The Life of Orphans - Chapter 45 (conclusion)

While all the couples are chatting happily, Cyndi was sitting right at the back of the bus grumbling and complaining.

Cyndi: (mutters) Why must I follow them? They are all in pairs and I'm the lone ranger. The biggest problem is I hate being alone!

Angela: Hey Cyndi! What do you think Sam will like for his present?

Cyndi: Whatever. He likes everything, so don't worry.

Tony: (sense that Cyndi is not in mood) Hey Cyndi, why don’t you sit here. (Pointing at an empty seat in front of where he and Angela in sitting.)

Cyndi: I’m fine here. It’s not a long journey anyway. There’s no need to shift places when the bus is moving.

Tony: Ok, suite yourself but you can always come here if you feel lonely.

On the other hand, Sam is busy preparing his surprise with Rio.

Sam: (moving the sofa to its right place) I should have bought the blue colour sofa. Beige just doesn’t stand out in the room.

Rio: Never mind that, at least beige is an easy colour to match.

Sam: You’re right then. Luckily we’ve painted the apartment last week or else we would not have time to finish everything before today.

Rio: What about Cyndi’s book shelf? Is it here yet?

Sam: Oh, that reminds me, we should go get it assembled. Where did you put the screwdriver?

Rio: Oopps, I left it on the bed. I’ll go get it now. (Runs off for the screwdriver)

Sam: Luckily we need to use it now or else who knows that a screwdriver is let loose on a bed.

Rio: Got it! Let’s start with the book shelf or we are never going to get everything done before they come back.

On the others’ side, Angela has done a pretty good job comforting the lonely Cyndi and she is now happily shopping with the rest of the girls. While the boys followed them with hands full of shopping bags and mouths full of grumbling.

Zax: Boy are these heavy, I wonder what they bought?

Jason: I don’t mind knowing if you don’t mind unwrapping them (pointing at the presents in the shopping bag which Zax is holding) and take the risk of Rainie come nagging about that.

Zax: Very funny, Jason. Why don’t you unwrap those in you are holding and face the risk of being nagged by Hebe?

Jason: Because I’m not grumbling like someone, that is.

Tony: Aren’t you guys tired of walking, talking and holding all these stuff?

Zax and Jason: Of course!

Tony: If that’s so, quit arguing and save your energy to walk faster. The girls are disappearing.

Zax: Of course they are! They are not the ones holding shopping bags that weight a ton.

At four o’clock, Sam is waiting in front of the school’s front gate for the others to arrive from their shopping.

Rio: Why did you ask them to wait here?

Sam: Because I don’t want them to guess my surprise.

Rio: Are you aware that you guys will have to walk for miles until you reach the apartment? Why don’t you pick some place nearer?

Sam: Like I said, I don’t want them to guess my surprise. If I pick a place too near the apartment, they will probably guess that the apartment was the surprise and it will not be a surprise anymore.

Rio: I say even if you guys meet right in front of the apartment, they would not be able to guess that it’s the surprise.

Sam: Are you sure?

Rio: Do you look like someone who can afford to buy an apartment?

Sam: Not really, but I did bought that apartment.

Rio: That’s it, you don’t look like one. So why don’t you change the meeting spot before they start cursing you for making them walk for miles to see that so-called surprise.

Sam: I guess you are right. (Took out his mobile) Hey Tony, there’s a change of plan, let’s meet at the playground near the shop where I work.

Tony: Why a sudden change of plan?

Sam: Just meet me there, its part of the surprise.

Tony: Ok. (Hung up the phone) Zax, we are not stopping here.

Zax: But this is the stop for our school.

Tony: I know but Sam said there’s a change of plan, so we are not stopping here.

Jason: Then where are we going?

Tony: To the playground near the shop he works.

Cyndi: Why does he want us to meet him there?

Tony: He said its part of the surprise so I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

Zax: This surprise better be a good one.

Angela: It must be something big or else he won’t be hiding it that way.

At the playground,

Tony: Ok, everyone’s here. So Sam, care to tell us what is your big surprise?

Sam: Not yet. Come with me!

Zax: We still have to walk? Can’t you see we have walked more than enough for the day? (Holding up the shopping bags)

Sam: Come on, a little walking wouldn’t kill you, would they?

Zax: There better be a bed of something in your surprise.

Sam: There’ll be more than those. Just follow me, ok?

Cyndi: Where are we going?

Sam: You’ll see. (walks into the lift) Fifth floor, please.

Hebe, who is the nearest to the lift’s button pad, pressed the number 5 button.

After the lift reached the fifth floor, eveyone is getting excited about the mysterious surprise.

Sam: Ok, now here's the moment you all have been waiting for. Please do not blink. (as he took out a bunch of keys from his pocket and unlock the door of one of the units.

Tony: Sam, who's house is this?

Sam: (opens the door) SURPRISE! This is OUR home!

Zax: Are you serious?

Sam: Of course. This is my present for all of you.

Angela: This place is nice.

Tony: I agree. Thanks, Sam.

Jason: Where did you get all the money to buy this place?

Cyndi: Yeah, i thought you were going to take over the sports equipment shop with Rio. How could you have enough money to do both at the same time?

Sam: I don't. I just got some help from someone.

Jason and Cyndi together: Who?

