I did not know how to react when my younger sister started jumping up and down knowing that she can now take over my room instead of having to share with my elder sister.
When I broke the news over dinner that I intend to move out, my parents hardly bat an eyelid. They knew I was fiercely independent since young and despite me being the middle child, I’m usually the one who took care of my 2 sisters.
They asked a few questions about where I’m moving to, nodding their heads a couple of times. My little sis is still jumping about, announcing that she is going on a furniture spree after dinner to decide on the layout of her new room.
Sharing fruits after dinner, the reality of me moving out seemed to have sunk a little deeper and my younger sister said she’s going to miss me in a really dramatic and emotional manner, I could tell she’s a little sad deep down, but I just smiled and rolled my eyes at her.
Afterall I’m only 3 blocks away.
And for my little sister, she’s turning 23 in a couple of months. Hardly the age for getting emotional over her brother.
I rented the masterbed room in that unit at a good price because of pure luck. My friend knew the owner of the flat who had recently upgraded to a condo. Despite only paying for the masterbed room, I actually had the whole unit to myself as he kept the common room as storage.
The keys felt strange as Mr Lek, my landlord passed them to me with a grin on his face. He reminded me to pay my rent on time and pointed out a few stalls with good food at the hawker centre across the road. I thanked him recently for letting me have the room and promised I’ll be punctual with the rent.
My sisters helped me with the moving and within a week, I was settled in.
It took about a month or so before the neighbours warm up to a unfamiliar face. Aside from the usual greetings at the lift lobby, I often chatted with Uncle Toh, who’s a retired principal and 3 doors down, a auntie ming who always asked if I had my dinner.
By the 3rd month, I’ve had a couple of neighbours asking if I had a girlfriend, and what kind of girls I liked. I always just smile and made up some excuses, escaping from their questions.
On the 4th month however, things got a little different.
I opted for an earlier working slot that a colleague had given up which meant I needed to be at work at 7am. I had to shift my entire schedule an 2 hours earlier.
The corridor was deserted when I left my place at 6am.
No neighbours watering the plants, no one to say hi to me. The air felt fresh, the roads are quiet.
The lift stopped almost immediately when it started it’s descent and I saw the light flashed 6th on the panel.
I was hit by the perfume before I saw her.
Our eyes met for the briefest of moment before she looked away, giving me a ‘dao’ and stucked up look. She entered the lift and took the other end of the small space. I tried to recall her face as I felt a little buay song, early in the morning kena a dao look from a girl.
Her features are sharp, her nose pronounced, and she looked quite nice actually. Typical OL style lady in raffles place. Her hair is not coloured, naturally black and long. The ends recently trimmed, as I observed the layered ends cascading down her shoulders, reaching about 5 inches below her collar.
Her complexion is smooth, supple skin that looked like you can bounce something off it.
Perhaps it’s just the lift lighting.
Her white blouse is tucked in tight into her grey skirt. Observing only from the back and from the corner of my eye, i felt a little perverted as my eyes roamed the curves on her skirt caused by her protruding bum. Her skirt was worn a little above waist, before the sides open up to a tiny slit near her knees.
I bet she has a teeny weeny tummy. I think OLs looked amazing when they have just a little tummy. I don’t like my girls with just skins and bones.
As I pretended to check my phone, my eyes drifted lower and I saw her heel disappeared into a pair of black heels.
Wonderful morning I must say.
I wouldn’t have bothered to file that morning away if not for the attitude of this girl.
This neighbor of mine.
When the lift hit 1st floor, I waited a little, allowing her to leave, partly because I’m a gentlemen, secondly, I wanted to catch a few more looks at her bottoms and legs.
When they say shit happens when you least expected it, it’s really true. Instead of walking straight out, for some weird reason, the girl lifted up her left heel backwards as she turned and adjusted.
Whatever the hell she is adjusting I don’t know till this day. Perhaps it’s a plaster or something.
So seeing her in that stationary state, it’s only natural that I move forward and exit the lift. Right when I tried to move past her left, she suddenly decided that she wanted to move off as well and we bumped right into each other.
I apologized immediately but I got an irritated ‘ Tsek’ as she shot a look at me.
Before I could react further, she tried to zoom pass me only to get slammed by the closing lift door.
I got another irriated ‘Tsk’ and she rattled off,
She gave me a really du lan look as she vented out her frustration on the lift panel’s open button.
Girl : What the hell !
She stormed off before I could say a word, clicking her heels across the empty and quiet void deck.
I was feeling a little buay song as it’s not my fault but for some fuck reason she directed her anger at me.
What the hell. I meant really, what the hell ?
I brushed the unpleasant morning off and headed to the bus stop.
Walking down the quiet path, I suddenly heard the rev of an engine and a car shot pass me.
It shot pass alright.
But I could see who was behind that wheel.
Bloody bitch.
Taking a deep breath, I decided to just forget it.
Work kept me busy and I felt a little off kilter when I knocked off at 4.30pm.
I bought some groceries along the way back and I ran forward to catch a closing lift when I reached my place around 5.50pm.
I could not describe the emotions running through my head when my eyes met with the same girl I encountered that morning.
I prayed.
I really prayed hard in that few moments before I entered the lift.
I prayed that she knew where to stop.
It didn’t worked.
I could almost feel it before I heard it.
“ Tsk “
A rather audible “Tsk”
Taking a deep breath, I released it in a controlled manner. No point getting worked up.
I settled into the far end of the lift as I watched her fumbled for her keys. Arriving at the 6th floor, I saw her head to the first unit.
After making myself dinner, I left them in the steamer and I changed into my running gear. I usually ran late at 11pm, but now that I’m working early, I decided to change my schedule.
6.45pm
I could not fucking believed it when the lift stopped at the 6th floor again that unlucky day.
I saw a babe, really a babe by any standards. Her body embraced tightly by the white singlet. Her legs , long and smooth, disappearing on both ends into the bottoms of a grey running shorts and a pair of well worn shoes.
Her hair neatly bundled up into a bun. A black armband with headphones connected to her ears as she did some static stretching.
A babe.
And then she turned into a bitch.
Instead of getting in the same lift as me, I saw her rolled her eyes, folded her arms and looked away.
I shook my head slightly as I closed the lift door.
I did my controlled breathing again, forcing myself to calm down.
I took the stairs when I got back at 7.30pm.
I went to bed early, feeling extremely exhausted that day for some weird reasons.
I was thankful I had the company of a good book and my drinks.
I set my alarm earlier the next morning, I have no intention of starting my day bumping into an anal bitch everyday.
I did not see her that morning.
It was a Friday, I remembered clearly.
I had drinks with a couple of colleagues before heading back to my mum’s place for dinner. Taking a slow walk back around 9pm, I saw a familiar figure loitering around a familiar car.
It’s her again.
I approached from an angle, making sure she couldn’t see me. I saw the movement of her body as she threw the bucket of water over the car bonnet. There were several wet patches on her t-shirt. The orange light of the open air carpark lit her up pretty well.
She is pretty hot, but her attitude needs some work.
I could feel my mind wander as I watch her bend over the car, giving it a good wipe down.
Part of me wanted to give her 1 x jialat jialat to wake up her idea, but the sane part of me told me to keep a distance.
If a girl smells like trouble, feels like trouble, she probably is.
The weekend past without anymore unpleasant encounter.
1st November 2010.
Monday.
That would be a day I’ll never forget.
I woke up late and only manage to make it into the lift at around 6.20am.
