I saw Mamasan some distance away and ran towards her direction.
Me: Mamasan! Mamasan!
She stood there, shocked by the way I called her.
Without saying a word, she gave me a knock on my head!
Mamasan: Who the hell calls people like this and who are you?
Me: My name is Max, mamasan.
Mamasan: One more mention of that name I’m going to kick your bloody ass. Call me Mary.
Me: Yes.. mama… Mary..
Mary: Yes? Why are you looking for me?
Me: I.. would like.. to find out more… about…
Mary: About who?
Me: D…. aa…..
Mary: Who?
Me: Dawn.
Her eyes opened wide.
Mary: What?
Me: Yea. Dawn.
Mary: Why?
Me: I… like her.
Mary: Please… everyone tell me the same thing.
Me: I saw her crying when she was talking to you that evening. She was very sad.
Mary: It’s none of your business.
Me: Please. Can you tell me something about her?
Mary: Go home toad. It’s no use. Forget about her.
Me: Why?
Mary: Shut up! I am late already! Shoo!
She said as she turned and walked away.
I walked off dejected. But I was not going to give up.
I wasn’t paying much attention when suddenly I knocked onto someone again.
This time it was Snow.
She stared at me. And she seemed to know the reason why I was here.
Snow: Zek. Sickening. You again. zek.
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Me: Hi Snow
Snow: You must be here to find information about that girl, isn’t it?
My eyes shone and she seem to notice it.
Snow: Well, I can answer your questions.
Me: Really?
Snow: Ahem. But everything comes with a price. Can you afford it?
Me: Yes.
Snow: Good. I want you to book me the whole night today. And you follow everything I say. And no bargaining. Else it’s game over.
Snow’s face gleamed with delight as she gestured for me to follow her as we got into a cab.
Snow: Swissotel Stamford Hotel please.
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Snow might have been waiting for my face to turn pale.
The reaction she wanted should be: “Why are you taking me to some place so expensive? Can I afford it? What mess have I gotten into?”
But my face was expressionless. It wasn’t the money that I was going to spend. It was the info that I could get from Snow. I wanted to know more about Dawn.
Snow: Go get a room. A deluxe one.
I did as I was told.
We went into the lift without saying a word to each other.
Then she broke the silence.
Snow: Why ain’t you affected by the costs? You have to earn so long just to have a night’s stay here right?
I looked at her and smiled.
Snow: Is she that important to you? Where has that nerd or idiot went to?
We arrived at our room and Snow gasped seeing the room. She was jumping in joy. Perhaps it was her first time. She was so happy that she was screaming.
Snow: I’ve finally had a chance to see and live in this room for a night! Gosh! I dreamt and heard so much about it!
She jumped onto the bed and plunged her head deep in the pillows.
Snow: This is just unbelievable!
She took the pillows and hugged it tightly. Then she checked out the toilet. And screamed.
She threw out her clothes one by one as she played with the shower. Suddenly she shouted at me.
Snow: Max! Come! I need help!
I went in and saw her stark naked on the tub.
My eyes were locked at her body for a while when she shouted.
Snow: Quit looking at me. Can you help me fill the tub with water?
Me: You only have to press this.
Snow: How did you know you country bumpkin. It must have been a lucky guess. Now get out.
I did as I was told and the image of her naked body was locked in my mind.
Snow was whistling happily in the shower. I just sat on the chair, waiting to pour her with questions.
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She took a long time in the shower as multiple questions came to mind.
I sat at the balcony, taking out the small sketchbook in my bag, and drew the delicate hands of Dawn. Her slender fingers with long and well shaped nails. Probably that would be the next piece I would be working on.
The bathroom door opened and there Snow was, with her hair still wet from her shower, and the only thing covering her body was the white towel.
Without much thinking, I pointed to her that the bathrobe was in the wardrobe.
Me: Bathrobe is in the wardrobe.
That must have pissed her.
Snow: You blockhead! Can’t you see the reason I draped myself with a towel?
