Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Seed and Gundam Seed Destiny or any of its characters.
A/N:Count on me to come up with the crappiest of names and titles. Anyways, hope you guys like it. Happy Holidays everyone!
Warning:I am fully aware of facts regarding GS and GSD. However, I will not be following most of them since this is after all AU. I will be revising information I find fits the story. So if there is some false information about a character, a place, or event within the fic- please, don't upbraid me.
" " for speech
Italic for flashbacks, thoughts, and opinions.
Rated – T for language and themes.
Can't Hate You Anymore: Chapter 1: "Impressions"
"What? Are you serious? You're assigning me to some basketball game?" The girl with the auburn almost cried when she heard the news. This isn't what she wanted!
"Yes, I'm serious" The senior in front of her answered while editing a dozen of paper works in his desk without giving her a second look.
"But Sai, I'm more capable than you think, I've trained for long hours and –". Just before the auburn haired girl could utter another word, Sai Argyle puts down everything he's doing and looks at her straight in the eyes.
"Look Miriallia, I know you're a very good photographer but as Editor-in-Chief of the school paper, we still have to rate your capabilities, since technically you're still a newbie." Sai clarified, taking off his glasses to clean it.
It is true that Miriallia is new to the press. However, it is also a fact that she used to be the president of the Photography club but gave it up because she wants to contribute more to society like her boyfriend, Tolle Koenig, so she decided to tryout for the school press.
"But Sai, I want to cover politics and investigative reports! Please Sai!" Miriallia was now on her toes and desperately pleading. "I want to capture events that matters!"
"I'm sorry Milly, but rules are rules." Sai shook his head. "And besides, basketball is pretty big here, you might have fun." Sai said, putting his specs back on.
Miriallia pressed her toes; she just has to think of another reason that would convince Sai and change his mind. But before she could utter another comeback, two seniors with press IDs hanging around their necks came barging into the room.
"Chief, we just got a big scoop!" the first one exclaimed, huffing to catch her breath.
"Yes, the GAEA party has a new candidate to run against FAITHS's Athrun Zala!" the other one with a camera added excitedly grabbing Sai through his shirt while Miriallia watched from the sidelines as it happens.
The three seniors further discussed the situation. And why shouldn't they be talking about it? It was definitely big news… Well, in Xavior.
She could already tell that Sai was already absorbed by the sudden update of events. And it doesn't have to take a genius either to know that she was now completely ignored. She would not be able to discuss her position in a time like this.
She'll just have talk to him some other timebut right now she had work to do. She thought and left the room unnoticed.
Normally unlike Sai, her parents couldn't afford the tuition fee in this exclusive school, but she and her boyfriend, Tolle were able to attain a scholarship degree with their high grades and activeness in extra-curricular activities.
"Have fun…hmph" Miriallia mumbles as she heads her way to the gym, where the basketball team is practicing.
Sai didn't used to be like this. He used to be a very considerate person especially to his friends. It was only after his long-time girlfriend Flay Allster dumped him for Kira Yamato, claiming that he is too nice and gullible for her taste.
After that, Sai became obsessed with his work and studies. He'll stay at the office for long hours and spend most of his time editing articles. Not that it's bad, since all that work made him the next Editor-in-Chief of their school paper. But still, Miriallia misses the old Sai, the one that she, Tolle and Kira used to hang-out with.
"Well, I guess everything deserves a chance…" Miriallia gave a sigh and pushed the gym door open.
00000
"He shoots and he score!!" Everybody at the gym cheered as Dearka Elsman made a smooth fade away shot at the last second.
"Great game, Elsman!", Miguel Aiman gave the ace a pat in the back and handed him a cool water bottle.
"Wait 'til it's the real thing" Dearka answered smugly before taking a sip of fresh cool water.
At nineteen years old, Dearka Elsman has already attained the status of ace in the school's basketball team. And as a result, he was made captain of the basketball team. The youngest captain since only seniors gets to attain that status before.
It was indeed a great honor, but Dearka wouldn't settle for anything less either. He and his buddies Athrun Zala and Yzak Joule had a reputation to live up to. They are handsome, rich, powerful and famous; girls get excited with just the mere mention of their names and there's not a single soul in Xavior who doesn't know who they are.
And there is no way he would let himself get left behind. Athrun will be running for President of the student body and Yzak Joule has also been named as captain of the Debate Team.
And besides, he's really good at this sport.
Life is good. Dearka gave himself a smile and a pat in the back.
