Love After Love (2020)

[bunniefuu]

I've been in Hong Kong a while now

But I haven't called on you, Aunt

That's rude of me

Two years ago

There was talk of w*r in Shanghai

So we moved to Hong Kong

And I enrolled in high school

But Dad's savings are meagre

So he can't support us

They've decided to go back to Shanghai

As I understand it...

If I'm a good student

I can graduate next summer

If I go back to Shanghai...

I'll lose a year

If I stay behind, alone in Hong Kong...

I couldn't afford to live...

...or pay the school fees

I hesitated...

...and I've decided to ask you for help

Dad is so narrow-minded

He doesn't know what he's saying

I see why you are cross with him

If you could give me a chance...

...and bring me up

I could be like your own child

And repay your kindness

They went to Repulse Bay for a swim

Not sure when they'll be back

Who are you looking for?

For Aunt

Is there anyone called "Aunt" here?

She's expecting me

Then you should go to her place!

Maybe she's from Mistress's family

Our Mistress is out

Come back another day

I'll wait for Aunt here

You keep saying "Aunt"

Is she really your Aunt?

When Madame Liang gets back...

...you'll know

Let her in

Don't keep looking

She won't be back this early

She's persuaded by George Chiao...

...to go for a swim

And to dine and dance

You're jealous, aren't you?

You're the jealous one, aren't you?

You can't fool me

What makes you think I'm jealous?

Admit it!

Stop it!

Go Away!

Go Away!

Mistress is back!

Won't you come in for a
drink, Master Chiao?

You must be exhausted...

You are early

Listen, Ni'er

He wants me to join him on the beach

But he needed me just as a chaperone

He was dating Marlene Chou

But her father wouldn't allow it

If someone older was there...

...the precious Miss Chou would be safe!

That was his cunning plan

What a nerve!

How dare he!

I can act as go-between

But I've never been an escort

Nor a decoy

You can play Prince Charming

But I'm not playing your Fairy Godmother!

Aunt...

Who's your aunt?

I'm Ge Weilong, Ge Yukun's daughter

Ge Yukun is still alive?

Father's still alive and well

I once said...

When the day comes that
Ge Yukun's time is up

I'll cheerfully pay for his coffin

While he's with us...

...I won't lend him a cent

She hasn't spoken yet

Mistress, how do you know she wants money?

What's it to you?

Did she bribe you?

I'm here on Father's behalf...

...to make peace with Aunt

I've read your letter

But Miss...

You've thought of everything...

...except my feelings

Even if I were willing...

I couldn't help

If your father found out...

He'd accuse me of abducting you

Lulu!

Come back

Naughty dog

Did Sir Cheng call?

No, but Uncle...

You forgot again!

Don't frown

You'll give yourself wrinkles

You're here, unannounced?

I rang, but you were out

You knew I was going out

What if you'd come for nothing?

But here you are!

The Monkey King never managed to escape...

...from Buddha's palm!

Who's this young lady?

He's asking you

I'm Ge Weilong, Ge Yukun's daughter

I came to see...

Aunt

Ah!

You two are aunt and niece

Anyone might think...

...you were cousins

Does your father know...

...that you're here?

No

How long do you think
you can hide it from him?

I don't want to be blamed
for coming between you two

If Father is against it...

...I will never bother you again

Try to make up a lie to fool him

Just don't be obvious

Can you play the piano?

I studied for three years

But I'm clumsy

Not very good

You don't need to be

Just learn a few tunes...

...which people like...

...to sing along with

All the young British
ladies know this trick

We follow British ways here

I see

Your father is old-fashioned

Doesn't let you go out to socialise

He doesn't know...

When you get married...

...you'll need all the social skills

You can't go through life avoiding people

Yes

Getting the chance to learn from her...

You're in luck!

I leave this child to your care, Mr Situ

I...

I'll follow Aunt

What? He won't do?

Listen...

I benefitted from his care myself

She's yours, I dare not snatch her away!

Can you play tennis?

If you can,
I'll have a partner to practice with

I did learn tennis at school

I can play a bit

You have tennis clothes?

The school provided them

I know

Those baggy bloomers

They make you look like a sing-song girl

Ni'er

Bring my tennis clothes

When the tailor comes...

...he'll get your measurements

Right now!

Thank you, Aunt

Please, no holding back

8 Wan

Mistress, the ones you like best

These drive me wild!

Try one?

