to see his reaction. He just kept quiet, staring at a fixed spot.
Fifi: *sigh* Let me try if she'll answer my call...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*ZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzz*
My phone vibrated on my work desk. But I didn't hear it at all. I had fallen asleep from reading the script so many times and crying each time as I re-read it.
Theo: How is it? Is she answering?
Fifi: No answer...
Theo: Hey... You guys... I think you'd better go search for her... I'm kinda worried for her... She is in a foreign country after all... Jaejoong...
Silence.
Fifi was furious. She couldn't take it anymore.
Fifi: KIM JAEJOONG!!! YOU GET UP THIS MINUTE AND GO OUT AND BRING KIKI BACK NOW!!! OR EVERYONE HERE CAN FORGET ABOUT GOING TO BED TONIGHT!!!
With Fifi's screaming everyone started scrambling towards the door. Except Jaejoong.
Fifi: HEY!!! DIDN'T YOU HEAR WHAT I JUST SAID!!! GET OUT AND LOOK FOR HER NOW!!!
Fifi shouted into Jaejoong's ears, with Xiah trying to pull her away.
Xiah: Fifi, hyung's upset too. So don't be so harsh on him now... He knows he is in the wrong...
As random and sudden as his outburst, Jaejoong suddenly shot up from his seat.
Jaejoong: I'm going back to sleep, I've got a big shoot tomorrow. You can go look for her if you want. She's probably dining with her beloved crew members. Bye.
All: HYUNG!!!
Fifi: ARGH!!!! KIM JAEJOONG!!! IS THIS HOW YOU TREAT YOUR FIANCÉE!!!
Jaejoong carried on walking out, ignoring Fifi's screams.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Mianeyo guys... Mianeyo Kiki... I know you would want the filming to go on more than anything... So forgive me for not looking for you tonight... Mianeyo...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The big day...
I awoke in my office at 7am, to the sound of my handphone alarm ringing. It was Jaejoong's voice doing a morning call. How ironic...
I rubbed my eyes and realised that I had fallen asleep in the office. I looked at the time and dash off back to my apartment to take a shower before going to the filming location. When I reached my apartment, the guys had already gone back to their apartment, and the girls were sleeping on the sofa. I had no time to explain things to them, so I crept quietly into the bathroom to wash up and change my clothes before rushing off.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jaejoong had woke up at 7.30am. He got up and started making breakfast for himself and the rest. Then he heard my apartment door open and close. He went over and peeped at the eyehole. Nothing. 15 minutes later, he heard it again. And there was also the sound of keys falling onto the floor. This time he dashed over and opened the door. I was locking the door and had dropped the keys in my absent-minded state. I was picking them up when he opened the door. My heart skipped a beat when the door opened. He looked at me, suddenly not knowing what to say. I avoided eye contact with him and buried my head in my bag, while I waited for the lift. Seeing me avoiding all eye contact with him, he felt his heart burn with guilt. He wanted so badly to apologise so that he could hug me in his arms. But something kept holding him back.
The lift came and I dashed in, and pressed door close, not wanting to give him a chance to say anything to me.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Mianeyo...
Two weeks later...
Filming was to commence, and my ankle had already recovered fully, with the help of a very insistent Jaejoong bugging me everyday to not walk too much around the apartment, and to take my medicine on time, not to work too long, etc, etc.
First week of filming went smoothly and the guys provided loads of free entertainment for the entire crew, cos they were always up to some crazy antics, monkeying around the set when they were waiting for their turns. Micky would pick on Xiah on some small matter, and the rest would join in and mass-bully Xiah. When I realised what they were doing, I would have to separate "the root of the problem" from the rest - which is Xiah, not Micky. Once Xiah was called away from the rest, they would quieten down for a while, as the "victim" was gone. But after a while, Jaejoong and Max would start some silly brawl, hitting each other continuously or chasing after one another. For these two, I just had to walk over and glare at the two of them silently. They will get the cue to stop it now, or bear the cost of getting it from me later when we go back to the apartment.
When we were into the second week of filming, it would have seemed to the rest of the crew that they were already very comfortable with working with me, the foreigner, as they started to tease me like the rest of the SM staff whom they worked with. But none of them could detect that we already knew each other before I came to Korea, all assumed that they were just comfortable working with me cos I was nearer to their ages than the rest of the foreign crew. Which is a blessing, cos we didn't have to be so formal in public anymore. We could just be ourselves. Max started calling me Nuna again, cos he popped the question in the van one day when their manager was around, and he agreed that Max should call me Nuna, since I was close to their ages, as long as I was alright with it.
But with Jaejoong it was less restrictive than before, but he still has to adhere to our agreement conditions or he would get the cold shoulder from me. I would just ignore him and walk away, if he went too far. Like once he tried to plead with me like how he does to the rest of the members, attempting to look all cute and innocent, holding my hand and all. I just ignored him, pretended that I didn't know what he was talking about, and walked away.
As the filming went on, I realised that it was closer and closer to the episodes where the plot changes occur. Soon it was already time to film those much dreaded scenes...
Jaejoong: WHAT ARE ALL THESE???!!!!!
