Terry : Ok… I’m getting rid of Apollo tomorrow as well… you can have their headcount for your team…. Get Sharon to help you put out an ad…
I was dropped off at the train station near my place and I watch Terry pull off into the distance.
James : Ok… 2 down…. 4 more to go…
I don’t think getting rid of the other 4 would be that easy.
It’s not as if everyday people queue up to masturbate at Sandy’s table while I happen to be around to catch them in the act.
I went back home and tried to organise my thoughts.
Things seemed to be progressing well so far.
Let’s just hope we can keep the momentum going.
I had a shower, chatted with Sandy on the phone for a while before I called Belinda.
She asked me what happened and I told her everything. I called her not only to check on her but to find out something.
Why is she talking to Sandy ? Before I could do it though, she offered up the information and I did not even have to dig.
Belinda : James…
James : Yah ?
Belinda : I have something to tell you…
James : What is it ?
Belinda : Sandy… she… she really likes you….
I was caught off guard for a moment and I did not know what to say.
Belinda : We’ve been talking… a little… since… that day at the dinner….
James : Yes, you told her that you were not interested in me…. What was that shit all about ?
Belinda said that aside from the fact that she did not want me to be there when she meets with Rasid and Omar, she could tell Sandy was interested in me.
James : Then what ? You’re trying to match make me and her ar ?
I could sense my tone getting the better of me and I quickly told myself to calm down.
I was sure Belinda could sense it too and she took the initiative to end the conversation by saying that Sandy offered to buy over her lucky draw price.
Her Maldives trip.
Belinda : She said she wants to bring you along… and I know you two are together…. You better rest early James…. good night..
James : Wait.. wait…. It’s not what you think… !!
The phone went dead and I knew better to try and call back .
Now this made me even more angry.
When you are angry, you can’t think straight.
When you can’t think straight, you don’t make good decisions.
23rd March 2012
Friday
9am
True to his words, Terry called Apollo into his office 1st thing that day and within an hour, he was gone from the office, storming out and cursing at Terry before he left.
I did not want to appear too eager to get rid of the team so I decided to lay low for a bit.
It’s time to put in some hours for serious work.
I tried to talk to Belinda at the pantry when I saw her but she turned away and ignored me.
I hate it when that happens with women.
It was obvious she was affected by the Sandy issue but did she give me a chance to explain ?
No.
She went all gracious and benevolent on us and then get angry with me in the end.
There was no point talking sense and logic with her in that state.
Instead I concentrated on my work for the whole of the following week.
30rd March 2012
Friday
3pm
By Friday, I had put up a good proposal and report to snatch the house project away from Mr Liew. End of the day it was still money
I knew exactly how much Mr Liew was asking for, by lowering mine by a little, the client was mine.
Only Mr Liew and I were at the meeting with the client, and with a smiling and laughing Mr Liew claiming that I was his protégé, the client happily signed on the dotted line with a piece of mind.
The smiles and laugh disappeared when we got into office, separately of course.
Mr Liew threw a huge fit, storming into Terry’s office while I see Terry smile and chuckle in his seat before Mr Liew storm out.
I only hope no one catches him winking to me in the pantry.
5pm
Terry called me into his office and I was expecting the usual, good job, well done, keep it up shit but no.
He had something else for me.
No correction.
He had someone for me.
He was not alone when I stepped in.
Sitting in front of Terry was this lady.
She looked pretty matured but she’s a fresh graduate. From certain angle, she looked like the actress Yvonne Lim in her younger days.
Terry : James , this is Kate..
James : Hi Kate
Kate : Hi James …
She’s dressed in a figure hugging dress and with a nice pair of grey heels, she looked hot.
Her shoulder length hair is wavy and in a trendy shade of copper and black. Definitely the hot babe that would not look out of place in a club.
Terry : I know you’re forming your team… so I’m helping you to do it.
He had a smirk on his face when he told me Kate would be the manager of my team.
James : What ?
Terry : You would be reporting to her with effect from next week…
I must have this super stunted look on my face when Terry told Kate that would be all for her and that he would see her on Monday.
She gave me a smile and left the office.
James : What is this ?
Terry smirked and laugh and I could feel his usual irritating self rearing it’s ugly head again.
Terry : I said I would let you build your team, but I never say you would be the one to manage it…. Ahhaa…. Management is like that one… you know or not… you need to report to someone…. Then that someone report to me mah…..
He went on to say that he’s the boss and I cannot expect him to attend to every little thing.
Terry : And don’t think just because you are… hahaha.. helping me with Sandy… and what ?? huh ?? you’ll have me eating out of your hands ? haha, I’m not stupid James…
I don’t know what to think.
I was literally shaking in my body when I left the room and got back to my seat.
I don’t fucking believe this but it was happening.
I’ve only heard it happen to my friends, past colleagues and sometimes from army mates when we chatted.
For no good reason, your boss decides to hire someone and put him above you. These are the reasons people leave good companies.
Fine, whatever.
I won’t die even if I need to report to a 22 year old chick.
6pm
I did not think my day could get any worst until Sandy text me that Belinda had agree to sell her the lucky draw prize of the Maldives trip.
She was already asking me when I would like to go for it.
I did not reply her.
I was washing my cup in the pantry at 6.15pm when I saw Uncle Tong and Alex.
They knew I got the project from under their nose for Terry and they asked me why did I do that
Alex : James …. Why you help Terry ??
Uncle Tong : James… I hope you won’t be doing it again hor….
I left the pantry with a heavy heart.
7.15pm
After Sandy’s yoga class, she called me for dinner, I told her I’m busy but she insisted I join her even for a quick one because we needed to discuss about the trip.
I called Belinda before I left the office and she refused to pick up my phone.
Hell I saw her glaring at me when I looked over to the other wing but I did not go in as Hakim seemed to be talking to her from his desk.
Nothing seemed to be going right for me that day.
Sandy was all so excited about the thought of going overseas with me that she went on non-stop about the trip. My head felt like it was about to explode.
