Jin Mi: Life Goes On

By Jim Weeks

Jin Mi returned to Taiwan after a one-year absence. During his return, new chapters developed in his life. There was a beautiful Taiwanese movie star, a young schoolgirl, a prostitute, old loves, and new loves. There were also travels, concerts, CDs, and a new format called "Love Night." Also, there was trouble when an old friend negotiated price for a band and when the schoolgirl walked out of his life. The drama seemed to build daily until he couldn't stand it anymore. How did Jin Mi handle all this drama? Could the answer be in the CD Lost Loves, Lost Friends, Lost Memories?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Sep 14, 2022
• ISBN: 9781662479199

Book preview

cover.jpg

Jin Mi

Life Goes On

Jim Weeks

Copyright © 2022 Jim Weeks

All rights reserved

First Edition

PAGE PUBLISHING

Conneaut Lake, PA

First originally published by Page Publishing 2022

ISBN 978-1-6624-7918-2 (pbk)

ISBN 978-1-6624-7919-9 (digital)

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Book 1

Book 2

Book 3

Book 4

Book 5

Book 6

Book 7

Book 8

Book 9

Book 10

Book 11

Book 12

Book 13

Book 14

Book 15

Book 16

Book 17

Book 18

Book 19

Book 20

About the Author

The Second Jin Mi Book

I dedicate this book to a very good friend from Canada. He has read all my manuscripts before I submitted them for publication. His thoughts, suggestions, and feedback have proved very helpful. Thank you, Bob Shehan.

Book 1

I said, Hold that thought, Tica.

I walked to the back door and said, Travis, would you come in here for a minute?

Travis said, What is it, Jimmy?

I said, If you guys are going to team up on me, then do it together.

What do you mean, Jimmy?

Look, when I'm outside with you, it's Taiwan this and Taiwan that and what about the people and your bands? What about your house? And I come inside and Tica says the same things. So if you guys are going to gang up on me, do it together. Come on, give me your best shot. Go on, I can take it.

Tica was saying nothing, just looking sheepish. Travis said, Okay, Jimmy, think about this. Before you would come home and have two barbecues in three or four months. You have only had two in the last year. That's not normal for you. And your horses—you've only taken them out four or five times.

Now you've said your piece, go back to your work and say no more about it.

Needless to say, these two friends had really got me thinking. I checked my time chart and called Daniel at the appropriate time. The first thing he said was Are you on your way back?

Hello to you too, Daniel.

Sorry, Jin Mi, it's just been a long time—a whole year next month.

Yeah, I know. I've been giving it a lot of thought.

That's great. So when do you plan to be here?

I haven't decided yet. Why? Is there a hurry?

Daniel said, A lot of people have been asking about you.

Okay, give me the rundown.

Well, Martha calls every three months, and so does Mr. Chen. And since he's a government minister, I asked him if it was important. He said no. He said you could have been his son-in-law once and he likes you and has a lot of respect for you—not only as a military hero but also as a person, an honest person, a very talented person. That's very high praise indeed, Jin Mi. Also, Cindy calls about once a month. The same for Jessie and Roger. I even get periodic calls from Ling-ling. And Big Dog doesn't call. He comes by the office.

You haven't heard from So Ji?

No. But once in a while she stands across the street and stares at my office. I went out one time, but she walked away without a word.

I said, Okay, tell me about my accounts.

They're all in good shape.

Great. Do you go to my house and air it out occasionally, Daniel?

Yes. And the fridge always has beer inside.

That's my man. I'll talk to you soon.

* * *

Daniel was the only one I told about my arrival to Taiwan. When I got there, I called him from my house and asked him to come over when he got off work. When he arrived, I got us both a beer and we sat and talked. He wanted to know what had happened to me.

I said, What do you mean?

He said, You look like a thirty-year-old kid now.

Well, I had some facial work done.

They did a great job.

Thanks. Now tell me about everything here.

He said, The University Band seems to be falling apart. I'd say no leadership. The girls are at An Li's every Friday night.

I said, Are they still getting royalty checks?

Yeah, but they're small amounts.

You told me Ling-ling calls you. What does she ask about?

You. She wants to know when you're coming back.

It won't take long for everyone to know I'm back. As soon as I go to the market, Big Dog will find out and tell the whole world.

Something's bothering you though.

