The alarm clock rang and shook up in an instant. I rubbed my eyes as I looked at my digital alarm clock. “7:15 a.m. huh?” I asked myself as I sat by the edge of the bed, half awake. With a big yawn and stretch I headed to the window. I opened the curtains and the light blinded me momentarily. “God! I hate mornings,” I said as I covered my eyes. I walked lazily to the bathroom and washed up for work later.
I’m an orphan, never adopted either, I grew up in the orphanage since I was found… I never remembered but they told me that they found me crying by the roadside when I was about only 3 years old. I had a tough childhood, being bullied and never having any affection. I try my best to avoid people; I was never good at conversations either. I managed to finish high school, but that was the highest I could get, and now I’m working in a designer fashion store.
I wore my shoes with a toast between my lips. I locked the door and began my journey to work. “Good morning Hannah, off to work?” asked the landlord, Mrs. Smiths. Her husband died four years ago and now she rents room to people like me for company. “Yeah Mrs. Smith… When I’m back I’ll join you for tea okay?” I said to her with a smile. She waved goodbye as I left the house.
I walked by my usual shortcuts and roads to the store. I arrived in time and I punched my card. I then headed to the cashier table and just sat there while I wait for customers. The store was rather empty… but that’s because it’s just morning. Work resumes till my lunch-break. I headed to the food court nearby for my lunch as usual and had my usual Chicken sandwiches with a cup of Pepsi. I ate my lunch as I read through a magazine I picked up earlier. Just as I was reading through, I saw a rather good-looking guy walking from one store to another looking rather frustrated. He had dark brunette hair with really deep blue eyes. I just ignored him and resume my casual lunch.
I finished minutes later, and headed back for work. Punched my card and headed back to my usual spot. “That’ll be 125 dollars please,” I said after packing the clothes into the paper bag. The customer gave me the money and I cashed it in. “Thank you, please come again,” I said with a smile as she left. I sat back on the bench and waited for the next customer. Just at that moment, I overheard two of the other attendant talking. “I heard Robin just hired another guy… but this one’s hot! So cute!” she said. “Really? What else?” the other one asked. “I heard that he has dark hair and really sharp blue eyes, God! I love guys with blue eyes,” she said. “Me too!” said the other one excitedly. “Dark hair and blue eyes?” I said to myself softly. It sounds familiar, but I didn’t really care, he was just another employee that Robin hired.
I finished work by three and walked back to the house. “Mrs. Smith! I’m home!” I called out as I closed the door behind me. “Oh Hannah! Come join us for tea!” she said excitedly as she saw me coming in. She quickly grabbed my hand and pulled me to her kitchen. “Us? Who’s ‘us’?” I asked her. Just as I entered the kitchen, I saw another person sitting by the dining table drinking tea. He had dark hair and strikingly sharp blue eyes. “Hannah, please meet Mark McMahan,” Mrs Smith introduces him to me.
“Hi Hannah…” Mark said halfway. “Just Hannah, I’m an orphan… I have no last name,” I told him with a smile. “Oh… I’m sorry,” Mark replied. “It’s okay… you don’t have to apologize I told him as I sat opposite him. Mrs. Smith headed to the stove to pour some tea. We just sat there silently.
“So how long have you been staying here?” Mark asked after a few seconds of awkward silence between us. “Oh… umm… since I was 18, I’m already 20, going to 21 this year, that’ll be at least 2 years plus,” I told him. “Mark just moved in here, he’s in the room opposite of yours,” Mrs. Smith told me. “Really? Where were you from?” I asked. “Sligo… it’s in Ireland,” he replied. “Ireland? That’s another country, why move here?” I asked curiously. “I’m already 21. In my family, we have to be independent when we reach that age, so here I am,” he explained.
He mentioned ‘family’. I never had one, I just want to feel what’s it like to have a mother, father, grandparents, aunts and uncles and cousins together with nephews. I started asking him about his family… for I longed for one. “Come to think of it, did you just ask for a job in ‘Seed’ in ‘The Summit’ this afternoon?” I asked him curiously. I remembered the two employees talking about the cute guy with dark hair and sharp blue eyes. “Yeah… how did you know?” Mark asked curiously. “I work there too, I heard the employees talking about a cute guy with dark hair and blue eyes, and I thought of you… I mean… I thought about that guy which…. God…” I said halfway and blushed with embarrassment not knowing what I was talking about. I heard a small chuckle and saw Mark smiling in front of me. He had a very cute and attractive smile.
“Look at the time! It’s already 6!” Mrs. Smith said as she looked at the clock. “Oh… I’ll be heading up to my room now, thanks for tea Mrs. Smith,” I said, kissing her on the cheeks. “It was nice meeting you Mark,” I told him. He smiled back at me. “Umm… would you care to join me for a walk?” Mark asked. I looked at him surprised. “S…sure,” I stuttered without hesitating. “Let me change first, I’ve been in this suit for way too long,” I told him. “I’ll wait for you at the patio,” he told me. I nodded and headed to my room.
Just as I closed the door I quickly headed to my small wardrobe and looked for something suitable. So I just wore a pink tank top with a white skirt. I combed my hair a little and headed out to the patio. Mark was sitting by the chairs outside when I came out. “Ready?” he asked. I nodded and we started walking.
“Where do you want to go?” I asked. “Well… I’m still new here, I hope you’ll be able to show me around,” Mark told me. “There’s a beach nearby, want to go there?” I asked. “Sounds great,” he replied and I started guiding him to the beach. On the way there we started talking about… things… music, life and history. He seemed to be so interested to know more about me, which is a surprise; I have never got such attention before.
The sun was setting when we just arrive. We saw the setting sun reflecting by the beach. “It’s beautiful,” Mark told me. “Yeah,” I replied. We sat by the short rock fence and continued with our conversation till it was nearly dark. We just clicked, as what they say.
“Well then Mark, see you again tomorrow,” I said to him as we entered the house. “Sure… see you,” he replied. “If there’s anything, just call me,” I replied with a smile and headed into my room. I quickly lay on the bed excitedly. I have never been so excited in my life. The whole day was Godsend. I have never talked so much ever in my life. I was so looking forward for tomorrow.
I was already in the kitchen the next morning, having a biscuit and tea with Mrs. Smith. Suddenly we heard very loud rushing footsteps. Just as we stared at the foot of the staircase, we saw Mark tumbling at the very last step. We ran to see if he was okay, but he got up just as we reached him. “I’m fine! I’m fine!” he shouted. I couldn’t help my self but to smile at his very clumsy self. “Your tie Mark,” I told him when I noticed that his tie was a little loose. I got closer and adjusted his tie. “You got some biscuit crumbs,” Mark said as he wiped some off near my lips. Just at that moment, we felt a little awkward and quickly broke off from each other. “You two are so cute together,” Mrs. Smith said as she headed back to the kitchen.
“Aren’t you leaving? It’s already seven fifty,” Mark said as he checked his watch. “I know a shortcut, c’mon,” I said to him as I took my coat and left with him. Mark looks very good-looking in his suit. Black slacks, white shirt, black tie and a black blazer. He looked like one of those young businessmen as he had a sling bag along. “You look good in your… outfit,” Mark told me. I blushed with a smile as I heard that remark. “You too Mark, you don’t look that bad either,” I told him. We both smiled at each other as we continued our walk to work.
“Okay, before we start work, I would like to introduce you all to the new guy that’ll be joining us from now, his name is Mark McMahan,” said Robin, our store manager. Mark was standing by Robin side. I heard whispers coming from the other girls, but Mark was only looking at me. He gave me a wink and made me blush. “Okay Mark, you’ll be with Hannah, you’ll assist her by the counter,” Robin told him. I couldn’t believe it, was it luck or fate that we’re together again. The other girls groaned as they heard that Mark was going to be with me. “Sure Robin,” Mark replied as he walked over to me. “Okay, work starts at eight fifteen, it’s eight now, go get ready,” Robin said as he left. Just as Mark was about to open his mouth, I was pushed aside as the other girl swarmed him. Mark was trapped in the crowd. I just silently turned around and headed back to the cashier disappointingly.
“Why didn’t you help me back there?” Mark asked as he came over. “What? I thought you wanted to know the others,” I told him. “I’ve got you here, that’s enough for me,” he said sweetly. I began blushing again. He has been complimenting me the whole morning, and I couldn’t help blushing every time he does it. I have never received so many compliments ever in my life.
