OMG, 5 reviews! I can't believe Chapter 1 was so well-received! Thank you so much for the reviews & comments, all of them meant a lot to me :) Here you go, Chapter 2, have fun reading! I will see you at the end of the chapter *waves*

To Metarudogu: Hi there, I'm so relieved and happy to hear that it sits well with you! I was quite worried when I added the political situation in, as it sort of interrupted the fluffy scene but it was necessary. Everything will come together in due time (well, I hope). I will do my best to throw in fluff whenever I can :) enjoy!

To Sybretooth: Thank you for the encouragement! I hope you will enjoy this chapter :D

To Tynuccia: Hi fellow YxS supporter! Hahaha, it's great to find another fan of this couple. And yes! Good thing comes to those who wait! It will be in Chapter 3. Thank you for reviewing & being so encouraging, enjoy chapter 2 :)

To Hall1990: Thank you! Thank you! Hope this chapter makes the cut *fingers cross* I'm trying to complete chapter 3 as soon as I can, haha!

To Nick: Thank you for the review & support! This story will be a multi-chapters kind. I hope you will enjoy this as much as the first :D

Disclaimer: Story is mine and characters I've created to facilitate the story-telling are mine too but I do not own Gundam SEED & Gundam SEED Destiny.


Research Facility within ZAFT base, Martius City (late morning, two hours before lunch)

"Have you seen the new pilot suit?" Dearka asked as he walked with his Commander towards the control room of the Simulation Lab.

"I heard it looks much cooler than the ones we are using now. I'm more concern about the comfort though." Yzak replied, dreading the next hour. He did rather be clearing paperwork, than observing some stupid test.

"Cheer up, Mr Sulky Face. Besides, I heard there are a sizeable number of female pilots in this test. They were picked from the different teams and divisions in ZAFT. Our favourite girl was picked too! I hope she and Laura will do the team proud!"

Our favourite girl? An image of a particular brunette in his team flashed across Yzak's mind. "You mean Shiho?" He asked, much to Dearka's anticipation.

The tanned blonde smirked. "Oops, I meant YOUR favourite girl."

*Smack*

Dearka glared at Yzak and quickly rub the sore spot at the back of his head. "That was unnecessary!" The silver-haired man snorted and met his friend's angry stare with a cold one. "It is as unnecessary as what you said earlier."

"Come on! I bet you are secretly excited to see Shiho in the new pilot suit! Don't think I didn't catch you checking her out every time she is in the pilot suit!" Dearka teased, taking pleasure from seeing his best friend go red from embarrassment and anger. "Shut up, you crazy idiot! Are you on some drugs or something? Hallucinating piece of shit."

Dearka was about to continue when Yzak shot him a warning stare. "Two words. Miriallia. Leave." The tanned blonde immediately pursed his lips together and raised his hands up in surrender. Yzak smirked, giving himself a pat on the shoulder mentally. This tactic always works when he desperately needs Dearka to can it.

"Just you wait. When you get together with Shiho, I am going expose all your dirty little secrets ever since I have the misfortune of befriending you."

Yzak rolled his eyes.

The duo soon reached the entrance of the auditorium. As they stepped in, they were greeted with the sight of commanders and captains of different teams from all divisions in ZAFT. Some were standing around talking while majority were already seated. Half of the seats in the auditorium were filled. It was a big-scale test.

"I think they are going to launch the new suits after this test. It will be embarrassing to have so many test subjects and the suits are nowhere near operational, right?" Dearka pondered aloud, scanning the auditorium.

"Why am I not surprised to see Commander Joule?" A deep voice sounded from behind. Dearka turned around and made an almost inaudible irritated grunt before he saluted. "Commander Frigore."

Yzak gritted his teeth at that name and turned around. He nodded in acknowledgment since he was on equal ranks with him. They could have exchanged salutes but he doubt the man in front of him will do so, given the history between them.

"Since you aren't surprised, I assume you've missed our... conversations and expected a catch up, perhaps?" Yzak finally replied with a slanted smile. He would usually live up to his reputation as the fire breathing Terror of ZAFT and send a scalding response. However, it will do him no good if he went with his usual approach. There were quite a number of people in here; many of them were commanding officers like himself or of higher ranks.

Commander James Frigore's face twitched in annoyance before returning to his usual smug expression. Like Yzak, he is of the same age, and a rising star in ZAFT and in the political scene. He took over the previous representative of Quintilis City after all members of the Radical Factions were placed under house arrest. If he was holding a position in the National Defence Committee, James Frigore would be on par with Yzak.

"I would love to but I shouldn't be taking up time of a busy man like you. Let's get straight to the point, shall we?" He replied politely with a smirk which was more irritating than Dearka's.

"I believe it is time for you to return one of my soldiers to me." The young Commander with boyish good looks said. Dearka immediately shifted his attention to Yzak and spotted a tic at the side of his jaw. Oh no.

"Now that the war is over, there is no need for her to remain in your team. She was an officer of Ground Corps before the transfer to the Le Creuset team, which was reshuffled and became yours." Commander Frigore continued, taking a step forward to meet Yzak's seething glare squarely.

"She was back in Ground Corps after the Bloody Valentine War and then you, just like your late Commander, requested for her transfer. There are hundreds of soldiers and red elites graduating from ZAFT academy every year. Why you Space Forces keep requesting for her is beyond me."

'That man can really whine.' Dearka thought. He was not worried at this overgrown baby's demand. It was Yzak's impending response he was worried about. His best friend seemed to be on the verge of exploding. Eyebrows scrunched into a frown to accompany a dark scowl. His jaw was clenched tight, same goes for his fists. If looks can kill, James Frigore would have been dead. Reduced to a messy puddle of blood and charred remains from the intensity of Yzak's glare.

How did this whiny piece of shit become a Commander and a Representative? Yzak knew the man in front of him was referring to Shiho. At the thought of her leaving his team, he balled his fist in an attempt to rein in the sudden flare of anger.

There will not be a cup of coffee, made according to his preference, at his desk every morning or at the start of his shift. He will be stuck with that poisonous beverage made by Dearaka or the disgusting blend made by his secretary.

There will not be piles of neatly-sorted paperwork for him to look through. He will have to spend over an hour to group them according to urgency. Given his crazy schedule of meetings, he will never finish sorting them. Hence, he can forget about responding to all that requests by the deadline.

There will not be anyone capable and willing enough to take over Dearka's duties whenever that lovesick puppy goes on leave.

There will not be a need for him to make sure the week's tea break has something sweet or a pastry in the menu. Otherwise, he will hear of a particular brunette searching high and low for something sweet to eat. Or he will hear the kitchen team joking about Shiho taking the entire jar of sugar cubes and eating it as sweets. He could not believe his ears when he heard of it. One of the most aggressive female soldiers in ZAFT has a really bad sweet tooth. It was additional work for him but he didn't mind it one bit. Instead, he found it odd, funny yet endearing for unknown reasons.

All of that won't be happening because Shiho is no longer in his team.

The brunette graduated as a Red Coat and was assigned to Ground Corps, as a test pilot. She was assisting in the testing of a variant of UMF-4A GOOhN, known as 'GOOhN Underground Mobility Test Type' then. Ezalia Joule, who was a guest examiner for Shiho's cohort, remembered her final year presentation on beam weapon technology. She had put in a word of recommendation to Patrick Zala to have Shiho responsible for studying the beam weapon technology used in the four G Project mobile suits that ZAFT had stolen from the Earth Alliance. Apparently, Shiho did not just study the beam weapon technology but manage to recreate the technology, thus, the birth of DEEP Arms. And that was how he met Shiho. She was reassigned to Le Creuset team to test out DEEP Arms. The data gathered was used for the development of other beam weapons and existing technologies.

