Full Summary:
Serena Manen never wanted Prince Charming, but Darien Shields, a self-proclaimed Prince Charming, didn't care. He wanted her, and with the help of their friends, convinced her to marry him. It fell apart as she expected. The marriage was a failure - he was unfaithful and she was discontent.
Deciding to rid herself of the baggage that was her husband, she redid everything. She restarted her life beginning from the time before she had even met Darien. It was easy really. A new job, a new man, a new life, she was optimistic everything would turn out right. After all, she couldn't remember the pain of heartbreak. And Darien? Who was he anyway?
A/N:
For everybody who read the first chapter a year or so ago, I'm so sorry for only updating now. I have no excuses. I've had lots of time and I have a full outline of the plot. It's just that I haven't been in the mood at all. I cannot promise speedier updates, but I can tell you that I know where the story is going at least and that part isn't a problem at all.
As always, your reviews are greatly appreciated. Whatever errors you find, please point them out to me, so that I can correct them. Thanks and hope you guys enjoy.
If you want an image of Serena's dress, the link is in my profile.:)
Disclaimer: Think Sailor Moon's mine? You've got the wrong person, buddy. But here's my autograph for the compliment.
Part I: To Know – Chapter 2: The Deal
"School is out. Mina's in London. I'm totally free for the entire weekend!" exclaimed Serena to herself as she walked out of the studio.
Just as she was planning all the lazy relaxing things she could do, someone started calling her.
"Hey, Meatball Head!" he shouted.
Serena knew it was Darien Shields. After their second meeting and his leaving with Rei, he started popping up everywhere. She had to contend with seeing him, but at least they never really had to talk to each other. And she honestly thought he wanted to keep their acquaintanceship that way too. Well, no matter. Even if his sentiments have changed, hers haven't. Serena would still be stoic as a rock. She continued walking forward with no mind for the man.
"Hey, Meatball Head!" The voice was louder and seemed closer this time. Serena hastened her steps.
"Hey, Meatball Head!" Darien grabbed her arm and turned her around, "Are you deaf or something? I've been shouting your name for the past minute."
Serena sighed. There was no getting out of this. "No I am not deaf. I was simply trying to ignore you."
"You do know that that was me trying to be polite and giving you a good excuse for being rude?"
"Niceties are for strangers who have just met and people who actually like each other. We're neither, so I don't see any point in them," she sniped. "Let's get this over with. What do you want?"
"Touché," he mock applauded. "I'll get straight to the point then. I need a date for my parents' anniversary party tonight."
Serena raised her eyebrow. "I don't see how that has anything to do with me."
"I need a date. I need you to be my date," Darien clarified.
"What! There is no way I'm going out with you. For one, I hate you. Well, not exactly, but I really honestly dislike you, possibly even loathe you," she babbled on incoherently seemingly to herself.
"That doesn't matter. That's why I picked you actually," he smiled in reply.
"La-di-da, lucky me then, huh?" Serena replied sarcastically.
"You are, you know, even if you won't admit it."
"Why, because the wonderful Darien Shields has deigned to ask me out?"
"No, because the wonderful Darien Shields has deigned to ask you out to a party full of Hollywood hotshots." With Serena's unimpressed look he added, "Not to mention fashion editors and moguls."
Now, Serena was intrigued. She might not like Darien and she might not be so into the Hollywood scene, but if important magazine editors were coming, then it would a missed opportunity on her part. She couldn't believe she was biting his bait.
She was still suspicious though, "What's the catch?"
"None, I just want the pleasure of your company," he smiled charmingly in reply.
"I'm not an idiot, so I won't fall for that. Seriously, what made you pick me?" She was quite curious actually.
"I was trying to be nice, but fine, I'll tell you my motives. Usually I go to my parents' party with Mina. She's an old friend who doesn't expect anything from it, plus she's met my parents. Unfortunately, my usual plans have been ruined because of her stupid premiere in London."
"But why not ask Rei?"
"She has a family thing she's already agreed to go to. I didn't really want to get anyone else, but my parents like seeing me with a date. I couldn't think of anyone else and that's when Rei suggested you. You don't like me, so I don't have to break your heart after tonight."
Her face darkened. "What do you plan me to do then? Waltz in, say hi, be your arm candy? Or worse, be left alone while you flirt with other girls shamelessly. I think I'd rather not," Serena said with finality.
"That's too bad," Darien intoned. "With all the fashion people being there and all, you could've gotten more publicity."
"I already have publicity, thank you very much," she replied, offended with his insinuation.
"I'm sure you do," Darien nodded believingly. "Still, how many chances do you get to meet Stella McCartney, Tom Ford, and Alexander McQueen?" Serena faced him sharply. "Yes, they'll all be there. My parents are media moguls after all."
