1st of May 2001
Dear Diary,
Life was best when mom was alive,
she’ll always be there when I needed her. Now she’s gone, I don’t know
what to do. I remember her telling me one line. If there’s someone you love,
someone you think is your love for your life, he is the life worth dying for.
Mom’s been helping me to do so much when I was younger. Guess that I must keep
on going to make her proud.
Now that mom died, I had to stay with my grandparents. My dad died when I
was 2. Now I’m already 19. I was a geeky girl, that’s what they use to say.
With my poodle kind of hair and glasses, I think I am a geeky girl after all.
Papa and mama are going to pick me up at the airport in Dublin, Ireland. They
live in Sligo. They own a farm over there.
I arrived at Dublin airport about 5:15 in the evening, having to fly out
from London. Papa and mama was already waiting for me there, waving their hands
and calling me. “Val! Val! Over here!” they shouted out. I waved back
happily and ran towards them with a trolley of my stuff. “Papa, mama, how nice
to see you again!” I told them. “It’s good to see you again Val, you look
so beautiful,” she said. “Thank you mama, how are you papa?” I said after
hugging mama and giving her a kiss. “Come here my little princess,” papa
said. I walked over to him and hugged him. “I missed you,” I told them as we
walked out the airport. “And we miss you too,” papa said. We talked for a
while till we reached the car. Papa helped me to load my things into the car.
“So little Val, care to take a bite before heading back to Sligo?”
Papa asked. “Sure papa,” I told him. We stopped by at a restaurant in Dublin
for a snack. “This restaurant is one of mama and papa’s best friend’s
restaurant,” mama said. “Really?” I told them as we got inside. It was
lively inside, and I loved it straight away. We took a seat. “Hello and
welcome to Barney’s, I’m Bryan and I’ll be your waiter,” the cute blonde
guy said as he passed the menus. “I’ll take the salad and chicken soup,” I
told him. “Alright,” Bryan replied while he jots them down. Papa and mama
ordered something light too. Bryan then went off into the kitchen. “So papa,
how’s the school like in Sligo?” I asked curiously. “We’ve signed you up
in Summer Hill College and we know you like music, so we’ve signed you up for
music classes too,” mama said. I thanked them happily. Music was my life. Mom
would always play the piano with me and I’ve learned a lot from her.
2nd of May 2001
Dear Diary,
The first day went smoothly. After
dinner, mama and papa brought me home and told me I could stay in mom’s room.
It was beautiful, it was filled with mom’s old pictures and she looked so
beautiful then. Tomorrow will be my first day in Summer Hill and I can’t wait
for music classes. Oh yeah, Bryan from Barney’s was cute; something tells me
that I’m going to meet him again. That’s all for today, I need to rest now.
Goodnight.
“I’m late!” I shouted as I ran downstairs. I quickly drank my tea
and grabbed my toast and quickly ran out of the house after wishing farewell to
papa and mama. “She’s just like Rose, very clumsy,” mama said and smiled.
I quickly ran towards the school and luckily papa showed me the way the day
before, if not, I’m definitely lost. I arrived at school only in about 3
minutes and thanked my lucky stars, as school hasn’t started yet. I didn’t
stop tough, but bumped into a guy instead. “Are you alright?” he said to me,
offering a hand. I looked up and noticed his bright hazel brown eyes. “Y…
yeah,” I said as I took hold of his hand. “Hi, I’m Shane, I’ve never
noticed you here before,” he told me. “Oh, that’s because I’m new here,
I just moved into Sligo yesterday,” I explained as I fix my glasses.
“Welcome then, to Sligo and Summer Hill College,” he said in a friendly
tone. “And you are?” Shane continued. “Just call me Val,” I told him.
“So, what’s your first class?” “Hmm… Music,” I told him cheerfully.
“I’m in that too, let me show you to the classroom,” he offered. “Thank
you,” I replied happily.
The
class was wonderful, I’m starting to like Sligo very much, and everyone is
friendly, including the teachers. “So Val, where are you from?” Shane asked
during recess. “London,” I told him as I chew off a piece of tuna sandwich
that mama made for me. “Why did you move to Ireland then?” Shane asked.
“Well… my mom died a few days ago, so I’m now staying with my
grandparents,” I told him. “Oh, I’m sorry,” Shane, said apologetically.
“It’s okay,” I replied. “Uhh… you have…” Shane said as he pointed
to my nose. I tried to look at my nose, and it was totally embarrassing. Shane
somehow was giggling beside me. “What is it?” I asked nervously. “Here let
me help you,” Shane said as he took a napkin out and wiped my nose. There was
mayonnaise on my nose. I felt my face turning red as Shane lifted my head up and
wiped it off. His hands were soft. “T… Thanks,” I said shyly. “No
problem,” he replied.
Shane
decided to walk me home after school, “How sweet of him,” I taught to
myself. We talked about lots of things, his obsessions with horses and music,
our lives and family. “Well… here’s where I live,” I told him as I
pointed towards papa and mama’s house. “No way, your grandparents are Mr.
And Mrs. Garth?” he asked. “Yeah, why?” I asked curiously. “My mom and
dad are very close friends with them, they even treated me like their own
grandson,” Shane told me. “Would you like to come in for tea then?” I
offered. “Sure,” Shane replied.
“Papa!
Mama! I’m home, and look what followed me!” I joked. Papa and mama came out
of the living room. “Shane dear, how nice to see you again,” Mama said as
she hugged Shane. “Yeah, I’ve missed you,” Shane said. He also greeted
papa. “Well, I’ll go prepare tea with mama, why don’t you two have a
seat?” I said as I led mama to the kitchen. “I see you’ve met little
Shane,” mama said in the kitchen. “Yeah mama, he was very sweet, he even
accompanied me during school,” I told mama. “You two make such a great
couple,” mama said. “Mama!” I replied as I blushed.
“Here
you go boys,” Mama said as she served the tea. “Thanks Mrs. Garth,” Shane
replied politely. We talked a lot about how Shane was when he was young and
everything else. I even noticed him blushing and he was very cute when he did
that. “Oh mama, I’ve been thinking about having a job to earn some money,”
I told mama. “Why, we have enough to pay for you,” papa said. “I don’t
want to use your retirement money,” I replied. “Why don’t you come work
with me?” Shane said. “Yes, it would be wonderful!” Mama replied. “What
job?” I asked. “A waitress, my parents own a café here in Sligo, it’s the
Carlton Café, I work there too,” Shane explain. “Can I papa?” I asked.
“Are you sure pumpkin?” papa asked. “Yes, I could even learn to cook,” I
replied. “Very well then, you have my permission,” papa said. I was happy;
mom would never let me work in London. “It’s still open, we could go there
now if you want to,” Shane said. “Sure, I’ll go change first,” I replied
as I ran upstairs.
“Now,
take good care of Val okay?” papa said to Shane. “I will Mr. Garth, don’t
worry,” Shane replied as we left the house. We then headed not so far away to
a blue building with a large sign on it, ‘Carlton Café’. “This is it,”
Shane said as he opened the door and invite me in. “Mom, dad, I want you to
meet Mr. And Mrs. Garth’s granddaughter, Val,” Shane introduced me towards
his parents. Shane’s mother, Mae, gasped “My god! Rose’s daughter? You
look just like her!” she said excitedly, so was Peter, Shane’s dad. “She
wants a job here in the café,” Shane explained as he put down his bag and
books. “Really? We have an opening for a waitress,” Mae said happily.
“I’ll take it,” I quickly said. “Shane will teach you what to do, and
there’s an extra apron behind, welcome to the Carlton’s,” aunt Mae said.