I brought Mark to my usual place for lunch and I still ordered the usual meal. Mark got some fish and chips with a bottle of mineral water for himself. We started to talk to each other again. There was never an awkward moment for us, we seem to have unlimited topics to talk about, I was grateful for that.
After work, we headed back, but instead of heading back straight away, Mark bought me an ice cream cone and we both sat by the harbour bench and ate out ice cream. Just as we were eating, a man with a Polaroid camera came over. “A picture for fifty cents?” he asked. “Sure, make that two,” Mark said as he handed him a dollar. Just as the man was about to take the picture, Mark stopped him for a moment and pushed my ice cream to my lips and he did the same to himself. Both of us had ice cream moustaches and were laughing when the man took two pictures of us. “Thank you, and have a nice day,” the man said as he handed us the two pictures. It was the loveliest one I’ve seen.
“What are doing for tomorrow night?” Mark asked as we arrived home. “It’s our day off, well… I don’t think I have anything to do,” I told him. “Well… can I take you for a date?” Mark asked shyly. I blushed again as he asked me. My heart was beating fast but I agreed. “We’ll leave in the morning, how’s ten?” Mark asked. “Sure,” I replied. “Good, see you then,” Mark said and we both went into our room.
I was screaming inside of me. I was so excited as I have never been on a date before. I ran to my wardrobe and tried on as many clothes as I can to see which one was good enough for the date. I finally decided on a knee long brown skirt, a white top and a light brown jacket. I hung the clothes by the wardrobe and I went to bed. I was so excited and was staring at my outfit the whole night, as I couldn’t sleep. It was nearly midnight when I finally fell asleep.
I woke up and stared at the digital clock, it was already 9:45 a.m. “What?” I shouted disbelievingly. I quickly ran to the bathroom and took my shower, put on my make up and blow my hair. Just as I was putting on my clothes, it was already 10:11 a.m. I couldn’t believe that I made him wait for eleven minutes already. I was cursing myself and hoping that he wouldn’t hate me for being late. With final check, I ran out of my room and just as I stepped out my room, Mark also came out of his room, breathing heavily. “Hannah! (Huff) Sorry…(puff) for making…(huff) you wait,” he said as he tried to catch his breath. I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Mark too was laughing as he saw my expression.
We headed to a nearby restaurant for brunch and headed to a nearby fair by the harbour. We went for roller coaster rides and game stores. Mark was kind enough to win me a little brown teddy bear that was really soft. We stopped by a gift store and I began browsing around. I noticed a very beautiful gold picture frame, which wasn’t very expensive, then I remembered about the picture we took together the day before. I quickly grab and bought the frame. It was a golden sunflower and the picture goes in the middle of the flower. I also noticed that Mark had bought something, but he insisted on showing it to me, so I never bothered as long as his happy with it.
“Enjoyed yourself?” Mark asked as we were walking back. “Sure did… thank you for the date,” I told him. “It’s alright… I was just hoping if I might… call you out for another date someday, if you don’t mind,” Mark said shyly. “Of course Mark, I would love to,” I told him quickly. “Good, I thought you might not be interested,” Mark said relieved. “Why should I not? I love your company,” I told him as I blushed. “Me too… I hope we could do this again soon, it’s been a very good day today,” Mark told me. Just as we were talking and walking, it started to rain heavily. I started shouting frantically when Mark held my hand and pulled along. We ran through the rain and finally found shelter by a pretty run down bus stop. We were half soaked as we reached there, but we were also laughing out loudly at each other. Mark looks cute with his hair all down; I have been seeing him with his hair all up since we met. As we sat by the bench, I started shivering from the cold breeze made by the rain. Mark noticed this and he took out his jacket and handed it to me. “It’s waterproof, so it’s not wet,” Mark told me as he covered me. “Thanks,” I replied. “I like you,” Mark then whispered. The rain was heavy, so I didn’t hear him properly. “Excuse me?” I asked. “I kinda like you Hannah… since the day you brought me to the beach,” Mark confessed. He looked at me worriedly, but I replied with a smile. “Me too,” I told him softly.
“Seriously? You’re not joking?” Mark asked. “I’m not, you’re the first that really made me feel welcome, I never had a friend like you, and I would like it if we’re much closer than that,” I explained to him. Mark held my hand and pulled me towards him. He had one leg on the bench and another on the floor. He pulled me in between his legs and held me close. “I’m glad we’re much closer now, cause I’ve wanted to hold you for so long,” Mark whispered to me. He held my hands and I could feel his warm hands welcoming mine. “I have something for you,” Mark said later and took the bag he bought earlier. “I wanted to give it to you for this occasion, I just never knew that it’d be now,” he said. It was a small red box. “Open it,” he said as he held the box on one hand and held it in front of me. I slowly opened it and I saw a necklace and a ring, both in a same design of two hearts linked up. “Choose one,” Mark whispered. Looking at both of them, I took the necklace. He smiled and held the necklace then he put it on me. “It’s perfect,” he said to me. I took the ring and put it on Mark’s finger. “It fits too,” I told him as the ring slipped in perfectly. “I love you,” Mark whispered softly to my ears. “I love you too,” I whispered back and we both were lock into a kiss. We sat under the shade the whole evening, I felt so comfortable in his strong hands. It may be tough and hard, but it felt as though I was lying on a soft chair. He was warming me with his body.
“Hannah? Wake up, it stopped already,” Mark said softly to me. I slowly open my eyes and the first thing I saw was a beautiful star lit night. The dark clouds were now gone and the full moon arise shining the place with its light. “Wow Mark, it’s so beautiful,” I told him. “Want to stay here a moment longer?” he asked. I quickly nodded, as I never want to leave his arms. We sat there few minutes longer and finally decided to walk home. As we were walking home, my necklace and Mark’s ring were shining from the moonlight. “The woman said that it’s a moonstone. It glows under the moonlight,” Mark told me as he saw me looking at it. “It’s really beautiful Mark, I’m glad you bought it,” I said as I touched my necklace. We were walking home hand in hand crossing a river that was so serene. The tranquillity of the moonlight and starlight together with the sounds of crickets was such a night that I can never forget. And I was sharing it with a man… a man that confesses his love to me… a man that I too love back. I laid my head on his shoulder as we continued our walk back home.
“Oh… you two are finally back! How was your day?” Mrs. Smith asked. “It was beautiful,” I told her. “And we’ve got news for you,” Mark said. “Oh?” Mrs. Smith said in surprise. “We’re together, we love each other very much,” I told her as we held hands. “Oh… that’s just wonderful news! I’m so happy for you two,” Mrs. Smith replied as she hugged and congratulate us. “Well, I’m tired now, I better go get a shower anyway,” I told both of them. “Me too, goodnight Mrs. Smith,” Mark said as he kissed her cheeks. “Oh… goodnight you two, it must have been a very tiring day,” Mrs. Smith said. We smiled at her as we walked up to our room. “It was such a great day Mark, thank you,” I told him. “You made it special too, goodnight,” Mark said and pulled me to a kiss. “Goodnight,” I whispered to him and went into my room. I felt terrific after that but a little sad as it has came to an end. I didn’t care though because from now on, Mark would be with me.
After a shower I sat by my bedside and took out the picture frame that I bought earlier. I then took out the picture of Mark and I from the drawer and put it into the frame. It was perfect. I settle it by my side table and fell asleep from the tiredness.
I woke up with a terrible headache. My head was spinning and I couldn’t focus properly. I felt my whole body was hot, warmer than usual. My legs were also aching that it was nearly impossible for me to wake up. I took out an aspirin from my bedside table and gulp it down with some water nearby. I wanted to see Mark, but I was too tired and headed back to my bed instead. Without knowing I fell asleep again.
“Han? Han… are you okay?” I heard someone calling me. I opened my eyes and Mark lovely face was the first thing I saw followed by Mrs. Smith that was just right behind him. . He looked very worried. “Are you alright Han? You’re burning,” Mark said as he felt my neck and forehead. I was touched by his concern so is his inviting hand… it was soft against my skin.
“I think I’m sick,” I whispered. “Why didn’t you say? I was worried sick waiting for you downstairs,” Mark said as he put his sling bag by the side of the bed. “I’ll be alright, aren’t you late for work?” I asked. “I’m not going anywhere till you’re better,” Mark said as he stroke my hair. “Aww… but Robin would be awfully mad if he knows you’re late,” I told him. “I don’t care… I wanna be with you,” Mark said childishly. I couldn’t help but smile. “Come on dear, you’ll be late for work if you don’t leave now, I’ll take care of Hannah,” Mrs. Smith said as she pushed Mark to the door. “But… I Hannah…” Mark moaned. “Now… be a good boy and go to school… no… I mean work,” Mrs. Smith said to him as he adjusted his tie. “I’ll be home as soon as possible okay Hannah?” Mark shouted from the door. I was giggling by his actions. He was so cute and caring to me.
