Anime-Expressions

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 14 to 15

2010-07-08T11:22:00.002+08:00

Chapter 14

“Please reconsider…”

Xia Mo stands in front of Ou Chen’s desk, steadily staring back at him. After standing in the lobby for over three hours, the secretary finally allowed her to come into his office. She hasn’t seen him since taking him to the hospital that night.

“If my memory serves me correctly, I already declined. And regarding your contract with ‘Golden Dance,’ the company has the complete right to sue you for financial compensation and we can completely stop your public appearances. I hope you’ll think about it for a few more days so that at least both parties can maintain positive relations with each other. You may leave now.”

“Please… No matter what the condition, I’ll agree to it, just as long as you donate a kidney to Xiao Cheng…”
“No matter what condition… Do you think you have something that is worth me giving up my kidney?”

Xia Mo freezes.

“You mean – you think that even after you the way you so cruelly treated me, I would still have feelings for you? That I would agree to anything you ask just to have you? Yin Xia Mo, I think you overestimate yourself.”

Xia Mo steadily tries to calm herself. She is the one who is asking a favor of him. Even if Ou Chen decides to not donate his kidney to Xiao Cheng, she has no right to force him. All she can hope for, is that he still harbors a drop of their former feelings for one another…

Is this fate’s way of playing with her? Just a few days ago, she had hoped that Ou Chen would be able to forget her… And now, she begs that he still has some feeling left for her…

“Tell me your condition. No matter how much money, no matter what contract you want me to sign… I can sign a lifetime contract with the company, even… take on ‘Golden Dance’…”
“It has always been Yin Cheng who was the most important to you. Never was it me nor Luo Xi. For Yin Cheng, you would even take on the series to directly compete with Luo Xi?”
“Luo Xi won’t mind.”
“He wouldn’t?”

Ou Chen walks closer to Xia Mo to measure her carefully; she stands unblinking and unfazed. However, a desperate energy burns in her eyes – only five years ago has he ever seen such an expression on her face. The only difference is that he was the one begging her. And now, she is the one begging him.

“Then what if I want something that Luo Xi would mind?”
“Like what?”
“For example…”

Chucklingly softly, Ou Chen gently grasps Xia Mo’s chin as he leans ever closer to her, the distance between his lips and hers slowly decreasing… Xia Mo stares back at Ou Chen as his head descends but right before he can kiss her, she turns her head away at the last minute!

“If you can’t even do this, then why even bother discussing conditions with me?” Ou Chen pulls out a handkerchief to wipe his lips, as if even that mere physical closeness with her had been a dirty experience. “Just leave.”

“A kiss will do it?”
“Perhaps.”
“Fine.”

It’s not that she didn’t hear the flippancy in his tone but at this moment, she no longer cares. She just wants that kidney! She just wants the kidney that will save Xiao Cheng’s life! Closing her eyes in haste and raising herself on her tiptoes, she leans in towards Ou Chen -

Staring at that perfect ivory face, Ou Chen feels his heart begin to speed up nervously… those lips – are coming closer and closer to his own… So close… and she will be able to kiss him!

Until the moment is suddenly broken by the ringing of Xia Mo’s phone, stopping her in her tracks.

Since today was the first day she had left the hospital, she had made sure to turn her phone back on in case Xiao Cheng’s illness had any development. Worried that it may be the hospital looking for her, Xia Mo fumbles for the phone – and freezes when she sees the name “Luo Xi” on the screen.

Ou Chen also sees the name. “Aren’t you going to pick it up?”

Xia Mo doesn’t know what to do… she’s so close to getting what she wants! She can’t upset him now…

The phone stops ringing. But just when Xia Mo is ready to breathe a sigh of relief, Luo Xi’s name flashes again! This time, Xia Mo hesitates a few seconds before determinedly pushes the power button on her cell.

“Even if I kiss you, you still won’t donate your kidney, will you?”
“Correct.”

Although Ou Chen is flippant with his answer as he turns away from Xia Mo, his heart is clenched in pain. Who knows whether it is from seeing Luo Xi’s name or whether it is because he has been deprived of Xia Mo’s kiss.

“What do I have to do to get you to agree?!”
“What if I said, nothing you could do would get me to agree?”
“I don’t believe you.”
“Oh really? That confident, huh?”
“If your records had been in the hospital files earlier, then we wouldn’t have just now been able to find you. You must have received word about Xiao Cheng’s illness and then decided to test yourself to see if you were a suitable donor, correct? So that when the hospital notified you that you were the best match, you waited for me to come find you. If so, then why don’t you just tell me what you want in exchange for that kidney? I know you don’t care about money but what about something else? As long as I can do it, I will promise you!”
“So smart. But what are you going to promise me? Sex? Moving in with me? Be my lover? Is that what you think I’ll ask you?”

Yes – that is exactly what she had thought he would ask her.

“Will you still agree?” Xia Mo cannot respond immediately. “If you can’t, then why the big talk?”
“It’s sex, isn’t it? We’ll have it a few times, and then you’ll donate your kidney to Xiao Cheng?”

Flinching suddenly, Ou Chen angrily brushes a crystal off his desk, shattering it to pieces on the ground. He cannot even speak as he stares back at Xia Mo as if she is some strange creature.

“What?!”
“It’s only fair, there is no such thing as a free lunch. My reputation is important but your kidney is also important. I can’t just take something away without giving something in return.”

However, why has her heart suddenly numbed? It is hopelessness. If she does this, does this mean that she will have to forsake something or someone in the future? But without Xiao Cheng, what meaning of life is there left?

The fluttering of crazed emotions in Ou Chen’s eyes is hard to discern – even he does not know whether it it bitterness or pain. “What a self-sacrificing big sister… Except, you guessed wrong. The reason I’ve been waiting for you is to tell you – that no matter what, I will not donate my kidney to Yin Cheng. I just wanted you to come here so that I could say it to you. Because you see… I despise you.”

That night five years ago, Ou Chen knelt before Xia Mo, humbling himself to her in a way that he has never humbled himself to anyone before.

“Will this… do? If it was my fault… I promise you that I’ll change… What can I do so that you’ll forgive me?!”

There is no forgiveness in Xia Mo’s eyes as she turns around from the kneeling Ou Chen though.

“Only… if you die…”

“Do you still remember how heartless and cruel you were to me five years ago?! I begged you! And yet you didn’t even deign to turn around to look back at me.”
“So are you getting your revenge now?”
“If that’s what you want to call it, then yes, I am.”
“If you want revenge, then just take it out on me! Xiao Cheng has nothing to do with it!”
“Is there a difference? This way, you’ll hurt too.”

The pain in her heart is unbearable! Xia Mo sees her mom lying like a bloodied, broken doll on the next to the stage floor… Daddy Yin and Mommy Yin’s bloodied corpses… a bloodied Xiao Cheng being wheeled into the emergency room… the white, pasty walls of the cold hospital building… the scrambling doctors and nurses… telling her to prepare herself for the worse… and now the impending deadline that she cannot escape… if she can’t get that kidney…

“Then tell me… what can I do so you’ll agree?”
“Nothing you can ever do will make me agree.”

Nothing will ever do… nothing will ever do…

And so Xia Mo tightly closes her eyes… and slowly kneels before Ou Chen. If anything, this gesture only serves to make Ou Chen angrier.

“Do you think that will work?! Do you think just kneeling will make me forgive you?! Do you think kneeling will erase all the pain?!”
“Everything I owe you, I will give back to you. Perhaps… if I die, you will finally be satisfied? This will be your condition?”
“You…”

Is she… threatening him?! Why is it that five years ago when he knelt before her, the one in pain was him. And now five years later, although she is the one kneeling before him, he still continues to be the one in heartache.

Seeing the green silk scarf fluttering in his sight, Ou Chen’s expression slowly calms. Turning away from Xia Mo and facing the window so that she cannot see the surrender in his eyes, he finally states his decision that he had made long before she appeared before him.

“Marry me. Marry me, and I will give my kidney to Xiao Cheng.”

*******

Xia Mo wanders aimlessly on the street, surrounded by the noise and bustle of children running and playing. She just wants to be surrounded by people so that she doesn’t have to think about anything at all, just numbly follow fate’s hand.

Does she accept fate or does she not? Laughing crazily to herself, Xia Mo had originally thought that she would be able to agree to any condition that Ou Chen said – just as long as she could get that kidney for Xiao Cheng. And yet, when he had finally stated his condition… she had hesitated.

Even for Xiao Cheng, she had hesitated…

When Xia Mo reaches her home, she finds herself facing a mob of reporters. Instantly surrounded, they clamor to get a word in, firing question after question at her. Xia Mo ends up running through the crowd to get through the building, only able to make it inside when the building security rush out to stop the eager reporters.

Was it worth it to enter the entertainment industry? She had done it for Xiao Cheng, to be able to pay his medical bills but yet every day has been so busy that her time spent with Xiao Cheng has been less and less. She hadn’t even noticed until now how bad Xiao Cheng’s illness had progressed. And now she has enough money and yet that is not what Xiao Cheng needs in order to get better…

Marry me, and I will give my kidney to Xiao Cheng.

And yet she had not agreed. Xia Mo is filled with shame; she is an awful sister. She has the way to save Xiao Cheng right in front of her eyes and yet she hesitated. Xiao Cheng’s life is more important than her own life and yet she hesitated. Was it because… of him…

As Xia Mo exits the elevator to come to her apartment, she is frozen solid to see him sitting at her front door, as if he had been waiting for her to return for some time now. Luo Xi slowly unfurls himself from his position, smiling lightly.

“Why so surprised? You don’t want to see me?”
“No. Come in.”

As they enter the apartment, Luo Xi finds himself accosted by the black cat, Milk, and after a brief tussle that results in Luo Xi getting nipped by him, Xia Mo gently takes the cat back. Watching her softly handle the cat, Luo Xi finds himself calming down peacefully. Originally he had wanted to cross-examine her with questions but perhaps she does have her own reasons. Perhaps she did misunderstand…

“Where you’ve been these past few days?”
“….” Xia Mo hesitates, not even knowing how to answer him back.
“Why is your cell always turned off?”
“….”
“Why haven’t you answered any of my calls?”
“….”
“Are you mad at me?”
“….”
“You’re mad so you haven’t contacted me, haven’t come back home, and haven’t answered my calls? Unless, you’re not mad…”
“Are you referring to the gossip about you and Shen Qiang?”

Luo Xi stares at Xia Mo in shock, his heart frozen in ice. She hasn’t been worried, she hasn’t been sad – just calm and assured, as if nothing has happened at all! So she really doesn’t care and he really doesn’t matter at all to her!

“Have you seen the picture?”
“Luo Xi…”
“It’s true. Shen Qiang and I really did kiss.”
“Luo Xi…”

She can’t handle it anymore; her head’s about to explode! She’s known all along that the picture was real and not Photoshopped; she just didn’t want to think about it and chose to believe in Luo Xi instead. However, why is he choosing her most exhausted time to tell her all of this…

“I don’t want to hear it… I’m really tired… These past few days…”
“Does it really not matter to you?! You really don’t care at all?! What am I to you?! Is it because you’re so full of yourself that you don’t think I could like anyone else besides you? Is it because I really don’t matter to you that you don’t even care?!”
“Is it wrong that I’m choosing to believe you?”
“Is it because you believe me? So you don’t call me, you don’t come back home, you turn off your cell. I finally am able to reach you and then you turn your phone off. This is because you trust me or is it because you really just don’t care?”
“I… I was busy at the moment and so couldn’t answer your call…”
“What were you doing? Let’s hear it.”
“Luo Xi…”
“Can’t tell me? You wouldn’t have been with Ou Chen, would you? And so it wasn’t convenient to answer my call.”
Xia Mo’s face instantly pales. Luo Xi humorlessly smiles. “Ah, so you were with him.”
“It wasn’t like that!”
“Then what? The one you like is Ou Chen. It’s always been Ou Chen, right? So you don’t care… Perhaps you were glad to see the gossip about me and Shen Qiang, so you won’t even have to come up with any excuses and could just break up with me. Even better that I disappear forever from your sight, right?”

Xia Mo doesn’t understand what is happening. He is the one who is wrong here g and yet she is the one being blamed. This is his scandal, he was the one caught kissing another woman and when she chose to believe him instead, she is the one in the wrong…

“Luo Xi! Xiao Cheng… is really sick. I’ve been at the hospital with him these past few days so I haven’t been able to mind the gossip. And since you came here, doesn’t this prove that there is nothing true to it? Then why shouldn’t I believe you as opposed to believing the gossip?”

Luo Xi is stunned, now realizing how quiet and dark the place is, a fine layer of dust coating the furniture.

“How is Xiao Cheng doing?”
“He’ll be fine.”
“Why didn’t you tell me? Such a big thing happens and yet you just now tell me?”
“… I can handle it on my own.”

She knows that filming for “Tian Xia Sheng Shi” is critical right now. Additionally, he was dealing with all that gossip… is there… really nothing between him and Shen Qiang…

“And yet you went to find Ou Chen. When I called you this afternoon, you were at his side, weren’t you? Answer me.”
“I had something else to discuss with him.” How could she tell him that she has to marry Ou Chen in order to get that needed kidney?
“What?”
“… you don’t need to know…”
“Oh really…”
“There’s nothing going on between me and Ou Chen…” Xia Mo tightly clutches Luo Xi’s hand. With Xiao Cheng in the hospital, he is her closest relative. She wants to lean on him and let him comfort her, tell her that no matter what, everything will be okay… She doesn’t want to fight with him…

Luo Xi firmly removes her hand. “How can I believe you?”

As Luo Xi sits there on the couch, Milk ambles over and meowing softly, climbs into his lap. In his anger and hurt though, Luo Xi flings him away! Crying in protest, Milk ends up knocking over a box sitting on top of the shelf next to the couch, scattering its contents all over the floor.

Pictures of her and Ou Chen’s past together… These were the pictures that Ou Chen had taken to Xia Mo the night of the awards ceremony…

She kept those pictures… The pictures that she had thrown away that night… she had kept them by her side…

Xia Mo is stunned and moves to start gathering them together. “The reporters would have found them in the trash and then they would have caused a misunderstanding, so I picked them back up…”

Even though it is true, Luo Xi won’t believe it …

Xia Mo stops and looks up at Luo Xi hopelessly.

“And since you already picked them back up, might as well treasure them, right?”
“Luo Xi… the one I like is you.”
“Let’s break up.”

Such simple three words that require no effort at all and yet from Luo Xi’s lips, they come out hoarse.

“Break up?”
“It appears that I’m always being given up. So this time around, let me do it.”
“… but the one I like is you…” He’s mad, he’s just mad and so that’s why he said such hurtful words… she just needs to explain it better to him…
“This time, I don’t believe you anymore. Actually, I really don’t have much right to blame you. I did kiss Shen Qiang and we are getting ready to date each other… Yin Xia Mo, did you really think I couldn’t have anyone but you?”

Chapter 15

Luo Xi and Yin Xi Mo have publicly announced their separation!

It is a bit strange though, as a reporter leaked that Luo Xi had personally said that he and Yin Xi Mo were not breaking up. And yet, just a few days later, Luo Xi announces that he and Yin Xi Mo have officially separated and two no longer have any connection to each other. Something must have happened in the middle to suddenly change Luo Xi’s mind… perhaps the rumors between Yin Xi Mo and Ou Chen are true?

But Luo Xi has refused to expand any further on details, and so reporters had no choice but to give up. Even Shen Qiang has remained silent about their relationship, only smiling softly and looking at Luo Xi encouragingly every time the two publicly appear together. When they were questioned about impending nuptials, Shen Qiang only answers that it’s up to fate. Headlines read the next day –

LUO XI AND SHEN QIANG DEBATING MARRIAGE!

*******

At the hospital, Zhen En paces back and forth worriedly. What happened? How can they just break up? Luo Xi really likes Xia Mo; how can he be with Shen Qiang so fast already? Xia Mo must be in a lot of pain right now…

Although Xia Mo had remained impassive and calm when Zhen En had questioned her about the breakup, responding that their personalities weren’t really that compatible anymore, Zhen En knows that Xia Mo had been impacted because she has been continuously losing weight since then, her face getting more and more ashen. Whenever Xiao Cheng is not present, Xia Mo has been sinking more heavily into these quiet and moody periods.

But yet… Zhen En cannot help but think it is not completely due to Luo Xi, for when Xia Mo is watching over a sleeping Xiao Cheng, her soul becomes lost in her eyes…

Has Xiao Cheng’s condition worsened?!

Zhen En notices that Xiao Cheng is now sitting up in bed, his pale face a mask of concentration as he dutifully draws away.

“Xiao Cheng… How… are you feeling… I mean… shouldn’t you be resting? You’ve already been drawing for an hour now…”
“I’m not tired. I’m almost done.”
“Are you… drawing me?”

Zhen En blushes as she entertains the possibility of her beloved Xiao Cheng drawing her likeness and peeks over to steal a glance, only to be slightly disappointed when she sees that he is drawing Xia Mo.

But this Xia Mo… she is simply radiant in her smile… so happy and carefree in her smile… Zhen En has never seen such a smile on Xia Mo before.

“So beautiful… But Xiao Cheng, when you will draw me one?”
“If it makes Sister Zhen En happy, then one day I will draw you one too.”
“Ah! Really?!!!! Thank you, Xiao Cheng!!!! Ah… that would be awesome…” Even though Xiao Cheng had added on that annoying “sister” to her name, she cannot contain her excitement and grabs his drawing hand in utter glee. However, she is instantly embarrassed and quickly lets go of Xiao Cheng’s hand, who acts as if nothing unusual had happened. “Sorry.”
Xiao Cheng laughs. “No worries. I can always fix it.” Pause. “Sister Zhen En, do you think it’s okay that Sister goes to the party by herself?“

Zhen En pauses, as even she doesn’t understand why Xia Mo is suddenly so determined to go to the 20th Anniversary party of RBS Studios. Xia Mo had originally declined all invitations on account of taking care of Xiao Cheng but when she received RBS Studios’ invite, she had asked Zhen En who else would be attending. Zhen En had thus told her that a lot of important people would be attending, reporters would be swarming the place, and Luo Xi and Shen Qiang would most definitely be attending. Perhaps Xia Mo should just decline…

However, when Xia Mo specifically asked whether or not Boss Xia [I always feel like I'm referring to a mafia leader whenever I write that... the direct translation means "boss" but it really means "manager" or "president" in this context] would be in attendance, she was adamant that she would also be going to the party.

*******

RBS Studios is the most influential company in the entertainment industry and the full-scale party has been prepped days in advance. Everyone who is anyone in the entertainment world is expected to attend tonight’s party, and the reporters are all poised to get a shot of their favorite star. Clad in designer gowns, flashy jewelry and suave tuxes, no one misses a beat as all the stops have been pulled out for tonight’s event.

Pan Nan and Xia Mo enter the party together and in this fairy tale land, the two are the perfect princesses. Xia Mo instantly scans the room.

“Are you looking for someone? Luo Xi…?”
“… no.”
“Xia Mo, what is going on with you and Luo Xi?”
“…”

Xia Mo is racking her brain for a suitable answer when Yao Shu Er comes bumbling over to them in worry.

“Xia Mo, what are you doing here? Luo Xi and Shen Qiang are bound to show up and then you know it’ll get really awkward. No one was able to get a word out from you during the whole scandal business, so why would you choose here to show up? There are so many reporters here and although they won’t bug you because it’s a party, you know they’re going to talk about it tomorrow in the headlines.”
“You know Shu Er is right.”
“I know, but there’s someone here I really need to find. I won’t leave until I find him.”

Shu Er thinks to change Xia Mo’s mind but knows that she isn’t a hasty person. If she has a reason to be here, then she must have some kind of a reason. Deciding to let the subject go, Shu Er changes the topic.

“Do you know that An Hui Ni is here?”

Now there is a name that Xia Mo hasn’t heard in awhile. Since the press conference, An Hui Ni’s contracts and scheduled appearances were all cancelled, and she has essentially disappeared from the public eye. Looking at it now, it seems that the loss An Hui Ni suffered that day was permanent.

“An Hui Ni was trying to get into the party but the bouncer said that she needed an invitation. You know that as a movie star, your face alone is invitation enough but the bouncer actually said that he didn’t recognize her! I don’t know if she ended up getting in or not, but she was really upset about it –”

Yao Shu Er stops mid-sentence as her eyes widen at something. An Hui Ni has entered the party!

As she stalks into the party, she is flanked by the bouncers – it appears that she has forced her way in. However, RBS Studios’ executives decide to just let An Hui Ni be as opposed to possibly ruining the party atmosphere at forcibly removing her.

At the same time, an air of prestige enters the room. A black tuxedo, snow-white dress shirt – and the light green silk scarf tied around his wrist. When the CEO of RBS Studios sees him enter, he instantly flanks to his side, eager to please and greet.

Apparently Ou Hua Corporations is RBS Studios’ biggest investor.

Apparently RBS Studios started out as a company under Ou Hua Corporations.

Apparently this is Ou Hua Corporations’ young master and heir, Ou Chen.

Apparently Luo Xi’s ex-girlfriend, Yin Xia Mo, broke up with him for Ou Chen.

Xia Mo stands to the side as Ou Chen approaches, quickly lowering her eyes to the ground. Ou Chen steadily walks past her – he doesn’t see her at all. As if his line of sight doesn’t even notice her. She also does not directly see him – just the fluttering green silk scarf from his wrist…

She doesn’t know why she didn’t agree to his condition that day. Even knowing that this kidney will save Xiao Cheng, she still didn’t agree, even hoping that she would be able to find another way, another kidney for him… And since learning of Xiao Cheng’s illness, she has been trying to contact that person and yet has been unsuccessful, only coming to this party on a small sliver of hope that she will be able to find him.

What if he’s not suitable? What if Ou Chen changes his mind completely? Then she will have no more options left…

“Long time no see.”

An Hui Ni is standing before Xia Mo now, smiling lightly and looking deathly skinny from before. Pan Nan looks at her in distaste.

“I hear you and Luo Xi have broken up. How funny; you two were so romantic at the press conference and in a blink of an eye, you have already separated! You mean… it was just an act that day? You’re really good, that you could convince Luo Xi to play along with you, using such a pathetic excuse to “prove” your innocence!”
“Did you come here today just to see me?”
“I just wanted to hear your explanation, that’s all.”
“Fine. I once thought you were a smart girl but never imagined that you were really so dense. You’ve wasted so much effort on me, and yet it’s only helped me to get better and better. Now look at you and you still haven’t learned. Didn’t you come here tonight so that you could get another chance to reenter the entertainment world? And yet the moment you see me, you forget everything.”
“You…”
“If you were just a little smarter, you would pray that everyone would slowly forget what happened to you and then make a comeback that will prove to everyone your talent. And yet here you are, wasting your efforts, making it so that no one will ever be able to forget your sordid past.”

An Hui Ni glares back at Xia Mo with hatred burning in her eyes but has no immediate comeback.

“Just leave. Don’t waste any more time on me. You don’t want to let tonight’s opportunity slip away.”

Both Pan Nan and Yao Shu Er breathe a sigh of relief. Although they weren’t afraid of An Hui Ni, they did worry about her causing a scene. However, who would have guessed that as An Hui Ni walks away, her foot ends up caught in her long dress, and the piece of cake she is currently holding ends up smeared all over the front of Xia Mo’s dress!

Everyone is stunned! What an obvious and underhanded stunt! How could RBS Studios let a person like An Hui Ni into the party?!

An Hui Ni uncomprehendingly stares at the sticky mess on Xia Mo and then tries to wipe it away. However, the wiping only serves to make the oily substance spread more. Xia Mo also unsuccessfully tries to wipe away the cake. Given any other time, she would have just called it a night but the person she is looking for still hasn’t shown up – she does not want to just leave without having found him yet. Seeing the look of dismay on An Hui Ni’s face, Xia Mo realizes that it was truly an accident.

“She didn’t do it on purpose…”

Xia Mo’s sentence isn’t even finished before someone claims her wrist in a firm but gentle hold! Looking first down at the green scarf tied around that hand, Xia Mo continues gazing upward to see Ou Chen with a determined expression. He doesn’t look back down at her.

“Let’s get you changed.”

Keeping a firm grip on her wrist, Ou Chen pulls her through the crowd, weaving between the curious onlookers.

*******

Speculations buzz as soon as Ou Chen and Yin Xia Mo exit the room.

The nerve of An Hui Ni…

Yin Xia Mo and Ou Chen do know each other…

Apparently Yin Xia Mo and Luo Xi have broken up…

An Hui Ni can never make a comeback now…

What is the relationship between Yin Xia Mo and Ou Chen…

However, the questions cease at the entrance of another highly popular topic – Luo Xi and Shen Qiang have entered the premises! Looking at the two of them together, standing next to one another, perfectly coordinated in their brilliant formal wear… they really are a perfectly matched couple.

Although this is not the first time that Luo Xi and Shen Qiang have appeared together in public, this is the first time that they have under the the appearance as a couple. Right as everyone was beginning to think that Shen Qiang’s many years of longing for Luo Xi would result in nothing, he and Yin Xia Mo just happen to break up. Although neither Luo Xi nor Shen Qiang have publicly affirmed their relationship, their appearance together at this party is essentially a silent confirmation.

But then, everyone’s attention is now riveted to the staircase! It is Young Master Ou Chen again making his way down — But this time, he is accompanied by a petite woman at his side. Wearing a flowing white dress, so beautiful and yet almost giving a translucent appearance so that she appears as an angel descending down to earth. Every movement is enhanced by the glittering diamonds that sparkle down her dress.

Her neck is adorned with a beautiful, glittering white gold necklace. A brilliant diamond is nestled at her throat. She is the princess of princesses, invoking a desperation to give her the world’s best things just to have one small smile from her.

It is Yin Xia Mo… how very beautiful she is…

And the diamond that is currently lying so snugly against her throat – the entranced audience have already recognized it as England’s most prized treasure, the “Moonlight” Diamond.

The audience is caught between Shen Qiang and Yin Xia Mo! Shen Qiang carries a cool air around her, her queen-like presence making others afraid to stare too long. On the other hand, Yin Xia Mo’s pure beauty makes people never want to stop staring.

Luo Xi stares silently at the two, his eyes darkening and then narrowing in on Xia Mo’s hand that is currently resting on Ou Chen’s arm. Noticing his wavering attention, Shen Qiang laughingly pulls Luo Xi forward to greet a friend, effectively cutting off his line of sight.

Xia Mo also sees Luo Xi. Although she had already mentally prepared herself for the possibility of seeing him here, she is still seized with apprehension and nervousness at physically seeing him together with Shen Qiang.

Stabbing, empty pain…

Ou Chen quietly studies her. Xia Mo realizes that her hand has instinctively gripped the cloth of Ou Chen’s jacket into a tight fist and she forces herself to loosen her fingers.

No… she didn’t come here for Luo Xi… She has far more important things to do…

“The person you are looking for is over there.”

Xia Mo looks up at Ou Chen in surprise and then glances over to the area he had referred to; it is true! In too much of a hurry to wonder how Ou Chen had known that she was here to look for that person, Xia Mo picks up her pace and follows Ou Chen as he guides her to her target.

“President Xia, long time no see.”

Seeing that it is Ou Hua Corporations’ Young Master Ou Chen, the fifty-something year old man ends his conversation and turns to smile pleasantly at Ou Chen. “Yes, long time no see.”
“If you don’t mind, I would like to introduce a friend of mine to you. This is Miss Yin Xia Mo. Xia Mo, this is Xing Dian Company’s CEO, Mr. Xia Ying Bo.”

As President Xia and Xia Mo exchange greetings, a memory flashes through President Xia’s mind. It is the injured girl from that one year, trembling and covered in wounds. Remembering that even then her face had been covered in injuries, and now seeing how flawlessly it has healed. Now she is a famous star. He had seen her face on TV recently but didn’t pay much close attention until now. Well, the past is the past now. Since she is already a movie star, she must not want to drudge up the past again.

“I’m sorry but could I have your contact information?”
“Don’t you think you’re pushing it a little far?”

Xia Mo’s urgent inquiry is cut short by another clear, feminine voice. It is Shen Qiang, guiding Luo Xi besides her. “I know you’re all about bettering yourself but could you at least try to be smarter about it? Your current boss is right next to you and you’re already scoping out your next one?”

Xia Mo is momentarily surprised and then understands Shen Qiang’s meaning. Ignoring Shen Qiang, she turns back to President Xia.

“President Xia, is it possible?”
“It’s not possible.” Shen Qiang snaps.
“I’m sorry, I’m asking President Xia here.”
“And I’m answering for him.”
“Xiao Qiang, let’s be mature here.” President Xia finally intercedes, realizing that Xia Mo must be the person who has been trying to contact him while he was out of the country. He turns back to Xia Mo, who tries to explain why she would like a moment alone with him but Shen Qiang is not having any of it.

“Yin Xia Mo, I’m telling you. I don’t care what business you have, if President Xia contacts you or helps you in any way, then he is forcing me out of his company! Because, it is an insult to be connected to someone like you in any way! Why should I be polite to someone who only steps on others and uses them to get what she wants?!”

Insult… Only knows to use people… Steps on others…

Is this what he told Shen Qiang?! Unable to control herself, Xia Mo looks wildly at Luo Xi –

Who has also been staring at her this entire time, a complex play of emotions running across his face. The instant Luo Xi realizes that her attention is now directed at him though, he smiles softly and places a gentle hand on Shen Qiang’s shoulder.

“I haven’t eaten dinner yet, so I’m a bit hungry. Come with me?”

Giving one final death glare at Xia Mo, Shen Qiang follows Luo Xi, half-dragged, half-hugged by him. Watching the two walk away, Xia Mo feels her heart completely and wholly die.

“President Xia, I heard that the reason you left the country was to undergo treatment?” Ou Chen’s carefully blank gaze finally leaves Xia Mo, as if the previous encounter was a play that had nothing to do with him. Only when Luo Xi leaves, will he finally do what he needs to do.

“That’s right; you get older and your body stops listening to you.”
“Well, the science is definitely far superior now. A kidney infection isn’t something too severe though, so as long as you continue to take care of it properly…”
“Kidney infection…? You have a kidney infection?!”

Xia Mo cannot believe her ears as she sees her final hope slipping away from her. She can only agree now… can only agree…

As if from a far, faraway place, she hears a noise ringing at her… Numbly pulling out her cell phone from her purse, Xia Mo sees “Zhen En” on the screen and is instantly filled with panic!

“Xiao Cheng fainted!!!! Hurry back!!! The doctors are trying to save him right now! I’m scared!!! Xia Mo, I’m so scared!! Don’t leave me here by myself!!! Hurry back!!! I’m scared!!”

Xia Mo’s head is spinning, her throat is caught. It’s her, she’s the one who doomed Xiao Cheng… so selfish… she wouldn’t agree and now Xiao Cheng is dead… dead… dead… it’s her… she did it… it’s all her fault…

IT’S ALL HER FAULT!!!

In the middle of the party-filled room, Yin Xia Mo suddenly lets loose a hoarse cry and then rushes towards the exit. Running faster and faster… faster and faster… like a crazy person she runs out of the building!

A stunned Luo Xi stares at Xia Mo’s departing figure and he instinctively places his fork back down, getting up to chase after her when Shen Qiang stops him, drawing his attention to the now disappearing Ou Chen who had followed Xia Mo out.

Luo Xi stands there, numbed. This feeling of emptiness far surpasses any pain she had ever inflicted on him. Pain, but at least they were still together then. And hollowness now, as he feels his life completely shattering.

*******

When Luo Xi finally dashes out of the building after them, the night is dark – there are no stars, no wind and the rain steadily drips down onto him.

There’s no her… Can’t find her… She’s disappeared…

“Why were you so stupid?”

It’s her…

Is it her…

Luo Xi freezes, his heart beating wildly…

He was wrong! He was wrong! He shouldn’t have asked for so much! He shouldn’t have demanded that she be jealous! He shouldn’t have demanded that he be the only important person in her life… He knows he was wrong now…

Luo Xi blinks as he tries to find her in the darkness, breathing heavily…

As long as she gives him another chance… just one more chance…

He’ll never let her leave again…

The rain continues to fall. It is Pan Nan, holding out an umbrella as she walks towards him.

“Since you still like Xia Mo, then why did you cause all that gossip, pushing her away yourself?”

*******

Xia Mo sits shaking in the car, her hands tightly clutching her phone in a death grip. The rain from her hair drips down steadily onto her face. Zhen En had just called, informing her that Xiao Cheng is no longer in any immediate danger and to not worry, also apologizing profusely for freaking out earlier and overreacting.

Ou Chen steadily wipes the rain away from her face with a towel. She is like a wooden doll, unmoving and sitting still, so numb that she can no longer even feel the pain in her chest… So numb that she cannot feel anything at all.

“Didn’t you once say, that you would give up your own life for Yin Cheng…” Ou Chen continues to gently wipe Xia Mo’s face, his voice hoarse.

“… Marrying me… is it really worse than death?”

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 13

2010-07-08T10:42:00.007+08:00

Chapter 13
The next day, a shocking picture is published!

Although the picture was obviously taken in secret and mildly blurry, but the two people caught kissing are unmistakable – media’s king and queen, Luo Xi and Shen Qiang! The buzz that this picture has created is unbelievable! Even greater than when Luo Xi backed out of Ou Hua Corporations’ series! Shen Qiang’s adoration for Luo Xi has always been public knowledge and while it was rumored that she was his girlfriend, Luo Xi never once came out in public to affirm this story. However, once he publicly declared his romance with Yin Xia Mo, Shen Qiang obviously faded into the background.

But now this picture…

Perhaps they have gotten back together now?

The reporters all desperately try to contact Luo Xi and Shen Qiang, but their cell phones are answered by their assistants. Yin Xia Mo is also nowhere to be found and she cannot be contacted at all!

*******

“I need you to prepare yourself. Xiao Cheng needs to immediately have surgery done otherwise… given his current condition, it’ll be hard for him to make it past three months.”

Xia Mo has lost all feeling in her body as she stares woodenly back at the doctor. When she brokenly asks the doctor when Xiao Cheng’s condition had started to worsen, she is even more shocked to hear that it had happened last September – Xiao Cheng had known about it all along.

Last September… that was when she had first entered the entertainment industry…

The doctor explains that they had tried multiple times to contact her, but she was rarely at home or unreachable at work. Xiao Cheng had promised them that he would inform her of his condition. However, when it became obvious that Xia Mo was still being kept in the dark about it, Xiao Cheng had begged the doctors to not say anything to her. Otherwise he would give up his treatment and run away from home.

“Okay. Please set the surgery for as soon as possible! And give Xiao Cheng the best possible treatment! Money is not an issue!”
“It’s not the issue of money. There is no suitable match right now. You know that Xiao Cheng has the very rare blood type of RH-B and it is extremely difficult to find such a blood type, let alone matching the right kidney.”

Xia Mo is numbed. It’s true; even five years ago when Xiao Cheng had been in that car accident, it had been next to impossible to find enough blood for him.

“But we’ve already searched the blood type records for the entire country for RH-B and we hope to find a suitable donor for Xiao Cheng. We’re going to receive some test results back this week, so please be patient; we may be able to find some donors…”

*******

When a frantic Zhen En later arrives at the hospital, she finds an ashen Xia Mo standing in the hallway, lost in a daze. Zhen En has never seen such an expression on Xia Mo’s face before. Seeing the worried look on Zhen En’s face though, Xia Mo makes up an excuse about probably coming down with some bug because of the humid weather and the two then enter Xiao Cheng’s room.

Xiao Cheng is lying on the bed when they come in, his face so pale that his eyes appear even bigger and blacker than usual. Xia Mo leans over to place a hand against his forehead and although Xiao Cheng instinctively moves away, she acts as if nothing has happened – his temperature is still the same as last night.

While handing a glass of hot water over for Xiao Cheng to drink, he accidentally spills the liquid onto his own hand and the girls rush to clean up the mess, getting an ice pack to hold over his reddened hand. Zhen En becomes preoccupied with fussing over Xiao Cheng, and Xia Mo notices the bag of fruit that Zhen En has brought with her. Seeing her purse tipping over precariously, Xia Mo moves to righten the bag and then notices the newspaper lying askew on the very top.

Thinking to reorganize the newspaper back into the purse, Xia Mo reaches for it – and freezes at the front picture.

Luo Xi and Shen Qiang are locked in a kiss at a bar, and although the lighting is dimmed, there is no mistaking the two faces so intimately close to each other.

“Don’t look!” Zhen En scrambles to pull the offensive newspaper from Xia Mo’s hands; what with Xiao Cheng’s illness and now Luo Xi’s gossip – Xia Mo cannot handle any more shock! “Don’t pay any attention to such gossip! They’re probably just drunk! Or the picture’s just… the picture’s just Photoshopped!”