Sam: Hebe.

Jason: Hebe?

Hebe: Oh, i helped him with the negotiating part of the price of this house because the agent was one of my dad's friends and the price came out really reasonable and affordable.

Tony: you are not paying this alone aren't you?

Sam: Nope. You guys are all getting a fair share when it comes to the bank loan.

Tony: You'd know pretty well that we don't mind that.

Sam: I was actually just kidding but since you guys are willing to share.

Zax: Of course we are! What kind of friends are we?

Cyndi: We are a family!

Jason: Agree.

Cyndi: I really can't wait to move in here after i graduated.

Rio: That's touching enough already, family! Sam, aren't you going to show them your arrangements of rooms?

Sam: Right, i almost forgot about that. There are three rooms here, so Tony and zax will share one, Jason and i will share one and Cyndi has one.

Zax: How come Cyndi could have a room all by herself?

Sam: Because her room is smaller. I've considered about the size, don't worry. It's fair and square.

Zax: It should be fair and triangle because there's three rooms. And, i was just kidding before that.

Hebe: Are you guys going to talk all day? or help us with the food here? (holding a stack of plates)

Cyndi: Right where you are! I'll help you with that. (took over the plates from Hebe)

----------------------

Everybody: Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you... Happy Birthday to all of us!! Happy Birthday to us!!!

*since my computer has been reformatted and the ending chapter is in it... i'll just make this chapter the final chapter of The Life of Orphans.... Thank you very much...

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 44

Zax: Today's the day!

Tony: Yeah! Where are you guys planning to celebrate?

Angela: Celebrate what?

Cyndi: Birthday.

Hebe: Who's birthday?

Jason: Our birthday.

Rainie: All of you? On the same day?

Cyndi: Well, Tony and Jason aren't really sure about when is their birthday, so we all just assume its New Year's Day because it's the beginning of the year and also resembles a new start.

Tony: So all of us have it on the same day.

Hebe: Wow! That’s nice.

Rainie: Yeah, all five of you share the same day.

Sam: Hey! What are you guys discussing about?

Cyndi: Where to celebrate.

Sam: Oh, I know one place to celebrate.

Tony, Zax, Jason, Cyndi: Where?

Sam: Well, I’ll tell you guys later.

Zax: Aww... Why is that?

Sam: A surprise?

Zax: Ok. I accept that one.

Sam: So now all of you have to go prepare the things for tonight's celebration.

Angela: Does that means shopping?

Sam: Sort of.

Rainie: What are we shopping for?

Sam: Everything. Food drinks and I will handle the decoration.

Zax: You left out something.

Sam: What?

Jason: I think he meant presents.

Zax: Yes! You are so smart, Jason. Here's a kiss as a reward. (Grabbed Jason's face and tried to kiss him.)

Jason: Hey! No! I don't want that! Get off me!

Angela and Rainie were shocked by their actions.

Cyndi caught their looks and said: Don't worry. That's something pretty normal.

Rainie: Really?

Zax: No! It's just a joke. Honest!

Tony: Looks like Zax really have to change his actions nowadays.

Cyndi: Or else he'll have loads to explain to Rainie.

Jason: Yeah.

Angela: We'll now not waste time. Let's go shopping.

Tony: I see. So that's what you actually want.

Hebe: Girls like shopping. Nothing is wrong with that.

Tony: Nobody said it was wrong.

Sam: Ok, let's all do what we are suppose to do and meet at school on four o'clock sharp.

Zax: Why are we meeting at school? Does that mean that we are going to celebrate in school?

Jason: I don't want to celebrate in school. Isn't there anywhere else?

Sam: I didn't say that we are celebrating it in school. It's just a place to meet. Now you guys better get going or more time is wasted.

Hebe: Sam's right. If we don't go now, we'll only have five hours to shop.

Angela: What? Only five?

Hebe: Yup but if we move now, we'll have fifteen minutes extra.

Rainie: Let's go! Come on! (Tugs Zax along.)

Zax: Ok, ok. My legs are still able to walk. (Mutters under his breathe) Girls!

Cyndi: So do you need any help?

Sam: What help?

Cyndi: For the decorations.

Sam: I can handle it myself. You can go shopping with them.

Cyndi: But they are all in pairs, I’m going to be the lone ranger.

Sam: Come on. It's a surprise. I don't want to spoil it for anyone of you. Just be a good girl and go shopping with them. I'll promise you a nice present.

Cyndi: Okay.

Tony: Yeah, be a good girl and come with us.

Cyndi: Hey! What are you doing here?

Tony: Waiting for you.

Cyndi: You are eavesdropping!

Tony: I'm not if you two hadn't been so mushy.

Angela: Come on now. You two are wasting time.

Cyndi: Ok. You’ll get that from me someday, Tony.

Tony: I don't really mind that. Guess what will happen if I told Zax?

Cyndi: NO! Fine. I won't get you for that.

Angela: Are you two coming? The bus is here.

Tony, Cyndi: Alright. Coming.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 43

Hebe: Hey, is it almost time for the countdown?

Jason: (looks at his watch) Yeah, five more minutes.

Hebe: Let's go join the others

Jason: Ok.

As they walk to the gang,

Zax: Oh, you two love birds finally wanted to come back to the troop.

