Believe me when I said I really struggled with this decision. But in the end, I have to decline and I told Xiao Ke I am sorry, there are many things in the hotel that require my help too. Xiao Ke looked at me and I can notice a small moment of disappointment that just flashed by, then it was replaced by her signature cheerful smile as she gave me the “it’s ok” look and despite the presence of the driver, Xiao Ke, moved closer to me and kisses me on my lips for a brief moment.
“Well, if you like, you can come to my hotel anytime… Free stay for you!” I offered Xiao Ke. She smiled and said it is a promise. It was something I had said rather casually, but I never expected that someday soon that will have consequences. The driver had offered to show us a place where important official once lived and there is a tour that goes along with it. While I was mildly knowledgeable of the history, I looked at Xiao Ke for her approval. It seemed like she doesn’t mind being anywhere as long as we are together. So, we decided to go.
The tour was conducted by a old man and the house was actually stayed by the formal Taiwanese president, so it was really interesting to see how big it was, having to walked through a long stretch of sakura trees before even reaching the guard post. Of course, it was abandoned, but Xiao Ke whispered into my ears saying how she wish we could make love inside. I feel kind of embarrassed while our guide explained and Xiao Ke can look so serious, but yet so naughty in her thoughts. Thorough the tours, I held Xiao Ke’s hand, no longer restrained by anything else. I told myself, fuck everything else. Today, is just for both of us. I guess the whole trip brought us close together and the little adventure in the deserted spring pool of course did much more.
The house was actually pretty grand as it was I imagine back in those days, but of course, since nobody lived in it anymore, it became a little historical. I wasn’t very interested at first, but soon the little bits here and there caught my interested and especially with Xiao Ke by my side, I felt like it was a little date for us as I saw the glimmers in her eyes as she looked around the place, at the articles and piece of old furniture and all. In the end, we were left at a balcony where we can take some great photos of the surrounding as well as a nice overview from the top of the mountain downwards. It was there we asked our guide to help us take a photo of us together. Xiao Ke held my arms closely and I had her waist around as we smiled, we looked like a real couple in love. That photo which I kept till today was one of my deepest memento of the whole trip in Taiwan. From times to times, I even did look at that and wondered if I had chosen otherwise, maybe I would have been with Xiao Ke today, having a family and kids and living happily ever after. I really wondered what the fuck was I thinking then sometimes.
By the time we had finished the tour, I did not notice that 2 hours had past and e did not want to rush to anymore location as the late afternoon sun shone brightly in the summer sky, so we told the driver to get us back to the city so that we can find a place to have dinner. Xiao Ke had introduced me to a special restaurant and I gladly paid the taxi driver as we had a really great day. We went into the restaurant and quite surprisingly the staff actually greeted Xiao Ke by her name. I guess she must be a regular here.
It was a Japanese restaurant actually and to my surprise there are not only fantastic view from the top, but also it feature a garden with a pond. It also feature a Shishiodoshi, the running water fountain over the bamboo tube commonly seen in Japanese gardens. I later found out that this used to be a police hostel or sort which is why it looked more like a house than a restaurant. But it feel zen. Even when I am with the sexy Xiao Ke, who had let down her hair now, in a comfortable T-shirt, everything else stuffed into her overly small sized teddy bear backpack. She felt more girlfriend than the one I had back home.
We sat by the window, as if it was the usual seat Xiao Ke always had. The place looked expensive actually, but I suppose I owe it all to Xiao Ke for the great day, so I did not mind at all. We ordered some Japanese seafood, light dishes with sushi and also a pot of Dobinmushi, which Xiao Ke served me in little cups, like a really nice wife would do. I think I really lived my fantasy that day. I recalled back home, my girlfriend is probably reading her whitepapers or replying texts and I had to do all this myself. We chatted a bit about life, about her boyfriend, whom I did not have a good impression of. But it was at that moment I felt my dreams shattered. Afterall, Xiao Ke belonged to someone else. This is just a fling with love and it will be gone as soon as we get back to our lives. And there is still the funeral, of course. I kind of feel guilty enjoying myself, but well, I did flew a couple of hours all the way here.