And the lift door opened at the 6th floor.
Our eyes met again and there was a moment of hesitation before the girl decided to take the same lift after I looked away.
She wore pants and a long sleeve top that morning. I saw a sports bag alongside her work one as she entered the lift.
Her top was still tucked tight into her pants, her breast seemed even fuller that day.
I could smell the shampoo in her hair and the perfume she applied just moments earlier.
She had on a different pair of heels that morning but she still looked as good.
What a pity.
If only she had a better character
Right when the lift is about to close, the door opened again and I saw a really elderly lady who looked to be in her seventies.
Old auntie : April, you forgot your phone.
And finally i can put a name to this girl.
April.
I was expecting a thank you, or something coming from April.
Instead i saw her snapped at the old lady.
April : I told you not to move about ! What are you out here !.
And those were the first words that I heard her say other than “ Tsk “
I was a little taken aback when i saw her grab her phone from the old lady before jamming the close button on the lift panel.
My initial feelings of shocked turned to irritation.
April stormed out of the lift towards her car the moment the door opened.
As i settled into my seat on the bus, i forced my eyes to remain open. I told myself a dozen times before, a fresh start. No more nonsense.
But my eye lids felt heavy not because i was tired, because i was irritated at the way she snapped at the old lady who was nice enough to bring her her phone.
I knew it’s going to be a mistake if I go down this path but I just couldn’t help it.
Perhaps it’s because of her attitude, her stuck up behavior. Or maybe it’s her hot body, her long legs.
I couldn’t help it.
As the bus trodded along the long journey to my work place, My eyes closed and I began to think.
2nd November 2010
My alarm rang at 3am
I did not bother washing up but instead changed into a casual tshirt and shorts. I tried to keep noise to a minimum as I exited my flat with a plastic stool and a kitchen towel.
I left the metal gate unlock and just closed the main door to minimize the sound of metal hitting against each other.
I called for the lift and when it arrived, I sent it up to the top floor.
I went barefoot, tiptoeing down the stairs to the 6th floor. I took a quick glance around and made sure I’m alone along that corridor. After making sure there’s no one looking, I positioned the stool beneath the light tube in front of the lift lobby. I quickly climbed on and sabotaged the light tube after wrapping my fingers with the towel, throwing the lobby into partial darkness.
I got off the stool quickly and listened for signs of anyone approaching.
I tip-toed down to the 5th and 4th and repeated the same thing. April might find it suspicious if it’s only her level that has a dark lobby.
I’m already perspiring by the time I’m done with the 4th floor. Taking the 2 steps at a time , I leap up to April’s unit and did a time check.
3.18am
Now the older hdbs did not offer as much privacy as I would like, there are no blind corners , parallel blocks of flats just stood back to back. There’s a possibility of someone catching me in the act. I considered pushing my luck but thought the better of it.
I went back up to my unit and put away the stool.
I went to my room and took out the stationaries that I prepared last night.
Taping a few rounds of double sided tape together , I created a small 1 inch square of sticky pad. Attaching this to the white flexible strip you get in a normal file , I tested the flexibility of this gadget.
I grabbed a wooden chopstick from the kitchen and placed them into my pockets.
I left my place again in a casual manner and took the lift to the ground floor.
3.35am.
I did a quick walk around the lobby area and made sure no one was near the letterbox. I checked the void decks in case some teenagers were loitering around late at night. I could feel my heart thumping as I fingered the stationaries in my pocket.
3.45am.
Other than the occasional taxi along the road, there was hardly a soul around , I suck in a deep breath of air and decided to go for it the fast and furious way.
Walking straight to April’s mailbox, I pushed back the flap to check the contents within. I could see several phamplets and letters.
I stucked the flexible white strip with the sticky pad into the letter box and zeroed in on a letter. There was enough light to tell me that was a telco bill. I stuck the chopstick in as well and used it to push the flexible pad onto the letter while I kept a steady hold on the other end.
It’s a hit.
I managed to lift the letter high enough to slip the chopstick underneath it. Using both the improvised instruments I made, I snucked out 5 envelopes.
2 telcos, a cable tv , an insurance company and one from American express.
I checked that no one caught on to what I did before heading back up to my unit.
4.00am.
I made myself a cup of coffee and I sat down at the living room with just a small table lamp.
All the envelopes were addressed to the same person.
April Liu Xue Ping.
As I sliced opened the letters, I shook my head and smiled to myself.
My god, different telcos for different lines, says a lot about brand loyalty.
I jotted down her home and mobile number into my notepad.
From the information in the insurance letter, I found out that April is 31 that year. She’s paying a decent premium, must have had pretty good earning power.
I could feel myself getting excited as the image of April bent over her car came into my mind again. Been a while since I had a nice matured OL.
Especially a stuck up one.
I studied the Amex bill in detail and noted a repeat visit to a couple of restaurants, some online purchases, her credit limit, and she shops pretty often at a particular cold storage.
Leaning back into the sofa, I tried to organize my thoughts in my mind.
5.00am
I decided that it cannot be a long drawn battle plan. It would have to be fast, executed swiftly and she had to be caught off guard.
It probably would be a one off but one that she can never forget.
I drained the last of my cold coffee and went to take a shower.
6.00am
I left my unit and called the lift
I did not enter but instead I kept my ears opened.
The lift came and left several times until I heard the unmistakable clang of the metal gate one floor below.
6.07am
I quickly called the lift again and entered
And it stopped at the 6th floor moments it started descending.
The lift doors opened to a darkened and dim lobby. It seemed a little eerie and I could not see anyone outside. I was a little disappointed and was about to hit the close button when April came out of nowhere.
Her entry was too sudden, add to the fact that I was pretty tensed up trying to pull the whole thing off. So when her figure appeared right when I was reaching for the close button, I literally jumped and got a shock.
It was an embarrassing moment but something amazing happened for that split moment.
I heard quick stifled snigger and I saw the dimples disappeared as fast as it appeared on April’s cheeks.
She turned away once more, and in a stuck up manner, showed me her back view as she meddled with her phone.
The flash of the dimples struck a chord in me. Her smile is so sweet, but what is the problem with her attitude. Her dimples were deep, a sweet smile that didn’t show any teeth.
Her eyes naturally became a little smaller as her facial muscles gave way to that smile.
Her shampoo smells refreshingly good in that lift and I could feel my gaze drifting uncontrollably to her tight skirt.
Are all her clothes that tight ?
We headed our separate ways when the lift door opened.
April went to her car and I took the usual path to the bus stop.
Moments later I heard the rev of the engine going pass me again.
I left work on time and took a bus to Siglap shopping centre. The cold storage where April frequent.
I studied the map on my phone and I couldn’t figure out why she chose to shop here. There is a short cut through the private estate to bedok though but there are supermarkets closer to her place.
I grabbed some dinner and groceries before leaving the small shopping centre.
I spent some time visiting the online shops that April shopped in and took some notes.
I went to bed early that night.
3rd November 2010
And my alarm rang again at 3am
It’s a little harder to crawl out of the bed this time round as I had to force myself up.
I had already checked the night before that the lights were still out, but it’s not going to remain that way for very long. The town council will probably fix it soon. I got dressed in a black tshirt and black shorts and opened the main door.
The cool morning breeze hit me squarely in the face as I listened for any signs of life along the corridor.
Satisfied that no one is awake in that unearthly hour, I unlocked the gate and I brought along the stool again. I stuffed the kitchen towel into my pocket and I brought along a mirror as well.
