Fan Fiction |
by Suki Chan
“Yes, tired to death.” Andrew took off his tie and sat on the bed.
“There’s some soup warmed up for you.” Kylie pressed intercom to the servants’ suite, “Excuse me, Lin jei.”
“Yes Siu lai.” The housekeeper answered.
“Please have a maid to bring the soup and light snacks up for Andrew Siu yeh. Thank you.” Kylie politely commanded. She would never run up and down the house doing this and that. She always made good use of the servants, in a very polite and mannerly way, yet maintaining her position as the lady master. This was how Kylie won high appreciation from not only Andrew’s parents, but also the servants who were willing to work for such generous and kind master.
Kylie hung Andrew’s suit, “Andrew, mom asked if we are joining their dinner party tomorrow night. I already turned it down for you. Tomorrow is Saturday. I know you’ll stay at the country club, have dinner, massage and spa, and then stay there overnight.” Kylie had to attend by herself. Though she did not want to, but because of Andrew’s absence she needed to be the representative. She had to save face for her parents-in-law in front of their family friends.
“Hm.” Andrew mumbled as he enjoyed the soup. Although he did not say a word, he appreciated Kylie’s caring arrangements for him.
Andrew walked out from the bathroom and gave a comfortable sigh. The light late supper and hot bath would for sure put him to good sleep. He jumped onto the bed and lay down beside Kylie. She looked and gave him a soft smile. Andrew peeked and saw her reading a classics novel, in some kind of foreign language.
“Is this French?” Andrew wondered.
“Yes. Back in school, most of my classes were taught in English. But I was also in the French immersion program.” Kylie explained, “I’m fluent in both.”
“Good for you.” Andrew made a short comment and was about to sleep.
Kylie slightly called him, “Andrew, sorry to bother you. I know you’re tired. But can I discuss something with you?”
“Alright.” Andrew flipped over and stared at her.
“I’ve been in Hong Kong for more than two months now. I find my life, frankly speaking, quite boring and even useless. Everyday, all I do is stay home, playing the piano and reading. The only outdoor is shopping and exercising at the club.” Kylie bit her lips.
“I know, but there’s nothing I can do about it.” Andrew said uncaringly, “I have to work at Vooki and dad concentrates on other businesses of Ho’s. Mom has her own beauty products business. Even all our servants have their delegated jobs which keep them busy enough. No one in this house has spare time for you, Kylie.”
“A couple weeks ago, I was reading the newspaper and saw British International Primary School hiring teachers. I just wanted to give it a try, and so I sent in my application.” Kylie hesitated, “Hm, sorry I didn’t ask you at the first place. I thought I will just tell you if they ever call me.”
“You don’t need to ask me. I’ve said, you have absolute freedom and can do whatever you want.” Andrew shrugged his shoulder.
Kylie was keen to hear from Andrew that he cared, and he got upset for Kylie not discussing with him. But she knew that was only a remote hope. She perked up and continued, “I didn’t expect to hear back from that. But a couple days ago, they actually called me for an interview. I went this morning, and they think I am suitable. However, I have the education but no experience. They want me to start off as an assistant teacher.”
Andrew thought for a moment, “Being a teacher at the British school? Sounds good to me! I’m sure mom and dad will not object either. It sounds like…a classy job.”
“So Andrew, tomorrow I will call them and accept the offer.” Kylie confirmed.
“Ok.” Andrew turned over and pulled up his quilt.
Kylie wanted to continue the chat as she seldom got the chance, “I am starting next Monday. I have to attend a training session first…”
Andrew fell asleep already.
**************************************
The filming of the promo-show was on launch. The production crew from TV channel and the marketing team of Vooki were all ready for filming at Guam Island next week. To cheer up everyone, this day, Andrew invited the sales marketing team and the models to the country club for lunch.
“Wow I’ve never been to such high-class place before!” The models were excited as they crowded at the buffet table, “So much food here! Look at these oysters and sashimi…”
Sabrina did not bother mingling with them. She had to concentrate on grabbing more food. Her eyes glowed with the loads of splendid food in front of her. She scooped crab legs and oysters and bread and roast beef and curry etc….all stacking up on her plate like a hill.
“Gosh, Sabrina are you going to finish them all? Watch your waist.” Another girl teased.
“Well thanks for your caring!” Sabrina would not even let go of the variety of sauces. She got a bit of each one and ran back to her table. The other customers at the restaurant looked at this greedy girl and whispered comments. Sabrina did not care at all. She did not mind if she can finish the food or not; they were all for free.
Kylie was also at this lunch party. No matter what, she was Andrew’s wife and should accompany him on some of these business events. Andrew was busy chatting with his staff, so Kylie quietly ate her lunch by herself.
“Hi.” Sabrina suddenly approached with her plate, “May I sit down here?”
“Oh, sure you can.” Kylie smiled generously. She did not mind, “Your name is…Sabrina.” The marketing manager introduced all the models to Kylie earlier on.
“Yes.” Sabrina poked on a big prawn and put in her mouth, “Mrs. Ho, you’re so young. Nowadays, people don’t usually get married so early.”
Kylie was surprised on Sabrina’s question. She paused, then smiled and answered properly, “I guess it depends. People have different preferences, right? Andrew and I are new wed…just married for two months.”
“I always admire you wealthy people.” Sabrina continued her odd topic, “No need to work, and enjoy life with nice clothes, nice food, travelling to Europe etc etc. Unlike us grassroots…we have to struggle everyday…”
“Actually, I work too. I teach in a school.” Kylie explained. Usually she was not the type to brag about her private life in front of strangers. But Sabrina was getting a little overwhelming that Kylie had to slightly defend herself. She tried to change to a more general topic, “How do you like this restaurant?”
“You teach kindergarten?” Sabrina still dragged on.
Kylie began to lose her words, “…no…in British International Primary School…as an assistant class teacher…I…”
Fortunately Andrew appeared at this moment. He rolled his eyes on Sabrina, then Kylie, “You two are chatting so happily! May I join?”
“Haha, we’re just gossiping, Mr. Ho. Your wife didn’t make any comments on your family life. Don’t worry.” Sabrina laughed and stood up, “I’d better join the other girls. You two have fun here.” She walked away.
Kylie puffed out. Andrew lowered his voice, “I don’t think you should get too close to this girl.”
“Actually she’s ok, but the things she talks about are just a bit....different.” Kylie thought.
“Stay away from her.” Andrew warned, “I find her somewhat contagious.”
Kylie shook her head, “You are bias, Andrew.”
Andrew did not know why he wanted Kylie to be apart from Sabrina. For some reason, he just did not want the two girls to have any connections.