“He’s such a hard one to handle,” Mrs. Smith said as she returns. I was giggling away. “He’s very nice to me… I love him a lot,” I told Mrs. Smith. “Sure you do… he’s like the only person in your life that understands you,” Mrs. Smith told me as she opened the curtains. “Yeah! He’s the perfect guy you could ever find!” I quickly told her as she sat on my bed and we both sighed at the same time.
Mrs. Smith took real good care of me, made some soup and fluffed my pillows and everything else I could think of. I was grateful for her. Just as I took my last sip of the chicken soup, both of us heard a loud smash, followed by loud footsteps on the stairs and a louder THUD! “Mark,” we said to each other. “I’m alright!” he shouted as he came into the room with his messy clothes. Both of us were laughing at him. “How’s my sweet Hannah?” Mark said childishly as he came and hugged me.
“Well… I better leave you two alone, if there’s anything else just call okay?” Mrs. Smith said. “Thanks Mrs. Smith!” we both said in unison. “So how was work today?” I asked as I removed Mark’s tie. “Well… it was kinda boring without you,” Mark said as he removed his shoes and climbed onto the bed. “Did Robin scold you for being late?” I asked. “Nope… I managed to arrive there before him… that was quite a relieve,” Mark told me as he lay next to me. “That’s good,” I told him as I hugged him. “Hey… would you be better tomorrow?” Mark asked. “One more day of rest Mrs. Smith said… I’ll be fine by tomorrow evening,” I told him. “Evian invited us to a party, wanna go?” Mark asked. “Evian? Party? I’m thinking she’s just inviting you,” I told Mark. “Oh c’mon, let’s just go, we’ll get to meet new people,” Mark replied. “Nah… you go,” I insisted. “Please… come on…” Mark begged with his big blue eyes. “Okay… I just can’t help if you use those big blue eyes of yours,” I said to him. “Great! I love you… I’ll go wash up and be back here in a jiffy!” Mark said as he left for his room. I just smiled and switched on the television to watch.
Mark was already off to work and I was feeling much better the next morning. Knowing that I was going for a party, I decided to go on a little shopping spree. Browsing through some clothes I found a white silk dress that wasn’t that expensive but it was perfect. I bought it and headed to the hairdresser for a make over that would even surprise Mark.
“Hannah! Wow… you look fantastic,” Mrs. Smith said as she saw me entering the house. I’ve cut my hair to shoulder length and had some red highlights in it. “You think so? Mark and I are going to a party later, I want to surprise him,” I told Mrs. Smith. “It’ll be a surprise alright. I hear him coming, quick go get ready and I’ll try to make sure he doesn’t see you first,” Mrs. Smith said as she pushed me upstairs. “Thanks, Mrs. Smith,” I said to her and headed into my room. I stood by the door and I could hear Mark coming in. “Hi Mrs. Smith, how’s Hannah?” Mark asked. “She’s getting ready for the party, don’t go barging into her room you hear me?” Mrs. Smith warned him. “Okay, I promise,” Mark, said as he laughed. I then heard footsteps followed by the door opening and closed. I smiled and got ready for the party.
I took a final look at my dress and I was set to go. I wore my high heel Prada shoes and headed out from my room. I slowly walked down the stairs and I saw Mark by the porch outside waiting for me. He had a simple light blue shirt with jeans and the same jacket he wore the other day to the fair. Mark turned around just as he heard me and jolted back surprised. “Hannah? Oh… Wow,” was all he managed to say. I was smiling at him. He came over and gave me a kiss and then continued to check me out. “Wow… you look awesome,” Mark told me. Another one of his compliments, I couldn’t help but to blush again. “Thank you, let’s go now, we’d be late,” I told him as we started to walk to the bus stop for a ride.
We arrive at the party just in time. Just as we stepped in, Evian popped out to greet Mark. “Hey Mark! You’re finally here and… why is she here?” Evian asked. I looked at her puzzled. “She’s my girlfriend, what are you talking about?” Mark asked. “Hannah? You’ve got to be kidding right?” Evian said with a smile. “Let’s go Mark, I don’t want to be here,” I told him worriedly. “No Han, we’re here for some fun, let’s go in,” Mark said as he pulls me in. Evian gave me a very cold stare as I pass her. Somehow I knew something was wrong.
I was sitting with Mark on the couch talking when there was a slow song. Mark gave me a smile and pulled me towards the dancing crowd and we both held each other close and danced slowly to the song. “I love you,” Mark whispered to me. I just lay my head onto Mark’s shoulder and danced to the music. I’ve forgotten about Evian or anything else that ever matter, because I’m comfortable in Mark’s arms, I feel safe.
“Stay here, I’ll go get us some drinks,” Mark said after our dance. I nodded and watch him walking off. I was looking around for familiar faces, but I have never seen anyone. I felt someone tapping me on my shoulder. I turned around, thinking it was Mark but Evian stood before me with a glass of red wine. She had a cheeky look on her face. “Mark’s not here to protect you is he?” she said to me. I just stared at her puzzled. She tilted her glass and the red wine spilled all over my dress. “Opps… I’m so sorry,” she said while she laughed. I looked around and saw the other laughing at me. My heart started pumping fast as my childhood nightmares were revived. I used to be laughed at in school when I was young… and now… it felt just the same. I just pushed Evian aside as I ran out of the place with echoes of laughter in my head. Tears began to come as the pain overtook my heart.
I ran out of the place, and kept running till I no longer hear any laughter’s anymore. Just as the laughing stop I stop. I fell to my knees as I continued to cry. The white dress I wore was now all stained red and some other stains from the running. “Mark?” I called out in my confusion. “Where are you?” I kept calling. “Mark!” I shouted instead, hoping he could hear me. “I’m scared Mark! Where are you?” I started shouting as I looked around. My heart was still pumping fast. The darkness was now consuming me. I never liked being alone in the dark and now my heart desires the warm touch of the man I love. I took my shoes off and started walking a different direction. “Please Mark! Help me! I’m scared!” I shouted in my tears. From walking, I started running to unfamiliar places. The bad memories consumed my mind. Every corner I see shadows, shadows that might be following me. “Where am I?” I started asking myself as I ran around the place. I started shaking with fear and being cold.
I finally gave up and my fatigue got the best of me. I squatted under a streetlight as I stare at the empty roads. I was now shivering even worst. Tears dripped onto the street. In my mind, I kept calling out for Mark, asking him to hurry and when I was just about to give up I saw a figure running towards me. I could hear his voice calling… calling my name. “Mark?” I whispered but my vision was getting worst. I finally fell to the road unconscious.
“You have no parents! No one loves you,” shouted a boy. “Yes I do… leave me alone!” I shouted back at him. “Then where are they? I don’t see them… they don’t love you, nobody loves you,” said another girl. “Shut up! Go away!” I screamed at them. “Nobody likes you, nobody loves you, nobody wants you,” the other children teased. “Go away!” I shouted as I sat up straight on my bed. Mark jolted back in shock as he saw me. “Hannah!” he called out. I looked around and I was in my room. “Thank God you’re alright, you almost killed me back there,” Mark said as he hugged me. “Where were you Mark? I was scared,” I said with tears. “It’s okay now Han… I’m here, it’s okay,” he comforted me. “Don’t leave me,” I said to him. “I will never,” Mark replied softly as he tucked me into the bed. He then climbed to the other side and put his hand over me. He held me close to him. I could hear his breathing and feel his heartbeat. I tighten his grip and listen to his heartbeat and mine. That night, I felt as though our hearts united us, beating together. I was glad he was finally back to me. The fear start to fade and I became calmed. I turned my head and kissed him gently on the lips. “Thank you,” I whispered to him.
We quit the job for some certain reasons the next day and fortunate enough to find another in the same day. We were now working in a bookstore not far away from our place. “My friends are coming over,” Mark told me as we were walking home. “Hmm? Who?” I asked curiously. “A brunette and a blonde, Shane Forman and Kian Christensen,” Mark told me. “They’re from Sligo too?” I asked. “Yep, we were high school friends, I’ve told them about you,” Mark said to me. “Oh? What did you say?” I asked interestedly. “That you’re a snotty and nosey princess,” Mark teased and ran. “Mark!” I shouted at him as I chased him. Mark has always had a tendency to make me laugh and have fun. He always does his best to cheer me up.