My heart started thumping again as I approached the 6th floor once again.
Although I’m not doing anything erotic, I could feel the blood rushing to my manhood as I tip toed bare foot towards April’s unit. My heart rate increased as well as I kept still in the dim lobby for a moment. Deciding that it’s clear to move, I crept quietly towards April’s unit. I did not remain standing but had instead squatted down, holding my stool parallel to the ground.
As I ducked walked towards the door, I felt like peeing , my ears picked up every little bits of sound as I swaggered awkwardly towards my destination.
I could smell the fragrance of the pandan leaves outside April’s unit, no doubt maintained by the old lady which I reckon is her grandma. I got to the 2 concrete steps that led up to the main door and I paused again, listening for any signs of life.
I could feel my heart slamming against my ribcage as I took a few quick breaths before setting the stool upright as quietly as I can. Before my mind can protest, my body quickly took over and I literally jumped onto the stool, my towel wrapped hand went for another light tube along the corridor, throwing the immediate area outside April’s flat into darkness.
I got off as quietly as I could and waited.
And I waited.
A quick time check told me it’s 3.20am
I did not know which room April sleeps in but it’s a 3 room flat. 2 bedrooms, there’s a 50% chance that she is taking the room along the corridor.
I like those odds.
The window along the corridor is old, the kind where the bottom part is aluminium panels and the top is glass. I could hear the sound of a rotating fan inside the room, making an audible creak whenever it hits a problem spot.
I did not want to take any chance of popping my head up which explains the mirror.
The aluminium portion of the windows is closed but the glass part is wide open.
Setting the stool below the window, I climbed on top of the stool and slowly raised my body and my hand with the mirror at the same time. Positioning it in a way that would reflect the interior of that room to me.
As my hands got higher, I felt a tinge to shiver down my spine when the first image other than window panels came into view. I felt an uncontrollable exhale of my breath as I saw an image of a beautiful leg. It was only half exposed, most of it covered by the thin blanket.
I saw the back of April’s calves before the sight of her back came into view.
For some weird reason I can’t explain, this voyeuristic act gave me a raging hardon as I struggled to keep my balance while trying to get a better look.
I shifted the mirror and took a quick look at the interior of the room, noting the position of the bed and the furniture.
I decided to risk a quick peek with my head and I was well rewarded. The thin sliver of ambient light is enough to light up that tight body under the blanket. It’s as if gravity is working extra hard near April, the contours of her bum tightly embraced by the blanket.
I lowered myself onto the ground and checked out the corridor.
3.30am
The coast is still clear and I decided to check out the shoe rack outside her unit. There’s some slippers, pretty old looking ones and I saw the same pair of old sports shoe she wore for her jog.
No socks though.
No signs of her heels as well.
Would have loved get my hands on them .
There were no laundry along the corridor much to my disappointment.
Cautiously I headed back to my unit and did a quick layout of April’s room in my notebook before catching up a little on my sleep.
I did not wait for April before I entered the lift that morning, no point making it too obvious.
Besides gathering information about April, I tried to find out a little more about the old lady.
A casual chat with neighbours revealed that she is indeed April’s grandma. Used to volunteer frequently at a temple nearby but a bad fall couple years bad limited her mobility. She still can walk around but not for long and most of the time she stays at home.
The furthest she went would be the market across the road, walking with the aid of a cane and a shopping trolley.
I spent the next week gathering as much information as I could about April. The occasional question when I happen to be with a neighbor when she passes by and waved.
Not to me of course.
It appears that April’s parents passed away young and she was brought up by her grandmother singlehandedly. Money was tight all the time and neighbours remembered frequent loans from April’s grandmother.
The amount was not large. $20 this week, maybe another $15 a few days later, but the loans were always repaid in full.
Uncle Toh, is a treasure trove of information regarding April and her grandma. I casually mentioned about the auntie who takes a long time to cross the road and he immediately knew who I was talking about.
Uncle Toh : Oh, April and her grandma. She is a very smart girl, very independent. Worked her way through her studies since 14 or 15 I think. Got a scholarship too.
Uncle Toh : She dotes on her grandmother a lot too, always bring her out last time when she was more mobile before she slipped and fell.
I casually threw a couple of additional questions before I changed the topic. I did not want to be too obvious about my interest in April
Another neighbor mentioned that April gave her daughter free tuition back in her uni days as she couldn’t afford a full time tutor.
It seems all the neighbours thought April is a nice girl.
But then why am i so suay ?
Everything they’ve told me so far seemed to contradict what I encountered.
Is it my face ?
I don’t remember having a kiam par look.
I’m also on pretty good terms with the neighbours.
Then my chat with Auntie Ming finally shed the light.
April was considered the gem of the block but she had been single for the longest time.
Then some kay poh neighbor started saying a new guy moved in on the 7th.
On one hand I felt a jolt of excitement, you meant they want to kai xiao April to me formally ?
On the other hand I’m a little du lan. It’s really a case of what the hell … ?
I’m the innocent victim for once.
7th November 2010
Sunday.
I bumped into April at 3pm.
The lift door opened on the 6th.
I saw her in casual shorts and a tshirt, her grandma was holding on to her, or maybe it’s her holding her grandma.
I couldn’t really remember.
I only knew there was a second of hesitation before her grandma tried to take a small step forward.
Before she completed her small step, i heard April speak to me in proper language for the first time.
April : Hold the door please.
Although the tone is a little cold, and she didn;t really looked at me but it was enough to soften my heart.
I reached for the door open button and stood to the side to make way for the 2 ladies.
When they were safely inside the lift, i hit the close button and retreated to the corner.
And April’s grandma turned towards me and smile.
I returned the smile when suddenly April’s grandma said.
Grandma : Hi James.
My eyes widen and immediately i went a ‘SMLJ’ in my head.
Grandma : Auntie Ming says you are a designer ah ?
I was searching for a reply when April answered her grandmother.
April : MahMah, People not designer ok. Auntie Ming said he’s an Architect.
And i could feel the sourish tone of disdain in April’s voice as she refused to look at me.
At that very moment the lift chimed, indicating that we’re on the first floor, but to me it sounded more like the starting bell of a boxing match.
I felt a sudden hit du-lan-ness in me and i can’t help but replied, directing the answer to April’s grandma
James : Auntie you are right, i’m a designer. I haven got my practicing cert yet so technically you can’t call me an Architect.
Her grandma laughed.
And my eyes met April’s in that lift that suddenly felt a little cramp.
After the ladies exited the lift, I was not surprised that the only ‘thank you’ came from April’s grandma.
April refused a second look at me but I felt she did not seem that ‘dulan’ . Perhaps it’s just my imagination. We parted ways and we did not meet again for the next 3 days.
11 November 2010
Thursday.
As I made my way back from work , I’m starting to think that April has perhaps changed her timing so as not to bump into me in the lift.
Right when I was thinking about other ways to know more about April, I saw her car turn into the carpark and I slowed down my footsteps. I did a small detour on the walking path and waited for her to get in front of me after she left her car.
She did a double take in my direction as I fell into step perhaps 15m behind her.
My eyes went straight to her calves, not too toned such that her muscles are buldging, yet not too thin like sticks and bones. Her skirt is tight as expected and her sleeveless blouse with a laced oriental print at the back really brought out the nice frame of her shoulders.
The high collar covered quite a bit of her neck, fueling my need to see a little more.
The lift was not at the ground floor so the few extra seconds of waiting allowed me to catch up to April.
