RUBY…
CHAPTER
ONE
"I'm flying without wings..." Mark sang the last line for Flying Without Wings. "Thank you Malaysia, and goodnight!!!" the lads shouted through the microphone towards the 20,000 spectators that came to their concert. They took off their coats and handed them to their dresser as they continued to run towards the limousine that was waiting for them backstage. Even after a few minutes, the roads outside the stadium were packed with fans. "Man, are they waiting for us outside here?" Kian asked, not forgetting to smile and wave at the fans. "What can we do? They love us," Bryan replied proudly. "I'm just glad it's over, their screams are really deafening," Mark said massaging his ears. "What do you expect from 20,000 spectators?" Nicky told him. Shane looked at his hand phone and noticed a message was left behind. He pressed a few buttons and listen to the message.
After a few seconds, Shane dropped his hand phone and covered his face with his hands. "What's wrong Shane?" Mark asked as he noticed Shane covering his face. Shane refused to answer. Nicky grabbed Shane's hand phone and listened to the message. "Oh, god," he replied. "What? What’s wrong?" Mark asked. Kian and Bryan soon noticed and asked the same question. "Listen to this," Nicky said as he handed the phone to Mark. Kian and Bryan sat nearby and listened. "Hie Shane, Uhh... I just wanted to call you because. Umm... we're through, I cannot stand that you're not always around, and currently, I'm dating one of your dancers, I'm really sorry, I wish we could still be friends, bye," they heard through the message.
They could hear Shane crying softly. He has been dating Karolynne for months now, and he was totally in love with her. Breaking up suddenly really took a toll on Shane, he was heartbroken like his heart was being ripped out of his chest and smashed with a hammer. "How could she do that? We can't avoid travelling, how could she do this to Shane?" Mark said. "Well, at least she's out of our lives, so is that stupid dancer, what's his name? Ranly?" Bryan said. "Bryan!" Kian said and elbowed him. "Oh, c'mon, Shane deserves to be with someone that could understand our work, not like Lynne, I once heard that she wanted Shane to break up with the group so that he could be with her all the time," Bryan said. "But, I love her," Shane finally spoke. "You don't deserve her Shane," Bryan said, trying to comfort him. "Bryan's right, if she can't stand you being away from her because of your career, she's not the one," Mark said. "You think so?" Shane replied. "Yeah, we know that you can pull yourself together, c'mon, maybe a night's rest is all you need to forget about it," Mark continued. They finally arrived at the hotel and they hurried through the crowd, into the lift and straight to their room.
Shane stood at the balcony and stared at the sky. "Don't do anything funny alright?" Mark said. "Committing suicide is never the answer to life," he continued. "Don't worry, I'm getting over it," Shane replied. "Thank God, if not I would just tie you up," Mark replied. "But, why?" Shane asked. Mark got out of bed and walked towards Shane. "Shane, she thinks that your her property and that's wrong already, she has to think about your career as a singer, she doesn't care about what you do, she uses you like a piece of diamond, to show off," Mark explained. "She doesn't love you, Shane, forget about her," Mark continued. Shane continues to stare at the moon. "I think you're right, thanks lad," Shane said and hugged him. "Well, you better get some sleep now, we still have an interview tomorrow," Mark told him and walked inside. Shane was about to walk in when he noticed a woman standing at her balcony, singing softly,
Angel's
wings,
An
angelical formation,
Angel's
wing,
Like
letters in the sky,
Now
I know,
No
matter what the question,
Love
is the answer,
It's
written on angel's wings...
Shane could hear her voice, and it was beautiful. It definitely took his breath away, but he couldn't see her face, all he knows is that she had long hair. She turned and walked into her room. Shane turned and returns to the room, still having the voice in his head.
CHAPTER TWO
The lads were up and already in the cafe; everyone was wearing sunglasses except Bryan. He was humming a cheerful song loudly while he spread butter on his toast. "Shut up, Bryan" Kian said. Bryan ignored him and continued. "Shut up!" everyone shouted at him. Bryan was jolted back and he threw his toast and fell on the floor. The toast however, flew and landed on Kian hair. "AARRGGHH!!! LOOK WHAT YOU DID TO MY HAIR!!!" Kian shouted. "It wasn't my fault, all of you should have just asked me to shut up politely, instead of SCARING THE FREAK OUT OF ME!" Bryan shouted and crossed his arms still lying on the floor. The rest couldn't stop laughing. Louis walked in and noticed Kian trying to fix his hair and Bryan sulking, with his arms crossed while lying on the floor and the other three laughing uncontrollably. "Ugghh... immature monkeys," he said to himself. "C'mon lads, finish your breakfast before eight, we're leaving for the interview. By then," he told them. "My hair..." Kian complained. "You can clean it up later, now, hurry up and finish your breakfast," Louis replied.
The lads just arrived at the place where they were about to be interview. A girl appeared and introduced herself, "I'm Joanne, why don't you have a sit first? I'll get the interviewer," she said. The lads sat on the chairs as Joanne headed to get the interviewer. They were in a beautiful Japanese garden, filled with fresh air, a Small River flowing, and soft rain. Soon, Joanne arrived guiding another woman with sunglasses towards them. She was beautiful with long silky black hair and soft skin. She then sat on her chair and Joanne sat next to her. "Hello, my name's Ruby Heart, I'll be interviewing you guys today," she said politely. Shane was stunned by her voice, it sounds just like the one he heard last night. "Before we start I must say that your songs were really good, I love 'Angel's Wings' the most," she told them. "Well, thank you, Ruby, you definitely have a beautiful name," Bryan spoke to attract her attention, but she didn't really look at him, as a matter of fact, she was wearing dark sunglasses. "Thanks for your compliment, now, back to work, please start by introducing yourselves," Ruby told them with a smile that took their breath away.