The days passed and finally Mark’s friends arrived. “Hey guys!” Mark called out as he opened the door. Two young men then came in with a bag each. “Guys, I want you to meet Mrs. Smith, my landlord and Hannah, my girlfriend,” Mark introduces. Shane Forman had dark brunette hair and hazel eyes and Kian Christensen has blonde hair and blue eyes, but not as sharp as Mark’s. I shook their hands as they got in. “So… you’re the girl Mark has talked about all this time eh?” Kian said to me. “Sort of, welcome,” I greeted. “So… where do we put our bags?” Shane asked. Both of them had really strong Irish accents, just like Mark’s. “You guys sleep in my room,” Mark said as he led them. “Wow… they’re already sleeping with each other,” Kian said to Shane and laughed. I blushed with embarrassment as they stare at both of us.
“So… how long are you together already?” Shane asked after drinking some of the red wine. “Nearly three months now,” Mark said as he cut his steak. “They are inseparable,” Mrs. Smith said as she appeared from the kitchen. “Ahh… true love I see, Shane too has found one,” Kian said but seemed like Shane was a little unapproved of it. “Oh really? Please tell us about her,” I said as I took interest. “Nah… she’s just someone,” Shane said as he tried to ignore us. “That’s not a really good thing to say about your girlfriend,” Mrs. Smith said. “Yeah… just tell us,” Mark teased. “Okay, okay… her name is Opal, red head and she works at her father’s office, as his secretary,” Shane said. “Don’t tell me that you’re dating your boss’ daughter,” Mark said unbelievingly. “Yes he is… can you believe it?” Kian said. “Wow! That’s quite brave of you,” I said to Shane. “We just clicked, I’m sure it happened to you two,” Shane said as he looked at both of us. I blushed as I looked at Mark.
“They’re lovely,” I told Mark as I combed my hair. “I know, they’re my closest friend,” Mark said as he was on the bed reading a book. I put down the comb and climbed into the bed. “How long will they be staying over?” I asked as I put my hand onto Mark’s stomach. Mark closed the book and puts it on the table, he then turn to face me. “Why are you so eager to know?” Mark asked. “I like it when you sleep over with me,” I confessed to him. “Then… I’ll move in with you, we’ll share a room… what do you think?” Mark asked. I smiled at him. “I would love that,” I whispered and kissed him on the lips. We cuddled neared and I fell asleep on his chest as I hear his heartbeat all through the night.
I woke up and saw Mark still sleeping. He was like a little baby angel. I slowly got up and washed up. I sneaked out and headed to the kitchen where I was greeted by Kian and Mrs. Smith. “Morning sleepy-head,” Kian said to me. “Morning to you too… you’re up early,” I replied. “Kian’s kind enough to help me with the cleaning up,” Mrs. Smith said as she pinched Kian’s cheeks. “Shane was keeping me up with his loud snores anyway,” Kian said. I couldn’t help but to laugh. “If you don’t mind, I would like to bring some breakfast up for Mark,” I said as I headed to the refrigerator. “Let me help,” Kian said. “Thanks,” I replied. Kian told me more about Mark, such as that he like tea rather than coffee and he always prefer a light breakfast like toast with whipped cream and strawberries. I learn to make the Irish Strawberry Toast, which is copy write of Kian Christensen. I thanked him again as I was ready to take the breakfast up. “Mark is lucky to have you, I wish I had a girlfriend like you,” Kian told me. I blushed and thanked him again as I headed up.“Good morning!” I called out as I headed into the room. Mark was already awake and was staring at the picture of us in the sunflower frame. “You brought breakfast,” Mark said as he sat up straight. I took the tray and set it in front of Mark. “Kian helped me, he told me you liked this,” I said to him. “Yes I do… God! I can’t remember the last time I ever had these,” Mark said as he quickly pop one into his mouth. “How is it?” I asked. “God… it’s delicious! Kian always makes the best Irish Strawberry Toasts,” Mark said with whipped cream all over him upper lip. I bent over and licked the cream off. Mark just moaned. “It’s very sweet,” I said to him. “That was hot! Do it again!” Mark said as he purposely smeared more of it onto his lips. “Dream on!” I laughed as I got up from the bed.
“Tell me, what was Mark like in high school?” I asked Kian. We were sitting by the dining table together with Mark. “He’s very dorky, with the glasses and pimples,” Kian told me. “You wear glasses?” I asked Mark. “Yeah… now I’m wearing contacts,” Mark told me. “Oh… wear some glasses for me will you? You’ll look better with them,” I begged. “Nah… I’m sick of them already,” Mark insisted. “She’s right you know… without acne you might look better,” Kian teased. “I think I still have my old ones somewhere in my room,” Mark told me. “Go get it! I wanna see it! I wanna see you in it!” I begged him. Mark smiled and headed into his room.
“How did you two meet?” Kian asked. “Oh… here, Mrs. Smith introduced him to me,” I told Kian. “Oh… wow, and you two clicked just like that?” Kian asked again. “Kinda, but we confessed each other’s feelings on our very first date, it was lovely,” I replied. “Tell me, I wanna know,” Kian said eagerly. I told him the whole situation and he was touched. Soon Mark came down with his black-framed glasses. He was looking so hot in it. “Oh dear God! I love you even more!” I said to Mark as I kept my eyes on him. “Seriously? Wow… this really are magic glasses,” Mark said as he tried to look at the glasses he had on.
Since then, Mark had his glasses on the whole time, knowing that I loved him even more with it. We decided to go for a local beach party that was held later that day. We were lucky enough to get the tickets in time. I put on a pink G-string bikini that somehow ended up in my wardrobe. I didn’t want the rest to see it yet so I got a cloth to cover it. The others were dressed in three-quarters and simple tees. “Wow… the top looks sexy, but what’s under that cloth?” Kian asked. “It’s a surprise you just have to wait,” I teased them as I walked by. Mark was already drooling by the sight of me. I just pulled him by the tee as we started to walk to the beach.
The turnout was just enough, it
wasn’t so crowded, and I love it. Just as we went in, we found a perfect spot.
It was just far enough to see the stage. “So, what do we do now?” Shane
asked, as he looked around with his half tinted sunglasses he had on. “I’m
going for a swim,” I said as I got up and stood in front of the guys. I untie
my cloth and let it slowly fall to the ground. All three of them had their jaws
wide opened as they saw me, but they weren’t the only one staring, there were
others around there too, staring at me. I just loved the sight and slowly walked
to the sea. Mark and the other two quickly took their tees off and chased after
me. Mark grabbed me from behind and charged towards the water. We started
splashing at each other and had loads of fun. The music started and we started
dancing by the water and the beach. I never felt so much fun in my life. It was
getting dark; they then switched to a slow song. Kian and Shane took off,
hunting for food while I wrapped my hands around Mark as we danced by the shore.
It was perfect; the music was playing melodiously with the waves. “I just love
this song,” I whispered to Mark as we listened to Ronan Keating’s ‘The
Long Goodbye’. “I just hope our love doesn’t happen like what he’s
singing right now,” Mark whispered to me. I leaned my head on his chest as I
continued to listen to the song.
This is the long goodbye,
Somebody tell me why,
Two lovers in love can't make it,
Just what kind of love keeps breaking a heart?
No matter how hard I try,
You're gonna make me cry,
Come on, baby, it's over, let's face it,
All that's happening here is a long goodbye
Sometimes I ask my heart did we really,
Give our love a chance (just one more chance)
and I know without a doubt,
I turned it inside out,
And if we walked away,
would make more sense (only self defense)
But it tears me up inside,
Just to think we still could try,
How long must we keep riding on a carousel,
Going round and round and never getting anywhere?
(on a wing and prayer)
This is the long goodbye,
Somebody tell me why,
Two lovers in love can't make it,
Just what kind of love keeps breaking a heart?
