bonniecwt

[QUOTE=celineda]完了吗？
我还以为最后会是一个盛大烂漫的4人婚礼。。。:em06:
不过~~~按照这样的发展~结果应该和我想得一样吧~~~~:em34:
作者很多地方借鉴了《HH》2~~:em20: 还有henry追回annie 的那段和《HH》1也是一样的~~~[/QUOTE]



This is not the ending, it's a long story.
i was busy last week so i didn't update, i am very sorry. i will post more tomorrow, sorry for keep you guys waiting

bonniecwt

Back In Jackie’s Hospital Room
2.05pm <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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“Wow, I’m starting to think that my room is fast becoming a meeting place for you guys during lunch time.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie joked, as she looked at the crowd in her room. Again, the whole gang was there, with the exception of Annie, but with the addition of Tracy and Anson. They had agreed to tag along when Joe told them that they were all going to visit Jackie, and if they would like to come along as well. <o:p></o:p>

“But, one person’s missing.” <o:p></o:p>

“I thought that as long as Paul’s by your side, you don’t care for anyone else?” <o:p></o:p>

Henry teased, as he noted that Paul seemed to be permanently stuck to Jackie’s side. <o:p></o:p>

“Who says so? I always care for my friends,” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie replied indignantly, earning a round of laughter from the room. <o:p></o:p>

“In that case, the person in question should be here shortly.” <o:p></o:p>

True enough, within minutes, there came a knock at the door and Annie burst in. <o:p></o:p>

“Hey Jackie!” <o:p></o:p>

She greeted, going to sit by her friend’s side at once. <o:p></o:p>

“Don’t you ever get sick of each other?” <o:p></o:p>

Joe wondered aloud. <o:p></o:p>

“NO!” <o:p></o:p>

Both girls replied simultaneously before bursting out in laughter. <o:p></o:p>

“So, how do you feel today? When can you be discharged?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie turned her attention back to Jackie. <o:p></o:p>

“I feel great! In fact, I just went for my physical therapy session this morning with Paul. As for when I can be discharged, you will have to ask my doctor here. And, while you are at it, try to persuade him that I’m a good patient, and should be discharged as soon as possible.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie grinned. Annie looked at Paul. <o:p></o:p>

“So, what do you say, Doc?” <o:p></o:p>

“It will all have to depend on her performance.” <o:p></o:p>

He shot back. <o:p></o:p>

“He always says that whenever I asked him when I can be discharged.” Jackie muttered. “Since you are my friend, you have to help me to persuade him that I would be fine in no time at all.” <o:p></o:p>

“Oh no, I refuse to be your middle man.” Annie shrank back in mock horror. “Well, dear friend, just listen to your doc, after all, you did give him a fright for 14 long months, you know.” <o:p></o:p>

“I know, which is why I’m not rushing things. Otherwise...” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie brushed a hand through her long hair in exasperation, the action causing the ring on her finger to catch her friend’s attention. <o:p></o:p>

“Uh, Jackie, is there something you should be telling me?” <o:p></o:p>

“Tell you what?” <o:p></o:p>

“That.” <o:p></o:p>

Annie took hold of Jackie’s hand, and pointed to the ring. <o:p></o:p>

“Oh.” Surprisingly, the ever-bold Jackie blushed. “Well, Paul, would you like to do the honor?” <o:p></o:p>

Paul looked at her in exasperation, before proceeding to do what was requested of him. <o:p></o:p>

“I guess this is as good a time as any to announce to you guys that I proposed to Jackie yesterday, and she has agreed to marry me.” <o:p></o:p>

That announcement brought on a round of cheers in the room. <o:p></o:p>

Annie turned to hug her friend immediately. <o:p></o:p>

“Congratulations, Jackie. I know how happy you must be. You definitely deserve the happiness.” <o:p></o:p>

Finishing the hug, she walked over to Paul and gave him a huge hug as well. <o:p></o:p>

“Congrats, Paul. No one earned this more than the two of you. I wish you two all the best. Don’t you dare to bully Jackie though, or I will be sure to come after you.” <o:p></o:p>

She ended with a grin on her face. <o:p></o:p>

Next in line was Henry, who gave him a pat on the back. <o:p></o:p>

“I... I have nothing to say to you.” <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, what is that supposed to mean?” <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert grinned. “Ignore him, Paul, just wait till he’s leg shackled himself. Congrats to you.” He walked to Jackie and gave her a big hug. “Congrats to you too, Jackie. I guess you have been waiting for this moment for a long time already.” <o:p></o:p>

That only earned him a slap on the back by the lady in question. <o:p></o:p>

Everyone crowded round excitedly to congratulate the couple while a single doctor hung back, reluctant to go forward, though knowing that she would not have any choice. <o:p></o:p>

Unfortunately, before long, she was the only one left not having congratulated the couple, so she too, walked forward, in a pretense of sincerity. <o:p></o:p>