There was an awkward silence as I stood a distance behind her. I can’t peel my eyes away from the creases of her blouse around her waist. The wind carried her perfume towards me and I already got a pretty good idea of my masturbating image for the evening.
The lift chimed open and April took the first step in.
Instead of hitting her floor, she walked straight in and turned towards the front. She took up the middle of the lift, leaving lesser space for my frame and I had to adjust my bag and squeeze a little in order not to get in contact with her.
Without an exchange of words, I hit the 2 buttons to both our floors.
I held the door open when it reached the 6th and I felt like I would strike 4D when I heard a ‘thanks’ in kind of a soft grumbled tone.
Perhaps it’s fate, or just luck.
I bumped into April again the next evening upon reaching home from work.
The ritual repeated itself without an exchange in words or eye contact.
She took the middle dominant spot and just waited for me to follow behind her.
And another ‘thanks’ albeit in a less grumbly tone made my Friday evening.
I returned home for a quick washup before heading down to the hawker centre to get dinner. Never in my dreams would I expect the sight to greet me on the 6th floor that evening at around 7.45pm
I wasn;t expecting to bump into her again but fate had other plans.
I looked up in surprised when the lift door open on the 6th.
Standing in front of me was a sight out of a porn scene. Ok, perhaps a porn scene in my sick mind.
There was April in a light grey t-shirt and a pair of denim shorts. As if the choice of tight fitting tops were not enough, her light grey T had multiple wet spots and an extremely large patch that is drenched.
The large patch started at the bottom of her T-shirt, extending upwards in a 45 deg angle towards her breast before peppering out into a series of smaller wet spots.
Her denim shorts seemed dry yet her I could see droplets of moisture on her thighs, her calves, and on her arms.
As she entered the lift , I made way for her to take up her favourite spot. Right in the middle of the whole fucking lift but to my surprise, she went to the corner and hit the 5th floor.
I could smell the dampness coming from April’s body and I had to fight against my will to force myself not to stare.
How I wished I could pressed my nose against the wet patch on her t-shirt. There was still an hint of her perfume and I could still see her makeup on which told me she hadn’t had the chance to wash up yet.
She went out on the 5th and I took an extra second to hit the close button as I observed her heading to the first unit .
I did not think too much of that encounter and went to dabao my dinner. Was looking forward to the 猪肝面线 from the hawker across the road.
I would have swore that April was stalking me had it not been that irritated look of frustration on her face when the lift opened on the 5th floor.
Pressing her floor for her, I fiddled with my phone till the door closed after her exit.
Right when I was unlocking the heavy padlock, I saw someone approach from the corner of my eye.
It was April.
And the first words from her mouth was.
April : Oi Architect, free or not.
I took a second too long to react and the scene became a little awkward.
James : Why ?
April : Follow me.
In an abrupt princess-cy manner, she turned and stormed off towards the lobby. I shut the gate and caught up with her, my pig liver mee sua in tow.
We took the stairs and she led me straight to her unit and I felt the stir of an erection creeping into my pants as I stood near the doorway.
There was an old cloth for the feet at the entrance that seemed a little damp which I avoided when I entered.
April’s grandma was in the living room sitting at the dining table and she smiled and said ‘hi James’
I said hi with a smile and I followed April into the kitchen and realised why she was walking around in a tight wet top.
April gestured to the tap and said she got no strength to close the valve for the kitchen tap which is not looking like a miniature musical fountain.
I recognized a running top with red trimmings which April wore before around the leak and I felt blood rushing to my dick as I reached for it.
The moment my skin came into contact with her wet top, I felt a small mental orgasm in my mind. I removed the top to take a closer look and decided to close the valve first.
The valve beneath the sink is old and rusty, it did not buldge when I tried to close it. Using the back handle of a ladle, I started tapping and hitting on the small lever.
April bent down initially before she squatted down by my side. Perhaps it’s the ego in me that wanted to show her that I and good with a leaking tap , I hit harder and harder. Then I felt the lever gave way as it slowly turned towards the closed position.
One final tap brought the lever down and before i could let out an exhale of breath, part of the rusty lever gave way and water shot out in a spray towards me and April.
I heard a yelp and I spitted some water out of my mouth.
April : My god , you idoit !
I turned and saw April’s top now in a darker shade of grey as the wet fabric plaster itself tightly against her breast.
I knew this is going to be disastrous and I quickly took off my top and pressed it around the leak. I grabbed April’s hands and pushed them to my top , asking her to hold on.
I left the kitchen and went to the corridor to off the water mains.
The lever is within reach when an evil thought entered my mind.
I wouldn’t mind letting April getting a little more wet while waiting for me.
I took a little longer than needed to turn off the mains before re-entering April’s unit.
Grandma is no longer at her dining table but instead she brought out 2 towels, walking slowly towards me.
I thanked her for the towels and felt a sudden excitement in my mind.
Are these April’s towels ? The same ones she used to wipe her body, her legs, her privates.
Before I could relish in the sick thought of smelling April’s towel, I saw a scene in the kitchen that made my erection strain harder against my pants. April is on her fours as her head disappeared underneath the basin. Water dripped generously from her body as I approached her with the towels.
When she emerged from the bottom, I saw one of her dulan look that must have at least a score of 9.3 as she grabbed one of the towel from me and threw my wet t-shirt on me.
April : How did you become an architect ?
I wanted to tell her plumbing was not part of my course module but decided that now is not the time to make a comment. I wringed dry my top and I put it on as April went to fetch the mop.
She passed me the mop as if I’m her domestic helper and started complaining to her grandma.
April : Would not have asked him if Qiu Pek is around. Now only made things worse.
And she went on and on while her grandma just laughed.
I assumed Qiu Pek is the neighbor that she was trying to get one unit below her.
April re-emerged a moment later in a new top and she stood a distance away, her hands on her hips and started pointing out the areas I missed with the mop.
When the kitchen was more or less in a decent state, she asked.
April : So what now ? Don’t tell me we’re going without water for the weekend .
I shrugged my shoulders and replied.
James: Ermm, you can use mine upstairs ?
She gave me a look that told me I better find a hole to hide in before I think of saying something stupid again.
James : Relax, I’ll fix it.
She turned away and went to the dining area and I could hear her complaining to her grandma again.
April : Very clumsy la, where got guys like that one ?
Bla blab la bla bla.
And I could hear grandma laugh as I made a call to my plumber.
8.20pm
I was quite hungry but i felt a little irresponsible if i just left things as it is so i offered to help clean up the mess while waiting for the plumber.
I took frequent whiff and sniff at the towel i had over me whenever no one was looking. With each inhale, the more i felt convinced that it was April’s towel. The smell, the softness of the fabric, and the girlish earth tone colour.
As i set some of the toppled stuff at th sink area into order, i suddenly smell my dinner.
Walking to the living area, i saw April helping herself to my dinner as she portioned out some for grandma.
She gave me a look and said
April : What ? I’ll pay you back lah, mah mah haven eat because of you.
April’s grandma quickly said she was not hungry but April kept insisting she take the food.
I was ok actually, not that i was angy but it felt more like April is doing it on prupose to irk me.
I settled onto a stool in the corner to the living room and chatted with grandma and my eyes kept drifing to the reflection of April’s crossed legs at the dining area and she slurped a little loudly on my dinner.
Grandma : aiyah, things old already, eventually will spoil one. just like people. Just like people, old already have a lit of problems.
James : Can fix one auntie, just have to look at preventing it from happening again.
April had no part in the casual chat until another idea strucked my mind.