Just when I was nursing the thought of giving her a good fuck that evening, she excused herself to the bathroom after paying for dinner.
Sandy : Oh… oh… oh…
James : What …. What ??
Sandy : I think my menses is here…. Wait ah…
5 minutes later she walked out, soothing her pants before sitting down.
Sandy : game over…. We can only cuddle tonight… haha..
I sent her back and left after coming up with an excuse that I’m tired.
Nothing of note happen over the weekend and I spend it back in the office with my work. I told Mr Liew about Kate and his reply was.
Mr Liew : come on…. A 22 year old girl… you can handle her… take care of it…
2nd April 2012
Monday
8.30am
I stepped into office and buried myself with work. I needed to start preparing to grab the next job from Mr Liew while handling the house I got all on my own.
By the time Kate was done with all her administrative stuff, it was 10.30am
10.45am
Kate : James , let’s have a meeting in 10 minutes…. I want to know what you have on your hands.
She gave me a smile and walked off, sashaying towards the pantry in her waist high skirt and long sleeve white blouse.
Chee bye….
I literally cursed out in a few language at that.
10.55am
I wanted to ignore her as I was busy with my drawings but she dragged a chair over to my seat with a notepad in hand.
Kate : Ok… the meeting rooms are all occupied, let’s just do it here if you don’t mind…
She rested her right arm on my desk, crossed her legs and opened the cap of her expensive pen before looking at me as if she’s a visiting psychiatrist.
James : Err….
Kate : Can you tell me your near term goals and what you hope to achieve in this position ? … I saw your profile… you’re only earning 1.6k…. I’m sure you hope to upgrade your skills and get ahead right….
I stared at Kate with my mouth half opened and my eyes wide apart.
Kate smiled and put up her hands with her palms facing me.
Kate : James… I know… trust me… I experienced this during my intern days, I saw it happen in the office….
She looked up into the ceiling for a moment and added.
Kate : I know it’s a…. unpleasant experience… to be reporting to someone younger and newer in the office… but… this is unavoidable…
I think my mouth just got a little wider.
Kate : I mean…. You look like you work hard and all but…. You need to move away from just pure… ermmm… pure…… pure…..
She looked at the drawings I was doing and snapped her fingers a few times.
Kate : Drawings… yes.. yes… drawings…
She went to say that anyone can draw, but not all will fit into a management role.
Kate : I believe with my training and little bit of experience , we can work together and trust me James …. Trust me !..
She looked so fucking serious that my mouth actually closed off totally.
Kate : No one likes to be earning less than 2k doing the work you do…. I know you have only a diploma and…. Anyway don’t worry… I will make sure I fight for an increment for you…. And you need to go for skills upgrading…. The government is pushing for that…..i’m sure if you can get a degree…. You’re earning power will increase… !!
She said it so convincingly that I almost believed her.
James : Ermm..
She lowered her voice a little and whispered to me sharply.
Kate : I know I’m not supposed to share but I’m getting twice your pay….. and it’s just my starting pay….. when you’ve been working for so many years…
She went back to her normal speaking decibel and continued.
Kate : Look… I know… I have no experience in the construction industry… but trust me… I am here to help you ok ??
She uncrossed her legs and held onto the arms on my chair, lowering herself as if she’s talking to some kid with low IQ.
Kate : We can do this together !!
James : ERmm…
Kate : GOOD!! … don’t just say ermmm James… speak up… speak up…. This day and age…. You need to speak up…. Do something… actions speaks louder than words…. Ok ??? haha
I nodded and said I understood her perfectly.
She spent 20 minutes with me identifying my goals and I told her the only project I was working on. I showed her a drawing of the house and I handed it to her upside down.
Kate : Good… good… looks good…. I like all these….
She pointed to the master bathroom and commented.
Kate : Here got mistake…. You don’t need 2 sinks and 2 toilet bowl in the toilet la…. The rest looks ok …
James : Err… that one is the bidet…. Wash backside one…
Kate : Oh… ok… you must put a label… if not how people know…. Ok.. then just delete 1 basin can already….
I nodded my head as I looked at her in amazement. She is confident; I got to give it to her.
Kate : Ok.. I’ll leave you to your work… ok… and I’ll buy you lunch later….my treat…
With that she walked away back to her desk, clicking on god knows what and typing on her keyboard.
I was simply blown away when she sent me a minutes of our meeting 45 minutes later.
What the fuck.
She wrote minutes for that fucking meeting ??
12.30pm
Kate : James… let’s go for lunch…
I got up and since she was treating, I just grab my lunch pouch instead of my wallet.
I never liked carrying a bulky wallet in my pocket anyway and my pouch had everything I needed. $30, easy link card, my 11B, even my posb atm card.
I was honestly expecting to just grab a quite bite around tanjong pagar area but no.
No.
Kate had other ideas.
Kate : Quick.. quick.. cab arriving..
James : What ?? cab ? where are we going ??
Kate : Aiyah… 1st time treat you…. Eat something decent la.
Before I knew it we were en route to Dempsey to eat at a café over there.
James : Eh… lunch only 1 hour… are you sure…
Kate : Don’t worry James… I told Terry I’m buying you lunch… and to have a chat with you… so we’ll be back a little late…
I nodded and kept quiet.
We ate lunch, had coffee and I felt like Kate was conducting an interview.
Kate : How do you like the industry so far ?
Kate : Any interesting stories to share ?
Kate : What gives you satisfaction on the job ?
Kate : Where do you see yourself in 5 years ?
I answered each and every one of them.
2.15pm
Kate asked for the bill and by instinct I reached for my pouch. It’s a guy thing.
I have my bank card with me and I could use my debit card for the bill, I already have it out as the waiter presented the bill to me.
Kate : Wait wait wait… no.. no… I said it’s my treat…don’t worry about it…
Kate insisted the bill be given to her and she placed a shiny silver Amex card on the black folder.
