Part 1

Before this story starts, I'd like to warn readers that, yes, there is a bit of hardcore swearing

in this. Maybe not in Part one but in the other parts. I don't want to corrupt any young

minds yet. So 13 + is a bit too young and 15 + is a bit too old so it's 14 +. Please pick out any

grammar, punctuation or spelling mistakes. Enjoy and criticise. If I'm not allowed then I'll

just censor the swearing. There are also a few Vietnamese terms that I added. They're not

anything that big. I added them because I wanted to relate to the story. Make it a bit easier

for me to write. Some of these are previous experiences. I'm trying to make this as realistic

as possible - not like the fake storylines where the heroine is stupid and does things that no

one would ever do in real life.

***

"Fu-- dge", I muttered, wincing. I accidently kicked the step under the doorway. Here I was

trying to make a good impression and I haven’t even set foot in the door and I've already

made a fool of myself. At least I didn’t curse in front of these people. Mum yanked on my

arm and made me say hello - very formally. Whoever invented the formal way to say hello

must have been really talkative because it's so long and pointless.

I was here for my arranged meeting with a guy I have never met in my life - though my mum

insists I met him when I was 3. Yeah, like I'd remember some kid when I was 3. His mum,

like mine was Viet. I have to call her Auntie even though she isn't blood-related at all.

Although they insist it isn’t an arranged marriage or anything I have to meet him. What if

he's fat? Or ugly even? I cracked a smile and struggled not to laugh at the thought.

I followed my mum and "Auntie" down the hallway. There was a comfy looking sofa sitting

in the lounge room.

"Sit, sit. Ngồiđi", Auntie, ushered, rushing off to get something.

I plopped down lazily and very un lady-like. My floral dress flew up and slowly parachuted

down onto my knees. I sank into what seemed to be a whole heap of pillows. I sat up to see

my mum glaring at me. She launched instantly into her lecture of respecting people's homes

and how I'm a big girl now and to act less childishly. I rolled my eyes. Seriously mum, do you

think I want to be here? I'd rather be somewhere else. Auntie came back in with a plate of

cookies, offering it to us. I shook my head but she dropped one in my lap anyways. I don't

1

know why people offer food and insist you take one. She set down the plate and talked to

my mum in Vietnamese. I tuned out and bit into the cookie. It was alright, sweet tasting and

plain but alright.

I looked around curiously, wondering where “he" was. Not that I wanted to see him. But still

curious. As if she read my mind, Auntie said, "He'll be here in a bit".

I pressed my lips together and looked bored, as if I couldn't care less. I started tapping my

fingers on my knees and growled quietly. I have BETTER things to do than be here. I hate

waiting. Auntie turned on the TV in an attempt to entertain me. It was 3pm on a Saturday.

There is nothing on TV that'll interest me. Playschool. Oh joy. I fought with myself not to

make a sarcastic comment and storm out of the room. If only I had brought my earphones.

What I assumed was his little brother walked by in front of the TV and sat down clapping

happily. I raised my eyebrows but said nothing. Very little kids these days watch TV, let

alone TV shows that are made for them. When the ending theme of Playschool finally

played I sighed and sat up. We've been here almost half an hour now and a "bit" clearly

hasn't come yet.

Sensing my distress, Auntie stood up and said, "He's probably taking a little longer because

he's with his friends".

My mum said, "Maybe we should come back another time?"

"Yes, yes, please do". Are you freaking serious? I sat here for half an hour for NOTHING?

I stomped to the door not saying goodbye and not caring if my mum would scold me later

on for being so rude. It was her fault for bringing me here. I struggled with the foreign locks,

not knowing which way to turn.

"It's to the left".

I turned it left and it clicked open. I ignored the fact that it was a guy's voice that had said

that. I didn’t look at the house till my mum came out and I sat in the car. A curtain near the

doorway window dropped closed. I looked away and out onto the streets as mum drove us

home. She didn’t launch into a lecture. That was a first.

The visit was never spoken of. The next few days dragged on. It was Saturday again. One

week after the visit. As I predicted, we were going back to Auntie's house to meet "him". I

knocked on the door - I don’t like doorbells. It opened. Damn, he's definitely not fat - or

ugly. Unreal more like. A green streak in his hair! I almost drooled. He raised an eyebrow

and smiled slightly. I looked down quickly and waited for my mum to walk in. I was glad I

had worn black clothing this time. Auntie walked to the doorway wiping her hands with a

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towel. "Hello!” she said, smiling happily, "Come in, come in and sit!". I was not saying hello

formally in front of him or to him for that matter. I stuck to my mum as we walked towards

the lounge room. My mum and Auntie went into the kitchen and talked. Wait, what? Next

thing I know I'm pushed into the lounge room by Green Streak.

My mouth dropped open and closed quickly when I saw a replica of him lay on the sofa. If

they weren't wearing different clothes and that one had his hand on my back, I would have

sworn he had teleportation powers. Twins maybe? He sat up and moved to the edge of the

sofa. Green streak sat down on the other corner. Was there any way you could sit down

with dignity between two hot guys on a sofa? If there was I probably didn’t use it. I sat down

slowly, trying not to make the cushions move. I tensed up and stared at the blank, dark

screen of the TV. I twitched and eventually started tapping my foot on the ground. I slowly

settled into the back of the chair and tried to remain invisible. Dammit why isn't anyone

talking - or doing something? Eventually my finger started tapping on my knees.

Part 2

"Hi", Non-streak said.

I bit my lip and half smiled at him. God, I can’t even look at him.

"I'm Jason. And you are?"

"Poppy", I answered, with a slight nod. I wanted to know what green streak's name was but

I didn’t want to ask.

Green streak snorted and walked out of the room. I glanced quickly at his back and at the TV

again. Dammit, now I'll be forced to talk to this guy. Alone. Green streak caught my interest

more than Jason. I don’t know why, maybe it was the fact that I already made up a name for

him and that he was so mysterious and different.

"That's my brother, Daniel. If you were wondering", Jason said. I saw his smile in the TV's

reflection. Daniel, it suits him yet it doesn’t. It's so un Asian, but I shouldn't be talking since

my name isn’t very Asian either.

"Are you … twins?" I asked.

"Nope", Daniel had walked back in the room. He tossed a wad of gum towards his brother

and dropped one in my lap.

"Daniel's one year younger than me", Jason explained, chewing on his gum.

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I slowly opened the gum. It was spearmint flavoured. I chewed slowly on it, making as little

movements with my mouth as possible.

I was now wondering, while watching the two guys, which one it was that my mum insisted

that I should meet. We sat silently chewing. Great more silence. This is almost as bad as the

last time I was here. The tempt to walk around and explore the house overcame me. I knew

it was rude to do so but still I was bored and practically trapped. My gum lost its flavour and

I needed to spit it out. I straightened up and was about to stand up in search of a bin when

Daniel stood up and held his hand out in front of me.

"Spit into my hand", he said. Is he serious? Who the hell…? I opened my mouth to say

something and he pulled his hand back quickly.

"I was joking! What the hell! Were you seriously about to spit?”

"I wasn't-!" I broke off as he laughed and walked out, amused at his little joke. That was so

not funny!

Jason smiled and said nothing as he handed me a tissue. I spat my gum into the tissue and

scrunched it up into a little ball.

"Next time I will spit into your stupid hands and see how funny the situation is", I muttered.

Jason chuckled softly.

"Where's my mum?" I asked Jason. He was the only one who seemed to actually be okay to

talk to.

"I think she's out back with my mum", he answered. I stood up, then realised I had no idea

where the "back" was. I assumed that it was the door that seemed to be on the opposite of

the front door. I walked toward the door.

"Don't", I whirled around, quickly, feeling as if I'd been caught in red-handed.

Daniel was staring curiously. I twitched, hating how he kept staring. I ignored him and

reached for the doorhandle anyways. Screw it. You can't tell me what to do even if it’s your

house. Yet I couldn't help feeling that I was doing something wrong - something out of

instinct.

"You'll regret it", it was Jason this time. What the hell is up with these two? I bit my lip and

yanked the door open anyways. It was a normal enough backyard. Slightly overgrown grass,

a few small plants. Pots of random flowers of different colours. And no mum or Auntie.

"Where..?" I murmured to myself. Where the hell is my mum? She wouldn’t just ditch me

like this. Would she?

4

"They're not here anymore", Jason replied, sensing my thoughts.

