How to Catch a Guy
Serena style
Chapter 1
That Weird Feeling Called Hatred
****************************************************
Chapter 1
Standard disclaimor applies! I do NOT own sailor moon
or the characters in it, but this story most definitely came
from me!!!
************************************************
My pen seemed to tap itself on the desk as I waited
out yet another lecture from my Science teacher. I
never could quite grasp the concepts of chemistry,
only that it had to do with napping a lot and some
chemicals when combined, explode. (I had accidently
nodded off while the teacher explained which chemicals
mix and which ones do not mix) Not completely
understanding Ami's pale face when I poured two
bottles of funny colored liquids together into
a bowl....until it was too late..and the labbench
was suddenly covered in a sticky pink substance.
Glancing at the clock, I found only about five
minutes remained in this class. College classes
were quite tiring. I don't get how Darien could
stay up. Maybe it's because of all the coffee
the jerk consumes while he's talking to Andrew
in the arcade. Yeah, you guessed it, Darien the
jerk king Shields and I still fight, and Andrew
now owns the arcade. His ownership is great for
me, because he lets me have two free double scoop
sundaes for free each week. A treat for my impecible
grades. Yepperz....I've been a perfect student for
several years. It's funny though, because Dr. Darien,
as we now refer to him as, always teased me because
of my low grades. Now, I laugh in his face when I get
my exam scores back. One day, when Darien stormed
out of the arcade after I 'politely' volunteered my
grade percentage on my last Botany exam, Andrew told
me that my grades rivaled his, and that he just must
be jealous of my high scores. I watched Darien's
back disappear through the sliding glass doors and
then turned back to Andrew. Anyway....I'm getting
side tracked.
Glancing back up at the clock, my mouth hung
open as I watched the thin red hand that times
the seconds. It seemed to be stuck. How could it be
stuck?! I'm about to fall asleep here...this lecture
is boring, and the clock gets stuck. My eyes shift
to the professor, as I'm sure he has noticed by now
that I have been paying him absolutely no attention
this entire class. Sure enough, his unusually cold
blue eyes, are glaring straight at me. I offer a
slight nervous smile as sloutch down farther into
my seat. I'll be paying for this tomorrow when my
next quiz is. The shrill ringing of the bell startled
me and I all but fell out of my seat. Holding my watch
so that I could read the time, I realized that it was
my last class of the day, and that I would have to swing
by the arcade for a quick lunch with the girls before
work. I work as a secretary in my father's offices.
I do odd jobs like errands and such once in awhile,
sometimes I have to play maid and pick up a suit from
the dry cleaners, when one of Daddy's lawyers can't
make it before it closes.
Gathering my notebook, certainly not filled
with notes, and my pen, I stuffed it into my airforce
bag that doubles as a little backpack and head out
of the large classroom with the mass of other college
students. Fighting my way through the crowded hallways
I finally reach my car and release a sigh of relief. I
hadn't gotten much sleep lastnight. Ryan had stayed
the night, and well, you know how that goes.
Sliding the key into the lock I swiftly turned it
and was satisfied when I heard the soft 'click' of the
doors unlocking. Opening the door and slipping into the
driver's seat I flipped on the radio and blasted the air
conditioner after wiping the sweat from my forehead.
The knock on my window startled me and I whipped
my head around to see who it was. Rolling down the window
I poked my head out and flashed a smile. Ryan was leaning
against the back door.
"Hey. What's up?" I asked. He smiled slightly and
leaned down for a kiss.
"You wanna catch a quick bite to eat somewhere and
then head back to my place to study for our exams?" he
almost pleaded after planting a lingering kiss on my lips.
I managed to shake my head.
"I can't, sweetie. I have to meet the girls at the
arcade and then go to work. Maybe tomorrow, okay?" I offered,
seeing his expression sadden. He seemed to pout slightly
and I sighed.
"Are you sure that's what you want to do?" he tried
again after kissing me once more. I pulled away.
"That's not fair. Now get outta here, silly. I have
to go." I replied.
"Fine, I'll be at your place tonight, waiting." with
a seductive twist to his lips, he walked off. I sighed as I
watched him go, and then rolled up my window and started to
back out of my parking spot. I was caught offguard when the
passenger side front door opened and Mina slid in.
"What the hell?" I managed to gasp. She smiled
innocently. "Mina, what are you doing?"
"Well, my car is in the shop and Mike had some business
to take care of...so I was stuck without a ride. I saw your
car pulling out and decided to catch a ride from you. I hope
you don't mind." with that, she turned her pleading eyes on
me and I sighed in frustration.
"Fine." with that, I stomped on the gas and we drove
off.
The ride to the arcade was relatively silent and we
arrived in no time. Of course, there were Mina's complaints
about my driving and naturally, I ignored them. After finding
a decent parking spot I parked and we hurried into the arcade,
only two minutes late.
"Sorry about the timing." Mina huffed as she plopped
into the booth. I slid in next to her and finished our excuse.
"Trafic was crazy until we got out of the university
parking lot. It took us like five minutes!" After observing
the occupants I was convinced they had accepted the excuse
and Mina and I were safe. A waiter soon came up and we ordered.
I was sure the man was having a hard time because we always
order a lot of food. When he finally left, I turned my attention
back to the girls.