Jason: What are you talking about?

Zax: You don't know?

Cyndi: Quit fooling around.

Zax: Don't stop me from having fun.

Rainie: Don't continue either. You see how red Hebe’s face is.

Zax: Oh. Oopps, sorry.

Tony: There's only one person Zax listens to.

Sam: Yup.

Zax: What?

Angela: it's almost time for the countdown. Let's go outside.

Tony: Ok. (As he holds Angela's hand and went outside with her.)

The others follow suit.

As the countdown was going on,

Angela: There's been some time since I last watched fireworks. Do you think they will have it today?

Tony: Of course they will. If they don't I’ll personally do it for you.

Angela: Thanks for the effort then but you don't have to waste them.

Tony: Anything for you.

3......2......1...... HAPPY NEW YEAR! (Fireworks)

Angela: Wow!

Rainie: It's so beautiful.

Zax: Just like you.

Rainie: Be serious!

Tony: Oh! (Realized something) Sorry.

Angela noticed that.

Angela: Why? Can't even differentiate her and my voice?

Tony: No way! It's just a response to that phrase.

Angela: Fine.

Tony: Come on. Jealous? So easily?

Angela: Me? Jealous? Because of you? Dream on!

Tony: Am I dreaming then?

Angela: How should I know?

Hebe: I never knew that watching fireworks can be so enjoying.

Jason: It depends with whom you are watching with.

Hebe: Maybe. I used to think that fireworks are boring and a waste of money. Maybe it's because my dad have this kind of fireworks ceremony every time in his company's annual dinner.

Jason: You mean you get to see it every year?

Hebe: Yup. Why?

Jason: Well, I only get to see it through the television every New Year's Eve.

Hebe: You can always join me at my Dad's annual dinner if you like watching it.

Jason: Maybe not. I’m not suitable for this kind of formal ceremony.

Hebe: Me neither. That is why you should come to keep me company. It's really boring there.

Cyndi: What are you planning to do after you leave school?

Sam: Get a permanent job and find a place to stay.

Cyndi: I thought you said your boss is going to migrate and planning to sell the shop?

Sam: Yup.

Cyndi: Ever thought of handling your own shop?

Sam: Well, actually I did. But where am I going to get the money?

Cyndi: Money is no problem. By the way, I heard Rio is planning to take over the shop but he is now looking for a partner to share.

Sam: Really?

Cyndi: Of course. He told me that and I think he was hinting me to talk you into this.

Sam: Are you sure that was his motive? Or maybe he is telling you to hint me not to think about taking over because he is going to do that?

Cyndi: Trust me. He needs a partner really badly. Go talk to him.

Sam: ok, I’ll trust you this time.

Cyndi: You will have to trust me every time.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 42

Rainie: What should I wear?

Rainie have been standing in front of her closet for almost an hour trying to figure out what to wear during the party.

Cyndi: Anything. You look nice in everything.

Rainie: Nonsense. I don't have a figure like you.

Cyndi: But you are taller than me. That's makes you look nice.

Rainie: Give some comments. Which one is better? (Holding up two kinds of dress)

Cyndi: Err.... the blue one?

Rainie: Really?

Cyndi: Err... I’m not sure.

Rainie: Come on.

Cyndi: I'm really not good at this. Why don't you ask Hebe?

Rainie: Maybe I should. I'm really excited for this party. It's not only a farewell party for the graduates but it's also a New Year countdown party.

Cyndi: But in the bright side, everyone can go to the party and not just those who were the graduates' friends. You don't have to worry.

Rainie: Yeah. It certainly was a great idea to combine both ceremonies. Then everybody get to enjoy together.

Cyndi: It's everybody or just you and Zax?

Rainie: Everybody!

Cyndi: Maybe this party is a great time for you couples to spend time together.

Rainie: What do you mean you couples? Aren't you one of them?

Cyndi: Huh?

Rainie: You and Sam. You thought we don't know?

Cyndi: What are you talking about?

Rainie: Zax told me. You two liked each other long ago but both of you just don't want to admit it. Then, lots of jokes happened between the two of you.

Cyndi: You better not listen to Zax, he talks nonsense.

Rainie: What's with you and him anyway?

Cyndi: Nothing important.

Rainie: Nothing important? Then, what's important? Marriage?

Cyndi: You are influence by them now.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

On the day of the party,

Sam: There are sure a lot of people here.

Cyndi: Of course there are. Everyone in school is here.

Zax: Not everyone. Some of them are still at home waiting to celebrate the New Year with their families.

Cyndi: But it's everyone IN school right?

Zax: (paused for a while) Yeah, everyone in school but not the whole school.

Cyndi: That's why I said everyone in school, Dumbo! You just wanted to argue with me, right?

Zax: Correction! I'm correcting you.

Cyndi: But it seems that I’m correct and there's nothing you should be correcting.

Sam: Ok now. End of story, ok?

Cyndi: He started it.

Sam: It seems like Jason is getting pretty close with Hebe there.

Cyndi: Yup. By the way, where is Tony? I thought we should be meeting him here.

Zax: I didn't see him anywhere. Maybe he's not ready yet. You know him, always wanted to be perfect.

Cyndi: Perfect for whom?

Zax: For his girl, of course.