After everyone had calmed down again, Jackie turned to her friend, who had once again settled down beside her, their arms around each other. <o:p></o:p>

"So, Annie, when is it going to be your turn?" To the former's astonishment, that question actually made Annie blush. "Uhh... Did I just ask a very sensitive question?" <o:p></o:p>

"No, you did not." <o:p></o:p>

Annie hastened to reassure her friend. Jackie looked to Henry for an answer, but he only shrugged in response. <o:p></o:p>

"Don't look at me. Ask her." <o:p></o:p>

"So, Annie?" <o:p></o:p>

"Umm... Henry did pose that question to me, but I rejected." Before Jackie could open her mouth, Annie added simply. "I just couldn’t, not with you in a coma." <o:p></o:p>

"Oh, Annie." <o:p></o:p>

By this time, everyone in the room was intrigued by the conversation, as they all strained forward to hear the rest of it. <o:p></o:p>

"Also, do you still remember our promise?" <o:p></o:p>

Jackie nodded, understanding. "That we will be each other's maid of honor, whoever gets married first." She hugged her friend. "Oh, Annie, I’m so sorry." <o:p></o:p>

"Don't be. It was my choice." <o:p></o:p>

"And, you would have that choice again." <o:p></o:p>

Paul interrupted, with a glint in his eyes, as he looked at Gilbert and Joe, giving a slight nod in Henry's direction. Before Henry knew what had hit him, the three men swooped on him, pushing him in the direction of Annie. <o:p></o:p>

"Go on, ask the question, I'm sure the answer will be different this time." <o:p></o:p>

Paul urged. <o:p></o:p>

"I just hate it when you guys do that." <o:p></o:p>

"Do what?" Gilbert asked innocently. "I may not like you for a brother-in-law, but for the sake of my dear sister, I won't say anything." <o:p></o:p>

Annie looked at the guys in exasperation. <o:p></o:p>

"Oh, just forget it, will ya. It's over and done with." <o:p></o:p>

"No, it's not." Henry suddenly spoke up, deciding that he might as well play along. He took out a ring box from his pocket, and kneeled before her. "Annie, I love you, and I promised you before that I will change my old ways, and be a good husband to you. Now that Jackie has woken up, I'm going to ask you again. Will you do me the honor of marrying me?" <o:p></o:p>

Annie lowered her head, touched that Henry would actually ask her to marry him in front of everyone. After a moment, she nodded her head shyly. Before she could do anything else, she was caught up in a hug by the latter, with her lips engaged in a deep kiss. It took her a minute to reorient herself to the surroundings, and acknowledge the fact that they were not alone. She pushed back from Henry, and nudged him hard. <o:p></o:p>

"We are not alone." <o:p></o:p>

"Who cares, they started this first." <o:p></o:p>

Henry retorted, though he let her go willingly. <o:p></o:p>

Again, the scene of a while ago was repeated as everyone crowded round to congratulate the couple. <o:p></o:p>

"Hey, I have an excellent idea. Why don’t the four of you get married on the same day?" <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert suggested. <o:p></o:p>

Paul and Henry looked at each other in askance, and shrugged. Paul answered for the two of them. <o:p></o:p>

"We are fine with the idea, but I think you should ask the ladies." <o:p></o:p>

Jackie and Annie shared a look. <o:p></o:p>

"Annie?" <o:p></o:p>

"As long as you guys don’t mind, Jackie and I would love to." <o:p></o:p>

"So, it's settled then." Joe rubbed his hands in glee. "This is going to be a good show." <o:p></o:p>

Jackie could not resist retorting. <o:p></o:p>

"Do you think we are acting?" <o:p></o:p>

Helen jabbed her boyfriend hard in the side. <o:p></o:p>

"eople are talking serious business here, stop kidding around." <o:p></o:p>

"What, what? What did I say?" <o:p></o:p>

Joe protested. <o:p></o:p>

While everyone's attention was on Joe and throwing remarks back and forth, Paul made use of the chance to stoop down and whisper in Jackie's ear. <o:p></o:p>

"Do you feel tired? Do you need a rest?" <o:p></o:p>

Jackie covered his hand with her. <o:p></o:p>

"I'm fine, don't worry." She searched his eyes. "You don't mind that we will be sharing our wedding day with Henry and Annie, do you?" <o:p></o:p>

"No, of course not, as long as you like it." <o:p></o:p>

"You are the best, do you know that? I love you." <o:p></o:p>

"And, I love you too." <o:p></o:p>

Subtly, he leaned down to place a gentle kiss on Jackie's lips. <o:p></o:p>

On the other side of the room, however, that intimate gesture did not escape someone's eyes as she looked at the scene before her with growing resentment. <o:p></o:p>

For the next two months, Paul went with Jackie to every physical therapy session without fail, and as promised, gave her a massage after every single one of them. Jackie, for her part, kept her side of the promise, as despite all the pains and agonies, she did not even utter a single sound of protest. Before long, Jackie had made tremendous improvement, and was able to stand on her own. <o:p></o:p>