"So, what's been goin on with you and Ryan, Sere? I saw
you guys in the parkinglot." Mina giggled and poked me with her
elbow in my ribs. I glared at her and then ignored her.
"Spill." Raye demanded. I shifted my eyes towards her in
surprise.
"Spill what?" trying to play innocent is harder than it
seems.
"We know he was at your apartment lastnight, Rena. Don't
play dumb." Lita said and smacked a fist onto the table. "Tell
us what went on." came her demand. I sighed and my shoulders slumped.
"Alright already." shifting in my seat and debating on
wether to make a run for it or not, my plans were squashed when
a certain dark haired jerk and a blonde sweetheart came walking
in our direction. I turned back to the girls and whispered quickly,
"not while they're here. I'll tell you all later." with that, I
looked back to the two approaching guys and smiled at the blonde.
"Hey Andrew!"
"Hi Serena. How was your day?" he asked as he slid into
the booth next to me. Darien stole the seat next to Raye, who
was sitting across from me.
"Great. Another boring day in botany, though. I about
fell asleep." I told him as the waiter served our drinks. Andrew
laughed and I smiled more. Deciding to turn my attention to my
drink I was surprised to find Raye's hand pulling it away from
me. "Hey! Give that back, drink stealer!" I whined, but Raye only
slid it closer to her.
"Not until you tell us what went on lastnight." Raye smugly
replied and held it up to her lips. The arcade's airconditioner
did nothing to cool me down, and my mouth was dryer than a desert.
"Raye, that's not fair." I was on the verge of tears.
"Well, just tell us and then you can have your drink back,
Serena." came Amy's voice. My eyes swung to her and noticed that
there was a certain curiosity in her eyes that I hadn't seen before.
"You want me to humiliate myself infront of these two?" I
growled in a low voice, so that only she could hear. Satisfied when
she scooted farther away from me and closer to Lita in fear, I
snatched my drink from Raye and practically inhaled it. The sold
dark liquid dripped down my throat soothing it.
"What about lastnight?" Andrew asked confused. I spit out
the drink I had just taken and was slightly happy that it had
gotten Raye.
"MEATBALL HEAD! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Lita did a terrific
job of restraining her, but when I found that Lita looked tempted
to let her go, I cowered towards Andrew.
"Serena, did something happen lastnight?" Andrew asked me
gently after wrapping a comforting arm around my shoulders. I stared
up at him. It's funny how cute I still think he is, although he's
like my older brother.
"Nope." I squeaked.
"Somehow, I don't believe you." he drawled. A nervous smile
eased onto my lips and I attempted to change the subject, failing
miserably when we made eye contact. "Serena...." he added warningly.
"I....umm...."
"Ryan was at her apartment lastnight, but she won't tell us
what went on!" Mina suddenly gushed. I saw the look of surprise in
his eyes and cringed.
"What?" came his astonished voice and I lowered my head to
the table, hitting my forehead on the cold formica.
"Meatball head?" My head paused and I shifted my eyes towards
Darien. He looked slightly confused but mostly angry.
"What now?" I sighed in impatience.
"Let me get this straight. Your boyfriend, Ryan, went to your
apartment lastnight?" Andrew's voice sounded as if he was in a daze.
I managed a nod. He leaned down to whisper in my ear. I flushed, my
cheeks redder than the blood red rose and nodded again.
"That's my girl!" Lita chirped and held up her hand for a
high-five, which I did quickly.
"You should have been studying." came the unexpected reply
from Darien. We all stared at him and I couldn't help it. I was sick
of everyone thinking that all we did was......each other.
"We were studying!" I practically screamed.
"And afterward?" Mina questioned. I lowered my head and she
laughed.
"Why don't we change the topic?" I weakly suggested.
"Who's all going ot the fair next week?" Lita casually asked
while stirring her tea. I sent her a silent thank you with my eyes
and she returned it with an smile.
"I think Rita and I are going, but Darien still refuses to come
with us." Andrew said after shooting an angry glance at Darien. He
merely shrugged.
"I'm not into the rides very much these days." he offered and
ran a hand through his ebony locks. I stared at him open-mouthed.
"Who could not love the rides?" came my shocked shreak.
"Lower the decibals." Amy suddenly commanded, a stern look
in her eyes. I shrank back into Andrew's comforting arm and stared
at her with uneasy eyes. She offered an apologetic smile.
"I think Chad is on vacation time next week so he'll come with
me, and we're taking my little cousin Fiona with us." Raye informed us.
I beamed.
"You're bringing Fi? I love that little girl. Would it be
alright if Ryan and I borrowed her for an hour or so when we're
all there?" Raye nodded her concent and I surpressed a cry of happiness.
"Ryan's not got his job to worry about, Sere? I thought he worked
nights." Mina's confused voice reached the ears of all present in the
booth.
"I think his boss switched his hours. He works after classes till
ten at night sunday through thursday. Maybe he'll want to go friday
night." I replied with a shrug.
"Sere, it seems that he works an aweful lot. Are you sure that's
what he's really doing?" Andrew asked gently. I looked up at him in
shock before my surprise turned to anger and I glared daggers at him
after swiftly removing his arm from around my shoulders. Forget that
I ever tied his name to sweetheart.