Yeah, it's So Ji. The last time I was here I tried the whole time to get her to talk to me, but she wouldn't. Now you tell me she's been across the street from your office, just standing there staring.

You should go see her.

I know, but I'm going to have to plan it.

I went to the market, bought everything I needed or wanted, and, of course, said hello to everyone. I spent extra time at the blind lady and left money in her cup. My last stop was the spring rolls guy. I saw Daisy, but she turned away immediately and walked upstairs. About two hours later Big Dog was ringing my doorbell. I was surprised it took this long. I asked him what I told him the last time we saw each other. He had a quizzical look on his face. So I said it again and told him to go home and not come back until I called him.

The next morning, I took a cab to the supermarket. I bought groceries, snacks, and drinks. When I got home and unloaded everything into the house, I settled down on the couch to listen to music. Then the doorbell rang. I went out to see who it was, and to my surprise, it was Ling-ling.

I said, Hi, Ling-ling.

She said, Hello, Jin Mi.

And what can I do for you?

Can we talk?

I don't think we have anything to talk about.

I do, Jin Mi.

I said, Okay, come in, and let's hear what you have to say.

You never got my answer the last time you were here.

Yes, I did.

No, you didn't, Jin Mi.

I think sixteen days is one answer, and no response when I asked if you had anything to say to me is the second answer.

Jin Mi, let's try again.

I said, No, I don't think so. You're not going to trick me again.

Please, Jin Mi.

We're done, Ling-ling. Come, I'll walk you out.

She was crying as she left, but I didn't let that bother me. As far as I was concerned, she had brought it on herself. But since Ling-ling and Cindy were friends, they'd be on the phone together real soon. And as soon as Cindy found out I was back so would Jack, Jessie, and the rest of the boys and the girls from the University Band. I had no idea what kind of fallout was going to occur. It didn't take too long, only three hours. I answered my doorbell, and there stood Cindy.

I said, You heard I was back, huh?

She said, Yeah, Ling-ling told me.

And I guess you've already let the rest of the world know.

No, I haven't told anyone, Jimmy. And I won't if you don't want me to. But why the secrecy?

Because I want to ease back into everything. I don't need to be judged by Jessie, Larry, and even Jack. And I don't need to be pulled in every direction by the University Band. And I don't need a driver who can't keep his opinions to himself.

Okay, Jimmy I won't tell anyone. But why did you send Ling-ling away? I thought you two loved each other.

Look, I've always loved Ling-ling, and I guess I always will. But do you realize she has walked out on me six times? I can't deal with that happening again.

She said, So who's going to be on your arm this time?

I'm not sure, Cindy, but I think I'm going to try and get back with So Ji. I just hope she can overlook the folder incident.

Good luck with So Ji. I like her, Jimmy.

Thank you.

Does this mean you'll be around for Christmas and New Year's?

Yes, I plan to.

Have you made any plans for either?

Not yet.

Just remember, I'm always here for you.

Thanks, Cindy, I love you.

Two days later, my phone rings. I answer it, and I'm talking to Martha. She said, Daniel told me you were back. I'm so glad. Can you come by my office this afternoon?

Sure, Martha. See you this afternoon.

I went to the State Department mission building and headed toward Martha's office. She had a receptionist I had never seen before. She was a very pretty young lady.

The receptionist said, May I help you?

I said, My, my, my, you're a very pretty young thing.

She said, Thing…thing…thing…

All right, all right, excuse me!

I turned and started to leave. Just then Martha opened her office door, saw me, and said, Jimmy, where are you going?

I said, Away from that…thing!

Martha said, Get in here, Jimmy.

I said, Hello, Martha.

What was all that about out there?

Nothing to worry about.

I'm glad you're here, Jimmy. I need you to get me a band for our Christmas party.

I might can do that. What are your terms?

Just like the last time you got us a band—fifteen hundred dollars for three hours and all music, fast and slow.

I said, Have you heard from Mr. Chen? I mean if he also needs a band, maybe I can get the same band.

What band are you thinking about?

I know this great American band in Guam that might be willing to play here in Taiwan, especially if they can play two venues.

I'll check with Mr. Chen and get back to you.

Great. See you later, Martha.

Bye, Jimmy.

As I left, I gave a sideways glance and a sneer at the receptionist. As I got to the stairs, I looked back, and Martha was calling the receptionist into her office. I didn't know what that was all about, but I had an idea. And it made me smile.