***** <o:p></o:p>

bonniecwt

Jackie’s Room In The Hospital
2 Months Later
9.05am <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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Jackie woke up to see Paul still sleeping soundly beside her. She caressed his face lovingly. She was glad to see that the lines of exhaustion were finally starting to go away. Maybe it was not such a bad idea after all that she demanded he share her bed every night. Otherwise, he would not be able to recover all the sleep that he had lost. Right now, she only cared how her beloved was faring, and not some hospital policy. She knew some hospital staff had spotted them sleeping on the same bed, but she was confident that they would not spread the word, having worked so closely with them once before. <o:p></o:p>

Paul woke up while she was still lost in her thoughts, thus giving him some time to gaze at her, and gather his own thoughts. <o:p></o:p>

“A penny for your thoughts?” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie asked upon seeing that Paul had woken up as well. <o:p></o:p>

“Nothing, I was just thanking my lucky stars that you are fine and here with me. There’s nothing more I want out of life.” <o:p></o:p>

The former smiled. <o:p></o:p>

“I’m thanking my lucky stars too, that I can be with you again. And that you are finally starting to look normal again.” <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, what do you mean by that? Don’t I look normal usually?” <o:p></o:p>

“Nope, you don’t. You’ve been looking exhausted from the moment I woke up. I’m just glad that you are finally looking like your old self again, and gaining some weight in the process too. You have been getting too thin lately!” <o:p></o:p>

“I’m so glad you approve.” He laughed. “We won’t have to go to therapy today, so what do you want to do?” <o:p></o:p>

“Well, I’m so tired of staying in this hospital room the whole day other than going for therapy. So, how about taking a walk in the garden?” <o:p></o:p>

“Sure, as long as you feel up to it.” <o:p></o:p>

“Oh yes, please.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul laughed at the child-like eagerness in Jackie. <o:p></o:p>

“Alright then.” He got off the bed, and helped her off as well. <o:p></o:p>

“Uhh, Paul.” <o:p></o:p>

“Yep?” <o:p></o:p>

“Let me make a stop at the bathroom first, will ya?” <o:p></o:p>

That caused a laugh out of him. <o:p></o:p>

“Of course, whatever the lady wants.” <o:p></o:p>

Carefully, he helped Jackie to the bathroom, waiting outside for her patiently. When the latter was done, he made a stop himself, before putting his arms around her and finally setting off to the garden. <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, Dr. Tong, you are finally on your feet. How do you feel?” <o:p></o:p>

Helen cried excitedly, walking towards the couple. <o:p></o:p>

“I feel great. Thanks.” <o:p></o:p>

“ I won’t disturb you guys then. I will see you later.”

They were stopped by several more hospital staff, who was glad to see that Jackie had woken up at last, before they eventually managed to make their way to the garden. Paul settled Jackie carefully on a bench before he joined her, once again hugging her close. Jackie, on her part, simply placed her head on his shoulder contentedly. <o:p></o:p>

“Whew, I thought we would never get here, not that I’m not appreciative of everyone’s concern.” <o:p></o:p>

“You have no idea how concerned everyone had been, I think most of the hospital staff had dropped in at least once to see you while you were in a coma.” <o:p></o:p>

“I know, and I really appreciate that. Hmm.... Don’t you just love the sun? And how it shines on everything?” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie teased, trying to bring Paul out of the solemn mood that he seemed to have fallen into. <o:p></o:p>

“Huh?” <o:p></o:p>

“I thought you need some cheering up.” <o:p></o:p>

“And, I thought I am supposed to be the one doing the cheering up.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul retorted. <o:p></o:p>

Jackie shrugged. “We will see.” Suddenly, she fell into a reminiscing mood. “I never thought how much I would miss this sight. The sight of sunlight falling onto the ground, dappling between the leaves. Life’s just so precious, don’t you think?” <o:p></o:p>

Paul hugged her tighter. <o:p></o:p>

“After what we had just gone through, I would definitely agree with you.” <o:p></o:p>

“Paul...” <o:p></o:p>

“Shh... I think we should just enjoy this moment for itself, don’t you think so?” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie nodded, contented to just sit there with her fiancé. Thus, they spent the better part of an hour just sitting on the bench, enjoying each other’s company, and the world in general. <o:p></o:p>

Unbeknownst to them, a pair of eyes that shone with jealousy was staring at them from a window.

bonniecwt

Jackie’s Room In The Hospital
A Week Later
11.14am <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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“Oh wow, I can’t believe that I’m finally leaving this place! I have never been so glad to get out of the hospital before!” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie cried, as she walked about the room restlessly. <o:p></o:p>