Dearka was just about to head for the locker room to join the others when he saw a petite girl with auburn hair approach him.
Dearka studied her from top to bottom as she heads towards him. She's quite small, and has a very thin frame. She dresses casually with a yellow orange tee paired with khaki cargo pants and a white cotton jacket. She was wearing it with white sneakers and on her neck was a SLR camera.
Probably just wants his picture and autograph. Dearka run his hand through his hair. The girl isn't really his type but a fan is a fan.
"Ummm… excuse me, I'm Miriallia Haw, I'm here to cover the basketball highlights for the school paper. Is it possible for me to speak with your coach or team captain?"
Dearka's jaw almost dropped after hearing this. This girl doesn't know who he is? How does she not know who he is!?
"Well, you must be new around here. I'm Dearka Elsman, star player, team captain and campus heartthrob." Dearka gave Miriallia a flirtatious smile while extending his hand for a handshake.
"Uh huh…" The girl just stared at his hand and raised her eyebrows.
"Actually, I'm already a junior here. But it's my first time-" before Miriallia could finish her sentence, a girl with long pink hair instantly leaps into Dearka's arm.
For a moment Mirillia was shocked at female's sudden appearance.
The girl was all over the guy. She hugged him tightly like a teddy bear while making kissey puppy dog faces.
" Umm, excuse me…" was all Miriallia was able to stutter since the girl with pink hair instantly gave her a cold stare.
"Oh, I'm Meer Campbell, and Dearka and I are currently going out. But don't worry, you'll eventually find someone." Meer gave a fake smile while hugging Elsman even tighter.
As if! Milly wanted to laugh her guts out. As if she would want Elsman as her boyfriend! Ms. Campbell could have Elsman all to herself for all she cares! Why on earth would she even think of wanting an arrogant and obnoxious guy like Elsman?
Though despite the offensive line Meer pulled on her, Miriallia cannot deny that she finds Meer Campbell really beautiful. She looks like a model you see on magazines. She has fair creamy skin complementing her round blue eyes and pouty lips. Her long pink hair just slides behind her slender but gifted figure. She wore a micro mini denim skirt with a white sleeveless v-neck top with plunging neckline, further emphasizing her breast. Her shoes were white open toed 4" stilettos, making her almost as tall as the guy she held so tightly.
Meer Campbell was certainly one of those idols who she would really admire if it wasn't for her awful qualities. Mirillia pondered.
"Come on, Dearka! I want to watch the trailers!" Meer exclaimed, trying to drag the male away with his arm.
"But I'm still talking with Ms. Haw! And I haven't taken a shower yet, you don't want me to look like a wet mop do you?" Dearka replied, rolling his eyes, he likes Meer but she can be a bit touchy, feely and irritating at times.
"No, its okay," She waved her right hand defensively. "I wouldn't want to get in the way of your plans for today." Miriallia replied, taking a quick glance at her watch. "I'll just come back another day." she manages to give them a semblance of an ordinary yet amazing smile and just like that, she left the gym door so easily that it had rendered Dearka speechless.
00000
Miriallia shook her head while unpacking in her room. She definitely disapproves of a couple like that. The guy is obviously not serious with her and yet still the girl flaunts herself all over him. She doesn't really like Miss Campbell but she hates to see one of her own kind being treated that way. Or maybe that Elsman guy isn't as bad as he seems?
Campbell looks like someone who can get anyone she wanted…so why him? Miriallia sighed to herself in disapproval. And why the hell was she thinking about those two's relationship?! That was simply none of her business.
"There everything is set and organized" Miriallia proudly announced to herself as she checks out her new room, followed by a sudden swoosh of the door. My new roommates are here. The thought itself made her smile.
A girl with short blonde hair instantly took a stand on the door, purposely trying to block the bigger guy at the entrance.
"I told you, I can handle it! I'm a big girl" the angry girl demanded, trying to steal her own luggage from the bigger guy's grip but there was no avail.
Miriallia quietly watches the two continue to argue and overlooking her presence as if she doesn't exist.
She's a feisty one. I hope I don't get into any trouble with her. She just simply couldn't afford one since she's on a scholarship. One of her roommates last year was a coordinator named, Shiho Hahnenfuss. And Shiho's straight-forward and tough demeanor always got them into a lot of trouble with their neighbors.
There was a time when Shiho was trying to sleep but some girls from outside the room were making a lot of noise. Shiho didn't think twice and got a fight with a red headed freshmen girl, named Luna Maria Hawke. Of course, being the good natured roommate, she got herself into the middle and was the one who got them to stop beating each other up.
