Rhythm Of My Soul - Chapter 10

I kept on running and without realizing, I've reached our favourite hide out. The place brought back even more painful memories. This was where we first meet and this was where we spend most of our time together. I heard footsteps coming my way and I quickly wiped away my tears, not wanting him to see the pain that I was going through. I turned back, expecting it to be David but instead I come face to face with Charlene.

"Wow! You sure run very fast! I nearly lost you there" she said, half gasping for air.

"Why did you come after me?" I asked, confused.

"Because I knew that you were crying. You love David, don't you?" she asked.

I was speechless. I mean, how do you tell the girlfriend that you're in love with her boyfriend? Looking at Charlene now, I realized that I may not even have the right to love David in the first place. She is everything that I'm not and she is the one that deserves to be with David. He is, after all, way out of my league. I used to worry that I was only feeling the way I did for David because I see him as a replacement for Shawn. The truth was, it was the other way around. I was Charlene's replacement.

"It's okay, you can tell me the truth. I promise I won't kill you" she said, with a giggle.

"Yes" I finally admitted.

"Good, because he feels the same way for you too" she replied, with a smile.

"Huh?" I asked, thinking that Charlene was joking.

"I believe I haven't formally introduced myself yet. My name is Char..." she started to say.

"I know that David is your boyfriend. I'm sorry, Charlene. I won't come in between you two, I promise. I will forget him" I quickly say.

"I'm Charlene Chen. And if you dare to forget my brother, I'll be dead. He'll kill me for sure" she said, laughing.

"You're...you're..." I couldn't even finish my sentence.

"Yes, I'm her sister. The one he left behind in Canada? I hope he has told you about me before? If not, he'll be dead" she replied, with a wink.

His sister. Yes, now everything has come back to place. David has once told me about having a younger sister. She had to stay back in Canada to finish her last school year before she could come over to join the rest of the family. He has always wanted me to meet her and now I know why he doted on his sister. She was just as playful and cheeky as him. Her name was....yes, it was Charlene! I can't believe that I have totally forgot about his sister until now.

"I'm really sorry for pulling this prank on you. You don't know how much my ears hurt, listening to David. He just goes on and on about you. I've never seen him so obsessed over a girl before! I just needed to make sure whether you were feeling the same way too and whether it was all worth it. I don't want my brother to get hurt" she explained.

"Thanks, Charlene. For reminding me how lucky I am to have him" I said, smiling.

"Just make sure that you're serious with this relationship and don't end up hurting him. I will come after you" Charlene warned, protectively.

If I hadn't known, I would have thought that Charlene is David's older sister instead of his younger sister.

"I will do everything I can to keep him happy" I promised, smiling at Charlene's over protectiveness over her brother.

"Yayy! Now I have an extra person to bully David!" she cheered, happily.

"Yes. I'm glad that I have you on my side as well" I replied, laughing.

"But I really have to thank you. If it weren't for you, we would have lost him for good" she said, suddenly serious.

"What do you mean?" I asked, curiously.

"What? He didn't tell you? David is...." Charlene was cut off before she could finish her sentence.

"Charlene, that's enough!" David said, coming out from behind the tree.

I blushed crimson red when I see the sight of him. He must have heard our conversation and know of my true feelings for him. After much persuasion by David, Charlene finally left the two of them alone. It was really funny watching the two siblings fight. It was just a few seconds ago that Charlene was being so over protective of David. Before Charlene left, she adviced David to tell me whatever that he was hiding from me. However, silence engulfed us right after Charlene left.

"David, I...."

"Chelsea, I..."

We both started to speak at the exact same time.

"Ladies first" he said, smiling.

"I love you" was all I could say.

"I love you too" he replied.

I have planned over and over again of the things I would say to him when I finally see him.

I wanted to tell him how much I love him.

I wanted to tell him how much he means to me.

I wanted to tell him how happy he makes me.

I wanted to tell him how sorry I was for pushing him away.

I wanted to tell him how much I needed him to be with me.

But I couldn't find the words to tell him. All I know is that I'm deeply and madly in love with the man that is sitting in front of me now. I suddenly realize that there was no need for us to exchange too many words. David already know what I had wanted to say. I don't know how but I just know he knows because I already knew what he had wanted to say.

He leaned closer to me and for the first time, our lips touched. The kiss was so sweet and magical, I've lost count of how many somersaults my heart did. We hugged each other tight, as if we were afraid to let go of each other. Without realizing it, there were tears streaming down my cheeks. They were happy tears. David leaned closer and gently kissed my tears away. I am, no doubt, the luckiest girl on earth.

"What was Charlene trying to tell me just now?" I asked, suddenly remembering.

"When I told you that I might not be coming back for good, that was true. I was sick, Chelsea. I was very sick" he explained softly.

"Sick? How are you now? What is wrong with you?" I asked, nearly going hysterical worrying about him.

"The reason I went back to Canada was to get a heart transplant. The doctor only gave me 50-50 chance of survival. You didn't hear from me for months not because I've forgotten about you but it was because I was too sick to even pick up the phone" he went on.

"What? Heart transplant? How could that be possible? None of these are making sense! You never looked sick!" I cried, angry at myself for not noticing it.

"That's because I've gotten so good from hiding the pain from everyone else. It isn't that bad, really. Just as long as I have pills with me, I will be okay. I didn't want people to treat me as a sick person. I just want to fit in. I'm sorry for lying to you, Chelsea" he apologized.

"So those pills weren't your vitamin pills?" I asked, referring to the pills that he always had to take when we're out.


He nodded.

"And when you were gasping for breath, you weren't being dramatic?" I asked, remembering the times I would tease him because he always get tired so easily.

He nodded again.

I suddenly have flashbacks of the time we spent together and realized that there were hints that he was sick. I was just too ignorant to notice it. He was always so tired and would be gasping for breath after doing simple things such as climbing a flight of stairs. Of course, he always tried to cover it by turning it into a joke. He must have been in so much pain and yet he acted as if nothing was wrong just so that he wouldn't worry me. It must have been so hard on him then.

"Chelsea, please don't cry. I'm so sorry for lying to you" he said, worriedly.

Wait, I was crying? I touched my face and realized that my cheeks were stained with tears. I didn't even realize that I was crying. I quickly wiped my tears away and took his hand into mine. I suddenly realize how lucky I am to still have him by my side. I was this close to losing him, for good.

"It's not your fault, David. I'm sorry for being so ignorant. I'm sorry for not knowing that you were sick. Now that I think back, there were so many signs and yet, I chose to ignore them" I sobbed, guiltily.

"Chelsea, you could not have known because I was the one who didn't want you to know. I didn't want you to worry and most of all, I didn't want you to treat me differently" David explained.

"How are you now? How did the operation go? Are you sure you're okay to be out and about? Shouldn't you be in bed, resting?" I asked, worriedly.

"See? That's why I didn't want to tell you" he replied, laughing.

"I just don't want to lose you, David. I don't think I can go through the pain of losing someone I love....again" I whispered softly.

"I'm sorry for putting you through this. I know I was selfish. To know that I was sick and yet I still continue loving you. But now, I won't go anywhere. The operation was successful, Chelsea. What Charlene said was the truth. I fought hard to come back to you. I'm going to be okay now" he promised me.

"I'm glad that you were selfish enough to love me. I love you, David. I love you so much. Don't ever leave me" I said, hugging him tightly.

"Can you guys even breathe?" a voice asked from behind.

"Charlene! What are you still doing here?" cried David, breaking away from our embrace.

"Well, I just thought I would stay for the ending. After all, I started it" said Charlene, sticking out her tongue playfully.

"Why you...." started David but was cut off.

"You know what song is perfect for this moment?" Charlene asked.

"What?" both David and I ask at the same time.

"Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat!" she screamed happily, which is also coincidently our favourite song.

"Do you hear me,
Talking to you
Across the water across the deep blue ocean
Under the open sky, oh my, baby I'm trying"

David started singing as Charlene and I collapsed in fits of laughter. Then he started nudging me to continue but I refused. This was so embarassing especially when I know I can't even sing a tune in place.

"Boy I hear you in my dreams
I feel your whisper across the sea"

Charlene started to sing and begged me to continue. I'm guessing the two of them must have watched too much Mamma Mia movies. Don't get me wrong, I love the movie, Mamma Mia. In fact, to me, it is the best movie of 2008. I finally gave in when I saw those two faces. Both David and Charlene were looking at me with those big helpless puppy eyes. I know I couldn't refuse them any longer.

"Boy I hear you in my dreams
I feel your whisper across the sea
I keep you with me in my heart
You make it easier when life gets hard"

I started singing, or rather croaking but David and Charlene didn't seem to mind. We then launch into the chorus part together. I felt as if we were in one of the scenes from Mamma Mia. We were literally singing with our hearts, pouring our love out for each other through a song. I always loved watching musicals but I never once thought that I will be in one as well!

"Lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh"

I've forgot the last time where I have had so much fun and laughter in my life. We continued singing the song on top of our voices, without a care in the world. I snuggled closer to David as he wrapped his arms around me. I am certainly blessed to have David by my side and for some reason, I knew that Shawn was smiling down on us.

Yes, I am that lucky and no longer cursed.