Guessing that James is not important enough to know of this project, thus his irritating blabbering earlier, Yzak took a deep breath and eyed the man from head to toe. "Why don't you take it up to the headquarter and request for Major Hahnenfuss' return to your team? Commander Frigore."

His anger simmered a little when he saw the man scrowled. ZAFT will never approve his request and Yzak knew it because Lacus has restarted the project. She saw a big potential in it, after witnessing several beam weapons in action during the Second Valentine War. However, Lacus did not want anyone to know about this project, other than the staff involved. Hence, it will have to appear as if Yzak was the one who wanted her back in his team.

False front aside, he did want her back in his team when he found out Shiho returned to Ground Corps after he was pulled out of the frontline to settle into his new post in the Supreme Council. He remembered being overwhelmed with surprise and bewilderment when he returned to Voltaire (after his request to return to frontline for the Second Bloody Valentine war was approved), only to find no brunette with a stoic face and pale purple eyes at the first row.

(Flashback)

"Where's Housenka?" He blurted out and soon felt the questioning stare of all the officers standing in rows in front of him, waiting for inspection.

His previous captain gave him a puzzled look. "Come again, sir."

'Right, Housenka is just between me and Shiho.' He realised.

"Where's Major Hahnenfuss?" He clipped.

"She returned to Ground Corps while you were away on political duties, Commander." His captain responded.

(End of flashback)

Yzak was floored. She was always by his side ever since she came on board at second half of the Bloody Valentine war.

She was also with him the whole time Dearka and him were on trial. His mother was placed under house arrest and couldn't be there for him. Dearka shared the truth behind his defection with his parents. Needless to say that Miriallia being a Natural did not sit well with them. That added to the damage caused by his enrolment to ZAFT. He was running away from an arranged marriage with the daughter of another member of the Supreme Council. It was no surprise that Dearka's family didn't turn up at the trials.

The brunette stood by him (and Dearka) during that difficult time. Once the trial was over and Chairman Durandal forgave them, he remembered the brunette confessed something that has left both of them speechless. "If the both of you were sentenced to death, I have it all planned out. I just need your word and by tomorrow, the two of you will have new identities and have settled down in your new lives on Earth, in Orb."

That moment changed his impression of Shiho. Don't ask him what it had become but one thing was for sure, he was friendlier to her as compared to other comrades. When Lacus wanted to restart the project, Yzak jumped at the opportunity and make the necessary arrangements for Shiho to be back in his team.

"We will see." Commander Frigore replied, snapping Yzak out of his thoughts.

"I thought you was about to bite his head off." Dearka said, looking at the other Commander's retreating figure.

"And get myself poisoned by his long-winded ways? No, thanks."

...

"That layer of gel or silicone-like cushion lining the suit's interior is useless! I'm pretty sure I will see patches of bruises on my arms and legs for next few days. I may not be a FAITH officer but this suit is no good for field operations!" Laura exclaimed with hands making gestures to emphasize what she was saying. Shiho smiled at the redhead as both of them walked out of the Simulation Lab. She was like a younger sister the brunette never had. They came a long together. Shiho was her mentor ever since she was assigned to the Joule Team as a fresh graduate from ZAFT academy.

"They should keep this test for the Ground Corps and FAITH officers instead of us. Even if Space Corps are activated, we will be in our mobile suits. There will not be much physical activity or movement for them to gather data about." Shiho replied, releasing her hair from the tight bun. She didn't want her hair to be in way of the test, which felt like a training exercise for FAITH officers, who are pretty much the Coordinators' version of Navy SEALS.

"Major! Lieutenant!"

Shiho squint her eyes and caught sight of Dearka and Yzak approaching them. The tanned blonde was waving at them.

"Is it just me or black suits Shiho much better than bright red?" Dearka leaned slightly to his left and whispered to Yzak, only to see his friend was already checking out the brunette. Noting the slow trail made by Yzak's eyes as he takes in Shiho from head to toe, Dearka smirked at the look on his best friend's face. Piercing blue orbs darkened to an unrecognisable shade of blue while the heated gaze was bordering on burning holes into the brunette. He should take a photo and send it to those gossip magazines saying Yzak is gay. That will shut them up.

The silver-haired Commander could not find the words to reply Dearka. All he can think of was how well Shiho carried off the new pilot suit. He vaguely recalled the capabilities of the new pilot suit and how the design catered to FAITH, Ground Corps and Space Forces. However, that didn't matter now. The black fabric lined with glowing electric blue piping drew attention to Shiho's lithe figure.

Unlike most Coordinator females, who are usually heavy on the chest and bottom as the 'perfect' figure has been programmed before birth, the brunette's curves were soft and subtle. He soon finds himself curbing a growing itch to run his hands down the sides of her ribs, sliding down to her slim waist (he remembered that it took an arm to circle it completely), and finally resting his hands on her slight rounded hips. It seems the new suit fits more snuggly than the existing one. Otherwise, those curves would have gone unnoticed. And her legs! It could be due to her willowy physique, her legs seemed to go on for miles.

He doesn't remember being so affected by Shiho when she was in the existing red pilot suit. Sure, he admitted to checking her out occasionally but with this new suit, Shiho was like a siren. The black fabric seemed to be pulled tight across her body like a second skin, even the rise and fall of her chest now appears to be very distracting.

Despite the flare in attractiveness, Yzak thought the new suit made her look more menacing. If Shiho puts on that stoic face of hers, she will appear as though she was constantly charged with power that is ready to be unleashed.

"Didn't your mother tell you that it is rude to stare, Yzak Joule?" Dearka's voice snapped the silver-haired Commander out of his mental ramblings.

"What?" Yzak snapped.

"You were harassing Shiho with your eyes. She can have you up for sexual harassment, you know?" Dearka smirked and half-scolded as he folded his arms across his chest.

Shiho stepped forward and gave the tanned blonde a nervous smile. "Come on, Captain. You are exaggerating it. Commander was probably thinking about work again or the next meeting he needs to attend." She turned to the malewho was under fire, and offered an understanding smiled. The urge to hit Dearka on the head disappeared instantly. Yzak felt the corners of his lips turned upwards in an awkward yet grateful smile.

Luckily she didn't take it that way. Then again, was he that obvious?

"Tsk! Stop covering up for him. I'm a guy. I know what he was thinking about, especially with that look on his face." Dearka retorted. The brunette was about to jump in when he directed his attention to Yzak.

"How many times do I have to tell you to drop your work for once and go on a date? And Shiho is right here, single and available." The tanned blonde added as he grabbed Shiho by her arm and brings her a couple steps closer to Yzak.

"God, Dearka. You sound like my mother!" If it was possible, steam would be coming out of Yzak's ears by now. Shiho almost burst into laughter but seeing that murderous look on Yzak's face, she decided to keep it in.

"I know that exasperated tone! She called you to go over for dinner earlier, didn't she? I wonder whose daughter she is going to match-makes you with." Dearka said it as if he was on a gameshow and knew the answer to win it.

Shiho froze for a split second and then turned sharply to look at Yzak, who forgot about his retort. He was taken aback by her sudden reaction. Shock was written all over her. Posture rigid, lilac orbs widened. Those eyes were looking straight into his, darting left and right. She was searching for something in his eyes. With a frown that was slowly forming, it felt as if she was searching for something to verify what Dearka had said.

