Chapter 1

“Years ago there was a suicide. A woman stabbed herself in the stomach rather than straight into the heart to punish herself for the sins she had committed. Although the pain was horrid, she didn’t scream because she wanted no one to save her. You must be wondering, what caused it.” The storyteller looked at everyone waiting for a response. Most of them had closed their ears not wanting to listen anymore. Some were nodding their head curios of what was about to happen.

                                                                                

“The sin that she had committed was causing the death of her whole family over one simple mistake. She could never forgive herself. Every single day that she lived, the memories haunted her. The day when it all happened was during her 16^th birthday on the 29^th of February. She was so happy that finally her birthday came after waiting for 4 years to past. Everyone there was smiling with joy in their eyes and laughter filled the mansion when the comedian made jokes on the stage. It was raining outside but inside the hall was filled with joy.

It was all wonderful until a group of gangster with guns broke in. Bullets were shot and everyone ran in fear. Her mother got hit by a bullet and fell to the floor. Other people were shot too. Blood covered the floor and laughter that filled the room before had changed into screams of pain. She crawled to her mother even though her legs were bleeding. She held her mother’s hand and begged her to stay alive.

With the last inch of strength, her mother said “I love you dear and please take care of yourself. Good bye.” Her mother smiled as she took her last breath and closed her eyes. She called out her mothers name but there was no reply. Her mother’s hand felt lifeless and cold. She cried and cried. She didn’t even notice that someone was pointing a gun to her head.

“Just kill me.” She said but the man only stood there, staring at her. “You already murdered my family and my friends. Why don’t you just kill me now?” She looked back and saw her best friend, the one that she trusted with everything. “Why?” She looked at him with a confuse face. However no response was given. She looked up and saw her friends eyes filled with nothing but darkness.

“Aren’t you going to answer me or why don’t you just kill me?” She yelled it to him since she couldn’t do anything else. Her hands were red from the blood of her mother and hers. Her face also had blood splattered on her face. She stared at him.

“No. I’m not going to kill you. Because now everyday you live, you will think of me and you will remember it’s your entire fault. The day when you couldn’t do anything to save the people you care about. Remember if you say or breathe a word of what happened today, one more life will be killed in your place.” He shot a man on the chest and that man screamed in pain. “See…” He looked back at me with no facial expression.

“Why?” She just stared at him. “Why do you need to do this to me? We were friends and I trusted you. You were kind and considerate. You wouldn’t even hurt a fly. Who are you? You’re not the person I’ve met before.” Then something came into her mind. She looked down, away from his face and closed her eyes shut tight making tears fall out. “Is it because of money?” She gripped her hands tight and punched it to the floor.

“If it was a part of it would it make any difference?” He put his gun away and said it with no sense of guilt.

“I knew it...” Someone hit her head from the back and made her faint.

“Do you want to bring her along? Since she’s quite a beauty and if we sell her off we might get a good pay out of it, or we could just kill her?” A man asked him while he looked at the girl.

“Leave her. The cops will be here soon. Let’s get what we want and leave.” He sternly said and called out everyone to leave. The man obliged what his boss said and followed him.

After 20 minutes the policemen arrived. When they walked in all they could see was blood on the floor and on the walls, dead bodies of people lying flat on the ground and cases of bullets. They put on their gloves and started to look for any survivor. A teenager came running into the scene and ran towards a girl. They tried to pull the girl away from the teenager. She eventually lets the girl go and was brought out of the mansion. They checked if she was still alive, blood was still oozing out of her legs and her heart rate was very weak. She was quickly brought into the ambulance and driven to the hospital.

At the police station

“Who are you? What is your connection to this girl?” The policeman asked looking at the suspicious girl. The girl wiped her tears.

“I am Maya Marissa Mathew. I was a part of the Mathew family until…my ex-father disowned me. I am the sister of that girl. I was supposed to wish my sister a “Happy Birthday.” ” Maya broke down and cried. A policeman tried to calm her down. “It’s okay.” Maya wiped the tears away. “What had happened? Did anyone else survive?” Maya looked at the policeman.

“No, only your sister survived but she might not be able to recover from the shock. We all believe it was a robbery because all the valuable items were stolen. But we are not completely sure who planned it.” The policeman looked at her with compassion.

She asked putting her head on her arm. “Can see her?”

“Yes. Except you could only meet her after we are completely sure of your identity.” The policemen went out and finished their jobs while Maya cried till she couldn’t cry anymore.

At the hospital

“How is the girl doing?” The inspector asked the doctor. He flipped through the results and looked neither happy nor sad.

“She’s stable right now but please don’t disturb her. The operation was a success. Luckily none of the bullets hit any vital vein. The bullets in her legs were taken out and now her legs are healing. She will not be able to walk until then. She will also be given pain killers for the pain. Have you found any family members that could take care of her until then?” The doctor looked at the inspector with a sad look on his face.

“Yes my colleague called and he told me that they had a girl named Maya Marissa Mathew who claimed to be this girl’s sister.” The inspector puts his hands in his pocket and looked solemnly at the girl who had no one but a sister that could also be an imposter. “Until she wakes up I will pay all of her bills.” He said to the doctor while he looked down to the floor.

“You don’t have to. Someone else had already paid all of her bills and that someone even bought a wheelchair for her to use until her legs recover.” The doctor walked towards the door and pushed it.

“Who did that?” The inspector asked curiously and confused. He quickly turned his face to see the doctor.

“The man was John Thomson. He said he was an acquaintance of the girl and paid the bills. After that he left. Anyway I have to leave now, I have another patient on hold.” The doctor answered, took a glance of the girl and left the room. The inspector called his co-worker to check the background of the man named John Thomson and for them to assign two policemen to take care of her. He pulled a chair and sat next to the girl. He asked “Why were you the only who survived little girl?” He looked at the girl wondering whether it was a good luck or a curse that she had to live with.

The next day the girl woke up. She looked around and saw a white ceiling and a window on her right side. She knew what she had dreamt was real but she wanted it to just be a nightmare. She sat up and saw two strangers sleeping on the chairs. “Who are you? Where am I?” She asked to the two strangers. They quickly woke up and had a surprise look on their faces. They walked to her and the woman sat on the small corner of her bed

“You’re in a hospital and we have been assigned by our police officer to take care of you. I am Adeline and he is Jake.” The woman said it softly to her. Adeline was afraid that the girl would freak out from all that was going on.

“That means that what I have dreamt about is real.” She stopped talking and became silent for a while. “Can you guys, please leave for a while?” They were about to shake their heads but she stopped them by saying. “Don’t worry I won’t do anything stupid. I just need some time alone. If it would make you happy, you can take all the sharp objects out of the room.” She smiled weakly at them as she tried to hold back the tears in her eyes. They nodded their heads and took all the sharp items, then left the room.

When they were finally out of the room, she looked at the window and saw families smiling with joy while holding each others hands. The tears in her eyes started to flow out. She didn’t make a single sound. She didn’t want anyone to know the pain she was feeling inside. Both Adeline and Jake knew the girl was crying but all they could do was just wait until she stopped. They bowed their heads in sympathy.

After 20 minutes

Jake knocked the door and said “You have a visitor. It’s your sister.”

“You can let her in.” She said it wiping the tears on her face. She stared out of window not even taking a glance of Maya. Maya came in smiling and yet there was sympathy in her eyes. “Why did you come back?” She hugged herself, still not even taking a simple glance of Maya.

“That’s not the way you should talk to your own sister.” Maya put the basket of fruits on the drawers next to the bed.

“No but you’re not my sister ever since you left that day. You never even tried to come see me in any way. You have left us but now you are back. What’s the catch?” Her eyes were filled with anger toward her sister.

“I came here to wish you a “Happy Birthday” but when I arrived I saw police cars and tons of policemen. I panicked and ran inside to see you lying there with blood covering your body. I was afraid I lost you.” A tear escaped Maya’s eyes and she wiped it away. The girl hugged herself tighter because she felt cold inside.

“I was the troublesome kid but you would always try to help me. You were there when mom and dad didn’t care but I didn’t want to burden you anymore. I also had enough of everything, I wanted to feel loved. Luckily I did but I didn’t have my family to enjoy it with. I got married and it’s with a good man.” Maya walked closer towards the girl. “Can you please look at me sis? I’m sorry for what I did but I won’t regret it. I love this man and I wouldn’t exchange anything for the love I have for him.”  Maya looked at the ring on her finger and smiled sweetly. The girl turned her face towards Maya and saw the smile she made. A small piece of her heart accepted the marriage but the other wanted her sister to stay the same like old times.

