Chapter 12: I am offended

Saturday has always been the day for spring cleaning of my room, laundry day as well as to do the things I love such as reading, drawing, or even walking along the waterfront or the park.

I woke up as usual, 7:00am. My body clock has had been in-tuned to waking up this early, even on a public holiday. How I wish I could sleep in like Ashley!

Laundry done, room swept and mopped, and shower. Then, I planned to visit the library after my shower, but I needed to grab my breakfast or brunch as it was almost 10:30am.

As I was walking out of Ville Residence, my phone rang. A quick glance at my screen, and the ID is JE. Thats Jeremiah Elijah. I frowned, wondering why is he calling on a Saturday.

I answered the phone calmly, Hello, boss. Good morning. I am in the best of my mood, and I wanted to tease Jeremy.

Jeremy was stunned and annoyed upon hearing the word boss coming from Rachels mouth,

Good morning. Why did you call me boss? You have always call me by my name. I replied while thinking.

What is this? Was she trying to annoy me?

Rachel replied abruptly, You are my boss, right? Isnt that appropriate for me to address you?

I was getting irritated and responded, Dont you ever call me that again. This girl! It irked me when she addressed me as boss!

I didnt want to argue with her anymore over this petty word. I changed the subject and asked, Rachel, are you free now? I want to bring you to a place.

I knew she was going to say No, and I didnt want to give her a chance to do so.

I continue to command Rachel, Dont give me any excuse as I know the exact location you are in now. Look to your right!

Rachel kind of happy to tease Jeremy but when he started to command her, she frowned.

I turned to the right and alas! The familiar figure stood there like a log. I squinted my eyes and asked, Where are we going? I continued talking to him on the line as he hasnt hung up the call.

Lets go Jeremy said and ended the call before Rachel refused.

Nope, I am not going to let you, Rachel Jane to say NO to my invite.

However, Rachel was cursing in her heart!

Speechless! Just looked at him! Jeremy was waving to me like a crazy man

Alright, where are we going? I asked unhappily while approaching his car as he had interrupted my plan of grabbing brunch.

Just get in, I am going to show you a place. Come on, I will not harm you. Jeremy replied with a big smile.

This man! Unbelievable!

Growl! Oh dear, I am hungry.

Should or shouldnt I mentioned that I had initially plan to go for my breakfast or brunch?

No, best to keep mum about this. I wont die for having a late lunch later.

Lets go and grab a meal first. Jeremy gazed at me with the look that says I know you are hungry.

Stunned and embarrassed at the same time. Was my hunger clearly written on my face?

While I was in deep thoughts, Jeremy broke the silence, I am famished and I need to eat! Having said that, Jeremy open the door of the passenger side for me to get in.

An uneasy feeling overwhelmed my heart after being treated in this manner by Jeremy. Geoff never treated me like him. I reluctantly got into his car and sat quietly.

Jeremy noticed Rachels sudden facial expression,

I closed the door after Rachel, then walked briskly to the driver side. Minutes later, I was driving along the main road towards a nearby mall. Rachel was quiet all the way.

I didnt know what was on her mind. I was curious yet didnt wish to interrupt her thoughts.

After parking my car at the car park, I led Rachel to the food bazaar. During the whole meal time, I was chattier while Rachel was more of a listener. She only responded once in a while. However, she looked calmer than before.

Perhaps, she found that I was no longer pushy about her personal life especially her background. I wont want to open up any of her old wounds, it hurt her still and it would not benefit our friendship at all.

After the brunch, I led Rachel back to my car.

Upon starting the engine with Rachel seated next to me, I spoke Rachel, I am going to bring you to a new

condominium, Premium Hearth which was recently completed.

Why? Rachel asked softly.

Looking at Rachel, I smiled without giving her an answer.

Rachel was anticipating for Jeremys answer but he only smiled. What was he thinking?

It took Jeremy thirty minutes to drive to the condominium.

As we were nearing Premium Hearth, I could see the spectacular sight of the condominium. I was in awe.

Jeremys car soon arrived at the entrance and he waved to the security guard. He didnt stop his car, instead the guard opened the gate for him.

I thought to myself,

He ought to be a frequent visitor. Otherwise, the security guard would have checked his identity.

Then, he continued driving to the car park. He parked at a specific spot with a particular registration number imprinted on it. It just dawned to me that the registration numbers were of his car.