“Thank you,” I replied. “Here let me show you around,” Shane said as he
held my hand and led me behind. I began to blush again as he grabbed my hand, it
was warm and soft.
“Here,
put this on,” he told me as he passed me a brown apron. I wore it and followed
him. “This is the kitchen, where we store our food,” Shane said as he
pointed to the room. “You will be helping me serve the food,” Shane said.
“Okay,” I told him and we started our job. It was kind of hard at first, I
tried to remember all the table numbers, there were so many of them. “Table 2
honey,” Mae said as she passed a plate of mashed potatoes, beans and
vegetables. “Table 2, Table 2,” I keep reminding myself. The plate was on my
hand and I was still looking around, “Table 3, 4, then that’s 5, nope… I
think that’s 7,” I mumbled to myself confusedly. “It’s that one over
there,” said a voice behind me. I turned around and saw another cute guy
behind me. He was taller than me with dark hair and baby blue eyes. “That’s
table number 2,” he said. “T… Thanks,” I replied stuttering. His eyes
were so warm and soft; I can just feel it. I quickly walked towards the table
and served the food. Then I quickly got into the bathroom. “Woo boy, Ireland
sure has lots of cuties around,” I said to myself in front of the mirror.
“This funny feeling every time I see a boy around, what is it?” I continued
to speak to myself. “Val? Are you in there? Are you okay?” Shane said.
“Yeah, I’m okay,” I told him. “Gosh, he even cares about me!” I
taught. I opened the door and noticed Shane and the guy I just met outside.
Suddenly the feeling inside me just tangled up and my reaction was going back
into the bathroom stall and keeping the door shut. “Val? Are you okay?”
Shane asked. I just kept quiet; my heart was beating very fast. He started to
knock on the door. “Val, are you all right? Val?” he said worriedly. I
slowly opened the door and peeked outside. He was still there with Shane.
“Val, are you all right?” he said once again. I finally opened the door.
“What’s wrong? You’re scaring me,” Shane said. “Oh, nothing,” I
lied. “Anyway, this is my close friend Mark,” he said. He held out his hand
and I shook it. “Thank you about just now,” I said shyly. “No problem,”
he replied. “What happened just now?” Shane asked curiously. “Nothing,”
I said as I walked passed them. He looked at Mark; he just raised his shoulders
and followed me.
“So,
how did you two meet?” Mark asked. “We’re in the same class,” Shane
said, “Music,” I continued. “Where are you from?” Mark asked again.
“London,” Shane replied. “For goodness sake Shane, I’m asking Val,”
Mark replied. “Sorry,” Shane apologized. I just giggled. “So, what brings
you to Sligo?” Mark asked. “Don’t ask!” Shane replied. “SHANE!” Mark
said furiously. “It’s okay Shane… my mom died a few days ago, so I moved
here with my grandparents,” I explained. “Oh, I’m very sorry,” Mark,
said. “Told you so,” Shane whispered at the side, then Mark elbowed him.
“It’s okay,” I giggled. I was happy when these two guys were around; they
seem to cheer me up a lot.
3rd of May 2001
Dear Diary,
My life was getting better, thanks
to Shane and Mark; they seem to be very friendly people. We’ve talked a lot
today in the café. The job was okay; I think I’m getting better in it. I
heard that Mark was in the same school too, but I didn’t notice him. About the
strange feeling, I don’t know what’s it about, I’ve felt it when Shane was
around, and now Mark too. Do you think its… love? No, that’s silly, but what
if it is? With both of them? Oh god, please help me. I don’t know what to do.
“I’m
late again!” I shouted as I run downstairs quickly. “Don’t you guys have
an alarm clock?” I told them as I quickly drank my tea. “No dear,” mama
said. “Oh, okay,” I said. “Bye papa, bye mama,” I bid farewell to them.
I ran as fast as I could. At a turning, I banged into someone and fell hard on
the floor. “Owww…” I said painfully. “Are you okay?” a voice said. I
looked up and noticed blonde guy wearing the same uniform. “Yeah, you’re
from Summer Hill?” I asked. “Yeah, we better hurry,” he said. I tried to
get up, but my leg hurt. I’ve just sprained my leg. “Here, let me help
you,” he said as he lifted me on his back. “WHOA!” I shouted. “Don’t
worry, I’ll be careful,” he said to me. I blushed. He has strong arms and a
slightly build body too. “I’m Kian, by the way,” he said. “I… I’m
Val,” I told him. He smiled as he carried me to school. He dropped me off at
the school clinic, where the nurse fixed my leg. The strange feeling came into
me again, the same one when I met Mark and Shane. “Ohhh… you’re face is
turning red,” the nurse said. “W… What?” I said as I felt my face, it
was hot. “You fancy that guy don’t you?” she continued. “N… no! No!
Absolutely no! Na-ah! Nope!” I said panicky. She just smiled as I walk out of
the clinic. “Be careful!” she said. “Thanks!” I replied loudly.
“What
happened to you?” Shane said as the pencil in his mouth fell. “Oh,
nothing,” I said as I smiled. “You don’t look good, what’s with the
bandage on your leg?” Shane said worriedly. “Wow, he’s soooo caring!” I
said to myself as he helped me on the chair. “Okay, I sprained my leg,” I
told him. “Then, you should be at home instead,” he said. “Well, I kinda
sprained it on the way here,” I told him. “How?” he asked. “I guess you
two are having a good conversation here?” said Mr. Lyle, our history teacher.
“Sorry teach…” Shane and I said. “I’ll tell you later,” I whispered.
“Am
I falling in love with everyone I met?” I said to myself. “What are you
thinking?” the cute blonde said. “I was… hey! It’s you!” I said with
shock. “Yeah, how’s your leg?” he asked. “It’s fine, I didn’t get to
say thank you,” I told him. “You’re welcome,” he replied. “May I sit
here?” he asked. “Well… I’m waiting for someone, but sure, have a
seat,” I told him. “I would like to know more about you,” he asked.
“Before that, your name’s Kian right?” I asked. “Yeah, Val,” he
replied and smiled. He was so handsome. “Why are you here then, I’ve never
seen you before,” he asked. “Don’t ask, we’ll tell you later,” Shane
said behind me, and Mark was behind Kian. I fell my heart beating fast;
something was triggered in me. “What’s wrong Val?” Mark asked. I wasn’t
feeling very good. I tried to leave, but instead, I tripped and embarrassed
myself. “Are you alright Val?” Shane asked as he picked me up. “Oh no,
I’m in his arms!” I taught to myself. “Man, look how embarrass she is, her
face’s like lava already,” Mark said to Kian. “Ohhh… god,” I
whispered. Shane was giving me his angel smile. “I’m guessing that Kian
helped you here right?” he said as he lifted me up. “Y… Yeah,” I told
him. I noticed that Shane was a little disturbed by it. “So, you guys know
each other?” I asked as Shane settled me down on the bench. “Yeah, we’re
close friends,” Mark said. “That’s good… at least Bryan isn’t,” I
said. “You know Bryan McFadden?” Kian said. “Oh no, you guys know him? The
waiter in Barney’s?” I said. “Yeah, we know him!” Mark said joyfully.
“My god, is everyone I’m going to meet related with each other?” I taught.
6th of May 2001
Dear Diary,
It’s the weekend already; the guys invited me to a
party that was held in Dublin. Guess that Bryan would be there. It’s kind of
weird; I’m actually hanging out with the boys more than the girls. Papa and
mama didn’t mind, they think it’s better since I’ll have more protection
from boys. He asked of us to stay off the beer too. Thank god he did, I might
have to drink, being with the guys and all. I don’t think I look good, so I
asked mama to help me, so we’re going shopping before the party.