Cyndi: I might not know Tony's girl but I know someone's girl is already here.

Zax: Who? (Turns around and saw Rainie) Oh! See you guys later. (Ran off)

Cyndi: Some friend he is. Saw his girl and just ran off.

Sam: Let him have the time to be with his girl just like I’m spending time with my girl now.

Cyndi: who's your girl?

Sam: You don't know? Maybe you need a hint. (Lean close to her)

Cyndi: Wait! There are a lot of people here.

Sam: Who cares?

Cyndi: I thought you didn't want anyone to know this.

Sam: They knew it anyway.

Cyndi: I still think we better go out from the hall.

Sam: Ok.

Outside the hall,

Tony: You look great! There's nothing wrong.

Angela: But I still think something's not right with my outfit.

Tony: (Hold both of her hands) I don't care if there anything wrong with you outfits or not, you're the best to me.

Angela: Really?

Tony: Of course. (Lean over and kiss her on the cheek) There. Does that give you some confidence now?

Cyndi and Sam were watching the whole thing at a corner.

Cyndi: Should I go out and have some fun?

Sam: Better don't. You saw how shy the girl was. You might frighten her later.

Cyndi: Am I frightening?

Sam: That's not what I meant. I was just... just....

Cyndi: Don't worry. I was just kidding. You should have seen your face.

Sam: You fooled me! Well, well, well, this is your punishment. (Kissed her on the forehead)

Cyndi: Tricky! (Hit his head)

Sam: Let’s go call them in. I think Zax must be very excited about Tony's girl.

Cyndi: Good thing I saw it before him.

Sam: The both of you never grow. (Sigh)

Cyndi: I heard that.

Sam quickly pat Tony on the shoulder before Cyndi could say anything else.

Tony turned around and was really shocked to see Sam at the back of him.

Tony: what are you doing here?

Sam: To see when our Mr. Sun is going to arrive.

Tony: I'm here already.

Sam: So aren't you going to introduce?

Tony: oh! This is Angela. Angela, this is Sam and Cyndi.

Angela: Hi.

Cyndi: Let's go in. Come on! (Pulls Angela's hand)

In the hall,

Cyndi: Hey Zax, Look who's here?

Zax: Angela? Hi!

Angela: Hi Zax.

Rainie: Hi.

Angela: You are Rainie? The volleyball team captain?

Rainie: Yup. We are in the same school but it's really weird that we hardly meet each other.

Angela: Yeah.

Tony came in and straight away holds Angela's hand.

Zax: Wow! Wow! Wow! Wait a minute! What are you doing?

Tony: I didn't do anything.

Zax: What's this? (Pointing and Tony's hand which was attached to Angela's)

Cyndi: Something you always wanted to know.

Zax: Oh! So you are the one!

Angela: Which one?

Rainie: Tony's girlfriend!

Angela: Err... (Blushed)

Cyndi: Oh, come on. Now everyone has known each other, let's go eat!

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 41

Zax: Hey, the school is going to hold a farewell party for students who are graduating.

Tony: How did you know? The notice isn't out yet.

Zax: Do I need a notice to know anything?

Cyndi: Of course. Without a notice, you know nothing.

Zax: You! Fine! The notice will be out shortly, I’m sure Sam will get the notice because he is one of them.

Rainie: Hi! (walking towards them)

Cyndi: Hi!

Tony: Hi!

Zax just smiled at her shyly.

Rainie: What are you guys talking about?

Tony: About the farewell party for the students who are graduating this year.

Rainie: Oh. It's almost time for the party to be held. Wonder what is this year's theme?

Cyndi: Theme?

Rainie: Oh. There's a theme every year, it's like a slogan or something. Then the students who are involved will have to do something about it.

Tony: According to the theme?

Rainie: Yes. (Nodding)

Cyndi: Oh, now I know.

Rainie: But only students involved with the party are allowed to participate. And they are only allowed to bring about five friends. I always wanted to go but none of my friends are involved every year.

Tony: Sam is, this year.

Rainie: Really? (Smiled excitedly but frown a minute after that) Only five friends are allowed.

Cyndi: I'm sure there is enough.

Rainie: No, it's not enough. You, Tony and Zax make three, Hebe will make four.

Cyndi: And you will make five.

Rainie: Oh yeah! I get to go anyway. But what if he has any other friends?

Cyndi: You don't have to worry about that.

Tony: Wait!

Everyone looked at him.

Tony: Look, if plus Rainie we'll make five then what about ... (swallowed back in) Why are you guys looking at me like this?

Zax: What about whom?

Cyndi: Oh. Somebody finally open their mouth.

Zax: What?

Cyndi: You were surprisingly quiet when Rainie came in and didn't even mention a word when she started talking.

Zax and Rainie looked at each other at the same time and faced away almost immediately blushing hard.

Cyndi: Aww...

Zax: So what?

Cyndi: Nothing.

Zax: Fine. Back to the actual topic, Tony who’s the who you are talking about?

Tony: Who?

Zax: I know! Tony, you are not dating someone behind our backs, are you?

Tony: I have the right not to answer.

Zax: I'll take that as a yes. Who is it?

Tony: I'll not answer that as well.

Zax: Ok, I’ll take that as a we'll-soon-find-out.