Alright, he was one of residents in this condominium.

After turning off the ignition, Jeremy opened the door of his car and said to me, Rachel, lets go.

I was apprehensive. I knew that he wanted to show me his apartment, should I go? I didnt bulge from the car seat rather I was deciding on what to do next?

Jeremy could sensed her fear from her face,

However, out of eagerness, I reached out to grab her hand. Lets go, I wanted to show you this place.

Rachel was stunned, and she was trying to shake off my hand. But I held her hand tightly, refusing to let go.

Rachel felt as if she was being forced and she hated that feeling.

The lift door opened and Jeremy led me into the lift. I continued to shake his hand off but it didnt work instead he found my reaction funny.

He chuckled as he pressed Level 26. Jeremy with his hand still grabbing mine, he led me to unit 2616. Jeremy took out a bundle of keys to unlock the door and then, key in a pin before the door opened.

As soon as I entered the apartment, I was in awe over the big space of the apartment.

Jeremy started to show me around. There were three rooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a balcony garden. I was more interested in the balcony garden. It was about 10 x 10 with a transparent awning. I imagined how this small garden could be converted into an edible vegetable garden. I smiled as I imagined.

Then, I noticed that the place was fully furnished, air-conditioned and electrical appliances, kitchen wares, utensils were ready for use.

Out of curiosity, I asked Jeremy Is this is your new apartment?”

Jeremy replied, Technically”.

“It is beautiful and cosy, I continued abruptly.

“I am staying here alone, but I prefer to have someone else staying here with me as this place is safer, and the security is good,” Jeremy informed.

Someone? I pondered but nah, none of my business. It might be his girlfriend or lover.

Suddenly, Jeremy turned around and looked at me, Rachel, I would like you to stay here instead of Ville Residence, Jeremy uttered.

Jeremy waited patiently for Rachels reply.

Rachel, its for your safety. Let me protect you and keep you safe.

What? No, no. I couldnt afford the rental fee. Rachel replied quickly.

Rachel, this is the nearer to the company and it is safe. You dont have to worry for the rental, you can stay here for free. I explained abruptly.

Rachel was shocked and staggered,

Unbelievable! Staying for free? What was Jeremy thinking?

My mood changed and I was unhappy. No way would I accept his offer.

No, I would not be a burden to you or anyone else. I wouldnt need anybodys help. I answered angrily.

Jeremy, please have some respect for me. I have my own life, I live independently. Dont take charge of my life. I am very offended now.” I was in the brim of full explosion as I spoke.

Jeremy was astonished and dumbfounded with Rachels reaction.

Gosh! I should have considered her perspective. I hastily grabbed her hand and apologised, Im sorry Rachel. I didnt mean to offend you.”

Rachel tried to shake off my hand but I refuse to let go. I explained, I am suggesting you to stay here because the place that you are staying is not safe. It is out of my concern for you, I am worried. I mean no harm. Please understand.

What have I done?! I have hurt her feelings.

Rachels eyes were welling-up,

I managed to shake off his hand, and walked briskly out of the apartment with tears rolling down my cheeks.

I tried to hold back my tears but in vain. I couldnt control my tears. I didnt need his sympathy.

Jeremy was running after Rachel, apologising over and over again.

I was still angry with Jeremy after walking out of the lift at Level 1. I insisted to part way with Jeremy at the entrance of Premium Hearth.

I am sorry, please forgive me Rachel. Where do you want to go from here? Just let me send you. Jeremy apologised repeatedly Please forgive me. He almost pleaded his heart out.

Out of annoyance and anger, I snapped at Jeremy, Library.

Alright, please get into the car. Let me send you there. Jeremy replied in a conciliatory tone.

The trip to the library was so quiet that Jeremy felt uneasy.

Upon arriving at the library, Rachel opened the door of car, and uttered softly, Thank you for the ride.

Then, she closed the door and walked to the library.

Jeremy while sitting in his car, looking remorsefully at Rachel as she walked into the library.

What have I done? She is angry and I dont think it is going to be easy to gain her trust again. What should I do now?

Rachel in the library,

I randomly picked a book and found myself a seat. I flipped through the book, but I couldnt bring myself to focus on my reading.

Argggh! What was wrong with me? Was I still bothered with what Jeremy did?

