The Art of Forgetting

Truth.

2008-03-11T00:59:00.001+08:00

Charlotte started to feel fear rushing through her spine. What is Luke doing and why is he treating her this way?

"Luke, please let me go," Charlotte tried to plead with her captor.

"No Charlotte. You had enough of running away from me. It's time to make you see the truth," Luke said. "I've always loved you even when you were with Dylan and you've never once saw me. Don't you know how that pains me?"

Charlotte was remorseful. All along she thought Luke was just being the perfect older brother. "I'm sorry Luke. I didn't know," was all she could answer.

"Sorry? Sorry?! That can't change anything Char. For years I've been trying to make you mine. Do you know that? I even killed Dylan just trying to get you!" Luke shouted.

Charlotte's heart froze. "You what?"

Luke laughed evily, "Yes Char. I killed Dylan. It was no accident."

Tears started to flow from Charlotte's eyes, "No Luke. This cannot be true!"

"Oh yes it is. I confronted Dylan at his office that day to tell him that you should have been mine and asked him to let you go. He refused and said I was crazy! So I trailed his car all the way back to the country and I ramped his car from behind. He got out to run towards the house and I stepped on the gas enough to hit him. Ha! That taught him," Luke recounted.

Charlotte couldn't stop crying. It was bad enough that the love of her life died so young; it hurt even more that her best friend killed him! "Stop! I don't want to hear anymore of this!"

"But you must! You have to know what I had to do just to get to you! When I saw you witnessing everything, I fled. I knew you didn't see my face but I went into hiding here for months just to be sure. Then when I found out that you let the incident pass as an accident, I came back to find you - to make you mine," Luke said, trying to wipe the tears off Charlotte's face but she quickly turned away.

"You murderer!" Charlotte screamed, "I will never forgive you let alone love you!"

Luke was furious! He raised his hand and slapped her across the face. "You will love me! I was this close to making you mine until that... that... Matt! Tell me what makes him better than me?!" Charlotte just gave him the death stare and said nothing but in her heart was nothing but fear... fear that she will be stuck here with him forever.

***

As Matt drove towards the position that the intelligence corp of Eisenburg detected of the possible whereabouts of Charlotte, he heard sirens following close behind. He pulled his vehicle to a stop and turned to see an entourage of police cars following behind. Matt got out of the car and waved his hands in the air, "What in the world are you guys doing?"

One of the policeman came out of his vehicle and replied, "Sir Matthew. Lord Alexanda of Eisenburg commanded us to follow you to ensure that nothing happens to you."

Matt sighed. He knew his brother would just do such a thing. He couldn't possibly chase them away and they might be good backup for a possible confrontation. "Fine. You guys can follow but stop it with the siren thing. You're just going to make that bastard run."

"Sorry sir!" the policeman said before commanding his men to do as Matt instructed. The fleet of cars revved up their engines and sped down the dusty path. There was little time left. The more they delay, the more danger Charlotte could be in.

The Search Is On

2008-01-17T23:41:00.000+08:00

As Matt rushed to take his bike, he knew he was going to need more help. He reached into his pocket and pulled out his cell phone. As much as he didn't want to do this, he had to because Charlotte's life depended on it and he dialed the number.

"Matthew, you called!" Alex said excitedly. It was rare that his brother called so quickly, "How did the proposal go?"

Matt sighed, "Alex, there is something very important I need you to help me with. Charlotte has been kidnapped! She is missing! I need to find her! Could you track her location through her cell phone?"

"Of course I will alert the intelligence team immediately. Do you want me to send out a search party too?" Alex asked.

"Not yet. Just give me whatever information you can find. I am going to find her!" Matt said with utmost determination.

"Alright. Good luck little brother," Alex said before hanging up.

Matt knew this search was not going to be easy. There are so many places that Luke could have taken Charlotte. He just needed a rough direction and hopefully a better form of transportation.

"Matt! Take this car!" Mrs Webber shouted as she ran towards him, "Mr. Grobe from the neighboring shop has kindly offered us to use his car to find Charlotte." Matt thanked Mrs Webber and the onlooking Mr Grobe. One wish down and a Charlotte to find.

***

Charlotte felt the strong rays of the sun hitting her face. She wanted to rub her eyes but she somehow couldn't move her hands. She slowly opened her eyes and realised that she was bounded at her hands and feet onto a char. She screamed and struggled. She wondered what happened and where was everyone - Luke... Matt..... no one was around! Charlotte looked around. She was definitely in a house but all its windows and doors were sealed shut. She was alone, somewhere out there where she felt no one could get to her.

Suddenly, a door opened and a familiar voice called out, "Charlotte! You're awake!" Charlotte squinted her eyes to figure who it was as the figure came into the light.

"LUKE! Get me out of here please!" Charlotte screamed but Luke just placed his hand on her face and said nothing. Charlotte looked into his eyes and realised something was wrong. Luke looked dazed and he acted funny.

"Luke, let me go, please, Charlotte begged once more.

"NO!" Luke screamed suddenly. Charlotte had a shock of her life. "If I untie you, you will leave me AGAIN!"

"What are you talking about Luke? What is wrong with you?"

"All these years, I watched out for you, made sure you were happy and hoped that one day you will realise how much I love you. But what do I get in the end? You falling for my best friend, Dylan and that MATT!" Luke shouted, his demeanor getting scarier with each sentence.

"I'm sorry Luke.... love can't be controlled," Charlotte said, close to tears. She didn't know what Luke can and will do to her.

"You're wrong Charlotte. You see," Luke held onto her shoulders, "I am controlling love. I am keeping the one that I love the most in all the world right here with me now and forever." Charlotte shudder at his touch and tried to inch away from him. She just hoped someone will be able to find her and soon.

***

Matt was speeding through highways to reach uptown where Mrs Webber suspected Charlotte and Luke to be at. He was still eagerly waiting for Alex to get some information. But until then, he only had his instincts to follow. "Charlotte, tell me where you are," Matt whispered under his breath.

Just then, his cell phone rang. He pulled his car to a screeching halt and answered, "Alex! Tell me you have good news!"

"Matt, the intelligence team just picked up the last call from her cell phone was made somewhere 10 miles from where you are. You are on the right track. The team is still trying to get the latest signal from the phone. It is apparently till switched on somewhere around the area. Meanwhile you just drive and I'll fill you in as we go," Alex said.

Matt hung up and sped towards the location Alex found. When he arrived, he noticed that the land around him was barren and it looked like a desert. There were no cars, no animals, just a strange quietness. Matt got out of the car and looked around the area for some clues on where Charlotte and Luke might be. There was just this strange calm. Nothing was moving other than his feet. Matt peered down and noticed tyre treads on the sandy floor.

"This should be them," Matt said to himself. He quickly got back into the car and tried to follow in the direction where the treads led to.

"Charlotte, I'm coming," Matt called out.

The Author is Back!

2008-01-16T14:17:00.000+08:00

Sorry for the long sabbatical break. Had to gather inspiration. Do stay tuned for the ending of the story!

Realisation

2006-02-13T21:13:00.000+08:00

Matt didn't know how or what he was going to say when he sees Charlotte at the shop. He just couldn't comprehend what happened. Somehow he had such high hopes that Charlotte would somehow appear. But after hours of waiting, he had to do something because he was driven by his love for Charlotte.

Matt tucked his hands into his pocket after he parked his bike and walked down towards Charlotte's shop. He didn't want to park too near because he wanted time to think about what to say and how to react. He knew if he just waltz into the shop without preperation, he would just be tongue tied and loss for words.

He opened the door and saw Mrs Webber standing at the counter and serving a customer. She smiled sweetly at him as he waited for her to finish with the customer. Matt looked around but Charlotte wasn't around.

After the customer left, Mrs Webber came around and gave Matt a big hug. "Oh Matt congratulations!"

Matt was perplexed, "Mrs Webber... why are you congratulating me?"

Mrs Webber then realised Charlotte wasn't with him, "Where's Charlotte? She was on her way to meet you early this morning."

Matt shook his head, "I waited all morning for her but she didn't turn up. That's why I came down to see if she was here."

Mrs Webber started to get confused too, "That can't be. Luke even offered to drive her to meet you... unless... Ooh no..." Matt knew something was wrong when he saw the shock and fear on Mrs Webber's face.

"I don't think Luke would... kidnap her?" Mrs Webber suspected. Once Matt heard this, he had to make sure that Charlotte was ok. He wanted to dash out to find her but Mrs Webber stopped him.

"How would you ever know where Luke might take her??" Mrs Webber said as she reached for the phone and tried to call Charlotte's cell phone but to no avail. Matt was getting really worried and sitting there doing nothing was making him really annoyed.

"I should be out there looking for her! She could be in trouble," Matt said, twidling his hands.

Mrs Webber then tried to call Luke on his cell phone and surprisingly he picked up, "Luke! Where is Charlotte?"

Luke turned to look at Charlotte who was fast asleep in his car as he drove upstate. He tried to remain calm and said the Charlotte had already left to meet Matt.

Mrs Webber started to cry, "Luke stop lying. Matt's here with me and Charlotte isn't! Where did you take Charlotte to?"

Luke started to get defensive, "I really did drive Charlotte to the park! Maybe she doesn't want to meet Matt afterall and decided to take a walk around?"

Matt took the phone from Mrs Webber and started to shout at Luke, "Look! Where did you take Charlotte to? I know you kidnapped her! Tell me where you are before I track you down!"

After hearing Matt threats, Luke just ended the call and switched his phone off. As he drove further upstate, he brushed Charlotte's brown hair from her face. She was soundly asleep, oblivious where Luke was taking her.

"I'm not going to lose you anymore. We're gonna go away from here and be together... just like when we were young," Luke said.

***

Matt railed at the dead phone as he slammed it down on the counter. Mrs Webber was already crying and looking all worried.

"I'm going out to find her. Where does Luke live? Any information on where I could find him?" Matt asked Mrs Webber but she was so worried that she couldn't remember anything.

"All I know he works upstate and he is currently living with us. I don't know where he would be now," Mrs Webber said.

Matt shook his head, "I'll just drive upstate to see if I can locate them. Don't worry, I'll call you as soon as I get news." Mrs Webber nodded and watched as Matt walk out of the store and off to find Charlotte.

The Plan....

2006-01-13T13:00:00.000+08:00

Charlotte looked out the window and saw the beautiful morning sky. She couldn't help but feel on top of the moon. She watched as the luscious trees went by and the birds were singing. She could never ask for a better day to tell the man she loved that she would forgive him for everything to gain his love.

"It's such a wonderful day... isn't it?" Charlotte asked Luke who somehow still looked tense and uncomfortable. He didn't say anything but just gave her a stiff nod. Luke had so many thoughts racing through his mind but he didn't know how to address any one of them. He just knew the best way was forward but he had to make a stop first... at the gas station.

"Hey, I've gotta pull up here for a while. Sit here and wait for me ok?" Luke said as he got out of the car. Charlotte agreed as she watched Luke go into the convenience store.

As Luke stepped into the store, he went straight for the drinks section. He bought Charlotte a soda, some water and snacks. As he piled them up on the counter, the cashier was a little shock at his purchase.

"I'm getting it for a big family gathering... you know how it is with parties," Luke lied as the cashier smiled at him before keying in the prices. He then quickly slipped some migrane pills with the stuff he was buying.

"That will be $98 sir," the cashier said sweetly.

Luke handed her a bill and told her to keep the change. He went out into the lot where Charlotte was still quietly sitting there. He signaled to her and told her he was going to the loo. She nodded and shooed him in.

Luke didn't know what he was going to do was going to harm Charlotte but he knew it was the best way to keep her away from everyone else and only for himself. He uncapped the bottle and slipped the pills into it. He gave it a little shake as he watched the fizz die down. He was ready...

"What took you so long? Was it my mom's breakfast?" Charlotte joked as she watched Luke pile the stuff into the car, "What's with the snacks?"

Luke smiled, "I feel bad always eating at your place, so I decided to buy some snacks so I wouldn't feel hungry when you and your mother are at work."

Charlotte rolled her eyes, "You do know you have to go to work with us right?"

Luke sighed, "I do have the liberty to take some days off right?" Charlotte playfully slapped him on the arm as Luke handed her the soda bottle.

"Here, I wouldn't want you to dehydrate. It's going to be a warm day and you need to drink up," Luke said, trying to sound as natural as possible. He was surprised that Charlotte never rejected him as she took the bottle mouth to her lip. Luke watched as she drank it before he started the car rolling.

Charlotte smiled at Luke as she somehow finished the whole bottle, "I never liked sodas but since you are so wonderfully nice today, I've finished it for you."

Luke replied, "Thank Charlotte. You matter to me... and I would never want to lose you..."

"... as a friend right?" Charlotte finished the sentence for him.

That few words just reminded him how right he was doing this.

***

It was now noon. The sun was beating down on Matt and he could feel the heat both inside and outside of him. He had to find Charlotte to ask her why... why couldn't she forgive him for lying to her. Why all the love that they shared didn't mean anything to her. He looked at the ring box for the final time before slipping it into his pocket. He had to find out what was wrong and how he could get her back. It was time for action.

Crashworld

2006-01-11T12:41:00.000+08:00

Charlotte stepped out of the bathroom and watched as her mother and Luke stare at her like it was the awakening of an endangered species. She forced a smile at them as she made her way to have breakfast. She didn't utter a word but she could see that her mother was eager to know if she was going to meet Matt today.

"So...?" her mother asked as she poured coffee for her daughter.

Charlotte looked at the concern in her mother's eyes and replied, "I'm going... to see him."

At that moment, Luke felt his world crashed on him a second time around. To think he thought he was getting somewhere with Charlotte but now he knew that she was using him as her comfort blanket and there was no feelings entwined with whatever they shared a day ago. He didn't know how he should react and feel at the moment. All he knew was that he went numb.

"Great! Let's get you going then!" Mrs Webber said, sounding like an excited teenager all over again.

"Mom, you make it sound as though I'm getting married or something," Charlotte giggled as she watched her mother dance around the kitchen.

"I'm sure that can be arranged somehow," Mrs Webber winked at her daughter.

Luke suddenly felt all the hurt and jealousy rise up within him. He knew that if he didn't take drastic measures now, he would lose Charlotte forever... again. He had to make sure she knew very well how he felt about her and make her realise that he was the one for her... and not some painter.

"Where are you meeting him?" Luke asked.

Charlotte bit a corner off her sandwich and replied, "I'm meeting him at the park."

Luke thought for a moment and said, "Want me to send you there? Besides, you're already running late, I presume."

Charlotte was surprised at Luke's generosity. Sure she knew Luke could have feelings for her but she was really happy that he finally realised that she loved Matt and he was only going to be her best friend.

"Sure. I don't see why not. Just let me get my stuff," Charlotte said as she ran into her room.

"What you're doing for her... is nice," Mrs Webber whispered to Luke as Charlotte disappeared into her room. Luke didn't know what to say but gave Mrs Webber one of his smiles.

***

Matt looked at his watch... it was nearly ten but he couldn't see Charlotte anywhere. He was suddenly getting really nervous and at the back of his mind he kept thinking of the 'what if' questions he tried to suppress all this while. He started having doubts that he knew that he should not have. Matt wished he had someone to reassure him.

He took at look at the ring box in his hand and then darted his eyes to his watch. It just made him panic more and more. He told himself he'd give her another couple of hours before he decide to find her. If she didn't want to go to him, he will go to her.

***

Luke and Charlotte walked towards Luke's car without saying much. Luke could see the eagerness in Charlotte's eyes as she turned to him and smile. She never looked more beautiful. Luke realised that this was it... he had to act now or he would never see those beautiful eyes and smile he always loved.

"Luke, stop daydreaming... let's go," Charlotte said as she got into the car. Luke was interrupted from his moment and then got into the driver's seat. He suddenly didn't know what he should do next. A pang of guilt ran through his whole body.

"Luke, are you ok? You seem a little uncomfortable," Charlotte asked as she placed her hand on his arm. Luke could feel the warmth in that touch. Oh, he'd give up anything for her... even his life.

"Yeah I'm fine. Let's go then," Luke said as he started the engine.

Morning Came Too Soon?

2006-01-05T23:18:00.000+08:00

The next morning, Mrs Webber was making breakfast as Luke came into the kitchen and looked the fridge. Mrs Webber watched as Luke was getting comfortable in the house. Somehow she felt that his presence was ruining the whole idea of her having a future son-in-law like Matt.

"Wow... what are you cooking? Smells good," Luke asked as he peered into the pan.

Mrs Webber forced a smile, "Oh, just some bacon and eggs. You want some?" Luke smiled and nodded.

As she served him a plate, she watched as Luke praised her cooking as usual, "You're the best cook. I missed your food so much," Luke said. Somehow Mrs Webber just felt that it was rather contrived.

"So have you really decide to just help out at our shop now?" Mrs Webber asked, "Or are you just waiting for another project?"

Luke took a bite off his breakfast and shrugged, "I don't know. I guess I'm just winging everything now. Well, Charlotte looks as though she needs some help around the shop... she looks really drained out by all the work and everything else."

Mrs Webber sighed, she wondered if Charlotte told Luke everything that happened and if Luke honestly wanted to be just friends with Charlotte again. Somehow her mother's instincts told her otherwise but she couldn't just do anything without any basis.

"Is Charlotte up yet?" Luke asked and shook Mrs Webber out of her thoughts. Mrs Webber shrugged as she decided to check on her daughter. As she opened the door, she saw Charlotte sprawled on the bed and staring into space again.

"Charlotte? Why aren't you coming out for breakfast?" Mrs Webber asked as she sat down beside her daughter.

Charlotte sighed, "I'm suppose to decide if I am to forgive Matt today. I'm suppose to meet him at the park if I am ready to forgive him for everything."

Mrs Webber sighed, "Charlotte do you want to know what I really think?"

Charlotte sat up and shrugged, "Mom, you've been telling me so many times to forgive him. Is that what you're gonna say again?"

Mrs Webber smiled and shook her head, "No. I'm just telling you that I saw the exact same face when Dylan wanted to move into the countryside and you were addicted to the city life. I saw the look when you were deciding between your love for him and your comfort zone. This is the look I'm seeing now."

Charlotte thought about what her mother just said. Indeed, she was living in the comfort zone of transparancy and how everything is just laid on the table... but life isn't like that. Life has many facets and somehow life doesn't show all of it's cards at one go. No matter how hard she tries, she can never have a truly honest opinion about someone. Everyone has something to hide in their lives... she was also hiding the pain, the anguish and the undying love she had for Dylan.

Charlotte forced a smile and reached out to hug her mother, "Thanks Mom. I guess everything's much clearer now."

***

Matt woke up exceptionally early and took out his best casual outfit. He looked at his reflection in the mirror and smiled. He felt confident and happy. Somehow he was confident that he was going to see the love of his life... though he didn't really know what was going through Charlotte's mind.

Many times throughout the night he felt like just calling her on the phone and asking if she was alright or if not it would be resisting the urge to bike down to her house and see her face once more. But when Matt closed his eyes, he could sense her presence and it was bittersweet.

Matt took one last look at the ring box as he tucked it in his jeans pocket. He gave it one last pat before heading off to the park on his bike. The wind in his face, the sun smiling down on him... everything was perfect except for the presence of Charlotte. He never felt so alive before... then again, he had never been so deeply in love with someone before. He somehow felt that the heavens were bringing him and Charlotte together.

As he parked his bike and made his way down the path to the place where he met Charlotte for the first time. He could still remember her face when they bumped into each other. He could still remember how pretty she looked though they were arguing till the cows came home...

He found himself so deeply in love with her. He knew that this was the time... the time to make her his.

The Night Before...

2006-01-03T00:27:00.000+08:00

Both Charlotte and Matt couldn't go to sleep that night. Both of them were thinking about the most important day of their lives that would happen in a few hours' time. Matt tossed and turned as he gazed at the box that held the most important piece of jewellery that he would ever buy. It was sitting quietly across the room on the table as he just lay there... just keeping the thought of Charlotte in his head.

"What would I say to her when she walks to me? How do I tell her how much I love her?" thoughts just raced through his mind.

Matt stepped out of his bed and looked around in his apartment. Charlotte had done such a great job with the furnishings and everything screamed Charlotte's name. He had been feeling this since the day he stepped back into this house since the wedding.

Then there was that wall... where Charlotte's face was to be painted in. Matt was almost done with it but he needed to add fnishing touches. He somehow wished that the painting would just burst into life and Charlotte would just appear right there in front of him.

"I love you Charlotte. No matter what," Matt said quietly as he just stared at the wall...

***

Charlotte on the other hand somehow felt her heart melt as she thought of Matt. She realised that she actually did love him back but she didn't know if that love was enough to erase the hurt that Dylan had placed in her heart.

All the thinking as made her thirsty. She quietly made her way from her room to the kitchen. She poured a glass of water and sat at the counter. She watched Luke as he slept soundly on the couch. His arms were folded across his shoulders because of the cold wind that was blowing in from the balcony. He was dressed in a tank top and a gym pants. One of his leg was perched at an angle and he was snorning soundly.

Charlotte smiled to herself, "At least someone in the house is sleeping soundly." She decided to pull a blanket over Luke, so he wouldn't get all chilly. She grabbed a blanket from her room and quietly made her way towards the couch. She inched her way in front of Luke as she draped the blanket gently on his body. That startled Luke from his sleep as Charlotte gasped and stepped back from him but Luke managed to grab hold of her arm before she fell.

"Charlotte why are you still up at this hour?" Luke asked as he sat up on the couch. He pulled her to settle beside him as he placed an arm over Charlotte.

Charlotte sighed, "I couldn't sleep. I was trying to cover you with a blanket. It's a chilly night out."

Luke smiled. He somehow knew this day would come that Charlotte would really warm up to him, "Thanks Char. You're always this thoughtful towards me."

"Luke... if you were me, would you forgive Matt for lying to me?" Charlotte asked. Luke was stumped. He didn't know how to reply. On one hand he knew it was just a small misunderstanding but he knew that if he told Charlotte that, he would lose Charlotte forever to Matt.

"You should stick with what you believe in. You shouldn't change yourself for anyone," Luke finally replied after a long pause.

He watched as Charlotte's face fell. She handed him the blanket and told him she was tired and wanted to get to bed. Luke released her from his grasp as he watched her go back into her room. Charlotte was now utterly confused at what she would do tomorrow. She just decided to leave it to whatever happens tomorrow to decide.

Reflections

2006-01-02T23:48:00.000+08:00

Charlotte and Luke went back to the shop to help out but somehow Charlotte couldn't stop thinking about Matt and what he said. Maybe her mother was right... she should be taking this on a more positive note. Maybe a rich man's son could actually be truly interested in his passion than all the money his father could offer. If he could be self sufficient and survive on his own two feet, maybe he really truly loved her.

However, she still had to accept the fact that she is falling for him. Matt truly cared for her and somehow made her feel wanted. All the feelings that she had with Dylan was somehow on par with what Matt made her feel over the past few months. Charlotte remembered the first time they met at the park... how they destested each other and how she called him a busker.

She could still remember how they started to argue in the middle of the park and how haughty he made her. Somehow she couldn't believe how far they got from there. After that somehow they just miraculously met because Matt was the artist for her shop banner. Charlotte walked out of the shop and looked up at the banner and how beautifully Matt had done it.

Somehow she just lost the time to just admire the beauty that Matt has done in her life. The magic he somehow brought back into the washed out picture of her life because of what happened to Dylan. Matt just took his magical brush and colored every single detail back alive and Charlotte was truly smiling.

She recalled how Matt brought her for a picnic and how they just played like little kids, splashing water at each other, counting how many stars were in the sky and skipping stones on the lake.

And that first kiss... that magical kiss they had. She could still remember what Matt said to her... "Charlotte, you make me the happiest and the luckiest man on earth when you're with me. You are not only my inspiration but you mark a new beginning in my life."

That made Charlotte weak in the knees... the words he spoke and the way he spoke them. Matt was indeed someone special but that couldn't erase the fact that he hid his life from her for so long...

But then Charlotte also remembered how Matt could make any one smile with his work. Charlotte thought about what Matt told her that morning of how he wanted to chase his own dreams and not his father's and how Alexander helped him make it through. She could see all the hurt and pain through his eyes. She knew it wasn't an easy choice for Matt... just like it wasn't an easy choice for her to let go of Dylan.

Mrs Webber saw her daughter lingering outside the shop and just looking at the banner. She knew Charlotte was just thinking of Matt. Mrs Webber placed her stuff down and stood beside her daughter.

"He repainted your world Charlotte," Mrs Webber said.

Charlotte looked at her mother and smiled, "Yeah... with a beautiful rainbow."

"Why can't you forgive him?" Mrs Webber asked.

Charlotte sighed, "I'm trying, Mom. Somehow it's just hard to accept reality... like how it was hard to accept the reality that Dylan is dead." At that moment, Charlotte started to tear.

Mrs Webber couldn't say anything anymore and just hugged her daughter, "Just do what your heart tells you to. Dylan will be watching over you... like he always does."

Charlotte looked up at the sky and somehow she could see Dylan looking down at her. His deep set eyes and warm smile was just the way she remembered it. She continued to cry but she closed her eyes and silently asked Dylan to help her decide on what the next move was.

***

Matt lay on his bed and looked at the ring that he bought for Charlotte. He wondered if he was putting the cart before the horse. He wasn't even sure that she would turn up in the first place. His eyes just glazed as he kept looking at the ring. Somehow the picture of Charlotte smiling as she wears the ring on her finger just warmed his heart. He couldn't be sure that she could meet him but he was sure where his heart was.

Close Talk

2006-01-01T00:16:00.000+08:00

Luke and Charlotte entered the house as she tried to help move Luke's stuff into the house. Luke laughed at how Charlotte was struggling with the smallest bag that he had.

"Come on Char... you can't lift that for nuts," Luke laughed at Charlotte while she stared at him.

"Well, at least I'm trying to help," Charlotte snapped back.

"Ooh, fiesty," Luke joked as he helped her carry the bags to the side of the room as Charlotte slumped onto the couch telling him that this would be his bed for the rest few weeks or so.

"Very classy. Good view too," Luke said, trying to sound funny as he pointed to the window where there was nothing but the other side of the building.

"Well, at least you would be looking after my plants while you are asleep. They like the attention," Charlotte retorted, "and in return of the favour of letting you stay in MY house, you have to help me water my precious plants every morning." Luke agreed as he settled beside Charlotte and looked at her.

"What? Do I have something on my face?" Charlotte asked as she brushed her face. Luke laughed and shook his head.

"You aren't telling me the truth. You're hiding something," Luke replied, "I can see it... come on, I've been your best friend like forever. You have to give me credit for finding out."

Charlotte sighed, "Why does everyone want to know what's going on? Why can't we just go back to normal and pretend nothing happened?" Luke shooked his head and put a hand around Charlotte's shoulder. Finally, Charlotte told Luke about Matt and how he lied about his family and all... she couldn't believe she was telling Luke this but somehow it seemed like the right thing to do at that time.

"I don't know what to do Luke," Charlotte said as she wrapped herself with a pillow.

Luke was silent for a moment. He wasn't really listening to what Charlotte was saying because he realised it was his perfect time to strike... to be the good guy and the shoulder for her to cry on. This was what he had been waiting for and the timing would never be better. He didn't know what his next move was but he was determined to be there for her no matter what.

"Do you really like him?" Luke asked. Charlote shrugged her shoulders but Luke knew he had to rekindle her old feelings...

"I guessed as much... you do like him but... do you like him more than Dilly?" Luke said, well knowing the effect that name had on Charlotte. He watched as her face fell and her smile faded into worry and hurt.

"No, of course not," Charlotte replied but her voice faltered and upset.

"I'm sorry I didn't mean to bring him up," Luke said, trying to sound as real as he possibly could, "I just..."

"... it's ok. I don't blame you. You're right. I shouldn't be doing this... not when I just lost the love of my life," Charlotte said matter-of-factly, "you're right. This this wrong."

Luke moved closer to Charlotte and placed his arm over her shoulders, "I'm here. you can let it all out." Charlotte looked at the concern on Luke's face and just leant her body towards Luke. She was glad that through the storms in her life... there were people who loved her so much... her mom and her best friend.

***

Matt walked from the bar and down the street. He saw a jewellery shop and stared at the window display for a moment. All the diamonds and gems just seem to call out to him but he's seen them all. His mother had almost every gem in every form. However, there was a ring that caught his eye. It was a small diamond ring set on a silver band. Somehow he could just imagine Charlotte looking at it and smiling. Matt then pulled out his phone.

