I do not own any of the characters. This is for entertainment purposes only. Any plot similarities to other FF and stories/movies are coincidental. Character thoughts in Italicized, and Bold for emphasis. Blue underlined are hyperlink to photos of item described.

Aaron awoke to find the house much like the one in “A Night Before Christmas”; no one was stirring, not even a mouse – or in his case, a certain “ghost”. However, our hero was not fazed since he was accustomed to waking up to an empty house, but mainly because his host left him a hearty breakfast along with an even more heartfelt note.

Good morning Ah Bu~

Sorry I am not able to go to school with you. I promised Miss Cherry I would help her set up for today's art lesson. Breakfast is on the dining table, hopefully, you like pancakes and hot chocolate. I won't be able to meet you after school either, please get home safely! Feel free to call me tonight if you receive a Secret Santa gift.

– Gui Gui

During his commute to school, a small smile made its place on his handsome face as he envisioned his partner merrily preparing their breakfast, humming her favorite holiday tune – earning him a couple more female admirers. The rest of the day's events were more than enough to keep his mind off his favorite thoughts – those regarding Gui and their upcoming “date” – as well as thoughts rather unpleasant – the fact that Gui would be meeting George everyday after school until their much anticipated “date”. As to how he found out of his rival's daring arrangements with his partner/ friend/ future date, he would have his one and only fan club president to thank.

~[FLASHBACK]~
For once, Aaron did not bother to keep his “school idol #1” mannerisms on the way to his locker, since he was still infatuated with his literal sweet morning. However, his “cloud nine” state was shattered in an instant when his sister made her rather loud entrance.
“GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGE! BAD NEWS! HORRIBLE NEWS!!! YOUR RIVAL GEO-
“Quiet down would you? I heard you from a couple miles away with that voice. Not to mention, I am about to go deaf since you are currently only two feet away. Last point, if it is such bad news, I rather not have the rest of our senior class hear it.”
“Fine, stop lecturing me already! Do you want to hear my latest finding or not?”

“You said it was bad news, I rather not-
“My question was rhetorical. GeorgeistakingDaSaooutafterschooltodayandeveryschooldaynextweek!”
The poor girl gasped for air the moment she finished her exclamation, while her brother's expression darkened, when normally he would have been the first to laugh at her current state.

“He. is. taking. her. out. everyday?” The tone in his voiced seemingly cause the temperature in the heated halls to drop below zero, and certainly caused the girl in front of him to internally shiver as she barely managed to answer with a timid nod.
Regaining his composure – since there were many watchful eyes – he sent his sister off to class, leaving him alone with nothing but depressing and quite infuriating thoughts.

~[FLASHBACK END]~

On the contrary, Gui Gui was having a splendid day. The school day was as normal as could be, until a popular and good-looking senior stopped by her classroom after the school bell's last chime of the day.

“There you are my adorable 'little sister'!”
“Geo, thanks to you, I will be the talk of the town for this entire week.”
“It doesn't seem like you hate the attention.”

“I've grown use to it, but your sudden appearance will open a whole new can of worms.” Gui faked a scowl while glancing between the girls whispering among themselves by the door and her chuckling “brother” who seemed unfazed by Gui's sudden “change” of attitude.

“Since rumors are already flying, are you ready to go, Princess?” The joking senior smiled charmingly and offered his arm to the unamused girl beside him.

“We shall, but I much rather not be escorted across campus. I can take care of myself.” Gui quickly made her way out the classroom before a crowd gathered to get the latest scoop on the popular junior and her gorgeous “date”.

“I am sure you can little sis, and yet you need my help for your date with A-

“Keep your voice down! I don't need any more rumors in my life right now.”

“But I am telling the truth, am I not? Or you are saying, you are okay with rumors regarding you and me, but not with Aaron? All this time, I thought he was the one you are interested in...”

“He is- I mean its not a date, its just that I need someone to go to the concert with me since I have an extra ticket, and we have an important project to work on together anyway, so it is more of a team building event and-

“Okay, okay, I was kidding. No need to find so many excuses. I will wait for you to come to terms with your own feelings. It is your first, it might take some time.”

“Geo, for the last time I-

“Don't say things you will regret later on.”

“You are so stubborn!”

“So are you little sis, maybe we are related after all.”

The car ride was silent with George glancing at one solemn Gui ever so often to see if her anger had dissipated from their heated conversation earlier, while the girl in question was lost in deep thought and had long forgotten being “mad” at George's probing.

I know Aaron is important to me, either as a good friend, or as a something more, I don't know yet. I hope he is willing to wait for me to figure out all these feelings. Well, not that he is aware, but it would be nice if he was as patient as George.

“Gui Gui, we are here.”

“The movies?”

“I thought it would be a good place to start. The ambiance is similar to a concert hall and we can watch a movie that will give you some insight on first dates.”