The
doorbell rang. Papa opened it. “Hello Mr. Garth, is Val ready yet?” Shane
asked, while Mark and Kian was waiting behind him. All of them were dressed up
cool and handsome. “She’ll be down in the moment,” papa said. “Remember,
stay off the beer,” he continued. “Sure Mr. Garth,” Shane said nervously.
“You look beautiful Val,” mama told me. “Thank you mama,” I replied. I
think I do look beautiful, the dress mama picked was really cool, guess that my
old grandma has taste for future fashion too. She even brought me to the saloon
to fix my hair. I got mom’s earrings, it was the one dad gave to her for her
wedding; she passed it to me before she died. “Ready Val? Wow, you look
beautiful,” papa said. “Thank you papa,” I said. I walked down the stairs
and towards the door. “Whoa…” Mark mumbled as he pointed to the door.
Shane and Kian turned and was also stunned. “Stop staring,” I said shyly.
“You look beautiful,” Kian said. “Very… very… stunning,” Mark
continued. “Like an angel, a gift from heaven,” Shane ended. I was touched
by Shane’s remark; it was lovely. “Thank you gentlemen,” I said as I
walked down the steps. Kian opened the door and let me in. “Next stop,
Dublin,” I said.
It
took us quite a while to arrive Dublin. It was rather far, but we made it. It
was a party that I’ve never been to before. It has loud music, and lots of…
how do you say it? Cool people… I need a drink, after a long trip. I went to
the punch table and took a cup. “Here, let me help you,” said a young blonde
man. “Thank you,” I said as I passed him my cup. He filled it in and passed
it to me. “I’m Nicky, Nicky Bryne,” he said. “Just call me Val,” I
told him.
“What brings you here?”
“Oh, I followed some friends,”
“Girls?”
“No, boys,”
“You’re from Dublin?”
“Sligo,”
“Oh, I have a few friends there too,” he said.
“Please tell me they aren’t Shane, Kian and Mark,” I asked
nervously
“Why yes, you followed them
here?”
I taught I was about to faint. There it goes again, almost everyone I met
seems to know each other. “Uhhh… you don’t look so good,” Nicky said.
“I just need to rest,” I said. My head was turning; I didn’t know what
happened. “Is there alcohol in this punch?” I asked as I sat on a chair.
Nicky sniffed the drink, “Yeah, there is, someone must have added it in,” he
explained. “Oh… I don’t feel well,” I said dizzily. “Here, let me take
you outside, you need some fresh air,” he said. “I think so,” I replied.
Nicky
guided me out of the crowded house and into the lawn outside. “Man, only about
5 minutes and I’m almost knocked out,” I said giggling a bit. “Yeah, but
it’s okay, I’ll accompany you for a while,” Nicky said sweetly. I began to
blush again. We sat on the swing. “I must be wasting your time aren’t I?”
I told him. “It’s okay, I’m free right now, I didn’t really want to come
to this place either,” he told me. “Why not?” I asked. “It’s crowded,
and I don’t like loud noises and drunken people,” he explained. “Kinda
weird, hearing that from a GUY” I said. He started to laugh. We talked for a
while when Shane appeared.
“Where
have you been? I was looking for you,” Shane said worriedly. “She’s
knocked out by the alcohol,” Nicky said. “No… we promised her grandfather
that we’ll not drink those,” Shane said panicking. “I’m alright Shane,
I’m feeling better now,” I told him. “Why don’t you look after her now,
I’m going to go look for Bryan,” Nicky said as he got up from the swing.
“Sure,” Shane replied as Nicky left. “I walked over to the bench at the
side of the swing and Shane followed. “Come, sit with me,” I said as I sat.
Shane sat next to me silently. “I’ve never got to know more about your
family,” I asked Shane. “Well, you’ve already met my parents, I have 3
brothers and 3 sisters,” he said. “Wow, and your parents were able to raise
you guys without problems?” I asked. “Yeah, they said I was spoilt,” he
said smiling. “No doubt,” I replied laughing. We sat silent for a while,
“How about you?” Shane asked. “Well… my dad was died when I was two, you
also knew about my mom and my grandparents, I’ve heard about me having a
brother, but I never got the chance to ask,” I said worriedly. “A
brother?” he said curiously. “Yeah, I think I’ve overheard my mom talking
about another son, and something of being Irish, I remembered that my mom
suffered quite a lot too when dad died,” I explained. “I’m sorry,” he
said softly. “You don’t have to,” I said smiling a bit. We then looked up
at the moon above us. “Val?” he whispered. “Yeah?” I replied. He was
looking at me, his eyes were looking into mine, the soft tender look, and it
caressed my soul. “N… Nothing,” he quickly said and turned away.
7th of May 2001
Dear Diary,
Shane was kind enough to send me home, the other guys decided to stay back at Bryan’s house. Last night was great, the part where Shane was looking into my eyes. I wish he’ll look at me that way again, his beautiful eyes looking deep into mine, telling me more than any words can say. I think I’m falling in love with this boy… no, man, this thoughtful, lovable and handsome man. What should I do? Does he love me too? Should I tell him the truth? I’m confused; please help me. But how about Mark and Kian, the strange feeling in me was still there when they are around. I’m glad I didn’t have the same feelings toward Nicky and Bryan, if not, I’ll be worst still.
“Papa,
do… I have a brother?” I finally asked. Papa was silent as he looked at me,
so was mama. “Well… I think it’s time we told you, yes, you do,” he
said. I felt my heart skipped a beat. “Please don’t tell me that Shane is
him,” I said. “No, silly, it’s not Shane,” mama said. “Thank lord,”
I said to myself. “Then who is it?” I continued to ask. “Well, we
haven’t meet him before either, the only thing we know about him is that
he’s living in Galway,” papa said. “Galway? Why?” I asked curiously.
“Rose had a friend living there, she wanted her to look after him,” mama
said. “Do you even have his name?” I asked. “Vincent Fred Michael,” papa
said. “Do you have his address?” I asked excitedly. “Yeah,” mama said as
she went over to the telephone table, after a few minutes, she returned with a
piece of paper. “Here,” she said as she passed me the piece of paper. There
was an address on it. “I’ll go look for him tomorrow” I said. “Are you
sure? All alone?” mama said. “Don’t worry mama, I would be okay,” I said
as I ran upstairs to start packing.
“I
heard that you are going to Galway,” Shane said as he helps me to clear the
dishes on the table. “Yeah, I finally got the address of my long lost
brother,” she said. “Really? Want me to go along… for company that is,”
Shane said. “Depends if you’re free tomorrow,” I said as we walked to the
kitchen with the dirty dishes. “Sure I am,” Shane quickly answered. “Then,
you better pack tonight, we’re leaving early in the morning,” I told him.
“Okay,
here’s your sandwich,” mama said as she passed me a brown bag. “Thank you
mama, wish me luck,” I said as I gave her a peck on the cheek. “Take good
care of her, okay Shane?” mama said. “I will Mrs. Garth,” Shane replied. I
got into his car and off we went to Galway. “Eager to meet your brother?”
Shane asked. “Yeah,” I said nervously. “Relax, we’ll find him,” Shane
said. “Thanks,” I replied.
The
trip didn’t take that long; we arrived there after a few hours. We stopped
just outside of Vincent’s house. “Here we are,” Shane said. I just took a
deep breath. “Ready?” he asked. “Yeah,” I said and opened the door. We
walked to the front door. I knocked. A young man appeared, around his twenties.