"Matthew?" Alex's voice came through.

"Yeah. It's me," Matt said, "Listen I have something to ask you." He could hear Alex get all amazed and laughed, "Lex, it's not funny you know..." Alex got his composure and listened to what his brother have to say.

"I think I'm going to propose to Charlotte," Matt said but he sounded really calm.

Alex was a little shocked, "Are you sure? Did you get to talk to her? What happened?"

Matt rolled his eyes, "Lex... chill! I did talk to her but I gave her time to make her decision about us. She would let me know tomorrow."

Alex replied, "You have my blessings Matthew. She would be a great girl. But what are you going to propose with? You do know Mother has a ring saved for your marriage..."

Matt sighed, "Lex... I have my own plans."

Forgiveness?

2005-12-31T22:14:00.000+08:00

"Did you give him a chance to explain?" Mrs Webber asked. Charlotte just nodded as she continued with her work, "And?"

"And nothing mom. Why are you so concerned about me listening to him, me forgiving him and all?" Charlotte spat. She didn't really comprehend why her mother was not on her side.

Mrs Weber sighed, "I'm sure that Matt didn't mean to lie to you. He has his reasons and I think they are valid. He just wants to be known for him and not for his family."

Charlotte looked at her mother, "You spoke to him? Why?"

"I had to find out the truth, Charlotte. Besides, you left him out there... and I just had a small chat with him," Mrs Webber said.

Charlotte leant over the counter and looked at her mother before she sang, "You like him...."

Mrs Webber looked at her daughter, "Charlotte, he is such a fine young man. He's humble, sweet, caring and he really loves you. You have to stop carrying the baggages of the past and look towards a future... he could be a good future for you."

Charlotte snorted, "You are just saying that cos he's rich and royalty. So fake." Mrs Webber shook her head before returning back to work. Charlotte thought of what her mother said. Maybe she was right... Matt was the best thing that happened to her since Dylan and somehow it felt as though Dylan made her find him.

Her thoughts were disturbed by a man who waltz into the shop with a smile, "Guess who's back!" Charlotte and Mrs Webber looked up and gasped.

"Luke! Welcome back!" Charlotte said as she went over to hug him, "Gosh it seemed so long." Luke was surprised at the fact that Charlotte gave him such a warm welcome at the same time he felt that finally he might have that chance with her.

"Aww... she's so happy to see you," Mrs Webber said as she went over to give Luke a hug too.

"I missed both you lovely ladies so much. That's why I decided to come back here right after my work was done," Luke replied, "Am I welcome back?"

Charlotte and her mother just laughed, "Of course silly. You're still paying some of the bills here you know," Charlotte remarked, "You can start today!" Luke looked a little uncomfortable and Mrs Webber asked what was wrong.

Luke looked sheepish, "It's just that I came back so quickly that I forgot to get a place to crash because I didn't give the tenant time... so..."

"... you can stay with us," Charlotte just said the magic words. Mrs Webber was a little shocked that her daughter suddenly warmed up towards Luke. She was worried that Charlotte was doing it just because she wanted to take away some of the hurt that Matt caused. It was wrong...

"Charlotte... don't you think we don't have much room in the house anymore," Mrs Webber said but Charlotte just brushed her mother away telling her that they always had the couch. Mrs Webber hoped her daughter knew what she was doing.

"Thanks Charlotte. I promise I'll move back to my place real soon. I don't want to impose on you and your mother," Luke said. Charlotte smiled and offered to help Luke to move his stuff back to her place. Mrs Webber watched as her daughter as she happily helped Luke.

"Oh my dear Charlotte..." Mrs Webber sighed.

***

Matt walked and walked... he didn't feel like working today. His heart was aching and he didn't know why. He used to be alright with losing women... besides, he could get any woman he wants but why was Charlotte someone so special? They only had sex once... but it was special...

"Why did I get myself into such things?" Matt thought to himself. He then decided to just get some beer and just try to relax. He head into one of the bars and just ordered a few bottles.

"Lousy night?" the bartender asked, "No one orders beer so early in the morning unless they had a lousy night or they are in denial in the day." Matt rolled his eyes at the bartender's lack of humor cells in his body.

When Matt did give him an answer, the bartender just shrugged, "I guessed as much. You didn't get laid last night." Matt scowled and just moved himself away from the bar and slid into a counter seat. He wondered if what the bartender said was true... first impressions did count in a way. Was Matt the Cassanova and player that he forgot how truly love a single woman.

He thought about how he survived the first year of his life outside of the family. He had to use his charms and flirt with powerful women to sell them some of their pieces and earn a living. That was how he met Eva, who was really a woman that was not only beautiful but was frank about what she wanted. Matt always went to her on a regular basis and she always made sure Matt was taken care of physically as well as in his artistic career.

But this Cassanova life was over. He needed to prove himself to the world that he didn't need to sell himself short to get to where he wants to. Matt took a last swig of his beer and walked home... where it was safe.

Talking Things Through

2005-12-30T21:31:00.000+08:00

It's been a week since the wedding and Charlotte has been occupying herself with work and with household chores. She has not spoken much about her feelings or Matt. All she did was to talk to her mother about work. Mrs Webber also didn't have the heart to ask Charlotte about her feelings. She thought about how long Charlotte took to forget Dylan and how she was on drugs to make her forget about things. Mrs Webber didn't want the things to repeat again.

Charlotte just emerged from her room and slumped onto the dining table for breakfast. Mrs Webber was just toasting the bread when she took a sneak peek at her daughter. Her eyes were still red... she had been crying, again. Charlotte just sat quietly on the table staring into space she sipped on her tea.

"Want jam or butter with your toast, Charlotte?" Mrs Webber asked as she set the plates onto the table.

"Jam please," Charlotte said without looking at her mother.

As Mrs Webber sat the plates on the table she sighed, "Charlotte, do you want to talk about it?"

Charlotte just shook her head, "There is nothing to talk about anyway. Oh yes there is..." Mrs Webber thought finally her daughter would be coming through with something, "Mrs Lockley's arrangement needs more daisies and baby's breath. We need to..."

Mrs Webber groaned, "Charlotte. I need you to talk to me. I don't want you to bottle everything up. It hurts me as much as it hurts you." Charlotte didn't look at her mother but she started to tear.

"Mom, I'll be fine. See you at the shop," Charlotte said as she turned her back and left the house. She didn't even touch her food.

***

Matt tucked his hands into his pocket. He didn't know why he was walking but he was. He needed to see Charlotte and he needed to talk to her and not argue. He just hoped that the week might have calmed her down. He forced himself not to think about Charlotte and resisted the urge to call her once he got back to town. He had been immersing himself in work and beer until today.

As he approached Charlotte's shop, he saw her silently preparing to open her shop. She still looked so beautiful but he noticed she was sullen. Matt's heart wrenched, he knew he'd hurt her so much. If only she'd give him a chance to explain himself.

As Charlotte opened the doors to her shop, she saw Matt standing out there. She wanted to run but Matt grab hold of her hand, "Charlotte please let me speak to you... I don't want you to say anything. Just listen to what I have to say."

Charlotte turned back and folded her arms, "You have a minute."

Matt took in a deep breath and told her all about his past in a nutshell and why he had been running and how he didn't mean to hide it from her. He had enough of women liking him just because of his status and he wanted someone who truly loved him for him... besides, being an artist will always be his life and not the son of the lord of Eisenberg.

"Charlotte, I love you. If not I wouldn't be standing here trying to make things right with you. If you can forgive me and love me, come find me at the park and I'll know that you forgave me," Matt said before he tried to reach for Charlotte's hand but Charlotte retracted her hand and stepped back from him.

"I hope to see you tomorrow, Charlotte," Matt said before he watched her walk back into the shop. Matt never felt his heart break so badly before. As he turned to walk away, he saw Charlotte's mother.

"Matt, she loves you a lot. Just let her have some time to sort out her feelings," Mrs Webber said as she placed a comforting hand on Matt's shoulder.

"Thanks Mrs Webber. I'm sorry I didn't tell you guys about my family... it's just that I'm not really proud of my past. I just want to be an artist but my parents... they are just too concerned with upholding the name of our family and all. I just want to be me..." Matt said.

"Oh honey, everyone has skeletons in their closet. I don't blame you. I just hope Charlotte would just get that in her head. She's just really uptight about lies... she's too innocent for the world. She'll somehow come around... and I hope it's soon" Mrs Webber sighed, "You better go back and take a rest. I'll see if I can talk her around."

Matt thanked Mrs Webber as he watched her walk into the shop. He sighed, some things are just better left unsaid and he prayed silently that she might somehow appear tomorrow at the park.

The Wedding Aftermath

2005-12-29T02:48:00.000+08:00

Charlotte held onto her mother as they exited the manor and flagged a taxi back to the hotel. Charlotte just knew that she had to get home and forget everything. Her mother didn't say anything but just supported her daughter on the sidelines. Charlotte didn't say anything but just continued in her tears. Mrs Webber just placed an arm around her daughter and let Charlotte just cry it all out.

"Why did he have to lie to me? Why?" Charlotte cried.

"Maybe he didn't mean to. Maybe he just wanted to be normal... like us," Mrs Webber said, "Besides, I'm sure he was honest with you all the way. Just that he doesn't like people to know about his stature here."

Charlotte looked at her mother, "But he loves me. Shouldn't you tell someone you love everything about yourself instead of hiding things? How can I ever trust him again?"

Mrs Webber sighed, "I haven't heard his side of the story but you do have a point there. Why don't you just calmly talking things out with him?"

Charlotte turned away from her mother and looked out the taxi window, "We tried... but we just ended up arguing about it. There is no point. I'm just going to forget him and get on with my life."

Before Mrs Webber could advise her daughter further, they arrived at the hotel and Charlotte just sped out of the taxi and up to their room.

***

Matt returned to his room after the reception and just lay on the bed. He couldn't believe the turn of events and he was so hurt till he went numb. He knew Charlotte was really mad at him but he couldn't understand why she was feeling that way.

"Did I wake you up?" Alex asked as he knocked on Matt's door. Matt sat up on the bed and told Alex he could come in.

"Shouldn't you be spending the night with your new bride," Matt asked, trying to break the sad mood.

Alex smiled, "I told her I was getting something to drink. Besides, I could see you were upset about something the whole evening. What's wrong?"

Matt shook his head, "Never mind. I don't think I should be bothering you with any of my problems. Especially not at your wedding night."

Alex shook his head, "Matthew, you of all people should know that I don't just ditch my brother to the sidelines just cos I'm now a married man. I still care for you and I want to help you in anyway I can."

Matt was appreciative of his brother's concern and told him about Charlotte and what happened that night. As Alex listened, his jaw dropped and Matt knew Alex was as stunned as he was when he saw Charlotte at the reception.

"Charlotte is your girlfriend? I was just talking to her a couple of nights ago when she came into to do the floral decorations. I never knew... if I did I would..." Alex said but Matt interrupted him.

"... it's ok Lex. No one, including me knew she was here. Maybe it was just fate that allowed her to realise about my background that I tried so hard to run away from. Somehow she doesn't understand and she keeps accusing me of leading her on," Matt replied.

"Do you love her?"

"Excuse me? Of course I love her. If not why would I be talking about her?!" Matt said.

Alex shook his head, "Matthew, if you truly love someone, it's not all just talk. Talking can't get you anywhere. When someone is hurting the most, the only way to show that person you truly care is through your actions. You have to show her your love."

Matt sighed, "Yeah right. It sure sounds easy when you say it but actually doing it..." Matt snorted, "Charlotte is a tough girl. She's been through losing her ex-fiance in a car accident. What more this?"

"If you don't take my advice, that's fine but take time to think about what I just said. Besides, your bags are already packed. " Alex said before he started walking towards the door but he stopped, remembering something else.

"Oh Matthew, just to let you know we've sold all your paintings that you did for our wedding. You will also be expecting people to be calling the great artist they only know as Matt soon. They love your work," Alex said.

Matt forced at smile at his brother, "Thanks Alex for everything."

"Don't mention it. Just get my sister-in-law back," Alex smiled, "She's a beautiful, caring, smart and wonderful girl for you. Don't let her run away."

Explainations

2005-12-28T02:31:00.000+08:00

Charlotte just sat at the veranda, crying and staring out into the starlit sky. She wondered why did she ever trusted another man with her heart again only to have it get hurt again. She didn't know felt worse - to lose Dylan or to be lied to by Matt. Either way she knew she couldn't pick herself up again this time. She was maimed by love.

Matt search the whole hall for Charlotte but instead found Mrs Webber standing at a corner of the room. "Mrs Webber... where is Charlotte?" Matt asked.

"Who are you? Why did you have to hurt my daughter like this? She doesn't deserve this you know," Mrs Webber said, all upset and Matt couldn't blame her for her reaction.

"Mrs Webber, I'll explain everything to you once I explain it to Charlotte. I didn't mean to lie to her... please tell me where she is. I'm begging you, please." Matt pleaded. Mrs Webber saw the sincerity that he had and told him she was at the veranda.

Matt opened the door and saw Charlotte just sitting there motionless. He knew she was crying and it made his heart break. "Charlotte..." he whispered as he walked towards her. Charlotte turned her head and Matt saw her eyes were all red and swollen. Charlotte stared at Matt for a while before she tried to run back into the hall but Matt grabbed her.

"Let me go! I don't know who you are anymore! Just let me go!" Charlotte screamed and wrestled her way out of Matt's grasp but he was too strong for her. All she could do was to cry as she gave into his hold of her.

"Charlotte let me explain everything... just listen to me for a few minutes please," Matt asked as he let go of Charlotte gently. She stepped back from him but she didn't run anywhere. She just stared at him with a deadly look.

Matt sighed, "Charlotte, I didn't mean to lie to you. I don't like being Sir Matthew Polster - son of the Great Lord Polster of Eisenberg. I just want to be Matt Polster - the artist, the lover of your heart. I'm running away from all this as much as you are running away from your ex-fiance."

Charlotte gasped, "Oh don't you dare compare yourself with my situation! We are so not the same!"

Matt smacked his forehead, "Charlotte, what I mean is that all this," he pointed to his crummy suit, "is NOT the real me. The real me is who you fell in love with. All this will go away after tonight. I'm just here to support my older brother."

"Then why didn't you tell me ANYTHING? If you loved me you could have at least told me about THIS like how I was honest with you about my past. I told you I destest liars to the core and you had to come lying to me!" Charlotte screamed.

"I didn't lie to you Charlotte! I just am not proud of this. I was going to tell you at the right time," Matt said.

Charlotte rolled her eyes, "the right time? So when do you think is the right time? Now or NEVER? You would just hide everything from me if I didn't find out on my own like just now right??"

Matt flung his hands in the air, "Charlotte you are making a fuss out of nothing! Why do you have to make me feel guilty?"

Charlotte folded her arms across her chest, "Oh. So I'M making you feel guilty. Let me tell you Sir Matthew William Polster, you ARE guilty. I'm so disappointed in you. Don't ever look me up again. Enjoy your royal life, sir," With that she walked back into the hall.

"Charlotte... don't walk away... Charlotte..." Matt called but it was too late. She left.

***

Charlotte walked into the hall where all the guests were making merry. She just wanted to find her mother and get the hell out of this place. Finally, she found her mother talking to Annanessa at the corner of the room. Alex was right beside her, holding onto his pretty bride.

Charlotte didn't know if she could gather enough courage to talk to them... well knowing Alex was Matt's brother. However, Annanessa caught sight of Charlotte and signalled for her to go over. Charlotte felt herself put on a fake smile as she walked towards the happy couple.

"There you are I thought you disappeared after the wedding," Annanessa said as she gave her friend a big hug, "I can't thank you enough for doing all these floral decorations for us. They were beautiful." Charlotte didn't say anything but she just smiled. She looked at her mother who had eyes of concern fixed upon her daughter.

"We'll defintely recommend you to our friends. Thank you Charlotte for all your help," Alex said as he extended his hand towards Charlotte. Charlotte looked at it for a while before extending her hand for a quick handshake.

"This was a beautiful wedding and I'm happy to be part of it," Charlotte finally said, "But my mom and I have to get back home. We have a shop to open early tomorrow." Mrs Webber quickly concur. Chalotte noticed Matt coming back into the hall and he caught sight of her. She needed to get out of there fast.

"Oh it's a pity you can't stay. Why don't we send you back... we could..." Alex asked but Charlotte refused.

"Thanks for everything," Charlotte replied before taking hold of her mother and walking out of the hall. She didn't know what else to do but run.

The Wedding Day Part 2

2005-12-27T01:52:00.000+08:00

"Oh Mom, great you're here. Help me hold this will you?" Charlotte said as she handed her mother a bunch of lilies as she ran to the other side of the arrangement and tried to remove the wilted ones.

"Charlotte, have you spoken to Matt lately?" Mrs Webber asked, trying her best not to say too much at a time.

"No... he's visiting his brother remember? Besides, I'm here working. So we don't have time to talk. Why all of a sudden talk about him, Mom?" Charlotte asked as she continued working swiftly through the arrangement.

Before Mrs Webber could say anything, Paolo rushed in to let them know that the guests would be coming into the hall in less than an hour. Charlotte nodded and quickly took the lilies from her mothers hands and placed them in the pockets she created.

"Mom, I think we'll talk about Matt later. We have to get this up and ready before attending the reception," Charlotte said as she walked away to get more flowers. Mrs Webber sighed and thought she might be thinking too much into it. Maybe Charlotte knew.

Matt got changed into a navy blue suit with his Eisenberg Army lapel pins and mini medals all nicely pinned for him by Albert. His father sent both him and Alex to the Army after high school for a while to "earn" those pins. They didn't do much in there but they still came out with more pins than the men who slogged day and night for the army.

"Matthew you look so dashing," Lady Polster said as they met in the corridor. It was customary that the family walks into the hall together upon introduction, after the newlyweds. Matthew smiled at looked at his father who was decked in a similar suit but his father didn't say anything as they continued to walk towards the reception.

The guests were all promptly ushered into the hall and served with the finest wine and h'orderves. Charlotte prepped herself in the bathroom and made sure she still looked presentable for the reception. She was still in his beautiful creme dress as she held onto her mother, in anticipation of the arrival of the newlyweds.

"Please rise to welcome the new Sir Alexander Charleston Polster," the emcee said as the orchestra started to play and the big doors swung open to reveal the smiley couple. Charlotte tilted her head to the side and sighed. She never saw a happier bride than Annanessa. "Now let's welcome Lord and Lady Polster and Sir Matthew William Polster," the emcee announced.

Just then when the guests started to cheer, Paolo waved frantically to Charlotte to remind her of the new bouquet she was to hand Annanessa. Charlotte almost forgot and quickly grabbed the new purple lily bouquet and rushed towards Paolo who led her towards Annanessa. As she was approaching the bride, she dodged behind the Lord and Lady but she missed a step and fell into the arms of the person walking behind them. Somehow the whole world seem to freeze at that point of time.

"I'm so sorry... I'm," Charlotte apologised as she turned towards the person. As she turned she found herself staring into a familiar face. A face she longed to see for weeks but the face didn't match what he was wearing... the whole branded suit with army lapel pins and all... no it couldn't be him... could it??

Matt was stunned to see Charlotte at the wedding. Then it all came rushing to him... this was the only BIG wedding in the whole country. How could he missed it all. Now Charlotte knew all about him... his past and his 'lie'. He didn't know what to say to her but he just kept looking at her... she was beautiful but she wasn't happy at all.

He was ready for Charlotte to scream at him but instead she just turned away and continued towards Annanessa with the bouquet before walking back into the crowd. Not a word came out of her lips but the tears from her eyes said it all.

"Charlotte are you ok?" Mrs Webber asked as Charlotte returned - her eyes all red and her makeup ruined. Charlotte shook her head and continued walking out of the room. Mrs Webber just watched as her daughter walked out of that room all broken hearted and hurt once again... but this time another man.

"Matthew, come along. Don't just stand there," Alex whispered and Matt looked away from Charlotte and he that he had to continue on with the reception as though nothing happened because he didn't want to ruin his brother's perfect day. However, he knew that something BIG happened, his perfect life was ruined and he had tons of explaination to do if he ever wanted the love of his life back.

The Wedding Day Part 1

2005-12-26T00:24:00.000+08:00

It was just dawn but almost everyone in Eisenberg were already up and preparing for the wedding that everyone had been looking forward to for the longest time. Flags were put up, pictures of the couple were printed all over the local papers, people were cooking a storm in the kitchens and there was joy all around.

In the manor, the chefs were busy preparing the reception, Yvette was mulling around making her final touches to the wedding. Movers were rushing in and out of the wedding hall at her beck and call. Charlotte and Mrs Webber were spraying water on the flowers to make them look fresh and bright. Charlotte was decked out in her creme dress that had a beautiful diagonal cut from her thigh to her ankle. She had her hair pinned up that made her look like a princess.

Meanwhile, Annanessa was getting her makeup and hair done as her bridesmaids were milling around her with excitement. However, the groom was having a quiet breakfast with his brother and the best man. They weren't speaking to each other since the breakfast started.

"I'm sorry," Matt apologised, breaking the silence. Alex looked up at his brother and Matt looked back at him, "... for making a fuss out of the artwork."

"It's ok Matthew. I understand how you felt. I was wrong too... and I'm sorry for lying to you," Alex said, "so does that mean you will stay in the manor?" Matt looked down at his food and shook his head.

"I'm still going but I'm just going back to my old apartment," Matt answered blankly.

Albert came into to the dining room to tell the guys they needed to get dressed now. Matt pushed his plate away and walked out of the room without saying anything else to his brother. Alex sighed and followed Albert to get ready for his wedding.

***

By mid morning, all the guests started arriving for the wedding ceremony. Yvette was already on standby, cueing the orchestra to start playing as the guests took their seats. Charlotte was seated three rows from the front with her mother and Charlotte was excited to see ber best friend get married. As the emcee announced the arrival of the groom, Paolo rushed towards Charlotte to tell her there were some problems with the main floral arrangement in the reception hall.

"Do you want me to go with you?" Mrs Webber asked. Charlotte shook her head and told her mother to help her be the witness of her best friend's wedding before she rushed off with Paolo to save the arrangement. Just at that moment, Alex walked in with Matt behind him. Mrs Webber stared at Matt for a while before she recognised him. She gasped but Matt didn't see her. He was too busy thinking about how he was going to leave after the wedding.

As Yvette had notice that Annanessa had arrived, she cued the orchestra to start the wedding march. Alex started to beam as he saw Annanessa walk down the aisle as she held onto her father's arm. As she approached Alex, she was smiling from ear to ear and she had a glow on her face. Matt saw how happy the newlyweds were. They were truly in love. He wondered if he could ever find such happiness.

Mrs Webber watched Matt as she heard the couple behind her talk about him... "Isn't that the second son of Lord Polster? My, we've not seen him such a long time," the lady whispered.

"Yeah, there were rumours saying he ran away from home. Wonders why he decided to come home," the man replied, in a hushed tone.

"It's his brother's wedding, old man. Of course he has to come back. He doesn't want to embarrass his family any longer right? But what I don't understand is why he wanna run away. I mean, if I were him, I would just bask in my father's royal name," the lady replied as she let out a soft laugh. The man started to laugh along with her.

Mrs Webber sighed. She wondered if her daughter knew about Matt's background and if she should be the one telling her about it.

As the vows were read, rings exchanged and first kiss as husband and wife made, everyone in the hall cheered as the couple walked out holding each other as the guests showered confetti on them. Yvette cued the doves to be released as the couple stepped out of the hall. Everyone was just in awe seeing the doves flying high into the sky.

Before they made their way into the car for a customary round of Eisenberg, Alex turned to his brother, "Thank you Matthew, for being here for me. I hope you'll consider staying. If not, I'll still visit you now and then... if you would allow me to." Matt smiled and clapped his brother on the back.

"I will look forward to your visits... Lex," Matt said as he ushered the newlyweds into the car. Matt watched as the car pulled away and the guests were ushered into the hall for some refreshments. The reception was up next and after that, Matt's grand exit to his home... where Charlotte, his passion and his future were.

Friends For The Night

2005-12-25T00:44:00.000+08:00

Alex invited Charlotte to sit by his side. Charlotte couldn't refuse and settled into the seat. She noticed that Alex was trying his best to keep his composure but he was really upset by something.

"I don't know why I'm telling you this... maybe I just need someone to talk to and somehow God just popped you right here. Wait, what are you doing here anyway?" Alex asked.

Charlotte let out a little laugh, "Oh sorry. I wanted to check on the floral decorations to make sure they are still in good condition for tomorrow's wedding. I can't afford the flowers to look dull. I'm really into my flora. I guess it's a habit I got..." Alex nodded as though he understood how Charlotte felt but Charlotte knew he was just being gentlemanly.

"So," Charlotte said, trying to change the subject, "What is bothering you Sir Alexander? I don't mind eing your listening ear."

Alex smiled and told her without much detail about how he tried to make someone in his family happy but his actions were misunderstood as undermining this family member's future. "I guess it just hurts when you are trying to love someone," Alex sighed.

Charlotte knew how it felt. She felt it with Dylan when she tried her best to keep loving him, it hurt so much knowing he wasn't there to feel it, know it or reciprocate it.

"It's hard to make someone you love happy. Sometimes you have to think if you are hurting the other party," Alex explained. Charlotte just listened to his words. Somehow she could see why the people of Eisenberg looked up to his man. He was wise, charming and every eloquent. He could make anyone around him feel at ease. Though it was only the second time Charlotte was meeting him but Alex talked to her as though they knew each other for a long time.

"Well, I think you did a magnanimous thing for that someone. I guess that person has to realise how much he or she is loved," Charlotte said, "sometimes it's hard to feel it when you are already so broken."

Alex smiled at Charlotte and replied, "Ah but you must see that the people around you don't see you as a broken person but someone that could be moulded easily into something more beautiful and wonderful."

Charlotte turned to look at Alex. He had caramel blonde hair... those eyes... she was sure he looked really familiar.

"Charlotte? Why are you looking at me like this?" Alex asked.

Charlotte immediately stopped and shyly turned away, "I'm sorry. I thought you looked really familiar, so I was trying to figure out where I've met you."

Alex laughed, "Well, I guess I would remember your face if we've met. You are hard to miss in a crowd. I'm sure you have a suitor of your own." Charlotte blushed and began to divert her attention to something else around the room. Then she saw that familiar piece... the piece that Matt drew... of her. She stood up and walked towards the art piece in shock. How did it end up here?

"Charlotte? Is something wrong?" Alex asked as he followed closely behind her. Charlotte just turned towards Alex, still in shock and asked how did this piece of work end up in the dining hall of the manor.

"Oh. I bought the collection from this artist, Matt. I thought his works were a great fit for the ambiance of the wedding. Don't you think he draws really well? He has remarkable talent," Alex said. It felt as though he was rehearsing his speech for tomorrow's guests in hope they might be captured by his brother's brilliance in art.

Charlotte touched the piece lightly and smiled, "Yeah he really does draw well. You have great taste in art, Sir Alexander."

Alex smiled, "Please Charlotte, call me Alex. We're friends right?" Charlotte nodded and as Alex was about to show her other works, Alex's phone rang, "Sorry, it's my fiancee. Excuse me for a second."

Alex went off to a corner to answer the call while Charlotte just gazed at the artwork. She thought if Matt were here to see this he would be elated to know that the Lord of Eisenberg has his artworks for a grand wedding! She reminded herself to let him know once she sees him back home.

Just then, Alex came back from the call looking all flustered, "I have to go. Some last minute problems for the wedding. I'm sorry I can't stay any longer," Alex said.

"Oh don't say that. I have to get to work anyway," Charlotte said.

Alex nodded, "Alright. Don't stay too late alright? See you at the wedding tomorrow. Oh... and thanks for being a great listening ear." As Alex rushed off as he talked to Annanessa on the phone, Charlotte went ahead to check on the flowers.

Drastic Turn of Events

2005-12-24T01:31:00.000+08:00

The night fell pretty quickly as though the heavens wanted Alex and Annanessa to get married as soon as possible. Matt sat on his window sill watching the workers work overnight getting the manor done. He understood how it felt working late into the night for the rich while the rich didn't understand their plight.

"Hey Matthew," Alex called out, "Can I speak to you for a moment?"

"Sure. What's up?" Matt asked as he walked towards his brother. Alex forced a smile and sat his brother down.