Just then, the shock and desperation in her eyes turned into something cold. He was no longer looking at bright liquid amethyst but cold and dull purple-hued steel. Yzak could not catch a hint of emotions in them now.

It must be something Dearka have said earlier but what was it? Single and available? Matchmaking?

"I got to go. The suit is starting to get uncomfortable." Shiho said in a flat tone, breaking the tense silent. Her face was unreadable when she saluted and walked away hastily.

Dearka muttered a curse and turned to the redhead Lieutenant. "Laura, can you escort Commander to the pick-up location for the shuttle bus? I will catch the both of you there." She nodded and offered a small smile to the tanned blonde. "Go talk some sense into her, Captain. I've tried a couple of times but she's not a bit interested. I don't know what's holding her back."

The tanned blonde released an exasperated breath and shot an annoyed glare at Yzak. "Even her junior sees it and you don't. You are SO hopeless, Joule!" Dearka turned to the direction Shiho has disappeared to and ran off.

Yzak frowned in bewilderment and looked at Laura, "what is that joker blabbering about?" The petite woman offered an apologetic smile. Guess it's true, Commander Joule has no idea. She was so tempted to do something for the brunette, whom she came to care for like a sister. She was this close to spilling the beans but decided not to. She respected Shiho enough to know that such matters should be revealed by the brunette herself. How can Shiho face him every single day?

"Come on, Commander. I will walk you to the pick-up location."

(A couple of metres away…)

Lunamaria Hawke folded her arms as she dragged her indigo eyes up and down the legendary Flower of Joule team, who was a few metres away from where she and her boyfriend were standing. "Do you know her?" She asked, as she noticed Shinn has been staring intently at Major Shiho Hahnenfuss for quite a while now.

The black-haired ZAFT elite stopped staring and looked at her. "No, I don't. It's just that the way she pilots the mobile suit and fights reminded me of someone."

The female ZAFT elite went silent for a moment before replying. "She reminds you of Stella, isn't it? The Extended whom you brought back to ZAFT Infirmary for help." Shinn studied the frown on Lunamaria's face and her pursed lips. He should have kept his mouth shut. Stella will always be a sore topic between him and her.

"How can it be? She is an Extended, a Natural. Major Hahnenfuss is a Co-ordinator. One is a living instrument of war while the other is an ordinary human who is not maintained by drugs and not under psychology manipulation." The red-violet haired woman added.

Guess she is right. I'm thinking too much. Shinn nodded and nudged her elbow, "you are right. Let's change out of this and go for lunch, shall we?"

...

Dearka slowed his run and grabbed the brunette by her upper arm. "Hey... What I've said earlier is true. His mother has been on a search for a daughter-in-law." Shiho stopped walking but did not turn around to face him. "You should be heading in the other direction. The shuttle bus should be arriving in 20 minutes. Laura and I will board the next one." She was about to shake her arm loose from his grip when he appeared in front of her. He rolled his eyes at her, and dragged her into the empty lounge nearby.

"I need to change out of this suit. It's uncomfortable." Her voice was as emotionless as her face.

If they were on active duty, Dearka knows Shiho was being serious and focused on work. Right now, they are not on active duty and away from work stations, so the brunette is upset but she didn't want anyone to know and she didn't want anyone to approach her. She was aware of how unapproachable she appeared to be when she has that poker face on, and used it to her advantage. However, that doesn't work for Dearka. His best friend was the infamous Terror of ZAFT after all.

"Talking about uncomfortable, don't you feel terrible? You are facing someone you like every day and he is not aware your feelings." He asked, as he was utterly curious and amazed by how Shiho can bear with it for so long. It has been two wars.

His annoyance went up a notch when nothing slipped past the stoic mask Shiho had on. She just stood there, looked at him and blinked. She was not budging and she isn't going to. Stubborn woman. He took a deep breath and prepared himself for a tough battle with this woman in front of him. "When are you going to tell him? Even Laura can see that you like him and she shares my point too."

The brunette finally dropped that cold mask. With a sigh, Shiho walked towards the huge glass window and looked out at the different military vehicles driving past and the artificial clear blue sky. "I was like you… I joined ZAFT because I needed to escape... but that is as far as the similarity goes. As soon as I am able to face it, that will be the day I resign from ZAFT. Until then, I like how things are now. I don't want to risk it."

It was the tanned blonde's turn to sigh, as he joined her by the glass window which spans from the high ceiling to the floor. "Give him a chance, Shiho. He appears harsher than he really is but his heart melts like butter and as quick too. He's one big softie at heart."

Shiho turned and looked at Dearka, her pale purple orbs searching for answers in his darker ones. "If I tell Yzak that I like him, then what? He is a nice guy but there is no guarantee how he will react. You know him; he has been your friend since childhood. You should know that he can't handle his emotions well, much less, such matters. Either he goes into a shock and avoid me or worse, he will ship me out of the here at the next opportunity. I can't deal with that, Dearka. I just can't. Once, I tried to forget about him. That was why I left and returned to Frigore's team in Ground Corps. It was terrible. Besides, the entire Joule team is like a family to me. You and Laura are like siblings I never had."

Dearka dragged both palms down his face. This woman's stubborn streak is impressive, to the extent of being ridiculous. No wonder she can stand being around Yzak at work. Hell, she even survived it, coming out of it unscathed.

"So what are you going to do? You can't get yourself to forget about him and yet, you don't want to tell him. Are you planning to walk down the suicidal path of watching him fall for someone else? Or secretly admire him until the day he marries a politician's daughter whom his mom match make him with?" Dearka shot back, something he rarely does. Unlike Yzak, he has a much longer fuse but the brunette was testing his limits.

"You said he will avoid you at all cost or kick you out of the team instantly. That's where you are wrong. I know him, Shiho. He likes you. I've never seen him like this before. The way he behaves when he is around you… he has never been like this to other girls. That idiot doesn't realise it yet but his actions said so."

Lilac eyes' widened in surprise. "What if you are wrong?"

The tanned blonde closed his eyes and hung his head low. For the first time, he prayed to whichever god that was listening to teach him how to convince this woman.

He looked up and placed both hands on her shoulder. He brought himself to look at her eye level. "I know him, Shiho. Trust me. The next time he walks up to you or whatever the situation is, as long as the both of you are alone, just let it go. I can't tell you what to do, you can confess if you want or do something else. As long as it feels right, just go with it; let your feelings guide you. You will see. That dense man will respond to you, well, in his ways."

"I don't know about this…" The brunette said softly, uncertainty hung heavy at every word.

"I have been pushing him towards you but he isn't getting it because you are holding back. It's time you played your part, sister!"

...

Back at main area of ZAFT base, Martius City (Couple of hours later, afternoon tea-break....)

"Major, over here!" Dearka called out as Shiho entered cafeteria.

The brunette stopped in her tracks, eyes darting between the chocolate muffin at collection area and the table where Dearka and the youngsters of Joule team were. A handful of them stood up and waved frantically at her. It was starting to catch the attention of other military personnel in the cafeteria.

Shiho sighed as she walked towards the table. Guess her chocolate muffin will have to wait. The youngsters gave a brief salute to her while she to Dearka, and the chatter began.

"The girls are checking out the new club after work-"

"We decided to make it a team outing."

"Join us, Major! Grab Commander along too!"

Shiho stifled her laughter at the sight before her. They reminded her of excited little kids, who didn't bother to raise their hands or wait for their turn to speak up. It has been awhile since she saw them this lively. The war, especially towards the end, drained the spark out of everyone. "Sorry people, I've got to run some errands tonight. Have fun!"