“Yes?” he said. “Vincent? Vincent Fred Michael?” I asked nervously.
“Yeah, how may I help you?” he asked. I was feeling a bit better. “It’s
me, Val!” I shouted. “Val? VAL!” he too shouted as his eyes grew bigger. I
hugged him. “My god Val, you look so beautiful,” he said. “Thank you, you
don’t look bad either,” he said. “What brings you to Galway?” he said.
“Well, I’m staying with mama and papa,” I said. “Why, where’s mom?”
he said. “Well… she died last month,” I told him sadly. He gasped. “Mom
died? How? Why?” he quickly said. “Can we talk inside? It’s kinda cold
outside,” I said shivering. “Why, sure of course,” he quickly said. Shane
and I walked in. “By the way, this is Shane Filan, a best friend,” I said.
Both of them shook hands. We sat on his sofa. “Well, mom died of cancer,” I
told him. “What a pity,” he said. “You should go visit her, she’s not
too far away from mama and papa’s house,” I told him. “I will,” he
replied. We then chatted for a while. “Silly me, I haven’t made tea, wait
here okay?” Vincent said.
“Ummm…
Val? I don’t feel so comfortable, your brother seem to be staring at me a
lot,” Shane whispered. “What do you mean?” I replied. “I… I think
he’s gay,” Shane said nervously. “Don’t be silly,” I answered. “Why
don’t you ask him what he does, I bet he does make-up or fashion,” Shane
said. Vincent then returned with cups of tea. “So Vince, what do you work
as?” I asked. “Well… I do make-up and a bit of fashion designing,” he
replied. I notice Shane hitting me a bit. “That still doesn’t prove he’s
gay,” I whispered softly to Shane. Shane hit me again, I looked at Vince when
he drank he’s tea, and his little finger was lifted as he drank from the cup.
“Still?” I replied, not wanting to believe that Vince was gay. “Hey
Vincent, are… are you gay?” Shane asked quickly, I hit Shane at the side of
his ribs. “You don’t have to answer him,” I said quickly and drank my tea.
“Why yes I am,” Vincent replied. I then spat out the tea I just drank.
Vincent was just staring at me, and then staring at Shane. I turned to my side
and noticed that Shane was soaked. “Ooops…” I said. Vince and I just
started to laugh loudly. “Yeah, vvveeerrryyy funny,” he replied
sarcastically. “Let me show you to the bathroom,” Vincent said. “I…
I’ll look for it myself, thank you,” Shane quickly said. “Suit
yourself,” he replied. Shane got up and was on his way to the bathroom. “You
know what Val? I think you’ll look much more better if you let me give you a
make-over,” Vincent said. “You think so?” I replied. “Yeah, c’mon,”
he continued. He grabbed my hand and brought me to his room. He told me to sit
on the dressing table. He then returned with his make-up kit. “Well, we have
to cut your hair and stuff,” he said as he looked at me through the mirror.
“And we’ll definitely, don’t need this pair of glasses anymore,” he
replied as he took off the glasses. “Let’s start now,” he said.
Shane
came out of the bathroom after washing up and changing to a new pair of
clothing. He returned to the empty living room. “Hey, where did everybody
go?” Shane said. “Who are you!” another man shouted once he got into the
house. “I… uhhh… am a friend of Vincent,” Shane replied. “Really?
Where is he then?” the guy replied. “I don’t know, he disappeared once I
got back from the bathroom,” Shane replied. “Bathroom? Are you telling me
you’re having an affair with my boyfriend?” he shouted. “Wait… no, I’m
not…” Shane said halfway when the guy pounced on him. “Wait!” Shane
tried to shout. “Oh no you won’t,” the man replied. He tried to punch
Shane but was pushed a side. Shane quickly got up and ran behind a chair. “I
can explain,” Shane replied. “How dare you, I’m going to kill you!” he
shouted. Shane was chased all around the house. “VINCENT! VAL!” Shane
shouted as he ran all around the house. Vincent then came down, “Jonathan?
Shane? What are you two doing?” he said. “Oh! Act dumb, like I don’t know
you were having an affair with this cute brunette huh?” Jonathan replied.
“Oh silly, he’s my sister’s friend, she came over to visit me,” Vincent
explained. Jonathan then stared at his feet. “Sorry…” he said softly.
“Don’t be, you’ve just been mistaken,” Vincent said as he hugged
Jonathan. They then kissed each other. “OH GOD! I DIDN’T WANT TO SEE
THAT!” Shane shouted as he turned away. Both of the other guys were laughing.
“Jon, why don’t you suit him up, we are going for some posh dinner
tonight,” Vincent said. “Sure, I’ll be glad to,” Jonathan replied.
“Uhhh… what do you mean by suiting me up?” Shane said worriedly.
“Don’t worry, Jonathan is a clothing designer and men make-up artist,”
Vince said. “I’m not putting on make-up!” Shane replied. “C’mon,
cutie, let’s go,” Jonathan said as he dragged Shane to his room. “VAL!
HELP ME!” Shane shouted.
After
an hour, Vincent and Jonathan came out of their room. “I’m done,” Vince
said. “Me too,” Jonathan replied. “Let’s see Shane first,” Vince said.
“Okay, c’mon Shane,” Jonathan said. Shane then came out of the room. He
was very good looking, he’s hair was in the latest fashion and he was in a
white tuxedo. “Wow, you surely did a great job, I’ll definitely date him!”
Vince said. “I’m going to pretend not to here that,” Shane replied as he
closed his ears. “How’s Val?” Jon replied. Vincent smiled as he got into
the room and came out again. “She’s ready, come on out Val!” Vince
shouted. I came out of the room. I felt like Cinderella. I’ve worn a sexy
white dress and my long hair was cut off and I had a tiara on it, which made me
look like a princess. Shane was stunned again. He had never seen me this
beautiful before; more beautiful than the day we went to Dublin. “Wow,”
Shane replied as he walked over to me. “You look good Shane,” I replied. He
was looking good in that white tuxedo. “You’re even more beautiful, like an
angel… ”
He said. “A gift from heaven,”
I continued. “Ohhh… such a lovely couple,” Vincent said and both him and
Jonathan started to cry. “Oh God,” Shane mumbled.
We then left for a posh dinner at a very expensive restaurant. It was
filled with high-class people. Vincent booked a table earlier today. Shane and I
were like strangers in this place. There was way too much cutlery, and we
didn’t know which one if for which dish. Menus were handed out to us, the
prices was very high, neither Shane nor me dared to order. “What’s wrong?”
Vincent asked. “It’s too pricey,” I replied. “Don’t worry, your
brother here gets lots of money from doing make-up with models,” Jonathan
answered. “So does he,” Vincent said. “Very well then,” I replied. I
ordered a dish that was the lowest price I can find. Shane was still choosing,
he didn’t know what to order. After thinking for a while, he ordered something
not too expensive or cheap. Vincent ordered some white champagne too. We had a
good chat and ate such delicious food. Suddenly the band played the song,
‘Forever’. Shane got up, “Can I offer you a dance?” he said. I took his
hand and got up. We walked to the dance floor and started to dance slowly to the
beat. I have never felt so in love, ever in my life. His shoulder was soft, and
so was his hand.
8th of May 2001
Dear Diary,
I finally met my long lost brother, Vincent. He was very
handsome, and had same color eyes as me. Anyway, he was gay; he already had a
boyfriend. Both of them are make-up artist. Shane was finding it hard to stay
over at their house but I was successful in convincing him to stay. Speaking of
Shane, we had the time of our lives during dinner, especially when he decided to
dance with me. I can feel the love between us, but I’m still not sure that if
he loves me or not. We decide to leave tomorrow; we need to go back to college
anyway.
