That Summer Song

#4 Shopping is Love

2009-01-24T20:36:00.000+08:00

She smiles to herself as she clicked through the virtual world, how can anyone resist this? - She asks herself. Shopping is simply Love (♥).

After the Jace Mall's skin, there was quite a number of requests for a more generic skin for suitable for everyone to use for blog shop.

Well, here's one more new design! Two different color schemes.

http://blogskins.com/info/242754

http://blogskins.com/info/242758

#3 Jace Mall

2009-01-24T19:09:00.000+08:00

Scrapbooking is just so addictive!

Here's one for Jace Mall, edited from my personal blogskin, took me hours to fix the images together cos I simply don't know which pictures to use. LOL!

http://blogskins.com/info/215112

I've removed the url for the images though cos my bandwidth exceeded due to inconsiderate downloaders. But it's still available for download, just need to edit the url for the images with the links provided at blogskins.

#2 Bus Stop Love

2007-11-25T01:54:00.000+08:00

When I closed my eyes, I remember all those days, so clearly as though they were just yesterday(s). The times when we were once all so young, uniforms, ponytail, backpack, etc.

Those days we spent together, waiting for the bus to come. It was those days that distance seem to have been the greatest tool for me and you.

Memories. Nostalgic. Unforgettable.

You?

It's just a serious case of missing you.

Click to view full sized pic

Available for download at: http://blogskins.com/info/167686

#1 Rainbow Loves

2007-10-28T00:00:00.000+08:00

It was a windy Sunday morning, as she skipped along the shore in her bright pink sun dress. Drawing on the sand with a long tree branch. Her long hair flowed with the breeze, it smelled of the sea, the sticky smell that lingers around even after a bath.

A tall figure came along, "Good weather to draw. But why isn't there a rainbow after the rain?" He asked.

Then, she turned around and smiled at him, said,

If there is no rainbow in the sky.
Then, let me draw you one.

.
.
.
.
.
.
.

How long do you reckon it would take to have another dream about you?

Click for view full sized pic.

Available for dl :)

Moved

2007-06-21T22:04:00.000+08:00

She said 'goodbye'

dawsd odihasi fihaidhasifh asdh dhaosdn adioahdashdla doahdo adiha ficnsdklnv icnalknc adcklanskf inacna lakndckdlans ncnaskfiv nckansf ihaincalk fncnalsfh aincan abcasn addaih cbxuq sfhsai adcadsdaijd iadja jabdcif opjaso pjcpa ado dawsd odihasi fihaidhasifh asdh dhaosdn adioahdashdla doahdo adiha ficnsdklnv icnalknc adcklanskf inacna lakndckdlans ncnaskfiv nckansf ihaincalk fncnalsfh aincan abcasn addaih cbxuq sfhsai adcadsdaijd iadja jabdcif opjaso pjcpa ado dawsd odihasi fihaidhasifh asdh dhaosdn adioahdashdla doahdo adiha ficnsdklnv icnalknc adcklanskf inacna lakndckdlans ncnaskfiv nckansf ihaincalk fncnalsfh aincan abcasn addaih cbxuq sfhsai adcadsdaijd iadja jabdcif opjaso pjcpa ado

dawsd odihasi fihaidhasifh asdh dhasdn adioahdashdla doahdo adiha ficnsdklnv icnalknc adcklanskf inacna lakndckdlans ncnaskfiv nckansf ihaincalk fncnalsfh aincan abcasn addaih cbxuq sfhsai adcadsdaijd iadja jabdcif opjaso pjcpa ado

admap mpamcapm pam orufe ao prg apovr phn lnbtpu waruon cij ijdcep bo ja hoafb fnierh cnknre.

:P

Tako Comic

2006-02-04T23:57:00.000+08:00

The Girl

2006-02-04T23:51:00.000+08:00

under the night sky
all alone standing by the bridge
i saw a girl across the road
whose eyes spoke of fear
with her trembling hands
she hugged herself
crying without tears
she let out a scream of help

the wind was still
the streets were quiet
but still i heard nothing of the scream
it was a silent scream
picking my my pace
i ran across the road towards her

then i saw lights coming from the streets
bright and dazzling
so bright that I lost sight of her
where did she go?
why did she cry?
that was all my mind thought of

five days long, she filled my mind
how is she doing now?
i asked myself
even when i knew wouldn't be an answer
if only i could reach out to her
and hold her tight

when night falls
i thought of her
alone standing by the road
looking lost and frightened
if only i could hold her tight
and stop her tears from inside

the sun rose
i sat up on the bed
hugging my legs with my hands
i stared into the mirror
and saw that girl
pale like a white sheet
with hair entangled

our eyes met and she turned away
it was then when i realized
all along she was with me
like a body and a soul
that can never be apart
simply because
i am her

珍惜

2006-01-27T23:54:00.000+08:00

因为失去，所以懂得珍惜。

因为失去了他，所以领悟了珍惜的重要性。

如果你失去你的他，你还会笑得出来吗？

会是真正的笑容，还是影藏着卑微的难过的笑容？

我好像再也笑不出来了。因为失去，所以只能自己安抚这个伤口。

就因为罪魁祸首是自己。

亲爱的妳，妳听见我的哭泣了吗？

现在我以一无所有，妳能陪陪我吗？

为了妳，我愿意学习珍惜。

只因为是妳。

Thee

2006-01-23T23:48:00.000+08:00

Praying as each day passed, each moment lost
Carefully not tripping down the tower
That I was trapped in
I reached for the birds in the sky
Crying for help
Despaired I was
My cries never reached you

Heavenly, the sun went down
Marking the end of the day
With the stars as my faithful companions
And the moon as my audience
I sang to my heart content
For the one I love deeply
About how much I missed thee

Yearning for hope
I laid myself down on the battered floor
As night fell
I said a little prayer
Asking if I could catch a glimpse of you
In my dreams
The land of fantasy

Learning that another day passed, a new day had began
Sitting on the bed filled with roses and jewels
Every girl's best friend
Streams of tears rolled down from my eyes
For these was not what I pursued
What I longed for was the
Love that was pitch black

Listening to the melodies of nature
My friend, the wind sent me a message
Saying the one I loved was safe and sound
Delighted I was
For fate had not fool me
So long as you are safe
Breathing the same air as me

If only I had fight for myself
Would I had broken this chain
That binds me to the tower?
Days and night
My mind was emptied
By the loneliness that embraced me
All I could remember was the name of thee

Sitting by the window ledge
With a glimmer of joy
My friend brushed my hair
And reminded me of the time
With my hands reached out
I counted the stars on the night sky
They were just as much as I missed thee

Chapter 6

2005-12-27T19:09:00.001+08:00

Chapter 6: Friends II

Part 1

Date: 21 October 2005 (2100) Friday

-Jericho's place-

Jericho slammed the door behind him and walked across the dark blue carpet in the middle of the room to switch on the lights. After washing up, he switched off the lights with his wet hand.

Lying on his bed, he stared deeply into the seven glow-in-the-dark stars were hanging down from the lamp as they swayed to and fro as the wind blew from the window at the side of his table. They were shinning brightly in shades of blue in the darkness.

When are you coming to hang the eighth star?

About three weeks ago, someone from home phoned him up. It was Aunt Suzanne panicking away at the other side of the phone, asking Jericho if he could do her a favor by taking care of her daughter, Samantha. It seemed that Samantha had an argument with her father and left home after packing some of her clothes. She did called home after one week and told her that she was doing fine. Then, she requested for a school transfer to a neighborhood school that was relatively near to Jericho's place.

Suzanne, Samantha's stepmother, helped with the paperwork for transferring of school. She was a kind hearted person who had always treated Samantha as her own. Samantha's father, Edward, was the Chairman of a pharmaceutical company. Being a busy man, he spent very little time with Samantha. This resulted in their strained relationship. Her mother thought it would be a good idea to let them cool their heads for some time. This was the only time that she did not return after more than a week had passed.

Where the hell are you, Samantha? Do I have to worry about you all the time? Jericho tossed over to his side on the bed.

Jericho, Karl and Samantha grew up together since young. He was an elder brother to them, always giving in to her and pampering her. She had always turned to him in times of trouble. Every time when she left home, she would stop by and visit him, bringing along a star to hang on his lamp on the ceiling. But this time Samantha did not come to him at all and she did not even leave a message to say where she was living.

Jericho sat up on his bed and walk towards the door. It's still early, Juan is working night shift tonight.

Date: 21 October 2005 (2130) Friday

-Siloso convenient store-

"Kassie! Can we get this as well?" Samantha asked.
Kassie walked back and tilted to her right, peeping over the selves. "I don't see why not?" She smiled as she replied to Samantha.

She looked over to the other side of the selves. Rachel was squatting looking for the tomato-flavored chips she wanted. Kassie shook her head and smiled. It was the first time she had seen Rachel so relaxed with a classmate. Rachel started bringing Samantha back home to play or do homework since a few weeks ago. Kassie liked Samantha. She had a feeling that this girl was special.

Then, there was a scream. Kassie followed the direction of the scream and ran back to Samantha. "What's wrong, Samantha?" Kassie asked as she turned round the corner of the selves, to see Samantha running to her back.

"Please help me brush that guy off." Samantha whispered.

A guy wearing a black coat with brown shirt and jeans started to approach them. Kassie's mind went blank. She bent her head down and began thinking of ways to deal with this. As her mind was running through. Rachel called out her name, "Kassie! What is going on here?"