“How about this one?” The girl asked the unsuspecting lad beside her, with a mischievous glint in her eye while pointing to a large poster at their right.

“Gui mei,,, I didn't know you had a preference to this sort of film” he responded obviously faking a shocked look to her rather horrific choice – an zombie apocalypse movie.

“You're no fun Geo ge, I don't think I can shock you anymore.” Aaron would have made a seriously appalled face to play along with me and probably pretend to purchase tickets for this film to scare me in return, wait, why am I comparing Geo ge with him?! George is being such a gentleman by helping me out... this is rude to him. I should concentrate on this mock date, its the least I could do to repay his kindness.

“Comparing me to Aaron already, Gui? Are you sure you still need me for the rest of this week? It seems you might do fine if it were him here with you right now.”

At his teasing tone, Gui Gui snapped out of her deep thoughts and quickly tried to retaliate.

“Wha- I was not, Aar- Are we getting our ticktes now George?” I can't believe I almost called out Aaron's name, hopefully Geo ge did not notice my forceful emphasis on his name.

“I got 'em, even got the drinks and popcorn. You were just too busy thinking about Aaron to notice, Lil' Ghostie.”

Without giving the glowing-red Gui anytime to make excuses, the amused young man ushered her into the theater and to their seats.

“I picked Our Times since it deals with friendship, first loves, and having the courage to pursue them. I also heard really good things about this movie from my classmates, so I thought you might enjoy it. So what did you think? Pick up any pointers?” George turned to ask the quiet girl beside him as the theater lights slowly faded back on, however he was not prepared to see the sight which met his eyes. Gui Gui hurriedly tried to wipe the tears streaming down her checks before the room was brightened, but she was too late.

“I -sniff- hope my – sniff- relationship with Aaron – sniff- won't have such a – sniff – long-

Before she could complete her sentence George broke into a fit of laughter at her disheveled state of teary eyes, slightly running and pinkish nose, not to mention that unexpected nasally tone which replaced her normal girlish voice.

“Sorry but I couldn't help but laugh. You should take a look at yourself right now, I can't take you seriously.”

“Geez, always teasing me. You are lucky I have so much patience!” Gui huffed with a half angry pout and excused herself to ease her emotions and touch up in the ladies room.

“So what were you saying before? Something about a relationship with Aaron.” George probed with a rather suggestive tone at the word “relationship”. Let's see how you worm your way out of this conversation lil Ghost, now that we are in the car, there is no where for you to escape.

“I meant I hope my friendship with Aaron, will not take such a long hiatus as it did in the movie for Truly and Taiyu.” Gui Gui clarified silencing Geo's chuckles with a cold glare, however the faint blush on her cheeks betrayed her.

“Sure sis, friendship, but you and I both know that it was way more than friendship.”

“Aaron and I aren't like that!”
“I meant for the characters in the movie, but you are more than welcome to relate my statement to your own situation if that's what you really want.”

“I- agrh!” Feeling a sense of defeat, Gui shut to avoid digging herself an even deeper hole, knowing that no matter what she said, George would surely turn the conversation around, bringing it back to her somewhat ambiguous relationship to the guy in question. I wonder how I would feel if Aaron and I really were in the position of the characters. If he ever left without properly saying goodbye, what would I do then? I can't imagine a day without him in my life, even if we've only known each other for a week or so, I can't seem to remember how I was before I met him, sure, I had many friends to hang out with and can cope with being alone at home; but his presence in my life became quite large, unknowingly. If he suddenly were to disappear and for my sake at that, no, even the thought of it makes me

“...next Monday?”

“What? Sorry, can you repeat that, I wasn't paying attention.”

“I said, you should plan the next date course, that way I can give you some pointers beyond being on the receiving end.”

“Yea, sure! You won't regret it. Hopefully.” Gui Gui responded enthusiastically with a smirk at the end, making George subconsciously gulp.

“Pointers for today: Pay attention to your date! Engage him into some relevant conversation after the movie/ concert. That crying bit was sort of cute, so there is no need to change it, of course unless you are crying for that 'oppa' of yours, then you might want to refrain. You might scare Aaron off with your fan girl tendencies.” The warm boy advised with a wink, earning himself a light slap on the forearm from the receiver of such a suggestion.

“He won't be scared off so easily, besides he's already seen my fan girl side. Thanks for dropping me off, I had a good time! See you next Monday.”

“If you say so, I had fun today as well Gui mei. See you Monday!”