Producer: It's a plot change. There's new characters coming into the show to spice things up. Women and girls all like to see these kinds of things like romance.
Jaejoong: But we're TVXQ, don't you think it's a bit unsafe for the female artistes that act opposite us in such scenes? You know how our fans are like...
Jaejoong looked pleadingly at the rest of the members to back him up.
U-Know: Yeah... Our fans... They can be a bit over the top when it comes to such things...
Manager: No worries guys. Your fans can tell that it's just acting. Different from real life. It's not as if it's you with your girlfriend kissing in front of them.
All five looked at each other, unsure of what to do next.
Micky: But Hyung... you know our fans...
Manager: It's fine guys... I've already discussed this with the production team, and we'll make sure it won't be touchy for the fans... So don't worry unnecessarily...
All five nodded dejectedly.
I knew it was no use for them to oppose the plot change. It had already been decided before they knew it. I knew it, but I couldn't let them in on it. And it made me quite upset to have to keep secrets from the one I love, but I had no choice. It was for his own good, cos I knew he would have such a huge reaction to it.
Kiki: Come on guys, cheer up... You should be happy you get to date pretty girls in the show!!!
I forced a smile on my face.
Kiki's thoughts: And... to kiss them...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A day before the dreaded kissing scene....
Crew member: Hey Kiki-shi... You left your stuff over here...
I rushed over to the crew member, who was flashing my file in the air.
Kiki: Oh thanks so much... I almost forgot about it... Would be in huge trouble if I lost it... Can't thank you enough... What can I do to repay you?
Crew member grinned at me.
Crew member: Hmm.... How about.... A dinner treat from a pretty foreign girl.... Not bad... *hee hee*
I blushed and smiled embarassingly.
Kiki: Ha ha ha... Don't tease me... I'm NO WHERE near the word pretty... I'm just plain... And I'll be asking the other crew along too... Nothing like a good meal to end the day's work... Ain't it?
Crew member: What? Nothing special for your lifesaver? *ponders* Well alright then... It's a date... See ya...
I smiled and watched as he went off.
Kiki's thoughts: Gosh... These men are so... Can't they be more normal and work more professionally... How I wish I am a man now...
I took my file and walked towards the guys who were doing their make-up not far away. Jaejoong was looking at me when I walked over.
Kiki: Jaejoong-shi, is there something wrong?
Jaejoong glared at me angrily.
Jaejoong's thoughts: What does she think she's doing, flirting with another man in the public like that?!!!! Can she not SEE that that lecherous man is trying to do? Can she not SEE that her fiancé, me, am around!!! SO INFURIATING!!!
Jaejoong kept silent and stormed off, leaving me confused. I gave chase.
Kiki: What's wrong Jaejoong-shi? Are you not feeling well? Do you need anything?
Jaejoong stopped and turned to face me.
Jaejoong: YES!!!! I JUST NEED YOU TO SHUT UP AND LEAVE ME ALONE!!!!
I was taken aback by his sudden outburst. I blinked a few times, trying to register what had just happened. He turned and stormed out of the studio. Max and Micky who had just finished their make-up had witnessed the entire scene that had happened earlier and his entire outburst. Micky gave chase after Jaejoong, leaving Max to tend to me.
Micky pulls Jaejoong into an empty toilet and locks it from inside.
Micky: Hyung... What happened? Why did you shout at Kiki? It's so unlike you to do something like this...
Jaejoong: Didn't you see what was happening just now? That crew was flirting with her and she didn't reject him!!! IN FRONT OF ME!!!
Micky: Hyung... Don't be so daft... He made an advance, but that doesn't mean that she will have to accept it. Didn't you hear her say that she's inviting the rest of the crew too?
Jaejoong: But I can't stand it!!! I don't want her flirting with other men, with me around, or without me around... I don't want her talking like that to other men... PERIOD...
Micky: You're being unreasonable, hyung... It's all part of her work to work with all these crew from all walks of life... You can't blame her for having to go along with their harmless teasing, it's just teasing... It's not her fault... And furthermore, it's not like she's engaged to them... She already has you in her heart...
Jaejoong: I guess... But when I saw it, I just couldn't bear it... My anger just rose...
Micky: Just apologise to her later when you get back yeah... She doesn't deserve this...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Meanwhile...
I stood frozen at the spot. Unable to move an inch. Too shocked.
Max: Nuna... Are you okay?
Silence.
Max: Hyung was just being daft... It must be one of his bad moods again... Don't take it to heart...
Silence.
Max: Nuna...
I closed my eyes and swallowed hard and took a deep breath. I was shattered.
I didn't know what was happening at all. I didn't know why Jaejoong was moody. I didn't know what made him angry. Was it something I did? Or say? Was he too stressed from the filming of the much dreaded scene? I didn't know. But one thing I did know. The filming had to go on.
So I forced myself to swallow back my sorrow and tears and put on a brave front.
Kiki: I'm fine Max. Don't worry about me. I've gotta go and check on the rest of the cast now. Just stay around here. We'll be starting filming soon.
