Based on a true story with permission from both Anthony and Evon. Part 1
In the bustling city of Johor Bahru, amidst the laughter and clinking beer mugs in a pub, fate weaved a love story that was tested over the years.
It was December 20, 1999, a night when friends gathered to celebrate a birthday. Evon, at the age of 28, found herself in the company of friends and new faces, in an unfamiliar place. She was not a party animal, drinking and smoking were not her thing. Little did she know that she was to be introduced to someone that would change her life forever!
三生有幸
Anthony was handsome and eloquent with words, making him stand out in the crowd. He was involved with 2 major secret societies in Singapore and incarcerated a few times for multiple crimes totaling over 20 years. One thing is for sure, Anthony was not getting back in again! So up north to Malaysia, where sub-branches can still lend support for him. And that night was one of those nights in one of his regular joints, that would be the turning point of his life.
She was greeted with a warm smile and his charismatic charm swept her off her feet. She was immediately attracted by his humour and sincerity that mirrored by the intensity of his gaze when their eyes met. As their conversation unfolded, she found herself increasingly drawn to his intellectual prowess and the way he effortlessly navigated through various topics. His strong perception of the world was evident, and it only added to his appeal. She couldn't help but feel a deep admiration for the man he was becoming, and it ignited a spark of romantic interest that blossomed with every passing moment they shared.
Anthony was immediately captivated by Evon's allure and her incredible innocence. She was someone with few words and yet her polite gestures speak volumes. He had many girls in his life but no one could make his heart skip beats like she did.
Evon comes from a strict family and adores her mother and respects all her decisions, who had rejected her first boyfriend because "Mummy didn't like him", she said matter of factly. From friends and acquaintances, she veers from promiscuity truly believes in devotion, and stands by this unwavering principle.
Anthony believes a girl who doesn't take alcoholic drinks (despite repeated offers from him) and also rejects any other goodwills, fits his idea of being reliable. Something he values deeply and yet finds it extremely rare. He was convinced that she was the one he could spend his entire life with.
Despite their differences in habits – she didn't drink or smoke, while he refrained from smoking but enjoyed a good drink – there was an undeniable attraction between them. Their initial connection grew stronger as they exchanged contacts, and within two days, Anthony called her, inviting her to dinner for an actual date. He strongly believed that if he wanted to start this relationship right, he had to be honest and tell her the truth.
On this very first date, Anthony, with unflinching honesty, shared his past incarcerations, laying bare his soul to her. He also revealed that he was on the run for manslaughter in Newton Circles, Singapore. Evon was shocked to hear this but she is also mesmerized by his overwhelming charm, honesty, and sincerity. She took a leap of faith and allowed the relationship to gravitate towards the rabbit hole.
As they spent time together, Evon found Anthony to be very sincere, never failing to shower her with his assiduous attention. He is always there for her, with prompt calls, regular visits, and flowery surprises. Even so, she politely rejects all drinks and "shopping money", valuing the sincerity of their connection over material gestures. Two weeks passed, filled with interactions, shopping sprees, and movie dates. They found that they shared the same thoughts, often finishing each other's sentences.
Soon, a crucial opportunity arose. Evon was heading back to her mother's home in Kuala Lumpur. Without hesitation, Anthony proposed to accompany her, eager for her mother's approval. This invitation held significant weight, especially considering Evon's previous boyfriend had been rejected due to her mother's disapproval. The week they spent together turned into a month, and Anthony successfully gained her mother's approval due to his diligence and active participation in family celebrations.
“你会 娶 我吗?"
"老婆， 嫁给我"
Anthony was determined to assure her of his commitment and their journey continued seven to eight years of dating, marked by unstable income, which postponed their wedding to August 15, 2008. Even during this trying times, he always have regarded her as his wife. He shared his most unforgettable words he uttered, "老婆， 嫁给我". Its not a question, not a even a permission, its more like a promise, a vow delivered with the most determined and sincere eyes of a loving alpha male.
Despite amassing a small fortune, he gave all his assets and wealth under his name to be transferred to her. His brothers from different clans knew her and had them to protect her in a heartbeat. He also vowed to give her absolute love and everything he had, but there was still something he couldn't give; peace of mind and a stable future, something Evon hopes for above all else. In 2009, he made a life-altering decision to turn himself into the Singapore police force, facing an 8-year sentence for manslaughter. Anthony hopes to start a clean new slate with proper income for Evon.
For five long years, Evon faithfully visited Anthony in jail, accompanied by his third sister. Every month, they were allowed 2 hours of visitation, and each time she cried, pouring her heart out that missed him day and night. Anthony consoled her and also wanted her to be strong as he knew that it's not easy for her.
“一直哭， 下一次，不要来了”
As the distance and time stretched between them, Evon picked up new skills, including manicures, to keep herself occupied. Every month, she would visit him accompanied by his sister. There was an unspoken respect of strength for each other.
As the day of his release approached, she expressed her intention to return all the assets as she was just holding on for him. Anthony, deeply moved, declined the offer, appreciating the sentiment more than the material possessions. In a touching gesture, they went shopping with his sister to buy gifts for Evon and he surprised her with a beautiful watch.
That was many years ago, Anthony is now a manager of a cleaning company. And As promised, Evon now enjoys more quality time with him and has also provided a much stable life and income. They are looking forward to their 3 room BTO HDB Flat.
For Anthony, success was embodied in finding a good wife and cherishing her. He believes that every day with Evon is a blessing, which is why she is always present wherever he goes.
Evon believed her duty as a wife was to remain loyal and faithful, not overthinking and finding solace in her husband's presence. Even today, she couldn't sleep without him at home, and she loved his suggestions for places to go, with Japan, especially Mount Fuji, holding a special place in her heart.
不在巅峰时慕名而来， 不在低谷时转身离开
Their shared belief echoed in the idea that love was a lifetime commitment, not confined to a mere day or two. As Evon and Anthony faced life's trials together, their story became a testament to the enduring power of love, loyalty, and the unwavering bond between two hearts.
PS: Yes, I agree with many of you that this article seems Déjà vu and there are even movies about this.... but this is rather unique. Real Life, Real names, and Real pix. I have seen them more 5 times over the past 3 months and they always appeared together for meals and when they walk, they are still holding each others hands. I believe in love, the power it wields, the strength it brings and the hope it gives. May God continue to bless this lovely couple.
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