The guy stopped as Rachel walked over to the girls. "Kassie?" he repeated.
"Who are you? What you want?" Kassie looked up and said without thinking. Then, she covered her mouth with her right hand, with widened eyes, she gasped, "Jericho?"

Samantha turned and walked towards the exit.
"Samantha, where you think you are going?" Jericho said as he walked forward and grabbed Samantha by the neck. "Do you know I have been searching high and low for you?"

"Who is this, Samantha?" Rachel asked.
"Wait, someone tell me what is going on here?" Kassie said.

"This young lady and this guy here are cousins." Juan said with a grin.
"Uh, hey, Juan. So you knew she was here. And you didn't tell me?" Jericho said as he gave Juan a light punch on the arm.
"Hi, Juan." Samantha gave a weak smile.

Rachel and Kassie looked at each other with bewildered expression.
"Hi, Rachel. Hi, Kassie." Juan greeted.

Jericho looked at Juan, "You know them too?"
"What do you mean by too? You know them as well?” Juan asked.
"Not really." Jericho replied.
"They are my saviors that time when I was sick. Remember? I fainted."
"Oh my god! So you are that stingy... I mean you are the Kassie that sent Juan to the hospital!" Jericho looked at Kassie.

After a while, all of them started laughing, leaving Samantha in confusion. Jericho explained himself for Samantha's matter. Kassie and Rachel eyed at Samantha.

"You actually didn't mention a word that you left home!" Rachel said.
"Sorry, Rachel." Samantha apologized.
"Well, that will mean no chips for you later." Kassie grinned. Samantha made a sulky face and smiled, she knew she was forgiven.
"C'mon, guys. Join us for movies at Kassie’s place. We rented some today." Samantha suggested.
Kassie's face turned pale. She had never invited people to her place. Samantha was an exception. Kassie turned to look at Rachel. It seemed that she was keen about this idea as well. Kassie looked up and realized that the guys were looking in her direction, waiting for an answer. Then she said, "Do join us, it'll be fun."

"Well, sound nice. You girls wait for me for a few minutes. I need to change out of this uniform." Juan said as he walked away, leaving Jericho with the girls.
"Sorry, Jericho. I just didn't want to bother you this time. And I've made new friends." Samantha said as she tucked her arm under Jericho's.
"I was so worried. And I almost died due to lack of sleep. Don't come near me, I'm still angry." Jericho said coldly.
"Aww... Jericho, forgive me. Please!" Samantha started pulling Jericho's shirt.

Kassie giggled at the sight of the two of them and turned to Rachel, "Doesn’t she look like a little kitten?"

Rachel nodded and let out a chuckle.

"Um, well... Let me take those for you." Jericho took the basket from Kassie and walked over to the counter to pay for the snacks.

-On the streets-

"Isn't this amazing? Everything coincides! First, Kas met Juan who fainted. Juan met up with me to return Kas her stuff. Samantha is my classmate, cousin of Jericho who Kas know and he is friend of Juan. It's a complete circle!" Rachel said in delight.

"Wait. One question. Where did you two get to know each other?" Samantha eyes cheekily at Jericho. Kassie looked down at her feet, pretending that she heard nothing while Jericho looked away.

Juan stared at Jericho. Then, he said, "Still as nosy as ever, Samantha." Jericho returned Juan a smile. Thanks Juan.

The five of them headed for Kassie's house, on their way, they teased each other with lots of jokes.

Date: 22 October 2005 (0200) Saturday

-Kassie's living room-

"Rachel? Samantha? Juan?" Kassie called as she shook them.
"Look like they won't wake up till tomorrow." Jericho said.
Shaking her head, Kassie stood up. "Yea."
"Need me to get Juan home? I can manage him but Samantha will have to stay. I don't have like four hands."
"Nah. Just let them sleep here. It must have been a tiring day for them. I better get some sheets down or else we will have three sleepyheads down with cold."
"Yes, please do so. Thanks."
"Anyway, if want any drink, just get them yourself, the kitchen is just around the corner.” Kassie said as she walked up the stairs to the second floor.

Jericho went to the kitchen and searched for some coffee. As he entered Kassie's kitchen, he was surprised by the tidiness, every cabinet was neatly labeled and there were tag-it notes pasted in an orderly manner on the fridge. There was a little window that linked to the living room. Just next to it was a table with a pot of cactus and a wooden photo frame.

Inside the picture was a little girl in a white dress with her hair tied neatly into two plaits. She was standing in front of an old lady, with both tiny hands holding on to those of the old lady. The background of the picture showed a big house that was painted milk color.

That house looks really familiar. Have I seen it somewhere?

Kassie came down and saw Jericho looking at the photo. "That was my grandmother and I. The picture was taken at my grandmother's employer’s house. She used to be a gardener. I always waited for her to knock off at the gates." Kassie said as she leaned against the doorway.

"This picture is beautiful. You two looked very happy." Jericho stood up straight. "Um... I couldn't find the coffee. There is no label for it."

"Oh, I placed them beside the coffee machine. I'll get it for you. Go get yourself a seat. It will be ready soon." Kassie said as she walked towards the coffee machine.

Jericho walked to living room and sat by the armchair nearest to the windows. The windows were all full length, with two layers of translucent white curtains pulled over. The beige corner sofa surrounded the deep brown wool rug with a white coffee table with display drawers rested on it in the middle. Inside the coffee table's display were lots of seashells and pebbles.

Kassie came into the living room with two cups in her hands and sat down on a cushion on the floor. "Here’s your coffee."
"Thanks. Still not sleepy?"
"Nope, I always stay up on Saturday night to do some stuff. How about you? Not tired?"
"I was bored at home. Was planning to drag Juan for coffee tonight until I saw her at Siloso." Jericho said as he looked towards Samantha's direction.

Samantha was tucking under the same sheets as Rachel while Juan was sleeping at the other corner of the wool rug, just beside the sofa.

"Does she run away from home a lot?" Kassie asked.
"Quite. But most of the time, she would return after a week or less."
"But it seems like she has no intention of returning this time huh? She has been hanging out with Rachel for the passed few weeks."
"Yea. I'm really shocked to see her with you. And the part that you were the one who sent Juan to the hospital that time." Jericho laughed.
"Me too. It's really crazy. Oh! I remembered something. Give me a couple of minutes." Kassie said as she ran up to her room.

Kassie started looking into her drawers, book selves and under her bed. Then, she started flipping every single photo albums she found, until she took out this lime green photo album, flipped to the last page and took out a photo.

She hurried down to the living room and saw Jericho fast asleep. Quietly, she took out one of the pebbles from the table's display and placed it on top of the photo. Then, reached for the remaining sheets that was left on the sofa and pulled it over Jericho.

She walked over her computer at the side of the living room and continued her unfinished work.

Part 2

Date: 22 October 2005 (1000) Saturday

-On the streets-

"Let's see, I think we should buy some eggs, flour and..." Juan said.
"Fresh orange juice too!" Samantha chipped in.
"Alright. As you wish, princess." Juan replied with a smile.
"Is it really okay to leave the both of them behind? We even took the keys." Rachel asked.
"Nah, it's okay. Don't worry, we are just out to buy something for breakfast, it's not like we aren't going back." Samantha answered.

While walking towards Siloso convenient store, they discussed on the shopping list. When they reached somewhere near the cross-junction, Juan told the girls to wait for him outside a bookstore as he need to buy something.

"Rachel, I think there is something bizarre between Jericho and Kassie." Samantha said when Juan went into the bookstore.
"I don’t know. I never heard Kassie mention him before."
"Hmm... Let’s find out..."

A lady in early 20's walked towards them. Her hair is black, pulled up into a ponytail. She was carrying a white umbrella and as she approached the girls, she whispered something.

"Never try to meddle with relationship of others. Once the thread is tied, nothing can break the bond. Once the thread is broken, nothing will be left. Things are meant to be this way..."

Rachel grasped Samantha's hand, "Did you hear what she said?"
"I didn't hear anything."Samantha shook her head. "Did she say something?"

Juan walked out of the bookstore. "Rachel, are you alright? Let's go."

Rachel turned back to see the lady who had walked pass them. The street she headed towards was straight without any turns, but she was nowhere to be seen.

Date: 22 October 2005 (1000) Saturday

-Kassie's place-

Jericho was woken up by the sound of a closing door. Before his brain started functioning, the door was locked, leaving him and Kassie locked in the house.

Jericho paced around the house anxiously and realized that Kassie had fallen asleep by the computer. She was sitting on her red armchair, falling forward with her arms cushioning her head on the table.

He walked over and kneeled down beside her. Then, he slid his arms under Kassie and carried her over to the sofa. After laying her properly on the sofa, he pulled the sheets over her and sat on the armchair next to it. The sunlight shone into the house and the pebble on the coffee table reflected the lights. He picked it up. Jericho stared at the photo in his hand for a few seconds before he slipped the photo into the pockets of his coat hanging by the door.

He leaned against the wall and looked at Kassie. Her face was clear under the sunlight. The house was filled with a sweet smelling scent, a familiar scent. Slowly, Jericho walked towards her and sat on the cushion. Kassie tossed and turned, with her eyes still closed, there was a clear stream of tears gliding down on her face.

Jericho moved closer to the sofa, "Hey, you okay?" he whispered.

There was no response from Kassie. Jericho reached for a piece of tissue and wiped her tears off. Just as he did so, Kassie opened her eyes. An awkward silence filled the living room. Kassie turned inwards to the sofa. "Sorry."

"No, no. I'm sorry." Jericho apologized.
"Bad dream." Kassie said.