"I'll, I'll meet them another time. It doesn't matter," she said, her resolve breaking.
Without missing a beat, he continued, "Yes, my parents have all sorts of contacts in the fashion world. Me, not so much," he shook his head. "It doesn't interest me as much as the film industry does. But," he emphasised, "I do have one very good friend who's also somewhat popular in fashion. Trista Amser…"
"Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!" Serena shouted in excitement, "I'll go, I'll go, I'll go!"
He smiled and silently thanked Rei for the excellent advice. "Good. Give me your measurements and I'll have my assistant look for a dress that would suit you."
"Excuse me, but I have my own dress," Serena said haughtily.
Darien laughed at that, "Do you think I'll let you go to the party in just any dress? It's a formal event. I'll be a laughingstock. Just give your measurements to my assistant and she'll take care of everything. All you have to do is make yourself look presentable."
"If you won't let me go wearing the dress I made, then what's the point? I'm only going to show off my clothes. No dress, no date."
"Why do you have to make everything so difficult?" Darien cried in frustration.
"Why do you have to make everything so difficult? Serena returned. "All I ask is that I wear the dress that I want. It's an evening gown and I think it would be very appropriate."
"You want me to believe that you have a formal gown in your closet just handy every time you need it?" Darien questioned sceptically.
"Yes, I do. I'm a fashion designer after all. What else do you think I do in my free time?"
"Alright, let's make a compromise. I'll let you wear your dress, but if I don't like it you'll change into the dress I choose."
Serena thought about it for a moment and then answered, "That seems fair. I agree."
"Finally! You're harder to bargain with than scriptwriters," Darien let out a tired breath. "I'll pick you up at 7. Here's my number and Reese's, my assistant. Text your address and your measurements to her as soon as possible."
"No prob. By the way, I need $500," Serena said frankly.
"Uh, okay," Darien said while taking out his wallet. "If you don't mind my asking, what for?"
"Dry cleaning, hair and makeup, shopping for incidentals, and whatever else that I might need. Don't worry, I'll give you back your change."
"You don't have to. I was just curious."
"If that's it, I'll see you at 7." Serena offered Darien her hand.
They shook hands and settled the deal. "I'll see you at 7."
Serena ran and skipped out the studio while Darien smiled at the image of the young woman turned little girl.
Rushing home to her closet, Serena found the dress she had been thinking of all afternoon. It was in pristine condition, but she had to have it dry cleaned just to be sure it didn't smell like it's been in a closet for a couple of years.
"Oh, but it's so beautiful," Serena sighed proudly.
It was a two-toned floor length gown with a slim silhouette that was smooth at the top and textured at the bottom. The top was strapless and had a shade of light champagne and ended just under her bust. The skirt had three layers and followed the slimness of her waist, but gradually widened beginning at her hips. The top layer seemed to be made of cherry blossoms, lavender, and periwinkle petals; the middle layer was thin tulle organza and made the skirt a little fuller; and the last layer was plain satin.
It was a wonderful dress to look at, but even more amazing to dance in. The top layer of the skirt had slits at the front and at the back that showed the middle lace layer. When she danced and twirled, the whole dress spread out across the dance floor.
Serena made the gown for prom and was saddened when she thought she would never be able to wear it again. She couldn't let it go though and kept it in her closet all these years. Her emotional nostalgia for the dress was good in hindsight. If she hadn't kept it, she would be stuck wearing a generic dress bought by Darien's assistant and would have had no way to impress Trista Amser enough for an internship.
Her momentary reverie made her forget that she was in a rush. She took a quick shower and then hurried to the dry cleaner's without trying on the dress first. Afterwards, she went to her favourite neighbourhood salon to get her hair and makeup done. The whole process took about three hours to finish, but when she got to the cleaner's to retrieve the dress she still had to wait another hour for it, leaving her approximately 45 minutes to finish preparing before Darien arrived. Hoping fervently that all her rushing hadn't ruined her appearance, she took a moment to gather her thoughts and relax when she got back to her apartment.
Trying on the dress, she was infinitely grateful that it followed her contours to the same tailored perfection as the day she made it. Her last worry settled, she happily donned her satin peep-toe pumps and grabbed her clutch bag from the side table before checking her reflection.
"I look pretty decent," Serena said, smiling to herself.
Just then, the doorbell rang. Relieved that she wasn't going to hold them up, she took a breath and opened the door to see Darien's reaction.
His eyes widened a fraction, but that was the only indication he gave of approval. "Hmm," Darien paused, "good."
Serena waited for something else, a few seconds passed, and then ten.
"Let's go," he said and headed downstairs.
Instead of taking offence at his lack of praise, she laughed inwardly at his inability to vocalize defeat and recognized it as a true victory for herself. She shrugged on her ivory capelet and followed him outside.
