Disclaimer:
I do not own Gundam Wing or any of the characters belonging to Sunrise and Bandai.
This original story has been written for reading/entertainment enjoyment and not for profit.


Had Enough
Chapter Two:
Five Years Later

And then chaos interrupted Their soluitude...

Preventer Headquarter isn't by any means the hub of Sanc society nor is it considered such within any other social assembly known throughout the Sphere. Being universally acclaimed as an ESUN task force charged with detecting potential problems as well as being widely known as the agency that "Doses Political Fires," Preventer never had a dispute with mass media and public scrutiny. Until now…

Naturally, the unauthorized announcement that the Ten Year Anniversary Party is to be held at Preventer Headquarter didn't help to alter their principled image as Political Justifiers. Nor does the now public knowledge that several Preventer officials are to be recognized for their aid during and after Operation Meteor help to discourage unwanted attention either. Instead, war efforts seem to be the most societal topic of interest circulating the gossip mills internationally and for those completely affected by it, this new found interest created a huge negativity factor.

This public interest has fabricated an astronomical problem for Preventer. As recognized as the Universal Police Force along with Sphere International Security, they couldn't afford mass media and communal attention, which at this current moment, is exactly what they are receiving. PHQ (Preventer Headquarter), the now trendy acronym for such a pivotal and integral task force, has roused Sanc but good and now, through efforts most ineffective, has to pay the price: Code 9807 (or more commonly known as an agency lock-down). One of which, whispered in the corridors of PHQ, is a pain-in-the-ass. Or at least, one very agitated and fed up Commander Chang Wufei concludes.

So for Commander Heero Yuy, whose last visit to PHQ marked most uneventful, to walk into the lobby of Sanc's newest society hub, had him nearly thrown off guard. Despite Heero's cold and callous expressions, was fighting the urge to abort his mission of finding Madam Commissioner Une for new assignment details. Or at the very least to find a familiar face that didn't have a camera propped on their shoulder or a microphone clasped in their hand.

"This is ridiculous." A fellow Preventer muttered as he shoved his way past Heero with several documents secured tightly within his grasp, fighting the crowds with a menacing look. Looking calmly around the busy lobby, Heero took in a deep sigh. Gone was the solitude and quietness that swept through the once sanctuary. Instead, several Preventers hustled and bustled about, portraying the very image of working ants stocking their burrows for a deadly winter. Reporters and civilians alike filled every chair and most of all wall space, just waiting for a glimpse of something out of the ordinary. Which is pretty unlikely to happen, given that most cases are ushered to strict APO levels, mainly out of public viewing.

"Should I consider that an expression of indifference or frustration?" A deep voice questioned from behind Heero, silent footsteps closing the distance between the two bodies. A smirk lifted to Heero's lips as he immediately recognized the voice but remained silent.

"Allow me to justify my statement…" the voice continued in mocking tones concealing his true emotions. "Did I just detect a trace of confusion in that cold exterior you call a face?"

Heero's entire body froze for a spilt second as the other man's words sank in. An old memory invaded his thoughts, suddenly forcing him to relive the last time he saw this particular comrade of his who had said those exact same words to him previously. Funny, how one phrase can take on so many different meanings. Suddenly an image of piercing ocean blue eyes broke through his concentration, allowing Heero a few seconds to immerse himself into a long forgotten memory of a young woman he hardly knew but wanted desperately to stay close to.

It took Heero a little longer to respond than usual but finally he managed to utter a "What do you think?" before completely dismissing the old memory that assaulted his thoughts. It was never good to recall old memories, especially ones that were confusing and uncertain.

"Neither." The former War Hero stated in a flat tone to Heero. "Probably amusement more than anything."

"Hn." Came Heero's cool response.

Commander Chang Wufei ignored the silent response, made a curt nod of greeting towards his fellow comrade than quietly stood next to the other man, taking in the vitality of the lobby. A woman, who seemed to be explaining her current state of distress, ignored the officer whom she spoke with, continuing to belligerently state in probably the most annoying tone, an issue that had something or other to do with stolen goods and cheese. "This is ridiculous." Wufei uttered, rubbing a calloused hand over his eyes.

"That's what someone else said." Heero supplied, folding his arms over his chest while shifting his glaze to Wufei. "How long has it been like this?"

Wufei shot Heero an annoyed look. "Two, maybe, three months. Not sure though. Wasn't really here."

"Barton?"