"Well, we've come to the end of the interview, I would like to thank you guys for spending some time to do this interview with me," Ruby said. "It was a pleasure," Nicky replied. All of them got up and started to walk to the exit. Shane stayed and decided to have a talk with Ruby. "Umm... excuse me, can I have a talk with you for a second?" he asked nervously. "Sure, if you could excuse us, Joanne?" Ruby said. “Sure,” Joanne replied and walked away. "Hie, I... uhhh...." he stuttered. "Before that, can I know your name?" she asked. Shane was puzzled by her question. "I'm Shane," he said. "Oh... Ok, what is it?" Ruby asked
"Well, I want to know if you are staying at the Sunway Lagoon Hotel,"
"As a matter of fact, I do,"
"Really? Then did you sing on the balcony last night?" Shane asked
"Huh? How did you know?"
"I heard you sing,"
"You did?" she said blushing
"Yeah, it was beautiful,"
"Why, thank you,"
"Sure, ummm... maybe we could have a chat later or something?"
"You usually ask a girl out on a date once you meet her?" Ruby asked smiling
"Well, I... uhhh..."
"Alright, how's tonight?" she asked
"Really? How about 7?"
"Sure, I'm in room 1211, come pick me up,"
"Alright," Shane replied as he wrote the room number on his palm.
They said goodbye and Shane left smiling. Once he arrived at the door, he noticed all the other four lads were spying by the side of the door. "What are you guys think you're doing?" Shane asked. All for of them quickly stood still and continue to do their own work. Shane walked towards Bryan who was admiring the picture. "What are you doing?" he asked. "I'm... uhh... admiring the colour of this picture," Bryan quickly replied. "Bryan, it's only in black and white," Shane replied. "Uhh... yeah, look at how he... or she arrange the colour, so magnificent," Bryan quickly replied. Shane sighed and walked out the building. "H... Hey! Wait up!" Bryan said and chased after Shane, so did the others.
CHAPTER
THREE
"So, what happened?" Kian asked as they got into the van. "What do you care?" Shane replied. "You're really desperate to get in the mood of love huh?" Bryan said. "Yeah, just last night, you broke up with Karolynne," Nicky said. "Well, just like Mark said, forget about her, and move on with your life," Shane said as he stare out the window. Kian, Nicky and Bryan stared at Mark. "I didn't say that! I just said to forget about her, not to move on with his life," Mark said, defending himself. Shane was just staring blankly out the window.
"He asked you out?" Joanne said. "Yeah, how does he look like?" Ruby asked. Ruby was blind. She had an accident when she was young that caused her to lose her sight. "He's awesome, handsome, and I noticed that he was staring at you the whole time during the interview," replied. "Really?" Ruby asked. "Yeah, you still have that charm on you," Joanne said and led Ruby out of the room. "Wow, he even heard me singing last night," Ruby told Joanne. "He was there? Near our room?" Joanne asked with excitement. "I guess so," Ruby replied while they head to their vehicle.
"Oh, c'mon, are you going out with her?" Bryan asked. "Yeah, I just asked her out," Shane replied. "Oh, man, can I follow, pweeaassee,” Bryan asked childishly. "No, you cannot," Shane replied in a fatherly tone and walk to the elevator. "Hey, Shane, did you notice that she was wearing sunglasses when we did the interview?" Mark asked. "As a matter of fact, yeah, I did, why?" Shane asked back. "Maybe, she's not used to bright scenery," Kian said. "Maybe, she's a vampire, and applied some cream that will able her to stay in sunlight, and when the night comes, she'll..." Bryan started to doze off with his obsession with monsters. No one paid attention to him and walked out the elevator. "H.hey! C'mon, it's just a joke," Bryan said chasing them. Everyone arrived at their room and locked the door leaving Bryan outside. "Oh, c'mon, let me in, I pwomise to be gwood," he said again in a childish tone.
Ruby and Joanne soon arrived at the hotel; they took an elevator up to their room, which was the same floor as the lads. Once they arrived to their room, Joanne noticed Bryan begging to go in, just like a small boy. "Pwease, pwetty pwease, with sugar on top..." Joanne and Ruby can't help themselves but to laugh. "Oh, uhh... excuse me, hehe, oh! It’s you gals," Bryan said as he noticed both of the girls staring at him. "Hello little baby Bryan," Joanne said and she and Ruby started to giggle. Bryan started to blush. "What are you doing out here, Bryan?" Ruby asked. "Oh, the guys won't let me in," Bryan explained. "Why don't you come to our room instead?" Ruby invited him. "Really, will that be okay?" Bryan quickly answered. "If it isn't okay, why did we want to invite you in at the first place?" Joanne replied and opened the door, followed by Ruby and Bryan.
"Have a seat," Joanne asked and handed a can of coke to him. Bryan thanked Joanne and took a seat on the chair. "So, how's life on the road?" Joanne asked while she tied her hair. Bryan was stunned to look at her beautiful face; he didn't notice it before. "Uh... well... it's okay, I guess," Bryan replied. "Jo, could you pass me a can of coke too?" Ruby asked as she sat on the chair. Joanne got a can and places it in Ruby's hand. Bryan felt curious on why Joanne had to place the can in Ruby’s hand. "Hey, Ruby, why did are you wearing sunglasses even if you're in this room?" Bryan asked curiously. "Well..." she said and took off her sunglasses. Her eyes were grey, "I lost my sight when I was young," Ruby explained. "Oh, I'm sorry," Bryan, asked. "But, you don't look so blind, you don't have a stick or a guide dog with you," Bryan continued to ask. "Well, let's just say, I have another pair of eyes, somewhere," Ruby said smiling. "Whoa, how bizarre can that be?" Bryan said and burst out laughing, followed by Ruby and Joanne.
They were having a good conversation about their jobs and also some jokes from Bryan till they were interrupted by Bryan's hand phone. "Hello?" Bryan asked through the hand phone. "Bryan, where the heck are you?" a familiar voice asked. "Oh, Nicky, I'm somewhere nearby," Bryan replied. "I don't see you, I need to talk to you about the song that you wrote, hurry up and get your butt in here," Nicky said. "Well, well, first you lock me out and now you want me back," Bryan said sarcastically. "Oh, alright then, I'll just toss your things outside then, even Mr. Wiggles" Nicky threaten. "Don't you dare touch Mr. Wiggles!” Bryan shouted back, "I'm coming, just don't do anything to Mr. Wiggles," Bryan continued and closed his hand phone. "I got to go now," Bryan said to the other girls. "Just one thing, who is Mr. Wiggles?" Joanne asked giggling. "Oh, uhh... he's nothing, bye," Bryan said blushing and walked out the door. The girls started to laugh. "He's so cute," Joanne said. "Well, what time is it?" Ruby asked. "It's six," she replied. "I better get ready for dinner tonight," Ruby told her.