In the car, Serena's good mood hadn't waned even though the silence was rather suffocating.
"So," Darien started.
"So," Serena replied.
Darien let out a breath. "You look nice."
Serena couldn't stop herself from sniggering. "That's a real step up from 'Hmm, good. Let's go.' I'm impressed!" She clapped.
Darien's laughter soon joined hers, tacitly agreeing to his stupidity.
"I was a real jerk wasn't I?" Darien grinned.
"Well, not particularly more than usual," Serena said still chuckling a bit.
"But seriously, do you just have dresses like that hanging around for occasions like this?"
"Haha, not really. I may be a fashion designer, but I do have a life you know. This," she said, gesturing to her dress, "was my prom dress."
"That's amazing! You did all that work at 18?"
"Let's just say I made prom the focal point of my high school existence," she joked.
Darien briefly glanced her way to give her a small smile, "I'm really impressed though. I wasn't sure of anything at that age, but you… You just seemed to know what you wanted even though you were so young," the moment was over in seconds though and he returned his gaze to the road before him.
Serena was happy he wasn't looking at her anymore or he would have seen her cheeks redden. "Thank you. I really appreciate that coming from you," she murmured.
"Anyway, what does that mean?" he gestured to Serena's necklace.
"Huh?" She sat perplexed at him.
"The sun and moon engraved on your locket. I'm guessing that it was designed for you, because it seems too unique to be a mass-produced ornament."
"Oh, thanks for noticing," Serena glowed. "My grandparents gave it to me as graduation present. It's not a locket actually, but a timepiece. Their idea of a perfect gift was something both luxurious and practical, and they thought that giving me a watch that I'd proudly wear anywhere would be ideal."
"Because you're not exactly the punctual type," Darien interjected chuckling.
"Yes, Captain Obvious," she rolled her eyes. "Anyway, the sun and moon are supposed to represent me. Manen means moon in Swedish, so I'm supposedly a 'daughter of the moon'," she said motioning with air quotes.
"And the sun is because you have blonde hair?" he wondered aloud.
"Hahaha. Funny," she said flatly. "Actually they said it's because, and I quote, 'You brighten the world like the sun.'"
"Cheesy, but a beautiful sentiment from your grandparents," he grinned.
She smiled, "That's exactly what I thought."
The rest of the ride continued to be surprisingly amicable. The small talk wasn't too inane nor was it too invasive and personal. It was a perfect conversation for two people who would prefer to be acquaintances rather than friends. When they arrived at the door of Shields Mansion, Serena was a bit unhappy that the atmosphere had to be broken.
She replaced any hairs that came loose from her French twist and collected her things. Darien gave the keys to one of the doormen, while another helped Serena out of the car. She was nervous, but forced her hand to stop shaking when Darien took it.
"Don't worry," he rubbed her thumb reassuringly, "you're amazing."
Serena entered the foyer with a genuine smile on her face.
"Good evening, John," Darien greeted the butler who opened the door for them. "Are my parents in the drawing room?"
"Good evening, Master Darien," he replied with a British accent, "Yes, they are enjoying a couple of drinks before the guests arrive."
"Of course," Darien said knowingly and guided Serena to the left wing of the house.
"Thank you. It was nice meeting you," Serena turned and said to John. As if remembering something, she added, "I love your accent, by the way," she beamed and then followed Darien down the hall.
Darien knocked on the door, but opened it anyway before hearing a reply. "I don't think it's good form to get drunk before the party has even begun," he chided his parents.
Ignoring her son, Darien's mother turned to Serena. "Good evening, dear. And you are?" Her voice was polite, but held a tinge of misgiving.
"Good evening, Mrs Shields," Serena replied, "My name is Serena Manen and I'm a friend of Mina's."
As if seeing her son for the first time, Mrs Shields turned to Darien. "Oh, how is darling Mina? It's a shame you didn't bring her with you," she said with a bite of insinuation towards Serena.
"She's in London for a premiere, so she wasn't able to make it. She sends you her regards though. Serena here is her stylist."
"So," Mrs Shields' eyes brightened, "you've been responsible for Mina's string of fashion successes. I must commend you. Come closer, dear. I'd love to see your dress in greater detail."
Serena approached Mrs Shields with apprehension. The woman hadn't exactly been cold or rude, but neither was she welcoming.
Mrs Shields touched her skirt with curiosity and inspected everything else about her appearance carefully. "My, this dress is absolutely exquisite!" she exclaimed. "Is it Marchesa?"
Serena blushed at the compliment of being compared to the established brand. "No, Ma'am. I made this dress on my own."
Mrs Shields' eyes widened at her statement and immediately faced Darien. "You must introduce her to Trista. Talent like hers must be nurtured!"
She turned back to Serena and began to assess her again, but this time it didn't seem like she was studying her appearance. "So, tell me. How long have you and my son been dating?"