And I dashed off to the make-up area before he could say anything more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I busied myself with the other cast and didn't re-appear until they were all gone on set for filming. I stayed near the producer, and made sure they had no chance of talking to me at all. When the filming was almost done, I excused myself saying that I had to get back to office to settle the next day's materials, and left early. I didn't want to deal with the guys. And most of all. I didn't want to see Jaejoong. At least not for now. I felt very confused.
I got back to the office and started working like crazy with tomorrow's schedule, etc. After everything was done. I re-read the script. Again and again. I wanted myself to be able to envision the scene before it was filmed tomorrow, so that I would be mentally and emotionally prepared for it. Even though now I was even less prepared than before, after Jaejoong's sudden outburst before today's shoot.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Producer: Thanks for the hard work everyone!!! It's a wrap for today!!!
ALL: YEAH!!!
Max: Hyung, where's Nuna?
All of them looked around searching for Kiki.
U-Know: Weird... I thought I saw her beside the producer while we were filming?
Xiah: Yeah I hardly talked to her today. She was always beside the producer.
Micky looked at Jaejoong, who was frowning.
Micky: Hyung... I think you really upset her this time...
All of them keep quiet when they saw their manager walking towards them.
Manager: Guys... Let's head on back to the apartment now... Get some rest, cos tomorrow is the big scene!!! Especially Jaejoong...
All: Huh? What do you mean?
Manager: We're filming the love declaration scene for Jaejoong tomorrow... The girl who had been chasing him all this time, he will realise that he had actually fallen for her... And he will declare his love for her in the rain...
All: WHAT??!!!!!
Manager: Ha ha ha... Is that excitement I'm detecting from Jaejoong? Or jealousy from the others? Ha ha ha... You'll all get your chance... It's just Jaejoong's turn first tomorrow...
All five looked at each other and forced themselves to act normally.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Fifi: WHAT!!!!!???
Theo: Tomorrow is the love declaration scene and...
Fifi: It's stormy on the frontline for Jaejoong and Kiki...
Theo: U-Know, isn't there anything you guys can do?
U-Know: I'm afraid not...
Xiah: We don't even know where Kiki is now... We thought she'd come back here...
Max: But she's not even here... And she won't even take my calls... It's all your fault hyung...
Micky did a zip-it signal to Max. But it was already too late.
Max: You've drove Nuna away from us all...
Everyone looked at Jaejoong to see his reaction. He just kept quiet, staring at a fixed spot.
Fifi: *sigh* Let me try if she'll answer my call...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
*ZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzz*
My phone vibrated on my work desk. But I didn't hear it at all. I had fallen asleep from reading the script so many times and crying each time as I re-read it.
Theo: How is it? Is she answering?
Fifi: No answer...
Theo: Hey... You guys... I think you'd better go search for her... I'm kinda worried for her... She is in a foreign country after all... Jaejoong...
Silence.
Fifi was furious. She couldn't take it anymore.
Fifi: KIM JAEJOONG!!! YOU GET UP THIS MINUTE AND GO OUT AND BRING KIKI BACK NOW!!! OR EVERYONE HERE CAN FORGET ABOUT GOING TO BED TONIGHT!!!
With Fifi's screaming everyone started scrambling towards the door. Except Jaejoong.
Fifi: HEY!!! DIDN'T YOU HEAR WHAT I JUST SAID!!! GET OUT AND LOOK FOR HER NOW!!!
Fifi shouted into Jaejoong's ears, with Xiah trying to pull her away.
Xiah: Fifi, hyung's upset too. So don't be so harsh on him now... He knows he is in the wrong...
As random and sudden as his outburst, Jaejoong suddenly shot up from his seat.
Jaejoong: I'm going back to sleep, I've got a big shoot tomorrow. You can go look for her if you want. She's probably dining with her beloved crew members. Bye.
All: HYUNG!!!
Fifi: ARGH!!!! KIM JAEJOONG!!! IS THIS HOW YOU TREAT YOUR FIANCÉE!!!
Jaejoong carried on walking out, ignoring Fifi's screams.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Mianeyo guys... Mianeyo Kiki... I know you would want the filming to go on more than anything... So forgive me for not looking for you tonight... Mianeyo...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The big day...
I awoke in my office at 7am, to the sound of my handphone alarm ringing. It was Jaejoong's voice doing a morning call. How ironic...
I rubbed my eyes and realised that I had fallen asleep in the office. I looked at the time and dash off back to my apartment to take a shower before going to the filming location. When I reached my apartment, the guys had already gone back to their apartment, and the girls were sleeping on the sofa. I had no time to explain things to them, so I crept quietly into the bathroom to wash up and change my clothes before rushing off.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Jaejoong had woke up at 7.30am. He got up and started making breakfast for himself and the rest. Then he heard my apartment door open and close. He went over and peeped at the eyehole. Nothing. 15 minutes later, he heard it again. And there was also the sound of keys falling onto the floor. This time he dashed over and opened the door. I was locking the door and had dropped the keys in my absent-minded state. I was picking them up when he opened the door. My heart skipped a beat when the door opened. He looked at me, suddenly not knowing what to say. I avoided eye contact with him and buried my head in my bag, while I waited for the lift. Seeing me avoiding all eye contact with him, he felt his heart burn with guilt. He wanted so badly to apologise so that he could hug me in his arms. But something kept holding him back.