“What else does the newspaper say?”
“Nothing!”
“Give it to me.”

Xia Mo’s face remains blank while scanning the headlines while Zhen En stands worriedly to the side. Xiao Cheng tries to interject on Luo Xi’s behalf but Xia Mo tells him that his health is the most important thing right now; nothing else matters.

For the next few hours, Xia Mo does not say anything at all and remains standing by the window, staring impassively outside. When Zhen En finally leaves, Xia Mo walks with her.

“Zhen En, please cancel my contract with Golden Dance.”
“What?! But… Golden Dance is a dream opportunity! And this series belongs to the Ou Hua Corporations, which you are a representative of! Do you know what could happen if you backed out now?! Your entire career could be ruined!”
“I know.”

*******

The newspaper of Luo Xi and Shen Qiang’s intimate picture lies open on a black business desk.

“What… was her reaction?” Ou Chen hesitatingly asks Xi Meng after staring blankly at the picture for a few seconds.

“Reporters have been unable to get ahold of Miss Yin, the company hasn’t been able to contact her either. She hasn’t appeared in any public venue the past two days, only Zhen En has appeared on her behalf, who’s stated that this has nothing to do with Miss Yin.”
“Has nothing to do with her…”
“Additionally, Zhen En has conveyed to the company that Miss Yin wishes to negate her contract for Golden Dance.”
“Reason.”
“It seems that Miss Yin’s younger brother is in the hospital and needs care. She hasn’t left his side once since he’s entered the hospital and has cancelled all her scheduled appearances that Ou Hua Corporations booked for her. RBS Studios and others have already expressed extreme displeasure, and Cai Ni and Zhen En are currently trying to take care of the situation. We could sue Miss Yin for backing out of her contract on Golden Dance though…”
“How bad is Yin Cheng’s illness?”

There is nothing more important to her than this little brother. Since she was little, she has always given the best of everything to Yin Cheng, acting like a mother hen over her hatchling. He was once very jealous of Yin Cheng because Yin Cheng was always the most important in her heart.

She must be very burdened at this time.

“Yin Cheng’s illness has considerably worsened and he will need to undergo kidney surgery immediately, otherwise he is not given more than three months to live.”
“Has a donor been found?”
“Yin Cheng has an extremely rare blood type of RH-B and so they haven’t been able to find a suitable donor yet.”

RH-B blood type…

*******

The filming set for Tian Xia Sheng Shi is completely surrounded by reporters, and they are quick to follow Luo Xi and Shen Qiang everywhere, hoping for an interview or a picture. Even their homes have been set upon by the frenzied mob of paparazzi.

Ever since the intimate photograph was taken, people had thought that Shen Qiang would purposely not appear in any public venues with Luo Xi but the two have continued on as before and still participate in photo shoots together, laughing quietly at a private joke. Reporters speculate whether or not Luo Xi has already decided to publicly announce his romance with Shen Qiang and so has decided to be upfront about it.

When the reporters interview Shen Qiang, she simply says that Luo Xi has been her most admired friend. When they directly asked whether or not she and Luo Xi are currently dating, Shen Qiang laughs and says that it’s all up to fate. Additionally, reporters add that although Yin Xia Mo had visited Luo Xi on set the day before, he had treated her indifferently and had actually left her by herself in the dressing room after talking to her for less than half an hour! The headlines scream.

LUO XI OFFICIALLY SEPARATED FROM EX-GIRLFRIEND!

SHEN QIANG’S ONE-SIDED LOVE FINALLY SUCCESSFUL AFTER SO MANY YEARS!

THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY’S MOST MATCHED COUPLE!

CINDERELLA’S FAIRY TALE SHATTERED – THE PRINCE’S OWN LOVE SONG!

*******

“No.”

Luo Xi sits alone at home, on the phone. His cell phone has been ringing continuously all night and he has been answering the exact same thing to the exact same question.

“… you two aren’t dating?
“No.”
“That kiss at the bar…”
“We were drunk and just messing around.”
“That’s it?!”
“Yes.”
“Then you and Yin Xia Mo have broken up?”
“… no.”

Originally he had thought that the instant she saw the picture, she would immediately call him, demanding an explanation. And so he had made sure to keep his phone by his side for when she called and yet has received nothing but incessant questioning from reporters. In anger, he had thrusted his phone at Jie Ni and told her that even if she calls him, he doesn’t want to talk to her!

But a day passes – and another one – and he finally breaks down and asks Jie Ni if she’s received a call from her yet. When Jie Ni only embarrassedly shakes her head, he feels his heart sinking into a black hole.

Is she that confident that he won’t like someone else? Is this her supposed trust? No matter what the newspapers write, she’ll still remain unmoving?

Or is it… that she no longer cares about him…

And so he has allowed the reporters to write whatever headlines they want about him and Shen Qiang. Knowing that she is unaffected and coolly calm but even if there is a real possibility that he has someone else, that he would possibly leave her…

Can she still remain unaffected and calm?

But perhaps it is like what Zhen En said on her behalf – that it is none of her business.

None of her business…

No matter if it is five years ago or five years later. No matter how hard he works to make her like him, no matter how close he is to happiness, she can still so casually and easily leave him. He was wrong from the start. He shouldn’t have fallen in love with her, shouldn’t have allowed her to take the most important place in his life. If he hadn’t had fallen in love with her, then perhaps he could just turn away and leave, date Shen Qiang or whomever else he wished.

However, he can’t stand to see the words “break up,” afraid that this will be their curse.

The phone rings again.

“… no. Xi Mo and I have not broken up.”

*******

“Sister, are you and Brother Luo Xi… still okay?”
“I told you, I just want you to take care of yourself right now. Don’t worry about other stuff.”

Xiao Cheng is worried about Xia Mo though. These past few days, she has become like a stranger to him, talking to him politely and without emotion. Although she is here at his side, it is as if she is far, far away from him.

“Sister… do you know… I’m really scared…”
“Don’t be scared; you’ll get better.”
“… scared that you’ll stay mad at me… Sister, I know you’re mad at me. Because I kept it a secret from you… so you’re mad… so you won’t talk to me… and won’t share anything with me…”
“You didn’t want me to worry, so didn’t tell me. Then if I don’t want you to worry, shouldn’t I not tell you anything either?”
“Sister!”
“Don’t you realize… how cruel that is? I’ve always thought that you were getting better, and then suddenly I realized that it wasn’t true… what should I do… what do you… want me to do…”
“I’m sorry! I thought I would get better, I thought I would get better without you knowing first…”
“Xiao Cheng, don’t you know? I get scared too. I’m scared, that it’s just going to be me in this world. Mom’s gone now; it’s just you and me. I only have you as my relative. Compared to my life, compared to everything I have – you are the most important. If I could exchange anything for your health, no matter what I have to give up, even if I have to go to Hell for it, I would be willing to do so…”
“Sister, I’m sorry…”
“You are my life, don’t you know? If you were to live me one day and I wasn’t even able to take care of you… what do you think will happen to me? That I would think you are the world’s best little brother because I didn’t have to worry about you…? Or, do you wish for me to go with you…?”

Ever since childhood, Xiao Cheng has never seen Xia Mo so forlorn. She is like a sturdy tree; no matter how strong the winds are, she will never bow down.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry! It’s all my fault… I was scared that you would worry… scared that you would be sad… Everything you’ve ever done has been for me… But yet I burden you… Sister… I want you to live happily just like other girls, laughing and crying as you please… Sometimes, I really envy Sister Zhen En… why can she laugh so happily when my own sister cannot…”
“Silly. All I need is you and I’ll be very happy…”
“I want Sister to be the world’s happiest woman, not just someone who has a little brother but also a love and an enjoyable career… That way… If I leave one day… Sister will still continue to live happily afterward…”

After a shared bonding session between Xia Mo and Xiao Cheng in which the two each try to take the blame, Xia Mo tells him to remain optimistic; they will find a suitable donor for him.

“Sister, what’s going on with you and Brother Luo Xi?”
“I… don’t know…”

She hasn’t seen the newspapers in a few days and so doesn’t even know what is going on right now, and whether or not Luo Xi’s rumored romance with Shen Qiang is true or false. However, she doesn’t know whether Xiao Cheng’s illness has made her unable to worry about anything else or if she herself really doesn’t mind so much.

“You haven’t seen Brother Luo Xi?”
“No.”
“Have you talked on the phone?”
“No.”
“Sister… Call Luo Xi, okay? At least let him personally explain to you what’s going on…”

Yes… she should call Luo Xi…

However, as she reaches to press the power button of her cell phone, she suddenly feels conflicted…

*******

Sprawled on the couch of his home, Luo Xi stares mindlessly at his cell phone, as if willing it to ring on its own. He’s already been waiting a really, really long time, such a long time that he feels as if he is becoming a statue…

What if she really misunderstood… So that’s why she’s waiting so long to call him… perhaps as he is waiting for her to call him, she is waiting for him to call her…

Even though her personality isn’t really one to suspect or wait for others…

But yet… there is that tiny possibility. Perhaps she does not really not care about him.

Making up his mind, Luo Xi punches in Xia Mo’s number…

*******

Xiao Cheng’s IV drip is getting low! Right before Xia Mo can press the power button on her phone -

“I’m calling the nurse.”
“Sister, call Brother Luo Xi…”
“I’ll call when I get back.”

Perhaps… she really doesn’t want to make that call…

She just wants to find a suitable donor for Xiao Cheng so he’ll be healthy again… For this, she is even willing to sell her soul to the Devil…

*******

Three days later.

“We’ve found a suitable donor but that person hasn’t decided on whether or not to donate a kidney to Xiao Cheng yet…”
“I’ll go find him, I’ll beg him!” Xia Mo can’t breathe – no matter what, she cannot let go of this opportunity! ”What is his contact information?”

“His name is Ou Chen.”

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 12

2010-07-06T10:30:00.002+08:00

Chapter 12
News is buzzing now about Yin Xia Mo and Luo Xi’s alleged breakup, and reporters hover around the set for Tian Xia Sheng Shi everyday to try to get the latest scoop. Since Shen Qiang is rumored to have close ties with Luo Xi, she is not left out of the spotlight either as the paparazzi clamor to get her opinion on Luo Xi’s personal life. Shen Qiang remains polite and tells them that she is not aware of the circumstances and unfortunately, cannot give them any definite answer. Luo Xi has declined to answer any questions although his outer appearance remains his ever perfect and unflappable calm, and he continues to smile and greet everyone with warmth.

However, Shen Qiang’s gaze never leaves Luo Xi. In the past, whenever he was on the phone with Yin Xia Mo, his voice would become incredibly warm and intimate, chuckling softly and smiling at whatever was being said on the other line. But now, Luo Xi has thrown himself completely into work and his cell phone sits tucked away somewhere, turned off.

Have they broken up…? The more pain he is in, the more beautiful he becomes. The more devastated he becomes, the more he acts like he doesn’t care. Luo Xi… is really just like a child sometimes…

The reporters excitedly ask for a picture of the leading actors together. Stand closer to one another! Be more intimate, please!

As Luo Xi lightly wraps his arms around Shen Qiang, she feels herself becoming heady from his surrounding warmth. However, the expressions of shock on the surrounding reporters and filming crew has them pausing and Luo Xi also turns his head towards their focus. Shen Qiang tries to do the same but is stilled by the sudden tense grip of Luo Xi’s hand. Seeing the cool expression on his face, Shen Qiang thinks of the recent news…

Is it… her?

Looking perfect and beautiful with a rosy smile on her lips, Xia Mo walks in with none of the typical Prima Donna attitude that most stars possess. Neither does she seem to be at all jealous of the intimate pose that Luo Xi and Shen Qiang are currently in, which actually surprises Shen Qiang.

Luo Xi has not said anything, his gaze only on Xia Mo, the expression in his eyes fathomless. Everyone is aware of his relationship with Yin Xia Mo, and even more aware of the rumored breakup and they all wait in tense silence to see what his reaction will be at Yin Xia Mo’s arrival.

Xia Mo acts as if nothing is out of the ordinary, holding out a bag of fruit and a big container of sushi. Jie Ni rushes to her side in excitement, asking if she is here to visit the set, to which Xia Mo smiles in kind and nods her head. As the sushi is distributed out, the filming crew are in awe at how meticulously made each piece is and the previous tension fades away. Although Shen Qiang does not know what Yin Xia Mo’s motives are for coming, this simple act makes Shen Qiang believe that Yin Xia Mo is trying to fix the relationship.

The reporters clamor around Xia Mo now and eagerly ask her if she has seen the recent news; has she and Luo Xi really separated?? Xia Mo laughs lightly; you mean people actually believe the gossip that is going around right now? Hesitation momentarily seizes them but then a reporter asks whether or not Luo Xi specifically believes the gossip. At this time, Luo Xi walks up to Xia Mo, placing an arm around her and a gentle kiss on her forehead.

“Does it look like we’ve broken up?”

The reporters are mildly confused. While it is true that Yin Xia Mo wouldn’t visit the set if they were separated, the feeling between them also doesn’t seem quite right…

“Please help us clarify the matter in the news tomorrow; we are very well.”

*******

In Luo Xi’s private room, Xia Mo sees the newspaper with the picture of her and Ou Chen at the hospital. Picking it up, her gaze rests on it for a few seconds before laughing lightly and turning to Luo Xi.

“Is this why you haven’t been picking up my calls?”
“Why are you here?”
Xia Mo momentarily freezes at the harshness in his voice and then tries to put up a brave front. “Someone randomly decided to play MIA and so I’m here to see if he’s still on this planet.” Silence. “The fruit is all washed, so you can just eat it straight out of the bag. I made the sushi myself but might have made too much. If you can’t finish it all today, then just throw it out tomorrow.”
“Thanks.”

Luo Xi does not reach for the box of sushi until it is placed directly in front of him. Under Xia Mo’s direct gaze, Luo Xi only then opens the box to find about twenty pieces of sushi, all different and painstakingly created. Saying nothing, Luo Xi only stares at this offering. Slightly nervous now, Xia Mo hesitatingly asks him if he doesn’t like them.

“You know what, Xia Mo? Sometimes I really worry about the day when you will be especially good to me. Someone once gave me a really big, really delicious ice cream cone but after I finished eating it, she was gone. It seems like every time I reach the highest point of my happiness, it is only the beginning of heartbreak.” Pause. “If I eat all this sushi, will you disappear too?”
Hugging Luo Xi close to her, Xia Mo whispers fervently, “No, no, I won’t disappear.”
“Really?” Luo Xi pushes Xia Mo away. “But, I no longer trust you.”
“Is it because of the newspapers? So you’ve been refusing to pick up any of my calls these past few days?”

Luo Xi says nothing, only stares back coolly at her. The pain in Xia Mo’s heart increases. Even when An Hui Ni was so ruthlessly attacking her, Xia Mo has never felt this cold and hopeless.

“You said you would believe in me.”
“Yes, I did say that. But what have you given me in return?”
“I didn’t lie to you.”
“No, you didn’t lie to me. But you chose to purposely mislead me… When I asked if you had gone to see Ou Chen, you only said that you hadn’t agreed to some kind of a bargain with him, that you hadn’t promised him anything…”
“It’s the truth.”
“But I asked you whether or not you had gone to see him…”
“Is there a difference? What bothers you? If you mind that I saw Ou Chen, that is a rather difficult thing to not do considering that I work for Ou Hua Corporations! If you mind whether or not I agreed to some condition for your series, I will again say it now – no!”
“So… you did see him.”
“… Yes.”
“Did you seek him out or did he do it?”
“… I sought him.”
“Didn’t I tell you not to? In fact, even earlier, didn’t I ask you to not see or talk to him, regardless of the reason? And what did you promise me? You said you wouldn’t see him. You said you wouldn’t talk to him. You said that even if he saw you, you would ignore him.”
“The only reason I went to see him was -”
“I don’t want to hear it! You’re always so full of excuses!”
“Because I don’t want our past relationship to hurt you! That has ended!”
“Ended… Is that what you call your expression as you guarded over his sickly self in the hospital?! How do you expect me to believe you? You promised me you wouldn’t find him and yet you did it anyway. And then when you did see him, you purposely avoided my question when I specifically asked you. You keep saying you want nothing to do with him and yet you agreed to take on Golden Dance! Maybe you did it for yourself… Didn’t you once say that there is no love in your heart, only the desire to succeed? That to succeed, you will do anything your power. So now you’ve decided to sacrifice me for this chance?”
“Is that what you really think of me?!”

Seeing the ashen and pained look on Xia Mo’s face, Luo Xi feels his own heart break! No, that’s not what he really thinks of her; he never honestly suspected her! If she is really trying to be opportunistic, then she should just break up with him and not stand here trying to exclaim herself. Given her personality, if she really didn’t care about him, then she wouldn’t repeatedly call him, and even after being ignored by him, she wouldn’t have come to visit the set.

But that picture of them together… with Xia Mo looking so gently down upon Ou Chen… It has created a fear and paranoia within himself, a black hole in his heart…

Knock knock! “Luo Xi, your scene is up next. The director wants you to start prepping.”

Glancing back at Xia Mo, it seems that Luo Xi wants to say something but then chooses not to say anything at all. Leaving her standing there with pain building in her heart, Luo Xi walks out of the room, closing the door solidly behind him.

*******

When Xia Mo later returns home that night, she takes a moment to compose herself and forces a bright smile on her face. However, when she opens the door, Xiao Cheng is not waiting for her with dinner made as is customary, and the house is consumed in darkness. Alarmed, Xia Mo instantly rushes into his bedroom and upon turning on the light, finds a pale and ashen Xiao Cheng lying motionless on the bed.

Hearing Xia Mo frantically calling his name, Xiao Cheng weakly opens his eyes and smiles back at his sister. As if in still caught in a dream, Xiao Cheng tries to blink the sleepiness out of his eyes but his gaze seems to remain slightly unfocused.

Realizing that Xiao Cheng is running a high fever, Xia Mo is determined to take him to the hospital, although he assures her that he just needs to rest for a little while. Changing the subject, Xiao Cheng implores his older sister to make him some chicken wings – they were so good the last time she made them… he’ll be fine…

Xia Mo tells Xiao Cheng that she’ll make him some congee instead and after he’s done eating, she’s taking him immediately to see the doctor. She rushes out of the bedroom and shakily closes the door. Suddenly, Luo Xi’s coldness and harshness no longer seems so important anymore; she just wants Xiao Cheng to get better! She just wants Xiao Cheng to live happily!

Xiao Cheng… will be okay…

*******

The crew of Tian Xia Sheng Shi have convened at Pao Mo Bar to celebrate a successful day of filming. They are doubly excited because both Luo Xi and Shen Qiang have decided to join them for happy hour and so they are basking in being in the presence of such star power in a public venue. And in fact, Luo Xi is especially nice in person, without any of the usual star arrogance!

Sitting amidst the rambunctious and loud bar, there is not a single thing that actually enters Luo Xi’s awareness, only years of training that enables him to successfully handle such social situations. There is a girl singing on stage right now. She looks very familiar to him but yet he cannot think of where he has seen her before.

Gazing intently at the girl, she slowly becomes another person…

A light smile and soft expression, white skin and ink black long hair, just like a beautiful little mermaid… She gazes intently back at him while singing…

“If I beg with tears in my eyes
If I pretend that I don’t know you love her
If I kneel before you and plead
Would you stay for me”

The moment of hearing her footsteps that year under the cherry blossom tree… perhaps his life was fated then.

He… has no way of ever achieving happiness. Ever since Mom abandoned him that day.

There is a black hole in his heart; some things have already been completely scraped away. Somehow along the way, he has become accustomed to smiling in front of strangers. A smile on his lips and yet a cold, black hole in his heart. During the night he continuously calls out midst laughter; Mom, look now; you gave up the incredibly perfect me.

Do you… regret it?

The sixteen year old Luo Xi sitting by himself in the backyard of the Yin family under that cherry blossom tree… hoping against hope that his mom now painfully regrets giving him up… Suddenly hearing the light footsteps and looking up in wonder! Mom has returned to find him!

And then seeing the fifteen year old her -

Thinking back on it now, his feelings for her seemed to have appeared out of nowhere. She simply entered his heart, leaving a mark on him that could not be erased. She was able to see into his soul and yet she gave him no thought or concern. Only when he accidentally hurt Xiao Cheng’s feelings did she say anything at all to him, quickly acting like a Mother Hen and warning him off. In her heart, no one can ever compare to Xiao Cheng’s place. Sometimes he has even though that her main purpose to living was simply for Xiao Cheng.

And then, she slowly came to accept him, came to accept him as part of the family. When there was fast no more warmth in his life, she gave it completely to him.

Perhaps she had thought she was doing him a favor by sending him to study abroad in England; however, she has no idea how much he had hated her then! How dare she send him away simply to protect her dad’s job and allow Xiao Cheng and everyone else to live worry-free?! She didn’t even hesitate on that day.

He had thought it was hatred that made her unforgettable to him while he was living in England. Until one day his wallet was stolen – his wallet containing the one picture of her – and he gave chase like a madman down several streets just to get that picture back. Only then he understood, that mixed within that hate was a much more complicated feeling…

The girl on the stage continues to sing, her silhouette becoming fuzzy as she sways back and forth. Luo Xi gazes intently at her, his eyes black as night.

Five years later, he meets her again, even more unreachable than before. Perhaps at the beginning he got closer to her for revenge but then he overestimated himself. Because the closer he got to her, the more he started to love her. Even before she had fallen for him, he had already completely drowned. Even though it seems like she has slowly learned to like him, her eyes continue to carry a faraway expression in them, as if one day she will eventually leave him.

Although the picture of her and Ou Chen has caused him immense pain, he actually does trust her more than he has let on. If she was really trying to leave him, she wouldn’t visit him on set to explain herself and wouldn’t be trying to so hard to make him happy. He understands – and already regrets being so rash and saying such hurtful things to her.

However… he is really scared…

Luo Xi’s mental wandering is broken by the sudden applause for the girl on stage; she has finished her song and now exiting. Sometime ago the other crew members had moved to the dance floor, leaving Shen Qiang next to him.

“Do you know her?”
“No.” Of course it wouldn’t be her.
“I was just making a bet to myself… Betting when you would finally realize… that I’ve made them all leave… and that the only one left by your side is me… just me… But… haha… you’ve just been staring at that girl this entire time… not even noticing me…”
“How much have you’ve had to drink?”
“Drank… a lot… haha… But… I’m just pretending… to be drunk… haha…”
“I’ll take you home.”
“Why can’t you see me… That Yin Xia Mo… how long have you known her? I’ve been at your side this entire time… don’t you know that?” Shen Qiang suddenly throw herself at Luo Xi, tightly hugging onto him. “You never see me, do you? Even just now… you just see that strange girl… and you don’t even see me…”
“Shen Qiang…”
“Why can’t you see me?! I heard you and her talking this afternoon! Haha, haha, I purposely eavesdropped on you! Break up with her… If she hurts you so much… if she doesn’t make you happy…”
“We’re not going to break up.”
“Why?! I met you first! I liked you first! I told you a long time ago… Did you think I was just joking…?”
“So what?! The amount of time you know someone and whether or not you have feelings for them are two completely different issues!”

That has always been the thorn in his heart. He suddenly realizes why he is so afraid, why he said such hurtful things to Xia Mo today…

It’s not that he doesn’t believe her. It’s that the person she knew first… was Ou Chen. Before he had even met her, she had already belonged to Ou Chen.

Does she really have no more feelings for Ou Chen? He still remembers five years ago how coy she was with him under the cherry blossom tree and the expression on her face as she gazed up at him… Doesn’t she realize how similar her expression in that hospital picture is to that same scene?

But he realizes it and so has become so frightened that he can no longer breathe properly…

“Yin Xia Mo’s feelings for you can’t even compare to a tenth of mine!”
“Get away!”
“Do you want me to prove it to you?”

Luo Xi coldly rejects Shen Qiang’s offer – and she grabs the back of his head, forcefully pulling him towards her as she kisses him passionately. Luo Xi angrily pushes her aside; not only is he livid at the forced intimacy but worries about being caught by the paparazzi and then having Xia Mo see the picture…

“That is my proof. Are you worried about the reporters? I’m not! I don’t care what or how they choose to write, even if they decide to call me slutty and shameless for chasing after you! For you, I can give up anything! Can she?! It’s always been you helping her, you sticking up for her! What has she done for you?! She’ll only step on you to get what she wants. The most she’ll do is visit you on set and give you some food, but she won’t come out and publicly announce that she will have nothing to do with Golden Dance, the series that is purposely competing with yours!”

Luo Xi becomes more and more pale as he listens to Shen Qiang. Seeing the sudden indecision and pain on Luo Xi’s face, Shen Qiang also hurts with him – and kisses him again…

*******

Xia Mo sits quietly in the patient room, having ignored Xiao Cheng’s protests and taken him directly to the hospital. After working with the many doctors, and running several tests, they have all informed Xia Mo that Xiao Cheng will need to stay in the hospital for further care.

Seeing the pale and weakened Xiao Cheng laying on the hospital bed and yet trying to maintain a cheerful demeanor for her, Xia Mo’s heart catches in her throat. Looking at him now, she realizes that Xiao Cheng has gotten thinner, his face so pale that it almost seems translucent. But his appetite hasn’t decreased these past few days and so she had thought that he was just as healthy as before if not more…

Was she wrong? Has she forgotten to do something for him?

“Sis, you know that doctors react hugely to small things. I just had a small fever a few days ago but my health is really good. I can live to be eighty, no problem. Don’t worry, Sis, it’s going to be fine.”

Xia Mo has already decided to stay at the hospital with Xiao Cheng, having turned down her scheduled shoots. When she had initially called Zhen En, the latter had instantly freaked out and started yelling; however, after realizing what had happened with Xiao Cheng, Zhen En had told Xia Mo not to worry and that no matter what, she will handle everything for her!

Holding his hand, Xia Mo tells Xiao Cheng to not worry as she has already cancelled her shoots for the next three days. As Xia Mo gently covers Xiao Cheng with the blanket, he tries to convince his sister otherwise but seeing the expression on her face, he decides to let it go.

*******

Xiao Cheng is fast asleep while Xia Mo sits quietly at his side. She knows something must have happened. Otherwise, Xiao Cheng wouldn’t be trying so hard to hide the truth from her and the doctors wouldn’t have such a serious expression…

God cannot be so cruel. He has never given Xiao Cheng anything; how can he harm him again?

No… Closing her eyes tightly, her chest feeling as if a thousand rocks have been stacked against her, Xia Mo can’t even breathe…

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 11

2010-07-06T09:33:00.002+08:00

Chapter 11
News has leaked out that the young heir to Ou Hua Corporations, Ou Chen, has been sent to the hospital, suffering from severe stomach pains! However, while at the hospital, Ou Chen suddenly changes his mind about Luo Xi’s contract, retracting his previous decisions and claiming that Ou Hua Corporations is actually very pleased with Luo Xi’s peformance. The board of the company is immensely relieved as they had feared losing their financial contributors and suffering from their own economic loss.

On the other hand, Luo Xi is wary of what Ou Chen is planning and still bitter on how high-handed this Young Master thinks he is to interfere with someone else’s life. Although Jie Ni and Luo Xi’s other assistants are celebrating over this latest development, he broods in silence.

If Ou Chen loses Luo Xi’s participation and his legions of fans, how will Ou Hua Corporations handle the consequences? He wants to see who will really suffer from Ou Chen’s decisions!

The others are horrified that Luo Xi is contemplating refusing to go back to filming. While they understand Luo Xi’s reticence towards Ou Hua Corporations, they fear what would happen as retribution should Ou Chen decided to retaliate. Luo Xi cannot afford to get on Ou Hua Corporations’ bad side!

“I’ll return on one condition. That Ou Chen holds a press conference and publicly apologizes!”

There is no possible way that Young Master would consent to such a demand, Xi Meng thinks as he relates the latest news to Ou Chen. Young Master despises being in the public eye and then to issue a formal apology to a mere entertainer? Impossible. However, Xi Meng is surprised when Ou Chen not only takes the report calmly but smiles.

“I’ll do it.”

*******

The day of the press conference, reporters are all gathered around to catch the moment. Ou Chen is calmly waiting at the front of the room when Luo Xi strolls in casually. Catching sight of Ou Chen, Luo Xi smiles his trademark smile and starts walking towards him. Ou Chen returns his demeanor in kind.

Ou Chen issues a formal statement that Ou Hua Corporations is very pleased with Luo Xi and that filming will resume immediately. At the reporters’ insistence, the two men firmly shake each other’s hands. Luo Xi smiles cheekily at Ou Chen, who coolly returns the smile.

The next day of filming, Luo Xi is riding high and in a great mood; everything is going perfectly for him right now. However, as he is strolling through the set, occupied with typing on his cell phone, Luo Xi freezes as he happens to glance up.

Ou Chen smiles back at Luo Xi but the smile does not reach his eyes. This time, Luo Xi’s expression remains impassive.

“What are you doing here?”
“I’m visiting the set, of course.”

Luo Xi regards him with mild suspicion. And then smiles. Ou Chen does not offer any more and neither does Luo Xi ask for more details. However, when Ou Chen turns to leave, Luo Xi’s arrogant statement stops him in his tracks.

“Last night’s press conference must have been hard for you; I’m sure it was the very first time you ever had to publicly announce in front of other people.”
“I believe you’ve misunderstood the situation.”
“Oh really?”
“Your participation to the series is meaningless. To Ou Hua Corporations, you are meaningless. To me… you are even more meaningless.”
“So even such a meaningless person as myself could cause the great Young Master Ou Chen to give up his self-respect and apologize to the public world? Now this is surprising.”
“You think I did it for you? I’m only upholding my end of an agreement. Someone came to me to ask a favor, and so now I’m just following through.”
“What are you talking about? What agreement??”

You and are I are of two worlds now… So we can’t go back…

Is that really so? Ou Chen seethes – so she and Luo Xi are of the same world then? So they can be together because they are the same kind of person? Sometimes too similar people are more prone to distrust though because they cannot believe in anyone else besides themselves. Let’s just see how deep their mutual trust really is!

Ou Chen smiles innocently. “I’m only visiting the set today to make sure that my end of the bargain is kept. Good bye.”

And Luo Xi is left standing there, frozen, watching Ou Chen walk smugly away. Remembering that picture he saw while in Japan… the one of Xia Mo carefully tying the green scarf around Ou Chen’s wrist, the two looking so much like a couple in love.

*******

Xia Mo is busy working in the kitchen that night, while Xiao Cheng watches over her. Xiao Cheng muses that he is usually the one who makes the dinner, and Xia Mo comments that she wanted to do it herself today. Xiao Cheng nods his head knowingly – Brother Luo Xi must be coming over tonight then. Xia Mo smiles in response and then asks Xiao Cheng if he likes Luo Xi; she’ll only be with someone who meets with his approval too.

Although Xiao Cheng is a little jealous that someone else is able to obtain his beloved sister’s affections, his feelings are mitigated by the fact that at least it is the brother whom Xiao Cheng has always admired. Additionally, if it is someone whom Xia Mo cares for, then Xiao Cheng will also find a way to accept him too.

While setting the table, Xia Mo notices how much weight Xiao Cheng seems to have lost of late; has he been visiting his doctor and taking his medicine regularly?? Xiao Cheng brushes off Xia Mo’s concerns and assures her that he is feeling fine and yes, he is still seeing the doctor. Much to Xiao Cheng’s chagrin, Xia Mo decides that she will accompany him to his next doctor appointment and he is saved from arguing with her by the sound of the doorbell.

As the three settle down, Xia Mo eagerly places a chicken wing – her main dish – into both Xiao Cheng and Luo Xi’s bowls. Xiao Cheng receives his sister’s offering with enthusiasm and although Luo Xi smiles at her, his eyes convey a completely different message. Halfway through dinner or so, Xia Mo realizes that Luo Xi only eats his white rice while the chicken wing remains untouched the entire time. Trying to draw him into conversation, Xia Mo asks him how filming is going and Luo Xi responds with half-hearted answers.

The uneaten chicken wing continues to sit in his bowl.

Oblivious to the tension between the two, Xiao Cheng excuses himself to give them some alone time. When Xia Mo and Luo Xi quietly finish their dinner, she clears away the dishes, noting the untouched chicken wing in his bowl and the plentiful leftovers.

“Is something bothering you?”
“No.”
“Luo Xi…”
“Have you cleaned everything away?”
“Yes. Did the director criticize you during filming today? You seem put out.”
“No.”
“Were you stuck in bad traffic coming over?”
“No.”
“Was the dinner awful?”
“It was very good.”
“If you don’t want to say, then I won’t force you. But I ask of you, if you don’t want to talk about something in the future, then try not to let other people know that you’re upset. Considering your acting skills, it shouldn’t be that hard for you.”

Luo Xi freezes. Yes, he doesn’t want to tell her what Ou Chen said to him as he clearly knows that this is Ou Chen’s way of undermining his relationship with Xia Mo. And yet, he is filled with fear and uncertainty as he remembers that Xia Mo once said to him that if the situation was because of her, she would take care of it for Luo Xi. He wants to demand of her, did she agree to some kind of a bargain with Ou Chen? If so, what did she promise him?? Did she seek out Ou Chen on her own?

“Ou Chen came to visit the set today… he told me the reason for why he requested me to return again… Do you know what that reason is?”
“What reason?”
“You mean you don’t know?”
“What are you talking about?”
“It was an exchange. Because you agreed to his condition and so he is upholding his end of the bargain. What I want to know is… what did you agree to? Did you go find him? You did, didn’t you?! You begged him, didn’t you?!”

Xia Mo clearly explains to Luo Xi that she did agree to any bargain with Ou Chen; however, neither does she tell him that she had sought out Ou Chen. Calmly talking to Luo Xi, Xia Mo says that this way works the most in favor of Ou Chen. He gets Luo Xi back in his series, Ou Hua Corporations will greatly benefit financially and at the same time, he can sow discord between Luo Xi and Xia Mo. What does Luo Xi think she agreed to? Sleep with Ou Chen? Get back together with him? If Luo Xi did have to leave the series, she highly doubts that it would have destroyed his career!

“You’re… not lying to me?”

Frustrated beyond belief, Xia Mo turns to leave but then is stopped by Luo Xi’s cool grip on her hand. Hugging her from behind, Luo Xi whispers in a cracked voice.

“I believe you.”
“Luo Xi, you and I live in a world that is constantly surrounded by whispers and gossip. If we can’t trust in one another, then the obvious consequence will be us breaking up.”
“I will learn to believe you.”

*******

Xia Mo had thought that things would calm down after that day. However, as she is leaving the recording studio to meet up with Zhen En, who has come to pick her up, Zhen En’s frantic expression confuses her. Did she know already??

“Luo Xi has quit the series!”

The newspaper blaring the headlines is currently gripped in Zhen En’s hands; she couldn’t believe her eyes when she first saw it! Didn’t Ou Hua Corporations already issue a formal apology to Luo Xi and didn’t Luo Xi accept it? How can Luo Xi offend such a huge corporation? What is going on here? Taking the newspaper from Zhen En, Xia Mo quickly scans the article but nowhere does Luo Xi give a direct answer for his decision, only that Ou Hua Corporations should clearly understand why.

So like a child… that he would actually make such a choice…

Luo Xi smiles winningly in the picture and Xia Mo instinctively pulls out her phone and starts punching in his number – but then changes her mind. What is the point when Luo Xi has already obviously made such a drastic decision? There is no way to go back now.

“If it makes him happy to do so, then this is his choice.”

Following Luo Xi’s decision to withdraw from Ou Hua Corporations’ series, Xing Dian Talent Agency’s head honcho, Boss Xia, publicly announces that they will be moving forward with their own series, Tian Xia Sheng Shi with Luo Xi as their male lead! The script has been completed for some time now and they were only waiting for Luo Xi’s schedule to clear up. Boss Xia believes that Luo Xi must have his own personal reasons for withdrawing from Ou Hua Corporations and affirms that Tian Xia Sheng Shi will be a huge success. Additionally, the female lead will be none other than – Shen Qiang!

*******

Xi Meng discusses with Ou Chen that the probability of them getting Luo Xi back is highly unlikely now. However, since Luo Xi broke contract first, they can request financial payment on his end although considering how much Luo Xi is worth these days, the sum would essentially be pennies for him.

“Take the amount out of my personal account to pay the company back. You can handle all the logistics.”
“Young Master!”

Xi Meng is shocked although he knows better than to continue to argue with Ou Chen. The entire situation seems to have been a personal vendetta for Young Master although he continues to remain clear and level-headed in terms of other business matters, and so his position of authority has not been adversely affected. Xi Meng reminds Ou Chen that they will also need to start finding someone else to replace Luo Xi; however, since the series was specifically scripted for him, that may be rather difficult.