"Now, now Lauren, don't scare the girl away," a deep voice said from the background. A man stepped forward from the shadowed corner of the room and offered Serena his hand, "I'm Darien's father. You can call me James."
Serena took his proffered hand and she felt the warmth of his handshake encourage her. "I'm very pleased to meet you, James," she said politely.
"Just because you let Darien go on with his games doesn't mean both of us should indulge him," Mrs Shields told James tersely.
Darien just looked at the scene with amusement. He seemed accustomed to their arguing regarding his affairs. Serena, however, was terribly shamed by the idea that they thought she and Darien were together.
"If I may," she interrupted the couple's squabbling. Mrs Shields frowned but James just nodded for her to continue. "Darien and I aren't really together. I'm his date tonight in name only. We both came here with each other merely for convenience."
Mrs Shields raised her brow sceptically, "I can see why you would be interested in coming with Darien, but I can't see why Darien would be interested in you if you aren't really together as you say," she said matter-of-factly.
"He told me that you and James both prefer to see him at these events with a date, so he needed one badly. Since Mina is out of town and so is Rei who is another casual, um, acquaintance of his, he decided to ask me since I wouldn't really expect anything from him romantically after tonight."
At the corner of her eye, Serena noticed Darien shift uncomfortably. She glanced at James and saw him frowning at his son. She furrowed her brows suspiciously.
Mrs Shields glared at Darien and said, "The problem with that story, dear, is that we never did like Darien bringing dates except for close family friends."
Serena was shocked, "Explain yourself, Darien Shields!"
Darien knew he was in trouble and was looking to minimise his losses. He looked to his father for help who just shook his head in consternation. "I knew you wouldn't come if I told you the truth."
"And what truth is that?" Serena seethed.
"I brought you here as a tool," Darien confessed, "During these parties, I like to flirt with all the single women and the flirting usually goes well enough that one will happily accompany me home. But there is an off chance that I end up not interested in anyone, so I need an excuse to go home alone."
"So that's where I come in," Serena said quietly.
"Yes," Darien admitted.
She calmed herself down and kept her face blank. "Thank you, Mr and Mrs Shields, for welcoming me into your home. I hope you enjoy your anniversary celebration. Unfortunately, I think I'd prefer it if I left early."
Mrs Shields softened and felt pity for Serena, "There's no need for that, child. Darien may have behaved horridly, but that's no reason he can't keep his end of the bargain. What did he promise you?"
Serena raised her head to look at Mrs Shields. She now understood why the elderly woman was not completely welcoming. "It's not important," she shook her head.
"Of course it is," Mrs Shields replied reproachfully. "I can see you're not the kind of person who'll accept a deal from my son without reservations. It must be very important to you."
"But I've been so humiliated," Serena cried softly.
Mrs Shields enveloped her in a motherly embrace. "I understand, Serena. Still, I want you to stay. You'll be James and my special guest," she said comfortingly.
"Thank you, Mrs Shields."
"Now none of this Mrs Shields business!" the woman rebuked. "It's Lauren and if I hear otherwise I'll revoke my invitation," she scolded Serena.
"Alright, Lauren," Serena smiled through her tears.
"Very good, all that's lacking then is Darien's apology," James said pointedly at his son.
Serena looked up from the arms of Lauren Shields and saw Darien coming from the corner where his father was earlier shadowed. He approached the two women and apologised, "I'm truly sorry for hurting you, Serena." He sighed and continued, "Mom, dad, I'm also sorry for turning your party into a veritable dating field."
"We're not surprised," James and Lauren replied simultaneously.
"I shouldn't have been surprised either," Serena said.
"Well then, all's well that ends well," Lauren said. "I think it's about time we took our places at the door."
The three Shieldses went and greeted the guests, while Serena stayed inside the room. She wondered if she was a fool for agreeing to Darien's proposition in the first place and worried about how easily expendable she found her integrity to be. She decided not to let Darien drive her home and resolved to not speak to him at all, even for her friends' sakes.
Serena only stepped out of the room when most of the guests had already arrived. As promised, the house was crowded with famous and important people. Originally she would have felt uncomfortable being in such a scene, but now she just felt relieved that she could be the party's wallflower. She was just troubled by the seating arrangements. She wasn't sure where she would be sitting now, because she and Darien were not in good terms. His parents were very kind, but it would have been terribly rude if she worried them about her situation when they had a party to host.
Keeping to the side, she was surprised when she felt a tap on her shoulder.
"Andrew!" Serena shouted excitedly.
"I've never had such an enthusiastic hello before," he said and then gave her a hug.
"I didn't know you were going to be here," she told him truly surprised.
"I come every year. Darien and I are old friends and his parents are just really nice people."