The brunette was about to make a detour to the counter for her muffin when Dearka hooked her arm with his, holding her captive. "It's clubbing, Ms Green Horn. People don't get drunk and fill the dancefloor until midnight. How late can your errand be?"

Laura jumped in. "Yeah, the war has ended and we didn't even get to celebrate it!"

The door to cafeteria slid open and Yzak walked in. "Joule!" Dearka shouted, gesturing him to come over to the table where the discussion is being held.

"What are you kids up to now?" Yzak asked as he approached the table. Dearka and the overgrown kids exchanged knowing looks, much to Shiho's worry. The tanned blonde then flashed his signature smirk and everyone, except Yzak and Shiho, chuckled.

"Team outing tonight! Drinks on Commander Joule!" Dearka announced, both index fingers pointing at the stunned platinum blonde. The rest of Joule team were on their feet immediately, cheering and exchanging hi-five with their Captain for the brilliant plan. Shiho quickly clammed her dropped jaw as soon as she realised everyone else in the cafeteria was looking at them. Correction, all eyes were on Yzak Joule, the Terror of ZAFT, who had bewilderment written all over his face.

Did that idiot just volunteered him to get bill? What's the occasion?

Yzak turned to Shiho. "Care to enlighten me, Major?"

"There's a new club in town. Initially, the girls are going. Now the boys are tagging along and making it a team outing-plus-post war celebration. And Dearka just confirmed your attendance." The brunette revealed, earning a scowl from Yzak. Shiho responded with a 'too bad' shrug and laughed at him.

"And yours too." Dearka added, giving a playful pointed glare at Shiho.

The brunette opened her mouth and was about to protest when Dearka continued. "Uh-huh, no buts! How can you not turn up when our Commander is getting the tab?" He reached out and hooked his arms playfully around Yzak's neck. "Right, buddy?"

The platinum blonde gave him a pointed look. "I want no part in your plan."

"Noooooooooo!" The bunch of them said at the same time. Goodness, are they born from Dearka or what? Yzak thought as he recovered from their united reaction. Everyone else at the cafeteria stopped whatever they are doing and looked at the lively bunch once more.

"Come on, Commander. We never had a get together!"

"Yeah! And this time, our gathering is out of Voltaire, Rousseau, and military base. It is going to be so fun!"

Yzak looked at the scene unfolding in front of him with disbelief. He was beyond speechless. Why does he feel like a teacher standing in front of a bunch of rowdy and overly excited kids?

In the meantime, Dearka quickly took advantage of Yzak's silence. "Silence means consent! It's a deal people!" Dearka released stunned friend and eyed Shiho from head to toe. "Ladies, please send some photos of party attire to our beloved Major here."

The brunette shot him a scowl, "watch it, dude. I know how to dress up for a party."

Dearka rolled his eyes, "When we were in space, you were either in uniform or pilot suit. Now that we are done with the war and docked in this colony, you are always reporting to work in pullovers or those boyfriend-style blouses with skinny jeans! All. The. Time! Geesh, do you own any feminine or sexy piece of clothing, sister?"

Yzak, together with the youngsters, eyed the brunette wearily. They weren't sure how Shiho will take the verbal firing from the now mother-hen-like Dearka. There is a reason why Shiho was nicknamed as the Terror of ZAFT's Work Wife.

The brunette was about to retort when the tanned blonde raised his index finger like how a mother did when dealing with a misbehaved kid. "Did I mention that I've NEVER EVER seen you in any other shoes aside from the 5 different pairs of Nike Sky High Dunks you wear every day?"

Shiho immediately raised her hands with palms facing the tanned blonde. "What's wrong with the shoes? They are limited edition and have hidden heels in them. If you ask me, they are no different from the regular platforms or wedges. In fact, they are more comfortable than any flats or killer heels I've worn in my life."

Yzak and everyone at the table have their eyebrows raised in utter surprise. Similar thoughts were running through their minds. Wow, Major Hahnenfuss in killer heels? If they ever come across that sight, they swear they will take a photo of her and keep it for memory sake.

Dearka face-palmed and released an exasperated sigh, "then it's time to re-acquaint yourself with them." At the frown on Shiho's face, he continued. "Please don't tell me you are wearing those boyish-looking shoes and blouse to the party. You really need to dress up, my friend!"

The brunette folded her hands across her chest and shook her head. "I dress for myself, bro! And the word here is comfort. You aren't my boyfriend anyway, so why are you-" Too bad, Shiho Hahnenfuss was no match for Dearka Elthman when it comes to verbal sparring.

"Exactly, you don't have one. All the more you should dress up-"

Shiho pinched her thumb and index finger together and did a zip motion at Dearka. "If a guy approaches me because I'm all dressed up or showing some skin here and there, a high chance that he thinks I'm just a hook-up material. And news flash, I'm not interested in being a bed-warmer."

A hand on her waist while the other was mid-air with an index finger up straight, Shiho looks like a mother lecturing a kid who drove her mad with anger. Yeap, that kid was Dearka, an overgrown one. "And I hope the guy doesn't think I'm trying to play hard-to-get. Because I swear I will snap his wrists and fingers the next time he touches me."

Yzak immediately flexed his hands. He mentally said his thanks when all his fingers and both wrists are working fine. Who would have thought Shiho is capable of being this fierce and violent? It frightened him for a moment. She may be aggressive on the battlefield but Yzak refused to believe she is capable of such violence. The platinum blonde then convinced himself that it was probably because Dearka made all those unwanted comments and pissed her off.

He tilted his head down to look at both his hands. These hands had wrapped around the brunette's shoulder and waist not too long ago, pressing her closer to him just as she held him and said those unexpected comforting words. He could not remember the last time someone told him to be easy on himself, and that it was alright to feel helpless. Ever since he participated in the war, it has been awhile someone approached him to ask whether he was alright. It had always been the case of seeking an instruction, a plan B or a last ditch effort to get the entire team out of the battle alive.

Just then, the sound of a metal cutlery hitting the floor filled the entire cafeteria, loud and clear. The brunette in front of him seemed to have stopped retorting halfway, distracted by the sudden noise. She stiffly looked to her left and to the right. Everyone seemed frozen and all eyes were on her. Funny, why did such a typical insignificant noise sounded so loud? Furthermore, they were in a crowded and noisy place like a cafeteria. Wait a minute...

At that moment, Shiho realised the entire cafeteria was dead quiet. No wonder the sound of metal cutlery dropped on the floor was almost deafening. Oh my god... Was she that loud? If she was, that means everyone heard her.

Defusing the awkward situation was Dearka's up-to-no-good snigger. "I think you can't dress up for nuts, so let's forget about dressing up for a party. It will require you to be in feminine or sexy clothing such as a bandage skirt or a bodycon dress. Now that I think about it, this is probably why you are going all 'No-need-to-dress-up' on me."

Everyone at the table jaw dropped and eyes darting nervously between the two. Did Captain Elthman just challenge Major Hahnenfuss?

The temperature of cafeteria dropped a couple of degrees instantly. Everyone felt chills going down their spine. The atmosphere was so tense and suffocating that one can almost slice it with a knife. No one moved and it seems everyone held their breath while anticipating Shiho's impending outburst. Who knows? She might probably reach out and strangle Dearka.

A dry chuckled slipped from the brunette. She met Dearka's challenging gaze squarely and a smirk slowly surfaced. That smirk on her face was probably a million times worse than Dearka's. No word can describe how sinister it looked. It was a combination of eerie and evil-looking. That made everyone's skin crawled, including Yzak.