Not knowing how to react, Jericho patted his right hand on Kassie's shoulder. "No worries. Everything will be fine cos you are not alone. You have Rachel, Samantha, Juan and me." Jericho smiled.

Kassie closed her eyes and whispered, "Thanks." Jericho let go of his hand and stood up. He opened the door and entered the balcony. With his right hand, he raised the cigarette to his lips.

After a long while, there was a series of laughter. Jericho looked up and he pointed towards that direction, "Finally. You are back!"

Jericho jumped at Samantha the moment she entered the house, "How dare you lock me in!!!"
"Stay cool, Jericho!" Juan pulled him back.
"Yea, we bought some stuff for breakfast." Rachel added.
"Shhh... Kassie is still sleeping." Samantha whispered.
"We need to prepare breakfast, people." Juan said.

Jericho snatched the food over and brought it over to the kitchen. "Before Samantha burns the kitchen down, I'll do it."
"I'll help him.” Juan offered.
"That would be great." Rachel said as she walked to the cabinet.
"Coffee, tea, or me?" Samantha joked.
"Exclude that last one. That is a bad choice." Rachel replied.
"Pancakes?" Juan asked.
"Yea... Okay..." The rest chipped in.

The bunch stayed in the kitchen with lots of laughter. Kassie lied quietly on the sofa. She took a quick look at the kitchen through the small window at the side and sank back into the sofa pulling the sheets over her. I'm not alone?

It has been so long since her house had been lively with laughter. Deep inside Kassie's heart, she was glad they were around. They were friends.

END OF CHAPTER 6

Chapter 5

2005-12-08T19:03:00.001+08:00

New character

Samantha is an 18-year-old new transferred student who is in the same class as Rachel. Coming from a rich and powerful family background, it is her father’s desire to groom her into a well-rounded lady. She has been taking music, drawing and martial arts classes since the age of 4. Due to Samantha's background, people shun at the sight of her. Whenever she gets into trouble, she will turn to her cousin, Jericho. She always wears a long necklace with a lilac crystal ornament that she keeps it underneath her blouse. This is yet another story of Samantha.

Chapter 5: Friends I

Date: 8 October 2005 (2200) Saturday

-At the beach-

"Samantha?" Rachel called out as she walked towards Samantha.
"Sorry to call you out at this hour."
"It's okay. What can I do for you?"
"Um... Actually, I have no idea. I'm just bored staying at the hostel. I haven't got to know anyone yet. The only one I know in school is you cos you are sitting just beside me." Samantha said as she hugged her legs.

Rachel looked around and found a guitar case beside Samantha. "Is that yours?"
"Yea." Samantha nodded her head.
"Sing me a song with it." Rachel’s eyes brightened.
"I can't sing. But I can play."
"Hmm... You play and I'll sing?"

"Sounds good." Samantha smiled as she took out the guitar.

As Samantha started strumming, her guitar she whispered the song title, "Take these wings."

Rachel nodded and sang....

"I found a sparrow lying on the ground
Her life I knew would soon be at an end.
I knelt before her as she made a sound...
And listened as she said, 'My friend, –

Take these wings and learn to fly...
To the highest mountain in the sky;
Take these eyes and learn to see...
All the things so dear to me.
Take this song and learn to sing...

Fill your voice with all the joys of spring;
Take this heart and set it free...

Let it fly, let it fly, let it fly...
Beyond the sea...'

I found another sparrow on the sand
A tiny bird whose life had just begun.
I picked him up and held him in my hand;
I smiled at him and said, 'My son, –

Take these wings and learn to fly...
To the highest mountain in the sky;
Take these eyes and learn to see...

All the things so dear to me.
Take this song and learn to sing...

Fill your voice with all the joys of spring;
Take this heart and set it free...

Let it fly, let it fly, let it fly...

Beyond the sea...
Beyond the sea..."

The girls sat by the shelter at the beach, looking at the stars above them. With one playing, one singing, they spent the night outside till dawn arrived.

Date: 9 October 2005 (0600) Sunday

-At the beach-

Rachel looked at Samantha who was leaning against the pillar of the shelter as she slept. Her hair was slightly reddish, long and wavy. Under her white jacket, she wore a t-shirt with graffiti prints and a pair of denim jeans belted with a sliver chain bearing metallic stars.

One week back, Samantha came as the new transferred student in her class. While the teacher introduced her to the class, her head was lowered all the time. For her self-introduction, all she said was, "My name is Samantha." That was all she said. She seemed temperamental, always staring into the blank in class all the time.

Then there was one day when Samantha walked over and asked Rachel, "Want some? I made them this morning." While she said these, she shoved her lunchbox filled with sushi towards Rachel. Her mood was pretty good that day and she chatted a lot with Rachel in school. That was how both of them started talking.

Rachel turned towards the sea, looking at the sunrise. The scenery was serene and beautiful.

Samantha woke up, rubbing her eyes. The big rising Sun shadowing Rachel, with her long black hair that was being blown by the gentle wind. She knew this girl was completely different from her with her family protecting her like a flower in a greenhouse. Allowing only the healthy sunlight to enter, creating a barrier for her from the coldness outside in the real world.

She was jealous of Rachel but she was attracted to her at the same time. Rachel was always smiling, gentle and thoughtful. Rachel was like the girl she wished she could be. For that reason, Samantha wished that her innocence would remain.

Date: 11 October 2005 (1600) Tuesday

-Jericho-

Jericho sat up from his bed and pulled open the black curtains he had. The room brightened up instantly. His room was painted pale blue, with curtains that were in shades of the navy blue. He had not bought a proper bed. He staked two mattresses together to form his bed. Beside his bed was a desk with a drawer where he kept all his lecture notes. His files and stationeries were placed on the desk and beside them was his laptop. The room was small but cozy.

He searched for his alarm clock. Gosh, I slept this long? He fell back onto his pillows and covered himself. He stared at the ceiling, the seven glow-in-the-dark stars that were hanged down from his lamp in a spiral way were swaying to and fro.

There was a cancellation of class in the morning, he got back home since 10 in the morning and there was nothing to do at all. And it was his off day from work as well. He scratched his head and stood up as he started packing his room that was messy due to his lecture notes flying off the coffee table.

Jericho changed into a simple white T-shirt and grabbed a brown jacket along as he closed the door behind him.

He walked on the streets with both hands stuffed in the pockets of his jacket. He turned at a few junctions and before he realized it, he was standing right in front of his regular hangout.

Date: 11 October 2005 (1700) Tuesday

-Kassie-

*melody tone on phone*

"Hey, Kas. I need you to help me do something." Marissa said over the phone.
"What is it?" Kassie asked.
"Can you make a trip to X-zone arcade at Parkway Plaza? We are going to do an article on it this month. We need some photographs. Since it's the youngster's hangout so I supposed it will be easier for you to get it done."
"Um... Okay. I'll give you a call later."

Kassie seized her big tote bag, dumped a couple of stationery for writing purposes, her orange notebook and camera in. Then, she opened her closet and picked on a white long sleeve turtleneck blouse and a pair of jeans. She took the pale blue scarf hanging behind the door and tucked her feet into her lime green sneakers.

It's getting colder.

She thought as she boarded the bus and took a seat in the last row. The cold wind slipped in through the window slit, hitting against her face as the bus advanced. This freshened up Kassie. She took out her orange notebook and started flipping through the pages.

Date: 11 October 2005 (1730) Tuesday

-X-zone Arcade, Parkway Plaza-

Kassie passed through the entrance and went over to the counter, explaining her purpose of visit to the staff. I haven't been to an arcade for such a long time. Now things look so different.
She walked around the arcade and took pictures of the popular games available there. Then, she found a crowd near the corner of the arcade. She squeezed her way through and got the front.

There were two guys standing in the middle of the crowd playing Dance Dance Revolution (DDR). It seemed like they were challenging each other. The music playing was fast and catchy. The guys danced to the rhythm with their feet following the arrows of left, right, forward and backward on the screen, at the same time, synchronizing their leg movements with appropriate hand gestures. As the dance approached the end, they guys shot a look at each other and posed with their index finger pointing at each other. The guy on the left lost by a few points. Everyone was cheering for the winner and some were shouting for a new challenger.

Then, a guy entered and placed his brown jacket on the supporting bar at the side. The lights were dim. Kassie could not see him clearly. The guy ran his fingers through the control panel to make a choice of the song.

He chose "Paranoia" and pressed the 'ENTER' button. The music started up and both guys started dancing, their feet in rhythm with the buttons shown on the screen. This time round, there were no arrows coming out at all. Still, the points are counting with the 'COMBO' as well. It was the invisible mode.

Kassie stood there, squeezing with the crowd, she felt like skipping to the beats as well but that would be weird and most of all, she was sent here for work. As the guys danced, she took out her camera and waited for the right moment to give a shot.

"1,2,3... There you go..." Kassie pressed the button just as the guys turned to the left, facing her. The flash went off and the crowds were caught in surprise by it. Most of them turned and stared at her. She apologised for the inconvenience caused to the others and quickly walked out of the crowd.

It took Kassie some time to adapt to the white lights outside the arcade. The bright lights from the arcade spilled into the entrance, enveloping it with a purplish glow. The air was filled with the smell of coffee beans from the café next door. Kassie promised herself that she would pamper herself with a warm coffee later. She took out her camera and switched it to the display mode to check on the photos taken. The last picture of the two guys playing DDR appeared.

With her right thumb, she pressed the zoom in button. Kassie continued pressing the left button till she had a clearer view of the face of the guy standing on the left, then she headed back into the arcade again.