A couple of days later, my doorbell rang. When I answered it, I saw Mr. Chen. He said, Martha told me you were back.

I said, Please come in, Mr. Chen.

Thank you, Jin Mi.

What would you like to drink?

Your iced tea.

No problem, I've got plenty.

Martha said you have a new band to play for her party. I'm very interested. Tell me more.

First, when is your party?

December twenty-first.

Perfect. These guys are Americans from Guam. They're fantastic. You'll love them.

So you're going to perform with them, right?

No. These guys definitely don't need my help.

Yeah, but we want to hear you, Jin Mi.

We'll see. Look, I'll let you know about the band.

Great. I'll see you later.

Mr. Chen, let me ask you a question. I need a driver. Do you know a very reliable person who can drive my car?

Let me look into that. I'll call you in a couple of days.

Thank you.

* * *

I called Guam and spoke to the band member I met there before. I told him about the two gigs here and how much they were paying. He said he'd love to have that exposure but didn't see any profit in it due to travel and hotel expenses. I told him I would cover both travel and hotel. He wanted to know what was in it for me. I told him only my reputation. He said he'd talk to his band and get back to me.

I then called Big Dog and told him to come over. When he arrived, I got in the car and told him to take me to the music store. Once we were driving, he started talking about how I had treated Ling-ling. I told him to be quiet, but he kept on. So I told him to turn around and go back to my house. When we got there, I told him to get everything out of the car that was his and give me the keys. He had a very sad look on his face, but he did as instructed. Then I locked the car and went inside.

Mr. Chen came by my house with a middle-aged man. He said, This is Kwan-lo. He is a very reliable driver. He drove for seven years for another minister who recently retired, and the new minister already had a driver. Kwan-lo is able to start immediately. He does not speak very much English, but that should not be a problem for you. He also has no opinions to share. He is available twenty-four hours a day, twenty-eight days a month. Just show him your amah room and he's all set.

Unfortunately, my amah room was unfit for occupancy. I asked Kwan-lo to come back the next morning, about nine o'clock, and I would help him fix it up with whatever he needed. I checked out the amah room, and it was a mess. I swept it out and washed it down the best I could. I threw out a rickety bookcase and the bed. I tried to make a list of what was needed.

When Kwan-lo arrived the next morning, we drove to a hardware store and bought paint, a lamp, a fan, a desk, and a globe for the light. Then we went to a furniture store and bought a bed, a chair, a rug, and some curtains. When we got everything home and unloaded, Kwan-lo began painting. I told him to sleep on my couch because of the paint fumes. The next day he began moving everything into the amah room. Then I got him to drive me to the electronics store, and I bought him a TV for his room. It really looked homey now. I think he liked it.

Kwan-lo's first driving duty was to take me to Daniel's office. Once there I told Daniel he needed to add Kwan-lo to my auto insurance and remove Big Dog. I also instructed him not to use any money from my escrow account on Ling-ling or Big Dog unless it was a matter of life or death. Obviously, I didn't want anyone to die, but everything else they would be responsible for. I would, however, continue to pay the taxes on all three properties. Daniel said he'd take care of it immediately. When I was going back out to the car, I saw So Ji out the corner of my eye. She was standing outside the hotel watching me. I was tempted to go and talk to her, but the time was not right just yet.

My friend in Guam called back, and he said his band was really looking forward to performing here in Taiwan. I told him I would have the airline tickets at the Guam airport for departure on the seventeenth. That would give them a few days for sightseeing, picture-taking, and souvenir-buying before the gigs. I told him I would also have five single rooms for them to stay in. My driver will pick you guys up at the airport and take you to the hotel.

I told him to call me when they were settled in at the hotel. I would now let both hosts know everything was all set. Then I'd arrange for instruments, amps, and mics at both venues. I called Martha and told her about the band and asked her to call Mr. Chen. I told her I was going to be busy getting all the instruments and electronics ready. I also asked her if I could bring a guest.

After buying the airline tickets and reserving the hotel rooms, not at the Far East Hotel, I went to see the University Band. They were all excited to see me. They wanted me to perform with them, but I asked them Why would I want to perform with a bunch of losers? All of a sudden there was total silence. I said, Okay, let's do a few songs together. Now they were smiling again.