Kate : I treat… next time you promote you treat me ok ? I will fight for you…
James : Orh…
As if that was not bad enough, after she signed the bill Kate added.
Kate : James… don’t mind me saying this ah…. Haha… I think you’re quite good looking…haha… but hor… as a Singaporean guy ah… you… earning so little… wallet no credit card… I think very hard to find girlfriend leh… haha…
She waved her long fingers through the air playfully and added that she’s just joking.
I smiled and nodded meekly with a slight smile.
Kate : Credit card is a must…. Car also…
I nodded again.
Kate : Actually hor… to be honest… I don’t go for all these la… hahaha….
James : Really…. So… what do you look for in a guy then ??
Kate : Hmmm…
She thought about it for a moment before replying.
Kate : I don’t know…. Haha… someone smarter than me at the very least… hahaha…
I smiled and nodded.
Kate : Eh James… I say upfront ah… don’t take this the wrong way….you’re good looking la… above average but …. Not my cup of tea…you know.. so… hahaha.. don’t fantasise about your boss la… haha..
She laughed and it was genuine one, clutching the sides of her waist as she started to tear a little in her eyes.
Kate : Ok.. ok.. Jokes aside… James… be serious… ok…
She drained her water and added.
Kate : Men… must be … you know… a little.. devious…..you know… to be successful… you look at Terry….
She commented that she knew Terry hired her for her looks as he kept staring at her legs during the interview at the café.
Kate : But I have more than looks… I’m also… hiak hiak hiak… pretty cunning leh… hahaha..
I nodded and smiled meekly again.
Kate : Don’t worry James… I can tell Terry is mean to you…. I’ll protect you…and I’ll teach you… how to deal with people like Terry…. Deal ??
I nodded eagerly with a smile.
James : Looking forward to it..
Kate : Good !…
……………………………………..
We went back to the office and I got back to work.
Even though I’m only working on a small house, there is a lot of things to be done, especially when I’m doing it all alone.
I kept to myself most of the next 2 weeks. On some days when I’m not eating with Kate, I would just buy back and eat alone.
I would have wanted to dine with Hakim and guys but Mr Liew wanted me to keep my distance from them. The only time I got to chat with them was during unofficial coffee breaks we took at a coffee shop across the street in the middle of the afternoon.
Even that we had to leave office separately as if we’re heading out for a meeting.
I think the sight of my eating my vegetable rice at my desk must look really pathetic to Kate and on a couple of occasions, she deliberately came back from lunch early to keep my company.
Kate : EH…. James… don’t like that leh… I know no one likes to eat with their bosses but treat me like a brother can or not… hur hur… haha..
She’s full of energy that I got to give it to her.
I would just smile and nod as she tells me about her school, her friends who were having difficulty looking for jobs as she eat her fruit salad.
Kate : Aiyah…. I told them to wear sexier a bit… they don’t want… hahaha…. Sometimes if you have a bit of asset… you got to show it mah… right?? Right ?
I nodded and my eyes drifted to her breast for a moment and Kate caught me looking at them.
Kate : Hoei !!
She pressed onto her own blouse with the 1st button undone as she laughed.
Kate : B only la…don’t need to look until like that… ahhaa..
I looked away, a little embarrassed as she continued with telling me everything about herself over lunch.
I would have expected Kate to be an irritant, an obstacle to what I was doing but on the contrary, I actually find her to be a constant source of entertainment.
I’m serious.
She’s inquisitive, and she’s not afraid to ask questions. By the end of the 1st week, she was helping me arrange material boards. It look good if not for the fact she used a glitter pen to write down the material codes.
I remembered having a secret meeting with Mr Liew on my way back from a meeting with the client and I was holding a cup of coffee in my hand when I sat down.
Kate rolled her chair over and told me this.
Kate : James… I know it’s… trendy and all to be holding the cup of a $6 coffee but…. Is it really worth it ??
I looked at her in awe as she used her calculator and keyed in the figures in front of me.
Kate : Taking away your cpf contribution, this $6 coffee cost you like what….. half a percent of your take home pay !! …
My mouth gasped open again at her and she promptly gave me a quick lesson on financial management.
Kate : Part of my business module you know…. Next time I share more with you…
I would have wanted to tell her Mr Liew bought me that coffee but I didn’t think it would matter.
I think having Kate around did help my mental well being a little.
I’m just the quiet, meek and helpless worker in office and once I leave, I’m the virile sex slave for Sandy.
Belinda’s glare got more and more hostile and despite repeated attempted for me to talk to her, she still did not want to respond to my messages or calls.
The only time she spoke to me was when she caught Kate helping me to make a cup of coffee while I changed the water dispenser in the pantry.
When Kate left, she spoke with a sourish tone ;
Belinda : Seems like Sandy not enough for you…. Need younger meat…. Herh..!…
She walked away, shaking her head slowly.
Women.
Terry on the other hand kept bugging me about Sandy.
Terry : When can I fuck her ?? har ? James … see I got you such a pretty young girl…. Good right… you should also treat me right … understand ? haha…
He went on to tell me he hired her specially for me, as a token of gratitude for giving him Sandy.
Terry : fuck her if you want… I don’t care… she’s pretty… but.. not my cup of tea… too young…. Hahah…
I ignored what he said totally and walked away.
20th April 2012
Friday
9.30am
By the 3rd week of April, Sharon had compiled a list of applicants for my team after sifting out the irrelevant ones and she sent both Kate and I a copy to have a look.
I saw a resume which pique my interest because the girl had experiences doing good class bungalows in another firm. She’s a Malaysian but has gotten her PR but there’s no photo. Not that I mind as long as she can support the team in the projects. She’s not asking for a high pay as well which is a good thing.
End of the day the projects I’m getting should sustain the team.
She’s 24 and has been working since she’s 18. With a good few years under her belt, she should come in helpful.
I saw Kate printing out the list of candidates and overheard her telling Sharon she wanted to interview all of them.
That’s 14 candidates.