"Travel District."

Heero raised an eyebrow and waited for Wufei to continue but when the other man made no move to say anything more, Heero started to walk away. Wufei, lost in thought, watched distantly as his comrade walked off, smirking silently at the fleeting figure.

"Une contacted both of us." Wufei volunteered evening knowing that it wouldn't stop Heero from walking away. Some traits die hard. "Maxwell was with Barton when the call-back was transmitted."

Wufei's comment took Heero by slight surprise causing him to pause. He hadn't realized both Duo and Trowa were in the Travel District much less Space during the same time as he had been. However, not knowing their cords because of specifically advising Une to only make contact with him when necessary, deemed his not knowing solely his own fault. Not that he would have visited them, but nevertheless, Heero liked to be in the know, which of late, he's been completely with out. But that's going to change now that he's back in Sanc. It's about time he came back to reality even if so many things have changed.

The former Wing Zero pilot took another short lived glance around the busy lobby. This really is ridiculous, he thought to himself, ignoring the pounding on the desks and consistent chatter filtering through the corridors. How the hell is someone supposed to work around here with all the crowds? This is a private agency that needs solitude not some damn rowdy…

"Circus?" Was supplied from somewhere beyond the shadows. Slowly, a form emerged from the dark corridors, revealing a tall, nicely built man with deep emerald green eyes and a partially covered face.

"You would know better than I." Heero stated, much too bothered by the crowds littering the lobby than he'd like to admit. Commander Trowa Barton hid his smile as he made his way over to where Heero stood with a now amused Wufei who had just caught up with them.

"He didn't know that you two were in Space." Wufei offered, step-siding a Preventer who was holding a large metal box in his arms. "What the hell…" Wufei trailed off as he eyes followed the Preventer towards the elevators.

"Maintenance work in TD-453." Trowa commented to no one particular, also watching as the Preventer stepped into the elevator only to disappear from sight. "That's probably the new server." He figured, since he was the one who had ordered it.

Recently, PHQ's main data backup system was intruded upon, hacked by an unknown mole secretly stationed within the headquarters. Heero knows that part of his new assignment is to trace all leads from the hack but the details are still a little unclear. Judging by Trowa's raised eyebrows and Wufei's agitated mood, not to mention the overwhelming crowds, something was definitely wrong.

Heero's eyes also followed the Preventer holding the server until both man and said equipment disappeared from sight. He made a mental note to do a background check on Mikale Long before making any further assumptions. Lost in his own thoughts, Heero almost didn't notice the turning of several heads…

Just then the PHQ went radio silent as the lobby's TV screen switched to audio-on, displaying a female reporter at the threshold of Sanc Convention Hall discussing the reconstruction of said building. All three men stood quietly, watching the broadcast with minor interest until a breaking news bulletin flashed across the screen, revealing a blurred image of two very important public icons.

Instantly, chaos erupted in the lobby, as whistles and cheers followed with uncivil catcalls filled the air. Wufei and Trowa ignored most of the unnecessary uproar, as they were used to the unjust behavior that just recently plagued PHQ, but as for Heero, he was yet again caught off guard. Time spent in Space really took a toll on him. Though the commotion deemed offensive, it didn't make cause for his current state of silence; instead, it was the unexpected picture on the screen that held his attention so restrictedly.

A female reporter in her late twenties pulled a 180° and switched her topic of interest towards the photo on the screen, planting the most condescending smile ever to grace day time television. She mirrored the classic reporter image of processed hair, over-the-top makeup and inappropriate attire. The reporter went on to announce, "Marking the screen is a snapshot of Prime Minster Darlian in tow with beau Teagon Westrope of Millennium Construct. The "It" couple shown was photographed taking a stroll down Newport Boardwalk hand-n-hand, eating vanilla ice cream and sharing plenty of smiles."

All three men stared at the screen, Heero more hardened by the sudden shift of interest than Wufei or Trowa. He continued to watch as the reporter went on to discuss Relena's current relationship with the Sphere's Sexist Man Alive and Heero almost didn't hear either of the men's swift intake of air as another presence invaded their private circle.

Relena Darlian, known throughout the Sphere as former Vice Foreign, Foreign and now Prime Minister, concentrated on her breathing. Ridiculous for sure she must have looked, but be damned, the man she'd "walk-on-water" for stood a mere four feet away. And all she could think about is how in the hell she's supposed to react. Instead of having an anxiety attack, she concentrated on her outward appearance, hoping that her body language didn't show the slightest hint of strain due to Heero's presence.