"Usually, reverse psychology doesn't work on me but if it's a challenge you want, it is a challenge you will get." Shiho finally replied, eyes narrowing into slits.

Yzak gulped as softly as he could. He was trying his best not to shudder and let this side of Shiho get to him. It was as if she had spilt personality, and this is her darker self. The woman standing at an arm's length away from him is not the Shiho he had worked with during the past two wars. Neither is she the woman he enjoyed having small talks with. This woman is scary as hell.

Dearka smirked as he rubbed his hands together in glee, "it's on, sister. Prove me wrong." He was about to walk away when the brunette stood forward and blocked his path. "What's a challenge when the winner doesn't gain anything from it, right?"

If that idiot was starting to regret about challenging her, he did a good job at hiding it. Silence stretched on for a couple of second. "Fire away."

"Loser gets tonight's tab, and cover 3 night shifts." Shiho revealed, with her arms folded. Everyone at the table jaw dropped. All began to feel regretful on behalf of their Captain. This is one of the many reasons why you don't mess with Shiho Hahnenfuss. She will come back and hit you with a ball-busting sledgehammer. One swing from her and you are gone. The worst thing is you don't even know she was coming for you.

"You're very sure that you've got this, don't you? Do you have any idea what is my definition of sexy?" Dearka laughed, playfully raising an eyebrow at the brunette. Yzak wanted to go over and smack his best friend on the head. Trust him to play around when someone is declaring war on him.

"I'm pretty sure it can easily be classified as public indecency." Shiho rolled her eyes, even though she said it in a matter-of-fact tone. Sometimes, she wondered how Miriallia was able to handle this hot-blooded male. It must have been mentally exhausting, aside from being worn out physically.

The tanned blonde eyed Yzak and wiggled his eyebrows at him suggestively. Shiho and the youngsters directed their gaze to him, only to see their Commander shooting death glare at Captain. Don't you dare, you stupid piece of shit!

"Why don't you ask Yzak? We shared our porn videos with each other back at the military academy."

Yzak closed his eyes and count to ten. How he wish the ground would just open up and swallow him whole.

Mansion of the Joule's estate (Evening...)

"Madam! Look who is back?" Putting aside the newspaper, Ezalia Joule walked towards the direction of her butler's voice. She came to a stop just as she was greeted by a young man, who has the same fair complexion and hair colour as her.

"Mom?"

A wide smile stretched across the woman's flawless face as she quickly walked over to her son and hugged him. "Thank God, you are alright!" How time flies, her little boy is now taller than her by a head. "I saw the live telecast of the last battle..." Her voice shook as she recalled how her son's team was stretched thin to hold the line and disarm Requiem.

Yzak pulled away and smiled, "I had a great team… Dearka and Hahnenfuss were on board too, so it was manageable."

The last part was probably in the running for 'Understatement of the Year' award but he have to lie. It wasn't going to help much when his mother starts to worry. It spells the beginning of a long and tiring exchange of opinions between them, with topics ranging from his safety to her bugging him to get married soon so she can spend her days spoiling his children (aka her grandchildren).

Many would find this side of Ezalia Joule unimaginable, given her reputation in the political scene and as portrayed by the media. She was known for her brutal honesty, fierceness, and dedication to the people of Martius City and independence of PLANTS. Whoever or whichever organisation under her charge, she ruled them with an iron fist.

"I know you want to play your part in protecting PLANTS but you are already a full-time member of the National Defence Committee. Why do you have to risk your life and return to the frontline?" Ezalia asked as she gently pats her son's face, shoulders and arms while running her eyes from his head to toe.

"I'm fine, Mom. If there's something wrong, I would be in hospital by now." Yzak assured, feeling a tad embarrassed that his mother was doing what she did when he was few years old. He was turning 21 tomorrow!

Ezalia hit him at his arms. "Ouch! What was that for?" Yzak quickly took a couple of steps back as he rubbed his sore arm.

"Can't a mother show some concern to her son, who she has not seen for months?" She chided and started poking the spot (upper arms) where she hit him. "Are all these nice-looking muscles for show? I hit you so lightly and you yelped so loud!"

Yzak winced as he moved back a couple of steps more. "Mom! That wasn't a light one. It really hurts and your palm was red!" He was about to break into a jog to get away from his mother when a deep chuckle sounded. "That's probably her way of saying she missed you."

Yzak shifted his gaze to direction where the voice came from. Instantly recognising the guest, he switched to work-mode and smiled politely. "Councilman Hahnenfuss." He extended his hand for a handshake as the senior member in the Supreme Council approached him. "Good evening, I wasn't aware that you are joining us tonight."

The man laughed as he held his hand firmly. "Please, Jordan, will do. We are off-work. There's no need to be so formal with me. Besides, I'm here as a family friend. Your mother wanted your birthday celebration-dinner to be livelier so she invited me. I hope you don't mind me bringing along my daughter."

Yzak's heart did a couple of flips at the mention of word 'daughter'. A particular brunette came into his mind. She has the same German family name as Jordan. Since it isn't a common last name to begin with, he assumed she was Jordan's daughter too. Although he was surprised that they had guests at a family dinner, he couldn't find it in him to mind or be upset that Shiho was joining them. He gets to see Shiho out of work, so the surprise was a pleasant one after all. Don't ask him why, because he doesn't know it either. However, he felt a tad disappointed that Shiho described this dinner earlier as an 'errand to run'. Perhaps she knew this was a match-make attempt by the parents.

Or maybe she doesn't know she is seeing me. He convinced himself.

What makes you think she likes seeing you? For goodness' sake, she sees you almost round the clock for months during the recent war! He hates it when that annoying little voice sounded.

If he wasn't momentarily distracted with the fact that his daughter (assuming Shiho) is here, he would have shot his mother a bored look. All because this was obviously another matchmaking attempt by his mother, a small part to her grand plan of getting him married and her becoming a grandmother.

Jordan seemed to take his reaction well and broke into a small laugh. "I told you the birthday boy definitely wouldn't mind. Come on."

Yzak felt his heart fell in disappointment when the woman walking out of the dining room to join them was not the brunette with soft and delicate features. He always had the impression that Shiho was of a mixed heritage but never quite find the right time or reason to ask her. Well, he could have easily pulled out her records but it will feel as if he was stalking her. Not to mention, one less opportunity to chitchat to her. Shit, he was going loony, isn't it? Where are all these thoughts and sudden swing in emotions coming from?! Why does it always lead to Shiho?!

Forcing himself to focus on the woman in front of him, he soon finds her familiar. Have they met before? A show-stopping beauty, she stood at the height of an average Coordinator woman. Hourglass figure wrapped in a fitting long-sleeved black knee-length that highlights her fair complexion. Almond-shaped purple eyes, straight nose and high cheekbones were in perfect alignment and proportion. One look and Yzak knew she was a typical Coordinator, whose features were selected before birth. In this case, her skin tone, purple eyes and blonde hair were selected to bear resemblance of Jordan's and indicated their European heritage.

"How have you been, Yzak? It has been a while... since the last time we met." That voice. Chloe Hahnenfuss. Shit. It then came back to him. They had a 'mutually beneficial arrangement' that night, after the annual charity ball.

Let's just say that he is a healthy young man. After being stuck in Rousseau and Voltaire for months during the recent war, and he never hook up with the female officers in his team, just imagine the pent-up needs. With a bombshell like Chloe came knocking on his door, it was almost impossible to rein in the urge. Don't group him with Dearka though. He is not as hot-blooded as his best friend, who was notoriously known for his womanising ways in the past.