I turned around and glared at him, "Why not?"

"Because they've done their duty", Daniel answered, dryly.

"What! Wait- what? Duty? You just said-". This was all too fast and these two guys speaking

in riddles wasn't helping one bit.

"Their duty", Daniel nodded, not giving anymore than that.

"What duty?" I was getting sick of this.

"It's - I can't tell you yet", Jason rubbed his forehead.

"Why not?" I demanded. I don’t care if I sound like a little kid. I want straight answers.

"Because", Daniel drawled, " you aren't ready yet - at least not mature enough". He

smirked.

I resisted the urge to smack him across the face. Dammit. Now what? I can’t leave either

way with or without my mum. I can't leave her wherever she is and I can't get home without

her driving me either.

"So", Jason said, slowly and cautiously, "We're meant to look after you till you are of age".

Over my dead body.

"You can’t make me stay. That's just kidnap", I turned and headed towards the house. None

made an attempt to stop me.

What could I do? Call the police? And say what? "Hi officer, sorry to disturb you but my

mum's gone missing and these guys are attempting to kidnap me". Ha yeah right. I could call

my house. I pulled out my phone. No reception. I searched around. The house didn’t seem

to have a phone in sight. I glanced out the window every few seconds wondering if those

two were weird enough to actually stay outside. The car! Of course. Why hadn’t I thought of

that yet? I've got my license and as long as the police don’t pull me over I should be fine.

Right? I kept that thought in my head as I quickly unlatched the front door. Really. Are all

these locks necessary? There had to be about six of them.

Part 3

I walked out. First thing I saw was that there was no car. In fact, there were no cars - at all.

There were no other people walking around. Funny. How come I didn't notice this before?

5

Maybe because I had my head stuck into texting my friends. Texting! There was reception

out here! I pulled out my phone and tapped impatiently on the messaging icon. Help me!

Can you get someone to pick me u- I was cut off mid-sentence.

In a sharp, quick motion Jason pulled the phone out of my hands and threw it into the house

across the street. My mouth dropped open and I took a step forward, ready to fly after my

precious phone. Jason grabbed my wrist, softly but firmly. I didn’t know that could be

possible. I pulled and tried to twist away but knew it was useless either way. My phone,

even if I could somehow retrieve it, would probably be broken. My heart dropped to my

feet. I was trapped. Well on the plus side at least they're good looking. No! They're ugly

bastards who'll probably torture you and have your mum and Auntie trapped somewhere!

But the green streak… NO! I fought with thoughts. Confused and having completely given up

on everything, I dropped to my knees. He let go of my wrist.

"Just kill me now. Get it over and done with", I muttered. I had no more dignity left. I'd

probably run naked if they asked me to. What the hell are you thinking? You can’t give up

now! Fuck it. I can’t do anything about it. Once again my thoughts contradicted themselves.

"Why would I want to kill you?" Jason cocked his head to the side, seeming amused.

"I'd gladly kill you. But I couldn't possibly kill a child", Daniel said, in his posh almighty voice.

I almost expected him to check his nails.

"A child? You can't possibly that much older than I am", I retorted.

"Oh? How old do I look to you then? 16? 17?" he smirked, in that refined way.

I kept my mouth shut and simply glared at him. Next time I'm alone remind me make a

voodoo doll of him and sit on it. I never knew someone could be so annoying.

Jason pulled me up to my feet. I couldn't be bothered walking anymore. I decided since

they’re making me stay I might as well take advantage of it. I made my legs jelly-like and

dead weight. Jason, surprised at the sudden weight, slipped and let go of me. I fell to the

ground. So much for my plan.

"Someone clearly needs to lose some weight", Daniel snickered. I sucked in a breath and

hissed like a cat. Argh! Fucking hell! If there were no fucking laws, that guy would be fucking

dead by now. The anger on my face was probably really obvious because he smirked and

said, "Oh look, your face changed, oh wait. It's always been that ugly".

6

"Argh!" I growled, ready to launch myself at him, "You fuck-"

"Tsk tsk", Daniel tsked, "Naughty girl. Didn't anyone ever teach you manners?"

"Please don’t tease her", Jason said, lifting me up easily off my feet.

"Hey. Wait a minute!", I protested.

He paused and counted slowly, "One, two, three…"

I groaned and almost face palmed, " I didn't mean literally". Oh my God, are these guys like

not normal or something?

Part 4

He stopped counting and waited for me to continue. Well since he was in a listening mood…

"Could you put me down please?" he did as I asked him to, "Thank you".

Daniel rolled his eyes and trailed inside. I considered running away from the house. But

what could I do? I barely paid attention to where we were going. The trip took over an hour

to get there. Walking back home would take… days? Considering my sense of direction it'd

probably take weeks before I get anywhere. Maybe I could ask the neighbours. I looked

around trying to see if there were any houses that seemed to have people in them. Most

had "For Sale" signs on them. Well at least I know this place doesn’t sell very well.

Jason waited for me at the door, watching me. I wondered if he could chase me if I ran. I

tested this theory. I ran down the street like the world was crashing down. I didn't want to

look back because that would just slow me down and possibly make me lose my balance

and fall. Then I heard the worse sound in the world. Ding. Fucking hell. He has a bike. I ran

harder and faster but my breath was getting smaller and smaller. I wasn't exactly the fittest

person in the world. The bicycle bell sounded closer. Why the hell is he ringing the freaking

bell? He was a few metres behind me and speeding up. I should really give up. My legs were

starting to cramp up. He swerved right in front of me. It was a bike after all. Except that it

was Daniel riding it, not Jason. I stopped, bending over to catch my breath.

"Fuck", I muttered.

He blocked my way, keeping the bike sideways and moving it back and forth. I couldn't go

anywhere. Now what?

"Come on, little girl, move along now", he said, poshly, as if herding sheep into a paddock.

I almost mooed at him but that would only bring him more satisfaction and it would make

me seem like the biggest retard. I turned around and practically crawled back. I had ran

7

about 5 blocks away from the house. I could barely see it in the distance.

"When I said move along, I didn't mean dawdle", he said, annoyance tinging his voice.

I raised my eyebrows and considered crawling. But then I'd be wrecking my favourite jeans

and it didn't look like I would be going shopping anytime soon. I walked at a normal pace

along the sidewalk and him riding slowly on the empty, open road. He looked ridiculous on a

bike. It was so girly, if he was on a motorbike however. I drooled a little inside at the

thought.

"So, where is this place exactly?" I asked, casually.

"Here", he replied.

I stifled an angry sound before repeating myself, "I meant, where is here? Like the name of

the town".

He shrugged and kept pedalling. It was just unfair how I had just ran so much and now I had

to walk all the way back while he just lazily rides on his bike.

"How can you not know?" I exclaimed.

"Cos I don’t sheesh. I only moved here a few weeks ago. Don’t you think I want to know

where here is?" he muttered, darkly.

I processed this in my head. I wondered if he tried to leave as well. I saw the house and

Jason standing outside near the mailbox. I saw the worried expression on his face and

decided not to glare at him.

"Why am I here?" I cried, "I don’t want to be here! I just want to be at home! With my

family, with my friends, with civilisation!"

Daniel rang the bike bell before propping it up against the tree, chaining it. It added the

amusingly annoying effect to my words.

"You're here cos you're here. Don’t question it", Daniel replied.

"You can have whatever you like. I can buy it for you", Jason said, reassuringly. Like that

would make me stay.

I raised my eyebrows and jokingly said," I want a Lamborghini".

"Okay, what model and colour?" Jason said, pulling out a phone.

My eyes widened and I gasped, "Are you serious? Oh my god!"

"What made you think I was lying?" Jason asked, genuinely curious.

"Uh, maybe the fact that you all but agreed to buy me a Lamborghini. I mean hello who

does that? For a complete stranger as well. And also how can you even afford it?" I

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shuddered, unconsciously, with excitement.

He smirked and pulled out a small silver card. "Credit card", he replied.

"You can’t buy a Lamborghini with a credit card!", I practically yelled at him, "There are

limits!"

He shrugged and said, "Do you want the car or not?"

Well duh. Who wouldn't. I mean free car much. Free car that I can ride out of here with. I

smiled and said, "Course, are you serious?"

Part 5

Jason laughed and started tapping away on his phone. Wow. Am I seriously gonna get a

Lamborghini? Oh my gosh!