CHAPTER
FOUR
"What should I wear tonight?" Shane asked Mark. "I don’t know, try those," Mark said while pointing at a dark blue shirt. Shane took it and tried, it was perfect. He wore long black pants, a dark blue shirt and black vest under a dark blue blazer. "Perfect, thanks Mark," he said. "Anything for a friend," Mark replied. Shane was about to go out when Mark stopped him, "The flowers," he said pointing to them. "Oh," Shane said and took the red roses. He walked over to Ruby's room and knocked.
Ruby heard a knock at the door. "That must be Shane," she said. Joanne finished Ruby's make up and opened the door. "Hello Shane, she'll be out in a minute, just hold on," Joanne said. "Sure," Shane replied. After a few seconds, Ruby came out; she was wearing a gown, red, to match her name, light make up with very stylish hair. Her beauty stunned Shane. "Shall we go Shane?" Ruby asked. "Yeah," Shane replied and lifted his arm. Ruby didn't seem to notice it. "Psst, Shane, she's blind," Bryan whispered from the side of the door. "Bryan, what are you... What?" Shane said. Bryan was acting it out, covering his eyes, trying to tell Shane that Ruby was blind. "Is anything wrong?" Ruby asked. Joanne was giggling at the sight of Bryan making a fool of himself. "Ruby, I guess you didn't tell Shane that you lost your sight?" Joanne told her. "Oh, yeah, Shane, I'm..." "Blind," Shane continued. Ruby giggled and walked out the door. Bryan tripped and fell at the sight of Ruby, "Wow," he mumbled. Shane and Ruby walked off. Joanne helped him up. "You're stunned by her beauty huh?" Joanne asked. "Y...Yeah" Bryan stuttered. "I'm the one who picked the dress and did the make up, of course, she's blind!" Joanne said. "I HEARD THAT!" Ruby shouted back. "And she has great hearing too," Joanne said giggling. "So, what are you doing here, Bryan?" she asked. "Oh, I'm just wondering if you would like to join us for dinner," Bryan asked. "Sure, I'm starved, give me some time, ok?" she said and close the door. Bryan stood outside waiting.
Just about five minutes, Joanne appeared. "Wow, you look just as good as Ruby," Bryan, said at the sight of her. "I thought girls take a long time to apply their make up," Bryan continued. "Well, I guess I'm the speedy one," she replied laughing lightly. Joanne had light make up too, to match her sexy top and jeans. "Shall we go?" she asked. Bryan smiled and led her to the lobby. Mark, Kian and Nicky were waiting for them in the lobby. "Hie, guys," Joanne asked at the sight of them. "Uh, hie, you are...?" Kian asked shaking her hand. "Don't be rude, she's Joanne, from the interview earlier today," Bryan said. "Joanne?" Mark said, "You look so different," he continued. "How different do I look?" Joanne asked smiling. "You look, beautiful," Mark mumbled. "Why, how sweet of you," Joanne said and gave him a kiss. Mark was smiling goofily. "Man, he always looks dumb when he is kissed by a girl," Nicky said. "So, where will we be going for dinner?" Joanne asked. "Somewhere simple, but not too posh," Bryan said and they walked out the hotel.
"We're here," Shane said and held her hand. He guided her into the restaurant and to the table he booked. "What would you like to eat?" Shane asked her. "Umm... what's on the menu?" Ruby asked. Shane felt silly, he forgotten that Ruby was blind. He read out the menu for her and she chose something simple. Shane ordered a bottle of white wine together. "So, Ruby, how did you got into the job?" Shane asked before he drank a bit of water. "Well, Joanne helped me, I wanted to be a singer, but I noticed that it'll be hard when you're blind, so I took the job as an interviewer for a music magazine, at least it could work with some musicians," she said. "What's wrong being a blind singer? Stevie Wonder's a blind singer," Shane said. "Well, I think that it's better if I have my vision before being a singer," Ruby told him. "You'll never know what could happen to a blind singer," she continued and laughed.
Ruby and Shane finished their dinner and Ruby suggested that they go for a walk. "Where should we go?" Shane asked. "Let's go to the city park," Ruby told him. Shane guided her to the park after walking for 15 minutes. "The roses look nice tonight, so is the moon shining brightly" Ruby said. "How did you know that there are roses and the moon's shining tonight? I taught you were..." Shane asked but was shushed by Ruby. She put her fingers on Shane's eyelids, "Close your eyes," she whispered, "and look through your heart." Shane slowly close his eyes and was amazed of the different world that he sees, he can smell the roses, hear the soft flowing waters and feel the moonlight. "Amazing huh? It's really different when you see things in a different point of view," Ruby told him. They sat on the bench and enjoyed the sound of the crickets, the soft breeze and each other's company. "Do you believe in love at first sight?" Shane told her. He could see Ruby smiling at him with the moonlight shining on her face, her eyes were blurred but it was definitely beautiful. Shane touches her face and pulled her in a kiss. They finished their kiss and cuddle in each other’s arm. "I don't believe in love at first sight, but love at first kiss," she said smiling at Shane.
CHAPTER
FIVE
"I'm puffed," Joanne said. The other four lads had their jaws opened. In front of Joanne laid 4 plates, and they were having buffet. "I'm a pig, so what? Sue me," Joanne said. "Well, this is the first time we actually seen a girl ate that much you know?" Bryan said. "Y…Yeah," Kian nervously replied. Joanne finished her last drop of orange juice, "So, shall we go now?" she asked. They nodded and Joanne grabbed her purse and got up. "Where are we going now?" she asked them. "How 'bout disco?" Mark asked. "Sure, can I call a few friends along?" she asked. "Sure!" the guys said together. Joanne giggled and took out her hand phone and called some friends.