Gui Gui opened up her browser after a relaxing bath to research for an interesting date course and found herself imagining going to these various places with Aaron – her face changing from amusement, to excitement, to a grimace, to a crimson blush, and back to a giddy smile – until she came to the perfect choice, her eyes lighting up. She began to plan an engaging after-school date, but came to a abrupt pause when a thought plagued her mind. Perhaps I really do like him after all...This was suppose to be a date plan for my practice with Geo ge, but I so naturally let my thoughts run wild and I've been thinking of Aaron and what he would have the most fun doing. Gui Gui laughed fondly at the sight of the various printouts of the escape room courses, restaurants, and time tables covering her desk, along with all the side notes she made with said boy in mind. So this is what its like to be in love, it really does turn people into fools, but gladly so. Having this newfound realization spread a fluttering feeling in Gui Gui's heart; it was a mix of joy, nervousness, and most of all anticipation for whats to come – the date on Saturday. Even the thought of seeing Aaron again at school in two days made her pulse quicken, until another thought hit her: I have no excuse to see him until either of us gets another secret Santa gift.

Gui Gui awoke at the sound of the doorbell and several heavy knocks the next day, she warily looked through the peephole since she was not expecting any guests for the day, but there was no one on the other side of the door. Still cautious, she cracked the door open half a foot and peeked outside only to see a foot-tall cube-like object covered with a breathable cloth and a card with familiar handwriting on top of her welcome mat. Gui Gui carefully picked up the veiled object and set it on her coffee table, then gently lifted the thin covering, revealing a mesh cage. There was a single branch in squarish cage and on the branch hung a small green leaf-like pod. Gui was quite perplexed; although she was a smart girl, having aced all her science classes since grade school, she's never actually seen a live pupae. Pictures and diagrams in biology books only told of the process of which a larva becomes a butterfly, never how to actually care for one. Gui stared at the still cocoon in the 30cm x 30m mesh encasing, her brows furrowed until she remembered there was a card which came with this troublesome gift. She hurriedly read its contents in hopes it would have some sort of care-taking instruction.

Gui Gui Wu,

Patience is like a pupae, not knowing when it will transform into a stunning butterfly, ready to spread its wings. It can only work hard as a larva, build up its resilience and wait. Slowly and surely its inner beauty will take form, break free, and take flight. The process may be long, but those who are willing to steadily watch over it can witness its miracle. May you have patience for your own Christmas miracle.

~Your Secret Santa~

As nice as this message is, its definitely NOT helpful in my current situation. Gui Gui picked up her phone and effortlessly press the call button, her breath hitched as the line connected and the receiver spoke:

“Gui Er, what a pleasant surprise! What's up? Wait, did I mix up the days for the concert did I? Was it today, I thought it was next week, oh my I am so so so so so so sorry, I made plans today with my sister, but I think I can cancel, give me one moment, Ahhh so sorry I am such a-

Gui Gui finally remember to breath and let out a breath at the lad's cheerful greeting, but normal breathing was once again forgotten as she laughed heartily at the flustered rambling on the other line which came to a confused cease at her now-receding giggle.

“Ah Bu, you are not mistaken, the concert is next week! I just called because I got my Secret Santa gift, silly.”

“Oh haha, Thank goodness, I would hate to mistakenly stand you up. So what gift did you get?”

“Patience in the form of a pupae.” She crinkled her nose at the last word.

“I can almost hear your lack of affinity with chrysalis, you scrunched up your nose just now didn't you?”

“How did you know?” How does he know me so well?

“Look outside your window.”

Gui Gui momentarily froze, almost dropping the phone, she then turned her head to face the window, her heart thumping wildly inside her chest. No way!

“Just kidding, I guessed based on the tone in your voice when you mentioned a pupae. I am not a fan of winged or to-be-winged insects either.”

“...” Gui held in her slightly disappointed sigh with a wave of relief, since he wasn't actually here to see her in such a state. Fresh out of bed, hair a moppy mess, old t-shirt and worn sweats, not to mention the fact that she hasn't even brushed her teeth yet.

“Did I go too far with my joke? Sor-

“No, its ok, if you actually showed up that would be disastrous.” For you to see me as I am now that is

“Ah, so what are you planning on doing with your new pet?” Gui Gui noted his disheartened tone before his casual question, and a glimmer of hope entered her thoughts

Is it because I said him being here would be bad? I should explain myself better.

“I didn't mean I mind you coming over, its only because I just got out of bed and it would be embarrassing for you to see me like this and awkward for you to-

“Gui, I've seen you with panda eyes darker than charcoal and with a bed head at 2AM in the morning, I think I can handle your morning, well, more like late afternoon look.”

“Late afternoon?”
“Yea, its like 3:15PM now, what did you do yesterday to wake up at such a time? Don't tell me George took you clubbing or to some nightlife related activity!”

“Aaron, relax, we only watched a movie. I got home by dinner time. I just was doing some research and lost track of time last night.”

“Research? On the pupae?”

“No, on da- Ah! I called because I wanted some help with this bug.”

“Um, as much as I'd like to be your knight in shining armor, insects are not my forte. How about we meet up and look for a pet shop with care guides and maybe even pick up some appropriate care items.”