The lift came and I dashed in, and pressed door close, not wanting to give him a chance to say anything to me.
Jaejoong's thoughts: Mianeyo...
Monday, November 26, 2007
Possible names for Jaejoong & Kiki's kids....
1. MIKI KIM JAEMIN 金在敏 김개민 => F, god-father will be Micky Park Yoochun 秘奇 朴有天 믹키 박유천
Miki = flower stalk in Japanese
2. HUGO KIM GEOLHO 金杰浩 김걸호 => M, god-father will be U-Know Jung Yunho 瑜卤 鄭允浩 유노 정윤호
Hugo = bright in mind and spirit in German
3. JULES KIM JAESU 金在秀 김개수 => M, god-father will be Xiah Kim Junsu 細亞 金俊秀 시아 김준수
Jules = Downy in French
Also an American nickname for Julie, Julia or Julian.
4. MASUMI KIM GYEOLMIN 金洁敏 김개민 => F, god-father will be Max Choikang Shim Changmin 最强 沈昌珉 최강 심창민
Masumi = Beauty, True Purity in Japanese
Miki = flower stalk in Japanese
2. HUGO KIM GEOLHO 金杰浩 김걸호 => M, god-father will be U-Know Jung Yunho 瑜卤 鄭允浩 유노 정윤호
Hugo = bright in mind and spirit in German
3. JULES KIM JAESU 金在秀 김개수 => M, god-father will be Xiah Kim Junsu 細亞 金俊秀 시아 김준수
Jules = Downy in French
Also an American nickname for Julie, Julia or Julian.
4. MASUMI KIM GYEOLMIN 金洁敏 김개민 => F, god-father will be Max Choikang Shim Changmin 最强 沈昌珉 최강 심창민
Masumi = Beauty, True Purity in Japanese
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Super Junior - Marry U
Super Junior - Marry You
EunHyuk:
Love, oh baby my girl
You are my everything
My dazzlingly beautiful bride
You are a gift from god
We'll be very happy, your black eyes well up with tears
Even if your black mesmerizing hair turns white
My love, you my love, I swear I love you
SungMin:
Saying I love you is what I want to do the most everyday in my life
Ryeowook:
Would you marry me? I want to love you, treasure you, and live with you
Kangin:
I want you to lean on my shoulders each time you sleep
Heechul:
Would you marry me?
With this heart of mine, will you accept me?
KyuHyun:
To accompany you for the whole lifetime, I do
To love you, I do
Yesung:
Regardless of snow and rain, i will be there to protect you, I do
Let me be the one to protect you, my love
Rap
DongHae:
You wearing the white bridal gown
Me wearing the suit
Both of us walking in sync towards the stars and moon, I swear
No lies, no suspicion
My dearest princess, stay with me
SiWon:
Even if we are becoming older, we will smile and live on
EeTeuk:
Would you marry me?
Are you willing to live the rest of your life with me?
RyeoWook:
No matter how weary and tired we are, I do
I will always be by your side, I do
Yesung:
The days when we will spend together, I do
Everyday will my heart be thankful, my love
KyuHyun:
I have prepared this (ring) for you since a long time ago,
Please take this shiny ring in my hand
Yesung:
Just like the mood today, remember the promise that we're making now
Would you marry me?
SungMin:
To accompany you for the whole lifetime,I do
To love you, I do
Regardless of snow and rain, I will be there to protect you, I do
Let me be the one to protect you, my love
Rap
EunHyuk:
The only thing that I can give you is love
Although it's insignificant
Even though there are areas which I lack
I will protect the love between us, me and you
Let's make a promise, no matter what happens we will still be in love
And even so...
Background......
I do I will always be by your side, I do
The days when we will spend together, I do
Everyday will my heart be thankful, my love
RyeoWook:
Will you marry me? I do
English Translated Lyrics by: cherrrrryl @ bww2
The lyrics of the song is really suitable for marriage proposal. The music is gives off this fuzzy warm feeling in your heart. This is going to suit the theme for the when marriage comes into place... Hahahaha.... The songs just paints a picture where you are attending a wedding, beautifully decorated with white roses.......
EunHyuk:
Love, oh baby my girl
You are my everything
My dazzlingly beautiful bride
You are a gift from god
We'll be very happy, your black eyes well up with tears
Even if your black mesmerizing hair turns white
My love, you my love, I swear I love you
SungMin:
Saying I love you is what I want to do the most everyday in my life
Ryeowook:
Would you marry me? I want to love you, treasure you, and live with you
Kangin:
I want you to lean on my shoulders each time you sleep
Heechul:
Would you marry me?
With this heart of mine, will you accept me?
KyuHyun:
To accompany you for the whole lifetime, I do
To love you, I do
Yesung:
Regardless of snow and rain, i will be there to protect you, I do
Let me be the one to protect you, my love
Rap
DongHae:
You wearing the white bridal gown
Me wearing the suit
Both of us walking in sync towards the stars and moon, I swear
No lies, no suspicion
My dearest princess, stay with me
SiWon:
Even if we are becoming older, we will smile and live on
EeTeuk:
Would you marry me?
Are you willing to live the rest of your life with me?