Mistress, that girl is here

Take her upstairs for now

Mahjong!

Mistress asks us to look after her

Tell her Mistress is busy now

She'll see her tomorrow

Actually...

She thinks she wouldn't fit in...

...and spoil everyone's fun

She's to have the blue guest room

It's been prepared

Take her up there

Ask if she's eaten yet

You take her!

Have you eaten yet?

Not yet

What a nuisance!

Tell Chef...

...to serve her upstairs

Mistress was wondering...

...why you weren't here yet

She happens to have guests

They're all old people

And a few younger couples

She worries you might feel awkward

I'll take you to your room first

Come!

This evening we welcome a new friend

Please stand up and greet everyone

Good timing!

Daddy!

Who invited you?

He did!

Troublemaker

Come on, have a seat

Didi, bring more chairs

Right away

What a pair of bright young things!

When girls are pretty, that's fine

But when boys are too pretty...

...they risk being seen as gigolos

Congratulations!

You know the old saying...

'Harmony comes first!'

Cheers, everyone

That's enough

Just for fun

We've heard you

You sing well!

Much better than I do!

I wouldn't dare follow you!

Know what you look like?

Like...

...a Chinese opera mask!

Like a mask?

More like a foreign devil!

I should marry a Muslim

Go around with my face covered!

I like my face

Chinese think you're a westerner

And foreigners think you're Chinese

Compared with you...

...I look more western

I'd be better off going abroad

Daddy would agree to send you abroad

He likes you, doesn't like me

It's the way you behave

You get into universities...

...and then keep getting expelled

Hand it over

What?

The money!

What money?

You went in Dad's car

He must've given you some money

He must have

Come on...

Believe it or not, he didn't

How much?

I don't know

We go halves

As usual

This is an advance on my dowry

The British care a lot about this

So that British man will marry you?

What makes you think I'd marry that idiot?

The ones who live in
those draughty castles...

...are old maids with no dowry!

What am I to the Ge family?

No more than someone who brought them shame

I rejected the men they picked for me...

...and became Liang's concubine instead

Our declining family lost face!

Declining families...

They're like bricks in an outhouse

Plain smelly

Madam

She won't understand what you're saying

That's right

She was born too late

She missed the drama

All the insults her father hurled at me

Look!

It's like a brothel taking on a new girl!

Didi

You shouldn't say such things

Don't assume Sir Cheng will protect you...

...just because he's taken you for drives

What am I to Sir Cheng?

If Mistress blames me...

...it'd be your fault for telling her

And what would that do for me?

I'm trying to look out for you!

This way, please

Goodbye

Stay, Didi!

Mistress is always scolding us

Don't worry

Get up!

The girls will clear it up

Go and get changed

Your parents are coming

Why are they coming?

To take you home, of course

They can tell me what to do?

They beg me to take on one of your sisters

They'll do whatever I ask

...and bring you back under control

So my replacement is here

This arrangement must suit you

Your own niece here...

Keeping it all in the family!

Don't irrigate anyone else's fields!

I didn't say anything about you and George

But now you're going after his father!

Taking secret rides in his car

Thought I didn't know?

He could be your grandfather!

You're so cheap

You were born to be a sl*ve

I may have offered...

But he didn't want me!

"Born to be a sl*ve!"

You're not a sl*ve...

But you can't get what you want!

Why is that?

Exactly!

Tell me!

You keep me in this house...

...to use me as bait!

But when someone takes the bait...

...you can't take it!

That's what I mean!

I see!

Enter

The country folks are here

Come in

Greetings, Mistress

No need for that

Take your daughter back home

She's grown up now

Find a decent family and marry her off

Mistress is right

We have other daughters

Might they have the honour...

Your girls are uniquely gifted

I tried one of them

I hesitate to try another!

Didi, let's go

I know who gossiped to you!

It must be the driver

You've worked through
the whole Chiao family...

The Seventh Mistress's new baby...

...must be on your list too

...you must have had the driver too!

I've been too kind to her

I've spoiled her

It will be hard for you
when she's back home

Kind? Kind?

You want me to tell about your 'kindness'?

Didi!

What?

Say whatever you like!

Talk to the press!

I can always use the publicity

You think I wouldn't dare?

Come home!

- Fine
- Don't beat the child

No need to beat her

I'm the one who spoiled her

Just leave

It's my fault

I'm going...

- Go home
- I could spend my whole life here...

...and get nowhere!