There were whispers among the crowd. "Hey, that guy won again." Kassie squeezed her way in and tiptoed to see what was going on in the game. The guy on the left won again. She stared hard at the guy and tried to make out how he looked like. She gave up after five minutes. Her feet were screaming and protesting for a break. Just before her feet reached the ground, there was a shove among the crowd. Ouch!

Kassie stood in the middle of the crowd and chewed her lips. There was an intense pain piercing her right ankle. She struggled to get out of the arcade. The first thought that came to her mind was: Is it possible to make a claim from the company?

Then, she realised another problem facing her. How am I going to get home in this state? Facing the railing at the side, a shadow fell on Kassie. "Are you alright?" said a voice from behind.

"Uh... I'm fine. I think so." Kassie replied as she turned around to look at the man talking to her. It was still blur no matter how much she strained her eyes, she regretted forgetting her spectacles today. All she could see was a blurry figure of a man, with short hair, white shirt and a jacket that he hanged over his shoulders.

"I think you DO need some help, young lady." The man walked forward and gave her his hand for support and guided her. "I'll get you to the nearest taxi stand."

It did not take very long for the taxi to come for her turn, as she got into the taxi, the man bent down and said, "Take care, Kassie."

Kassie raised her head and looked at the guy. Then, she asked, "You mean you know me?" She pointed her index finger at herself.

"Not really. Just met you once."
"I'm sorry I can't see you clearly right now." Kassie said as she put her hands on her cheeks.

The man bent forward with his head at the eye level of Kassie. "I just thought you looked like someone else cos of your scarf. I'm..."

Kassie blushed, as the man bent down. His face was so close to hers. It looked really familiar. "Jericho?" she whispered just in case she got it wrongly. She was never good with remembering people.

"Yea. Glad you remember," he replied. "I'm sorry I can't send you back, I have something on. C'mon, give me your phone."

Not knowing what to do, Kassie obediently handed him her phone, she heard him pressed some buttons from the sound of the keypads.

"Done," Jericho said as he returned the phone to Kassie. "Be sure that you take extra care of your leg. It swelled quite a bit. Send me some text once you get home." Kassie nodded her head as Jericho shut the car's door.

New character

Karl is an 18-year-old college student majoring in science. He is the younger brother of Jericho. Unlike Jericho's bold attitude, Karl is a more reserved guy who works in a well-organized manner. Being a very thoughtful guy, he always puts the well being of others before his. Karl likes going to the Four Friends' Pub and spends his time watching people dance, drink and talk. However, he never orders any alcoholic drink. As Jericho is living by himself at the apartment near college, Karl often makes a trip over to meet up with his brother once in a while.

Date: 11 October 2005 (1945) Tuesday

-Vandaria Park-

Jericho walked swiftly up the flight of stairs around the corner of Vandaria Park, and took out his phone to read the time. I wonder if has anything cropped up over his side.

The sky was already darkening. The lampposts and the trees were casting a long shadow on the pathway. In the middle of the park, there was small sculpture of a little girl holding a vase filled with lilies in her arms.

"Over here, Jericho!" there was a guy's voice calling from behind. Jericho turned around to see a bald tree beside it, there was a bench and a guy in navy blue jacket.

"There you are. I had a hard time searching for this place," Jericho asked as he fished in his jacket for a cigarette. He wedged it loosely between his lips, and then angled his head to light it with the click of his lighter.

"You are still smoking this much? Reduce a little for a bit," said Karl.
"So what's it that you want to talk about? I thought you are supposed to come next week?" Jericho simply ignored Karl's comment.

"How is she?" Karl asked as he lowered his head and scratched the back of his neck.

Jericho straightened his back and leaned against the bench. He looked up at Karl and said, "No idea. Still M.I.A. If you are so worried, why not try giving her a call or what?"

Putting both his hands on his neck and leaning against the bench, Karl replied with a weak smile, "Like it'd work..."
"Everything will be fine. Let's go catch something to eat. I'm starving. Haven't eat anything since this morning." Jericho said as he patted his right hand on Karl's shoulder.

Jericho stood and walked towards the flight of stairs. "Let's go, what you doing? There is this new restaurant nearby. My treat. I've just gotten my salary," Jericho smiled.

Date: 11 October 2005 (2030) Tuesday

- Blujaz Restaurant-

Jericho pushed open a heavy swing-door and led the way into a little restaurant with bare wooden tables and candles stuck into Chianti bottles. There were sepia photographs on the wall. Karl followed in.

They settled down on a table by the side of the window. A waitress in jeans took their order and headed to the little window that linked to the kitchen. Karl took a slip of the water and said, "You aren’t planning to stay here forever huh?"

With his right hand resting on the table and the other on his lap, Jericho shook his head, "Who knows?" He paused and continued, "Look, I'm doing well right now. I'm satisfied with what I have right now. So let's just leave it this way."

He looked out to the window, the streets are buzzing with crowds again. The lights from the shops opposite the road shone brightly and he saw this girl with reddish long hair walked pass the window.

"But... You ought to know..." Before Karl could finish his sentence, Jericho stood up and ran out of Blujaz.

He stood in the middle of the pathway, to catch his breath as he turned his head left and right and scanned through the crowds. Where is she!? Unwillingly, he walked back into the restaurant and saw Karl eyeing at him.

"What happened?" Karl asked.
"Nothing. I just thought I saw someone. C'mon, let's eat. It won't be nice to get home too late," Jericho replied.

END OF CHAPTER 5

Chapter 4

2005-12-08T18:59:00.001+08:00

New Character

Amy is a 19-year-old college student, classmate of Kassie. She finds ice cream and kiwis irresistible. Although Amy is, in reality, a very sweet and innocent girl, people never thought of her that way. Perhaps it is because of the pranks that she used to play on others around her during her middle school days. As a school badminton player, she is athletic and excels in both academics and sports. However, she has the bad habit of throwing tantrums whenever she loses. At night, when she cannot sleep, she often gazes at the stars, wondering where her destiny lies.

Chapter 4: Recollections

Part 1

Date: 7 October 2005 (1000) Saturday

-Library-

Kassie's eyes screened through the crowds to look for a girl with long hair, wearing a pink sweater. This morning, she received a phone call from her classmate, Amy, screaming for help. After a while, she found Amy standing at the left corner of the entrance of the library.

"Amy, what is it that you want to see me urgently?" Kassie asked while trying to catch her breathe.
"You are my best classmate, please help me with the assignment?” Amy reached out both hands and grabbed Kassie into the library.
"It seems like I don't have a choice, do I?" Kassie replied as Amy pushed her.
"I know you would help me!" Amy smiled.

Amy and Kassie found themselves a table where they sat down and work on Amy's art assignment. She had not started on the literature study explaining how did she derive her art piece, she never liked the idea of writing on how inspirations came about to motivate her to draw.

Kassie looked at what Amy had drawn, a picture of many distorted sacred buildings overlapping each other. The bell tower formed the frame of the picture, temples with eyes, robotic Buddha, etc.

She is such a simple and sweet girl and yet she always goes all out to bully me. How on earth did she even come up with these things? I really can't understand her.

Amy gave a weak smile, "So can we do anything about explaining these?"
"Why not? In fact, I already have an idea right now!" Kassie grinned.

The girls exchanged their glances and got down to work very quickly. Within just 2 hours, they were done with the literature research of assignment.

"Yay!!! We are done with it. Kassie, I love you!" Amy jumped at Kassie, almost knocking over the chairs.
"Um... Your love will be unrequited." Kassie joked.
"Let's go for lunch. My treat." Amy winked.
"That will be great as compared to your love..." Kassie said as she started packing her belongings.
"Let me go to the restroom first, I'll catch up with you at the entrance." Amy said.

As Kassie was walking out of the library, down the stretch of stairs that linked to the main streets of the road, Kassie heard someone called out for her

"Kassie!" A guy called out.

She turned around and saw Juan. He was heading in the opposite direction as them. He was walking into the library.

"Hey, how are you? What are you doing here?" Kassie asked.
"Oh, returning some overdue books."
"My classmate and I are heading for lunch, want to join us?"
"Classmate? Where is she?"
"Oh, that girl with really long hair, in pink sweater."
"Nah, I think not. I need to do some work as well and I don't want to disturb you girls." Juan said with a smile.
"It's okay. Next time then. I will introduce you two." Kassie said as she started walking to Amy, waving good-bye to Juan. Juan merely gave a smile as he waved good-bye to Kassie.

As she reached the bottom of the stairs, she saw Amy coming down the stairs with a blank expression. Kassie walked over to her. "Amy? Amy, are you alright?"
"I'm okay. Just a little tired." Amy replied weakly.
"I think you ought to get home and rest. You looked tired."
"Thanks, Kassie. I can get home myself. Sorry, I'll treat you another time."
"Nah, it's okay. I'll walk you to the bus stop."

Kassie walked Amy to the nearest bus stop and waited for Amy to get on her bus before heading home by foot, which is a 15 minutes walk.

Date: 7 October 2005 (1230) Friday

-Kassie-

Hugging her big tote bag, Kassie ran along the streets, causing her bangles to rattle noisily. As the clouds gathered at the center of the sky, the streets went dark, as if the sun had been taken over by them. Kassie ran faster and faster.

As she started to get short of breath, she did not pay attention to her surroundings and tripped over a crack in the ground. Her tote bag dropped and everything inside fell out, including her orange notebook. She reached for her notebook and held it tight, looking up at the sky that was filled up with dark cloud. Drops of rain started falling.

She sat in the middle of the emptied street where everyone had left for shelter. The droplets of rain fell on her, and the pale blue scarf she was wearing changed into a color of a darker shade.