"I need to tell you something before I get married tomorrow," Alex said, he looked a little worried and shifty.

"What? You have doubts about marrying Annanessa? What?" Matt asked, really curious what his perfect brother was hiding. Alex shook his head and made Matt follow him to the dining hall where the wedding reception would be held. As Alex opened the door, Matt gasped as he saw the most wonderfully decorated hall... with his paintings he thought he sold to a gallery.

"These are my paintings! How did you get them? I thought..." Matt asked, his mind was full of questions. Alex just sighed and decided to tell Matt the truth. He wanted to buy Matt's paintings but if he approached Matt himself Matt would do it for free but Alex wanted to help Matt earn some money so he lied his way to pay for the paintings.

"I didn't mean to lie to you Matthew but I just wanted to help you," Alex said, "I'm intending to sell your paintings to the guests tomorrow. They won't know that Sir Matthew William Polster did this but just Matt Polster."

Matt didn't know what to say to his brother. Matt knew Alex meant well when he 'lied' to him but Alex didn't have to go through such means to do so. Matt felt cheated, just when he thought his works were going places... it was all a lie.

"I thought my works were beginning to get recognised. I thought my hard work paid off... it was all a fluke," Matt said as he buried his face in his hands.

"Matt, I didn't mean to. I just... I'm sorry," Alex said, "What can I do to make it up to you?"

Matt sighed and looked up at his brother. He was angry but he couldn't make himself yell at his brother but this twist of events made him decide on what to do for the rest of his life. "Mother came into my room this afternoon to ask me to stay in the manor to work. I actually wanted to accept that offer..."

"... that's great! Stay! Then we can see each other all the time!" Alex interrupted excitedly.

Matt shook his head, "I'm not done Lex... but this turn of events made me make another decision. After your wedding, I'm leaving this manor, leaving my old apartment and start anew. You won't know where I am. I will be my own man and make it on my own." Alex couldn't believe what he was hearing. He was going to lose his brother forever.

"Matthew you can't be serious. Please don't do this... I'll let you pay me back the money and I could..." Alex said, sounding really upset.

Matthew pat his brother on the shoulder, "You meant well and I promise your wedding will be perfect. I will be your best man and after the wedding, I'll leave. Have a good night Lex. I'll see you tomorrow morning, my brother." Matt turned and left the hall.

***

Charlotte slipped out of the hotel room while her mother was in the shower. They have been touring Eisenberg for the whole day but Charlotte had her mind on the floral decorations for Annanessa'a wedding. She wanted to slip into the manor to check that everything was ok.

As she showed her pass to the security and walked into the manor, she decided to check the decorations in the dining hall first since it was the place where the guests would be making merry and the most important piece of floral decoration was there. As she walked by the hall, she noticed a familiar figure walking away from the hall, however the figure was walking too fast for her to catch a second glimpse.

Charlotte stepped into the hall to see Alexander slumped on one of the tables looking distraught. "Sir Alexander, are you alright?" Charlote asked as she stepped closer to him. Alex looked up to see Annanessa's friend Charlotte and he smiled - finally someone that he might be able to have a second opinion from.

Two Days....

2005-12-23T01:15:00.000+08:00

Finally... the wedding is in two days and everyone has been scurrying around the manor getting everything ready. It was the final dress rehearsal before the actual wedding and Matt didn't like wearing a suit. He felt so uncomfortable.

"This is so not me," Matt frowned as he adjusted his jacket again. Alex gave his brother an assuring smile that said 'bear with it for me please'. Matt groaned and then stood beside his brother as they awaited the bride.

Annanessa looked as pretty as ever and the bridal gown just made her look even more gorgeous. Alex was beaming as she was ushered down the aisle by Paolo, the wedding planner's obviously gay assistant.

After a gruelling hour of practice of how the perfect walk and the perfect way of saying the vows... the rehearsal was finally over. Matt jumped with glee as he took off his jacket and shirt.

"Matt! What are you doing?" Alex asked as Annanessa cuddled in with him, "You shouldn't be stripping like this!"

"Hey I endured an hour in that damn thing. You should give me at least a minute to change into something more comfortable!" Matt scowled as he put on his t-shirt.

Annanessa was laughing, "Your brother has such a nice body, why don't you just let him show it off?" Alex rolled his eyes and kissed his bride.

"Keep your eyes on this one only," Alex said as Annanessa laughed along with him.

"God, this is too mushy. I'm outta here. Going back to sleep," Matt said as he threw the jacket and shirt on his shoulder and walked out. Just that that point, Charlotte and her mother appeared from another door with the flowers. Annanessa shrieked with joy.

"Charry! I'm so glad you made it!" Annanessa said as she ran over and threw her arms over Charlotte.

"Wow Annie you look so beautiful. Gosh..." Charlotte said as she twirled Annanessa around. Annanessa thanked her before pulling her fiance towards Charlotte.

"This is Alexander Charles Polster, my husband. And Alex, this is Charlotte, my best friend back in school and she's here to help with the flowers too. She's great with flowers," Annanessa introduced.

"Pleased to meet you Charlotte. I'm sure you'll make this place wonderful for the wedding," Alex replied. Charlotte smiled and said she'll try her best. As the couple left to attend to some final wedding plans, Charlotte and her mother went on to work.

"Wow... this is a very grand manor," Mrs Webber said as she started to clip small bunches of lilies to the stage while Charlotte instructed the workers to start placing the bigger arrangements.

"Mom, that Alexander guy looks really familiar... but I just can't put my finger on how I know him..." Charlotte asked.

"You might have seen him back in school when he was chasing Annie? You might forgot all about it considering you were still having your nose in your books," Mrs Webber teased her daughter.

"Very funny mother. Now let's get everything done so we can relax in the hotel tomorrow and get ready for a wonderful wedding!" Charlotte said as she went back to work.

***

Matt was lazing in his bed when there was a knock on the door. He called for the person to come in when he realised it was his mother.

"Matthew, how was the rehearsal? Everything alright?" Lady Polster asked. Matt nodded and sat up on his bed while his mother sat beside him.

"Everything's great Mother. Lex will have a wonderful wedding," Matt answered, "but that is not why you are here right? You want to talk to me about something?"

Lady Polster smiled, "Somehow you always know when I wanted to talk to you about something. I was just thinking... maybe you could move back here, permanently." When Matt heard that his face turned sour and he groaned.

"Mother... I'm not going to have this conversation with you..." Matt answered.

"... I know how much you want a life of your own son. I've spoken to your Father and he is agreeable to let you continue your work as an artist. You don't have to do odd jobs and survive out there. You can have all the materials and equipment you need right here," Lady Polster said.

Matt sighed, "Mother, I just want to lead a life without the 'Sir Matthew William Polster' name tagged on my head. I just wanna lead a normal life. I don't want people to like my works just because I'm the son of the honorable Lord Polster."

Lady Polster looked a little disappointed and Matt hated to disappoint his mother. He reached over and gave her a hug. "Mother, I know how much pain you've suffered through these years when I'm away but I promise you that my love for you and Lex will never dwindle. I just wanna me my own man. I'll consider your offer but it's nothing definite yet."

"Alright. Think about it. See you later for dinner," Lady Polster said as she planted a kiss on her son's forehead before leaving him to laze on his bed. Matt sighed and just closed his eyes to think of Charlotte and how happy she makes him.

Familiarity

2005-12-22T00:00:00.000+08:00

It has been a few days since Matt saw Charlotte and he started to miss her so much. Though he has been really busy with all the fitting sessions, time out with his brother to go sailing, fishing, bowling and whatever crazy things Alex could think of doing. It was as though he was going to lose all his freedom once he got married and he was really dying to do everything and anything at the moment.

Matt slipped away from his brother for a few minutes to make the call back to Charlotte - just to hear her voice. As the phone rang, Matt was a little worried she might not pick up.

"Hello?" Charlotte's voice rang through the phone, Matt felt his world was in order again.

"Charlotte dear, it's me," Matt said as he felt himself beaming.

"Matt! I'm so glad you finally called back. I thought you might have forgotten all about me," Charlotte said.

"Silly girl. I miss you so much and would never forget about you. It's just that my brother has been so excited to see me that he's been planning all these activities and..." Matt said but caught himself in time not to talk about the wedding.

"... I've something to tell you," Charlotte interrupted just in time, "My mother and I are travelling upstate to handle our client's event. We're going... ermm... I suddenly can't remember the name... S... something."

"Are you going Sofres? I heard it's pretty chilly up there. You better bring some warm clothes," Matt said.

"I will take care of myself, don't you worry. It's you that I am more concerned about. Besides, I have my mother to take care of me. Oh she sends her regards," Charlotte answered.

At that time, somehow Alex popped into the room and signalled for Matt to get off the phone and on to do some crazy activity again. "I have to go now. My brother is annoying me again. I'll call you again soon..."

"... No. I would be upstate and would be too busy to answer any phone calls. Just promise me you'll be back soon and come find me at the shop," Charlotte said. Matt agreed and hung on just a little longer to hear Charlotte hang up the phone.

"Matt! Come on! We're going parasailing!" Alex called out as he waved his wetsuit in front of Matt.

"Can't we just chill and relax at home or something?" Matt sighed, "I don't mind playing a game of chess or something. Just anything to keep you rooted to the house."

Alex looked a little disappointed but placed his wetsuit down, "Alright, if you wanna stay home we'll just chill by the fireplace and talk." Matt thanked his brother as they made their way into the lounge where Albert served them coffee and some snacks.

"Finally... I get to just sit here and do nothing," Matt said as he leaned back on the armchair and closed his eyes, "Are you nervous about the wedding or something? What's with the sudden surge of energy to go do crazy stuff? I mean, I'm supposed to be the bad crazy son here. You're taking my role!"

Alex laughed, "I guess every guy would be nervous considering that his wedding is in a week's time. This is a big step for me... out of the comfort zone... I'll be a husband, a companion to someone beautiful and wonderful."

Matt leant over and pat his brother on the back, "You'll be a great husband and soon to be father. Just chill... you don't have to do anything out of the ordinary."

Alex sighed, "I just hope you are right about this."

***

After Charlotte hung up the phone with Matt, she went back to fussing with Annanessa's flowers. She had quite a bit of problems making sure that everything was in before they moved to the wedding venue. So she decided to call Annanessa and hope she wouldn't mind delaying the travel.

"Of course not silly! What would be a good time to send the transport over?" Annanessa said when Charlotte told her of the problem.

"I think a couple of days before the wedding would be best because the flowers would be fresh and we would still have time to organise everything," Charlotte answered.

"You're right. We can't have dull flowers in the weddding. I'll get the guys to pick you up two days before the wedding. Thanks so much for thinking about it. I am so busy that I can't even be bothered about these details!" Annanessa complained.

"Don't worry Annie. That's why you've hired us to help you through this. It would be a great wedding," Charlotte answered, hoping to calm the nerves of her friend.

"Thanks Charry. I hope you're right about this," Annanessa replied.

Brotherly Time Out

2005-12-21T01:28:00.000+08:00

"Uncle Albert, I'm really alright. I don't really need much help," Matt said as he started throwing his things around his room. Albert then excused himself and reminded Matt that he could call on him anytime. Matt sighed. It was really difficult to get back to the old times where he would just laze on the bed while Albert got him everything. Matt was a hands on man now... he didn't really need much help anymore.

Then there was a knock on the door. Matt sighed, thinking it was Albert again, he started to scream, "I don't need ANY help! Don't you get it??"

"Hey you don't have to shout you know," Alex replied as he walked into Matt's room, "Everything you need is here I guess."

Matt apologised and forced a smile, "I guess... just that... I miss my girl back home."

Alex was pleasantly surprised, "You have a girl? Why didn't you tell me about her?"

Matt felt he started to beam when he thought of Charlotte. He couldn't wait to let her meet Alex but he couldn't afford to let her know about his past so soon. Matt told Alex about how he met Charlotte at the park and how he helped her with her shop and how they fell in love.

"Why didn't you bring her back to meet us then?" Alex asked. Matt shook his head.

"She doesn't know about... my past. I don't want her to know... yet. Besides, she has a big client and has to work," Matt replied. Alex smiled at his brother and gave him a hug.

"I'm glad you finally learnt how to love but I think you should be honest about yourself towards her. To love is to trust," Alex advised him, "Okay advice aside, let's go for a game of tennis. I'm dying to see how I match up with you now."

Matt frowned, "Don't you have a wedding to get to and do all that silly wedding stuff? You still have time for a game of tennis?"

Alex laughed, "Oh Matt... that's why we hired a wedding planner. Besides, I told Annanessa that you would be home today so she gave me the rest of the time off to spend time with you."

Matt rolled his eyes and laughed, "I'm starting to wonder if you're getting married to Annanessa or getting married to me."

***

Tennis was the game that the boys grew up with. Matt was the more active one and always had the upper hand when it came to sports. However, the time away from home caused him to lose his touch on the court. Alex took the shot with a forceful backhand and caused Matt to run back to the baseline but he missed the ball altogether.

"You're losing your touch, Matt," Alex said as they walked towards the net.

"I'm just letting you win cos you're the groom-to-be," Matt said before the brothers laughed, "I'm tired. Let's take a break." By that time, Albert came onto the court and served them drinks.

"Lex, how did you know that it was time for you to... you know... settle down?" Matt asked.

Alex smiled, "Well, there comes a time in life where you realise that there is someone in your life that always makes you happy and somehow you just cannot see yourself not spending the rest of your life with her. When she is away you long for her and when she is close you can't wait to hold her." Matt nodded. He thought about Charlotte and tried to see if all of what his brother said could apply to them.

Alex noticed his brother had gone all quiet. He reached over and placed a hand on Matt's shoulder, "You'll just know it when you see her. You don't have to worry about it."

"I'm just glad you're marrying Annanessa and not your other girlfriends. Oh I remember those girls... erm what was their names again" Matt teased and tried to name some of the girls that Alex used to date.

"Oh spare me the agony!" Alex comically placed his hands on his heart as though he was stabbed. The brothers laughed, they hadn't had this much fun in years.

"I bet you thought I forgot all of that. You better had told Annanessa about your dirty past cos I'm going to include that in the best man's speech!" Matt joked as he gluped down his water.

"She knows everything about me. That's why trust and honesty is very important. But all is said and done, I'm just glad you're here to go through this with me. Thanks baby brother," Alex said. Matt was glad too... because he finally saw how much joy he could actually bring to someone's life... especially someone who has been with him through thick and thin.

Meet The Parents... again

2005-12-20T01:30:00.000+08:00

Matt rented one of the cheapest cars he could find and drove off towards the Lord's Manor up in one of the hills of Eisenberg. As he arrived at the familiar metal gates of the manor, Matt sighed. He was back to face his past, his family and his old life. he stopped outside the gates and stepped out of his car to take a breather and of course intercom his presence. Then he saw someone familiar talking to the guards at the gates. Someone he knew from his younger days...

"Uncle Albert?" Matt asked as he walked towards the man. The man turned around and though his face had gone all wrinkly and his posture was not as it used to be, Matt recognised his butler, helper and companion in his younger days.

"Sir Matthew? Is that really you?" Albert asked, adjusting his glasses to make sure he wasn't seeing things.

"It's really me Uncle Albert. I'm back!" Matt smiled as he hugged Albert, "Boy I missed you."

"Everyone missed you sir. Especially your parents," Albert replied, "I'm glad you finally decided to come home for good."

Matt shook his head, "I'm just home for Lex's wedding. That's all. Then I'm going back to where I came from and continue my quest to become a good artist. You know how I hated being Sir Matthew and all."

"Let's go talk inside, shall we? I'll let Master and Madam know you are back," Albert said before he told the guards to let Matt drive his car into the garage.

The Polster's Manor is a very beautiful Victorian home that was the most prominent landmark in all of Eisenberg. It has been standing there since the dawn of Eisenberg as the Polsters have been governing Eisenberg for the longest of ages. As Matt entered the doors of his old home, it just brought back so many memories... both good and bad.

"Sir Matthew, Master and Madam would like to see you in the dining room," Albert said as he led Matt towards the sliding doors. As he opened it, Matt saw the faces of two people who brought him into this world and made him a captive against his passion.

"Oh Matthew you're home," Lady Polster said as she walked over to hug her son. Matt fought his tears back as he felt his mother's love, "We thought you would never come back."

"Oh Mother. I missed you too," Matt softly replied.

"Come, greet your Father," Lady Polster said as she led Matt towards the stern looking face that Matt didn't want to face for so many years.

"Father," he greeted without much emotions. This was the man that threw Matt's aspirations through the window, calling them illicit and ludicrious dreams.

"Done enough wandering? Found it tough out there? Disgraced the family's name enough?" Lord Polster's voice boomed through the empty dining hall. Matt scowled at the man that was shouting at him. He remembered why he ran away.

"No," Matt firmly replied, "I ENJOY my life out there. No worries, no expectation, no limits. I could do anything and everything. I'm just home to fulfil my brother's dream of having a wedding with his whole family present. If it wasn't for him, I wouldn't have come back to his dreaded place."

Lord Polster got even angrier, "Is this how you talk to your father?" he turned to look at Lady Polster, "Is this your son?!"

"I don't care if you think I deserve to be part of this family or not. I'm not staying for long anyway," Matt replied before he turned and stormed off.

When Matt was gone, Lady Polster turned to her husband, "Can't you just be happy that your second son is home? Why did you have to shout at him?"

"Look at his attitude? What did we do wrong to deserve a son like him?" Lord Polster growled.

"Just be happy he's back and don't you dare reprimand him like this again. You know how Alexander cares for Matthew. You wouldn't want to ruin your favourite son's wedding by shouting at his beloved brother, do you?" Lady Polster reasoned.

"Fine fine, whatever," Lord Polster bellowed before leaving the dining room. Lady Polster sighed and called for Albert to take care of Matthew and bring anything and everything that he needed to be comfortable.

Missing You

2005-12-19T12:14:00.000+08:00

Charlotte wiped the tears from her eyes so her mother wouldn't notice. As she stepped into the shop, she had to get back to work. She had customers to attend to, Annanessa's floral arrangements to get done and flowers to nurse and care for. She didn't have time to think about how lonely she would be when Matt's away.

As she tried to put on a smile for all her customers, she didn't feel happy at all. Occassional glances from her mother were obvious signs she was concerend about Charlotte and the way she tried to immerse herself in work so she doesn't have to think about Matt.

Throughout the whole day, Charlotte and her mother didn't exchange much except about work. As the customers got lesser in early in the evening, Charlotte decided to head back into working on Annanessa's floral decorations while Mrs Webber continued to tend to the shop and clear up the mess.

As Charlotte continued with the beautiful tulip piece that she had planned to use for the reception, she kept thinking about Matt and how he smiled at her and how he always made her feel good about herself. It was just weird that he was gone and it's only the first day! Charlotte could not help but start to tear.

"Charlotte? Are you okay?" Mrs Webber asked as Charlotte tried to wipe the tears from her eyes.

"Yeah I'm fine," Charlote said but her voice was breaking up from the crying. Mrs Webber sat beside her daughter who was flumbling through the arrangement and placed a hand on her shoulder.

"It's just that I miss him," Charlotte finally admitted and started to tear again.

"It's okay to cry when you miss someone but he will be back. Besides, he loves you," Mrs Webber answered.

"Dylan loved me but he..."

Mrs Webber turned her daughter to face her, "Charlotte, don't keep looking back at Dylan. You have Matt now and he makes you happy. He WILL be back for you. He will..." Charlotte saw the assurity in her mother's face and nodded.

"Alright. Let's not make you cry anymore. I have good news from Annanessa," Mrs Webber said, "She called a few minutes ago to confirm a delivery truck and a limo to pick us up later this week to bring all the decorations over. She wanted us to travel in comfort and not to worry about bringing everything over."

Charlotte forced a smile, "Wow... I've never travelled in a limo before." Mrs Webber was relieved her daughter was smiling again.

***

Matt stopped the taxi in the middle of town where he wanted to see how the placed changed over the past few years that he's been gone. The streets were bustling with activity. People going around their usual business while others were preparing for the parade that was to happen in a couple of weeks time. Talks about how beautiful Annaessa was and how great the couple looked together.

Matt walked pass a phone booth and decided to call in to his brother. After a couple of rings, he heard the sound of a familiar voice saying Hello.

"Lex it's me. I'm in town already," Matt said.

Matt could almost hear his brother getting all excited, "You are? That's great? Where are you? Let me go pick you up and..."

"... it's ok. I'll rent a car and drive to the house," Matt said. He didn't want to be seen jumping into his brother's car in the middle of town. He didn't want to alarm people by letting them know the renegade son is home.

"Are you sure? I can always get the chauffuers to pick you up from wherever you are..." Lex asked, playing the role of the concerned brother as usual.

"I'm fine Lex. Really. See you in a while," Matt said before he hung up. He took one last look at the town again. It looked different but it spelt home to him.

"Welcome home Matthew Polster. Welcome home," he said to himself before walking off towards the car rental company.

Home Bound

2005-12-18T17:17:00.000+08:00

Matt couldn't believe he was going home today. He couldn't believe he was going home at all. It didn't help the fact that Charlotte was there to see him off into the taxi. She wished him an enjoyable trip and bring back pictures of his family since she never got to see any at his apartment. That made Matt feel worse. He almost wanted to tell her about his family... being nobels of Eisenberg and how he was a renegade son of the Lord of Eisenberg.

However, when Matt saw the shimmer in Charlotte's eyes and the hope and love she was showering on him, he didn't have the heart to tell her that he had been hiding a big part of his life from her... and even worse, himself. "I'll only be in Eisenberg for a couple of weeks and I'll be back here living the rest of my life with a wonderful woman and leading a commoner's life. What's going to go wrong?" Matt thought to himself.

"I'll miss you so much Charlotte," Matt said as he gave her one last big hug and a lingering kiss on her soft lips.

"I'm missing you already," Charlotte whispered as she closed her eyes to savour the kiss a little longer, "But you have fun. Call me when you can. Besides, I can spruce up your apartment in peace while you're away."

As the taxi drove off, Matt turned back only to see Charlotte wiping tears from her eyes. As Matt turned back to try to at least enjoy his ride home, the taxi driver asked if Matt knew about the big wedding back in Eisenberg. Matt just smiled.

"It's such a big wedding that everyone in Eisenberg is going to be able to watch it on television! Most of the people are going to have a parade especially for the couple they say are going to make Eisenberg a far better place than it will ever be. You must be one of them in the parade aye?" the taxi driver said with a smile on his face.

Matt forced a smile. He knew that Alex was going to be a great leader because of his charisma, intellect and big heart. Somehow Matt could never compare himself to his older brother and was somehow glad that Alex was around. "You're doing the right thing. You are making Alex happy," he thought to himself, "Nevermind the expectation of an angry father or a lecture about disgrace to the family. Alex's happiness should be of great importance."

The taxi driver continued to tell Matt about the new addition to the family... Annanessa. She has won the hearts of her people because she held her family together when her mother passed on and she helped her father with the dealings of the people and she made her hometown prosperous and happy.

Matt didn't know much of Annanessa because he hadn't seen her much in all these years that she had been dating Alex but Alex did talk about Annanessa on his frequent visits and vaugely explained how they met on the continental peace conference and how their love blossomed between peace talks, solving famine and poverty as well as lunches with some of the biggest names you could ever hear.

Matt did jokingly admit that it was a little weird to meet your wife at a peace conference but he guess love is the epitome of all peace. Alex and Annanessa could be forseen as the future ambassadors of peace, love and harmony. Where they will go all over the world and spread the peace message while handling the matters of Eisenberg with much ease. "Gawd... too diplomatic-romantic for Charlotte and I," he thought.

Matt was intrigued by the fact he thought of Charlotte. He never ever thought of anyone suitable for marriage maybe because he was scared of being tied down himself. Maybe knowing Charlotte was a plan God had for his life... for him to realise that there is someone out there that could tame the lion in Matthew... one who could make him realise the importance of family instead of singlehood.

"Your girlfriend is very pretty. She's the flower girl down the street, yes?" the taxi driver suddenly asked. Matt found it weird that even the taxi driver could tell that he was thinking about Charlotte.

"She's a true flower girl... and she's my fiance," Matt said, feeling happy about it. He noticed the taxi driver smile a little before driving into Eisenberg. Matt peered out the windows to see how things have really changed in this town. It was bustling with the preperations of the wedding but in certain sense, Eisenberg still raked a similar feeling in his heart.

Matt was home.

Sweet Adieu

2005-12-17T14:24:00.000+08:00

Charlotte and Matt started on the final touches to Matt's home late one evening. Finally when everything was ready at Matt's home as Charlotte and Matt stepped back to admire their work.

"Hey I thought you were going to immortalise me in an artwork here," Charlotte teased as she stood in front of the blank wall.

Matt shook his head, "I'm sorry babe. I was just a little caught up with work and all but I'll start on it when I return from my trip."

Charlotte was shocked at the word 'trip'. She never imagined Matt would have to leave her... so soon. "Where are you going?" Charlotte asked, looking all worried. She didn't know Matt was going to leave!

"I'll be going away for a while... to meet my brother. I promised him I'll make a trip up to see him," Matt said. He felt guilty he couldn't tell Charlotte the whole truth but it was the best half truth he could come up with.

"Oh. Alright. When will you be back," Charlotte asked, her voice filled with such disappointment. Matt looked at her in her beautiful eyes and whispered, "In a couple of weeks' time. I would come back for you, I promise."

Charlotte forced a smile and wrapped her arms around her boyfriend. "I guess I'll be busy too with my client and all. The event is around the corner and I have to make a trip up to do the arrangements and all."

Matt was glad that Charlotte would be kept busy while he was going home. He could almost picture the smuck face his Father would have when he comes walking through the door but he couldn't disappoint Lex for the world. He was the best brother and friend to Matt.

"I'll be leaving tomorrow afternoon. Could you just spend the night here with me?" Matt asked as he brushed Charlotte's curly locks with his hand. Charlotte agreed and locked Matt in an embrace again.

***

As the night fell, Charlotte helped Matt pack his bags and made sure he had everything he needed. Matt tried to make everything happy and fun just like how they had fun on their dates and when they refurnished his home but he could feel that Charlotte was worried and she was smiling because she didn't want him to feel guilty about leaving.

"Charlotte... I will be back. I promise you," Matt said as he held her hands which were icy cold.

Charlotte nodded, "I know you would never lie to me Matt. That's one big thing I love about you. I'm just worried because it happened to Dylan..."

Matt sighed and shook his head, "But I'm not Dylan, Charlotte. I'm going to return home safe. As long as you are going to be back here waiting for me, I will be home to hug you, to kiss you, to hold you, to marry you..."

Charlotte started to cry as she told herself nothing bad would happed to Matt. What happened to Dylan was bad enough and she knew that God would never be so evil as to take another good thing away from her life.

"I'll be here for you when you get back," she whispered.

***

The next morning, Charlotte left Matt to finish packing when she rushed back to say goodbye to her best friend who was also leaving her at the same time. Mrs Webber was already wishing Luke goodbye as he was putting the last of his bags into his car.

"Luke wait!" Charlotte said as she rushed towards Luke with a big hug.

"I thought you weren't coming," Luke said with a smile, "But I'm glad you're here now."

Charlotte forced a smile and replied, "You're my best friend, silly. Of course I'll be back here to wish you goodbye."

As Luke pulled away from the curb, he watched Charlotte through his rearview mirror and he told himself he would find someway to get her back into his life... somehow... in due time.

***

"Why is everyone leaving me?" Charlotte sighed as she returned back into the shop. Mrs Webber was puzzled at what she was hearing her daughter say. Charlotte explained how Luke left and how Matt was leaving to visit his brother.

"Charlotte, don't be upset. I'm sure Matt will return home safe and sound," Mrs Webber replied.

"That's what you said the last time... Dylan... God... why do I always have to be so paranoid?" Charlotte grumbled as she placed her face in her hands.

Mrs Webber placed her arms around her daughter, "Don't be upset. What you went through was hard but it is never going to happen twice. Matt is going to be home soon. Meanwhile, I'll be here and I love you so much."

Charlotte thanked her mother for being so wonderful. She knew that Matt was going to be alright... she just needed that extra assurance.

"Now go and say goodbye to him before he leaves. I'll take care of everything here," Mrs Webber said as she gave her daughter a kiss.

One For Another

2005-12-16T14:05:00.000+08:00

The days went by as Charlotte and Matt's relationship drew much closer and they have been shopping around for new furniture for Matt's apartment and helping him refurnish his place. It took them the whole week but it was really fun because they got to spend time with each other while indluging in painting, rearranging and cooking each other meals. Charlotte could never ask for a happier time... other than spending it with Dylan.