"There they are," Joanne pointed. They were outside the disco waiting for Joanne's friends. "Nicky, Bryan, Mark and Kian, meet Katrant, Fiona and Kathy," Joanne introduced them. The guys dropped their jaws again, now four very sexy and beautiful girls accompanied them. "Bryan's sticking with me while you girls choose who you want," Joanne said while she grabbed Bryan's shirt and dragged him into the disco. Mark went in with Kathy, Kian with Katrant and Nicky with Fiona. They went to the bar and ordered some drinks. "Let's dance," Joanne said and dragged Bryan to the dance floor. Joanne tease dance Bryan and really made Bryan really interested in her. "C'mon gals, time for the ‘dance,’ " Joanne shouted at the other girls. The three girls pulled their couple to the dance floor. People made way as they were curious about the girls so did the lads. Soon, a dance music started and all four girls were dancing synchronized, very sexy dance. The lads were amazed at their dancing skills, and were turned on by it. "Whoa," Bryan said as he saw Joanne dancing closer to him. As the song finished, everyone cheered as their dancing amazed them.
The lads danced till it was 3 in the morning, when they decide to head back to the hotel. "It was nice meeting you girls," Bryan said but notice that one of them is missing so is Mark. They saw him kissing Kathy at the side. "Whoa, he's quick," Kian, said. The other two girls started to kiss Nicky and Kian too. Bryan looked at three of them, and then looked at Joanne. "I'm not doing that to YOU!" Joanne said and turned around. Bryan sadly stared at his shoes, and then Joanne kissed him. "I'm only joking, why shouldn’t I kiss a cute guy like you?" Joanne said and continued to kiss him. "Well then, time we get moving," Joanne said and destroyed the love scene there. The girls stop kissing and bid farewell to the lads and Joanne before leaving. They noticed that Kathy passed a piece of paper to Mark and kissed him goodbye.
"Whoa, I see that one of us really scored," Kian teased Mark. He blushed as he waved goodbye to the girls. "Well, she's sweet," Mark, said. "What did you do? Lick her?" Bryan joked and the rest laughed. They then left off to head back the hotel. "Ruby should be back by now," Joanne said as they were entering the hotel. They took a lift and arrived at the floor and were surprised seeing Shane and Ruby kissing outside the room and somehow slipping into the room straight away. "Man, Shane really score this time, and BIG!" Kian said as the couple entered the room. "GREAT, where am I going to sleep tonight then?" Joanne said. The lads eyes grew bigger, "Since Shane's in your room, why don't you come to mine?" Mark suggested. "Well, I know that Kian's alone," Joanne said as Kian got closer to her, "Why don't you go to Mark's room while I stay at yours," she said to Kian. "Aww, man, and I taught that I'm going to score next," Kian said as he snapped his fingers. "Well, good night!" she said as she walked into the Kian's room. "She's hot!" Bryan said as they rest of them got into their room, "Hey, don't lock me out here again!" Bryan said as they closed the door in front of him.
Shane was still kissing Ruby since he was outside till inside. "How bizarre can this be? We met, date and end up in your room all in one night," Shane told her. Ruby giggled, they continued to kiss and remove their clothes slowly. "I love you Shane," Ruby whispered into his ears. "Me too," Shane replied and continued to kiss her.
Shane got up at 6 in the morning and got changed. "I better return to the room before my manager found out what happened," Shane said as he buttons his shirt. Ruby was still on the bed covered by the bed sheets. "I understand, but at least another kiss before you go?" she softly asked. Shane leaned over and kissed her passionately. "Rest now," Shane said as he tucks her in and walked out the room.
CHAPTER
SIX
Shane got into his room and was surprised when Kian was sleeping on his bed, "Didn't he have his own room?" Shane asked himself. He got into the shower, shaved and dressed, it was already 8 when he got out of the bathroom, seems like he fell asleep in the bathtub. He walked out the balcony and enjoyed the breeze. "Shane?" Mark mumbled as he got up. "It's time you got up, we have to go in half an hour time," Shane told him. "How was last night?" Mark cheekily asked as he was much more awakened. "Last night?" Shane asked, as he didn't know a thing. "I guess I was at the bar," he lied. "Lying is not the answer," Mark replied as he got out his bed and walked to the balcony. "What do you mean?" Shane asked with a puzzled look on his face. "We saw you kissing Ruby from outside the room to inside the room," Mark said coolly. "WE? YOU MEAN, YOU GUYS SAW ME?" Shane panicked. "Yeah, don't worry, we won't tell Louis what we saw," Mark said. Shane was relieved. "Promise?" "Promise, as long as you didn't make her pregnant," Mark said. Shane just stared away. There was a knock on the door and Shane went to open it. It was Leslie, Anto's assistant. "Time to get up, breakfast will be sent to the room shortly. "Okay, thanks Les," Shane replied.
Leslie woke Bryan and Nicky up before heading to Kian's room. Joanne was awoken by a knock at the door. "That must be Bryan," she said half awake. She walked over to the door and opened it. "Kian, time to..." Leslie said but stopped halfway when he saw Joanne. "Who are you?" Leslie asked. "Huh?" Joanne mumbled, as she was still half awake. "Where's Kian? Are you sleeping with him?" Leslie quickly asked. "I... uh... I'm Kian's sister, he's sleeping in Mark's room while he gave me his room," Joanne answered nervously. "He didn't tell me that his sister was staying here," Leslie asked curiously. "Well, why don't we ask him?" Joanne answered back. Joanne followed Leslie to Mark's room. As Leslie knocked on the door, Shane opened it. "Hie, Leslie, Joanne, what are you two doing here?" Shane asked. "We need to talk to Kian," Leslie replied as both of them got in. Kian was already up and was waiting for Mark to get out of the bathroom. "Kian, is this your sister?" Leslie asked pointing to Joanne. "What? My sis…" Kian slowly said but noticed Joanne nodding her head behind Leslie, "Sister, yeah, Joanne Egan," Kian said as he got up from the chair he was sitting on. Leslie was still not satisfied. "I will have to tell Louis about this," Leslie said. No one dared to say anything, "She's our friend," Shane finally said, as Leslie was about to dial Louis's number. "What's she doing in Kian's room then?" Leslie asked. "Well... she needed a room, at least none of us slept with her," Shane said. Kian and Joanne rolled their eyes at him. “Ruby and I are a different matter,” Shane whispered. After a few minutes of talking, they finally convinced that Joanne just borrowed a room and nothing else happened. "Very well, breakfast will arrive and you guys better get ready," Leslie said.