RyeoWook:
No matter how weary and tired we are, I do
I will always be by your side, I do
Yesung:
The days when we will spend together, I do
Everyday will my heart be thankful, my love
KyuHyun:
I have prepared this (ring) for you since a long time ago,
Please take this shiny ring in my hand
Yesung:
Just like the mood today, remember the promise that we're making now
Would you marry me?
SungMin:
To accompany you for the whole lifetime,I do
To love you, I do
Regardless of snow and rain, I will be there to protect you, I do
Let me be the one to protect you, my love
Rap
EunHyuk:
The only thing that I can give you is love
Although it's insignificant
Even though there are areas which I lack
I will protect the love between us, me and you
Let's make a promise, no matter what happens we will still be in love
And even so...
Background......
I do I will always be by your side, I do
The days when we will spend together, I do
Everyday will my heart be thankful, my love
RyeoWook:
Will you marry me? I do
English Translated Lyrics by: cherrrrryl @ bww2
The lyrics of the song is really suitable for marriage proposal. The music is gives off this fuzzy warm feeling in your heart. This is going to suit the theme for the when marriage comes into place... Hahahaha.... The songs just paints a picture where you are attending a wedding, beautifully decorated with white roses.......
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Serendipity 奇缘 - Chapter 46
Chapter 46: Dinner plans cont'd
Micky called U-Know and Xiah to let them know that Jaejoong had made plans for dinner, and they had to get back home immediately to get dressed for the dinner as it was at Samwon Garden. They couldn't just stroll in in whatever they were wearing.
U-Know and Xiah brought Theo and Fifi back home to change, and made plans to meet up at 7.30pm to go to the restaurant together in Micky's car. It was a bit of a tight squeeze as there were 6 of them, and the guys were so tall...
But they all managed to reach Samwon Garden after a bit of a struggle in the car for 20 minutes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Earlier at 7.30pm...
Jaejoong and I reached the restaurant after a short drive. He helped me out of the car and as promised, passed me my clutches, and helped me walk towards the restaurant.
Samwon Garden was a first-class restaurant. The largest one in Korea, serving up to 1,200 people at a time. It has hosted distinguished guests from different countries because of the excellent food and distinctive Korean character. The decor is reminiscent of an old Korean house. All around the walls there are Korean antiques and everyday articles, while the wooden tables and chairs are made to look like traditional style furniture.
Once we were at the door, we had to take off our shoes, which meant that I didn't have to wear my heel anymore. I slowly sat myself down at the ledge and put down my clutches. By then, Jaejoong had already kneed down in front of me and helped me take my heel off. I smiled embarrassedly, as I was wearing only one heel, and other guests were looking at me. I tried to get myself back up to a standing position. He immediately kicked his own shoes off, and got up to help me get up.
Kiki: Thanks...
He replied with a sunny smile and helped me towards the private room that the waiter was bringing us to.
Once we were seated down, we sat on the floor, in fact I should say that we were kneeling, or rather he was kneeling. Cos my ankle was hurt, I was sitting on the mat with my feet on my side, injured ankle on the top. The waiter passed us the menu and spoke to us in Korean, which I couldn't understand at all, Jaejoong said something to him, and then he exited the room.
Kiki: What did he say?
Jaejoong: He was asking if I'd like to order first.
Kiki: Oh... Then what did you say?
Jaejoong: I said we'll like some tea first while we wait for the rest to come, before we order.
Kiki: I see... Yeah we should wait for the rest first...
I opened the menu to take a look. Everything was in Hangul. I closed the menu and pushed it towards Jaejoong.
Jaejoong: What's wrong? You don't like the food here?
Kiki: Erm no... I don't even know what they serve here... Everything's in Hangul... I can't read Hangul, remember?
Jaejoong smiled and moved himself next to me. He opened the menu and started explaining to me.
Jaejoong: Samwon Garden's specialities include Bulgogi (braised meat with traditional sauce and various seasonal vegetables), Kalbi (roasted ribs) and Naengmyun (cold noodles). What would you like to try tonight?
Kiki: Hmmm...
I thought hard, trying to imagine how each dish looked and tasted like. He leaned nearer and whispered into my ear.
Jaejoong: Bulgogi, Kalbi, Naengmyun, or... me?
I turned and looked at him in surprise. Then I pushed him away, he pretended to fall down onto the mat from my push.
Kiki: Stop playing... We're in the public now... Behave yourself...
Jaejoong let out a musical laughter, and sat himself up straight.
Jaejoong: It's okay... I know what you want...
Kiki: What?
Jaejoong: The last one...
Kiki: Hey... I didn't say anything...
Jaejoong: But I know... Cos I can read your mind...
Kiki: Aish~ I'm not going to respond anymore... You're driving me crazy...
Jaejoong: Nado... Dangsinege banhaetsseumnida... Urin cheonsaengyeonbuniya...
He looked at me and smiled lovingly. I looked at him blurly. Not understanding at all what he just said.
Jaejoong: Ha ha... I meant... Me too... I'm crazy about you... We're a match made in heaven...
Kiki: Wow... That sounds so...
Max: NUNA!!!!!!