No matter how hard I try,
you're gonna make me cry,
Come on, baby, it's over, Let's face it,
All that's happening here is the long goodbye…
“Well… they’re going back tomorrow,” Mark said to me as we cuddle up in bed. “I had loads of fun with them, what are we going to do? There’s at least another week left on our holiday,” I told Mark. “Well… wanna go to Sligo?” Mark asked me. I looked into his eyes. “Seriously? Sligo as in Ireland?” I asked. “I didn’t know there’s another Sligo anywhere else,” Mark asked sarcastically. I pinched him on the arm. We started laughing at each other. “So? How about it?” Mark asked. “Sure thing, I’ll pack now,” I quickly told him as I started to look for our bags. Mark got on the phone to book two tickets.
“I’m nervous…” I whispered to Mark as we sat at our seats. “Why? Never sat on a plane before?” Mark asked. “That and meeting your family… will they accept me?” I asked him nervously. “They will, don’t worry okay?” Mark comforted me as he held me close. I was glad he said that, but I’m still worried in meeting his family… I don’t want to be ignored and hated anymore. My worries were lifted once I turned to see Kian and Shane sleeping like pigs.
We finally arrive at Ireland’s main city, Dublin. It’s rather nice and peaceful; I’ll never have second thoughts if I were to choose to stay here. I was rather disappointed when I knew we weren’t staying in Dublin, but my thoughts changed once I saw what I believed looked like the Garden of Eden. The sceneries and folks of Sligo were amazing. I can never take my eyes off the broad green lands and beautiful skies.
We arrived at a small country town taxi stand and started walking through the small town. Mark, Kian and Shane were greeting almost everyone we saw, this is the kind of life I always longed for, living in a small town where everyone knows you and you know them. Mark never let go of my hand as we walked through the town, he was proud of me and I was too of him.
After dropping off Kian and Shane, we headed to Mark’s house. My heart was still pumping quick as we arrived by the patio. “Don’t worry honey, it’ll all be alright,” Mark said as he kissed my forehead. I nodded and took a deep breath. We went in and surprised Mark’s family. In the hall were Oliver and Marie, Mark’s parents, and Colin and Barry, he's two younger brothers. We started greeting each other and Mark was about to introduce me when another girl appeared from the kitchen. “Mark! You’re back?” she screamed and jumped on him. She started kissing him on the lips passionately. I jolted back in horror. “Diane?” Mark called out with shock. “She finally returned from America, both of you can get married now,” said Marie. My heart was feeling worst. “Who’s that?” Diane asked as she got down from Mark. “This is…” Mark was about to say when I interrupted him. “Hannah, I’m just a close friend of Mark,” I said with a smile, hiding my painful feelings. Mark looked worriedly at me. “Well… I’m going out for a walk, don’t worry about me,” I said to the rest as I hurried outside, dropping my bags on the floor. “Hannah!” Mark called out as I quickly ran outside.
I cried as I slowly walked down a road. I stopped and sat by a large rock beside the river. I still couldn’t hold my tears back. “Hannah?” Kian called. I turned around and noticed Kian walking by with a paper bag in his hands. “Hi,” I whispered to him as I quickly wiped off the tears. “Where’s Mark?” he asked as he stood next to me. “He’s at home,” I whispered back. “You’re crying… what’s wrong?” Kian asked as he puts the bag on the ground. “It’s nothing serious, I’m just a little depressed,” I told him. “Do tell,” Kian asked with concern.“Diane’s back huh?” Kian said as he tossed another rock into the river. I just sat at the same spot silently. “Mark proposed to her before she went to America, that was months ago, he must have gotten over her and found you,” Kian explained. “Does he still love her?” I asked. “I’m not sure Hannah, but one thing is for sure… he loves you,” Kian whispered to me as he bend down and faced me. I smiled at him. “What are you going to do now?” he asked. “I don’t think I’m ready to face him,” I said back. “Why don’t you stay over at my place?” Kian suggested. “No! I can’t, it’s too bothersome,” I told him. “Don’t worry, c’mon,” he said as he grabbed his paper bag and pulled me along.
I was told to make myself at home as he went over to Mark’s to get my bags, he also told me not to worry as he would talk to Mark about it. No one was in the house because Kian’s family had left for a holiday trip to London. The house was small, yet it was very warm and comfy. I walked to the hall where I saw loads of trophies that belongs to Kian. From sports to music, I started to think that he has done almost everything possible during his childhood.
I walked over to the fireplace and I saw a picture, it was the graduation of Shane, Mark and Kian. My eyes couldn’t get off Mark… and just as I thought I was okay, I start to cry. I walked over and sat on the couch. I was hurt inside, Mark… who I thought was in love with me was just using me as a float, a supporter, and once he found what he was looking for, I’m already done for. I cried. “Hannah?” I heard someone calling. I quickly wiped my tears and headed to the door.
I opened the door and saw Kian together with Shane followed by another blonde. “How are you coping?” Shane asked. “Oh… you knew?” I asked. “Kian was kind enough to tell,” Shane replied. Kian headed into my house with my bags. I just looked at the blonde. She was the same height as Shane with green eyes. “I presume that this is Gillian?” I asked. “Oh… sorry for not introducing myself,” Gillian said as she reached her hand out. I shook it. “How did Mark handle it?” I couldn’t help but ask. “Well, he looked miserable, he never meant to hurt you,” Shane told me. I just stood there silently. “Diane doesn’t seem to know,” Kian said as he approached us. “Just forget it. Can anyone book me a ticket home?” I asked. “Don’t be silly Han… We’re still here, c’mon, let’s go for dinner,” Kian said as he pushed me out the door and pulled me along with them. I really didn’t have the mood that day, but Kian insisted on entertaining me. I couldn’t help to be grateful, but Mark occupied my mind. It was very hard to just ignore what happened.
“You sleep in my room,” Kian said as he showed me to his room. “What? Where will you be sleeping?” I asked in shock. “I’ll be in my brother’s room for now, don’t worry,” Kian replied with a smile. “Goodnight,” he said as he turned around. “Kian?” I called out. He turned around. “Thank you, for today,” I replied. He smiled back and left the room.
I dressed into my pyjamas and got
ready for bed. Just before I headed for the bed, I took out my necklace. I put
in onto my palm slowly as the memories flow again. I quickly tossed it into a
small black box. I covered myself and started crying softly. At that moment, I
didn’t know if I hated him or not. I was confused, and I needed him right at
that moment. I needed Mark. What is he doing at this moment? Does he still love
me? Is he missing me at this moment? The questions started pouring in. I lay on
the bed for nearly an hour and I wasn’t tired at all. I quickly got up and
headed out to the kitchen. When I got in I saw Kian there, half-naked and having
some milk. “Oh… sorry,” I apologised and headed back out. “Wait,” Kian
said. I stopped and turned around. “Want some milk?” he asked with a smile.
I smiled back and nodded.
“Mark was the silent one,” Kian told me. “Never mix?” I asked. “Only with us, he never liked to mix with big groups though,” Kian told me. “I didn’t know that,” I said. We sat by the dining table silently. I grasped my glass tightly. “Seriously Han, I don’t see his intention of hurting you,” Kian told me. “Please Kian, don’t remind me of that,” I told him, slightly irritated. “Do you still love him Han?” he asked. I looked deep into his blue eyes. “I’m not sure,” I replied as I looked away. Kian held my chin and pulled me to face him. “Do you still love him?” he asked me again. “I do,” I replied as tears flowed. He came over and gave me a hug. “He still loves you too, just don’t give up on him just yet,” Kian whispered.
I woke up slightly uncomfortable, knowing Mark wasn’t next to me. I washed up and headed out to the kitchen. Kian was already up getting breakfast ready. “Morning, had a good night?” Kian asked. “Slightly…” I replied and sat by the dining table. “Here… enjoy,” he said with a smile and puts a plate of Irish Strawberry Toast. “Do you only know how to make this?” I asked. He just stared at me. I laughed at his expression. Kian just lightens me up whenever he’s around, I don’t know if this is a good thing or bad… I’m starting to get confused. “Mark’s parents invited us for dinner,” Kian told me. I sat there silently as I ate my toast. “Do you want to go?” Kian continued to ask. “I don’t know,” I replied softly. Kian continued to mix the coffee. “You have to see him one way or the other,” Kian continued. I took another bite of the toast. “We’re going,” Kian continued as he puts the two cups of coffee on the table. “Will Diane be there?” I asked. “Yep,” he continued. I sipped my coffee. “It’ll be alright,” He told me. I hope so.
I dressed casually for the family dinner. As I came out from my room, Kian was already waiting by the hall. “Ready?” he asked. I nodded silently. Kian opens the door and I followed him out. I put on my jacket and wrapped my hands around myself, as it was chilly. We both walked silently to Mark’s house. I didn’t know what was going on in my head, every memory and every thought of what would happen.