Paul looked after her in amusement. <o:p></o:p>

“I know that you have recovered but still, you shouldn’t be doing so much walking about just on the first day that you can get out of bed by yourself.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie hurried across the room to hug him from behind. <o:p></o:p>

“I’m just so happy. It seems like I am starting a new life, which is true to some extent.” <o:p></o:p>

“Oh, sorry, did I disturb you guys?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie joked as she entered the room at that moment. <o:p></o:p>

“Nope, you are not. Don’t worry.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie answered as she released Paul and turned to face her friend. <o:p></o:p>

“So, are you packed and ready to go home?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie asked, staring at the bags on the bed. <o:p></o:p>

“Am I ever! I can’t wait to get out of here.” <o:p></o:p>

“I never thought that I would ever hear that from you.” <o:p></o:p>

“Well, if you had lived in the hospital for more than a year, you would say that too.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul smiled at them, before turning to Jackie worriedly. <o:p></o:p>

“I still think that I should take the day off and send you home. You sure you don’t want to come to my house and stay for a while? I can take care of you.” <o:p></o:p>

“Paul, don’t worry about me. You know that you couldn’t take today off. Anyway, Annie can take care of me, she’s going to bring me home. And nope, I don’t think I want to stay at your house at the moment, I miss my own.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie grinned. <o:p></o:p>

“Right! Don’t worry, Paul. I will bring her straight home and tuck her right into bed. I will make sure that she stays there. She will be fine, trust me.” <o:p></o:p>

Annie added, seeing the worried look on Paul’s face. <o:p></o:p>

However, despite all the reassurances, Paul was still concerned about not being able to send Jackie home personally. <o:p></o:p>

“Ok, we are all set, let’s go!” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie cried exuberantly, reaching out to take her bags. <o:p></o:p>

“Here, let me.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul managed a smile in spite of his uneasiness. He took a bag with one hand, and with the other, placed it around Jackie’s shoulders, while Annie carried the other one. <o:p></o:p>

Jackie placed her own arm around Paul’s waist, and squeezed it reassuringly. <o:p></o:p>

“I will be fine. I will see you in After Five tonight, alright?” <o:p></o:p>

Paul kissed her forehead. <o:p></o:p>

“Fine, I’ll see you then.” <o:p></o:p>

On the way out of the hospital, they were greeted by many hospital personnel, all of whom were glad to see that Dr. Tang had finally woken up and appeared to be none the worse for wear. With all the interruptions, it took them a while before they finally managed to reach the entrance of the hospital. Annie put down the bag that she was carrying and told Jackie to wait for her while she went to pick up her car. <o:p></o:p>

Before long, Paul was waving them off as he watched the car disappear into the distance. With a sigh, he reentered the hospital, knowing that the day was going to be too long for him. <o:p></o:p>

bonniecwt

Jackie and Annie’s Apartment
Half An Hour Later <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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Annie unlocked the door to the apartment and allowed Jackie to enter before her. The moment Jackie stepped into the apartment; she wandered around in wonder, touching everything in sight. Tears gathered in her eyes as she stared at things that were so familiar to her, yet foreign in others. Annie came up behind her, putting an arm around her. <o:p></o:p>

“Jackie, are you alright? Here, drink some water.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie took the glass from her, whispering her thanks. <o:p></o:p>

“I can’t believe that I’m back again, back where I belong. It feels so good to be home, you know. I have really missed all this, I didn’t even realize how much till I stepped in here. Annie, you really kept everything exactly as they were, didn’t you?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie nodded. <o:p></o:p>

“I didn’t want to change anything. I knew that you would wake up one day, and wouldn’t want to come home to a foreign place. Here, take a look at your room. I have kept it clean for you all these months, wanting you to come back to exactly how you have left it.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie entered her room, repeating what she had done from the moment she stepped into the apartment, caressing everything in sight, as if to reconcile herself with all her belongings, or to reassure herself that she was truly home. After making a round of her room, she turned to Annie, who was standing at the doorway and gave her a huge hug. <o:p></o:p>

“Thank you, thank you so much.” <o:p></o:p>

“There’s no need for thanks. Just the sight of you standing here in this room is enough thanks for me. Anyway, what are sisters for?” Annie smiled. “And now, it’s time to do what I’ve promised Paul, or else he will have my head tonight. Back to bed with you!” <o:p></o:p>

On so saying, she gave Jackie a push towards the bed. <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, hey, I’m not an invalid, I don’t need to stay in bed the whole day. And, I’m so tired of staying in bed all the time too!” <o:p></o:p>

“Don’t forget you are still recovering.” <o:p></o:p>

“I’m fine, maybe just a little hungry.” <o:p></o:p>

“How about I whip something up in the kitchen while you rest? I will wake you when the food is ready.” <o:p></o:p>

“You can cook?” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie asked incredulously. <o:p></o:p>

Annie pretended offense. <o:p></o:p>

“A person can change in more than a year, you know.” <o:p></o:p>

“Or change because of someone.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie teased. <o:p></o:p>