"I don't care to answer that. I'm sorry you think so little of my
jugdement of character." I replied icily and unceremoniusly pushed him
off the bench and scooted out. Preparing to make my exit I sent him one
final glare as he laid on the floor looking stunned, and then turned and
glided out of the arcade, thinking to myself how stupid and unreasonable
his suggestion was. Suddenly, as I was unlocking my car door, a couple
caught my attention. Normally I would look away and not give them a
second glance, but right after Andrew's accusation I couldn't help but
be slightly suspicious. I didn't want to admit that I had thought the
very same thing not even a week ago, but now I couldn't help it, and
as I identified the couple my eyes widened. Playing tonsil hockey across
the street were Ryan, my sleezy, two-timing, no good cheating, rotten,
decieving scum-bag of a boyfriend, and Vanessa Niles. I saw red. Wondering
why?
I'll tell you.
Vanessa's flaming red hair, usually kept in a bun, cascaded down
her back and to just below her waist, while my boyfriend's paws were
tangled in it! I could spot his aqua hair, much like my good friend
Michelle's, from anywhere, and know upon instinct who it belonged to.
It wasn't hard, though, because aside from Michelle and that no-good
creep, I knew no one else with that shade of hair.
Anyway....
Before I knew what I was doing, I had crossed the street with
amazing speed, even for me, who had broken records in track, and none-too
gently grabbed his messily gelled locks, effectively ending their game.
"Explain." I growled and tugged mercilessly on his hair, causing
him to grimmace and bend down so as to not cause himself any unnecessay
pain. Oh, I was mad alright. Furious, enraged, and every other word that
went with it. He stared at me stunned, then his expression turned to horror.
I allowed my hand to tug at his hair again and basked in the glory as pain
marred his perfect face. My boyfriend was a charmer, I wouldn't date
anyone less.
"Sere, I-" I balled up a fist and waved it in front of his face.
"I said explain. No excuses, no whining, only the truth." I growled,
my eyes taking on the dangerous look that I reserved solely for Darien
at times when I was at my angriest or he teased me the worst. I felt an
arm wrapped around my waist and I was suddenly hauled backward, my grip
on Ryan's precious locks gone. "Hey!" I cried and tried, uneffectively,
to free myself from the strong arm that trapped me to a firm chest.
"C'mon meatball head. No sense in pounding him senseless
yet. Give him a chance to explain, before you kick his ass." came the
deep, smooth voice I knew all too well. And I lunged for Ryan wildly,
only to find myself wrapped tightly in Darien's arms. He swept me up
into his arms and I realized he was holding me in an iron-clad grip.
He turned to look at a stunned Ryan. "You better explain, buddy, before
I let Meatball head go." he nodded to Ryan.
"You jerk! You told me she dumped you last week. I can't believe
I trusted you not two days ago!" with that, I was slightly stunned to
hear the distinct sound of a hand against the smooth skin of Ryan's cheek.
Suddenly, the full meaning of her words clicked in my mind....and an
explosion worse than a volcano ensued.
"WHAT!?" I screamed and slipped from Darien's deathgrip like
liquid, to lock my hands around Ryan's neck. "You slept with her two
nights ago? And then you had the nerve to repeat the occurance with
me lastnight!? I'm gonna kill you!" I hadn't realized that I had been
actually strangling the guy and shaking him as I did it. I was jerked
back again, and this time, no matter how I kicked and struggled, I
could not break the hold Darien had on me. I was slung over his
shoulder like a sack of potatoes and after the stunned feeling
wore off, I pounded on his back in retaliation.
"Pipe down, Sere. You're drawing a crowd." Darien ordered and
I suddenly lost my voice. He had called me Sere. He had 'never' and
I mean NEVER called me that.
"Oh, Serenity I'm so sorry. I had no idea he was still with
you." Vanessa apologized. But the look on her painted face told me
she wasn't the least bit sorry. Vanessa had always tried to steal
another girl's boyfriend. In most cases, such as this one, she had
succeeded, but there had been a few, one or two, exceptions. Mine
had, unfortunately, not been one of them. My voice miraculously
returned. The crowd of Serena's cheered.
"No you're not, you idiot. You knew full-well that he was
mine. You've always prided yourself in trying to take away other
girl's boyfriends. Well, you can have this piece of crap. (I would've
used a more.....vulgar word but we were in the middle of the sidewalk
and there is an elementary school about a block away) I hope you
pay for this! You know what, both of you will pay!" I acknowlegded
the fact that Ryan and Vanessa were getting father away as I ranted
my anger and realized that Darien was carrying me away from them.
"Darien, jerkface, let me go." I had run out of names to call him
since I had used all of my good ones describing Ryan. Not about
to repeat the names towards him, I lost my voice again when he
chuckled and shook his head.
"Not until you're farther away from them and after you've
calmed down. Really, Serena, I expected more from you. Trying
to strangle your boyfriend and acting as childish as you did.
Controlled emotions have a much more satisfying effect for yourself
and you've only let Vanessa and Ryan get what they wanted.
Understandable that you should be mad, I support that much, but
wanting to physically cause him harm and actually acting out your
desires is not the way to go. Maybe later while you're at the gym
and you see him you can challenge him to a little boxing match,
in which I have no doubt you would win. You do have a mean right
hook you know." I just listened silently and remained unmoving
as we continued along. I had not idea where we were going, and yet
I couldn't find my voice to ask him either. I was quite surprised
when I didn't recieve one questioning look as we went along.