“Welcome Kian, welcome Hannah,” said Marie as we stepped through the door. I smiled back at her. “The others are in the dining hall, just help yourselves there,” she said. “Thanks Aunt Marie,” Kian replied as he guided me to the dining hall. Just before we step into the dining hall, my legs stopped. Something was stopping me from going in there. “What’s wrong Han?” Kian asked. “I just can’t,” I mumbled. “What do you mean you just can’t?” he asked back. “I can’t do it, I want to go home,” I told him nervously. “Don’t be silly Han, you’re already here, no point heading back now,” Kian said as he pulled me in.
“Hey guys!” Kian called out as we
entered. Shane was sitting next to Gillian, followed by Mr. Oliver, Colin, Barry
and Diane. I didn’t see Mark anywhere… which made me feel relieved for a
moment. “Have a seat,” Mr. Oliver said. We nodded. I was just about to head
to the empty seat next to Diane when Mark came out from the kitchen with some
mashed potatoes and bumped into me. “Hannah!” Mark said with shock. I was
surprised too, but my heart felt uneasy. I was breathing hard. “Is anything
wrong?” Marie said as she came into the dining hall. “Oh… nothing,” we
replied. “Okay, Hannah, you’ll sit next to Mark,” Marie told me as she
pulled out an empty chair. I didn’t want to, but there was no choice.
“So Hannah, how long have you met Mark?” Mrs. Marie asked. “Oh… since he moved in, he’s just opposite of my room,” I told her politely. “That’s good, he really needs friends to cope with new places,” she replied to me. I slowly ate my dinner. Kian, Shane and Gillian were also silent, sitting opposite me. “You all are awfully quiet tonight, anything wrong?” Mr. Oliver asked. “Nothing!” we said together and continue to eat silently. “Marky-dear, here, have more chicken, I made it for you,” Diane said as she tried to feed Mark with some chicken. Mark just nodded and puts the chicken on his plate. “Is something wrong Marky-dear,” Diane asked. Mark knew that it was irritating me. “Stop it,” Mark told her. “What? Why? You used to do that with me,” Diane said to him as she got closer and stroked his hair. “You two are going to get married anyway… why are you being so grumpy?” Marie asked Mark. Suddenly Mark got up. “I’m not marrying Diane,” Mark said loudly. “What?” his parents replied. Mark grabbed my hand and pulled me together with him out of his house.
We sat quietly by the lakeside. “Are you avoiding me?” Mark finally said. I just sat there silently. “Are you hurt?” he asked again. “Yes,” I whispered back. “But I never meant to,” he said. “I know, but I can’t help it,” I said, as I started to cry. “You were never a float Han, you are my pole, you are my supporter, I can’t stand without you,” Mark told me. I can’t believe that he actually said that, is it really fate that gave us the same thoughts? I turned and faced him and hugged his back. “Thank you Mark, that was just what I need,” I whispered back to him. Mark turned around and kissed me. I was finally back in the arms that I longed. “How about Diane?” I asked. “That’s just something I have to deal with, don’t worry, it’ll be all right,” Mark told me.
We finally headed back to Mark’s
home, where everyone was waiting for us in the hall. “Well, since you’re
finally back, there’s no reason for us to stay here any longer,” Kian told
us. “Yeah… thanks for the dinner Aunt Marie,” Shane said as he gave her a
peck on the cheeks and left together with Kian and Gillian. I stood silently
beside Mark, facing his parents and Diane. They don’t look too pleased.
“What has happened?” Oliver asked Mark. “I met Hannah and I’m in love
with her,” Mark told them. “What about me Mark?” Diane shouted, feeling
hurt inside. “I used to be in love with you, till you left me,” Mark told
her. “I still love you, I had no choice but to go to America, Mark! But I
still love you,” Diane said as she got up and faced Mark. Mark on the other
hand was trying to avoid eye contact. I couldn’t bear to look at the pain
Diane felt. “I’m through Diane… I’m in love with Hannah now,” Mark
told her. Diane just collapsed onto the floor. “Diane!” Mark called out and
was about to pick her up when Marie pushed him away. “Go away! I never want
you to step into this house ever!” she screamed at us. “What? Mom!” Mark
shouted disbelievingly. “Marie… calm down,” Oliver told her. “I never
want to see you again! You are not my son!” she shouted again as she tried to
pick Diane up. “How could you say that?” Mark asked. “Diane went through
hell trying to get to you from America… she was forced to work, forced to
survive in an environment that was tough just to return here to see you and this
is what you do to her? You’re inhuman Mark, get out!” she said. Mark was
shocked and so was I. “Get out!” she screamed again. Mark grabbed my hand
and we left the house. I could hear Marie crying from outside, I was hurt, but
not as hurt as Mark was… I just knew it was real pain that he was going
through.
Mark knocked on Kian’s door as I just stood behind him. “Mark? How did it go?” Kian asked just as he opened the door. “Not too well… Han… stay here, I’m going back to get some things,” Mark told me. “Are you serious? You’re just going to leave your family?” I asked him worriedly. “I just want to be with you, listen to me and stay here,” Mark said again and kissed me deeply. He then ran home as I entered Kian’s house.
I told Kian everything that happened right after Mark left. I waited impatiently in the hall for Mark to return… I was worried. “Are you okay?” Kian asked. “Yeah… just… a little disturbed,” I told him. “About his family?” Kian asked. I nodded silently. “It’s really his choice,” Kian told me. “Am I a burden to him? Am I the cause of this break up?” I told Kian nervously. I knew I was, but I never want to know that I am. I never can accept it. Kian just stared at me silently. I knew he had no answer to my question. I just got up and headed to the window, staring into the road outside. What’s taking him so long?
Just as I was about to turn around I saw Mark walking towards the house with two bags in his hands. I quickly opened the door and ran to him. I hugged him tightly. “Whoa there Han… I’ve just gone for a few minutes,” Mark told me caringly as he dropped his bags. “I’m sorry Mark… I’m so very sorry,” I told him as I cried. “Hannah… it’s not your fault… c’mon… we’ll be together from now on,” Mark whispered to me. “But… your family… how about them?” I asked as I looked into his eyes. “Don’t worry, they’ll be fine,” he said with a smile. I felt lighten up; a smile came upon my face as I continued to hug him.
We left back for home, leaving behind what is now just a bad memory. Kian and Shane sent us off at the airport. I never knew what happened to Mark’s parents and Diane, but I never want to remind him of it either, so… I just let it go. We arrived at the airport and hired a taxi back. Just as we came upon the corner, Mrs. Smith’s house was packed with people and an ambulance together with some police cars. I looked at Mark worriedly. Just as we arrived, we quickly ran towards the house. “I’m sorry miss… you can’t go in,” said a police officer as he stopped me from taking another step in. “We live here!” I shouted at him. “Calm down Han,” Mark said as he tried to hold me back. Our neighbour, Mrs. Williams then approached us as she saw us. She had red eyes, and I knew that it was bad. “I know them,” she told the officer and he let us through. “What happened?” I asked her. “Mrs. Smith… passed away last night,” she told us between breaths. I looked at her with horror. Just at that moment, the paramedics came out of the house with a stretcher and a white cloth covering Mrs. Smith’s whole body. I screamed… and screamed. She may not be blood related to me, but she was my mother… my only mother.
It
was hard going through the funeral. I don’t even remember what was the last
thing I told Mrs. Smith. She has taken care of me since I left the orphanage and
now she just leaves me. I cried the whole time; Mark comforted me through it
all. She was finally lowered into the ground. I paid my last respects to her and
left with Mark. Just as we were about to step into the cab, a man dressed in all
black approached us. “Miss Hannah and Mr. McMahan?” he called out.
“That’s us,” Mark said. “Hello, I’m Roger Hemming, Mrs. Smith’s
attorney, you have to follow me to my office because both of you are in her
will,” Roger told us. I was shocked to hear this. “I’m in her will? But I
just met her for just a few months,” Mark said disbelievingly. “I assure you
sir, you are in her will,” Roger repeated himself. We then agreed and followed
him.
I sat silently by the table with Mark by my side as Roger looks through the will. “It states here that Mrs. Smith has no children and that only both of you are in it,” Roger explained. I looked at Mark. “It states here that Mrs. Smith has passed on all her life savings and insurance together with all her properties to Hannah and Mark McMahan,” Roger then read out. I had my jaws hanging open. Mark too was shock. “It comes to a total of… 5.5 million Euro,” Roger calculated. I almost fainted as I heard the sum. I turned around and noticed Mark too nearly collapsed.