Tony: Whatever.

---------------------

At the take-away shop where Tony worked.

Tony was loading the stuff which he was supposed to deliver, when someone tapped him on the back.

Tony: Hey! You're late today.

Angela: I'm sorry.

Tony: It's ok. Do I look like I mind that?

Angela: Yes, you do.

Tony: Fine.

Angela: You don't really mind that, do you?

Tony: Of course I don’t. Get on, we're getting late, you know?

Angela: Oh, ok. First stop is quite near. Just turn left when you reach the park.

Tony: Yes, madam!

Angela: (taps his head) Be serious when you are working.

Tony: I am serious.

In the afternoon,

Tony: This is the last one.

Angela: Ok.

Tony: Then we'll have lunch together.

Angela: Deliver this first.

Tony: Yes. Madam! (Salutes)

Angela: Be serious.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 40

Jason: Good morning!

Selina: Good morning, Jason.

Jason: Is the manager in there?

Selina: Oh, I think so. You'll just have to find out yourself because I’m off to do my work now.

Jason: Ok. (Knocks the manager's office door)

Voice: Come in.

Jason: (mumbles) Yup, he's in there. (Open the door and went in)

Voice: Jason. Can I help you?

Jason: Mr.Chang, I was wondering is the restaurant short of waitress?

Mr. Chang: Hmm.... We are not short of waitress. Why? One of your friends is interested?

Jason: Oh, yes, Mr. Chang.

Mr.Chang: Well, although we are not short of waitress but its school holidays now, we are having more customers than usual, so another waitress isn't a bad idea.

Jason: That means... It's ok?

Mr.Chang: I guess so. When can she start?

Jason: Anytime.

Mr.Chang: And her salary will be the same as yours.

Jason: No problem. Thanks, Mr.Chang.

Mr.Chang: You’re welcome.

Jason went out of the office and meet Hebe who was having a conversation with Selina.

Selina: So, you're Jason's friend. I'm Selina.

Hebe: Hebe.

Selina: Looking for a job? Don't worry, Mr.Chang is a nice guy. You'll sure get it. That's why a lot of students work here during the long holidays.

Hebe: Oh.

Jason: Hebe.

Selina: I'll go back to my work now. See you.

Hebe: Is it ok?

Jason: Of course. You can start work straight away, right?

Hebe: Yes.

Jason: Ok. But now, you'll have to go and see Mr.Chang first.

Hebe: Ok. (Sounding nervous)

Jason: Don't worry. He's a nice guy.

Hebe: Ok.

After a couple of minutes, Hebe came out of the office.

Jason: What did he say to you?

Hebe: He told me to enjoy my work here.

Jason: That's good. Come. I'll show you around.

--------------------------------------------------------------

Rio: Miss, you're not a worker here. Please don't do what we are supposed to do. If our boss finds out, we'll be in big trouble.

Cyndi: Don't worry. I just want to help.

Rio: No! you just sit here and do anything you like except entertaining customers.

Cyndi: Is your boss that strict?

Sam: Just let her be.

Rio: Sigh. I just have to pray that boss won't come back all of a sudden.

Sam: There's a time when a customer drop some of the rackets down and helped pick up. Rio was doing some other things and didn't help him. The boss saw that and thought he wasn't doing his duty, he almost got fired.

Cyndi: Oh. That's why he's so overreacting.

Sam: Our boss demands that our customers have the best service.

Cyndi: I see.

Sam: He doesn’t want to loose his job after loosing five.

Cyndi: Five!!

Sam: Shh!! (Looked up and saw Rio arranging the basketballs) Hold it down. He doesn't like people mentioning that.

Cyndi: Oh, sorry.

Sam: That is why he is so freaked out when you help out with the customers.

Cyndi: I know that now. I won't do that again.

Sam: Good. Now, you would just sit here and do whatever you want to do...

Cyndi: Except serving customers right? (Cyndi helped Sam finish his sentence)

Sam: Correct. Smart.

Cyndi: I always am.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 39

The Life of Orphans

Chapter 39
Someone knocks Jason's room door,

Jason: Come in.

Cyndi: Hello. Are you free?

Jason: You mean now?

Cyndi: No, yesterday.

Jason: Why would you want to know that?

Cyndi: Sigh. I was just kidding. Are you free, NOW?

Jason: Yes. Anything?

Cyndi: Yes. There are loads of things.

Jason: Ok.

Cyndi: Firstly, I want to know that have you fall in love with anybody before?

Jason: Huh?

Cyndi: Do you know what love is? Something like umm.... like.

Jason: Like?

Cyndi: It's a torture talking to you. I mean do you somehow rather like a girl before?

Jason: I think not.

Cyndi: Are you going to?

Jason: Maybe. Why are you asking me these?

Cyndi: Just to know you better.

Jason: Really?

Cyndi: Or else?

Jason: Maybe you like me?

Cyndi: Haha. I just noticed you do have the sense of humour.

Jason: That is?

Cyndi: Of course I like you as a friend. A really close friend. Or maybe as a brother.

Jason: (confused)

Cyndi: Ok now, I’ll go straight to the point.

Jason; You should ages ago.

Cyndi: Fine. What do you think of Hebe?

Jason: Hebe? Hebe Tian?