“Time to leave, it’s been great
yesterday, I’ve enjoyed myself,” I told Vince. “Me too, I’ll come visit
mama and papa next time okay?” he told me. “Sure,” I replied as I gave him
a hug. “And thank you to you too, Jonathan, do come visit me in Sligo,” I
said as I hugged Jonathan too. “I will, don’t worry,” he replied.
“Shane, don’t you want to hug them too?” I shouted. He just lifted his
hand and waved goodbye from the booth. “He’s funny,” Vincent said. “And
cute too,” Jonathan replied. “Well then, we better go, thanks again,” I
said. “You’re welcome Val,” Vincent said. I climbed into the car and waved
goodbye to my brother as Shane drove away.
I
got dress and left for Mark’s house. It wasn’t too far away. I knocked on
the door. Mark’s brother came out, “Hello, is Mark in?” I asked. “Hold
on,” he replied as he went in to get Mark. After a while, Mark popped out,
“Yes? How may I help you?” he asked. “Mark, don’t you remember me?” I
said. “Val? Is that you?” he said in disbelieve. “Yeah!” I replied
almost shouting. “Oh god! You look so sexy!” he replied. “Why thank
you,” I replied blushing a bit. “My grandmother said that you came earlier,
what’s it about?” I asked. “Oh, let’s talk somewhere private,” he
said. “I’ll get my jacket,” he continued and went back inside. “Talk
somewhere private?” I said to myself.
We arrived at a very beautiful park nearby. The lake was beautiful and the trees around make it much more refreshing. “Your grandmother said you went to Galway? What for?” he asked. “To meet my brother,” I replied. “Brother? Why is he staying in Galway?” he asked curiously. “He’s a make-up artist there,” I told him. He nodded. “So what is it that you want to ask?” I told him. “Have a seat,” he said pointing at a bench. I sat on the bench and so did Mark. “Well?” I said sarcastically. “Ummm… how do I start?” he said looking at his hands. I was nervous too, is he going to tell me he loves me? What am I going to do? I’m in love with Shane. “Okay!” he said loudly as he got up. I was startled. “Val… do you think Emily would go out with me?” he said. “What?” I replied. “Emily, will she go out with me, you know her better then I do,” he said. Emily was my classmate, closest after Shane and the rest. “You wanted to ask me this?” I asked. “Why, yeah, you know her better, did she ever mentioned wanting to know me better or anything else?” he said pacing around. I was relieved. “I think she did, mention a thing or two about you,” I told him. “Really? What did she wanted to know?” he said nervously. “Wanting to meet you and stuff,” I told him. “Then, you think she’ll date me?” he asked. “Yeah,” I replied. “Thanks Val, but promise me you won’t tell anybody else?” he said. “Sure, I promise,” I told him. I gave him Emily’s phone number.
Well,
I’m glad that Mark wasn’t in love with me. Now there’s only Kian left. I
can’t just go to his house and ask him if he loves me or not, I have to wait
then. We were back in college the next day. Shane wasn’t there, and it worried
me. “Kian, you’ve seen Shane?” I asked. “Nope, sorry,” he said.
“That’s okay, thanks anyway,” I replied. I started to ask around but no
one knows where he is. After school I hurried to the Carlton Café. “Aunt Mae?
Have you seen Shane, he didn’t come to college today,” I said worriedly.
“Don’t worry, he took the day off, he was feeling sick,” Mae said. “Can
I go visit him then?” I asked. “Sure, I’ll give you a day off too,” she
said. “Thanks Aunt Mae,” I said and hurried home. I took a quick shower and
hurried to Shane’s house.
I
rang the doorbell. Mairead, Shane’s sister answered the door. “Hey, May,
how’s Shane?” I asked. “He’s in his room, you can go see him if you want
to,” she said. “Thanks May,” I replied as I got in. I walked into
Shane’s room; it was my very first time in his room. “Hello Val, odd meeting
you here,” he said. “That’s because you didn’t go to school or your
parent’s café,” I said as I went closer. “How are you feeling?” I asked
as I touched his burning forehead. “A bit tired,” he said. “I’ll go see
what I can do downstairs, you just rest okay?” I said as I got up from his
bed. I smiled at his pajamas; it was Johnny Bravo. I went downstairs and went to
the kitchen. “You don’t mind me cooking Shane something to eat, do you?” I
asked Mairead who was also in there. “No, I don’t mind, go ahead,” she
said. I went to the refrigerator and looked inside. I took out some ingredients
and settle them on the table. I took out a pot, filled it with water and put it
on the stove. I cut up some vegetables and shredded some chicken. It took at
least 20 minutes for me to finish it. Mairead stood behind me. “Wow, that
smells good, can I try some?” she asked. I took a small bowl and filled it
with my family soup, the Michael’s Chicken Soup. I handed it to Mairead.
“Enjoy,” I said smiling. She took a sip and was smiling madly. “This soup
is great, wow, it’s like, I have no words to describe it!” she said enjoying
the soup. “Thanks for the compliment,” I said. “My mom taught me how to
cook it,” I said. “She must be a great cook,” Mairead said. “She is,”
I replied with a little tear in my eye.
I
took a bowl up to Shane’s room. I sat on the side of his bed. He was reading a
magazine. “I told you to rest, not read,” I said as I grabbed the magazine
away from him. “Awww… c’mon,” he complained. I took the bowl of soup,
and scoop it with a spoon. I blew it for while and fed Shane. “Mmmm… this is
very good, you cook it yourself?” he asked. “Yeah, my mom taught me,” I
told him. I fed him till the very last drop. I then put my hand on his forehead.
“You’re getting hotter,” I said worriedly. “Why, thank you,” he said
joking. I look at him sarcastically. “Stay and lie down,” I said as I head
to the bathroom. I took a small pail and filled it with water. I then took out a
clean towel and dipped it into the water and headed to Shane’s room. I folded
the wet towel and rested it on his forehead. “You need to rest to get well,”
I told him. “Thank you Val,” he whispered. I sat on the chair and looked at
him. He fell asleep after a while. I just sat and stared at him sleeping, it was
like a mixture of a baby and an angel sleeping, he was so peaceful. His room was
quite a mess to. So I decide to clean his room up too. I arranged the records he
bought, the books and other stuff he own. I got to know his favorite stuff as I
cleaned his room up. After cleaning it up, I returned and sat on the chair
again, I was very tired and decide to rest for a while.
I
woke up and noticed that it was already late in the afternoon, Shane’s sheets
covered me and his bed was empty. I got up and walked down to the living room.
Shane was there looking out the window with a cup of tea in his hands. I walked
over to him. “You’re up already,” he said. “Yeah, you feeling better?”
I asked as I put my hand on his forehead. It was cooler than before. “Yes,
I’m feeling better, thanks to you,” he said as he held my hand and put it on
his cheek. He put down the cup he was holding and touched me on my cheek. We
then went closer and about to kiss when we heard a thud. It was Mairead, “No!
Don’t stop! Continue!” she shouted. We just let go of each other’s hand.
“NO! NO! NO!” Mairead shouted again. “Darn it,” she said. “I… I
should return now, papa and mama would be worried of me,” I said as I took my
coat and opened the door. “Val?” Shane said. “Yes?” I replied. “Thank
you, again,” he said softly. I just replied with a smile and walked back home,
I could then hear Mairead, cursing herself again.
“Val?”