We must've looked pretty funny. A tall grown man with a college
student slung over his shoulder. It had to be unusual and definitely
not an everyday occuance, especially in this part of town......
right? I was pulled from my thoughts when he set me down on a
bench in the park. I felt slightly fearful of him as his tall
frame towered over me. Funny how he didn't seem so menacing in
the arcade. but now, he looked down right intimidating. My breath
caught once or twice as I stared up at him. It looked as if he had
no intention to move and I began to squirm under his piercing gaze.
"Umm....Darien?" I managed to find my voice and tried to
steel it as much as possible. It came out shakily though, much to
my dismay. He blinked a few times, and suddenly, as if realizing
what he was doing, he stepped back and sat down next to me on the
bench, a confused expression on his face.
"Sorry bout that. I don't know what came over me." he
mumbled sheepishly and looked away. I shrugged my shoulders
and sent him a slight smile.
"It's alright. If you hadn't interveened I would probably
be doing twenty years." I laid a hand on his shoulder. "Although
they would have been twenty years well worth it." I couldn't help
but add. He shook his head and turned to face me.
"You're something else."
"I don't know if I should take that as a compliment or not."
I replied with a raised eyebrow. His comment had certainly got my
attention. I was slightly intrigued to hear such a thing come
from his mouth, and I had a feeling it was not ment at all as an
insult.
"It's a compliment, although most women I know would find
it an insult. I'm surprised you caught that, Meatball head. You
always seem to find an insult in everything I say." he grinned
lopsided at me and something made my stomache flip. It could have
been the fact that I had skipped breakfast and had only had that
drink back at the arcade. The shrill ring of my cellphone interrupted
the silence and I fished in my pocket in search of it. Now, being
in the middle of summer, I wasn't completely stupid. I was wearing
a pair of jeanshort bibs and pink salsa style shirt that hung on my
shoulders and stopped at just under my ribs. Pink tennis shoes
completed my outfit, and my golden blonde hair was in a ponytail
with the tail hanging to my waist. Now that I thought about it,
I must've looked like his daughter as he lugged me down the street
because he was dressed in a casual pair of black slacks and a white
dress shirt.
"Serena here." I breathed into the phone.
"Serena, I thought you were going to be in for work five
minutes ago. Ryan called here looking for you, he sounded pretty
upset." A frown etched it's way on my lips.
"Sorry, dad, but I can't make it to work today. I feel sick.
Maybe it's the heat."
"Alright Serena. Get some rest and I'll see you tomorrow.
I'll have your mother call later tonight to check on you." I surpressed
the urge to sigh.
"Alright, dad. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye." I hung up,
and slipped the cell phone back into my pocket.
"You work for your father?" Darien questioned. I
stared up at him.
"Umm..Darien, my father is the owner of Yamada
and Dreskle." I replied. "I've worked as a part time
secretary there for years." At his confused expression
I grew slightly annoyed. Much to my surprise we
carried on pleasant conversation until the sun had
set. When the streetlamps came on I figured that
it would be time to head on home and hit the books.
"Listen," glancing at my watch, "I should probably
get home." He nodded and we stood.
"Not before you get something to eat though.
You look hungry." he said and I had not the strength
to argue with him.
"Alright." I gave in. We grabbed a quick bite
to eat at a fast food place and then he walked me to
my car. Odd enough, considering it was still parked
by the arcade. He opened my door for me and I
nervously stood before him, separated by the car
door that was between us. "Thanks for supper." I
replied.
"Anytime, Serena." came his reply. Awkwardly
I pecked him on the cheek and slid into my seat
before buckling my seatbelt. He shut the door
and I turned my key in the ignition. Driving
away, I saw him reenter the arcade from my
rearview mirror.
I shook my head as I entered my apartment.
Funny how messy it gets from only living in it
for about 6 hours a day. And that's when I'm asleep.
I threw my keys onto the counter and slipped off my
tennis shoes and tossed my airforce bag onto the couch.
Being a college student didn't mean you had to live
on campus. Speaking of classes I surpressed a groan
and went into my room to change out of my outfit.
It was cool in my apartment, contrasting greatly to
the hot air outside. Afer pulling on a pair of my
favorite comfortable black jogging pants and opting
for a white 3/4 sleeve shirt instead of the pink
garment I had worn today, I settled down at my desk
and hit the books, studying for my Botany quiz that
I knew would be hard. The phone rang and it caused
my hand to jerk and create a lovely line of bright
yellow highlighter across the paper I was reading.
Sighing, I reached across my desk and snatched the
phone from it's base.
"Serena here." I managed to sound happy.
"Sere I-" the phone magically slammed
itself back down onto the reciever and I felt
satisfied that I had actually hung up on him.
Well.....the phone had hung itself up.....but
I had been holding it. Maybe it was a magnetic one.
Go figure.
Deciding that I would never get much done if he
kept calling, I connected to the internet on my computer,
and then searched for my playlist to listen to some music
while I continued to study. Once the speakers blared
it, I resumed my highlighting, completely oblivious
to anything other than the writing.
************************************************************
i accidently replaced this chapter with chapter 2...so i had to go back and fix it. I'm still not sure if it's the right version, (because I corrected it a few times) but I hope it is. you know the drill.
read, review, pm messages are coo
and as always...e-mails are always welcome
expressoncream@hotmail.com
Serena style
Chapter 1
That Weird Feeling Called Hatred
****************************************************
Chapter 1
Standard disclaimor applies! I do NOT own sailor moon
or the characters in it, but this story most definitely came
from me!!!