The look on his face must have told her that he remembered their escapade. She flashed him a smile with a hint of foxiness in it and he regretted their time together immediately. He should have listen to all those warning bells going off in his head that night. He didn't have a good feeling about this woman the moment he laid his eyes on her.

Noting the glint in her eyes, he knew he was in some sort of trouble. She must be thinking this dinner is her ticket to something he doesn't want to know.

In the meantime, Ezalia registered Chloe's words and was glad that her son was not lying when he said he knew Jordan's daughter. Just then, Yzak said something that left everyone bewildered. "Where's Housenka?"

"Yzak!" Ezalia chided. She didn't know which surprised her more. Her boy, who was brought up with manners, did not acknowledge Chloe's greeting, even though it was unintentional. Or the frown and slight pout he had on. He resembled a child, who was greatly disappointed because the teddy he received was not the one he was expecting or have in mind.

"Housenka? What is that?" Chloe asked, looking rather puzzled.

"What are you talking about? Remember when I asked whether you are acquainted with Jordan's daughter? You said that you knew her." Ezalia added in, raising her eyebrows at her son.

Realising the person his mother was referring to and the one he really knew were two different people, Yzak released an exasperated sigh. "Chloe and I met at last year's charity ball and that's it."

The younger woman shot him a questioning look that says, 'that's it? You sure?' Too bad, he made it clear that night. Yzak continued, "I was referring to the Hahnenfuss in my team, Shiho Hahnenfuss." He noticed Chloe's face darkened while her father tensed for a moment.

They knew Shiho.

"I called her Housenka because of the beam canons of her mobile suit. It reminds me of the Balsam flower's petals scattered by the wind."

Ezalia blinked rapidly for a moment. This is terrible. It seems she got the identity of her future daughter-in-law wrong. Judging from the twinkle in her son's eyes and the silly half-formed smile, Yzak is probably smitten with this girl called Shiho. He even gave her a nickname, goodness! Isn't that what boys in high school do? And how old is he? Going 21. She didn't know whether she should laugh at how ridiculous yet adorable her boy is, or scold him for not telling her that he likes someone.

"Dinner is ready to be served, Madam." Ezalia smiled at her butler, appreciating his intervention. "Shall we?" She gestured to her guests and began walking towards the dining area. As soon as Yzak joined her, she hit his arm again. The younger Joule jumped slightly and sent a glare her way. "What?" He mouthed, rubbing the sore spot.

"Why didn't you tell me that you have someone in mind? I would have invited this Shiho, instead of Chloe. Do you have any idea how embarrassing that was?" She whispered hotly and slowed her steps to put some distance between them and her guests.

Yzak looked at her as if she was talking to him in alien language. "What are you talking about? What do you mean by 'I have someone in mind'?" Ezalia rolled her eyes at him.

"You mean Shiho?"

His mother nodded with a wide smile.

Yzak dragged his hands down his face in exasperation. Not his mother too! Why the hell people keep thinking that he and Shiho have something going on? Or that he likes Shiho? Gosh! Don't they know how awkward it will be for both of them if Shiho let it get to her? The whole dynamics between them will be ruined. There will be one less person he can work with, instead of working for him. It sounds strange to have this coming from someone who earned the reputation of Terror of ZAFT but he prefers someone who questions and share opinions, as compared to someone who simply follows his instructions.

"What makes you think I am interested in her? Did Dearka tell you? Or did you make him keep an eye on me?" Yzak was no longer whispering. He grew more agitated with each word, starting from his best friend's name.

Ezalia gasped at the accusation and hit him on the arm once again. "I'm hurt that you think I will resort to having your best friend spy on you. Since you mentioned Dearka know something I don't, I will give him a call."

Yzak came to an abrupt halt. Oh my god... this is getting worse by the minute. He has to prevent her from making that call. Dearka's busybody tendencies and his mother's meddling ways is a VERY deadly combination. "Unless you want to ruin Dearka's happiness for the rest of his life, go ahead and make that call." The silver-haired man said nonchalantly, even though what he was feeling at the moment was the complete opposite.

Judging from his mother's widened eyes, the chances of him succeeding seems promising. "What are you talking about? You mean he managed to win back that Natural?"

"Yup, he did... unfortunately." Sorry pal, I didn't mean to make Miriallia sound so terrible but I can't let my mum call you. That will be the end of me.

"She has this insane-streak of possessiveness. My God..." He continued, feeling really guilty for making his best friend's girl sound like a crazy, insecure woman. He was pretty sure Miriallia was a nice girl, having to put up with Dearka's ways. A huge 'appetite' and an overgrown baby – you know, cracking silly jokes and being super clingy to her. The list goes on.

"So ...?"

"Wait till she finds out that you, a woman, called Dearka. Remember how miserable I was and didn't have the time to visit? That love-sick idiot took a month-long leave to win her back. It will be for nothing if you make that call."

"Wow, I didn't know it was to such an extent."

Yzak pursed his lips and nodded solemnly.

"You can't blame her for being like this. That friend of yours... his ways doesn't give any woman a slightest sense of security. I wonder how the poor girl is going keep a leash on him."

Yzak was very tempted to correct his mother that Dearka is now a changed man. Credit to Miriallia, who had once broken up with him after receiving strong disapproval of his family and thinking his friends will looked down at him because she was a Natural. He remembered his ever-carefree friend was in a wreck. Surprisingly, it was Shiho who got him out of it and made him go after Miriallia. Now that he thinks about it, Yzak wondered how the brunette managed to knock sense into Dearka when he, his best friend, was unable to get a word out from him.

Has she been in a relationship before?

"I know Shiho for all my life, she never had a boyfriend." (Lacus)

"Madam, Master Joule. Guests are seated, awaiting your presence. Shall I get dinner served?" The butler approached the duo with warm smile. Ezalia shot a warning glare at Yzak. "This conversation is not finished. I will deal with you later." With a thankful smile to Alfred, the lady of house walked into the dining area.

"Enjoy the dinner, sir. All dishes are your favourite. Mary put in a 101%, since it has been awhile you came to visit." Alfred smiled. His salt-and-pepper hair reminded him of his grandfather whom he never had the chance to meet. Same goes for his wife, Mary, who was in charge of the kitchen. She reminds him of a doting granny, who tends to prepare too much food whenever he visits. The elderly couple were like grandparents to him, they helped his parents to care for the house and later, him, from the day he was born.

"How many times do I have to remind you to call me by my name, Gramps?" Yzak reminded in a jokingly exasperated manner. Laughing, he gave the salt-and-pepper haired man a hug.

...

Aside from the sounds of cutlery against the plates every now and then, awkward silence stretched across the dining table where the four of them were seated. Ezalia was burning holes into Yzak, who was seated to her right, with a pointed glare.

Her stubborn son refused to look her way and continued eating. She gave up; she was the host after all. Placing her cutlery down, she smiled at the woman who was currently engrossed with pushing her food around.

"How are the dishes so far? I hope they suit your palate. All of them are Yzak's favourite."

Chloe was the first to reply, with her million-dollar smile. "They are good. I didn't know Yzak has such a big appetite." Her eyes glided over the wide array of dishes in the table before giving a grateful smile.

The silver-haired man regretted looking up from his plate to see her response. He inwardly cringed. How fake was that? How on earth can someone judge the taste when the portion taken per dish was insufficient to a feed a mouse full? If it wasn't for his mother, he would have filled his plate with food and went into his room to enjoy it. Away from the father and daughter.