I heard a familiar voice. I turned and notice Kian. He was in a tight fit
t-shirt and a pair of jeans. He was definitely sexy looking right now. “Kian,
what are you doing here?” I asked. “Well, I’m on my way home, I just went
to the library,” he said. “You’re looking different,” he continued.
“Thanks,” I replied cheerfully. “Want me to walk you home?” he asked.
“Sure,” I replied. We started to walk to my house. “I heard that you
finally met your lost brother,” Kian said. “Yeah, he’s just lovely,” I
told him. “You’ve been really close to Shane nowadays,” he said. “What
makes you say that?” I asked curiously. “Well… you’ve been with him a
lot lately,” he said. “But that doesn’t mean I love him,” I lied.
“Really?” he said with a little excitement. I was beginning to get a little
nervous. “Val, I have a confession to make,” he said. This was getting bad;
I was panicking inside. “W… What is it?” I said stuttering. “I’m in
love with you, Val,” he said. It was what I taught it was going to be. Kian
will fall in love with me, but I love Shane, I shouldn’t have lied to him.
“How about you Val?” he asked. “I… this is a big shock to me, I need to
think it over,” I said. “Think it over?” Kian asked curiously. “Yeah,
I’m still not sure yet, I’ll tell you tomorrow,” I said as I hurried home.
“Val! VAL!” he shouted. I just hurried home without looking back.
10th of May 2001
Dear Diary,
This is not going, as I wanted it to be. Instead of Shane
confessing his love to me, Kian did. I never taught he would. I don’t know him
as much as I do with Shane. What should I do? I don’t want to hurt Kian’s
feelings, it’ll be hard to see him hurt, and I don’t want to hurt my
friends. Should I lie to him? Pretend to love him? This is going to be hard. I
don’t want to hurt him…
I was worried, I’m going to meet Kian at
college later, and tell him. This is hard; I couldn’t sleep at all last night.
I arrived at school. Shane was with Kian at the gates and this was getting
worst. “Hello Shane, hello Kian,” I said. “Hello Val,” Shane said
cheerfully. Kian on the other hand was silent. “Well?” Kian finally spoke
after a while. Shane was looking curiously at both of us. I took a deep breath.
“Yes, I do love you too,” I said. Kian smiled, but Shane gave me the most
heartbreaking look, I can see that he was very hurt inside. His eyes turned
pale, so was his skin. It was also heartbreaking for me too. Kian hugged me and
gave me a kiss. I putted on my fake smiles. “Heard that Shane? We’re finally
a couple,” Kian said happily. Shane too put on a fake smile. The bell rang,
“I better go now,” Shane said and quickly ran to the class. “Shane…” I
whispered.
He was silent in the classroom. He
didn’t even look at me and it was very heartbreaking. After class, I chased
after him, “Shane,” I said. He stopped and turned around. “I know you’re
hurt inside, but…” I said stopping halfway when I noticed his tears.
“I’m happy for you Val,” he said and walked away. I couldn’t help from
crying either. Is this going to be our last conversation? What is going to be of
our relationship?
I went to work in Carlton’s. Shane
wasn’t there. “Aunt Mae, where’s Shane?” I asked once I saw her. “Oh,
that boy, did you know what happened at college? He came home soaking in his own
tears, he locked himself in the room since he came back,” Mae said. I looked
at her in horror. “I… I don’t know what happened…” I lied again.
“I’m worried about him,” said Mae. I continued my work without hesitation.
After an hour, Kian came with Mark. “Hey Hun,” he said as he pulled me to a
kiss. “Hey,” I replied. “Hello Mark,” I said. “Wow, it’s official
then, you and Kian,” Mark asked. “Yeah,” I replied as Kian held me closer.
“Have you seen Shane? I noticed him running home just now, he almost got hit
by a car too,” Mark said. I was beginning to curse myself, it was getting
harder and harder to know that Shane was so hurt. “He didn’t come to work
either,” I told Mark.
After work, I went over to Shane’s
house. Mairead was there too. “What happened to Shane?” she said worriedly.
“I broke his heart,” I told her. “What? Why?” she said. “Kian
confessed his love for me, I lied and I couldn’t bring myself to hurt him,”
I explained. Mairead was silent. “I didn’t even know that Shane would be
this hurt,” I said crying. “He wouldn’t eat, he won’t even come out of
his room,” Mairead told me. “I guess he won’t be seeing me,” I said and
turned back. Mairead didn’t know what to do; she just stared at me walking
away. I was crying too, it was heartbreaking, and too much to take. I did not
notice that Shane was looking at me through the window. His eyes all red, with
dried tears on his cheeks.
14th of May
2001
Dear Diary,
It was getting worst.
Shane refused to see anyone; he didn’t even go to college for 3 days
already… is he overreacting? But I was hurt too.
I stop by his house to drop off some homework he left behind, but never
have I seen him once. Mairead saw him a few times, but he was looking miserable
day after day. She told me he was getting much more pale and thinner. This
worried me, what if he dies of hunger? I don’t want him to die… mom? What
should I do?
“Why
don’t we go visit him? It’s already been 3 days,” Kian said as we sat on
the bench like lovers. Mark was there with Emily too; they have been lovers for
a day now. “Yeah, I’m worried about him too,” Mark, said. “How about you
Hun?” Kian asked. “Huh?” I mumbled. “Do you want to visit Shane?” he
asked again. “Okay…” I whispered. We then left for Shane’s house. We
rang the doorbell and Mairead answered it. “Hello May, is Shane around?”
Kian asked. Mairead stared Kian who had his arm around my shoulders. “He
won’t come down, but you could try,” Mairead said as she invite them in.
“Why don’t you go see him? I’ll talk to Mairead for a second,” I said to
Kian. He agreed and three of them went upstairs. “How’s he May?” I asked
worriedly. “He won’t even take a bite, I’m worried he might be
suicidal,” she said. “You should do something!” she continued talking
panicky. “What can I do?” I replied. Both of us just stood silently. “He
won’t eat?” I asked. “Yeah,” she replied softly. I quickly walked into
the kitchen.
I
took some ingredients out and started to cook up something that mom taught me.
Mairead just looked at me silently. The aroma of the food came to life and
filled the kitchen. I settled the food on the plate and add some decorations on
it. “Give this to Shane,” I said. Mairead just nodded. “Val?” Kian
called me. “I’m here,” I said as I walked to Kian. “He won’t see
us,” he said. “We better go then,” I replied. “Sure,” “ Goodbye
May,” I said as we left the house.
Mairead
knocked on the door. “Shane, you have to eat,” she said. “I’m not
hungry,” he replied coldly. “Val came over to cook this for you,” she
said. After a few seconds, Shane opened the door. “Here,” she said softly
and handed the dish to Shane. He took it and closed the door. He walked and sat
on his bed. It was beef noodles, decorated with some vegetables that show a
happy face. Shane took the fork and tasted some. It was delicious, but he
started to cry.
20th of May 2001
Dear Diary,
Shane
had a hard time catching up with his studies, he hadn’t been to school for a
week, but I was happy to accompany him in study groups. He was definitely
growing better day after day. I was happy too, but I was sensing some jealousy
from Kian. I’m worried. Should I tell him the truth? What should I do? This
was getting harder once again.
College was finally over, all of us
managed to pass with flying colors. Me, Shane, Kian, Mark, Emily, Nicky and
Bryan were in Dublin the following day. We decide to spend our holidays there.