“Knight huh, I did not know you aspire to be a medieval bodyguard. Next time I find a time traveling machine I will let you know. Don't you have plans with your sister though?”

“That would be helpful, mi'lady. I am at your service for the rest of the evening, for my sister canceled on me. Her boyfriend thew her a surprise anniversary party.”

“Well then Sir Ya Lun, meet me at the cafe in 30 minutes. Our quest awaits!”

Gui Gui quickly got ready and dressed an outfit fitting to their previous conversation. He will definitely have a good laugh at this attire. Much to her delight, she was the one who was in for a surprise at Aaron's choice of clothing.
“You really are a knight!” She whispered in awe at the armor-resembling gray hoodie and black jeans he sported.

“It even has the helmet aspect on the hood, see?” He said as he put on the hood and adjusted the fabric, covering most of his face like an actual knight's helmet would.

“Best to leave the hood off, unless its Halloween.” At her comment, Aaron unveiled his handsome countenance.

“Hey, we kinda match, damsel in distress.” He mused motioning to her gray printed hoodie and similar black jeans.

“Indeed Sir Ya Lun, now onto our quest for today. What should I do with the gift?!”

“Fear not milady, My trusty gadget will provide guidance for our predicament.” Aaron joked as he pulled up his phone and showed her the results of his quick web search for local pet shops which have caterpillars and butterflies.

“Yes, very knowledgeable gadget it is, shall we embark on our journey?”

“My stead is waiting in the stables, come along!” Aaron held the cafe door open and mustered the most gentlemanly smile he could, as Gui gave him a quick curtsy and exited the cafe heading towards the lot where Aaron's mechanical stead was parked.

“Your car – haha – its a Mustang. I can't believe it! What a coincidence!” She said breathlessly between adorable crackles, as she took the passenger's seat.

“I just realized we might have looked insane back in the cafe, our clothes and the way we talked.” Aaron said worriedly after laughing along with his companion.

“Hey, to be fair, I curtsied while the door was wide opened, so even people on the street saw me, thanks to your chivalry.” She commented with mock anger.

“How ever shall I save you from such embarrassment, fair maiden?!”

“Come to think of it, do you know anyone who raises caterpillars at school? It might give us a clue on who our Secret Santa is.” She smiled at his exaggerated statement, whilst bringing up the topic of their ongoing original quest.

“There is a guy in my biology class who always reads an insect encyclopedia. I think his name was-

"Lin Da Lang! I remember George told me, and I quote, he had a classmate in his homeroom who 'always has his nose stuck in a bug book'.”

Aaron's face fell at the mention of his rival, but he cleared his throat and gingerly proceeded their talk.

“I could ask him about it at school on Monday. Glad we have some lead on our investigation. Ah, here we are. Don't Let'em Bug You, what a strange name for a pet shop.”

“Hi welcome to- oh its you.”

“Hey, Lin tong xue (A/N how classmates are addressed when you are not as close to) we need your help, on two matters actually.”

“How can I help you, Yan tong xue, and you are?” The mushroom haired boy asked, his bespectacled irises peering at the unfamiliar girl beside his classmate.

“Hello Lin xue zhang (A/N male upperclassman), I am Wu Ying Jie, or Gui Gui. I just received a pupae as a gift, but I am not sure how to care for it.”

“And the other matter?”

“That's a bit more complicated, you see, we are looking for the person who gave Gui this unique pet, they called themselves our Secret Santa and has been giving the both of us strange gifts. I recalled you have an interest in insects and might have an idea on who Secret Santa could be.”

“I can help with the first matter, however with the second, I am afraid I have no answers for you both.”

They purchased all the necessary items for the “pet” and left the store, both in less than mediocre moods at the abrupt end of their first solid lead.

“I guess our investigation won't go anywhere until your get your gift, but I will try and think of anyone else who might like bugs. Thanks for bringing me home. See you around, Sir Ya Lun.”

“If you need anymore help with the pet project, feel free to call, milady Gui.”

Without losing hope, the pair chose to end their outing on more positive notes and eagerly waited for their next meeting to come.

Much to Aaron and Gui Gui's dismay, the second part of this round's gift did not arrive by the time school resumed, and their schedules didn't allow for the pair to meet up anytime before their promised outing. Gui Gui was in a foul mood by the time her self- proclaimed brother came to pick her up.

“Whats with the long face Lil' Ghost? Did you have that much trouble planning our practice date?”

“I don't really want to talk about it Geo ge, and I have our plans all right here.” She replied with a long sigh, listlessly holding up a folder.

“I did not bring my car today, so give me some time to look up public transportation to this escape room.”

“mmm” She replied weakly in a barely audible syllable.