Me: Cos you don’t have extra clothes?
She ran forward to me and gave me a slap on my face.
I was caught off guard and her motion caused her towel to drop on the floor.
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There stood a naked lady in front of me.
My very first seeing one.
Snow was thin and I could see a bit of her ribs, her small breasts was hanging freely with a twenty cent sized pink nipples, erect probably due to the wind. Her tummy was flat and there was this brown patch, probably a birth mark beside her belly button. My gaze went down, her bush was full and black as it fully covered the triangle in between her legs. Her legs were thin yet it portrayed a sensuous feel.
I was having a bulge already. She was quickly covering her assets as she scolded.
Snow: Have you seen enough? Pay me!
She said as she picked up the towel and took the bathrobe from the wardrobe.
I was still sitting on the chair where the evening sky caught my attention.
The sky was painted purplish orangey swatch and it looked as though we are part of the majestic artwork.
Snow came charging to where I was until I turned and placed a finger on my lips. She was puzzled until I pointed outside the window.
She was too caught by the scenery.
The magic hour was here.
In a closeup of her eyes, the clouds moved slowly. It was the most beautiful sight she had seen. Unknowingly she wrapped her arms around my shoulders as she leaned her head on me.
Snow: It’s so beautiful. Thank you.
She smelled really good closeup and though I could feel my shirt getting wet, it felt as though time had stopped. I looked sideways to her and saw a sight that was really an unforgettable one.
Snow was smiling and she was happy but on the side of her eyes, I could see tears forming.
Her embrace tightened and I could feel the comfort.
Sometimes there was no need for words to know whether that certain someone is comfortable or not.
Or would this be described as chemistry?
Deep in me I could feel her happiness at this moment. But what was her story like? And how Dawn’s will be like?
I wanted to ask her but I know she was now enjoying every moment of the magic hour.
A moment that was framed in her heart.
And so I waited. Perhaps she would pour everything out.
That was how I felt, for I was lost in the stunning scenery too.
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Dawn wore a forced smile when she entered the ktv room. Her face was still bruised but she had to keep on.
Mamasan: Dawn, are you ok? Do you need to rest? You don’t look well.
Dawn: I’m fine Mary. Is Chee Beng here today?
Mary: Yes. He’s in the usual room.
Dawn: Got it.
Mary: You don’t have to do that Dawn.
Dawn smiled weakly.
She knocked the door and bought in the liquor and cups. To her surprise, he was trying to get fresh with one of the newbies and she was resisting his actions.
Newbie: No sir, please… no..
Dawn: Hi King, your liquor is here.
He turned and his eyes grew red with rage.
Chee Beng (nicknamed King): Who ASKED you to come in!
The girl quickly grabbed her clothes and wept at the corner.
Dawn: She’s new, King.
He turned to the newbie and gave her a slap on her face.
King: Come here!
He dragged her in between his legs.
King: Give me a blow.
The girl looked at him, totally shocked by his request.
She did not know what to do.
A slap came upon her face again.
King: Don’t bloody waste my time. Is it money you are after?
He took out a stack of notes and threw it on her face again.
Dawn could feel herself boiling in rage too but she knew he was not to be trifled with. She put on a smile and said.
Dawn: Don’t be like this, King. Perhaps I can help you with that. She’s too new for this.
King stood up. And slapped Dawn again.
King went close to Dawn and she could feel his breath on her face.
King: You slut. Don’t you question what the fuck I’m doing. I have no interest in old things. Get out. And look at that face. A slut would always be a slut. What do you want? Money? I have!
He threw it hard at her face. Stacks and stacks, until her face was red.
King: Is it enough? Then pick it up and go.
Dawn squat down and took the money. Suddenly out came a kick towards her as she fell.
King: Hahaha… how cheap can you get?
King took the remaining stacks on the floor.
King: You want this? Go on all fours and bark like a bitch.
Dawn could feel her emotions boiling but she needed the money.