Why was he so concerned for me? Who am I? I am just an employee, a nobody! What was his motive? What would the office gossipers say if they knew that I would be staying at his apartment?

I continued to stay at the library for an hour, trying to read but to no avail. Giving up and returning the book to the shelf, I decided to head back to my humble room.

However, as I walked out of the library, a familiar figure was standing outside the door. Huh? Why was he still here? Didnt he leave?

Jeremy initially was seated in his car and in deep thoughts,

I needed to wait for her to calm down. It was my bad! I took things for granted.

I waited for half an hour, and then I couldnt wait in the car anymore. I decided to wait at the entrance of the library.

Half an hour later, Rachel exited the library. I walked briskly towards her while trying to read her facial reaction.

Rachel looked on as Jeremy walked towards her,

As soon as he came near to me, he pleaded, Rachel, please forgive me.

In fact, I had forgiven Jeremy. I feel bad that he waited for me to seek my forgiveness.

I aint a holder of grudge, it was in fact a petty matter.

I abruptly uttered a reply, I have forgotten about it, dont mention it anymore. And, please dont do this sort of thing again.

A strong sense of relief overwhelmed Jeremy after hearing Rachels sentence,

Yes, Mm, I replied while saluting to Rachel with a smile.

Where do you want to go now? I continued to ask.

I like to go home and have a nap, that was Rachels answer. I was quite disappointed with her answer as I have planned to spend more time with her.

Alright, No choice, thats all I could respond to her.

Soon, Jeremys car reached Ville Residence,

As usual, Jeremy walked me back to my unit. Both of us were silent.

When I took out my keys to open the main door, he spoke, Let me fetch you at 7:00pm tonight for our group dinner. Jeremy offered happily.

However, I quickly replied, I think it will be best that I go on my own as I dont want to be the target of gossip again. It wont do any good for you as well, right?

Jeremy frowned, Alright then, see you tonight. Please dont be late.

I gazed at him and said, Dont bet on that. Punctuality is listed in my life principles.

Back in Rachels room,

I locked my door and sat down on my bed. My thoughts went back to what had happened at Jeremys apartment.

Jeremy seemed to be over-concerned for me. I felt uneasy upon thinking of his concern for me.

Yeah! I knew that I have had experienced many near-danger incidents while staying at Ville Residence over the period of five years but I couldnt afford a more secured place which of course, logically high in the rental rate.

Lying on my bed, sleepiness and tiredness came at one-go and without realisation, I fell asleep.

I opened my eyes and saw a beautiful hairpin on the table near the window. It was all so familiar.

The table, the hairpin, the window and the beautiful scenery outside the window. The same scenery which mesmerised me all the time.

I picked up the hairpin and observed the beauty of it. The handiwork was superb, the details of flowers, leaves and veins are crafted neatly and accurately on the pin. I ran my fingers through the crafted lines with my eyes closed, tried to image the craftsmans creativity.

Suddenly a voice startled me, the same familiar voice.

Wenhui, this hairpin was crafted with my very own hands. It would be the one and only one in this world. I would never make a second one of the same design. Because I made it for you, my only love in this world.

I turned to the voice and saw the same man. A figure standing in front of me but no matter how I tried, I could never see his face.

It was blur. I knew it was Liu. I heard myself replying him, Thank you dear for this precious gift and token of our love.

Liu touched the jade pendent that was hanging on his necklace.

He spoke, This jade pendent was personally crafted by you. These two characters yong ai were crafted perfectly. I loved it and I shall cherished it forever.

He reached out to touch my face and held my hand. My eyes began to well-up and tears flowed uncontrollably down my cheeks.

Jeremy while driving away from Ville Residence,

I couldnt believe how stupid I was. I should have considered Rachels feelings before suggesting her to stay at my apartment.

She was and is a prideful person as she has had gone through poverty and abandonment since young. I have been too naïve to think that she would accept my arrangement.

Its my bad and its my weakness. I guessed that my upbringing had made me a demanding person. It is my strength as well as my weakness.

I needed self-evaluation to avoid the risk of hurting and offending Rachel anymore.

Without realisation, I drove myself to Kiara Hills. I parked myself at the car park of a café.

Why did I end up here? I got out of my car, locked it and started to look around. This is quite a beautiful place. A sight with the nature, all green, flowers, birds, insects, fresh air and so forth that we can find in nature.