"What are you doing to the wall?" Charlotte asked as she went over to Matt while he was busy applying paint to one of his walls.

"I was thinking of putting one of my best works into my home... a picture of you. I could have a life size picture of you here!!" Matt said as he pulled Charlotte in for a hug.

"Won't you be scared cos I'll be looking at you from this wall all the time," Charlotte giggled and snuggled her head into the side of Matt's shoulder.

"I wanna be with you all the time babe," Matt whispered as he kissed the back of her ear and held her hand. Charlotte savoured the moment and then kissed him back.

"You're the happiest thing that happened to me ever since... well nevermind," Charlotte stopped and stood up to continue her work around Matt's home. Matt sighed, he knew that her ex fiance was still on her mind and somehow he felt challenged to meet up to that expectation of being him.

***

The next day, Charlotte was back in the store getting the final floral decorations ready and making sure that the stocks would get into the shop in time for the wedding. It was about two weeks to the wedding and Charlotte was a little excited yet worried about how everything will turn up.

"Don't worry, the stocks will be in by tomorrow and you can start working on the final piece by then," Luke assured Charlotte as he hung up the phone with the supplier.

"By the way, I have something to tell you," Luke said. Charlotte sighed, she hope it wasn't going to be about another problem from the suppliers or the delivery service. Luke met Charlotte's gaze and somehow Charlotte knew it wasn't going to be any good news.

"I'm going to settle some business upstate soon. I think I would have to stop working here for a while..." Luke said and he watched as Charlotte's jaw dropped, "I know it's not right for me to just drop everything at this time when you are about to prepare for your biggest client and all but I can't cancel this deal. It's as important to me as this is to you."

Charlotte placed her palms on her face and recollected her thoughts. Luke has been such a great help around here and sometimes she realised she took his help for granted and didn't consider that he has a life out there too. Doing business, making money...

"No no I understand. I'm really thankful for your help all these while and you should go for your business trip. Mom and I can handle stuff from here... really," Charlotte said as she hugged her best friend.

"Thanks Char. I promise I'll try to make it back as soon as I can," Luke replied. Charlotte shook her head and made Luke promise not to rush things. Besides, she was somehow happy that Luke decided to continue on with his life.

"Enjoy yourself and maybe you could even find a nice girl upstate that you might fancy," Charlotte teased. Luke forced a smile and held onto Charlotte's hand.

"Char, you'll always be the biggest part of my life and I'll do anything for you. Take care of yourself alright?" Luke said before he went off to pick up some good from the supplier. Charlotte wondered what Luke meant but then her mother hollered from the back room about a problem with one of the arrangements and Charlotte forgot about the whole matter.

Happiness & Temptations

2005-12-15T13:40:00.000+08:00

As Matt and Charlotte said their goodbyes and headed off to their individual work places, Charlotte was humming a happy tune and stolling down the streets with a wide smile on her face.

As Charlotte arrived at the shop still feeling so rosy and happy. She had never felt so alive for so long. She didn't mind that she was dressed in yesterday's apparell nor did she mind that Matt's woody musky scent was all over her.

"So... you enjoyed you little rendevous with Matt," Mrs Webber softly whispered, hoping that Luke would be out of earshot.

"He's really sweet. I think I like him," Charlotte replied, her face felt red.

"I'm happy for you. He's a good boy," Mrs Webber smiled and handed a piece of paper to Charlotte. Charlotte looked at it and it was the plan for Annanessa's wedding. It had been faxed over in the morning.

"God, they are really demanding," Charlotte sighed as she looked through the specs that Yvette Charlzton specifically asked for, "Why of all wedding planners did Annanessa have to get her?"

"Well, I read in Bridal Fair that she was rated one of the best in the whole country. A grand wedding like Annanessa's would never go without the best," Luke replied as he carried some goods into the shop.

Charlotte was amazed at how much Luke knew. "You read Bridal Fair?!" Charlotte asked with a puzzled look on her face. Luke smirked.

"Hey, every man is entitled to knowledge," he replied before heading back out to do some more work.

Mrs Webber felt weird that Luke had suddenly simmered down on his advances towards Charlotte. She was happy that he finally realised that Charlotte didn't fancy him the way he loved her but it was also weird that Luke just suddenly surrendered it to fate. "What am I doing? I'm thinking too much about it," Mrs Webber thought to herself.

***

Matt continued to work in the park, making children and mothers happy. Some of the pretty mothers even complained that they didn't see him around for a long time and how they missed him. Emma even brought the twins over with some pie and cookies that she prepared.

"A strong man like you needs something to keep you going," Emma said fliratiously as she settled the twins down. Matt smiled and noticed how gorgeous Emma looked in that low neck dress. She could easily pass off as a single girl out having fun with her twin nephews or something.

As Matt thanked her and ate the food, he could sense that Emma was checking him out. As the twins ran off towards the lake to feed the ducks, Emma pulled herself closer to Matt and whispered, "You know... there's no one at my place in the afternoons. I was wondering, if you are free... you could always come down to my place. I was thinking of asking you to do a nude portrait for me."

Matt was a little stunned, well not really shocked at the fact that Emma was pratically inviting him up for sex but he was shocked that he actually didn't want to do it.

"That's a wonderful offer Emma but... I'll be busy with other projects because I just clinched a deal with some... erm... people," Matt lied, he just had to think of something to tame Emma down. Besides, she was married and with two wonderful children too.

Matt could tell that Emma was very disappointed. "Oh alright," she said before she excused herself to get her children. Matt was pleased with himself that he was finally able to be faithful to someone... someone as beautiful and wonderful as Charlotte. He then continued to work through the day and couldn't wait to surprise Charlotte with a visit later in the evening.

Special Night Together

2005-12-13T03:04:00.000+08:00

After dinner, Charlotte was washing the dishes up in Matt's very small kitchen. Matt came up to her and hugged her from the back as he kissed her gently on the neck.

"So... wanna go get new furniture with me? You could choose whatever you like and you can help me refurnish this place to suit your liking," Matt softly said as he nestled his face into the side of her neck.

"But it's your home. It should reflect you..." Charlotte replied, "But I'll be happy to help you get this place spruced up. You wouldn't want a great artist with a badly furnished house."

Matt snorted a laugh and stopped Charlotte from doing the dishes. He turned her around to face him and just stared into her eyes for a moment. Matt didn't know what was so appealing about her but she just made him feel so alive... so powerful and everything wonderful.

Charlotte was a little taken aback by Matt but she felt herself looking into his deep set eyes and realising that he was for real. She never believed she could feel this way about another man again but all the right emotions were there. She could feel herself being drawn to Matt... the way she used to get drawn to Dylan.

Then Matt brought his lips closer to Charlotte's and kissed her gently at first then slowly it started to get more intense as he felt her grip on him tightened. Everything just happened so quickly but it felt comfortable and easy. Matt didn't have to force anything as everything just fell into place.

"You're so beautiful," Matt cooed as they manouvered their way onto his bed as he gently lay Charlotte down. The sight of her looking so serene on his bed just have him this tingly sensation through his body. It was electic as Charlotte pulled him in for more kisses. Matt moved from her lips, to her neck... then slowly peeling her top off and kissing her petite body.

Charlotte giggled a little as it tickled but enjoyed every single thing Matt did. "Hey... come up here," she whispered as Matt's face resurfaced to meet hers.

"What's on your mind love?" Matt asked.

"Just wanted you to know we're gonna have to change this bed," Charlotte teased as Matt gave her a silly look and returned to kissing her. It was such a beautiful night and they were starting to fall in love.

***

The next morning, Charlotte awoke as the rays of the sun gently touched her face. She turned to see Matt soundly asleep beside her with the blanket wrapped around his waist. She looked at his perfectly sculpted body and wondered how he found the time to exercise and get those abs. She slowly placed her hands on his stomach and traced Matt's bosy to this face.

"Like the view?" Matt asked as he woke up to her touch. Charlotte rolled her eyes at him. To think he could make a joke out of everything and make her laugh too.

"Very much thank you," she retorted and turned away from him.

"Aww... don't be shy. You know you want me," Matt continued teasing as he cuddled her and started to kiss her shoulders and then her back. Charlotte blushed and turned back to face him.

"It's getting late and I have to get to work you know... and so do you Mr soon-to-be-famous artist," Charlotte replied.

Matt stopped kissing her and gave her his puppy dog eyes look, "Aww but the fun's bearly started. A little while more? Please?"

Charlotte groaned and then gave in to his plea, "Ok. I'm leaving in fifteen minutes." But in the end, it took them about three more hours.

Evening Meet Up

2005-12-12T02:40:00.000+08:00

Charlotte was working late into the night trying to think of a way that she could make the flower arrangements for Annanessa. Luke stayed back to clean up while Mrs Webber had to leave the shop for a while.

As Luke swept the floor, he constantly gazed up to Charlotte and finally decided to talk to her. He placed the broom down and settled up ont he counter opposite her.

"Hey Char... could I speak to you for a moment?" he asked. Charlotte didn't look up from the paper but she nodded.

"I was thinking, I hope you can forgive me about ranting at you all the time and I promise I would never do that again. I just wished we'd be friends again. All I want for you is to be happy. If you are happy with... Matt, then I'm happy for you too," Luke said.

Charlotte stopped scribbling on her paper and looked up at Luke. She smiled and thanked him for understanding. "You will always be my best friend," she said and hugged Luke. Luke's heart felt a deep pang but he would just have to accept that... for now.

Just at that point of time, Mrs Webber came back to the shop with a bag full of food. Luke excused himself to clean up as Charlotte went over to her mother. "Is that my dinner? Great. I'm starving!" Charlotte chimed as Mrs Webber placed the bag in Charlotte's hands.

"It's not just for you... don't you have a little something with Matt tonight? It's dinner for two from your mother," Mrs Webber said. Charlotte smacked her forehead with her hand and thanked her mother for reminding her. As she turned to leave, she hesistated and turned back.

"Don't worry. The shop is in good hands and you can continue your work tomorrow," Mrs Webber said before Charlotte could start nagging again. Charlotte smiled and thanked her mother before rushing off.

***

It was nearly eight and Charlotte had not appeared on his doorstep. Matt was getting a little nervous and wondered if she worked so hard till she forgot that they were meeting up. Matt sighed and continued working on his latest piece of work. However, his hands didn't feel like working and his mind could only think of when Charlotte would appear in front of him.

Matt's stomach rumbled with angst and he knew he had to eat now. Matt decided to forget about waiting for Charlotte and go out to purchase his Chinese takeouts again. Just as he came out of his apartment and closed the gates, a familiar voice called out to him. Matt turned and smiled. She was here.

"I'm so sorry I was working for the client..." Charlotte explained but before she could, Matt just wrapped her in his arms and kissed her.

"It's ok. As long as you are here. I was about to send out a search party for you," Matt lied, he didn't have the heart to tell her he was tired of waiting.

Charlotte blushed and waved the food that her mother prepared for them. "I bet you are hungry. My mother had this prepared for the both of us. I guess she knew we would not be going for anything fancy. I hope you like mashed potatoes and grilled vegetables."

Matt replied cheekily, "What about just Charlotte?" Charlotte rolled her eyes and they made their way into his apartment. As she took out the food and served it up nicely, Matt made space for them on his bed.

"Instead of bed and breakfast, I was thinking of bed and dinner... something new and special for a special girl," Matt remarked as he pulled Charlotte and the food onto his bed.

"Aren't you direct. Take this to bed then!" Charlotte said as she threw a piece of carrot at Matt and roared with laughter. As they started on their very late dinner, Matt filled Charlotte in about the money and the plans he had for it... the new apartment, new furniture... new life...

"Are you sure you wanna get out of this place? It's so cosy. A bachelor like you don't need so much space," Charlotte said.

"I do... because you're sharing this space with me right?" Matt cooed into Charlotte's ear. She rolled her eyes and threw a pillow at him this time round.

"Who's sharing this dingy place with you!" Charlotte made a face and returned to her food but she was elated that Matt thought of sharing his home with her.

Smiles All Around

2005-12-10T14:52:00.000+08:00

"That's great news Matt! I'm so happy for you," Charlotte said when Matt broke the news to her, "Of course I will maybe..."

Just as she was arranging the next meet up with Matt, Annanessa's wedding planner stolled in, diva-ish and all as Charlotte's mother went to greet her at the door. She was non other than the best wedding planner in all of the country but also knowing for her nose in the air style of working.

"Got to go. Client is here. I'll call you later," Charlotte whispered on the phone before she hung up.

"Hi I'm Charlotte Webber." Charlotte introduced herself as she stuck out her hand for a formal handshake but the wedding planner either didn't realise her petite hand or she was just too 'up there' to take the handshake.

"Yvette Charlzton. Wedding planner for Lady Annanessa and Sir Alexander. I never knew the lady had a charm for small shops like this," Yvette said as she scanned through the beautiful flowers.

"Annanessa was my old friend from school and I guess she wanted someone close to her to help her with her wedding. It's a once in a lifetime affair right?" Charlotte remarked.

"That's why I'm here to make sure you don't get things all wrong for this 'once in a lifetime affair. You're not doing floral arrangements for just any client. They are royalties and I expect you to have the best for them..." Yvette said all knowingly as though Charlotte was an imbecile.

Charlotte resented the way Yvette talked to her but she kept telling herself she was doing it for Annanessa and not this tall prick of a diva as she showed Yvette around.

In the midst of Yvette's scowering looks and deep thoughts as she examined each type of flower Charlotte had in the shop, Charlotte managed to whisper some instructions to her mother and Luke telling them to manage the regular customers while she took care of Yvette.

"Too common," Yvette said, brushing away some of the roses and orchids that Charlotte prized herself for. "Too dull" was Yvette's comment for the daisies and tulips Charlotte had. "Why do you have these flowers here in the first place??" was Yvettes way of saying Charlotte didn't know how to be a good florist.

After a whole hour and a half of screening, Yvette finally settled and Charlotte filled out the order form for her. In total she spent as much as what Charlotte and her mother paid for their shop solely on the flowers. Charlotte didn't dare to imagine what the ceremony, cake and even the gown would cost.

"My assistant will call you about the times that you have to be there to do the floral arrangements and the flowers better stay fresh for the whole cremony. Paolo! Take their card and the order form!" Yvette orderd as her latin assistant gingerly took his place and swiped the stuff from the table.

"Paolo! The invitation!" she ordered again as Paolo handed Charlotte a creamy white enevlope with her name calligraphed perfectly on the front with a traditional type wax seal on the back of it.

"Lady Annanessa told me to extend this invite to you. Till then, remember the type and condition of the flowers are of extreme importance." Yvette said before sashaying back to the awaiting limo with Paolo the trusty assistant flashing Charlotte his brilliant latin smile.

As the limo drove off, Mrs Webber stood by her daughter and shook her head, "What a queen!" Charlotte looked at her mother and laughed. She didn't know her mother knew what a queen was in common language.

***

Matt flipped through the newspaper and thought of the things he wanted to do with the money. He could buy a new apartment and have more room to do his painting... he could also use new furniture... he noticed an advertisement for a smarty kitchen and wondered if it would be smart enough to make him homecooked meals everyday. By now he was getting sick of burgers, chinese take out and microwaved pasta.

Just as he was about to dig into another of his mircowaved meals, the phone rang and he rushed to pick it up in hope it was his new found love... and it was her, telling him of the crazy incident with a wedding planner who was all prissy and made her life a living hell for an hour and a half but gave her a deal which which really huge.

"That means tonight we should celebrate right? Besides, I need your help in some stuff too," Matt said and Charlotte said she would pop by his place after work.

"Alright. Till then, I miss you," Matt said. Hearing that she missed him too set him on a bliss...

Good News One After Another

2005-12-08T14:23:00.000+08:00

As Matt halted his scooter to a stop outside Charlotte's home, he stuck out his hand and assisted her to alight. Though he wasn't ready to let her go but she had an early appointment with a client and he didn't want to be in the way of her work.

Matt took Charlotte's hand and walked towards her front door. They stood there facing each other, almost like teenagers again on their first date not knowing what to do at the foot of the door.

"I guess I'll see you again sometime soon?" Matt asked, breaking the uncomfortable silence between them. Charlotte nodded and thanked him for a lovely night.

"No... thank you for making it so perfect with your presence," Matt replied, pulling Charlotte closer to him. Charlotte laughed at his ability to craft out words like that. Then they gave each other a final goodbye kiss before Charlotte forced herself to leave Matt and go home. She couldn't stop smiling and recapping the kisses they shared... THREE fabulous kisses and counting.

As Charlotte stepped into her house, she noticed her mother waiting up for her. Mrs Webber instantly noticed that silly smile her daughter had on her face and instantly knew things were going well with the new found lover.

"I've never seen you so happy before for so long... what happened?" Mrs Webber asked. Charlotte tried to evade the question by heading into the kitchen for a drink but her seemingly inquisitve mother did not seem to let the matter go.

"We... had a lovely dinner..." Charlotte began but somehow she couldn't get the smirk off her face.

"And?" Mrs Webber probed, "he kissed you? That's great!"

Charlotte was flabbergasted at her mother instananeously getting at the kissing part. "Mom! You should not be encouraging your daughter like this!"

Mrs Webber laughed as though she knew it all along, "Charlotte Webber, you are definitely starting to like this boy and you are scared to admit it. To think at 26 you need your mother to start telling you what to do with your life."

Charlotte rolled her eyes and set the cup on the table, "Mom I know you care about me but things are too easly to see where they are going. Besides, I don't wanna rush into things so quickly. Not after Dylan..."

Mrs Webber hugged her daughter, "Alright. But I'm just happy you are starting to date again. I love you sweetheart."

Charlotte smiled and tightened her grip on her mother, "I love you too Mom... and thanks for being here to talk it with me."

***

Matt woke up to the relentless ringing of his phone. He was enjoying dreaming about the date and the kisses. Gawd, he wished that person would stop ringing him. As he gave a dreary hello, he realised it was the people who bought his paintings saying that they wanted to send the cheque over and they needed his address. He was elated!

As he fumbled to recall his address in the midst of his excitement, the people told him just how much he was being paid. As he heard the numbers, he knew all the sacrifices all these years and all the hardship paid off. He was going to make it big on his passion!

After hanging up the phone, he forgotten all about his tiredness and wanting to sleep. All he could think about was how to break the wonderful news to Charlotte and how he wanted to celebrate the good news with her. He didn't want to wait till she was done with work so he took a chance on calling her at the shop.

A Perfect First Date...

2005-12-07T15:17:00.000+08:00

As Charlotte walked into the shop,she noticed Matt talking heartily with her mother. Ever since Dylan left, she never noticed any person who could entertain her mother as much. They were laughing as though the jokes were terribly funny and they were having tea!

"Am I interrupting anything?" Charlotte teased. Both Mrs Webber and Matt looked towards Charlotte and smiled.

"Charlotte, you look lovely," Matt said as she stood up and gave her the bouquet, "I would be lying if I said I bought them but your mother didn't want me to pay for it." Charlotte shot her mother a glare.

Mrs Webber raised her hands up in protest, "Hey I paid for this shop and technically everything here is mine. I can give things away as I wish." Charlotte soften her facial expression and hugged her mother.

"You two young ones better get going. Enjoy yourselves," Mrs Webber said as she gently pushed the two of them out the shop before closing the doors behind them. Matt and Charlotte looked at each other and started to laugh.

"Your mother is so great. No wonder you are so perfect too," Matt said as he brushed a stray hair off Charlotte's face. Charlotte just gave a soft smile as she found herself blushing.

"So where do you want to go for dinner?" Charlotte asked, trying to make things less awkward and shift his attention away from her rosy face. Matt offered to let Charlotte choose her favourite place but his sheepish expression made Charlotte realise that he didn't have much money to spend.

"Come on, I know a perfect place where we can have our dinner," Charlotte said as she pulled his hand and walked across the street. Matt was puzzled at where they were heading as Charlotte walked down a few more blocks to a diner where they ordered take outs before heading off to the park where they first met.

As they selected a spot by the lake and lay out their food on Matt's jacket, they had their evening picnic. Though it wasn't the ideal romantic dinner and there were no expensive wine or waiters to attend to your every need, it was just wonderful.

"So do you do this with all your girlfriends?" Charlotte asked as she tucked into her burger. Matt beamed as he gorged down some fries. "I don't have many girlfriends... just good lady friends," he said in between bites.

They talked and laughed the whole night with a bit of food fight as well as throwing some crackers into the lake to see whose cracker could go the furthest. Charlotte hadn't had this much fun ever...being with Matt just made her as carefree and childlike as he was.

After all that activity, the two just lay down on Matt's jacket and admired the stars. They played a game of seeing whose hand could cover more stars and they started to fight playfully with each other. Matt started to tickle Charlotte as she tried to dodge his grasp by running away from him.

Finally, Matt caught up with Charlotte and they stopped laughing for a moment. Their eyes locked gazes as Matt pulled Charlotte closer to him.

"Charlotte, you make me the happiest and the luckiest man on earth when you're with me. You are not only my inspiration but you mark a new beginning in my life. I know I can never match up to your ex fiance but I promise to devote my life to making you happy and..."

Before Matt could finish his proclaimation of love, Charlotte started to tear with happiness and she leant over to kiss him. Matt was a little shocked as first but he soon relaxed and tightened his grip on her. He didn't want to let her go now... ever.

It was just a perfect night... a perfect date... a perfect kiss and a perfect beginning for Matt and Charlotte.

Precious Memories and Wasted Dreams

2005-12-05T14:49:00.000+08:00

Charlotte put on her cream white off shoulder dress and draped on a peach shawl before heading back to the shop to pick up her bag. She never felt more beautiful since Dylan and her celebrated their anniversary in a rustic resort up in the country side where he crooned a sappy love song to her with the other guests clapping along with him. Charlotte never felt more loved and more embarrassed in all her life. There was something special about Dylan that made her realise that he was the one for her.

Thinking about him made Charlotte start tearing. "Stop it. You're starting life anew... don't you dare start crying," she said aloud to herself while pointing to her image in the mirror.

***

"Luke, why don't you go back first? I think I can manage from here," Mrs Webber suggested when she realised Luke wasn't in the mood to do anything right after Charlotte snapped at him.

When Luke didn't respond while he continued to sweep the floor, Mrs Webber went over to him and snatched the broom from his hands. "Go home Luke. I'll see you tomorrow," Mrs Webber said.

"Does Charlotte really hate me? Why can't she see that I really care for her and I want only the best for her?" Luke asked Mrs Webber, "I'm the only person who knows her through and through. I'm the only person who stands by her through everything. Why can't she see all these?"

Mrs Webber sighed, "Luke, love is a complicated thing. You can't force her to see everything the way you do. Somethings aren't as easy to fight for. Go home and just sleep on it. Everything will be fine after a few days."

As Luke nodded and solemnly left the shop, Mrs Webber hoped Charlotte didn't make the wrong choice of allowing Luke to help out in the shop while falling for Matt at the same time. "Oh I'm having such a headache. Dylan... you better help Charlotte choose the right man for her," Mrs Webber said as she looked up into the ceiling as though Dylan was watching over mother and daughter.

Just at that moment, Mrs Webber heard a vehicle rolled in front of the shop and peered out to see who it was. She noticed a man decked out in dress pants and a nice shirt walk towards the shop. She gasped when she realised who it was.

"Wow... and they say you can never change the spots of a leopard," Mrs Webber remarked as he stepped into the shop, "You look good for once..."

"I think I can take that as a compliment right?" Matt smiled, "Mrs Webber, is Charlotte here?"

Mrs Webber shook her head and told him that she went home first but she called and said she would come back here to meet you in a while.

Matt was relived when he heard that and went on to ask Mrs Webber a favour, "Mrs Webber, would it be weird if I bought some flowers at this time of night for Charlotte? Though I don't have much money but... could you help me pick out her favourite ones? I have... 20 dollars. It should be enough right?"

Mrs Webber shook her head at Matt's romantice gesture and went around selecting her daughter's favourite flowers. She gave quick glances to Matt as she picked out some of the more expensive flowers. She could sense Matt's heart throbbing at the sight of the price tags as well as the point where she purposely mentioned that Charlotte loved one of the more expensive roses.

Finally as Mrs Webber handed the bouquet over to Matt she squeezed his arm and said, "This one's on me. Just promise me you are not going to break her heart." Matt's eyes were so full of appreciation and somehow Mrs Webber could sense his sincerity. It didn't really matter to her if Matt was not rich or just an amature artist. Her daughter's heart was far more precious than any of these.

Turn Back Time...

2005-12-04T23:40:00.000+08:00

Matt went around town to find a perfect outfit for the night. He didn't want to appear too fancy nor did he want to look as shabby as he does now. After leaving home for so long, he forgot what it was like to be dressed in the best and be waited on hand and foot.

Back home, he had his every need attended to. He and his brother had a fashion consultant to make sure that they were stylish and ready for any press coverage because they were the golden boys of Eisenberg. Since birth, everyone was concerned about what the boys did.

From their first appearance in the annual dinner and dance and Matt was made to dance with this oversized girl and Alex made fun of his little brother all night till the boys' final prom. Somehow Matt was always looked upon by the press of Eisenberg as the bad boy.

Whenever the press got hold of a scandalous piece of news on Matt, his father would go into a rage and start chiding Matt. However, Alex would always come to his rescue and accept punishment for his little brother. Matt's heart ached when Alex had to go without dinner or get grounded because of him.

Finally, one day when Alex defended Matt against his father for theft, Matt decided to make a vow to his brother. "Alex, I promise to be good. I won't let you suffer again because of me," Matt said.

However, that was not the last time as the biggest challenge for Alex was to help Matt excape Eisenberg to pursue Matt's dream of being an artist. Till now, Alex is paying the price for Matt.

Suddenly, Matt just woke up from his thoughts. He wondered how he ever got to thinking about his past just by intending to get a new outfit for the night.

"At least I'm doing Alex a favour by attending his stupid wedding. I'd probably get so much chiding from Father that I think I would need to get earplugs before I make my way home," Matt thought to himself and let out a soft snigger.

Finally, he decided to stop by a factory outlet at the outskirts of town. He just hope he could find something decent... like a pair of dress pants for starters.

***

Since that incident, Charlotte just went silent. Mrs Webber and Luke wondered what was going through Charlotte's mind. After Luke told Mrs Webber what happened, she chided him for being so insensitive and told him never to say anything that hurtful to Charlotte again.

Charlotte was busy making sure everything was in perfect order for tomorrow's meeting with the wedding planner. Charlotte did not just want to make money out of this but she wanted her best friend's wedding to have the perfect flowers because she couldn't give Annanessa anything expensive for her wedding.

When she was done, she looked at her watch. It was soon time to meet Matt and she didn't want to look all dirty and messy with soiled clothing. She dusted herself and placed her equipment down.

"I'm going home now. Mom, could you close the shop for me?" Charlotte asked, "I have something to do." Mrs Webber agreed as Charlotte walked out of the shop without saying anything else.

Luke and Mrs Webber looked at each other in dismay. "You hurt her big time Luke. I think you better leave her to do what she wants and like who she likes," Mrs Webber said.

"You mean you know who she likes?" Luke asked, "Please tell me it's not that painter dude."

Mrs Webber knew Luke had to know sooner or later and she didn't want to see him get antagonised by this love triangle anymore as well as she didn't want to see her daughter get upset by this again.

"Yes, she likes Matt. So please let her follow her heart? You cannot change fate Luke," Mrs Webber said before heading out to the back to clean up.

Luke just stood there for a moment. He realised that after all these years, everything didn't matter to Charlotte. Plus, all that he had done didn't amount to change anything. He had to think of a better way to make Charlotte see...

A Moment Said It All

2005-12-03T23:16:00.000+08:00

Matt walked back to his scooter and heaved a deep sigh. He knew he'd hurt Eva but he had to be true to his heart and Charlotte. He could not be sleeping around anymore and he needed to come clean for Charlotte.

As he drove back into the town, his mind was in a whirl but his heart knew where he was heading to - Charlotte's. He needed to see her to make his day. Somehow she brought him so much strength and vigor. It was chemistry.

As he approached the shop, it was like fate that she came out with the day's trash. As they locked eyes, Matt felt as though nothing else mattered. Charlotte smiled at him as she placed the trash by her side and watched as Matt got off the scooter. They didn't even exchange any words as Matt raced to pick her up in an embrace. It was just a picture perfect moment.