Maybe you should get dressed first

You might mess up your hair again

Find me something plain

We have choir practice today

They wouldn't like anything showy

I don't understand...

You're not a Christian

So why join the choir?

You're so busy all day long

And at night...

...you sit up studying

Look at you...

These two weeks revising for the exams...

...you've exhausted yourself

I don't mean to discourage you...

...but what happens when you graduate?

Miss

You're still in high school

There's only one university here

Many graduates can't find work!

If they do get hired...

...they earn only 50 a month

In a convent primary school...

...bullied by foreign nuns

It's not worth it!

You think I haven't thought of that?

I'm taking it step by step

Don't mind me speaking frankly

I'm just thinking for you

Use the chances you get here

Look around...

...and find someone suitable

You mean Aunt's friends?

Of course

Her friends...

...are either playboys...

...or old men stocked with concubines

A few are army officers

But the higher the rank...

...the less they mingle with locals

This is Hong Kong

Now I understand!

No wonder...

...you wanted to join the choir

Even though you're busy

I've heard that...

...lots of college students join in too

Your aunt is rich

My old uncle was the rich one

He was one of Hong Kong's leading tycoons

He left his properties to my aunt

Your uncle was Liang Jiteng?

How did you know?

The nameplate reads "Liang"

I put two and two together

It's well-known that Liang had a mansion...

...called 'The White Lodge'

So he was your uncle!

Not my real uncle

My aunt wasn't his legal wife

But you are her niece

She is she, and I'm me

Aunt

Climb in, I'll give you a lift

Weilong, you go in front

Hello, Madam Liang

What's your name?

Lo Siu-Lun

You're a college student?

Yes

Which year?

Third year

Studying what?

Medicine

And when you graduate?

I want to intern in a mission hospital

Ever thought about further studies abroad?

I've thought of it, but I can't

I have brothers and sisters

I'll need to support their studies

Money doesn't matter

It's talent that's precious

Weilong...

We'll hold a garden party next week

Ask your choir friends to come

Thank you, aunt

You're still children...

You hear of a party...

...and you get excited

Thank you, auntie

Poor thing

She gets hardly any chance...

...to show off her French

Best leave her to it

Are you hot?

I'm fine

Here's the dessert!

All kids love sweets

Thank you, auntie

You prefer chocolate or cheese?

This looks good

Go ahead

I won't

I put on weight

Enjoy

Thank you

Try it

Really, Hong Kong's best patissier

Thank you, auntie

Is it nice?

Delicious!

Really?

Then I'll have a taste

It's really nice

Thank you for inviting us

You're welcome

Come visit any time you want

Kitty!

What have you been up to?

Dancing!

You must show us!

I like tennis, but I'm not very good

I could tutor you

Splendid!

I taught Weilong to play

In terms of looks, character and education

How does he compare with you?

We're different species!

So you admit defeat!

Are you George?

Why has no-one introduced us?

Why are you staring?

Am I like a thorn in your eye?

You are

And one that I'll never
be able to pluck out!

I should keep it as a cherished souvenir

You're very droll

I'm a fool

Why didn't I know there
was someone like you here?

You should save your sweet talk for my aunt

She's cross with you

Let's not talk about her

Let's talk about us

I could have missed it

Missed what?

Missed this chance

Really!

It's a real stroke of luck

We may have been born in the same era...

But if I were born 20 years earlier

That wouldn't be so bad

It's alright if I were older

But if you were born 20 years before me...

- Then we'd...
- That would be...

...just like my aunt and you!

You've entertained these
boring people all afternoon

Shall we rest for a while?

Now that you mention it

I am a bit tired

So... we sit silently

As if we're in mourning

When two people sit together...

...do they have to talk?

It would be nicer if we did talk

If you insist...

...I'll speak to you in Portuguese

"Love is a fire which burns unseen"

"A wound that aches yet isn't felt"

"An always discontent contentment"

"A pain that rages without hurting"

I didn't understand

Maybe you're cursing me

Did that sound like cursing?

I wouldn't dare

I'll translate it into English for you

Who wants to hear it?

I will anyway

I won't listen

I'm not brave enough

Actually, it means...

You know how to drink!

Weilong

Find Kitty to play us a tune

The party need livening up

Of course

Chief steward...

Yes, Miss

We have guests coming tomorrow

My aunt would like your chef...

...to show our cooks how to make pastries

Madam Liang's wish is our command

Please tell your aunt...