Fine, whatever she wants.
James : Kate, this girl, Suwen, she has the relevant experience…. Can consider her…
Kate looked at my choice and gave me a sly smile.
Kate : Ehh… no picture one hor… may not be as chio as me ok…. Hahah… but I like the way you think… good… hhaha….
She gave me a “ as if I’ve started to understand her “ kind of look.
Kate : I would pick her too if I was you… young… few years apart from you… sweet Malaysian girl…. Wife material…
She nodded her head as she flipped thought the list
My mouth gasped open again as I searched for an appropriate reply.
Kate punched me playfully in my stomach and gave me a wink.
Kate : Don’t worry la…I got you covered… I’ll pay more attention to her….i help you find both a girlfriend and a colleague … ok ???! Have some faith in me..
I nodded with my frozen half grin and turned away.
25th April 2012
Wednesday
4.30pm
Sometimes I don’t know if Kate is so confident that she went ahead to hold the interview without someone more senior around or she’s just bulldozing her way all over.
I was pretty sure the candidates are puzzled as well since they’re being interviewed by a girl that was not even in the industry.
Each session lasted less than 10 minutes, some less than 5. I don’t know if they were the ones who decided to walk off or Kate told them that was the end of the session.
4.45pm
She walked out of that particular interview looking a bit upset. The candidate left, a man in his mid-thirties while Kate stormed off to the bathroom.
I shook my head and waited for Kate to come back out.
James : Are you ok ?
Kate : I’m fine.. I’m fine…
I could see her eyes were a bit red but I said nothing.
James : You want me to errr… talk to the candidates for a while… then you continue ??
Kate thought about it and decided that was not a bad idea.
I don’t know if it was my offer of help that brought about a torrent of emotions but she fanned her face a few times, breathing through her mouth.
Kate : Sorry James…. not in the best of mood…. I think my period is coming…
My mouth gasped open once more as she asked me to talk to the other 2 candidate while she go buy some pads and a drink.
Kate : I .. I need a drink… I’ll go grab a coffee and a bite…. You hold the fort for a while ok… later I’ll take over… just ermm.. tell them your project…. No need to be nervous… I’ll be back soon.
She left me alone and I conducted the interview.
The last one was Suwen. Kate told me later she deliberately put her last so if all goes well, she would ask us both out for dinner and maybe grab a cup of coffee.
I sincerely applaud her for the effort but I was more interested in getting good help than finding a pretty girl.
Suwen is a pleasant lady, tall and well built. She’s at least 1.75, with broad shoulders. I would think she look like a competitive swimmer.
I spent a good 15 minutes with her and I knew I want her on my team already.
Just as I was wrapping up the chat with Suwen, I saw Kate come back in with a fruit juice in hand. She saw Suwen and her eyes widened, her cheeks suck in as she sucked harder on her juice.
She looked like she was trying to hold her laughter but she quickly finished her drink and threw it away. I saw her wiping her mouth and I quickly told Suwen about her.
James : Ok.. my… ermm.. team’s admin manager is coming in… she’s not from this industry so don’t mind her…. Anything to do with work I’ve pretty much told you already… just chat with her will do.
Suwen : Oh.. ok..
Kate entered and flashed me a look before spreading a wide smile.
Kate : Hi there !… I’m Kate… James’ boss…
Suwen’s eyes widened too but she still took her hand. They chatted for a good 5 minutes while I remained silent before excusing myself.
6.30pm
Kate : I like her man… Suwen… she’s very funny and humorous… let’s just get her..
James : Oh ok…
Kate put her arms around me and patted me on my shoulder.
Kate : Cheer up la… I promise I find a prettier one for you for the next one..
I thanked her and got back to my work.
Terry walked over to our desk and Kate took it upon herself to give Terry a run through of what is going on. Besides working on my house, I was preparing the stuff to grab the 2nd project from Mr Liew.
Terry just smiled and told Kate she’s doing a good job so far.
Terry : James… can be hard to manage at times… but I see you have him eating out of your hands already…. Well done… good job… keep it up…
Kate smiled and thanked Terry.
Terry : Happy or not James ?? har ?? hahah… need a girl to speak up for you right ?? .. haha…
She did not see the smirk Terry flashed me before looking over to the other wing.
The moment he left the office Kate pulled her chair to my side.
Kate : Eh James… sorry ah… I think Terry’s words are a bit hurtful…he’s a jerk…. I don’t think you are difficult to manage at all….. just that you are a little quiet…. Always keep to yourself… haha…
I gave her an awkward smile before she suggested we grab a beer after work.
Kate : It’s midweek, let’s grab a drink….. team bonding…
James : Err.. no need la… it’s ok… I’m fine…
Kate : I would fucking cry my heart out if someone said something like that to me man… don’t bluff… you’re a man… you may be quiet, but I know you also have your ego….come la…. A couple of drink…won’t die one…
She insisted so I told her maybe just a quick one.
6.45pm
I was in the pantry together with Kate and we were washing our cups together as she rattled off a few pubs along Tanjong pagar we could go to get a drink. She even suggested having Korean BBQ while we’re at it.
Right at the moment Belinda walked in.
Kate said hi but she did not reply, Belinda just glared at me without a word
By the time she walked out, Kate was aware of the tension and she whispered softly to me.
Kate : Eh… you… and her got history…. I can tell…
James : What ?
Kate proudly admitted that she was the go to guru for relationship issues for her friends.
James : What ! ?
Kate : Honestly James… I think she looked like she’s out of your league leh… she’s from the other wing one right…
Kate rested her right elbow on her left forearm and started stroking her hairless chin with her finger.
Kate : I can tell you like her James…
I stared at her with my eyes and mouth wide open as she snapped her fingers at me.
Kate : Don’t worry… I help you talk to her..
James : What !… no.. no no… no!!!… no… no… don’t need.
Kate laughed and asked why am I so nervous.
Kate : Relax… I know what I’m doing… besides…
She paused and turned all serious on me.