Reporters have been waiting with abated breath to see the formal reaction of Ou Hua Corporations since Luo Xi has unceremoniously backed out of his contract with them. Since Ou Hua Corporations is such an influential and powerful company, people are expecting a huge lawsuit to occur with months of media folly to keep them occupied. Therefore, they are stunned when Ou Hua Corporations not only excuses Luo Xi’s actions and also declines to seek any financial compensation. Additionally, they plan to cancel the filming of the series.

Luo Xi becomes occupied with filming for Tian Xia Sheng Shi and barely has any time to see Xia Mo. In fact, they are lucky if they are able to exchange a few words on the phone. It is during this time that Xia Mo realizes how much she has come to truly care about Luo Xi. She who used to go out of her way to not care about other people’s business now finds herself unable to NOT care about anything that has to do with Luo Xi.

After announcing the cancellation of Luo Xi’s series, Ou Hua Corporations suddenly announces that they will begin immediately filming a new series, Golden Dance. In fact, this series will not only utilize the same director as before but will also be even grander. According to the filming schedules, Golden Dance will be released at the exact same time as Tian Xia Sheng Shi. It is obvious that although Ou Hua Corporations took Luo Xi’s departure very gracefully, the release of Golden Dance is clearly meant to rival his new series.

Because Golden Dance will be focused on a strong female character, many agencies are pushing their female stars for the role, hoping to be able to gain an audition into the elusive Ou Hua Corporations. However, Ou Hua Corporations does not even hold any auditions before announcing who that lead will be – Yin Xia Mo!

Although Yin Xia Mo did receive the Best Newcomer Award and did surprisingly well in Innocent Love Song, her star power comes nowhere close to Luo Xi’s allure. However, since Yin Xia Mo is Ou Hua Corporations’ star, it only makes sense that they would be promoting her right now. Additionally, her well-known relationship with Luo Xi gives her an edge that no other female star would have as fans will at least want to watch her out of initial curiosity. In fact, this is actually a smart move on Ou Hua Corporations’ part.

At this time though, a hospital employee accidentally lets it slip that on the night Ou Chen was delivered to the hospital for stomach pains, it was Luo Xi’s girlfriend, Yin Xia Mo who brought him! And in fact, a fan had been nearby and taken a picture of the two – a picture that showed Ou Chen laying on the bed with a deeply concerned Yin Xia Mo guarding over him.

No wonder – !

How can Yin Xia Mo do such a thing to the Luo Xi who once helped her, just to get the lead role of Golden Dance? That kind of a woman… Headlines of newspaper are now running – YIN XIA MO GIVES UP LUO XI FOR ANOTHER! LUO XI AND YIN XIA MO OFFICIALLY SEPARATED! YIN XIA MO USES SEDUCTION TO WIN GOLDEN DANCE’S LEAD ROLE!

*******

The cell phone continues to ring, showing “Xia Mo” repeatedly on the screen. Luo Xi stares fixedly at that name as it continues to flash on his phone. Not long after the phone becomes silent, it rings again and again flashes the same name!

Luo Xi reaches out hesitantly to pick it up – but then stops himself, his mind replaying that picture of Ou Chen lying motionlessly on the bed, while a seemingly distressed Xia Mo hovers anxiously over him…

She… lied to him… She may not have agreed to a bargain with Ou Chen but she still went to find him! She sure knows how to play word games! He wanted to believe her and yet she still chose to lie to him…

Suddenly laughing crazily, his eyes filled with harsh coldness, Luo Xi rips out the battery to his cell phone and hurls it angrily at the wall!

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 8 to 10

2010-07-06T09:25:00.004+08:00

Chapter 8
Ling Hao has agreed to hold a press conference with Xia Mo! Cai Ne opens the conference stating that Ling Hao and Yin Xia Mo initially met on set for filming. Aside from a working relationship, there is nothing of the personal nature going on between them. Ling Hao sits quietly next to Xia Mo, his face lacking the usual ease and self-confidence that he normally maintains in the public eye.

The reporters instantly narrow in on Xia Mo, asking her questions that become increasingly direct and point-blank. Does she know that Ling Hao and An Hui Ni have been dating for two years? If so, then why was she trying to break them up by becoming the third person in their relationship? How does she think her relationship with Ling Hao has affected her sudden transition to leading female role? If her relationship with Ling Hao is so innocent, then why would An Hui Ni publicly announce her departure from the entertainment industry as a result of breaking up with Ling Hao? Doesn’t Yin Xia Mo feel any repentance for causing so much pain to An Hui Ni? If Yin Xia Mo claims that she has done nothing wrong, then what about the attempted seduction at the hotel? An Hui Ni said you were shameless…!

Xia Mo repeatedly and calmly states her innocence; she has done no such thing. She and Ling Hao are only working partners. She doesn’t even own a transparent negligee! If she really was trying to seduce Ling Hao at said hotel, then they should look up the security footage from that hotel!

Realizing that they are not going to get a different answer from Yin Xia Mo, the reporters turn their attention to Ling Hao and start firing questions at him. Why do you think Yin Xia Mo is trying to get close to you? Have you officially broken up with An Hui Ni? Why would you give up your two year relationship with An Hui Ni for Yin Xia Mo? We heard that An Hui Ni was recently taken to the hospital; have you visited her? An Hui Ni’s fans have said that if you leave her, they will instantly boycott you; what do you think of that? Someone close to An Hui Ni has said that she’ll take you back as long as you leave Yin Xia Mo; who will you choose?

Zhen En is freaking out. She and Xia Mo had tried to get contact Ling Hao for the past two days and although he had expressed remorse for what was happening to Xia Mo, he declined to come out in public with her to address the situation. Ling Hao had repeatedly apologized to Xia Mo though, and so Zhen En then decided to try another tactic – she called him every ten minutes. And when Ling Hao turned off his cell phone, Zhen En stood by his front door until she finally found him in the middle of the night. She doesn’t know if her three hours of crying and begging changed his mind but Ling Hao finally called her this morning to tell her that he would appear the press conference.

However, what if Ling Hao is really on An Hui Ni’s side?

The reporters wait anxiously for Ling Hao’s response – whatever he says will ultimately decide the entire situation! Xia Mo stares straight ahead at the cameras but when Ling Hao still does not respond, she cannot help but also incline her head slightly to watch him.

“Yin Xia Mo and I…”

Suddenly, the doors to the conference room are pushed open! As a few of the reporters turn to see who has entered, everyone else’s attention leaves Ling Hao. It is the person who had to be taken to the hospital a few days ago because she got so sick from stress! An! Hui! Ni!

An Hui Ni stumbles to the front of the room, tears in her eyes as she determinedly makes her way to Ling Hao. The reporters are abuzz and crowd anxiously around her, snapping pictures right and left. Ashen and pale… heartbroken… desperate… An Hui Ni only has eyes for Ling Hao.

“I’m sorry… I misunderstood you… Ah Hao…”
“Hui Ni! What’s wrong??”
“I thought… your heart was no longer with me… I thought she used shameless tricks to steal you from me… But, I just realized… you still love me! In your heart, there’s only me! Right? I’m sorry… I should never have doubted you…”
“Hui Ni…”
“Since I misunderstood you… then let me take care of everything…” An Hui Ni faces Xia Mo, who stands up to look back at her. “Miss Yin, you cannot destroy the relationship I have with Ah Hao. I was at the hospital when I received his engagement ring and letter, and I finally realized that I had misunderstood him. I’m going to accept his proposal. Even though you tried countless times to seduce him, I’m still going to be happy. And so, I am willing to forgive you…”

The audience members watching the press conference are touched. The kind An Hui Ni not only does not rightly yell at Yin Xia Mo but also offers to forgive her for her indiscretions! She is too nice…

“Congratulations. Is this the ring that Ling Hao just delivered to you? It is very pretty. However, how come it looks exactly like the ring that Cai Ni received on her birthday when you were filming that scene?”
“Ah Hao bought the same design.”
“I remember that the jewelry designer purposely designed a one-of-a-kind ring for you to convey his appreciation and support of ‘Innocent Love Song’ and your performance.” Complete silence. An Hui Ni feels the cold sweat breaking out on her.
“Well, I must have remembered incorrectly then. There are so many rings in my jewelry box!”
“It’s okay if you remembered the wrong ring. However, there are many things that are better to not remember incorrectly. Such as I’ve never been alone with Ling Hao on a rendezvous date, never even had a dinner together by ourselves. How can you incorrectly remember that?”"
“You… What exactly are you trying to say? Since you have the audacity to try to seduce Ling Hao, why can’t you just admit to it? You tried to seduce him at the hotel, so you should just face up to it…!”
“What hotel? On which day?”
“I can’t remember anymore…”
“Then maybe you ‘can’t remember’ who that person was either??”

The reporters are confused; why is it looking more and more like An Hui Ni is the one lying here? How does she not clearly remember so many things?

“Ah Hao! You tell everyone whether or not Yin Xia Mo tried to seduce you!”

Embarrassment covers Ling Hao’s ashen face. His conscience forces him to look at Yin Xia Mo, who levels a direct stare back at him. However, shame quickly makes him look away. Looking over at Hui Ni, who is anxiously clutching at his sheet sleeve, he sees the desperation in her pleading gaze. Ling Hao knows… her entire career, her reputation, all her hard-earned work… is all riding on his answer… Ling Hao does not agree with what she is doing – and in fact has had several arguments with her about this very issue – but how can he tell the truth and destroy Hui Ni?

“I’m sorry, Xia Mo… I cannot harm Hui Ni…”

Chaos explodes! So Yin Xia Mo did try to seduce Ling Hao! The reporters begin to fire question after question at Xia Mo; so weren’t you the one who was just lying then? Ling Hao has already admitted that you are the third party! Are you going to leave the entertainment industry then? What are you feeling right now?

Members of the public community are a little confused right now though; Ling Hao has essentially affirmed An Hui Ni’s claim but why does something still feel off about the situation?

“You cannot harm An Hui Ni so you choose to not tell the truth?! Do you really think that a simple apology will make everything go away? That you’ll be able to help An Hui Ni cover the truth and make me the one to blame? An Hui Ni, is materialism really that important to you? Because we didn’t throw ourselves before you, so you slapped my agent? Because I didn’t NG and was actually praised by the director, you got jealous and decided to slap me? Because that incident negatively impacted you and got you changed to second lead role, you make up these lies about me trying to seduce Ling Hao?!
“What do you think you’re talking about?! You think I’m jealous of you? What do you have that I should be jealous of? A newcomer with nothing to her name, what right do you have to be talking to me in such a loud voice!”
“Ah Hao… perhaps in your mind he is a treasure. But in my mind, he’s just a regular entertainer. Accusing me of seducing him… you first have to see if I would even like him! Fine; you claim that I tried to seduce him! Well, then let’s just bring it all out for everyone to know! Ling Hao, how did I repeatedly seduce you? When? Where? What did I do? Please tell everyone!”

But of course, Ling Hao cannot say anything. As he surreptitiously avoids Xia Mo’s glare, sweat begins to form on his forehead. Desperate to save the situation, An Hui Ni jumps in to intervene; the only reason that Ah Hao isn’t saying anything is because he’s trying to save face for Xia Mo! He’s already affirmed the attempted seduction, you despicable woman!

An Hui Ni raises her hand and it comes flying down towards Yin Xia Mo’s face! Yin Xia Mo suddenly reaches out and firmly grabs An Hui Ni’s hand – and then lands a sound slap on An Hui Ni!

Enraged, An Hui Ni goes crazy and loses her composure. Screaming at Yin Xia Mo, An Hui Ni tries to throw herself at her and is further angered to see that Ling Hao is holding her back. She knew it! She knew that Ah Hao liked Yin Xia Mo! Otherwise Ah Hao wouldn’t have looked at Yin Xia Mo like that while filming! Otherwise Ah Hao wouldn’t be trying to interrupt her plans! She will make Yin Xia Mo leave! She will force her out of the entertainment industry!!

“How dare you hit me, you liar! You say that I’m lying, so what evidence do you have that proves that you didn’t do it?! What proof do you have? What’s wrong? You can’t say anything? Then you’re the one who’s lying! Liar!!”
“I am her proof.”

What a warm and soothing voice. Such a beautiful voice to listen to and yet carrying a dark lure to it…

Xia Mo freezes! What a familiar voice but yet it is impossible!

Cameras start flashing like mad and everyone’s attention is riveted on the person standing at the front doors. The instant he appears, everyone else becomes nothing but a shadow; the only brightness is that of his beautiful midnight black eyes, his beautiful smile…

“Xia Mo – is my girlfriend.”

It is Luo Xi! Luo Xi!! Wait… Yin Xia Mo… is his girlfriend?!

In an apologetic voice, Luo Xi directs his attention to Xia Mo; he cannot let her suffer this kind of humiliation… so please allow him to publicly announce their relationship. Xia Mo is conflicted; she knows what Luo Xi is trying to do but she is touched and shamed that time after time, she is always the recipient of his help.

An Hui Ni has gone completely pale as she sways unsteadily on her feet. All of the reporters are now only focused on Luo Xi and Xia Mo… how could this have happened?!

“I originally was planning on flying straight back from Japan when the news broke out, but Mo Mo didn’t want to worry me and said repeatedly that she could handle it on her own. Unable to protect the person I like, who was worried about my own career… I couldn’t do it and decided to fly straight back to tell everyone, that Mo Mo and I are dating! An Hui Ni, how could Mo Mo possibly give up me to ‘seduce’ your Ling Hao? You’ll be receiving a letter from my lawyer tomorrow.”

As everyone stares in shock at the wooden An Hui Ni, her facial expression is her admission of guilt. And they slowly realize the truth – in an attempt to rectify the negative consequences from slapping Yin Xia Mo, An Hui Ni then decided to concoct this story to retaliate against her. And trying to protect An Hui Ni’s career, Ling Hao chose to sacrifice the innocent Yin Xia Mo, which is why he kept apologizing to her…

In her shock and anger, An Hui Ni suddenly passes out. Due to Luo Xi’s appearance, Ling Hao had momentarily forgotten to continue to hold onto her and she crumples to the floor! The instant that Luo Xi appeared at the press conference, An Hui Ni’s game was over. Although Ling Hao is a catch, anyone with eyes can instantly see that Luo Xi is by far the better prize – no girl in her right mind would pick Ling Hao over Luo Xi. To give up Luo Xi to seduce Ling Hao? What a joke.

“I hope that everyone will bless me and Mo Mo. But even if you don’t, we’ll still be together forever.”

*******

Since that day when he momentarily lost consciousness, Ou Chen has now gained back his memory. No longer just fragments of the past, but wholly and complete pictures of his history with Xia Mo. However, gaining his memory has only added to the pain and he would almost rather not have remembered at all. Amnesia… is actually another type of happiness.

Luo Xi again…

The memory of five years ago now convolving with the present – this name is his life’s curse… If Luo Xi had not appeared, perhaps she would have failed and left the entertainment industry. She should be his; she is not a movie star who belongs to the entire world. Even though this departure may have caused her pain, it would have eventually passed. But to stay in the entertainment world would have created an even greater harm in the future. After she had gotten used to leaving, he would have helped her clear her name and make An Hui Ni pay. But now, Luo Xi has ruined everything.

“Luo Xi…”

Chapter 9
Since the press conference, the media outlets have been playing the same bit of news every day. An Hui Ni’s fans are torn; although Ling Hao is super hot, there’s just no way Yin Xia Mo would give up Luo Xi to be with him… Unable to control her anger, An Hui Ni has also been accepting interviews and rehashing Yin Xia Mo’s “seduction attempts” on Ling Hao. However, every time she breaks down in pitiful tears and sobs, the reporters don’t even bat an eye and instead, ask her for explicit evidence to back her claims. An Hui Ni hems and haws, and can only give an approximate time on January 12 but can’t remember at which hotel.

Reporters instantly investigated Yin Xia Mo’s whereabouts on January 12 and found out that she had not been present on set. However, she had been in Zhong Ya’s office all day with Zhong Ya and her assistant, going over the script and had not left until 2am. The saddest thing is that Ling Hao had booked a hotel reservation for that night but had to fly out of the country last minute. There was no way he could have been at the hotel with An Hui Ni that night and then run into a scantily-clad Yin Xia Mo!

An Hui Ni’s lies have been completely found out. This has to be the saddest and most pathetic story in the history of the entertainment industry!

An Hui Ni’s fans are devastated! Their innocent and kind Ni Ni is actually such a scheming and manipulative person! Not only is she jealous of a newcomer but also concocts such a lie to pull her fans to such incredibly low lengths too! But the one to have hurt them is not anyone else but the very person they were trying to loyally protect!

Such a shameless and calculating woman should leave the entertainment industry!

They once so dearly loved An Hui Ni and now that has changed to extreme hatred. When fans think of how they once treated Yin Xia Mo, they are seized with shame and guilt. The fan who drove the car at Yin Xia Mo that day initiated an apology to her and begged for forgiveness. Yin Xia Mo did not pursue anything and only told fans to always take things with a grain of salt and not believe so easily at face value.

No one agrees to contracting An Hui Ni anymore. She has even been released from her original contract as spokeswoman. At the same time, Ling Hao has also left the country to take some time away. Rumor has it that he has officially broken things off with An Hui Ni but out of respect from their years together, has chosen to not publicly announce the news. No longer does anyone believe any excuse or reason An Hui Ni has to say; her career and romance ruined, An Hui Ni falls ill and has to be taken instantly to the hospital. No friend or fan goes to visit her. Only reporters are there to take pictures of her pale and sickly face – “Karma; An Hui Ni’s Tears of Regret!”

Luo Xi and Yin Xia Mo have become the golden couple of the industry. She is the innocent and sweet princess who would rather suffer alone and protect her prince, and he is the charming prince who will publicly announce his personal life to protect his princess. Although there has been many rumors surrounding Luo Xi and his personal life – Shen Qiang has always been believed to be his girlfriend – this is the first time that Luo Xi has publicly announced to a relationship. Since Xia Mo is the person whom Xi Xi likes, then fans will do everything in their power to guard by this person!

One night, Luo Xi and Xia Mo are at his place when she suddenly remembers that given the craziness of the past few days, she has not even had a chance to thank Luo Xi for what he did for her that day. However, Luo Xi suddenly interrupts her.

“Did you miss me? The second day I was in Japan, I came down with a little cold but I was really good and instantly took the medicine you packed for me. What about you? Did you follow through with what you promised me and really, really miss me?” Silence. “You… You didn’t even miss me at all, didn’t you? You didn’t even call me once, and turned off your cell phone, and I can’t even contact you… I come back home earlier and see you at your press conference, and all I get is a dazed expression on your face… Are you not even happy to see me again? You really didn’t miss me at all…”

Luo Xi worriedly asks Xia Mo if she is mad at him for intervening in her business without first getting her permission. Xia Mo is surprised at such a question; what kind of a person would she be if she got mad at him? Not being afraid of disappointing his fans, not being afraid that his agency will release him from his contract, not caring about anything except coming out to help her… What kind of a person would not be touched by this?

Luo Xi laughs; how would he know what she’s thinking? She used to be like that in the past! At his bittersweet words, Xia Mo thinks back to how she used to treat Luo Xi like an enemy and realizes the truth in them. Taking Luo Xi’s hand in her own and playfully swinging it back and forth, Xia Mo lightly chants “sorry” to him, much like a little girl trying to get her way after misbehaving.

Luo Xi watches Xia Mo in mild shock. In front of him, Xia Mo has always been cool and collected. Only five years ago, when she was with Ou Chen, did he ever see her act like a little playful kitten.

“Are you really Yin Xia Mo? My Xia Mo is made out of ice, but how is this Xia Mo so mischievous?”
“That was the outer packaging; this the real thing. You can still return, if you want.”
“Too late… I’ve already announced to the entire world. You are mine. And I – am yours. Together forever, and forever loyal.”
“Together forever, and forever loyal.”

*******

Ou Chen is occupied going through the material that Xi Meng has researched for him. As he is going through all the information, a talk show is currently airing in the background.

She is with Luo Xi yet again!

Ever since the press conference, the two have been appearing together everywhere. Their shared eye contact and their easy familiarity with each other – the public has essentially fully acknowledged their relationship together. On the talk show, the host digs for more information from the two – the next question is, where was your first kiss?

Ou Chen instantly swivels his head to stare at the television.

The hostess requires Luo Xi and Xia Mo to individually write their answers on a piece of paper before sharing their answers with the audience. Xia Mo writes down “airport”, hesitatingly explaining that at the time, Luo Xi was about to leave the country, and…

The audience and the hostess oooh dramatically. However, when it is Luo Xi’s turn to show his answer, he has written down “beneath the cherry blossom tree”. What is this? Who has incorrectly remembered the first kiss??

“Neither. At the time, Xia Mo and I were celebrating underneath the cherry blossom tree… she was a little drunk… And so when I stole a kiss, she didn’t even know. That was really our first kiss.”

A stabbing pain has pierced Ou Chen’s heart. Beneath the cherry blossom tree… that only belongs to him and Xia Mo! In that garden, that tree contains his happiest and his most painful memories… And yet she has shared memories with Luo Xi under that same tree?!

Luo Xi…

*******

“Innocent Love Song” has finished successfully and Xia Mo is a saddened to see it end; even though it was filled with obstacles, it was her very first acting project, after all. As she and Ling Hao bid farewell to each other, they both hope to be able to have the opportunity to work with one another again. It is after Ling Hao’s departure that Zhen En receives some shocking news.

Luo Xi’s series has stopped filming… because its biggest financial contributor, Ou Hua Corporations, is unsatisfied with Luo Xi’s performance and so is requesting to switch him out with another actor!

*******

While driving, Zhen En tries to assure Xia Mo that it could just be some sort of misunderstanding… However, thinking to herself, isn’t the CEO of Ou Hua Corporations Young Master…? Is it possible that Young Master is purposefully out to get Luo Xi? It couldn’t be…

Xia Mo is determined to get to Luo Xi’s place but Zhen En cautions her that now may not be the best time to go there – there are bound to be reporters surrounding his house right now. Xia Mo hesitates at Zhen En’s words, but she has been unable to reach Luo Xi since hearing the news. No one is picking up at the studio or at home and his cell phone is turned off… Seeing the look on Xia Mo’s face changes Zhen En’s mind though, and she promises Xia Mo that she will get her to Luo Xi.

True enough, when they arrive at Luo Xi’s, there is a crowd of reporters waiting. Zhen En and Xia Mo push their way through the crowd, and Zhen En serves as distraction by answering the reporters’ questions for her. Luckily, the security at Luo Xi’s is attentive and escort Xia Mo back, and so the reporters are unable to follow Xia Mo.

Jie Ni immediately lets Xia Mo in when she rings the doorbell, and she sees Luo Xi lounging casually on the sofa in the living room. When he sees her though, his eyes immediately light up and he holds out his hand to her. Pulling her down to sit next to him, he only smiles at her, holding her hand with both of his against his heart. Don’t worry…

Xia Mo is thrown to realize that when it comes to her own business, she can remain unflappably calm and steady. But when it comes to Luo Xi’s business, she completely falls apart?

Jie Ni is occupied doing damage control on her cell phone, as she speaks angrily to the other line. How dare they say that Luo Xi’s acting is not up to par! In fact, while filming, the director could not stop praising Luo Xi, so how exactly is his performance lacking, pray tell?! If you’re really so dissatisfied with Luo Xi’s acting, let’s release some of the footage to the public and let them decide whether or not it’s quality! I’m warning you; this is blasphemy against Luo Xi’s reputation! I have the right to take legal action against you!

When Jie Ni furiously ends the call, Xia Mo looks worriedly at both her and Luo Xi. Luo Xi, on the other hand, laughs lightly as he doesn’t have a care in the world. Jie Ni asks him if he somehow managed to offend a higher-up at Ou Hua Corporations; this seems to be specifically targeting him…

“Ou Hua Corporations… I guess I did. This seems to exactly fit his style.”
“Who is it?”
“Doesn’t matter. He’s threatening me with something that really doesn’t matter that much to me. And what he wants, I will never give him.”
“How can it not matter?! Don’t you know how big of a help this series will be to your career? Ah Luo, you haven’t done anything else these past three months except film this! With so many newcomers entering the entertainment industry, and fans being so fickle-minded… along with this kind of news…”
“What if I quit then?”

Jie Ni is flabbergasted – Luo Xi has done nothing but work for this since coming back from England! Does he want to just throw it all away? Who is this person at Ou Hua Corporations?! But Luo Xi refuses to disclose the name, telling Jie Ni that no matter what, he won’t be so easily defeated. Seeing herself at a dead end, Jie Ni excuses herself and leaves Luo Xi and Xia Mo to themselves. Luo Xi continues to maintain a light and playful mood with Xia Mo, teasingly tweaking her nose and telling her not to worry. Until Xia Mo mentions HIM; if he is doing it, then it’s all because of her – she’ll take care of it for Luo Xi.

“How are you going to take care of it? Agree to the condition of returning to him, so he’ll graciously let me go? Yin Xia Mo, in your mind, he will forever be the powerful and mighty young master while I will always be the pitiful and pathetic one, right?!?”

Angrily flinging out his hand, Luo Xi sends all the newspapers from the coffee table flying to the floor, and then stalks over to face the window. When Xia Mo hesitatingly calls out his name, Luo Xi remains quiet and ignores her. Xia Mo never meant her statement in that way; she had only wanted to offer her help. However, she didn’t realize until now that her making Luo Xi leave Taiwan five years ago still continues to torment him. Xia Mo cautiously walks up to Luo Xi but pauses when her eye is caught by one of the headlines – “Prince Luo Xi Abandoned as a Child!”

Luo Xi’s anger is slowly turning into fear. He had thought she would immediately deny his claim, that he was just misunderstanding her – even come up behind him to hug him and tell him that no matter what, she would never leave him. However, it is so deathly quiet…

So that’s how it is, isn’t it? She really does want to leave him, doesn’t she? She wants to give him up and go back to Ou Chen, and this just happens to have given her a ready excuse… Is that how it is?!

Whirling around to face Xia Mo, Luo Xi then notices her staring fixedly on a newspaper – and realizes which familiar picture she is studying! Ripping the newspaper out of her hand, Luo Xi quickly scans the article before angrily crumpling the newspaper into a ball and throwing it into the garbage can.

“Luo Xi…”
“How much did you see? Forget it all! It’s all fake! Lies! Forget it all, do you hear me?!”
“I can forget! But you have to forget too! It is because of this past that you’re always so afraid, aren’t you? You should be the one to forget, not me!”
“I’m meant to always be given up on… this is my fate… To always be thrown away… just like garbage… You’re going to throw me again, aren’t you? Even if you didn’t know this, you would still throw me away… One is a royal young master and the other is just a peasant orphan…”
“Are you feeling sorry for yourself now? So what if you’re an orphan, what if you were abandoned as a child? We rely on ourselves to live; every single thing we get, we earn ourselves! What’s so shameful about that?! Even if you were once abandoned, maybe those people also had their own reasons that they couldn’t tell! Didn’t you overcome this already? Why do you have to say such hurtful things? Do you want me to pity you, is that why?”
“You…?!”
“Let the past be in the past. Just like you just said, the Luo Xi now is strong; he won’t be so easily toppled over. You don’t need anyone’s pity because there are countless people in this world who envy your success. Fate works in interesting ways. Sometimes it’ll take something away from us but it’ll give us something in return. Luo Xi, you are what fate has gifted you. In exchange for your childhood, fate has given you your outer appearance – perfect and beautiful.”
“But I don’t want…”
“Since we cannot change fate, then why not accept it? Fate hasn’t given up on you; just given you a different life. From now on… don’t say any more hurtful things to yourself…”

Laying her head against Luo Xi’s chest, Xia Mo’s warm presence slowly dissolves the tension from him. As he holds her closet to him though, Luo Xi cannot chase away the feeling of unease in his heart…

*******

At Luo Xi’s quiet entreat, Xia Mo ends up staying there to keep him company, watching over him while he sleeps. Luo Xi sleeps fitfully though, his mind caught in the endless nightmare of his childhood past…

“Mommy… Mommy…”

Mommy had taken him to the amusement park that day; so many fun things to play with! It was the happiest day of his life that he could ever remember! In fact, Mommy even bought him a big and sweet ice cream! So Mommy does love him, she does want him right?? Mommy has been calling orphanages these past few days, begging them to take him. He was so scared that he started crying and begging Mommy; he promises to be good and he’ll do really well in school! Please don’t make me an orphan, Mommy!

Mommy finally promised him that she wouldn’t send him away and he was very, very good. Today they’re at the amusement park and while eating his ice cream, Mommy said that she was going to buy him some noodles for lunch so be very good and wait here, okay?

One hour later… three hours later… Mommy has not returned yet. The ice cream has long since melted away. Five hours later… It is beginning to get dark and cold… As he sits there, shivering in the cold, he worries that Mommy may have gotten lost… Mommy wouldn’t abandon him; she’s just secretly hiding and making sure that he stays good…

“Mommy… Mommy…”

Xia Mo tries to gently wake Luo Xi up, her heart clenching at the fear in his childlike voice. The article had detailed how Luo Xi had been abandoned at nine years old at the amusement park; by the time people had found him, he had been waiting the entire night and he had fallen unconscious. He was in emergency care for three days and three nights, and the doctors were finally able to revive him. When the police had attempted to find his mother though, she had already moved away and there was no other choice except to send the child to an orphanage.

As Xia Mo continues to whisper to Luo Xi – “it’s just a dream…” – her gentle voice eventually enters his dream thoughts… the voice of the person that he has spent his entire life waiting for…

Chapter 10
Since news of Luo Xi being switched out has been released, some reporters have theorized that it wouldn’t make sense for Ou Hua Corporations to just randomly break the contract when there is so much money riding on it – especially given that so many scenes will need to be re-filmed again. Given that, it has to be that Luo Xi has somehow not performed up to par.

On the other hands, Luo Xi’s fans have taken this news personally as they believe that Luo Xi has always given nothing but his best. In fact, the news of Luo Xi’s childhood abandonment has only served to further increase their loyalty to him! Since their beloved Luo Luo had to go through so many trials as a kid, they will do everything they can to protect and support him! If Ou Hua Corporations dares to switch out Luo Xi, the fans will do everything in their power to make sure that the series fails!

*******

Ever since he has officially taken on the business, Xi Meng has never seen Young Master let his feelings get in the way of work. Even though Young Master had specifically requested Yin Xia Mo to be the spokeswoman for Lei Ou, he had ultimately allowed the initial auditions to take place and she had won the contract purely out of her own talents. However, Young Master seems adamant about switching out Luo Xi and he won’t even justify his reasoning to the other board members.

Xi Meng attempts to reason with Ou Chen on the matter; the board does not believe that there is anything wrong with Luo Xi’s performance and the series could potentially draw in a huge financial boon. However, Ou Chen remains firm to his decision and tells Xi Meng to convey to the board that this is a personal matter – he will not change his mind.

As Xi Meng is leaving though, he tells Ou Chen that Yin Xia Mo is waiting to see him. Ou Chen instinctively rises and goes immediately to the door before suddenly halting; he returns to his desk and curtly acknowledges Xi Meng, who then leaves. Ou Chen begins to concentrate on the files on his desk.

4:20pm

5:30pm

7:50pm

9:10pm

When Ou Chen finally dons his jacket and leaves the office, it is deep into the night and the pitter-patter of the rain can be heard hitting against the windows. There is a lone figure sitting the lobby, a cup of tea that has long since cooled in front of her. Almost instinctively sensing his presence, Xia Mo raises her head.

*******

Ou Chen and Xia Mo are surrounded by darkness as they sit quietly in the dark of the car. Ou Chen steadfastly ignores Xia Mo’s presence although the pounding of his heart continues on. When Xia Mo asks him where they are going, Ou Chen coolly replies that she is free to get out of the car if she pleases. Xia Mo then asks whether he has had dinner yet, to which he tells her that it is none of her business. Suddenly, to Ou Chen’s surprise, Xia Mo tells the driver to stop.

The rain is still pounding outside and when Xia Mo intends to head outside without an umbrella, Ou Chen shakes off his jacket and shoves it at her. Slightly thrown, Xia Mo only stares back at him before putting it on – “Wait… for me to come back…” However, the roaring of the rain and the pounding of Ou Chen’s own heart makes it hard for him to understand her as he watches her figure disappear in the darkness.

Come back… Will she still come back? Would a person who once so cruelly left him still come back?

After some time has passed, the door to the car suddenly opens and a soaked Xia Mo comes flying in. Wiping the rain off her face, Xia Mo opens the brown bag that she is now carrying and pulls out its contents – a bottle of painkillers, warm milk and a sandwich. Opening the milk and the bottle of painkillers, Xia Mo hands two pills to Ou Chen and warms him that the milk may be a little hot. Ou Chen wordlessly looks down at the offering and his heart is consumed with conflicting emotions; however, he then ends up throwing the painkillers out the car.

“It’s no use! Do you think that I’m still the old Ou Chen?! The one you could always sweet-talk, the one who always gave in to you and changed his mind? Five years ago, I was the idiot who was just your toy and now you want to use the exact same tactics on me again?! Get out.” He doesn’t want to see her, doesn’t want to see her, doesn’t want to accept any of her fake kindness.

Pain in her heart from hearing Ou Chen’s words, Xia Mo nevertheless offers no explanation. She only quietly screws the lid back on the medicine bottle and then opens the car door. However, as soon as she has one leg out the door, she is suddenly pulled back into the car.

“Isn’t he that important to you?! Didn’t you come here to plead for him? Why don’t you say anything, why don’t you beg me?!”
“What do you want me to say?”
“Even if you wanted to take revenge on Luo Xi, why be so obvious? You could have a less obvious way of doing it. Just like when you arranged for me to get the Best Newcomer Award, just like you leaking out the pictures of An Hui Ni slapping me. You should be able to be a lot more subtle about it, so such a public and obvious tactic means that you really wanted me to come find you.” Xia Mo always suspected that based on her ability alone, there was no way she could have beaten Pan Nan and the others for the award. Just like the incident with An Hui Ni. “So why is it that when I do come find you, you’re so angry about it?”
“You care about him a lot?”
“Luo Xi is innocent, he has nothing to do with our past. If you want revenge, then come after me. Don’t hurt him.”

The pain in his heart has increased! If Luo Xi is so innocent, then why did you choose to so cruelly leave me five years ago?! Have you already forgotten what you said to me that night?

The day that Luo Xi left the country, Xia Mo’s parents were killed in a car accident and Xiao Cheng was sent to the emergency room. Xia Mo kneels alone in front of her parents’ memorial; she is not only filled with heartbreak and sadness but also hatred!

Ou Chen approaches her with trepidation; how did the accident happen? Will Xiao Cheng be okay? He has never seen Xia Mo like this… it is as if she has become a completely different person…

Under that cherry blossom tree… staring at the greater-than-thou young master… she hates him! She has never hated someone as much as this moment!

It is his fault… he has taken away everything that matters to her! Both her parents are dead, Xiao Cheng is in the hospital – she is all alone now… she is scared, so scared that she wants to scream and cry… she just wants to die… she’s scared, she’s scared, she’s scared!!!

“Are you happy?”
“What are you talking about?”
“It’s just like what you see – people are gone, dead, hurt… You must be very happy, right? There’s no one left with me now except you… I can only see you from now on. I can only hear you. My world consists only of you… Aren’t you happy? Listen… the world is so peaceful… no one is speaking… no one is crying… peaceful as if in a dream…”
“Xia Mo! What is going on? How did the car accident happen? What did the doctor say about Xiao Cheng…”
“Didn’t you plan all of this? Why are you asking me?”
“What?! I planned this?! You – “
“Am I wrong? You ordered Luo Xi to leave which caused Xiao Cheng to get sick, which then made Dad drive recklessly to get to him… How perfect! No, no… you didn’t actually plan all of this; you just planned the first step and then God did the rest for you.”

Ou Chen is horrified! Did all of this happen because he made Luo Xi leave? When he was out of the country, he knew that she would try to change his mind and so purposely avoided her; he didn’t want her to know how much of an influence she actually has on him. However, but then to threaten to leave him if he didn’t return her calls? For Luo Xi, she actually threatened to leave him?! And so he had agreed that as long as Luo Xi left, he could care less where he ended up. But did all of this tragedy happen because of his decision to make Luo Xi leave?

“In this entire world, you are the one person whom I don’t want to see the most!”
“I never thought that making Luo Xi leave would…”
“You never thought? Do you want to know something that I’ve always wanted to say to you in the past? I’ve never liked you! I only chose to be with you in exchange for letting my dad keep his job! I like Luo Xi! Since the first moment I laid eyes on him, I’ve liked him! You can’t even compare to a finger of his! Even though you forced him to leave, we will be together!” She doesn’t even know what she’s saying right now… she just wants to hurt him!!

“For what I’ve done… I’m sorry.”

Xia Mo is stunned. This is the first time she has ever heard him apologize. But what use is it now?