"They don't know how long it takes
Waiting for a love like this
Every time we say goodbyeI wish we had one more
I'll wait for you I promise you, I will

Lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Lucky we're in love in every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

And so I'm sailing through the sea
To an island where we'll meet
You'll hear the music fill the air
I'll put a flower in your hair
Though the breezes through trees
Move so pretty you're all I see
As the world keeps spinning round
You hold me right here right now

Lucky I'm in love with my best friend
Lucky to have been where I have been
Lucky to be coming home again
Lucky we're in love in every way
Lucky to have stayed where we have stayed
Lucky to be coming home someday

Ooohh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh
Ooooh ooooh oooh oooh ooh ooh ooh ooh"

Rhythm Of My Soul - Chapter 9

I emailed him but he never replied

I wrote to him but he never wrote back

I called him but his line was always busy

I waited for him in MSN but he never came online

It's been nearly 2 months since David left for Canada and I've not heard from him since. It's as if he just disappeared from the face of the Earth. I was worried and upset, all at the same time. I had so many questions running through my head and I know that only David can give me the answers. I read the letter he left me over and over again, each time, trying to decipher if there's a hidden message from him. He was the one who didn't wanted us to be strangers and yet he's the one who's ignoring me.

Did I do something wrong?

Does he still need more time?

I still haven't told him how I really felt about him because I wanted to tell him personally and not through letters and emails but he didn't even give me a chance. If I could afford it, I would have probably booked the first flight to Canada to see him. I actually hated him for leaving me like this. He left so sudden without any explanation or whatsoever. I spent the first month drowning in self pity and regret. I cried myself to sleep almost every night.

I had wanted to do something for David and I knew that he had always wanted me to play the piano so without even thinking twice, I signed my name up for the Talent Show. Now, I'm beginning to really regret this decision. This would be the first time I'll be playing in public and one of my biggest phobia is to be on stage with everyone staring at me. I think I might just might black out and embarrass myself when the day finally come.

What have I gotten myself into?

It's not as if David is here to watch me perform anyway!

However, in a way, the Talent Show has helped me a lot in coping with the loss of David. I've spent most of my time practising the piano instead of thinking of him and waiting for him to reply my letters, mails and phone calls. Although I'm no longer the Ice Queen, I still found it hard to get along with other people in the college. None of them were really interested in becoming my friends. I don't blame them anyway because I have not make any efforts to become their friend when they tried to befriend me in the past. It has always been David and Chelsea. I never thought I needed anyone else...until now.

It's 3 more days to the Talent Show and I stared at my cellphone, debating with myself for the hundredth time whether or not to call David. I really wanted him to come to the show but I was afraid that I would only be disappointed. He has never once replied any of my letters or emails and neither has he called me back. I don't know if our friendship can be saved anymore. I took out the blue box from under the bed. It was supposed to be filled with memories of David and I but it was not meant to be. Instead, it was filled with letters that I've written to David every single day. Yes, I've stopped sending those letters to David after my third letter remained unreplied.

Perhaps, one day I'll be able to pass him this box

To let him know how much I miss him

To let him know how lost I am without him

To let him know know how much I truly love him

My feelings for him still stays the same but I'm not sure if he still feels the same way too. Perhaps, everything is too late now. I don't have anyone to blame but myself because I was the one who pushed him away. With my fingers slightly shaking, I dialled the number that I've remembered by heart. But, before I could do so, my phone rang. I checked my caller ID and it was him. David. I had so much to say to them but at that time, my mind went completely blank.

"Hey Chelsea" he greeted me.

"You still remember my name?" I snapped, trying to keep myself together.

"I'm sorry for not returning your calls and letters. Things have just been crazy over here" he tried to explain.

"Don't you know how worried I was over here? It's like you've disappeared from the face of the Earth! You were the one who asked me not to become a stranger but you've not make any efforts to salvage our friendship either! I called, I wrote, I e-mailed but I never once got any replies from you! I hate you for doing this to me! Do you think you can just come and go as you like?" I cried, upset.

"I'm sorry. I'm making the effort now and I hope that it's not too late. Forgive me, Chelsea. You know I would never do anything to hurt you" he pleaded in a child like voice.

"What it is that was so important that you couldn't even call me to let me know that you're okay?" I demanded to know.

"I can't tell you because it's really complicated. I'll tell you when I'm ready okay? You're the first person I've called and I've replied all your letters. I just haven't send them yet. Trust me, Chelsea. I would have called you earlier if I could" he promised.

"I thought you've forgotten about me or that you're purposely avoiding me" I said, softly.

"How could I ever forget or avoid my best friend?" he asked back.

"David, did something bad happen? Why did the entire family moved back to Canada on such a short notice? You even took Shawn's mom along! I thought the reason that both you and your mom moved here was because of Shawn's mom. What happened?" I questioned him.

"Chelsea, will you please relax? How do you expect me to answer all your questions at once?" he asked back.

"Well, I definately do not expect you to answer my questions with more questions!" I said, frustrated.
"We'll talk about this when the time is right" he promised.

"But when is the right time?" I demanded to know.

"Soon, Chelsea. Soon" David promised me.

"I miss you" I whispered sadly.

"Me too. Look, I really have to go now. I'll call you back soon. Bye, Chelsea" he said.

Before I could even say anything, the line went dead. I tried calling him back but again his line was busy. It seemed as if he has switched off his cellphone. I held on to the phone, the busy tone getting louder in my ear. I am again back at square one, where I started. I didn't get the chance to tell him how I really feel about him. He had ended the conversation so abruptly that I had to pinch myself to make sure that it wasn't all just a dream. Sometimes, my overactive imagination can play tricks on my mind! But I wasn't dreaming. David did call and instead of answering my questions, he has left me with more questions now.

Why did he sound so mysterious?

Why did he sound so secretive?

What was he trying to hide?

"David, do you think you can come and watch me play on the Talent Show this weekend?" I asked although I know that he could no longer hear.

"And one more thing, I love you. I always have"

I buried my face in my pillow and cried myself to sleep that night.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

In a blink of an eye, it is Saturday, time for the Talent Show. I had butterflies in my stomach and my fingers were all shaking like a leaf. I peeked from the curtain at the backstage and was overwhelmed by the response of the crowd. It seemed as if the entire world was here tonight and not just the students! I searched among the sea of crowd for a familiar face.

David's face.

"We now present you with Chelsea and her piano!"

The whole hall erupted with applause as I made my way to the center stage. I sat in front of the piano and took a deep breath as I put my shaky fingers on the piano keys. The entire hall became so quiet that I wondered if they heard my heart beat that was beating so fast that I thought it might jump out of my throat at any second. After a few minutes, I still couldn't calm myself down and just when I thought of running away, I heard a very familiar voice, singing.

It was him.

"Chelsea, will you please play?" he asked, smiling.

"David? What are you doing here?" I cried, surprised.

I totally forgot that the microphone was in front of me so I literally screamed into the microphone. Everyone had their hands over their ears as I quickly apologized softly. I was really happy to see David here but at the same time, I was shocked and confused. I wanted explanation but suddenly the whole hall started cheering my name, thanks to David.

"I think Chelsea here needs a little encouragement. Let's all cheer for her, shall we? Chelsea! Chelsea!" he screamed enthusiastically.

"Just play the song that you played for me the other day. You can do it" he whispered into my ear.

Suddenly, I felt myself becoming braver and more confident. I took a deep breath and started playing the song that I've been practising for months. Yes, even if David did not ask me, I would have played the very same song. It was the song that I've written especially for him.

As the sun slowly creeps away
And darkness fills the earth
I gaze my eyes upon the sky
The stars shining ever so brightly
I know that someone is watching over me

*Chorus*
You know my heart
You know my thoughts
You know my every fear
You know my every sorrow
For you are.....
You are the rhythm of my soul

You see me through and through
Through the mask I put on
Through the wall I build
You know me more than I know myself
And I know you more than you know yourself

(Repeat Chorus)

I love you with all my heart
I always have
I always will
You may never feel the same way
But you can never stop me from loving you

(Repeat Chorus)

I will be your friend
If that's what you want
I won't ask for more
Just let me stay by your side
Just as long as you're happy, I will be too

(Repeat Chorus)

When I finished playing, I had tears in my eyes because I was deeply touched. I just couldn't believe it. I felt as if I was in a dream because everything seemed so perfect. Suddenly, I did not see the crowd. The hall was empty and the only person that was there with me was David. I had not expected David to write beautiful lyrics to fit into the song that I was playing. I've only played to him once but he had remembered every tune to the song.

And his voice.....trust me, I'm not being dramatic here but it sounded...angelic? Fine, so I've never heard angels sing before but it seemed like it's the most appropriate word to use. He was really good, in fact even better than some of the singers nowadays. It was perfect. Yes, that's the word. Perfect.

The hall erupted into cheers and applaud as he led me to the center on the stage and we gave our thank you bows together. I let him led me around as if I'm a puppet because I just couldn't take my eyes off him.

"David....What? How? Why? When?" I fumbled with my words, once we're backstage.

"Calm down, Chelsea. You look as if you're about to faint from shock at any time" he said, laughing.

"How come you're here? And that song? How did you know?" I asked.

"Chelsea, I wanted to give you a surprise. I've known for quite some time that you joined this competition from my friends and I just wanted to show you some support. You've written that song for me and I decided to add my own lyrics for you in return. Sorry that you have to share your limelight with me" he explained.

"David, I'm just so glad that you're back. If you hadn't come, I would have probably died from stage fright. Thank you for everything" I sighed, hugging him tight.

"I miss you. I'm sorry for not keeping in touch with you these two months and making you worried. But I'm really happy that you're still worried about me " he whispered, into my ears.

"What are you talking about? Of course, I'm worried about you! You're my..." I started to say but was cut off.

"I know, you're best friend" he finished it for me.

"Well, David about that....there's something I want to tell you. I......." Again, I didn't get to finish what I say.