...we'll take care of it

Weilong!

Kitty...

Have you come to see me?

I'm running an errand for my aunt

Don't go yet

I can't go back anyway

Aunt is taking tea with Lo

Come in, we can take tea too

That picture of the Virgin Mary...

...was hung there by my mother...

...long ago

She could be herding sheep in Fatima now

You miss her?

I can't really remember her

My brother probably does

But he doesn't seem to care much

Actually

I think you came today...

...to see my brother

I came to see you, I love you!

Don't get tangled up with my brother!

It's not a good idea

I haven't got tangled up with him

You haven't, but he'll try

What's the difference?

Weilong

You don't understand

With mixed-race boys...

...even the best ones tend to be moody

Sometimes even a bit wicked

Mademoiselles

I'm sorry I've kept you waiting

Champagne?

Champagne?

Do you drink? You look quite young

How old are you?

Never mind, champagne isn't strong

It'll be fine

Wait

You don't even know how to!

Let me

Madame, thank you

Madame

Champagne?

Fancy a drop, Kuen?

I'm joking

I know you have work

Kitty! Come

My friend's calling me

What I said...

Don't forget!

What did you say?

I'm not telling you

I have a surprise for you

Come along!

Sit down

This is your room?

Open it

Look inside

Don't be scared!

Don't be scared

I've kept him for three years

He doesn't bite

That was you mother's?

Yes, Ma's hairbrush

Do you miss her?

My ma has a boxwood dressing table

There's a peach-shaped pot on it

Filled with baby powder

Our place in Shanghai...

...is not as big as yours

It's a three-story lane house

There's a calendar with
a pretty girl's picture

Ma always scribbles phone numbers on it

One for the employment agency...

...soy milk store...

...and numbers for my other aunts

My parents' room is on the second floor

On the third,
my brother and aunt have rooms

And my little sister and I share a room

We share a black iron bed

Our bed cover...

...is white with red stripes

I want that black iron bed

Ask your sister to go out...

...so that we can sleep together

Hello?

Uncle!

Hang on

Uh...

Your button

What's so urgent?

What is it?

Weilong?

She'll be back soon

This way

Wait a moment!

What took you so long?

Get changed quickly

Uncle Situ needs you

Could I... excuse myself?

No!

I'm exhausted

Who isn't?

Start the car

"There's a port about 30km from Rome

It's called Ostia,
built in the fourth century

It was abandoned long ago"

But in the ruins...

...you can still see
black-and-white mosaic floors"

In the fourth century, Hong Kong...

...was probably still a rock under the sea

Nowadays there's a big
market for mosaic tiles

It's because of the climate here

It's humid and windy

We use mosaics not only as flooring...

...but also for walls and facades

"In fourth century...

Hong Kong was still a rock under the ocean

Now it is a big mosaic customer

Because the weather here is wet and windy

Floors are best paved with mosaic tiles"

Why isn't Sir Cheng here yet?

There's a polo contest

And George?

He went with his father

As he always does

It's not his father...

More the money in his pocket!

He is father's son

The more squabbles, the merrier

Is she your daughter?

I wish she were

But would she agree to it?

Thank you

Sir, buy some cigarettes?

Those rose-red tiles I chose...

Somehow they look wrong
now they're on the wall

Like a cave of blood, it's disturbing

Some shopkeepers use little tricks...

...to make their sales

The fact is...

When tiles are fixed in place and grouted...

...their colour will be darker

That's why they don't look so good

I was waiting for you to decide for me

But you didn't come back from Shantou

So I made the decision myself

You're too...

...impatient

Is that a token of apology?

I like it!

Look at this!

Who's the impatient one?

We're not even home yet and
you're handing out gifts!

It fits

Eh...

Miss Weilong

You can't refuse me this honour

Let me explain

These things... they're a pair

I can't possibly separate them

So I give one to your aunt

And the other one to you

One day your aunt's will be yours anyway...

So it makes no difference

Really

But... it's too expensive

I can't accept it

You should never refuse...

...an elder's gift

All you need to do is say "thank you"

You really haven't seen the world

Such petty behaviour!

I sincerely thank you

As they say, "Drink and be merry!"

Weilong

Wash your feet, get changed...

...and come down for a brandy!

Don't catch a cold

Weilong

Come down for a little drink

Here

Thank you

George

Yes?

Have you ever made plans for your future?

Yes, of course

For example, my plan...