************************************************
My pen seemed to tap itself on the desk as I waited
out yet another lecture from my Science teacher. I
never could quite grasp the concepts of chemistry,
only that it had to do with napping a lot and some
chemicals when combined, explode. (I had accidently
nodded off while the teacher explained which chemicals
mix and which ones do not mix) Not completely
understanding Ami's pale face when I poured two
bottles of funny colored liquids together into
a bowl....until it was too late..and the labbench
was suddenly covered in a sticky pink substance.
Glancing at the clock, I found only about five
minutes remained in this class. College classes
were quite tiring. I don't get how Darien could
stay up. Maybe it's because of all the coffee
the jerk consumes while he's talking to Andrew
in the arcade. Yeah, you guessed it, Darien the
jerk king Shields and I still fight, and Andrew
now owns the arcade. His ownership is great for
me, because he lets me have two free double scoop
sundaes for free each week. A treat for my impecible
grades. Yepperz....I've been a perfect student for
several years. It's funny though, because Dr. Darien,
as we now refer to him as, always teased me because
of my low grades. Now, I laugh in his face when I get
my exam scores back. One day, when Darien stormed
out of the arcade after I 'politely' volunteered my
grade percentage on my last Botany exam, Andrew told
me that my grades rivaled his, and that he just must
be jealous of my high scores. I watched Darien's
back disappear through the sliding glass doors and
then turned back to Andrew. Anyway....I'm getting
side tracked.
Glancing back up at the clock, my mouth hung
open as I watched the thin red hand that times
the seconds. It seemed to be stuck. How could it be
stuck?! I'm about to fall asleep here...this lecture
is boring, and the clock gets stuck. My eyes shift
to the professor, as I'm sure he has noticed by now
that I have been paying him absolutely no attention
this entire class. Sure enough, his unusually cold
blue eyes, are glaring straight at me. I offer a
slight nervous smile as sloutch down farther into
my seat. I'll be paying for this tomorrow when my
next quiz is. The shrill ringing of the bell startled
me and I all but fell out of my seat. Holding my watch
so that I could read the time, I realized that it was
my last class of the day, and that I would have to swing
by the arcade for a quick lunch with the girls before
work. I work as a secretary in my father's offices.
I do odd jobs like errands and such once in awhile,
sometimes I have to play maid and pick up a suit from
the dry cleaners, when one of Daddy's lawyers can't
make it before it closes.
Gathering my notebook, certainly not filled
with notes, and my pen, I stuffed it into my airforce
bag that doubles as a little backpack and head out
of the large classroom with the mass of other college
students. Fighting my way through the crowded hallways
I finally reach my car and release a sigh of relief. I
hadn't gotten much sleep lastnight. Ryan had stayed
the night, and well, you know how that goes.
Sliding the key into the lock I swiftly turned it
and was satisfied when I heard the soft 'click' of the
doors unlocking. Opening the door and slipping into the
driver's seat I flipped on the radio and blasted the air
conditioner after wiping the sweat from my forehead.
The knock on my window startled me and I whipped
my head around to see who it was. Rolling down the window
I poked my head out and flashed a smile. Ryan was leaning
against the back door.
"Hey. What's up?" I asked. He smiled slightly and
leaned down for a kiss.
"You wanna catch a quick bite to eat somewhere and
then head back to my place to study for our exams?" he
almost pleaded after planting a lingering kiss on my lips.
I managed to shake my head.
"I can't, sweetie. I have to meet the girls at the
arcade and then go to work. Maybe tomorrow, okay?" I offered,
seeing his expression sadden. He seemed to pout slightly
and I sighed.
"Are you sure that's what you want to do?" he tried
again after kissing me once more. I pulled away.
"That's not fair. Now get outta here, silly. I have
to go." I replied.
"Fine, I'll be at your place tonight, waiting." with
a seductive twist to his lips, he walked off. I sighed as I
watched him go, and then rolled up my window and started to
back out of my parking spot. I was caught offguard when the
passenger side front door opened and Mina slid in.
"What the hell?" I managed to gasp. She smiled
innocently. "Mina, what are you doing?"
"Well, my car is in the shop and Mike had some business
to take care of...so I was stuck without a ride. I saw your
car pulling out and decided to catch a ride from you. I hope
you don't mind." with that, she turned her pleading eyes on
me and I sighed in frustration.
"Fine." with that, I stomped on the gas and we drove
off.
The ride to the arcade was relatively silent and we
arrived in no time. Of course, there were Mina's complaints
about my driving and naturally, I ignored them. After finding
a decent parking spot I parked and we hurried into the arcade,
only two minutes late.
"Sorry about the timing." Mina huffed as she plopped
into the booth. I slid in next to her and finished our excuse.
"Trafic was crazy until we got out of the university
parking lot. It took us like five minutes!" After observing
the occupants I was convinced they had accepted the excuse
and Mina and I were safe. A waiter soon came up and we ordered.
I was sure the man was having a hard time because we always
order a lot of food. When he finally left, I turned my attention
back to the girls.
"So, what's been goin on with you and Ryan, Sere? I saw
you guys in the parkinglot." Mina giggled and poked me with her
elbow in my ribs. I glared at her and then ignored her.