"You can tell me later. Right now, I have someone special that I really want you to meet. Wait for me here, okay?" he said and left before I can stop him.

"But David, I wanted to tell you that I want to be more than your best friend. I wanted to tell you how much I love you" I sighed, sadly to myself.

I waited for him and just when I was about to call a search party for him, I spotted him among the crowd. I was so afraid that he would suddenly disappear again. However, the smile started to disappear from my face when I saw him coming hand in hand with another girl, around ourage or maybe younger. They looked very close together and I felt myself turning green with envy. And I hate the colour green!

"I would like you to meet Charlene. She's my....." David introduced.

"Girlfriend. You must be Chelsea" Charlene finished his sentence for him.

"Hi" I said, swallowing a lump in my throat.

"Charlene! What are you doing?" David shrieked, slightly embarassed.

"Oh, darling. You don't have to be shy. We can't hide this from everyone" she said, giggling.

"How long have you two been together?" I forced myself to ask.

"Forever, from the day we were born! The only time that we were separated was when he moved here. But that problem has been solved because I'm moving in with him!" she said, kissing David's cheeks.

I knew I could not stand looking at them any longer.

I was afraid that I might break down into tears.

I don't know what was worst.

David lying to me about not having a girlfriend back in Canada.

Or Charlene getting all lovey dovey with David in front of me.

Or knowing, that this time, I've lost David for good.

"It's nice meeting you, Charlene. I have to go now. See you" I said, quickly excusing myself from them.

I couldn't even look at David.

I turned away from them and immediately my tears started to fall.

And then I broke into a run.

I didn't care where I was going.

I didn't look where I was going.

I just needed to get away.

Rhythm Of My Soul-Chapter 8

We haven't seen or spoken to each other since that day I broke his heart. We were like strangers now. We used to have so much to say to each other but nowadays, we don't even say hello. When we passed each other at the halls, we would just smile and walked away. I don't know if we could ever go back to the way things were between us. I still see the hurt in his eyes whenever he looks at me. He must really hate me.

I was afraid of my own feelings because I knew that everytime I open my heart to someone, he or she will be taken away from me. My parents, my grandmother and Shawn. The curse I carry is always haunting me. I didn't want to lose David but come to think of it, I've already lost him by pushing him away.

For the past few weeks, I've been trying to sort out my feelings for David. And no matter how hard I've been trying to avoid it or to convince myself otherwise, I've always came to the same conclusion. It was so wrong but it was the truth.

I'm deeply and madly in love with David.

Not having David around was hard and I realized how much I needed him by my side. It was as if I could no longer function without him. The North suddenly became South and the West suddenly became East. Once again, I'm lost. I always thought that my feelings for David was merely because he reminded me so much of Shawn but now, I realized that I was wrong. With him, I was beginning to think lesser and lesser of Shawn. Without knowing it, I was already opening my heart to let him in.

I love David for believing in me

I love David for giving me the courage

I love David for making me laugh

I love David for everything he is

But most of all,

I love David for the way he loves me

I took out the silver box from under my bed, tears streaming down my cheeks beyond my control. I carefully open the lid and run my fingers through the contents of the box. The box contained the most important memories of Shawn's love for me. There were pictures, poems, cards, letters and gifts....each and every thing in itself bears a significant meaning to our love. I've lost count of how many times I've looked through this box and yet, I was never bored of it. I could spend the entire day just looking and reminiscing of the time we once shared.

Dear Chelsea,

I can't stop thinking about you after our date last night! You looked stunning in the blue dress and yes, I notice that you were wearing the star necklace that I gave you! I know I told you to wear that necklace when you're ready to be my official girlfriend. But, I still need to hear it from you to make sure that I'm not hallucinating! Will you be my girlfriend, Chelsea?

I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

Dear Chelsea,

Are you free for movies tonight? Just nod your head if it's a yes....I'm afraid Mrs Lee will catch us passing notes and send us off to Mr Four Eyes again!

I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

Dear Chelsea,

Happy, happy birthday! May all your dreams, especially the one to marry me and have a dozen kids will come true! What joy it would be to have little boys who look as handsome as me and little girls who look....well, like you? Maybe we should have a dozen boys? haha Just joking! I'm sure our girls will just be as beautiful as their mummy!
I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

Dear Chelsea,

Thank you for your encouragement and love. You're right, I should not give up fighting. I was wrong to push you away when you're the reason that I want to live. I will be strong for you and together, we'll fight Mr Cancer away! Nothing can tear us apart!

I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

Dear Chelsea,

Thank you for being with me although I know how hard it has been on you. Although you always came in with a big smile, I know how sad you must have been inside. I heard you crying the other day in the bathroom and I felt so helpless. There was nothing I could do to make you feel better. I'm sorry for being so sick, Chelsea.

I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

Dear Chelsea,

I'm sorry but I don't think I can fight Mr Cancer anymore. He's just too strong and I'm just too tired. Please be strong, my superwoman. We will meet again soon, I promise but not now. You have to live your life to the fullest and find another Superman in your life. Wait, I'm your only Superman! Guess you'll have to find Spiderman or maybe, Incredible Hulk? hahahaha Be happy always, Chelsea. I want you to be happy.

I love you.

Always and forever.

xoxo
Shawn

That was the last letter he wrote to me before he passed away. Even in his death bed, Shawn was still trying to make me laugh. That was my Shawn. There was never a dull moment when I'm with him and yes, he was truly my Superman. By reading the letter, I felt as if Shwan was right beside me. I was about to put the letter back into the box when I noticed that the end of the letter was folded to the back. I opened it carefully and was surprised to see more of Shawn's writing there.

PS* I think you and David would make a great couple! Remember, my cousin? I've told him so much about you that I think he knows you more than you know yourself. You two have a lot in common as well! Sometimes I feel as if I'm dating him when I'm with you! haha He's a great guy and hey, he happens to like Spiderman a lot! Open your heart to love again, Chelsea. You have to move on! You're not betraying me in any way because I know that I'll always be in your heart. Just keep me tuck in safely and give the rest of the spaces in your heart to David! I may be Superman but I'm not that fat to take up all the spaces of your heart, right?

PPS* The more I think of it, the happier I am! David is definately the perfect one for you! I know he will love you as much as I did or maybe even more. I am so going to be your match maker so make sure you thank me during your wedding! I'm going to bring you two together no matter what it takes! Even when I'm no longer in this world, I'll pull some strings....maybe I'll ask Cupid to shoot some arrows? haha

PPPS*Forget about the curse, only crazy old ladies would believe in things like that! You're not crazy but well, maybe you're old...but that's another story haha Now, what are you waiting for? Go get your Spiderman before he webs away! I don't want you to end up with Incredible Hulk! You know how much I hate green! Life is too short, Chelsea. Sometimes, you have to take that risk or you risk living the rest of your life in regrets.

I stared at the letter for ages.

Reading it over and over again.

Word for word.

I was shocked beyond words.

I could almost feel Shawn's presence in the room with me. That letter had answered every single doubt that was on my mind. It was as if he knew what I was thinking and wrote that letter specifically to tell me that everything is going to be okay. I guess Shawn really did kept his promise and brought us together. I still remember that David and I had become friends in front of Shawn's tomb that day. Shawn must have been there too, smiling like a three year old, like he always did when he succeeds in something. He had wanted me to be with David too. It took me a while to regain my composure but when I finally did, everything suddenly became crystal clear.

I need to be with David.

I need to tell him how I really feel.

I need to tell him that I love him.

I always have and always will.

I searched for my phone and finally found it buried under my dirty laundry. I'm been so occupied with my thoughts on David that I've forgotten to charge my battery and the phone is now dead. I quickly plug it to the charger and switched on my phone to call David. This is the time when I regretted not fixing a land line in my house. I was surprised to see that I have 33 missed calls. I checked the caller ID and they were all from the same person.

David.

My heart skipped a beat and I began to panic. Something urgent must have happened for him to call me 33 times! I frantically tried to call him back but each time, I reached his voice mail. He must have switched off his phone and that worries me. David never switched off his phone before. I called his house but no one was picking up either. Something must have gone wrong. I took my car keys and drove like a mad woman to David's house only to find that there was no one at home. I was about to leave when I noticed a pink envelope with my name on it on the doorstep.

It was from David.

Dear Chelsea,

Knowing you inside and out, I know that you would come running here when you saw my missed calls so I've left the letter here. By the time you read this letter, I guess I'll already be on the plane. I tried calling you the whole day but I couldn't get through to you. You must hate me that much to switch off your phone, huh? The reason I've been calling you is to say goodbye. I wanted to speak to you and to see you because this may be the last time. I guess Fate is cruel sometimes. I'm going back due to some unforeseen personal reasons. Honestly, I don't know if I'll ever have the chance to come back here again.

I know this is all very sudden but I had no other choice. I had to leave but do not get the silly idea that I'm leaving because of you. I'm sorry that things aren't going so well between us these past few weeks. I tried to get over this quickly but my heart still wouldn't listen to me and kept screaming out in pain. Please know that I do not hate you nor am I angry at you. I just don't know how to put things back to where they were or to pretend as if nothing has happened between us. I guess I just needed more time. This is my first time being turned down by a girl, mind you!

I hope we can still be friends but perhaps this separation is good for us in a way, or at least it is for me. It will give me the time to get over you and to accept you as my best friend again. Maybe I'll find myself someone who loves me back? That someone will have very big shoes to fill because I don't think anyone can be better or even as good as you are. In my heart, you're perfect. Are you now regretting that you've turned me down now? haha

I'm sorry for everything and I hope you can forgive me. Do keep in touch and let's not become strangers again. You already have my phone number, email and address so you'll know where to reach me. I'll miss you!