“What makes you think he is a good man?” The girl faced her and looked at her straight into the eyes. Maya took a chair and sat on it. Maya held her hands together, putting them on her lap and smiled at the girl.

“Well he is just like you. He would always take care of me and make sure I’m safe. Not like the other men I met before. You know what’s funny, he scolded me when I smoked or drank alcohol, and it was like you were him. At the end I stopped all the bad habits I had before. He was the one who asked me to go and see you on your birthday. He wanted me to reunite with my family again and be happy. He even promises to work hard on getting the blessing of my parents. But I guess that won’t be able happen now.” The smile on Maya’s face turned into a frown. She looked at her hands and tears fell. The girl let go of herself and hugged Maya.

“Maya please don’t cry. Mom and dad forgave you long ago. All they wanted was just for you to come back home. They are in a better place now so we better not make them feel sad or worried anymore. I forgave you too but I was angry. It took you such a long time to notice. The good thing is that you’re back safe and sound.” The girl said it softly to Maya and it sounded as if the anger and pain had disappeared from her heart.

“Little sis what happened? What killed our parents?” Maya muffled it out while she still sobbed on the girl’s chest. Before the girl could even answer a nurse came in with her medicine and an envelope. Then the nurse passed them to her and told that a man gave it to her, saying it was urgent that the girl in room 1312 to receive the letter. The girl curiously opened it and saw there was a letter inside with a locket. The locket her parents gave her before the party started. She picked up the locket and pressed the emerald on it. The locket opened. There was a picture of her mom and dad on one side and a picture of her and Maya on the other. She knew who gave it and asked Maya to go outside for a while. Maya was reluctant to leave at first but when she saw the look on her sister’s face she knew it was serious and left.

The girl took out the letter and opened it slowly. The words were written in blood, “If you tell another living soul a life shall be taken as payment for yours.” Her hands were shaking and the letter fell down. The memories came flashing back through her mind. Her hands were put on her ears as she tried to make the sound of bullets being shot and the sound of people screaming in pain, disappear. She trembled in fear remembering the horrible memory once more. She closed her eyes tight and begged for it to stop.

Maya, Adeline and Jake felt something was wrong and burst into the room. They saw the girl hysterically begging for something to stop. Maya and Adeline quickly ran towards the girl and tried to calm her down. Jake saw the paper and took it. The girl snapped back when she saw it and yell don’t but it was too late. Jake got shot on the stomach and fell on the floor. Adeline looked out the window and saw a person on the roof. Adeline rushed to Jake’s side and pressed to wound to stop it from bleeding.

“Go! Find the person now before he gets away.” Jake pushed her away; Adeline was hesitant on leaving him. “I’ll be fine.” Jake tried to reassure her. She dashed out of there to chase the person. She held her gun close to her. When she held the gun Jake’s blood dripped on it. It fueled her to run faster and catch the man who did it. While Adeline was running up the stairs, doctors rushed in and took Jake away. The girl was quivering in fear and Maya tried to calm her down. The girl pushed Maya away and she crawled off the bed. Maya wanted to help but the girl stopped her. She didn’t want anymore blood to be spilled. She took the letter and kept it in her pocket. After that she told Maya to keep it a secret from the police.

“No! I’m not keeping this a secret if that would lead to who killed our parents. I’m sorry.” Maya wanted to run out of the room but the girl held on her legs and pleaded her not to.

“Maya please don’t, it wouldn’t lead anywhere only more lives would be killed. I already have enough on my shoulder.” The girl held on Maya leg tightly. “I already lost mom and dad. I don’t want to lose a sister too.” Maya stopped struggling and thought of the pain her sister had to endure everyday. Maya went down to her knees and pulled the girl to herself, giving her a hug. She promised the girl she would keep it a secret until the day she died. The girl hugged Maya back still shivering in fear.

Adeline arrived there and saw the person. She told him to push his shot gun away and raise both of his hands up but the sniper looked back at her smiling. The sniper had a gun in his hands and pointed it to his head. Adeline told him to stop but the sniper said “Finally I’m going to be free.” Adeline sprinted to stop him but it was too late. The sniper already pulled the trigger. Blood and bits of brain came splattered out the other side. The sniper was dead and Adeline called the police station. She reported the incident and the police station sent the investigators. Adeline waited there. Suddenly an old lady came in through the door. Adeline was wondering who it was.

“Sorry ma’am you’re not allowed to be here.” Adeline said politely to the elderly woman.

“I’m sorry but have you seen my son? He always comes up here for some fresh air.” The aged woman looked around and saw the body behind Adeline. She became shock and put her hand to her mouth. The woman’s eyes were filled with tears.

“What is it ma’am?” The elderly woman pointed to the dead body and Adeline looked back. “Is he your son?” Adeline was shocked but no one could see it since she was too tired. The woman nodded and tears fell from her eyes. “Please don’t cry ma’am.” Adeline walked towards the woman, trying to comfort her.

“Christopher…” The woman sobbed and Adeline watched feeling miserable for not being able to do anything. Jake was in surgery fighting for his life. The girl was just trying to keep people from dying in her place while Maya was torn between the need to find the killer of her parents and to keep her sisters secret. Everyone was tied in a knot that they can’t untie themselves.

The girl was carried back onto the bed and given sleeping pills. Maya sat beside her stroking her hair away from her face. Someone knocked the door and walk into the room. It was Adeline. “How’s Jake?” Maya looked at her tired and worried.

“He survived the surgery but he is still in critical stage. He still hasn’t woken up.” Adeline sat on a chair. She puts her head to her hands feeling frustrated and tired. Maya was also tired but she couldn’t leave her sister alone.

“Adeline, you should go home and take some time to rest.” Maya suggested it to her hoping she would agree. Adeline was going to decline her offer but it was stopped when, Maya continued with “Anyway the inspector is coming to visit her soon. We are also going to change the room to another as soon as possible. If you want you can help us transfer her to another room then you could leave.” Maya sounded very calm and conserve even though she is emotionally exhausted.

“Sure that would help me from worrying too much.” Adeline gave a weak smile and accepted Maya suggestion. Maya smiled back at Adeline and continued taking care of her sister.

Poems

Locked

As pain fills in

Their hearts

As the torture

Seeps in

The feeling of

Regret making

Them fall to

The depths of

Despair

Being locked there

Until the day

Someone saves them

And make the torment

They felt

Finally go away

 

Open your eyes

Open your eyes

Please open them

We all need you back

Into the world

There are a lot of

People waiting for

You so please open them

Even I miss you

And feel lonely

Without seeing

Grin on your face

Like before

People are watching and

Taking care of you

But you can’t see it or

See how much they

Care and love you

Then came the day

Your heart stops beating

People were crying out

For a doctor

Tears fell a upon

Their face

You could see the

Fear in their eyes

But just before the

Doctor could call the

Time of death a

Heart beat came up

You open your eyes

And say “I saw the

Whole thing and I’m

Leaving that soon”

We all hugged him

And tears of joy

Came out rather

Than sad ones

 

Unrequited

I close my eyes and see

The smile that you give

The sweet voice you

Have resigns in my soul

I quietly wish for

The feeling to disappear

For I know in my heart

You will leave me one day

Hurting my soul leaving

Me scarred so I close my heart

Along with the memories

That had resigned in my soul

Surely one day it will resurface

When it is really true

22.07.2011

 

Look around

Trying to stand in the

Middle of everything

Trying to push you down

Could be that life is so hard

That living or dying means nothing

At all

Did that line disappeared

When I tried to turn

My life around

Should have I stayed or

Walk away

When I had the chance

There so many questions

In my mind

That I can’t get out

One day I fell down

To my knees

Trying to get back up

Then someone came

And lend a hand

With a smile on their face

They said you should have

Looked harder cause

We were always there

Waiting for you to call

Us anytime of the day

We are people the

Who care and love you

As the person

That you became

So if you fall down

Again we will

Help and try protect you

Until you can stand

On your own two feet

Why are you helping me?

Who can fill your empty space?

Empty Space

“You should stay I should leave. Your friends are waiting for you to explain what’s going on.” I gave a sad smile and waved to the person.

“No. You should stay too. Are you alright?” He asked.