“Let’s – break up.” Deftly untying the green scarf from her wrist, she holds it out to Ou Chen. When he doesn’t immediately take it back though, she throws it out to the wind and it flutters to the ground.

“From this moment on, you and I have absolutely nothing to do with one another!”

When Ou Chen pleadingly implores what he can do so that she will forgive him, Xia Mo coldly tells him that there is nothing he can do! Her parents are lying cold and dead!

And so Ou Chen kneels before her. Xia Mo freezes – and quickly turns away from him. Although there is so much anger and hate burning in her heart, she cannot bear to see Ou Chen humble himself in such a way. Ou Chen begs for her forgiveness; he promises her that he will change! And Xia Mo can no longer tell if the pain in her heart is from her own anger at him or because of the way she has so obviously hurt him…

But then the image of her parents’ bloody corpses flash in her mind… Xiao Cheng who is still in critical condition…

“You can never change. Unless… you’re dead.”

Sitting quietly by Ou Chen, Xia Mo is brought back to the memories of that fateful night five years ago. She had really lost all reasoning then; all she had wanted to do was to hurt him. Perhaps she shouldn’t have reacted so cruelly but now it no longer really matters who’s wrong or right. What’s most important is the happiness in her hand right now. She couldn’t protect the people she cared about then but she can now.

When Ou Chen flinches from his stomach pains, Xia Mo instinctively asks if he is all right; does his stomach still hurt? He should really take the medicine. However, Ou Chen refuses to accept her gesture.

“Why?! Five years ago, I only sent Luo Xi away! Why did you so cruelly leave me because of that? Is Luo Xi really so important to you?! Then what am I?!”
“Don’t you understand by now? You and I are of two different worlds. As long as you want something, you will do everything in your power to get it. I’m just like your doll. Because you love it so much, no one else can touch it. Not even her own brother. I was once very grateful to you because you gave my brother and my family a carefree lifestyle. But then you yourself took that happiness away from me. So I no longer want to depend on anyone to take care of me; I want to do it myself.”
“…I didn’t arrange for the car accident to happen.”
“I know that. But what does it matter now? From the moment you sent Luo Xi away… it had all come to an end.”
“I want to know… Were you purposely trying to make me angry that night? You said… you’ve never liked me… that you were only with me because of your dad’s work…”

Did she really say that five years ago? How could she have said such words, knowing his feelings for her? Although the time she spent with him may have been like a doll, but how could she have never liked him?

Xia Mo’s hesitation made Ou Chen suspicious. Yes, he knew at the beginning that she was only with him for her family. That’s why he was so scared; scared that she would leave him and so he hoped that she would see only him so that maybe one day she would slowly come to like him…

“Did you… ever like me?”
“No. I’ve never liked you.”
“You’ve never liked me… so then you’ve always liked Luo Xi?! You say that it has nothing to do with Luo Xi but yet you refuse to forgive me? I said I would change, said that I would stop trying to control you all the time and you still left without a backward glance! If it has nothing to do with him, then why would you come find me today… You came for him, didn’t you? Then beg me… you should know… that as long as you ask me… I’d promise you anything… Since you’re not here to beg for him, then I’m going to destroy him! Whatever he films, I will destroy him! Don’t you believe that I have that ability! Then beg me…”
“Fine, I beg you. Let go of Luo Xi.”

She finally said it; he’s known it all along. Ou Chen stares at Xia Mo, consumed with anger and bitterness.

“Is he really so important? Is he worth you sacrificing yourself to protect him?! If I said… that as long as you returned to my side, I’ll let him go… would you say yes?!”
“Impossible. We can never go back.”

Cannot return…

Are they of two worlds now… so they can no longer return to before…

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 5 to 7

2010-07-05T14:39:00.005+08:00

Chapter 5
An Hui Ni slaps Yin Xia Mo!

The next day following the shoot, every media outlet has the same news-breaking headline – due to jealousy over Yin Xia Mo’s rising status, An Hui Ni used filming as an excuse to repeatedly and publicly slap her across the face. The headlines come complete with pictures from that day too, and fans of An Hui Ni are horrified to see such a manipulative and calculating side to their innocent and lovable star. On the other end, fans of Yin Xia Mo are outraged on her behalf and begin protesting that “Innocent Love Song” fires An Hui Ni; otherwise, they will all boycott the series!

Due to Luo Xi’s rumored relationship with Xia Mo – and the fact that he has made numerous public appearances on her behalf – the paparazzi clamor to get his opinion on the subject. Faced with the photographs of An Hui viciously slapping Yin Xia Mo, Luo Xi cannot control the automatic clenching of his fingers as he death-grips the newspaper. However, while on the phone with the reporters at the same time, he is calm and his voice betrays nothing of his anger. He wonders if Xia Mo has seen the news yet and if so, what is she doing right now?

After a long day of filming, Luo Xi heads home and pauses outside his door, keys in hand. Will she be in there waiting for him? Or is he just being silly? Hoping against hope that someone will finally be waiting for him at home, to greet him and to welcome him back… If he rings the doorbell, will she open the door for him?

Of course not. This is how God works; for every moment of warmth, he is given unending coldness. Maybe she will have left him a little note somewhere inside…

Mentally shaking himself, Luo Xi reminds himself that he should be used to it by now. The only person who will never leave him is himself. Inserting his key into the lock, he opens the door… and finds himself in a house filled with light and warmth, the smell of a freshly made dinner wafting through the air.

Xia Mo pokes her head out of the kitchen, some flour on her face and wearing an apron. Seeing Luo Xi standing in the doorway, she smiles sweetly.

“You’re back.”
“Xia Mo…” Luo Xi’s throat is caught, the happiness and warmth inside of him causing his voice to barely squeak out.

Actually… all he needs is to have her here…

The two enjoy Xia Mo’s dinner; a very simple fare but yet a truly appetizing and delicious meal. Xia Mo worries that Luo Xi will not be used to such mediocre food though.

“I thought Xiao Cheng was the only one who knew how to cook. Never would have thought that your culinary skills would be so good too.”
“Xiao Cheng’s is much better than mine. After eating his food, I bet eating mine is a lot worse.”
“Your cooking is better.”
“Xiao Cheng’s cooking is better.”
“Yours!”
“Xiao Cheng’s!”
“Yours!”
“Xiao Cheng’s!” And the two suddenly break out into laughter at the same time.

“Fine. Xiao Cheng’s is better. So you should just save all that food for me then, because you know, I need to get used to your cooking anyway. One day Xiao Cheng is going to get a girlfriend and then you and I will be living together, so I’ll have to drink your soup.” Xia Mo’s face instantly turns red.

Quickly changing the subject, Xia Mo starts explaining the dishes and casually mentions that she had returned home to grab one of the main ingredients. Luo Xi instantly narrows in on her last statement, wondering if that means she has seen the news. When Luo Xi casually asks Xia Mo if that is all she has been up to, she responds neutrally that she has seen the news. In fact, when she had seen the photos of herself being slapped by An Hui Ni, she had instantly turned on her cell phone and found a few dozen frantic messages left by Xiao Cheng and Zhen En, demanding to know what had happened and to immediately call them back.

Luo Xi comments that someone may have purposely leaked the news out to the media; however, this person shouldn’t have a grudge against Xia Mo as it is all incriminating against An Hui Ni. Xia Mo had not wanted something like this to happen though because now the chances of the situation simply going away have decreased. Even though the news has no negative repercussions on Xia Mo, if An Hui Ni feels like she’s been backed into a corner, her personality will not let just it rest – it is hard to imagine how she will strike back.

A sneaking suspicion suddenly strikes Xia Mo. A cold shadow, a beautiful green scarf tied to that wrist…

“Why did you come back here? If you already knew, then why still come back? Aren’t there reporters looking for you? Isn’t Xiao Cheng waiting for you at home? Then why still come back here? Why make me dinner? Why pretend as if you didn’t know?! Are you just pitying me? Let me be stupid in thinking that you didn’t know anything, that you and I could be together and just forget everything?”

Not staring him directly in the face, Xia Mo cautiously asks if Luo Xi is mad at her; she doesn’t know what she has done to make him upset with her.

Luo Xi closes his eyes. He is unreasonable; she has done nothing wrong. She did not choose to walk away without saying anything and instead came back here to wait for him, making him dinner. Given her personality, the very fact that she has chosen to do this is already a kind of fortune that cannot be begged for. He doesn’t care about what happened with An Hui Ni because these sorts of things happen all the time in the entertainment world; he just didn’t want Xia Mo to know so fast and selfishly hoped to keep their world for just for the two of them…

Luo Xi suddenly realizes how quiet it has gotten and fears that she has left him. Loneliness surrounds him as he hears her clear the dishes, hears her carrying the dishes into the kitchen, hears her light footsteps… And then – complete silence.

Horror fills Luo Xi; she’s left, she’s left, hasn’t she? She’s mad because he randomly threw a tantrum at her, and so she just left without even saying good bye, just left, hasn’t she?!

Jumping up from the chair, Luo Xi runs into the living room, the master bedroom – both come up empty and dark. Desperately, he rushes into the kitchen! And sees her standing in front of the sink, her back to him, calmly washing the dishes. Quietly calling out her name, Luo Xi walks up to her and hugs her from behind, placing his head gently on her shoulder and sliding his hands down to her own.

“I know that to you, safety is something that is easily influenced. You always fear that you will lose it and yet still want it badly, so you are always caught between fear and nervousness.” Clasping his hands in return, Xia Mo smiles softly. “I came back here because I like making you dinner; that’s all. Since we’ve decided to be together, then let’s also decide to trust each other and not doubt or test one another, okay?”

Perhaps… he can also be happy…

“Okay.”

And the two stayed like that for a very long time afterward.

*******

In a very short time, An Hui Ni has become the media’s focal news. Criticism of An Hui Ni has spread throughout the public and the internet is flooded by dissatisfied fans. In fact, some fans gather everyday in front of the HBS Studio to protest An Hui Ni, demanding a public apology from her to Yin Xia Mo. Xia Mo has also been bombarded with requests for interviews since the news leakage, and only replied that her face is not too injured, thanking everyone for their concern and said that An Hui Ni was only trying to get the best possible scene from that day. Xia Mo’s gracious answer wins her adoration from even more fans and An Hui Ni has declined to appear publicly since the incident broke out. Her reputation has been severely and adversely affected.

Prior to the slapping incident, the film crew had treated Xia Mo rather indifferently but now approach her cheerfully, taking the initiative to say hi and smiling at her. Only when An Hui Ni appears on set does the the atmosphere turn a little awkward, and then only when there is a needed interaction for filming do they talk to her.

An Hui Ni and Xia Mo do not actually share many scenes during this time and have very little interaction with one another. Every now and then though, Xia Mo will see a look of intense hatred directed towards her from An Hui Ni but since the latter does not do anything, Xia Mo chooses to let it go.

Ling Hao was not present during the slapping incident and Zhen En originally assumed that he would automatically take An Hui Ni’s side. However, since that day, it is as if Ling Hao has become a completely different person and he approaches Xia Mo with friendliness. When An Hui Ni is not present, he will actually take the initiative to discuss the script with Xia Mo and Zhen En realizes that Ling Hao actually has a great smile, almost like that of a child’s.

“I’m sorry. Hui Ni is not a bad person; her personality is actually really nice. It’s only because she’s been in the entertainment world for so long that she’s become paranoid and filled with anxiety, so she would choose to do something like that…”

A really nice person would do something like this? He’s joking, right? However, Xia Mo tells Ling Hao that she has already forgotten the past. Perhaps every person has someone he or she really likes and really despises; Ling Hao is someone whom An Hui Ni really likes, and Xia Mo is someone she really despises. Whatever the matter, Xia Mo has already forgotten it.

Ling Hao and Xia Mo have established a great working relationship. Their eye contact and their combined emotions – nearly every single scene is accomplished in one take. Sometimes they will be sitting off to the side together, going over the script and their picture will be secretly taken by a reporter, creating a buzz about their “relationship”. Ling Hao and Xia Mo have become the golden couple, and fans of the Lu Si and Bing Tong coupling far exceed those of Lu Si and Cai Ni. However, Zhen En is clearly aware that besides that of a working relationship, there is no other type between Ling Hao and Xia Mo. Perhaps An Hui Ni also knows this because she has not reacted in anyway towards these speculations.

*******

The news of An Hui Ni has slowly faded and just as Xia Mo was thinking that they would be able to finish filming for “Innocent Love Song” peacefully and without any more drama, two things happened that Xia Mo would never have imagined.

The first major event is the script, which had already been decided to be a total of twenty chapters; Lu Si and Cai Ni would have a happy ending together while Bing Tong would die as a result of protecting Lu Si. After filming to chapter sixteen though and realizing how popular the series was doing, it was extended an additional ten chapters and the ending was modified. When the new scripts are distributed, the screenwriter is also present and Xia Mo is stunned to realize that she is the polite-looking girl from the staircase the other day!

Chuckling in secretive glee, Zhong Ya goes up to Xia Mo and tells her that she changed the script specifically for her.

The ending has been completely reversed. Lu Si slowly realizes that his true love is not the innocent Cai Ni who always gets into trouble, but the Bing Tong who has always guarded by his side. When Bing Tong is about to leave his life forever, Lu Si then knows that he cannot live without her and the two live happily ever after while Cai Ni is the one who quietly walks away. Bing Tong’s role spans the entire thirty chapters while Cai Ni does not appear again after chapter twenty-five.

Death-gripping the script, An Hui Ni cannot control her shaking rage. Although Ling Hao tries to console her, she angrily shakes him off and her hatred-filled glare narrows in on Yin Xia Mo. Feeling slightly guilty, Xia Mo is aware of An Hui Ni’s stare and is filled with a sense of foreboding.

Hurling the script to the floor with all her strength, An Hui Ni stalks from the set, Ling Hao hurriedly following her.

The second major event is that SUN has been taken in by another company.

SUN is a rather mediocre agency; although it does not have a huge presence in the entertainment world, the combined star power of Wei An, Yao Shu Er, and newbies Yin Xia Mo and Pan Nan still represents some type of influence. Ou Hua Corporations suddenly announced a few days earlier that it was planning on buying SUN, sending the media into a buzz. Ou Hua Corporations holds an enormous financial influence and whoever is backed by them is essentially guaranteed fame and success. However, what is interesting is why Ou Hua Corporations would choose a fledgling agency like SUN when there are other more prestigious agencies that would bring the company even more money – such as the agency that contracts Luo Xi. When placed next to Luo Xi, even the combined star power of the four ladies cannot come to half of Luo Xi’s lure. There must be a hidden reason for this transition.

On the day that the handover is official, everyone has convened at SUN to welcome Ou Hua Corporations. Wei An has arrived with her posse of assistants while Yao Shu Er sits to the side listening to her music. Pan Nan stands by a window and watches as a fan-surrounded Xia Mo makes her way up to meet them. Pride fills Pan Nan at seeing how far Xia Mo has come now. Originally, she had been afraid that the incident with An Hui Ni would have adversely affected Xia Mo but she handled it with grace and calm. Although it has been a few days since the two have seen each other, Xia Mo on the phone is still the same as before, happy and steady.

When Xia Mo walks in, Wei An begins to clap and announces that the big movie star has finally arrived. She approaches Xia Mo and advises her; congratulations! You have readily risen to fame. However, be careful because the faster you rise could also mean that faster you will fall. There is no such thing as a free lunch and however much you get now will mean you will have to repay it later.

The lounge is completely quiet. Zhen En is wondering whether or not Wei An is simply mocking Xia Mo but the expression on Wei An’s face is conflicted…

Xia Mo thanks Wei An. Because of Yao Shu Er, Xia Mo and Wei An had a bit of a conflict in the past but Xia Mo realizes that Wei An is actually a very honest person. Wei An returns Xia Mo’s smile and then turns to pick up her phone. The atmosphere in the room resumes its previous state.

Yao Shu Er, Pan Nan and Xia Mo end up exchanging some small talk about Xia Mo’s recent rise to success. Yao Shu Er remarks that luck is really on Xia Mo’s side although Pan Nan interjects that it is not completely dependent on luck; if Xia Mo didn’t really have something, why would An Hui Ni feel threatened enough to instigate that incident? If Xia Mo wasn’t the real thing, neither would she have been able to gain the adoration of so many fans. Wei An warns them to not underestimate An Hui Ni though; compared to her, Yao Shu Er’s past schemes are mere child’s play. Turning to Yao Shu Er, Wei An remarks that her current expressionless personality really causes other people to have no mood…

Is Wei An making fun of Yao Shu Er? How come it almost sounds like she’s caring about her…?

At this time, their conversation is interrupted by the noise of arriving cars outside. Everyone rushes to the windows and see the horde of reporters clustering together outside, while a lineup of black limousines pull up by the front entrance. The four girls silently watch as the manage for Ou Hua Corporations formally shakes hands with the SUN president, as if to signify the formal handing over.

Pan Nan notices that no one has left the very last car in the lineup. After saying a few words and allowing a picture opportunity for the reporters, the Ou Hua manager goes to that car and seems to say something to whoever is inside. And then he opens the door – a pair of long legs emerge, a masculine and handsome shadow – in the dim sunlight, a light green scarf flutters from his wrist.

Reporters suddenly realize who this is… and start madly snapping their cameras. Ou Chen walks towards the front entrance – and suddenly stops, as if sensing something. He raises his head and sees her standing there, her white shadow as if a light cloud in the sky.

Like the fairy tale’s princess who is being held captive, Xia Mo stands in front of the window of the second floor, looking out towards Ou Chen, her lips slowly turning white. Ou Chen’s vow rings through her head… “You both will pay for this.”

Has his revenge started? Was taking over SUN only the first step of his plan? How does he plan on dealing with her? Taking over her contract and then burying her?

Chapter 6
At the same time, Zhen En is sitting with Xiao Cheng at a tea shop. As Zhen En grips her tea in her hand, she cannot seem to stop her pounding heart. Confounded, Zhen En tells herself to get a break; it’s not like this is the first time she’s ever seen Xiao Cheng! But… this is the first time she and Xiao Cheng have been on an official date…

Xiao Cheng first thanks Zhen En for being Xia Mo’s friend and supporting and taking care of her. Actually, Zhen En feels a little guilty because Xia Mo has actually helped her more by helping her with homework in school, taking more of the work during their jobs and even now giving her such an opportunity to be her agent.

Xiao Cheng knows that Xia Mo doesn’t want him to worry about herself; perhaps she feels that he is always the little brother and so needs to be protected. However, he’s grown up now and wants to be able to take care of his sister. So as a favor, Xiao Cheng hopes that Zhen En will be able to keep him informed about Xia Mo because he doesn’t want to come across as being too nosy.

Xiao Cheng is just too nice of a brother! In fact, Zhen En is seized with a strange feeling of sourness… Is she… jealous…?

When Zhen En asks Xiao Cheng why she should help him and is met with a blank stare, Zhen En very quietly says that she’ll help him if he agrees to go out with her… However, it’s too loud in the tea shop and Xiao Cheng has no idea what Zhen En just said. In a regular voice again, Zhen En hurriedly agrees to help him, promising him that she will do everything in her power to help Xia Mo out.

Perhaps… he would hate her… If he knew, just how much she liked him. Ever since she first laid eyes on him four years ago, she has liked him. In order to see him everyday, she worked to become Xia Mo’s close friend. She had once hoped to use friendship to become closer to him…

At Xiao Cheng’s grateful and sunny smile, Zhen En decides that it is probably better to not let him know after all. Just stay by him, forever stay by him and to help him protect what he treasures the most. Suddenly, Zhen En remembers that she had ditched Xia Mo to come out; hopefully there wasn’t too much of a problem…

*******

Xia Mo sits quietly to the side as the mob of reporters surround Ou Chen. Now that Ou Hua Corporations is the new head company, Ou Chen is the newly appointed CEO… Ou Chen is her boss. Now that he owns her company, he owns her contract; he can bury her if he wants, destroy all her audition chances…

Staring directly at the approaching Ou Chen, he appears harsh and cold; perhaps he has no emotions… To him, she is nothing but a tiny ant. All he has to do is reach out a hand and completely squash her and easily destroy everything she has worked so hard to accomplish.

When Ou Chen’s gaze finally falls on Xia Mo, she has already moved to stare out the window. The sunlight hits her hair, sending out rays of light, so bright that it is almost blinding.

Perhaps it is fate…

Who cares if she causes him to become a bloody and hurt mess; he still cannot forget her. He cannot even take his revenge on her or leave her side… When she is in pain, his heart is in a thousand times more pain. When he is unable to see her, his heart becomes cold like the grave…

Perhaps it really is fate…

When the meeting is over and Ou Hua Corporations has officially bought SUN, Ou Chen gets ready to leave and his now employees automatically get up to greet him on his way out. Xia Mo is still standing off to the side when Pan Nan suddenly leans over to whisper secretively in her ear, murmuring how they are like servants seeing their lord out. Ou Chen is really pretty arrogant.

As Ou Chen makes his way towards the front door, a gust of wind suddenly blows in and the green scarf starts fluttering from his wrist. Everyone is looking directly down at the floor as Ou Chen walks by; no one dares to stare at Ou Chen as there is always an air of superiority and prestige about him.

Xia Mo is also looking down and as Ou Chen passes by her, his steps slow down and Xia Mo freezes, her heart racing. As she sees the green scarf out of the corner of her eye, Ou Chen continues on past her and Xia Mo slowly relaxes. However, she momentarily forgets herself and finds herself watching that green scarf…

Flapping crazily in the wind, the scarf continues to flutter… until it slowly loosens and unwraps itself from Ou Chen’s wrist. As the beautiful green scarf is dancing gracefully in the air, everyone stares after it, transfixed.

Ou Chen stops and turns to stare the scarf. Cai Ne reaches out to grab it but is stopped by Ou Chen. At her questioning gaze, Ou Chen shakes his head as the scarf is not falling to the ground. Focused, he follows the dancing scarf and soon thereafter, it begins to flutter back down… lightly fluttering… fluttering… right in front of Xia Mo’s gaze. And she instinctively reaches out and lightly plucks it from the air.

Ou Chen feels something in his chest has also been lightly caught by that hand. It is a weak hand… but it has securely caught onto him.

Everyone has naturally turned their gaze onto Xia Mo now, as if she is the Cinderella in a fairy tale. When Xia Mo suddenly realizes that everyone’s attention has turned to him, it is as she has waken from a dream; why is the scarf in her hand?

Ou Chen stares silently back at Xia Mo – and then steadily makes his way towards her. Stopping in front of her, he holds out his arm and commands, “Put it on.” His tone is that of a master talking to a servant.

Xia Mo – and everyone else – freezes at the audacity of Ou Chen’s words. Pan Nan quietly urges Xia Mo to listen to Ou Chen; offending him will not help matters at all. Biting her lip, Xia Mo begins to slowly tie the scarf around Ou Chen’s wrist… around and around… around and around…

When the sudden flash of a photographer’s camera goes off, Ou Chen quickly furrows his brow. Cai Ne also notices the reporter but wonders why the typically private young master does not do anything about this intrusion… Ou Chen smirks.

Let’s see what kind of pictures the reporter will have tomorrow…

*******

That night, Xia Mo helps Luo Xi prepare his luggage for his trip to Japan. Midst packing his belongings, Luo Xi contemplates whether or not to include a picture of him and Xia Mo, and after thinking about it for awhile, decides to include it in his luggage.

Cheekily, Luo Xi asks Xia Mo if she will miss him when he’s gone. However, Xia Mo seems to be miles away from Luo Xi, and suddenly asks him if he has remembered to pack everything. Noticing the absence of his medicine, Xia Mo adds it to the contents and reminds Luo Xi to see the doctor if he doesn’t feel well. Angling to receive more of an affirmation from Xia Mo about her feelings for him, Luo Xi then asks if she would come visit him if he ever got sick. What if he got a high fever? What if he was so sick that he was about to die? Would she fly to Japan to see him? Would she… would she give up everything to come see him?

“I wouldn’t. I will be right there with you, feeding you medicine, helping you to find a good doctor, and staying by your side. I will not leave you. Even if you make me leave, I will stay by your side.”

*******

The next day, Xia Mo is stunned to see a picture of her and Ou Chen in the newspaper. It is a picture of her right as she is tying the scarf on for Ou Chen – and looks as if two lovers were quietly being observed. Zhen En cannot help but question Xia Mo; has she gotten better with Ou Chen now? Actually, Ou Chen does really like Xia Mo. While they were all in school, everyone could easily tell then. Even now, although Ou Chen has become more cold on the outside, he still continues to like Xia Mo…

However, Xia Mo is adamant that she simply does not want to be connected to Ou Chen in any way. Zhen En is puzzled since now that Ou Chen is the head of SUN, this naturally means that there will be plenty of chances for the two to run each other all the time. Regardless though, Xia Mo assures Zhen En that at the very least, things are progressing smoothly right now.

The next few days go by quietly. Until the public is hit by a scandalous piece of news!

An Hui Ni is on the news, a mask of hopelessness and desperation on her face. She cannot contain her silence anymore. So everyone wants to know why she hates Yin Xia Mo so much, why she slapped her so many times that other day…? Because of Yin Xia Mo, her two year relationship with Ling Hao has officially come to an end. Ever since they started filming, Yin Xia Mo has shamelessly tried to seduce Ling Hao, going so far as to approach him at his hotel room in a flimsy negligee. An Hui Ni does not hate Ling Hao though; faced with the beautiful Yin Xia Mo, she believes that no man would be able to resist her. She just never suspected that Yin Xia Mo would go to such lengths to seduce another woman’s man.

An Hui Ni can give up the lead role in “Innocent Love Song” to Yin Xia Mo. She can even surrender Ling Hao. However, she will not apologize for those slaps because Yin Xia Mo deserved every single one of them!

“I would rather leave the entertainment industry than ever face that shameless harlot again!”

Chapter 7
Fans who originally supported Yin Xia Mo are left in confusion. Although some of them are still wary of An Hui Ni’s words, what kind of movie star would lie about something like this? Additionally, although fans are in adoration of Yin Xia Mo, she is still a newcomer – no one can actually attest to her personality ethnics. Die-hard fans of An Hui Ni are now calling Yin Xia Mo, “slut”, “harlot”, and “third person”.

Angered beyond belief, fans are now vowing to defend An Hui Ni. Protect An Hui Ni! Keep An Hui Ni!

Refusing to eat or sleep and gathering in front of An Hui Ni’s house, fans swear to do everything in their power to help An Hui Ni. For An Hui Ni, they will not let Yin Xia Mo get away!

At Cai Ne’s office, Zhen En cannot get over her anger – it is An Hui Ni who is lying! Xia Mo would never do such a thing! However, Cai Ne is furious over the recent days of negative publicity; since Zhen En is Xia Mo’s agent, then of course she would say such a thing! In this world, Xia Mo could commit murder and arson, and as long as no one found out about it, Cai Ne could care less. However, now that the public is aware of the situation, Cai Ne cannot be expected to do something about it.

With this recent news about Xia Mo spreading so fast, Pan Nan is quick to come out and defend her. However, even Pan Nan now suffers from the criticism of fans and has been boycotted by them.

Xia Mo believes she may have a fighting chance if Ling Hao will come out and tell the truth; however, Zhen En is incredulous. Ling Hao is on An Hui Ni’s side! Why would he come out and accuse his own girlfriend of lying? It would completely ruin her. Xia Mo does not believe that Ling Hao would be the type of person to lie though and insists that they at least try to talk to him about the situation.

When Zhen En and Xia Mo later quietly leave the company – guards were originally assigned to escort them away but the executives had been afraid that this would only serve to make them less inconspicuous – Zhen En continues to worry about approaching Ling Hao. What if Ling Hao and An Hui Ni had earlier conspired to come up with such a plan? With their “golden couple” status, this would not only serve to increase the adoration of their millions of fans, it would also bury Xia Mo.

Unfortunately, incensed fans see Xia Mo trying to leave and angrily accost her. In her desperation, Zhen En tries to drag Xia Mo to the awaiting cars but is slowly separated from her by the angry mob, leaving Xia Mo surrounded. Zhen En tries futilely to get to Xia Mo…

“You’re that shameless Yin Xia Mo!”

“Don’t you know that sluts go to hell?!”

“Apologize!”

“We won’t forgive you!”

“We’re going to destroy you! We’re going to kick you out of the entertainment industry!”

Xia Mo remains calm amidst the screaming female fans. “I didn’t do anything.”

“So you’re saying that An Hui Ni is lying then?! I’m going to kill you, bitch! How dare you hurt An Hui Ni and then say that she’s lying?! Go to hell!”

“Die! Go to hell, bitch!”

“Support An Hui Ni! Kill that slut!”

An Hui Ni’s fans have completely lost reason as they have turned into an angry and uncontrollable mob. As they ruthlessly attack Xia Mo, she is unable to get away from them and tries in vain to protect herself from the assault. Suddenly, an object goes flying and hits Xia Mo squarely in the head!

The egg yolk slowly drips down from Xia Mo’s head. Everyone freezes for a moment – and then another egg goes flying at Xia Mo while the fans begin to scream again.

Eggs are being hurled at Yin Xia Mo as the fans start laughing hysterically. Xia Mo closes her eyes under the assault of the attacks – and is suddenly enfolded in a pair of warm arms, safely enclosed in a comforting hug…

Her head dripping with sweat, Zhen En had been unable to make it through the rioting mob to get to Xia Mo. Faced with no choice, she had gone running into the lobby to alert security. Upon her return, she freezes at the sight before her.

Like a dream, a strong guardian is now protecting Xia Mo. He is wearing a designer suit, using his own body to block the garbage that is flying at Xia Mo.

Such a warm embrace…

Xia Mo opens her eyes but can see nothing aside from the arm that is protecting her. She is being warmly held in a comforting hug, being securely protected in this soft embrace…

“Move aside!”

Ou Chen brusquely commands the fans. The security has finally arrived and assist in moving the fans aside. Although the fans are still disgruntled, faced with the domineering presence of Ou Chen and the security, they can do nothing but let Xia Mo through.

Xia Mo cannot bear to have Ou Chen see her; she pushes him away and starts running in the opposite direction. She would rather be humiliated in front of thousands of people then have him see her again! In her hurry to get away, Xia Mo does not notice the girl who is just then starting her car…

“Yin Xia Mo! Go to hell!”

Like a bullet, the car shoots out directly towards Xia Mo. Almost as if caught in a dream, Xia Mo freezes and can only stare uncomprehendingly at the car that is now aiming for her – suddenly, she is enfolded in a pair of warm arms and is pushed out of the way, landing hardly on the ground…

The pain is unbearable. But as unbearable as the pain is, Xia Mo slowly comes to the realization that she is not dead yet… Looking over next to her, she sees Ou Chen lying motionlessly on the ground, covered in blood and his pale face staring back at her. And he then passes out.

Kneeling next to Ou Chen, Xia Mo tries to say something, call out his name or something, but her throat is caught. She starts shaking uncontrollably, her heart feeling like it has completely died as she can only just kneel there and continue to try to say something, anything… So much blood…

Butler Shen has arrived to their side by now and lashes out at Xia Mo; what are you just kneeling there for?! Young Master needs peace!

Peace…? Then he is not dead…?

In that moment that he saw Young Master flying forth to protect Yin Xia Mo, that he would rather use his own body to shield her and to take the impact of that car, Butler Shen saw the tragedy of five years ago playing out right before his eyes again. She is Young Master’s dream. She is Young Master’s curse. When Butler Shen later tried to take Young Master to the hospital, he had refused to let go of Yin Xia Mo’s hand, and so Butler Shen had no choice but to allow Yin Xia Mo to accompany them.

Later at the hospital, Ou Chen slowly wakes up, to the relief of Xia Mo and Butler Shen. He had been sleeping for five to six hours already. Xia Mo reflexively clutches Ou Chen’s hand in return. However, when Ou Chen struggles to sit up in the bed and Xia Mo anxiously tries to help him, he flings her hand away from him.

Ou Chen tells Butler Shen to leave him and Xia Mo, and although Butler Shen would probably rather cut off his own leg than do so, the look on Ou Chen’s face quickly changes his mind. Xia Mo tries to ask how Ou Chen is doing but he remains obstinately quiet.

“Answer me. What’s your relationship with Ling Hao?”
“Acting partners.”
“There’s nothing romantic about it?”
“No.”
“The incident at the hotel…”
“Is a lie that An Hui Ni concocted.”
“Why would she lie about something like that?”
“… Maybe because she’s not happy about having her role lessened.”
“Why should I believe you?”
“I don’t care whether or not you believe me. I don’t care if the entire world doesn’t believe me.”
“I’ll send people to investigate. If you are telling the truth, then the company will take care of things for you. If… Starting tomorrow, the company will assign six bodyguards to protect you; this incident will not happen again. You may go now.”

When Butler Shen returns to accompany Xia Mo out of the room, Ou Chen keeps his gaze focused on the window. Until the footsteps clear out of the room and until the door of the room finally closes, does Ou Chen finally allow his own eyes to slowly close.

As the door closes behind Xia Mo, she quietly remains standing there in the hallway, a lonely shadow… She stands there for a long, long time… As if the coldness of the ocean was slowly consuming her drowning heart…

Novel - Summer's Desire Volume 2 Chapter 1 to 4

2010-07-05T14:09:00.006+08:00

Chapter 1
HBS VIP Room.

“Why did you lie to me?!” Seeing Xia Mo’s bruised lips from her recent kisses, Ou Chen tightly closes his eyes and tries to speak past the rage building in his chest. “Since you and I were together five years ago, why didn’t you tell me? Why did you lie to me when I asked you?”

Her heart full of pain, Xia Mo cannot think of any response. She had thought that since Ou Chen had lost his memory, the past and all that pain would also fade away like smoke. However, never would she have imagined that Ou Chen would be so stubborn and determined to retrieve his lost memories.

“Because… I didn’t think there was any need…”
“What is exactly considered “no need”? And even if you thought so, what right does it give you to lie to me?!”

Watching the devastated look on Ou Chen’s face, Luo Xi suddenly laughs out loud. Five years ago, due to “Young Master” Ou Chen being threatened by Luo Xi, he had to leave Taiwan and a family that was beginning to feel like home. Although he ended up studying abroad in England, that feeling of being treated like useless garbage continues to haunt him every day. And now look, it has become “Young Master’s” turn to experience the same feelings of pain and mistreatment.

“We had already broken up.”
“What?!” Ou Chen hadn’t thought it was possible for the pain in his heart to get any worse.
“We broke up five years ago, so there really wasn’t any point in you remembering.”
“Why did we break up?”
“Why else would people break up? Didn’t like each other anymore, didn’t want to be together anymore, so we broke up.”

Five years ago, she threw the green scarf away into the darkness, choosing to leave him. However, faced with the current amnesiac Ou Chen, she cannot bear to bring herself to maintain that same cold exterior. After all, she did once care about him.

Ou Chen does not believe that she would make such a decision; he has to know what happened five years ago! He needs to talk to just her…

“I don’t believe you. You’re leaving with me!”
“Ou Chen!”

However, as Ou Chen pulls Xia Mo towards the door, he is suddenly pulled back. Turning, he sees that Luo Xi is pulling Xia Mo’s other hand, a humorless smile playing on his lips.

“Let go of her!”
“Hey, shouldn’t I be the one saying that right now? What right do you think you have to be doing anything to Mo Mo? Even if she was with you five years ago, she’s mine now.”
“She is mine!”
“Oh really?”

Smiling ruthlessly, Luo Xi slowly lowers his head – silently declaring his right to Xia Mo – as his lips near Xia Mo’s own… And Xia Mo suddenly moves her head, avoiding Luo Xi’s kiss. Last time at the hospital, Xia Mo had only allowed Luo Xi’s kiss as a warning to Ou Chen to back off; she never wanted to hurt him.

Luo Xi is stunned. The instant that Xia Mo had flinched from him, he also reflexively lets go of her hand. Ou Chen takes this moment to pull Xia Mo behind him, using his own body to block Luo Xi. Unable to control himself any longer, Ou Chen throws a punch at Luo Xi who then quickly dodges. Luo Xi studies Ou Chen unconsciously protecting Xia Mo, the perfect couple back together again and excluding him, and he is seized with rage. Forgetting his own reason, he responds back in kind at Ou Chen!

Frustrated beyond belief, Xia Mo breaks apart Ou Chen and Luo Xi by standing directly between them. In that split second, neither man knows who exactly Xia Mo is protecting.