When we were finished, I said, That was fun. You guys play together very, very well. So why can't you create new music together? What you should do is each of you take a song and try to improve it, then pass it to the next person and let them work on it. After two or three of you add to it, you should have something all of you can decide on.

After a little more music talk, I told them, I have a band from Guam coming to play here in Taipei at two private parties. But I would like to bring them by here to play for you. Maybe that will inspire you even more. But in the meantime, I want to borrow instruments, amps, and mics for these guys to use.

My friend from Guam called from the hotel at eleven thirty. I told him I would pick the whole band up at six o'clock and take them for the best Mongolian barbecue in all of Taiwan. Also, there is a band that plays there every Friday night, three Americans and two Australians. And who knows? You guys might strike up a real friendship. It never hurts to know as many people as possible in other countries.

Kwan-lo pulled up in front of the hotel, and the guys came out. We all piled into my car. I think this was the first time I'd used the jump seats. We arrived shortly at An Li's. When An Li saw me, she shouted Jin Mi and ran and jumped on me, hugged me, and gave me multiple kisses on the cheek. We sat down behind the owner's table just as Lu brought three bowls out and went back for the other three.

We were eating and drinking when Jessie, Jack, and Cindy arrived. I shook hands with Jessie and Jack and gave Cindy a big hug. After I introduced Jessie and Jack to the Guam band, I told Cindy I wanted to talk to her. I picked up my bowl and started walking toward Lu. Cindy walked with me, and I asked her to go to the parties with me. I told her she could video these guys in action then show the video to Jack and Jessie and the others. That way they could see how to move and feel the music. She wanted to know if this was like a date. I said, Cindy, I think of you as my best friend, but if you want to call it a date, then that's okay with me. The guys were eating, drinking, talking, and laughing. Jessie and the boys were late getting started. The Guam band said, Technically, they're good, but their showmanship needs a lot of work.

The next day, Cindy called me and wanted to know what time I'd pick her up. I asked if Jack gave her any trouble. She said they discussed it quite a bit, but she convinced him we were just two friends at a concert. Kwan-lo drove me to pick up Cindy, and then we drove to pick up the band. When we got to the State Department venue, we met Martha and I introduced everyone. Next, the band set up, tuned up, and warmed up. They wanted me to do the first four songs to get everything started on the right foot. I told Cindy to video me and the band so she could show it to Jessie and the boys. Then they'd know exactly what I'd been telling them about putting heart and soul into their music. We played, and Cindy videoed the event. The people really loved the entire performance. Martha was particularly thrilled. She said, Mr. Chen will praise you guys so much. Just be prepared.

Martha was right. Mr. Chen loved the entire program. He said he especially loved my introduction. The Guam band was a big hit and made a real impression on everyone. After the concert we stayed around awhile talking with Mr. Chen and his guests. There was plenty of food and drink for all of us. The Guam band was really appreciative and said they hoped they could do it again next year.

Cindy asked me to go to An Li's Friday night. I said, That's the day after Christmas. I'm going to be very busy all that day. She wanted to know what I was going to be busy with. I told her, I plan to do absolutely nothing all day. According to Cindy, I needed to be around people and music to be really happy. I told her, Next time.

Book 2

The band from Guam stayed seven days. I took them to the airport on the twenty-third. They thanked me, and I thanked them. They said they thoroughly enjoyed their trip and hoped to do it again. We said our goodbyes, and they left with smiles on their faces. I went home to celebrate Christmas all alone in my house.

I got a beer and sat in my recliner thinking about what Cindy had said. She said I needed to be around people and music to be really happy. I had music here and I could make music; but I didn't have anyone with me. Cindy was right. I needed to find someone to share my music with. I asked Kwan-lo to take me to the Far East Hotel. When I got there, I went inside to the front desk and asked for So Ji. Then I sat down in the lobby and waited. After fifteen minutes, the girl at the desk said that So Ji was off today. So I went back home, stretched out on my couch, and listened to the stereo. I fell asleep, but the doorbell woke me up from my nap. I stretched and got up from the couch and went outside to see who it was. I looked at my watch on the way to the gate and saw I had been asleep for almost three hours. I opened the gate and saw a true vision of loveliness.

I said, Hello, So Ji, how are you?

She said, Hello, Jin Mi.

Please, come in.

When we were inside the house, she sat on the couch. I asked her if she wanted anything to drink.

I'd like a Pepsi if you have one.