“It’s been a long time since someone asked me that.” I looked up at the sky and took a breather. I closed my eyes and remembered all those years alone. “I always ran away when I felt pain. Does it even matter if I’m alright? Anyway your friends must be wondering what you are doing with a person like me. Everyone is too scared to come close to me but you didn’t. I am grateful for that.” I gave a happy smile to him and looked at his friends. They looked both worried and afraid. “I should really be leaving now. It seems that your friends have become agitated seeing you talking to me. This would be the last time we would see each other. I hope you will live a full and happy life like the man you are.”

“Stop!” He yelled and startled everyone including me. “You haven’t even answered my question. Are you alright?”

 I smiled again and said “I’m alright now but people say when a woman says she is alright now a second later it could be something else.”

“Then I will keep asking until you say you aren’t so I would be there to lend you a shoulder to cry on.” He said smiling. I shook my head side to side.

“I have to leave, this is not my place anymore. Besides, how can I lean on your shoulder when I can’t even touch your hand with out passing through it.” I moved my hand towards his chest and it passed through like it was nothing. “I’m no longer alive remember. I am just a ghost and I should never had stayed. But I’m still thankful I got a chance to finish what I didn’t get to with your help.” I pulled my hand away and gave him a cheerful smile. “Thank you Darren if it wasn’t for you I would never be able to rest in peace.” I started to slowly disappear from sight while Darren tried his best to stop it from happening.

“Don’t leave!” Darren begged. I shook my head again and gave him another smile even though in my heart I was crying. “Not yet! Please…”

“I’m sorry….” Tears started to fall from my eyes even as I try to hold the tears behind hiding it behind a smile. When he yelled I love you, I was already gone. He fell to the ground and slammed his fist regretting the fact he lost her.

10 years later

Darren was now working as a forensic scientist. He was currently investigating the type of bullet that shot the 35 year old woman. The woman was a partner of a huge company with her husband who was currently the main suspect. Darren was also investigating the caliber of the bullet, the distance it was shot from and the type of gun used. Suddenly he heard the door open. He wasn’t expecting any interns or anymore assistants this week.

“What is it? I’m still working on it. If you want the information on the type of bullet you need to wait for a while since this one seems different from a normal bullet. It might be specially made somewhere which I am trying to find out.” He turned around to see his boss with a girl that looked exactly like her. “Miranda...” He said shocked at who he saw. “Is it you?”  They were looking at him wondering what’s wrong with him.

“No Darren. But good try I guess. Her name is Christine. She will be working as your  assistant for 2 week which begins today. Alright then Darren any questions will be answered by her.” He looked at his watch and then he walked to Darren’s side. He put one of his hand on Darren’s shoulder saying “It’s been long since you been excited of something maybe she can do something to that cold exterior of yours.” Darren’s boss smirked and walked out of the room. Darren was taken back by what his boss said.

“Hello Darren, I’m Christine. Nice to meet you.” She smiled and let out her hand for a hand shake.

“Nice to meet you too, Christine.”  He took her invitation and smiled back. “I’m extremely sorry for the mistake. I just thought you really looked like her.” He looked down to his feet feeling embarrass over his mistake.

“It’s okay at least you weren’t as bad as this guy. He said “Hello angel. Where have you been all my life?” ” She was imitating the guy’s voice and gestures. “God! That was so corny, I replied. “Away from you of course.” ” She snapped her fingers and gave a sassy look. Darren chuckled at her action. “Sorry, I get carried away every time I tell a story.” She had a tint of redness on her face and this made Darren remember what he had missed all those years. She really did remind him of Amanda but only the good memories resurfaced in his mind.

“No actually I should thank you. It’s been a long time since I laughed that cheerfully ever since she left” Darren gave a sad smile as the memories of that day course through his mind.

“Do you regret it?” She asked curious of his answer.

“No. I don’t but I do miss her.” He smiled running his fingers through his hair and looked at her with a half-hearted smile “But that doesn’t matter anymore does it.” Darren said turning away, continuing with his job. “Christine can you get me a cup of coffee from the cafe? I’m planning on finishing my work today and it might take a while.” He said looking through the microscope.

“Alright…” She answered professionally guessing he didn’t want to talk about it and she should respect his privacy. As she walked out of the laboratory she stopped just before door and said “If you ever feel like telling anyone I would always be wiling to listen.” Then she walked out of the room calmly never looking back.

“Why I’m, I always so mean to people? She didn’t even do anything to me.” He looked away from the microscope knowing he couldn’t concentrate anymore seeing that he opened the window that he had left close for all those years. “Maybe I should take her offer? It wouldn’t hurt, would it?” He shook his head and started to concentrate again. “I can’t let this slow me down I have to solve this first because the killer is still loose. He can kill anyone till he is convicted.” He said to himself taking a deep breath, exhaling. 

After a few minutes Christine came back from the café bringing a cup of black coffee. “Mr. Thomson I bought black coffee. I hope you like it.”

“Thanks leave it on the table I’ll drink it later.” Darren said, not even taking a glance at her too busy concentrating. “Miss Christine I sorry for being a bit rude just now. I guess I made a habit out of it. I would like to take you on that offer. We’ll talk about it later seeing that I have to finish my work first. Would you be free after work?” Darren asked finally finishing one of the jobs he had to do, writing it down on paper.

“Yes I am. Talk to you then I guess.” She started to help anyway she could hoping she could help Darren finish his work earlier.

Hours and hours had past, Darren was still busy doing his job. It was already 10.00 p.m. but he seemed not even a little bit tired. However, it couldn’t be said the same for Christine who seemed like she was going to past out.

“Miss Christine you should go home and rest. We could always reschedule to another day.” Darren said taking a sip of the black coffee.

“No I’m fine. I’m a little tired it will go away after a few minutes rest.” Christine said not wanting to leave yet.

“You should leave and go back home. I don’t really need your help here. I will take till tomorrow to finish this then I will be finish and I don’t want you to past out tomorrow. Because I need you to send the report to them while I’m at home resting. You could visit me at my home and have the talk.” Darren said to Christine sternly, who followed his words reluctantly leaving the laboratory and went back to her house.

Darren finished his work completely the next day at 5.00 a.m. in the morning. He put the report of everything on the table and left to go back home. He was tired and exhausted but at least he finished it. Immediately when he reached home he fell a sleep on his bed not changing his clothes at all. He couldn’t care less. He also put a note on the report telling Christine to see him at 3.00 o’clock in the afternoon.

As soon as the time reached 3.00 o’clock in the afternoon Christine had reached Darren’s house. It was a double storey house with a garaged. She reached the door and rang the door bell, waiting for Darren to open the door.

Darren opened the door with a plain blue T-shirt and black cargo pants. “Hi Christine. Please come in.” Darren smiled politely.

“Thank you Mr. Thomson.” Christine said walking into the house, smiling back at Darren.

“Call me Darren since we’re not at work lets get all the formality out. Come I will show you the way to the living room.” He grinned, as he showed her the way inviting to sit once arriving.

“Who is the girl which you care dearly to, Darren?” Christine asked straightforwardly.

“Straight to the point aren’t you, Christine. Well her name was Caroline Wilson. A beautiful woman with wavy brunette hair, verdant eyes, fair skin and everything a person would ever want. Sadly she could only be seen by me that time.” Darren said, closing his eyes while he took a deep breath.

“Was she an imaginary friend?” Christine asked worriedly. 

“No…she wasn’t. She was as real as you and me but when I met her she wasn’t actually as alive as she did years ago. She was a reckless soul who couldn’t rest in peace and I helped her to do that. Yet by the end of all we went through I couldn’t let her go. I was selfish. We went through all those hard, cheerful and even sad moment. I couldn’t just let her go. She was the love of my life. I haven’t found a person yet who could take her place.” Darren said bowing his head down as tears threaten to fall out.

“It’s alright.” Christine patted him on the back wanting to sooth him.

“Thanks.” He whispered.

“Everything comes and goes is the best saying I could think in my mind. Everything changes in time no matter how hard you want it to stop doing that you can’t change the course of nature. The same thing goes to people. No matter how hard you try you can’t stop the person from leaving. Yeah it hurts but the pain will heal over time. I promise you Darren you will find a person who will take her place. Maybe the person is not her but surely that person will give you the same or even more joy that Caroline ever could. You should never give up hope because when you do you are hoping for things to come to you. Nothing comes without work so Darren you have a choice to wait and see or too find that person that could fit that empty space in you heart?” Christine said encouraging him with all her heart and giving all the advice she could.