"I know what you mean," Serena said fondly.
"I'm surprised you're here given your record with Darien."
Serena groaned, "Why is he like that, Andrew? How can you take it?"
He immediately came to Darien's defence, "Just because you don't get along with him doesn't mean he's not a good person, Serena."
"I guess you're right," she replied simply.
She wanted to tell Andrew the truth of what Darien did to her, but she thought against it. They were best friends and had been for a long time. Andrew's faith in him was something Serena knew was tied up alongside Andrew's childhood. Casting any doubt about Darien as a person would make Andrew question himself as a person as well. The same reasoning also made her decide that her friends would not be told either. Mina and Rei would get hurt more if she told them, especially because he had intentionally set Serena up. One person knowing everything was enough.
Their awkward silence was thankfully interrupted by the announcement of dinner. Having been preoccupied by thoughts of Darien, Serena completely forgot her seating conundrum. She was about to ask Andrew if she could tag along to his table when a message of salvation was proclaimed.
"While everybody settles down," James said to the microphone, "I'd like to call on a very special guest tonight." Everyone looked around curiously for the person.
"Mina is in London right now for a premiere, surely looking beautifully put together," Lauren said. "I'm certain everyone here has noticed how much her style has improved these past few months. And I'm certain, like me, most of the ladies here are dying to see the cause of this complete turnaround." Women in the room clapped resoundingly.
She continued, "Without further ado, I introduce you the rising ingénue of the fashion world, Miss Serena Manen!"
"Serena, please come up here with us," James added.
Andrew was grinning broadly and was pushing a very shocked Serena to the direction of the Shieldses. The crowd parted to leave a sizeable path in the middle of the ballroom. All the attention embarrassed Serena, but she could not refuse the kindness of her hosts, so she made her way to the front of the room, albeit hesitantly. Lauren Shields embraced her in front of everybody, making the point that Serena was now an important person to the Shields family. Her face turned red from shyness, but the Shields couple were nothing but encouraging to her.
Lauren continued her earlier announcement, "With her here tonight, James and I hope to celebrate not only our lives of happiness and success, but also the beginning of Serena's."
Everyone clapped for the trio as they proceeded to the main table. The chatter died down in a few moments with people settling in their respective seats.
"Well, well," Darien said while pulling out Serena's chair, "I see someone's recovered from her hysterics earlier this evening."
Serena glared at him and looked around the table for somewhere else to sit in.
"Whether you like it or not, you're still my date," he whispered pointedly. "So I suggest you take a seat and act happy."
Not wanting to cause a scene, she relented and prepared herself for an uncomfortable dinner. Seeing that she would stay put, Darien left to talk to some people at the next table. She glanced around at her other companions. Lauren and James were also busy socializing. The only people with her were two unfamiliar women sitting across from her. One of the women, a blonde, caught her gaze and winked at her.
"I'm sorry, but I'm taken," the stranger smirked at her, "and I'm assuming so are you," she said looking at Darien's empty seat next to her.
Serena was shocked at her flirtatious audacity. "I'm not interested," Serena replied with emphasis, "in either of you."
The woman raised her eyebrow at her in surprise, while her companion giggled at the two of them.
"Amara, stop teasing her so," the other woman tried to suppress her laughter. "I'm sorry about her. She just can't resist a pretty face," she said, rolling her eyes at her partner.
"I'm Michelle and this is Amara," she introduced. "Of course we both know who you are with Aunt Lauren's announcement a while ago."
Serena blushed at her recognition. "I'm sorry for not being very amicable before."
"Kitten, your reaction was exactly what I wanted," Amara replied laughing, "I like spitfires like you. I especially like the fact that you don't seem to be taken with Darien over there," she said gesturing at her date speaking to another woman.
"Amara doesn't think much of my cousin," Michelle explained. "She thinks he's too much of a womanizer, but really she just doesn't like that more women flock to him than to her."
Amara sulked at Michelle's words and turned the other way, ignoring her.
Michelle continued talking to Serena, "But I don't see why. I think Amara's much more charming than my cousin, don't you think?" she asked Serena with a wink.
There was a shadow of a smile on Amara's lips, but she still refused to face her partner.
"I definitely think so. I can't see what people find so attractive about Darien, but Amara's really a keeper," Serena said with seriousness.
"Alright, alright," Amara said with her hands in surrender, "my ego's inflated enough. Still, I appreciate the sentiment, Kitten, even though you probably don't mean it," she told Serena smilingly.
"Of course I mean it!" Serena said brightly. "Darien is a conceited ass and I hope this is the last time I'll ever have to sit with him again," she told them honestly.
Michelle frowned, "Aunt Lauren did tell that he pulled quite a number on you." She shook her head and smiled, "No matter. You and Amara can bond over how much you dislike him then."