We headed to the café for lunch. “So, what do you want to eat?” Kian asked
me. “Oh, nothing big, I’m still full over breakfast,” I told him. Shane
was sitting right in front of me. My eyes were always meeting his. It was hard
to control. Kian went off to order their food. So I was alone with Shane on the
table. The other sat on other tables, since it wasn’t big enough. “Enjoying
yourself so far?” Shane asked. “Yeah, it’s getting better,” I said as I
smiled. His hand got closer to mine and my heart was beating faster. He held my
hand. It was soft and warm. Our look just locked and clicked but was broken when
a furious Kian came back. “WHAT WAS THAT?” He shouted. Our hands separated.
“What are you talking about?” I asked looking somewhere else. “Don’t
play dumb, I saw you two staring at each other and holding hands!” he shouted
furiously. “Kian… please… calm down” Shane tried to comfort him. Kian
was much more furious. At that very moment, everything went slow. Kian grabbed a
knife and stabbed Shane. My heart was beating furiously; Mark and the rest ran
towards us. I ran to Shane. “My god! Shane! Shane!” I shouted. “Call an
ambulance!” Nicky shouted. Shane was bleeding on his lower left stomach. I
held it to stop the bleeding. “Shane, don’t die! Not now!” I shouted at
him. Kian dropped the knife and ran towards him. “Oh, god, Shane… please…
I didn’t mean to,” Kian said almost crying. “It’s… all right…”
Shane mumbled. “It… wasn’t your fault, it was… mine,” he managed to
say. “I think I’ll rest now,” he continued.
“No,
don’t you dare leave me now!” I shouted at him. “God Damn it Shane!
Don’t you dare leave me,” I shouted. The ambulance finally arrived.
Shane needed immediate kidney transplant,
the stab destroyed it but the nearest place they could get another kidney was in
another 2 hours… Shane couldn’t survive that long. I was panicking. “What
should I do!” I said furiously to myself, crying hard. A voice then spoke to
me. “If there’s someone you love, someone you think is your love for your
life, he is the life worth dying for,” it said. “Mother?” I mumbled and I
could see a figure of her right in front of me. “Shane is the life worth dying
for,” she said smiling. “Thank you mother,” I said as I ran to the doctor.
“What kind of kidney does he need?” I quickly asked. “Uhh… someone with
a blood O or A” the doctor said as he looked at the charts. “I’m A
blooded, can you take mine?” I continued to ask. “We need to run some test
first,” he said. “I’m willing, anything,” I said. The doctor then ran a
few tests, and after at least 20 minutes, the results were out and my kidney was
the one. They quickly did the operation without hesitation.
I woke up in a bed at the hospital. Kian
was at my side. “How are you feeling?” he asked. “I’m fine… how about
the operation?” I quickly asked. “It went perfectly, Shane survive,” he
said. “Thank lord,” I said. “Val… tell me the truth… do you love
him?” he asked. I looked at him. “It’s time I tell you the truth… I have
been in love with Shane since I met him,” I said. “But, you said you love
me,” he said. “I didn’t want to hurt you, you’re my friend,” I told
him. “You didn’t have to do that, I would have understand,” Kian said with
some tears in his eyes. “I’m sorry,” I whispered and hugged him. “Do you
want to see Shane?” Kian asked. “Well… not now, I’m not feeling very
good,” I told him. “Sure,” he said as he tucked me in.
Once Kian went out of the room, I quickly
got up and changed. I sneaked to Shane’s room. Everyone was in there, and
Shane seems to look well. I wiped away some tears on my cheek, “Goodbye
Shane,” I whispered as I walked out the hospital and headed back home to Sligo.
“Where’s Val?” Shane asked. “She’s resting,” Kian told him. “She
said that she loves you Shane,” Kian said. “What? How about you two?” he
said. “It’s okay, we broke up just now, she has fallen in love with you
since she met you,” Kian told him. “I didn’t get to say it to her yet, I
should go meet her now,” Shane said as he got up. “No, you rest, we’ll get
her,” Mark said. “Thanks,” Shane replied.
“Are you sure Val?” mama said. “Yes mama, I need time off for a while, Vincent will bring me there,” I said. On the way home, I called Vincent and we decide to go for a holiday at Birmingham. “Take care okay honey?” she said. I stepped out the house; Vincent was already waiting for me. “Goodbye papa, goodbye mama,” I said as I waved goodbye. “Goodbye sweetheart, be careful okay?” papa said. I got into the cab with Vincent and Jonathan. “Ready Val?” he said. “Yeah bro,” I replied and we left for Dublin airport.
“She’s
gone!” Bryan shouted. “What!?” Shane shouted back. “Her bed was empty
and clothes was gone,” Mark said. “She must be home in Sligo,” Kian said.
“Let’s go,” Shane said as he got up. The pain was still there, he hasn’t
recovered fully yet. “You have to stay, you’re not recovered yet,” Emily
said. “I don’t care, she might be having different thoughts about me, I need
to tell her I love her,” Shane said. “The doctors won’t allow you to go
out,” Nicky said. “Then… think of something,” Shane said. “Here, put
this on,” Kian said as he threw his coat to Shane. The coat has a hood that
could cover Shane. “Thanks Ki,” he said. When they walked out, Shane was in
the middle while the others were around him. They successfully sneaked out the
hospital. “C’mon, we need to hurry,” Shane said. They got into the car and
took their way off to Sligo.
“This
is going to be fun,” Vincent said. “Yeah, I can’t wait too,” I said
happily. “What about your friends? I though that you were with them
earlier,” Jonathan said. “There were some problems, so we cancelled it,” I
lied. “Well… you’ll get to find a new guy there,” Vincent said. “I
hope so…” I mumbled as I looked out the cab. Just that moment, I thought
that I saw Shane, but I guess it was just my imagination; I miss him so much.
“I
taught I saw Val,” Shane said as he stared out the car. “You must really
love her don’t you,” Kian said. “Yeah, she was the one, she even took care
of me when I was sick that day,” he said smiling. “I’m really sorry
Kian,” he continued. “It’s not your fault, I knew something was wrong, she
didn’t seem to love me a lot,” he said. “She just loves you,” Kian
continued. “I sure hope so, I’m just hoping she wouldn’t do anything
before I tell her I love her,” Shane said.
“She
left?” Shane said. “Yes, her brother took her to Dublin airport, I think
they were heading to Birmingham,” mama said. “Darn it, we just came back
from Dublin,” Mark said. “Why are you so eager to meet her?” papa said.
“Mr. Garth, I will not lie to you, I’m in love with your granddaughter,”
Shane said honestly. “Really?” mama said excitedly. “Yes Mrs. Garth, I do
love her, and I want to tell her I love her,” Shane continued. “I knew it,
you two were meant for each other,” papa said with a smile. “She’s heading
to a cabin her brother own, here’s the address,” mama said returning with a
piece of paper. “Thanks Mrs. Garth,” Shane said as he kissed her on the
cheek. “Good luck Shane!” mama said as he left. They headed to each of their
houses to pack. “Mom, please book 6 tickets for me to Dublin,” Shane said.
“What for?” she said. “I’m going to look for Val, I need to tell her I
love her,” Shane quickly said as he packed his bags. “This is great, I’ll
do it,” Mairead said happily as she quickly grabbed a phone and called the
airport. “Oh, this is so sweet of you,” Mae said. “Wish me luck okay
mom?” Shane said as he pecked her cheeks. “Okay, don’t give up no matter
what,” she said.
“Last
call for plane 720, flight to Birmingham,” I heard as I queued up to go into
the plane. We already waited for almost half an hour before the flight.
“C’mon Val,” Vincent said as we got inside. I sat on the seat and waited.