Kate : I cannot expect my employee to concentrate fully on his work if he got relationship problems right… don’t worry… I’m your boss… I’ll take care of you…
James : No Kate… wait… don’t need… I’m serious….no…
She narrowed her eyes and put both her hands on my shoulder.
Kate : Tell me you trust me James…
I think I just dislocated my jaw as I looked at Kate.
Kate : trust me… I know what I’m doing.
She turned around confidently and walked towards Belinda in her figure hugging dress and high heels. She’s like a model, placing her steps confidently as she pulled Hakim’s chair and slid over to Belinda.
I could see Belinda looking up in surprise before glaring at me.
I was shock.
In denial.
I almost peed my pants as I looked at Kate talk to Belinda.
She talked for a while before turning and smiling at me and giving me a little wave.
I waved back with my mouth still partly open.
4 minutes later Kate walked over to my side with a smirk on her face.
Kate : I know you’re about to get on your knees to thank me but no need…
James : What ?? !
Kate : Belinda is joining is for dinner and drinks
James : WHAT !!
Kate gave me a wink and lowered her voice.
Kate : Don’t be nervous ok … I know first time go out with the person you like is quite frightening…
I was speechless by then as Kate nudged me back to our office.
7.00pm
I could feel a headache coming up and I decided to leave before Sandy comes back from her Yoga and complicate matters even more.
Kate : Pack up and let’s go man !..
7.05pm
While we’re in the lift alone, Kate lowered her voice to a whisper.
Kate : James…
James : Ya ?
Kate : You’re a virgin right…
I dropped the bag I was holding and looked at Kate .
She laughed and quickly picked it up for me.
Kate : I know la… can tell from the first time I look at you…
James : i… i……. I mean…
As the lift door opened, Kate walked out first and she smelled her own hair before tying it up.
Kate : Korean BBQ, got to wash my hair properly tonight… ok… back to the topic James…
We walked towards the stretch of Korean BBQ restaurants along Tanjong Pagar and Kate asked me this question.
Kate : You like Belinda or not ?? … honestly… tell me..
James : er…. Yes… I like…
Kate : Ok good… you see ah…. Going after girls… is like doing business… and everything else in life…
James : ermmmmm….
Kate : Don’t worry… I cannot guarantee you will get to sleep with Belinda tonight… but I dam well will make sure she will start paying more attention to you.
James : Oh dear god… i…
Kate : SHhh…. God is busy… don’t bother him with this type of problem…
We got to the entrance of the restaurant and I saw Belinda standing a distance away.
Kate : She’s here… she’s here…. Act cool a bit la… stand up straight… chin up…. Look confident….
James : What !! …
Belinda did not see us approach as she was facing the other direction and Kate fell in step beside me.
She suddenly linked my arms and I looked at her in surprise.
Kate : Don’t look at me… look straight… act as if you own the whole road… women like men who are confident…. Plus… you got me… perfect eye candy… wah !!.. no horse run …
I could feel my mouth slowly dropping again as we closed the distance towards Belinda.
Kate : remember… when you first talk to Belinda, tell her she’s really beautiful and thank her for having dinner with you and most important of all… tell her you are going to pursuit her with everything you have. !
James : What ? I’m not saying that…. Are you mad ?
Kate : I’m serious… do it.. women are sucker for this kind of thing… they just don’t want to admit…
10 metres.
Kate whispered softly.
Kate : See.. all the men… looking at you…. Shoik right… haha.. nothing makes a man more appealing that to see he is wanted by another hot girl… haha
I could see a few envious glance coming my way as we walked on.
Kate : Remember to say the words James…
6 metres.
Another pretty decent looking OL cast Kate a glance and they exchanged slut looks with lazer beams oozing out from their eyes before Kate link my arms tighter and continued walking down the lane.
It was a visual confrontation as they checked out each other’s body with the side of their eyes.
3 metres.
Belinda turned around and the first thing she saw was Kate’s arms around mine before she met our eyes.
We stopped right in front of Belinda and Kate released me from her arms.
She pinched me and made a face at me so I would say what she wanted me to say.
James : Oww…..erm…Ber… Berlinda…..you’re really beautiful…. And… and … thank you for agreeing to have dinner with me… and… and…
I felt another pinch and I blurted out the words.
James : I’m… I’m pursuing you with… with everything I got…
I felt like digging a hole in the ground.
It was fucking embarrassing to be saying something like this to Belinda.
I meant , yes, we were together but it’s a been a long relationship, we got to the point where we no longer say this type of things to each other..
Kate : Hey Belinda…. see …. I told you he will say it…
I turned to look at Kate who was giggling away..
James : What !..
Belinda looked at me in the eye and she asked me to say it again.
Belinda : Look at me James… and say it again…
Kate : Wooo.. wooo… quick… quick la…. Don’t stand there like a block of wood…. Aiyho…
James : Be… Ber…linda…. You’re… you’re beautiful… and…. Thank you for having dinner with me… and… I’m… going to pursue you with everything I got…
Kate snapped her fingers and laughed. I could see Belinda smiling too as I had no doubt she found this amusing.
She put both her arms around Belinda and my shoulder as she ushered us into the restaurant.
Kate : Don’t mind me ar… I’m quick thick skin…. I’ll stay for dinner…. I’m treating…
I could see Belinda holding back her laughter.
When Belinda went to the bathroom 40 minutes into the dinner, Kate quickly whispered to me.
Kate : Don’t get me wrong James… I’m staying because I’m afraid you will fuck this up ….. I want to make sure everything goes well…
James : ermm… oh… ok…
Kate : Now… you both hardly talked… I’m the one talking most of the time…. Like that confirm you tonight no happy ending la…
James : WHAT !…
Kate : relax… I know men.. trust me…
James : I think no need… it’s…
I watched Kate ordered up more beer and soju and I knew this was not going to end well.
Kate : Look James… we …..make…. Belinda… drunk… or at least high….