Of course, I'll be right back.

I handed her a Pepsi and put a bowl of potato chips on the coffee table then sat in my recliner.

She said, You used to sit on the couch with me.

I moved over to the couch and asked, What made you come to my house?

You came to see me, but I needed some time to think.

Well, I'm glad you're here.

Are you really?

I truly am.

Her smile warmed me to my bones. She was so beautiful.

I asked her, Would you like to watch a movie?

She said, Yes, please.

I put a movie in the machine, pressed Start, and sat back down on the couch. She leaned into me, and it felt so good. I thought, Should I put my arm around her? I waited a minute and then put my arm around her. She reached up and held my hand. I had really missed this beautiful woman. But she was here now, and I was going to take advantage of every minute. When the movie ended, I asked her if she wanted to watch another movie. She said, Can we talk?

Of course. I reached over and turned on the stereo.

Why did you come to see me today?

Because I've thought about you constantly since the Pagoda Concert.

She smiled and said, I've thought about you too.

I'm very sorry about the folder with the pictures.

I understand why you did it.

So Ji, you are so beautiful. I feel on top of the world when you're with me.

She smiled and said, I like this song.

I said, Will you dance with me? We danced and danced and danced. Then she said she wanted to watch another movie. I selected another movie, put it in the machine, pressed Start, then turned around. She was stretched out on the couch and smiling. I slipped in behind her, put my arm around her, and held her close to me.

After the movie ended, she said, I must go home now.

I said, I'll take you.

We got off the couch and walked to the door. She turned to face me and had a beautiful smile on her face. I took hold of her hand as we exited the house. I told Kwan-lo we needed him to drive.

I said, Are we taking you to the hotel?

She said, No, to my apartment.

Okay, tell Kwan-lo the address.

When we got to the apartment building, I got out of the car and helped So Ji. She stood in front of me, smiling. I put my arms around her and gave her a big hug.

She asked, Can I visit again tomorrow?

I said, I would really like that.

Thank you, Jin Mi.

Tell me what time tomorrow, and I'll send Kwan-lo to pick you up.

Is nine o'clock too early?

No, it's not. See you tomorrow, So Ji.

Jin Mi, can I bring some extra clothes with me?

I'd like that.

She entered her apartment building, turned, smiled, and waved. We drove home.

The next morning, I was in the kitchen making breakfast for me and So Ji when the phone rang. I asked So Ji to answer it for me. Soon, I had breakfast ready and called So Ji to come eat. When she came into the kitchen, I asked her who had been on the phone. She said it was Cindy.

I said, You girls talked for quite a while. What did she want?

She said, She called to invite you to dinner at her house.

Do you like Cindy?

Yes, I do. Don't you?

Of course, I do. Cindy's my best friend.

Your best friend is a girl?

I said, Why does that surprise you? I can talk to her about anything, and she's always honest with me. She tells me exactly what she thinks about something. Too many people try to tell you what they think you want to hear, and I don't like that.

She said, You're an amazing person, Jin Mi. I've never met anyone like you before.

When we're through with breakfast, I need to take a little trip.

She frowned. I said, Don't be sad. You're coming with me. She smiled.

When we finished eating, I put the dishes in the sink and sat back down to finish my coffee. I told So Ji I wanted to brush my teeth, shave, and change clothes before we went. She asked if she could be in the bathroom at the same time as me because she also wanted to brush her teeth and fix her makeup. I said, Sure, let's do it.

We both brushed our teeth at the same time. She made a game out of it. She would bump me and I would bump her and we would both laugh. I shaved, and she fixed her makeup using the same mirror. Then she noticed my scars, and she had to touch each one. I told her I was sorry for the scars, and she looked at me with sadness in her eyes. As I was putting my shirt on, she was taking hers off. She saw me looking at her, and she turned her back toward me. We laughed.

I used a pillowcase to put the presents in for the University Band. Those for Jessie and the boys and the one for Cindy, I stacked them in the front seat. I told Kwan-lo to take us to the university music lab parking lot. When we got there, I got the pillowcase full of presents out of the car and So Ji and I walked off hand in hand. Once inside, everyone shouted with happiness. I introduced So Ji to everyone. I was speaking Chinese, so they knew So Ji must have been weak in English. Anyway, I wished them all a Merry Christmas and started handing out the presents. Roger wanted me