I tried to think of a suitable storyline as i chatted with grandma. Then when i felt the timing is appropriate, i dropped the question
James : Auntie, the place could use some touching up, maybe you could look at redoing of of the fixtures in the house ?
James : You can also install more grab bars and handles in the bathroom as well, definitely antislip floor for the wet areas would be good.
James : Why not give the place a new coat of paint also.
And then i held my breath and waited for the reply, my mind already wandering into far far away land. Thinking of the amount of access i could have if they allowed me to work on their place.
April spoke first before grandma could reply.
April : Very good sales pitch James, mahmah, don’t believe him, he just wants to earn money.
She kept her eyes on me as she slurpped on the soup.
James : Do i look that money minded ?
I directed my next sentence towards grandma and said.
James : I’m sorry i caused the burst pipe, i’ll do the design and coordination for the renovation for free if you are interested.
And i held my breath again waiting for a reply .
April replied again before grandma.
April : Why you so nice us ?
And for once grandma answered before anyone else had a chance to speak.
Grandma : Aiyah April, why you so mean to James ?
The plumber’s arrival saved me from having to reply further to April’s question.
No money exchanged hands as i’ve already told the plumber i’ll sort it out with him later.
10pm
I made my way down to the hawker again to get my dinner although i wasn’t very hungry.
I had dinner with the towel wrapped around me that evening.
13th november 2010
Saturday.
12.30pm
I was on my way out to meet some friends and decided to drop by April’s place. Partly to check if everything is ok and of course, take a look and find inspiration for my masturbation target that evening.
April was reading a magazine when i got to the opened door.
Grandma was reading newspaper on the floor when i said ‘hi’ and asked if everything is ok.
She said everying is ok and thanked me for the help.
April : Hey wait.
I saw her disappear into her room before coming out with a $5 note.
April : Nah, pay you back for dinner.
James : It’s ok, no need.
April : Don’t want to owe you anything la, take it.
I waved it off and said goodbye to grandma and left.
As i waited for the lift, i heard the close of the metal gate and the shuffling of footsteps.
April joined me at the lobby and we entered the lift together.
I can’t help but asked
James : Why you always seem so angry with me ar ?
She seemed to consider her answer for a while before deciding to ignore me.
As she left the lift , she turned around and replied with a smile.
April : Because you haven given me a reason to be happy with you ?
She laughed at her silly comment and walked away.
I laughed to myself too as i watched her walk towards the hawker centre.
The following week was a busy one for me as several work issues came up. I did not have much time for interaction with April and her grandma except for the courtesy nod when we pass each other at the void deck or when we see each other in the lift.
Several times, I was tempted to drop by and ask how was the plumbing but I would risk being overly helpful.
I bump into April a couple of times during my evening jog but we both kept our distance, I only remembered one particular evening where I saw her in a bright pink singlet with her hair up in a high pony tail and a cap.
I was drawn to her bright pink like a moth towards a bright light, jogging a decent distance behind her, keeping my breathing leveled and controlled as I ogled at her legs and bottoms.
19th November 2010
Friday.
8pm
Having already gone one round around bedok reservoir, I was panting hard and was sorely tempted to just walk the rest of the way back to my place. Gone were the days where I could go for a full marathon and still have enough energy for a short session of volleyball at the beach.
As I struggled along the neighbourhood road passing the first sheng siong supermart, i saw the cast of a long shadow coming up behind me before disappearing as I passed under the orange street light. I knew from the gait it was another jogger, and I kept to the left as anyone would have expected of slower traffic.
Instead of a swift overtake, the fellow jogger drew up beside me and I did a double take when I realised it was April. Our eyes met for a second and suddenly my chest was pumped up and my back straightened as I struggled to maintain my pace.
My lungs were screaming at me, begging me to just give up my ego and start panting like a dog but instead I tried to breath slowly with my nose and said ‘hi’ to April .
James : Hey
April : Hey.
She looked at me for a moment before breaking the silence.
April : You have any plans on Sunday afternoon ?
I was having a sudden mix of feelings in my stomach and was feeling pretty good about a girl asking whether I’m free on a weekend. It’s been a while since I broke up with my ex and definitely a longer while since a stucked up girl had asked me out on a date.
James : Yeah, are you asking me out ?
The smug look of satisfactory on my face must have been too much for April to bear as she replied without breaking her breath with a toneless ‘no’
April : No.
As the hawker I frequent drew up closer to us, I felt like and idoit for being ‘kay gan’
April : Mahmah wants to talk to you about the renovation.
And like the driver of a bigger and faster sports car, April picked up her pace smoothly, leaving a trail of her sweet smelling sweat and perfume in her wake as I immediately slowed down my pace and suck in deep breaths of air that was now mixed with the smell of cooked food from the hawker centre.
After my cooldown at the lobby I hung around and waited for April to return from her run.
When I saw her walking back a little pass 9pm, she seemed surprised I was at the lift lobby.
April : What are you doing ?
James : Ermm. You did not tell me what time ?
She laughed as she called the lift. I could see the drops of perspirations on her body as the rolled down her neck, collecting other tiny drops along the way before tumbling down her collarbone like an avalanche of erotic female hormones. I wonder how her sweat taste like.
Her running top was soaked through and her black sports bra stood out clearly against her light grey top.
I could feel the heat radiating from her body inside the small lift as we ascended.
I asked again when we got to the 6th floor.
James : Errmm so what time your mahmah wants to meet ?
April : I’ll let you know again James.
James : Ok.
When the lift got to the 7th floor I decided to try my luck and took the stairs down to the 6th again. I got there just in time to hear the clank of the metal gate.
I crept quietly towards April’s unit and saw that her running shoes were left on the shoe rack but her socks were not there. Feeling a little disappointed, I doubled back up for a shower.
20th November 2010
April did not get back to me about the meeting on Sunday afternoon.
21st November 2010
12pm sharp
I brought along a sketchbook and some paint catalogues down to April’s house.
The gate was opened and I could smell food being prepared.
April was painting her nails in the living room and her eyes shot a look at me coupled with a frown. Even before she opened her mouth I knew what was coming.
April : Need to be so kiasu or not ?
She took a quick look at the clock before asking me to come back at 1pm.
Her grandma heard the commotion and peeked out from the kitchen, gesturing me into the house.
Grandma : Hello James, take a seat first ah. Lunch will be ready soon
James : Eh auntie, no need la, it’s ok. I can just grab something downstairs.
Grandma : It’s ok, go talk to April.
Her head disappeared into the kitchen and I stood in the middle to the living room, feeling a little lost.
April was shaking her bottle of nail polish and the matter in which she shook the bottle made my mind wander about her strength, intensity and rythem of shaking an extension of my own body.
I wanted to take a seat but April is in the middle of the 3 seater, and there were magazines on one the single seater. She must have guessed my intention and she shifted her nail polishing stuff and made space for my on the other end of the sofa.
I felt a little awkward and my eyes were begging my mind to just let it feast on April’s legs.
April : Do you need a drink ? Go help yourself if you need one.
James : Ermm, I’m suppose to be a guest leh, shouldn’t you get me one ?
April’s back straightened and she replied.
April : You want me to get you a drink ?
James : I definitely would get you one if you are the one visiting.
She hesitated for a moment before getting up and disappeared into the kitchen, reappearing a few seconds later with a glass of water.
It’s as if she’s doing it on purpose as she deliberately dipped her thumb into the glass, letting the water lapped onto her finger due to the way she held the drink. It’s as if she did not realise there was a handle at the side of the cup.