Upon a light kick on his shin, Yzak shifted his gaze to his mother. She was giving him that creepy smile. It was a warning. He had better reply Chloe and make this dinner a pleasant one or else he won't make it out of this house alive to go for the team gathering afterwards. Damn, he felt like a teenager again.

Shifting his attention back to the blonde, he nodded politely, "I like variety." There was a hidden meaning to it and she seemed to catch it. Her face darkened for a split second. Ezalia stiffened and shot him a warning look.

Yzak then sent Chloe a smile rivalling her earlier one, as he raised his glass of red wine in a toss to her. He wasn't like Dearka but if it is what it takes to get her off his back, so be it. If she thinks she can latch on to him just because Ezalia is trying to match make them, she was wrong. He won't settle for a woman he doesn't have feelings for, especially ones like Chloe, who is obviously interested in him for his inherited wealth and career.

He can handle Chloe but it was her father whom the silver-haired man was cautious about. Ever since he was brought into the world of politics, Jordan was in neither Pro-Yzak nor Against-Yzak camps. In everyone's eyes, Jordan was neutral and didn't quite care who held what positions. Many said that he was too caught up in churning out new 'toys' for ZAFT. However, Yzak thinks he was too quiet and peaceful for a politician. Something was off. There is something about him, just like his daughter that sets off all the warning bells in him. What exactly is it? He doesn't know but he was working on it. Right now, Yzak has to keep the man at arm's length and make sure he doesn't have leverage over him until he finds out.

...

"The world is very small, don't you think?" An all-too-familiar voice sounded. He didn't need to look to his side to know Chloe had joined him. Here, at his favourite part of the mansion. It was where he and his late father used to hang out whenever he was back from a mission. With her beside him, in this garden, feels like an invasion of personal space. He wanted her to disappear as soon as possible, so he kept his mouth shut.

Ignoring his lack of response, the blonde continued. "I'm surprised you knew my stepsister. Better yet, she works for you. I won't be surprised if the two of you are fraternizing. She is probably as much of a slut like her mother."

That definitely caught Yzak's attention. He turned sharply with blue eyes narrowing into slits and fists clenched. He was this close to forgetting his upbringing temporarily and hit her. First, it was foul to call someone else's mother such a name. Sure, he cursed and swears more than he can count but he had never directed it to anyone's parents. Second, he has never regard Shiho as a 'bed-buddy' material. Aside from his personal rule to never hook up with colleagues, Shiho has never said or done anything to give him the impression. Not to mention she explicitly said that she wasn't interested at the cafeteria earlier today.

"I hope you have been careful. Or else, history will just repeat itself. The difference is the mother of your love child is an illegitimate child herself." She said in a lazy tone, bordering on sarcastic.

Despite the boiling of his blood, Yzak was slightly taken aback by Chloe's revelation about Shiho. She provided him the answers to questions he had about Shiho, when he first learnt of her family name.

As soon as he knew the new soldier was a Hahnenfuss, he wondered why the stoic brunette was never in the media's spotlight like (he assumed) her sister, Chloe. Many, like him, know Jordan Hahnenfuss had one child, who is none other than Chloe. No one knows about Shiho Hahnenfuss.

Yzak could only assume that it was probably due to the stark difference in appearance between the two women, that people did not associate Shiho with the powerful Hahnenfuss family.

Unlike Jordan and Chloe, who are fair, Shiho has slight rosy skin tone that reminded him of peaches-and-cream. Her hair was neither wavy nor blonde. Hers was thick, dark brown in colour and shiny due to its straightness. While those almond-shaped purple eyes are the only resemblance to Jordan, her face was not heart-shaped like Chloe's. It was babyish in shape. Softness too. Yzak recalled brushing his fingers along her jaw. It was something which he had kicked himself mentally many times today.

An illegitimate child...

Then it struck him. Chloe and Shiho were born from different women and Jordan was their father. Recalling the senior Councillor is a married man and his wife is still alive, whom Chloe resembled too, Yzak concluded that Shiho was a living proof of his infidelity.

Given the reputation of the Hahnenfuss clan, whose family tree is filled with famous inventors, engineers, and political leaders (in later generations), Yzak was not surprised if they have used their immense wealth and vast connections to have this covered up. He assumed Mrs Hahnenfuss is aware of this and had either forgave him or put up a front. Many politicians of his mother's generation married for many reasons but love. Ezalia Joule was one of the minorities.

Choosing to ignore her accusation about him and Shiho, Yzak finally responded. "We can't choose our parents, Chloe. Don't get yourself upset for something that you are not responsible for. There is no point in blaming Shiho -"

The blonde directed her scorching glare at Yzak as she exploded. "She will inherit half of my grandmother's wealth when she turns 21! If it wasn't for her shameless mother who turned up at my house with a baby girl in her arms, it will all be mine! I was supposed to be the only child, the only heir!"

Yzak froze. He couldn't believe his ears. All this anger was because of … inheritance? This woman is impossible. The silver-haired man had initially assumed she was upset with Shiho because of the brunette's mother was the mistress and had wrecked Chloe's family.

Taking Yzak's silence as shock, she snorted and laughed dryly as she recalled the scene unfolding in front her. She was 4 years old then, woken from her afternoon nap with the commotion going on downstairs in the living room.

"She is nothing but an illegitimate child, born from a Natural who was an orphan adopted by a traditional tea house in Japan. What right does she have to my grandmother's inheritance? What right does that slut has to ask Grandma to raise that disgusting thing! I bet it was all an act when she wept and pleaded Grandma for help, saying that she does not want any compensation or money from us but Grandma's word that she will raise the baby as her grandchild."

That was it. Yzak does not want to hear any more about Shiho's background from the blonde. It wasn't right. It feels as if he was looking into Shiho's secret journal or diary without her permission. She deserves more respect than this from him. She is a loyal solider, a trustworthy ally and a … friend? Well, he will think about what she meant to him now that the war is over. They will spend less time together since they have docked in a colony. Back to the issue at hand, he decided that if he wants to know more, he will ask her personally.

"I'm in no position to comment on this but Chloe, keep in mind that it takes two, a man and a woman, to make a baby." Yzak said calmly, even though he was still very offended with the insults she hauled at Shiho and her mother. "Shiho maybe an illegitimate child but she has no choice when it comes to who her parents are. No child has." He added, foolishly hoping that he can talk some sense into her and take her hatred towards Shiho down a notch. Apparently, he failed.

The blonde opened her mouth and was about to retort when a deep baritone voice cut in. "That's enough, Chloe." Jordan walked over from the sliding door at the entrance of the garden and held the younger Hahnenfuss by her wrist. Ezalia joined Yzak and placed a comforting hand on his still-clenched fist. The silver-haired blonde turned to his mother in shock. He must have been very affected with the revelations and Chloe's offensive remarks.

"My apologies, Yzak, Ezalia. We will be making a move first, thank you for having us over dinner. It was very generous of you." Jordan said, managing a small but tensed smile. Before either Joule get to reply, the Hahnenfuss were out of the garden and heading in the direction of mansion's door. Ezalia then turned to her son and offered a small smile. She was glad that the little boy she raised turned out to a sensible young man. "I'm proud of you."

Yzak sighed, "I did nothing. I could have defended Shiho better but I realise I don't know her at all." Ezalia felt a small wave of ache gripped her heart at the disappointed look on his face. "We fought two wars together, we were on-board the same ship for so many months... and yet, we are nothing more than strangers. It's ironic, isn't it?"