Near the school gates, a small crowd gathered at the sight of the handsome senior and popular junior together once again, whispers sprouted from a good distance away, where certain top ranked senior caught wind of such talks; his darkened face just got another shade deeper.

“Do you think they are going out?”

“No way, I thought Gui Gui xue jie (A/N female upperclassmen) was with Aaron, I've seen them together at the cafe countless times.”

“But I've heard, last Friday, she and George watched some racy movie together, in the theater on that popular intersection. I even have a pic, here!”

“It's so blurry, how do you know it is George xue zhang, it could be Aaron xue zhang for all we know, and that poster just happened to be in the shot, doesn't mean its the movie they saw.”

“Maybe she is seeing them both.”

“I thought George was dating Annie xue jie .”

“Dating? I heard they were engaged. Could it be that he is having one last fling before he gets settled?”

“What a mess, poor Aaron xue zhang.”

“I heard he was even worse. He has a whole harem, they call themselves Bu Dings.”

“So lets get this strait, Gui-

The crowd fell silent as the formerly unnoticed fuming subject Aaron spoke, beside him as a tall slender girl who was equally, if not even more, enraged.

“Just who is starting such baseless rumors?!” Aaron glared icily at each member of the gossiping crowd.

“We- w- do-don't know Ya-Yan Xue Zhang. We're sorry, it won't happen again.” A brave soul stepped up stammering apologies and bowed – more accurately cowered – while the rest of the small group lowered their heads in shame.

“If I see or hear any of you spreading this nonsense again, I will report you all to the disciplinary community. And believe me, as the student council president, getting you all demerits is as easy as a snap of my fingers.” The stern female added, earning her many frantic nods. She and Aaron had to withhold their chuckles, and keep their poker faces on at this small chorus of bobble heads before them.

“Thanks for backing me up Chen tong xue.” Aaron offered a hand shake to the otherwise normally gracious lady beside him, as the crowd dissipated, leaving the two alone in the courtyard a couple yards from the school gates.

“I can't stand such gossip especially when it concerns close people around me. No need to be so formal, just call me Annie.” She took his hand and gave him a firm shake, followed by a gentle smile.

“It is good that Gui and George did not notice any of the gossip from the gate.”

“Yea, so she is the popular underclassman, Gui Gui.” Aaron saw a flash of sadness cross the girls face as she spoke. A question formed in his mind, but he refrained from asking; she is a person he barely dropped formalities with after all. I wonder if she likes George; it would explain her downcast gaze at the sight of Gui standing next to him.

George, who caught the sight of a crowd gathering and disappearing just as quickly in his peripheral vision, focused his sights on the two familiar figures in its place. Gui Gui, who finally looked up followed his gaze, and immediately her whole aura brightened.

“YAN YA LUN! I THOUGHT I WOULD NOT SEE YOU AT ALL TODAY!” She waved both her arms animatedly, widely flashing her pearly whites when he reached earshot. Her eyes flickered in shock at the female by his side, her smile slightly faltering. Before she had a chance to speak, the source of her unfounded suspicions walked over to George and hooked her arm around his, surprising them all. No one seemed to have notice the faint blush and small grin on George's face for all their focus was still on the shock of witnessing the intertwined arms.

“Hu Yu Wei (A/N George's Chinese name) I've been looking for you all day!”

“Sorry Ni Ni, I forgot to tell you I am taking Gui mei out for a prat-

He was stopped mid-sentence from a lighting fast hand which flew from the side of the girl on his left to his mouth.

“GEO GE! I thought our arrangement is suppose to be low key! You can't say, not in front of A-

“Sorry, but what is going on here?!” Aaron who rarely loses his cool, raised a voice of confusion, looking from Gui to George to Annie and vice versa, like a referee watches a tennis ball bounce from court to court.

“Sorry, lets start over, in a more orderly manner. I am Annie Chen, your student council president, and childhood friend of George here. I made plans with him today to shop for my mom's birthday present, but he decides to blow me off for a date with Miss Gui”

“Wait Chen Xue Jie its not really a date! He is like a brother to me and he was just helping me out with something, I had no idea he had such pressing matters to attend to with you, we can totally reschedule.” Gui Gui hastily attempted to clarify with her cheeks flushed and her hands busily waving and making X-motions.

“Awe, Xiao Wei, she is so cute! I see why you are so fond of this little sister you keep telling me about. It really is nice to finally meet you Gui mei, wait can I call you that too? You can call me Annie jie.”

“Yea sure, I've always wanted an older sister, Annie jie!” She replied to the enthusiastic older girl with equaled energy of her own.

“Lets ditch the boys and go shopping. I bet I can give you better pointers about your romantic endeavors than Georgie here, who is surprisingly inexperienced. Bye Aaron, it was nice getting know you better!” With a queen like laugh she swiftly dragged her new little sister off to the nearest bus stop, leaving the two guys in an awkward standstill mixed with puzzlement.