A figure came over and then the rain stopped hitting on her. There was a girl with big eyes, long lashes and curly hair that she pulled back into a ponytail, carrying a white umbrella over her.

"Are you okay?" The girl asked.

Kassie nodded her head. The girl looked at her and said, "Then, don't sit here and block the way!" Kassie was shocked by what she had said and it made no sense to her. Kassie stood up abruptly after she picked up her things lying on the floor.

The girl led her to a bus shelter and left shortly.

After Kassie got home and took a shower, she hid into his blankets and covered her ears. Thunders… I don't like them.

Raining days always set her mind blank. The day that she lost her grandmother was also a rainy day, a car skidded off the driveway and knocked into her grandmother. That day was her birthday, her grandmother went out to get her a birthday present while she was in school.

On her way to the hospital when she received the news, the thunder accompanied her. Her grandmother’s suffered from a severe head injury and died minutes after she was sent to the hospital. All she left Kassie with was her leather watch.

Kassie dozed off on her bed, under the sheets, holding her orange notebook. Kassie never forget the day she lost her.

Date: 7 October 2005 (1400) Friday

-Amy-

Amy walked up to her room and dropped everything under her table, as she fell flat on her bed.

What a coincidence…I guess he hasn't seen me.

She saw someone at the entrance of the library. She walked pass him as fast as she could to avoid being seen. It was someone that she had not seen for more than a year. She thought that after moving away, she would never see him again. She would never have the courage to face him anymore.

That August night when Amy left, it was raining so hard that the road was blurry. The wind was blowing so hard that it merged with the sound of her cries. She never dared to look back for the fear of seeing his eyes filled with tears and that she would change her mind again. He was crying, even though he said he would not. Amy knew he was. She never forgot the day she made him cried last year in mid August. She never liked August.

Amy sat up from the bed and pulled the drawer of the dressing table beside her bed open. She took out two red capsules from the pink pill case and popped them into her mouth. She closed her eyes as she lay on her bed. Have you forgotten about me?

Part 2

Date: 7 October 2005 (1700) Friday

-Andrew-

Carrying a backpack on his left shoulder, Andrew headed towards the bus stop. He boarded the bus and took a seat by the window on the second last row. He looked out the window and saw the bridge across the road.

It has been a while.

How could he have forgotten the times when they always traveled to school by the same bus? It was the best time of the whole of his 13 years of life, where Rachel and Kassie were both around. The girls would always go to the last row for seats and forbid him to join them in the last row, where he would take the row in front of them and listened to their whispers and giggles. He had always followed them in everything they did. Now, he had to find out what he wanted to do himself.

Kassie always had her way of doing things, being calm all the time. There was never once he had seen her cry. She was a strong girl and yet the only thing she was afraid of was... He looked out the window and stared far. When was it that time?

Kassie cried in his arms, she kept repeating her words. "I don’t want it..." He let her cried on his chest, after some time, she quiet down and looked up at him while she rubbed her swollen eyes. "It's our secret, don't tell anyone. Promise?" He nodded.

There was a period of time when she was always looking lost. It was only until a few weeks later that he knew what exactly happened. There was a guy in school who was very close to her and it was rumored that he liked her. It seemed that she rejected the guy and he migrated to another country with his family after that.

He had never told her how much he liked her, for the fear of seeing her tears. Her tears were like knives that went right through his heart. He had no stand to even fight for her, for the fact that he was six years younger than her. Ever since after the day he saw her cried, she started avoiding him. It was as if she read through his mind that night. He understood Kassie's answer for him. Between them only the relationship of siblings held. She did not need him as a guy to protect her.

As his thoughts flowed, the bus passed by the bridge. It was the bridge where he found his half sister, Kassie. It was last year when he decided to move over to Uncle Ben’s place to study in western California. He wanted a change in his life.

The orange light emitted from the sun was reflected by the windows of the shops around the street, with the droplets of water from the rain earlier sparkled like little jewels on the streets, he set off just like he did a year ago, with only the orange light from the sun accompanying him on the journey.

She didn't turn up in the end, she really haven't change at all. Kassie, you idiot.

He looked out to the window of the bus, the water droplets remaining on the buildings along the street were evaporating, the sparkling was gradually lost, just like the day he saw Kassie crying on the road, under a lamp post, her tears that were sparkling then dried. He would never forget the night Kassie turned to him for the first time and the last time.

Date: 7 October 2005 (2200) Friday

-Juan-

Juan looked out of his window while lying on the bed. The sky was red, the rain showed no sign of stopping at. He closed his eyes as he hugged his pillow. He started recalling the special girl, the girl he saw this morning...

Did you really hate me so much? Amy?

Juan knew Amy seven years ago when Amy entered the same middle school as him. They were both committee members of the sports club. Juan was the President of the club while Amy was the Vice-President. They were good friends and good partners. They worked hard together with the other 21 members in events like Sports' Day, Cross-country, basketball tournaments, netball tournaments and captain's ball competition.

Juan was a reliable President, always calm when making decisions, planning of meetings and scheduling works for everyone. Amy, being the thinker, would brainstorm on new ideas and was in charge of contacting sponsors for events. Everyone in school thought they were the most compatible couple in school and that someday they would end up together but they never did. Both of them had their respective relationships at that time.

Soon, Juan graduated and left the school. A few years later, Amy too, graduated, leaving the club to the able hands of their juniors. Without them, the club toned down for a bit. Juan and Amy were always cracking jokes to liven the spirit of everyone. Those were the days.

It was until one day when Juan met Amy on the streets and they went for coffee together. That was how they reunited. Ever since then, they would meet almost everyday at noon for lunch.

It was a Saturday, a sunny afternoon, they were trying to cross the road to get to the food court at the opposite side. Amy was not paying attention, a car speeded and went passed her. Juan grabbed her back just on time, if not the consequences would be awful.

"Just in case you spaced out again, I'll pull you back." Juan said as he held her hand for the first time after half a year of meeting everyday for lunch. He was looking straight in front while saying that. Amy's long hair flew as the wind blew, covering her face from Juan while she was blushing. That was how they got together.

Juan never popped the question - "Would you be my girlfriend?" After knowing each other for so long, they understood each other and there was never once they argued. Some times, Amy would come by his place and stayed overnight and accompanied him. When she was in a good mood, she would offer to prepare him dinner at home.

"I'm home!" Juan addressed his return as he opened the door.
"Welcome back." Amy replied.
"What are you watching, dear?" He asked her as he tumbled on the bed.
"A show on ice hockey." She was sitting on the floor while watching television.
"Is that interesting?" He put his arm around her neck and hugged her close.
"Not too bad. It's quite exciting."
"Really?" He said as he blown air into her ears.
"That tickles..."

Amy turned around as she put her arms around his neck. For a long time, she stared into his eyes and did not say a single word. Juan pulled her closer, placing his hands around her shoulders and cuddled her.

"Dear, I'll never let go of you." Juan whispered.
She looked up at him. "Why?" She asked.
"Cos you are the most important person to me." He answered as he finger-combed her fringe to one side, revealing her forehead.
"Why am I the most important person?"
"Cos I love you." He kissed her forehead.
"Why do you love me?"
"No reason. You have lots of questions tonight eh?"
"Why is there no reason?" She ignored his question.
"Cos I just love you as who you are."
"Really? Not a single reason at all?"
"Okay... Let me think, well probably cos you are pretty and silly too." He smiled. Amy said nothing and hugged him back tightly, laying her head on his chest.
"Never let me go, Juan." She said after a while.
"Yes, madam!" Juan replied with a smile as he embraced her with his arms.

Juan was ecstatic. He could hardly believe that he would one day, get to hold the girl of his dreams again. Someone who belonged to him, who would love him with all her heart and soul. Someone who would always place him as the first priority in her life, always welcoming him home with her beautiful smile. He felt like the world most fortunate man. He even planned on their future, the house they would stay together in, get married when he had gotten a stable job, buy a car and so on…

Like people had said, good times never last. After three years of being together, Amy finally said these words, "Are we really together?"

"Aren't we?" Juan replied confusingly.
"You never asked." Amy said as she turned away from Juan's face.
"But you know how I feel about you!" Juan raised his voice.
"Thank you for loving me for these 3 years." She said coldly.
"Dear, what are you saying?" Juan reached out to her hand, pulling her back and hugged her. Amy did not resist. Instead she dropped the handbag she was holding on to and hugged him back.

"Juan, don't cry." She whispered into his left ear.
"I'm not crying. Can't we stay as what we are now?" His eyes were filed with tears.
"You know me, Juan. I don't want this, all I want is freedom."
"But isn’t there any ways we could work it out?"
"Seriously there was nothing wrong with you. The fault lies with me. I couldn't commit to you. I used to be strong and independent. But when I'm with you, I turned into a kitten. I start to panic whenever you are not around. I feel so scared and sad all the time. I was so committed to you 2 years ago. But you didn't respond to it. You never asked me." Amy said as her tears streamed down her cheeks and fell on Juan's shirt.

"I'm sorry I took you for granted. But Amy, I love you. Please..." Juan started to tremble.

"Please let me go, Juan."

Juan's hands fell from Amy’s shoulders. Amy turned away, heading for the door, never turning back. His vision blurred as he watched Amy walk to the door. Her every footstep was like a knife, plunging into his heart repeatedly. His heart sank as the door slammed shut. Unable to control his emotions anymore, he cried, perhaps for the last time in his life. Amy did not want him to cry, neither she wanted to stay with him. He always gave Amy what she desired as he did not want to see her disappointed face. This time was the same.