Cyndi: No, Hebe Wang. Is there any other Hebe's you know?

Jason: I don't think so.

Cyndi: So?

Jason: Huh?

Cyndi: What do you think of Hebe?

Jason: She's cute, smart, nice ...

Cyndi: That means she is good?

Jason: She is good.

Cyndi; Ok, that does it.

Jason: Does what?

Cyndi: Something you don't have to know.

Jason: Ok.

Cyndi: It's dinner time. Let's go to the canteen together.

Jason: Ok.

In the canteen, Hebe was chatting with Tony, Zax and Sam.

Sam: Here they come.

Cyndi: talking about me?

Zax: Yup.

Cyndi: What's that? (Sat down)

Zax: When you were my "girlfriend"

Cyndi: What? What were you telling them?

Tony: Is there anything you don't want us to know?

Cyndi: Nothing, that is. Nothing I want all of you to know.

Everyone laughed.

Sam: Speaking of girlfriends. Where's yours, Zax?

Zax: Huh? You mean Rainie?

Hebe: Is there any other?

Tony: There must be.

Zax: Don't crap. I think she's on the way here.

Cyndi: Aren't you guys hungry? I’ll go take my dinner.

Tony: Wait for me!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After the dinner, Hebe went back to her room.

Hebe: Hmm.. a pretty good start.

(Flashbacks)

Hebe: (whispered) Hey.

Jason: (look at the back of him before he answered) Talking to me?

Hebe: Yes.

Jason: Oh, anything?

Hebe: Just want to ask you how were your holidays?

Jason: Nothing special about it. Just as normal as everyday life.

Hebe: Oh.

Jason: What about you?

Hebe: Who me? I think it's even more normal than yours.

Jason: Even more normal?

Hebe: I have nothing to do at home. Just hanging around in my room and sometimes out for shopping.

Jason: I didn't know normal can be more than normal.

Hebe: Huh?

Jason: It's ok. No one really understands what I say. Sometimes, even I myself don't.

Hebe: Oh. I was just wondering...

Jason: Yes?

Hebe: Is the restaurant you're working short of waitresses?

Jason: I'm not very sure about that. Are you interested?

Hebe: A little. There's still a few weeks till school reopens.

Jason: I'll go and find out for you.

Hebe: Thanks.

Jason: No problem. You want to come with me to the restaurant tomorrow?

Hebe: Can I?

Jason: Sure.

Hebe: Ok.

Cyndi was watching the both of them from her place and smiled to herself. Hebe was the only one who can make Jason talks so much. They were really made for each other.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 38

In the morning, there was a loud knock on Cyndi's room door.

Cyndi: Who's that? (Went to open her door)

Voice: Surprise! Didn't expect to see me, right?

Cyndi: Hebe! Why are you here? There's still a long way before school reopens.

Hebe: I missed you.

Cyndi: Oh really? Or you missed someone...

Hebe: No! I missed you.

Cyndi: I doubted that.

Hebe: Ok fine. I came back because my parents were going on a business trip. I'm allowed to
follow but that's boring. I can't just stay at home alone so I decided to come back earlier than
usual.

Cyndi: Oh, ok. You came back the wrong time. Jason is working now.

Hebe: So?

Cyndi: Are you sure you sure not back because of him?

Hebe: I regretted telling you this.

Cyndi: Chill. Just kidding. Boredom could make someone go nuts.

Hebe: Then I didn't come back on the wrong time after all.

Cyndi: Why?

Hebe: Let's go out together.

Cyndi: Really? Oh good. Let's get going!

Hebe: Are you really that bored?

Cyndi: I am. Don't waste time. Let's go! (Pull Hebe's arm)

Hebe: Alright, alright. I can walk, thank you.

Hebe and Cyndi went to the nearest shopping complex and started shopping until its lunch time.
They went to a restaurant and have their lunch.

Hebe: So, how are you doing lately?

Cyndi: Nothing much. Eat, sleep, walk, talk.....

Hebe: Don't crap. Who don't do those things?

Cyndi: But that's what I did during the holidays.

Hebe: I mean anything special happened?

Cyndi: Me or someone else?

Hebe: Will you stop that?

Cyndi: ok, ok. Well, as you've known, Zax had found his family.

Hebe: Oh, yes. I forgot about that. How are they doing now?

Cyndi: Fine. They get along well.

Hebe: That's good news.

Cyndi: Yup. There's another thing about Zax.

Hebe: What's that?

Cyndi: He's now with Rainie.

Hebe: Rainie Yang?

Cyndi: Yup. The one from the school volleyball team.

Hebe: I didn't know that he was after her.

Cyndi: I didn't know either. Maybe it's just fate.

Hebe: What about him?

Cyndi: I thought you won't ask. Him? Ummm... working, as usual. Quiet, as usual. He is just too
quiet to have anything special happening to him.

Hebe: Then while he is working, does he.... ummmm.... you know.

Cyndi: Know what? How am I supposed to know if you don't speak it out?

Hebe: Well, he..... Anyone?

Cyndi: who?

Hebe: Ok, fine. Did he like.... go out with any other girls?

Cyndi: Yup.

Hebe: What?! Who?

Cyndi: Me.

Hebe: You! (Knocks Cyndi's head.)