“What a new side to our student council president, so what now?”

“Its not so new once you get to know her. Well, I had planned on going to this escape room with Gui mei. She made the reservations already, it would be a waste to cancel. Do you want to go?”

“Sure, I've always like these intuitive investigation games.”

Gui Gui collapsed on her couch with bags of various sizes later that night, recalling her girl's date with Annie jie, and came to a solid conclusion. I see why Geo ge is so patient with me now...

~[FLASHBACK]~

“Gui mei, which one would you think suits me the most? The red or the white one piece? You know what I will try them both! Wait here, no actually, here, you try these too, they will look so cute on you!” In a whirlwind, Gui found herself inside the dressing room beside Annie's 3 dresses of various style and colors in her hands. She tried on the first and stepped out.

“I put on the first one, come out whenever you are done Ni Jie!”

“Yup, in a minute!”

Gui Gui waited for what seemed like 20 minutes when Annie finally emerged in a ruby red ankle length semi-opened back ball gown.

“Sorry, I had some trouble with the zipper, can you double check it for me?”

“Sure. There. Wow you look so good! Geo ge might totally fall for you if he sees you in this.”

Gui Gui saw the creeping blush on the suddenly shy girl in front of her and bravely asked: “Wait, you like George don't you? That arm hooking earlier makes sense now! I am so sorry I gave you the wrong idea, I have someone I like already, and he is definitely not Geo ge!”

“Oh I am usually calm and collected, but when it comes to Hu Yu Wei, I become a totally different person, perhaps only around him – and now around you as well – I can be myself. How embarrassing!”

“I am the same around Ya Lun. I was really bewildered when I first came to terms with the fact that I actually like him. It's all so new to me.”

“I was curious about that, but I couldn't bring myself to ask, since we just met and all.”

“Ah speaking of just meeting, didn't you say you needed to buy your mom a present earlier?”

“Thanks for the reminder, totally slipped my mind, lets go to the designer store on the third floor, my mom really likes their handbags.” Annie hurriedly gathered her things and was about to head for the exit when Gui stopped her.

“Wait! Your dress. I don't think shop-lifting is a good idea Annie jie, even if you want to save up for the bag.”

“Haha, how silly of me. I am such a scatter-brain. It is actually all Xiao Wei's fault, being so detailed and caring. I don't even know how I managed to become student council president all on my own!”

“Don't say that, you are just as sensitive and capable as Geo ge. I am sure he relies on you in many ways which you aren't aware of.”

After another 15 minutes Gui Gui and Annie left the apparel store with their newly purchased wardrobe. What Gui Gui did not know was she wouldn't get home for another four hours, when shopping with Annie.

~[FLASHBACK END]~

Aaron put down his rinsing glass and headed off to bed, letting the day's unexpected events replay in his mind, also reaching a surprising conclusion. I see why Gui calls George her older brother now. In that case, what am I to her?

~[FLASHBACK]~

“How long have we been in here?”

“About half an hour, how are you doing on that puzzle?” Glancing at the hourglass provided by the game masters, Aaron replied to his partner, who he can't quite see due to the darkness in the room.
“I am still missing a clue, did you check the file cabinets?”

“Yea, but the third compartment is locked, we need to find the key, wait there is a small symbol on the handle that I must have missed earlier.”

“What symbol?”

“Its a word, but I cant make it out, help me out here Aaron. Let me borrow the flashlight.”

Aaron made his way over to the 3 foot cabinet and pointed his flashlight at the thin silver curvature, squinting to decipher the marks it bore.

“Gui...”

“I am George. You two are quite similar, you both tend to forget who you are with.”

“What? The symbol on the handle is the character for Ghost. But since in mentioned her, are you two close?”

“You can say so, she reminds me of my little sister, who lives in New York with my parents. Funny girl really. She probably doesn't remember but we actually met last year at the beach. I had just lost a game that day and she was out with her friends. I was venting my frustrations by the tidal rocks and she stumbled up – literally – beside me with teary eyes and yelled some gibberish, then ran away before I could ask her what was wrong. I later found out that she lost a bet and that was her punishment. Thanks to her, I had a good laugh and the loss didn't seem so bad after all.”

“Is she really only a sister to you? I mean most people don't remember such a brief encounter, much less after an entire year.”

“Rest assured, you sap. I have someone I've loved for a long time already. In fact, she's the other quirky girl with us before. The one who almost gave me a heart attack pulling the stunt she did earlier.”

“Was I that obvious? I don't think I've ever been called a sap before, then again, its the first time I've been so invested in someone of the opposite . Oh man, Gui has me wrapped around her little fingers already, and I don't even know how she feels about me.”

“I don't think you have much to worry about.” She is completely into you as far as I can tell.