A car rumbled in the distance. I spun around to see it. At last! Someone is here. I squinted

and saw one of the ugliest, oldest cars ever. I opened my mouth and stared at the dead and

dying car. I raised my eyebrows.

"Are you serious?" I muttered. Auntie's grinning face poked out as she drove nearer. I

narrowed my eyes and turned to Jason, "I thought they had finished their duty?"

Daniel snorted and laughed quickly. Jason grinned, " I can't believe you actually believed

us!"

"So… I'm not going to get my Lamborghini?" I asked, trailing off in a tiny voice.

Daniel slapped his knee and laughed even harder. Auntie pulled into the driveway and

climbed out. "What's so funny?" she asked, pulling out bags of groceries.

I clenched my fists and breathed In angrily. I was going to cry. No Lamborghini? I bit my lip

and stomped towards the bike that Daniel had been riding. It was chained. Dammit! I kicked

the stupid chains, pulling at the bike even though I knew it was useless. "Fucking hell", I

muttered.

Auntie called for Jason and Daniel to bring the bags inside. She walked up to where I was

still pulling at the chains.

"Còn, có sao không?"she asked, worried. No. I am most definitely NOT okay.

"Yeah", I sighed, "Where's my mum?"

"She didn’t tell you?" Auntie asked, concerned. I shook my head. "I'm looking after you till

9

you reach 18".

What? Is that even legal? NoNoNoNoNO!

"Why would she do that, without telling me first?" I exclaimed, mainly to myself.

"I don’t know why she didn't tell you first but I know why she left you here", Auntie said

with a small smile.

"Why?"

"Did she ever tell you that you had to meet someone?"

"Yeah…"

"Well now that you've met them, you need to get to know them".

I looked at her. "Who-"

"Uh!" she raised her hand to stop me, "You'll know".

"I won’t know!" I whined, as she stood up walked toward the house.

"Do you want to see where you're sleeping?" she asked, turning around with a smile.

A bed I hope. "Sure", I muttered, following her.

***

< Daniel's POV (Point of View) >

Why the hell is this girl here? I unloaded the groceries into the cupboard and fridge. I don't

know why my mum made us come here when clearly Jason's the one to meet her. I mean

he's 19. Fucking hell he's old enough to live by himself by now. Urgh, the new girl. What the

hell is with her attitude and complaining and whinging.

"What are we having for dinner tonight?" Jason called, his head in the fridge.

"I dunno, sheesh, ask Mum"

"I was just asking", he frowned, pulling his head out, "So… what do you think of -well you

know"

"No, I don’t know", I said, sarcastically, "Amuse me".

10

"You're just like Dad", he sighed.

I stiffened, "Is that a bad thing?"

"No! Of course not! It's just… it was the first thing I thought of… never mind. I meant Poppy,

you know the one who’s going to be living with us?"

"Why should I care. You're the one who's gonna get her in the end so why should I bother?"

I ripped the bag of chips open. Food was hard to get in this area but I gulped it down either

way.

"You don't know that. I mean for all we know she could like … well, your … type … of …

style?" his face scrunched up a bit as he squeezed out the last few words.

"Riiight", I rolled up the packet of chips and tossed it over to Jason, "But seriously, you can

have her. Can’t stand a whinger"

"A what?"

"Speak of the devil", I muttered. Poppy stood in the doorway, arms folded on her chest

glaring at me.

"Come along now", Auntie tugged on her, presumably taking her to her new room.

She made a sound of protest but came along anyways.

Jason snickered, "Nice move". I stuck my tongue out at him. Immature, but effective.

I moved the last cans into the cupboard. "I wish...", Jason trailed off and sighed.

I ignored him. No need to hear his hopes and dreams. It was depressing enough living in a

new house with an annoying girl.

***

Part 6

I followed her up the stairs, passing two small bedrooms. Jason and Daniel's rooms I

assumed. They couldn't look anymore different. One had a light coloured theme, white bed

sheets and light wood drawers. That must be obviously Jason's room. The other couldn't be

anymore like a typical teenage boy's room. Messy dark blue bed sheets and clothes lying

everywhere. Dark brown wooden dresser. Black t-shirts and jeans lay on the bed. I doubt it

could be anyone else's room. My room was next to Auntie's. Hers a lilac theme. Light purple

bedding and curtains.

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I can't say much about my room but I know that if I could've chosen another, I would've. It

was empty. Not furniture, no curtains, nothing. Not even a bed.

"Um, how am I meant to sleep?" I asked, trying really hard to be rude.

"I know it's empty right now but we'll fix it up real soon. Just get my boys to carry in the

furniture later on", Auntie waved, dismissively and walked in. She motioned for me to

follow. I winced as the carpet made weird, squelchy sounds. I wondered if it was wet. There

was a walk in bathroom, just for me. Yay, I thought, dryly.

"If they can’t bring the furniture today, I have sleeping bags that you could sleep in or the

couch would - "

"It's okay, sleeping bag will be fine", I reassured her.

"No, no, I'll get Jason… no Daniel, to give up his bed for you", she insisted.

Yep, that'll make us the best of friends later on. "Uh, no its okay. Really. They'll hate me for

it".

"No. You're a guest here. Daniel will give up his room for now", she said, firmly, walking

briskly out of the room and thudding down the stairs.

"Wha- wait!" I ran after her.

"Daniel, Jason. Carry the bed over to her room or one of you is giving up their beds", she

said, sharply.

"What?" Daniel sat up on the sofa, "Hang on. Why do we have to do it? It's her bed".

"Then consider sleeping elsewhere tonight, Daniel", Auntie went up the stairs again,

probably to clean up his room.

He glared at me. "Hey, this isn't my fault. I don’t want to be here. In case you haven’t

noticed", I folded my arms with dignity.

He stood up and went upstairs. I followed, wanting to enjoy the satisfaction of watching him

suffer.

I widened my eyes and raced to help Auntie. "Oh my god! Drop the bed! I'll do it!" I grabbed

the bedpost and lifted the weight off her.

"Someone has to do it sometime. I just wanted to get the job done quicker", she said, with a

meaningful look at Daniel.

Daniel turned and called downstairs, "Jason! Get your ass up here and help me". The sound

12

of footsteps pattered up the stairs and Jason's worried face appeared.

Both guys picked up each end of the bed and heaved it into my room. The show of

testosterone and machoness in both guys was almost amusing as it was mouth watering.

Jason, with his skinnier but taller frame, had small, but visible muscles showing under his

rolled up sleeve. Somehow it looked like he was the stronger out of the two. Daniel, not

saying that he's fat or anything, was slightly shorter had better developed muscles. He

definitely worked out. Yet he seemed to have trouble with the bed. His face scrunched up, a

contrast to Jason's calm exterior. Wow, Bring out the popcorn. I followed them into my

room, thinking dramatically about where I'd want it.

"Hmm…", I looked around, "I like the window… but I also like the door"

"What the hell?" Daniel grunted, " They're like opposite each other!"

"Maybe the window?" They moved over to the window dropping it down with relief. "Wait.

I don’t like that angle", I giggled.

"If you don't like that angle then you should move it yourself", Daniel growled.

"Now, now. It's okay. I'll do it", Jason turned the bed around in a clockwise direction. I

almost said I wanted it back the way it was before but kept my mouth shut because it

wasn't fair on Jason to have to do all the work.

Part 7

Daniel left the room, Jason followed closely behind. The room now had a bed. Yay. In spite

of myself I smiled. Now all I need is a pillow and home then I'll be happy. Auntie came

bustling in with bed sheets and a pillow. She dropped them onto the bed and ran out to

return with blankets. I stared at the combination of colours. Dark blue pillow case, probably

one of Daniels. I wrinkled my nose in disgust. Lilac bed sheets and white blankets. One from

each person. "I hope they've been washed", I muttered. I went to set out my new bed. I

poked at the bed and lay my head on the pillow in a standing position. I stood up and

sighed. It's not the same as my bed at home. I flopped onto the bed and lay facedown into

the pillow. Hopefully I'd just suffocate and die.

"Oy, it's dinnertime", I looked up and saw Daniel in the doorway and groaned. What time is

it?

"I'm not hungry", I replied, dropping my face back into the pillow. My stomach growled

slightly but I ignored it.

"Whatever".