Setting the cup down, I saw the water sloshed up an additional cm or so, giving April’s thumb a good wash. She smiled and gave me a cute wink before getting back to her nails.
April : Nah. Enjoy your drink James.
If only she knew how eager I was to taste everything she touched.I would gladly lick every drop even if she had spit in it.
I left the drink at it was and decided to help grandma set up the table for lunch.
April joined me to bring the few simple dishes out to the dining table.
I brought my drink to the table, intending to savour the water that was touched by April after dinner.
James : Auntie, thanks ar, very paiseh leh.
Grandma : No need paiseh, lai, help yourself.
April started first and I was wrong when I thought she’s going for the first bite, instead, she made sure her grandma had a serving of each dish before helping herself to them.
Throughout the meal, she kept reminding her grandma that to eat slowly, and to look out for bones, and to chew her food properly.
That very instance she seemed like a nice caring girl, respectful to her elders. She would be perfect if she did not have the anal side of her personality.
Then without warning, April suddenly choked on her food and started coughing, giving her chest a few quick taps.
Grandma : Aiyoh, eat slowly.
I immediately offered the glass of water by my side to her and she quickly took a few quick glups, swallowing her food properly.
I felt blood rushing to my dick as I watched the movement of her throat as she swallowed mouthfuls of liquid. Her eyes were tearing a little due to the cough, fueling my imagination of a deep throat choking kind of CIM scenario.
I felt April’s left hand suddenly clamp down on my right wrist as my chopstick tried to reach for a piece of Chai-po omelette.
April : Where did you get that glass of water ?
I smiled and gave her a cute wink before reaching for the piece of omelette.
April immediately got up and went to the kitchen and her grandma starting going on about eating slowly and to chew her food properly.
I avoided April’s eyes as she came back to the dining table. The lunch continued without further incident although I could feel April’s eye constantly staring at me.
I helped to clear up the dishes and had wanted to do the washings but grandma insisted that I go to the living room.
Grandma : You’re a guest James, leave this to us.
I went to my sketch book and did some quick drawings and concept of my proposal for April’s place. I have no intention of doing anything too fanciful or expensive, my primary concerns is the lack of storage space which has resulted in quite a bit of clutter in the house which can be a hazard for grandma.
I only had a quick look at their common bathroom the last time I was here and it needed a simple make over, definitely more elderly friendly features.
As I doddled on my sketchbook, I can hear April complain a little too loudly about me to her grandma and I could hear her grandma laughing sporadically. Grandma was the first to emerge from the kitchen and she sat down with me while April finished up the rest of the washings.
I did not waste time but briefly asked if they had anything in mind about the renovation. Grandma was simple, she just wanted some cupboards for the stuff that has grown into a clutter over the years, and probably a simple display for April’s childhood pictures and various trophies that she won.
As for the bathroom, she mentioned that she is fine with the current ones but if I think it can be further improved, I can make the decision.
I did some quick drawings and show grandma some catalogues and pictures to get a better idea of what she wanted. April joined us shortly and she just sat and kept awfully quiet throughout, making me a little uncomfortable with her eyes that never seemed to leave me.
At the end of 30 mins, I was quiet sure of grandma’s likes and dislikes.
James : Ok, I got a pretty good idea, let me work something out and get back to you ya.
Grandma : Thanks ar James, so paiseh, need to trouble you.
James : Not at all la Auntie, I should be the one that is paiseh. Trouble you to cook and all.
April just sat back with her legs crossed listening to our exchange without a comment but I felt weird she had a smile on her face.
James : Ok I better be going, thanks for lunch ar Auntie.
Grandma : Eh Wait, still got April’s room.
I felt my heart skip a beat and a sudden rush of blood to my manhood. The sudden rush of excitement and the realization that I get to work with April brought about mixed feelings. April got up and disappeared into the kitchen as grandma chatted a while longer with me.
When April appeared moments later with a glass of water, for some strange reason, I had a raging erection.
Grandma : Ok you all talk ar, I’m going to do the laundry.
James : Orh.
April did not sit opposite me but instead came over and sat by my side.
She pushed the glass of water towards me and said in the softest, gentle voice I’ve ever heard her in.
April : Finish this James.
She was smiling sweetly at me yet I could see the twinkle of mischief and evil in her eyes as she patiently waited for me to reach for the glass.
James : Wah lau, need to like that or not. You started it first mah, just a joke right…
April crossed her legs, putting her right over left, letting her right feet dangle close to my right thigh. She rested her right elbow on her right thigh and her head followed, looking at me with her head tilted and resting in that position.
She did not say a word but instead her eyes darted between the glass of water and my eyes. Her smile never left her face.
April : come on, drink it and we can start discussing about my room.
I lowered my volume considerably and apologized.
James : Ok sorry la, buy you lunch next time ok.
She reached for the glass and brought it close to my face, trying hard to stifle a laugh
April : Drink it before things get worse James….
I decided to get it over and done with and gulped down that glass of water before handling the glass back to April.
She set the cup aside and her smile seemed to widen considerably.
I was secretly feeling a little erotic as my mind wandered about what did she do to that simple glass of water, when we started talking about her room, I felt elated that she did not shift herself away from my side and we remained in that position for the next hour.
As we threw ideas and bounce suggestions of each other, I realised a trait of April that seemed to really stand out. Whenever I disagreed with one of her idea, she would start to scold me.
Words and phrases like ‘idoit’ , ‘so stupid’, ‘don’t be silly’ , ‘are you mad’ were used frequently.
However when I agreed with her and added a couple of compliments on her suggestions, she seems like a completely different person.
I suspected she has some bipolar personality.
I took a mental note of this trait and filed it away for future use.
I needed to take some measurements before I can start working properly on the unit so I suggested coming back later in the evening as I have a coffee session with the boys.
April said she will be out too but I could drop by anytime after 8pm.
I reached April’s place at 8pm sharp with my measuring tape and my notebook. I was expecting a bad tummy ache from that mystery drink she gave me but I felt fine.
She was not at home but grandma let me in and I started working with the living area and grandma’s masterbed room. The 2 bathrooms came next and by 8.30pm, I had detailed measurements of the place with exception of April’s room.
Grandma : It’s ok , go in and measure, nevermind one.
James : Eh, don’t want la, wait April scold me.
Grandma : Haha, she won’t, I’ll scold her if she scold you. Help yourself, I’m going to shower, April should be back soon.
As I watch grandma shuffled slowly away into her room, I felt a rush of adrenaline as my mind started to stray. I finally get to access April’s room.
Would she notice a couple of missing undies if I snitched them ? Does the laundry basket have any of her pyjamas that I could indulge in ?
I had to adjust my erection as I stood at the entrance into April’s room.
The bed was neatly made up and her work desk was kept tidy. I could see some envelopes and bills on the table , some loose change and a laptop.
Some clothes were drapped at the bed frame at the foot of the bed and I could see her cupboard bursting at the seams with clothes.
If only I could spend one night with unlimited access in April’s room.
All the clothes that I could smell, touch and masturbate to.
Her pillows looked inviting too and I fantasized about taking her on that small super single bed.
Then suddenly I heard the faint click of heels outside the corridor and I immediately withdrew and went to the dining table.
April appeared moments later in a figure hugging dress with a clutch bag in her hands.
She smiled and my eyes helped themselves to her back as she bent a little to take off her heels before squatting down to slot them into the cabinet.