Resigned to her fate, she did as she was told. There were tears on her eyes as King laughed.
His attention soon wore out as he forced the new girl to do what he wants.
That was all Dawn could do to help. The only thing is to ask Mary to handle him.
Dawn cooped herself in the ladies and let her emotions flow.
She was thinking to herself *How long must I still do this?*
Mary could hear Dawn’s cries. She too covered her mouth and silently wept in her heart *Poor child*.
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Snow embraced me as she planted her tongue in my ears, swirling around it, giving me goosebumps. It felt ticklish yet good, something that I have not experienced before. Soon she moved towards my neck, brushing the sides of my side as though she was painting a canvas, followed by her sucking on my neck like those of a vampire. I felt a little pain and her heavy suction. Her hands were now roaming my body, rubbing my chest to my stomach. Slowly she reached below…
The doorbell rang as we both jumped in fright.
She quickly dived into the bed, covering herself with the blanket before I answered the door.
“Room service Sir.”
I thanked and tipped him and took the tray to the table.
Snow was surprised. She wasn’t expecting the bottle of wine.
Snow: When did you?
Me: You were taking too long in the toilet. So I was thinking perhaps I can order some food.
Snow just sat there. She did not know how to react.
She stepped out of the blanket and walked towards me, and planted a light kiss on my cheeks.
Snow: Thanks. You are so thoughtful.
I covered my eyes as I replied: Go wear the bathrobe. Please.
She hit me gently on my arms: Why? You don’t like to see me naked?
She did as she was told as she wore the robe and sat on the chair.
I poured the wine and passed her the glass.
She took a sip and then asked: So what do you want to know about her?
Me: Everything. Please.
Snow was taken aback. She was thinking why is he so attracted to her?
Snow: Why do you want to know so much about her? Isn’t I worth the attention?
There was a tinge of bitterness and jealousy in her voice, but she knew she had promised him.
She took a deep breath as she savoured another sip.
Me: Perhaps after dinner? Let’s tuck in.
Snow nodded as she ate the dinner, feeding me some chunks too.
She was smiling radiantly. But little did I know that this staycation was her sweetest moments in her life.
There was a teardrop at the edge of her eyes as she ate.
Snow: It feels good to be loved, doesn’t it?
With that she teared.
And trembled.
Snow: We were broken toys Max. It happened about 5 years ago. When Dawn and me were the few who joined the ktv…
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Snow took a gulp of the wine as she sat cross legged. She turned her head towards the balcony:
Dawn and I were the newbies back then. We were both not well educated, and probably it may seem that this was the fastest way to earn money. And we tried. But both of us had a limit. No sleeping with any guys.
Mary was good to us, teaching the ropes patiently. And soon we became the hot favourites, and it was good money I must say. Everything was good until that bastard came. That guy named King.
He was filthy rich as his dad was a very successful entrepreneur. He treated girls like they were playtoys. Abusive, arrogant and filthy. He took a fancy to us and kept coming back. He wanted to buy us out so he could do what he pleases. Being blinded by the amount, I agreed to him but Dawn did not. He made a contract for us to sign. He would buy us for a period of a year. And we would need to standby whenever he wants. Of course it was not easy.
He was rough and aggressive. I had to go to the doctor almost everytime I was with him. He did not treat me like a woman, he loved beating me, dropping hot candlewax on me… to the extend of… sharing.. me…
I had enough of being abused and tried to get him to terminate the contract. He threatened me and raised the amount I had to pay.
I only work for a living, how could I have the money to pay him?
I had to tolerate his every actions. It was a nightmare Max. Every single day was a nightmare.
Snow began to weep thinking of the past.
Me: So what happened to Dawn?
She took another gulp.
Dawn was always there to comfort me, she was like another sister to me. But her background seemed complex. Her mother was a compulsive gambler and her dad was struck with a terminal illness. She had a brother whom she had to support. She was always beaten by her mum for being a jinx, she blamed Dawn for the plight she was in. She blamed her for her bad gambling luck.