"Spill." Raye demanded. I shifted my eyes towards her in
surprise.
"Spill what?" trying to play innocent is harder than it
seems.
"We know he was at your apartment lastnight, Rena. Don't
play dumb." Lita said and smacked a fist onto the table. "Tell
us what went on." came her demand. I sighed and my shoulders slumped.
"Alright already." shifting in my seat and debating on
wether to make a run for it or not, my plans were squashed when
a certain dark haired jerk and a blonde sweetheart came walking
in our direction. I turned back to the girls and whispered quickly,
"not while they're here. I'll tell you all later." with that, I
looked back to the two approaching guys and smiled at the blonde.
"Hey Andrew!"
"Hi Serena. How was your day?" he asked as he slid into
the booth next to me. Darien stole the seat next to Raye, who
was sitting across from me.
"Great. Another boring day in botany, though. I about
fell asleep." I told him as the waiter served our drinks. Andrew
laughed and I smiled more. Deciding to turn my attention to my
drink I was surprised to find Raye's hand pulling it away from
me. "Hey! Give that back, drink stealer!" I whined, but Raye only
slid it closer to her.
"Not until you tell us what went on lastnight." Raye smugly
replied and held it up to her lips. The arcade's airconditioner
did nothing to cool me down, and my mouth was dryer than a desert.
"Raye, that's not fair." I was on the verge of tears.
"Well, just tell us and then you can have your drink back,
Serena." came Amy's voice. My eyes swung to her and noticed that
there was a certain curiosity in her eyes that I hadn't seen before.
"You want me to humiliate myself infront of these two?" I
growled in a low voice, so that only she could hear. Satisfied when
she scooted farther away from me and closer to Lita in fear, I
snatched my drink from Raye and practically inhaled it. The sold
dark liquid dripped down my throat soothing it.
"What about lastnight?" Andrew asked confused. I spit out
the drink I had just taken and was slightly happy that it had
gotten Raye.
"MEATBALL HEAD! I'M GOING TO KILL YOU!" Lita did a terrific
job of restraining her, but when I found that Lita looked tempted
to let her go, I cowered towards Andrew.
"Serena, did something happen lastnight?" Andrew asked me
gently after wrapping a comforting arm around my shoulders. I stared
up at him. It's funny how cute I still think he is, although he's
like my older brother.
"Nope." I squeaked.
"Somehow, I don't believe you." he drawled. A nervous smile
eased onto my lips and I attempted to change the subject, failing
miserably when we made eye contact. "Serena...." he added warningly.
"I....umm...."
"Ryan was at her apartment lastnight, but she won't tell us
what went on!" Mina suddenly gushed. I saw the look of surprise in
his eyes and cringed.
"What?" came his astonished voice and I lowered my head to
the table, hitting my forehead on the cold formica.
"Meatball head?" My head paused and I shifted my eyes towards
Darien. He looked slightly confused but mostly angry.
"What now?" I sighed in impatience.
"Let me get this straight. Your boyfriend, Ryan, went to your
apartment lastnight?" Andrew's voice sounded as if he was in a daze.
I managed a nod. He leaned down to whisper in my ear. I flushed, my
cheeks redder than the blood red rose and nodded again.
"That's my girl!" Lita chirped and held up her hand for a
high-five, which I did quickly.
"You should have been studying." came the unexpected reply
from Darien. We all stared at him and I couldn't help it. I was sick
of everyone thinking that all we did was......each other.
"We were studying!" I practically screamed.
"And afterward?" Mina questioned. I lowered my head and she
laughed.
"Why don't we change the topic?" I weakly suggested.
"Who's all going ot the fair next week?" Lita casually asked
while stirring her tea. I sent her a silent thank you with my eyes
and she returned it with an smile.
"I think Rita and I are going, but Darien still refuses to come
with us." Andrew said after shooting an angry glance at Darien. He
merely shrugged.
"I'm not into the rides very much these days." he offered and
ran a hand through his ebony locks. I stared at him open-mouthed.
"Who could not love the rides?" came my shocked shreak.
"Lower the decibals." Amy suddenly commanded, a stern look
in her eyes. I shrank back into Andrew's comforting arm and stared
at her with uneasy eyes. She offered an apologetic smile.
"I think Chad is on vacation time next week so he'll come with
me, and we're taking my little cousin Fiona with us." Raye informed us.
I beamed.
"You're bringing Fi? I love that little girl. Would it be
alright if Ryan and I borrowed her for an hour or so when we're
all there?" Raye nodded her concent and I surpressed a cry of happiness.
"Ryan's not got his job to worry about, Sere? I thought he worked
nights." Mina's confused voice reached the ears of all present in the
booth.
"I think his boss switched his hours. He works after classes till
ten at night sunday through thursday. Maybe he'll want to go friday
night." I replied with a shrug.
"Sere, it seems that he works an aweful lot. Are you sure that's
what he's really doing?" Andrew asked gently. I looked up at him in
shock before my surprise turned to anger and I glared daggers at him
after swiftly removing his arm from around my shoulders. Forget that
I ever tied his name to sweetheart.