Somehow Charlotte knew Matt had a rough day and she was glad she was the first person he came to see. She felt a warm tingly feeling when they hugged and she just wanted to stay in that embrace forever. It made her feel safe and away from her problems... away from the hurt from the problems with Dylan.

"Thank you," Matt whispered into her ears, "You make everything worth it." Charlotte blushed when she heard that and tightened her grip on him.

Just at that moment, Luke came out of the shop and saw them. "Char?" he called out and Charlotte stepped back from Matt in shock.

"I thought you were taking out the trash... wondered why you took so long," Luke retorted.

Charlotte ignored Luke, picked up the trash and pulled Matt into the backalley. "I'll be back shortly," she shot back at Luke. She had a great moment it was just instantaneously spoilt.

"What happened today? Did you get the deal?" Charlotte asked as she threw the trash into the bin. Matt tucked his hands into his pockets and nodded.

"Then why are you so glum?" Charlotte asked. Matt forced a smile and shrugged his shoulders. He couldn't tell Charlotte about him sleeping with Eva and how he turned down a hot woman for Charlotte. She would probably be too disgusted with him.

Charlotte realised Matt didn't wanna talk about it and replied, "You don't wanna talk about it, it's fine. Why don't after I close my shop, we'll go have a nice dinner and you can forget all your problems?" Matt smiled and agreed.

"Alright. I'll see you later then. I have to get back to work for the big order for a wedding!" Charlotte said. Matt congratulated her before watching her rush back into the shop.

"Finally... an official date with Charlotte," Matt thought to himself. He had to find something nice to wear....

***
As Charlotte got back to the shop, she noticed Luke standing at the counter serving a customer but Charlotte sensed he was terribly unhappy. After the customer left, Luke approached Charlotte about the matter.

"Are you serious about that painter?" Luke asked angrily.

"He's a great artist. NOT a painter," Charlotte replied without even looking at Luke.

Luke sighed, "I'm just concerned for you Charlotte. I don't want you to get hurt again... after Dylan's accident you should know better and Dylan..." Charlotte stood up angrily and pointed her scissors at him. This is the first time Luke saw Charlotte this angry.

"DON'T EVER mention about Dylan. You have NO RIGHT to talk about him in anyway!" Charlotte said before walking away.

The Truth Pops Out Eventually

2005-06-15T21:50:00.000+08:00

Matt was making the last amendments to the placement of his pieces while Eva was preparing the other nitty grittys before the judges came to her gallery. Eva had been great. She even made sure refreshments and finger food has a similar theme and look to Matt's pieces.

After he was done, he finally caught Eva for a moment to thank her. "Hey Eva, everything in the gallery looks great," Matt said, "I can't thank you enough for doing this for me."

Eva smiled and leant forward to kiss Matt but Matt gently dodged her lips and reached into give her a hug. Eva was a little surprised but she thought it might be that he was just nervous and didn't want everyone to see them close.

"Everything will be fine. I'm sure they will love your paintings," Eva replied, "I've looked at them and as your curator... they are delicious."

Just then a couple of cars rolled into Eva's driveway... they were the judges. Though they were from upstate, they were hired by Alexander to purchase Matt's pieces for his wedding. He didn't want to do it personally because he knew Matt would just do it for free and knowing Matt's financial situation, Alex had to stage this.

"Don't worry Sir Alexander, we know what to do," one of the judges said, "We'll send the pieces to London and then to your abode within 2 weeks."

"Thank you. Please make sure the curator nor the artist knows about this arrangement," Alex said over the phone.

"We will take extra precautions," the judge replied.

Just as they hung up, Eva and Matt came out from the gallery to meet them. They shook hands and did all the formalities before heading into the gallery where Matt explained every single piece to them. He was fully unaware that even before he said anything about them, they were already sold and for a very high price.

***

"Mom, Luke is coming in as a partner for this shop," Charlotte laid the bomb on her mother while they were taking a break outside while Luke was tending the shop.

"What? are you sure this is a good idea?" Mrs Webber asked.

Charlotte shrugged, "I'm not sure either. He initially wanted me to hire him as an employee but I can't imagine hiring my own best friend, so I made him my partner. I'm sure he'll make this shop even better with his business skills. Besides, he's a guy and he can help with the heavy stuff. What do you think?"

Mrs Webber thought to herself for a moment if she should tell Charlotte about Lucas' infactuation with her but she realised it wasn't her position to stop Lucas from adoring her daughter... as long as it wasn't disrupting their lives or their work.

"Charlotte, this is your shop and I'm sure you'll make the best decisions for it. If you think Lucas is a beneficial person for the business then I have no objections. I just hope you know what you are doing," Mrs Webber explained.

Just at that moment, Lucas interrupted their chat, "Sorry to interrupt but Annanessa's wedding planner called and he would be coming down tomorrow to view some samples."

After hearing that, Charlotte jumped as it was their biggest client to date. "I'll get stuff ready then!" Mrs Webber watched as her daughter entered the shop with her best friend. She quietly said a prayer and prayed Charlotte would not get hurt again.

***

"I can't believe everything was sold... just like this!" Eva said once the judges left. She continued to gush about how great Matt was and how it was a great opportunity for him to become the artist he always wanted to be. Eva was so excited that she leaped into Matt's arms, saddling him from the waist. Matt had to catch her as he was afraid she would fall.

"I couldn't have done it without you, Eva," Matt said as he let her down. Eva gave him a sultry smile and reached in for a kiss.

"Eva... I can't." Matt finally brought up the courage to say, "I... I can't do this with you anymore."

Eva was shocked and got a little defensive, "What? I'm too good for you now? After all we've gone through for you for this..."

Matt interrupted, "No no! What I mean is I appreciate you as a friend but... we can't continue to have sex anymore. I... I found someone that I want to commit myself to."

Eva couldn't register what Matt just said. All she could do was to shove him out of the door with his things and slam the door in his face. All she felt then was hurt and dire rejection.

The Winds of Change

2005-06-11T14:58:00.000+08:00

Matt was finally done with his works and he looked at it with a smile on his face. He could never be happier with what he's done... especially with an inspiration as beautiful as Charlotte. All he hoped now was that the judges would be happy with it and they would be willing to display his works.

Just as he was putting on the final touches to his works, he heard a truck roll into the streets. It should be Eva coming in to bring it over to the gallery. Matt leaped for joy and quickly put everything in order.

"Hey Matty! All done?" Eva asked as Matt brought her up to his place to view the final pieces. Matt was just happy what Eva looked stunned and amazed at his works.

"These are just so beautiful! These are defintely your best works to date! Matty you've done it! You are going to be huge," Eva said and hugged him. Matt was happy to hear that Eva liked it.

"You must remember me when you make it big... maybe... we could..." Eva whispered into Matt's ear before she licked it. Matt felt a little awkward and stepped back from her.

"I will remember you as my curator and one of the people who stood by me when I was just a poor artist," Matt said before pretending to get busy with his works again. Eva felt that Matt's behaviour had change and he wasn't as loving towards her as he'd used to.

"Maybe he's just worried and nervous about today. Forgive him. He'll lighten up after all these," Eva though to herself before she went over to help Matt organise the move of the artworks into the truck.

***

The next morning, Charlotte was up early and prepared breakfast for her mother. Mrs Webber had been working day and night for the shop and Charlotte felt guilty for making her mother work for her. So she decided to do something special for her.

When Mrs Webber woke up, Charlotte pulled her into the kitchen and served up a good breakfast.

"Wow, someoe is in a happy mood today," Mrs Webber said, "What happened over at Matthew's place?"

Charlotte shot her mother a frown, "Mom! Nothing happened! We just... had dinner... talked..."

"... and?" Mrs Webber interrupted, somehow mothers always know that their daughters were hiding things.

"Nothing! Mom! Why are you so inquisitive these days? First it was Luke... now Matt..." Charlotte retorted as she set opposite her mother for breakfast. Mrs Webber smiled and reached out her hand to hold her daughter's hand.

"I just want you to be happy. That's all," she replied. Charlotte smiled and gave her mother an assuring smile.

After breakfast, Charlotte and her mother walked and talked the whole way to the shop. As they approached it, they notice Luke sitting on the hood of his car, waiting for them. When he saw them, his face lit up but Charlotte heaved a sigh.

"Charlotte, you have to tell Lucas. You have to be honest with him... think about all the things he's done for you. You should at least return that bit of favour to him," Mrs Webber said softly.

"Don't worry mom. I know what to do," Charlotte said and approached Luke as Mrs Webber opened up the shop.

"Charlotte... I'm sorry," Lucas said as he presented her with a bouquet of flowers. Charlotte rolled her eyes.

"Luke, if you've not forgotten, I own a flower shop you know," Charlotte retorted.

"Char, I know you are unhappy with me and I want you to know that I'll not bother you so much. I just want to support you through everything... you know... as your... friend," Luke said but he found it hard to say those last words.

Charlotte placed her hands on Luke's shoulder, "Luke you will always be my best friend."

Luke forced a smile, "Then promise me you would let me do something for you. Don't say no to me this time." Charlotte frowned and wondered what was on his mind.

Luke took a deep breath and finally got up the courage to say it.

"Charlotte, I want to work with you here in the shop. I could help in financing, marketing... anything!"

Charlotte was just shocked. She didn't know what to say or what to do...

It's All Charlotte

2005-06-04T15:20:00.000+08:00

By this time, Charlotte was already crying her eyes out and Matt could feel his shirt starting to get wet. But more importantly, he knew what was troubling her and he was glad that Charlotte chose to tell him what was bothering her.

"I'm sorry Charlotte," Matt said, "I understand everything now."

Charlotte looked up at Matt and replied, "Every night from then I started to have nightmares and recollection of that night. I couldn't even remember who killed Dylan and it pains me to think about it each time."

Matt placed his hands on her tear-filled face and looked into her eyes, "Charlotte, I want to help you through this. I'm here for you and will always be here for you."

Charlotte shook her head, "That's what Dylan said to me and..." Charlotte started crying again.

"He didn't think it would happen to him. He wanted to protect you. I know you still have feelings for him but I will be here until you are ready to accept someone new... someone like me." Matt said.

Charlotte was so touched by his sensitivity that she reached over and hugged him, "Thank you Matt." Matt gently kissed her on the cheek and decided to send her home.

***

The phone rang for the umpteenth time that night and Mrs Webber was hesitant to pick it up knowing that it could be Lucas for the umpteenth time too. Finally she decided to pick it up again, hoping she could get Lucas to stop calling.

"Mrs Webber I'm sorry to bother you again," Lucas said, "I just wanted to know if Charlotte's home. I'm just worried..."

Mrs Webber sighed, "Lucas... I already told you she's still not home and I'll get her to call you once she is home. You don't have to call every five minutes. It's not going to make her come home any sooner."

Lucas apologised and hung up. Mrs Webber felt guilty for making the poor boy so upset. She knew Lucas was interested in her daughter but she knew her daughter only treated him as a very good friend. She tried her best to keep what Charlotte told her at the shop from Lucas as long as she could hold it in.

About half an hour later, Charlotte appeared through the door with a big smile on her face. Mrs Webber instantly knew whom she was with.

"You're back late," Mrs Webber commented. Charlotte apologised and hugged her mother. Just then the phone rang.

"You might want to pick that up," Mrs Webber said, "It's Lucas. He's been calling here all night." Charlotte picked up the phone and true to her mother's words. It was Lucas.

"Where have you been all night? I was rather worried," Lucas said.

Charlotte sighed as she walked to her room, "I just went out to relax and take a break from everything at the shop."

"Have you had dinner? Do you want me to bring you something?" Lucas asked. Charlotte gently declined and Lucas continued to rattle on with questions.

"Are you tired? Have you taken your shower? Do you need help at the shop tomorrow, so you won't be so tired?" Luke continued asking.

Charlotte groaned, "Luke... I'm a big girl and I know how to take care of myself. If you're busy with your work, then you don't have to come by the shop. Mom and I can handle it. Good night Luke." With that Charlotte just slammed down the phone. She could not take his rambling any longer. She didn't want to think about anything else except Matt and the way he made her smile genuinely again.

Painful Memories

2005-05-29T14:46:00.000+08:00

Matt looked down at Charlotte's hand. She was grabbing his left hand so hard that his knuckles were almost turning white. Matt slowly tried to pull his hand out from her grasp while trying to calm her down.

"Why don't I get you something to drink? Your lips are cracking," Matt said as he stood up to head to the kitchen. Charlotte didn't want to be left alone and followed him while grabbing hold of Matt's hand again.

"I'm not going to run away, silly girl," Matt replied, brushing Charlotte's stray fringe to the back of her ear, "I'm just going to get you some warm water."

Charlotte backed away a little while Matt handed her a glass of water, "I'm sorry, it's just that I've never told any one else about this... other than my mother of course. It's just that... I never knew how to say it," she explained while taking sips from the glass.

Matt pulled Charlotte closer and embraced her in his strong arms, "You don't need to continue if you don't want to. All I want to know is that you're here and you're safe."

Charlotte felt his genuine love and rested her head on his chest. She could hear his fast heartbeat... it was similar to what she experienced that very moment she saw what happened to Dylan. "I never thought that day would arrive..." she murmured.

***

(flashback)

Charlotte just finished tending to her garden when she realised it was nearly dusk and Dylan wasn't home yet. It was unusual because Dylan didn't like to drive back to the countryside when it was dark. Charlotte walked out to the main road to see if she could catch a glimpse of Dylan's vehicle.

Instead, she saw someone walking at the other side of the road, carrying something in hand. Charlotte immediately knew it was Dylan and something was wrong. Charlotte dropped everything and starting running over to Dylan.

"Car trouble 2 miles up," Dylan called back to Charlotte when he saw her, "I walked home."

"Are you alright?" Charlotte shouted about a mile away. She noticed Dylan smiling and nodding as he saw her running towards her but his face suddenly looked as though he saw a ghost.

"Charlotte watch out!" Dylan shouted as he dashed towards Charlotte. There was a car driving at a high speed towards her and she didn't even see it because she was so engrossed in Dylan. Charlotte turned and saw the car. She screamed as Dylan reached over and pushed her aside. Charlotte fell but she saw the car try to dodge from where she was but it still managed to hit Dylan and fling him towards the other side of the road.

"Dylan!" Charlotte screamed but she couldn't move. She twisted her ankle and it was in pain. Charlotte noticed the driver stop the car for a moment and she wanted to call out to the driver to help them. Instead of heeding their cries, the driver sped off even before Charlotte could remember anything about the car or the driver because all she could think of was Dylan's condition.

"Dylan..." Charlotte weakly called out as she dragged herself up to walk over to reach him. By the time she got close enough, Dylan was breathing heavily and his head was bleeding profusely because he hit it against a rock.

"You're bleeding. I need to get you to the hospital. You'll be fine," Charlotte said, trying to hold back her tears.

Dylan's eyes were dilating and he was shivering. "Don't... bother Charlotte. I just... want to be with you," he said as he painfully reached out his hand towards her and she took a hold of it.

Charlotte couldn't control it any longer and started to cry, "You can't die on me Dylan. You can't. I need you..."

Dylan tried to smile to make Charlotte not cry, "I... love... you... always." Charlotte felt Dylan's grasp loosen from hers and she watch as his breathing turned from painful to his one last release.

"Dylan..." Charlotte sobbed painfully, "I'll love you forever."

Release

2005-05-26T00:37:00.000+08:00

After Charlotte realised what she was doing, she pulled away from Matt and stepped back. She folded her arms across her chest and looked away from him.

"I'm so sorry, I shouldn't have done that," Charlotte said shyly, "I think I should go." With that she took her stuff and was about to leave when Matt stopped her.

"Charlotte, please don't be silly. You shouldn't be sorry about it. You know that we both wanted it because we like each other. Why run away?" Matt asked.

"Because it's wrong. I shouldn't be doing this... not when my fiance..." Charlotte caught herself before she rambled on too much until it really hurt her.

"You have a fiance?!" Matt gasped, he couldn't believe what he was hearing, "Since when did you have a fiance?"

Charlotte knew that by this time, everyone was confused and upset. "No no no, I mean I used to have a fiance but... he's gone. BUT that does not mean that I've moved on..." Charlotte sighed and decided to be honest, "He is the person I was trying to forget for months."

Matt didn't know if he should sigh for relief or be worried because Charlotte was still thinking about him. "How did you lose him?"

Charlotte sat down and wiped her palms across her face, "I lost him in an accident. It was perfect, like all nights but when he... he..." Charlotte started to cry. Matt felt so guilty that he went over and offered Charlotte his shoulder which she took to and leant against his strong body.

"It's ok if you don't wanna tell me what happened," Matt answered, seeing Charlotte's reaction to it, "I understand how hard it is to forget something that happened to you which affected your whole life. I've been running away from something too that I can never forget even though I want to."

Charlotte looked at Matt and somehow realised that somehow fate brought two people who have been having inward battles all their lives together. Charlotte thought that Matt would be the one that she could regurgitate her pain to and she might just feel better.

"No, let me share it with you. It might make it easier to forget and move on," Charlotte finally answered as she slipped her hand underneath Matt's as he looked endearingly into her eyes.

***

(flashback)
"It's a great day today..." Dylan sang as he entered the kitchen and wrapped his arms around Charlotte, "With a beautiful girl... all my hope in the world... is Toooddaaayy!"

Charlotte laughed, "Stop singing already. You're making the song sound terrible."

Dylan smirked and kissed her passionately, "Whatever you say, my wife to be." Charlotte rolled her eyes and playfully pinched his nose.

As they had breakfast Dylan told Charlotte about his new breed of orchids he discovered and how he was going to get it back from the research labs later. With every word he uttered about his new discovery, Charlotte realised how much passion and dedication had for his work.

"I named it after you, Charlotte. That's why it was a success... I'm going to bring it home and offer it to your mother as a form of dowry," Dylan teased.

"Dear... you don't need a dowry. Besides, Mom loves you and she can't wait for you to be part of the family. But more importantly, I love you," Charlotte said, placing her hand on Dylan's.

"I love you too honey, forever and ever even though I die, I'll still love you," Dylan said.

"Quit saying that you'll die. You know I hate it when you say that," Charlotte growled.

Dylan went over to Charlotte's seat and draped his arms around her, "Oh I'm sorry honey... I promise I won't say it anymore. Don't be angry ok? If not, you'll have wrinkles and I don't wanna marry an old woman!"

Charlotte turned around and tried to tickle Dylan but he managed to wrap her up and kiss her again.

"Stop it, you're so kissy... you better get back to the lab. It's nearly ten," Charlotte said as she led Dylan out to the porch. Dylan pulled Charlotte upclose and leaned in for one more kiss... or what it would be their one last kiss.

"I miss you already honey," Dylan said as he touched the corner of Charlotte's face.

"I'll make dinner and wait for you to get home... as usual," Charlotte said as he made Dylan go off. She watched as the car go off and somehow felt a longing that she never felt before.

The First Kiss

2005-05-25T15:29:00.000+08:00

Matt was in the midst of finishing his last piece of work and he decided to take a break as he was getting hungry. He hadn't eaten a morsel since morning and he needed to find something to eat. Matt checked out his fridge... There were his moulds and paints but no food...

He then decided to go to the nearest Chinese restaurant to grab some take out since he didn't have enough to pay for the tips for delivery. He picked up his coat and his helmet and opened the door. To his surprise, he saw Charlotte standing outside his door, looking a little flustered.

"Charlotte? Have you been standing here all these while?" Matt asked, looking a little puzzled, "How did you find my apartment anyway?"

Charlotte shook her head, "One of your neighbours told me where it was. I was here just for a moment. I thought you might be hungry, so I brought you some food from the buffet you missed."

Matt smiled and invited her into his house, "Thanks Charlotte, I was about to starve."

Charlotte laughed as she looked around the house. A typical bachelor pad but a tad messier because of all his artwork lying around. She placed the food on an empty spot on the table and noticed his latest pieces.

"Oh that's the project I'm working on now... It about being in love," Matt answered shyly, trying not to mention that they were all inspired by Charlotte.

"They are lovely. What is the inspiration behind your works?" she asked.

"Well, the use of oil paint reflects the viciousness of a marriage and the merging of colours show that when a couple comes together, they are individuals but they can combine to produce a whole new colour and whole new individual. The disorder of the strokes show how problems may come to a couple's way but forming order in the end with a work of art," Matt described as he guided Charlotte's hand across one of his works.

"That's a lovely meaning to your work. I like it a lot," Charlotte answered.

"Well, you're the first person to ever see it while it's still under works," Matt replied, "Shall we dine together?"

Charlotte agreed as they spent time chatting and enjoying each other's company through a simple meal of leftovers from the buffet. Matt made Charlotte laugh with his silly jokes and Charlotte gave Matt affirmation of his works and his ambitions. They didn't even realise that by the time they started washing up, it was already close to midnight.

"I could send you home," Matt offered, trying to seem gentlemanly when in his heart he'd hope she'll stay.

"I thought you wanted to show me your final piece," Charlotte asked, obviously not wanting to go back too.

Matt took Charlotte's hand and led her to his easel. Charlotte gasped when she realised that it was her on the canvas. She looked at the half finished piece closely...

"That's me..." She said.

Matt nodded, "Yes. Everything that you saw was inspired by you... And how you make me feel. I... I don't know what else to say."

Charlotte turned to Matt who was flushing at that point of time. She felt her heart draw closer to him as she reached forward and kissed him. Matt was indeed surprised but he could not resist her kisses. They were so different from any other girls'... It felt perfect.

Even Though You're Gone

2005-05-23T23:31:00.000+08:00

As Matt entered his quiet apartment, he realised how much he missed having someone close to him. He could still smell Charlotte's perfume on his clothes and started to think about her. He didn't know what he was feeling... He had been so deluded by what love is about that he started to doubt his feelings about Charlotte. However, he knew that all he wanted was to spend more time with her.

"Why didn't I stay?" Matt asked himself as he threw his helmet on his couch, "You stupid fool!"

As he lay down on his bed and stared at his easel where his half finished work lay, he realised that his point of focus for his pieces wasn't really there... it wasn't about love as a whole but how he reacted towards feeling in love.

Matt sat up and pulled his easel closer and picked up his brush. He closed his eyes and tried to bring up the emotions of being with Charlotte and her smile, her gaze and her sweetness. Matt felt his brush move easy through the canvas. Inspiration was around... These were going to be his best works yet.

***

After the last customer left the shop, Mrs Webber was doing the accounts while Charlotte was cleaning up as well as tending to her flowers.

"What a day! There were so many people! Can you believe the response we got?" Mrs Webber said, "This is great... I'm really looking forward to what tomorrow's gonna bring in."

"That's nice to hear," Charlotte replied, her mind still thinking about Matt and his weird reactions towards her.

"There's something on your mind... Is there?" Mrs Webber asked, "You seem distracted and your sudden craze for your antidepressants and your sudden cure is just shocking. I didn't want to ask you before the opening but now I have to question what is really going on with you?!"

Charlotte sighed and rolled her eyes. She could not believe her mother was at it again, trying to make sure that her precious daughter was telling her everything. Charlotte just placed the watering can down and told her mother it was nothing and everyone should get over it.

Mrs Webber's face went sullen as she continued on with the accounts. The silence just killed Charlotte's insides. Her mother was just being concerned and there she was being the bitch.

"Mom... How do you know if you like someone?" Charlotte finally blurted out.

Mrs Webber looked up and smiled, "It's Luke isn't it?"

Charlotte frowned and shook her head frantically, "Oh God NO! Why would you think it's Luke? We're just best friends! It's definitely not Luke!"

Mrs Webber placed her hand on her forehead, "You do know Luke likes you a whole lot right? then who is it then? Someone I know?"

Charlotte cupped her face with her hands, "I can't believe I'm telling this to you! I can't believe I'm doing this all wrong!"

Mrs Webber sat her daughter down and let her tell the whole story. Charlotte noticed her mother's expression just glazed and finally end up in a brawl of laughter.

"You fell for Matthew? Oh my goodness! I can't believe this," Mrs Webber laughed but upon seeing her daughter's sullen face she continued, "But he looks like a good boy. Why not you bring him over and we can have a nice dinner..."

Charlotte stopped her mother, "...No. You know I can't get together with someone so soon... Not after what happened to Dylan. It would be so unfaithful!"

"Charlotte, that was months ago and I'm sure Dylan wants you to be happy. If you are happy being with Matthew and spending time with him, I'm sure Dylan would want you to continue being with Matthew. I know Dylan, he's a very loving man and he's watching over you by bringing you a special man in such a special way," Mrs Webber said.

Charlotte looked up at the bare ceiling but somehow, she could sense that Dylan was really watching over her and making sure she's happy.

"I love you Dylan... No matter what," Charlotte whispered, "even though you're gone."

Moving On

2005-05-19T03:04:00.000+08:00

"Matthew... please don't be like this," Alex begged as Matt ignored him and got onto his scooter.

"Lex, as much as I respect you as my brother, I won't take your money. I really have to make a move now. See you," Matt said and rode off but he could still hear his brother calling him. He never felt so guilty before. He knew Alex meant well but he needed to break free from his family and more importantly, he needed to forget he ever had that family.

As he rode down the streets towards Charlotte's shop, Matt felt as though a whirl of thoughts just clouded his mind... he could not stop thinking about how guilty he felt to Alex as well as the emotions and feelings he had for Charlotte.

Matt thought to himself. If he'd just go back to Eisenberg, his life would be just perfect and he need not think about where his next meal or rent money would come from. He could see his brother everyday and spend more time with him. He could then focus on his painting... but he had to answer to his Father who wanted him to take care of politics, the economy and all that nonsense which Matt was not interested in.

If he stayed back here... he could have all the independence he wanted, see his brother once a month and the most important thing was that Charlotte lived close and he could see her whenever he wanted.

"Ar stop thinking about everything! Just go there... have a good time, say hi to Charlotte and then pretend nothing like this ever happened!" Matt said to himself as he sped on down the streets.

***

Charlotte was busy attending to her customers. Some came to catch a glimpse of the new shop in town while some others came because of the free food and drinks. Luke, her mother and her have been busy mingling with the crowd since morning. Charlotte checked her watch... it was nearly noon but Matt wasn't here. However, Charlotte was glad that Luke could be around to help though he did say he had a busy schedule from work.

"Shouldn't you be getting back to your work?" Charlotte asked Luke when she finally got him off a customer.

"Don't worry, I'm keeping time. I won't let this interfere with my work. Besides, I want to help you and your mother a bit. Business isn't something easy to do when you don't have a good amount of contacts," Luke said, squeezing Charlotte's shoulder.

"Thank you Luke. I really appreciate everything," Charlotte said and hugged him. Luke forced a smile but he knew this wasn't going to allow him to score with Charlotte anytime but he just wanted to be close to her. It was his chance now and he wasn't going to let go.

Then as Luke went back to help with the mingling, Charlotte caught a glance of blonde hair walking towards her... she smiled! It was Matt! Charlotte slowly maneuvered herself across the room and she finally locked gazes with Matt.

"Hey, you're here," Charlotte said, she didn't want to let him know she was waiting the whole time for him to appear.

"Yeah. Sorry I couldn't come down earlier. Was held up with some work," Matt answered, ruffling his hair, "Nice party."

"Oh you want a drink? I could... get some for your over there..." Charlotte said, trying to walk towards the party table but Matt stopped her.

"It's ok Charlotte. I know you're busy. I just wanna drop by to congratulate you and I'll head back to my work. I have some stuff due in a few days... some gallery owners are coming down to see if my work could go up on their galleries," Matt answered.

"Wow, that's wonderful! Congratulations to you too," Charlotte replied, in her heart she just felt a little upset that Matt had to leave so early, "Well, let me walk you out?" Matt smiled and agreed as they moved out from the crowded shop.

Finally, they were alone at the sidewalk and they looked uncomfortable because they did not know what to say to each other. Matt shyly tucked his hands into his pockets while Charlotte crossed her arms across her chest.

"Thanks again for coming by. It's nice to see you again... though it's for a while," Charlotte finally said, breaking the ice.

"I'm happy to see you again. Maybe we can meet up again after everything is settled?" Matt asked.

Charlotte nodded, "That's a good idea. I'd like that."

Matt reached out and hugged Charlotte. He could not wait to hold her again... and that moment was just perfect for him to take the plunge. After a while, he let go of Charlotte and noticed her face was flushed red.