Sounds coming from the kitchen made me think of home and the racket my mum made in

13

the kitchen whenever she cooked. A few minutes passed and sure enough just like every

concerned Asian parent, Auntie came up with a bowl of food. There's no such thing as I'm

not hungry, you tell them that and they'll threaten to starve you for a week and see how

"not hungry" you'll be. Think of the kids in Africa. The thought caused me to smile a bit. I

missed home. She sat down on the bed and shook me slightly. I rolled over and blinked at

her. My vision was a little fuzzy from the pressure against the pillow.

"Come on, con, eat", she switched back and forth between Vietnamese and English, clearly

uncomfortable with calling me anything other than con.

I sighed and sat up. I didn't feel like eating but I was hungry. I brushed the hair out of my

face and looked at the bowl. Fair enough, it was rice, chicken breast and beans. She handed

me a pair of chopsticks. I was glad that my mum had made me learn to use chopsticks. I

forced the food down, trying not to spill anything onto the bed. She watched me as I ate.

After a few mouthfuls I paused, "Aren't you going to eat?"

"I already finished", she replied, smiling.

As I finished off the last few bits of rice, I could hear the sound of plates clashing against

each other and the TV being switched on. The wave of longing to watch TV coursed through

me. I climbed out of the bed and slowly walked out the door, turning to see if Auntie was

coming. She followed me downstairs and took the bowl out of my hands and went to the

kitchen where Jason was washing the dishes. Yes washing. A guy actually doing chores. It

was beyond me how he didn’t complain. I turned towards the living room. Daniel had

sprawled out all over the sofa, pillows knocked onto the floor. He was watching some movie

with subtitles. I couldn't stand around and do nothing but I didn't want to help clean either. I

silently moved into the living room and sat quietly on the floor, carefully avoiding Daniel's

line of vision. From what I could tell it was some martial arts movie. I frowned at the special

effects. Some of those moves are so fake. Auntie and Jason finished with the dishes and

came into the living room. Auntie frowned but said nothing and went upstairs. Jason

nudged Daniel over with his knee, "Move over, man".

Daniel groaned but shifted over, sitting up. I bit my lip to stop from laughing. His hair was

sticking up where he was lying on, the green streak glistening. I couldn’t help smirking a bit

though.

"Come sit by me", Jason said to me, patting his left side. The side that was away from

Daniel.

I shook my head but he stood up and insisted. Sighing in defeat I stood and walked over.

14

"Move", Daniel moved his head side to side, trying to see the TV.

I rolled my eyes and sat down where Jason had patted. A scene came on when the hero

kisses his beloved before going out to fight the enemy. I shifted uncomfortably. Daniel

snorted, "Get on with it".

Heat crossed my face, as I smiled a little. It was so typical guy behaviour. The hero ended up

winning and the cliché ending where the hero gets to be awarded with another big kiss

before the credits rolled. I clapped a little then stopped, remembering that I was in

someone else's house.

"It's 11:30! Go to bed!" Auntie's voice carried from upstairs. I looked at the clock. It was

11:19pm. I smiled a bit, remembering how my mum was the same way.

I waited till Daniel and Jason darted up the stairs before slowly making my way up. I could

hear water turning on as they both got ready for bed. My eyes widened when I realised I

had no clothes on me other than the ones I was wearing. I can’t wear the same clothes

everyday cos then I'd stink but if I do wash them, what the hell am I meant to wear for the

time being? Walking into my new room I saw something that made everything worse. An

oversized black T-shirt and black tracksuit pants. Oversized meaning guy sized. And what

other guys are there in this house? Why is she doing this to me? I didn’t want to sniff them

to check if they were clean in fear that they might smell like sweat. I picked them up and

compared them on me. The shirt was about two or three sizes to big for me and the pants

were about my size. I'm so fat!

I went into my private little bathroom and smiled. This was different. I filled up the bathtub

and relaxed into it. Closing my eyes I smelt the steam in the air. Ah, this is just beautiful.

"Con?" Auntie's voice snapped me out of my thoughts.

"I'm in the bath", I called out. I was glad I had locked the door. I couldn't even imagine what

I would do if she came in here.

"Did you see the clothes I left on the bed?"

"Yeah"

"Okay. Just checking. Sleep well, con"

"You too", I slid out of the bath. If I stayed any longer I would've never came out.

Weirdly enough the clothes fit me almost perfectly. Though the pants where a little baggy

and long. I wrinkled my nose, I was almost 100% sure that these were Daniel's clothes. I

mean I couldn’t see Jason in anything darker than blue. I need to go shopping. I brushed my

15

teeth - a new toothbrush, thank goodness - and went to bed. I tossed and turned, rolling

from side to side. Everything about the bed was wrong. It wasn't soft, but it was hard. It was

lumpy and sank in random places. The pillow was way too soft, my head sank into it. Finally

after all the night sounds died down and tiredness took over I slept.

Part 8

Sun blinded my eyes the next morning. I groaned. I need to put curtains up. I rolled to the

other side. I heard the plates banging against each other and sounds of people talking. I sat

up quickly. What time is it? My hands went instinctively for my phone. But then I

remembered. Oh yeah. Jason chucked it into some person's house. The only way to know

was to go downstairs. I washed my face and got ready. I looked around for a hairbrush but

there was none. Oh well. Advantages of having straight hair that'll never tangle. I patted my

hair down and headed for the stairs. I paused, remembering my surroundings. I retreated to

my room again. I'm in a house, with two hot guys. I'm not going down there with his

clothes! There wasn't much in my room. Just a bed. And a newly placed dresser. I rushed

towards it, flinging the drawers open. Oh my god. "Clothes!" I squealed, happily, then shut

up quickly.

"Con? Are you awake?" Auntie called.

"Yeah. I'll be down in a sec"

"There's clothes in the dresser if you -"

"Yeah I just saw them", I laughed. I pulled at the clothes. There were dresses among dresses

among dresses. Isn't there anything normal that I could wear? Skirts and frilly blouses. I

scoffed and pulled on one of the less frilly white tops and red poke-a-dot skirt. I stood in

front of the full length mirror next to the dresser. I look like Minnie Mouse. I pulled out the

white knee high socks that I spotted before and put them on. Yay, now I look like a cartoon

character. I closed the drawers and looked in the mirror one last time. I bit my lip and slowly

walked downstairs.

"Lo and behold she appears", I winced at Daniel's sarcastic tone. It took all my willpower to

not stick up a certain finger.

"You look nice", Jason beamed. I half-smiled.

"Now all she needs is a mask", Daniel smirked. I was about to tell him where he could shove

that mask when Auntie appeared.

16

"Oh, you didn't wear a dress", she sounded disappointed.

"Um, was I meant to?"

"Oh, please no! Save me the day she ever wears a dress", Daniel dramatically held his hand

to his forehead.

Auntie pressed her lips together and ignored Daniel, "No, no, I just though you'd like them.

What would you like for breakfast?"

"Um, anything would be okay - Just not well you know, not anything", I trailed off.

"Toast? Would honey toast be okay?"

"Sure", I smiled.

I sat down at the table, conscious of them watching me. Auntie put a plate of three slices of

toast in front of me.

"There's milk in the fridge if you want any just heat it up".

I nodded and ate. I finished and started clearing up.

Jason waited patiently as I finished off my glass of milk. I washed my hands and mouth and

turned around, "You can, like, do other things you know". I didn't mean to sound rude but it

kinda came out that way, "Not being rude of course!" I held up my hands.

He smiled, "I can do other things, but I choose not to". It was amazing how both guys could

look so alike. The only obvious differences are the colour of the clothes they wear and

Daniel's green streak. Other than that they were almost identical.

"Come with me", he reached for my hand but then shyly pulled back.

"I…", I stopped, "Never mind"

I followed him out the back door. I bit my lip and looked around. It was so dead. Not a single

living plant. Or at least I thought not. Jason beckoned me towards the back gate. Behind it I

could see a small forest. I quickly followed. Why am I trusting a complete stranger? For all I

know he could kill me and bury me in this dense forest and no one would ever know. I

pushed that thought out of my head as I looked around. I closed my eyes and took in a deep

breath. I could smell the nature, the wet dew and leafs. I opened my eyes and chased after

him. I could hear the sound of rushing water as we walked. We reached a small stream. I

was disappointed. I was hoping for a waterfall.

"I like to come out here sometimes and just, well, be alone for a bit", he explained, he

17

seemed a bit shy, unsure of himself.

I smiled, a little twitch to the side of my mouth, "It's nice. I can see why you would come

here"

"Not just that. I also, um, take photos while I'm out here", he reached into his pocket and a

small digital camera.