“Maybe I don’t have to look for the person anymore because you fill the space just fine.”  Darren turned looking to Christine who didn’t seem to get it yet. Darren smiled and sat up. He put his hand to her chin lifting her face up, slowly lowering his. As they kissed it felt as everything was finally in place.

The End

This is story is going to make you go "Aww...."

The Key

She was sitting in a coffee shop enjoying a cup of espresso. Oh how she loved the smell of coffee early in the morning. It always gives her a boost seeing that she would always fall a sleep on her laptop in the morning while writing her newest novel. She was also a fan of watching different types of people coming in, enjoying the delicious coffee there. She had been a regular customer there ever since it was legal for her to drink coffee. She still remembers her first sip of the mouth-watering concoction. Not something she would forget. She took a sip of her espresso and enjoyed the tantalizing taste of it coursing through her tongue giving all her taste buds a morning pick me up. She put her cup down and slowly ran one of her finger on the rim of her cup still holding it. It wasn't just the amazing coffee they sell there that made her come daily, there was also a certain man who intrigued her interest sitting across the room reading a book. She couldn't make out what it was but she was sure of something that is he always changes his book every week. It's a weekly thing she guessed. She shrugged her shoulders and looked out the window taking another sip of her espresso.

The roads weren't overly filled with cars bustling their way to work. It was currently the morning rush and yet it wasn't like the city with all its traffic jams and such. She smiled at the view no longer looking at the horrible scenery the city gave her when she was little. Now she was able to live near the city and yet not get all the negative side effect of it. She opened her laptop, planning on continuing her newest novel that was going to be published in 4 more months. If she could finish this earlier she could go and take a holiday for a while after all the event she had to do after she finishes her novel. The novel before this did extremely well wining award here and there. She wondered whether to write another book about it but she decided not to. The reason was she found that the ending was certainly great and the story was left with no lose ends needing to be filled. Rather than continuing with the story she decided to write a new story filled with anything she can think of. When she started typing she didn't notice a person was sitting beside her, getting closer and closer to her slowly putting his head on her shoulder. She flinched and looked to her side.

“Samantha. How have you doing?" He smirked as he rubbed her hand calming her down.

“You're lucky nothing spilled on your laptop. It practically has all your life’s work and especially because it's the present I gave you for your 21st birthday." He chuckled as she sat back down on the chair covering half of her face with her hand feeling embarrassed.

"God! You need to stop doing that Adam. You know you're lucky we are in a public place because if we weren't I would probably beat the hell out of you." She playfully punched his shoulder and smiled.

He rubbed his shoulder and grins back to her. "What bring you here, Adam?" she asked taking a sip of her lukewarm espresso.

"Nothing really I just wanted to tease you." He snickered and yelp in pain after being pinched by Samantha. "I'm only kidding. I’m actually from home and mom asked me to pick you up." He rubbed the sore place hoping to sooth the pain.

"You could have just called me to go there rather than going to all the trouble of picking me up." She looked at him disbelieving the reason of his action.

“No I couldn't cause mom specifically told me to drive you there." He answered her with a serious face. "Okay but let me go back home and pack my stuff." She started to pack her laptop into her sling bag and finish her drink, leaving. "Adam can I go buy another cup of..."

"I knew you would ask so I already bought one. It's inside the car." She smiled at him appreciating the fact he still remember her daily routine. "You're welcomed." He smiled back at her, chuckling. Samantha didn't notice the man who changed his book every week left the coffee shop too.

In the car

“Adam this isn't black coffee. This is orange juice." She looked at him peculiarly.

"That's mine. Yours is here." He smirked holding the cup up with one his hand while the other started the car.

"Adam give it!" She tried to snatch it from his hand but failed.

"If only you say the magic word." He teased while holding the cup to the front of her face. She tried again before giving up knowing how fast her brother is.

"Alright, can I please have my cup of black coffee?" He gave her a soft pat on the head before giving her the cup of coffee.

“Thank you.” She smiled to him giving him a slap on his shoulder. “That’s for bullying me.” She smirked, looking back at the cup of coffee in her hand. She took a sip, surprised by the taste that spread across her tongue. It was creamier and foamier . It didn’t have the aroma and taste of black coffee but it certainly had an intriguing taste. “This isn't black coffee?" She looked at him interested of his answer.

"It's cafe breva. Do you like it?" He didn't look at her seeing that he was currently driving out of the parking lot. She gave a nod and a sound that she makes every time she agrees on something since she was little.

"Good" He puts on his sunglasses and smiled at her answer. On the way to her house she started to feel drowsy.” Adam what was inside that coffee?" She asked yawning.

"Just cappuccino, half and half milk foam. That's all." he answered looking at the road rather than her.

"So why am I so sleepy...” She leaned on his shoulder, closing her eyes falling into slumber.

"Not forgetting the sleeping pill mom told me to put in." Adam whispered to himself. He turned his face to take a look at her. He brushed away the lock of hair on her face tucking it to her ear.  When they finally arrived at her house, the old nanny was waiting for them in front of the gate. He parked the car and walked out to the old nanny. 

“Nice to see dear, it’s been a while hasn’t it.” He gave their old nanny her bag and she simply put her hand in finding the key on the first try.

“Yes, it’s been a long time hasn’t it.” He smiled at the old nanny remembering her over all those year her taking care of them. “Please pack her clothes and send it back home along with her favourite teddy bear that her deceased father gave her. She can't sleep without it." The nanny gave the bag back to him and gave him a sweet smile. "I see dear old Adam still hasn't changed a bit still loves his sister so much even though not blood related to each other. He snatched the bag from her hand and said "She is not my sister." He shook his head and quickly apologized.

"It's alright dear. I know." The nanny pats him on the shoulder and walked into Samantha's two stories house. Adam walked back to the car and continued their way back home.

Samantha lived with her best friend, Beth a.k.a Becky. Becky knew they were coming to take Samantha's clothes because Samantha's biological brother, Mathew informed her before hand. However, she wasn't expecting an old lady with two butlers to come in. The old lady told the men to stay behind while she packed Samantha's belongings. "Good afternoon Beth dear. I'm Samantha's old nanny. I'm here to pack her clothes. Can you show me her room?" Beth gave a nod and showed her the way. When they arrived the nanny said "Thank you, dear. You can go now. I don't want to bother you." The nanny opened Samantha's wardrobe taking out her travelling bag.

"How did she know?" Beth looked at the nanny shrugging it off thinking it was normal. After the nanny packed Samantha's bag she called the butler to pick it up, putting it in the car. The nanny thanked her smiling with satisfaction. "I'm sorry but can you give this to Samantha." Beth gave s package to the nanny. The nanny shook her head and pushes the package back to her. "Why?"

“Beth dear, you are coming with us to go to Samantha's parent’s house. I think she would be delighted to see you. Now go and pack your bags we have to hurry. Remember to bring a nice dress too." Beth ran and packed her bags as fast as she can. The nanny chuckled at her action and smiled seeing that young Samantha had found such a great friend. The nanny picked up Samantha's bear and softly pinched its cheek. “Master Aaron you would have loved to see what your daughter has become with such good friends by her side.”

“I’m back!” Beth came back that gasping for air. The nanny guessed she ran back to the car not wanting to make them wait for her any longer. They set off to their journey back to Samantha's home which she had lived with her parents.

On the other side, Adam had stopped on the way home to a place he knew would that would calm him down. He opened the door and walked out of it to see the nice view of the mountains. Samantha was still sleeping soundly in the car. He looked back at her and made a sad smile. He turned around to face the magnificent view and took a deep breath. Then he exhaled, taking out his phone and called Mathew. He waited for him to pick up and said "Hey Mathew."

"Hi little bro. Do you have Samantha with you?"

"Yeah I do. She's sleeping like mom requested. I still feel guilty doing this to her." He looked down to his feet feeling ashamed.

"We had to do it. If not she would ask you so many question and we need to keep it a secret. You have to remember she is turning 27 years old soon. Mom already have plans on getting her to get engaged with some guy she fond of."

"I know!" He fisted his hand into his hair, letting go after a while after deciding it was no use. "Mathew do you think it's a good idea for me to accept the offer to continue my studies overseas." He kicked a pebble which fell down the pavement to role down the steep slope.