The staff were extra friendly with Xiao Ke and one lady even joked asking her if I am her new boyfriend. Xiao Ke just smiled, lowered her head and blushed. I almost thought she meant yes then. As I sat across her, talking and chatting, my eyes locked onto her very gesture as she spoked truthfully, from her heart as I did not feel there was any gap in my relationship anymore. Afterall, we shared the more intimated moments of our lives just hours ago. All it takes was a few words from my mouth, I could had asked her if she would be my girlfriend. Fuck her boyfriend, fuck the age difference and fuck the funeral. But those words just choked in my throat. I treasured every seconds in that teahouse over the long dinner. I would had probably been one of the more memorable dinner I had in my whole life.
Relentingly, times flew by and it was time to go. I had a greatly full dinner with all the sashimi and Japanese snacks. We even had a little sake, just for the fun of it. I was about to get the bill, when I remembered I did not had much with me. I really hope they accept credit card. That is something not that common in Taiwan though. But before I could even pull out my wallet, I saw Xiao Ke, pulling out a few big notes from her purse, filled with LOTS of big notes. Xiao Ke can tell that I am shocked. But she smiled and past the cash to the cashier.
“Where did you get so much money… Did you…?” I asked, then realized that was a really bad question. Xiao Ke did not mind though as she looked into her purse though. It was then I realized the purse was branded. I am really worried… Didn’t she just told me a few days ago she needed money, so she … bwell blew me… but of course I did not really paid her. Anyway, it was all wrong.
“Hei, I have my own stash of money in my locker… Come to think about it… This is probably not safe with me… Can you keep it for me?” She smiled like a cat as she pushed a big stack of the big notes into my chest. She was looking at me with the neko girl, watery eyes, silly smile of innocent. How can I even say no. “Good! That will give me an excuse to see you again!” She smiled. In my mind, I added “before I fly off I hope…” I suddenly got snapped back to reality that I actually do not belong here. Well, I could always leave the money with Rachel. I make sure I handed her a name card of the hotel and again I told her to come by anytime. Free Stay. I promised. But I had failed to mention the funeral once again. I just did not know how to fix that in I suppose.
I offered to send Xiao Ke home, but she rejected, saying she wanted to do something and that I should go back because I had been out for the whole day. She thanked me for sharing a fantastic day and gave me a moderately long passionate kiss right in front of the door of that restaurant. I did not want to let her lips go, but as it finally parted mine, I can feel the cold evening breeze freezing my lips up as the warmth of her lips faded away. I think in a way, I was really in love. In a deep way. Quietly, we held hands, walked a little before we finally got taxi and went our separated ways.
In the end, I still did not ask her to be my girlfriend. This could have been one of my greatest regrets in life.
It is kind of crazy that I notice my first chapter was in may 2016 and chapter 3 started in may 2017… I must be one of the slowest or longest writer on sbf. While my previous works also tooks years, this could had been overly ambitious.
But through the writing, I find myself being able to recall more of the events and things. Yes, great “scenery” too I must admit. But most importantly I did enjoy writing. For xoxo and the rest of the people, whom I think probably no more hanging around sbf.
So, did you all enjoy this so far? I know, a bit too slow, but my crazy schedule and all, I prefer to write when I have the inspiration. Promise, Chapter 3 ending soon… Chapter 4 is next on track.
I arrived back at the hotel slightly the sun even set beyond the horizon. I tried to keep my smile because the white lanterns reminded me of the funeral going on. As I walked in, I saw that the Taoist priests had already rested for dinner and Rachel quickly wiped her face as she squeezed a smile from her lips greeting me. I guessed she might had been talking to my dear friend a little before I came back and interrupted it.
“You are back…” She held my hand and took the little bag of stuff I bought for the funeral. I wanted to give her a hug, but I was not sure it was appropriate, although nobody is around, at least I thought so. “You should spend some time with him… after all, tomorrow will be the last day… the funeral will end the next morning after…” Rachel spoke softly to me. I felt guilty. I hadn’t spent a lot of time with him and she was right. I should.
As Rachel tidied things up, she went ahead to bath. She did not mentioned anything about whether we should meet up later, so I was unsure if she needed it. As I walked towards my room right at the end, I passed by the girls’ and I realized they were in. Something in my mind came up and I gave the door a soft knock.