Unfortunately, Shiho, Luna and herself got punished with 200 hours of public service.
"Excuse me Miss, I hope you don't mind but I'll have to do a little investigating around the room." The big guy suddenly approached her.
"Oh, no. I don't mind at all." Miriallia stood up, scurried alongside the blonde girl, leaving her stuff unattended. A bit confused. "What's this about? Who is he?" Miriallia asked the blonde in a whisper. As both girls watched the senior surprisingly rummage the room.
The blonde girl with amber orbs sighed. "Unfortunately, my overly protective bodyguard"
"Oh, I see." She was partially speechless. The room may be all messed-up again but at least she doesn't have to worry about her getting into trouble.
The senior went all out and searched the room for anything dangerous. He looked under furniture's; opened the drawers and closets to look at the contents. Shirt, pants, dresses, shoes, socks, a camera. Surprisingly trashing the place in the process.
"Okay, the place is perfectly safe. I'll be leaving then" Miriallia watched him give the blonde a nod, acknowledging his leave and then silently exited the room.
"Well, that was certainly unusual." so much for clean and organized. Miriallia sigh, heading back towards her bed and realized that she and her roommate were not yet properly introduced. Thus she started, "By the way, I'm Miriallia Haw, my friends call me Milly, and I'm into photography. What about you?" She smiled, looking at the blonde who struggles to pull her luggage towards the bed space next to hers.
"You're still actually talking to me?"
"Uh, shouldn't I be?" she simply looked at her confused.
"Well, yes, I mean no! It's just that the last time Kisaka did a room search; it drove my roommates crazy… I'm just surprised you're not angry at me." she shrugged.
"Oh, come on, it wasn't such a big deal. It's not your fault, if you have an overprotective bodyguard." Miriallia replied honestly, as straightened her now messy bed.
"Yes, it is! Rummaging a room is like an invasion of privacy! That stupid thing was the root of all the fuss back in our room last year!"
"Really … Having people concerned about you isn't that bad." She simply arches a brow. It is true, that her roommate was right but what's so wrong about doing something extreme for someone you cared for?
"Oh, yeah!" She paused, raising her voice as if trying to prove something. "During my first year here, father was so cautious about my safety that he has gotten me a room of my own! He even had a bodyguard following me everywhere!" she frowned.
"Hold it. That was you?" Miriallia could help but chuckle at the thought. She could still picture that very image in her mind. Back during her frosh years here at Xavior. There were times when she saw a formally dressed guard always following a casually dressed tomboyish girl everywhere she goes. There were also times she had seen the girl intentionally running away. Though she could have sworn she heard rumors that it was Princess Cagalli Yula Athha of ORB… Wait….Miriallia mentally paused, raking her brain for something significant, and that something made her gasps. "You are Princess Cagalli Yula Athha!"
00000
What was that about? Hours had already passed since the incident but Dearka is still pondering on what had happened earlier at the gym.
That girl with the camera, Miss Haw, was it? After that certain incident back at the gym, he just could seem to take his mind off- how insignificant she had treated him and how she had left him there so damn easy. Straight to the point – he found it rather unusual.
Over the years, boys around her age would have given anything to be him. Girls on the other hand, would have swooned in place, if he let alone winked at them! Heck, they would even kill just to be his girlfriend. So what went wrong? He certainly was not losing his touch, was he? Hell must have frozen over if that were to happen. The way she had treated him like he was some average commoner who was just happens to be there and not be looked at as something admirable seemed so bizarre, and so alien that it made him start to question his worth- an act that had never pop into his head since ever!
Well, what do you expect from an only son of a billionaire whose dad just recently got into politics?
"Dearka! Drive slowly! I just had my hair done!" Meer complained trying to fix her composure.
"Meer, what do you think of me?" Dearka asked her, his eyes fixed on the road.
"What do you mean?" Meer replied while retouching her make-up.
"I mean…Describe me" Dearka gave a quick glance at Meer who was putting more foundation into her face. She would look a whole lot better without all those make-up on.
Meer shuts her make-up compact, seemingly slightly disappointed. "I think you're the hottest, cutest, most good looking and coolest guy I've ever dated." Meer bat her eye lashes and squeeze in beside Dearka, giving him a soft smooch on his cheek and rested her head on his shoulder. "Is that all you're going to ask me?"
"What else do you have in mind?"