Sarang heyo, Chelsea.

Always and forever.

xoxo
David

I was at a lost for words as tears started forming in my eyes. I tried calling him but again, I reached his voice mail. I rushed to the airport, which was only 15 minutes away from his house but I was too late. The plane has took off, taking David and a part of me away. I was broken hearted. Just when I finally found my courage to love again, he left me and once again, I'm all alone.

To let go isn't about forgetting but rather it is about remembering

To let go is to accept and to have the strength to keep on moving

I was finally letting go of Shawn

I was finally ready to open up my heart again

To allow myself to love and to be loved again.

To allow my once broken heart to heal and mend again.

But everything is too late now.

Rhythm Of My Soul- Chapter 7

Although I've never told anyone before, I was afraid of the hospitals too. Yes, I've developed all sorts of phobias after Shawn left me. Before that, I was never afraid of anything because I knew that he would always be there to protect me. The hospital brought back so many bad memories. To me, once you go into a hospital, you would never come out again.

This is where I saw Shawn getting sicker and sicker each day.

This is where I saw Shawn going through so much pain and suffering.

This is where I said goodbye to Shawn as he took his last breath.

I vowed never to return again to this place and yet, I did because of David. With him around, I've become stronger and braver. In fact, all that didn't even occured to me at that time. I was so worried about David that I didn't worry about anything else. I just wanted him to get well. It was only after he was admitted that I was started to have all these bad thoughts. But again, he proved me wrong when I watch him getting better and better each day. He was enthusiastic when the doctors finally discharged him on Friday.

"Finally! I'm free!" he squealed happily, like a little kid.

"You speak as if this is a prison!" I commented.

"It is! I'm so glad I've finally break out from that prison!" he cried.

"You think you're Michael Scofield from Prison Break? You're in the VIP ward with air conditioner and a big comfortable bed. You even have people fussing over you around the clock....you should be happy!" I teased him.

"The only thing I'm happy about is to have you fussing over me. That makes me the happiest man on earth, you know" he replied, laughing.

"You mean me or the two nurses who were falling all over you?" I joked.

"Of course you, silly. In my eyes, there can only be Chelsea" he said, with a wink.

Okay, that made me blush so much that the redness was even reflected back to me on my shiny bag. I turned away from him quickly, praying hard that he had not seen it.

"Ow....my Chelsea is turning as red as the Manchester United's jerseys again!" he teased, laughing.

I've been blushing so much when I'm around him that David must have thought it was a norm.

If only he knew that I only blush when I'm around him.

"I only wanted you to get better so I can torture you" I quickly say, changing the topic.

"Torture me? You wouldn't dare!" he said, playfully messing up my hair.

"Do you realize that we don't have transport back?" I asked him, smiling mysteriously.

"Easy! I can call my Mom" he said, taking out his cell but I snatched it away from him.

"Today, we're taking the double decker bus back!" I said, sticking out my tongue at him.

"Hey! That's not fair! Give me back my cell!" he cried and chased me around.

"Come on, it'll be fun. I promise" I assured him, knowing how much he dislikes public transport.

"Chelsea! Why are you doing this to me?" he asked, helplessly.

"Because I want to torture you!" I replied, sticking my tongue out.

Despite my protests, David booked the entire upper floor of the double decker bus for just the two of us. The driver was only too happy to oblige because of David's money. Although he insisted that he did it to make me happy, I somehow thought it was the other way around. However, I was too happy to argue with him. Before that, I always have to fight my way to the top and once I'm at the top, it would be too crowded from me to enjoy the scenery because it would be packed with tourists. The Double Decker always makes me feel better. Being right on top of it and able to view everything from the top makes me feel as if I've conquered the world.

"Thanks, David for everything!" I gushed, happily.

"Told you that I would do anything to make you happy" he said, with a wink.

"Ah! Save all that sweet talk for your future girlfriend! If I've not known you better, I would think that you're in love with me" I said, laughing.

"What If I am?" he asked.

"Huh?" I repeated, taken aback by his answer.

"What if I'm in love with you, Chelsea?" he repeated himself.

"Don't say things you don't mean, David" I warned him.

"I think I'm in love with you. I mean it" he said, suddenly turning serious.

"Are you sure your fever did not damage your brain or something?" I asked, laughing nervously.

"I love you" he repeated, loud and clear.

I swear I felt the colour leaving my face as I quickly turned away from him. My heart was doing somersaults and it felt as if there were hundreds of butterflies fluttering in my stomach. His sudden confession made me happy and sad, all at the same time. This is what I've been afraid of all this time.I always knew that we were growing too close and as much as I've tried pulling myself away, I couldn't. I was selfish because I really like being with him but I just couldn't return his feelings. The last thing that I wanted to do was to hurt him.

"Chelsea, you're turning blue. Please breathe" he teased, forcing a smile.

"David, I'm sorry but...I can't" I whispered, barely audible.

"Why? Is it because of Shawn?" he asked, gently.

"Yes. I'll always and only love him" I replied, a tear slide down my cheek but I quickly wiped it away.

"I'm not going to replace Shawn or ask you to stop loving him. All I'm asking is for you to open another space in your heart for me" he said.

"I..." I started to say but was cut off.

"You don't have to answer me now, Chelsea. I just wanted you to know that I love you...before it's too late" he explained.

"The answer is no, David" I insisted, not wanting to give him any more hopes.

"Don't I deserve a chance? Can't you just give us both a chance?" he probed further.

"No. I don't want to hurt you, David. I don't think I can love anyone else as much as I've loved Shawn. You deserve so much more. You deserve someone who could love you with all their heart" I confirmed, shaking my head.

"But you're the only one I love" he insisted.

"And Shawn is the only one I love" I repeated again, although I'm not sure whether I was trying to convince him or it was the other way around.

"I'll wait for the day for you to love me back" he said, stubbornly.

"David, please...don't do this" I begged him.

"My head hurts when I think of you. My heart aches when I did not see you. My stomach hurts when I miss you. Tell me, what am I supposed to do?" he asked.

"Forget about me. I would only cause you more pain, David" I said, with a sigh.

"Chelsea, can you honestly tell me that you did not feel the same way as I do? Even for a second? After everything we've been through?" he asked.

"Sarang heyo, David. Best friend. That's all. It was never more than that. I'm sorry if I've led you to believe otherwise" I explained, still remembering the Korean word that he taught me.

"Sarang heyo, Chelsea" he whispered, before turning away from me.

We didn't exchange a single word after that as we sat on the bus, in silence. We were both lost in our own thoughts. Suddenly, even being on top of a Double Decker bus, the wind could not blow my sadness away. A million thoughts went through my mind and I almost felt as if my head was exploding. Ocassionally, I would stole a glance at him and it broke my heart to see him so disappointed and sad. He looked so...defeated. Although we were sitting just across from each other on the bus, I suddenly felt as if he is a million miles away from me.

"I think we should not see each other for a while" he said, when we reach the stop.

"Yeah....I agree" I said, although my heart was screaming for the other way.

"Take care, Chelsea" he said, softly.

"David, I really hope we can still be friends" I said, softly.

"Me too" he agreed before turning away without another word.

I watched him walked away from me. A part of me wanted to stop him and hug him but part of me was rooted on the spot. He didn't even turned back for a second look like he always did. He looked as if he was carrying the whole world on his shoulders. As he disappeared into a corner, I collapsed on the floor and broke down in tears. I knew that I've lost him for good. I thought I did the right thing but now, I'm not too sure anymore. How did everything which seemed to right just a few minutes ago became so wrong?

It hurts me just as much as it hurts him...

Because I lied when I told him that I did not feel the same way as he does.

Rhythm Of My Soul-Chapter 6

After the raining episode, I ended up in bed for almost three days for having a bad fever and flu. Being sick and being all alone when you're sick is what I dreaded the most. However, this time around, it was different. David was there, looking after me and forcing me to gulp down his overburnt congee every single day. I am actually quite surprise that I did not run to the toilet after eating it.

Although it tasted horrible, I just couldn't tell him that it was that bad. I heard him meddling in the kitchen for the longest time and trying so hard not to make any sound because he was afraid that it might disturb my rest. I saw his hand with burnt marks although he kept telling me that he had hurt himself somewhere else. He must have thought I was a three year old kid or something.

Today however, I felt so much better. I looked at the clock which is nearing 1.30pm...1,2,3 ....and David is here again. He always come at the exact time, right after class. The first thing he did, as always, was to check my tempreature. When I saw a smile form on his lips, I knew that I was right. My fever is gone now.

"Your fever is all gone now!" he said happily.

"Good! Let's go out and have fun today!" I said, eagerly.

"I don't think that's a good idea. You've just gotten well, You should rest more" he said, shaking his head.

"I've been stuck on this bed for three days already! Come on! Give me a break!" I pleaded, putting on my famous puppy look which I know he could not resist.

"Fine. Just make sure you wear thicker clothes as the wind is pretty strong today" he sighed, in defeat.

"Yes, Daddy!" I teased him and quickly ran off to get ready before he changes his mind.

We went around town and it felt like heaven when I finally have food in my mouth and not having to worry about food poisoning everyday. I'm not saying that David's congee is not food, it just taste like a bowl of ashes...haha After being on bed for three entire days, today, I'm just bursting with energy.

"Let's go roller skating!" I suggested out of the blue.

"Huh? Did the fever get to your brain or something?" David asked, shocked.

"You promised that you would teach me, remember?" I retaliated.