“Oh, there you are! We were looking for you the whole day!” Nelly came up opening the door and pulled me inside, then she closed the door shut behind me. I can see Grace there again. Semi naked and I bet they were playing. I sat down opposite Grace and looked at Nelly. Seriously.
“Remember you still owe me a favor, Grace?” I smiled. Nelly eyes are full of anticipation of whatever naughty idea I have and Grace looked silently, nodded in agreement. I took a deep breath and gathered my thought. I think she might actually like this. “I want you to put on a striptease for my dear friend.” I finally spitted it out. This thought had been in my mind and I know that my friend would have appreciate it. Grace mouth was wide opened and there was a long period of silent.
)
“For your dead friend?” Grace asked just to be sure. I nodded. Then I start to explain that it is not uncommon in Taiwan (during those days anyway) that there are stripteases for the funeral. But it is more to attract crowds. I further explained that I do not want her to do it in public though. Just a little private show for my friend who had passed over and maybe a few of our close group.
“It’s a great idea!” Nelly padded my back and agreed on behalf of Grace. She did not agree nor disagree, but I can tell there was a pause of hesitation. Then finally, she nodded. “Ok, but you have to promise me, it is a small private show only.” I felt my heart already racing. I can’t wait till the show.
“Yeah, promised. It will be tomorrow then since we only have tomorrow as the last night.” I am glad I asked and it was easier than I imagine. I was about to leave, when the ever naughty Nelly just grab Grace’s top and pry open the shirt, revealing her nice pair of boobs, her nipples on a pair of clips though. I was taken by surprise obviously.
“Want to stay and play for a while?” Nelly laughed. I hesitated for a moment. Sure it was nice and Gracie’s tits is totally amazing to be honest, but I was really too tired. I had to declined this offer. I know, I was crazy right, to say no to this, but I did anyway. I really need the rest.
“You girls enjoy yourselves, but keep the sound down… You know… there is a funeral after all… I need to really rest…recharged. Understand?” I hinted, but Nelly got it immediately and then pushed me out of their room as quickly as I was pulled it. I stood on the corridor and then I smiled at myself. Stupid. I shook my head and made my way back to my room.
On my way to my room, I bypass the office room which my friend had kept all the hotel stuff together. I thought I might as well pop by and see if I can clean some thing up tonight. I sat down at the chair I imagine my friend must had been sitting, looking at the accounts, the various papers and all. I was pretty sure everything is in place and that the hotel is definitely a success according to most standard, just not really making millions but otherwise it is profitable. I might have to find a new supplier though since Mr Lee is probably out of the question. I laid back on the chair and well, I thought maybe I would take over the hotel just like my friend wished and leave everything behind. After all, why not?
I pulled out the box containing all the photos of the girl in BDSM positions. I am pretty sure that must be Rachel by now. It is just a feeling. After all, we are that close now. As I was digging though the photos, I suddenly realized that was a small key tugged at the corner of the metal box and it is attached to the box, which was the reason, why I did not notice it. It almost seems like part of the box, but now that I detached it, I can clearly see it was a key. But where does this unlock? It looked like a door key, about 2 to 3 inches and made of good metal, which means it cannot be for a small gadget. I guess I would hold on to it. This is probably important since I was entrusted with these.
I think I will call it a night as I walked towards my room, I saw Rachel tidying things up, putting the bed out for me and lighting up the incense. She turned around and smiled, all her tears were no where in sight. I closed the door behind me and she quickly gave me a tight hug. I hugged her back in respond and I must admit, I did miss the warmth of her body as I wrapped my arm around her waist.
“How was your day?” She smiled, asking a stupid question, kind of. But of course, I can’t tell her about Xiao Ke, can I? I smiled back and told her it was great, I visited some places and stuff, but it seems she was just asking a question, but not expecting a answer. My lips were locked by hers before I could finish my sentence.
“Tomorrow will be the last day and there will be lots of things to be done.” She said suddenly. I scratched my head wondering what exactly she referring to, but I just recalled the offer I made for the striptease and I told Rachel that one of the customer is willing to do a striptease for my departed friend. Rachel did not seems surprised, I guessed she had figured out the dirty games I had with the girl, somehow. She nodded seemly happy though.