“Please just forget. I wasn’t worth you caring about five years ago. Those memories aren’t worth you fighting for; remembering will only bring you more pain. So please… just forget…”
“What happened? Did I do something wrong? I did do something wrong, didn’t I, to make you hate me? So that you would rather I forget you than have anything to do with me…”
“You did nothing.”
“Then why?! Just because of something you say, do you really expect me to erase my past? What’s right or wrong should be decided by me and not just because you say so!”
“You’re right.” Luo Xi interjects. “What right do you have to expect Mo Mo to tell you about your own past? That’s your problem. But, Mo Mo, you should just tell him the truth. Otherwise he’ll pester you like a heartsick fool forever… Tell him that the reason you two broke up was because of me…”
“Luo Xi!”
“What? Did I say something wrong?”
“Please…”

Ou Chen cannot believe it; is it because of this man that Xia Mo gave him up? Xia Mo tries to explain to Ou Chen that it didn’t happen like that, but Luo Xi continues on. Luo Xi will force Xia Mo to see only him; the more she tries to protect Ou Chen, the more his hate for Ou Chen only intensifies. Gripping her face, Luo Xi forces Xia Mo to look directly at him.

“Mo Mo, tell him; tell him that you never cared about him. It was because of me that you left him five years ago!”

Xia Mo cannot move; Luo Xi is not giving her an inch. Pulling her in and tightly holding her, Luo Xi fervently whispers to her, “Just forget… you said you liked me now… you’ve already given up on me once; are you going to do it a second time? Just let him leave you…”

Xia Mo had thought Luo Xi was just acting, using all his abilities to exact his promised revenge on Ou Chen. However, perhaps even Luo Xi underestimated his thespian skills because it is the hoarseness in his voice that causes Xia Mo to lack any strength to push him away.

Ou Chen can only see darkness. There is no light in front of him, just death. As he watches those two embrace right in front of him, the pain is unbearable. Until it is so great that he becomes numbed by it – and a burning hatred replaces it. So those memories that he so strongly struggled to reclaim… they are only full of betrayal. And the one who betrayed him is now living so happily in front of his very eyes, laughing at his memories and his resolve.

“You both will pay for this.”

No! This wasn’t what Xia Mo wanted; she just wanted to get away from Ou Chen, not hurt him so much that he would become obsessed with hatred. Pushing away Luo Xi to try to say something – anything – to stop Ou Chen, Luo Xi only pulls her in again, giving her no chance to face Ou Chen. And the door slams shut with Ou Chen’s exit.

“Mo Mo, from now on, just belong to me… okay?”

Looking back at Luo Xi, Xia Mo can do nothing but slowly nod her head.

*******

Zhen En is ecstatic; after many phone calls and countless begging, she has finally been able to get Xia Mo the second lead female role in an upcoming drama series, “Innocent Love Song”. The series is bound to be an instant hit since the director leading the project is the most successful one in the industry.

However, Xia Mo has been distracted by thoughts of Ou Chen – the hate that was so clearly in his voice continues to echo in her mind. If this present Ou Chen is anything like who he was five years ago, there is no way he would just sit and do nothing about this “betrayal”. Should she find him and explain the situation? But really; who can truly say whether or not it wasn’t a betrayal??

When Xia Mo realizes that Zhen En has struggled in secret to get this contract for Xia Mo, she is deeply touched by this show of commitment. In the future though, Xia Mo hopes that Zhen En will be able to share her future struggles with her though; that way, she’ll also have someone to lean on. Zhen En is delighted and readily agrees; however, she suddenly remembers that the male lead is none other than Ling Hao…

As “Innocent Love Song” prepares to start filming, advertisements for it only include Ling Hao and the main female lead, An Hui Ni, who is also Ling Hao’s girlfriend of two years. Although movie star couples are not rare, they are the most popular of them all. When Ling Hao first appeared in the media world, it was an instant attraction for already accomplished star, An Hui Ni. Not too long thereafter, the two collaborated on a project together and thus became a couple. It is truly a rarity that Ling Hao is now much more famous than An Hui Ni and yet his feelings have not changed.

At the opening press conference, Yin Xia Mo is forced to take pictures with Ling Hao and An Hui Ni, and the atmosphere is tense between her and the other two stars. The reporters quickly catch on to the mood and tell Yin Xia Mo to please be a little more accommodating. Hui An Ni is amused and ask the reporters to have mercy on Yin Xia Mo; after all, she is just a singer – all she has is her voice as opposed to any actual expression!

As the reporters break out into laughter, thinking that Yin Xia Mo will silently take such a direct affront, she suddenly turns to An Hui Ni.

“Actually, there is no voice either. At the beginning of ‘Innocent Love Song,’ Bing Tong uses her heart to silently like the male lead. She doesn’t dare to see him, doesn’t dare to say anything to him and doesn’t dare to get close to him.”

The reporters are stunned. And Ling Hao now looks differently at Yin Xia Mo.

Catching the look on Ling Hao’s face and taking note of the surrounding reporters, An Hui Ni laughs lightly and commends Yin Xia Mo for having done her homework so well.

The night beforehand, Luo Xi tries to ease Xia Mo’s nerves and to give her advice. Although Xia Mo doubts her ability to be able to successfully play Bing Tong, Luo Xi fully believes in her potential to be a rising actor. Ever since the press conference had ended, the fear and horror in Xia Mo’s heart could not be erased and she came home only pretending to not have a care in the world. Only Luo Xi… only Luo Xi can so easily step into her heart.

Unfortunately, it is not complete smooth sailing on the first day of filming. The director calls cut after cut on Xia Mo, criticizing her acting to be that of a wooden doll. She is a performer, not a corpse!

Ling Hao is frustrated beyond belief with Xia Mo; is she out for revenge because he refused to film the Lei Ou commercial with her?? If not, then please hurry up and just finish, for God’s sakes! However, as hard as Xia Mo tries, she is unable to please the director and the film crew are about to pass out from exhaustion and anger, as whispers of her complete lack of acting ability begin to spread amongst them.

Late at night, the recording studio is completely open; only Xia Mo is left standing alone. Right before everyone had left, the director had publicly yelled at her, wondering why in the world his second lead role was given to someone with absolutely no acting ability or experience. Ever since she was little, Xia Mo always believed that she could accomplish anything if she tried hard enough. However, after a whole day of filming, her self-confidence is now shattered. She does not blame Director Xu though; it is her own fault.

Standing there, Xia Mo tightly closes her eyes, her heart like ice. In the pitch black of the night, there are no stars; just darkness.

Chapter 2
That same night under the same stars, Ou Chen is also standing silently in front of his window, the green silk scarf tied around his wrist fluttering gently. His face is completely devoid of emotion, like a statue that can stand forever still without any movement at all.

Since that night of the awards ceremony, his memory seems to have floated back piece by piece. It is almost as if he can slowly start connecting them to one another. If it was the old him, he would have prayed in gratitude for allowing his past to return to him. However, now he is just filled with anger and pain. So what if he remembers how he met her; how they once were so deeply in love? She has betrayed him.

If given the choice, he would rather that he never remembered what happened, never remembered that he once loved her so much. However, just as Ou Chen has been determined to forget everything, another piece of his memory now returns to him…

He is fourteen years old and had quietly sneaked away with his dad’s car. As he is speeding down the road, he catches sight of a young girl by the side of the road and is instantly entranced by her beauty, so like that of a young fairy in a fairy tale… She suddenly is sprinting into the middle of the road and in his haste, he jerks the wheel, sending the car into a spin bu the little girl is still hit and falls softly to the ground. The fourteen year old him rushes out of the car and clumsily cradles her limp and small body. As he holds her, she looks directly into his eyes… and then faints in his embrace.

So this is how they had met? In her mind, is it simply up to her own enjoyment whether she stays or leaves his life? He has no way of controlling anything?

This time, she is wrong. He will not allow her to so easily leave him. Since it is destiny to be tormented together; well then, let them continue to be tormented. And so when “Innocent Love Song’s” producer had contacted him about the possibility of investing in their series, Ou Chen had only one condition for becoming their biggest financial contributor.

Yin Xia Mo must be given the second lead role.

*******

When Xia Mo is finally leaving the studio, it is so late at night that all public transportation is closed for the day. However, Luo Xi has sent Jie Ni to pick up Xia Mo, and she has been patiently waiting for her this entire time. Luo Xi had hoped to share some good news with Xia Mo and so she follows Jie Ni back to his place. While heading over there, Jie Ni officially introduces herself to Xia Mo – she probably doesn’t remember her, but Jie Ni had been in a lower grade at the same school as her. She had always admired Xia Mo and was ecstatic to have the opportunity to work for Luo Xi; just like herself, Luo Xi has never forgotten Xia Mo and so Jie Ni promised herself that she would always protect the two of them because only Luo Xi is worthy of being with Xia Mo.

When Xia Mo and Jie Ni do arrive at Luo Xi’s place, they find him asleep on the couch, a bottle of wine and two glasses waiting on the table. Jie Ni smilingly leaves them to their privacy and Xia Mo quietly sits with him, not wanting to disturb him from this rare chance of rest. However, left to her own thoughts once again, the criticism from that day soon begins to flood her head.

Xia Mo’s self-deprecation is broken though when she hears Luo Xi mumbling in his sleep, anxiously calling out for his mom. Xia Mo tries to roust him from the nightmare but it takes a few attempts before she is finally successful. When Luo Xi finally wakes, still caught in that dreamworld, the immediate look in his eyes is one of loneliness and vulnerability. Quickly excusing himself to use the restroom, Xia Mo ruefully understands that he and she are truly one and the same – in front of others, they must always maintain that exterior of control.

When Luo Xi returns, he is fully composed and has returned to his usual confident self. He celebrates Xia Mo’s first day of filming – although Xia Mo is mildly chagrined to find that was his celebratory news – but quickly catches onto Xia Mo’s contemplative and sullen mood. Realizing that Xia Mo must have been heavily criticized on her first day, Luo Xi tries to bolster her confidence by assuring her that this bump is something which every performer must go through before becoming successful. And actually, since they both grew up in an orphanage, they are actually masters at acting. Think about it; in order to survive, they had to coax the adults to like them so that they would take them home. In fact, no one else can compare to their ingrained acting abilities; Xia Mo just needs to learn how to draw that out at the right time.

Luo Xi offers to run through next day’s scenes with her although Xia Mo initially declines; he must be exhausted from his own responsibilities already. Luo Xi half-jokingly asks if she is worrying about him, to which Xia Mo lightly agrees. However, when Luo Xi again repeats the question softly but this time completely serious, Xia Mo also responds in kind – yes; she is worried about him.

Luo Xi lightly kisses Xia Mo and although this is neither their first kiss nor the most passionate, it is a kiss that will forever be imprinted on both of their hearts.

But it turns out that Luo Xi does have something else to give to Xia Mo. Taking her hand in his, he places something hard and cold to the touch – when she opens her hand, she finds a key laying in it, attached to a pink diamond encrusted keychain. Luo Xi casually remarks that once his own series starts filming, his schedule will become increasingly busy; this way, she’ll be able to come visit him anytime she wishes. Xia Mo instinctively starts declining this gift but Luo Xi silences her – if she wishes to toss it aside, then that’s up to her. At least just take it for now so that he can pretend that this place belongs to two people… that perhaps one night while he is sleeping, someone may be coming home to be with him.

*******

The second day of filming. No one pays attention to Xia Mo and no one dares to talk to her; everyone is apprehensive about being stuck at the studio until midnight again. Ling Hao is occupied angrily commiserating with An Hui Ni about being stuck with an emotionless, wooden doll. Stalking up to Xia Mo, Ling Hao warns her that if she continues the same “acting” as yesterday, he will not easily let her off the hook!

Zhen En is furious; how dare he and An Hui Ni judge Xia Mo! Defending Xia Mo, Zhen En gets in An Hui Ni’s face; yesterday was only Xia Mo’s first attempt at acting! Was she herself that brilliant when she first started in this industry?! Since she has more experience than Xia Mo, she should be helping her and not judging her!

SMACK! An Hui Ni’s hand is still flung outward after connecting directly with Zhen En’s face; Xia Mo is stunned. An Hui Ni scathingly remarks that as someone who is less experienced in the entertainment field, she should be treating her seniors with respect as opposed to talking back to them! Who the hell does she think she is?! Xia Mo demands an apology from Hui An Ni and when the latter scoffs at her, Xia Mo bets An Hui Ni that if she can successfully finish the upcoming scene in one try, An Hui Ni will apologize to Zhen En. And what if Xia Mo cannot? Then she will allow An Hui Ni to “teach” her as suited.

An Hui Ni smugly laughs; it’s a deal!

The present scene only has Ling Hao sitting at his desk while Xia Mo stands silently behind him, quietly pining for him but using nothing but her expression to convey the depth of her feelings for him. Everyone watches on the side. Director Xu has already decided that if Yin Xia Mo cannot perform to his expectations and he is unable to replace her, he would rather give up this directing opportunity than have his name attached to something that is not quality work.

Luo Xi’s words from the previous night echo in Xia Mo’s mind… When acting, you need to have two souls. One soul is directly immersed in the role; you become that person and feel everything she is feeling. Her breath is your breath, her pain and happiness are also your own pain and happiness. Meanwhile, the other soul watches silently, watching you be her but not completely be her, watching every expression on your face… Bing Tong has liked Lu Si ever since she was little; her first encounter with him was like seeing an angel but yet she cannot let him know that she loves him… If he finds out that she’s in love with him, she’s afraid that he will leave her… Just like her father left her and her mother when she was little…

So you cannot allow yourself to love him. The more you love him, the more pain you will feel. No matter how hard you try to love someone, ultimately that person will betray you, just like you are nothing but garbage…

You like me? It is the sixteen year old Luo Xi again… You like me so much that you want to send me back to the orphanage again? Mrs. Song said she liked me too and look what she did to me? My own mom said she liked me too; is that why she left me at the amusement park and never came back for me? I’m not interested in that kind of love.

Xia Mo, remember my expression. If you find yourself unable to express anything tomorrow while filming, remember my expression and use it.

All eyes are fixed on Xia Mo’s face as she stares silently at Ling Hao’s back. The emotion in her eyes is fathomless; an emotion that is hopeless and desperate to get away at any cost – and yet unable to leave at all. Director Xu cannot take his eyes off the shot.

An Hui Ni is stunned. How did Yin Xia Mo go from emotionless wooden doll to a completely different person in just one day? She is slowly filled with a sense of foreboding…

OKAY! The scene is finished and successful, and everyone excitedly prepares for the next scene. Yin Xia Mo finished in one take!

Ling Hao turns around and stares in puzzlement at everyone and then looks at Xia Mo; since his back was turned the entire time, he has no idea of what just happened. They’re finished already?

Everyone turns to stare at An Hui Ni; her bet with Xia Mo was clearly heard earlier and has now circled around the studio. Will she really apologize to Zhen En?

Chapter 3
Xia Mo essentially clears the next few scenes in one take; in fact, it is on the third take that Ling Hao fumbles. Lu Si is directly confronting Bing Tong; was she the one who told his dad about his relationship with Cai Na? He thought Bing Tong was his best friend! How could she betray him like that?

When you are acting this scene, you need to have two different expressions at once, Luo Xi advises Xia Mo. When Bing Tong is speaking, she carries a cool and cold expression – Xia Mo, you’re good at that so you shouldn’t have any problem. Just think about how you used to treat me!

Xia Mo is stunned. And then shamed when she realizes the truth of Luo Xi’s words; to everyone else, to Xiao Cheng, even Ou Chen… she has always been warm and gentle. With the exception of Luo Xi…

A sharp pain stabs her heart as she remembers her past treatment of him. Xia Mo looks back at Luo Xi, conflicted but now her expression is intermixed with her present feelings for him – and Luo Xi stares back at her… Yes; this is the expression Bing Tong would have – a deep-seated love in her eyes but yet paired with cold words…

Bing Tong responds coldly to Lu Si, “I am not your friend. Only a secretary. If the chairman wishes information, it is my job to report back to him.” Ling Hao wordlessly stares back at Bing Tong – Xia Mo – and is seduced by the depth of emotion in her eyes… He is harshly drawn back to reality when Director Xu calls cut; what is wrong with Ling Hao?!

At the end of the day, An Hui Ni has still not personally apologized to Zhen En, although the latter brushes it off casually. Since the bet was heard by everyone in the studio, it only reflects badly on An Hui Ni anyway for being such a drama queen anyway. Xia Mo laughs at hearing the truth and maturity in her friend’s words.

*******

When the first episode of “Innocent Love Song” premieres, Xiao Cheng, Luo Xi and Xia Mo all crowd around the television to watch. Although Xia Mo’s scenes are limited in the first chapter, Xiao Cheng cannot contain his glee at how great his sister is on-screen and Luo Xi comments proudly that Xia Mo will be a great star someday.

Originally, fans clamored to watch the drama for Ling Hao and An Hui Ni’s pairing as the cute couple; however, interest slowly grows for the cold yet complex Bing Tong who silently supports and loves Lu Si from afar. Netizens begin engaging in heated discussions about who is most suited for Lu Si; the mischievous Cai Na or the solemn Bing Tong. When news breaks out about Xia Mo and An Hui Ni’s supposed backstage bickering, these discussions only grow more intense as more and more fans band together to support Bing Tong over Cai Na.

After Xia Mo’s breakthrough performance though, it becomes clear that An Hui Ni is not going to let such a grievance be easily forgiven. The next day of filming, even though her shots come later than Xia Mo’s, she insists on using the makeup artist first, causing a big scene when Jing Jie does not immediately come at her beck and call. Xia Mo easily lets it slide, choosing to not make a big deal out of the situation although Zhen En grumbles in earnest about such a diva attitude.

A surprise guest appears at today’s filming; it is Ou Chen! Although it is known that he is the biggest investor in this series, people are stunned that the heir of Ou Corporations would personally come to visit the set.

SMACK! An Hui Ni’s hand goes flying across Xia Mo’s face, leaving her instinctively blinking back tears as her head reels back from the pain. The two leads are currently filming the scene in which Cai Na confronts Bing Tong for betraying her confidence; however, while the scene does call for an intended slap by An Hui Ni, she was never supposed to follow through with it as Cai Na could not bring herself to physically hurt Bing Tong.

Everyone is stunned. And An Hui Ni turns to Director Xu, apologizing lightly as she was so into the scene that she simply forgot about stopping.

Xia Mo is clearly aware of An Hui Ni’s intentions. Although her face is still smarting from the slap, she quietly suggests that they continue on with filming. An Hui Ni is livid; is Yin Xia Mo trying to tell her how to act?? When Jing Jie rushes to touch up Xia Mo’s face, Xia Mo turns her face and then sees Ou Chen standing in the background, surveying the set. She is horrified and embarrassed that he would be the one to personally witness her humiliation.

Filming resumes. SMACK! An Hui Ni again follows through with a vengeance and everyone is aghast. The producer is especially horrified; Ou Corporation’s one condition for investing in the series was to have Yin Xia Mo as the second lead! How can An Hui Ni choose the one day that Ou Chen is visiting to commit such a huge mistake? And not just once but twice?!

When Xi Meng offers to do something about the situation though, Ou Chen brushes him off and continues to silently observe. Xia Mo’s already white face has lost all color and a thin trickle of blood has begun to drip from Xia Mo’s mouth.

Mid-filming again, An Hui Ni suddenly turns to the director in frustration; she just cannot act like this! Since she is getting so immersed into the scene, why not they just go ahead and film the scene with the slap included? It will work so much better for the heightened emotions! Director Xu is momentarily thrown off-balance, first looking at Yin Xia Mo and then looking at An Hui Ni… and nods his agreement.

SMACK! I’m so sorry! I forgot my lines again!

SMACK! I don’t think there’s enough feeling in that last one; can we do it again

SMACK! Xia Mo’s expression wasn’t right! Let’s do it again.

SMACK! I really didn’t feel anything in that last scene; let’s run it one more time!

Xia Mo’s face has long become numbed by the pain, as each slap comes down hatefully. She is brought back to when she was still a little girl at the orphanage, and all the other kids ganged up on her and stole her toy away from her, kicking and hitting her as she fell down, laughing viciously as they danced away…

So much pain… so much pain that she just wants to die right now…

Another hateful slap… Xia Mo refuses to give in! She will not let An Hui Ni win! However, as her head continues to spin from another slap, An Hui Ni’s laughter echoing in the distance, Xia Mo no longer has the will to stand upright… and she slowly loses consciousness as she finally just sinks to the ground…

Chapter 4
It’s like a dream… so quiet that even the barest hint of breathing cannot be heard… Xia Mo relishes in the quietness; has she died already? Perhaps that is the best thing then… if she dies, she no longer has to pretend to be strong. Yes… let’s just die then… It hurts so much…

As Xia Mo slowly falls to the ground, she is suddenly supported gently by a pair of strong arms surrounding her and she catches sight of a beautiful green scarf fluttering in the air. In the haze of numbing pain, these arms are like the warmth of the sun’s rays, giving her the last needed strength.

When she is finally able to open her eyes again, she finds herself looking deep into a pair of familiar eyes. As she slowly regains awareness, Xia Mo realizes that Ou Chen is holding her, holding her tightly and gently like a lover. As she stares into Ou Chen’s calm face, she is seized with shame – her humiliation at the hands of An Hui Ni… Ou Chen saw everything very, very clearly…

“Let go of me!” She cannot stand to look at him.

The director finally calls cut and gives everyone a ten minute break. An Hui Ni silently study Ou Chen and Yin Xia Mo; how romantic, she snarls to herself. Here she was, rightfully dealing out Yin Xia Mo’s just desserts and suddenly some other man comes out to save her? Whatever; as a new person, Xia Mo will be taught her lesson.

*******

Huddled alone in a corner hidden beneath the staircase, Xia Mo tightly wraps her arms around herself. No one will come here, no one will find her here… there is no noise here, no one else here… just aloneness…

*******

As Ou Chen watches Xia Mo from afar, he is seized with a stabbing pain at every shudder of her body… he should hate her… The cold and ruthless her who betrayed him… seeing her publicly humiliated should give him joy, right…? And yet, seeing her suffer slap after slap at the hands of that woman; he would like nothing more than to viciously return the favor!

Does he really like Xia Mo so much? That even after her betrayal five years ago and now her rejection… he yet still likes her. In that moment where he was holding her close, he felt like his life was truly complete. And yet when she had so harshly pushed him away… he had become empty… his life had gone completely empty…

And so as Xia Mo remains shaking in her corner, Ou Chen continues to silently watch over her.

*******

A polite-looking girl has intruded on Xia Mo’s solitude. Curiously, she asks Xia Mo if she’s been crying. Xia Mo has no expression on her face but tells the girl to get lost. The girl ignores her though and continues on; Xia Mo cannot continue to cry though. If she cries too much, how will she be able to continue the scene? However, Xia Mo coldly responds that she was not crying, which surprises the girl. Impressed by Xia Mo’s spunk, the girl suddenly starts laughing.

“You are really something! Even though you are really vulnerable inside, you still act strong on the outside. Careful; forcing yourself too hard will actually cause you more grief later on. If you had started crying when she was hitting you, you would have instantly won everyone’s sympathies and they would have all hated her. You are stupid for not using that chance. Don’t you think I’m right?”
“If so, that would have created dependence. If you start getting used to being weak, then you really will become weak. Too used to dependence, then you will forget to how to rely on yourself.
“But aren’t you in pain?”
“You get used to it.”
“You really are kind of stupid! If you are too strong, others will think you are a cold person; however, you are still quite cute!”

Director Xu is reviewing the footage that they had just completed when he is approached by the producer; you really hate Yin Xia Mo, don’t you? When Director Xu responds lightly that he does not, the producer forges on; if not, then why would he let An Hui Ni treat her like that? Seeing Yin Xia Mo’s face slapped to such an extent and yet he can continue on as if nothing was wrong… Even if he despises Yin Xia Mo, he should not treat her like that.

Director Xu replies that he is only interested in achieving the best results; An Hui Ni and Yin Xia Mo are playing love rivals so of course that hatred and jealousy will naturally emerge in their scenes. Additionally, Yin Xia Mo is the type of person who seems to thrive the best under pressure and her acting is the most impressive then. If a few slaps is what it takes to produce such a result, then it’s worth it.

As the producer marvels at the ruthlessness of Director Xu, he stops abruptly when he sees Ou Chen striding purposefully towards him. Director Xu also inclines his head in respect and maintaining eye contact with him, Ou Chen whispers something to the both of them. After mulling it over briefly, Director Xu nods his head in agreement.

*******

Filming resumes. An Hui Ni snidely comments that it will be rather difficult for Xia Mo to continue filming when her face has swelled up so horribly to which Xia Mo calmly replies that if An Hui Ni had been more careful to not NG a thousand times, they wouldn’t be having this problem in the first place. An Hui Ni freezes in shock as the surrounding people snicker under their breaths.

Turning to Director Xu, An Hui Ni apologizes for her situation today; she simply doesn’t know why she’s having so much trouble getting the right feeling today! In fact, she’s simply worried that she won’t be able to complete the scene in one take again…!

Laughing silently to herself, An Hui Ni narrows in on Xia Mo’s injured face – she’ll show her! She’s going to slap her so hard that she won’t be able to resume filming for days!

“Yin Xia Mo, I want you to take on Cai Ni’s role for this scene and let An Hui Ni try to find the right feeling.”

Everyone freezes. Stuttering in shock, An Hui Ni asks Director Xu what the meaning of this is… he cannot possibly mean that he wants Yin Xia Mo to hit her! Director Xu replies that they are just acting here and turns to Xia Mo; can she remember An Hui Ni’s lines? Considering how many times they had gone over this scene, Xia Mo had earlier already committed all the lines to memory.

An Hui Ni is in a panic and starts protesting (like a stuck chicken but that’s just me ad-libbing here…); Yin Xia Mo cannot hit her!! However, Director Xu silences her and begins filming. Everyone watches in breathless anticipation.

“What… are you saying?” Cai Ni tries to smile, tears in her eyes and although her smile is weak, it still is friendly. “It cannot be true… right?”

An Hui Ni is frozen. Originally, all she could think about was the fact that Yin Xia Mo was going to smack her across the face, but staring directly into her eyes in this moment, she cannot help but become drawn by the emotion in Yin Xia Mo’s eyes – and falls wholly into the scene.

“It is true.”

The betrayal in Cai Ni’s eyes. The pain and betrayal from someone she treated as her good friend has made her lose all reasoning and control… She instinctively raises her hand in the air – the filming crew watch, waiting for that hate-filled slap to come solidly across An Hui Ni’s face; An Hui Ni reflexively closes her eyes, her face starch white – and Yin Xia Mo’s hand goes flying through the air… And stops within inches of An Hui Ni’s face.

“I’ve always… treated you like my friend… don’t you know that? Everyone else can hurt me… but you can’t… because you are my best friend…”

The sadness. The desperation. The pain from having trust completely destroyed.

Everyone is seized with a stabbing pain in their hearts. Jing Jie doesn’t even realize that she has started crying and looks away in embarrassment; only to find that everyone is carrying the exact same expression. Even the polite-looking girl from earlier on is in tears.

CUT!

Director Xu starts clapping enthusiastically! And everyone joins in the applause. They are astounded by Yin Xia Mo’s amazing work!

The producer is completely impressed. Originally, he had thought Yin Xia Mo was only casted because of her connection to Ou Chen; however, who would have thought she was really such a superb actor?

Xi Meng studies Young Master. Ou Chen is silently watching Xia Mo a few feet away; although his expression betrays nothing, Xi Meng can detect the myriad of emotions in him.

“But Young Master, she did not hit An Hui Ni back. Would you like me to arrange another take?”

“No. I have other business so I’ll be leaving now.” As Ou Chen leaves the studio, he turns to cast one more look at Xia Mo. She has chosen the decision that she deems most appropriate for herself. As for An Hui Ni… he has his own plans for her.

In the midst of the people, Xia Mo does not spare a glance for the ashen An Hui Ni but quietly watches Ou Chen’s departing figure. The picture of him leaving is just like that night five years ago when he finally chose to walk away…

*******

Back at his place, Luo Xi gently applies ointment to Xia Mo’s swollen face as she winces in pain. Luo Xi feels every wince in his own heart.

“Why didn’t you just hit her back? An Hui Ni is not going to remember that you let her go this time. All she’s going to remember is that you embarrassed her. When dealing with this kind of person, you don’t need to be merciful.”
“If I slap her back, then what makes me different from her?
“Do you need me to do anything?”
“I’ll take care of it. If we make too big of a deal out of it, then it could end up being far worse.”
“Xia Mo, you try to be too strong.”
“Have you experienced something like this before?”
“Although I’ve never been slapped repeatedly while filming, how can this kind of stuff not happen in our world? Someone once asked his mafia friends to get me; five to six of them surrounded me in the middle of the night in a dark alley and beat the crap out of me. I was in the hospital for at least two weeks; thank goodness my face was fine but I had a few broken bones.”

Taking Xia Mo’s hand in his own, Luo Xi gently places it on his chest; she can feel the steady beat of his heart.

“Seven stitches total. It was lucky that the doctor was so good and the wound was shallow; you can barely see it during filming. Only when you feel for it do you know that it’s there.”
“Why did they go after you?”
“Because… once I appear, everyone becomes my shadow, regardless of whether or not they’re already famous and accomplished.”

Such a proud statement. And yet, as Xia Mo stares at the beauty that is Luo Xi, she cannot help but admit; he has that pride and that ability.

“What happened to that person?”
“Afterward? He got kidnapped at that same spot too… broke four bones… I got someone to do it for me.” Luo Xi silently stares at Xia Mo. “Do you think I’m ruthless? Are you scared of me…?”
“It is scary. If someone had taught him such a lesson earlier on, he wouldn’t have touched you then.”

Luo Xi looks at Xia Mo in bewilderment. “Shouldn’t you be judging me right now? Telling me to report it to the police as opposed to dealing with it myself?”

“The police? The police only see what’s directly in front of them. I don’t like violence but I cannot refute that there are some things that can only be dealt with violently…”
Luo Xi is suddenly uneasy; there is something about Xia Mo’s expression and tone of voice right now… “Xia Mo… Did something happen to you?”
“I’m sorry; there are just some things I’d rather forget.”

*******

That same night, Ou Chen stands alone in his room with his wineglass (now this is a recurring theme, isn’t it?), thinking back to the events of that day – every slap that Xia Mo suffered now firmly ingrained in his mind and on repeat… That snow white face completely drained of blood…

Ou Chen closes his eyes as the piercing headache returns… this time, he won’t fight it anymore. If the memory wants to return, then let it come back to him…

Back at the Ou mansion, the little girl is lying on the bed in the guest room, a fourteen-year old Ou Chen watching over her. Silently gazing upon her, he surmises that she cannot be real, unable to resist reaching out a hand to slowly, lightly, poke at her face. And she suddenly opens her eyes!

His heart jumps a beat although his face maintains its cool expression. She studies him back and then slowly sits up in the bed.

Her name is Xia Mo. Her dad was originally working at Ou Corporations but was laid off a month ago. He hasn’t been able to find a new job and her mom has been crying in the house everyday; she and her little brother will probably be sent back to the orphanage to live… She found out that the car of the CEO of Ou Corporations drives by that road everyday and so decided to wait there for him, to plead with him not to fire her dad.

“How old are you?”
“Eleven.” Ou Chen is surprised; don’t most eleven-year olds only worry about begging their parents for toys and chocolate?
“Why would your parents send you and your brother to the orphanage?” Even if he lost his job, this seems a little extreme.
Xia Mo pauses before answering. “We’re not our parents’ biological children. However, they both treat us really well; I don’t want to go back to the orphanage!”

The backyard garden. Little Xia Mo stands with an apple carefully balanced on her head, her eyes tightly closed and her hands scrunched into tiny fists. Standing some distance away, he is wearing a beautiful archer’s clothing… and slowly pulls the arrow back on his bow.

He’s only ever seen someone use an apple for practice on television and has always wanted to try it but was scolded by his nanny. Now, he finally has a chance to try shooting at an apple and the little girl even volunteered to do so…

He promised her. If she is willing to hold the apple for him, he will get her dad his job back. What he wants to know, is how brave this eleven-year old can be.

Xia Mo calmly stares back at him. There is a maturity in her eyes that should not belong to someone so young and actually bold tells him that he needs to prove that he has the ability to reinstate her dad’s position. Nodding his head, he makes a few calls. Even though he is only fourteen, everyone knows that he will one day be the future heir to the business. After hearing his calls, she knows that the agreement is exchanged.

He slowly pulls the arrow back again… as he is getting ready to let go, his gaze almost unconsciously moves to her face… standing there in the sunlight, she is almost transparent. She nervously bites her lip, biting so hard that one drop of rose red blood emerges… And the arrow flies across towards her!

Ou Chen suddenly opens his eyes! His head is about to split open from the pain, as if that arrow never flew towards her but into his own head. Grasping his wineglass tightly, he picks up his cell phone and dials a number.

*******

Due to her face, Xia Mo informs Xiao Cheng that she will be busy with work for the next three days and unable to return home. She does not want him to see the extent of the swelling.

Jokingly, Luo Xi smiles at Xia Mo. “It looks like I should be grateful to An Hui Ni; if it wasn’t for her, you wouldn’t have come over today.”
“Can you… let me stay for three days?”
“What about rent?”
“Huh?”
“How about you just be my servant for three days?” Laughing, Luo Xi pulls Xia Mo in close, softly breathing in the scent of her hair. “Help me clean the place, cook me dinner, okay? And if you don’t do it well the first time, then you’ll have to do it all over again. If you do it well, then I’ll reward you by letting you sleep in the master bedroom and I’ll sleep in the guest room.”
“Do you normally not make dinner?”
“I don’t know how. Anyways, I wouldn’t want to make dinner for myself – cooking by myself and then eating it by myself…”
“Okay.” And Xia Mo gently hugs him back.

Compared to Luo Xi, Xia Mo is a lot more lucky; she still has Xiao Cheng with her. Everything she’s done, everything that has worth and her very reason for becoming as strong as an unbendable tree – is all for Xiao Cheng to be happy and to live well. Cooking for him or eating what he makes for her… it all makes her unbelievably happy and fortunate. But Luo Xi… he has no one except himself…

“Hey, I’m really picky when it comes to my food. If you don’t make it to suit my tastes, I’m going to make you polish the floor!”
“I’m not even scared; I’m very confident when it comes to my culinary skills.”
“That confident, huh?”

Seeing Xia Mo so heartbreakingly cute, he cannot resist reaching out to tweak her nose. She quickly ducks but then succumbs to a huge yawn. It has been a long day for her.

When Luo Xi softly asks her if she’s tired, she has already fallen fast asleep. Gently picking her up, Luo Xi carries her to the master bedroom and lays her down on the bed. Seeing her forehead wrinkle in her sleep as if suffering from a bad dream, Luo Xi places a soft kiss there. Hopefully, all those nightmares plaguing her will be chased away to be replaced with sweet dreams… And she stops furrowing her forehead.

Laughing softly to himself, Luo Xi gently caresses her face. And sees the bright red swelling of a hand print.

However, in his eyes, she is still beautiful. Beautiful like the Sleeping Beauty in a fairy tale. Let her just sleep like this, staying forever by his side. Let them have their fairy tale ending and never have to part again…

*******

The cell phone’s shrill rings break the silence of the night. Ou Chen picks up his phone – “Young Master, it has been done like you requested. Tomorrow’s media will be releasing the news.”

As Ou Chen later looks out his window – why is it that his original plan of seeking revenge on her has suddenly come to naught?

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 13 to 15

2010-07-05T13:43:00.003+08:00

Chapter 13
The atmosphere in the room is tense; no one dares to say anything. Ou Chen studies Xia Mo’s carefully blank expression, noting the lack of color and her tensely clasped hands.

“Tell Ling Hao that the Lei Ou spokeswoman is chosen through a rigid and careful process. If he doesn’t show up within the next twenty minutes, his contract with Lei Ou is null and voided, and he can forget about ever working with Ou Corporations again.”

The buzz in the room increases.

While waiting for Ling Hao, Xia Mo’s phone rings and she pauses when she sees Luo Xi’s name on the caller ID. Since that day at the hospital when Luo Xi stormed off in a jealous rage, Xia Mo has not contacted him. When she answers, the conversation is initially stilted as Luo Xi gruffly asks how her wounds are healing. Unable to hold it in any longer, his voice carrying a bit of petulance, Luo Xi asks Xia Mo if she’s mad at him; otherwise, why else wouldn’t she have called him by now? Because, you know, it’s not a good thing to let someone be mad for so long without even asking!

Xia Mo breaks out into laughter at hearing the childishness in Luo Xi’s voice, the issue of Ling Hao completely forgotten now. Luo Xi laughs with her and two resume their previous ease; when Luo Xi asks Xia Mo when she’ll be free, she hesitatingly explains the situation to him.

True to his threat, Ling Hao never shows up. While others feel that it is a simple matter to simply switch Yin Xia Mo, Ou Chen holds firm to his decision. Tomorrow’s shoot will be temporarily cancelled until they can find a replacement; however, Yin Xia Mo was the company’s decision and she will be successful. Lei Ou’s PR Director is at a lost until his cell phone again rings – Luo Xi has agreed to work with Lei Ou!