"Goodbye Charlotte," Matt said before he walked to his scooter, put on his helmet and started the engine. He glanced back at Charlotte who was watching him longingly and smiled.

After Matt rode off, Charlotte turned back to the shop and noticed Luke standing at the doorways watching her. She was certain he saw everything and she avoided his gaze.

"What are you doing here? I thought you were with some customers," Charlotte asked.

"I just wanted to let you know I had to leave when I noticed you were busy. I'll make a move now," Luke said. Charlotte just thanked him once more and went back into the shop after saying goodbye. Luke was hurt when there was no hug no waiting for him to pull away... nothing like what that other guy received. Luke knew that Charlotte is moving on again... but not towards him.

Big Break!

2005-05-17T01:57:00.000+08:00

The shop was opening soon and Charlotte was getting the gitters. She decided to head outside to breathe in the fresh air and relax. As she went outside and saw the crate that she and Matt sat on for lunch that day... she wished that he would at least remember about today and somehow appear. That would definitely make her day.

As Charlotte's thoughts raced through her mind, she noticed a limo pass her by. It wasn't a queer sight to see an expensive car but a limo... that was way out of the league of most people in this town. She noticed it stopped a few feet away from her and started to reverse towards her.

Charlotte frowned and waited for the chauffeur to open the door... and out popped a very familiar lady. She was really tall and elegant but she had a certain perkiness about her that struck familiarity with Charlotte.

"Charry it's me!" the lady said, "Annanessa! From college!" The name made Charlotte smile and leap.

"Oh my God, Annie!" Charlotte squealed and hugged her college mate. Annanessa and Charlotte were great friends in college. Although Annanessa was a noble and Charlotte was a commoner, Annanessa treated everyone equal and they shared so many interest and times together that made them almost sisters.

"It's been so long! I saw you and I was like... that girl is so familiar and I remembered your killer eyes. Gawd, I love your eyes that made me realise that it was you!" Annanessa said. That was what Charlotte loved about Annanessa... she didn't have airs like other nobles. Annanessa was frank and open about her feelings.

"I missed those times with you. Everything's just so different now," Charlotte said.

"Yes... and I'm getting married soon!" Annanessa squealed, "He's so gorgeous."

Charlotte smiled, "That's wonderful! When will I get to meet the lucky guy?"

"I'm actually here with him but he's handling some stuff at the other side of town now but I promise you that you'll see him at our wedding up at Eisenberg. His father's the duke," Annanessa explained, "Let me have your address and I'll send you an invitation!"

"Well, this is my shop. You can send the invitation here and I can receive it too," Charlotte said, "It's our opening day today."

Annanessa gasped, "That's great! Let me see!" Annanessa pulled Charlotte's hand as she checked out the shop, "Oh my God! This is beautiful!" Charlotte smiled and introduced Annanessa to her mother.

"It's so good to see you again Mrs Webber," Annanessa said.

"You've grown so beautiful. I hardly recognised you," Mrs Webber said, "Do feel free to have something to drink and eat." Annanessa thanked her and as she was taking some food, Luke appeared and gasped.

"Oh my God, Annie?" Luke asked, "You're here!"

"Lucas! Oh man it's been so long!" Annanessa said as she ran over to hug him, "Are you two married or something by now?"

Charlotte laughed, "Us? Oh no... we're still very good friends." Luke just looked at Charlotte and he felt his heart plummet.

"That's so cute. Hey Charry, I was thinking... why not I get my wedding flowers from here? They would be perfect for my perfect wedding!" Annanessa squealed.

"Are you sure? I don't know if I have the things you need..." Charlotte answered, she wasn't sure she could accommodate Annanessa's taste and in such a short deadline.

"Oh don't be stupid. You can do it. I'm sure of that. It's settled... I'll make my wedding planner pop by one of these days and you guys can work something out. It'll be a great exposure for you and it'll be a challenge for you," Annanessa explained.

Before Charlotte could say anything else, Annanessa's chauffeur told her that her fiance was expecting them.

"I have to go darlings. I'll call you about that invitation. Bye everyone!" With that, Annanessa left.

"Oh my God! Our first big break!" Charlotte leaped for joy. While everyone was celebrating about it, Charlotte just wished Matt was there to celebrate with her too. When will he arrive? Or rather... would he arrive at all?

Inward Battles

2005-05-14T23:09:00.000+08:00

Monday morning came around. Charlotte and her mother were busy making final preparations for the grand opening of their new shop. Mrs Webber was making sure that the caterers and the other nitty gritty were being taken care of while Charlotte was taking care of her new friends - the flowers and plants in her shop.

"The flowers look lovely dear," Mrs Webber said as she peeked at what her daughter was doing.

"Thank you mom... for everything," Charlotte said, "Sorry if I acted all crazy. I was just really upset."

"I'm just glad you're ok. You should talk to me about it next time... you know I'm always here for you," Mrs Webber answered. Charlotte was so moved by her mother that she went across the shop and gave her mother a big hug.

Just then Luke entered the shop and smiled, "Sorry if I'm interrupting a mother-daughter time."

Charlotte smiled and went over to hug Luke too. That was a shock for Luke but he felt a light and fluttery feeling in his stomach. The only thing that kept him from hitting the roof was his determination to look calm. After Charlotte stepped back from Luke, he turned around so that the ladies would not see him flush.

"What was that for?" he asked, trying to look busy with the things he bought.

"For being there for me always... for being such a great best friend," Charlotte said before she went off to do her things. Luke felt his world crash back down again. She still looked up to him as a best friend.

***

After a rather action packed weekend, Matt decided to have some down time on his own before he went over to Charlotte's shop opening. Besides, his down time included doing practical work like painting. Everything was just perfect. He had the whole apartment to himself as he worked while his favourite music played in the background.

Everything was just back to where it should be... Matt was alone and enjoying his work when he heard the doorbell ring. He groaned, who could that be again? Matt opened the door and to his surprise Alex was standing outside.

"Lex what are you doing here?!" Matt asked as he noticed his brother didn't look too happy, "Is everything ok?"

"You didn't cash in the cheque right?" Alex asked firmly. Matt just looked away.

Alex sighed and walked into the apartment, "Why can't you just accept the money? It's not like I'm bribing you... I'm your brother and I want you to have enough to live comfortably!"

Matt shook his head, "I don't need it to live comfortably. I'm happy with what I have. Remember the reason why I left in the first place? I want to support myself through my own two hands and not feed off the family."

"Matthew, I know you're tough and want to prove something to Mother, Father and even to the world. I gave you the money in support of your cause," Alex explained.

Matt went to his desk and took out the cheque, "I'm not going to cash this no matter what you say. If you are going to support me in my cause, let me survive on my own. All I need is your spiritual support and not financial." Matt took the cheque and handed it over to Alex.

"I need to be alone now. I'll see you at your wedding," Matt said as he escorted Alex out of his apartment. As he closed the door on his brother, Matt just realised that forgetting his past was something so difficult and painful.

Honestly, he was really tight on money and what Alex gave him could allow him to focus on his passion and not have to do part time painting work. However, Matt wanted to be independent and not rely on his family for money. He wasn't part of the family of the Duke of Eisenberg. He was no nobility but a commoner.

Opportunity Knocks

2005-05-13T13:33:00.000+08:00

Matt brought out some food just when Eva woke up from her sleep. She still looked so cute with her hair ruffled up and the blanket wrapped around her petite frame. Eva smiled at Matt and reached her arms out wide - asking for a hug. Matt sighed and walked over to hug her. It was comfortable but... it wasn't what it felt like but who it was from.

"Thank you for a wonderful night... and a possible wonderful day," Eva whispered in Matt's ear.

"You're welcome. You can go wash up and have something to eat," Matt replied blankly and pulled his blinds open. As he heard Eva hum a happy tune as she took a shower, he wondered if he would ever be as happy as Eva. She was the alpha woman everyone looked up to in the art scene but was she truly happy leading this life? Matt couldn't be sure.

As she was showering, Matt heard his phone ring again.

"That better not be Lex again. Who knows what he wants me to do at his wedding?" Matt thought to himself as he went to pick up the phone. It was an art gallery who heard about his works and wanted to purchase them for a particular event they were having - some love and wedding themed event.

"We will be sending down some of our best eyes to view your masterpieces. When would be a good time?" asked the owner of the gallery.

"Let me check with the gallery that hosts my works and I'll get the owner to contact you?" Matt replied, thinking he should talk this out with Eva first before making any decisions.

"Thank you Mr. Polster. I'll leave my contact numbers with you and do contact me as soon as you can. It was nice talking to you. I'm looking forward to seeing your work at our gallery."

Just as Matt hung up the phone, Eva came out of the shower and saw Matt's elated face. She smiled and asked what was going on. Matt told her all about the opportunity he just received and she too was excited.

"That's great! I'll arrange something immediately! This could be your biggest break!" Eva said, taking the numbers from Matt's hand and jumping onto the bed to retrieve her schedule from her bag.

Matt never saw Eva so excited about something before and he was rather warmed that someone actually cared about his success and it was someone like Eva.

"The current event will end soon and I'll get someone to clear the place as soon as they can... how about saturday? That would give them time to come down from upstate," Eva said, "should I arrange transport or..."

Before Eva could finish speaking, Matt kissed her, "Thanks for everything Eva." Eva smiled and pulled him back for more but Matt suddenly had a flash image of Charlotte. He pulled back and turned away from Eva.

"What's wrong Matty?" Eva asked.

Matt walked over to bring the tray of food to Eva, trying to pretend nothing was wrong.

"I just remembered you hadn't had anything to eat, so I wanted to get it for you," Matt said and forced a smile. Eva tilted her head and smiled at Matt.

"You're being silly. We're just having fun right?" Eva said. Matt just forced a smile. He knew the longer they continued to be like this, it might not turn out to be just fun... it might just get real...

Promises

2005-05-11T00:00:00.000+08:00

Matt paced around in his kitchen trying to come up with something to stall his brother. Matt felt as though he was caught in the middle: he didn't want to disappoint his brother but he didn't want to go back and face his past that he avoided for so many years. Why should he go back and be forced to live a life that he never liked in the first place?

"I don't know Lex. I'm still considering," Matt finally answered.

"I need your support on this Matt. Seeing you there would mean the world to me. You're not only my only brother but my best friend," Alex said. Matt felt so guilty.

Since young, Alex was the only person who defended Matt and supported him in everything he did. Alex would put himself in the frontline and allow Matt to be free to do whatever he wanted. Alex was the man that their father wanted both of them to be and the reason why Matt got off the hook is because Alex persuaded their father to let Matt go for what he really wanted in life.

Even when Matt wanted to leave home and make a living from his passion, Alex was the one who helped him find an apartment and keep it a secret from his parents. It's been so many years and Matt still hadn't found a chance to thank his brother for what he had done for him. Matt realised that he should be taking this opportunity to make his brother happy for once.

"Alright... I should be able to make it BUT don't take it as a confirmation yet. I'll call you again as the day draws closer," Matt finally gave in.

"That's wonderful, Matthew. Thank you for agreeing to this," Alex answered, his voice sounded excited.

"Don't you dare tell Mother and Father about this yet. I don't want them to know a single thing," Matt warned.

"I know Matthew. Hope to hear good news from you soon. I'll get things prepared for you here. All you need to do is to turn up," Alex replied.

"I'll try my best, Lex."

***

Mrs Webber was making the final preparations for tomorrow at her apartment. She could not afford to go anyway when Charlotte was still in such a precarious state. She needed to make sure that Charlotte would be alright.

In the late afternoon, Charlotte finally came out of her room and she was holding her towel and fresh clothes. She noticed her mother and her best friend staring at her as though she was a zoo exhibit.

"I'm going to shower? Is there a problem?" Charlotte said. The two shook their heads then went back to doing their stuff. Charlotte sighed and went into the bathroom.

"Is she really alright?" Luke whispered to Mrs Webber, "She looks brighter than this morning."

"I should think so. Maybe she thought things through and is picking herself up again. Charlotte is a strong girl... just don't aggravate her to think of Dylan or any of the bad times," Mrs Webber said.

"I'm sorry... I didn't know what I said to her would make her like this," Lucas said.

Mrs Webber placed a comforting hand on Lucas' shoulder, "Don't worry about it. You can always make her feel better by being by her side no matter what. I'm getting old and I need someone to take care of Charlotte... if you know what I mean. I don't want her to be alone."

Lucas nodded, "I understand Mrs Webber. I'll do anything and everything in my power to make her the happiest woman in the world." However, Lucas wondered if Charlotte would ever give him the chance to show her that he was truly capable of making her happy.

Worries & Concerns

2005-05-10T14:44:00.000+08:00

Mrs Webber woke up that Sunday morning only to realise she hadn't seen Charlotte since yesterday evening. She decided to check up on her daughter and quietly opened the door to Charlotte's bedroom. Mrs Webber heaved a sigh when she saw Charlotte soundly asleep on her bed. She was all curled up between her sheets and she never looked more serene.

As Mrs Webber was about to leave the room, she noticed a bottle lying on the floor... she picked it up and realised why Charlotte was sleeping so soundly. She took her antidepressants pills that she had gotten off from since they moved back into town. What happened that made Charlotte go back to her medication?

***

Matt woke up feeling a little dazed. He fumbled through the mess on the floor and finally found his shirt and pants. After dressing up, he looked down on his bed... Eva was still wrapped up in the blanket and sleeping soundly. He decided he should make them coffee, as well as get away from Eva for a while.

As Matt made coffee and sandwiches for breakfast, it reminded him of how much fun he had while having sandwiches with Charlotte that day. That warmed his heart and made him think of what could happen with Charlotte... he could be happy for once.

Just then, the phone rang and afraid that it might wake Eva up, Matt rushed to pick it up. It was his brother, Alexander.

"Have you decided to come to my wedding yet?" Alex asked. Matt sighed... that was something he tried to push to the back of his mind for a long time and now it was resurfacing without an answer for his beloved brother.

***

Mrs Webber placed the bottle on the kitchen counter as Luke stared blankly at it.

"That's Charlotte's antidepressants. She started taking them a few weeks after what happened to Dylan," Mrs Webber said, "She started taking them again last night."

"And that has something to do with me?" Luke asked, still very much puzzled.

"Something must have triggered her to start taking them again. She swore off those pills for quite some time. What happened between you and Charlotte?" Mrs Webber asked, her tons full of worry and concern.

"Well... as I was sending her home, she was going on about some guy and I told her that she should not get into another relationship so quickly," Luke replied, "That was all I said. She didn't let me say anything else." Mrs Webber sighed and dunked the empty medicine bottle into the bin.

Just then, Charlotte opened her bedroom door and walked out. Mrs Webber and Luke watched as Charlotte held her head with her hand and lumbered forward to the couch. She looked so dazed and tired. Luke rushed forward with a glass of water, scared that Charlotte might be dehydrated.

"Drink up Char," Luke said as he helped Charlotte with the water, "Are you feeling better." Charlotte nodded and lay down on the couch - staring blankly at everything.

"I'm sorry Char... I shouldn't have said anything in the car yesterday," Luke apologised and hoped she'll respond to him, "I'll let you do anything that makes you happy."

Charlotte just looked at Luke and forced a smile, "I'm fine... really. I just need more of my..." She reached into her pocket and drew out another bottle of her antidepressants. Mrs Webber snatched it out of Charlotte's hands.

"No more Charlotte! You promised not to take them again!" Mrs Webber shouted, "You need to voice out your worries and not just try to make them go away with medicine!"

"I don't want to talk anymore! When I want to talk, no one was around... now there's no point talking! Everyone just go away!" Charlotte said and rushed back into her room, locking the doors and she started to cry on the bed.

Then from the corner of her eye, she saw Matt's sketch of her lying on her bedroom floor... she looked happy, beautiful and everything she wasn't feeling at the moment. As soon as she knew Matt saw her in a beautiful light, she felt her heart settle... her worry was slowly disappearing.

Barely Missing Each Other

2005-05-09T14:20:00.000+08:00

Charlotte sat back in the storeroom filled with wine that they were going to serve for the opening day. She sat back and heaved a sigh, thinking about what everyone said about her. She could not help but feel like she was the lowest thing on earth. She lost a loved one, found back a great companion & friend as well as met a new mysterious yet charming man that made her feel whole again.

What was wrong with that equation? She could not figure it out. She looked around the storeroom and found the cordless phone lying at a corner. Her mother must have used it and forgot that it was there. She pick it up and tried to call Matt...

***

"You sound upset, Matt," Eva said, "Tell me what's wrong."

Matt sighed and wiped his weary face with his palms, "Nothing. I'm just really tired of everything."

"You shouldn't be... not when your art is being recognised elsewhere. They are asking for a few more of your works. They are returning in a couple of weeks to view it. They are big clients, Matt. You cannot be tired out now," Eva encouraged.

Matt forced a smile. Eva was a very good business woman and she always made Matt's day - if it's not with her beauty and choice of sexy outfits then it was the way she always made some money for him. Why couldn't he be attracted to Eva as much as he was to Charlotte - an unattainable person?

"Thanks for the wake up call Eva. I will press on," Matt replied.

"Good. You can start working now... I'll come by with dinner. I bet you hadn't had a morsel of food yet," Eva said.

"You know me rather well Eva," Matt said, trying to sound happy.

***

Charlotte couldn't believe Matt's phone was engaged? Was he trying to avoid her because he thinks that Luke was her boyfriend? Charlotte tried again and again but it was his machine. Charlotte realised the missed him... and she might never get the chance to say that to him again. She screwed everything up... or rather fate was not on her side.

Charlotte threw the phone to a corner and started to weep. She was so hurt that it brought memories of Dylan back into her mind. She felt her heart break yet again.

"Charlotte? Charlotte honey are you there? You've been in there for nearly twenty minutes!" Mrs Webber called from outside.

"I need to be alone!" Charlotte said through her sobs.

"Charlotte, talk to me. Don't just keep yourself in there!" Mrs Webber said. Charlotte stood up and opened the door.

"I just want to go home and rest. I'll be fine," Charlotte said, tears were still streaming down her eyes, "See you back home."

As she left the shop, she felt guilty leaving her mother clueless about everything but she needed to go back and find her medication... her form of release that she hadn't touch in a long while. She needed to sleep... for a long long time and attempt to remove the pain.

***

Matt heard the phone ring a couple of times while he was in the shower but he assumed that it was Eva calling to ask what he would like for dinner, so he decided to call her back after his long bath to try to forget about Charlotte. As he came out of the shower, he realised the calls were not from Eva... but Charlotte who called him three times from her shop.

"Shit!" Matt said as he threw his fist against the wall. They just barely missed each other and they were missing each other so much already.

Argument

2005-05-08T21:56:00.000+08:00

As Luke drove on, Charlotte just stared out the window pane blankly as though the world just lost its color and hues. Luke could not help but feel guilty making Charlotte look so dazed.

"Char? Are you alright?" Luke asked. Charlotte just nodded but her eyes were still glazed and there was thst blank 'what-am-i-doing-here' look.

"You're not alright. Tell me what is wrong," Luke said, "or at least tell me how to wipe that blank look off your face."

Charlotte turned away from the window and sighed, Her hands were still fiddling with the sketch that Matt drew. She knew that everytime she looked at it she would remember him... his smile and the way he just made her feel happy ever since Dylan...

"Char? Are you still with me?" Luke asked as he took a glance at Charlotte and she nodded. Luke coaxed her to share her problems with him. Maybe he could be of help and confidant.

"How did you find Matt... that friend I was talking to just now?" Charlotte asked after much hesitation.

Luke stopped the car and sighed, "Oh not this talk again."

Charlotte started to get angry, "You made me talk to you in the first place!"

"That was not what I meant... I first heard that question a few years ago when I first saw you with Dylan and look where it got you? All upset, hurt and disappointed. I don't want you to go through that again. You can't get into another relationship so quickly!" Luke explained.

"I didn't say I like him in THAT way. We're just friends and I thought he was attractive," Charlotte answered.

"Char, I don't want you to be hurt again by other men. I don't want to see you cry for another guy anymore. A relationship is for two people to be happy," Luke said.

Charlotte started to get very defensive... all because she knew Luke was right. She wasn't ready at all and Matt was going to suffer for it.

"Just drive me back. I don't want to talk about this anymore," Charlotte said as she turned away from Luke. She didn't want to be reminded of her past nor was she going to let Luke chide her about her possible future. However, she couldn't hide that fact that she was interested to know Matt better and somehow see if Matt was going to be the one for her since Dylan...

***

Matt couldn't help but feel a little disappointed that Charlotte could not see his works and a little angry at himself for getting involved with someone he could not attain.

"She has a boyfriend that drives a nice car and cares for her. I can't even provide her with anything at my state of living," Matt chided himself as he kick the corner of his door.

Matt needed release and to know that he was still wanted. He looked at the phone and he picked the receiver up. He sighed as he dialed Eva's number...

***

Luke finally drove Charlotte back to the shop and without a word, Charlotte just jumped out of the car and went into the back of the shop, locking herself in the storeroom to cool off.

"What happened Luke?" Mrs Webber asked, "Did you upset her?"

Luke sighed and was about to head to the storeroom to coax her out but Mrs Webber stopped him, saying it was not a good idea.

"She needs some time to cool off. Come back later or tomorrow morning when she is feeling better. She won't talk to anyone at the moment," Mrs Webber said. Luke nodded and left the shop.

Uncomfortable Is An Understatement

2005-05-05T15:50:00.000+08:00

Matt was really careful when Charlotte was on his bike. He didn't race down the streets like he used to when he's alone and he even make sures he slows down at the junction. When he could feel Charlotte's grip getting tighter on his waist, he would slow down until he felt her grip loosen.

Finally, they arrived at Matt's apartment. Matt helped Charlotte alight from the scooter before he parked. Charlotte helped him by moving his stuff onto the sidewalk.

"Thanks for helping with the stuff," Matt said.

"No, thank you for a wonderful day. I hadn't had so much fun in a long time," Charlotte replied, "... and the sketch is beautiful."

Matt blushed and started to get shifty, "It's nothing..."

"... it's something to me," Charlotte replied and walked over to hug Matt. She closed her eyes and felt his warm body touch her skin. It made her tingle all over. Matt was a little surprised that she hugged him but all his body could respond was to reach out and hold her. It was just a hug but Matt didn't feel such euphoria before. It was even better than having sex.

Luke was about to give up. He had been circling the town a couple of times and Charlotte was nowhere to be found. Luke knew Charlotte's behaviour really well. Since their school days, whenever Charlotte was upset or needed some time out on her own, she would just disappear from the world for a while and just be herself.

Luke knew almost everything about Charlotte and he loved every bit of her... somehow he couldn't get Charlotte to see through his eyes and make her fall back in love with him too. Everytime he advanced, Charlotte would just pull back and chide him for crossing their best friend barrier.

He wanted to tell her so many times that he intended to cross that line and be someone closer. He wanted her to know that there was no one else who knew her better than him and he wanted to spend the rest of his life with her.

But no... Charlotte had to fall in love with a stranger that she coincidentally met at the smoothie shop when Luke was held up and could not meet her. Just one mistake by getting held up by something urgent and he lost it all... all his chances with the girl he loved to some guy who had a passion that Charlotte had... plants.

Suddenly, he noticed a very familiar girl at the sidewalk talking happily to another guy. Oh no... it was Charlotte. Luke felt as though history was repeating itself. He was watching Charlotte get close to another guy and he wasn't happy at all. Luke pulled up beside them and honked loudly, making both of them jump.

"Luke? What are you doing here?" Charlotte asked as she walked up to Luke's window. Luke noticed the guy ruffling his hair and heaving a sigh.

"Your mother needs help at the shop and I was asked to pick you up," Luke said.

"But where did you know to find me anyway?" Charlotte asked.

"I just know, Char. Please get in," Luke replied.

Charlotte turned to Matt and told Luke she needed a few minutes to settle something. She went back to Matt and hugged him but before Charlotte could say anything, Matt smiled and told her to go with Luke.

"Your boyfriend needs you. You'll get to see my paintings some other time," Matt said.

"I'm sorry about this but my mother needs help back at the shop. I'm sorry to put you in an uncomfortable spot like this," Charlotte answered.

"It's alright... though uncomfortable is an understatement. Take care Charlotte. I'll see you at the opening of your shop," Matt said as he placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"Goodbye Matt," Charlotte said and she turned her back to him and went into Luke's car. Matt watched her leave... his heart was being dragged along with her.

Two Guys & A Girl

2005-05-04T11:55:00.000+08:00

Luke stopped by the shop to see if Charlotte and her mother needed help at the new shop. He was eager to see Charlotte again and invite her out again to spend some quality time together.

As he entered the shop, he noticed Mrs Webber trying to hang something up on the wall.

"Oh Mrs Webber let me help you with that," Luke said as he rushed to help her do it, "Where's Charlotte? She should be helping you do these things."

"Oh thank you Lucas. Charlotte's not here today. I gave her some time to rest. She's been working on this shop for days and she needs to get her energy back for the grand opening. Can't have a boss who looks like a raccoon," Mrs Webber said and as she looked up at Luke, she saw that Luke was a little upset and disappointed when he realised Charlotte was not around.

"You are in love with her, aren't you Luke?" Mrs Webber asked. Luke tried to run away from that question but his eyes told another story.

"You didn't just appear at that smoothie store and coincidentally met up with her... right?" Mrs Webber continued to probe. Luke started to get shifty and uncomfortable. He never expected her to know about these things.

"You knew she was already in town and you knew she was going to be there. Oh you sneaky thing..." Mrs Webber said but before Luke could say anything back in defense of what he had done, Mrs Webber smiled.

"She called you didn't she? I knew it... she still cares for you even through all these years. I can tell she likes you," Mrs Webber said.

"Yeah I guess," Luke said, softly letting out a sigh of relief.

Mrs Webber smiled, she knew it all along. Those two were meant to be together from the very beginning but they just needed a little boosting from the old woman.

"Go ahead and go up to our apartment," Mrs Webber said, throwing a bunch of keys at Luke, "Surprise her with something. She'll love it." Luke looked at the keys in his hands and thanked Mrs Webber before he rushed out to his car to get to Charlotte's house.

However, when Luke arrived at the house, it was pitch black and no one was at home. He called for Charlotte a few times and realised she went out. He was about to give up when he realised she could not have gone far... Luke knew Charlotte loved to take a walk around the block on her own and just think... if he tried, he could find her somewhere around town. Luke picked up his stuff and went back into his car.

***

"You really made those kids happy back at the park," Charlotte said and smiled at Matt. It was nearly nightfall and they were packing up Matt's stuff onto the scooter.

"I love my job. It lets me see so many different types of people and interact with them. The innocence of children can never be fully painted onto a canvas... the smile of a beautiful girl can never be fully embraced through a sketch but I tried," Matt said and pulled out the sketch that he had done of Charlotte.

"Matt this is so beautiful. Thank you," Charlotte gasped as she saw herself through Matt's eyes for the first time. She looked really beautiful.

"I'm glad you like it. Come on, let me send you home..." Matt suggested as he saddled up on his scooter.

"I don't wanna go home yet. I want to see more of your works... please?" Charlotte asked.

Matt's heart leaped when Charlotte wanted to go over to his apartment. It meant that if he played the right cards, he would be so much closer to winning Charlotte over and...

"It'll be just for a moment. I promise I'll be out of there by eight," Charlotte interrupted Matt's train of scheming thoughts. Matt agreed and Charlotte got onto the scooter, placing her hands around him. Matt felt comforted knowing that she was around him.

Saturday Morning

2005-05-03T16:44:00.000+08:00

Charlotte lay on her bed that Saturday morning, just staring at the ceiling. She didn't know what she was doing yet she just felt relaxed. She turned her head and looked at Matt's namecard lying on her sidetable. She picked it up and pondered if she should call him. There was something about Matt that was so attractive... something that was similar to the feelings she had for Dylan when she first met him.

"Charlotte? Are you awake?" Mrs Webber called and entered Charlotte's room.

"Yes Mom. Is anything the matter?" Charlotte asked as she slipped the namecard under her pillow.

"I just wanted to tell you that I'm going down to the shop to get it ready for Monday," Mrs Webber said, "I left breakfast on the table for you."

"Do you want me to go with you?" Charlotte asked.

"It's ok. You had a rough week. Rest. I want you to be all freshen up for Monday's big opening," Mrs Webber said as she kissed her daughter on the forehead.