“Easy for you to say, your crush obviously reciprocates.” At his new buddy's lack of confidence, George chucked and gave a sheepish lopsided grin, lightly scratching the back of his head – a motion he reverts to when at a loss for words.

They jumped from topic to topic in an engaging conversation, not realizing the grains of sand quickly slipping down to the growing pile at the bottom of the glass. A loud buzzer and red flashes filling the room disrupted their talk, followed by a blaring announcement from the hidden intercom:

“TIME IS UP ESCAPEES. SADLY YOU HAVE FAILED THE OFFICE CHALLENGE.”

“What a shame, we would have escaped if we had another half hour.”

“Who knew one hour would go by so quickly, you can keep the consolation prize.” George offered up the hourglass to Aaron to commemorate the occasion of becoming fast friends.

“You should keep it man, you were originally going to come here with Gui anyway. It should be yours.”

“Well then, thanks sap!”

“Right back at you!” Aaron retaliated as George's face lit up to the caller ID on his phone screen: Ni Ni.

~[FLASHBACK END]~

For the rest of the week, Gui Gui and George's original plans were foiled due to their newfound friendships with Annie and Aaron, respectively. Gui Gui was dragged around with Annie to different shopping districts – her silent protests and signals for help slyly deflected by her now dubbed “softie brother”, whom Gui thought would rather sacrifice his poor “lil sis “ than to get on the bad side of his beloved Ni Ni. Aaron found himself hanging out with George at different entertainment venues from the arcade to the local basketball court, and even the sports bar on several occasions for billiards and darts. Despite their separately busy after-school lives and the lack of physical meetings, Gui and Aaron developed an endearing habit – on both ends – of calling one another at the end of the day to share their fun, sometimes crazy, somewhat exhausting ventures.

“Can you believe it?! Ni Jie almost made me wear the traffic-cone resembling two piece!”

“Wow, sounds like you have it quite rough Gui Er. George and I were at the billiard tables today, and it seems like there was some sort of turf war between local school gangs going on halfway through our game. George and I almost got dragged to the police station along with them. Apparently one of the officers thought George was the son of some wanted mafia boss who was reported seen with one of the gangs involved in today's riot.”

“A gang war and the police?! Are you guys ok? Did you get hurt? Why did they think Geo ge was this mob boss's son?”

“Well they had some blurry little kid's picture and made a sketch of what he would look like now, apparently Geo's face was at least a 90% match with the sketch. Nothing happened, I am here at home and talking to you on the phone aren't I? If something went wrong, you might see me on the front page of the news or reported all over the news stations, well maybe not me but at least George!”

“How can you kid about something like this! If you were to get caught up wrongfully in some shady business or to get hurt or-

“Awe, Gui Er, are you perhaps worried about me?”

“Yan Ya Lun! I am serious! I can't lose you, you are very important to me!” You are the one I like!

“Thanks Gui, Glad to have such a concerned friend. You are important to me too, so don't you get hurt either okay, nor go around wearing traffic-cones.” Important, huh. I wonder if our “important”s are of the same degree. I say we are friends, and she is like my sister but who am I kidding. I wish we were more... Admit it Yan Ya Lun, you are in love with her.

“Why would I wear a traffic-cone? Even if I did wear embarrassing clothes you still have to be my friend!” I guess I am just a friend to him... an important friend, but nonetheless only a friend...

“Eh... I don't want to get sent to the loony bin – being friends with inanimate objects. Haha, just kidding! I would not ditch you no matter what you wear – traffic cone or not. I can't wait for the concert tomorrow though! Hey, if you wore that outfit I would be able to spot you anywhere. You'd never get lost! And maybe your favorite “oppa” would even notice due to you eye catching get-up.”

“Geez, for the last time! It was Ni Jie who wanted to force the traffic-cone on me! I would not choose to wear it. Not in a trillion years! I am hanging up, you tease!”

“Night, Gui Er.”

Gui internally sighed as the call disconnected, unable to get excited for the long awaited concert. How do I continue confining myself to friend status when I like him so much? Even a simple phone call can send me either to cloud nine or bring me all the way down to the depths of the underworld. She turned her sights to the most recent Secret Santa gift.

“Patience, how much longer do I have to hide my feelings? When will you break free? I've decided, on the day you reveal yourself, I will confess.” This gift is quite useful for sorting out my feelings. Pupaes are not so bad after all. Giving it a name makes it more approachable I guess. Ah! I forgot to ask Aaron about his gift.

An hour before the concert:

Aaron sat outside of a cafe diagonally across from the concert hall, glancing around at the different crowds which gathered, hoping to see a familiar face headed his way. He checked his watch every so often, his heart sinking with worry each time the long hand passed another numbered mark. Where is she? We agreed to meet half an hour ago. I tried calling but I keep reaching her voice mailbox. What if she got in an accident? What if she decided to stand me up? His mind raced anxiously coming up with scenario upon scenario as to why the subject of his worries has not yet arrived, until a pat on his shoulder snapped him back to reality. He looked up ready to start his barrage of questions, only to be met with a elderly stranger holding a small rectangular black box.