Zhen En cannot believe her ears and utterly dances for joy. Xia Mo, on the other hand, is torn; the significance of Luo Xi’s action is not lost on her. She recognizes that she is a cold person – she does not like to get close to other people nor does she want them to get close to her. But in a moment of panic when she saw her opportunity slipping, she had leaned on Luo Xi and confided in him. However, never would she have imagined that he would actually do something about it. If forced to accept something from him, she would have preferred that he had just contacted Ling Hao instead.

Ou Chen keeps a controlled expression when he learns of the latest news – he knows that it is only because of Xia Mo that Luo Xi would agree to work with them. And for a brief moment, Ou Chen entertains the thought that he would rather see this commercial fail than ever give those two the chance to work together! However, he only coolly wishes them luck and then leaves, catching Xia Mo’s eyes on the way. Xia Mo stills, her smile frozen on her face – seconds pass – and she turns her attention back to Zhen En, completely ignoring Ou Chen.

Yao Shu Er calls Xia Mo, asking to see her. When Xia Mo finds at her KTV Studio, Yao Shu Er sitting on the couch and grasping a microphone, softly humming with tears in her eyes. Xia Mo asks Yao Shu Er if she’s suffering from a cold; if she’s still running a temperature the next day, she’ll take her to the hospital. Yao Shu Er hesitatingly asks Xia Mo if she believes in her; she swears that she didn’t order anyone to kidnap her that day!

Xia Mo shows her the photographs and Yao Shu Er continues to piteously proclaim her innocence. Fed up, Xia Mo tells Yao Shu Er to just man (woman?) up and admit to it; if she has the guts to do it then she should have the guts to admit to it! Realizing her act is up, Yao Shu Er admits to having those men kidnap Xia Mo. The Lei Ou contract was rightfully hers! Who was Yin Xia Mo but her classmate, her personal assistant?! She’s just like Wei An, acting all sweet on the outside but secretly scheming and manipulative. That’s right; Yao Shu Er shouldn’t have had Yin Xia Mo kidnapped; she should have just had her killed!

Xia Mo asks Yao Shu Er if she was the one who went to the tabloids about Wei An and Jam. Yao Shu Er says Wei An deserved it; who told her to seduce Jam and steal the success that was rightfully hers? However, Xia Mo tells Yao Shu Er that she had just as many opportunities as Wei An; she was the one who didn’t know how to utilize them. Does she really think that Wei An became famous because she had an affair with Jam? Because she stole what was Yao Shu Er’s? Xia Mo is doubtful.

“What right do you have to criticize me? You too, will do anything it takes to get what you want! For your own success, you’ll do anything to yourself, including destroy your own body! How is that different from me?!”
“Yes. To get what I want, I use myself. But I’ve never used you, I’ve never used other people. You can use yourself to get what you want but you have no right to hurt others. Yao Shu Er, I have never used you. Yes, I initially felt apologetic towards you when Ou Chen named me as spokeswoman, which is why I asked for the second tryouts so that it would be fair and square. Although I’m sorry that I still ultimately took away the opportunity that could have belonged to you, I have never committed a wrong against you.”

When Xia Mo gets up to leave, she tells Yao Shu Er; if as friends, she will forget the whole kidnapping business. But if as enemies, she will be merciless. Yao Shu Er asks Xia Mo why she doesn’t just destroy her. Xia Mo reminds Yao Shu Er of the day they first met – when Zhen En accidentally bumped into her and caused her to be injured and late to her recording appointment. But Shu Er had turned around and comforted Zhen En instead.

That Yao Shu Er will forever be Yin Xia Mo’s friend.

Chapter 14
When Xia Mo returns home, she is greeted by Xiao Cheng, who excitedly exclaims that Luo Xi has been waiting for her for the past two hours. Luo Xi asks Xia Mo how she’s doing and whether the people at Lei Ou have been giving her a hard time. However, no sooner are the words out of his mouth does he laugh ruefully; with HIM there, no one would dare trouble her.

Xia Mo quietly asks Luo Xi why he helped her; is he expecting something in return from her? She’s told him already – she is cold-hearted. Don’t try to get close to her, don’t try to help her. She will just hurt him in the end.

But of course, Luo Xi murmurs bitterly; now that HE is here, his help is no longer needed and unnecessary. There is no need for him to specify which HE Luo Xi is referring to.

However, Luo Xi adds that Ling Hao’s refusal to work Xia Mo is not necessarily because he’s biased against her. She’s a new star and so simply hasn’t proven herself to others yet. Right now, all she can do is to continue to be strong and when she is famous, her success will be a blinding slap to those who once looked down on her. Xia Mo is genuinely surprised when she realizes that Luo Xi purposely came over tonight to comfort her, afraid that she would be hurt by today’s events.

Handing over some files, Luo Xi tells Xia Mo that tomorrow’s commercial shoot is important and he has prepared some background information on himself too so that she can familiarize herself with logistics. Seeing the blank expression on Xia Mo’s face shuts him down though and he stiffly tells her that he didn’t do it purposely for her. When Luo Xi suddenly gets up to leave, Xia Mo stops him, taking his hand.

Okay. She admits defeat. She no longer wants to struggle – hurting him and then in turn hurting herself. She loses to him.

Xia Mo calls out to Xiao Cheng, asking him to bring beer into them. Xiao Cheng is understandably confused – your alcohol tolerance is really bad! – but still brings the bottles in. Xia Mo quickly downs one bottle and opens another one. Luo Xi fumbles to try to stop her.

“All those hurtful words… let me treat them like alcohol and down it all, okay?”

Luo Xi asks Xia Mo if liking him is really so difficult; is it because they are the same? And so is she afraid of trusting and believing in love? But Xia Mo does want happiness too; she wants to be able to unconditionally rely on someone and to be able to freely love and be loved. But can’t Luo Xi understand; that she’s simply too afraid? There is nothing more trustworthy than yourself and if one day the person you completely rely on is gone, then you’ll just fall flat on the ground…

Luo Xi does understand because he too, feels that same fear. But this one time, he’s willing to take the chance. Because he likes Xia Mo. These past five years, he has never forgotten her. She’s like opium to him – will hurt him, will cause him pain and will even cause his death but yet there is no way he could ever leave her. The pain of leaving her is even harder to withstand than any pain she may cause him.

He is really the opium poppy here. Even though clearly knowing that he is dangerous and yet still unable to leave him… being drawn to him time after time…

Luo Xi gently kisses Xia Mo. She freezes and stares back. He is breathtaking.

Holding him close to her, Xia Mo also softly kisses him back on his cool lips, as if hoping to use her own cold body to warm his…

It is a beautiful and warm sunny day when the commercial shoot happens. Ou Chen watches quietly on the side, his eyes never straying from Yin Xia Mo. Xi Meng studies Ou Chen; since being hired by him three years ago, Xi Meng has never seen much emotion from Young Master. When his promotion as CEO to Ou Corporations was officially announced, it was met with much disapproval by people as they did not believe that such a youth could successfully steer the business. However, Young Master had not even acknowledged the criticism and instead took to leading the business; every company and proposal he touched was met with huge success and slowly, the criticism faded. But again, Young Master had absolutely no reaction to his rising success. Xi Meng had thought that Young Master was only focused on career – that he did not care for women.

Until Yin Xia Mo appeared. And although Young Master’s expression is still cold on the surface, his gaze never once strays from Yin Xia Mo.

During a quick break from filming, Zhen En asks Xia Mo in concern if she’s feeling tired yet. Xia Mo reassures Zhen En that she is doing fine and as Zhen En tries to continue the conversation, Xia Mo’s attention is instantly taken away by Luo Xi. Walking up to the side of the water and wearing a white collared shirt with the top button open, he is handsome enough to make a person drunk and lovesick.

Ever since last night, Xia Mo has found it harder and harder to deny him. Luo Xi’s gaze also instantly goes to her and as they stare into each other’s eyes, Xia Mo finds herself strangely at peace. Watching her steadily, Luo Xi breaks into a glorious smile and Xia Mo cannot help but respond in kind.

I should let her go… Ou Chen thinks quietly to himself. Since she was no part of my life five years ago… and now she already has someone she loves…

Once shooting started, Xia Mo being a newcomer, had her share of NGs at the beginning but then quickly got used to the environment. Even the director was amazed that a newcomer could adapt so well. Although maintaining a calm outward expression, there was nothing that did not work well with the mood of the commercial. Once filming began, she instantly transformed and her eyes became filled with deep emotion.

The coy mermaid was no longer able to speak, a little saddened and desperate to be understood – the price was transfixed by her, slowly lowering his head and kissing her. He continues to kiss her, holding her close and she raises herself higher to meet his embrace. This is a love that will never be parted.

Ou Chen cannot tear his eyes away from the scene unfolding before him. He continuously tells himself that this is just an act, that he had reminded himself beforehand that he would not think about her, would think of her as a complete stranger… However, the instant that Luo Xi kissed Xia Mo, Ou Chen found himself thrown into a pit of darkness, consumed by an incredible pain and chill – and he remembers Xia Mo’s cold statement before…

I don’t know you.

However, Ou Chen suddenly finds himself thinking of Zhen En’s rushed words on the day Xia Mo went missing – “You know that Xia Mo is never the type of person to be late!” How would he know that Xia Mo is never “that type” of person? Did he misunderstand? Or is someone purposely hiding something from him?

Filming has finished successfully. Zhen En anxiously asks the director what he thinks – “Yin Xia Mo? She will be famous.”

The commercial is met with instant popularity. Originally, people only clamored to watch Luo Xi but then found themselves drawn to his acting partner – her beauty, her smile; they are smitten by her. And the moment that Luo Xi kisses Xia Mo and she kisses him back, they are mesmerized. Soon, the entertainment world is abuzz with Yin Xia Mo and everything related to her. Sun Records officially signs on Yin Xia Mo and releases her first single, Bubble Mermaid.

Since the release of Lei Ou’s commercial, gossip has spread like wildfire concerning Xia Mo and Luo Xi, and the two have been unable to go out in public like they used to in the past. Luo Xi has made it a habit to come over to Xia Mo and Xiao Cheng’s house every night; sometimes watching the television with Xia Mo, sometimes engaging in debates with her, sometimes going over his scripts and lyrics and sometimes just sitting with Xia Mo and holding her, not saying a word. Slowly, Xia Mo’s home has also become Luo Xi’s home.

In preparation for the upcoming awards show, Luo Xi gives Xia Mo a beautiful white evening gown, whispering that she will be the most beautiful woman that night. Regardless of whether or not she wins an award, the very fact that she is invited means that she has already gained her recognition from the media world. Even if she does not win, there will be plenty of chances later on; in his eyes, she is the perfect woman.

Xia Mo understands that Luo Xi is worried that she will be disappointed. However, with these words, she is no longer worried and filled with warmth. Ever since she told herself to no longer be afraid and to no longer hurt Luo Xi, she has found herself in a completely different world. A world where she is not afraid of being loved and of seeking her own happiness.

One week later. Ou Chen is standing in his office, his hands grasping the invitation to the music awards show but his sight focused on the dark night through his window. When Ou Chen has first seen his invitation, his heart had instantly fluttered; since the commercial shoot had ended, he has not seen her since then. But what is the point of seeing her anyway? Her kiss with Luo Xi continues to burn in Ou Chen’s mind.

The television in Ou Chen’s office is currently airing a live report of the music awards show, the screen ablaze with the glory of the attendants and the flashing lights. Ou Chen slowly pours drink after drink while he watches – until he sees her. Wearing a white evening gown and making her way down the red carpet, she smiles and greets her fans and reporters. Her beauty is subtle but yet so vibrant that no one could ever look away from her.

Perhaps she is his curse – time after time, she causes him to fall into fathoms of pain and yet he is unable to forget her. Perhaps he should give up everything to steal her away, uncaring that she already has a lover, uncaring that he showed up too late to claim a small place in her heart.

Take her! Whatever he wants, he will take!

However, a small voice in the back of his mind tells him that it is because of this misguided sentiment that caused him to commit a great grievance and threw him into torment… Ou Chen’s head starts to hurt again…

Ou Chen’s phone rings. After a moment, Ou Chen quietly commands, “Bring me all the information you found! Immediately!”

Chapter 15
Both Xia Mo and Pan Nan are nominated for Best Newcomer, and the latter is currently sitting to her right. The two share a smile when Pan Nan arrives although Xia Mo is listening to her MP3 and does not engage in conversation. Pan Nan queries Xia Mo when she catches sight of Xia Mo staring off somewhere else, a warm smile lighting her face. She has rarely seen such an expression on Xia Mo before.

Pan Nan follows the direction of Xia Mo’s gaze and catches sight of Luo Xi turning his head at the same time. His gaze instantly aligns with Xia Mo’s, and the smiles are both their faces are exactly alike. Almost unconsciously becoming aware of Pan Nan’s surprise, Luo Xi then turns to her, smiling and waving in acknowledgement. When Pan Nan finally looks back at Xia Mo, her expression has resumed its regular calm exterior.

In love right now?

Xia Mo feels her ears turn red at Pan Nan’s quiet inquiry, her heart picking up speed. She should instantly deny any such thing but for some reason, Xia Mo finds herself unable to say anything at all. Pan Nan laughs quietly, joking teasing her; Xia Mo’s expression looks just like a regular girl’s right now. And here she had thought that Yin Xia Mo was not capable of any emotion!

Changing the subject quickly, Xia Mo asks Pan Nan if she has prepared her acceptance speech yet. Of course, Pan Nan replies, as she laughingly lists, “Thank you HBS, thank you MTV, thank you Sun Records, thanks to my agent, thanks to Dad, thanks to Mom, thanks to Xia Mo…”

Xia Mo laughing commends Pan Nan for her very appropriate acceptance speech and the two engage in lighthearted and easy conversation, Xia Mo’s MP3 quickly forgotten.

At Ou Chen’s office, the awards ceremony continues to play on his television but his attention is riveted on the scores of pictures littering his desk. Some pictures are in great condition while others show the sign of wear and tear, a rip, a fingerprint… the backgrounds change but always, every single picture contains the same two people.

A picture of the school grounds, a younger him that is different from who he is now. The eyes of that younger him carried a brighter light, the camera conveniently catching his gaze on her, a light smile playing on her lips…

A picture in the garage, her voice seemingly low with emotion as she whispers to him. His head lowered to meet her as she is nestled in his embrace, her eyes alight and a smile on her face…

She once smiled at him so softly? Staying by his side, quietly watching him, smiling at him, and never leaving his side… Ou Chen cannot catch his breath, and he grasps his heart as if in pain…

A picture by the swimming pool, he is surrounded by people like him but they all stand a distance away. Only she stands by his side, her hand holding out his towel.

A picture by the clear lakeside and the water sparkles. It is as if he has just completed a jog, his forehead slightly sweaty. She is riding a black bicycle at his side, gently using a towel to wipe his sweat away…

Ou Chen thinks back to the words of the person who had delivered the photographs: “According to my research, five years ago, Ou Chen and Yin Xia Mo were the school’s favored couple… Ou Chen announced at 14 years old that Yin Xia Mo was his girlfriend, so their relationship was known to everyone… due to everyone’s fascination with them, many people liked to privately take their photographs… this is only a small amount of them; if you are interested, we can get many more… however, five years ago, Yin Xia Mo’s parents were killed in a car accident and Ou Chen mysteriously disappeared… it seems as if the two did not contact each other during this time… If you would like more information on Yin Xia Mo during these past five years, we can also get that for you…”

She lied to him. Knowing that he had forgotten everything… she had lied to him…

The awards ceremony announces the winner of Best Female Newcomer – Yin Xia Mo! Everyone bursts into applause as Xia Mo walks up to the stage; she is embraced by the announcer. Ou Chen silently watches, unable to withstand anyone being that close to her.

Award in hand, Xia Mo launches into her acceptance speech, her surprise at being able to win such an award when competing with someone so amazing such as Pan Nan, thank you, everyone… At those words, Ou Chen is seized by a sudden memory…

Thank you… Xia Mo is clearly aware of his temper and grabs a towel, efficiently drying him in quick strokes. However, when she gets to his head, she purposely roughens his hair, drying it every which way. Xia Mo admonishes Ou Chen for throwing a tantrum on her. When he continues to glare mutinously back, she asks him whether he will help her with Luo Xi or not. Why are you throwing a tantrum at me? If you don’t like seeing me, then I just won’t come find you at all… I knew you would help me! Thank you…

Xia Mo, you are mine.

Ou Chen’s head splitting, he suddenly rears up and grabs the keys to his sports car, slamming the door in the process as he leaves the office. What happened five years ago?! Why did she lie to him?! He will find out the truth!

The awards ceremony has commenced. Pan Nan rushes up to Xia Mo to congratulate her, her expression not carrying an inch of bitterness. Xia Mo apologizes to Pan Nan; this award did not belong to her. However, Pan Nan stops Xia Mo from saying any more “mushy” things as it may seriously make her sick. Xia Mo laughs; since Zhen En, Pan Nan is the second person who is able to creep into her heart.

The fans are going crazy as they all shout Luo Xi’s name, screaming their admiration and support for him. Within the mix, Wei An and Shen Qiang’s names are also called out. And then, Pan Nan and Xia Mo; they too, have acquired their own increasing number of fans. A small scuffle breaks out between the fans supporting Xia Mo and those supporting Pan Nan, who are disgruntled that the Best Female Newcomer Award has gone to Xia Mo instead. Pan Nan addresses her fans though; to like her is to like Xiao Mo. To support her is to also support Xia Mo. And the argument is instantly resolved.

In the midst of the chaos, Luo Xi deftly walks over to Xia Mo. She stares back. The fans all forget to say anything as they watch them. Luo Xi quietly clicks her wineglass with his own. Congratulations… and next year you will continue to surpass everyone’s expectations.

HBS has prepared a private room for Luo Xi’s use, and he and Xia Mo take a moment to sneak away. Once the door closes, Luo Xi enfolds Xia Mo in a hug (the infamous K-drama back hug!), holding her close and whispering in her ear.

“The first moment I laid eyes on you tonight, I wanted to instantly take you away from everyone and hold you like I’m holding you right now, taking you into my body. What can I do? It’s like I’ve been poisoned; I just saw you last night but it’s like I can never see you enough, wanting to be with you every moment of the day. Xia Mo… move in with me.”
“What…?”
“Let’s… live together…”

His voice is like a spell. Amidst the dream though, Xia Mo seems to hear a noise that sounds like a knock on the door but as she turns her head towards it, she is captured by Luo Xi’s kiss. The kiss grows passionate and the two no longer can hear any noise at all… The world only belongs to these two sweet lovers now…

The incessant knocking turns to a pounding and then the door swings wide open; the air in the room instantly turns frigid. Luo Xi and Xia Mo look up in surprise – and see Ou Chen standing in the doorway, his lips white and glaring at the couple, a pained expression in his eyes.

Xia Mo freezes in shock. And unconsciously moves away from Luo Xi.

Luo Xi grabs onto her hand, gripping her as if she is his last anchor in the ocean, afraid of hurting her but yet still unable to let go. Xia Mo looks at him in pain – and then sees the vulnerability in his eyes… and his loneliness, his nervousness and fear of losing her.

When Xia Mo finally looks back at Ou Chen, he is already standing directly in front of her. His expression is icy cold. Flinging out his hand, photographs flutter through the air and scatter the ground around them. As Xia Mo catches sight of them, her throat constricts.

“You lied to me! Yin Xia Mo, you are mine!”

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 8 to 12

2010-07-05T13:26:00.005+08:00

Chapter 8
As Xia Mo watches every girl prepare for the final audition, she flashes back to when Pan Nan approached her and offered to be paired only with her. Although Xia Mo appreciated the gesture, she turned down Pan Nan because she hoped to get by on her own efforts. What will happen if they both do get chosen? Will Pan Nan continue to help her forever? Pan Nan then wished Xia Mo luck as she would do her best in the finals; Xia Mo also expressed the same sentiments.

However, come time for everyone’s performances, it is clear that Xia Mo and Ke Xin are quickly becoming overshadowed by the other three girls. Thinking fast, Xia Mo runs up her own stage and calls out to everyone, perfectly setting the stage for Ke Xin’s performance – come listen to the new and wonderful Ke Xin! Yes, she is new so she is kind of nervous but once you hear her sing, you will be pleasantly surprised!

Jam and the other judges are impressed by Xia Mo; although Pan Nan remains the strongest contender, Xia Mo was able to draw audience members to their stage with her sincerity and warm personality.

Ke Xin satisfactorily finishes her song but is so plagued by nerves that she only manages a stammered introduction for Xia Mo in return. Xia Mo takes to the stage, quietly but emotionally singing the song, “Diamond.” Jam is pleasantly taken aback; this song was once very famous in the bars. Composed and sung by a bar hostess longing for her love to return, record companies had clamored for the rights to sign her but she had resisted, claiming that this song was only sung for her love and so fans had to go directly to the bar in order to hear it. However, when the bar hostess eventually passed away, her coworkers chose to not sing it anymore in honor of her and the song has not been sung since. So how did Yin Xia Mo learn this song??

Meanwhile, Ou Chen sits in his car caught in the traffic resulting from the nearby singing competition, wineglass in hand having just finished some work en route to his business meeting. Butler Shen is with him, thinking that Young Master used to not drink so much but since his car accident five years ago, has developed a taste for it. As Ou Chen stares out the window, the green silk scarf tied around his wrist – slightly faded but still retaining its former beauty – flutters softly in the wind.

As Xia Mo is still singing, she is suddenly seized by a panic attack. Forget the people! Forget the people! Xia Mo has never told anyone… how afraid she is of people… especially those in the pitch black darkness…

It was her seventh birthday and the first time she ever stepped on a stage. Mom had drunk herself into oblivion and although the boss had relieved her of performing, she had been insistent anyway. Getting on stage, she began to sing “Diamond,” drunkenly dancing along with the lyrics. Even as small as Xia Mo had been, she understood that Mom was singing this song for that Uncle who had left – since then, Mom has never been happy again.

Tears start falling down her mom’s face as she continues her song, trapped in the pain of her love having left her. Staring at Xia Mo and yet not really seeing her, she reached out – and collapses, plummeting off the stage. As Xia Mo rushes to the edge of the stage, her mom lies still and unmoving like a broken doll, blood slowly dripping from her mouth. Xia Mo stares out into the abyss, seeing only her mom… just one more step and she’ll be able to join her mom too…

Ou Chen catches a glimpse of that girl singing on stage – and it is as if all the sun’s rays are directly emitting from her and her alone. In the sunlight, her hair shimmers and her complexion is like a mermaid’s in the midst of a bubbling fantasy. She sings as if she can see no one – but all he can see is her.

Butler Shen tries to get Young Master’s attention – if they continue to dawdle in this traffic, they will surely be late to the meeting – until he too, catches sight of the girl and his eyes widen in shock.

Although the judges are impressed by Xia Mo’s singing ability, it is not enough to redeem her – a singer needs to be able to perform at her best in public and it is still obvious that Xia Mo struggles with that aspect. One of the judges, Cai Ni, shakes her head sadly but crosses out Xia Mo’s name with a red X.

The audience members begin to leave the area and Xia Mo realizes that despite her best efforts, she was still unable to control her fear. As she prepares to finish her song and step down from the stage, the remaining people are thrown into a frenzy and Xia Mo freezes as she catches sight of the reason causing the growing excitement.

Ou Chen strains his head to find what – who? – SHE is looking at and spots a smiling and handsome young man walking towards her. Is she staring at this man? For some reason, Ou Chen feels a growing sense of jealousy at seeing this man; he tries to chase the feeling away but it continues to sting painfully at him. Butler Shen also sees this man and quickly checks Young Master’s reaction; luckily, he does not seem to recall anything. However, what a day it is to see both of them here…

To the amazement of everyone, Luo Xi jumps onto the stage to join Xia Mo. He announces to everyone that Xia Mo is his good friend and that one day, she will become a great singer; please remember her name and support her! Taking Xia Mo’s hand in his own, Luo Xi begins to sing and it is as if every song is sung specifically for Xia Mo. Feeling the strength in his grasped hand, Xia Mo remembers that other time when she leaned on Luo Xi – his left arm holding onto her and his right holding onto Xiao Cheng…

The judges are astounded and the other girls are seized with jealousy, although Pan Nan remains expressionless. Since meeting Luo Xi in England two years ago and hearing of his story with Xia Mo, she has always admired this girl…

Butler Shen tries one more time to sway Ou Chen’s attention away from Xia Mo and Luo Xi. To Butler Shen’s horror, Ou Chen tonelessly tells him to cancel his meetings – and to find out all he can about that girl singing on the stage.

Chapter 9
Luo Xi’s public performance with Xia Mo has rocked the media and now every news station and broadcaster is clamoring to book Xia Mo even though she is not even officially signed yet. While Pan Nan is a sure pick, Sun Company is still undecided about the remaining spot; given Xia Mo’s instant shot to popularity overnight, it would make the most financial sense to promote her now. But can a singer who cannot sing in public be considered a singer?

Luo Xi and Xia Mo are at their usual French restaurant as Luo Xi studies her closely; he was sure that she was going to throw a temper at him about interfering with her auditions but yet here she sits, silently eating her dinner. Doesn’t he warrant any kind of reaction from her? Does she really hate him that much? True, he wasn’t always the nicest person before but at least to her, to Xiao Cheng and to their parents, he can honestly say that he never once did anything to truly hurt them.

As Xia Mo quietly stares back at Luo Xi’s serious expression, the truth of his words ring in her head. And Xia Mo sincerely apologizes to Luo Xi. Just three little words, and Luo Xi feels as if a weight has been lifted off his shoulders, the childish glee in his smile glaringly obvious.

The image of that girl holding hands with that man continues to burn in Ou Chen’s mind – and the nightmares have returned. They are all the same; every time he reaches out to her but all he can ever see is her departing silhouette. Calling out to her and begging her but she never once turns around again, only leaving him alone in the darkness.

The next day, Xi Meng (assistant and father figure) reports back to Ou Chen – that girl’s name is Yin Xia Mo. Yin Xia Mo… how is it that this name is so unfamiliar but yet still triggers something deep within his heart?

Xiao Cheng has learned of Xia Mo’s intent to become a singer and he vehemently opposes such a decision; if she is worried about making money, then he will start taking on jobs himself. In fact, he has already decided to give up on pursuing art and will be working in construction from now on. When Xiao Cheng remains insistent and continues to disregard Xia Mo’s advice, she angrily slaps him. If he does not continue onto art school, then he can forget about calling her “older sister”.

When Luo Xi sees that Xia Mo is bound and determined now to become a singer, he takes her to an empty stage and begins to play “Diamond” on the piano. Luo Xi asks Xia Mo to sing for him, since it’s just him right now.

Understanding Luo Xi’s intent, Xia Mo hesitatingly begins to sing, continuously chanting in her mind to not be afraid, to not be afraid…

Hearing the nervousness in Xia Mo’s voice, Luo Xi gently commands Xia Mo, “Look at me. I am your only audience member. You sing the song only for yourself, not for anyone else. If you need to look at something, then look only at me.”

Xia Mo looks at Luo Xi’s peaceful smile and his sparkling eyes – and is taken back to that night five years ago as they laughingly shared drinks together. Filled with a sense of peace, Xia Mo continues to sing, and the nervousness slowly ebbs from her voice. In the darkness of the auditorium, a single person silently walks in – it is Pan Nan who claps enthusiastically for Xia Mo at the end. Xia Mo keeps singing the song over and over, and slowly the auditorium begins to fill with people. First it is Ke Xin, then Jam and the other prior judges and then strangers until the auditorium is completely filled. And Xia Mo continues to sing.

Pao Mo Bar (also could be known as Bubble Bar).

Ou Chen silently broods alone as he downs one drink after another. The bartender tries to control his drinks but is stopped short by a single glare. Ou Chen cannot stop thinking about Yin Xia Mo… who is she? Did he forget something from five years ago? Ou Chen has tried asking Butler Shen about it, who said that there wasn’t anything special about those past events anyway, so what’s the point in remembering? Knowing that Butler Shen was not being completely honest, Ou Chen had even tried hiring a private investigator to uncover his own past but to no avail. And so he had slowly given up on ever knowing. Until he saw her – and now his unknown past continues to plague him again.

Smiling beautifully, a girl runs up on stage and announces that she will be singing a song called “Remember to Forget.” As she begins to sing, the few people in the bar are instantly entranced by her melodic voice and emotional performance. Ou Chen cannot believe his eyes – the girl who has been plaguing him… Yin Xia Mo… she is standing on that stage!

Finishing her song, the crowd calls for an encore but Xia Mo gently declines, thanking them for their support. As she walks off the stage, Ou Chen sees her head towards a man waiting for her in the corner. Xia Mo smiles up at him as Ou Chen continues to tensely watch them both. The man lean towards Xia Mo and whisper something – her smile becomes brighter – and the two walk out of the bar.

It is essentially the middle of the night now and there are barely any people or cars on the road as Luo Xi and Xia Mo walk back together. Smiling up at Luo Xi, Xia Mo thanks him for being with her these past few days and for helping her get over her stage fright. Having gone to endless bars to perform tonight, she is confident now that she can sing without fear in public.

Luo Xi replies that he should be thanking her – thanking her for liking him. Xia Mo freezes and Luo Xi continues on; because of liking him, she forcefully sent him away five years ago. Because of liking him, she’s never forgotten him all this time. Because of liking him – she can trust him and sing for him. Xia Mo doesn’t respond although Luo Xi can see the battle of emotions playing on her face. Teasing her, he comments that it’s not much fun to be too logical about things.

Turning away from Luo Xi but then realizing that he may take that as silent assent, Xia Mo turns her head back around to face him – and is captured lightly by Luo Xi’s kiss.

Admit that you like me, Luo Xi urges. Is it really so hard to admit it? You and I are the same, that’s why we like each other, that’s why we’re always drawn to each other. We were meant to be together, Xia Mo…

Xia Mo knows that Luo Xi is mesmerizing her right now; entrancing her with his perfect looks and his pretty words… but she can’t seem to maintain her former calmness and nonchalance anymore…

Luo Xi again captures Xia Mo in a deep kiss but whereas the last kiss had been soft and gentle, this one is filled with passion and intensity. Xia Mo can only close her eyes as Luo Xi continues to kiss her deeper and deeper, gathering her tightly against his body. Luo Xi dimly realizes that he probably shouldn’t be kissing Xia Mo like this right now; he had only wanted to break down her wall of coolness and calm control. However, now that he is finally kissing her – truly kissing her – he can no longer control himself. He’s going crazy with wanting her – she’s like poison to him but by God, he will keep kissing her even if it means his death!

The two are rudely brought back to reality when they hear the roar of a sports car coming down the road. As she pulls Luo Xi off to the side, she catches a glimpse of the driver’s hands ruthlessly gripping the steering wheel although she cannot see a face. Breathing heavily, Xia Mo starts when she realizes that she is leaning against Luo Xi for support; he lightly chuckles.

You like me. Let’s be together.

The sports car pulls to the side of the road as Ou Chen sits in the driver’s seat, his hands still tensely wrapped around the wheel.

Chapter 10
After that night, Luo Xi and Xia Mo’s relationship has became a little more complicated. Regardless of where Luo Xi is – the recording studio, in the car on a business trip or right before going to bed – he would always call Xia Mo. Asking her out every so often, casually kissing her when the mood strikes him, while she would always tightly close her eyes during those kisses. Xia Mo never promises him anything but neither does she deny anything.

Sun Record is asking Xia Mo to attend the tryouts for Lei Ou Cosmetics model of the year. Although Pan Nan has been officially signed on with Sun, the second representative has not yet been chosen. However, a contract with Lei Ou Cosmetics is a guaranteed ticket to instant stardom and it is one of the most coveted positions in the entertainment world; the company has always chosen the most beautiful and successful actress, model or singer to represent their products. It is rumored that the most likely successor will be Yao Shu Er, now that Wei An’s reputation has suffered from her scandal with Jam. However, Yao Shu Er is in for a rude awakening when she realizes that Shen Qiang has also been invited by Lei Ou Cosmetics. Although Shen Qiang entered the entertainment world a few years after Yao Shu Er, she quickly became one of the most sought after actresses after just a year while Yao Shu Er has continued to bring in mediocre success.

Shen Qiang is also the rumored girlfriend of Luo Xi.

Once at Lei Ou Cosmetics, Yao Shu Er attempts to place herself higher than Xia Mo by introducing her as her personal assistant while Zhen En has also accompanied them. There is a brief moment of tension when Yao Shu Er casually drops the fact that Luo Xi publicly performed with Xia Mo, and Shen Qiang instantly turns and measures her. However, before the situation gets even more awkward, they are interrupted by the arrival of Lei Ou’s heir. Lei Ou Cosmetics is simply another branch under the Ou Family Corporation.

Young Master has returned from France.

When Zhen En catches sight of him, she cannot stop a loud gasp. She quickly checks Xia Mo for her reaction, whose face has gone completely white, the blood completely drained from her lips. Although Xia Mo knew of Ou Chen’s connection to Lei Ou Cosmetics, never in a million years would she have thought that he would return to specific branch. Or that she would also be standing here.

No one can take their eyes off Young Master, who is as handsome as he is rich. Even Yao Shu Er and Shen Qiang – the latter whose heart belongs to Luo Xi – cannot believe that there could possibly exist someone not of the entertainment circle who is this handsome and grand.

Ou Chen makes his way to the elevator, completely oblivious of the many pairs of eyes glued to his every movement. As an employee holds the elevator open for him, Zhen En risks running over to Xia Mo and quickly hisses her name.

The elevator slowly starts closing as Ou Chen steps through; however, his eyes have suddenly drifted to a specific point of the lobby. Everyone jumps when the elevator pings in protest and a pair of hands is seen reaching out and forcing the doors back open. Ou Chen steps back out, his stride purposeful and his eyes quickly scanning the area.

Walking towards Xia Mo, her instincts take over and she quickly turns and run. Ou Chen is quicker than her though and stops her, recognizing that this kind of public behavior from him is unheard of but he cannot bear to lose sight of this girl again! Who are you?

When Ou Chen repeats his question again, Xia Mo breathes a sigh of relief as she realizes that Ou Chen has seemingly forgotten – or is at least, pretending to have forgotten her. Regaining her composure, Xia Mo calmly answers him; Why, she’s just a representative from Sun Company here to do business. In fact, if Young Master is playing some kind of a game; so sorry, but she really doesn’t have any time to entertain him.

Ou Chen asks a random employee on the side to tell him why these women are all here. Briefly measuring Yao Shu Er and Shen Qiang, Ou Chen’s gaze quickly returns to Xia Mo. Before leaving, he murmurs quietly, “She’ll do.”

Yao Shu Er and Shen Qiang are stunned while the others stare after Ou Chen in confusion. But Lei Ou has always picked a well-known face to represent the company and not a newbie! However, Young Master himself has requested it…

When Xia Mo later meets up with Luo Xi, she can tell by his expression that he has already learned the news. He comments that it seems as if neither himself nor Ou Chen can have an effect on Yin Xia Mo’s emotional state. Luo Xi asks if she ever liked Ou Chen in the past; didn’t her own parents fall over backwards to accommodate him all the time? Xia Mo realizes that she never had the chance to tell Luo Xi about her parents’ car accident and Luo Xi is stunned. On that day she was with him at the airport, she received a frantic phone call from her dad, telling her that he was choosing Luo Xi over his career – she needs to stop him from boarding that plane! However, it was already too late as Luo Xi had departed and Xia Mo never saw her parents alive again.

Luo Xi cannot fathom that for once in his life, someone had wanted to keep him. Seeing the turmoil in Luo Xi, Xia Mo gently tells him to forget what she just said. Anyways, regardless of how she felt about Ou Chen before, he no longer remembers her anymore. And as Butler Shen coldly said to her after Ou Chen had pushed her forward as spokesperson; she has already hurt Young Master enough. Please do not make him remember his past with her.

Luo Xi cannot help but ask Xia Mo if she will be taking the contract even though he knows that if he himself was given the opportunity, he would jump at it, no questions asked. Xia Mo, of course, is no exception. And this is why Luo Xi is drawn to Xia Mo – she will never let go of what rightfully belongs to her and the things that should be cherished. In a way, he, Ou Chen and Xia Mo are very alike – and this is probably why their fates will always be tangled with one another’s. They are the same.

“Xia Mo, you will like him.”
“Are you scared?”
“Yes. I’m afraid you’ll leave me and go back to him.”
“Luo Xi, don’t love me. There’s no love in my heart; just the desire for success. For success, I will be manipulative. Love is just a very small portion of me. I like you today, so I’ll stay by your side. However, if I like someone else, I’ll be staying by his side.”
“You like me right now, right?”
“Yes.” Because it is the truth. Whether it was the truth five years ago or when he asked her to sing just for him in the auditorium or when he kissed her on the street.
“Then that’s enough. You will love me forever, more and more every day. Until the day I die, you will still love me.”