He lifted it up and I instinctively looked away.

"Aw, come on", he teased, "Just one little picture"

"There's other things to take pictures of", I gestured around me, careful not to look at the

camera directly, "Other pretty things"

"Those are just pretty, not beautiful", he touched my hand.

I pulled my hand back quickly. I stared at him wide-eyed, "What?"

He blushed, "Please, just one picture. Y-you don't even have to look at the camera then"

"Where do you want me?" I hoped my cheeks would appear rosy not deep red when the

picture is taken.

"Just by the water - careful not to fall in", he clicked through the settings on the camera.

I sat down on a small rock and looked into the water.

"Wait. I can't see your face", he said, alarmed.

"You just said I didn’t have to look at the camera"

"I want at least part of your face in it"

I bit my lip and turned to stare at the camera fully.

"Smile?" he said, laughing a little shakily.

I stood up, "I can’t do this. I'm really bad at posed pictures"

The camera flashed. I gasped, "What!" I ran to him, leaning up to see the picture.

"Nope", he grinned, holding the camera up above his head.

"No fair!" I yanked on his arm, trying to pull it down, "Delete it!"

"No", he frowned, "I never delete photos. No matter how bad or embarrassing"

I put on my best puppy dog eyes, and almost got blinded when he flashed it again.

18

"Oh my god!" I blinked, angrily, "You did not just take another picture"

"Actually, I think I just did", he grinned. And I thought Daniel was annoying.

"Hey, it was a cute picture", he protested as I smacked his arm.

"Delete every picture you took of me", I gritted my teeth, "I could sue you!"

He grabbed my arm and pulled me close, "So sue me then". He slid the camera back into his

pocket. I eyed it and reached out as he grabbed my other arm. How the hell did he see my

hand without looking? He looked back up at the same time I did. That solves it. He released

me, putting one hand on his pocket.

I bit my lip and didn't answer him. We stood in silence for a few seconds before he broke it,

"Well we should be going back now"

"Yeah", I rubbed my wrists where he grabbed them. They didn't hurt but they still tingled.

"I'm sorry, did I hurt you?" he said, alarmed.

"No! I - it just feels weird, a bit tingly that's all", I exhaled.

He grabbed my hand and tugged me as we ran along the forest. I smiled and looked around

feeling at peace. When we reached the gate he let go of my hand quickly.

"If you show anyone those pictures", I trailed off, the threat lingering.

"Don't worry. I won't", he laughed.

Part 9

The rest of the day went by peacefully. Even Daniel didn't say anything rude to me. For the

first time since being here I felt happy. Just before I crawled into bed, I walked to the

window. I had the back view of the house, the forest view. Even in the moonlight it looked

beautiful. I smiled to myself thinking about what happened when I went there with Jason.

When he grabbed my arm and pulled me close. I let my mind wander off to what could've

happened and blushed. As if that would ever happen. Sighing, I climbed into bed and slept

easily.

The sun pierced my eyes the next morning - again. I rubbed my eyes and got ready. This

time, I wore a dark purple dress for Auntie's benefit.

Slipping on my ugg boots, I went downstairs. The house was strangely quiet.

"Hello? Auntie? Anyone?" my voice fell flat. I was starting to panic. Where did everyone go?

Oh my god what if they left me alone! Conveniently scenes from certain horror movies

flashed in my mind. I pressed me back against the wall near the stairs and tried to breath

19

calmly. I heard the squeak of tyres on the wooden floor coming from the living room. I

didn't dare look. My heart was thudding against my chest. OhmygodOhmygodOhmygod! A

small tricycle wheeled in with a small pale boy on it. I screamed and slapped my hands over

my mouth quickly. Oh my god, I'm going to die! I was close to tears as he turned his head,

ever so slowly towards me. I shuddered. I've seen this boy before. I - then it came to me.

The first time I was here. He was - "Oh my god! You were there when I came here last time.

You watched TV and …" I trailed off. He smiled, a creepy little smile that bared no teeth. He

looked about five. I jumped away as he reached towards me.

"Oh my god! Don't touch me!"

I heard muffled laughter and looked upstairs. A cold, small hand gripped my wrist and I

screamed again. I yanked my hand away and ran halfway up the stairs. Daniel stood at the

top, holding a camcorder. He grinned as he closed the lid.

"That, was classic", he laughed, "Oh and that's my cousin by the way. And yes he was here

when you came"

"Delete that video.", I gritted my teeth. Two days in a row.

"No way. That was so funny. I'm showing Auntie and Jason later on"

I bit my lip and glared at him. Knowing that I couldn't get him to delete it anyway I changed

the topic, "Where is Auntie and Jason anyway?"

"Out shopping or something", he clicked around on his camcorder before snapping it shut

again.

I walked into the kitchen, ignoring the freaky kid. "Can you wash the make up off him of

something?"

"I didn't put make up on him", Daniel replied, ruffling the little kid's hair, "He's a natural

star"

I poured myself cereal and milk. As I put sat down at the table, I watched Daniel play with

the little kid. He seems so much nicer. I sighed and gulped down my food. After I finished

clearing up and washing the dishes, Auntie and Jason still hadn't come back. Daniel grabbed

the keys and headed for the door.

"Wait! You can't leave me alone here!"

He turned and raised an eyebrow, "I have to get him home", he gestured to the kid.

"Well. Then I'm coming with", I brushed through my hair with my fingers and rushed to the

door.

We walked in silence. The only noise was the sound of the tricycle squeaking. The kid was

rushing ahead. Daniel walked quickly. I struggled to match his pace while staying half a

20

metre back. Walking next to him would be just awkward. The kid rushed into a driveway

where his waiting mother stood, smiling cheerfully. Daniel waved and turned back. I blinked

but followed him. The tension and silence was too much. I was starting to clench and

unclench my fists. I looked around nervously. This place is so empty. Doesn’t anyone want

live here? Almost every house on the street had a "For Sale" sign.

"What are you doing?" Daniel sighed and stopped.

"What?"

He gestured to my clenched fists. I unclenched quickly and hid my hands behind me. He

scoffed and resumed walking. How did he notice that? We reached the house and judging

from the silence, they still hadn't come home. I looked at the clock. It was 1:37pm. How late

did I sleep in?

Daniel headed up to his room and slammed the door. I winced and retreated to my own

room. I stared out the window, watching mesmerised as the trees swayed from side to side.

Then I had this sudden urge to pee. I stumbled into the bathroom. When I finished, I

realised that I used up nearly all of the toilet paper. I washed my hands and went to Daniel's

door. How do ask for toilet paper? Knowing Daniel, he'll probably bring it up every time. I

hesitantly knocked. It opened slowly. Behind him, I could see the video he had took earlier

on his laptop screen. It was paused on the kid reaching out for me.

"What?" I realised I'd been staring at the screen.

"I… um…", I winced, "I ran out of toilet paper"

He smirked, "Well then stop going to the bathroom. Problem solved". He started to close

the door.

"Wait!" I jammed my foot in the doorway, "I'm serious. I need a new toilet roll thingy"

"Well then like I said before. Stop going toilet. We're out of toilet paper. That's why Mum

and Jason are out. Shopping"

"And what are you doing with the video?" I peered around him.

"Be my guest", he swept his arm out letting me in.

I walked in, cautiously. "What did you do to my face?"

"I made it look better. I made you seem a little, I dunno, greener?" he snickered.

"Argh! Why are you so goddamn annoying?" I screamed at him.

"Because, I'm not?" he answered.

"Just… Urgh!" I turned around and stormed out.

21

He grabbed my arm. I was not in the mood for this. I yanked my arm back. He let his body

be pulled towards me, almost knocking me over if he didn’t skid to a stop in time. I groaned

and turned around, ready to twist my arm out. He stared, curious as to what I would do. I

pulled on my arm, still in his grip, and managed to pull him, unintentionally, closer. Even

though my brain was telling me to glare at him, my face moulded itself into fear and panic.

Not the look I wanted to give him at all. My breathing was uneven after yelling at him and

my heart was going at 100 miles per hour. I felt like I had run to China and back.

We stared at each other for what felt like an eternity but was probably in reality only 10

seconds. His grip on my arm loosened and he practically shoved me out the door.

"Get out of my room", he growled, closing the door.

I stood in the hallway, feeling scared and confused. And toilet paperless.