“I’m not talking to you anymore. If you don’t get into bed right this minute, I’m telling you-know-who.” <o:p></o:p>

“I’m going, I’m going. There’s no need for threats!” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie laughed as she hopped onto bed. With a laugh, Annie turned and headed out of the room. It was not long before the former gave up her pretense of resting, and stood up to wander about the room again. It was while she was browsing through her belongings that a thought that had been nagging her for days came to the foreground, prompting her to get out of the room in search of her friend. <o:p></o:p>

“Annie!” <o:p></o:p>

“What, what? Is there something wrong?” <o:p></o:p>

Startled by Jackie's cry, Annie rushed out of the kitchen. <o:p></o:p>

“No, no, everything is fine. I just need you to do me a favor.” <o:p></o:p>

“Sure, just name it.” <o:p></o:p>

“Can you please drive me to Paul’s apartment?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie’s eyes narrowed. <o:p></o:p>

“What are you up to now? You know that you are supposed to stay in bed, by your doctor’s orders.” <o:p></o:p>

“I’m fine, truly. There’s just something urgent that I should have done the moment I woke up, but I couldn’t remember what it was until now.” <o:p></o:p>

It only took a minute before Annie relented, having seen the determined look in Jackie’s eyes. <o:p></o:p>

“Alright, hold on a moment while I turned off the stove.” <o:p></o:p>

Eagerly, Jackie nodded before bounding off to get her handbag.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

bonniecwt

Annie’s car  

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</P>

</P>

</P>

</P>

</P>

</P>

</P>

</P>

They were finally in the car and on the way before Jackie made a request. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“Can you please stop by a supermarket?” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“Whatever. I’m already on the road anyway, what does one more stop make?” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

Annie muttered. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“Thanks, Annie. I owe you one.” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

Jackie grinned as she settled back on her seat. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

They made the stop with Annie lifting her brows at the things that Jackie bought from the supermarket, though she refrained from making a comment, having learnt about the boxes from her brother. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

As expected, there was no one in Paul’s apartment except for Gilbert. He was surprised to see the both of them upon opening the door, but when he saw what Jackie was carrying, he understood at once the reason they were there. Before the latter could ask anything, he started talking, the words reminiscent of those that they had exchanged more than a year ago.</P>

</P>

“Yep, you can enter his room, there’s no one there right now. And nope, I won’t tell this to a soul, it will be our little secret.” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

Smiling happily, Jackie continued to Paul’s room, leaving the siblings staring after her in amusement. The both of them were just settling down on the couch when Jackie appeared again, this time, with a purple box in her hands. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“Look at all these stuff! They have all expired! Why didn’t Paul finish them?” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

It was Gilbert who answered her query. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“Because he was hardly home the entire time you were in a coma. He didn’t want to be too far away from you, so, he spent every minute that he had in the hospital, not taking any leave, medical or otherwise.” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

Jackie slumped down onto the couch. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“I didn’t know.” <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

Annie wrapped her arms around her friend. <o:p></o:p></P>

</P>

“But all that is over and done with now. Paul really did a lot for you and he loves you dearly. What you should do now is treasure your relationship with him, and let him know how much you appreciate him.” <o:p></o:p></P>

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“I didn’t know. But don’t worry, I will definitely let him know that I truly appreciate everything that he has done.” And again, true to her mischievous nature, she could not resist adding. “Since when you have become an expert on love, huh, Annie?” <o:p></o:p></P>

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Upon completing that statement, she managed to jump up and run off before Annie’s playful swat could land on her behind.</P>

bonniecwt

After Five
That Night
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<b><font color=" /><o:p></o:p></P>Even though Tracy was talking to Paul, his eyes kept straying to the door and he could not seem to concentrate on the conversation. Just an hour earlier, he had arrived at the pub with Tracy, who had announced that her car had broken down and was sent to the garage for repairs. She had thus requested for a ride from Paul to After Five, where most of Jackie’s friends had gathered to celebrate her recovery. <o:p></o:p>

<FONT face=Arial size=2>At the moment, everyone had arrived except for the main star and her buddy. Finally, Tracy gave up on her one–sided attempt at a conversation and sat there in a huff. Anson, who had witnessed everything, simply shook her head, wondering when the lady would give up her attempt at trying to get together with Paul. It was so obvious to everyone who bothered to look that he only had eyes for one lady, and that was definitely not the one who was sitting beside him at the moment. </FONT>

“Paul! Paul!” <o:p></o:p>

Henry waved his hand in front of Paul’s eyes, trying to get his attention. <o:p></o:p>

“Huh? What?” <o:p></o:p>

“Stop looking at the door and your watch! They are late, but they will be here. Stop worrying about Jackie, I just talked to Annie, she’s fine, they are just held up.” <o:p></o:p>