Max's voice interupted our conversation. And the noisy and chaotic entrance of our 6 friends totally spoilt the feeling of romance in the room immediately. Yet again...
Max plunked himself next to me and made a whole spew of remarks on my attire. And just as he was going to move closer to me.
Jaejoong: CAREFUL MAX, HER ANKLE IS INJURED!!! DON'T BUMP INTO IT!!!
Immediately everyone's attention went from my attire to my injured ankle.
Fifi: Oh my gosh...
U-Know: How did you injure yourself like that?
Theo: Your ankle looks so swollen...
Max: How long is it going to take for it to heal?
Micky: What did the doctor say?
Xiah: Is it serious?
Their questions came one after another, before I could say anything.
Jaejoong: Guys and gals, if you ask her so many questions at one go, how do you expect her to answer?
Everyone looked down in embarrassment.
Kiki: It's okay guys... I met a drunkard when I was on my way to work, and silly me thought he needed help, and I got injured.
Max: You mean the drunkard attacked you?!!!!
Kiki: Oh no... Oh well... He almost did...
I looked at Jaejoong. He was looking depressed again.
Kiki: But... Jaejoong stopped him... So...
U-Know: What???!!! Jaejoong stopped the drunkard??? How come he's in the picture?
Theo: Yeah... How come he's there???
Fifi: Yeah... We all just saw him rush out of the house suddenly after you left...
Xiah: You mean... He ran off in a rush to go accompany you to work???
Kiki: No...
Micky: Then?
Kiki: He... I was already walking to work when he appeared.
All: HUH???
Jaejoong: I drove there to send her her coffee... That's all... Then I saw the drunkard about to attack her... That's when I came into the picture...
All: OOOOHHHH....
Micky: So it's "HERO" to the rescue... hee hee...
Kiki: Yeah... *giggle embarrassedly* sort of...
Fifi: What do you mean sort of? If he wasn't there, you wouldn't be here with just an injured ankle, okay...
Theo: Yeah... You'd better be thankful to your lifesaver from now on...
Kiki: I know...
There was silence in the room for a moment.
Max: Hey hyungs, let's order already... I'm hungry!!!
Everyone laughed at his timely announcement. And the five guys gathered to ponder over what to order. They spoke fluently and haphazardly in Korean pointing here and there on the menu. Finally they decided on what they wanted and called for the waiter to make their orders.
Fifi and Theo shifted themselves next to me and started grilling me on what had happened earlier.
Fifi: So what's the REAL story?
Kiki: What? That is the REAL story...
Theo: You're hiding something...
Kiki: No I'm not...
Fifi: And what's with the dress?
Theo: Yeah I didn't see it in your cupboard before...
Fifi: Jaejoong bought it for you didn't he?
Kiki: Yeah... he did...
Theo: Wow... what's the occasion... Making everyone dress so formally... And... U-Know said this place is not cheap...
Fifi: Is he going to pop the question tonight after dinner in front of all of us?
Kiki: I don't know... Don't ask me...
U-Know: Gals... what are you talking about? Is there anything you want to add to what we ordered?
Kiki: It's fine... You guys can decide... We're just talking about the restaurant...
Everyone looked at us suspiciously.
Jaejoong: Hey guys and gals, get back to your own seats now... Stop bugging Kiki already...
He got up and walked over and sat down at the seat next to me. I smiled thankfully at him for helping me escape from all the grilling.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After the all the dishes were served, and we were almost finished dining. Jaejoong got up.
Everyone looked at him when he stood up suddenly.
Jaejoong: Hey guys... I've got something to say...
My heart started to pound like mad.
Jaejoong: I know this may come as a surprise to everyone... But I think for me... I've been waiting too long for this... I hope that and know that all of you will be supportive in what I am going to do...
He got down to his knees and took my hand in his. I looked at him in surprise. And I stopped breathing for a moment.
Jaejoong: Jeorang gyeoronae juseyo...
I remembered from what he said earlier that what he meant was "Would you marry me?"... I didn't expect him to propose again in front of everyone.
Theo: What do you mean? Can you say it in English? Some people don't understand Korean here...
U-Know: Hyung meant... "Would you marry me?" He's asking Kiki to marry him!!!
Fifi & Theo: WHAT???!!!!!
Kiki: Ye... I will...
Jaejoong smiled and leaned towards me and gave me a soft kiss on my lips.
Jaejoong: Sarang hamnida...
He turned and looked at the rest who were still in shock.
Jaejoong: Okay... That's all I wanted to say...
Max: Hyung... Nuna... Erm... No... wait... I have to start calling you hyungsoo-nim... *giggle*
Kiki: Max!!! I told you not to call me that...
Max: I have no choice... Now that you really ARE my hyungsoo-nim... I HAVE to call you hyungsoo-nim... otherwise hyung will come n hit me...
Kiki: MAX!!!! Stop it now or I'll be the one coming over to hit you...
Everyone started laughing.
Jaejoong: Yeah Max... Stop teasing her, or you're going to get it... from both of us... You can still call her nuna if that's what she wants... I don't mind...
Kiki: That's better...
Jaejoong: As long as she lets me call her my yeobo...
Everyone started laughing again.