"I don't care to answer that. I'm sorry you think so little of my
jugdement of character." I replied icily and unceremoniusly pushed him
off the bench and scooted out. Preparing to make my exit I sent him one
final glare as he laid on the floor looking stunned, and then turned and
glided out of the arcade, thinking to myself how stupid and unreasonable
his suggestion was. Suddenly, as I was unlocking my car door, a couple
caught my attention. Normally I would look away and not give them a
second glance, but right after Andrew's accusation I couldn't help but
be slightly suspicious. I didn't want to admit that I had thought the
very same thing not even a week ago, but now I couldn't help it, and
as I identified the couple my eyes widened. Playing tonsil hockey across
the street were Ryan, my sleezy, two-timing, no good cheating, rotten,
decieving scum-bag of a boyfriend, and Vanessa Niles. I saw red. Wondering
why?
I'll tell you.
Vanessa's flaming red hair, usually kept in a bun, cascaded down
her back and to just below her waist, while my boyfriend's paws were
tangled in it! I could spot his aqua hair, much like my good friend
Michelle's, from anywhere, and know upon instinct who it belonged to.
It wasn't hard, though, because aside from Michelle and that no-good
creep, I knew no one else with that shade of hair.
Anyway....
Before I knew what I was doing, I had crossed the street with
amazing speed, even for me, who had broken records in track, and none-too
gently grabbed his messily gelled locks, effectively ending their game.
"Explain." I growled and tugged mercilessly on his hair, causing
him to grimmace and bend down so as to not cause himself any unnecessay
pain. Oh, I was mad alright. Furious, enraged, and every other word that
went with it. He stared at me stunned, then his expression turned to horror.
I allowed my hand to tug at his hair again and basked in the glory as pain
marred his perfect face. My boyfriend was a charmer, I wouldn't date
anyone less.
"Sere, I-" I balled up a fist and waved it in front of his face.
"I said explain. No excuses, no whining, only the truth." I growled,
my eyes taking on the dangerous look that I reserved solely for Darien
at times when I was at my angriest or he teased me the worst. I felt an
arm wrapped around my waist and I was suddenly hauled backward, my grip
on Ryan's precious locks gone. "Hey!" I cried and tried, uneffectively,
to free myself from the strong arm that trapped me to a firm chest.
"C'mon meatball head. No sense in pounding him senseless
yet. Give him a chance to explain, before you kick his ass." came the
deep, smooth voice I knew all too well. And I lunged for Ryan wildly,
only to find myself wrapped tightly in Darien's arms. He swept me up
into his arms and I realized he was holding me in an iron-clad grip.
He turned to look at a stunned Ryan. "You better explain, buddy, before
I let Meatball head go." he nodded to Ryan.
"You jerk! You told me she dumped you last week. I can't believe
I trusted you not two days ago!" with that, I was slightly stunned to
hear the distinct sound of a hand against the smooth skin of Ryan's cheek.
Suddenly, the full meaning of her words clicked in my mind....and an
explosion worse than a volcano ensued.
"WHAT!?" I screamed and slipped from Darien's deathgrip like
liquid, to lock my hands around Ryan's neck. "You slept with her two
nights ago? And then you had the nerve to repeat the occurance with
me lastnight!? I'm gonna kill you!" I hadn't realized that I had been
actually strangling the guy and shaking him as I did it. I was jerked
back again, and this time, no matter how I kicked and struggled, I
could not break the hold Darien had on me. I was slung over his
shoulder like a sack of potatoes and after the stunned feeling
wore off, I pounded on his back in retaliation.
"Pipe down, Sere. You're drawing a crowd." Darien ordered and
I suddenly lost my voice. He had called me Sere. He had 'never' and
I mean NEVER called me that.
"Oh, Serenity I'm so sorry. I had no idea he was still with
you." Vanessa apologized. But the look on her painted face told me
she wasn't the least bit sorry. Vanessa had always tried to steal
another girl's boyfriend. In most cases, such as this one, she had
succeeded, but there had been a few, one or two, exceptions. Mine
had, unfortunately, not been one of them. My voice miraculously
returned. The crowd of Serena's cheered.
"No you're not, you idiot. You knew full-well that he was
mine. You've always prided yourself in trying to take away other
girl's boyfriends. Well, you can have this piece of crap. (I would've
used a more.....vulgar word but we were in the middle of the sidewalk
and there is an elementary school about a block away) I hope you
pay for this! You know what, both of you will pay!" I acknowlegded
the fact that Ryan and Vanessa were getting father away as I ranted
my anger and realized that Darien was carrying me away from them.
"Darien, jerkface, let me go." I had run out of names to call him
since I had used all of my good ones describing Ryan. Not about
to repeat the names towards him, I lost my voice again when he
chuckled and shook his head.
"Not until you're farther away from them and after you've
calmed down. Really, Serena, I expected more from you. Trying
to strangle your boyfriend and acting as childish as you did.
Controlled emotions have a much more satisfying effect for yourself
and you've only let Vanessa and Ryan get what they wanted.
Understandable that you should be mad, I support that much, but
wanting to physically cause him harm and actually acting out your
desires is not the way to go. Maybe later while you're at the gym
and you see him you can challenge him to a little boxing match,
in which I have no doubt you would win. You do have a mean right
hook you know." I just listened silently and remained unmoving
as we continued along. I had not idea where we were going, and yet
I couldn't find my voice to ask him either. I was quite surprised
when I didn't recieve one questioning look as we went along.