Cyndi: Ouch! That hurts. You should have seen your face.

Hebe: Haha. Very funny.

Cyndi: Ok, ok. I'll be serious. As I told you, he's a stick! He doesn't really have the courage to talk
to anyone that he doesn’t know apart from his customers, of course but that is just official
business.

Hebe: What about the ones he knew?

Cyndi: You mean me?

Hebe: No! Not you, other girls that he knows.

Cyndi: He doesn’t really dare to talk to anyone especially girls. Too shy.

Hebe: That means you don't know what kind of girls he likes?

Cyndi: Not really. But I can find out if you want to.

Hebe: I'm not so sure about this.

Cyndi: Don't worry, he won't know. The secret is safe with me.

Hebe: Hah! It's you whom I worry.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 37

Sam walks towards Cyndi's room,

Sam: (clench his fist) Should I knock? What should I say when I see her? Maybe I should just knock first.

Just as he was going to knock, Cyndi opened the door. Sam fist almost knocked
Cyndi's forehead.

Cyndi: (dodge from Sam's fist) You're looking for me?

Sam: Yes. Busy?

Cyndi: Not really. Want to come in?

Sam: Ok.

Cyndi: So, what is that you want to say?

Sam: I... I... Umm... You and Zax....

Cyndi: Are just friends.

Sam: So, the two of you are not together at all?

Cyndi: No. We will remain friends. Now and forever.

Sam: Oh, I see.

Cyndi: Anything else?

Sam: [Why can't I just say it out? I like you!]

Cyndi: Anything else?

Sam Yes!

Cyndi: (waiting for him)

Sam: Umm.... There's something I want tell you all along. I ... I ... I LIKE YOU!

Cyndi: [Really? He likes me too? ]

Sam: So, do I have this chance?

Cyndi: (kissed him on the cheek)

Sam: (stunned)

After a few seconds,

Sam: Can I take that as a yes?

Cyndi: What do you think?

Sam: Can we not tell them?

Cyndi: Not again?

Sam: Let's just them find out themselves.

Cyndi: Do we have to hide when we see them like what Zax and I did the last time?

Sam: Come on. I won't say anything to them after I get back as if I failed. Let's
just fool around with them.

Cyndi: Ok. [Sigh, I can't believe I’m doing this again.]

----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Zax: Ouch! Can't you be a little gentler?

Tony: That's serves you right, hiding such an important thing behind our backs.

Zax: I didn't really mean to.

Tony: Then? We known each other since we were kids and we grew up together.
Is there anything that we can't share?

Zax: it's not that. I don't even know why I want to hide it.

Tony: Weird.

Zax: I admit that. Ouch!

Tony: Can't you just bear with it a little? What kind of guy are you?

Zax: Why don't you try it? Sam punches with great force, especially when he is angry. Trust me, I have experienced that twelve years ago.

Tony: Because of that stupid frog trick?

Zax: you knew that very well and yet you still ask!

Tony: hehe.

Zax: You were part of that fight too!

Tony: Can't believe you still remember that.

Zax: that's how we know each other.

Tony: Yup.

Zax: I sure miss those days.

Tony: me too. There seem no worries back then. (Looking at the photo they once
Took in the orphanage)

Just then they heard Sam's room door opened and close.

Tony: he's back.

Sax: Do you think he has succeeded?

Tony: I think so. Let's go ask him.

Zax: What if he didn't? I don't want to get another punch from him.

Tony: I think that possibility is low. Let's go.

Zax: Ok.

They knocked Sam's door,

Sam: It's not lock. Come in. (trying hard to keep a straight face)

Tony: So?

Sam: What?

Tony: How did it go?

Sam: How did what go?

Zax: You and Cyndi?!

Sam: Oh, that. (Looking down)

Tony: (nudge Zax and whispers) What do you think that means?

Zax: (whispers back) I think it's an F.

Tony: (still whispering) I thought so too.

Sam: What is that whispering about?

Zax: Nothing. It's ok. There are plenty of chances later.

Sam: I hope so.

Tony: We will not bother you now.

Zax: We'll get going.

After they left.

Sam: (peeking from the window and started smiling) This is going to be fun.

The Life of Orphans - Chapter 36

The Life of Orphans

Chapter 36
Zax and Rainie are now together they often went off dating. Cyndi in the other side was too happy to know that Zax found someone to replace her, she doesn't even mind being left alone.

At Sam's workplace,

Sam: Thank you. (Handing a bag of sports item to a customer) Please come again.
Have a nice day.

After the customer left,

Worker (Rio): Hey, didn't your cute girlfriend come and visit you today?

Sam: She's not my girlfriend.

Rio: Oh, but the two of you look so nice together.

Sam: Nonsense, she already has a boyfriend and it's my one of my best friend.

Rio: I see. Well, treat me as a busybody but I can see that you like her in the way you treat her.

Sam: No way.

Rio: I noticed that you were hoping for her to come. If not, why did you look at
the door every time someone comes in?

Sam: Customers.

Rio: Come on. Well, I can't say much. You know yourself best.

Sam: [Maybe he's right. I do like Cyndi. But she's now with Zax. I just can wish
her.... Who's that?]

Zax and Rainie just walk past the sports equipment shop that Sam is working in
and they are holding hands!