She looked nice and classy in black and her shoulders looked great even under the dim lighting of the living area.
April : Give me a minute.
She went straight to the bathroom in the kitchen and right after she went in, grandma came out.
Grandma : Eh, James, why never go in and measure ?
James : Oh it’s ok la, April’s back, I’ll wait for her.
She nodded and disappeared into the kitchen.
Moments later April reappeared in front of me with a glass of water in her hand.
James : Oh come on April….
April : haha.
It was a genuine laugh from her as it broke really naturally in a sweet way from her smile.
April : Take your time James, no rush.
She went towards her room and paused when she saw her lights were on.
Directly her eyes at me she asked.
April : Did you come into my room James ? You better not be in ther without me around
I shook my head innocently right when grandma came to my defence.
Grandma : Aiyoh April, can you stop scolding James, her never went in. He says he’s afraid you’ll scold him.
And grandma went on about no men will want her if she is so fierce blab la bla which April just ignored.
3 minutes later, April reappeared in t-shirt and shorts and our eyes met.
Her head just nodded in the direction of her room.
I took a deep breath and composed myself.
Alright… I’m going in.
April’s room had a nice girlish smell that reminded me of a spa. There was some essence burner right at the corner of her room and the candle was lit. I did not notice it previously, she must have just got it done.
I stood in the middle of the room, a little lost as to where should I start.
April settled onto her bed, sat crossed legged against the wall and started peppering me with questions while I try to shift some boxes around to get my measurements .
I was expecting a lot of dust especially behind the boxes and at the neglected corners of the room but I was wrong. April’s room was clean, and after a good 10 minutes of shifting stuff around, I realised that her room may have quite a bit of clutter and stuff, but they were actually pretty well maintained and organized.
An organized mess
I got what I wanted, actually only a little of what I wanted, would have had a good kick if I could snitch a couple of her panty back with me but did not have the chance to do so.
I told April and her grandma that I would need some time to work on their place and I’ll get back to them in a few days.
Right when I was about to leave their place, April caught up with me, water in hand, smile on her face.
25th November 2010
Thursday
9pm.
I popped my head out at April’s unit to see grandma sitting on the floor with her reading glasses low on her nose. The TV was on but no one was watching, I figured April must be in the shower.
James : Hi Auntie
Grandma : Hey James, come in .
James : No need, no need. I just want to see if you all are free this Saturday afternoon. I can show you some ideas.
Grandma immediately said yes and offered to make lunch. April came out of the bathroom right when I was about to leave in a white t-shirt with wet patches and her hair bundled up in a towel.
She gave me a wave before disappearing into her room.
I left after telling grandma I’ll see her on Saturday.
Perhaps it’s just me but April seemed to be showing a little less attitude towards me when I bump into her inside the lift. She still demanded the centre spot inside the lift but it didn’t bother me.
If I need to be a good boy just to get into her pants, a good boy I shall be.
Her cars still pass me occasionally, the rev of her engine didn’t seemed to be that loud anymore, perhaps she finally realised that a sudden loud noise will not give me an heart attack, especially when I’m walking 2m away from the side of the road she’s on.
Saturday came in the blink of an eye and i was at April’s place at 12pm sharp.
I said hi to grandma, who already had lunch ready on the table this time round and I said hi to April who asked if I’ll like a drink.
James : No thank you, I’ll help myself.
She laughed and we went through lunch within 30 minutes.
I did a quick 3D of my idea and presented it over tea to April and her grandma, nothing fanciful, basically just a fresh coat of paint and some carpentry works for the living room and April’s room.
Grandma loved it and ask how much would it cost.
April : Mahmah, don’t worry, too expensive James will pay.
April did not seem convince her room can fit a queen size bed despite me showing her the drawings.
James : Can fit, confirm, still a lot of space
April : Why do I need such a big bed ?
I had wanted to say in case I’m coming to spend the night but it didn’t seem appropriate, definitely not with grandma around.
Overall it went better than expected and we were done at 3pm.
As I packed up, I was surprised when April asked if I was free for the afternoon.
Grandma too looked surprised and I tried not to appear overly eager and nodded my head in a measured manner.
April : Come over again at 4pm.
Grandma : April, you all going out for dinner ah ? so I no need to cook is it ?
April : No la mahmah. Just need to buy some things.
I immediately had a long shower, shaved and changed into a new top. I debated whether to bring along condoms but brushed it off.
April was already at the gate telling her grandma that she’ll be back in a couple of hours and I felt a little disappointed hearing that but it’s still kind of a date nevertheless.
James : Where are we going ?
April : Do you drive ?
James : I can drive but I don’t own a car. Not as rich as you.
She ignored my comment and the lift ritual repeated itself.
We went over to her car and I was surprised that she went over to the passenger side and got in. I settled into the driver seat and she handed me the key. I made some adjustments to the seat and mirror as I was April stretch and settle comfortably into her seat.
A serious case of princess syndrome.
James : So where to ?
April : Ikea.
And off we went.
I could sense the excitement in her as we stepped into the showroom and it’s as if she became a little kid despite being 1 year my senior. We chatted about furnitures, the layouts and our dream home. It felt a little like we were dating but I knew it was an illusion.
I’m just a driver.. perhaps with a double role of a shopping slave.
We were surprisingly comfortable with each other, plenty of jabs in the ribcage and arms. There were disagreements of course but it was always me who gave in. Laughter punctuated almost every other sentences.
As we took the stairs down to the shopping floor, April took a yellow bag and slung it around my neck and I just left it there, knowing that it’ll be a futile attempt to remove it .
She bought mostly small items for storage, boxes of different sizes, some useless trinkets and space organisers.
We left Ikea at 6pm, with me carrying all the shopping, balancing them as best as I could.
6.45pm
I completed my slave job for the day and grandma was scolding April for making me go shopping with her but she just brushed it off.
I was about to leave after a unfruitful day when April asked for my phone.
My phone, not phone number.
James : What you want it for. ?
I felt my heart stopped when she keyed in her number.
If she hit dial, she’ll know I have her number and I’ll have a hard time explaining how did I get it.
As she got to the last few numbers on the phone, I immediately drew her attention away.
James : Shouldn’t you ask politely if I want to give you my number
James : Where got people just take like that one.
Her fingers paused and she tilted her head and looked at me.
Nodding her head in a manner which I knew I’m going to get another scolding, she added.
April : James , I’m your client…. In a way. You should probably be more polite towards me.
I could almost see the sparkle in her eyes when she cleared her number and passed me my phone.
I could feel her stifling a laugh when she said.
April : James , ask me for my number.
James :ermmm. Ok.
James : Can I have your number ?
Grandma came into April’s room at that very moment and April turned to her grandma.
April : Mahmah, James is asking me for my number. Can give or not ?
Grandma just laughed while I’m desperately trying to erase April from my contact list.
Right when I hit delete, grandma’s hand asked for my phone and I handed it over, my heart almost stopped beating within the last minute.
April’s number appeared on the screen and grandma hit dial.
April’s phone rang and I heard grandma said.
Grandma : Ok there. April’s number.
I watched April rolled over on her stomach, her legs up in the air as she keyed in my name.
April : Remember James, it was you who asked for my number first . haha
April : Correction, you are too chicken to ask for my number , so you asked my grandma.
I just smile and updated April’s name back into my contact.
Our eyes met again before I left her room at 7pm .
I was about to leave and meet the boys for drinks when I got an sms.
April sms : Ask me out for dinner.
My heart skipped a beat and I immediately asked.