Conversation with Michelle and Amara was easy and fun. Serena found out that Michelle was Darien's cousin and that she had many embarrassing secrets about him that she was very willing to share. She also learned that they've been together since their first year of college, which was 10 years ago.
With the two of them there and the elder Shields couple beside her, her interaction with Darien was minimal. The few words they spoke to each other related to passing condiments and messages for the others. It was a pleasant surprise for Serena that dinner did not turn out to be the tedious affair she thought it would be.
After the plates had been cleared, Darien walked away to flirt with his female guests. Serena was disgusted at his behaviour, but much preferred it to him staying with her. Amara and Michelle made up for any loneliness Serena might have felt and introduced her to whomever passed by and also giving her a litany of gossip about all the famous people there. They saw Darien flirting up a storm at the other side of the room, so they made a bet of how many women would end up crying tonight.
Suddenly, Amara turned to look at Serena, a question in her eyes.
"What is it?" Serena asked confused.
"If you hate Darien so much, why did you agree to be his date?" Amara said, intrigued.
"Oh yes, we completely forgot to ask you that," Michelle added.
Serena reddened a bit at their curiosity. "It's really a very silly reason and you might think me shallow for it."
"Any reason that's not 'to have sex with Darien Shields' is a good reason for me," Amara said encouragingly.
The three of them laughed outright at that and it made Serena feel less ashamed to admit to her lack of integrity. "Well, as everyone in this room knows because of Lauren and James Shields, I'm an aspiring fashion designer. I'm hoping to intern this summer at a fashion house to better myself. And–"
"And you wanted to meet fashion people here," Michelle finished for her.
"Yes, but not quite," Serena said. "You see I've been getting invitations from many designers since Mina wore one of my creations, but not from the one designer that I really respect."
"And that is?" Amara prodded impatiently.
"I don't know how he found out, probably my friends, Mina and Rei," Serena said annoyed at the thought. "I wanted, I still want to meet Trista Amser," she finished lamely. "But he probably just told me that she would be here to make me agree to this whole thing. I haven't seen a hint of her anywhere."
Amara and Michelle smiled at her. "Darien may be a womanizing liar," Michelle said.
"But he didn't lie about Trista," Amara confirmed.
"She's our childhood friend, although she and Darien have drifted apart since their breakup years ago," Michelle clarified. "But she never fails to come to this party. And rest assured, she and I are still good friends."
Serena's eyes widened with happiness. "Thank you thank you thank you thank you," she gushed nonstop.
"It looks like the Kitten will be getting her mouse after all," Amara said while patting her head.
"You look really childish jumping up and down, Sere." Andrew walked up to them.
"You would be too if you were meeting Trista Amser tonight!" Serena exclaimed.
"Not really," Andrew grinned, "met her lots of times. We're friends."
"Is everyone friends with her except me?" People around them stared at Serena's loud question.
"Sh," Michelle giggled, "you might want to tone down your enthusiasm a little. You might scare her off."
Everybody laughed at her and Serena had the decency to look sheepish.
"And I always thought that I was the celebrity you loved the most," Andrew said feigning heartbreak.
"Oh Drew," Serena hugged Andrew suddenly. "You know the preteen in me only has eyes for you."
"Haha, you really know how to cheer a guy up," Andrew chuckled. "But I'd feel even better if you honoured me with a dance," he bowed.
"I'd be delighted, my prince," Serena accepted gracefully, hiding her laughter.
"You are aware that the only dancing I've ever done was in school dances," she told Andrew.
"Nope, but I don't see why that should matter," he replied, confused.
Serena raised herself on the tiptoes and whispered in his ear, "Because I've stepped on the feet of every guy I've ever danced with," she warned.
He didn't reply but looked to be in deep concentration. "What are you doing?" Serena asked.
"I'm praying for your miraculous improvement," he replied seriously.
The music started and Andrew guided Serena around the floor. He swung her around a few times, her dress floating above the dance floor in a sea of flowers. To bystanders it looked as if they were a couple deeply in tune with each other, but both Andrew and Serena knew that Andrew was only trying to keep her as far away from his feet as possible. Whenever he would hold her close, he would regret it right away, because Serena's feet would inevitably fall on his feet. But disregarding Andrew's discomfort, they were really enjoying the dance together. And when the music stopped it was all too soon for them.
"I've never enjoyed dancing as much as I have with you," she told him at the end of their dance. "I'm sorry for stepping on your feet so much," she apologized and then kissed him on the cheek.
"Step on my feet all you want if every apology you make comes with a kiss," Andrew smiled at her flirtatiously.
For a few minutes they looked for Amara and Michelle, but they found them together on the dance floor. Andrew guided Serena back to her and offered to get her a drink.
She looked at the waiters going around with refreshments, but only saw flutes of champagne. "Could you get me some juice? I'm sorry but I don't drink alcohol."