"Yeah but I also remember vaguely that you refused because you were afraid of falling down?" he reminded me.

"Well, today is an exception!" I cried, happily.

We went to get some skates and although I insisted on paying for mine, David refused and literally forced me to accept them as gifts. I love my skates a lot and it was chosen by David. He seemed to read me well because they were white and pink....two of my favourite colours! After getting some protection gears, we headed off to the nearest skating park.

Watching him wheeze around the ring like a pro had me dumbfounded. Suddenly, I began to regret my decision. What has overcome me? What David said must be true, the fever has definately got tp my brain. I was too afraid to even stand up with the roller blades. David broke down into laughter watching me and finally decided to help me. He taught me how to skate and it seemed so easy.

Just right, left, right, left....

When I'm finally more confident or at least I thought so, he let me go. However, instead of skating, I ended up being the railings girl. Yes, I was afraid to let go of the railings as I was afraid that I might fall. I gripped onto the railings tightly as I tried to make my way around the ring.

"Come on, Chelsea! You have got to let go of the railings! Skating is really so much fun if you know how to skate" he encouraged her.

"But, what if I fall?" I asked, timidly.

"Falling is part and parcel of skating. If you don't fall, you'll never skate!" he said.

"Easy for you to say. I don't see you or anyone else in this ing, falling" I snapped back.

"We all fell when we were learning too! None of us are exactly born to know how to skate, alright?" he said, with a laugh.

"I'm still not convinced" I said, shaking my head.

"Skating is just like life. There will be times when you fall and times when you will soar above the rest. Each time you fall, you'll learn to pick yourself up and get on with life. With each failure, there will be success. With each failure, you'll be stronger. Opportunities are always waiting for you, it's just up to you to grab it. That's why you've got to let go of that railing" he advised.

"Now, I'm confused. What does that got to do with skating?" I asked.

"Well, it simply means never be afraid to fall. If you're going to grab on to that railing, you'll never be able to learn skating. Just like life, if you want to play safe, you'll miss on all the opportunities out there! Yes, it's true that you won't fall but is there any fun in it? People will be skating all around you while you'll be like an old lady, grabbing on that railing, slowly making your way through" said David, mimicking me, as he skates while holding on to the railing.

"I do not skate like that!" I protested before breaking down in laughter.

"So are you ready? I promise I won't laugh if you fall" he asssured her.

"Fine!" I cried but the moment I let go of the railings, I fell.

David laughed so hard that there were tears in his eyes. So much of his promise to not laugh at me when I fall. I stared at him angrily and he quickly stopped laughing to help me up. Just as I grabbed his hand, I purposely pulled him down with me onto the floor. Now, my turn to laugh at him.

However, I stopped laughing when he didn't get up. He was breathing quite heavily too. For the first time, I noticed how pale he looked and he had his eyes closed, as if he was in pain. He looked so tired too. I quickly checked on his tempreature and realized that he was running a fever. He has been so energetic that I didn't realize that he was sick at all. He did not even show a hint of sickness until now.

"Hey, you're burning up!" I cried, urgently.

"Don't worry about it. It comes on and off all the time" he assured me.

"Why didn't you tell me that you were sick? I'm sorry, I should have known" I cried, blaming myself.

"You wouldn't have known because I purposely do not want you to know" he said.

"We have got to get you home now, David. You should have told me" I said, struggling to pull him up.

"Just a few seconds okay" he pulled me down, my head resting on his chest.

I felt my heart thumping like mad, being so close to him. I was so close to him that I could hear a steady rhythm of his heart beat, which sounded like music to my ears. I found myself wishing that the time will stop and we can stay like that forever. I just wanted to be near him, to be in his embrace.

Gosh, what am I thinking?

"Hey, are you alright? You're looking all red again" he commented, as he sat up.

"It's umm...just the heat" I said, rather lamely again.

"Why wouldn't you admit that it's me?" he asked, as he helped me up.

"Huh?" I asked, shocked.

"You know, people as far as the moon can hear your heart beat going as fast as the bullet train" he teased, laughing.

Dang! I wish the floor would just open up and swallow me in right then and there.

"I...I was....hey, why do I need to explain it to you? Pah! Come on, let's go! We need to get you to a doctor" I cried.

I was so embarassed and trying to hide by burning face from David that I completely forgot that I was still on skates. The moment I took my first step, I fell back on the floor again with David laughing at me again. I threw up my hands in the air in frustration before joining him in laughing as well.

"Well, here's another lesson in life through skating for you. People may laugh at you when you fall but instead of being upset, use your energy to build up even more determination in you to succeed because then, it'll be your turn to laugh at them" said David, with a smile.

"Enough of your philosophies! When did you get so smart anyway?" I teased him.

"I learnt that from my Dad. He had this crazy idea of teaching me pointers of life as he taught me how to skate! But it's true isn't? There's so much to skating than just skating!" replied David with a laugh.

"Yeah, now I'm all fired up to learn skating so you won't laugh at me!" I said, with a giggle.

"One last advice. It doesn't hurt that much when you fall because you have the protection gears on, right? Just like life, always know that there'll always be someone to catch you whenever you fall" replied David, with a wink.

"Well, that person is definitely not you then! You just stood there and laugh at me whenever I fall!" I joked.

"Hey! At least I helped you up!" he protested.

"Yeah, I'm supposed to fall on my knees and than you for that?" I teased him.

"You just did that just now! Except you didn't fall on your knees. You fell flat on your bum" he said, laughing.

"David!" I cried, not knowing what else to say.

"You better make sure you know how to skate by the end of this day" he said, with a wink.

"No. We have to get you to a doctor now" I said, sternly.

"Well, I'll go if you can make it back to the benches without falling!" he said, sticking his tongue out before skating away.

I grabbed tightly onto the railings for my dear life because I knew that if I let it go, I would fall. I knew he was asking me to do the impossible because there is no way I could make my way back without falling. Just as I was about to give up, a thought suddenly crossed my mind. I quickly sat down and took off both my skates and ran back to the benches, barefooted.

"Now, let's go to the doctor" I said, smiling happily.

"You cheated! Not fair!" he cried.

"All you said was that I make my way back to the benches without falling. You didn't say that I have to skate back, right? Now, you have to keep your promise and go and see a doctor" I said.

"Fine, you win" he sighed, grumpily.

"Am I sensing that our dear little David is afraid of the doctors?" I teased him.

"Who said I'm afraid?" he defended himself.

"David, didn't you know? I remember vaguely that someone told me to let go of the railings in life. Don't be afrid to do things that you're afraid of, somewhere along those lines" I reminded him.

"Fine, I'm going. I'm letting go. Can't believe that you're using my own words against me" he said, laughing.

We went to the hospital because David was more comfortable with his own personal doctor. Despite David's protests, the doctor decided to keep him in for a day to keep him under an observation. His mother came in a few minutes later after the doctor called her, looking worried and bewildered. I haven't seen his mother before but my suspicions were confirmed when I saw a familiar face beside her. It was the person whom I was so afraid of seeing, Shawn's mom.

"Chelsea! I haven't seen you for so long! Did the two of you had a fight? Tell me if Shawn bullies you, I'll knock some sense into him" she said, holding my hands gently.

"Aunty...Shawn is..." I stammered, surprised.

"Shawn is inside. Come I'll take you in" David's mom quickly cut in.

"Thank you for being here, Chelsea. Shawn is always so sick nowadays but because of you, he's fighting really hard" Shawn's mother said, with a smile.

David's mother led her into David's room and came out a few minutes. She then talked to the doctor but I noticed her stealing glances at me. I was still standing there, rooted on the spot, not knowing what to say. Before I knew it, tears started forming in my eyes. Until today, Shawn's mother still has not accepted the demise of Shawn. I regretted not coming to see her sooner. Her pain must have been so much greater compared to mine. Shawn was her only son and he was her everything.

"Chelsea, it's nice to finally see you. I've heard David going on and on about you" she said, smiling.

"Aunty" I said, softly.

"Please, just call me Jennifer. Aunty makes me sound so old" she joked, laughing.

She reminded me so much of David. From their features and now, their personality.

"I can't believe he did not tell any of us that he was running a fever. He, of all person should know how dangerous a fever can be! I don't know how you did it but thanks for convincing him to see the doctor. Usually, I have to literally tied him up and throw him into the boot of the car" she said, laughing.

I looked at her, horrified.

"I was just joking, silly" she quickly continued as I let out a relieved smile.

"Is...Is David okay? Dr Sam wouldn't tell me anything" I asked, worriedly.

"Yes.Since young, David has not been a very strong boy. He's been in and out of hospitals most of his life. He just got better recently and the doctors are just taking a precaution now" Jennifer explained.

Now, I know why he doesn't like to see the doctors so much.

"What is he sick with?" I probed further.

"Don't worry, he's okay now. Come on, David must be anxious to see you!" she said, changing the subject altogether and pulled me into the room.

I spent the next few days taking care of David in the hospital but I realized that he, like his mother, would change the subject whenever I asked about his illness. I decided not to ask anymore knowing that it is a very sensitive issue. I could only hope and pray that he is okay. I don't think I can lose anyone who's close to me again. Probably because of that, I've become rather over protective of him.

It's also heart breaking to watch David calling his mom 'Aunty Jennifer' and his Aunty, 'mom'. They didn't know what else to do. After Shawn's death, his mother went into a state of depression and even tried killing herself. She just didn't have a purpose in living anymore. When David and his mother visited her, she immediately mistook David as Shawn. They just couldn't disappoint her again especially after seeing her so happy. Being very close to her sister, David's mother decided the best solution is to move the family here. It was a huge sacrifice but seeing her getting better each day was all worth it.

