Sorry this chapter took so long! For some reason, this chapter was very difficult to write and I had to push some events to the next chapter as there is so much going on in this one alone; more KxL moments. Thank you for all the wonderful reviews. It is very inspirational to have people love this story and want to read more. Hope you like chapter 3. Please review and enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Seed/Gundam Seed Destiny

Chapter 3

"Kira! Kira!" Lacus shouted as she ran down the beach towards him.

She could see him in the distance standing near the shore with the setting sun outlining his lone figure. She glanced up as she was running to see smaller pieces of Junius Seven start to break away and fall into the Earth's atmosphere.

We're running out of time.

Ever since the final evacuation order had come in two hours ago, Kira never left the shore; wanting to see with his own eyes the ruins of Junius Seven on its path towards destroying half of the planet.

Reverend Malchio and Caridad had already gather all the children at the nearby shelter, but Lacus left to find Kira who she hadn't seen after the recent news report. The previous night they were standing on the beach seeing the undefinable object in the sky coming closer. When they return to the cabin, there was a report of the remains of Junius Seven being thrown out of its orbit and drifting into the Earth's atmosphere. The government claimed there was no reason for panic, but for caution all citizens should go to the shelters.

Lacus was busy helping Caridad prepare the children for evacuation that she didn't notice Kira slipped off. She knew he was worried about Cagalli and Athrun, but something else seemed off about him and she had a feeling it had to do with the dropping of Junius Seven.

She was very scared when he did not show up to shelters after the final warning call. Against the other two adults' wishes, she left the shelter in order to find him. I won't let him stay out here she thought as she desperately searched for him. I can't even imagine why he is still outside.

The pink-haired teen nearly collapsed with relief when she finally found him, but she knew they had to get to shelter quickly. She called out again as she approached him. Kira nearly jumped at her voice, but turned around slowly to face her.

"Lacus."

"What are you doing out here, Kira? We need to get to the shelter quickly." She grabbed his hand and started pulling. She began to get very frustrated when he wouldn't move. It's like he's rooted to the ground she thought as she tugged harder. "Please Kira! Don't do this!" She was on the verge of tears when Kira finally responded.

"Why can't we ever have true peace?"

Lacus stopped pulling and looked at him closely. "What?" she asked before seeing the familiar pain and sorrow fill his eyes.

Kira sighed glancing away trying to avoid her gaze. "First the incident with ZAFT, and now this. Something seems to be tugging at the seams. After this, will we still stay peaceful?" He pulled away from her taking a few steps back to the shore. "What's going to happen to us?"

"Nothing."

Kira looked quickly back at her to see determination filling her blue orbs.

"Nothing will happen to us, Kira." She said calmly, but firm. "We are going to stay together like we promised. And if the future does bring us to more chaos, we will stand together, like before." She grasped both of his hands with hers, pulling him back with her. She gave him a sincere smile as they both started walking away from the shore.

Kira did not look back. He knew she was right; there was no use worrying about a possible dark looming future. He took the one hand still grasping hers, and lifted to his mouth and kissed it gently. A light blush crossed Lacus' face, but her smile stay constant. Her heart was swelling with joy at his kiss, but she knew they had to get to safety first.

"Let's go, Kira." Kira nodded and the two quickly made their way back to the shelter, ignoring the spectacle of oncoming destruction behind them.

Minutes later Kira and Lacus arrived at the shelter. Caridad hugged her son tightly as soon as they entered. After assuring his mother he would not do something reckless again, the young couple settled down on one of the benches.

They were soon wedged apart as the children gathered around Lacus to hear one of her stories. Kira wanted to feel Lacus next to him when the debris starts falling down, but he smiled at the children wanting to be near her as much he wanted too.

Who couldn't love her?

Lacus felt his gaze and gave him a sweet smile before turning her attention back to the children. Like Kira, she wanted to feel his arms around her, offering his protection. Instead, Lacus kept her attention towards the children and started telling them a story.

Time ticked by with no occurences. Kira's thoughts were continuiously wandering as he thought about the other people around the world facing the falling debris as well. I hope Mr. Waltfeld and Miss Murrue made it to safety he thought, at least Cagalli and Athrun are not here. He grimaced as he knew that was the only reason he was happy his sister and friend were still in space.

"Kira."

He glanced up at Lacus who had just finished her second story. The children were starting to get restless, so they were not paying much attention to her, giving her time to talk to Kira. "Are you alright?"

He smiled sincerely, "Yes, just thinking about all those people whose homes could be destroyed." Lacus' expression sank as she nodded solemnly.

"It's unfortunate, but hopefully the damage will not be as bad, since we received a warn-"

She was interrupted when the shelter began to shake uncontrollably. All the adults glanced towards the ceiling, knowing that the remains of Junius Seven had finally started hitting Earth's surface.

Crying and screaming could be heard slightly over the loud rumbles above them. Lacus gather the children into her arms, soothing them with her voice. "It's alright. We all will be fine."

