"Pam, Jeremy is one of the missing dragonboaters. His body has been found already."


For a while, my mind couldn't register any thoughts.
Who? What?
It sounded like a very bad prank.
I cooled down and checked with my aunt.
Indeed there was an accident.
I rang up 'en.


"What happened?"

"Exactly what I've sms-ed you."

"We lost a friend."


I was in utter disbelief.
I flipped the papers and saw his face.
I couldn't control the tears I held back anymore.


How is this possible.
I just met him at lecture last wed.
Just 2 days before the mishap.
The images so vivid, they kept re-running in my mind.
He was still joking and teasing.
He waved "hi" the many times we past each other, along with that captivating smile.
That smile of his that warms the heart.
I never would have imagined that he was also waving his 'last goodbye'.


If only I had initiated more conversations during that car ride.
If only we had joked more over the lunch.
If only we had discussed more about CF during the lecture.
If only we had a dance that night at Zouk.
If only I hadn't frown and stoned so much whenever I saw you.
If only...you hadn't left us so soon.


It still seems so surreal.
Its so hard to imagine you're lying in there.
Like how?
Uncle told us he warned you about the waters.
He turned to look at where you lay and said "No choice.What to do? He didn't manage to get pass this."
The vulnerability of life.
Won't you wince at the thought of it.


"To the one whom I secretly thought was cute.
I'm glad our paths met, albeit a short one.
Despite those brief exchanges, your sincerity towards a friend was deeply felt.
I'm blessed to have received it.
Thank you Zixiang.
As we lament over the painful parting.
Your smile that touches our hearts will be fondly remembered of.
We'll keep you close as always.
It won't even seem you've gone.
May you find your peace dear one."