Kiki: Hey... Jaejoong... You're not making things any better...
Max: Okay... I'll call hyungsoo-nim, Nuna then... If that's what hyungsoo-nim wants...
Kiki: SHIM CHANGMIN!!! YOU'RE GONNA GET IT FROM ME!!!
I tried to get up, but I couldn't cos of my ankle.
Kiki: You're gonna get it when my ankle is better... As for now... Theo and Fifi... Help me get back at him!!!
Fifi: I can't... too lazy to move from my seat...
Kiki: FIFI!!! Okay... Theo... Help me...
Theo: Nah... I'm too tired from all the walking today to move...
Kiki: Aish~... Can't believe you gals...
Micky called U-Know and Xiah to let them know that Jaejoong had made plans for dinner, and they had to get back home immediately to get dressed for the dinner as it was at Samwon Garden. They couldn't just stroll in in whatever they were wearing.
U-Know and Xiah brought Theo and Fifi back home to change, and made plans to meet up at 7.30pm to go to the restaurant together in Micky's car. It was a bit of a tight squeeze as there were 6 of them, and the guys were so tall...
But they all managed to reach Samwon Garden after a bit of a struggle in the car for 20 minutes.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Earlier at 7.30pm...
Jaejoong and I reached the restaurant after a short drive. He helped me out of the car and as promised, passed me my clutches, and helped me walk towards the restaurant.
Samwon Garden was a first-class restaurant. The largest one in Korea, serving up to 1,200 people at a time. It has hosted distinguished guests from different countries because of the excellent food and distinctive Korean character. The decor is reminiscent of an old Korean house. All around the walls there are Korean antiques and everyday articles, while the wooden tables and chairs are made to look like traditional style furniture.
Once we were at the door, we had to take off our shoes, which meant that I didn't have to wear my heel anymore. I slowly sat myself down at the ledge and put down my clutches. By then, Jaejoong had already kneed down in front of me and helped me take my heel off. I smiled embarrassedly, as I was wearing only one heel, and other guests were looking at me. I tried to get myself back up to a standing position. He immediately kicked his own shoes off, and got up to help me get up.
Kiki: Thanks...
He replied with a sunny smile and helped me towards the private room that the waiter was bringing us to.
Once we were seated down, we sat on the floor, in fact I should say that we were kneeling, or rather he was kneeling. Cos my ankle was hurt, I was sitting on the mat with my feet on my side, injured ankle on the top. The waiter passed us the menu and spoke to us in Korean, which I couldn't understand at all, Jaejoong said something to him, and then he exited the room.
Kiki: What did he say?
Jaejoong: He was asking if I'd like to order first.
Kiki: Oh... Then what did you say?
Jaejoong: I said we'll like some tea first while we wait for the rest to come, before we order.
Kiki: I see... Yeah we should wait for the rest first...
I opened the menu to take a look. Everything was in Hangul. I closed the menu and pushed it towards Jaejoong.
Jaejoong: What's wrong? You don't like the food here?
Kiki: Erm no... I don't even know what they serve here... Everything's in Hangul... I can't read Hangul, remember?
Jaejoong smiled and moved himself next to me. He opened the menu and started explaining to me.
Jaejoong: Samwon Garden's specialities include Bulgogi (braised meat with traditional sauce and various seasonal vegetables), Kalbi (roasted ribs) and Naengmyun (cold noodles). What would you like to try tonight?
Kiki: Hmmm...
I thought hard, trying to imagine how each dish looked and tasted like. He leaned nearer and whispered into my ear.
Jaejoong: Bulgogi, Kalbi, Naengmyun, or... me?
I turned and looked at him in surprise. Then I pushed him away, he pretended to fall down onto the mat from my push.
Kiki: Stop playing... We're in the public now... Behave yourself...
Jaejoong let out a musical laughter, and sat himself up straight.
Jaejoong: It's okay... I know what you want...
Kiki: What?
Jaejoong: The last one...
Kiki: Hey... I didn't say anything...
Jaejoong: But I know... Cos I can read your mind...
Kiki: Aish~ I'm not going to respond anymore... You're driving me crazy...
Jaejoong: Nado... Dangsinege banhaetsseumnida... Urin cheonsaengyeonbuniya...
He looked at me and smiled lovingly. I looked at him blurly. Not understanding at all what he just said.
Jaejoong: Ha ha... I meant... Me too... I'm crazy about you... We're a match made in heaven...
Kiki: Wow... That sounds so...
Max: NUNA!!!!!!
Max's voice interupted our conversation. And the noisy and chaotic entrance of our 6 friends totally spoilt the feeling of romance in the room immediately. Yet again...
Max plunked himself next to me and made a whole spew of remarks on my attire. And just as he was going to move closer to me.
Jaejoong: CAREFUL MAX, HER ANKLE IS INJURED!!! DON'T BUMP INTO IT!!!
Immediately everyone's attention went from my attire to my injured ankle.
Fifi: Oh my gosh...
U-Know: How did you injure yourself like that?
Theo: Your ankle looks so swollen...
Max: How long is it going to take for it to heal?
Micky: What did the doctor say?
Xiah: Is it serious?
Their questions came one after another, before I could say anything.