Sam: It can't be. (Ran out for a closer look.)

Well, to his surprise. It is Zax and another girl holding hands close to each other.

Sam: (clench his fists) How can he do that? He's still with Cyndi!

Rio: Who are you looking at?

Sam: Uh? (Walk back into the shop) Nobody. Caught the wrong person. (By heart he really hoped that he caught the wrong person.)

After work,

Sam went to Cyndi's room,

Sam: (Knock the door)

Cyndi: Coming. (Opens the door) Sam? Back from work?

Sam: Yup. Can I come in?

Cyndi: Sure. Come on in.

Sam went in and sat on the chair while Cyndi sat on her bed,

Sam: So, what were you doing today?

Cyndi: Nothing much. I went and hang out at the shopping mall for almost the
whole afternoon.

Sam: Oh. Bought anything?

Cyndi: Naah. I was just window-shopping. Don't want to spend so much.

Sam: How are you with Zax?

Cyndi: What? (Surprised by that question) Umm... [I don't think he know about
Rainie and I think Zax didn't tell him anything either] Fine. Why did you ask?

Sam: Nothing much. Just wanted to know.

Cyndi: Oh, ok.

Sam: I'll go change now. See you later.

Cyndi: Ok. Bye.

On the way to his room, due to Zax's bad luck he met Zax.

Sam: Zax!

Zax: Oh. Hi, Sam.

Sam: Can I talk to you for a minute?

Zax: Ok.

Sam: Just wanted to know how are you and Cyndi going on?

Zax: Me and Cyndi? We are fine. Nothing happened.

Just then, Sam punched Zax on the face.

Zax: Ow! What was that for?

Sam: This is the second time I’m punching you. The first time is when you played that stupid trick on Cyndi. This time is that you are dating someone else while you are still having Cyndi as your girlfriend.

Zax: What?! [How did he know?]

Sam: You are going out with another girl behind Cyndi's back!

Tony passed by,

Tony: Wow! What happened?

Zax: ask him.

Sam: You know what you did!

Tony: Ok, ok. What ever happened, let's go inside and talk about it. (While
pushing the both of them into his room, he sms-ed Cyndi)

In Tony's room,

Tony: Ok, now. May I know what's the matter?

Zax: No idea. He started it.

Sam: You are the one who one did something wrong to Cyndi!

Tony: Cyndi? What did he do?

Sam: He's dating someone else.

Tony: What! How could you do that?!

Cyndi and Jason rushed in at the same time,

Jason: What happened?

Cyndi: Yeah, I rushed over as quickly as possible.

Tony: (Totally ignoring the arrival of the both of them) How can you do such a
thing? Especially to Cyndi?

Cyndi: Huh?

Sam: You can hurt anyone but not Cyndi. Don't you know that she's a load better than other girls?

Cyndi: (Although was puzzled but blushed a little after hearing that.)

Tony: Why aren't you explaining? Is it because what Sam said was right? You
really did date another girl behind Cyndi's back?

Cyndi: No, it's a mistake. You don't understand ...

Sam: I saw it with my very own eyes.

Cyndi: It's not what you see ...

Tony: You don't have to side him, Cyndi. After what he did to you.

Cyndi: No, listen ...

Sam: We'll teach him for you. I'll never let anyone make you unhappy.

Cyndi: WAIT! Listen to me! (everyone stopped and Zax was shaking his head) I'm sorry. I can't hold this any longer. Zax and I was a fake couple. We weren't together. We are faking the whole thing just to satisfy Zax's father who wants to see him have a girlfriend before he leaves.

Tony: What? You mean the both of you were not together?

Cyndi: No, we are not. Now and always.

Sam: (Felt really happy inside but still kept a straight face)

Jason: (Finally talking) That means you and Zax was always faking the whole
love business?

Cyndi: Yes and I did hint that. I always said that we were not what you guys
think but none of you listens to me.

Tony: It's because we thought you were shy to admit.

Jason: Why are you two faking it?

Zax: Sigh... I thought I could hide this forever. It’s my dad. You know why he is so eager for me to go back? He had cancer and not much time left. He said he
wanted to see my girlfriend so I plead Cyndi to help me.

Tony: Oh, I’m sorry.

Zax: It's ok. He's much better now. He even might get a chance to recover
completely.

Jason: Wow, that's good.

Cyndi: But he still doesn’t know the truth.

Tony: We'll help you plan something.

Cyndi: Really? Thanks a lot!

Tony: What are brothers for?

Cyndi: (Smiled)

Sam: Umm... Zax? ... Sorry for that. (Eyed zax's bruised left cheek)

Zax: It's ok. You were just helping Cyndi.

Cyndi blushed when hearing this. She took a short glance at Sam and found that he's looking at her too. The both of them turn away at the same time.

Cyndi: I... I have something to do. Got to go now. Bye.

Zax: Bye. (After Cyndi went out) Hey, (nudge Sam) she actually has nothing to do.

Sam: So?

Tony: I can see that you like her.

Zax: And now you know that me and her are not a couple. You should ...

Jason: Go for it!

Zax: Bingo! Jason always speaks the point.

Sam: (walked out)

Zax: She likes him too.

Tony: I know.

Jason: So?

Zax & Tony: Sigh.

Jason: Huh?