As Leslie walked out the room, everyone sighed. "That was close," Shane said. "So, now that you're out from Ruby's room, I can go back to her room, enjoyed yourself last night?" Joanne teased him. Shane blushed and pretends to stare away. "Well, I'll go now, see you guys later!" Joanne said and closed the door behind her.
"Joanne?" Ruby asked as she heard someone walking into the room. "Yeah, enjoyed yourself last night?" Joanne asked. "Where have you been all night?" Ruby asked. "Leaving you and Shane alone," she answered. Ruby just blushed. "You knew?" she asked. "Yeah, we saw you entering the room with Shane, never releasing your kiss," Joanne teased her. There was a small smile on Ruby's face. "Help me to the bathroom, could you?" Ruby said changing the topic. "Sure, c'mon," Joanne led her to the bathroom.
CHAPTER
SEVEN
"I need to see her," Shane said. "We still have a photo shoot and another interview before we finish for today," Mark told him. "You've never been this serious with Karolynne," Kian told him. "Because Ruby's special," Shane quickly replied. "She's blind, aren't you taking an advantage of her instead?" Bryan joked but was elbowed by Mark. "Bryan, I'm serious," Shane said. "Okay, I'm just joking," Bryan, said rubbing his arm where Mark hit him. Mark took out a piece of paper and started to dial a number on his hand phone. "Who are you calling?" Shane asked. "Kathy," Bryan said, "They had one kiss and forever in love..." Bryan said in a romantic tune. Mark hit Bryan again, but on the face instead. "Mby noseb!" Bryan shouted as he covered his nose. "Hie, Kath?" Mark said through the phone. "Yeah, what are you doing tonight?" Mark asked. "How about dinner? Okay? Meet me at the hotel at 7, okay, bye!" Mark said. "Going out tonight?" Shane asked. "Yeah, can't wait though," Mark, replied.
Ruby heard a knock on the door; she walked to in and opened it with the chain still on it. "Who's that?" she asked. "Shane, how are you honey?" Shane replied. "Oh, hold on," Ruby said and closes the door while she tries to look for the chain, and finally opened the door. "I miss you," she said. Shane held her closer and kissed her passionately. "Me too," Shane replied. "You want to go out tonight?" he asked her. "Oh, but I sprained me leg earlier! Sorry," Ruby explained as she pointed at her left leg. "Why don't you have a seat?" Shane said and guided her to the bed. Ruby sat on it, "Now what?" she asked. "Relax," Shane said as he took her leg and message it. Ruby moaned, she then lie down on the bed and allowed Shane to message. "Mmm… This is good," Ruby moaned. Shane just smiles.
"Well, is it better now?" Shane asked after a few minutes, but noticed that Ruby had already fallen asleep on the bed. He stared at her, she look like an angel as she slept, except for the little snore she made. Joanne came into the room later and noticed Shane, "Hey, Shane, how are you?" she asked. Shane put his index finger on his lips and then pointed at Ruby. "Oh, how did you make her sleep? I had a hard time doing it," Joanne whispered. "Well, a little massage did the trick," Shane said and smiled. "Well, I better be going," Shane, said as he took his jacket and walked to the door. "Shane, hold on a sec," Joanne said as she putted down her bag. "Yeah?" he replied. "I have to meet a client tonight, could you do me a favour of staying here tonight to take care of Ruby, I'll be back tomorrow," Joanne explained. "Sure, no problem," Shane told her. "Great, thanks, I'll just take a shower and then, I'm off," Joanne said. "Sure, I'll come back later," Shane, said.
Shane knocks on the door and Joanne answered. "What took you so long?" Joanne argued. "Sorry, dumb Mark had to take his own sweet time in the bathroom," Shane explained. "Never mind, come in," Joanne said as she moved aside to let Shane in. "Thanks," Shane replied as he walked it. "Hello Shane," he was greeted with a warm voice. "Ruby, your awake," Shane said as he saw Ruby. "Yeah, your massage really had a great effect on me," Ruby said and both of them laughed. "Weirdo's," Joanne mumbled as she grabbed handbag. "Well, I'm off, see you guys later," Joanne said. "Bye Jo!" Ruby said. Joanne bid farewell to the couple and left through the door.
"So, what do you want to do now?" Shane asked. "Let's go to the balcony," Ruby suggested. Shane agreed and led Ruby to the balcony. The breeze was wonderful; the air was fresh, and rather cold. "Wow, look at the scenery," Shane said, but then realized that Ruby was blind. "Yes it is," Ruby replied. Shane didn't believe what he heard. "W...what? I taught that you were..." Shane stuttered. "You don't always have to rely on your eyes only, didn't I tell you this before?" Ruby said. "Oh, yeah," he replied. Shane relaxed his body; he closed his eyes, and relied on his other senses. The smell of the ocean, the feeling of the wind and moonlight on his skin, the taste of breeze...salty breeze and the voice of the waves. Then slowly the image came to his mind. The picture of the sea, reflecting the moonlight, the palm trees moving from side to side, and the waves moving synchronized. "I can feel it Ruby," Shane said but there was no response. "Ruby?" Shane said as he opened his eyes. He was shocked to see Ruby lying on the floor. "Ruby, Ruby!" Shane said as he picked her up. She didn't respond, Shane cursed himself and carried her to the bed. He quickly called for an ambulance.