"It's your choice, bro. All I know is that Samantha would be devastated to hear that you would be leaving her here all alone. You know how much she cares about you.” Mathew paused. “Anyway thanks for the info. I need to finish some other preparation here before she arrives."

"Okay, good bye." Mathew hanged up and Adam put his phone back into his pocket. "Maybe I should. It would be the best for both of us. He took on last glance at the view before going back in to the car driving back to their parent's house. Samantha slept soundly not knowing the fate awaiting her. After a few hours drive they finally arrived. The sleeping pills would soon wear off.

When they arrived they were greeted by their mother joyfully who seem too young than her real age. Their mother gave him a warm hug filled with love and care. "Are you tired my little boy?" she pushed away any strands of hair on his face and looked at him worriedly.

“I'm not a baby anymore mom." He chuckled and took her hand, giving a tired smile to her. "I'm just a little tired. I just need a quick nap that's all, mom. Mom what about Samantha? She is still a sleep." He looked back at her and his mother followed his gaze too.

"No worries. I'll go ask someone to bring her up to her room." She said smiling at him lovingly. It almost felt that she was his real mother.

"No it's alright. I'll carry her up myself." He smiled back at her and walked to the other side picking her up into his arms.

"You shouldn't push yourself Adam. I don't want anything bad to happen to you." She looked at him with a troubled look walking to him holding his shoulder.

"I'm fine mom. Her room is just across mine so I can go to my room right after I do this." Adam gave a smile to reassure his mom.

"Be safe alright." She gave him way to walk into the mansion reluctantly but she knew how stubborn her son could be “Adam after you send her up call the maids to get her ready for the party tonight.” He gave a nod and into the mansion, up the stairs to Samantha's room.

On the way he saw a girl coming out of guest room looking his way. "Is that Samantha?" Beth thought walking closer to the man. Adam heard about Beth but never met her in person so does Beth. "Who is the person carrying her?" She wondered, taking a closer look. Suddenly she remembered the description that was given by Samantha about her brother, Adam.  "Are you Adam Samantha's adopted brother?"

"Yeah I am." He took a look at her, not recognizing she was Beth because he was too tired after driving Samantha all the way here. "I'm sorry to be rude but can you move away I need to send my sister to her room. She's kind of heavy. Ouch!" He got punched at the shoulder by Samantha who was still sound a sleep. "Are you already awake Samantha?" He nudged his shoulder and Samantha snuggled closer into his hold putting her face into his neck. He blushed.

"Aww.... so adorable!" Beth said squealing. He glared at her which didn't seem at all scary that moment. He walked toward to Samantha's room trying to ignore the sound of Beth chuckling in the background. He walked in closing the door behind him.

"God! I'm just so lucky! Aren't I?" he said sarcastically. Then when he looked at Samantha's face all the anger seems to fade away. He put her down to her bed tucking her in. He pushed the stray hair on her forehead away, kissing it. She smiled and Adam moved away quietly not wanting to wake her up. 

As soon as he was just at the foot of her bed he heard her say "Is that you Adam?" She sat up rubbing her eyes still feeling dazed after just waking up. He gave nod and walked to her. "Where are we?" she looked around not noticing this was her room.

"She must be still tired" Adam thought. "We're at your room, Samantha." He said grinning at her and continued "You fell asleep on the way. Don't you remember?"

"Whose fault was that?" She glared at him. He simply gave a nervous smile and shrugged his shoulder. "I know Adam. Mom told you to do it. I should have known better."

"I didn't want to do it!" He felt guilty doing it he didn't even want to do it but if he didn't the guy Samantha's mother was fond with will bring her. He couldn't bare it if that happened. She put her hand to his cheek and looked at him in the eye.

"I know that you would never let me be in harm, Adam." She smiled at him and suddenly pinched his cheek. "That's pay back for not telling me straight. I would have drank it if you even if you told me that." She grinned at him. He rubbed his cheek and grinned at her back. 

He apologized to her and said "Well that's because as long as it is coffee you can't resist it." He smirked and ran out of the room not wanting to be punched or pinched by Samantha again.

"Hey!" Samantha yelled too tired to move. Adam closed the door behind him and had a sad smile on his face looking down to the floor. His hair fell in front of his face hiding it from Beth who was looking from the corner. Beth was planning on seeing Samantha and having a chat with her. She didn't expect to see such an expression on his face. Adam let go of the door knob reluctantly, walking to his room with a frustrated look on his face.

Suddenly Beth felt a tap on her shoulder, she flinch and slowly look back to see the nanny. The nanny put her pointing finger on her lip asking her to not talk of it. Beth gave a nod and the nanny smiled leaving Beth alone. "What the hell?!" She put her hand on her chest feeling her heart beating fast feeling scared. She sighed in relief. "At least she is not still here." She walked to Samantha's door knocking the door.

"Come in the door is not locked." Beth came in looking around Samantha's room. Samantha was busy playing with her dear beloved teddy bear, S.A.M which was a combination of her and her brother’s name.

"Nice room." Beth whistled.  Samantha looked up with her eyes wide open not believing the voice she heard was real till she saw Beth standing at the foot of her bed. Samantha jumped from her bed, still holding S.A.M she hugged Beth tightly. "Can't breathe Samantha…" Samantha let Beth go and smiled innocently.

"I'm sorry...Please forgive me..." Samantha said with pleading eyes. Beth could not say no to that face so Beth forgave her. "Thank you! Anyway Beth how did you get here? I thought you would be at home relaxing with your boyfriend." Samantha looked at her wondering what happened.

"First of all me and Will are just friends. Second it is..." Beth quickly put her hand to her mouth stopping her from spilling the beans.

"It is what?" Samantha gave Beth a serious expression making anyone who didn't know her fall to their knees telling her everything.

"It's boring without you around and I miss having to tease you. That's all." Beth thought it was a nice save hopefully Samantha won't notice. "Besides that can we go out and play around. I was bored waiting for you."

“No young mistress Samantha, You have to get ready for the party tonight.” The Latina maid said smiling holding a beautiful spaghetti strap red dress with a black rose pattern on it.

“Yes, young mistress we don’t want you to be late.” Another maid came out holding the a pair of black high heels to match and a black case full of makeup. She had red hair and freckles on her face.

“Guess the tour has to wait…” Beth said to Samantha who seemed surprised.

“Can I know what the party is for?” Samantha asked as the maids came in putting the items to their place.

“I’m sorry young mistress but that information is classified.” The maid answered. “Young mistress you should take a bath first while we get the items for the party ready.”

.“I’m sorry but I promise I’ll give you a tour of the house tomorrow or would you rather I ask Maria to do it.” Samantha said feeling guilty of leaving her friend alone

“No it’s alright. I’ll wait till tomorrow.” Beth smiled, hugging Samantha reassuring her she was fine. “I’ll be in my room if you’re looking for me.” Beth walked out of the room, waving Samantha goodbye.

After Beth left the room Samantha went to take a bath while the maids got everything ready. “How did she know your name, Maria?” The red hair maid asked.

“We were friends when she was in kindergarden. She was so cute then.” Maria answering her colleague’s question setting the makeup on the table while the red hair maid prepare the items for Samantha’s hair. 10 minutes had past and Samantha finally finished her bath. “Come sit here young mistress we need to start with your hair first then your makeup .Finally ending with the dress and shoes.” Maria said pulling the chair for her to sit.

“Thank you Maria.” Samantha sat down on the chair and looked at Maria smiling. “What’s your name?” Samantha asked looking at the red hair maid who was currently drying Samantha’s hair with a hairdryer.

“I’m Sarah.” The red hair maid answered with a delighted tone.

“Nice to meet you Sarah…” Samantha grinned at her. “I hope you enjoy working here.”

“Yes, I do very much enjoy working here. Your mother is a really nice person.” Sarah answered truthfully.

“It’s good to hear that.” Samantha smiled putting her hand on her chest, feeling a warm and bright emotion fill her heart.

After they finished getting her hair and makeup ready, they fit Samantha into the dress. “Young mistress you look stunning.” Maria said admiring Samantha’s beauty.

“Thank you, Maria.” Samantha said hugging her tightly.

“Young mistress all there is left is for you to slip on the black high heel and you’re ready for the party. I’m sure everyone is waiting for you downstairs.” Sarah said putting Samantha’s shoes right in front of her letting her slip them on. Samantha pulled Sarah to a hug whispering thank you too her ear.