"No problem," Andrew beamed easily and walked through the throng of people.
"I see you've managed to enjoy yourself," said a voice she fiercely hated.
"Yes I have," she smiled smugly, "even though you've been far less than a gentleman all night. It's amazing how you could grow to be such an ass, when everybody else around you is so nice."
"I try," Darien said with a smirk.
"So, what are you doing here? Running away from your fan club?"
"A deal is a deal and I'm here to fulfil my part," he replied simply.
"What do you mean?" Serena said, turning around. She expected to see Darien Shields leering at her from behind, and she was right, but he was not alone.
"Trista, I'd like to introduce you to Serena Manen," Darien said, prodding Serena to stand.
"Pleased to meet you," said Trista politely.
"No, no. It's– It's really my pleasure," Serena stuttered.
The other woman smiled at her reassuringly. "Darien tells me that you're looking for a fashion internship."
The blonde could only nod in reply. "I do hope you'd consider working for me. I can see that you have talent," she said looking at Serena's dress with a critical eye.
"Yours is the only place I really want to work in," she said honestly.
"I'm very happy to hear that," Trista said with a genuine smile. "I hope you can start in two weeks?" It was a statement, but she said it in terms of a question, wanting the younger girl to feel free to make her own schedule.
"Yes, of course. I'd be glad to start right away!" Serena said, child-like excitement seeping through her every pore.
"Tone it down, Kitten," said a chuckle from behind.
Trista was surprised at the familiar nickname Amara bestowed on the younger girl. "I didn't know you're close friends with Amara and Michelle."
Darien answered for her, "They are if you define closeness as something that can be built over dinner and agreements that I'm a jerk," he sneered.
"Don't mock them, cousin," Michelle admonished. "Many a friendship has been built on mutual dislike of another person."
"That's very true," Serena nodded vigorously. "I believe Amara and I will become very good friends, and it all started because we loathe you so."
"You just hate him because he was the first guy you've ever seen naked," Andrew laughed.
All the women's eyes were on Serena and even Darien was staring at her in shock.
"You've slept with him?" Amara shuddered.
"No!" Serena became a tomato under their scrutiny. "It was an accident! I swear!" But all of them just looked sceptical. "Andrew! Explain now!" Serena ordered.
"It was worth a laugh, you know," he said placating. "Mina and Darien were doing it in her trailer when Serena walked in on them."
"A total accident!" Serena affirmed forcefully.
The women looked at Serena, and then at Darien, and then at each other. And then they all started laughing.
"Aw, the Kitten really is still a baby," Amara teased.
Michelle giggled, "I bet it was like a porn video to her."
"You don't even know the half of it," Andrew added. "After it happened, every time Darien would talk to her she would just shutdown. It was like she was petrified or something," he said guffawing at the memory.
Trista saw Serena's discomfort and thought she laughed and found it funny, she tried to calm the girl down.
"It's okay," Trista said in between giggles, "We've all walked in on someone at some point. At least you didn't see someone fat with hairy love handles," she joked. Serena smiled a little at her niceness.
But Darien was looking at Serena very curiously. He studied her from top to bottom, and started nodding to himself. He grinned at her wolfishly, "So you're a virgin."
Everybody stared at him. Serena couldn't even blink.
"You're not frigid. You're not sexless. You're just a virgin," Darien repeated.
Serena blushed, not with embarrassment, but anger this time. "So what if I am? I have self-respect unlike you," she gritted.
"No, I don't think so. I think it's because you're a little girl who still thinks there's a 'Prince Charming' out there for you," Darien mocked.
"I'm sorry to disappoint you, but you're completely mistaken," she bit back.
"Oh?" He raised his brow in disbelief, "Care to correct me?"
"I'm not looking for 'Prince Charming'. I don't need someone who'll charm my pants off. If I were looking for someone like that then I would have had no qualms sleeping with you or guys like you while I was in high school. I don't need someone who'll act like the man of my dreams while we're dating, but be an ass when we're really together."
"What do you want then?" Darien said challengingly.
"I want Mr. Perfect. He doesn't have to be a prince; he doesn't have to be charming. I just want him to be perfect. I don't care if there are billions of fish in the sea and lots of guys can pass as 'good enough'. I don't want 'good enough'. I don't want to settle. I want someone I deserve."
Darien laughed at her meanly, "And you think you deserve perfection?"
"I deserve someone who'll make me the happiest woman I can be. If you call someone who can clean up after his messes, fix his own dinner and mine, work for his family's and his own futures, be a dad who'll spend time with his kids every night, be a husband who'll have me and only me in his eyes, if you call someone who's like that 'perfect', then yes, I deserve it."
Before Darien could interrupt, someone started clapping from behind.