...this evening is to see you

As long as the moon is shining

I'm talking about further ahead

I don't like to think that far ahead

There's no point, anyway

For example, when my father dies...

Don't say that!

When my father dies...

...he'll leave a dozen concubines

And at least that many sons!

Even his favourite won't get much

So what hope is there for me?

That's why I never think about it

Have you ever thought about trying to work

...and support yourself?

No

I can't support myself

Hey!

Here!

Is it sweet?

They're sweet

Really?

Weilong!

Come and try some!

We grew them ourselves

They're very sweet

Wonderful!

Sister

Come and try it

Yellow fruit

She says it's very sweet

Have another one

One more

- Thank you
- Wonderful

I need to tell you something

What is it?

I don't intend to marry

If I did get married, it wouldn't work out

Until I reach fifty

I'd be a useless husband

I mean it

I'm telling you honestly

Because you're a nice girl

Don't waste your time on me

I'm not

Let's go back up

I will, even if you don't

I can't promise you marriage

I can't promise you... love

But I can promise...

...to make you happy

What kind of talk is this?

I can promise you happiness

Isn't that the rarest thing in the world?

You'll make me happy?

You're torturing me

This isn't t*rture

I'm not torturing you

There'll be a bright moon tonight

What's wrong?

Are you afraid?

Afraid of me?

I'm not afraid of you

I'm afraid of myself

I'm afraid I'm losing my mind

Don't be afraid

You're not losing your mind

You're not

Not yet...

You tell me all this nonsense

Why do I have to listen?

You were waiting for me

You're teasing me

Me?

All of you are!

You're exhausted, Weilong

You need to be happy

Your aunt doesn't care for you

I can make you happy

Only me

I can

You know

You know everything

I know

I do know

Are you happy?

Weilong, you're too good

Marry me

Love me

You're the only one I can't lie to

I'm sorry

You startled me!

I'm the one to say that!

You made me jump

Good night

What did the Liangs do against your family?

You picked on Didi

And now you pick on Weilong

Listen...

She's not Didi

Oh dear!

Are you their avenger?

My dear girl...

Don't get angry

This is a small token

Come on, take it

Where's your pocket?

You think I care about your money?

What's that fragrance?

Ni'er!

You usually fight back!

What's wrong with you today?

Let her hit me

She's pitiful

What's going on?

Tell me what's going on

It's early, Ni'er was doing the washing

Miss was disturbed by the noise

She lost her temper

Go downstairs

You, come with me

It's very odd

What's so great about that Chiao boy?

You want him, she wants him...

I've made a big mistake

I should be punished

I'll serve you for the rest of my life

If you don't believe me...

Today... I'll take...

...a vow of chastity

You haven't offended me

It was Miss

Whether you stay or go

It should be her decision

Miss came to you for help

And Mistress provides her everything

Mistress should have the final say

You see that she's poor...

...so she needn't be respected

I treat her as one of my family

If that's what Mistress says...

Well...

There's no way out for me

You may go

Miss, your breakfast is here

Weilong

How can you treat me like this?

How will I explain to your father?

I'm sorry, aunt

It's because I trusted you too much

I wasn't watchful enough, and this mess

You're going to ruin me

Aunt

It was my mistake

Nothing to do with you

I'll return to Shanghai

If people start to gossip...

...and my parents hear of it...

...I swear I'll take all the blame myself

Definitely, no misunderstanding...

...will be laid at aunt's door

You plan to go home

That's well and good

But right now...

...is not the right time to go

I won't stop you going

I'm ready to hand you back to your father

But aren't you aware...

...how vicious gossip circulates

Before you even reached home...

...rumors could be spreading

And have reached your father's ears

It was my mistake, I'll take the blame

You've ruined your prospects

You'll never marry a decent person

Who can say where you might end up?

There's nothing I can do about it

Anyway...

I never want to see Hong Kong again

As you wish

Welcome, Mr Situ

Hello

You're back!

It went well?

Not bad

Did you behave?

No

And did she?

Her?

She did

Behaved herself to death!

Have some soup

Can't you even keep a good eye on her?

Why are you so angry?

Is she yours or mine?

You think I keep a brothel here?

You can come and go as you please?

How could I?

Your mansion is Hong Kong's finest

And Miss is your treasure

Then what do you have in
mind for my 'treasure'?

I'm no expert on the Chinese

But I've done my research

If Weilong's family wanted to talk to me...