“I know, I talked to Jackie a while ago too. It’s just that...” <o:p></o:p>

“Don’t bother him, Henry. He won’t be of much use till Jackie turns up.” <o:p></o:p>

Peter teased, having overheard their conversation. <o:p></o:p>

Expecting a retort, all he received in return was an exasperated look by the man in question before the latter resumed alternating between looking at his watch and the door. <o:p></o:p>

Suddenly, Paul’s eyes lit up and he stood up, startling all those around him. In unison, knowing smiles spread across their faces as they turned to look at the door, expecting to see the star of the day entering the pub. True enough, there were Annie and Jackie sauntering into the pub, arm in arm. <o:p></o:p>

“Hey! Wow, everyone’s here already!" Jackie greeted before bestowing a smile on the man of her life. <o:p></o:p>

“You are so late! We were going to kick Paul out of here till you come.” Henry chided gently as he placed an arm around Annie’s shoulders. <o:p></o:p>

“We had something to do.” She replied. <o:p></o:p>

Everyone shuffled around to make space for the couples as Tracy was urged to sit elsewhere in order to make way for the couples. <o:p></o:p>

“No, no, it’s ok, I can just sit here.” Jackie protested. <o:p></o:p>

“We wouldn’t dream of it. Who knows what Paul will do next. It’s better if you stick to him for the rest of the night.” Joe grinned. <o:p></o:p>

“What did I do?” Paul retorted. <o:p></o:p>

“That’s precisely it. You did nothing! Ahh, so now, you’ve regained your ability to talk again?” <o:p></o:p>

“Did I miss anything?” Jackie asked from her place beside Paul. Tracy, having no choice, had unwillingly given her seat to Jackie, leaving the two couples snuggled comfortably on the couch. <o:p></o:p>

“Nothing at all.” Gilbert chirped in. “He was so dead before you arrive.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie turned to her fiancé. <o:p></o:p>

“Were you?” <o:p></o:p>

“Don’t listen to the boys. They just like to utter nonsense.” <o:p></o:p>

“You can deny it all you want, but we have so many witnesses here!” <o:p></o:p>

Peter added, unable to resist the temptation of jibing at Paul. <o:p></o:p>

“Yeah, yeah, whatever.” Paul replied before turning to Jackie. “So, how do you feel?” <o:p></o:p>

“I’m fine, really. Stop worrying about me.” Jackie smiled at him in assurance, giving his hand a squeeze. She turned to look at the others. “So, what have you guys planned for me?” <o:p></o:p>

“How about a drink first?” Helen suggested. “We’ve already had a couple, you should order something too.” <o:p></o:p>

“I will go get it.” Annie said, standing up. “What do you want, Jackie?” <o:p></o:p>

“A vodka, thanks.” <o:p></o:p>

“Change that to a lime tonic, will you, Annie? Thanks. Just put it on my tab.” <o:p></o:p>

“Will do.” <o:p></o:p>

She replied before walking off. <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, what did you do that for?” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie jabbed a finger at Paul’s chest. <o:p></o:p>

“In case you have forgotten, my dear girl, you are still on medication, and not supposed to be taking any alcoholic drinks.” <o:p></o:p>

“Oh yeah, I forgot.” She grinned sheepishly. She turned to the others curiously. “So, what were you talking about before I got here?” <o:p></o:p>

“Like we said, nothing.” Joe insisted. “You should have seen Dr. Ching’s face. I’m glad he’s not like that in the hospital.” <o:p></o:p>

Everyone laughed.

bonniecwt

“Hey, what are you talking about? Since I’m in a good mood today, I will let you off. Joke all you want, I don’t mind.” <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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<b><font color=" /><o:p></o:p></P>Paul grinned, thwarting their plans to make fun of him. <o:p></o:p>

Just then, Annie arrived with their drinks. <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert grabbed his and stood up. <o:p></o:p>

<FONT face=Arial size=2>“Let me propose a toast. A toast to the luckiest lady in the world. A lady who managed to join us again against all odds.” </FONT>

“And a toast to my best friend, who managed to come back to us again.” <o:p></o:p>

Annie added, by Henry’s side. By now, everyone had stand up and was joining in the toasting. <o:p></o:p>

“Not to forget a toast to congratulate our couples on their impending marriages.” <o:p></o:p>

Helen smiled. <o:p></o:p>

“Hear, hear!” <o:p></o:p>

Everyone echoed, before clicking their glasses together and each taking a sip from their respective glasses. As for the couples in question, they shared an intimate smile with their respective halves and gently clicked their glasses against each other’s before taking a sip too. <o:p></o:p>

It took a moment for all the excitement to die down and everyone to settle back down in their seats. Before long though, the bantering that was so much a part of the group started. Comments were thrown at one another with amazing speed, leaving those who did not know the group well, fascinated. <o:p></o:p>

Suddenly, Joe threw a question at Paul. <o:p></o:p>

“So, when is this wedding of yours going to be? Have you decided on the best man and maid of honor yet?” <o:p></o:p>