Part 10

***

(Daniel's POV)

I sat on my bed after she left. I pulled at my fringe and rubbed my face. Dammit. You can't

afford to lose your temper like that! I stared at the laptop screen, trying to figure out what

else I could do with the video. I stood up and went towards my table and clicked play on the

video.

Poppy's voice screamed, cracking a little with static, "Oh my god! Don't touch me!"

I snorted, pausing it to zoom in to her face. She looked genuinely scared. Jason would kill

me for this. Too bad he'll never know. I never meant to be mean to her. Just that since

everyone never cuts me some slack. Jason's the lucky one, always. He gets everything he

wants. He even gets her. I never knew she'd have such a temper and a mouth. After seeing

the photos of her sent every few months or so, I thought she'd be nicer. She always seemed

to be wearing some light coloured clothing and a huge smile on her face. I dressed like a

fucking emo, so that she wouldn't have liked me. Worked well enough, a little too well. I

winced. Urgh. Why am I thinking like this? I'm not meant to interfere. She has to fall for

Jason and that's that. I already got slapped across the face for talking to her the first time

she came. I pressed my hand on my face remembering.

Jason stormed into the living room a few minutes after they left the house. Mum was

scolding at me, telling me not to ever talk to her again. "Daniel!" Jason growled. I winced,

22

not used to seeing him angry. He came right up to me and grabbed my face, making me look

up at him. "I don't want you being nice to my bride, you got me?" When I didn't answer, he

slapped my face and pulled on my hair, forcing me to look up at him, "You got me?" I

nodded quickly, wanting him to just leave me alone.

It was all her fault. I directed my anger at her every day. Hurting her, like she had

unintentionally hurt me. Yet even with all that she still provokes me. I shut off the laptop,

giving up on the video. I heard the door open and Jason's voice booming through the walls. I

heard Poppy's door fly open and her skidding down the hallway.

Thump!

I blinked. What was that? I opened the door and saw her lying on the ground near the stairs.

"Holy shit", I muttered. I picked her up quickly, ignoring how her skirt was slinking up her

thighs. I stumbled into her room and dropped her quickly onto the bed. I ran my hands

through my hair, trying not the panic.

"Jason! Come quick!" I shuddered, slightly. There will be consequences for this. I could hear

him rushing up the stairs, probably three at a time. His eyes widened and he pushed me

aside quickly.

"What the hell happened?" he gasped, turning to glare at me.

Well it was you who made her faint. "I heard a thump just after you came home and ran out

and saw her"

He inhaled sharply, "Has she eaten all day? Drank anything? What happened to HER?!"

"Calm down", he was having a mini panic attack, "She had breakfast and I think that was it. I

locked myself in my room at around 1 o'clock"

"Poppy", he shook her, "Poppy, wake up"

She groaned and turned over, "Just gimme a few minutes"

Jason turned to me and said in a low voice, "Get out now"

I immediately darted out the room and ran downstairs.

***

I woke up to feel someone shaking me. I groaned and rolled over. Just let me sleep

goddammit. "Get out now", I blinked and rolled over to see Jason's worried face.

23

"What?"

"You're awake! Thank goodness. Carrying you in here was a bit of a chore but still", he

looked relieved.

"Wait. You carried me in here?" I stared at him, incredulous.

"Yes", he said, a little too quickly. Why am I doubting him?

"What happened?" I squinted at him, trying to make sense of the situation.

"You fainted. Probably from lack of food or water", he paced back and forth. At the thought

of food my stomach growled. I hadn't eaten since breakfast.

"What time is it?" I rubbed my eyes.

"Almost 9. A bit late for dinner. I'll have to make something for you", he stopped and stared

at me, "Don't go anywhere"

"I won't", I promised.

He left the room and I lay back in my bed. My toes slid down and pulled the blanket up

towards my hands.

I pulled the blankets up closer to my chin. I can’t believe I'm sick. This is so embarrassing.

Jason returned, bowl of porridge in hand. I groaned and pulled the blanket over my head. I

heard him put the bowl down on the bedside table.

"You have to eat something", he murmured, pulling at the blanket, "Or do you want me to

get Daniel in here to force feed you?"

I flung the blanket out of my face. Jason jumped away just in time. I sat up slowly, leaning

against the headrest. He sat down on the edge of the bed, next to me. I grabbed for the

bowl.

"Uh", he pulled it away, "I'll feed you"

I widened my eyes, "What? No! I can eat myself!"

He turned and mockingly called, "Dan-"

"Wait! No! Not Daniel!" For all I know he'd probably force the spoon and bowl down my

throat.

"What?" Daniel's voice floated upstairs.

"Never mind", Jason smiled.

I sat there staring at the spoon as he blew it, "Careful, it's a bit hot still"

He pressed it against my lips. I swallowed it down quickly. This is so awkward. He sat there

24

feeding me in silence, watching as I swallowed each spoonful. I hissed when one of his

spoonful's was still hot. He set the bowl down quickly and put his cool fingers on my lips,

"I'm sorry. I got distracted"

I tried not to think anything weird but it was so goddamn hard since his fingers were on my

lips and he watching me so intensely. I reached for his hand as he pulled it away. My hand

froze mid air and dropped onto the bed. I blushed and looked down quickly, clenching my

hands together.

Part 11

I heard him laugh quietly and reach for my hand. I looked up quickly, when he grabbed my

hand. We stared at each other in silence before it became uncomfortable and I looked

away, laughing nervously. Why is he doing this? Does he like me? Pfft as if. But then why?

My free hand clenched and nervously pushed a strand of hair out of my face. I was very

aware that he still held my hand and watched me.

I cleared my throat, "Um, I'm not that hungry anymore so, um, yeah", I forced myself to

look at him. He slowly let go of my hand and stood up.

"Are you sure?" I nodded. He headed for the door before turning around, his face dark

against the light on his back, "Anything else?"

I shook my head. He turned slowly and headed downstairs. I fell back into my bed, sliding

my arms behind my head. What the hell is this? Why is he so…? So, nice? Cute? Interesting?

I grabbed the blanket and pulled it over my head, breathing slowly, watching as it rose and

fell. Yet still I felt drawn to Daniel. There was this unexplainable pull that I keep feeling when

I see him, think about him. I slapped my hands over my face. Urgh! Why am I thinking about

guys? I should be plotting on how to leave and where the hell is Auntie? I snapped out of my

thoughts and sat up. Yeah, where is Auntie? I sat and listened for any sounds that would

indicate that she was in the house. There was none. I sneaked out of bed and looked

downstairs. She wasn't down there. I looked at the time. It was almost 10pm. I seriously

need a clock in my room. Might as well go to bed. I searched for something comfortable to

wear for bed. The purple dress that I wore was fine if you were standing still but that's it. I

took a quick shower, brushed my teeth and climbed into bed. I lay there listening to the

sounds of the house. I could hear someone coming up the stairs and going into the other

bathroom. Is it Daniel or Jason? I pinched myself. Stop thinking about them. I closed my

eyes and tried to drift but the sounds of a shower running distracted me. My thoughts

betrayed me and my dirty mind took over. I groaned and covered my ears. There was a

small knock at the door. I dropped my hands quickly and looked. Daniel stood nervously at

the door. The shower kept running. So Jason's the one in the shower. I pushed away the

25

thought and sat up, "Yes?"

He kept looking outside into the hallway, "Can I come in for a sec?"

"Um, yes?" I frowned at him.

He quickly came to my bed and dropped something onto the bed. I looked at him. He

looked away quickly and darted out, turning at the doorway, "Good night"

I was surprised, "Oh! Um, you too". He smiled, briefly and went out. I reached for whatever

it was that he had dropped, from what I could feel it was most likely a toilet paper roll. Oh

my god, he actually remembered. I grinned at the thought. I placed it on the bedside table

and lied back onto my pillow, hugging it. I kept smiling even as I slept.

***

(Jason's POV)

I woke up the next morning, 8 o'clock sharp like always. I smiled and pulled away the

curtains. I heard Mum coming in late last night. Today will be a good day. She is coming,

meaning Daniel will be out of the way, for good. I looked around in my dresser. Hm, what

should I wear today? Something different? I pulled out my black jeans and comfortable

black t shirt. I'm going to look like Daniel. But I'm not in the mood for blue again, or red.

Black it is then. I looked in the mirror, ruffling up my hair. No need to brush it, soon enough

she'll have to accept me for who I am. For nine years I've waited. Having to reject every girl

who comes near me. Nine years for Poppy. I clenched my fists. Nine years of suffering.