Shane was sitting nervously on the chair while he waits for the doctor. The other lads were with him; they came along to try to comfort Shane. "She's goanna be alright," Kian said as he sat next to Shane. Shane was filled with tears. He couldn't believe he was about to loose his girl, who he just met, feel in love and made love to in just one night, he can't believe he was about to loose his very first love. "She'll be alright, just pray," Kian continued as the others continue to stare in discomfort.
The doctor came out from Ruby's room. Shane quickly got up and asked, "How's she?" "She's all right for now, could you follow me to my office alone?" the doctor asked. Shane nodded and followed the doctor. "Please have a seat," the doctor asked as soon as they got into the room. Shane sat down. "Are you her boyfriend?" the doctor asked as he checks Ruby's diagnose. "Y...Yeah," Shane said nervously. "Well, there's good news and bad news," the doctor said. Shane was shocked; he couldn't stand bad news. "What is it?" he asked. "Well, the good news is that Ruby's pregnant," the doctor said. "What?" Shane replied in shock. "Pregnant? Oh my god!" "But the worst is yet to come," the doctor replied. Shane sat silent and waited for the doctor's reply. "Ruby is diagnosed with Leukaemia,” the doctor replied softly. Shane was in horror, "According to the diagnose, we can say that Ruby will be able to survive long enough for the baby to be born, she has at least 2 years to live," the doctor said. Shane buried his face in his palms, and began to cry again. "I'm really sorry," the doctor replied as Shane still sat there crying.
"How's she?" Bryan asked as Shane got out of the office. Shane already hid his sad expression and tried to smile, but it didn't work. "My god, Shane, what's wrong with her?" Mark said as he noticed Shane's blank facial expression. Shane opened his mouth but words never came out, only tears from his eyes. The lads stand around in silence. "Why don't we go see her?" Kian asked. Everyone agreed and went into her room. Ruby was on the bed sleeping. Shane just sat at her side and held her hand. The lads stood around the bed and stared at Ruby. Finally Shane found his voice, "Please call Joanne," he said. Bryan nodded and went out to call Joanne.
Joanne's hand phone rang. "God, not now!" she said to herself. "Please excuse me for a moment," she told her client. "Hello?" "Jo? It's me Bryan," "Bryan, this isn't the right time to call," Joanne said. "But..." "What's wrong?" "Ruby's in the hospital," Bryan quickly said. Joanne felt like her heart skipped a beat, "What?" "Shane found her unconscious, and now she's in the hospital, I don't think she's okay at the moment, but Shane didn't tell us what her real problem was yet," Bryan explained. "Okay, I'll be right there," she replied as she closed her hand phone. She explained to her client what happened and was lucky that her client was helpful enough to give her a ride.
Joanne burst into the room that startled the others. "Ruby!" she stared at her disbelievingly. "What's wrong with her?" she asked while she got nearer to Ruby. "Doctor said she is diagnosed with Leukaemia, she has at least 2 years left," Shane said softly. Joanne covered her mouth and started to cry. The others were also shock to hear that. "She's also pregnant," Shane whispered. "WHAT?" all of them shouted? "Oh god, how are you going to explain that to Louis?" Mark said. "I don't know," Shane replied and started to cry. "Don't worry, we'll help you," Nicky said. "Yeah, we'll be by your side," Bryan said together. Shane managed to thank them between sniffs. Everyone sat around Ruby's bed while she slept throughout the night. Shane was still holding her hand, stroking it gently. Soon Shane fell asleep on Ruby's side.
“Shane? Are you there?” a familiar voice spoke. Shane woke up and noticed Ruby calling him. “Yes, I’m here,” he replied. “Where are we? I don’t feel like I’m in the hotel room,” she asked. “We’re in a hospital, you collapsed last night,” Shane told her. “Oh, was there something wrong with me?” she asked. “I don’t want to lie, you are affected by a disease that will kill, and you can only survive for another year,” Shane said with sadness in his tone but Ruby was still calm. “Ruby, are you okay?” Shane asked worriedly. Ruby smiled and told him, “I’ve expected this to happen,” she told him. “What?” Shane asked. “My mom had Leukaemia that killed her after I was born,” she continued. Shane can’t find any words to say. “I have a baby in me right?” she asked. Shane looked back at her with shock, “How did you know?” he asked. “I can feel it,” she said. Shane just sat there; he laid his head onto Ruby’s lap. “Please don’t leave me Ruby,” he cried. Ruby just smiled and patted Shane’s head. “I won’t,” she whispered back.
Ruby was soon discharged from the hospital and she moved into Shane’s apartment back in Ireland. “I’m so glad I’m out of the hospital, man the stench is killing me, I’m going to have a shower,” Ruby said. “Are you going to be alright to have a shower on your own?” Shane asked. “Usually Joanne helps, but…” Ruby said and stopped halfway. Both of them stood in silence for a few minutes. Ruby let out a cheeky smile. “I really need to shower now, and I think you’re the only one who’s with me right now,” Ruby continued. “I… I’ll h…help then,” Shane stuttered. Then went into the bathroom and Shane slowly removed Ruby’s clothing as Ruby did the opposite. Shane helped her into the shower cubicle and turned the shower on. As they shower, Ruby pulled Shane into a long passionate kiss. Ruby then heard Shane crying. “What’s wrong honey?” she asked. “I’m going to lose you,” he whispered back. “You won’t, I’ll be with you,” she replied slowly. She then held Shane closer and gave him another kiss as the water runs through their body.
The days passed with happiness, Shane would always wake up earlier to prepare breakfast for Ruby. Her favourite would be toast with butter and jam together with a cup of coffee. They would then take a long walk in the park and sit on a bench and talk. Shane committed much of his time to Ruby and less to Westlife that caused fans to be rather uneasy. Ruby too was concern about Westlife, the news she heard that Westlife might have stopped their career because of a certain ‘person’. She felt rather guilty.
“Shane, we need to talk,” Ruby said. Shane was cooking dinner by that time and Ruby was sitting right behind him.
“What’s it dear?”
“About the band,”
“What’s with the band?”