“I was told to give this to you, young man.”

“For me? Thank you.”

Palms sweating, Aaron lifted the lid, praying he wouldn't find a familiar finger or lock of silky brown hair along with some threatening note demanding ransom – turning his previously interrupted imaginary scenario into a reality. To his relief, only a familiar hourglass and note made up the contents in the box.

Aaron Yan,

Patience is like the sand grains of an hour glass. They can only flow steady until they have reached their destination. No person or power can disrupt its flow or try to rush the process without bringing harm to the glass. An anxious heart will only make the grains drop seemingly slower. With a lightened heart, speed of flow is forgotten and only beauty of the grains remain. May your heart be enlightened by the flow of this merry season.

~Your Secret Santa~

Taking its advice, Aaron watched the sand fall slowly but surely to the bottom the of the glass, his heart calming with each grain's silent rhythm. As the last grain of sand fell, his ears perked to an unmistakable voice. He looked up and smiled, all his former anxiety dissipated as he took in the sight of the ethereal girl before him. Even with her waves of brown in slight disarray, reddened checks, small frosty breaths making their way from her parted lips in panting puffs, a dirt-stained winter coat, and a crumpled brown paper bag in her ungloved hand, he could only think: beauty of the grains remain indeed.

“Sorry I am late Ah Bu! I brought you something to eat in case you got too hungry waiting. Its a really long story as to why I barely got here now.”

“I was getting worried and was about to go file a police report if you hadn't showed. Have a seat, catch your breath, we still have some time before they let us into the concert hall.”

“Are you mad?”

“Of course not, Gui. I have a little story to tell of my own, but after you.” Aaron gave Gui a reassuring grin as he took the piping hot sandwich she offer to him, proceeding to eat when she began her tale.

“Okay, so I left the house and went to the bus stop, and then I realized I left my ticket on my desk so I went back to get it, but then the granny next door needed some help carrying the groceries into her house. I helped her and went back to the bus stop and saw that the bus was leaving so I chased it down and got on, but after a couple stops over I realized that the bus I was on doesn't stop at the concert hall so I got off. And then at that stop there as a kid who got separated from her mom, so I took her to the police station nearby and waited until her mom came in, but before that she would not stop crying until I pretended to be a bunny hopping around the small garden they had in the back of the station. After the kid was reunited with her mom the police officer made me stay and help him with the report since I was a key witness and all, because apparently that kid was taken by the woman ex-husband and was missing for two days. I finally left the station and went back the stop, got on the right bus, and thought, finally, I am on my way to meet you, but then the bus broke down two blocks from here so we all had to wait for the next one to arrive, but I figured I should just walk since I did not know when the next bus would get there. As I was walking I thought you might be really hungry, since we agreed to get dinner together before; and by the time I got there, we would not have enough time to find a restaurant and sit down for a meal and all the fast food places near the concert hall is bound to be packed. I found this little Italian bistro with a to-go window, which is where I got our meatball marinara subs, but the kitchen ran out of meatballs and they had to make a new batch, because the person in line before me ordered like 20 subs! So the wait for our sandwiches took longer than expected. At least they are fresh right?! Well that's the gist of it, quite the story huh? What a cute hour glass, where did you get it from?”

Aaron chuckled and looked fondly at the animated girl as she told her tale not missing any details while taking sparing bites out of her sandwich.

“You've got some sauce there, hold on, let me” He casually reached across the table with a napkin in hand and gently wiped the corner of – his touch light as a butterfly – shocking her and himself in the process. I got carried away, how did I do that so naturally as if I have often done so?

“Thanks. Um so the hourglass?” Gui Gui's gaze flickered away shyly from Aaron's to the pint sized vessel in the middle of the table.

“Yea, the glass, uh I got it from a random grandpa, who got it from our Secret Santa.”

“Still no lead then.”

“Not exactly, you see, this hourglass is the same one from the escape room.”

“What escape room?”

“The one you planned on going to with George on Monday, I ended up going with him after Annie whisked you away. They gave us this glass as a consolation prize. I let George keep it. Which means, either he is our Secret Santa or is at least someone close to him is.”

“Besides Geo ge, Annie is also a likely candidate. I remembered when we went out two days ago, she stopped by a glassware shop and looked at hourglasses saying she wants one like the one George had. It is possible Geo ge could have given it to her.”

“If we are going to investigate further, we can't leave out the beach volleyball team and the student council.”

“Lets split up the areas of investigation, I can follow Ni Jie and the student council's lead.”

“Then I'll take George and the team.”

“Great! Look at the time, we should head in if we want to find our seats.”