Then, I noticed that there are many hikers. Oh! There are hiking trails. I took a glance at the notice board of the café and began to gather information from the café workers about the hiking trails.

After obtaining the full-fledged information, I sat down at a corner table on the exterior deck that faced the garden and jungle.

A beautiful sight! I love nature and I have decided to hike at Kiara Hills from now on.

Suddenly, I thought of Rachel. Didnt she say that hiking is one of her hobbies? Yeah, I am going to invite her to join me.

Rachel woke up from her nap,

I opened my eyes and realised that I had fallen asleep. My eyes were wet and as I sat up, tears fell down my cheeks.

Wow! What a dream?! I cried in my sleep as well. The feeling of loving someone and being loved by someone was overwhelming for me. It was merely a dream, though I did wish that I would experience such love in my lifetime.

I took a quick glance at the time on my phone display, and it showed 5:00pm. Our team dinner had been set at 7:00pm, thus I have time to get ready.

I got up from my bed and opened the built-in wardrobe door. I browsed through my clothing and simply picked a cotton black dress with lace sleeves. I had not worn this dress for quite some time. Would it fit still?

I was able to put it on easily without any problem. Yeah! I could wear still.

I decided to get ready earlier for the dinner. Taking out my pail of toiletries, with my towel, bathrobe and my pail; I unlocked the door and walked towards the bathroom.

I didnt hear any sound coming from neither Ashleys room nor the sitting room, I thought that she had gone out or perhaps, she was sleeping still as she has had the habit of sleeping the whole day due to her active nightlife.

Unwarily, I proceed to the bathroom but as I pushed the door open. Alas, her boyfriend was in the bathroom. He was naked!

I apologised hastily, turned around and walked briskly back to my room. Suddenly, someone grabbed my hand.

Its the naked guy. He yelled, Wait, dont be shy! Come and have fun.

I screamed as I tried to shake his hand off. He wont let me go, and I began to kick his leg.

I managed to kick his knee and he shrieked in pain. His grip was loosen and I took the opportunity to run as fast as I could back to my room.

I locked the door instantly and leaned against the door to heave a sigh of relief. Unconsciously, I dropped my pail, my towel plus bathrobe on the floor.

Suddenly, my doorknob was being shaken, followed with a voice saying, Come on pretty girl. Open the door for me. I will teach you on how to satisfy a man.

Damned him! I didnt want to respond to him because I knew that the more I responded, the more he enjoyed taunting me.

I quickly bolted my door with the two bolts that I have installed years ago for extra safety. I have the habit of bolting my door even though I had locked it at the doorknob.

My heart was beating fast and it took me sometime to calm.

After calming down and returning to my senses, I picked up my stuff from the floor and put next to my table.

What should I do now? How am I going to shower?

Then and there, I heard Ashleys voice cursing her boyfriend for being noisy. But she didnt mention about me.

Why? Didnt she hear my scream? I tried to listen more to their conversations. Her boyfriend apparently lie about the noise, saying that he was quarrelling with his friend on the phone.

Then, he followed Ashley back into her room. Apparently, the sleep-log Ashley didnt hear anything. My goodness!

Since they were in the room now, I quickly and quietly went to the bathroom with my stuff. I took a quick and quiet shower. I was back in my room in less than ten minutes. That was my record of having the shortest shower time.

What the heck?! I couldnt even enjoy my shower. It was extremely stressful and I wondered whether I am going to stress out whenever I shower in future.

Did I sign up for such an unnecessary stress?

I locked my door and triple-locked it with two bolts. Then, I sighed a relief and began to dress up.

I keep my ears sharp to hear whether they were in the room still as I wanted to leave the apartment without their realisation.

Soon, I heard them leaving the room and walking out the apartment. I sat down in front of my table feeling more relax now without them in the apartment.

I took out my makeup kit and started to apply some foundation talc, eye shadows and lipsticks.

My makeup routine has had always been simple and light, no matter whats the occasion was. My daily office makeup routine was even simpler. It consists of foundation talc and lipsticks.

After I was readily-dressed, I looked at the time display on my phone. Its 6:15pm.

I needed to leave now otherwise, I would be late for the dinner. I never like to be late, it is rude habit.

Within five minutes, I exited Ville Residence to walk towards the nearest bus stop.