“You’re not putting your full attention to it,”
“Because I want to take care of you,” Shane said as he stopped cooking
“The fans aren’t easy and it all because of me,”
“That’s a lie,”
“It’s true, I heard it,”
“Rumours, you have to just ignore them,”
“I can’t, I want you to put your full attention towards the band,”
“But how about you,”
“I can take care of myself, Joanne can help too,”
“No, I want to take care of you, you’re not going to live long,”
“Shane, do this as my wish…”
“I won’t,” Shane said as he put a plate of noodles in front of Ruby. “This conversation is over,” Shane said, “You’re food is ready, I’m not hungry,” Shane said as he putted a fork on her hand and left. Ruby couldn’t help but to cry. Shane however wasn’t taking it easy either; he decided to go on a walk and left Ruby alone.
He arrived on the spot where Ruby and him would sit in the morning and talk about everything. He sat on the bench and started to think. “Doesn’t she love me? Why is she doing this, wanting me to leave her alone,” Shane thought to himself. He was tired at the moment and fell asleep thinking of it. 45 minutes pass as he fell asleep. He then quickly got up and rushed home, as he was worried about Ruby. But when he arrived, she was gone.
“Ruby? Ruby?” Shane said as he entered the apartment. He walked into the room and found Ruby’s cabinet with her bags and clothes all gone. He was getting worried, “Did she really leave me?” he taught. He then found a note on the table.
A tear fell on the note, wetting the ink and making it blurry. Shane quickly took his phone and called Bryan. “Hello…?” Bryan said half awake. “Bryan, do you have Joanne’s number?” “What for?” “I need to call her,” “What for?” “I’m looking for Ruby,” “What for?” BRYAN!!!” “Huh…? Who’s this?” “GOD DAMMIT BRYAN, STOP FOOLING AROUND!!!” “Okay, okay,” Bryan said then gave Shane Joanne’s number. Once Shane finished writing it down, he hanged up. “Your welcome!” Bryan said back as the tone died.
“Are you sure you want to do this Ruby?” Joanne asked. “Yes, I’ll be fine,” Ruby, replied. They sat down silently. Suddenly, Joanne’s hand phone rang. “It’s Shane…” she replied softly. “Don’t tell him where we are,” Ruby replied. Joanne then answered, “Hello Shane, what can I do for you?” Joanne said cheerfully. “Where’s Ruby?” Shane quickly replied. “I can’t tell you,” Joanne said. “Why not, please Joanne,” Shane begged. “I’m sorry, she says it’s the best for you,” Joanne said and ended the call. “Thank you, Joanne,” Ruby said with a tear on her cheek.
“C’mon Shane, let’s go,” Mark said. Shane got up and walked into the tour bus and sat at the very end. “He doesn’t look too good,” Kian said. “He looks the same since Ruby left,” Bryan said. “What can we do, we haven’t heard of any news about Ruby for the past few months either,” Nicky told them. Shane just stared through his blank eyes. He’s been putting on fake smiles everywhere that fans would gather. Nothing can cheer him up except for Ruby. The band was getting bigger since Shane rejoined it as Ruby had wished for.
Bryan’s hand phone then rang. “Hello?” Bryan said. “Hey Bry, It’s me, Joanne,” she replied. “Hey babe, how are ya?” Bryan asked. “Fine, I’m wondering, are you free tonight?” Joanne asked. “Yeah, why?” “I’m in the same country as you guys are now, how about dinner?” “Sure thing, what time?” “Let’s say 6?” “Sure, where would we dine?” “I know just the place, wait for me at the lobby, and bring your friends along too okay?” “Sure…” Bryan replied in a low tone. “Okay, see you tonight, bye” “Bye,” Bryan replied.
“Who’s that?” Mark asked. “Joanne, she’s inviting us for dinner tonight,” Bryan said. “Cool, it’s been a whole month since we saw her,” Kian said. Bryan then walked to the end of the bus and sat next to Shane. “Joanne wants to go out for dinner with us tonight, I want you to come along,” Bryan said. “I’ve no mood,” Shane replied coldly. “C’mon, you’ve been locking yourself up for quite a long time now, let’s have some fun,” Bryan begging. “No,” Shane still replied coldly. “If you don’t go, I can’t go either,” “Good,” “Shane… ppppplllllleeeeeeaaaaasssseeee,” “No,” “Pleaaaaaassssseeeee,” “No,” “Plllllleeeeeeeeeaaaaaassssssseeeeeeeeeee,” “NO!” Shane still replied. Bryan begged Shane for the past hour and Shane finally gave up. “ALRIGHT! ALL RIGHT! I’LL GO TO THAT FREAKIN’ DINNER,” “Yay,” Bryan replied happily.
Mark, Kian, Nicky and Bryan dressed up like they were ready to go for a party while Shane just wore a white t-shirt and jeans. They waited at the lobby at 6p.m. sharp when finally Joanne arrived. She was also dressed to party. “Hie guys! Man, I’ve missed you guys for a long time,” she said once she saw them. She kissed each of them on the cheeks and when she reached to Shane, “I’ve got a surprise for you,” she said as he pinched his nose. She turned around and pointed at the door. Shane couldn’t believe his eyes, it was Ruby. He ran towards her. “Ruby…” he whispered. “Hello Shane,” Ruby replied. “You’re going to party with us in a t-shirt and a pair of jeans?” “Why yes… I... YOU CAN SEE?” Shane said with shock. “Yes, when I left, I went for an eye operation, just to see how you look, and you’re very handsome,” Ruby said as she touch his face. “You’re still very beautiful, Ruby,” Shane replied and pulled her into a kiss. “How’s the baby?” Shane said as he putted his hands on her stomach. “It’s fine, she’s doing well,” Ruby told him. “Her?” Shane asked puzzled. “The doctor said it was a girl,” Ruby replied.
“Seems like you two need some catching up to do, well go party,” Joanne said as she passed by the couple followed by four stunned boys. All of them gave Ruby a peck on the cheeks and welcome her back and left with Joanne. “I’m hungry, let’s go for dinner then,” Ruby suggested. “Sure,” Shane said, replying with a smile.