Jaejoong: Guys and gals, if you ask her so many questions at one go, how do you expect her to answer?
Everyone looked down in embarrassment.
Kiki: It's okay guys... I met a drunkard when I was on my way to work, and silly me thought he needed help, and I got injured.
Max: You mean the drunkard attacked you?!!!!
Kiki: Oh no... Oh well... He almost did...
I looked at Jaejoong. He was looking depressed again.
Kiki: But... Jaejoong stopped him... So...
U-Know: What???!!! Jaejoong stopped the drunkard??? How come he's in the picture?
Theo: Yeah... How come he's there???
Fifi: Yeah... We all just saw him rush out of the house suddenly after you left...
Xiah: You mean... He ran off in a rush to go accompany you to work???
Kiki: No...
Micky: Then?
Kiki: He... I was already walking to work when he appeared.
All: HUH???
Jaejoong: I drove there to send her her coffee... That's all... Then I saw the drunkard about to attack her... That's when I came into the picture...
All: OOOOHHHH....
Micky: So it's "HERO" to the rescue... hee hee...
Kiki: Yeah... *giggle embarrassedly* sort of...
Fifi: What do you mean sort of? If he wasn't there, you wouldn't be here with just an injured ankle, okay...
Theo: Yeah... You'd better be thankful to your lifesaver from now on...
Kiki: I know...
There was silence in the room for a moment.
Max: Hey hyungs, let's order already... I'm hungry!!!
Everyone laughed at his timely announcement. And the five guys gathered to ponder over what to order. They spoke fluently and haphazardly in Korean pointing here and there on the menu. Finally they decided on what they wanted and called for the waiter to make their orders.
Fifi and Theo shifted themselves next to me and started grilling me on what had happened earlier.
Fifi: So what's the REAL story?
Kiki: What? That is the REAL story...
Theo: You're hiding something...
Kiki: No I'm not...
Fifi: And what's with the dress?
Theo: Yeah I didn't see it in your cupboard before...
Fifi: Jaejoong bought it for you didn't he?
Kiki: Yeah... he did...
Theo: Wow... what's the occasion... Making everyone dress so formally... And... U-Know said this place is not cheap...
Fifi: Is he going to pop the question tonight after dinner in front of all of us?
Kiki: I don't know... Don't ask me...
U-Know: Gals... what are you talking about? Is there anything you want to add to what we ordered?
Kiki: It's fine... You guys can decide... We're just talking about the restaurant...
Everyone looked at us suspiciously.
Jaejoong: Hey guys and gals, get back to your own seats now... Stop bugging Kiki already...
He got up and walked over and sat down at the seat next to me. I smiled thankfully at him for helping me escape from all the grilling.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
After the all the dishes were served, and we were almost finished dining. Jaejoong got up.
Everyone looked at him when he stood up suddenly.
Jaejoong: Hey guys... I've got something to say...
My heart started to pound like mad.
Jaejoong: I know this may come as a surprise to everyone... But I think for me... I've been waiting too long for this... I hope that and know that all of you will be supportive in what I am going to do...
He got down to his knees and took my hand in his. I looked at him in surprise. And I stopped breathing for a moment.
Jaejoong: Jeorang gyeoronae juseyo...
I remembered from what he said earlier that what he meant was "Would you marry me?"... I didn't expect him to propose again in front of everyone.
Theo: What do you mean? Can you say it in English? Some people don't understand Korean here...
U-Know: Hyung meant... "Would you marry me?" He's asking Kiki to marry him!!!
Fifi & Theo: WHAT???!!!!!
Kiki: Ye... I will...
Jaejoong smiled and leaned towards me and gave me a soft kiss on my lips.
Jaejoong: Sarang hamnida...
He turned and looked at the rest who were still in shock.
Jaejoong: Okay... That's all I wanted to say...
Max: Hyung... Nuna... Erm... No... wait... I have to start calling you hyungsoo-nim... *giggle*
Kiki: Max!!! I told you not to call me that...
Max: I have no choice... Now that you really ARE my hyungsoo-nim... I HAVE to call you hyungsoo-nim... otherwise hyung will come n hit me...
Kiki: MAX!!!! Stop it now or I'll be the one coming over to hit you...
Everyone started laughing.
Jaejoong: Yeah Max... Stop teasing her, or you're going to get it... from both of us... You can still call her nuna if that's what she wants... I don't mind...
Kiki: That's better...
Jaejoong: As long as she lets me call her my yeobo...
Everyone started laughing again.
Kiki: Hey... Jaejoong... You're not making things any better...
Max: Okay... I'll call hyungsoo-nim, Nuna then... If that's what hyungsoo-nim wants...
Kiki: SHIM CHANGMIN!!! YOU'RE GONNA GET IT FROM ME!!!
I tried to get up, but I couldn't cos of my ankle.
Kiki: You're gonna get it when my ankle is better... As for now... Theo and Fifi... Help me get back at him!!!
Fifi: I can't... too lazy to move from my seat...
Kiki: FIFI!!! Okay... Theo... Help me...
Theo: Nah... I'm too tired from all the walking today to move...
Kiki: Aish~... Can't believe you gals...
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