“He would love it. Even if its not a big show, I know it is a good gesture and he can go in peace.” Rachel said, softly. I hugged her so that she couldn’t begin to cry. I hold her silently, not knowing what else there is to say. Suddenly, the idea that tomorrow is the last day before sending my friend off and then after that… what? Will I go back home and leave Rachel forever? That thought send shivers down my heart. I suddenly realized that I really did not want to leave Rachel anymore.
Our embrace was totally ruined when we heard some voices coming from the reception hall and it seems rather unlikely, but we had visitors anyway at this dead of hours. Actually its not that late actually, slightly after dinner should be, but no way were we expecting vistors.
At the hall, a old couple, dressed formally in black, best suited for the funeral was standing and waiting, with dark glasses, despite that it is absolutely unnecessary in doors, but probably more for the funeral. Rachel met their eyes with a blend of feeling mixed up like a bowl of Bibimbap and she was actually stunned for a moment as she saw them. I guessed they are somebody important so I took the initiative and served up the incenses to them to pay the respect to my dear friend.
The couple nodded politely and as they prayed I can’t help noticing that they are checking me out. I did not like the feeling, as if I am being judged, but as Rachel finally recovered from her headlight-deer moment, she walked passed me and whispered. “They are my parents..”. I was taken by surprised, but soon a warm and gentle conversations began and it seemed after all, no matter how much hatred there was before, her parents did came by in the end. I guess that had meant a lot to Rachel. I am sure it would be for my friend too.
I decided to just drop my hi and greetings before taking an excuse to get them something to drink at least while I walked off. I could see Rachel finally broke down and cried as her mum held her in embrace. I guessed it was very hard for her and other than me, who I must said is not very helpful, she has nobody else to confide in. As I returned I could see her parents checking on me and seemly over interested as I approached and they began to asked a lot more about myself, personally. I did my best to reply, although I felt that they are in the checking my-next–son-in-law mood. I can tell at least they are not disappointed.
Despite some casual chats and Rachel tried to make the environment friendly between everyone, there is a strange sense of awkwardness of me in their presence. Her parents however did offered some kind gesture of aiding Rachel if she needed anything at all, from financial to emotional help. Her mom was really friendly to me, throwing hints of asking me to take care of Rachel during these time and beyond. Weird as it might be, I kind of felt I was part of the family after the long chat and it was really late by the time they decided to go. We send them off and then in silent, we seemed to have said a lot of things to each other. But yet nothing was even spoken. As we watched them drove off, I looked at Rachel and a little teardrop by the side of her eyes still glittered under the fade lamp post light on that starry summer night.
We stood there for a little while, as the moon fades behind the cloudy night, in silent. Finally, Rachel wipe away her tears, looked at me and smiled before grabbing my hand and moving back into the hotel. It wasn’t late but I guess I had a long day and so I proceed to wash up and get ready for bed. As I lie down, thinking about the past day, it must be crazy I thought. I wonder if I might just wake up and this is all a dream. All about the girls next door, Xiao Ke and Rachel. It is just one hell of a ride. Then I remembered about the money Xiao Ke gave me to keep for me and that is really crazy, considering that even I won’t have that much in pocket changes.
As I was deep in thoughts, Rachel suddenly slides open the door and smiled at me. She did not say anything, but came in and just undressed, dropped her overcoat, leaving only a sexy lacey bra and a almost transparent panties in pink as she laid down and slides into my blanket. I was shocked, but not unwelcoming the sudden approach though. I gave her a close hug.
“You promised my friend you will take care of me right? So keep me warm tonight. Ok?” Rachel whispered softly into my ears as we laid down together on the bed. “Yes, I did.” I replied. But in a way more than just taking care. I literally took over Rachel in a way. She is definitely seductive enough for me to want to fuck her right there, but like I said, it’s a long night, so I did not want to take the lead. Rachel did not proceed further so it was pretty much assumed she just want to sleep with me.
I gave her a kiss on her forehead as I began to close my eyes slowly. Blinking makes Rachel’s pretty face disappeared with short lapses in front of my eyes. At least this will be a good night rest and I thought I will die a happy man if I doesn’t wake up, with such a beautiful girl sleeping beside me. I was too tired and I think I had exhausted myself physically over the last few days.
But this is not one of those night where I get to sleep until the morning and wake up on my own.
(To Be Continued)