...it would be to pressure me into marriage

They'd want the whole thing hushed up

Marry her?

Would you marry her?

Don't you know my answer?

I have no choice

I have no money, I live a cushy life

I was born to be an imperial son-in-law

Dream on!

Which emperor would have you?

So it's better I don't get married

Then tell Weilong...

...to forget you

Would she forget me if I told her to?

Don't quibble

You won't marry her...

...because she wouldn't keep you for life!

That isn't true

Stop pretending

You can't play the romantic

Who are you looking for?

Er... Ge Weilong

Who are you to come asking?

Who are you to come asking?

Weilong has flu, and a fever

We've sent for a doctor

Who was that?

Why was he so hostile?

He got here very late yesterday

You woke him, so he's grumpy

Don't make a fuss

I'm taking some classmates
to the golf course

I said I'd borrow a car

That's no problem

Very sorry

Service is suspended because of the weather

We apologise for the inconvenience

Service is suspended because of the typhoon

Please wait for further
announcements, thank you

Mistress

Miss is back

I see

Wait

Tell her to wash and get changed...

...and then come down for dinner

Uncle is here

Let's see how much weight you can pull!

Go and have a cigar

Leave us to have a heart-to-heart talk

Did you get a ticket?

There's a storm, the steamer isn't going

I need to bother aunt for a few more days

Now we are family

It seems to me...

...that you're destined to stay here

Destiny is punishing me

I should never have come to Hong Kong

So you're blaming me...

...for keeping you here?

It's all my fault

I let aunt down

If you really want to put things right

You should make George submit

And when he does...

...you can drop him

Or have fun with him if you prefer

That is prowess

Letting him go...

...would be too easy on him

Aunt

Me and George...

...are through

That's because you've treated him...

...the wrong way from the start

He's sure your heart is fixed on him

That's why he blows hot and cold...

...and doesn't take you seriously

You should spend more time...

...with other people

He doesn't care about you

But plenty of others do

Aunt

Thank you for considering my future

But I've decided to go home

This again!

You keep talking about returning...

...as if that solves everything!

I'm sorry, aunt

When you came here, you were one person

Now you are a new person

You've changed

So your home needs to change too

You think of returning to your old life

But you probably cannot

I know I've changed

I didn't like my old self

But I don't like what I've become either

I want to go back

And become a new person

"To Aunt"

Give it back!

These are my things!

Stuck-up b*tch!

Damn you!

You won't live long!

Bloody hell!

Quick!

I'll get it from this side, you go around

It's so big! Quick!

Where's it from?

Master

It belongs to Master George

Let it go

What's going on?

It's mine

That's my snake

Spoilt brat!

Right!

That's what I am!

You made the mistake of fathering me

Get out!

You drove my mother out

And now it's my turn

You're dreaming!

You invoke your mother?

You have the nerve to call her?

Mum!

Mum!

Mum!

Master?

Let it go

I'll yell if I want to!

Mum!

Daddy, no!

Sorry

Daddy!

Aunt

George doesn't want to marry

Is that mainly because of money issues?

I have no money

But I could earn some

Earn money?

Unlike you, I won't use a dead man's money

I'd rather use my own

A dead man's money?

You don't even have that!

Will your father leave you money?

I'm still young, I can try

Who wasn't young once?

You think being young is everything?

We'll have to see

You're young, but George still dropped you

At least I was still young when it happened

Not like you...

Long past your prime...

...but your desires are insatiable

You'll never know real love

As far as I can see...

...the way you look for love is ridiculous

That's not the whole story

I'm not only ridiculous

I'm also transgressive

How much gossip is there about me?

But what is gossip?

The wider gossip spreads...

...the more it stirs curiosity

It just boosts your prominence

It won't damage your future one whit

There's just one thing...

...you need to avoid at all costs

That's when...

You love someone

And the person doesn't love you

Tell me

How will you earn money?

I didn't ask Uncle for a single cent

But he gave me that bracelet, didn't he?

Ah, this child!

So Uncle pops back into your mind!

He started out being so kind

But you just pushed him away!

As if that bracelet would bite!

If you ask him for things now...

...he won't know if he should
give you sweets or roses

In case Miss rejects him again!

"Too expensive!"

Don't imagine that because
you're quite pretty

Can manage some conversation...

And know a few English songs...

...that people will shower money on you!

In my opinion...

You're too thin-skinned, vulnerable...