To someone who she loves, the girl would say, "Never let me go." And to someone who she does not love, the girl would say, "Please let me go." These words came from the same girl to the same guy. The only difference was that one was when she loved him, the other one was when she decided to stop loving him. Ever since that night, Juan had not seen Amy at all.

That night when Amy left, the rain was falling heavily, as if it would never stop. Just liked tonight’s rain. Juan buried his head under the pillows and closed his eyes as he tried to soften the sound of the rain ringing at his ears, the sound that he would never forget.

END OF CHAPTER 4

Chapter 3

2005-12-08T18:55:00.001+08:00

Note: This chapter is collaborated with Kevin (also known as Lazy).

In blue: Kevin

In purple: Jewl

Chapter 3: The Surprise

Date: 3 October 2005 (0700) Monday

-Jericho-

Jericho opened his sleepy eyes and sat on his bed. His face was covered with droplets of sweat at the side. He used his palms and placed them on his face, falling back on his bed. It was that dream again. The last time he had this dream, it was 5 years back. Why did it come back now? He stared at the ceiling for a long time and then something broke his chain of thoughts.

*Melody song on phone...*

Jericho answered his phone and whenever this happened, he would go missing for a few days. Nobody would be able to get through his number. It would appear as though he disappeared into thin air. He rushed into the washroom, packed some stuff into his green sling bag and ran out of house.

As he ran through the morning crowd on the streets, he noticed a girl with a pale blue scarf and black top, along with black long skirt running towards him. He stopped and turned himself sideways to give way to her. As she ran passed him, a sweet scent seemed to diffuse all over the air around him. She turned and smiled at him, as though it was a form of appreciation for giving way to her.

Jericho turned around and continued running. As he ran, he disappeared into the crowd and from this town.

Date: 6 October 2005 (1730) Thursday

-Rachel's house-

"Rachel! Could you please come over for a moment?" Rachel's mother, Jessie called out.
"Yes? Mom, what is it?" Rachel replied as she walked into the kitchen.
"Will be nice and go out and buy some eggs? We ran out of them."
"Aww... Mom, I'm busy doing my homework now. I..."

Kassie, who was with Rachel in her room, came along and interrupted, "Aunt Jess, I'll go get it. I need to stock up my fridge too. And I owe Rachel a favor too." She said as she winked to Rachel.

Kassie put on her coat and headed for the Siloso convenient store at the end of the street. Her mind was all occupied by work related stuff. She had never really cared about school stuff, often skipping classes and only appeared when there were quizzes or exams. Her teachers could not do anything about it because somehow her results were good.

As she walked, she jotted the things she needed to buy in her orange notebook with a pen she put inside the pockets of her coat. She entered the store, got herself a small basket and started looking for things she needed from the list that she made on the way here.
"Eggs, milk, cheese, orange juice… What's next? Erm... let me check." She whispered to herself, and as she struggled to get her notebook out.

Then, her notebook dropped out of her pocket. A man approached her and picked it up for her. She looked up and thanked the man. As she turned around to continue shopping, she felt a pat on her shoulder. She stopped and turned around. It was the man from before. He smiled and said, "Hi, Kassie."

She was shocked that someone from the store actually knew her. "Oh, hi. But I'm sorry. Do I know you? Maybe my memory is failing but I couldn’t recall."

"I'm Juan. The one who fainted, remember?"
"Oh, it is you! So you are working here eh?"

"Yea, I'm doing part time here. Is there any other things you want to get, I can help you with it. I just knocked off"

"Oh sure, I need these." Kassie said as she showed Juan the list of items on her notebook.

After paying for all the things, they made their way out of the store to the main road. Kassie asked Juan. "So how's you flu? Recover totally? Don’t faint on me again, I wouldn't have the energy to get you to a hospital again."

Juan laughed. "I won't faint again." After which they part their ways at the T-junction. Kassie went left, and Juan went right.

-At Rachel's place-

"Aunt Jess! I've gotten eggs for you..." Kassie shouted at the doorway.

A tall and unfamiliar figure walked out and opened the door. Kassie got the shock of her life and almost dropped everything that she was carrying.

"Kassie, I'm back!" Andrew said as he hugged Kassie.
"Oh my god, you have grown taller again, haven't you? Why didn't you give us a call or anything?"
"I wanted it to be a surprise."
"Yea, congrats. You caught me. Anyway, I'll just leave the eggs with you. I have to get back and do something."
"Aww... Kas, but I came back can't you stay a while?" Andrew sulked.
"Tomorrow, okay? I won't be having any class." Kassie smiled.
"Promise?" Andrew asked.

He is still a kid after all.

"Yes, promise." Kassie said as she turned and walked towards her apartment.
Andrew stood at the doorway and visually sent Kassie back home. "She's still the same isn't she, Rachel?"

Rachel had been standing behind Andrew, "She has never changed."

-Kassie-

Kassie entered her house and leaned herself against the closed door. Andrew is back. She lied. She had nothing to do on hand currently. She just simply put it as an excuse to get away from Andrew.

She put her things down and placed them properly in the fringe and cabinet. She sat on the kitchen floor and cuddled herself. After more than an hour, she decided to go for a stroll instead. She took her coat and headed out.

Date: 6 October 2005 (2300) Thursday

-At the Tiffany's Bar-

Completely drained and exhausted, Jericho shuffled his feet slowly through the night.
Getting late… and there’s not only class, but work tomorrow. I also had to deal with that today.

Letting out a deep sigh of tiredness, he sauntered his way past the empty street. There he saw it. Like a message from heaven, its flashing sign called out to him from the divine word of God:

Tiffany’s Bar

Widening his eyes as far as they could go, Jericho gulped. His throat now screamed to be filled, his insides desired to have alcohol within them after such a day.

Swinging open the doors, he looked around inside the establishment. Sullen, drunken people all lowered their heads, drowning their sorrows and miseries with a mug or shot or glass of sweet ambrosia, intoxicating oblivion. Jericho lightly bounded to a stool at the counter of the bar, a smile forming across his features. Before he was tired, and now he was anxious.

With a light rapping of his fist at the counter, he gingerly said to the bartender, "Corona please."

Kassie pushed the door and entered the bar. It was filled with the smell of cigarette and alcohol. She took a seat beside a guy who was smoking. "Can I have Skyy Blue please?"

She took a sip of it and rested her head on her arms resting herself on the bar top, staring deep into the cup of Skyy Blue she ordered. She took a peep at the man beside her and saw the necklace he wore on his wrist. Beautiful eyes he had, sadly it was hidden behind a pair of spectacles.

She figured out that necklace probably don't belong to him. She looked at her leather watch. Somehow, this stranger beside her is similar to her.

Taking a long hard drink, Jericho suddenly noticed a girl sitting next to him, ordering a drink. Erm… Why would she sit next to me? There's plenty of open seats anywhere else. With a shrug of his shoulders, he took another swig of his beer and raised the cigarette to his lips.

Carefully, he shied his eyes over at her, hoping not to get her attention. She had long, flowing, shoulder length, raven hair that framed her heart shaped face. It even shimmered in the dull lighting of the bar. She had wide, doe-like eyes. They were not the kind of eyes that a naïve person would have, rather, they were wide and shining with a certain mystery to them. They wanted to show everything and nothing about this girl at the same time. Her skin was a fair, tanned complexion.

Jericho's ogling stopped, as he realized that the ash from his cigarette had gotten quite long, and miraculously fell into his bottle of beer.

Nervously laughing and scratching the back of his head, he asked, "Another Corona please?"

Kassie was looking around and then her eyes focused on the beer of that man, the one with ash inside and then heard the man's order. She tried hard not to laugh but she could not help it, she ended up chuckling at the man beside her.

She looked up at him and their eyes met. It was a feeling of butterflies in your stomach, your heart suddenly stopped beating and you went short of breath. She shifted her eyes away from the eyes and looked at him. He had a neat hair, tanned complexion and curvy lips. They looked nice on him. His eyes are special…

Noticing the girl laughing, Jericho turned his head to her, blushing at what he had done. He handed the ruined beer back to the bartender and quickly took a drink. This girl looked even more breathtaking head on. Looking directly into her dark brown eyes now, they bore right into his soul, shocking him a bit. Smiling, he looked at all her other noticeable features: a cute button-nose, with round lips. Her face made him almost dumbstruck, at a loss of words.

Realizing that he took so long to say something after staring at her head on, he chortled uneasily. "I was hoping you didn’t notice that."

"Sorry to disappoint you. But I did notice that." Kassie smiled as she replied him.

She pointed to her watch and showed him, "This doesn’t belong to me. Somehow I had it with me for 5 years already." Kassie struggled for a conversation but realized it was a weird topic. She lowered her head and started blushing. It must have been the drink.

Noticing the girl come out with a random topic of conversation, Jericho nodded his head slowly. "Nice watch," he said, to get this pretty girl to look back at him. "Even though I don't need to tell time. I'm always so lost." Laughing at what he said, he abruptly stopped because he thought it was really dumb. He held up his wrist, with the necklace on it. The necklace itself was a thick silver chain that had a ring through it. It looped a couple of times about his wrist, yet still didn't fit all the way.

"This? This was a gift. I've been holding it for a long time now. It means... a lot to me." Jericho didn't exactly know what else to say. In person, he was a horrible conversationalist. Get him on the phone, or almost any other kind of medium, and he seemed to talk with no problem. He flashed a grin at the girl again, albeit nervously.