James : April, would you like to have dinner ?
Grandma did a double take and immediately looked at April. I felt my eyes drifting to her short denim shorts for the hundredth time that day and I heard April went,
April : No.
My mouth must have gapped open a little too wide as she laughed and said she’s having dinner with her grandma.
Grandma : No need no need, you all go ahead and eat.
I was expecting myself to feel du lan as I was punked so easily, but instead I felt quite good. I couldn’t explain why but somehow it felt funny.
In fact I realised I did not mind getting punk again if April had been the one doing it.
I shrugged my shoulders and was about to leave when April came behind her grandma, resting her hands on her shoulders and asked if I would like to join them.
I smiled and said.
James : Of course.
We had a simple dinner at the hawker centre opposite the flat. For some weird reason, grandma’s smile did not leave her face that evening.
After I walked the ladies back to their place at 8.30pm, I mustered up my courage and added.
James : April……
James : Are you free tomorrow ?
Grandma excused herself into the kitchen and April seemed to be thinking about my question.
April : I am free, but you won’t be.
James : Huh ?
April : You need to help me pack my room.
I laughed and so did she.
We exchanged a couple of messages at night but nothing more, I had a good sleep knowing that I get to spend the next day with April.
When I got to her place at 10 in the morning, we started helping grandma to pack up some of the clutter in the living room, putting them into the boxes we bought. As we went through old albums, grandma pointed out that April did not have an easy childhood, there were not many pictures of her as they could hardly afford to develop the pictures back then.
The few they had were given by relatives.
April looked thin and scrawny when she was in her teens but I recognized that look of hardiness in her face. Her expression was hard, unsmiling and stern even at a young age. The few pictures with her smiling was taken with her grandma.
For a moment I felt really blessed to have the shelter of a complete family.
The pictures started to increase a little as April got older during her JC and university years.
As I flipped through the memories of this girl, I felt ashamed at what i did previously to spy on her. She did not start life easy, and I definitely cannot blame her for being a little cold towards others. Perhaps it’s a barrier she erected to protect herself and her grandma.
I dusted the albums and placed them into the boxes.
Grandma : April is a good girl, just that she is a little fierce sometimes.
James : Ehh. Orh.
I caught the subtle hint easily but I didn’t want to read too much into it.
April is definitely someone who I can safely say men would love to have. She’s got a great body, nice features and an air of class surrounding her despite her difficult childhood.
Maybe a bit of Ice queen look.
I took a picture of April from one of the albums using my phone when no one was looking.
April bought lunch and by 4pm, we were all tired and decided to leave the packing for another time.
I’m supposed to have dinner with my parents and I excused myself at 4.30pm.
I got to the hawker centre to see my parents and sisters already waiting for me at 5.30pm.
Halfway through dinner around 6.15pm, I felt a tap on my shoulders and the few pair of eyes went from being focused on the food to me and finally to the person who tapped me.
I turned around to see April with some packet food in her hands.
My eyes widened and i said ‘hi’ after swallowing my noodles.
James : Hi.
April was polite, she say hi to my parents and sisters before turning her attention back to me.
Reaching into her back pocket, she brought out a blackberry that looked like mine.
April : Went to your place but you were not in, you left in it one of the boxes. Lucky it rang. Was thinking of passing you later but happen to see you here.
I did not realise that my phone was not with me, I must have forgotten to keep it when I sneak shot a picture of April.
James : Oh , thanks.
James : You dabao-ing dinner ?
She nodded her head before excusing herself and left.
And I felt 4 pairs of eyes on me the moment she left.
I knew it’s been almost a year since I brought a girl back and I could hear the charging handles being pulled back.
I took a deep breath as the firing squad took aim.
As the questions flew, my phone vibrated, it was an sms from April
April sms : Haha. Good luck.
I smiled to myself and fought to defend myself in front of the family jury.
It was a valiant battle, I showed no fear. I cut down my sister’s pestering with a mental axe. I blocked my mum’s questions with a shield.
Never would I expect my dad to back stabbed me when my back was turned.
Dad : Actually that day I saw you 2 jogging together, just that I didn’t want to ask.
My knees buckled and in my moment of weakness, my sisters drew blood.
It was an honorable day for me. I did not give up any information with exception that she was my neighbour.
I wanted revenge as I settled down onto my bed that evening. I went to bed smiling to myself.
The last sms from April that evening was ;
April sms : You could have just asked for my photo if you wanted it
The following week came and went, the lift ritual repeated itself only twice as we did not really see each other.
Other than a couple of silly messages, we hardly spoke as we were both busy. I asked if they needed help that first December weekend and April said they were fine.
5th December 2010
5pm
I had just finished coffee with my kahkis at the starbucks at Siglap. Walking towards Siglap centre, I wanted to grab some groceries for my place.
Fate it seems had it’s way of playing with people and as i crossed the road, I saw April heading into macdonalds. I slowed my footsteps and changed direction, making sure I kept to her blind spot. I hung around the back and I saw her sit down with a group of 3 girls.
I laughed to myself as my mind plotted for revenge.
I scanned the directory of the mall and saw that there’s a florist around the corner. Taking a long way round, I got a bouquet of roses and pleaded with the staff if she could deliver it to macdonalds immediately. I gave her specific instructions on where April was sitting and what she was wearing.
I added a hand written note with just a smiley face before signing off .
The florist must have felt weird as to why I was laughing to myself as she got ready to leave the shop.
I hid a distance away and watch April’s reaction. Her head started darting around trying to look for me. I could see she was laughing as she reached for her phone.
Her friends were equally surprised and I could see that they fought for that hand written note.
30 seconds later my phone rang.
April : Hey… are you stalking me ? haha
James : haha. No, it’s revenge for what you did that day at the hawker.
April : haha, come over, they want to meet you.
James : No way man.
April : don’t be a chicken, as least pop by and say hi, I did show my face that day didn’t I ?
I figured it wouldn’t hurt to pop in but I was wrong.
The moment I walked in, I felt several pairs of eyes on me. April suddenly stood up and grabbed another seat. Before I could react, she led me to the chair she was sitting on before taking up the new seat she brought, trapping me within that table of girls.
April : Girls, meet James .
I said hi.
And I got that same fuzzy feeling again as I lifted up my shield and axe.
The questions started flying towards me and April laughed.
April : Can I get you a drink James ?
I nodded and resigned my fate as the questions started.
It was another bloody day as i tried my best to fight off their questions, but i did not know them well enough to brush questions off without appearing rude.
My futile attempt made worst when April returned to my side.
She sat my drink down, linked arms with me and said.
April : Good luck James.
It lasted whole of 15 mins and i could feel myself perspiring.
There were plently of laughs but not for me.
It’s like walking into an ambush.
I couldn’t excuse myself, the moment i tried to fob up some excuses, the girls caught right onto it and i was sucked right back into battle.
They were good.
When they were finally done at 6.30pm, i felt drained. Worst than marathon sex.
April passed me the car keys as we head towards the lift.
James : So… what did it meant when you linked arms with me ?
April : Nothing James, nothing. haha. Continue dreaming.
I droved us back and walked April to her place.
April : goodnight James.
James : Goodnight April.
I handed her car remote back to her and i was surprised she actually said;
April : Keep it. You’re going to need to quite often, i’ve got another one.
I smile and decided it was time for a corny remark.
James : Was expecting the key to your heart April, not to your car. haha.
April : haha.. that’s a good one.
We parted ways and i set my alarm for 3am.