Now I know where David gets his kind heart from....his mother.

Rhythm Of My Soul - Chapter 5

"David! Did you crawl here?"

I cried in frustration when I finally spotted him among the crowd. We were supposed to meet up and head to the beach but he was half an hour late. Usually girls would be the ones late for their dates but with David, it's the other way around. He is always late for everything! Wait...did I just say dates? I didn't mean that...it's more like a....gathering for friends? Ha! How lame can I be? I'm so not going to stress myself over such things! I have more important issues to settle...for one, David's punctuality.

"What took you so long?" I asked but immediately regretted asking.

"Traffic jam" he replied, the same answer every single time.

"I bet you were spending hours in front of the mirror, checking that every strand of your hair is in order" I snapped.

"Of course! I need to look good to see you, Princess Chelsea" he said, laughing.

"You can sweet talk any girl but me, remember?" I said, sticking out my tongue.

"Yeah, yeah. You're not like any girl. You're like my mother" he teased.

"David!" I cried, hitting him playfully on his shoulders.

"I'm sorry, okay? Look, this is the beach! Are we going to stand here forever?" he asked, in between giggles.

"I'm not going anywhere until you tell me why you're always late" I huffed, angrily.

"Come on, Chelsea! Don't you want to take off your shoes and feel the sand with your feet? To feel the wave splashing on you? To ride the jet skis to Never Never Land?" he asked, knowing that Peter Pan is one of my favourite story book.

"No. I'm not going to do anything until you tell me" I said, coldly.

I turned my back at him and crossed my arms, feeling upset. However, after minutes of silence from David, I began to worry. He usually has a lot to say but today, he just kept quiet. Is he feeling guilty? Could he be thinking of more excuses to satisfy me? I finally let out a smile because I knew I could never stay mad at David. I'm always the one who gave in whenever we have any disagreements.

"Fine, I give up!" I sighed, turning back.

"Chelsea! Come on!" he cried, happily splashing around the sea.

He really has the guts to leave me there standing like a moron while he goes swimming! No wonder, the people who walked pass me were all giving me weird stares. I could feel my blood boiling as I dashed into the sea after him. Within minutes, the beach were filled with our bickerings and laughter. Ever since David entered my life, I have become so much happier and free. Almost like a child again. With him, it's like I'm in another world altogether.

He's my Peter Pan.

I'm his Wendy.

And together, we flew to Never Never Land.

"Let's try the jet skis!" he cried, suddenly.

"I was aiming for the banana boat actually" I said, smiling.

"Banana boat and then jet skis?" he suggested.

"Sure! Race you to shore!" I yelled but started swimming first without him.

When I was about to reach the shore, I turned back hoping to taunt him. However, before I could do so, he surfaced beside me and carried me all the way to shore despite me screaming, all the way.

"Put me down! People are watching!" I pleaded.

"Who asked you to play dirty?" he replied, after putting me down.

"You're always winning! Can't you at least let me win just once?" I pouted.

"Well, we both reach the shore at the same time. Technically, you are a winner! But then, so am I" he said, cheekily.

I rolled my eyes and put my hands up, a sign of surrendering. We rented a banana boat together with a few tourists. I was surprised when David started speaking a weird language with the tourists and what's even more surprising is that they actually understand him.

"I didn't know you knew Japanese!" I commented, surprised.

"It's Korean, silly" he said, knocking my head playfully.

"Sorry. I'm not a language person" I admitted, blushing red.

"I used to have a Korean friend back in Canada. He taught me a few words" he replied, smiling.

"Why don't you teach me?" I asked, eagerly.

"Sarang heyo" he said, smiling.

"What does that mean?" I asked, confused.

"It means you're my best friend" he said, with a wink.

"Oh, sarang heyo to you too then" I said, shrugging.

"Thanks" he said, smiling mysteriously.

We were starting to have a lot of fun with the banana boat and jet skis when the skies suddenly became cloudy. Before we could run for shelter, the rain started to pour down heavily on us. David stopped me and turned me around to face him. Before I can ask him what is he doing, he bowed down....wait....is he asking me to dance?

"May I have this dance with you?" he asked, smiling playfully.

"In case you haven't noticed, it's raining! Are you out of your mind?" I asked, laughing.

"Come on, it'll be fun!" he assured me.

"But there's no music" I objected, giggling.

"There is. Use your heart to listen, not your ears. Can you hear that? The same song you played for me on the piano?" David said as he wraped his hands around my waist.

I don't know if it was the rain or having him so close to me that I began to feel goosebumps all over. I secretly prayed hard that David is not able to listen to my heart beat that is racing like a bullet train. I wondered if God is getting sick of my prayers because I've practically prayed for the same thing everytime I am around him. I closed my eyes and let him lead me to the music that only the both of us could hear. I wish that this moment would never ever end.

"Don't you think the music is too slow?" David whispered softly.

"Why don't we start partying then?" I suggested and started jumping around to the tune of an 'invisible' rock music.

David laughed as he joined in and we started splashing water puddles at each other. We were surprised when other people started joining us as well. It suddenly became a scene right out from the movie, Step Up 2. I smiled when I look at David, trying to imitate the head spinning trick from some of the teenage boys.

He made me smile

He made me laugh

He made my heart skip a beat

Am I falling in love with him?

Does he feel the same way too?

Even the rain could not wash my doubts away

Rhythm Of My Soul - Chapter 4

Snow Queen and Mr Popular?

They're as different as night and day

One is as cold as ice

While the other is as warm as the sunshine

How could they be together?

Yep, that's the reaction of the entire college and although neither of them really said it out loud, I knew that was what exactly that is going through their minds. I have sixth sense, you see. Since I've accepted David's hand in friendship, we've been hanging out together... a lot. In fact the only time we were ever apart was during classes because we took up different majors. Yes, I did once consider changing my course but that would be too silly, wouldn't it? But I was really tempted!

He has helped me a lot especially in finding the old happy Chelsea back. I began to open up and in doing so, I've gained a few friends as well. I'm determined to start a new life now. I did try to amend things with my old besties, Fay and Giselle. Although they said that they've forgiven me, we were just not as close as we used to be. There seemed to exist an invisible wall between us. I'm not upset because I do understand that broken friendships just don't get fixed overnight.

Nowadays, I can walk down the hallways without anyone freezing up on the spot like they used to. I'm not sure if they've finally grown tired of the prank or it was because I'm now suddenly David's new best friend. I have a feeling that it's the latter. However, it really hurt me when I heard rumours about me being spread around the college. It wasn't nice and I don't even want to put them into words. By being David's friend, I've apparently offended some of the girls whom David would call, the 'green witches' and they were out to destroy me.

"Did you hear the latest greatest green witches rumours?" David asked, suddenly.

I was so deep in my thoughts that I've not realized that David was already in front of me. I was waiting for him at my secret hideway or rather, our secret hideaway for him to finish his classes. I had wanted to catch up with some readng but I ended up zoning out instead. I let out a small smile and nodded, hoping he won't notice how sad I looked. I just didn't want him to worry.

He didn't have it easy too when he became friends with me because we were both from different cliques. But he didn't give in to peer pressure and till this day, I still don't know how he convinced his friends to accept me and those who didn't...well, they're no longer his friends. David, in his own little ways, have sacrificed a lot just to stay friends with me.

"Here, this is for you" he said, passing me a box which is nicely wrapped up.

"What is this? My birthday is not till September" I replied.

"Just open it" he said, with a wink.

I slowly unwrapped the box, curious as to what he has in store for me. David was always surprising me and today was no exception. After opening the lid and looking into the contents, a smile broke out on my face. Soon, I was laughing till there was tears in my eyes. Suddenly, I realized how silly I was to let those rumours affect me personally. I know that I've done nothing wrong.

Inside the box were three funny looking angels

The first angel has her hands over her eyes

The second angel has her hands over her ears

The third angel has her hands over her mouth

See no evil. Hear no evil. Speak no evil.

David need not say anything more because I've gotten his message loud and clear. I was deeply touched because he has carved the angels out by himself.Although they're weren't perfect but to me, they were the best looking angels I've ever seen. I hugged him and thanked him for being such a great friend. Sometimes, I felt that he knew me better than I know myself.

"I'm going to take you to a very special place today" I said, teary eyed.

"Really? Is there any better place than seeing your relatives in the zoo last weekend?" he teased, laughing.

Yes, I've become his tourist guide by taking him around town during the weekends.Ever since he has been here, he never been to anywhere and his friends only brought him to parties, parties and more parties. His mother was busy taking care of Shawn's mom, who is slowly recovering from depression. I was shocked to learn from David that the reason they've migrated here was because his mother was not at ease, leaving her sister on her own. Shawn's mother has tried committing suicide twice.

I felt bad for not visiting her but I just couldn't bring myself to. I'm just not ready.I can't even imagine myself walking into the same house, knowing that Shawn wouldn't be there. It's just too much. I didn't want to break down in front of Shawn's mother. The timing is just not right yet and I'm glad David understood because he never brought up the subject again.

"Earth to the monkey! Missing your relatives already?" David said, waving his hand in front of my face.

"David! I'm so going to kill you!" I cried, snapping out of my thoughts.

I chased him around and the once quiet park became alive again with the sound of our laughter. Yes, I am very happy now. I then led him to the college's music room. No one knew I could play the piano except Shawn. Once, Shawn commented that if the music teacher were to hear me play, she would be jealous of my talent. Yes, that was my Shawn. He was always making me better than I really am.