After Charlotte freshen up and ate breakfast, she decided to take a chance and walk over to Matt's to see if he was doing anything. She thought that if he wasn't home, she could just saunter back to the shop to help her mother. At first, she had to ask a few people for directions on where Matt's apartment was... apparently it was at a most rural place in town. Finally, as she crossed a junction, she saw Matt walking out of his apartment building.

"Matt!" Charlotte called and she saw Matt turned his face towards her and smile. Charlotte felt as though all her hard work finding the place was worth that smile.

"Charlotte, what are you doing here? Aren't you getting the shop ready for opening day?" Matt asked as he picked up his stuff laying beside his feet.

"I was just around the corner when I saw you going out," Charlotte lied, she could not bring herself to say that she was desperately looking for his companionship, "Where are you going anyway?"

"Work. Remember I'm still that.. what did you call it... stupid park busker," Matt teased.

Charlotte flushed, "I'm sorry. I take those words back."

"Well, I presume you are doing nothing important at this moment?" Matt asked as Charlotte shook her head, "do you wanna tag along then? we could hang out at my workplace. It has tons of beautiful plants and flowers you might like."

Charlotte agreed as Matt tossed her a helmet, "You might want to hold onto my gear too." Charlotte laughed and watched as Matt revved off towards the park.

***

Charlotte felt a familiar feeling at the park. It was where she first met Matt and somehow she felt comfortable and at ease with him around. She watched as he perched his easel and prepared to open for business. Before he could get ready, children were already crowding around him, asking him to paint their pictures. Charlotte noticed how happy he looked amongst children and he had a way with them. The joy he brought to the children was just inspiring. Charlotte hoped she could bring the people the same amount of joy with her new flower shop.

"Are you the lady opening up a flower shop between Wayer Ave and Seventh Street?" a mother of two asked Charlotte as her children ran towards Matt. Charlotte nodded shyly.

"You have a lovely shop. I'm really looking forward to your opening. Finally I can get some fresh flowers everyday. I live across the street from where your shop is and I always get some fresh flowers for my dining room," the mother said.

"Thank you for your compliment. I'm looking forward to serve you on Monday," Charlotte smiled.

As the mother went to pick up her children, Charlotte turned to look at Matt. He was smiling back at her too. Somehow they knew what each other was saying and Charlotte could feel his wordless encouragement.

"He sure looks gorgeous," Charlotte said to herself. She felt drawn towards that mysterious artist man Matt was. There were secrets she knew she could never tell him and she knew he was hiding so many things from her too. It was this mystery that kept them close.

One Goes... Another Calls

2005-05-02T10:17:00.000+08:00

The evening sun made everything look so surreal and beautiful. Charlotte took some time to relax from her packing to look out at the sunset. The workers are almost done with the shop and it was time to stock the place up with furniture and supplies. The times were going to be busy and Charlotte enjoyed this little distraction from all her problems. She had her mother to thank for it.

"Charlotte?" Matt called as he waved his hands in front of her eyes. Charlotte woke up from her daze and smiled at Matt.

"Hey, I just wanted to tell you that I'm done with it. You wanna look?" Matt asked. Charlotte nodded and followed Matt up to the roof. She gasped when she saw the beautiful work he had done.

"This is beautiful, Matt. Thank you," Charlotte said.

"Glad you like it. Shall I help you put it up?" Matt asked. Charlotte nodded and watched as he carefully placed the banner up in front of the shop.

"Good, all done. Now, if you need me to come back and do yearly maintenance, you can reach me at this number," Matt said as he passed Charlotte his card, "It's my home address and number if you were wondering."

Charlotte looked at it and smiled, "So can I call you... even if it's not for maintenance or rather a maintenance of our friendship?"

Matt nodded, "That is greatly welcomed too." Charlotte then remembered that he had to be paid for the great work. She rushed back into the shop and pulled out the money set aside for the banner work.

"Here you go, $250. Please check if it's all there before you go," Charlotte said. Matt didn't and immediately tucked the money into his pocket.

"I trust you Charlotte. All the best for your shop," Matt said.

"Do come for the opening. I'm sure my customers would like to speak to the great artist who did my banner," Charlotte replied. Matt agreed and walked away. He felt as though he left a part of him beside Charlotte and prayed that she would call him.

***

After Matt left, Charlotte tried to get back to mending her shop. Her mother had been busy with the supplies and making sure that they had enough stuff for the opening day. Charlotte hadn't seen her all day and she was getting a little worried. Suddenly, the phone rang and Charlotte, thinking that it could be her mother, rushed to pick up the phone.

"Mom? Where are you are you..."

"Charlotte? It's Luke."

"Oh. Hey," Charlotte replied after a moment of silence.

"Is everything alright?" Luke asked, "You sound upset."

"I'm fine Luke. Is anything up?" Charlotte replied. Luke hesistated for a moment before asking Charlotte out for dinner that night but Charlotte didn't want to hang out with anyone at all. She just wanted to be alone during nights... because those were the times she could reminisce about Dylan.

"I'm sorry Luke, I don't think I'm up for tonight. I'm rather tired out from planning the opening day for my shop but I'll see you at the opening right?" Charlotte asked.

"Yeah sure. I'll see you then," Luke answered, his voice sounded a little upset, "Don't overwork yourself. Have a good rest."

As Charlotte hung up the phone, she felt guilty about brushing Luke off. Afterall, he had been the nicest guy to her since Dylan... Charlotte shook off the thought and continued working on her shop. Just then, her mother came back with supplies. Charlotte heaved a sigh of relief. Her mother aka security blanket was home.

It's Just Lunch

2005-04-29T22:08:00.000+08:00

"Hey buddy up there! Lunch time!" one of the workers hollered as they left the shop for lunch.

"In a moment. Not hungry," Matt hollered back as he continued on with the banner. He was almost done but he just needed to be alone for that moment. Thankfully, the rays were not that strong today and he could just laze up there on the roof all by himself and just think.

"Matt?" he heard someone call from below. He ignored the initial calls but finally pulled himself towards the edge of the roof. It was Charlotte, holding up a bag of food.

"Wanna have lunch with me?" she asked, "My mother went off to get some supplies and I was hoping you could be my lunch partner for the day." Matt wanted to brush her off and try to play hard to get for once but Charlotte interrupted his thoughts and speech.

"It's just lunch... no strings attached," Charlotte said.

"Yeah? That's what all girls say in the first place," Matt replied as he made his way down from the roof, "I don't buy it but since you're my boss. I can't say no, can I?"

Charlotte rolled her eyes and propped herself up onto a crate outside the shop. Matt sat down beside her but making sure they had their distance. Charlotte opened the bag and showed him two sandwiches.

"Double cheese or steak?" she asked but before Matt could decide she handed him the steak sandwich, "Boys need their protein. You better just take this." Matt laughed.

"What's so funny?" Charlotte asked.

Matt laughed again. "Nothing, just thought you are one cute girl," he said and bit into his sandwich, "Thanks for the no strings attached lunch, by the way."

Charlotte smiled and continued to eat her sandwich. For a moment there Matt felt comfortable being with her, just sitting there and having lunch, watching the traffic go by and people just walking past them... some laughing and joking while others went on their solemn ways.

"You know...it's funny how people can't move on after a major obstacle in their lives. I just admire people who can live life so carefree..." Charlotte said and looked at Matt, "...people just like you."

Matt snorted, "Yeah right. No one is without problems. A carefree guy like me has worries too but you lead such a great life. You have a good mother, your own shop and a good boyfriend. You don't have to worry about anything."

Charlotte shook her head, "Life isn't that easy, Matt. It's good to have people in your life who cares for you but you can't forget those who used to care. Forgetting someone or something that you used to love so much is really the hardest thing to do in life."

Matt looked down at his feet and thought about his family... well, ex-family. He did miss them and they used to give him a good life but everything went wrong when he told them he wanted to pursue a life all about his passion. It was as though he was committing the unpardonable sin.

"Matt are you ok?" Charlotte asked. Matt looked up and realised that he had been staring down for too long.

"Yeah. Let's not talk about these sad things. It's just lunch remember," Matt said.

Charlotte forced a smile and nodded, "Yeah, I guess. Sorry if I brought anything sensitive up."

Matt shook his head, "It's cool. Sandwich is good though." Charlotte frowned and they started to laugh.

Jealousy

2005-04-28T10:43:00.000+08:00

Matt was already at the shop but Charlotte nor her mother was there. It was nearly 9 and some of the workers have already arrived too. Maybe something was holding the two ladies up. Matt decided to sit down on the rough pavement and start on his new sketch of Charlotte. He wanted to finish what he first started.

"That's a very pretty girl," one of the workers said as he glanced at what Matt was doing, "Can you introduce her to me?"

Both Matt and the worker laughed. "You will find a better one. This girl is mine," Matt replied.

"Ooh, touchy," the worker said and went off to see his buddies and leave Matt alone to finish the sketch.

Finally, after 15 minutes, a black Chevy pulled up in front of the shop and Mrs Webber and Charlotte alighted from the passenger side of the car. Mrs Webber immediately opened the shop to let the workers while Charlotte just smiled at Matt. She looked radiant and happy.

"Alright boys. Don't get all grumpy now. We have a shop to finish. Opening day is two days from now and we need to get this started!" Mrs Webber said as the workers followed her.

Matt just stood outside and watched Charlotte smiling at him. All he could do was just to wave at her.

"Hey Charlotte," Matt finally worked up the courage to say as he tucked the drawing back into this pack. Before Charlotte could say anything back to Matt, Matt noticed the driver came out and called Charlotte to his side. Matt frowned.

He didn't recognise the driver but the way Charlotte acted with him... Matt just felt a little uncomfortable. It was as though she knew him really well and they were laughing, hugging and the driver even gave her a peck on the cheek before getting back into his car! Matt never felt this way before... soon he realised it was jealousy.

After the Chevy pulled away, Charlotte smiled and walked back towards Matt. She never looked that happy before. Matt started to think, maybe that guy was her boyfriend or her new lover or her new...

"...Matt?" Charlotte called, interrupting his jealous sprint of thoughts, "Are you ok?"

Matt nodded, "Yeah. Fine. That was a sweet ride. Not sure about the man but sweet ride."

Charlotte laughed, "Really? It's my..."

"...yeah, I know. Must be your boyfriend. He's nothing much without his ride. Bet you'll date me if I had a ride like that," Matt said, trying to make it sound funny.

"And where would you get the money to pay for the ride?" Charlotte asked, "Besides, you have a neat scooter too."

"But no chick would be impressed by that huh? I'm just a painter. Prolly your boyfriend is some rich banker or some shit like that," Matt said, suddenly realising he said that in spite.

Charlotte playfully slap him on the arm, "Matt, remember you just got back into my good books. Don't ruin yourself and go back into the other book. You better go back up to finish the banner or else I'll start docking your pay."

As Charlotte skipped into the shop, Matt forced a smile. He didn't know what he was feeling? A little hint of jealousy and some spite. Maybe Charlotte didn't think of him as the type she would go out with.

"I should just be back home screwing the life out of Eva then," Matt thought to himself as he made his way up the ladder to complete the banner but all he could think about was to try to talk to Charlotte.

Second Chances?

2005-04-27T11:30:00.000+08:00

The next morning, Charlotte woke up and found herself asleep on the couch but Lucas wasn't there. She looked around and heard laughter coming from the kitchen. She shook her head, her mother was giving Lucas the royal treatment and she wanted them to have all the bonding time they needed. It was nearly time to open up the shop for the workers to continue renovating the shop and for Matt to come by and finish up the banner.

Charlotte didn't know why everytime she thought of Matt or his name, her heart would leap. Sure, he was a cute blonde boy with a sense of humour but that was it. He wasn't Dylan in anyway and Dylan was hundred times better than him. Charlotte got the thoughts out of her head and decided to take a nice shower.

"So tell me, do you still like my daughter?" Mrs Webber asked Lucas as she poured him some more coffee. Lucas just forced a smile and ate his toast.

"Don't hide anything from me now, young man. I've seen the same look years ago and it was plastered all over your face last night," Mrs Webber continued.

"I do admit Charlotte is very beautiful and I cherish her a lot," Lucas finally answered, "but I want things to come in their time."

"Lucas, you let things go their natural path and look where it led you years ago... a heartache when Charlotte chose Dylan. Now you have a second chance at it, so why don't you just take the hint and go for it? I'll be very happy if you were my son-in-law," Mrs Webber said.

"It's to early to say, Mrs Webber. You know Charlotte... she just got off Dylan and she needs to heal," Lucas replied.

"She told you what happened right? She needs someone to hold her and make her feel secure again. Dylan gave her that but he was a passionate person only to his work. I know my daughter. She needs someone who can give her both security and passion," Mrs Webber said, sitting down opposite Lucas and sipping on her coffee.

"It's not right for me to act on my own wishes with regards to Charlotte. Let her decide what is best for her," Lucas said.

Before Mrs Webber can reply, Charlotte popped her head into the kitchen.

"What are you guys talking about so early in the morning?" Charlotte asked. Mrs Webber and Lucas just shook their heads.

"Just the usual stuff. Come have breakfast," Mrs Webber said.

***

Meanwhile, Matt woke up... still dazed and with a throbbing headache. He shouldn't have drank that much champagne with Eva. Shit! Eva... what happened last night? What happened? Matt's mind could not process any information due to the lack of oxygen flowing through his mind.

He tried to stand up, knocking over a few of his things to get to the bathroom to clean up. As he washed his face and had a cold shower, he tried to recall what happened. Did he sleep with Eva again? Why did he keep making stupid mistakes like this?

After the shower, he noticed Eva left him a message on his table:
"Dear Matt, thank you for a lovely evening. You were great. Hope to get together with you again. Love, Eva."

"Shit!" Matt screamed and threw the piece of paper away. He really did it with her again, "Oh damn it!"

However, there was no time to regret and get pissed off anymore. He had a job to get to. It was a job he couldn't wait to get to... or rather he couldn't wait to see the hirer again. Matt picked up his work stuff and noticed the half drawn picture of Charlotte lying on the floor with weird foot prints and water stains on it. It was ruined.

Matt felt anguish and hurt... not because his painting was ruined but because it was about Charlotte that hurt him the most. He picked it up and looked at it. He couldn't just rip it or crush it up to throw away. It would be to cruel. All he did was to fold it up and tuck it under some old newspapers.

Time to go to work and see the real girl...

Mother, Best Friend & Me

2005-04-26T12:29:00.000+08:00

Charlotte and Lucas just walked down the quiet streets together, just talking about their past, their present and their hopes for their future. Charlotte missed the times she had with Lucas. She forgot how he made her smile, how he knew almost every single thought she had in her mind and how he was so sweet, sensitive and sensual.

"So, since you and Dilly left, everything just wasn't the same anymore," Lucas said, rousing Charlotte from her train of thoughts.

"Really? Why's that?" she asked.

"I guess the spark of life for me just felt along with you, Char. You can't imagine how much I've missed having you around," Lucas replied.

Charlotte forced a smile, "That's... sweet, Luke." Suddenly, there was just a silence between them. At least they were at Charlotte's front door about 30 seconds into the silence.

"Well, this is me," Charlotte said and turned to face Lucas, "I had a great time tonight. It was nice meeting you again." Then, the silence came back...

"You wanna come up?" Charlotte asked, surprised that she broke the silence between them, "My mother is home and I'm sure she'll be psyched to see you. You were her favourite boy in the past."

"Sure, why not? I'm sure I'm still her favourite boy," Lucas teased as they went upstairs to see Mrs Webber.

As they walked through the door, Mrs Webber was dusting the furniture and when she looked up and saw Lucas, she started to scream.

"Lucas! It's been so long!" Mrs Webber said as she hugged Lucas tight, "You're such a big boy now... oh I missed you!" Charlotte laughed as she saw her mother behaved in such a elated manner.

"I missed your hospitality too, Mrs Webber," Lucas replied.

"Now how did you get back with this fine young man, Char?" Mrs Webber asked her bemused daughter.

"Picked him up at the smoothie shop. He's all yours, Mom," Charlotte said as she walked to the kitchen, "I'll get you guys something to drink."

A couple of hours later, Mrs Webber was still buzzing with life getting information out of Lucas about his life, his family and to find out if he had a girlfriend. Charlotte was glad that her mother was happy since things happened. She wanted life to get back to normal and the appearance of her best friend seemed like it was the beginning of something good.

"Mom, don't you have to go to bed? We have work in the morning," Charlotte interrupted the chatter.

"Yes Mrs Webber, I should be going too. I have some business to attend to early in the morning," Lucas said, trying to go along with Charlotte to coax her mother to get to bed.

"Oh alright. I shall leave you two alone. Good night and it was really great to have you here tonight, Lucas. Come by often. I'll make you your favourite pie," Mrs Webber said before she kissed the two kids and went off to bed.

"Thank you for a lovely night and for cheering my mother up," Charlotte said as they finished up their drinks.

"You said thank you enough there. It was my pleasure," Lucas said as he pulled Charlotte closer to hug her. Charlotte forgotten how comfortable it is to be in a man's arms and Lucas was giving her everything she missed about intimacy.

"I just wished Dylan would come back," Charlotte whispered before she fell asleep in Lucas' arms.

Can't Get You Out of My Mind

2005-04-25T12:45:00.000+08:00

For once, Matt returned home truly feeling happy. It wasn't just a moment of glee but he felt his whole inner being glow and radiate a certain joy he could not explain. Though he was up on that stupid roof in the hot sun trying to mix paint to get a certain stupid type of green that Charlotte wanted for her banner; Matt felt as though it was all worth it.

Matt sure stank and he needed to get a shower but Matt thought he could just smell Charlotte's distinct honey sweet scent faintly on his shirt and picture her beautiful dark curly hair just draped itself across her smooth shoulder.

"I should paint all of this down! This would be one of my more inspirational pieces!" Matt said as he threw everything he had on the floor, and started to set up his easel. He closed his eyes to envision Charlotte's smile and the way she looked. Every brush stroke needed to be exactly right - not too thick nor too smooth... just perfect, like Charlotte.

Suddenly, in his midst of painting, the phone rang but Matt decided to let the answering machine pick it up.

"Matt? This is Eva... I just wanted to say that I missed you and... I want to talk to you," Eva's voice rang through the machine. Matt stopped his brush and ran to pick up the phone.

"Eva? Hi... sorry I was in... erm... the bath," Matt lied.

"Oh. It's alright. I just wanted to come by and see you," Eva replied.

"What's the occasion?" Matt asked.

"I want to tell you a piece of good news... but I want to be there to tell you personally," Eva replied, "It's sort of like an apology for that evening..."

"Okay... just buzz up when you arrive then," Matt said.

After a few minutes, the buzzer rang and Matt allowed her into his home. Eva was dressed this time round, thankfully. She had her hair tied up and a silky blue dress draped over her perfectly shaped bodice.

"I brought champagne... to celebrate," Eva said, waving the bottle at Matt.

"So what's the good news then?" Matt said, clearing up some space for Eva to settle down.

"As you know I have a big opening soon and... the organisers came by today for a meeting and I showed them my personal gallery with your works and they were impressed by your pieces and purchased them for their London gallery!" Eva said, handing Matt a cheque.

Matt saw the figure and was really shocked. His pieces, sold to a London gallery. Gawd, he dreamt about this since he realised his passion for art and now it's coming true.

"Wow, thanks Eva. The credit goes to you for allowing them to see my works," Matt said.

"A toast, to a great artist!" Eva said, pouring out the champagne and handing one over to Matt. Matt knew he shouldn't be drinking becuase he never had a high tolerance for alcohol. He would get tipsy easily but since Eva was sincere about celebrating his big break, he decided to wing it.

Soon, Matt got high and started making out with Eva... again. His midn told him to stop but he felt seperated from his body and couldn't control what he was doing. Eva turned to see the painting that Matt was doing halfway and laughed.

"Is that me you were painting?" Eva asked but before Matt could reply, Eva just started kissing him again.

"I knew you were in love with me. I knew it," Eva laughed and pressed herself closer to Matt.

However, all that Matt could think about now was Charlotte... and though he was having great sex with Eva, he couldn't get Charlotte out of his mind.

True Friends Lasts A Lifetime

2005-04-22T13:50:00.000+08:00

It was nearly 6 in the evening and Charlotte was getting ready to close the shop. She thanked the workers and reminded them to come back early next morning. She hadn't seen Matt all afternoon and she was getting a little worried he might be overworking himself up on the roof with the banner. Charlotte stepped out and looked up but she couldn't see him.

"Matt? Are you there? Matt?" she called. Then Matt stuck his head out and smiled. He had paint all over his face - just like the way they first met.

"Hey, what's up?" he hollered back, "I'm not exactly done yet."

"Well, I'm closing the shop now. Maybe you'll like to come back tomorrow to finish up. I'll pay you for the extra day," Charlotte called back.

"The question would be if you would want to see me tomorrow. I could finish this up in a couple of hours and you would not have to see me every again," Matt replied as he continued working on the banner.

Charlotte thought about what Matt said but she did want to see him again. It wasn't like they were enemies anymore and Charlotte realised that Matt could be rather sweet and caring.

"Matt, stop what you're doing and come on down," Charlotte said. Matt was rather surprised but he obeyed and climbed down from the roof.

"Come back tomorrow morning. 9 to be exact," Charlotte said as she walked back into the shop. She could feel Matt grinning and she felt light and happy - for the first time, it was true.

After Matt left and she closed the shop, Charlotte decided to take a walk around town. To be honest, she missed the life back in civilization where she could meet people instead of animals when she went for her walks. She decided to make a stop at the place where she first met Dylan years ago. It was a smoothie shop where she was waiting for her best friend who didn't show up and Dylan was there to study for his upcoming exams.

Charlotte sat at the same table she sat that very day but it wasn't the same. Dylan wasn't there in his university sweatshirt and dirty jeans. She ordered her strawberry smoothie and just gazed... at the empty seat where she hoped Dylan would appear.

"Charlotte is that you?" someone called. She turned and saw a vaguely familiar face that she hadn't seen for some time. She couldn't match the face to any name and just forced a smile at the man.

The guy sighed, "You don't remember me anymore? Gawd... Dilly must have brainwashed you up in the countryside..." Charlotte then remembered... the only guy who hated Dylan and called him 'Dilly' was...

"Oh my god! Lucas!" Charlotte said and jumped up to hug him, "You've changed so much! I couldn't recognise you at all!"

Lucas was Charlotte's best friend since junior high and he was the one who stood her up at the smoothie store where she then met Dylan. Since then, Lucas hated Dylan to the core because he stole his best friend away and the only reason why he didn't scream or beat up the guy was because of Charlotte.

"You're still the same as ever, Char... still beautiful," Lucas said, "I hadn't seen you in years! What brings you back from the countryside?"

Suddenly Lucas noticed his best friend's face change. Something bad must have happened and he reached out to hug his best friend. Charlotte was glad to meet Lucas again. He was always in the same frequency as her. She couldn't help herself but to cry on his shoulder. She then told Lucas everything about Dylan.

"Gawd I missed you, Luke," Charlotte said after finishing her story.

"I missed you so much too, Char but you know... true friendship lasts a lifetime and I'm here for you. I'm glad you've moved back to town. That way we can see each other again. These past few years, not seeing you makes life so different," Lucas said.

Charlotte hugged Lucas again, "You're such a great friend. I'm sorry for leaving you for Dylan. I should have listened to you..."

"... hush now. Everything's ok now," Lucas said.

Second Meeting

2005-04-21T14:13:00.000+08:00

Charlotte and her mother were busy in the new shop - they were instructing the workers on what to do and where to put things. The shop was nearly done... all they lacked now was a nicely designed banner for their shop. Charlotte had been thinking about it since morning.

"How's the banner looking?" Mrs Webber asked while one of the workers moved some shelves in. Charlotte lifted the hand drawn paper towards her mother and described every single detail to her. She wanted the shop to be perfect... to be something that depicted herself... as well as Dylan. He was still an essential part of the whole project. Finally, Charlotte's eyes sparkled.

"How does that sound?" Charlotte said.

"As long as you like it, dear," her mother said and kissed her on the forehead, "I've got the artist coming down in a while... but you'll have to do the explaining."

Charlotte groaned, "Do I have to do it all over again? I'm tired mom."

Mrs Webber laughed, "It's all part of being the boss. Ooh! Look, he's early! Let me introduce you to him." Mrs Webber took Charlotte's hand and dragged her out onto the sidewalk. Charlotte looked up and had the shock of her life. It was him... that busker.

"Good afternoon, I'm Matt, the artist for your banner and..." Matt stopped as his gaze lingered on that girl... it was her.

Mrs Webber noticed the unusual silence and decided to break the ice, "Matt, erm, it's nice to meet you. This is my daughter, Charlotte Webber and she's also the shop's owner. She'll explain the banner to you, will you Charlotte?"Charlotte finally broke away from looking at Matt and nodded to her mother.

"Very well, I'll leave you two to it then. Thank you for doing this Matt," Mrs Webber said before she went into the shop.

After Matt and Charlotte were left alone, Matt scratched the back of his head, "Well... owner of this shop huh? Whatcha selling?"

Charlotte rolled her eyes, "None of your business. You're just doing the banner."

Matt laughed, "Well, I'm doing the banner, which ought to show what you're selling. Lost track of your thoughts there... Charlotte?" Charlotte didn't appreciate his know it all tone and threw the design in his face.

"Make sure it comes out exactly as the paper says! If not, I'm not going to pay you a single cent!" Charlotte said before she walked away.

"Wait... Charlotte... wait!" Matt called as he picked up the design and Charlotte turned around to see what he had to say next, "Okay, I'm sorry... about that day. I should have apologised. Let's try to be friends, shall we?"

Charlotte could never turn down an apology but being friends with her ex-enemy of twenty seconds ago, was a rather tall order. She took back the design from Matt's hands and replied, "Let's try to be working partners first before we discuss friendship... now, do you want me to explain the design to you, or do you want to decipher it yourself, Mr Know-It-All?"

Matt smiled and replied, "An explanation please, my lady." Charlotte forced a smile and showed him every single detail of her banner plan.

Brotherly Love

2005-04-20T14:16:00.000+08:00

Matt rode home all tired and angry. He decided to purchase Chinese takeout at the corner of his apartment before heading upstairs. As he unloaded his stuff from his scooter, he noticed a familiar car pull up in front of his apartment. As the chauffeur opened the door and let the person in the backseat out, Matt smiled.

"God... Two months already?" Matt replied. The guy smiled and stepped into the light. It was Matt's older brother, Alexander, "Sorry, I just came back from work. Come on up. I bought Chinese, we can split," Matt said and motioned for Alex to follow him. Alex smiled and walked up to Matt's apartment.

"At least you've fixed your abode up..." Alex commented as Matt threw his work stuff down on the floor, "...but you better start cleaning up this place."

"Come on Lex, you've been barking at me about my apartment for a long time. I live on my own now. I like my place as it is," Matt said as he started to dish out the greasy Chinese food onto paper plates before handing it to Alex, who certainly looked disgusted by the look of the food.

"No thank you, Matthew. I came today not just on my regular bi-monthly visits but I want to ask your for a favor," Alex said.

Matt scooped up a spoonful of the food into his mouth and said, "What's up?"

Alex heaved a sigh and worked up the courage to say what he had to say, "Annanessa and I are getting married in two months' time..."

"...that's great! Congratulations, brother!" Matt said and hugged his brother with his greasy fingers that made Alex cringe a little.

"Thank you but I'm not finished, brother. I... I mean, Annanessa and I were hoping... well, rather Father and Mother and all of us... were hoping... you could come back for the ceremony," Alex finally said.

Matt then placed his food down and wiped the gravy off his mouth with his hand. "No way, Lex. As much as I love you as my brother, I don't want to go back there... that's why I left home in the first place!"

"Matthew, listen to me. Everyone misses you... especially Mother. She is constantly thinking about you and she is still hoping you would come home. Why can't you just pursue your artistic talents back home where your would have a living condition hundred times better than this?" Alex reasoned.

Matt paced around the apartment and banged his fist against the wall, "I don't need this Lex. I got this years ago when I left from Father. I know you, you're not going to be like Father when you get married and take over being the Duke... or are you?"

Alex shook his head and walked closer to his younger brother, "No Matthew, I'm not going to be Father. I'm going to be who I am... and I love you, just like every one else in the family. You are a nobel, Matthew... a son of the Duke of Eisenberg! That's who you are!"

"NO! I used to be a nobel but I gave it up to do what I really love... art! I don't care about being a Lord! I want to be me... just Matt. I miss Mother and you, Lex but I'm not going back to face Father and his ridicules about my passion. I would rather live like a commoner than become a nobel without passion," Matt said.