Without making a scene, the powerful blond figurehead managed to take in a long drugging look of Heero Yuy while she could, before the unsought of determined eyes realized she graced their company. Though it was unlikely that Wufei and Trowa would announce her presence, she knew that she shouldn't press her luck too far. After all, it only takes one person to recognize her then all hell will break lose.

Casting a slow glance at Heero's form, she took in his intimidating height, broad shoulders and solid muscles. While knowing, back during their younger years, that he'd develop into a fine looking man, she didn't realize how good looking he'd actually become. Though admitting that some of her attraction towards him was definitely physical, back during their time together, she never felt that his looks were the only contributing factor. There is definitely something to Heero Yuy that no man will ever have. And at the current moment, even Relena doesn't know what that factor is.

As she continued to study Heero, Relena could distantly hear the irritating voice of the perky reporter who was unmorally discussing her most recent afternoon off with Teagon. "Rumor has it that Prime Minister Darlian was spotted earlier this week wearing a diamond ring around her neck… Do I smell an engagement?"She nearly gasped at that latest remark, wondering where in the hell that reporter woman got that juicy piece of information. She shot a quick glance at the back of Heero's head. Did he just tense up or was she merely imaging that he had?

"But neither PR reps for either party have confirmed the rumor to be true. So for now, ladies and gentlemen, keeps those dreams alive. You might still have a chance to steal the hearts of these two stunning individuals."

Relena huffed and rolled her eyes. As if anyone could just steal her heart away! Love is a little more complicated than mere sweet words and sly smiles. She of all should know better than most. After spending most of her adult life hanging onto the fleeting hope of a future with Heero Yuy, she would be the first to announce that love has its many flaws…

"This is one of the more accurate reports of late." Relena slipped out, her attention focused directly towards the screen.

A deadly calm instantly penetrated the space around them, closing off the rest of the world from their tiny private circle. Relena watched as three sets of shoulders tensed, one more so than the other two. Wufei smirked when he instantly recognized the feminine voice, shifting his eyes towards Heero, watching silently as the other man continued with mild interest as the interview progressed.

"You're in over your head with this one, Yuy." Wufei quietly cautioned to Heero, a comment of which was thoroughly ignored.

Gaining a little more courage, Relena decided to voice another opinion regarding the interview that was broadcasting before them on international television. "Accurate enough," in regards to the interview she spoke, "save for one piece of information." A sigh escaped her smoothly parted lips as a steady hand raked through her golden locks.

Trowa, whose attention wavered between the outspoken Prime Minister and his longtime comrade-in-arms, cringed just a little. Knowing better, he opted to keep his mouth shut and his thought's silent. Wufei, however, concealed no such discipline and while receiving a menacing glare only befit Trowa, questioned Relena quite rudely on her outspoken comment.

"Majority of the report?" Commander Chang asked, breaking the most uncomfortable of silences to ever grace PHQ. Rolling his eyes, Trowa quietly bowed out of the little intimate circle, throwing over his shoulder, "Chang's right, Yuy." Relena raised an eyebrow at that off the shoulder comment.

Giving a rare smile accompanied with a customary salute, Relena watched the tall green eyed solider walk coolly away, a flicker in her eyes of appreciation. While in truth, none of the other four pilots who fought alongside Heero were completely uncivil towards her, she had to admit that Commander Trowa Barton by far is the most attentive and if possible, the most approachable as well. Especially towards her, on several occasions actually, though she never thought anything of it until now. A private smile lifted to her lips, a smile of which turned Wufei's attention as well as Heero's.

"Well?" Wufei questioned impatiently, drawing Relena back to her unexpected comment.

"Oh, pardon me Commander. You asked-"

"-what you meant by majority?" Wufei finished.

Relena gave him a smug grin and replied in the most sincere of voices, "There was some error to her report. The ice cream, you understand, was actually chocolate chip mint and not vanilla."

Wufei just about swallowed his tongue. Ice cream? Just what the hell is this woman talking about now?

"You used to like vanilla." Uttered a different voice filled with dead calm and slight resistance. Choosing not to look at Relena, Heero indirectly focused his attention on a suspicious looking civilian pacing the PHQ lobby. Another few seconds of silence elapsed bringing an onslaught of awkward vibes. Wufei instantly regretted his choice of questioning and looked about, searching for an opportunity of escape.