Too temperamental and too indecisive

You fall prey to your own emotions

Not well suited to this kind of work

I will gradually pick it up

You have a great deal to learn

Aunt

There's one thing...

Can you do me a favour?

At this point

I can't just wash my hands of you

What is it?

Aunt, please ask...

...George's father for permission

I must be properly married

But George himself must agree

The day will come...

...when he needs me

We'll try

Thank you, aunt

What about Ni'er?

Let her stay

Who would have thought...

...that a sweet kid would
grow up to cause such trouble

If things had been different then...

...there would have been other sweet kids...

...and not mixed-race ones, either!

You can dream

Our dream was all too short

If only old Liang had died sooner!

You're taking your time too!

After you

That b*stard!

You fathered him!

You have to swallow the bitter fruit

Fine, I'll give him to you

Do what you want with him

He could be your driver, your handyman...

Whatever,
as long as I don't have to see him

What if he becomes my nephew-in-law?

Marry your niece?

I've seen her

Rather a decent girl

Don't waste her on him!

You might think it's a waste

But she dotes on him

The child is set on following him

She even says she'll support him

And you approve?

I'd feel sorry for her

No matter what

It's better to keep her in the family...

...than to let her go elsewhere...

...and be bullied by strangers

So there's no bullying within the family?

Who'd be bullying who?

Of course

Under your watchful eye...

...there'd be no bullying

The young miss says...

...she wants a formal marriage

Then we'll do it properly

I'd come up with a betrothal gift

And we'd get a dowry in return

You cunning old fox!

We're all getting old

Tell me

What do you want to do with me?

Marriage

No

I can't get married

Why not?

Weilong is not good enough?

I'm not good enough

I can't control myself

Weilong will control you

She can't

You'll have to compromise

You want to marry a rich girl?

Your standards are so high!

She has to be rich enough
for you to consider

Even you could find that girl...

...she'd be spoiled

She wouldn't be as easy-going as Weilong

Your freedoms...

...would be curtailed

You need money to enjoy yourself

What's the use if you can't enjoy yourself?

Taste the wine

Try one, they're fresh

This is how they eat them in France

You pick one up...

lean backwards...

Bring your mouth forward...

And elegantly suck it in

It's certain that...

...after seven or eight years

Weilong's income will be greatly reduced

When she can't pay the bills any more...

...you can get a divorce

In British law...

...it's not easy to get a divorce

The only grounds for divorce are...

...adultery

And finding evidence of that...

...should be easy, shouldn't it?

Good girl

You'll finish school next year

You'll go back to Shanghai?

No

Your diploma will get you a job in Shanghai

Will you go to university?

I'll get married

To whom?

George

I'm going to college in Canada

My aunt will sponsor you?

As you know,
my own family couldn't afford to

George wants you as his best man

Fine

Come... Let's get ready

Let's start sh**ting

Bride and groom

Smile!

Smile!

One more

One, two, three

You prefer Shanghai or Hong Kong?

Hong Kong's scenery is wonderful

If I could swim

I'd probably like Hong Kong better

I'll teach you to swim

One, two...

Weilong

Come over for a toast

Coming

This is for you

Thank you, Father

Aunt

Thank you

Cheers

Congratulations

Thank you

Treat her well

Of course

Let's have lunch

I told you to stay away from him

Now you know what I meant

I'm not afraid of him

But he's afraid of you

He's always been an idler

But he's making an effort for you

Making an effort?

He never tires of climbing...

...from one bed into another!

You don't understand

We mixed-race people...

...have more hormones than you pure-bloods

I'm the same

An average boy doesn't satisfy me

How many men have you had?

Believe me,
I could have this one right now!

Would you ladies want anything else?

I want you!

From the menu, please

What's your name?

James

You may go!

You see?

At my beck and call

My brother doesn't mean it

He was born without any concept of loyalty

I understand

I understand all that

What I don't understand...

...is why I'm so much in love with him

I think he loves you too

But his way of loving...

...is a bit different from yours

When he falls in love...

...it's just for a moment

So I had my moment

No-one can rob me of that

But how meek I am

I'm so easily satisfied

What shall I do with
all the rest of my life?

There's no way out

I knew it would come to this

That's why I didn't want to marry

I didn't marry for my sake

I did it for you people

People?

Who else is involved?

No-one, just you

Just you is one too many

So I'm completely superfluous

Now you're miserable, I am too

Maybe you should let me go

I can let you go too

No

I'll give you a chance

I want to!