Then suddenly there was a knock on the door surprising the girls. “Excuse me ladies but it’s almost time for Miss Samantha too leave. I’m afraid Mister Adam downstairs is getting agitated waiting for her.” The old butler looked down at Mister Adam who was pacing back and forth downstairs.

“Thank you. I’ll be down as soon.” Samantha answered letting Sarah go slipping on her shoes hurriedly. “Maria and Sarah thank you but I have to leave so bye.” The maids nod their head waving to her good bye with a smile on their face. Samantha walked as fast as she could.

Meanwhile downstairs

Adam was taking a glance of his watch and heard someone called his name. He turned around to see Samantha looking absolutely stunning with her spaghetti strap dress and her beautiful wavy hair being let down. He simply stood there stun of her beauty. The way her hair falls to her shoulder and light makeup she had letting her natural beauty shine. He could not stop staring in awe.

Samantha smiled and walked down the stairs gracefully till she reached his side. “Adam…” She called his name yet she received no reply. She looked around and asked “Are you waiting for someone else?”

Adam broke out of his stance and shook his head. “No, I was waiting for you.”

“So let’s go then…” Samantha gestured her hand for him to lead the way.

“Wait I have something to give you.” He took out a box and continued by saying. “I hope you like it.” He opened it to show a cute coffee mug with a lid.

She hugged him, smiling “It’s adorable. I couldn’t wish for a better present.”

“How did you know?” He asked putting his head on her shoulder smiling as a load was lifted from his shoulder because he couldn’t keep anything away from her.

“Who wouldn’t?” She chuckled accepting the present happily. She opened the lid to see a small box inside it. “What’s this?” She took the box out curious of the content. She opened it revealing a pair of necklaces one of them with an initial of her name the other was Adam’s.

“That’s the surprise present.” Adam said taking his initial name and Samantha. “I’ll be holding on to yours while you hold on to mine. So if I ever leave you one day you will remember me and I will remember you. Will you give me the permission to put it on you?” Samantha gave a nod and turned around. “You know what I sometimes wonder how would life be like if I never met you, mom, dad and Mathew? Would I have been the person I am today? But at the end of the day I know I have you guys around to take care and love me as if I am part of your family. I’m thankful of you for holding your hand out that time at the orphanage asking me to come along with you, to be a part of your family. When I took your hand I felt as if I found where I belong. I was no longer alone in this world with no one to care but, someone who had a place in the world.” He connected the hook of the necklace to its place finally letting go as if saying his good bye to Samantha. “I’m done so let’s go then.” He took her hand and led the way to the car.

When they arrived to the party everyone jump out yelling happy birthday and Samantha acted surprise. Samantha walked through the crowd with Adam to the cake. Her mother was waiting there holding the knife for the cake. Samantha blew the candles making her wish while the people surrounding her sang her the birthday song. After that her mother handed her the knife wishing her daughter Happy 27^th Birthday. Samantha cut 4 slices of the cake handing one to her mother, thanking her for the amazing party. She gave the other slice to Mathew who standing beside Drake, his best friend. “This is for being among the best brothers on Earth. Also for working hard on making the party what it is today. This couldn’t happen without you.” She hugged her brother, Mathew and kissed him on the cheek.

The next slice was given to Adam. “You will always be family no matter where you are or even with whoever you’re with. Cause we would always love you.” She hugged him and then the whole family came along, hugging him together. Adam felt touched and a joyful tear slipped out of his eye as he hugged them back.

The party continued as always with Samantha greeting the guest, talking with her friends and such while Adam was having a conversation with Mathew.

“So you decided to accept that offer to study overseas.” Mathew said sipping his drink.

“Yeah I did. I’m leaving after the party. They decided they wanted me there tomorrow and Drake is helping me through all the paper work and getting the visa. The tickets were also already been bought. My bags are ready since I was decided on it two weeks ago but I wanted to be sure before I leave today so here we are.” He smiled putting his hands in his pocket. “Today it feels like a weight is lifted from my shoulder not only because I no longer feel the need to worry about Samantha’s wellbeing but also the fact I no worries about whether you’ll still care of me if I left. Now everything has been answered so I should take my leave soon. Goodbye Mathew take care of Samantha for me.” He shook Mathew hand and walked to the main door only to see Samantha waiting there.

“Adam can you follow me somewhere?” Samantha said smiling however the smile looked as if something was missing.

“Yeah sure, where are we going?” Adam said as Samantha pulled his hand bringing him somewhere.

“It’s a secret.” Samantha answered. After a few turns and a lot of walking they finally arrived. It was the garden there. It had a gazebo right in the middle of everything surrounded by the flowers and just beside a pond. She pulled him in to the gazebo. She let go of his hand and faced him. “We have arrived.” She grinned and continued “You’re not wearing the necklace. Do you want to help you put it on?”

“Okay.” He said taking out the necklace from his pocket giving it to her. She took it and asked him to sit on the bench seeing that he was taller than her.

He sat down on the bench facing the pond. “Adam…” Samantha called him, he gave a nod. She slipped it on the front and hooked in on. Adam wanted turned his face to say thank you to Samantha only to be stopped by her putting her arm around his neck. “I know your leaving, Adam.” She tried to say it as calmly as she could but her voice still cracked. “I don’t want you to leave but if you think this is for the best I’ll do my best to accept it.” She said trying to be brave.

“Thank you Samantha but…” Adam put his hand on top of hers. “You don’t you don’t have to worry cause I will always be there. I am just a phone call away or even a Skype away so don’t worry you can also visit whenever your free. But I’ll always miss you and everyone else.” He looked up to smile at her kissing her on the cheek. “Everything will be fine.” He whispered reassuringly.

The next day

Adam had already gone on the plane to Cambridge in United Kingdom. While Samantha held the necklace in her hand looking up through the window, up to the blue sky. She knew she will see him again someday and also one day she will be able to tell him her feeling till then the necklace will be her only key to remind her that he is there. He was in her heart.

The End

Cherish for what is there before it disappears

Cherish what you have

 “It’s true isn’t it, the fact you have someone else?” Brenda looked at him with a sad smile on her face. The man didn’t say a word. He just stood there and looked down ashamed of what he did. “It’s alright. I knew no one would like someone like me…” She looked away. “I am still thankful of you being with me for quite a long time. I should probably leave. I don’t want to trouble you anymore.” She went to her room and started packing her stuff. The man went to follow her after a few minutes not knowing what to say. Brenda was holding back her tears like she always did. The man wanted to stop her but he didn’t think she would listen. Brenda stood up bringing her bag along. “I will take all my other stuff later.” Her voice sounded as if she was about to cry.

“Don’t leave…” He said not looking at her. She ignored it and walked out of the house. It started to rain but she couldn’t care less. She walked to the nearest bus station and sat on the bench soaking wet. She was crying but held back the sound. She put her hands on her face not wanting anyone to see. She knew it would happen but in her mind she kept wondering “Why?” Water drips from her hair and crashes to the ground. “Why can’t I stop crying?” She wiped her tears again and again but it won’t stop flowing. “Stop crying. No one is worth your tears, especially not yourself.”

An old woman came and sat by Brenda’s side. The old woman said “Oh child what had caused so many tears to fall from your eyes?” She pats Brenda her shoulder and pulled to a hug. The girl held on the ladies clothes and cried on her shoulder. “There…there…Do not hold your tears. Let it all out for tears left not cried shall leave the heart in pain.”

After a while Brenda stopped crying and looked at the aged lady. “Thank you.” She said even though her voice sounded unclear because of her sobbing. “I’m sorry I took a lot of your time.” She bowed her head for she felt embarrass towards the old lady.

“It’s alright, child.” The old woman pats her shoulder again. “Everyone needs a shoulder to cry on and I couldn’t leave a child to cry alone in the rain.” Brenda looked up and smiled, showing her gratefulness to the old woman. “What were you crying about child?” The old woman asked with concern. The girl looked away from the old woman and clasped her hands together.

“It was nothing actually. It’s just, I broke up with my fiancée because he cheated on me. It’s not like I couldn’t guess why, who would want a girl like me.” She wiped the tear that formed on her right eye.