“Shane…” I mumbled. I try to forget about him, but I can’t. I remember
feeding him soup, and when he was in Vince’s house, he was so cute in the
tuxedo. “Like an angel, a gift from heaven,” I whispered. A man sat beside
me, he was tall, blonde and was very good looking. “Hello,” he said. “Hie,”
“I’m Ashton Gregory,” he said as he took out his hand. “Valentine Rose
Michael,” I replied as I shook his hand.
“So,
you’re half Irish half English?” Ashton said. I nodded. “I love Ireland,
its very peaceful and beautiful,” he said. “Yes it is,” I said. “Where
are you heading then?” Ashton asked. “I’m on a holiday with my brother,”
I told him. “Why don’t you come visit me? I live in Birmingham,” Ashton
said. “Sure, why not,” I replied. He wrote down his number and address.
“Call me once you arrive okay?” he said. I nodded again. We finally arrived
at Birmingham. It took a while before we reached the cabin. It was big, and
could fit a very large family. “Why such a big cabin?” I asked Vincent.
“It was a gift from some models,” he replied. “Wow,” I replied. I went
to my room and settled my bags on the bed. I reached into my pocket and took out
the piece of paper Ashton gave me. I called him. “Ash? You there?” I asked.
“Yeah, Val?” he said. “Yeah, want to go out for dinner?” I asked.
“Sure, why don’t you come over, then we can leave,” he said. “Sure,
I’ll come right now, bye,” “Bye,” he said and I hanged up.
“I
can’t wait,” Shane said on the way to Birmingham. “I know, you’ve
already told me 5 times already in this plane,” Bryan groaned. “I just
can’t wait, I love her so much!” Shane said excitedly. “6 times,” Bryan
moaned. They arrived at the airport in Birmingham in half an hour. Shane dragged
all of them into the small cab and went off to the address that mama gave them.
Once arrived, Shane couldn’t wait. He hurried to the door and knocked on it.
“Why,
hello Shane,” Vincent said. “For goodness sake Vince, put a t-shirt on,”
Shane said as he covered half his face. “What are you doing here?” Jonathan
now said, also half naked. Shane covered his eyes. “What’s going on? OH MY
GOD!” Bryan shouted as he saw them. Kian, Nicky and Emily also joined them.
“Wow… you guys came all the way here to find Val?”
Vincent said. “Yeah, where is she?” Shane asked. “Well… she said
she was going for dinner with a guy called Ashton,” Vincent said. “WHAT!”
Shane shouted in disbelieve. “Who the hell is Ashton?” Bryan asked. “She
met him on the way here, in the plane,” Vince said. “Did you know where she
was going?” Shane said. “Nope, sorry,” Vince said. “DARN IT!” he
shouted as he fisted the doorframe.
“You
look great,” Ashton said. “Thanks,” I replied happily. He drove me to a
restaurant nearby. It wasn’t too posh, which I loved. He was like a gentleman.
He opened the door for me, pull the chair out and other stuff that gentlemen
does. I ordered something simple. “So Val, do you have anyone in your
relationship now?” he asked. “Nope, I used to, we broke up,” I told him.
“How about you?” I asked. “No, I’ve never been in love before,” he
said. “Really? Well, I could tell you that it can sometimes become very
heartbreaking,” I told him. He just smiled at me.
Ashton
was really very nice to me. We took a stroll on the bridge in the park; the lake
reflected the moon. It was the most romantic place to be. “So, you’ve been
heartbroken before?” Ashton said as he threw a rock into the pond. “Yeah, it
was really depressing,” I told him. “I’m sensing that you don’t want to
talk about it,” he said. “Well…” I mumbled. “I won’t force you
to,” he continued. “Thanks, you’re very understanding,” I told him. He
smiled at me again. “You also love someone don’t you?” Ashton said. “How
did you know?” I asked with shock. “You didn’t look interested in me,”
he explained. I just stared at the pond again. “You really shouldn’t give it
up,” he continued. “What do you mean?” I stared softly at him. “If your
mind won’t forget him, your heart is filled with his love and your soul is
tangled with his, you should never let him go,” he said. It suddenly clicked,
my heart felt like it was touched by something pure. “Val, go to him, tell him
you really love him,” Ashton said to me. I looked at him and saw he smile.
“How about you?” I asked. “I’ll be all right, go… before it’s too
late,” he said and pushed me. I walked a few feet away when I turned back and
hugged him. “Thank you,” I said and ran back home.
“Vincent,
I need to go back to Sligo,” I said, quickly packing my stuff. “But we just
arrived here,” he said. “I need to find someone, I need to find Shane, I
need to tell him I love him!” I quickly said. Vincent didn’t say a word
instead he just smiled. I took my bag and walked to the living room.
“Where’s the freaking phone?” I cursed myself, as it was dark in there.
You
are the sun
You
are my life
“Shane?”
I whispered.
And
you’re the last thing on my mind
Before
I go to sleep at night
It was
dark, but I noticed a shadow in there.
You’re
always around
When
I’m in need
When
trouble’s on my mind
You
put my soul at ease
The
light came on softly, and I saw him. Shane Steven Filan… singing the song we
dance together with…
There
is no-one in this world
Who
can love me like you do
“Are
you alright?” he said to me, offering a hand.
That
is the reason that I
Want
to spend forever with you
“Hi,
I’m Shane, I’ve never noticed you here before,” he told me.
I’ll
be loving you forever
Deep
inside my heart you’ll leave me never
Even
if you took my heart
And
tore it apart
I
would live you still
Forever
He
was looking at me, his eyes were looking into mine, the soft tender look, and it
caressed my soul.
We’ve
had our fun
And
we’ve made mistakes
But
who’d have guessed along the road
We’d
learn to give and take
“Really?
Want me to go along… for company that is,” Shane said.
It’s
so much more
Than
I could have dreamed
‘Cos
you make loving you
So
easy for me
I
turned to my side and noticed that Shane was soaked. “Ooops…” I said.
“Yeah, vvveeerrryyy funny,” he replied sarcastically.
There
is no-one in this world
Who
can love me like you do
“You’re
even more beautiful, like an angel… ” He said. “A gift from heaven,” I
continued.
That
is the reason that I
Want
to spend forever with you
“Yes,
I’m feeling better, thanks to you,” he said as he held my hand and put it on
his cheek. He put down the cup he was holding and touched me on my cheek.
And
girl I pray that you’ll leave
Me
never
“I
know you’re hurt inside, but…” I said stopping halfway when I noticed his
tears. “I’m happy for you Val,” he said and walked away.
‘Cos
this is the world
Where
lovers often go astray
I
did not notice that Shane was looking at me through the window. His eyes all
red, with dried tears on his cheeks.
But
if we love each other
We
won’t go that way
It
was beef noodles, decorated with some vegetables that shows a happy face.
So
put your doubts aside
Do
what it takes to make it right
“I
think I’ll rest now,” he continued. “No,
don’t you dare leave me now!” I shouted at him. “God Damn it Shane!
Don’t you dare leave me,” I shouted.
I
love you forever
No-one
can tear us apart
“I don’t care, she
might be having different thoughts about me, I need to tell her I love her,”
Shane said.
I’ll
be loving you forever
Deep
inside my heart you’ll leave me never
Even
if you took my heart
And
tore it apart
I
would live you still
Forever
“Shane!”
I shouted with my cheek wet with my tears. “Val, I need to tell you
something,” he said. “Me too,” I continued. “I love you,” we said in
unison. He gave me a convincing smile. I then pulled him into a passionate kiss.
One kiss that I will never forget, the rest of my life. He was definitely the
‘Life Worth Dying For’… Thank you mother…