I stared at her speechless as Belinda emerged from the bathroom.
Kate : I’ll teach you what to say… where to touch… what to do… I confirm she will be yours in no time… hiak.. hiak.. hiak….
She rubbed her hands together in glee as Belinda sat back down.
Kate : I’m not asking you to rape her but at least you get to send her home right… hahaha… smart right… come… at least make her high…
The moment Belinda sat down, Kate proposed a toast to her and I shook my head at Belinda but she went ahead and took it.
And another.
And another.
And another.
I filled my soju bottle with water and drank from it while Kate took up the challenge and did the same thing with her own bottle filled with the potent drink.
9.45pm
I paid the bill despite Kate insisting on paying with her ntuc membership card .
By the time we got to the street to look for a cab, Kate was lying on my shoulder, and I had to support her weight together with Belinda.
Kate : I’m ok… I’m really ok …. Send Belinda back… James… I’m ok…
Belinda laughed and looked at me.
Belinda : Are you sending me home or are you sending her home ?
James: Come on… don’t do this to me..
Belinda : haha..
We waited for a cab and Kate was starting to sober up in the taxi, she insisted we drop Belinda off since it was along the way. We dropped Belinda off at Bishan and Kate insisted I wait for the lift with her at the lobby and only getting back to the cab after she’s in.
Kate : James …. You gentlemen a bit can or not…. Send her all the way up la….hahah…
I could see Kate was still pretty high and I took her wallet from her bag while she fiddled with her own hair.
James : Uncle, Ang Mo Kio…
When we arrived at the block of flats opposite AMK hub, I paid the driver a little extra for the trouble before helping Kate off the car.
Kate : I’m fine.. I’m fine… I admit… just now I was a bit tipsy… I’m fine now….
Kate got out, balanced herself on her heels and took a deep breath, exhaling slowly.
She tried to take 1 step forward but stumbled and lost her balance, if I was not beside her to grab her in time, she would have fallen face flat onto the ground.
Kate : Oops… sorry.. sorry…
James : Eh you ok or not…
Kate : I’m fine… I’m fine…
Kate bent down and removed her heels, dangling them off her left middle and index finger.
She then put her left arm around my shoulder as she staggered along, her heels swinging dangerously in front of my face.
James : Oei… oei oei…. Don’t.. oie…
Kate : James !!
She suddenly spoke a little too loud and I got a shock.
James : What what ? ?
Kate : James… I tell you…
She hiccuped a couple of times before resuming.
Kate : I know…. How people see me in the office… they think I’m crazy… and probably don’t deserve my post ….
She leaned heavily on me as we staggered towards her block.
Kate : but I’m not stupid either…. I can see aside from the 2 of us and a couple others, practically no one… no one is doing any real work in Terry’s team…
She lost her balance again and her left arm hooked backwards, plastering her freshly worn heels into my face and nose.
James ; ARghhh… come on…
Kate : Oops… oops…. Sorry…
We staggered to the void deck and I stopped at some bench and deposited her there.
I could only stare at her as she mumbled and said things that hardly made sense for a while before snapping back into consciousness again.
Kate : Terry ……. Is an asshole….. you… you know what he told me….the other day… hahah…..he said…. he said…. you would try and bed me… hahahah…. Haha…
Kate : He… he also…. Also made some… lewd proposals at me…. Which.. I can say is sexual harassment….
She laughed and I stared at her, my anger rising within.
Kate : Terry said…. you’re not who you appear to me… hiccup… hiccup… but… but I felt…. It was the complete opposite…
Kate took a deep breath before she leaned her forehead on my stomach.
Kate : I think you are a nice guy James…. the nicest ever..…. And Terry…. Is the jerk…. See… I believe in you…. Besides…
Her eyes struggled to open and she whispered a little too loudly.
Kate : How … can a virgin … even think of bedding me… hahaha.. haha…
James : Oh god…you better go back and rest…
She nodded her head and said she agreed with me.
As I helped her to her feet, she pushed me away, pointed her right heel at me and declared at the top of her voice.
Kate : I… helped you get Belinda…… .
She threw both heel onto the floor and lo and behold, I see 圣杯. You know people throw the 2 halfs of the crescent after prayers to ask if all is ok? Yeap.
That.
Her heel landed in the exact positive position.
She repeated herself again as if she wanted herself to be sure as well.
Kate : I…. helped you get …. Belinda….
Kate : Now….
Kate : Watch me destroy Terry…
She turned and staggered off towards the lift without her heels.
I laughed.
I really did as she waved her hands in the air and staggered towards the lift.
For the first time.
The very first time.
I felt like taking someone under my wing and teaching her everything I know.
Kate.
Sure.
I’ll watch how you destroy Terry.
I don’t think it’s going to be easy, but I’ll love to see you try.
…………………
I picked up Kate’s heels and ran after her into the lift.
Kate : Don’t…. don’t bother to send me back James… I’m really fine…
I looked at her with her half opened eyes as she rummaged through her bag for her keys. She insisted I left her at the lobby of her floor and I did, but I did not leave until I see her made 3 attempts to unlock her gate and let herself into her house.
I went to the main road and waited for a cab.
While waiting I called Belinda.
I wanted to talk to her, despite spending the evening together, I haven really got the chance to have a chat with her, without Kate around that is.
James : You ok ?
Belinda : Yeah…
For that brief moment I was stuck, unsure as to what to say but Belinda picked up the conversation right away.
Belinda : She’s cute James… you like this type of girls right…
James : Don’t be crazy… you’re cuter…
Belinda laughed and she asked where I was.
James : Waiting for a cab….
The awkward silence followed and I asked her a stupid question.
James : You’re parents asleep ?? Can… can I come over ??
Belinda laughed and asked me to sort out the Sandy issue.
Belinda : Sandy likes you James… she really likes you…
James : I…i…
Belinda : don’t hurt her…
James : It’s not that simple Belinda… i..
Belinda : I know… Mr Liew… you don’t need to follow everything he says… you’re not someone like that..