“You would say the same thing to me if you met me along time ago when I was your age. I was an average girl with tons of flaws but now I’ve been married for 49 years. It wasn’t all happy but we made it through. Sadly during our 50^th anniversary he died, leaving me a lonely widow.” The old woman sighed and smiled after that. “Still the good memories will live on with me till the day we meet again.” The woman looked up to the sky and smiled again but this time with a wishful look to it. Brenda looked at the woman feeling honored to meet such a loving person. The old woman looked at her up and down then she asked “Sorry child but may I ask where are you staying for this moment?”

‘I was planning on going to back home to my parents house. I was going to call my brother. Which reminds me do you know the house inn that’s near here? I heard it is really good and cozy. Do you know where it is? Brenda looked at the old woman to be greeted by a smile.

“Of course I do, child. I used to own the place with my husband but since he died my niece is helping me handle all the management.” The old lady puts her hands on the umbrella and leisurely stood up. “Would you like me to show you the way? It’s quite nearby. A few minutes walk through the rain before we reach it though.” The old lady opened her umbrella and asked the girl to join her. The girl took the offer and went with the old lady bringing her bag along. They walked through the heavy rain and saw a nice big cozy house with a sign board “Cozy and Warm is all everyone needs.” There was even a cute picture of a smile. “You should go in first child.” I’ll follow you later.” The old lady smiled at Brenda. She believed it and walked into the inn. Then a sound of a bell was heard.

“I’m sorry but do you have any free rooms for the time being,” She asked the lady behind the desk who was busy.

“Oh yes! We do can you please wait for a while I need to tell the chef to make a bowl of soup for our customer who is currently sick.” The lady bowed apologizing.

“No, it’s alright. I can wait.”  Brenda smiled.

“Oh dear! You are soaking wet. You can use….” The lady searched under the desk and pulled out a towel. “Here use this to dry yourself first. We don’t want another one of our customers sick. Would you like a cup of hot chocolate or a cup of tea?” Brenda took the towel and started drying her hair.

“A cup of hot chocolate please.” She answered politely while smiling feeling the love and care the person had for everyone. The lady smiled and asked her to sit on one of the couches for a while until she comes back. “I see why people enjoy staying here so much. It feels like home.” She said it in her mind as she dried herself with the fluffy towel she received. Her eye slowly felt heavy and started to drift a sleep on the couch.

“Miss did you ask for a cup of hot chocolate?” Brenda was so shock that she hit her head on the wall behind the couch. “Are you all right, miss?” The little girl asked looking at her worriedly. “It’s alright .Just a bump on the head that’s all .She answered and looked down at the little girl giving a reassuring smile.

“Oh…” The little girl said looking totally adorable.

“I’m sorry but what were you saying just now.” Brenda asked looking at the cup of hot chocolate on the tray the little girl was holding.

“Is this your cup of hot chocolate? My mom sent me to give it to you since she’s kind of busy.” The little girl said it innocently. Brenda gave a nod.

“What’s your name little girl?” Brenda asked taking the cup of hot chocolate by the handle.

                        

“My mom said, don’t tell strangers your name.” The little girl shook her head again and again slowly.

“My mom told me never to talk to strangers but you broke that already.” Brenda gave a mischievous smile to the little girl who was shocked of what she heard.  “It’s okay. I’ll tell you my name first. My name is Brenda. What’s yours?” The little girl was hesitant at first to tell her until Brenda said “It’s common courtesy to introduce yourself before talking to someone.”

“My name is Julia.” The little girl said fiddling with her fingers.

“Nice to meet you, Julia. Would you like to have a short chat with me till your mom comes back?” Brenda pats the sit beside her. Julia gave a nod and sat on the couch. They had a nice chat about anything that came out of Julia’s mind. It was certainly delightful and enjoyable to talk to a child. Julia couldn’t stop making more interesting subjects to talk about from one after another. Her mother came after a while and apologized for the long wait. “No please don’t apologize. It’s actually been a very short wait with Julia here entertaining me.” Brenda patted Julia’s head softly and Julia grinned at her.

After she checked in she walked up to her room which was on the second floor. She was thinking about what the woman said to her before which was “You’re so lucky dear. We have a free room today because one of customer couldn’t make it. It has queens size with a nice view of the field below. It should help you calm down and relax. Here you go room number 5…” Brenda looked at her key and back to the number at the door. It was room number 5 indeed. She opened the nice dark oak door and went in.

She took off her shoes and put down her bag. She looked around the room and felt it was like home, nice and cozy. It had one bathroom with a bathtub and shower. The room was just nice not too big and too small. It had a queen size bed with nice translucent curtains which you could let down. It was soft to the touch. She saw the balcony and opened it to look at the view. She saw a mesmerizing sight of the field behind the inn which had lushes green grass growing especially after it rained. The rain drops fell from the sky and down to the earth covering the verdant grass with water to replenish its thirst. Oh how it shined, the way the sun reflected over the little drops of water and gave off a nice relaxing shine to it.

“Brenda? Is that you?” She heard someone calling her name from below. She looked down and saw it was her ex-boyfriend, who was certainly a sight for sore eyes.

“James….” She was surprise because she wasn’t expecting to see him in this part of town.

“It is you! Come down and have a chat with me!” He smiled dashingly like he always did. She shook her head and declined politely. “Come on Brenda for old time sake.” He gave a puppy dog face knowing she could never say no to that.

“Alright, you win. Just wait for a while. I need to take a bath and change.” She pointed at her wet clothes.

“This is going to take a while.” He said it, sighing trying to joke around with her. She glared at him and left to go get ready. He smiled and walked to the reception hall. After 15 minutes she was ready and walked out of her room to go meet James. “That didn’t take as long as I expected.” James said teasing Brenda. Brenda stuck out her tongue like a little kid with a tantrum, he chuckled. After that James invited Brenda to the café in the inn which was the nicest place to have an afternoon snack. They took a table that was outside so they can enjoy the beautiful view. They ordered two cups of tea and scones.

“How have you been doing, James? It’s been such a long time since I heard from you” Brenda put her head on her hand.

“Well not much really I’ve been busy with taking over my families business. I am currently working on a deal that’s why I’m here.” He smirked.

“You always know what I’m thinking, don’t you James.” She chuckled

“Well being your best friend since primary school and boyfriend for quite sometime has its advantages.” He shrugged his shoulder and smiled.

“You haven’t changed at all, still the same man you were since then.” Brenda smiled at his temperament.

“How have you been doing Brenda? Still working as a lab assistant is it?” He raised an eyebrow curious of her answer.

“Sorry to disappoint you but now I am currently a cardiologist at the Medical Hospital here.” She smirked at him “So when you finally get a heart attack after using too much Viagra you can call me. I might be able to squeeze you in somewhere.” She snickered.

“No thanks.” He put his hands up, surrendering. “I’ve been too busy to even see anyone and after you no one seems good enough.” James put his hands down and looked at her with a serious face. “Are you seeing someone?”

“Well you could say was seeing someone until I found out he cheated on me.” She looked at the green grass trying to calm her sadness. “We were even just about to get married. Then he had to ruin it all.” She wrapped her arms around herself trying to feel the warmth she had lost.

“Brenda...” He wanted to say something but he was interrupted by the waiter who came to bring them their drinks. They both smiled politely at the waiter and then the waiter left them to their business. James stood up and went to Brenda, taking off his black jacket. He slipped his jacket on to Brenda’s shoulder saying “This should keep you warm.” Brenda looked up at him and smiled.

While they both were having a chat, they didn’t know someone was watching them. It was Brenda’s ex-fiancée, Mark. He also couldn’t let go of Brenda just like she couldn’t let go of him. But none of them knew that. He thought Brenda already moved on seeing her with James, laughing and smiling. He knew she would go here since she had been talking about it for quite sometime and it was among the closest inn there. He called Brenda’s mother and told her where Brenda was. After that he left not wanting to listen to Brenda’s side of the story.

Brenda thought she saw Mark and ran after him leaving James behind clueless of what’s going on. James went after her and finally she stopped looking around for Mark but saw no one. She was too late. She looked around and didn’t see a trace of Mark. “Where are you? Why are you doing this Mark? You betrayed me but why did I see you just now. What do you want to say to me?” So many question filled Brenda’s mind as she couldn’t actually hear what Mark was looking for. There were so many possibilities but which was the right one?