“Oh right.” Jackie, having caught the second question, turned to look at Annie in askance. “Since we are both going to be married on the same day, we can’t be each other’s maid-of-honor, of course. So, who’s going to be ours?” <o:p></o:p>

The latter laughed. <o:p></o:p>

“We never thought of that when we decided to get married on the same day, did we?” <o:p></o:p>

The two ladies pondered for a moment, before both heads popped up. <o:p></o:p>

“I can tell that you have the same idea as I do.” Jackie grinned. “Now, what are you thinking?” <o:p></o:p>

“The same as you. Let’s go against tradition and just totally go without maids-of-honor, shall we?” <o:p></o:p>

“That’s what I thought so too. Fine, since you are alright with it, that’s just what we will do.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul turned back to Joe, after witnessing this scene. <o:p></o:p>

“So, does that answer your question?” <o:p></o:p>

“Yes, it does, but what about the other questions? When’s the wedding, and who’s the best man?” <o:p></o:p>

“If there are no maid-of-honor, it will look weird if there’s a best man, won’t it, Joe?” <o:p></o:p>

Henry drawled, cutting into the conversation. <o:p></o:p>

“Damn, and I was so looking forward to being the best man too.” <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert slapped his knee in mock disappointment. <o:p></o:p>

That proved to be the wrong thing to say, as both Annie and Jackie got up from their comfortable positions and approached him, each placing an arm around his shoulder. <o:p></o:p>

“Uh oh, I don’t think I want to see this.” <o:p></o:p>

Paul muttered, though he was grinning all the while. <o:p></o:p>

“That will teach you to open your mouth at the wrong time. Haven’t you learn something yet about the two forces combined after all this time?” <o:p></o:p>

Henry could not resist jibing at Gilbert. <o:p></o:p>

“So, brother, you wanna be the best man?” <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, Ah Gil, you want to be the best man?” <o:p></o:p>

“I... I don’t think so now, I can feel a sense of threat in the air.” <o:p></o:p>

“Hey, what threats? We never threaten anyone, do we, Annie?” <o:p></o:p>

“Nope, never. So, bro, what do you say? Do you or do you not want to be the best man?” <o:p></o:p>

“And, what if I do, and what if I do not?” <o:p></o:p>

“If you do, we will just have to look for the maid-of-honor for you, don’t we, Jackie? Imagine the best man without a partner.” <o:p></o:p>

“I should never have opened my mouth.” Gilbert muttered. “Forget it, I don’t want to be a best man anymore, I don’t trust your tastes.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie nudged him. <o:p></o:p>

“What do you mean by not trusting our tastes?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie jabbed him in the side. <o:p></o:p>

“Do we have such poor tastes?” <o:p></o:p>

“Alright, I give up, I surrender. I don’t want to be your best man anymore, alright?” <o:p></o:p>

On so saying, Gilbert threw up his hands, and escaped, leaving the two ladies laughing after him. <o:p></o:p>

“What did we do?” <o:p></o:p>

Annie looked at Jackie, her eyes twinkling. <o:p></o:p>

“Nothing that I know of.” The latter replied, grinning. “Hey, I’m going for another drink, you want one too?” <o:p></o:p>

“Sure, hold on, let me go with you.” <o:p></o:p>

As they got up to go to the bar, they asked if anyone else wanted a refill. <o:p></o:p>

“Nope, not me, I have enough for tonight. Jackie, remember, no alcoholic drinks for you.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie let out an exasperated sigh. <o:p></o:p>

“Yeah, yeah, I know. Come on, Annie, let’s go.” <o:p></o:p>

She linked her arm through her best friend, and the two of them sauntered off to the bar together, unaware of the many pairs of eyes that followed them. Some with love shining out of them, some envious of the obvious closeness between the two of them, and some simply admiring the sight that the two of them presented. <o:p></o:p>

“So, how did the two of them become such close friends?” <o:p></o:p>

Anson inquired, taking a sip out of her drink. <o:p></o:p>

“Before Jackie went into a coma, they had been living as apartment mates for a long time, and they had known each other for a while. If you want to know the details, you will just have to ask either one of them.” <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert replied with a shrug.

bonniecwt

Just then, there was a shout from behind them, and all eyes swiveled to the source. Both Paul and Henry got to their feet instantly, having discovered where the source of trouble was, while their other friends too, followed. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com[img] /><o:p></o:p></font></font></b>


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<b><font color=" /><o:p></o:p></P>Paul, Henry, Gilbert, Joe and Peter hurried up to the bar, just in time to see Jackie calmly putting an empty glass down, while Annie was just splashing hers at the face of their offender. <o:p></o:p>

“What happened?” <o:p></o:p>

Paul asked. <o:p></o:p>

“Nothing serious.” Jackie replied. “Hey, Andy, give me another drink, will ya? I just wasted mine.” <o:p></o:p>