We must've looked pretty funny. A tall grown man with a college
student slung over his shoulder. It had to be unusual and definitely
not an everyday occuance, especially in this part of town......
right? I was pulled from my thoughts when he set me down on a
bench in the park. I felt slightly fearful of him as his tall
frame towered over me. Funny how he didn't seem so menacing in
the arcade. but now, he looked down right intimidating. My breath
caught once or twice as I stared up at him. It looked as if he had
no intention to move and I began to squirm under his piercing gaze.
"Umm....Darien?" I managed to find my voice and tried to
steel it as much as possible. It came out shakily though, much to
my dismay. He blinked a few times, and suddenly, as if realizing
what he was doing, he stepped back and sat down next to me on the
bench, a confused expression on his face.
"Sorry bout that. I don't know what came over me." he
mumbled sheepishly and looked away. I shrugged my shoulders
and sent him a slight smile.
"It's alright. If you hadn't interveened I would probably
be doing twenty years." I laid a hand on his shoulder. "Although
they would have been twenty years well worth it." I couldn't help
but add. He shook his head and turned to face me.
"You're something else."
"I don't know if I should take that as a compliment or not."
I replied with a raised eyebrow. His comment had certainly got my
attention. I was slightly intrigued to hear such a thing come
from his mouth, and I had a feeling it was not ment at all as an
insult.
"It's a compliment, although most women I know would find
it an insult. I'm surprised you caught that, Meatball head. You
always seem to find an insult in everything I say." he grinned
lopsided at me and something made my stomache flip. It could have
been the fact that I had skipped breakfast and had only had that
drink back at the arcade. The shrill ring of my cellphone interrupted
the silence and I fished in my pocket in search of it. Now, being
in the middle of summer, I wasn't completely stupid. I was wearing
a pair of jeanshort bibs and pink salsa style shirt that hung on my
shoulders and stopped at just under my ribs. Pink tennis shoes
completed my outfit, and my golden blonde hair was in a ponytail
with the tail hanging to my waist. Now that I thought about it,
I must've looked like his daughter as he lugged me down the street
because he was dressed in a casual pair of black slacks and a white
dress shirt.
"Serena here." I breathed into the phone.
"Serena, I thought you were going to be in for work five
minutes ago. Ryan called here looking for you, he sounded pretty
upset." A frown etched it's way on my lips.
"Sorry, dad, but I can't make it to work today. I feel sick.
Maybe it's the heat."
"Alright Serena. Get some rest and I'll see you tomorrow.
I'll have your mother call later tonight to check on you." I surpressed
the urge to sigh.
"Alright, dad. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye." I hung up,
and slipped the cell phone back into my pocket.
"You work for your father?" Darien questioned. I
stared up at him.
"Umm..Darien, my father is the owner of Yamada
and Dreskle." I replied. "I've worked as a part time
secretary there for years." At his confused expression
I grew slightly annoyed. Much to my surprise we
carried on pleasant conversation until the sun had
set. When the streetlamps came on I figured that
it would be time to head on home and hit the books.
"Listen," glancing at my watch, "I should probably
get home." He nodded and we stood.
"Not before you get something to eat though.
You look hungry." he said and I had not the strength
to argue with him.
"Alright." I gave in. We grabbed a quick bite
to eat at a fast food place and then he walked me to
my car. Odd enough, considering it was still parked
by the arcade. He opened my door for me and I
nervously stood before him, separated by the car
door that was between us. "Thanks for supper." I
replied.
"Anytime, Serena." came his reply. Awkwardly
I pecked him on the cheek and slid into my seat
before buckling my seatbelt. He shut the door
and I turned my key in the ignition. Driving
away, I saw him reenter the arcade from my
rearview mirror.
I shook my head as I entered my apartment.
Funny how messy it gets from only living in it
for about 6 hours a day. And that's when I'm asleep.
I threw my keys onto the counter and slipped off my
tennis shoes and tossed my airforce bag onto the couch.
Being a college student didn't mean you had to live
on campus. Speaking of classes I surpressed a groan
and went into my room to change out of my outfit.
It was cool in my apartment, contrasting greatly to
the hot air outside. Afer pulling on a pair of my
favorite comfortable black jogging pants and opting
for a white 3/4 sleeve shirt instead of the pink
garment I had worn today, I settled down at my desk
and hit the books, studying for my Botany quiz that
I knew would be hard. The phone rang and it caused
my hand to jerk and create a lovely line of bright
yellow highlighter across the paper I was reading.
Sighing, I reached across my desk and snatched the
phone from it's base.
"Serena here." I managed to sound happy.
"Sere I-" the phone magically slammed
itself back down onto the reciever and I felt
satisfied that I had actually hung up on him.
Well.....the phone had hung itself up.....but
I had been holding it. Maybe it was a magnetic one.
Go figure.
Deciding that I would never get much done if he
kept calling, I connected to the internet on my computer,
and then searched for my playlist to listen to some music
while I continued to study. Once the speakers blared
it, I resumed my highlighting, completely oblivious
to anything other than the writing.
************************************************************
i accidently replaced this chapter with chapter 2...so i had to go back and fix it. I'm still not sure if it's the right version, (because I corrected it a few times) but I hope it is. you know the drill.
read, review, pm messages are coo
and as always...e-mails are always welcome
expressoncream@hotmail.com