"Nice necklace too. It's kinda special that you are wearing it on the wrist. Cool." Kassie realized she has just said another weird thing. Her mind raced for a proper topic. This is just getting weird and awkward… The necklace must have been meant for someone he really cherished. She paused and thought of what to say. "Sorry, I started off with something weird. We should start introducing ourselves first. My name is Kassie. What about you?"

Jericho giggled slightly at how this girl was acting. Good, she’s as flustered as I am about this. Shoot, I think any guy who talks to her probably gets like this too. He raised his beer bottle to her. "Name's Jericho. Nice to meet ya, Kassie." He paused, and hoped she would continue this conversation. He really needed someone to just... be there, someone to talk to. These past several days were hectic for him.

Nevermind, he quickly thought, she's way too pretty to pass up. I gotta do this right.

"So, Kassie, what do you like? And are you a student? And... what's your job?" Jericho said all those things quite fast, and then stopped. "Erm, crap. Maybe one question at a time, ne?" He laughed out loud and smirked at her.

Kassie chuckled. "Even though I don't look like it, but I really love watching anime. I'm still a student but I take up a lot of part time jobs like...”

The two continued talking throughout the night, forgetting their purpose of coming to Tiffany, drinking to their hearts...

END OF CHAPTER 3

Chapter 2

2005-12-08T18:54:00.001+08:00

Chapter 2: Meeting The Stranger II

Date: 30 September 2005 (0830) Friday

-Juan-

Juan woke up early as he had a class at 9am. He packed his bag quickly and grabbed his coat. As he did that, the wind blowing in from the window blown the note he received from the girl who sent him to the hospital off from the table. Beside it was a set of keys, which wasn't his.

He picked it up and started pressing the buttons to Kassie's numbers on his phone. It rang for a few seconds but nobody picked it up. Since there wasn't any reply and sign of people picking up the phone, Juan gave up and headed for class.

-Rachel-

"Kassie, your phone has been ringing more than 5 times already. Aren't you ever gonna pick it up?"

"Oh, Rachel... Let me finish my work first. It's rare that there isn't any class today so I wanna get things done fast. If it rings again, just pick it up for me okay, darling?" Kassie replied as she cheekily blew a flying kiss to Rachel.

Rachel pouted and nodded her head. She just couldn't resist this sisterly friend of her. Kassie has always been looking out for her in and out of school. She always found this girl attractive, funky, and with a certain atmosphere of mystery. And that Eclat D'arpege Perfume she used ever since the day they know each other 3 years ago. It was a soft floral fragrance with a blend of Sicilian lemon leaves, lilac green, wisteria flowers, green tea flowers, peach flowers, red peony, white Cedar Of Lebanon, musk, and amber. It smelled as though it was made for just Kassie.

Now that she thought about it, she had never seen Kassie getting any boyfriend the past 3 years. "I wish I can have a serious relationship, meeting someone who is willing to protect me." She said as she sat beside Kassie.

"Aww... that's really something that would come from your mouth. I would never think of something like that. How about considering me as your lifetime partner, I can protect you too, you know?" Kassie joked.

Rachel shook her head and gave Kassie a dirty look. Wryly, she thought, Kas is never serious when I start talking to her about relationships. Could something had happened and made her this way? Rachel walked over the bed and lied down; her mind was racing for an answer and soon she dozed off.

-Kassie-

Kassie let out a sigh of relief. She had finished her work just in time. She turned around and saw Rachel sleeping like a little girl having the sweetest dream, in her world of fantasy. She went over and pulled the sheets over her. She sat on the floor by the bed and looked at Rachel for a long period of time and memories that were locked in her heart flowed into her...

-The hidden memories-

"It was three years ago when she first shifted into the new apartment. Her grandmother left it for Kassie in her will. At that time, she was barely 16. When things were finally picking up for her and then, her grandmother passed away due to a car accident.

She lost her only kin in this foreign country and there was nobody to count on. Everyday after her grandmother's death, she would walk up to the bridge across her house and stood there, staring into the blanks for several hours. She would remind herself about her grandmother- the things she liked, the things she did, the smile she wore all the time. Often than not, tears gathered in her eyes but she had never liked to idea of crying.

One day, a little boy stopped beside her with a puppy. A girl near her age ran towards her. Kassie then realized that they were the children of the family living next door. That was how she met Rachel and Andrew, got to know their family. Rachel became the center of her heart and her family became like hers too. And most of all, Rachel is..."

She regained herself from her thoughts after a short while and walked out of the room with her orange notebook and files, leaving her phone on Rachel’s table. She has never liked carrying her phone around.

Date: 30 September 2005 (1930) Friday

-Rachel-

"RING-RING…" Kassie's phone was ringing. Rachel ran over and picked it up.

"Rachel speaking. Who is it over the phone?"

"My name is Juan. Umm... I'm looking for someone named Kassie. Did I dial the wrong number?"

"No, it's the right number. Kassie is busy for the moment. Can I just take down your message and get her to reply you A.S.A.P. Is that okay for you?"
"That would be of great help. Can you tell her that..." Rachel scribbled some notes on a piece of paper.

Rachel walked into her room and found Kassie still working on something. "Kassie, Juan is looking for you."

"Juan? Who's that? I never knew anyone by the name of Juan." Kassie said as she looked up at Rachel.

"He's the guy who fainted. He said he wants to return you something."

"Oh... that guy. So what else did he say?"

"He said if it's possible, he could meet you tomorrow evening at 7pm at Coffee-Express café."

"7pm? I can't, I have to rush down to Marissa's office and submit something. Oh..." Kassie made a face and then brightened up almost immediately.

Rachel was stunted by it. "Okay, shoot. What you want to do?"

"Oh, Rachel!!! You sure understand me, can you please go on my behalf?"

"Okay, you'll own me a favor."

Date: 1 October 2005 (1900) Saturday

-At Coffee-Express café-

Juan was early, 'never to let a lady wait for a guy' was a principle of his. He took a corner seat at the window side of the café, waiting for Kassie. He was never good at conversing, not to mention the fact he hardly know Kassie, it was only a few days back when they first met each other. He panicked as the minute hand of the clock moved clockwise and approached 7pm.

His mind was going through all the things that he would have to say when Kassie would turn up later, and how he should put his words nicely so he wouldn't make her angry again. He was stunned by Kassie's action when he was looking at her notebook the other time. He was totally mesmerized by the photos that were inside that orange notebook, even though it was only a few seconds of it.

While he was preoccupied by his thoughts, a girl with black long hair that almost reached her waist entered the café. She was wearing a dark brown jacket and jeans. She walked pass him and picked up her phone to make a call.

"RING-RING…" Juan's phone rang and she turned around and looked at him.

She walked towards him and smiled, bowed her head a little as she introduced herself, "Hi, I'm Rachel. The one who talked to you over Kassie's phone yesterday."

He stood up abruptly. "Oh, erm… Hi, I'm Juan. The one who troubled Kassie the other day. So she is not coming over?"

Rachel pulled the chair across Juan and sat down. "She has got something that she really needs to attend tonight."

"I see. She is always busy eh? The other day when I bumped into her, she was rushing too. Here's the money for my medical fees. And I think these are her keys too. It was inside the bag that the nurse passed me at the hospital."

"Oh!!! So the keys are with you. She got locked out of her house for days cos of that." Rachel said, showing a relieved smile.

"Oh, that's really bad. I should have given her a call earlier. So where did she live for the past few days? Didn't anyone open the door for her?" Juan asked.

Rachel hesitated on his questions and then replied, "She lives alone actually. I'm her neighbor and schoolmate. She has been staying over at my place these few days."

"Alone?" Juan paused and continued. "Anyway, I must really thank you for coming. Let's order something, my treat."

Silence was the only companion for these two strangers with interval exchanging of smiles. Soon it was 8pm and Juan finally said something.

"It's getting late. We should get going. I have to go for my part time job too. A young girl like you shouldn't be staying out too late. Let me walk you to the bus stop."

"Okay, sure. Thank you." Rachel said as she stood up.

Both of them bid goodbye when the bus came. The reason was unclear but Rachel was glad that she came on behalf of Kassie. Tonight, the bus journey seemed shorter than usual.

Juan walked fast and headed for Siloso convenient store. In his mind, he was thinking about the girl who was special to him.

END OF CHAPTER 2

Chapter 1

2005-12-08T18:53:00.001+08:00

Chapter 1: Meeting The Strangers I

Date: 27 September 2005 (1200) Tuesday

-Juan-

Juan woke up, rubbing his eyes and looked out the window at the side of his bed. The sun was hanging high up in the middle of the sky already. He missed today’s class because he was down with a bad flu. He stepped out of bed and did some washing up before grabbing his black coat and heading for the door.

Man, it’s freezing here...I’ve got to get myself some thing to bite and some flu medicines… Juan thought as he walks along the streets. As he walked, he phoned up Jericho.

"Jericho? Juan here. I’m down with a bad flu, can you tell Richard about it? I doubt I can make it for work this evening."

"No problem at all. I will convey the message. Rest well, buddy..."

Before Jericho could finish his sentence, Juan saw someone with an orange notebook and lots of bangles making clinging sounds while she ran out of a corner. And before he knew it, they bumped into each other and the girl fell.

"OUCH!!! Hey, watch where you are walking?" The stranger said as she picked herself up and started picking up the papers and notebook she dropped.

"I'm really sorry about that." Juan apologized as he reached out his right hand to help her pick the papers; the orange notebook was flipped open and right in front of him. He picked up it and saw what was inside. The girl snatched it back and stared at him. Juan noticed that there was a sweet scent coming out of her.