I was at a loss for words and I told her I’ll sort things out.
James : I’ll do something about it…. I’ll need some time…
Belinda : don’t even think about touching me before everything’s sorted out then…
For some weird reason, she hung up on me after that.
I could never understand women.
26th April 2012
Thursday
9.30am
Kate looked visibly embarrassed when she saw me that day and she started off with a soft greeting.
Kate : Ermm.. I hope I didn’t embarrass myself or did anything stupid yesterday James…
James : Oh… don’t have… don’t have la…
She gave me another shy smile before getting back to work.
Nothing much happened for the rest of the week.
Kate recommended Suwen to Terry and an offer was made the following Monday by Sharon.
Suwen accepted the offer right away and would start work in a month time.
17th May 2012
Thursday
2.30pm
It was one of those shit hitting the roof day.
Everything seemed to go wrong for me at the same time.
Everyone’s running out of patience.
First it was Sandy.
You see, it’s been a while since she brought up the Maldives trip and I’ve been dragging my feet on the answer.
Sandy : It’s not a very hard decision James… just tell me the dates that you can go…
I tried to explain to her that I had just barely started working with Terry. It was technically a new employment, I served barely 2 months and I can’t possibly be taking a long break for holiday.
It’s part of the reason why I did not want to go with Sandy.
After that chat with Belinda, I did start to keep a bit of distance from Sandy and I guess she felt it. It probably let her a little unsure and insecure but whenever Mr Liew pressured me about getting Terry out quick, my resolve would shake a little and I went back to fucking Sandy.
And after each fuck, it was as if it rekindled the flame Sandy held for me and she would be all lovey dovey with me once more.
Still, none of these was a permanent solution and there is only this long I can drag about the reply.
Not only is Sandy upset, Terry too was getting impatient.
He started bugging and hounding me.
Terry :When can I fuck Sandy ?? Har ?? wait until when ?? What’s your plan ??? fuck…you think you can play with me is it ??? dragging time is it ???
Terry : Are we fucking playing the waiting game ??
I told Terry that we could not rush this, everything would happen eventually but it takes time.
Terry : It’s been a month !!!… fuck… you better don’t let me find out this is all bullshit from you James…. fuck off… !!
I left his office, shaking my head.
Kate saw me and she quickly gestured me over to her table before saying we need a team meeting.
James : Kate… really no need…
Kate : eh you everytime go in, come out sure look like that…. Very jia lat…. Share with me your problems…
I was trying to fob off Kate off with some excuses but she started to frown and after she checked that no one was looking, she pulled my hand and shook it a little, trying to throw a tantrum.
Kate : I tell Sis ah …. i’ll rat on you… say something stupid and make sure she hates you…
I sighed and followed Kate into the meeting room.
After that dinner and drinks at the Korean place, Kate went over to the other wing pretty often to look for Belinda.
Sometimes they would even go off for lunch together.
When she’s back, Kate would quickly jot down for me in a pink notebook.
What Belinda likes to eat, to drink, her favourite country, what kind of guy she likes.
Basically Kate was helping me compile a file on Belinda.
Kate : Go after girls is like that one… you need to do homework… not sure secretly look at her from a distance… you know or not…
I could only try to hold back my laughter and nod my head.
I sincerely appreciates her effort and even Belinda agreed she’s quite amusing, especially when she try to do it so casually, so she indulged her whenever she tried to dig for information.
The most impressionable piece of information Kate dug out of Sandy was of Belinda’s sex life.
I still remembered that rainy Friday afternoon, it was as if the sky reflects her solemn mood. Kate bought me a cup of coffee, and asked to sit down with me in the meeting room.
Kate: James… you have to be mentally prepared for this…
James : What ? ?
I almost choked on my coffee when Kate told me Belinda is not a virgin.
James : WHAT !!! you asked her this kind of questions !!!!!! Are you mad ??
Kate : Calm down…. I did not ask her directly…. I’m very subtle one you know… I sort of ask about her past relationships and you know… I can tell she’s not a virgin… she got experienceeeeee…
My jaw dropped again as she dragged the ‘reeence…’ behind that word.
Kate : I’m sorry James… but cheer up… it’s very common these days… a lot of girls lost their virgin early… don’t worry… she’s a good girl….
As if that piece of information is not enough, she gave me a list of dates on the notebook too.
James : What is this ??? all this numbers..
I almost fainted when Kate told me it was the days she noted that Belinda was having her period.
James : you’re kidding right…
Kate : Aiyah.. you never know when this would come in handy …
And with their frequent meetups and talks, they became pretty close before Kate one day announced that she no longer address Belinda by her name.
Kate : She’s fine with me calling her sis… cool leh…
I turned my head away and massaged my head.
Kate asked me what Terry spoke about with me and I told her it was because I wanted to apply for leave.
I needed an excuse.
My projects is going well, there were no issues and aside from leave matters, Kate was the one who reported directly to Terry.
In fact, aside from that Sandy problem, I had no good reason to go talk to Terry direct.
Kate : EH.. James… you probation period also not over… don’t take leave la… I also want to take leave…. But at least rough it out a while mah…
I nodded and told her it was just a passing thought and I would not be going on leave.
As we left the meeting room, I thought that would be all but it’s not.
It’s one of those days when everything seemed to go wrong for you.
I was standing by the door of the room when Kate stopped me.
She helped my pull some lint off my hair and as the doorway of the meeting room is pretty narrow, we were quite close together.
I looked up and I saw Sandy staring right at us from a distance away.
As if pulling that lint from my hair is not enough, Kate pushed me out ahead of her as she shut the room lights, with a light swing of her folder, she hit me on my backside.
Kate : Back to work James…
I turned and I could see Sandy glaring at me.
It was nothing but the moment I tried to go towards her to explain, she turned and walked off.
James : Fuck.
I went back to my desk and continued working.
4.30pm
I went to the other wing to try and look for Sandy but she was not at her desk.