“She left us everything… I can’t believe it!” I said to Mark. He too stunned to even talk. We thanked Roger for the lift home and I just stood silently by lawn of Mrs. Smith’s house… that is now ours. “She was wonderful, I just can’t believe that she is still helping us after she’s gone,” Mark said as he hugged me from behind. “Yeah… Thanks Mrs. Smith,” I whispered as I stare into the sunset. “We really should do something for her,” Mark said. I nodded and we both headed inside. I headed to the hall and got some candles that were usually used for blackouts and some flowers. I took them and laid them on the porch. Mark then came with a dozen pictures of Mrs. Smith. We settled them on the porch table that Mrs. Smith loves the most. I arranged the pictures as Mark lights the candles. I then came upon a picture of Mr and Mrs. Smith. “I’m keeping this,” I told Mark. He smiled at me. I laid the flowers by the pictures and look at the candles glowing. “This is for you Mrs. Smith,” Mark said as he lighted a large candle and puts her favourite mug beside it. I too lighted a candle and we both headed inside.
“I miss her,” I told Mark as we lay in bed. “Me too,” he replied. “It’s pretty hard isn’t it?” I asked. “What is?” Mark replied. “Death… sometimes it can just be very hard to cope with isn’t it?” I asked again. “Yeah… but we have to, because it’s natural,” he replied to me. “Did she suffer?” I asked Mark worriedly. “Maybe she was having a hard time and we weren’t there for her,” I continued as my heart start to ache. “I doubt it, God wouldn’t make her suffer, she’s a good woman,” Mark whispered. “Are you sure?” I asked back. “Definitely, she’s special… an angel,” Mark said as he kissed my head. “Thanks Mark, it would be hard if you weren’t here,” I told him. “I’ll always be there for you,” Mark replied and gave me a long kiss. I hugged him tight as we fell asleep.
It was a new day and a new start. Mark and I have a house of our own and we have enough money to survive, but Mark insists that we still have to work. “Life isn’t easy,” he told me and I too believe in it. We decided on starting a business, so after half a month, we finally opened a corner café. ‘Smith’s Tea’ we called it, in dedication of Mrs. Smith. Business isn’t large, but we manage to sum enough money to feed a family.
Time passed and it has been half a year since then. I was doing some paperwork at home when Mark came back. He greeted me with a kiss on the neck. “Still doing the shipments huh?” Mark asked as he saw my work. “Yeah… I’ll be done in a minute,” I told him as I continued with my work. Mark nodded and left me alone. After I’ve finished with my work, I took a large stretch and headed to the staircase. Just as I approached it, I saw a trail of rose petals up the stairs. I followed it with a smile into our bedroom. It then led to the bed where a beautiful white gown lay around the petals.I took the dress and examined it in awe. Mark pops into the room and kissed me “Happy Valentine’s Day!” he said. He was all dressed up in a tuxedo and was looking real fine. “Mark! This is for me?” I asked disbelievingly. “Do you think I could fit in that?” he asked me back. “C’mon, put it on, I taking you out for dinner,” Mark said. I smiled and gave him another kiss. “Thanks,” I said to him. He left the room as my eyes were glued to the dress… it was fabulous, and I couldn’t wait to put it on.
I put on the dress after a quick shower and I was amazed at my own self. It was a perfect fit. I put on matching white high heels and headed out. Mark was sitting by the porch and I could here him talking. “Well… we’re getting on perfect with our lives, Hannah’s having a great time and so am I… I’m just still sad that you’re not here,” Mark said. I peeped by the side and I could see him squatting next to Mrs. Smith’s so-called ‘shrine’, talking to her. I was touched at his sweet caring personality. I took a deep breath and headed out the door.
“Oh my God!” Mark said in awe as he saw me. I couldn’t help but giggled. “Can you see her? My… she’s beautiful,” Mark, said to Mrs. Smith. “Cut it out, c’mon, let’s go,” I told him. “Wait… here,” he said as he took out a hidden bouquet of flowers. I was shock as he took it out; it was like lots of flowers in it. “124 red roses, representing the 12th of April,” he told me. “The day we met! You remembered!” I said disbelievingly. “Sure do,” he said and kissed me softly on the lips. “Thank you!” I said to him as I hugged him.
We got into Mark’s new Mercedes and he drove us to somewhere familiar. Our café. “Why are we here?” I asked. Mark smiled as he got out and opened my door. He took my hand and headed in the café. In the middle of the café was a table with candles surrounding it. It was beautiful and very touching. I sat opposite him as our own staff served us. After the dinner, Mark invited me for a dance. Blushing deeply, I accepted and dance to a slow song. It was such a perfect valentine night; I never thought that he could be so romantic sometimes.
I thanked the staff for a beautiful night as I headed out with Mark. Just as was about to enter the car, Mark stopped me. “Let’s walk home,” he said with a smile. “What about the car?” I asked. “Philip could drive it home,” Mark said as he held my hand. I nodded and we started walking back. I laid my head on his shoulder as we started walking back. We stopped by the beach and sat by the bench. I was enjoying the sound of the soft waves when Mark pulls me closer to him. I lifted my legs onto the bench and rested on his chest.
“Isn’t the sky beautiful tonight?” Mark asked. I opened my eyes and stared into another star filled sky. This brought me back to the time we were stranded at the run downed bus stop. “The stars are really shining bright,” I told Mark. “How about this star?” Mark whispered as he pulled out a ring. My eyes grew as I saw the sparkle on the diamond ring. I quickly got up and stared at the ring. “Hannah…” Mark whispered as he got on one knee. My heart was pumping fast. “I’m giving you the honour of having the name McMahan, would you be Mrs. Hannah McMahan for me?” Mark said with a smile. A single tear fell as I answered, “Yes”.
“Where are the soon to be couple? C’mere!” Kian said as I opened the front door. Kian came in and gave me a big hug and a kiss on the cheeks. “Wow! You actually came?” I said disbelievingly. “Well… not only me,” Kian said as he turned and I saw Shane, Gillian and two other blondes. “We wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Kian said to me. Shane and Gillian then came and gave me a hug too. The two blondes approached me when Mark came. “Bryan! Nicky!” he called out in shock. “H-Hey! It has only been a whole year since we saw each other and you’re finally getting married? Wow!” Nicky said. He was the thin blonde and I assumed that Bryan was the tall one. “Hannah, meet Nicky Percival and Bryan Heathridge, and you two, meet Hannah, my fiancée,” Mark introduced us. The two of them gave me a hug and a kiss on the cheeks. “I assume all five of you were close friends?” I asked. “Yeah… since high school,” Nicky told me. “I haven’t heard the other three mention anything about you two,” I said curiously. “That’s because the three of them are from Sligo while both Bryan and I are from Dublin,” Nicky continued. “Oh… okay,” I replied. “So tomorrow’s the big day! Congratulations!” Gillian said as she pulled me out of the guys. “I’m so proud of you,” Gillian continued as she hugged me. “Thanks, hopefully I might also attend your wedding with Shane,” I told her. “Yeah… Hopefully,” she replied as she rolled her eyes onto Shane. I can’t help but giggled. “Hey Mark!” said Oliver as he came into the house. “Dad! You came!” Mark said disbelievingly as he saw his father. They started hugging each other. “Where’s mom?” Mark asked. “She’s still upset, but don’t worry about her,” Oliver told Mark. Mark felt a little sad, I can see it, but he was happy that at least his father was there. “So… Hannah is going to be my daughter in law huh?” Oliver said as he approached me. I just stood stunned as he walked closely. He then gave me a hug. “Welcome to the family,” he said to me. I was relieved.
I sat in front of the dressing table as our neighbour Mrs. Williams was stroking my hair. I touched my satin wedding dress and almost cried seeing myself in it. “There, there child, it’s suppose to be a happy day, no tears,” Mrs. Williams told me. I looked at the side of the table and stared into Mrs. Smith’s picture. “I know she is proud of you,” Mrs. Williams told me. “I know she is,” I said with a smile. Mrs. Williams finally puts on a tiara on my head and gave me a good luck kiss on the cheeks. “Do her proud,” Mrs. Williams whispered to me as we gazed into Mrs. Smith’s picture. “Are you ready Hannah?” Gillian said as she came into the room. I got up and turned towards her. “Oh Wow! You’re fantastic!” she said to me. I blushed. “C’mon let’s go!” she said as she held my hand and we quickly got out.
