The Tale of the Lotus Heart

Two months passed in a blur like this. Yong would go to work, come home early, then spend the rest of his time with me. I had been worried recently. Every time Yong made love to me, I felt more and more determined to protect him at all costs. I couldn't continue to be around him knowing I would only be a danger to him. But with Tase and Yong alternating being my watch guard, I rarely went anywhere without one of them. My smile has turned sad and regretful. I didn't want to leave this world with regrets, and if I kept putting Tase and Yong at risk, I would regret it. But I never had the opportunity and plan to leave unnoticed.

I woke up without Yong beside me, but he left me breakfast and a love note. It was a rare time when neither of the guys were home. They were normally so good about always having one person home, but I guess there was a lack in communication somewhere this time. I'd been looking for a chance to sneak out quietly without Yong noticing. This was my best chance. I pulled out a piece of paper before I started writing.

Yong,

I love you with all of my heart, but I couldn't live with myself knowing that I'm the person who's holding you back. I know you're a doctor who wants to save lives, and all I do is take up all your time. I know you're worried about me, but I don't want you to get hurt trying to protect me. I've come to terms with my fate. If I'm meant to die, I don't want to drag anyone else into it. I know you love me just as much as I love you, but if me living means that you have to die, I'd rather be the only one dying. Thank you for your love. You made me feel confident enough to leave this world with no regrets. I love you, and I will always love you. I just want you to be happy.

Aivi

and leaving Yong's condo. I took the bus to the other side of town and waited at the train station. The further away I could get, the safer Yong would be. I went to the bathroom after seeing there was an

I took a cautious step back and I looked around the empty bathroom for

was to run. Leaving my bag behind, I sprinted out of the bathroom and out of the train station. I ran down the sidewalk as fast as I could. When I glanced behind me, I didn't see anyone following, but when I turned around, I ran right into the girl who stalked me in the bathroom. I gasped as

their chest. Looking up, I saw Yong. I smiled to the best of my ability as my bloodied hand came

danger too," I croaked out as best as I could. He held

against before I promised you. Why couldn't you think of yourself for once. This self sacrificial attitude has never changed. Why did

Yong, but I couldn't watch you get hurt too,"