Alex understood where his younger brother was coming from. Alex was the apple of their father's eye and did everything their father wanted them to do but Matt was the younger and more emotionally-driven of the two. He wanted to do what he loved instead of being ruled by the ways of nobility. That was why Matt left home and lived in another town by himself.

"Alright. I'm not going to push the matter. Matthew, just think about coming to the ceremony. It's just one day... and you don't have to stay the night. Call me if you change your mind," Alex said as he hugged his brother, "I still love you a lot, my baby brother."

"I know... I love you to, Lex. I'll think about it," Matt said. He couldn't be angry at his brother any longer. Alex had always been supportive of him and even kept the secret of his whereabouts from his parents for years, coming into town to visit him every two months. Just then, Matt felt his brother slipped him a piece of paper into his hand - a cheque for 20 grand.

"Lex... I can't take your money. I told you I wanted to make it out on my own," Matt said.

Alex just smiled as he opened the door to leave, "It's our deal since the day you left. You take my money and I'll keep your secret. Bye Matthew."

As Alex left, Matthew looked at the cheque and sighed... all for the sake of their brotherly love, he kept the cheque.

Starting Life Again... With Passion

2005-04-19T15:56:00.000+08:00

Charlotte was still processing everything that happened. What shop? What was going on? After a few minutes, Mrs Webber came out of the shop and walked towards her perplexed daughter.

"Mom, please tell me what is going on," Charlotte asked, "What shop? I don't have a shop?!"

Mrs Webber sighed. She didn't look happy. "Oh... I can't believe this is how you find out about this. I wanted to tell you much later, after everything's settled.

"Well, since I know about it already. Just let me in about what you're doing," Charlotte said, crossing her arms across her chest.

"Come, I want to show you something," Mrs Webber said with a smile and held onto her daughter's hand and they started to walk.

They walked into the market street where it was bustling with activity. There were people chatting outside a supermarket, people discussing business at the cafes and mothers picking up their children from school. After what seems like a fifteen minute walk, Mrs Webber stopped in front of a quaint shop at the corner of the street.

Charlotte looked into the empty shop front. It was decorated halfway and there were some furnishers still milling away, painting the walls and constructing the shelves.

"This... is your new flower shop," Mrs Webber finally said.

Charlotte gasped, "My what?"

"Well, I was walking past this empty shop a few weeks ago and I thought about something you could do as a hobby and a business at the same time. We can also use this shop to pass our time away," Mrs Webber explained.

Charlotte pressed her hands on the shop window. "Are you sure mom? I don't know if I can do this... every time I take care of flowers... I... I think of Dylan."

Mrs Webber placed her hand on Charlotte's shoulder, "I'm sure Dylan would love for you to move on and do something with your talent and passion for plants and flowers."

Charlotte bit her lip and thought about it. She sure needed something to do in this town and maybe she could share her love for plant life to the people as well as earn some money to upkeep the expenses.

"I don't know how good I will be as a shopkeeper," Charlotte said, looking a little worried. Mrs Webber started to get a little panicky.

"Charlotte, I know I should have talked to you about the shop before I purchased it with my savings and all but I wanted to..."

Charlotte laughed and interrupted her mother's worried words, "...Mom, I may not be a good shopkeeper but I know this shop can work with your help."

Mrs Webber then started to smile, "That means we'll keep the shop?"

Charlotte nodded, "You went through so much to get this. I know you meant it for my good and I'll try my best to make this a great flower shop."

Mrs Webber grinned and started to show Charlotte her plans for the shop. Charlotte never saw her mother so excited about something for a long time... ever since Dylan proposed to Charlotte at the countryside before everything went wrong. Charlotte just hoped that this would be a good way to start her life again.

Reaching The Lowest Point

2005-04-18T14:12:00.000+08:00

Matt woke up on Eva's soft bed and he could feel her soft and slow breathing. He didn't feel good about it at all. Was Eva going to pay him just because he slept with her or is he going to actually do work in this place. For the first time... he felt nothing more than just a gigglo. Matt got out of the bed and showered. He just needed to get everything off of him and want to forget everything.

After a shower, Matt pulled on his white top and buckled his belt. He glanced across the bed where Eva was still sound asleep.

"You should be happy. You got to sleep with a beautiful woman like Eva. Count your lucky stars stupid," Matt tried to psycho himself into thinking that way but his heart didn't seem to follow his thoughts. He just felt so rotten...

Matt took out the tools and started on cleaning up Eva's walls at her gallery. He wanted to do some work. At least he did not make a wasted trip to her gallery... or rather her house and her bedroom. As he cleaned the walls, he wished that he could erase what happened. He never thought that he would ever feel this way about sleeping with a woman before.

"Matt?"

Matt turned around and saw Eva standing there. He started feeling a little awkward and felt his feet getting shifty.

"Thank you for doing the walls," Eva said.

"It's my job isn't it?" Matt replied. Eva smiled and stepped over to hand him a cheque.

Matt scowled and he didn't understand what was going on. He looked at it. It was a hefty sum for just cleaning her walls.

"What's this for?" he asked. Eva just smiled and turned away. Matt puleld her back and passed her back the cheque.

"I don't need you to pay me for... for sex!" Matt said and took his stuff to leave but Eva took his hand.

"I'm not paying you for sex. It's for your services... I know you need it. You've not had any income for a rather long time," she commented.

Matt felt outraged. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Eva was certainly a woman with power... but she shouldn't have the power to make him feel inadequate.

"Eva, what I need is to be respected as an artist, a craftsman... not some gigglo that you can twist around your fingers! I don't need your money... keep it," he said and walked out of the house.

Eva continued calling him back but Matt decided to walk on and out of the place that made him feel like he had reached the lowest point of his career... or rather, life.

Suspicious

2005-04-16T15:55:00.000+08:00

Charlotte was standing outside her balcony tending to her bonsai plants and the orchids that she brought back from the country. She was a botanist along with him and they were spending a lot of time in the countryside to research on plants and researching on ways to cross pollinate and breed new plants. Everything Charlotte knew was not just from her studies but it was also from his expert teaching and practice did she learn the techniques and skills of true botany.

Every time Charlotte tends to their plants, it made her think of the fun times they had and how he made her stronger and how she missed having him around. Charlotte picked up her garden tools and looked at her beautiful bonsai.

"I miss you so much. Where are you?" she whispered to herself.

"Charlotte?"

Charlotte turned around and saw her mother calling. She quickly stopped thinking about him and wiped her tears from her eyes.

"I'm going out for a while. Will you be okay on your own?" Mrs Webber asked.

"Sure. Where are you going?" Charlotte asked.

Mrs. Webber hesitated for a moment and then replied, "I'm off to... to walk around the town." Charlotte smiled and nodded.

"Remember to have your dinner," her mother reminded her, "and don't think about it any more ok?" Mrs Webber kissed her daughter on the forehead before leaving the house with stacks of papers.

As Charlotte cleaned up on the balcony, she realised that she was out of fertisliers and netting. She decided to go shop around town before grabbing dinner for herself. As she slipped on a comfortable top and fushia skirt, she grabbed her keys on the coffee table. She then spotted a few pieces of paper in which there were drawings similar to a layout of a home or shop. There were also phone numbers of a few men on the other pieces of paper. Charlotte wondered what her mother was up to but decided that she'll let her mother tell her at her own time.

Charlotte walked down the evening streets trying to look for a decent place which sells gardening supplies. As she walked down the pavements, she kept thinking about how she would not need to care about the shortage of supplies because he would always remind her that once every month they had to make a trip uptown to get supplies for their home. He always knew what to buy and made sure they bought just enough for the month. His smile when they hit the stores for supplies, his laugh when tickled by Charlotte's little jokes.

Charlotte closed her eyes and hugged herself. She needed that little laughter again to relief herself of the pain. It's been so long but to her, he was still around and he meant more to her than anything in the world.

"I'm here to get supplies. Not to think about him. Please help me forget," she thought to herself. She need to start anew. That was why she moved into town in the first place. If this wasn't going to help her... she didn't know what would help her.

When she was almost giving up the search for her supplies when she finally saw an the outskirts of the town where they sold beautiful flowers and a wide range of gardening supplies that could last Charlotte an entire year!

"Finally! Some where decent for me to shop," Charlotte said.

She walked into the shop and gazed at all the stuff there. She remembered how he looked at every product and thought about their plants. He would then think how it would enhance their plants before he would even consider paying for them. However, Charlotte realised that he wasn't here anymore and she needed to be on her own now. Her plants need her and she wasn't going to cry about losing him anymore.

"I'll take these and..." she said and grabbed a few more packets of seeds from the shelves, "and these too. Thanks."

Charlotte was going to pay for the stuff when she saw someone familiar talking to what seems the owner of the shop. They were in a heated negotiation and it sure sounded important.

"My daughter needs the best. You must understand that!" the person said.

"I know... but this is too little to ask and I need more than this. You can't just expect me to agree to something so big so fast!" the owner said.

Charlotte decided to walk closer and see what was going on. As she moved closer to them, she finally saw who it was... it was her mother.

"Mom?" Charlotte called, "Is that you?"

Then, her mother turned around in shock. She wasn't expecting to see Charlotte here.

"Hey honey. Why did you come here?" Mrs Webber asked.

Charlotte answered, "I was shopping for some stuff and..."

"... ah since you're here," the owner said, "tell me if this deal for your new shop is your idea because I don't think this is what I should be agreeing to."

Charlotte gasped, "My new shop?"

The owner seemed surprised that Charlotte didn't know about it.

"Hooper..." Mrs Webber stopped the owner from talking and turned to her daughter, "Charlotte honey, I'll explain everything to you in a bit. Let me settle things with Mr Hooper first. Please."

Charlotte was still stunned and just nodded. She had to trust her mother on this because she didn't know what was going on. "Ok... I'll pay for my stuff and I'll wait for you out front."

As Charlotte turned and walk... she could not help feeling her mother was up to something and she stumbled on it too early.

Giving In To Temptation

2005-04-14T11:13:00.000+08:00

Matt walked away from the park but his mind felt as though it was left there... with that pretty girl. Her dark curly hair that fluttered in the wind when she was barking at him and her hazel eyes glistened when she was angry. Never did Matt felt so much for a girl that he just met. She had something special in her that made him want to turn back to ask for her name and number. Then he stopped himself.

"Sheesh. I'm not going to stoop so low to know a girl. Come on Matt... you're better than that," he chided himself.

He looked at his watch. God, he was going to be late and Eva was going to be all bitchy about it. This was something bad about doing freelance jobs for people... he had to reschedule everything for people. But one thing was that Eva was one hirer that paid good money... plus the fact that she was a real hot babe. Matt quickly got on his scooter and dumped everything he had on his back and rode down the town.

Matt felt the wind on his face and enjoyed the sights and sounds of the town. He even saw some beautiful ladies that smiled and waved to him as he passed by. Some of them he slept with... some of them he wanted to sleep with.

"Hey Matt! Matt Polster! Hey! Why didn't you call me?" one girl hollered from the sidewalks as she waved frantically to him. Matt did a little salute to say he was sorry and sped off. He didn't want to be in such a weird position. Sometimes he did not understand why women just can't deal with a thing called one night stands.

As he was pondering about it, he suddenly had the image of the girl he met at the park flash through his mind. He stopped his bike and took a breather. Why was he suddenly thinking about her? Did he want to sleep with her or did he suddenly had feelings about someone that he never had before? As he was trying to catch his breath, his phone rang.

"Matt... why are you taking so long? I don't have all day to wait up for you!" Eva complained over the phone.

"I'm so sorry Eva... I will be right there. I'm just a few blocks away," Matt tried to explain and jolt the memory of the girl to the back of his mind.

"You better be here soon..." Eva warned before she slammed down the phone. Matt knew this wasn't a good sign because Eva never gotten so pissed off before. He quickly stepped on it and rode down to her place.

Eva's home was not just a home but a designer home with a gallery combined with it. She was a highly sought after bachelorette due to her beauty and her money. Matt sometimes wondered why of all freelance help Eva could get, she always got him to do work for her. Matt quickly parked his scooter and walked briskly to the door.

As Eva came to the door, Matt was just flabbergasted. She was decked out in... a long white shirt and nothing else. It was screaming,'Come get it on with me right now'. The white shirt covered her essentials and enhanced the sexiness of her long legs. She was barefoot and stroking her left calf with her right foot.

"It's about time you got here. I was getting really pissed off with you Polster. I don't pay people to make me wait," Eva chided.

"I'm sorry. I was..." Matt tried to explain but Eva just took his hand and pulled him into the house.

"I'm getting ready for an artist from Venice in a few days time and I wanted you to help me spruce up the gallery for the show," Eva explained as she led him into her gallery.

"You want me to paint your walls and clean up again?" Matt asked, "Eva you know I'm an artist and I don't do..."

Before Matt could say anything else, Eva pinned him to one of her gallery walls and started to kiss him. Matt was shocked but he could feel her body pressed hard against his and it was making him get really hot and heavy.

"Eva... I..." Matt tried to speak in between her kisses, which were screaming at him to touch her beautiful body. However, Eva didn't let him speak and pulled off his top and threw it to the side. Matt could feel her breasts on his chest as Eva unbuttoned her top. Matt wanted to relax and just enjoy the moment but suddenly the image of the girl at the park just flashed through his mind and made him strong enough to push Eva way from him. Eva was shocked.

"Eva... I... What are we doing?" Matt asked.

"Matt, don't be stupid. You know why I asked you here all the time. You know I want you... and I know you want me. Everyone knows you're the player of the town. Why would you want to resist me?" Eva said as she got closer until they started to kiss again.

Matt didn't understand why he was rejecting such a beautiful woman. He should be counting his lucky stars that she was into him more than he was. However, he knew if he slept with Eva, things would get uncomfortable at work and she might not respect him as an artist anymore. He needed the extra dough and he wasn't about to throw it away for a moment of pleasure.

"Eva... I don't want to mix work with pleasure," Matt said, trying to get Eva to relax. Eva looked at him and laughed.

"My dear Matt, you won't lose anything. This is just sex. Everything will be the same after this. In fact, it could lead to better job prospects, so relax," Eva cooed into his ear as she nibbled it, "You just enjoy this moment."

Matt wondered why he couldn't accept that it was just sex. All the while he was trying to get it into other women's heads and this was one woman who understood what he wanted. Just sex. Anyway, he always wanted to sleep with Eva but hesitated because she was his employer. Why couldn't he just give in once?

Matt looked at Eva. She was coaxing him to touch her. He realised he should just relax.... and give into temptation. Just once. Once... and only once.

Maternal Love

2005-01-20T03:44:00.000+08:00

As Matt walked on, the smirk on his face grew wider. He was trying his best to force himself not to turn back and grin at her. "She must be so furious right now. I wish I could see her angry face!" he thought. Sometimes he enjoyed making women feel antagonised and upset because he feels that he still held some power.

He was right; Charlotte was so insulted that her forehead resembled a prune and she was not smiling one bit. She had her arms folded across her chest and stormed through the park. She couldn't believe her luck to meet up with such a ruffian on the street.

"Buskers. How mean can they get? Argh!" she said as she got back to her apartment and slumped on her new couch, "how can they just bump you and hurl insults at you?"

Charlotte's mother appeared from the room. "Who has incurred the wrath of my beloved daughter?" Charlotte looked up and her features soften. She stood up and went to the kitchen to get a drink to cool off.

"Some busker guy just bumped into me at the nearby park and then we got into a quarrel," she said as she poured herself some juice.

"Was he cute?" her mother asked. Charlotte gasped, "Mom! I'm talking about an obnoxious man and you're asking me if he's cute? What sort of question is that? You should be asking me like 'did he hurt you?' or 'how did he insult you?' and not 'was he cute'!"

Charlotte's mother laughed, "My dear, you are so uptight. I'm sure he didn't mean it. He might just want to be your friend and you assumed he was looking for trouble... Like all men who appeared in your life."

Charlotte frowned and said rather righteously, "No! I'm always nice to everyone." Her mother gave her a knowing look, "Let me just name a few of your victims, Peter from the inn, Lenny from the grocers, not forgetting Mark and George from the dentist? What about..."

"...Okay I get your point! I'm officially tagged the mean girl on the block," Charlotte said and rolled her eyes, "but this is one guy that retaliates. It's so infuriating!"

Charlotte sat back down on the couch with her mother and cuddled in with her. Though it was the summer, she still loved to be beside her mother and stay close to her. Her mother had been the source of her strength over the six months. She was the reason why Charlotte decided to stay strong.

"Just be the fun loving girl that lives inside of you and everyone will love you, like I do," her mother said. Charlotte was comforted and she smiled. "I will... thanks for all your encouragement," she said and hugged her mother.

The First Meeting

2005-01-15T03:29:00.000+08:00

As Matt was packing up his easel after the last satisfied customer at the park, he received a call. "Great, a job for the night! I should be able to have a good supper today," he said to himself. It was Eva, an art collector.

"Matt, I need you here rather urgently. I'll pay you double the amount you charge for last minute jobs," Eva said, her voice sounded rather urgent, "I just need you here right now."

"Eva... I" Matt hesistated but Eva was his regular pay roll and he needed to get there. Finally he gave in, "Alright Eva. I'll be there in five minutes," he smiled and hung up the phone. At the thought of having a nice supper later in the night, he packed his tools up quickly before he sped through the evening crowd towards his scooter.

Charlotte was wandering through the city, just taking in the new environment she was in. It sure didn't feel like what she was used to back in the country. Well, a change might be good for her. She tucked her hands in her pocket and closed her eyes to feel the summer breeze blowing gently on her face.

Suddenly, she felt a high impact push and she opened her eyes in time to see someone falling on top of her. "Hey!" she screamed! "Watch where you’re going!" Charlotte pushed the person off and stood up in a jiffy. She dusted herself and checked if she had crumpled her new summer outfit.

"I'm... I'm so sorry... " the person said. Everything was strewn on the floor and he was trying to pick them up. Charlotte felt bad and helped him to get everything in order again. "With so many tools, you should have been more careful. You could have hurt someone," Charlotte chided gently and placed her hands in her pocket.

The person looked up and the first thing that caught Charlotte was his hazel eyes. They were so enchanting in a good way.

Suddenly, there was a funny feeling going through Charlotte's body and she never knew this could happen to her again... not after since what happened to her and well, him.

"I know... I was in a rush. I'm sorry. Are you hurt, miss?" Matt asked. Charlotte shook her head and smiled. He extended his hand and said, "Hi. I haven't seen you around the park before. I'm Matt Polster. Resident park artist for both adults and kids. You are?"

As Charlotte drew her hand from her right pocket, there was a soft tinkle... like something dropped on the floor. She gasped and frantically looked down at the ground to see if it dropped nearby.

Matt was puzzled and bent down along with her. "Did you lose something? What is it? I could try to help you find it..."By this time, Charlotte was panicking, "It can't be lost! Where is it? Oh gosh..." She scanned every inch of the ground and finally found it about a few feet from where they were.

Charlotte immediately rushed to pick it up and dust it off. She was so relived the pendant was alright. "Ah you found it!" Matt said, "It must be really important to you." Charlotte tucked the pendant away in her pocket and turned back to Matt.

"What is it that is so important anyway? You sure look flustered when you dropped it," Matt asked as he ruffled his hair. Charlotte frowned, "It's something personal and not really much of your business. You should be asking yourself better questions like how is it that someone at your age not able to walk properly at a park!"

Matt was appalled. For once a girl was insulting him even before he could get her name and she was being ridiculous about the entire matter! She sure was a feisty but interesting girl. "Me? You were the one walking with your eyes closed!" Matt barked back, his ego spoke before logic set in.

Charlotte's mouth dropped open. Clearly she felt that Matt's behaviour was inexcusable. "Just go away! I wish I don't have to see you ever again!" she growled before storming away.

Matt rolled his eyes and let out a sarcastic grumble, "The feeling is mutual! To think I was so nice to you..." As he turned to walk away, Charlotte felt so insulted and turned herself midway to shout back at him. "You had to because you felt guilty. Obviously you're not a gentleman by nature!"

Without looking back, Matt placed his hand up, causing Charlotte to stop talking. "Whatever you say, lady. Gentlemen don't retort with such common folk. Bye!" Matt rolled his eyes and picked up his stuff.

Life moves on...

2004-12-11T18:56:00.000+08:00

The winter left and spring soon passed which was relief for Charlotte and her mother. The summer sun peeked through the clouds as Charlotte and the movers arrived at the cottage.

Over the months, Charlotte and her mother decided to start things anew. They moved out of the cottage that had such fond memories for Charlotte. She was making the final move to the city where she and her mother could live in a smaller apartment.

Charlotte taped up the last box and scribbled "His". The movers came over and asked if there were anything else to move.

"This goes to the store. Put this box in before you put the rest in," she said. As the movers picked up the box and took it to the truck, Charlotte watched it disappear through the doors. "Goodbye my love. I'll move on, for you," she whispered.

As the truck drove off, her mobile rang. It was her mother calling from town. "Charlotte! The apartment looks wonderful! We can see the entire city from here," her mother chirped.

"I'm glad you like the place mom. How is the renovation like?" Charlotte asked. "It's perfect. You're going to love this place. When are you coming over?" her mother asked. "I'll be there soon. Just need to lock the place up and drive down."

"Be quick. I'm going to make us a great lunch to celebrate our new apartment!" her mother said before they hung up the phone. Charlotte stepped out into the outdoors and closed the door gently behind her. She breathed in the fresh country air for one last time, and locked the doors. She placed her hand at the door.

"This is for you, Dylan."

meanwhile

The city park was filled with people, even on a weekday. Couples were strolling down the lovers' lane, families having picnics by the lake. Children were laughing and playing. However, there was a certain section of the park where the oak trees grew, there was a crowd.

Other than adults, there were especially many children. They pulled and tugged at his shirt. "Please do another of me!" cried a little girl. "No! Do another of us!" a pair of twins retorted. "Okay! Stop pulling my shirt! It's gonna fall apart anytime soon. Everyone gets a turn. Those who have one please let others who did not have a turn to try it," he explained gently.

Though the children were disappointed, his smile just warmed their hearts and make them keep coming back. "Oh Matt, you always know how to make children smile," Emma, the mother of the twins complimented. She was in her late thirties but her figure was still as stunning as any chick in her twenties.

"Why it's my duty to entertain everyone. Besides, without you guys coming down thrice a week, how can a poor chap like me earn a living?" Matt answered with a sheepish smile. "You're so cute, Matt. If we were alone, I could kiss you," Emma teased. She looked at him flirtatiously as she slid her hand down his strong shoulders. Matt was drinking her in. He could definitely imagine himself kissing Emma passionately.

"She married and with two adorable kids you fool!" he told himself. He quickly cleared his mind and returned with a wide grin. "Well, I gotta get back to work, so I'll see you some time soon?"

"You better count on it," Emma smiled again, "come on kids, say goodbye to Uncle Matt." As the twins left with their gorgeous mother, Matt picked up his pen and returned to his customers.

Matt is in his late twenties and earning a living through the tip of his pen. He was a freelance artist and he did caricature in the city park when he had no jobs at the art school or projects to work on for clients. He was the apple of most of the womenfolk who walks into the city park. He had such strong facial features, a genuine smile, soft caramel hair and deep set hazel eyes. All that work from carrying his easel and art tools to and fro gave him a rather buffed look which accentuates his good looking face.

However, Matt never found the time to settle in with just one woman. He saw women like he saw art. There is a different piece of art for every mood he felt. The women around him change hands as quickly as his caricature flew off his easel. Who could blame him with such a bubbly personality that doesn't just attract kids but along with them... young mothers who are hungry for fresh young men like Matt? He was just at the right place at the right time.

Matt enjoyed his free and easy life. Besides, it was the thing that he enjoyed doing best: creating art that would make people happy. As long as he earned enough from his freelance jobs to pay for rent, food and clothing, Matt was a happy camper.

Getting Over You Ain't Easy

2004-12-10T04:08:00.000+08:00

"We are still together honey. You will get over this soon enough," her mother consoled her, "we will get over this together, as a family but now just cry everything out. You'll feel better."

Charlotte just cried and as memories flashed through her mind, the tears just seem to wipe the pain away... slowly but surely.

"This will be all over... some day, some how," Charlotte thought to herself.

"I've made you some meatballs and spaghetti. It's your favourite," Charlotte's mother said, trying to make the situation more bearable for her daughter, "I've also made some pudding for dessert. Have some before you take some medication and rest."

Charlotte forced a smile and sat down at the dinner table and her mother served up the warm meal. Charlotte just stared into space and twirled the spaghetti round her fork without even getting a bite.

"Charlotte? Why aren't you eating anything?" her mother asked after a while. Charlotte woke up from her daze and tried to pop the overloaded fork into her mouth but she almost choked on the load of spaghetti.

Her mother immediately came to her rescue and brought her a glass of warm water. "Drink up... are you alright?" she asked. Charlotte gulped down the water and took a moment to catch her breath.

"I'm fine mother. I was not really concentrating. That's all," Charlotte replied, "The spaghetti is good though." Her mother smiled, "Don't get all flattery on me. You need to finish that up along with the dessert, take your medication and rest."

Charlotte ate just a quarter of the meal and took out the pills from her drawer. Her doctor prescribed the pills to let her get over the traumatic experiences and her irregular meal intakes. Her mother coaxed her to rest and sleep the day off, so she would not think about the things that would hurt her the most... him.

She looked around the bedroom. It sure feels different without him lying next to her, whispering sweet nothings in her ear before she dozed off to sleep in his arms. She lay down and brushed the linen and gently touched the pillow that he always slept on. His scent still lingers on the sheets and even on the pillows. When Charlotte closed her eyes, she could still feel him close.

"I miss you. You mean so much to me and I wonder how long I would take to forget you," she thought.

That whole encounter was ten months ago. Charlotte forced herself to move on...

You're Gone Forever

2004-12-09T23:00:00.000+08:00

At first she was running and panting hard. Her adrenaline was pumping and so was her woeful heart.

Walking down the pathway, Charlotte tried her best not to cry. But she could not help herself as she thought about what happened. Her feet just won't stop running away from everyone and everything. She needed space, time and solidarity to think about things.

She stopped at the end of the park and took in a deep breath. She bent down and cupped her knees. They were hurting from all the running.

The view was amazing as the dun began to set beneath the crystal blue horizon, creating the perfect tint of yellow melting beneath the blue sky. That magic moment… the moment of fond memories.

Was she a failure? Why were things like this? She couldn't explain them. The scenic view didn't help. It was where they spent their romantic times together and it hurt her so bad. Every memory ached in her heart and the tears didn't help much to soothe her soul.

"Charlotte?" someone called and she turned around and saw her mother's expression. She was worried.

"I'm fine... mom," she said, wiping her tears away. Charlotte's mother walked towards her and gave her a long hug.

"I know it hurts dear but you have to get over it. I'm sure he wants you to be happy too. You are important to him," her mother reminded her. Charlotte looked into her mother's concerned eyes and nodded.

"Let's go in and have something warm to drink," her mother encouraged as they walked back up towards their house.

Charlotte dug in her pocket and drew out a silver pendant. She opened it up and there it was. It was a picture of her and him… looking happy, a feeling that she hadn't felt for a very long time.

"Does life have to go on without you by my side?" Charlotte whispered softly to herself as she traced the picture of him. She could feel her tears rolling down her cheeks again. It was painful to let go and she kissed it once more before tucking it back into her pocket. She walked back down the hill. The cold winter breeze was unbearable but she could faintly hear his laughter in the chilly wind.

The house would not feel the same again. It was a wooden cottage that he built for them and her mother. They were happy together till it happened. The house was quaint and it was painted in her favourite colour, maple. It shone when the sun rose and when the sun set. They even had a fireplace where they often cuddled together when the weather turns awfully cold.

There was a swing which he built for them to enjoy the spring blooms and bask in the summer sun. It was also the place where they kissed, hugged and thought about their lives together.

Charlotte felt her legs grow weak and she had to sit down in the swing for a while to rest. She had been crying for a long time and her eyes were beginning to swell. She hadn't been eating well since it happened and she had fainting spells. She groaned painfully.

"Charlotte? Charlotte? Are you ok?" her mother called as she rushed out when she heard the cries. Her mother's warm embrace made everything felt worse. It was similar to holding him... and they were on the swing.

"Everything's not going to be the same," Charlotte sobbed, "he's gone... forever."