It was our own little secret and right now, I'm going to share it with David as well. I was just playing the piano the other day when a beautiful melody just came into my head. I decided to work on it and with David's as my inspiration, I slowly made it into a song. I was a nervous wreck when I sat down in front of the piano. I really wanted him to like it. I smiled at him and started playing, putting all my heart and soul into the melody.

"Wow! I didn't know you can play, let alone play so well!" he gushes excitedly after I finished playing.

"I wrote that especially for you. Do you like it?" I asked, shyly.

"You know what? I always thought that the sound of your laughter was the best. I was wrong because it's only the second best. Chelsea, the piece you've just played was breath taking! I've never heard anything as good as that!" he praised me.

"Thanks" I said, softly, trying to hide my red and embarrassed face.

"How come I never hear you talking about the piano? You're really talented!" he continued saying.

"I don't want anyone to know. When it comes to music, I'm selfish. It has always been me and the piano. Only you and Shawn knows about this 'special' talent of mine" I explained, with a wink.

"Well, if the Mrs Lai heard you, she would have been jealous because she sure could not play as well as you!" he commented.

I was shocked. I stared at him, wide mouthed. He just said the exact same thing that Shawn has said to me. Although he has put it in another way, it still means the same. I felt the tears brimming in my eyes again but I held it back. This isn't the first time that David has reminded me of Shawn and everytime he does that, I became an emotional wreck. However, I'm starting to have control over my emotions now.

Is this a sign that I'm starting to let go of Shawn?

"Did I say something wrong?" he asked, panic written all over his face.

"Shawn said that to me once" I whispered, sadly.

"I'm so sorry" he quickly apologized.

"No, don't be.I only play the piano when I'm sad but thanks to you, I now play it whenever I'm happy too. Thanks, David. For everything" I said, sincerely.

"I didn't do anything! You should be thanking yourself" he replied, smiling.

"But if it wasn't for you, I would never...melted" I said.

"Melted? We all like you better when you're not the Snow Queen, Chelsea but you should be thanking the sun, not me. It's the heat that made you melt" he said, laughing.

"You are my sun" I blurted out, before I could stop myself.

"Thanks, Chelsea. That means a lot" he answered, hugging me close.

"Promise me that you'll always be best friend?" I asked, softly.

"I promise" he replied, after hesitating.

Was it my imagination

Or did I saw a flicker of disappointment in his eyes

When I mention the word 'friend'

Was he expecting for more?

And why am I feeling disappointed

When I, myself mention the word 'friend'

Was I expecting for more?

Rhythm Of My Soul- Chapter 3

It's been nearly a week since I've that strange encounter with the new boy in college.Although I kept telling myself that I do not wish to see him again, I knew that deep down in my heart, it was the other way around. I found myself lingering around longer than I should during our breaks and after our classes end just to catch a glimpse of him. But, I never saw him. Whenever I was in my secret hideaway, I would jump up at the slightest sound, thinking that it would be him but it never was.

I was disappointed and yes...worried.

I know that I'm probably losing my mind and whenever I felt this way, I would go to the cemetary....I know, of all places? It was either here or the music room and sadly, the music room is packed today. To others, this may be a gloomy and scary place. However, it is my place of sanctuary and source of comfort. It is here that four of the most important persons in my life are laid to rest.

"Mom, Dad. It's me" I whispered, tears running down my cheeks.

I run my fingers along the name of my parents, engraved on the cold gravestones.

Brian and Christine Chung.

They were both killed in a road accident, just two days before my 5 year old birthday. My once colourful world turned black that fateful day. From a child with a happy family, I became an orphan overnight. It's been so long now but I still remember my mother's laughter that sounded like music and my father's gentle but strong voice. There was not a day that passed by without me missing them. I updated them about my life before making my way down to my grandmother's grave.

Christie Chung.

After I lost both of my parents, my grandmother took me in. She made sure I have everything and she never once allowed me to feel as if I'm an orphan. She had sacrificed a lot just to bring me up and I will be forever grateful to her. I still remember straying away during my teenage days and if she weren't there to guide me back on track, I would probably end up in jail or something worst than that. It's been 6 years since she left but I always feel as if she's still here, right beside me.

After my grandmother's death, I continued living in her house alone. I've lost all my loved ones. It was then that I met Shawn. He was just there at the right time. We became friends and soon,we fell in love. Don't ask me how we fell in love....we just did. It's as simple as that. The two of us were inseparable, we were meant for each other. I gave Shawn everything and he did the same for me too. Everything was just perfect.

He was my rock.

He was my world.

He was my everything.

But in a second, everything was taken away from me.

Shawn was diagnosed with lung cancer, which I could never understand till this day. He didn't drink, neither does he smoke. Right after he found out, it seemed as if the time was ticking away like a time bomb. We tried to spend as much time as we could together and we always pretended as if everything is going to be okay although we both knew that it will never be. I felt helpless as I watched him slip away, taking a piece of me together with him.

One by one,

My loved ones are taken away from me,

I am indeed cursed,

For no one who are close to me will live.

I pushed away my thoughts and stared at the unknown person, standing in front of Shawn's grave. He had his head bowed them, as if he is in a prayer. I squinted but I could not make out who he was because he had his back facing me. I knew Shawn has a younger brother, Seth but this could not be him. Seth is currently in Japan pursuing his studies and Seth was definately way taller than this guy.

Just then the guy turned and I swear, I felt my heart stopped.

It is him.

"Chelsea!" he cried, surprised to see me.

"Wha.....What are you doing here?" I stammered.

"Okay, before you get any wrong ideas, I didn't skip my classes. I just had my bandages removed this morning. I'm going to class tomorrow" he quickly explained.

"How....How did you know Shawn?" I asked, not even hearing what he had just said.

"Shawn's my cousin. I didn't come for the funeral because I couldn't get a flight...By the time I reached, it was over. Everything just happened so suddenly" he said, broken hearted.

"You're the cousin he always talk about? The one the always follow him around when you guys were little? The one that he adores? You're little David?" I asked, in disbelief.

"Yes, and you're Chelsea, his girfriend. But I'm no longer little, as you can see" he said, with a sad smile.

"Did he.....Did he talk about me?" I asked, softly.

"Yes. He loves you a lot, Chelsea. He would go on and on about you....so much that I'm even jealous of you" David said, with a chuckle.

"And I was jealous when he went on and on about you" I added, smiling.

"It's nice to have finally met you" David said, extending his hand out.

"Me too" I replied, shaking his hand. "And David, Shawn is not upset that you couldn't make it in time for his funeral"

"Thanks. I needed to hear that. He told me everything but he never once told me that he was sick. I would have taken the first flight back to see him and to, you know, be with him" he sighed.

"That's exactly why he didn't want to tell you. You know Shawn, he would never want people around to him to worry especially the ones he cared for the most. Having Seth, his mother and I...it was tough enough" I answered, tears forming in my eyes.

"I just wish I could have been there. Were you there when, you know, he took his last breath?" he asked, cautiously, as if he was afraid that I would eat him up.

If he wasn't Shawn's cousin, I would have probably eaten him up, to be honest.

"Yes. He left with smile on his face" I replied, a tear streaming down my cheeks.

Both of us fell into complete silence as we stared at Shawn's grave. I couldn't believe that this boy whom I once thought I would have nothing in common, is so closely connected with me. We both lost someone very special and dear to us. I still remember how Shawn's face would always light up when he talks about David..they were so close that I once suspected whether Seth and David were switched at birth. Shawn and Seth were never that close and they're blood brothers! Shawn had always wanted me to meet David and we finally did but sadly, Shawn is no longer around.

"Chelsea, do you think he would be happy if he sees you like this?" he asked, suddenly.

"What do you mean?" I answered back, confused.

"You being so cold and pushing everyone who cares about you away" he explained.

I didn't know what I should say to him so I tried changing the subject.

"How's your ankle? Is it better now?" I asked, forcing a smile.

"This is not your fault, Chelsea. There's nothing you could do to save him" David contiuned, as if I have not spoken at all.

How did he know I was blaming myself?

"I know it's hard but pushing everyone away is not the solution. At times like this, friends and family are the ones that you need most" he sighed.

I have no family left and friends....they hate me

"I'm not asking you to forget him. Cherish him in your heart and memories but it is time to move on. He would want you to be happy, Chelsea"

But I don't deserve to be happy!

When I didn't say anything, he looked at me. I could feel his eyes burning into mine, so much so that I had to look away. He thought he knew everything about me but he was so wrong. He didn't know that it was because of me that Shawn died. It wasn't the cancer who killed Shawn but it was I.

Would he hate me if I told him the truth?

"You don't know everything" I said, barely audible.

"Then tell me! Tell me what's wrong!" he cried, frustrated.

"Why can't you just leave me alone?" I cried, feeling my cheeks getting wet from my tears.

"Because I care! I just can't let you live your life like this, Chelsea. I don't want Shawn to hate me when we meet in heaven" he explained.

"I'm...I'm cursed, David" I blurted out before I could stop myself.

"Cursed?" he repeated, surprised.

"Everyone who loves me will die, David! My parents, my grandmother and now...Shawn. I caused their deaths! Everytime I thought it would be different but it never was. Shawn died because of me" I sobbed.

I knew I looked like a complete fool in front of David but I just couldn't stop crying. He came nearer and hugged me as I stained his jacket with my tears. I wanted to push him away but I could not find the strength to. He wasn't rough or anything, in fact, he hugged me as if I'm the most fragile thing on earth. It was as if he was afraid that if he hugged too tight, I might shatter into pieces. I felt warm and safe in his embrace. I don't know how long we stood there but one thing for sure, I cried until there were no more tears left.