Chapter 11
Much to the surprise of Shen Qiang and Yao Shu Er, they both later receive an invitation to officially participate in Lei Ou Cosmetic’s tryouts for its model spokesperson – Yin Xia Mo was also included in the list but hadn’t Young Master Ou Chen already decided that it was going to be her? Yao Shu Er can’t believe her stroke of luck although Shen Qiang is disgusted – who does Lei Ou Cosmetics think she is? Ripping up her own invitation, Shen Qiang refuses to participate.

The day of auditions, Yao Shu Er is already at Lei Ou preparing for her tryout. However, as Zhen En looks around anxiously, Xia Mo is nowhere to be found! Zhen En’s imagination starts to fly as Xia Mo is never one to be late to anything; has something happened to her? If she doesn’t show up in time for her time, then Yao Shu Er will get the contract by default! As Zhen En is pacing in a panic, two men are currently carrying an unconscious Yin Xia Mo from their car and tossing her into a garage; “Thank goodness she breathed in so much chloroform; she’ll be out for hours!”

At Lei Ou, Zhen En continues to worry about Xia Mo. Who can help Xia Mo, who can help — Young Master! Young Master will be able to help Xia Mo! Unknown to Zhen En, Ou Chen has also been wondering about Xia Mo’s absence since he had specifically requested his driver to pick her up and drive her to Lei Ou; she should have arrived a while ago already. It turns out that the driver had actually pulled up to pick Xia Mo and witnessed her being taken against her will; thinking quickly, the driver then followed them before calling the police. However, Ou Chen himself rushes to save Xia Mo.

Luckily for Xia Mo, she had actually not breathed in as much chloroform as her kidnappers had originally thought, and as she slowly comes to, she struggles to untie her hands. She refuses to let such an opportunity slip from her grasp! As she fights with her bindings, she catches sight of an approaching shadow. Like a warm ray of light, the voice asks her if she is all right; is she hurt??

It is Ou Chen. As he gently picks her up, his strength calms her racing heart and she is reminded of the very first time she met him. The young Ou Chen had carried her much the same way he is carrying her now. She was 11 and he was only 14 years old.

Thanking him, Xia Mo then requests to be taken back to Lei Ou. Ou Chen refuses at first, saying that she needs to be treated at the hospital for her injuries. When Ou Chen remains persistent about taking Xia Mo directly to the hospital first, Xia Mo asks him if he would rather prefer for her to go back by herself. Seeing the stubborn and obstinate look on Xia Mo’s face, Ou Chen grimly jerks the car towards the direction of Lei Ou. Xia Mo cannot help but quietly laugh; Ou Chen is still Ou Chen after all.

Once back at Lei Ou, Zhen En cries in horror to see the injuries on Xia Mo; however, the latter is focused on quickly getting ready for her tryout. Following with the theme of the competition, Xia Mo sings a beautiful but tragic song about the love a mermaid princess has for her human prince – a love so deep that she is willing to cut off her own tail in order to be with him.

People had thought Yao Shu Er’s performance was great but Yin Xia Mo’s… although the song is of a tragic ending, it is performed with so much emotion that the audience members are choked up. Ou Chen quietly but intensely watches Xia Mo; Yao Shu Er nervously gauges everyone’s reactions; and the others simply forget to breathe. Zhen En cannot contain her excitement; Xia Mo has won.

Ou Chen takes Xia Mo directly to the hospital afterward, where the nurse admonishes them for waiting so long to come in. Ou Chen requests to have an IV briefly set up for Xia Mo, to which Xia Mo objects. However, neither the nurse nor Xia Mo are a match for Ou Chen and a moment later, Xia Mo is resting with an IV drip. Deciding that it’s useless to argue with Ou Chen right now, Xia Mo gives in; she’ll just rest for a little while, that’s all…

As Xia Mo lies there, Ou Chen hesitatingly asks, “We… knew each other… five years ago… didn’t we?” And Xia Mo’s face instantly loses all color.

Chapter 12
“We once loved each other, didn’t we?”

In that instant, Xia Mo began to panic, her mind busily wondering what to say to Ou Chen’s hesitate questions. However, she begins to calm down as she again remember Butler Shen’s curt advice. Five years ago, she was the one who chose the most cruel way to hurt Ou Chen.

Xia Mo laughs softly and denies knowing Ou Chen. When Ou Chen refuses to believe her, Xia Mo tells him that if she wanted to trick the Young Master of Ou Corporations, it would make more sense for her to say that they did know each other, that they were once deeply in love with one another. But they weren’t.

“Then from now on, stay by my side. If you decide that you cannot learn to love me, then you can decide to end it.”
“Impossible.”
“Why?”
“Because… because…”
“Because she already has a boyfriend.”

Luo Xi swaggers into the room, the air tinged with a bit of cruelty and a bit of arrogance. Going to Xia Mo’s side and intentionally directly facing Ou Chen, Luo Xi jokingly scolds Xia Mo for leading Ou Chen on; why, silly Mo Mo, when someone tells you of his feelings, you should instantly let him know that you are taken already! Otherwise, what will you do when he continues to think that he has a chance with you??

As Xia Mo watches the tension build from the battle of testosterone raging between Luo Xi and Ou Chen, fervently wishing that she could be anywhere but there, Luo Xi clearly stakes his claim on Xia Mo for Ou Chen’s benefit by leaning over and kissing her. And then as punishment, biting down hard enough on her lip to draw blood, causing her to gasp in pain and in surprise. Ou Chen seethes as he watches Luo Xi kissing Xia Mo and then stalks out of the room.

Luo Xi finally lets go of Xia Mo as she stares mutinously back at him; don’t worry – you cannot possibly be in any more pain than me right now.

Back at home, Xiao Cheng flutters about Xia Mo like an anxious mother hen and the two finally make up from their previous fight. Xiao Cheng has agreed to give up the construction idea and will pursue art school as originally planned. He promises himself that he will take care of his sister and will always protect her.

The contract with Lei Ou is official now and Zhen En cannot believe her ears; Xia Mo has requested her to be her agent!! Although worried that she lacks the experience and knowledge, Zhen En promises Xia Mo that she will be the best agent possible and will not let her down!

The mood between Yao Shu Er and Xia Mo is frosty, to say the least, although it is more due to the former’s actions. When Wei An later approaches Xia Mo inquiring about the kidnapping on the day of tryouts, Zhen En is horrified to realize that was what had happened to Xia Mo. Wei An presents Xia Mo with photos of Yao Shu Er meeting with the very same two men who had kidnapped Xia Mo. Casually handing them over to Xia Mo, Wei An comments that they may be of more use to her. Xia Mo takes the photographs and thanks her but Wei An says there’s no need – she’s still doing it for herself anyway.

Xia Mo and Zhen En hurry to the meeting which will finalize details for the commercial shoot. Ou Chen is also in attendance, which is unusual given the fact that Lei Ou Cosmetics is naught but a small portion of the greater Ou Corporation. Zhen En suspects that it has something to do with Xia Mo’s presence but Xia Mo brushes it off.

The meeting room is completely packed but in utter silence, as the final member still has yet to arrive – Ling Hao. 21 years old and with a modeling background, Ling Hao became famous two years ago from a beverage commercial and has quickly risen to the top since then. With the exception of Luo Xi, the next most prominent and desired male star is Ling Hao.

The silence is broken by the ring of a shrill cell phone. Lei Ou’s PR Director quickly picks up the call when he glimpses at the caller. His next comment sends the room into a buzz as all heads turn to stare directly at Yin Xia Mo.

“What? You want to switch the lead actress??”

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 6 & 7

2010-07-05T13:16:00.005+08:00

Chapter 6
Zhen En cannot contain her excitement – the chance to perform with Luo Xi! But why isn’t Xia Mo more excited about this possibility? It’s Luo Xi! However, Xia Mo remains calm and tells Zhen En that what’s in the past is the past. Those memories no longer carry much meaning; what’s most important is the future now. Xia Mo clearly recognizes that out of all the candidates, she is the weakest one and most likely will not be chosen. However, she hopes to do her best anyway. Zhen En completely supports Xia Mo and if she were to decide that the entertainment world is not for her, then they can go back to working together!

Luo Xi broods silently in his room while his personal assistant of two years, Jie Ni, watches him. In all her time with him, she has never seen him act like this before. However, she also knows the reasoning behind his moodiness since she previously reviewed the candidate list and saw a very familiar name. Luo Xi then tells Jie Ni that he wishes to personally visit auditions the next morning.

At the auditions, it is clear to the other judges that Xia Mo is the weakest candidate; they ask Jam why he would have let her in. Stumbling a little, Jam informs them of Wei An and Shu Er’s rivalry; he could not allow Wei An’s cousin to participate without also accommodating Shu Er. However, Xia Mo does have her own strengths as she is not only extremely beautiful but also dedicated, possesses great stamina and is a fast learner – her weakness is that she suffers from stage fright, which becomes painfully apparent every time she sings.

Luo Xi’s appearance at the auditions surprises everyone and they are consistently blown away by his handsome perfection. Luo Xi tells Jam that he wishes to personally observe auditions because one of the candidates has a personal tie with him; she once helped him in the past and now he has a chance to pay her back for that favor. Jam is besides himself with excitement; of course, Luo Xi’s friend is his friend also!

Stopping to directly face each girl, Luo Xi bequeaths each one with his trademark smile and manners. Stopping in front of Xia Mo, he intently stares at her and lifts her face up to his own. As Luo Xi continues to hold tightly onto Xia Mo’s chin, the two stare intently back at each other, neither saying a word.

“I’m Luo Xi.”

Smiling, Luo Xi moves onto Pan Nan where he excitedly calls her name and enfolds her in a big hug. People are abuzz with excitement; Pan Nan must be the one Luo Xi was talking about!

When Xia Mo is later walking back home after auditions, she is stopped by the sound of a car horn. As Luo Xi steps out and says hi, Xia Mo repeats the favor in turn and the two smile back at one another on the street.

At a restaurant later, Luo Xi again repeats his name to Xia Mo and she tells him that she remembers him. Luo Xi comments that he was really worried that she would forget him, since she had told him five years ago that she would forget. He once hated her. Hated her for not resisting at all before deciding to send him out of the country, like an old toy that she was no longer interested in playing with. However, now he’s just extremely thankful to her for treating him that way; without her, he wouldn’t even be basking in his current success and glory.

Xia Mo is clearly aware that this man sitting before her is no longer the Luo Xi from five years ago; he has grown up to become someone else. Luo Xi laughingly asks Xia Mo although there is no humor in his eyes; why does she think he hated her? Did she really not know how he felt about her five years ago? And by the by, where is that wealthy and pompous Ou Chen now? When Xia Mo calmly tells him that she has also not seen Ou Chen for five years, Luo Xi laughs that he would so quickly fall out of love with her after going through so much trouble to send him out of the country; it must be karma.

When Xia Mo moves to leave, Luo Xi quickly grasps her hand and apologizes, surprising Xia Mo. The Luo Xi from five years ago would never have apologized to anyone. Changing the subject, Luo Xi sincerely asks Xia Mo if she wants his help with her auditions.

“You are my friend,” Xia Mo says simply. “Do not help me because I am not your friend. But I hope to have the chance to help you because YOU are my friend.”

**********************************************************************************

And the drama continues! Ou Chen has finally surfaced again and we realize why he hasn’t contacted Xia Mo these past five years. However, his timing may be a little too late as Xia Mo continues to grow closer and closer to Luo Xi.

I do have to say though; I came into this novel liking Luo Xi because of the drama series’ preview but now am torn between him and Ou Chen… In their each separate way, both love Xia Mo enough to give up everything for her. Although candidly speaking, both exhibit macho, possessive tendencies toward Xia Mo (“I am man, hear me roar”) that sometimes grates on my secretive, hardcore feminist side…

And yes, I totally analyze every nuance for scenes between Xia Mo and Luo Xi, and Xia Mo and Ou Chen.
**********************************************************************************
Chapter 7
The entertainment world is thrown when it comes out that Wei An has supposedly been having an affair with Jam, a married man with children. Rumors begin circulating about Wei An, as people being to wonder if she used this affair as a way to increase her own success. Since Shu Er is the direct rival of Wei An, the paparazzi accost her at the HBS Studio lobby to get her perspective on the scandal and Xia Mo tries her best to protect Shu Er. Amidst the pushing and shoving, Xia Mo ends up falling to the ground and receives a bleeding wound to her head for her efforts and scattering the contents of Shu Er’s makeup box everywhere.

Although Shu Er tries to help Xia Mo, she tells her to hurry on to her recording session as she will be late. As Xia Mo starts gathering the items, she fails to notice that the lobby area has suddenly become deafeningly quiet and that even Shu Er’s footsteps have stilled. Reaching over to pick up a tube of lipstick, Xia Mo notices a slim hand entering her sight of vision as it picks up the lipstick first. Slowly raising her head up, Xia Mo sees Luo Xi bending over her, his concentration completely focused on her wound.

Shu Er rushes over to thank Luo Xi for his help while everyone is frozen watching him and Xia Mo. Curtly acknowledging Shu Er but his eyes never leaving Xia Mo, Luo Xi then continues his way and the reporters rush to follow him instead.

After Shu Er’s recording session is over, she is confronted by Wei An, who angrily slaps her across the face. Wei An accuses Shu Er of trying to ruin her reputation; Wei An promises her that she will not underestimate her again! Xia Mo notices the questionable stiffness in Shu Er’s body but she quickly composes herself again and denies Wei An’s claims in a piteous voice. Wei An promises Shu Er that it won’t be so easy to ruin her.

Jie Ni later approaches Xia Mo to accompany her to the hospital. At Xia Mo’s quizzical expression, Jie Ni explains that Luo Xi had asked her to go with Xia Mo; he would have come himself but had scheduling commitments that he could not push back. Xia Mo thanks Jie Ni but explains that her head wound is nowhere near serious enough to warrant a visit to the hospital. As Xia Mo walks away, Jie Ni wonders if Xia Mo will remember who she is.

It is the day of the final auditions and each girl will have her chance to perform individually. However, the three strongest girls – including Pan Nan – have been assigned to perform on their own stage while Xia Mo is paired with the next weakest candidate. One of the judges wonders if the group is split too strongly apart although Jam is confident that the strongest possibility will stand out regardless of whether she is in the “strong” or “weak” group. It’s up to each girl now.

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 4 & 5

2010-07-05T13:07:00.005+08:00

As you may or may not know, our story sets up our three leads when they are younger and then essentially fast-forwards five years, time in which none of them have seen each other. Chapter 4 continues to build on the growing bond between Luo Xi and Xia Mo but then Ou Chen decides to force Xia Mo’s hand when he realizes how close the two have become.

(Supporting characters from left) Shen Jian Hong as Yin Cheng, Fang Si Yu as Jiang Zhen En, Coco Jiang as Wei An, Ke Huan Ru as Pan Nan, Chen Chen as Jie Ni, Patina Lin as Shen Qiang

Chapter 4
Xiao Cheng has been stressing over a suitable birthday present to give to their mom for her 40th. In a bid to gift something new, he excitedly suggests to Xia Mo that they compete in a local singing contest. In fact, it would be even more fun if Luo Xi participates with them! Luo Xi instantly turns him down and although Xia Mo is less than excited to sing in front of so many strangers, she cannot bear to disappoint Xiao Cheng. Thinking to humor Xiao Cheng and that the contest will be overrun with better contestants anyway, Xia Mo is mildly horrified when they pass onto the next stage due to the fact that not many people showed up for the contest.

Although Xia Mo is not in the contest to win first place, neither does she wish to embarrass herself and Xiao Cheng in public and so increases her efforts at practicing. Luo Xi offers to help her practice although he makes it clear that she’ll owe him later. Xia Mo takes Luo Xi up on his offer and the two practice together with Luo Xi playing his guitar and Xia Mo singing, Xiao Cheng sometimes joining in. However, when Xia Mo asks Luo Xi for his honest opinion of her practices, Luo Xi busts up laughing.

The day of the competition.

Xia Mo is increasingly nervous as she and Xiao Cheng wait for their number to be called. Although she has been practicing with Luo Xi, her stage fright seems to increase every second that she is waiting. Knowing that Xiao Cheng’s mood will follow her’s, she desperately tries to calm herself down. The point of the singing competition is to sing well and long; whoever can sing the longest will continue to advance (I slightly did not understand the setup of the competition here although I do know that it is timed). When it is Xia Mo and Xiao Cheng’s turn, they begin to sing Luo Xi’s Black Cat song – in R&B, stretching out the time with rap.

Unbeknownst to Xia Mo and Xiao Cheng, Luo Xi is also at the studio watching them and even he is impressed by Xia Mo’s strategy. As time passes though, Xia Mo is suddenly at a lost – she can’t remember the remaining lyrics! The more she struggles to calm herself down and remember the words, the more she blanks. Just as it seems that she and Xiao Cheng will have to give up though, a warm and gentle voice from the audience starts singing as he slowly makes his way to the stage.

It is Luo Xi! Smiling at Xia Mo, Luo Xi moves to stand between her and Xiao Cheng, wrapping an arm around them both. As Xia Mo leans in gratefully, drawing on Luo Xi’s strength, he continues to sing and the three finish together with the longest running time.

While flipping channels at home, Ou Chen stumbles upon the competition and watches silently before deftly turning the television off.

Xia Mo is ecstatic and celebrates with Luo Xi later that night at home, the two drinking merrily while Luo Xi seems to magically produce one beer after another for her. Xia Mo can sense herself fast becoming drunk but she is too giddy to care, leaning heavily on Luo Xi. As the two bond over drinks and laughter, Xia Mo realizes that Luo Xi has somehow gotten very close to her – so close that she can feel the breath from his lips on her own. Luo Xi himself is not quite sure of what he is feeling; just that he has never realized how warm Xia Mo was until this night. Leaning closer and closer to her, Luo Xi’s lips are about to meet Xia Mo’s – until she passes out and falls asleep on him.

The days go by so fast. Xia Mo, Luo Xi and Xiao Cheng now arrive and depart school together every day, the three spending much of their time together. Ou Chen has become more withdrawn from Xia Mo and although she knows that he is smarting from her contest participation with Luo Xi, she cannot bring him out of his mood. Ou Chen tells Xia Mo that he will be going to France for a month and not to worry; he will bring her back a gift.

Xia Mo’s dad stumbles home in a panic the next day; Luo Xi can no longer live with them. Xia Mo instantly asks if it is Ou Chen’s doing and Xia Mo’s dad cannot respond – he has this job because Xia Mo had asked Ou Chen for it. Realizing her error in letting Ou Chen stew about her relationship with Luo Xi, Xia Mo contacts Ou Chen. Although she cannot change Ou Chen’s mind about Luo Xi, the very least she can do is make sure that Luo Xi will not have to go back to the orphanage.

Xia Mo accompanies Luo Xi to the airport, where he will be studying abroad in England. Luo Xi bitterly remarks how nice it is that garbage like him gets such a generous donation from Xia Mo and Young Master Ou Chen. Xia Mo is sincere but not apologetic; she cannot let her dad be fired and she will do anything it takes to protect her family. Luo Xi asks Xia Mo if she has fallen for him. If not, why would Ou Chen go to such lengths to get rid of him?

Xia Mo tells Luo Xi to become stronger – and then return and prove to those who have hurt him that he is better than them. And then she will truly not have any regrets. Luo Xi promises Xia Mo that he will return – and to tell Ou Chen that he will pay him back double-fold everything that he fears today. Seeing the intense look in Luo Xi’s eyes, Xia Mo involuntarily takes a step back – and Luo Xi pulls Xia Mo in and kisses her deeply.

Chapter 5
5 years later.

The same day that Xia Mo was with Luo Xi at the airport, her parents were killed in a car accident and Xiao Cheng was critically injured. She never saw Ou Chen again as he mysteriously disappeared after leaving for France. Left to her own devices, Xia Mo has taken care of Xiao Cheng, taking on endless miscellaneous jobs to pay for their school tuition and his health bills. Although stressful and forced to become completely independent, she and Xiao Cheng have leaned on each other during this time and continue to just barely get by.

Xia Mo has also become good friends with Jiang Zhen En, the daughter of Ou Chen’s old chauffeur. Although Zhen En used to be bitter about her father being asked to serve Xia Mo, she has come to realize that Xia Mo is nothing like the superficial and spoiled girl she used to think of her, and the two spend much of their time at school and working odd jobs together.

Zhen En stumbles upon a job listing for personal assistants to Yao Shu Er, a rising pop star and fellow classmate to Zhen En and Xia Mo (this character is currently missing from the cast listing for Summer’s Desire although I believe she is briefly shown in the series trailer). Although Zhen En balks at being a “servant” to a fellow classmate, Xia Mo does not mind so much because it is just another job to her. When Shu Er’s rival, Wei An, also argues for a personal assistant, she is given Zhen En by the recording manager, Jam. Both Xia Mo and Zhen En throw themselves into their work although Zhen En is dismayed to find that her time with Xia Mo has been shortened considerably now that Shu Er is also becoming close friends with Xia Mo.

When Wei An attempts to push her own cousin to enter the record company, Shu Er also decides to support Xia Mo for auditions. Although Xia Mo is reluctant to enter auditions – she still clearly remembers the last time she was on a stage – Zhen En convinces her to try anyway as the financial opportunity is too good to pass up. Realizing that this career could comfortably support both her and Xiao Cheng, Xia Mo decides to try the auditions although she purposely keeps it from Xiao Cheng.

At the auditions, four other girls are in attendance along with Xia Mo. While the others measure her accordingly, one girl instantly introduces herself to Xia Mo as Pan Nan.

Jam informs the girls that they will be choosing two winners out of them to enter the company. In addition, in an effort to increase motivation, they have invited the hottest rising pop star to perform a duet with one participant. As the girls clamor excitedly, wondering if it will be Shu Er or perhaps Wei An, Jam announces the name –Luo Xi!

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 2 & 3

2010-07-05T13:01:00.003+08:00

Chapter 2
Xiao Cheng’s painting hangs prominently on Luo Xi’s wall now, much to Xiao Cheng’s delight. However, Luo Xi continues to test Xia Mo’s patience. Knowing that Xia Mo was planning on using the award money that Xiao Cheng won to buy him new art supplies, Luo Xi asks Xia Mo’s dad for a new guitar. Luo Xi then proceeds to incessantly play his guitar everywhere in the house.

“Hate me yet?” Luo Xi asks cockily.
“You’re not worth it.” Xia Mo responds coolly.

At school, Luo Xi continues to weave his magic on everyone – the students and all the teachers forget to breathe whenever he’s around them. Until one day, his spell on them shatters with the arrival of Young Master Ou Chen.

Young Master’s prideful airs and carefully blank expressions. People crown around him but yet scatter to part a pathway for him; no one has the courage to speak directly to him. All watch silently as he purposefully makes his way through the crowd, only stopping once he has reached Xia Mo. Taking her right hand in his, Ou Chen places a gentle kiss on the back and Xia Mo gifts him with a beauteous smile in return.

Luo Xi continues to play his guitar and sing softly in the background but if anyone were to look at him right now, they would notice that his perfection now had a tinge of evilness to it.

Ou Chen goes to Xia Mo’s house for dinner, eating his meal silently while the others scrambled to accommodate his every move. The awkwardness of the meal is not lost on Xia Mo. When she is later alone with Ou Chen, she asks him to not come over anymore – they can hang out somewhere else and his presence puts too much pressure on her family.

Ou Chen changes the subject though and asks who is Luo Xi. Xia Mo responds simply that he is now their older brother and will be living with them; is that why Ou Chen decided to cut his studying abroad short in America? Because he was feeling threatened? When the dark expression continues to stay on Ou Chen’s face, Xia Mo flirtatiously asks for her present.

Handing her a gift-wrapped box, Xia Mo opens it to find a beautiful green silk scarf. Silently taking it, Ou Chen gently ties Xia Mo’s hair back.

“Wear this every day. Only wear your hair down in front of me.”
“You’re so bossy. You make me take your calls regardless of how late it is, you sic your chauffeur on me and now you’re even telling me how to wear my hair?”
“You are mine.”

As Xia Mo stares back at Ou Chen in frustration, he hesitatingly asks, “Unless, you really do like that Luo Xi…?”
“The one I like is you.”

Ou Chen’s heart calms down. Holding his hand out to Xia Mo, he pulls her into his embrace.

The next day, Ou Chen’s followers have retaliated against the short-haired girl for daring to bother the Young Master’s girlfriend. When her own friends dare not save her and publicly go against Ou Chen, Xia Mo steps in and saves her. However, the short-haired girl again promises payback for the humiliation that she has suffered today. Xia Mo looks at her in puzzlement; shouldn’t she be grateful? Her own friends refused to save her, choosing to watch her get beaten instead. On the other hand, she now is saving her; is it not reasonable for her to thank her?

Ou Chen’s arrival has more or less affected Luo Xi’s reputation at school. However, while Ou Chen is the unattainable dream – except to Yin Xia Mo – Luo Xi is the more realistic of the two. Even if they can never reach Young Master Ou Chen, they can still reach Luo Xi.

Until the day comes when someone from his previous foster family walks up to Luo Xi and asks him when he was released from prison.

Chapter 3
With this new information, Luo Xi’s reputation is completely destroyed and the fact that he is from an orphanage is released. People judge him to be a thief and trash. In his anger, Luo Xi starts a fight with some classmates who called his mom a prostitute. He is taken to the principal’s where he also stands “trial” before the faculty. In desperation, Xia Mo’s dad rushes to the school, gasping out apology after another for Luo Xi’s behavior and taking all responsibility upon himself.

Xia Mo arrives with an anxious Xiao Cheng and quickly takes charge – she will handle everything from here now; why don’t you take Xiao Cheng back home first? Faced with a determined Xia Mo, Xia Mo’s dad leaves with Xiao Cheng.

When Xia Mo is sure that they both have left, she turns and grasps Luo Xi’s hand, walking out of the room with him, all traces of her trademark smile gone. When the faculty members attempt to stop her, Xia Mo questions their unprofessionalism in handling the situation. Surely they cannot be so quick to judge a student based on rumors alone? Where is the proof stating otherwise that Luo Xi is a thief or is a delinquent? She will figure out what the situation is and if she proves them wrong, she fully expects an apology.

Xia Mo seeks out Ou Chen at his mansion where he is still smarting from the fact that she had earlier brushed him off to save Luo Xi. Although he is aware of her waiting for him, he continues to finish his swimming laps, leisurely climbing out of the pool. Xia Mo is clearly aware of his temper and grabs a towel, efficiently drying him in quick strokes. However, when she gets to his head, she purposely roughens his hair, drying it every which way.

Xia Mo admonishes Ou Chen for throwing a tantrum on her. When he continues to glare mutinously back, she asks him whether he will help her with Luo Xi or not. Again, Ou Chen asks what exact relationship Luo Xi has with Xia Mo, and she again says that Luo Xi is Xiao Cheng’s favored brother.

“You held his hand.”
Xia Mo laughs and then uses Ou Chen’s towel to jokingly scrub clean her hands. “Is that all? Will this make up for it then?” Cocking her head and smiling up at him, “Are you going to help me then?”

Ou Chen knows that he is no match for Xia Mo and had already contacted the foster family; she can meet with the mom tomorrow. Ou Chen scolds Xia Mo for taking on something that she couldn’t handle herself; what if he had refused to help her? Then how was she going to take care of things? But Xia Mo is confident that Ou Chen will always help her and he just grimaces back at her.

“Don’t get so close to that Luo Xi.” Xia Mo stares blankly back. “You are mine.”

Xia Mo’s meeting with Mrs. Song proves fruitful, who breaks down and admits that given the choice between Luo Xi and her own biological son, she had chosen her actual son. She had lied about turning Luo Xi into the cops to appease her own jealous son but then had retracted those statements later. Secretly recording the conversation, she turns the tape over to Luo Xi for his discretion. Luo Xi had previously questioned Xia Mo’s motives for helping him; does she just pity him? If so, then she can save it. However, Xia Mo asks what right does he have to expect pity from people? She too, came from an orphanage; she too, was called a thief by the other kids. While her own dad seems to the think the world of his biological mom, her own biological mom was truly a prostitute – so what right does he have to expect any pity at all?

A few days later, Song Ya Min issues a public apology for accusing Luo Xi; suffering from a guilty conscience, he had gone to the police station to investigate himself and found out that Luo Xi had never stolen anything. Much to Xia Mo’s delight, the two young men seem to reconcile and even Mrs. Song appears that moment, rushing up to hug them both.

Back at the Yin household, Xia Mo is impressed by Luo Xi withholding the tape; had he done so, Song Ya Min would have hated him even more. However, now he is just too ashamed to ever bother Luo Xi again. When Luo Xi questions how Xia Ma could have been so sure that he would not publicize the tape, Xia Mo only laughs and walks away. She pauses at Luo Xi’s voice though.

Using the most devil-may-care voice he can muster, Luo Xi thanks Xia Mo but the slight tremor gives him away. And Xia Mo feels something move deep within her own cold heart.

Novel - Summer's Desire Chapter 1

2010-07-05T11:36:00.016+08:00

This drama is adapted from a comic novel which i had read up before the drama released. Never did i think that the taiwanese will be the first to produce this drama, because this novel is kinda melodrama genre, simply to say either u LOVE it or HATE it! This novel expressed two possesive men fighting over a cold hearted woman. To be honest, i had try to put myself into the story and try to understand the feelings and thoughts of each of the 3 main casts, and i will go for Lou Xi rather than Ou Chen. I know many people out there will vote for Ou Chen, but this is just my personal preference. For readers who are interested, read on the chapters i just uploaded and stay tune for the ending of this story soon!

I have managed to find the english translation of this novel from a fan of this novel. Hope you enjoy it!

Here is the introduction of the cast of the taiwan drama, the 3 main characters:-

Yin Xia Mo (Barbie Xsu) -vivacious and seemingly easygoing. Although she is not immensely popular at school, her connection with the wealthy and handsome Ou Chen has all the others eager to please her. However, her outwardly sunny disposition seems to hide a darker side as she readily acknowledges how very much alike she is to Luo Xi, her devilish “older brother”.

Luo Xi ( Huang Xiao Ming) -the prince of the school. His initial transfer makes all the females crazy about him and he is nothing but sweet and gentlemanly to everyone – except to his “younger sister,” Xia Mo, who clearly recognizes his ruse. It is because of this bond that draws him to Xia Mo – and his own jealousy of Ou Chen and his privileged lifestyle – that spurs Luo Xi to possess Xia Mo, no matter what the cost.

Ou Chen (Peter Ho) -Xia Mo’s boyfriend of four years and the immensely unattainable heartthrob. While it is easy for people to relate to Luo Xi, Ou Chen is the true fantasy to all except Xia Mo. Although a man of few words, he tends to be the most expressive only around Xia Mo but his deep-seated love for her borders on obsession. He will eradicate anyone he deems a competitor for Xia Mo’s affections, including her “brother”.

Chapter 1:

The young man has the devil's air about him...

Even though she was only 15 years old, Yin Xia Mo remembers the first time she met Luo Xi.
Having come home from school that day, Xia Mo was greeted by her dad excitedly telling her the news, “This is Luo Xi! He is going to be living with us from now on – he is the older brother!” Xia Mo’s younger brother, Yin Cheng, was besides himself with excitement as he now had someone to call an older brother.
Ever since Luo Xi stepped foot in their house though, all of their dad’s love and attention went to him, even going so far as to give Xiao Cheng’s favored drumstick of the dinner to him. Their mom, on the other hand, was a lot more subdued about Luo Xi’s presence and would always just quietly eat her dinner.
Faced with her dad’s overwhelming excitement, Xia Mo reluctantly agreed to take care of Luo Xi. However, she could not resist prodding at her dad; if Luo Xi is the oldest one of the family now, shouldn’t HE be taking care of her and Xiao Cheng? Xia Mo’s dad then replied that Luo Xi has been through a lot of suffering in the past and so he hopes that she and Xiao Cheng will watch over him. Seeing no choice now, Xia Mo consents.
Luo Xi is met with admiration and approval in school; he is a myth. Almost every female student and teacher all fall under his spell. He is the perfect prince, with the handsomest face, graceful air, and warm personality. Regardless of whoever speaks to him, they are all met with his beautiful smile and touching grace, almost as if every single girl was a princess in her own right. However, because Luo Xi was everyone’s dream, no one felt that it was right for one single person to covet him; Luo Xi belongs to everyone!
And Xia Mo belongs to Ou Chen, the young and wealthiest heir at the school, her boyfriend of four years. Currently studying abroad in America, Ou Chen had requested his chauffeur to accompany Xia Mo every day to school and granted her personal use of his car. However, much to the chauffeur’s dismay, Xia Mo still prefers to walk herself all the time.
At that same moment, Luo Xi is also making his way back home nearby when he is approached by a fellow female pudgy classmate. She shyly gifts him with the cookies that she made herself and declares her adoration. Luo Xi smiles warmly at her and takes the gift, taking the time to sample one and then bestowing a soft kiss on the classmate’s check. Blushing furiously, the classmate hurriedly rushes away having now successfully completed her task.
As Xia Mo is walking slowly behind Luo Xi back home, he pauses at a trash can on the side and casually drops the box of cookies in. Taking out a handkerchief, he meticulously wipes his hands and then also throws that away. Xia Mo is taken aback, having just seen how sweet Luo Xi had been to the girl. Luo Xi slowly turns around and looks directly at Xia Mo, smiling devilishly, as if he had known she was watching him the entire time.
The next day, that same pudgy classmate is being beaten on by a group of girls. She had foolishly told them of Luo Xi’s kiss and no one had believed her. However, she refuses to change her story to save herself and is subjected to their jeers and violence. When Luo Xi happens across the beating, the pudgy classmate gratefully throws herself at his feet, clutching at him and beseeching him to tell everyone what had happened; he had kissed her!
Luo Xi gently brushes her face, commenting on the fact that she’s hurt. However, he’s apologetic; he’s never seen her before in his life – and walks away.
As the pudgy classmate is left to the whims of her angry classmates, she is saved by Xia Mo. When their anger is directed at Xia Mo, one of the girls recognizes Xia Mo as the girlfriend of Young Master Ou Chen. Realizing that to mess with Xia Mo would incur the wrath of Ou Chen, the girls quickly back off although their short-haired leader promises retribution later.
That night at home, Xia Mo is lying on her bed, deep in thought. Outside in the hallway, she hears Xiao Cheng excitedly talking to Luo Xi, giving him an oil painting that he had made especially for him. Luo Xi takes it with his usual appreciation and compliments Xiao Cheng. However, when Xia Mo later leaves her room, she finds the painting lying in the dirty trash can.
Confronting Luo Xi angrily, Xia Mo warns Luo Xi that if he doesn’t watch himself carefully, she will kick him out of the house. Luo Xi laughs; does she really think she has that ability? Xia Mo also smiles sweetly back; does he really think he can take her on?
“You’re on,” Luo Xi promises. “I will make you regret ever treating me this way.”
“That’s my problem, isn’t it?” Xia Mo retorts. “We’ll see whether or not I have any regrets after a year.”

2010 Comeback

2010-07-05T11:26:00.002+08:00

I am eager to continue this blog after my compilation for new animes since last year. There are fewer and fewer animes out there that really catch my interest in watching or rather blogging.
I have been catching up with naruto shippuden (both anime and manga), gotta admit that it is getting more interesting and many doubts have been unfolded in the lastest anime/manga. I will be blogging on that soon! xD.
Over the next few months, i will continue to blog animes, and chinese/korean dramas as well to broaden the topics!

Stay Tuned!

Sixteen Blog Post- Nodame Cantabile (2007)

2009-10-08T10:04:00.002+08:00

It has been a long time since my last blog post on anime recommendation. I was tied up with work and personal issues. Well, to reopen my new post for the month of October, here is a light-hearted anime for you guys.

Story/Dev: 75%
Nodame Cantabile is very much a simple story of students in a School of Music; of the students pursuing their passion in music. What really made me give this section such a high rating, was watching how the story progressed, which was nicely done. No over the top melodrama and heart wrenching romance, simple yet emotionally touching. Anime often has the tendency to exaggerate even simple events, sports or activities. Unlike PoT, the stunts are over-dramatic and impossible to achieve. Nodame Cantabile, however, has none of those. Nodame Cantabile has plenty of hilarious scenes, well complimented by that of romances, all superbly perfected by the music used in the background. I particularly loved the ending, which is simple but really captures the emotion well.

Animation/Graphics/Design: 75%
The design and animation quality are simple, but nevertheless effective in bringing out the light-hearted atmosphere. However, one must take note of the realistic animation sequence when closing up on the actions of the characters playing the instruments, notably the piano and violin.