“Sure, no prob. Anything for you.” <o:p></o:p>

Andy grinned. <o:p></o:p>

Henry glared at Annie. <o:p></o:p>

“Will you at least tell us what had happened here?” <o:p></o:p>

“Nothing serious, as Jackie had just said.” <o:p></o:p>

“But, we all just saw you throwing your drink at the guy.” <o:p></o:p>

Peter looked around for the man, who, unfortunately, was gone by now. Fortunately for him, he knew when to retreat in the face of five other men. <o:p></o:p>

“These gals are really good.” Andy grinned, placing two new drinks in front of them. “These drinks are on the house.” <o:p></o:p>

“Now, what did they do?” <o:p></o:p>

Gilbert asked in exasperation, impatient with all the avoidance of the real issue. <o:p></o:p>

“Thanks, Andy. We really appreciate it.” <o:p></o:p>

On so speaking, the two ladies grabbed their drinks, and escaped the scene, sure of what was to follow, and wanting to avoid it. <o:p></o:p>

“Andy?” <o:p></o:p>

Joe asked. <o:p></o:p>

“Well, that guy was drunk. He came forward suddenly, and put his arms around Dr. Tong and Lawyer Jiang without any warning, trying to cozy up to them. In defense, they simply dumped their drinks on him, much too light of a punishment, if you ask me. Then you guys came along.” <o:p></o:p>

Annie and Jackie hurried to their seats, pretending that nothing unusual had happened, as they prepared for the outburst that was sure to come soon. <o:p></o:p>

True enough, their respective partners, and close friends were quick to jump to their defense. <o:p></o:p>

Henry let out a growl. <o:p></o:p>

“He’s lucky he got away quick. If I ever get my hands on that guy....” <o:p></o:p>

“If you want, we can still go out and look for him.” <o:p></o:p>

Peter suggested. <o:p></o:p>

That suggestion earned an alarm look from both ladies as they jumped to their feet again, hurrying to their side. <o:p></o:p>

“Paul...” <o:p></o:p>

“Henry...” <o:p></o:p>

“There’s no harm done. So, stop making such a big fuss out of it.” Jackie said, glaring at Peter. “And, stop making such suggestions. We are fine, so will you guys stop making such a big fuss?” <o:p></o:p>

“That’s why we want to settle things by ourselves. You guys are creating a scene. Look at how everyone is staring at us already!” <o:p></o:p>

Annie dragged Henry back to their table, with Jackie doing the same to Paul. Left with no other options, the other guys too followed them back to their seats. <o:p></o:p>

“What happened?” <o:p></o:p>

Helen asked Joe anxiously. <o:p></o:p>

“Ask the two of them. They were the one who got into trouble, but refused to let us do anything.” <o:p></o:p>

“It’s not a big deal. We came out unharmed.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie retorted, before repeating what had happened to the others who had been waiting anxiously. At the end of the recitation, Annie cut in. <o:p></o:p>

“And, we are grateful of you guys being so defensive of us, we really appreciate it. Don’t we, Jackie?” <o:p></o:p>

“Yep, we are. Thank you!” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie grinned, leaning in to kiss Paul, hoping to kiss the scowl off his face. Just as she expected, it worked. Paul simply squeezed her in return, but at least, the scowl had disappeared. She got up to give each of her friends a hug, with Annie doing the same. That proved to be the right thing to do, as the mood brightened considerably. <o:p></o:p>

bonniecwt

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<b><font color=" /><o:p></o:p></P>“Why don’t we call it a day? You guys still have to work tomorrow.” <o:p></o:p>

“Are you tired already? Sorry, I forgot that this is your first night out, you shouldn’t have stayed out so long.” <o:p></o:p>

“Paul, I’m fine, stop worrying. I just did not want to be the cause of you all late for work tomorrow.” Jackie grinned, trying to soften her tone. “Send me home?” <o:p></o:p>

“Of course.” <o:p></o:p>

“Paul, what about me? My car is still in the garage, remember?” <o:p></o:p>

Tracy asked, having overheard their conversation. She came up beside Paul, linking her arm through his. Uncomfortable, Paul pulled away from her, and walked quickly to Jackie’s side, placing his arm around her. <o:p></o:p>

“Uhh...” <o:p></o:p>

The latter, confident of Paul’s love and loyalty for her, was amused at the scene. <o:p></o:p>

“Well, we can give you a lift if you like?” <o:p></o:p>

Left with no other choice, Tracy agreed. <o:p></o:p>

“Annie, I will see you later. Paul is sending me home.” <o:p></o:p>

Annie nodded. <o:p></o:p>

“Sure.” <o:p></o:p>

Jackie turned to the others and thanked them all for attending the ‘party’. Soon, everyone bade their farewells, as each went their own way. Jackie and Paul walked out of the pub, hand in hand, with Tracy following them, sullenly. <o:p></o:p>