They had their dinner and went for a walk in the park. “There it is, the bench we always used to sit on,” Shane said pointing. They sat on the bench and stared at the lake, with the moon reflecting over it. “I’ve missed you,” Ruby said as she rested her head on his shoulder. “Me too,” Shane replied and kissed her. “Shane…” Ruby whispered. “I love you too,” he replied. “It’s not that,” “What is it?” “My water just broke, I think it’s time,” Ruby quickly said. “Oh… god,” Shane replied as he held Ruby.
“Okay, breath in, breath out,” the doctor said to Ruby. Ruby was breathing harder and deeper. Shane was on her side too, holding on to her hand. Joanne and the others arrived in time, and their waiting outside the delivery room. “Oh God… Shane… I think it’s coming,” Ruby said. “I’m here, don’t worry,” Shane replied nervously too. “Okay… now… push!” the doctor said. They could already hear the baby’s cry. Moment’s later after hard work; they finally got her out safe and sound. The nurse wrapped her in a pink blanket and passed it to Shane. Shane could feel the love in him once the baby was in his arms, she had his eyes and Ruby’s looks. A tear fell down his cheek as he went closer to Ruby. “She’s so beautiful,” Ruby said while crying softly. Shane passed the baby to Ruby and went out to the others.
“I got a baby girl!” Shane shouted as he saw the others. They began cheering and hugging each other. Shane came closer too but was stopped by Bryan. “Get that baby goo out of you first before hugging us,” Bryan said. “Very… funny…” Shane replied, as he got closer. “No… seriously!” Bryan said as he stopped him. Shane took off his glove and threw it at him.
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Shane has proposed to Ruby a few weeks after she was discharged from the hospital and after a long week of planning, the wedding day finally arrived. “Man, I just can’t believe it! I going to be married,” Shane said excitedly in the church with the other band members. He was in an all white tuxedo while the others were in black. “What do you expect, you had your daughter weeks before you got married,” Bryan joked. Shane’s family arrived with his daughter, Valentine Filan. “I hope you’re ready, it’s a big day for you today,” Shane’s mother told him while she fixed his tuxedo. “Thanks mum,” Shane said as he kissed her on the cheek. It was time; Shane went in with the rest of the guys and waited at the altar. Joanne, Katrant, Fiona and Kathy were of course the bridesmaids. Finally the bride arrives; Ruby was in a stunning wedding gown. On her hair was a red gem that matches her name, Ruby. Her beauty that no one had ever seen before stunned Shane and almost everyone in the church. She reached the altar and held Shane’s hand. “Do you, Shane Steven Filan, take this beloved girl to be your lawfully wedded wife?” “I do,” “And do you, Ruby Richard Heart, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?” “I do,” “The rings please,” the father said. Mark came up and took out the rings from his pocket and handed it to Shane. They fitted the rings into each other finger. “With the power invested in me, I now pronounce you, husband and wife, you may now kiss the bride,” he continued. Shane put his hand on her face and pulled her slowly into a passionate kiss. The whole crowd cheered.
Time passed so quickly until the horrifying day arrived. Ruby was on her deathbed. The disease finally took its effect. Everyone close, Shane, Valentine, Mark, Kian, Bryan, Nicky and Joanne, accompanied Ruby by her side. Shane couldn’t hold on to his tears. “Thank you for coming,” Ruby whispered. “Shhh… keep your strength,” Joanne said softly with dried tears on her cheeks. “I just want to thank you all for taking care of me for a long time since we met,” Ruby said. “I’ve never been so happy in my whole entire life, even if it’s only been 29 years,” Ruby continued. “I would like to talk to Shane alone please,” she continued. The others went out, Joanne carried Valentine away after Ruby gave her a long kiss. “Love you dear, please remember me,” she said to her. Valentine couldn’t stop crying. “You promised you won’t leave me,” Shane said still crying. “Yes I did, and I will never leave you, even if I’m gone,” she said. “It’s no good, I want you to be with me, how am I to live without you? How is Val…” Shane said as was stopped halfway. “I’ll be with you, don’t worry… give me one last kiss please,” “No, I don’t want you to die,” “Shane, please, I will be there with you forever by your side even if you don’t see me, I will guide you and love you all the way, just don’t mourn over me,” Ruby said. Shane went closer to Ruby and laid a long kiss on her lips. “Thank you…” Ruby whispered as she drew her last breath. Shane buried his face by her side and continued to cry. Ruby was on her bed with a smile on her face even when she’s gone…
Shane got up and prepared breakfast. He made what Ruby always love, toast with butter and jam and a cup of coffee. “Enjoy honey,” Shane whispered as he set the food on the ledge of the window, with a picture of her next to it. “Happy birthday papa,” Valentine said as she gave her father a kiss. “Why thank you, sweet cheeks,” Shane replied. “Get ready, were going out,” she replied. “Where to?” Shane asked curiously. “It’s a surprise,” she told him.
He was lead to the park where he used to go to with Ruby. There was a small gathering at the bench where he and Ruby always sat. Bryan was now married with Joanne and they had a girl named Emily… carrying Mr. Wiggles with her. Mark was also married to Kathy who had a son named Cedric. Nicky married his girlfriend, Georgina a few months ago and Kian just found a girlfriend called Kasha. “Happy Birthday!” they all said in unison. “It’s time we show you the present we got for you,” Bryan said. “Okay kids, now,” he continued as Emily and Cedric pulled the covers off the bench. It look new and had a beautiful craving on it, ‘Shane Steven Filan and Ruby Richard Heart forever…’ with two hearts next to it. “And this is from me,” Val said as she handed Shane a locket. It included a picture of them three, Shane, Valentine and Ruby. Shane then heard a whisper, “Happy Birthday sweetie” Shane looked up in the sky and saw a figure that looked like Ruby with wings. “C’mon papa! It’s time to cut the cake!” Val shouted out to her father. Shane smiled at her and looked back at the sky, “Thank you, Ruby…”
THE END…