"Is that why you keep pushing other people away?" he asked, after a while.

I nodded, weakly.

"It's not your fault. It was just a coincidence" he tried to assure me.

"Don't you understand? I can't be close to anyone anymore because I don't want to see them dying in front of me again!" I cried.

"That totally doesn't make any sense and I'm going to prove it to you. From today onwards, I'll be your friend. The best one you'll ever have" he said, confidently.

"Didn't you hear what I just said? I'm cursed!" I sighed.

"Curse or no curse, I don't care. Friendships, love, life....everything is about taking risks. If you don't try, you'll never know" he explained.

"And I'm not willing to take that kind of risk!" I argued back.

"Don't be selfish. You're only afraid to open up your heart because you're afraid that you would be hurt again" he said.

"I'm not selfish!" I inisisted.

"Then don't tell me what I can do with my life. Whether I choose to take the risk or not, it's up to me. This time, it will be different. Really.If you don't want to do this for yourself, then do it for Shawn" he assured her.

"What does Shawn has to do with us being friends or not?" I asked, with a smirk.

"Bcause he wants you to be happy and who else is better at making you happy if it's not for David The Great?" he teased her.

"Why can't you just be like everyone else and leave me alone?" I sighed, closing my face with my hands.

"Because I'm not everyone else! I'm David" he replied, cleverly with a wink.

"Fine, David. We can be friends" I sighed, finally giving up.

"Good! Shawn, you be our witness. You can't go back on your words now!" he said, smiling happily like a three year old.

I couldn't help but to smile at his childishness. No wonder Shawn always called him his little David. Though I do not agree with half of what David was saying, he did made me realize something that I've not realized before. He was right when he said that Shawn would want me to be happy. Shawn has given me so much and I have given him so little. This is the only thing I could do for him. I want to be happy for his sake.

David is everything Shawn described him to be. Now, I know why he reminded me of Shawn. They are so similiar in so many ways. I already felt as if I know David a long time ago and call me selfish, but I really do want to get to know him even better. He is a part of Shawn, the closest person to him apart from his mother and I. Although I do not know if I have made the right choice but it felt right at that time. I already felt as if a big burden has been lifted off my shoulders. That should be a good sign, right?

I just hope the curse won't come back to haunt me again.

And....

That he won't realize that my heart is still skipping a beat everytime I see him

Or my face blushing as red as an apple everytime he smiles.

Rhythm Of My Soul- Chapter 2

After debating with myself for what seemed like forever, I decided not to run away. Someone was hurt and knowing that this place was abandoned, no one would be able to hear his cries for help.

Holding my breath, I looked around and finally found him behind the big oak tree. He was wincing in pain, holding onto his ankle. I recognized him as the new student that has recently transferred from Canada.

How long has he been there, watching me?

"Can you please help me?" he pleaded, his eyes looking as big as a puppy's that I almost melted.

Yes, there goes my initial plan of shouting at him for secretly peeking at me.

For the first time, I see him up so close and I have to admit, he is really good looking. No wonder the girls were following him everywhere as if they were his shadows. I silently wondered where were his shadows now. How ironic that they chose to disappear just when he needs them the most. Before I can control it, I could feel my cheeks burn when our eyes met.

Wait, am I blushing?

No, it's just the heat...I think.

I quickly looked away and took a deep breath,. I don't know what's wrong with me today. My heart beat literally felt as fast as the bullet train in Japan. It's his eyes....they were so beautiful....almost like Shawn's. At the thought of Shawn, I immediately snapped out of my trance. I shook my head vigorously, scolding myself mentally for feeling the way that I'm feeling now.

"Are you okay?" he asked, worriedly.

He's worrying about me when he's the one in pain. Isn't that sweetest thing ever?

Arrgghhh! I've got to snap out of this!

"How long have you been here?" I said, coldly.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to watch you secretly. I...I just didn't have the heart to interrupt" he explained quickly.

"Interrupt what?" I asked, defensive.

"You being yourself, Chelsea" he answered, casually.

Who does he think he is? We don't even know each other and yet, he's here talking about me as if he knows everything about me! I felt like slapping him or better still, just leave him there by himself. I was so prepared to leave him there when a thought suddenly crossed my mind.

I've never heard anyone calling my name before except the lecturers in my class. Everyone else prefers to 'worship' me as their Snow Queen. He couldn't have known from the lecturers either because we were not in the same classes. Guys like him just wouldn't know her name, let alone remember it but he did.

Chelsea....

Gosh! My name sound so nice when he said it.

"Or do you prefer me calling you Snow Queen?" he teased, with a chuckle.

"How did you know my name?" I asked, my smile instantly turned into a scowl.

"That's for me to know and for you to find out" he replied, with a wink.

"You are so going to walk out of this place by yourself" I said, turning away.

I heard him trying to get up a few times but he never succeeded. Hearing him wincing in pain was enough to make me abandon my initial plan of leaving...again. I heaved a sigh and reluctantly helped him up. When he put his arm around me, I could feel my cheeks burning again.

I looked away from him and made a pact to myself that I will not speak another word to him. I've only met this guy for a few minutes and already he's making me feel really uncomfortable. There's just something about him but I was too afraid to find out what it is. They walked back in silence, neither speaking a word.

"Look, I'm really sorry for spying on you but I only wanted to return this to you" he apologized, breaking the silence.

I turned around and saw him holding my pink notebook. He quickly explained and I was surprised to know that he was actually the person that I've bumped into earlier. He had tried to call me but I've ignored him. Come to think of it, I did hear someone calling my name. He was left with no choice but to follow me in order to return the book. I snatched the book from him, still keeping my mouth tightly zipped.

I know that the only reason he was even speaking to me was because I'm the only person here who can help him. Guys like him and girls like me just don't become friends. We're from two different worlds.

If I had not bumped into him

If I had not dropped my notebook

If he had not followed me

If he had not gotten hurt

But wait...isn't this Fate? I couldn't help but to wonder silently.

"What? Not even a word of thanks? Look, God has already punished me for this so I guess you can forgive me now, right?" he asked, hopefully.

Silence.

"Chelsea, you can stop pretending that you're that Snow Queen that everyone talks about? You may be able to fool everyone but you can't fool me" he sighed.

Silence.

Usually it takes only a few minutes to reach the campus but today, it seemed as if we will never reach. I quickened my steps but soon I had to slow down because I was too tired. He was definately heavier that I've thought. He kept trying to strike up a conversation but I showed no interest.

I know it was really rude but I really didn't want anything to do with him. In fact, all I want to do now is to run as far as I could away from him. I was afraid of him because of the way I'm reacting to him. The whole blushing and heart skipping a beat thing is just too weird.

Without any warning, he started tickling me. I was so surprised that I jumped away from him, screaming. In the process of doing so, I dropped him hard on the ground. He screamed out in pain as his hands grazed on a sharp stone. I panicked when I saw blood oozing out from his hand.

I quickly took out my handkerchief and applied pressure onto his wound. Although I know it was only a minor cut, I was worried. I checked and rechecked his wound and asked him numereous times if he was feeling okay. Suddenly, I realized that he was staring at me so intensely. I quickly let go of his hand and stood up abruptly.

"Why did you do that?" I asked, looking upset.

"Is that how you treat an injured person? Dropping them everywhere?" he teased, almost at the same time.

I almost let out a smile but no, I'm so not going to let him win.

"It wasn't funny" I said, coldly.

"Sorry, I just can't stand the silence any longer. Hey, at least I made you speak. This is all worth it" he replied, showing his now injured hand.

"Let's get you back to campus" I sighed, helping him up again.

"Why do you always act so strong and cold?" he asked, curiously.

Silence.

"Do you want me to cut myself again to make you speak?" he challenged.

"No!" I cried, horrified that he could even think of such things.

"Chelsea, it's okay to make friends you know" he said, softly.

"I know but I just can't" I replied, shaking my head.

"But why? I don't understand" he asked, concerned.

"It's a long story" I sighed, forgetting my earlier pact to keep silent earlier.

"I have all the time to listen. Go on..." he urged, softly.

"I....."

Before I could even finish my sentence, we were suddenly surrounded by a group of his friends who had stayed behind to wait for him. Apparently, he was supposed to give them their rides home. I suddenly found myself wishing that the walk from where we were to the campus was longer. It was funny because just a minute ago, I was wishing the other way round.

I've never spoke about my past since that day Shawn left me but here I was, on the verge of spilling out everything to this unknown stranger. He is the first and only person I have spoken to in a very long time. I don't know why but I felt as if everything would be okay if I just told him the truth.

When his friends saw him limping, they immediately came to his aid. I let go of him and was pushed away from him. No one even seemed to notice that I was there. I felt like grabbing him and chuck him into my bag and run away so we can be alone again. Luckily, I managed to stop myself from doing that because I'm sure he wouldn't fit into my bag!

I burst out in fits of giggles with that thought but quickly stopped myself when I realize that everyone around me suddenly fell into an awkward silence. Great, everyone now noticed me but in all in a wrong way. No one was smiling, except him. It was as if he knew what I was thinking.

We were standing just inches away but suddenly, I felt as if we were separated by an ocean. He started to say something but I quickly walked away, not giving him a chance to say anything. Just before I turned into a corner, I turned back, hoping to catch a glimpse of him. I really didn't want to do that but it seemed as if my body and head suddenly have a brain of its own.

Our eyes met but only for a second before he was pushed into the car.

He's back in his own world

And, I, back into mine.

This will be the last time we meet.

Boy, how wrong I was.