It was not until last year, her dad had to had an operation. And a very expensive one. Her brother had to go to university to. Her brother did not help out in the family expenses and he was brainwashed by his mum that it was Dawn’s job to be the breadwinner. It was only right that Dawn should be the one supporting him through university.
Her dad’s condition got worse and he needed that operation to survive. To Dawn, her dad was the only one who knew of her hardships. He wept every time he saw Dawn. And Dawn could only smile at him, telling him that everything was alright.
Her mother was still the same, gambling every single cent she gives and always tell Dawn that it was not enough. And her brother too would always ask her for money.
It was her last resort. She agreed to King’s request.
I clenched my fists. And thought to myself: Bastard. Freaking bastard.
Snow looked at me, with a frown on my face.
Snow: No Max. You are no match for him. He’s really rich and you are just a pauper. Please. I know my request to be here has already burnt a hole in your pocket. I’m thankful for this. But please. It’s after all Dawn’s decision.
I did not know what went over me. But I knew the desire to win Dawn back was even stronger.
Me: Snow, tides will change. The winner do not stay at the top forever. Given that bastard’s way of spending, he would be in debt if anything happens.
And I was right.
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I started on the other sculpture, eager to finish it. Now my business was starting to pick up. I started to showcase my artworks in art exhibits, and they were well received. I just just received an award for best masterpiece from an international art festival and was invited to fly to receive that award.
I must have been a fortune teller. For what I told Snow the other day, my prediction came true.
The stock market plunged to a real low, hitting the world hard. Punching many a great blow to their pockets. Many went bankrupt in an instant. That very day was a day where everyone would never forget.
King’s face turned pale. His dad had to sell everything, every single asset and it was still not enough. They had to be declared bankrupt.
King: What are you saying daddy? We have to sell everything? Then what about my expenditure, my allowance, my car, my credit card?
King’s Dad (KD): Didn’t I give you enough for your savings?
King: You didn’t say anything about savings daddy?
KD: Didn’t I tell you not to spend unnecessary money?
King: You didn’t tell me that daddy. Now give me another $10k. I need to go out with my friends.
KD: Stop your nonsense son. Don’t you know what we are facing now?
King: Face what? Give me my money or else.
KD: Or else what?
He stared at King sternly.
King: Just you wait!
He kicked the table and slammed the door.
It has been days he did not visit the ktv.
I went there again, this time alone. And then I asked for Snow.
Multiple exposure to the media and news had boosted my confidence. And perhaps, this time, it would be a golden chance for me to see Dawn. Probably saving her.
But before that, I needed some inside intelligence. And that would be Snow. Not about Dawn. But that bastard.
I wanted him down. Down where he would never stand up again. Never. In his life.
“I’m going to make you pay thrice for what you have done to my future girlfriend.” I thought.
Hmmm. Probably not thrice. But endless.
I pulled up my collar as I stepped into the ktv.
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Snow stared at me for a while. Seeing me in shirt and pants, my hair all combed neatly and well shaved.
Snow: Max?
Me: That would be me, miss bathrobe.
She slapped me on my arms and gave me a pinch.
Me: Free?
She nodded as she leaned close to me: Are you going to date me out?
I nodded. She leaned and gave me a kiss.
Snow: Wait for me.
I waited and saw Dawn in a distance. Her gaze was as cold as ever. And there seem to be something troubling her.
Perhaps I would be able to find out why later.
Snow came out and waved goodbye to Dawn. Dawn smiled at Snow.
Dawn: Good for you to find someone, Snow.
Snow: I’m not sure of that Sis. But I’m contented being his friend.
Dawn: Don’t say that I’m sure he likes you.
Snow sighed: Well, it’s complicated.
Seeing Dawn smile was the best thing.
Snow cross her arms around mine as she leaned on my shoulder as we left.
Snow: Where are we going?
Me: Up to you.
Snow: Whole night?
Me: Whole night.
Dawn looked at Snow and she gave a smile before she went back to the room.
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