James looked at how desperate she was and thought “Brenda it’s the first time I’ve ever saw you look so distressed. Why did he walk away from you? He could have just got you back if he took the time to talk.” James felt pity for Brenda and jealous of the guy. When he broke up with her she wasn’t like that at all. She was completely fine even acting as if nothing happened. She didn’t chase him when he left that day. She just let him be. She changed so much for this person and yet why isn’t the feeling returned. “Brenda…” James called her, putting his hand on her shoulder and she turned around hoping it was Mark. However her hopes fell when she saw it was James and her expression changed back to sadness.

“It’s you James.” She tried to give a smile but it didn’t look she meant it at all. “I’m sorry. I thought I saw Mark, my ex-fiancee just now.” Her eyes started to swell with tears. James couldn’t stand it and pulled her into an embrace. “James I’m fine you don’t have to hug me.” She tried to push him away but James wouldn’t budge.

“No. You’re not fine Brenda. Stop kidding yourself. His different isn’t he?” James put his chin on her head. She shook her head and denied the truth of what she felt. He smirked and said “You still can’t see it can you. I’ve known you longer than anyone else have and I know you changed. You’re not the cold hearted person you were before. You changed for the better.” James loosened his hug a bit so he could look at her face to face. “I know you still lo…..” James mouth was shut by Brenda’s hands.

“Shut up, James.” Brenda looked away from him. “I don’t want to hear it.” James gave a sympathetic look to her and gave a nod. Brenda took her hands away from James mouth and looked at him. “I know.... What you were about to say but it doesn’t mean anything anymore. I can’t do anything anymore for exact. It’s maybe because I ran away before taking the time to talk him, but I can’t change the past. Anyway I think his mom would agree with his decision of not continuing with the engagement.” Brenda pushed herself out of James hold and looked at him with a blank face. “She hates me because she thinks I’m no good for him so it’s the best for both of us. He is free of me and I don’t want to yelled at by his mother anymore.” Brenda snickered and gave a broken smile to James. James stared at her with disbelief for who couldn’t see how broken down she was by her smile alone. Brenda just wanted the pain to disappear forever. She never even wanted to see Mark anymore. That’s why in the past she made sure she always kept a distance between everyone so it won’t hurt as much as it did now. She knew James knows better than to believe what she had said. He knew her better than she ever did or even anyone else.

James walked to closer to her and took her hand, putting it between both of his hand. He kissed it and let one of his hands go, putting it on his chest. “Remember this. We use to do it every time when one of us feels sad. It’s to remind us that we’re not alone.” James smiled at Brenda and she nods, giving a smile resembling her old self. It’s been such a long time since neither of them reminisced of the past. “Remember who made this? Because I’m pretty sure it was you who created this, to cheer me up. It was when we were both in primary school and my parents were always having fight which upset me. But no one knew except you, you’re the one who notice and saw me cry. You were a kid but you sat in front of me and did that. You know how grateful I was meeting you.” James gripped harder on her hand and looked into her eyes.

“No I never knew that….” She shook her head and looked at him, smiling. “I never thought you would still remember it.” She said those words so softly it sounded as if it was a whisper.

“How could I forget it? It was the reason I fell for you. You wouldn’t notice me so I had to flirt with other girls to make you jealous.” He smirked and her eyes were wide open surprise at what she heard. She gave him a disbelieving look and stared at him. “I’m not kidding. It took a while but finally you notice. However by then you didn’t really believe me because you thought I was a playboy.” James sighed and Brenda gave a nod, sniggering. “At least I made you smile. You look a lot better smiling than with a blank expression. It looked scary.” James rubbed his shoulder as if he had goose bumps.  

“How about you let go of my hand and we go continue with our lunch?” James shook his head and instead of letting go of her hand, he threads their hands together pulling her to the café. They forgot of the incident that happened before and continued with their chat. After two months Brenda and Mark barely spoke or met each other both. They tried their best to avoid meeting each other. James and Brenda were currently close friends, without Brenda knowing her mother and James was planning on the proposal of James to Brenda. Her mother wanted Brenda to move on and be happy rather than be sad so she thought this was the best. James just went along with the plan seeing that he wanted to be with her all this time. Anyway the reason why Brenda and James broke up last time was because of a misunderstanding. But ever since it had been solved James and Brenda started to become closer while with Mark it started to get even worse.

Sadly the day came when Mark and Brenda couldn’t stop each other from meeting. It was the day Mark himself became her patient. The surgery went as planned and Mark was sent to the ICU. Brenda went to check on him, when suddenly Mark’s heart started to fail by itself. Brenda tried her best to save him but everything she did didn’t work. Slowly Mark started to drift away from Brenda grasps but just before he died Mark whispered “I’m sorry Brenda because I still love you and I want you to be happy.” Brenda didn’t stop trying but it was too late. She called the time of death and when to tell his mother. His mother didn’t believe it at first until she saw him. She shook Brenda hard and begged it wasn’t true. Then she started swearing on Brenda’s name and crying at the same time. Brenda looked down to the floor feeling shame and pain at the same time. He was the one she loved but in of all the people she saved, he was the only one she couldn’t keep alive. The nurses took Mark’s mother away from Brenda.

“I’m sorry.” She whispered before she walked out of the room. Brenda finally couldn’t stop the tear from falling and walked out of the hospital as fast as she could. She sat on one of the benches and started to cry. She blamed herself for Mark’s death even if it wasn’t her fault. The old lady she met before was beside her again with a concern look on her face. “How can you be here?” Brenda asked finding it almost impossible to believe to meet her again.

“Does that matter so much now child?” Brenda shook her head because it didn’t really matter she just wanted someone to cry on. You’re crying again but this time it’s for a different reason isn’t it.” The old lady pulled her to a comforting hug. “There...there… Child do you remember the story I told you about my husband.” Brenda gave a nod. “Well since he left the pain and loneliness never ends but the memories I had with him was priceless no matter whether it was good or bad. It always kept me company when things seemed little lonely. You child had to face something that came to me only after 49 years of our marriage. I won’t find it surprising to see you like this. Everyone has their way to grieve, mine was sitting in my room looking at all the pictures and memories I had with him. I might have sobbed and cried a few tears but that was because I already knew it would happen. You faced it when you usually think about getting married, getting kids and doing a great job. You never thought this would happen didn’t you.”

Brenda gave a nod and looked up to the old lady.” I always know people die at anytime. After working at a hospital and seeing people cry over the lost of someone everyday you know this would happen but you don’t know the pain until you feel it yourself.” Brenda looked down and asked “When would the pain and loneliness subside?

“That’s when you learn it will never end you just have to live with it but this time appreciate everyone you meet everyday. It’s because now you know one day they will leave you and you want to be left with no regrets, also with more happy memories to be reminded of.” The lady patted Brenda on the back softly and latter quietly started to fall asleep.

When she woke up she saw James who was sweating and panting with a worried expression on his face.  “Brenda I was looking all over for you. Where have you been? Don’t you know it’s not safe to be sleeping just anywhere you want?”

Brenda smiled and quickly hugged James. “Thank you for worrying about me, James.” James was dumbfounded of Brenda’s reaction and had forgotten what he was so angry about before.  “I’m sorry I just had to cry for a while.” She hugged James even closer, making him hug her back.

“You’re forgiven. Now are you okay?”

“As alright as I can ever be.” Brenda frowned realizing it was time for her to put her brave face on in front of Marks mother. James nudged his shoulder knowing that Brenda was reluctant to face the pain again. “Ouch! What’s that for?”

“To make you forget and stop frowning.” James smirked. “Brenda I’m here for you and I know I will never replace Mark but I will make you happy as long as I live.”

“Is that a proposal?” Brenda quirked an eyebrow thinking it was a joke.

“Was planning on a better day, time and place but yeah.” He shrugged his shoulder. “I think Mark will respect our marriage because when I met him by accident. He punched me on the face and was angry at first. But after that he said as long as you make Brenda happy I’m happy. Then he blackmailed me if I hurt you he would come and kill me. Can you believe that?” Brenda gave a nod and chuckled.

“That sounds just like him.”

After 1month Mark was buried, Brenda and James got engaged. They were planning to get married on the month Brenda and Mark were planning to get married to make a marriage that never happen to another that would stay as long as they live. They were thankful that they got Marks blessing and everyone else’s. On the 12^th of December they both got married and lived like any married couple did. There were times when they fought over silly little thing but it always became a joke to them when they thought about it again. It isn’t always a happy ever after but when happiness comes for a visit it’s always welcomed and enjoyed, also celebrated by both of them.

The End