Characters/Dev: 85%
I like how the story progress with Chiaki starting out as being arrogant, but throughout the series we can see the gradual change in his personalities, like how he learns to accept others' talents, learn to be more sociable. Then of course there is the lovable Nodame, herself, with her unique trademark of weird noises. Ayako Kawasumi did a really wonderful job as the seiyuu of Nodame, in bringing out the laidback personality of the character. Then there's also the rest of the eccentric cast to contibute to the success of the series.

Music: 100%+++
The main highlight of the series, featuring Classical masterpieces such as Mozart, Brahms etc. The music itself already commands a certain ambience and serve as an attention grabber on its own. What's even more impressive is how the pieces are cleverly chosen for the scenes: no music in the series is there merely for the characters competition; every piece chosen and played at a selected scene accurately reflects upon the thoughts and feelings of the characters as well as the atmosphere of the situation. Tranquil piano pieces, to grand and majestic concertos, to elegance of the violin pieces, bewitchingly enchanting!

Summary:Indeed, the music is really influential in making the viewers really feel for the characters, drawing the audience into the story and be indulged in it. The way the story plays out along with the pieces are just so emotionally captivating and refreshing that I was totally engaged by this series, no dull moments.However, l have to say that if you're not into Classical music, you may not enjoy this series. After all, it is how the music and the story combine to deliver such a masterpiece is what really mesmerizes. It certainly was no joke with the saying, "Music is magic."

Personal overall rating: A Solid 100% for a work of such caliber

Fifteen Blog Post- Ghost Hunt (2006)

2009-08-05T12:06:00.004+08:00

In the eyes of the esteemed anime fans, Ghost Hunt is considered one of the very best anime releases around. I wonder why until i watched it.....

The Expressions/Thoughts:
Ghost Hunt is one of the few animes in which the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The story follows and is told from the perspective of Mai, a high school student who lives on her own after the death of her parents, and her coincidental encounter with Naru (nicknamed for his narcissism), the president of SPR (Shibuya Psychic Research), and so Mai becomes Naru's part-time assistant. SPR deals with supernatural mysteries "worthy" of Naru's attention, and each case is covered in about a 3 - 5 episode arc. Not only does it deal with the mysteries of each case (some sentimental, some horrific), it pays close attention to the mysteries behind each character. If you are a fan of suspense, romance, or horror, this anime will have you glued to your seat.

Plot: The plotline of Ghost Hunt is very solid. Each case builds with increasing intensity, and it really draws you in to the story. There are many subtleties to the plot that are easily missed. The only downside is that, at the end, you will most likely feel a bit unsatisfied. Ghost Hunt is based off a novel series by the same writer of Twelve Kingdoms. And the series ends without covering all of the material. Hopefully, there will be a second season to answer these questions.

Animation: The animation again is solid but average. It is done well enough to let you enjoy the story without anything too flashy or distracting. The mood that the animation creates is excellent.

Music: Many people dislike the opening because there is no real song or lyrics to speak of, and yet it adds to the spooky feel of the anime. And honestly, how many openings with character flashes and special effects do we need? The ending theme is beautiful and great. The insert songs do justice in providing that eerie feeling in the anime.

Characters: The characters again are excellent. Each character's personality is very well-defined and you will feel a strong attachment to each one. Even minor characters throughout the arcs are well-developed. Again, the only downside is that since the anime ends without covering all the material in the books, much is missing. (Again, hope for a second season!)

Overall, Ghost Hunt is fun, amusing, eerie, and completely enjoyable. There are very few animes I would give a perfect score to, but this is one of them. It is very unique and intriguing. It has the mystery of XXXholic with the suspense of Monster. 10/10.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 25
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
*Genre : Drama - Mystery
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Fourteen Blog Post - Great Teacher Onizuka/GTO (1999)

2009-08-05T11:42:00.005+08:00

After nearly 3 year since I last saw this, it's about time I finally write something about one of my all-time favourite shows: GTO.

The Expressions/Thoughts :
Story (9/10) - I first heard about this show after coming across the Tokyopop Manga and after 26 volumes, I was eager to see how the anime compared. With the exception at the end (otherwise it would've been a 10/10) the anime is faithful to the Manga. Again with any animated adaptation, some killer gags were left out, but the essence of the jokes and humour was there.

Art (10/10) - This is one area I was thoroughly impressed with. GTO is a visually driven story and the anime had to be top-notch. It was! The Onizuka's trademark facial expressions from the manga always got a laugh from me and it was great to see that it was faithfully preserved here. It's hard to imagine it's nearly 8 years old, but the quality has and will stand the test of time.

Characters (10/10) - Some of the most original. What you might consider to be real villains are really very human characters and after finding more about their backgrounds, you eventually understand why they are what they are. Of course, nothing can compare to a manga's effort in character position, but this comes as close as it can get.

Voice Acting (Jap 10/10) - I felt that the acting by the main actors was great, but was 'partially' let down in a way by efforts of some of the peripheral characters. Bear in mind that this is the only fault I found with it.

Music (10/10) - Enjoyable trademark themes here. The opening credits were great. Onizuka's theme always got my neck hairs on end. I could say it's almost as characteristic as the Imperial March for Darth Vader.

Overall (9/10) - All I can say is that after 43 episodes, I was saddened to see the end of one of anime's greatest shows. Apart from the gripes above, I was just DYING to give this my first 10 star rating. For that, truly something special must have happened. This is as close it comes. However, if someone were to ask me for the most balanced recommendation I can think up of, I'd say watch this. There can be no higher praise than that from a cynic like me.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 43
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
* Genre : Life - Drama - Comedy
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Thirteen Blog Post - Gakuen Alice (2004)

2009-08-05T10:56:00.005+08:00

The Expressions/Thoughts
Genre= humour
Suitable for all ages
I first watch this anime, I thought it would be boring because it was unrealistic for a girl of 10 to just run away from home just to be her best friend. But, when the school session started, that's when the momentum begun. It's more of a little girl who speaks out her mind without thinking of it's consequences facing a whole bunch of students who dislikes and looks down on her Alice's ability. The problem here is to have them all approve of her at the first week in school. It's a rather hilarious movie so I suggest you all watch despite the uninteresting beginning.

The best word that fits for Gakuen Alice is "fun". I really, truly, ridiculously had LOADS of fun with this anime. The humour is really cute and very funny. I love this anime~There are a number of flaws that I can point out, but with all due flaws, they are just a drop in the bucket compared to how much I enjoyed this anime. I wish there were more romance aspects. A number of topics and problems arised, and through the end, they weren't brought up again, especially the solutions. For example, not a lot of emphasis was put in Mikan's background even when she's the protagonist. They touched upon it, but the conclusion they gave was nowhere near this topic. That's how much I enjoyed Gakuen Alice, the usually patient me couldn't wait for the releases. It was actually one of those rare anime where I would frown when the commercial clips showed because it indicated the half-way point. "It's already halfway?", I would say. The timing was a bit flawed as well, each episode was not heavy in content, most episodes were humour-based (which is perfectly okay, because I LOVED it). Lastly, Mikan's character herself; though she's cute, likeable, and possesses the typical "never-give-up" character fit for a protagonist, I wasn't charmed by her reactions and behaviour. She never really did say what I hoped she would. But like I said before, my level enjoyment outweighed any possible flaw. I loved the humour played out. Hard to name a favourite part, but the adventures with Mr. Bear is notable. Another great thing about Gakuen Alice is watching the supernatural abilities (Alice) they come up with, there are Alice's such as making everyone laugh at your jokes, producing rain, creating spirits, and there are even more silly ones.Another charming thing is that all characters are very likeable. Each character is truly identifiable and unique. You won't have trouble giving each one a description. Gakuen Alice is very rewatchable (it's very difficult to simply sneak peaks). I absolutely enjoyed this anime. It's hilariously funny. I do not regret giving this its full score. For indepth storyline, anime fans should catch the manga, but many are still waiting for season 2 to release to makeup the full plot of this anime. Keep waiting! :p

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 26
* Manga chapters : Chapter 87 ongoing
* Author : Higuchi Tachibana
* Genre : Shoujo - Magic - Fantasy - Comedy
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Twelveth Blog Post - Peach Girl (2005)

2009-08-03T12:03:00.009+08:00

To be frank, i did not know there is a Peach Girl anime series. My first knowledge of this anime was a Taiwan drama serial but i was not a least interested in catching it due to the poor casts. Recently i search over youtube of several fan videos of best romance anime, and decided to watch it. Surprisingly, it is watchable and the plot kinda captured my interest. It took me 2days to finish this series.

The Expressions/Thoughts :

Overall - 6.7

Animation - 6.0

Sound - 7.0

Story - 6.0

Character - 6.0

Value - 8.0

Enjoyment - 7.0

Plot : Love Quadrangle...coincidence...misunderstanding...break-up...realization...relationship restored...blackmailing...misunderstanding (again)...break-up (again)...realization (again)...relationship restored (again)...and...what’s next? Well, simply return to square one. Then...rinse and repeat...yup, that’s Peach Girl in a nutshell. It’s soap opera at its hardest core. It’s an outrageously melodramatic shoujo. It has more twists and turns than driving up the hill. It’s as insubstantial as the nonsensical Hollywood celebrities’ news from California. Nonetheless, this anime is not without merit. For one, it’s bloody entertaining. Secondly, it’s damn addictive. Like anime of its kind such as Hana Yori Dango and Marmalade Boy, the plot will never stay still. The twists, turns, and misunderstandings will come one after another; and as a result, viewers will never be able to predict whether who will end up with whom until the very end. It is true that Peach Girl’s characters are not complex or 3-D; however, that does not make the show becomes less enjoyable. Revolving around Momo, Toji, Sae, and Kairi, Peach Girl is a high school melodrama executed in a refreshing manner. Momo is a character who is easy to empathize with. She’s caring, sincere, and above all, she is sensitive and vulnerable; nevertheless, she often got misunderstood to be a ‘bad girl’ because of her tanned skin. That, combined with her blunt and passionate personality which caused her to use her heart instead of her head when it comes to dealing with things, makes it more unlikely for people to be doubtful that their impression of her is erroneous. However, these qualities do not stop the viewers from caring for her. In fact, she is the first person whom I bonded with in this series. In the beginning, Momo was misunderstood by the whole class because of Sae’s accusation. Though Momo was indeed angry, she did not say the truth to others to break Sae’s face. Furthermore, on a later occasion when Momo found out that Sae was being harassed, she immediately rushed to help Sae despite the fact that Sae had been mean to her before. Regardless of her look and her personality, Momo is a very likeable heroine. Actually, she reminded me of Makino from Hana Yori Dango. Both Momo and her have so much in common. Touji is amazingly idiotic that his actions often made me rolled my eyes in disbelief. In fact, the stupidest scene this anime has to offer revolves around Sae and him. In this incident, Sae who wanted to ‘steal’ Touji from Momo asked him whether he knows how to kiss a girl. After Touji admitted that he was rather inexperienced, Sae suggested that he should practice his ‘kissing’ with her. Well, to my surprise, he actually did so. What a dumb jackass. In any case, it is impossible for me to root for him. Sae is indeed an important character. Yes, she is so insincere and manipulative that it’s hard for anyone not to hate her (the most hated anime character ever in my path of anime) ; nonetheless, had Sae not been so malicious, this anime wouldn’t have been so engrossing. Kairi is my favorite character in the series. He is the first person who ‘knew’ the true Momo that is hidden inside. One of my favorite scenes in the series was when he came to visit Momo during the swimming tournament. Kairi knew that Momo was cheated and bullied; however, he also realized that it is impossible to do anything about it at that moment. Thus, he simply gave Momo a hug which gave her much morale and courage: the things she needed most at that moment. His plans to avenge Sae are also excellent. Kairi does have some stupid moments. Rest assured, however, nothing he did is as idiotic as Touji’s. There are a few interesting side characters; the most memorable is likely to be Kairi's brother who has a hardcore playboy attitude. Combining these characters with the constantly unpredictable plot...and you have one hell of a roller coaster ride.I almost feel guilty that I am unable to betray my own rating scheme so that I can give Peach Girl a higher rating. Because of its many twists and cliffhangers, Peach Girl is one of the (not so many) anime which I couldn’t stop watching. Despite its addictiveness, however, I cannot deny that this is an insubstantial series. And because of this, Peach Girl would certainly not be suitable for everyone’s tastes. If you are not a fan of shoujo melodramatic romance, it is unlikely that you will find this anime to be appealing. Nevertheless, if you are a fan of the aforementioned genre, you are almost guaranteed to be pleased. I certainly was, and I recommend it. Peach Girl is certainly one of the most engaging idealistic romance anime of its time.

Animation: The animation of Peach Girl is halfway between average and above average for 2005 standard, which would be a six and a half if I were to rate it. Because of my personal bias to this genre, I initially contemplated to do a rounding up to make a seven in this category. However, there is one CGI scene in which the movement is not fluid, namely the scene when the train was running. Because of it, I decided to round the score down to a six instead.

Sound: The OP/ED are decent, as well as the voice acting.

Value: I recommend this if you are a fan of romance genre. Furthermore, if you liked this, I highly recommend Hana Yori Dango (Boys Over Flowers). Actually, I must say that these two anime do share some considerable similarities. I also recommend Marmalade Boy if you enjoy this. Like Peach Girl and Hana Yori Dango, Marmalade Boy is also full of love triangles and twists…though in my opinion HYD is the most appealing (and apparently the most well received) of these three.

Information to interested viewers:

* Anime series of episodes : 25

* Manga chapters : -

* Author : -

* Genre : Drama - Life - Romance

* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Eleventh Blog Post - Lovely Complex (2007)

2009-07-28T13:10:00.004+08:00

Oh no… it’s another romantic comedy! This time, it’s about a tall girl falling for a short boy at school. What could be so different about that? Apart from this one fact, should I have expected anything different?

The Expression/Thoughts:
Animation: What really struck me about the animation was the exaggerated perception of height between Koizumi and Otani. Koizumi is definitely tall, but she looks more like a photographic example of a model. I know that most Japanese women aren’t this tall (they’re probably 155-165cm), but it looked totally unrealistic when we find out she really is only 172 cm tall. On the other hand, Otani is ‘only’ 156cm and it felt at times like he really was much shorter. I know it’s only an animated show and that the Toei Animation Co. were trying to illustrate the huge difference in height, but they didn’t have to go so far as totally exaggerate the height discrepancy. Apart from that, the animation was really vibrant and colorful with quite a number of beautifully drawn scenes. Some of the facial expressions of Koizumi were just hilarious.

Story: Interestingly, this story is set in the Osaka/Kansai region and it was refreshing to hear a different regional accent (other than the commonly used Edo/Tokyo accent). Getting back on track however, there isn’t really all that much that is strikingly different about this show, other than the height discrepancies between the two main stars. Again, we see a lot of the story through the eyes of the giraffe-like Koizumi as she dreams of turning her unrequited love for Otani into something more reciprocal. There were some really funny moments that I really enjoyed. So much so, that I consider this more of a comedy than a romance. Story-wise, they turned an otherwise unoriginal, and commonly used romance theme on its head, into something much more entertaining and watchable.

Characters: What made it incredibly entertaining was the ‘friendly hostility’ between the little and large characters of Otani and Koizumi. As friends you could see just how comfortable they were with each other. Once things start to get more emotional, you can actually start to feel the awkwardness of their stuttering relationship. Even though the comedy duo were mostly about laughs and jokes, there was a depth to their personality that made it such an addictive joy to watch. There wasn’t all that much focused on the peripheral characters, but I felt that didn’t detract at all from the show. Again, I was surprisingly impressed with the character development here.

Music: Nice mix of J-pop here. The 4 different OP and ED were all very catchy tunes that really added to the mood of the show. I think it’s best to describe the music and score as a whole as ‘fun’.

Summary: I was overall very surprised by what I had seen. Upon reading the synopsis, I was sighing with dread ‘oh no… not another one of those comedies.’ After finishing the first two episodes, I was glad I had been proven wrong. This definitely was a lot of fun and is in my eyes, a strong recommendation to those who love their romantic comedies.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 24
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
* Genre : Shoujo - Romance - Comedy
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Tenth Blog Post - Claymore (2007)

2009-07-25T10:37:00.000+08:00

So Claymore was 2007's #1 anime show? According to Japan anime poll, Claymore was better than the likes of "Seto no Hanayome", "Lovely Complex" and "Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann"? This fact in itself was hard to digest and I had to wonder if Claymore really was deserving of this popularity.

The Expression/Thoughts:
Animation: Overall, the animation was excellent. The backgrounds were nicely done, but nothing too special. The character designs were a bone of contention with some viewers, with some saying that all the claymores were too similar (LOL… naturally they are all blond and silver eyed!). I felt that the visual appearance of each claymore warrior was different enough so that each was distinguishable from the other. What really stood out were the gorgeous fight scenes. Intense, fluid and jammed packed with excitement. One thing I particularly enjoyed was the involvement of multiple claymores in despatching the tougher 'Awakened'. It was refreshing to see something slightly different than the usual one-on-one confrontations. Knowing that an entire claymore could slaughter with ease a brigade of well-trained humans was terrifying enough. Seeing that 4-5 claymores were needed against one 'Awakened' made you realise just how dangerous these enemies were.

Story: Much like it's ancient european style, the story of Claymore was a double-edged sword. If you have never seen "Bleach" or "Berserk", I would have agreed that Claymore deserved 2007"s #1 spot. The story of one warrior getting stronger with each confrontation and battling impossible odds along the way, until the protagonist can fulfil their destiny of gaining revenge is a story arc that has been done to death. I could not help but think that the creative minds of Claymore were close to "Berserk" that looked at Guts. The flashback for episode 8 was perhaps the turning point for the show. Without this insightful interlude into Clare's past and motivation, the entire story would have gone up in smoke. The ending was my biggest grievance. I felt like smashing my PC when I saw the ending of "Berserk" and I nearly ended up doing the exact same thing with Claymore. I am aware that the manga is still ongoing, but please don’t do a "Berserk" if you want to keep the fans happy. I’m still waiting for the next season of "Berserk" (after years of waiting) and at this rate, I’ll be a grandmother before I see anything similar from Claymore. No matter what type of anime fan you are, trust me… you too will hate Claymore's ending.

Characters: WARNING THIS SECTION CONTAINS SPOILERS. Admittedly, I found the very strong female cast a godsend in a genre normally dominated by superhero male protagonists. All of them were serious, strong, able fighters with a painful history and back-story. Character development was generally good (even from Clare) and apart from Raki, I didn’t feel a sense of superficiality from any of the other characters. I’ll leave my criticism of Raki for later. There was a pleasant change of character when Priscilla made her entrance. My first impressions of her were of being the most immature and childish of ALL the claymores in the entire series. I honestly felt that she could have been the joker of the pack for the claymores and if that had been the case, it would have destroyed the dark and serious mood of the show. Luckily I learned long ago not to trust first impressions! Priscilla was the show’s antagonist-in-chief and to see the reason why Clare was so determined to exact her revenge was gruesomely visceral. However, like all the female 'Awakened', I did feel a sense of sorrow for Priscilla. Continuing my criticism of Raki, he was an absolutely despicable character. Why and how was he able to stop a rampant Clare from fulfilling her revenge with some truly horrendous lines right at the very end? It was just sheer stupidity on the part of the studio to have made a character as weak and useless as Raki. I was glad that he had disappeared for most of the second half of the series. Raki was perhaps the greatest disappointment of the entire show. He is my most hated character in 2007 for god sake.

Music: The songs and score were good. The OP was your typical J-Pop song with elements of rock thrown in. It had a very dark, gothic feel with an impendingly fast tempo that perfectly matched the mood of Claymore.

Summary: Claymore shared/ripped much of what made "Berserk" such an entertaining show, whilst combining the strength and power reminiscent of Ichigo from "Bleach". For example, when battling the super-powerful 'Awakened', how many times did Clare say out loud "MORE…MORE…MORE…MORE!" (episode 23 onwards). If that doesn’t sound like a "Bleach" episode, then I’m a Hollow! Overall, I found it entertaining and at times very exciting. Indeed it was a very good series and was one of the better releases of 2007. Whilst I can understand why Claymore was considered a good show by many, what I find difficult to stomach was its over-rated rank of #1. Perhaps with a second season and a continuing story, I would be willing to amend my review. However, there were just so many flaws that clouded an otherwise entertaining series that Claymore would have to settle for a 6/10 score.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 26
* Manga chapters : 1-93 ongoing
* Author : Yagi Norihiro
* Genre : Horror - Drama - Fantasy - Action
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Nineth Blog Post - Vampire Knight (2008) / Vampire Knight Guilty (2009)

2009-07-25T09:53:00.000+08:00

I was attracted to this anime, not because of its horror elements, but due to the drama plot and romance factors emotionally potrayed in the series. The most captivating is the pretty characters artwork and the its mystery. This anime has shot to popularity in 2008 due to the three leads, Yuuki, Zero and Kaname.

The Expressions/Thoughts:
Vampire Knight (VK), apart from the popular mainstream vampire anime is that it took on a somewhat different perspective on the ever popular theme. VK shows that vampire anime aren’t just about blood-feast, killings and flying body parts. They are more than that. As such, I must say that if you’re that thinking this is going to be another action series, similar to Hellsing, then most unfortunately, this is not the show for you. Indeed, this series has minimal fight scenes, as its main focus is on drama and romance. It is especially moving to see how Yuuki tries her best to help Zero, who is constantly distancing himself from her, as he struggles to resist losing his human instinct and to prevent the Level-E Vampire persona from overtaking him. The pace is slow, but not in a boring manner, as it is progressive in how the story develops, in featuring the sufferings that Zero undergo to maintain his identity as a "human." Admittedly, the plot for this series is not that fantastic (honestly, how much originality can one expect from a vampire show anyway?), and there isn’t much of a plot twist, but the way the story unfolds, is what really made it such a great show. The animation quality is excellent; nice classical-gothic art style, with great details, even in the background. And since this is shoujo, we certainly cannot mention the graphics without commenting on the cast full of vampire bishies. My main complain with this series is the character development, which I find quite lacking. For one thing, Yuuki was a rather typical character. As for Kaname, well, can’t really comment much yet, since his motives are still shrouded in mystery. Zero is no doubt the one who really drives the series, even though Yuuki is the protagonist. Idou appears to be more than just the laid back personal. Hopefully they will explore the personalities of the characters better in season 2. The lack of anything particularly special in the plot and characters are why this series gets only an 8/10. The music is yet another strong point of this series. It really is the sort that’s being played while watching those Classic Vampire films – really creates the aura and the atmosphere, along with the graphics. The OP as well as the animation for it are also great. The animation for the OP has a nice fantasy feel. While I don’t really enjoy the ED, I can’t deny that it has successfully reflected upon the essence of the series. The way the ED features that "abandoned doll" invoked some sort of sorrowful mood, though it would have been better if they cut down on the "ballet girl" and concentrate more on the "doll".The ending is very well executed: it gave a satisfying sense of closure to season 1, and at the same time hyped the viewers for season 2. Particularly with the scene with Kuran Kaname remarking that all his "pieces are assembled", finally ending the series with the phrase on the screen: the sweet dream has not ended. Classy and stylish. Certainly look forward to the sequel, Vampire Knight: Guilty.

Vampire Knight Guilty: As a vampire anime lover I was disapointed in this season 2. However , I found myself watching the whole thing. I mean I had to find out what happened after Vampire Knight. The story part of it drew you in that much.

Art: 7/10. I felt the characters were beautifully drawn, yet the fight scenes left a little to be desired. I felt like there could have been so much more done here. I mean these are vampires and a few of them are supposed to be the most powerful ones.

Music: 10/10. I loved the opening and ending. The BGM added to the feel of the anime.

Story: 8/10. It had just enough to suck you in. Several parts had me cursing the fact I had to wait another week for a new episode. There are several twists in there that have you asking WTF. Then going no way. The ending could have been much better and I feel trying to do this story needed more episodes so you didn't get that rushed feeling.

Character Design: 7/10. The only real issue I had was that there just wasn't enough background on several of the main characters and sometimes the secondary charaters became more interesting. Then again this is going back to the whole "rushed" feeling I had.

Overall: Not too bad of a watch . I was not sad I took the time to watch it at all. It held my interest yet left me a bit disappointed. If you like vampires, it's a must see.

I will recommend reading the manga in order to get a better and wider understanding of this anime, as the anime itself is too short and abrupt. Well, the manga is much better than the anime in this situation.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : Season1-13episodes, Season2-13episodes
* Manga chapters : 1-52 ongoing
* Author : Hino Matsuri
* Genre : Drama - Romance - Supernatural
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Eight Blog Post - Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 (2008)

2009-07-23T10:32:00.000+08:00

CG is an anime which makes you feel all characters have their own dreams, and no one is right or wrong in their actions. Well like Yagami Light in death note, i am totally impressed with his character, intelligence and his thoughts. Similarly, Lelouch is a character that attracts me in his ideals, goals and intelligence as well . You can't say he is a bad ass, neither you can say he is a good guy. However, the character which i dislike the most is Suzaku, makes me wanna kick his ass almost the whole series, grr. Pardon me for this, but i really cannot stand him.

The Expressions/Thoughts:
It has been truly a very very long wait… the much anticipated second season of 2006’s smash hit, Code Geass.
Animation: Thankfully, the studio Sunrise continued where they left off by treating us with some of the best quality animation I've seen. I can't find fault anywhere and totally satisfied. The costume designs were highly original with a distinct aristocratic look for the Britannians and a very pragmatic but stylised uniformity for the Rebellion. Usually I would make quite an issue with this, but it was just the perfect look for Code Geass: R2. Unusually even though I wouldn't consider this a dominant mecha-based show, the mecha were almost as eye-catching as the costumes or the immensely colourful characters.
Story: I was just left shell-shocked when the first season ended on such a cliff-hanger. Since then I have waited patiently for what has been one of the most dramatic shows of the past ten years or so. From the tragic to the traumatic CG: R2 took me on an amazingly intense ride of excitement and suspense. I was left laughing out loud wickedly at the number of occasions where I was taken by utter surprise by an unexpected strategic counter-move or decision by Lelouch. Drama at its very best! At times though, I was left completely stunned and confused at some scenes. For example, once Lelouch had cornered a suicidal Lord Schniezel onboard the flying fortress he had pre-recorded his conversation so has to use his Geass on Schniezel. Even Lelouch admitted that out of all the people on earth he had never out-witted his brother. So how and why then with time clearly not at his disposal? Not that the occasional plot-holes detracted hugely from the entire story. Overall there was so much in terms of story that the odd discrepancy here and there could be over-looked on the grand scheme of things. Fortunately, there was only the one filler episode (number 12) and even then it was a welcome breather from the near chaotic pacing of the show. The last 3 to 4 episodes were initially confusing due to the change of allegiance from some of the main protagonists and antagonists. However, the ending made EVERYTHING completely clear for all to see. It as a brilliantly crafted ending to finish one of the best entertainment sagas I've seen.
Characters: Looking back at both seasons, I totally agree and understand why Lelouch was recently voted the best anime character of 2008. Only Light Yagami from Death Note comes close to the ruthlessness and calculating monstrosity that is Lelouch Lamperouge.
Saying goes -"The needs of the one, outweigh the needs of the many."This single quote summed up the sacrifices that the lead character took in order to create a better world for his beloved Nunnally. He showed no hesitation in realising his ambition to achieve this most noble and selfless of goals. Even if it meant destroying the world as we know it, betraying everyone that he held dearest and becoming the most hated man in history he pursued it with absolute conviction and supposed heroism.
As for the rest of the characters; there was a large cast with interesting and individual personalities that kept things interesting right to the very end. As a stand-alone series, much has been left out regarding character development. I would recommend watching the previous season to get a better understanding of the drives of some of the more important cast members. I was shocked that Charles vi Britannia, the main antagonist and the main driving force of Lelouch's vengeance was killed off along with his own mother so quickly. In a way this altered the perception of just who the 'bad guy' really was. Everyone had their own ideas and motivations for doing what they felt were the just thing.

Music/Sound: The music was excellent, as in season 1. Please refer to Season 1 review for this sector.

Summary: For the most part, CG: R2 was one of the better shows of 2008. Yes, it had some plot holes that didn't make any sense whatsoever. The fact that I didn't think about these little flaws during the episodes shows just how compelling and exciting the story was. Aside from these little problems, there were still so many plus points in this anime.

Namely: The near perfect animation with original designs (character, mecha, background etc)The innovatively crafted cast of characters that never seemed dull or shallow.
Brilliantly composed and arranged score.
An ending that was nearly as shocking as it can be.
Tons of story plot and twists, which makes viewers unable to predict what it's coming.

A rollercoaster of a story that was as momumental as it was intriguing.
This series is already stored in my computer and added into my favourite anime collection and it's truly a great anime even if you watch years later.

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 25
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
* Genre : Action - Drama - Mecha - Military - Science-Fiction
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Seventh Blog Post - Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006)

2009-07-22T13:36:00.000+08:00

I am very excited to blog about this anime although I had completed watching Season 1 & 2 of Code Geass last year. All i can say that it is an awesome anime. Even now, i am still excited about this anime, and i will probably re-watch it over and over again when i have the time. If you love DEATH NOTE + GUNDAM SEED, this is the anime you are looking for. Here is the review on Season 1.

The Expressions/Thoughts:
Code Geass, is the dark horse of the year 2006, a series in which I initially didn’t intend to watch, as I was expecting it to be just another mecha produced by Sunrise to accommodate the fact that there was no Gundam series for that year. After watching the first episode, about the male protagonist involving in a weapon stealing situation... i was captivated and turn my total concentration on this anime. I realise that i've underestimate this anime. Code Geass turned out to more than just a mecha series.

Story/Dev: (9/10) The plot isn’t anything special, nothing really unique either. It is essentially a rather typical storyline about a cast away Prince who seeks revenge. A storyline rather common in plays revolving round conflicts among the royals' family. Then again, the theme of revenge has always been a interesting storyline, popular among many and for many ages. So, how is it that a series consisting of so many generic storylines is able to become one of the most phenomenal series of the recent years? All I can say is that Sunrise productions played its cards really well in the production of Code Geass. What is so special, and thus made it deserve a high rating, is how the story develops. And it is how it progresses that make the overall storyline complex and so engaging. The concept of the Geass itself is also rather fresh. Also, I have always loved the symbolism of chess plays, however mild or insignificant it is, that is being portrayed in anime, and CG had lots of them. They certainly have done a splendid job in the scripting of this series.

Characters/Dev: (9/10) The characters’ development is the strong point of this series. Indeed, Lelouch, the main protagonist, is certainly not the obvious good guy. And yet, branding him a “villain" doesn’t really fit the bill either. As far as anti-hero archetype goes, it does seem like Yagami Light (Death Note) is the closest in comparison. But of course, on a deeper level, Lelouch is a much, much more complex character than Light, which is understandable considering the nature of the series’ stories. In addition, even the antagonist Suzaku is more than what he seems to be, and I certainly cannot simply classify him under the archetypal justice-upholding Hero. Because, similar to Lelouch, his personality is much darker and much more complex than that. The side cast, on the other hand, I’ve heard of complaints about how it is just ripping off from characters of Gundam Seed. However, I have to say that Code Geass has taken the relationship duality to an even deeper (and more realistic) level, making this aspect to be even more intriguing than that of Seed’s. The roles are also changed in this series. In most mecha, the protagonists are usually the ones piloting the mecha and fighting in the frontline. Lelouch, on the other hand, plays the role of one who leads and plans the battles. In short, the protagonist of Code Geass is the leader and strategist, rather than just the soldier. But on the other end of the spectrum, the viewers can’t help but question if, by the end of it, Lelouch is really the “King" controlling the scene or the “Pawn" being played on by the Emperor. Or that they are essentially the same since the “King" is but another chess piece on the chessboard, and that Lelouch can never escape from the Emperor’s control no matter what he attempts to do. The voice acting for Lelouch has pretty much stolen the show. His role as the voice of Lelouch was definitely terrific in how he managed to bring out the arrogance of Lelouch.

Animation/Graphics/Design: (9/10) Since character designs are done by CLAMP, I just have to give this section high score simply because I’m a fan of CLAMP’s art styles. CG boasts beautiful character designs and fantastic animation quality. Lelouch’s emotions, particularly his facial expressions, are all very accurately and realistically shown. The only complaint is that the character design for Suzaku is so freakin’ Syaoran (Tsubasa Chronicles). But why is it so, CLAMP? Do they really *have* to throw in a Syaoran for almost everything they draw? As for the mecha, I don’t have much to say. After all, it is the usual Sunrise style and all.

Music: (9/10) The music is fantastic too! The first OP, while no doubt good, is not really fitting for this anime: the mood of the song is too “happy" for a series such as Code Geass. I disliked OP2 though. OP3 was also good, though it resembled too much to a Gundam-ish sort of OP. BGMs used are really well chosen. I like generally all of the EDs.

Summary: At this point of time, I doubt I’ll need to recommend this series: it’s already too well known. Now off to my review for Code Geass R2 in order to truly finish my review for Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion!
**Personal Overall Rating: 90%

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 25
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
* Genre : Action - Drama - Mecha - Military - Science-Fiction
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links

Sixth Blog Post - Toradora! (2008)

2009-07-22T10:27:00.000+08:00

I was glad that i watched this anime series although the two anime leads didn't capture my interest (by looking at the picture). But hey, do not judge the book by its cover, after each episode i have grown to like the characters more and more. Push aside those drama, dark and matured anime that makes my heart so heavy, this anime give me a happy and peaceful feeling. All i can say is, it is truly the best anime in 2008.

The Expression/Thoughts:
Storyline/ Plot: (10/10) The story started off well and had a refreshing feel. Both the main male and female protagonists have very distinct and unique characteristics and facial/body features which adds lots of value in this love/comedy anime. At the beginning, the story seems to be rather focused in bringing Ryuji and Minori; Taiga and Kitamura together. Through the many events that happened, Ryuji and Taiga ended up together and all was able to end with a very pleasant note. The overall story quality was outstanding, showing deep plots involving friendship and the complexity of love. There are certain segments in the story that makes Toradora! truly amazing. First of all would be the events leading up to the school festival. It was absolutely emotional when Taiga's past was brought up and the character interactions showed us true friendship. Another segment would be the Christmas party and Ski resort school trip. The Christmas party epsiodes manages to show how love can be developed unknowingly. The last marvelous segment would be the ending. The ending was conclusive and leaves behind a strong impression.

Characters: (10/10) There are three very important characters in Toradora! besides Taiga and Ryuji. They are their best pals, Minori, Kitamura and Ami. Each of the five characters were given enough time for proper character development and manages to show us their unique personalities. Here's a brief introduction to these five characters: Taiga, aka Palm top tiger, is stubborn and fierce at times but has a very sweet side at times. Her petite body and long wavely hair makes her look like a cute doll. She is also extremely shy when it comes to love. She seems rather unorganized and does not really seems to be able to take care of herself. She has a complex family background. Ryuji, has a intimidating delinquent look due to his slit eyes but he is actually a very kind person who has a gentle personality. He is totally obsesed with cleaning (especially when he sees moldes). It is surprising that he manages to click well with Taiga and seems to act like Taiga's father/elder brother at times. Minori is a hyper-active baseball girl. She tend to hide her true feelings by showing that she is very tough and hyper-active. She is always very concerned for Taiga and is Taiga's best friend. She is also the Baseball club's president. Kitamura, aka God of Broken Hearts, is a smart and eccentric guy. He is Ryuji's good friend. He seems to like Taiga when they were in the first year. He is considerate and extremely funny. His santa claus outfit is really funny. Ami, aka baka Chi (stands for stupid chiwawa) nickname given by Taiga, is a haughty model. She puts up a different personality at first (one which is kind and bubbly) so that she could gain friendship. She starts showing her true self after listening to Ryuji. Despite her arrogant, and mature personality, she is actually very caring towards her friends and wishes to be treated as her age (instead of an adult). She is Kitamura's childhood friend. With all their uniqueness added together, it brings out true comedy, friendship and love.

Animation/ Graphics: 10/10 Character designs were very unique and complete with a great array of facial expressions and emotions. The good use of bright colours and dark colours at appropriate scenes were great. The scenaries were simple but well drawn with the right amount of details.

Songs/ Music: 10/10 I truly love all the songs present in Toradora!. This would include both the opening themes and ending themes and most importantly, the christmas insert song.

Overall: 10/10 This is one of those rare anime that is truly above the rest. With a great storyline consisting of bits of comedy and tons of emotions, this is one anime not to be missed. The great voice cast is a great plus point for this anime. Toradora! has certainly rised the bar for comedy/love genre animes and will be one of my top favourite animes list. Toradora!, the perfect anime, is truly a MUST watch for all anime fans!

Information to interested viewers:
* Anime series of episodes : 25
* Manga chapters : -
* Author : -
* Genre : Slice of Life - Comedy
* Watch Online : Email to prishlc@hotmail.com for episode links