"Who are you to even look at my stuff? Gosh! I’m totally late..." She said as she took a look at her leather watch.

"I'm really sorry, I didn't mean it." Juan apologized again, handing over the rest of her papers and then looked up at the face of the girl. She had rich, black, middle length hair that was spiky at the top of her head. Her face was covered up by the oversized shades she is wearing.

Before Juan could say another word, his mind went blank and the lights went out. He fainted on the streets.

-Kassie-

"BEEP-BEEP-BEEP"
As the alarm clock rang off, Kassie rushed out of the house with a big tote bag and papers and orange notebook in her hands. She ran as fast as she could, she was late for an appointment with some clients at Coffee-Express café.

As she ran, her bangles made the sound of a musical instrument, a triangle, and her sweet smelling scent from her perfume diffused into the air and attracted attention from the crowds as she broke the calmness and peacefulness of the streets. She turned into a corner to take a shortcut and who would have known what happened next.

She knocked onto someone on the street, and the papers and notebook in her hands were sent flying. However, being rather egotistical, she wasn’t going to apologize and all she did was stare at the man who knocked her down. He was just a few inches from reaching 6 feet, with messy hair and a black coat.

As she picked herself up, she saw the man looking at her orange notebook. She panicked and made a grab at it, and said something mean. By the time she realized that she was in the wrong and wanted to apologize. The man collapsed in front of her.

Oh man, at a time like this... This must have been Karma. She thought as she put her papers and notebook into her bag and tried picking the man up. He was too heavy for her. In the end, she got some help from two passersby, and they carried him to the taxi stand where she hailed for a taxi to head to the hospital.

On the taxi, she took out her phone and called Marissa – her employer who was already at the café where they were supposed to meet the clients.

"Marissa, I'm sorry. I'm gonna be totally late. Something urgent cropped up over at my side and I have to attend to it. I'll bring the samples to the client’s company personally later. I'm really sorry about that."

"It's okay, Kas. I'm sure the client will understand. You have always proven yourself to be a hardworking and reliable person. I'll try to talk them out."

At the hospital, she hurriedly took the medical bill, tore a small piece of paper from her notebook and scribbled something on it before passing it to the nurse. Then, she rushed out towards the main door of the hospital making the sounds of a triangle with her bangles.

Date: 27 September 2005 (2200)

-At the hospital-

"Wake up, Juan!" Juan opened his eyes as he heard someone calling his name. It was Jericho calling him. Apparently, it appeared that the stranger had sent him to the nearby hospital. She also got one of the nurses to contact Jericho as he was in the last dialed list on his mobile.

The nurse attending to Juan came in and passed him a note and a bag that contained his belongings. "Miss Kassie left you a note while you were unconscious."

Jericho snatched the note from Juan and read it out loud.

"Stranger, by the time you see this note. Please contact me and return me the medical fees. I’m not someone that's charitable and kind enough to overlook things financially. Here's my number: (248)-909-3452 -Kassie"

Jericho looked up and turned to Juan. "This girl is sure stingy, asking for money from a sick guy who just woke up. What kind of person is that?"

"Well, she is kind enough to get me here even though I don't know her at all. All I could remember is that she has a very sweet smelling perfume and black shoulder-length hair. That’s all."

"Alright, whatever. Let's get out of here. It smells of disinfectants and lots of cough syrup. And it's making me feel sick. Let's go and catch a bite, I'm starving. I rushed here the moment I knocked off from work."

-At Rachel's place-

"I really have to thank your mom for letting me stay over, Rachel." Kassie said. "This is the first good thing that happened to me today."

"Aww... What went wrong, Kas?" Rachel said as she lay on the bed looking at Kassie.

Kassie was lying on her stomach on the mattress on the ground. "First, I was late for appointment. Then I ramped myself into some stranger. He fainted and I had to send him to a hospital and even had to pay the bill for him. His wallet is like almost emptied... After that, I realized I've lost my keys. I’ll have to call up the lock-smith soon and get it replaced when I get my pay. So I guess I’ll be staying here to bother you and your family until my payday." Kassie giggled.

The girls chatted all night long and then fell asleep, blending into the calmness of the night.

END OF CHAPTER 1

Prelude

2005-12-08T18:23:00.001+08:00

Introduction of characters

Juan, a young 24 year old with beautiful eyes, which he is afraid to show to others. He always wears this pair of glasses to conceal its beauty within, and has eyes that speak more than just words. He is really a shy guy and doesn’t like engaging himself in conversation but is classified under the category of anti-social. Everyone in school knows him due to his results, never failing to emerge as one of the top scholar in each year’s level standard. He is one of the students with the highest profile in the University. Currently he is living on his own in the hostel, working multiple part time jobs to get by life.

Jericho is a 21-year-old friend of Juan. They know each other at work in a Siloso convenient store. He is a very optimistic and punky guy. His ‘must have’ accessory is the necklace he never fails to wear everyday. No one knows why he does it but it seems that the necklace means more than just a simple necklace. Whenever he is not doing any work, he would be seen pressing the keypads of his mobile phone. Often than not, he always goes missing for 3 or 4 days every two weeks and when he finally comes back, he will look as if he is totally drained. Everything about him is a mystery.

Kassie is a 19-year-old neighbor of Rachel. They attended the same college and she is her senior. Although it doesn’t seems like they get along well, they are actually the best of friends. She often played the role of an elder sister of Rachel, giving her advice and cracking random jokes to brighten her days. Nobody actually knows the true nature of Kassie as she is always bubbly, straightforward, and it just appears that she has a great interest in fashion and forever busy. She is always seen with an orange notebook in her hand and different bangles everyday. However the only thing that couldn’t keep up with her image is the black leather watch she wears daily.

Rachel is an 18-year-old college student. She always dreams that one day she may find someone who will love her with all his strength, someone that she will put him on the first place of her heart and he will do the same in return. However, she has never gotten into any relationship for the fear of breaking someone’s heart. She is an innocent girl who thinks the world is made up of everything beautiful and nice. She always wishes there is something more than just school life. She has an angelic voice that she never realised until the day she met someone that brings her to the realistic world she always failed to see under the protection of her sister-like friend, Kassie.

Andrew is the 13-year-old younger brother of Rachel. He is currently attending middle school at western California, staying over at his uncle’s place. For a 13 year old, he is considered very tall with a height of 5 feet 8 inches; he has always the tallest in class. He is a very smart teenager with an ambition to play a perfect prank on the teachers and students before he finally graduates. His favourite quote is "...Dumb ass". He is always found beside a computer typing something whenever he is free. Nobody knows what he is up to but it seems like it is going to go beyond anyone’s imagination.

Marissa is a lady in her late 20’s. She is the Chief Editor of a local magazine, Kassie’s supervisor in her part time job. Marissa is a very understanding supervisor who often lets Kassie have her own space and lets her subordinates have a say in meetings. She admires Kassie’s capabilities of juggling school and work and the way she handles relationships with the other colleagues who are all much older than her.

Richard is in his late 30’s. He is the boss of Siloso convenient store that Juan and Jericho work at. He always shows trust in his employers and that gains him a lot of support and motivates everyone working in the store to work with great efficiency. He has never questioned Jericho for disappearing for work.

-- Chapter 4 --

Amy is a 19-year-old college student, classmate of Kassie. She finds ice cream and kiwis irresistible. Although Amy is, in reality, a very sweet and innocent girl, people never thought of her that way. Perhaps it is because of the pranks that she used to play on others around her during her middle school days. As a school badminton player, she is athletic and excels in both academics and sports. However, she has the bad habit of throwing tantrums whenever she loses. At night, when she cannot sleep, she often gazes at the stars, wondering where her destiny lies.

-- Chapter 5 --

Samantha is an 18-year-old new transferred student who is in the same class as Rachel. Coming from a rich and powerful family background, it is her father’s desire to groom her into a well-rounded lady. She has been taking music, drawing and martial arts classes since the age of 4. Due to Samantha's background, people shun at the sight of her. Whenever she gets into trouble, she will turn to her cousin, Jericho. She always wears a long necklace with a lilac crystal ornament that she keeps it underneath her blouse. This is yet another story of Samantha.

Karl is an 18-year-old college student majoring in science. He is the younger brother of Jericho. Unlike Jericho's bold attitude, Karl is a more reserved guy who works in a well-organized manner. Being a very thoughtful guy, he always puts the well being of others before his. Karl likes going to the Four Friends' Pub and spends his time watching people dance, drink and talk. However, he never orders any alcoholic drink. As Jericho is living by himself at the apartment near college, Karl often makes a trip over to meet up with his brother once in a while.

-- Chapter 7 --

Claus is a 19-year-old engineering student in college. Even though he is the younger twin of Amy, they are the polar opposite of each other. He is a very quiet guy who enjoys reading. Teasing him and dressing him up are part of Amy’s favorite pastime. Most of the time, he always finds way to accommodate his elder sister. In times of trouble, Claus is always the first one to offer Amy help and protect her. The only similarity between them is the hobby of stargazing. Having a thoughtful characteristic, he is very popular among the girls in school.

About the Author

2004-09-07T02:23:00.000+08:00

Jewl is her name, she loves to dream, pens down her thoughts and kept her stories a secret. But there's always a time to share some of them. xD

This story is dedicated to Kevin Jericho and inspired by Jan Han. Special thanks to Amy, Rachel, Claus, Andrew for providing details to add on to the characters involved.

All content of this site is purely fictional and should not be taken, reproduced without prior approval of site owner, Jewl (2005-2007).