I left a note on her desk when Hakim and guys were not looking to tell her to look for me when she’s back and we needed to talk.
4.43pm
I barely got started on my work when Kate walked back into the office with a small white box in her hand.
She pranced excitedly towards me and pulled her chair right over to mine.
Kate : James.. you are going to be so happy today… !!
James : Why ?
Kate dangled the box of muffins in front of me and said it was from Belinda.
Kate : You’re dream girl bought for you…. So niceeeeeeee….. all cheese flavour…I told her you like cheese…. And i….
She leaned back on her chair and crossed her legs, holding the box up with 2 hands and positioning it by the right of her face.
Kate : And i…. am the delivery girl…
Kate then opened up the lid facing me the very fucking moment Sandy appeared out of nowhere.
She was absolutely speechless and she looked at a smiling Kate offering me the box of snacks with that bright smile on her face.
Kate : Oh hi… yes ??
Sandy : Nothing..
James : Sandy wait..
She walked off and Kate looked at me with a suspicious glance.
Kate : I will… fucking castrate you myself James if you are two timing Sis… ..
James : No.. it’s not what you think… just…that…
Kate narrowed her eyes and put up her hand in my face.
Kate : shh.. shhh.. shhh…. I don’t want to hear it….
She rolled her chair over to her seat and started typing vigorously on her phone.
Minutes later, I got a message from Belinda.
Belinda : Sort Sandy out James…. there’s a limit to my patience…
And she added a smiley face behind that message.
A smiley face.
My head almost split apart that day but it was not all.
I don’t know what has gotten into Sandy.
Perhaps it was seeing what she saw and she sort of jumped the conclusion.
It made her angry, desperate for answers.
Anything.
5.30pm
I saw Sandy walk into Terry’s office and minutes later, I was called in as well.
Terry was literally smiling face to face when he told me that Sandy just came to him with a proposal.
I turned to look at Sandy in surprised.
What the fuck is Terry talking about.
Terry : Sandy is working on all the documentation for Liew’s project, she knows who much he would be quoting for each project…. Hahaha…. This makes things a lot easier doesn’t it ??
Aside from being shocked beyond words, I was fucking mad.
So fucking mad that I don’t know what to say to that.
What the fuck was she thinking?
James : What…. What do you mean ??
Terry : Well, Sandy says…. She is not happy over on the other team and she….. expressed interested in joining yours. ..
I looked at Sandy, speechless as I tried to muster up some form of a reply.
Terry : Look James…. we’re in luck….right ?? whahahaha…. This makes everything so much easier…. Isn’t it ??
Terry went on to say that rather than hire someone totally new, Sandy would fit right in.
Terry : Together with Kate, the new girl Suwen and Sandy, you would be surrounded by girls… hahaha… what a team…. Dream team man….
He went on to admit that one of the most satisfying thing would be to directly poach Sandy from Liew after she was done helping me get the projects.
Terry :It would be a fuck in your face to Liew man… hahha….feel so shoik just thinking about it….
I don’t know what to say.
I really don’t.
Terry : Ok… I’ll leave you guys to work out the details…hahah… I should be seeing a stream of projects coming my way then James… haha… Sandy…. I need a word with James if you don’t mind…
Sandy stood up and looked at me before walking out.
The moment the door closed, Terry jumped up in joy.
Terry :Steady la… with this… I think I would get to fuck her soon right ??? right ???
He was so excited he started going on about which hotel to book, what kind of ambience it would be.
Terry : Get the projects James…. then give me Sandy…. Fuck I’ll even let you fuck her after I’m done if you want… hahaha….
I left the room 5 minutes later and I almost wanted to punch the wall in.
I called Sandy after I stepped out of the office.
James ; What are you doing !!!
Sandy :Helping you !!! Why ?? are you so happy to be working with the young hot chick ?? is it ?? you enjoy working with her why ?? because she’s young ? pretty ?
James : You are not being rationale…. Mr Liew treats the team well…. You are better off with him…
Before I could finish Sandy cut me off.
Sandy :So what if he treats me well ?? He fired you !!! just like that !!….. I don’t care… I want to be on your team James…
I massaged my forehead, thinking how could I knock some sense into Sandy but she changed the topic immediately.
Sandy :Let’s not quarrel over this ok… I’m making dinner tonight… come my place for dinner ??? please James ..? … we can talk at my place…
She hung up on me and I buried my face in my hand, thinking of what to do.
I immediately called Mr Liew and told him about this development.
Mr Liew : You’re fucking shitting me… she did that ??
There was a notification for a incoming message.
It was from Sandy.
Sandy msg : Nassim Hill 7% , M resort 5% , T hotel 6%, G shopping mall 5%. . Terry has the same list for the consultancy fees.
I immediately told Mr Liew the message Sandy sent me.
It was the exact list of projects that Mr Liew wanted me to win for Terry.
James : What do we do now ?? She would be credited with the effort for getting the project…
Mr Liew thought about it for a while and added.
Mr Liew : Ya… and you would be nothing but a facilitator…. Look James… I already said from the beginning. Give Terry Sandy….keep him occupied while you manage the project and the team…. Get him dislodged from work and the office…
James : But Sandy don’t even like him … she won’t..
Mr Liew cut me off and added.
Mr Liew : But she likes you…. Isn’t it…. She would do a lot of things for you James… you just need to know how to sell it to her…
James : Mr Liew … i…
Mr Liew : Enough… sort it out… meanwhile…. I’m adjusting the fees for the projects without letting Sandy know…
James : Then how ?
Mr Liew smirked and laughed.
Mr Liew : Let’s change tactic for a bit…. Instead of winning the projects, I want you to quote base on the old fees Sandy sent…
James : And ?
Mr Liew : And you would lose every single one…
I felt a shiver run through my spine as Mr Liew finished his sentence.
Mr Liew : We cannot have Sandy take all the credit…. Let’s just assign her all the blame… and give her to Terry…
………………………………………….. .