"I'm not sure, maybe something like… Will you be my date for the upcoming annual Homecoming Dance?"
Dearka shook his head with a monotony expression on his face. This is going to be a hell of a long drive.
00000
"I'm home!" Dearka announced as he enters the comfort of his room that he shares with his good friends Yzak and Athrun.
"Uh huh…" Yzak gave a faint reply, trying to ignore him while reading a thick book on his bed. Probably something for the debate team.
"So how was your night?" Athrun asked, while typing something on his notebook computer with his reading glasses on. Hemust be doing something for the student council. He is after all running for President this school year.
"Same old…Meer got me to watch another chick flick." Dearka tiredly answered as he sat down on Athrun's bed.
"So how was your night?" Dearka joked at Athrun.
"Same old…I'm finishing the FAITH platform for the campaign." Athrun answered, not taking his eyes off his work and continues typing.
Dearka took a peek on Athrun's messy desk. There were paper works, news clippings, folders scattered all around. Oh, wait what's this?
Dearka took a glossy magazine with Cagalli Yula Attha on the cover.
Dearka shook his head. Poor kid. He motioned.It was only last year when he knew about it. Athrun has been crushing on this girl for who knows how long and still does not have the guts to come-up to her. But then that's what his here for. "Athrun Zala, when are you actually gonna ask Athha out?"
Athrun blushes suddenly and grabs the magazine from Dearka. "Where did that came from?"
"Bro, you had a crush on her for years! You can't just stare at her pictures forever!" Dearka commented, grabbing the magazine from Athrun once again and studied the cover and grinned. "You know, Athha does look cute when she's all dressed up."
Athrun grabs the magazine again. "I'm using this for reference. There are a lot of political facts here." He defended, this time securing the magazine inside his drawer.
"You can give all the reasons in the universe, but there's really no point on denying it. Take Yzak and Shiho for example!" Dearka sniggered. He loves to tease his roommates especially Yzak. They may be all tough and confident in school but they shy away instantly when it comes to girls.
"For the last time, there's nothing going on between me and Shiho!" The male with silver hair put his book down and gave Dearka a death glare.
"See? You don't want to end up all cranky and uptight like that just because you can't ask the girl you like out." Dearka referred to Athrun, while ignoring Yzak, who was now saying a whole lot of bad words.
"Dearka…" Athrun looks down at his laptop.
"Look dude, I'm not saying that you should jump in front of her and ask her out but at least have a casual conversation with her. You know, go flirt a little." Dearka gave Athrun a wink.
"You want me to flirt?" Bewildered at the thought Athrun fought to stay cool and collected.
"Yeah, and if you haven't notice there's a whole bunch of girls who always follows you around. Get to know them and maybe you'll find someone you'll actually like." Dearka stood up and heads to his side of the room.
"Me…flirt?" Athrun was left speechless.
"It's not as hard as you think. You've obviously seen me do it loads of times." Dearka added, turning around to face Athrun before dropping himself onto his bed.
"Idiot! He just can't go on flirting with every girl who chase after him like you!" Yzak exclaimed, finally slamming his book shut.
"I'm just saying, if you take too long, the girl of your dreams may be taken away. Take Shiho for example.-" Dearka was now emphasizing the works to Yzak, causing the boy to flinch.
"If you're so smart, how come with all your fan girls, you haven't found a serious girlfriend yet!?" Yzak suddenly blurted it out without thinking.
The room fell silent.
"Dearka, I didn't mean-" Yzak stuttered when he finally came back to his senses. He may act all tough and annoyed all the time but he really values his friends.
"No, it's okay. There's no point on denying it." Dearka was now serious, and flopped his head onto the pillow, his gaze facing the ceiling. "I may date a lot but I want my girlfriend to be someone I'm really serious and crazy about."
The room was still silent. Both Athrun and Yzak did not dare say a word. Dearka may seem jovial all the time but he is also one of the most sensitive guys around.
"But hey! If I do, I definitely won't let her get away." Dearka managed a small smile on his features before pulling up his bedspread; he shifts to his right, deciding to get some shut eye. "Good night!"
Yzak also decided to get some shut eye but the room was much too lit.
"Athrun, would you just turn-off the damn light already! People are trying to sleep here!" Yzak irritably shouted while continuously turning and shifting through his sheets.
"Don't mind us Athrun. Yzak is the only one with light problems." Dearka Elsman yawned and stretched his tired arms. He definitely won't let her get away.