Ezalia placed a hand on each side of Yzak's face and tilted it downwards, forcing him to look at her. She was taken aback by the intensity of sadness swirling in those pale blue eyes. Oh her poor boy. He's in it deep, real deep and he doesn't know it.

"Get to know her, Yzak. The war has finally come to an end. People may be carrying scars from it but the timing has never been better... to start anew, to go back to the life before the war, to make new friends, and to find someone special, say, a life partner."

The son immediately straightened up and frowned, "not the marriage topic again!" She burst into laughter, recalling how Yzak resembled his younger days. A little boy who always blow his top and stomp his foot in protest when he was asked to finish his vegetables.

She took a good look at her son again before she released his face. "Can I ask you a question?"

Yzak raised his eyebrows in response, "what is it?" Suddenly, he felt chills running down his spine just as his mother flashed a toothy grin. "I heard Chloe mentioned fraternising... so you and Shiho... how do I say this? … Have you slept with her?"

The silver-haired man's jaw went slack. He could not believe his ears! Did his mum just ask him THAT? It felt like he was having THAT talk with his mom all over again. It was extremely awkward and he never wants to have such conversations with her ever again.

His mother was about the retort when his mobile phone rang. Realising the call was from Dearka, he picked up immediately. "What's up?"

"I take it that the dinner went terribly?"

"You interrupted a conversation between my mom and me, Elthman."

"You don't sound upset though. In fact, you sounded rather happy or relieved. You don't need to thank me, buddy. I felt it."

Yzak rolled his eyes and chuckled, "what do you want?"

"Shiho is not picking up my calls; neither is she replying my messages. I think she has chicken out -"

Yzak cut in, "She chicken out? Are you referring to another Shiho? Seriously, Dearka… If you have a last minute plan, say, Miriallia just landed and you decided to spend time with her instead, I get it."

"Half correct pal. She arrived early and I'm going to pick her now. The kids pestered me to bring her along, so she will be joining us. Miriallia said that she wants to meet Shiho, so you are going to make sure she turns up."

As much as he wanted to see Shiho, his best friend's request was absurd. Well, he can't simply agree to it straightaway, right? It will be too obvious. "Did you hear what you have just said? Why do I have to go pick up Shiho? I'm not a chauffeur, you know!"

"I would love to pick her up but Joule's mansion is nearer to ZAFT base than the shuttle port. The kids are at the place now -"

"What are they doing over there now? It's only 9pm. The party doesn't start until the crowd has arrived, say, midnight?"

"The kids are there for dinner. It's a restaurant by day. The table and chairs in the dining setting will be removed at 11pm. The kids have made reservations for our own table for the party. Anyways, what's so bad about picking Shiho up? You will get to see her all dressed up."

Right, Shiho was supposed to turn in party attire - Bodycon dress or low-cut blouse with bandage skirts. "Shut up, Dearka! Unlike you, I'm not a pervert!"

"Geesh, I wasn't even saying anything along that line. YOUR imagination is running wild here, dude. Here's a gentle reminder to stop by a convenient store and get some protection, alright? If it's you, I doubt she will snap your wrist and fingers." Dearka burst into laughter and soon hang up.

Yzak rolled his eyes, and kept his mobile phone in one of the jean's pockets. Turning around to face his mother, he soon finds himself looking at a grinning Ezalia once again. This is not good.

"You are going to a party with Shiho after this?" Oh god, there she goes again.

"The younger officers want to celebrate the end of war and make it a team outing. Well, it's mainly the pilots, CICs, Dearka and I." Yzak said in a matter-of-fact tone, even though he can feel beads of perspiration threatening to slide down his temples.

"Shiho too, and you are picking her up." Ezalia added excitingly. Yzak went stiff, "you heard what Dearka said? Mom! Why were you eavesdropping on us?"

"I wasn't eavesdropping! You had the volume on so high that I could hear everything from here. Dearka wasn't speaking softly as well." Ezalia retorted with her hands folded across her chest.

Yzak slapped a hand over his forehead. His mother must have heard about the condoms too. Even though he wasn't planning on doing anything similar to what Dearka was suggesting, it was really embarrassing when his mother heard it.

"Oh! I remembered how Shiho looks like now! She is the girl I recommended Patrick to study the beam weapon technology. She is quite intelligent and a well-mannered girl too." Ezalia clapped her hands together and beamed happily as she remembered who Shiho was.

Yzak nodded, wondering what his mother was up to.

"I would prefer a girl with more prominent features but a soft beauty like her is not bad either. I suggest you DON'T heed Dearka's advice, you know, on getting the protection."

"MOM!"

END


Ta-da! That was chapter 2 for you. I hope you like it! I'm here to clarify some questions, which I assume you guys will have after reading this chapter.

Firstly, in Gundam wiki, it was mentioned that Shiho joined the Le Creuset team during the Bloody Valentine War, and left, only to return when Yzak too, had returned to the frontline. I have been wondering why and was searching in forums, hoping to learn that there was some kind explanation in the manga. Unfortunately, I found none of it so I took it upon myself to come up with something to fill this gap.

Second, Shiho was previously from Ground Corps but again, I have no idea why and how she ended up in Le Creuset team so I made it up too. It is to marry the fact that she was a test pilot in Ground Corps and DEEP Arms was a prototype built to test the beam weapons technology stolen from Earth Alliance. Plus, Yzak was one of the four ZAFT officers who stole it, so it made perfect sense. It was also an attempt to explain a little of Shiho's portfolio in ZAFT, and to have Yzak walked down the memory lane. Do google about the 'GOOhN Underground Mobility Test Type'. It's pretty cool, haha!

Third, I know Yzak is 20 in Gundam Seed Destiny but now that the Second Bloody Valentine war is over and the story takes place a couple of months after that, let's take it that he is going 21. Instead of him being 20 or has recently pass his 20th birthday.

Fourth, a typical Co-ordinator (in my story) is a woman or a man with physique of perfect proportions, also known as the golden ratio. This is in addition to the genetically enhanced traits, which include faster learning, and stronger and faster bodies that are virtually immune to diseases.

Fifth, I didn't mean to offend anyone with the inclusion of sexual references in this chapter (i.e. 'mutually beneficial arrangement' aka one-night stand, 'protection' aka condoms etc.). If you are uncomfortable, please feel free and let me know, I will consider about not mentioning at all but it is going to be quite a challenge. However, please don't mistake it as a 'hint' that I will write explicitly on sexual stuff in the future chapters. It won't be happening; this story will be sticking to its T-rating.

Sixth, in case you are wondering how the new pilot suit looks like. It is the suit worn by the Black Widow in Avengers 2. I think it is really cool and much better than the bright red ones. If you are wondering about the change in suits, it is necessary. It plays a role in the whole development of story.

Seventh, if you are also wondering about Shiho's 'soft and delicate features' and 'of a mixed heritage', go Google-image-search for 'Namie Amuro in bangs' . In my opinion, she is the best real-life representation of her. If you still can't picture it, let me know in the review and I will share the links to the picture.

Eighth, I'm sorry for the wait. I was editing this chapter several times. I was very tempted to add more scenes in but it was getting too long. It will result in the next chapter being short and not fulfilling. I'm also aware that this chapter lacks of fluff and was heavy with all the serious stuff. Chapter 3 will be good (I hope), the fluffs will be back!

That's all for now, thank for reading this chapter! The review box is just below! Type away, talk to me, I can't wait to hear from you :)