Daniel has it lucky. He doesn't have to wait, because he never knew. But he will today. His

very own bride is coming here. I walked to his door and opened it. He lay snoring softly. I

wrinkled my nose at the mess. I closed the door quietly not wanting to wake up Poppy, or

him. I pulled at his shirt. He groaned and turned over, drool spilling down the side of his

mouth. Disgusting. I pulled again, careful to avoid his drool.

"Urgh, what?" he blinked and rubbed his eyes, "Fucking - it's 8:30!"

"I'm aware of that", I said, calmly, "Get dressed. She's coming here today"

"Who?" he sat up.

"Your own bride, like my Poppy", I savoured, her name in my mouth. Nine years I've waited.

"And she's coming here today?" I nodded, "And no one thought to tell me that I even had a

26

'bride'?"

"Her name's Yen. She's very cute. Short, pretty, perfect and yours. Be nice to her, woo her",

I wanted him to take her away out of this house.

"How old is she?" he blinked at me.

"17, I think. I'm not sure, it's been way too long", I moved towards the door, turning around

I said, "Get dressed, properly, she's coming here soon. I'll wake Poppy up".

I ignored how he winced when I said Poppy. She is mine. Nine years of waiting, she is mine. I

smiled as I walked toward her door.

***

I woke up this morning, not to sun piercing my eyes but to someone shaking me. "Wake up,

Poppy"

I squinted. Daniel stood in front of me. No wait. That's not Daniel. Daniel has a green streak.

I opened my eyes fully and saw Jason peering at me. He was wearing all black. Since when

does he even own anything black? I kept my mouth shut. Last thing I want is to scare him

away with my morning breath.

"Come on, dress up nicely today. We have a guest coming", he was practically floating.

I smiled, happy for him, and sat up. He stood patiently. I blushed, "Um, I'm not changing in

front of you"

"Oh, of course", he smiled, but his eyes looked suspiciously disappointed. He bowed slightly

and walked out.

A guest? I wonder who. Is it another guy? If it is I hope he's hot. I slapped cold water onto

my face, wincing but relieved that it let me think a little more clearly. I looked through my

dresser for something 'nice'. There were a few revealing dresses that disturbed me to look

at let alone wear. I settled for a dark blue mini dress. Pulling on black thigh high socks,

stared at the mirror. Sheesh now I look like one of those anime maids. I twisted my hair

through my fingers, getting tiny curls in my hair. I headed downstairs. It was like looking at

two Daniels. They both stood with their backs to me. Except this time it was Daniel who

actually made an effort to wear something a little more formal. Auntie was home, I noticed.

I smiled and joined her in the kitchen. She turned to me and grinned, "You look great". I

grinned back. I could do with great. Someone wolf whistled. I turned blushing. Jason grinned

at me. Daniel gave me a small smile, looking nervous. I started to prepare breakfast. Eggs

27

and bacon. It's been too long. "Wow. You can actually cook", Daniel said, approvingly, when

he poured a glass of orange juice.

"Yep", I scooped out the bacon and eggs onto the plates, "I can cook"

I served the plates onto the table while, Daniel set the glasses of juice. I smiled, for once we

were all getting along. Auntie went upstairs to change. I cleared up afterwards, washing the

dishes and was surprised when Daniel joined me.

"Wow, you can actually wash dishes", I laughed, mimicking him.

He grinned but looked uncomfortable. Jason paced near the doorway, impatiently, then

went upstairs. I finished up and wiped my hands.

The doorbell rang and Auntie all but ran to the door. Daniel followed her and fixed his hair a

bit. That was surprising, he never fixes up for anything. The door opened and a grinning little

girl stood at the door. Well at least she looked little. She was short but she had that mature

feminine look to her. She dressed better than I did on the day I came that's for sure. Her

cute features went well with her frilly light blue dress. Her dark hair was in a small side plait

and a matching blue ribbon. She looked like she came out of a kids movie. Little Blue Riding

Hood. Daniel looked nervous as he took her hand and kissed it. She giggled. Why didn’t

anyone treat me this nicely when I came here? I felt a tinge of jealousy as he took her

inside, holding her hand like a prince. It was a contrast. Black and light blue. She stood out,

he casted her shadow.

She gasped and ran to grab my hand, "Oh my god, hi! I'm Yen", she grabbed my hand

tighter, "What's your name?"

"Um," I pulled my hand away slightly, "Poppy…?"

She giggled again, "Such a cute name"

"Um, thanks"

"So, you're with Jason right?" she smiled, tugging at my hand again. This habit has to stop.

Behind her Daniel stiffened.

"No", I frowned at her, "What gave you that idea?"

"Tea! Who wants tea?" Daniel nervously laughed.

"Do you even know how to make tea?", I pointed out. He glared at me but said nothing.

"No thanks", Yen smiled, predatorily.

Jason entered the room, smiling as he saw Yen.

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"Yen!" he grinned, taking her hand, "How old are you now?"

"17", she grinned back, "Almost 18" How can this girl be so old yet act so childish.

I looked back and forth between the two of them. How did they know each other? I felt

Daniel's gaze on me and looked down quickly, heat spreading across my cheeks.

Part 12

This cute little girl was getting so much attention, I was starting to feel out of place just

standing there. Auntie was already in the kitchen, pouring tea. "Can I help?", I asked.

She looked up and smiled, "Of course"

I pulled out a tray and set the cups onto it. At least I'm dressed for it. I carried the cups out

to them, carefully watching my steps. Don't fall, don't fall.

"Oh thanks", Yen chirped, grabbing a cup straight away.

Daniel shook his head. Jason took one, smiling more happily then I'd ever seen him. I

grinned back and placed the tray down on the table. Auntie went and greeted Yen.

Everyone seemed to love her. I sat and watched them, sipping quietly at the tea. I tried to

ignore the bitterness. Jason was beyond happy, Auntie was more cheerful than usual. Even

Daniel was nicer and smiled a bit more. Yen seemed to notice my hanging back and hopped

up onto the table. She sat there cheerfully talking to me as if we'd been friends for ages.

"So how have you been?" she smiled, her eyes lighting up.

"Um, good?" I tried to smile back at her but it came out more like an unsure squint.

"Wonderful! I've been most well", she smiled. Like I really care.

"That's great to hear", I smiled, wryly.

"It is isn’t it?" she continued. I fake smiled, raising my eyebrows, hoping she'd get the hint

that I didn't care.

She didn't. "Do you want to hear about what I did yesterday?"

"Um-"

"Yen! Come here, I wanna show you something", Daniel grabbed her hand, pulling her out

the back door.

I sighed in relief. I owe him later on. I poured my tea down the sink. I couldn't drink

anymore. Jason waited at the stairs, watching.

I smoothed down my dress, trying to look busy. "'You look nice", he said. I looked up

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quickly, feeling my cheeks redden. I gave him a small half smile.

"I wanna show you something", he put a foot on the first step. I bit my lip and followed him.

We walked up and headed to his room. I was very aware that I was in a guy's room. He left

the door open. I looked around his neat room while he turned on his laptop. I noticed that

his laptop was dark blue instead of black like Daniel's. He tapped impatiently on the table,

waiting for it to load. I noticed how he had a nice view of the sunset. "Here", I looked as he

clicked on something. I peered into the screen just as a picture popped up. I blinked. It was

the picture that was taken when I was in the forest with him. The scenery in the background

was beautiful. Green trees and leaves, a flowing stream behind me. I stood with my head

tilted downwards. The green and white brought out the redness of my skirt. He leaned back

and smiled, "Well? What do you think?".

"Did you Photoshop this?" I asked.

"No", he looked confused, "This is how it came out"

I leaned in the clicked the right arrow key, bracing myself for the next picture. Yep it was

there. Oh my god. I can't believe he didn't delete it! I clicked Alt and F4 quickly. I closed my

eyes, the picture was still in my head. My zoomed up face, eyes wide and pleading. It was

embarrassing.

"It isn't that bad you know", he said, softly. Of course not, that's cos the picture isn't you.

I didn't answer him. Instead I looked at the smaller icons of pictures that he took. I clicked

on the first one. He leaned up quickly and closed the window. Too late, I already saw. There

was a girl in the photo, smiling happily. She looked strangely familiar.

"Who was that?" I looked at him, surprised.