“Wow… you’re stunning,” Mr. Williams said as he saw me. I thanked him. He was kind enough to walk me down the aisle, as I had no father… but I didn’t mind. The wedding song played and everyone got up. I start to walk down the aisle as I looked around. I saw Bryan, Nicky, Shane and Kian at the side of Mark. They were his best men. But my eyes were locked onto Mark. He looked stunning in the pearl white tuxedo. I approached him and Mr. Williams handed me over to him. Mark held my hand tight as we approached the priest.
We said our vows and we finally kissed each other. I can’t believe that I was finally married to Mark and I have a last name, Hannah McMahan. I’ve always wanted a surname and I was happy that it’s Mark’s surname. The party was a blast. I had a great time and it was finally time for us to leave. We bid farewell to the others and headed to the airport. We decided on spending our honeymoon in Hawaii.
Just as we were about to open the door, Mark lifted me up. “A tradition,” he said to me as he opened the door. It was ticklish as he lifted me, so I couldn’t help laughing. Mark tossed me onto the bed as he crawled over me. I looked deep into his striking blue eyes as he slowly lays his lips onto mine. Mark slowly unzips my dress as I did his shirt. It was the beginning of a beautiful night. We made love… for the very first time.
I got up in the morning and found Mark sleeping softly with a smile on his face. I quietly got up and headed for a shower. I came out and noticed that Mark was missing from the bed but I smelt something delicious. I headed to the kitchen and found him preparing breakfast. “Good morning,” Mark said to me as he kissed me on the lips. “Morning honey,” I replied and sat by the dining table. Mark then puts a plate of eggs and bacon and poured a cup of coffee. We enjoyed breakfast and got ready to go out.
We went shopping and enjoyed the day on the beach. We went for a simple dinner and headed back to the hotel. We spent the night cuddled up in each other’s arms as we watched the telly. Everything was starting to be so perfect, when something was going wrong.
“Hannah! Wake up!” Mark called. I
woke up and heard the alarm blasting. It was a fire. I started to panic.
“C’mon, we better get out of here,” Mark said as he got up. “Get the
passports Mark!” I told him as I got up. He headed to the room while I quickly
headed to the door. I opened it and I could feel intense heat. “Got it, hurry,
let’s go to the staircase,” Mark said as he pulled me along. But just as we
reached the door, flames were blocking the whole door. “We can’t go
through!” I shouted. I panicked; I didn’t know what to do. “We’ll find a
way,” Mark said as he held me close. I didn’t want this to happen, I just
married Mark, and I want to be with him. “The fire isn’t large yet, let’s
go for the elevator,” Mark said. “Isn’t it risky Mark? I mean, we aren’t
suppose to use it!” I told him. “Trust me, it’s the only way to
survive,” Mark told me. I trusted him. Mark quickly taps on the button as we
waited for the lift impatiently. There was a small sound the doors open. We then
saw the lift filled with children and some adults. “We can’t go in,” I
told Mark. “You can, go…” Mark told me. I couldn’t believe my ears.
“You want me to leave you?” I shouted at him. “I’ll come later, go!”
Mark insisted. I didn’t want to do it. “I won’t leave you! I never
will!” I shouted as I grabbed onto Mark. He lifted my chin and kissed me. I
stared at his eyes. “I’m sorry,” he whispered as he pushed me in, just as
the doors were closing. “MARK!” I screamed with tears. The doors slowly
closed as I watch him standing behind it. I saw his lips moving, but I
couldn’t hear what he said, but I knew, he said…
“I love you,”
“OPEN THE DOOR! MARK!” I screamed to the top of my lungs as I tried to open the door. The children were crying and a man tried to hold me back. Tears were covering my eyes. The doors finally open, but Mark wasn’t there, it was some firemen instead. “NO! I NEED TO GO BACK! MARK!!!” I screamed again and again as the fireman pulled me away from the hotel. I didn’t know what happen, I just blacked out at that very moment. And when I opened my eyes, everything was gone. The fire was down; everyone was outside the hotel. I got up. “Mark! Mark! Where are you?” I shouted. I searched around. There were people lying on the streets, children, women and others. I was scared and I was shaking… Where is he? Oh God… Why?It was done for. There were no more survivors. It was too late for Mark. Life was just breaking in front of my face. I tried telling myself that it was lies… that he would never leave me. I was frustrated, confused and scared. I didn’t know what to do. Mark managed to strap the bag on me before pushing me in. So our documents were fine. I opened Mark’s passport with my shaky hands. I stared into his picture; he’s perfect smile, his beautiful eyes. I couldn’t help it… I cried.
I flew back to Sligo. The news had already reached there. I arrived in Dublin where Kian and the rest were waiting for me. It was really hard; the last thing I wanted to do is to be alone. “Hannah…” Kian said. I cried and I couldn’t stop. Kian hugged me as my tears flowed. Gillian too cried at the sight of me. Shane, Bryan and Nicky just stood silently around us. They too had some tears.
I arrived for the funeral in Sligo. Everyone was there, even Mark’s family. Just as I was about to join them, Marie came charging at me. “You! You’re the cause of all of this! Get out of here!” she screamed at me. I just blanked out in front of her. Tears fell again. Oliver held Marie as she too cried. I began to lose hope, lose faith… I need Mark… where is he? Marie was right… if it wasn’t because of me… he wouldn’t be gone… he was better off with Diane.
I was still in Sligo after the funeral. I stayed over at Kian’s place day after day. Everyday I would visit Mark’s grave. I approached the tombstone.
‘Mark Henry McMahan’
Beloved Son, Brother, Friend and Husband
Rest In Peace
1980 – 2003
“Hey honey, brought you flowers again,” I said as I laid the flowers by the tombstone. I sat next to it. “I know I should be strong, but I can’t help it, you did this to me,” I told him. “I’m guessing you met Mrs. Smith already?” I whispered as tears began building up. “I miss you,” I whispered and cried.
“Hey, you’re back, dinner’s ready,” Kian said as I came in. “I’m not hungry, thanks,” I whispered to him as I headed to my room. I sat on the bed and covered my face with my palms. I cried again, I couldn’t help but cry these days. I pulled out the chain Mark gave me a year ago.
“It’s
perfect,” he said to me. I took the ring and put it on Mark’s finger. “It
fits too,” I told him as the ring slipped in perfectly. “I love you,” Mark
whispered softly to my ears. “I love you too,” I whispered back and we both
were lock into a kiss. We sat under the shade the whole evening, I felt so
comfortable in his strong hands. It may be tough and hard, but it felt as though
I was lying on a soft chair. He was warming me with his body.
The chain was still shining gloriously till this day. I took off my shoes and covered myself with the sheets. I was stuck in the memories of Mark and I. “Hannah?” Kian said before knocking on the door. I got up and opened the door. “Yeah?” I replied. “You better eat, it’s been nearly 2 days since you ate,” Kian told me. “I’m fine…” I replied to him as I sat on my bed. “Hannah… please,” he begged. “I’m sorry Kian, but I’m not as strong as you think I am… I still love him,” I told Kian. He sat next to me and laid my head on his shoulders. “I know you do, but he won’t be happy seeing you this miserable,” Kian told me. “Then… why did he even save me? Knowing that this would happen to me,” I asked. “I’m sure he has a reason Hannah… I know he does,” he replied as he looks at me.
This
is the long goodbye,
Somebody tell me why,
Two lovers in love can't make it,
Just what kind of love keeps breaking a heart?
No matter how hard I try,
you're gonna make me cry,
Come on, baby, it's over, Let's face it,
All that's happening here is the long goodbye…
They all say that I need to go on with my life. But I can never understand how they can do it. Life seems hard when the one you love is gone… don’t they get it? I don’t think my heart could ever be mended again. Suicide always comes to my mind, but I always see Mark looking back at me disgustedly… What am I to do? I hate you Mark… I hate you for doing this to me…
I finally moved back to our old house. But it just makes me feel much more lonely living in a big house. I sold it off and moved to an apartment. I still work in the café we own… managing it the best I could with some help. I began having high hopes that I could make it… I just knew I do. The café now has two pictures framed to the wall… Mrs. Smith and Mark… I knew I hate you… but it won’t last long… Mark, you’ll always be…
IN
MY HEART…