Relena, who was too stunned by Heero's sudden show of interest, tried to speak but no words came out. Slowly, as if the Earth's axis shifted, Heero's eyes caught her's.

The look that met her eyes was cool, distant and something else unreadable - an expression of callous indifference.

This is certainly not her Heero….

A mocking brow raised above his left eye, Heero silently wondering what she'll say next. He wasn't disappointed when Relena shot him a cursed smile. "You're right. I used to love vanilla, but I've also come to realize that some tastes change over time…"

Ouch! Wufei could feel the chill from her icy words as he backed out the conversation, wisely noting to himself never to question Relena again. Not that the ace mobile suit pilot had any flaws, but one for the record, he really needs to learn how to keep his mouth shut.

A cold chill swept down Relena's spine as she watched Heero's face very closely, trying to pick up on any trace of hurt, pain or annoyance. Nothing! Heartache stabbed her. Could it be possible that he'd become even more distant and less responsive in public than before?

"I thought you dislike vanilla flavoring, sweetheart?" An uncertain voice questioned from behind Relena, startling her out of unwanted thoughts. "Or is it raspberry flavoring? I can never remember."

Teagon Theodore Westrope, son of mass tradesman and shipping heir to Millennium Construct, is by far one of the most charming and attractive men throughout the entire solar system. Aside from his devilish good looks of bleach blond hair and piercing green eyes, his fortune, accumulated through corporate mergers and buy-outs, further helped to appeal his growing public interest. If it isn't enough that every woman between the ages of sixteen and thirty-six want him as a bed partner, even men scrape tooth and nail just to get an audience with him. Forget the fact that he's known secondly as Prime Minister Darlian's beau; Teagon stole the hearts of Earth and Space's citizens and for men like Commander Heero Yuy, is an extremely dangerous threat.

Relena slowly turned to the sound to Teagon's voice, gracing him with the most becoming of smiles. The look in her eyes, Heero noted, seemed foreign to him. As if this version of Relena is a mystery. Her very presence changed considerably, the cool comfortableness quickly vanished replaced with a feeling of uncertain. As if at first she didn't know how to handle a situation like this were two of the most important men in her life stood a mere five feet away from one another. And slowly, naturally, the feeling of unease started to dissolve, pushing away the uncertainty of how to respond and simply taking it all in.

Sooner or later this moment was bound to occur. And there was no avoiding it…

So smoothly, almost unnoticeably, Relena joined her hand with Teagon's like so many times before. Stealing an upward glace at him, waiting to see if he recognized Heero, Relena mentally tugged at her heart to stop the racing beats. She knew years ago, five to be exact, that when they broke things off, Heero would eventually have to come to terms with her finding a new man to share her life with.

Which is way she can't prolong the inevitable….

"Hello Commander Yuy. Allow me to introduce my fiancé, Teagon Westrope."

Heero's eyes snapped instantly towards her's, a cold invisible sweat making his skin uncomfortable. Time froze and the air surrounding his space became unbearable to breathe in. His ears started to ring and his vision tried to blur but he wouldn't allow it. What did she just say?

"Teag…" Relena drew in the attention of man whose hand held her's, a silent plead accompanied with a feeling of anxiousness crushing against her lungs. "Teag, this is Commander Yuy with Preventer, my former bodyguard during my administration as Vice Foreign Minister."

Immediately after she quietly uttered those words did realization hit Teagon. This is the man that Relena used to be in love with. Not just in love with, but completely and whole heartedly in love with. The man that he tried desperately for months to get her to forgot about.

The jerk that had put his Preventer badge before her love.

Teagon tugged at Relena's hand, drawing her in for a half-sided embrace, never once taking his eyes off of Heero. A cold disturbing smirk sunk against his bottom lip and just before Teagon politely made his greeting Heero could have sworn he heard the man call him a bastard.

The truth hurts like hell….


Authored by: aep

A/N: Blah! Sorry that took me so long to write. The just recently got promoted and have been working at the office later and later in the evenings trying the get things done… Argh, which hasn't left much time for writing. Oh and I've also got hooked on Battlestar Galactica and Prison Break so… Yeah, I know, I'm guilty!!

Please review if you find yourself wanting to read more. I'd love any remarks you have. Pardon the grammar and punctuation errors. If you happen to know of a great editor, a referral would be wonderful.