"No one!", he growled, then calmed himself, "Sorry. It's no one you should worry about"

He clicked on another photo, a scenery shot this time. Even while looking at the beautiful

sunset shots and close-up of flowers, I still wanted to know who that girl was. I heard Yen's

giggling echo through the house. I walked out and peeked down.

***

I saw Poppy's discomfort at Yen's over cheerfulness. I felt her pain. I couldn't stand it myself.

I grabbed Yen's hand and pulled her out the back door. Great now that I'm out, what am I

meant to show her? I went to the gate that I'd seen Jason go through many times.

"Come", I ignored her giggling. All this cuteness is really disturbing me.

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"You like Poppy", she said, quietly.

"What?" I stumbled. I turned and looked at her.

She grinned, "You are so obvious. You don't think I haven’t noticed?"

"What are you talking about? What?" I don't like Poppy! She … annoys me.

"Oh come on, so all that staring and drooling is normal?" she raised her perfect eyebrow.

"I never drooled!" I protested, my fingers feeling around my mouth.

"So you admit to staring then?" she smirked. Okay, so maybe I stared, a bit. That doesn't

mean anything!

I ignored her and kept walking not sure where this place leads. So much nature. I looked

around, feeling a lot calmer.

"Aren't you meant to attempt to woo me?" she raised her voice. I could hear her smirk.

How do you woo someone you don't even like? I shuddered at the thought of even

pretending to woo her.

"Are you shuddering?" she gasped, dismay in her voice.

"Huh? I just felt a bit cold", I lied.

"Then let me warm you up", she slipped her arms around me from behind.

"Yeah so this is what I wanted to show you. It's not impressive but yeah", I wanted her arms

off me.

She danced up in front of me, smiling darkly, "Just pretend I'm Poppy"

I resisted the urge to punch her in the face. That would do them both good.

I rubbed my forehead, "Urgh, no thanks. Just be yourself"

We walked back towards the gate and back into the house.

"That was nice. Thank you", she giggled, briefly looked behind me up the stairs. I turned to

look but she grabbed my face.

She leaned up and pressed her lips on my chin. Missed. I heard a small gasp and turned

around. I saw nothing but heard small footsteps retreating to their room. Poppy. Jason

would never gasp like that and Mum was in the kitchen.

I turned and looked at Yen. She smiled, sweetly. If she's sweet, I'm fluffy.

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***

"Yen seems nice", I tried to start a conversation with Jason.

"She's very nice. You'll be rooming with her for the next year or so", he smiled.

"What?" I gasped, "I mean, isn't she, like, leaving?"

"What no! Unless of course one of us marries her and moves out", he leaned back in his

chair.

My mind kept flashing back to when Yen kissed Daniel. It's not like he's mine or anything.

But still…

"Would you marry her?" I asked.

"That wouldn't be up to me", he laughed, standing up. He took my hand and pulled me

closer. Well since Daniel's taken… I half smiled at him. Why does this feel so wrong? So

forced? I ignored any worries and hugged him. His arms slipped around me. I closed my eyes

and stood there, quietly enjoying his warmth. I could feel his breath on my head and his

heartbeat next to my ear. I wonder what Daniel would think if he saw me kissing Jason. Why

am I thinking like this?

"What's wrong? You're all tense", Jason murmured. I shook my head and pulled away.

I took in a deep breath, fresh air filling my lungs, "I just don't feel like sharing a room that's

all". Especially not with Yen.

"You're still thinking about that?" he sighed, "I should tell you, you'll be sharing your bed

with her too"

"The bed's big enough to hold two and you're both very small girls", he trailed off. My eyes

widened, horrified. I have to share a bed with her too??

"I, I need to leave this house. I'm going to go insane with her living here. I'm sorry but I can’t

do this", I ran into my room.

I sat on my bed, rubbing my face. How am I going to leave? Will Auntie be sad if I leave?

Would Daniel? Daniel doesn't care! He doesn’t even like me.I heard Yen's tinkly laughter as

she came up the stairs. I groaned and slid under the covers of my bed. She entered the

room.

"Well there's your room mate", Daniel said, dryly. I was not sharing my bed with this girl.

I felt her climb onto the bed, "Thank you, Daniel", she cooed.

"Whatever", he walked out of the room.

Yen tugged at the covers, pulling it off my head, "You can come out now. He's gone".

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"What? I wasn't hiding from him", I said. I was hiding from you.

She giggled and climbed off the bed again. I heard the drawers of the dresser open. I sat up

trying to see what she was doing. She pulled out one of the much more revealing dresses

and threw them over her shoulder. I leaned forward and caught the flying clothing.

'What are you doing?" I grabbed another dress as it flew.

She stood up and closed the door, turning on the light. "We're getting dressed", she

grinned.

"In this?" I held up a lacy dress that barely hid anything.

"No", she frowned, plucking it out of my hands, "This looks good". She pulled out another

lacy, slightly less revealing dress but still short. She held it against her and twirled around. I

shoved the other dresses back into the drawers. I'm not changing, not into those clothes

and not in front of her either.

I walked out of the room, giving her privacy. I walked down stairs and out the front door.

Jason hurriedly joined me, "Where are you going?"

"Um, I just wanted to watch the sun set", I laughed, quietly. Yen's shrill scream racked the

whole house. I jumped and Jason tensed.

Auntie rushed up the stairs with Daniel, struggling to go around her. We followed them into

my room. Yen stood in the lacy dress and pointed on the ground at a dark object. I peeked

around all the shoulders to try to see what it was. It moved and she screamed again. I

winced. Jason moved around me and slowly picked up the dark object, it was a cockroach.

Yen shrieked again and ran to hug Daniel. I dodged out of the way as Jason went downstairs,

holding the cockroach between his fingers. I pressed my lips together as Auntie followed

Jason out. That left me with Yen clinging onto Daniel. My gaze met his and broke. I ducked

out of the room, not wanting to see them together.

Part 13

As I strolled down the stairs quietly, my skirt brushed against my bare legs. Oh how I miss

pants and shorts, I sighed. Aunty had begged us all to eat dinner at the table together just

this once. So here I was, last one to get to the table. Aunty beamed when she saw me. She

made a sitting gesture with her hand on the seat to her left. Right between her and Yen.

Daniel glanced up from his food. Jason sat next to Daniel, who sat opposite Yen. I hesitantly

sat down and slid my chopsticks towards my bowl. Aunty once again invaded my space and

started dropping food into my rice bowl.

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"It's okay! I can do it," I winced as she placed more and more food into my rice bowl.

She didn't answer but sat down again, watching me expectantly. I picked up what looked

like a piece of cheese. I took a small nibble and tried not to wince. Tofu. I could hear Daniel's

snort as I swallowed the piece of tofu whole. I looked into my rice bowl and noticed how

she had practically filled it up with tofu and some kind of meat. I picked at the meat. After a

few chews I figured it was a mix between beef and pork. I decided not to ask.

Yen piped up, "This is lovely, Aunty!"

She continued to eat down her food, fast but neat. I struggled with my chopsticks. How the

hell do you pick up rice with this? In the end I was the last to finish. Well technically I wasn't

even finished yet.

Jason cleared the other food bowls around me as I ate. I could tell he wanted to say, "Eat

faster"

After shoving down the last bit of rice I stood up and raced to the kitchen. Aunty and Yen

were already there washing the dishes. I guiltily slid my dirty bowl into the sink.

"What's on TV today?" I heard Jason ask Daniel in the living room.

"I heard there was some action movie"

I heard the TV turn on. I definitely wasn't going into the living room, and I am not going to

wash dishes. Rude or not.

Slinking up the stairs I was, once again, the antisocial who lives in her room. I miss my

house, my family, my pillow even. Especially my pillow. I looked out the dark window and

decided that I wanted to run away. Sleep in the woods for one day. The thought brought a

smile to my lips. You'd get scared of the dark and all the creepy crawlies. There was

definitely no way I could sneak out the front door or the back door. The window wasn't

exactly a safe option. Then again. I looked out the window and estimated the drop. Nah. I'd

definitely break some bones. I really didn't want to stay and sleep in the same bed as Yen. I

could sleep in the bathroom!

"Yes!" I giggled then looked around quickly to check if anyone heard.

I heard clomping on the stairs. I leaned to the side to see out the door but then sat down

quickly and pretended I was suddenly interested in my blanket.

"Poppy"

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I bit my lip and looked up hesitantly. I think my face looked really awkward and nervous.

Jason stood in the doorway.

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