I can't control myself

b*stard!

b*stards have feelings too

I'm thinking of you

I don't want to see you suffer

I don't mind!

But why?

It's my fate

All right...

Weilong, treat yourself a bit better

I treat myself well

I'm happy

Yes, hit me

You'll feel better, I can feel better too

There's a paperweight on Father's desk

It's a glass sphere

When I had a fever,
the grown-ups let me hold it

To cool my burning hands

Inside the sphere,
there are little flowers...

Red ones, blue ones, violet ones

They form rough, geometric patterns

It was very heavy in the hand, that sphere

Very solid, you could rely on it

Uncle is calling, asking for Mistress

Which Mistress?

Be specific

The younger one

The new Mistress

Madam Liang or Mrs Chiao?

Mrs Chiao

Mrs Chiao

You got a wife without spending one cent!

She could well be called Mrs Liang

So you're my son?

As you like

I can be whatever you want

Why did Uncle call?

He's going to Shanghai

Business meeting

He needs me to translate

Must be a big trade deal?

I don't know

Shanghai...

I haven't been back there for many years

I wonder how much it's changed

Perfect!

You can go visit your parents

I won't do that

Must you go?

Does he know that we're on honeymoon?

Honeymoon...

Uncle seldom asks me to help

I can't really refuse

Whose 'uncle' is he anyway?

He's 'uncle' to all of us!

I want to go to Shanghai too

I've never been there

What would you do there?

My English is better than yours

I could come as a translator

You always have people working for you

When have you ever worked for others?

Is he your employer?

There's an old saying

"A gift demands a like favour"

Ever heard of that?

No

Well, you're a foreigner

I'm your husband

I'm your wife

We're two ants tied on the same rope

I won't let you go

While I'm away...

...you have other amusements

Don't go to Shanghai

Next time I'll take you, all right?

I don't want to go next time

I'll bring you back some treats

Don't want

I'll bring you...

Caramelised chestnuts

Spiced beans

And sesame sweets

Don't want

Be good

Won't!

Behave

Won't!

Fine!

Not fine

This way, please

George

Tell me...

Is Weilong good?

I have nothing to say

If you can't find fault...

...then she must be good

If she is good...

...what makes her good?

I'm not telling you

You won't tell me? Tell me!

Not as good as you

It was a serious question!
You're teasing me

Weilong is good in her own way

I'm tired

Bedtime

Master Chiao!

I don't dare!

Don't be scared

She can do what she likes and I can't?

Master Chiao

Mistress told me to stay here...

...to keep an eye on you

Watch me?

Isn't that exactly what you're doing?

Get out!

Sister Ni'er

I told you to get out!

Sister Ni'er!

Sister Ni'er!

Sister Ni'er!

Quiet!

George

George

Telephone

Young Master is out

Be quiet

Young Master

I don't want to let Miss down again

Tired?

It was a long day

Let's take the photo

George

Come on, join the photo

All right, everybody look this way

One, two, three

All right, everyone smile, look cheerful!

One, two, three

Let's go

Scares me!

Weilong, you're burning

Don't trick me

When have I tricked you?

Quick, kneel down

I'll stamp it out

I can see you!

Who's this?

I can see you

Really, Weilong

I love telling lies

But I've never lied to you

I don't understand it either

Why are you still talking about that?

I've never lied to you

Isn't that true?

No, you've never lied to me

Sometimes, though...

If you told me a small lie, I'd be so happy

But you won't do that

You can't be bothered

You don't need me to lie to you

You can trick yourself into being happy

Someday...

...you'll have to admit that I'm despicable

When that time comes...

...you'll regret...

...that you sacrificed so much for me

You might get angry enough...

...to k*ll me

Who can say?

The thought scares me

I went into this willingly,
what's it to do with you?

I can blame everyone, all the time...

...but not you

Anyhow...

The way we divide rights
and duties is really unfair

Unfair?

Where does 'fairness'
come into a relationship?

I love you, girl

Come on, mates

We got one!

Let's go

Come on, we're gonna show you a good time

I miss you

Gimme a kiss!

Easy, easy...

She's my girl

Those drunks...

What do they take you for?

How am I different from those girls?

Nonsense

Fine, I'm wrong

They're forced into it

I went in willingly

George

It's New Year's Eve

Will you give me a gift?

What?

Tell me a lie

You won't say it, I will

I love you...

...you heartless!