"I think you do deserve someone like that, Serena," Lauren Shields embraced her. "And I'm happy you're not willing to have anything less," she said while looking meaningfully at her son.
Darien took that as his cue to leave and found himself another group of women to flirt with. Serena rolled her eyes at his retreating figure. When she looked back at her group, she found Trista looking at her curiously.
"What is it?" Serena hoped there was nothing wrong with her appearance.
Trista shook her head, "I don't think I've ever seen anyone quite like you before," and then she smiled.
Serena smiled back at her, but she wondered what the brunette meant.
"Oh dear," Lauren said, breaking the silence. "I came here to tell you that the chauffeur can bring you home any time you'd like."
Serena checked her pendant for the time and was surprised to find that it was almost one o'clock. She had planned to leave a little after 11, but she had not planned on enjoying her time meeting new people so much.
"I'll leave now if that's alright," Serena said to Lauren.
"But Kitten, we haven't even danced yet!" Amara pouted.
"And I only got one dance out of you, although my feet do still need to rest a bit," Andrew said.
"And I've barely even talked to you about your internship," Trista reminded her.
"And I haven't even gossiped to you about half of the guests here," Michelle said.
"That's settled then," Lauren smiled, "you're staying."
"But, but, but–" Serena started.
"That's final," Lauren said and walked away.
Serena met everybody Michelle thought was worth talking about. The latter also told her how to appear more confident with new people. It was a lesson she really took to heart, because she had always been quite awkward as a teen. Amara patiently taught her how to dance, never complaining even though Serena seemed to get decidedly worse before she got marginally better. Trista told her about her work as her personal assistant and protégé. Serena would be accompanying her to meetings with clients and financiers to learn the ropes of business. She would be tagging along while Trista chose cloths and bargained her way through dealers and manufacturers. But most importantly, Trista would give her personal lessons on how to do the impeccable tailoring that she was known for, the main reason Serena idolised her so much.
At a quarter past three, Serena was dead tired. Andrew's feet had finally recovered and he was ready to spin her around for the last time that night. It was a slow song and they were both relieved. Serena leaned down against him, her feet barely moving, the two of them just relaxing with the music. But then Andrew's warmth disappeared.
"I'm sorry to cut in like this," Darien said.
"You should be," Serena replied annoyed, "I am too tired to argue with you."
"Then don't," he said simply and started moving with the music.
Serena was stiff as a board, her shoulders tense and her eyes wary. Darien prodded her head to rest against his chest, the same position she had when she was with Andrew. He hummed with the music and swayed their bodies a little. The moment was soothing and it was the kind of break she had wanted all evening. Against her better judgement, Serena relaxed.
When the song ended she expected Darien to let go of her, but he held her hand and pulled her to her friends. She was too tired to protest and she thought that as long as other people were there, it would be okay. She looked around the room and found it to be almost empty save her friends and the Shieldses who were all seated at one of the tables. Darien kissed his mother, hugged his mother and said his good-byes to the others.
"Come on," Darien pulled on her hand again.
"Huh?" Serena replied, confused.
"You're going home," he explained.
She said her farewells, missing the knowing glances of everybody at the table, and followed Darien to the hallway. She stood by the door expecting the chauffeur to fetch her. Darien got his keys from one of the servants, while another one prepared their coats. She considered not saying good-bye to him, but decided to be the better person in the end. She was about to give him a simple "good night" when he opened the door, but he just pulled her again with him.
"Wait!" Serena said. "I'm waiting for the chauffeur."
Darien looked at her, surprise evident in his countenance. "There is no chauffeur," he said slowly.
"But your mother told me–"
"I told my mom that I would be driving you home since I wasn't going home with anyone else."
"But I don't want you!" Serena shouted.
"I'm just taking you home. What's the big deal?" Darien shouted back.
"It matters because I don't like being part of your ruse. I don't want to be the excuse you use, so that you don't have to go home with someone you don't like. I don't want to be thought of as yours."
"Don't worry," he sneered, "No one would seriously think I'm interested in you, so get in the fucking car," he said with finality.
The drive home was hostile and tense. Serena sat aware of Darien's every movement, while he gripped the wheel with hands seemingly ready to crush her fragile neck. The trip was thankfully quick though, with no traffic and a driver who was keen on overspeeding.
They arrived at her building in 20 minutes. Serena quickly gathered her things and checked if she had left anything inside his car. She was turning the doorknob, when she heard him talking.
"I'm really sorry for tonight, for everything that I did wrong," he sighed. "I'm happy you didn't go home right away. I was right when we walked through the doorstep. You are amazing."
Serena paused for a moment and then heard his car speed away. She went inside her apartment, ready to collapse on her bed.
A/N:
Hope the interaction between Darien and Serena at the end wasn't too rushed. I'd love to hear your comments.:)