Soon the shelter was filled with a soft song, growing louder as the crashes above grew. Soon the noises of the destruction were drowned out by Lacus's beautiful voice as her song lightened everyone's moods and raised their spirits. As she sung, Lacus felt Kira grasped her hand and she squeezed back knowing her song of hope is what they all needed more than anything.

Days passed after the fall of Junius Seven and the citizens of Orb tried to start back up their lives. Unknown to most of them, except a few, their Chief Representative had finally arrived back home to evaluate the damage.

Kira was pleased to know his sister was back home, but he knew better not to interrupt her when she had a lot of work ahead of her. Instead he waited patiently for Cagalli or Athrun to contact him, knowing full well one or both of them would soon.

His instincts proved well as only a few hours after Cagalli had landed with the Minerva, Athrun drove up towards the beach that Kira, Lacus and children were walking down. After hearing the beeping of a car horn, the young couple looked up to see their friend waving down at them.

"Looks like you were right, Kira. Athrun was the first one to come by and so soon too." Kira grinned at Lacus who believed both Athrun and Cagalli would come visit together.

"I guess I can win a bet once and awhile." Lacus giggled, knowning full well that Kira did not win anything from the bet, but she liked seeing him so proud of his win.

Athrun walked to end of the stairway looking down at the couple. He did not really want to interrupt, but he reasoned they spent enough time with each other. "Hey Kira!" He called allowing their attention to center back on him. "Can we talk for a sec?"

Kira glanced quickly at Lacus, not wanting to leave her to walk home alone with the children. She just smiled, pushing him gently towards Athrun. "Go ahead, the children and I will be fine. We will be home before sunset."

The brown-haired boy nodded, leaned in and kiss her cheek quickly before taking off towards his best friend. Lacus blushed deeply, but when she noticed the children watching her, she shouted and pointed towards the ocean, trying to distract them from her embarrassment.

She then watched the car drive off, the smile slowly disappearing off her face.

I hope Athrun can put some of Kira's fears to rest. She shook her head in her attempted denial. No, not just his fears, our fears.

"So do the children like their new home?" Athrun asked as he shifted the car into a faster gear.

Kira could tell his friend was prolonging the real topic, but obliged to answer his question. "Yeah. It was very kind of Miss Murrue and Mr. Waltfeld to let us stay with them. It's a big responsibility to take all of us in, especially since it was so sudden."

Athrun nodded in agreement, "Yeah, but that's the kind of people they are. How are you and Lacus enjoying the new place? Sharing a room yet?"

Kira blushed heavily at his statement. Athrun knew him well and it entertained him to see his best friend always so nervous when talking about his remarkable relationship. "She loves that were still near the beach and she's happy the children have a new home."

She usually sleeps with the children, but luckily some nights we can stay together. And those moments are always the ones I cherish most.

Athrun glanced quickly over at Kira, hoping to hear more. When he didn't offer more on the subject, Athrun sighed knowing it was time to back off that particular topic. They sat in silence for a few minutes letting the low hum of the car be the only constant sound.

Athrun gripped the steering wheel, keeping his gaze focused on the road. "You heard the reports, about both incidents right?"

"Yeah."

"First the Earth Alliance steals new Gundam models and then the PLANTs set up a rigging system to Junius Seven causing its descent. I knew my father still had followers and this will prove to the world that Coordinators still hate Naturals."

"What?" Kira glanced over at him, surprised with this new information. "What do you mean, Athrun?"

The other boy grunted in anger before continuing. "I was part of the demolishing team. I was trying to help destroy Junius Seven." He could see Kira's surprise grow, but kept going. "There were ZAFT mobile suits trying to stop us from demolishing it. They wanted the Earth to suffer the consequences from their pain and suffering." The car pulled in the driveway of Kira's and the others new home. Athrun then pounded on the steering wheel letting his frustration out.

"When will this hate end?" Kira asked. Not expecting an answer, he could feel his emotions start to build up. Anger was growing strong as the burning memories of Rau le Creuset plagued his thoughts.

Athrun sensing his friend's inner turmoil chose not to address it. Instead he looked through the windshield at the ocean spread out in front of them. It seemed endless, as endless as the constant hurt and anger driving the world into burning ashes.

"Hey, Kira? Do you remember back during the war when we didn't understand what we were fighting for? You had said we could figure it out together. Well to be honest," He took a quick pause drawing in a short breath, "I still don't know what I have to do in this world."

"Athrun."

"I'm going back the PLANTs."

Kira shot his friend a confused glare. After all this time away, he was surprised he was willing to go back so soon, especially with all the problems Cagalli will have to fix after her long absence.

"Does Cagalli know of your decision?"

Athrun shook his head, sadness crossing his face. "No, I plan on telling her later. I know it's a bad time to leave her with all those ambitious politicians. But I need to go and I know you would understand the most, Kira."

Kira stared at him before slowly nodding his head. He could see his friend being at conflict with himself, and didn't want to stop him from making his own choices.

I hope when the time comes, he will know which path to take this time.

Lacus continued to wave even after Athrun's car disappeared in the distance. Part of herself was pleased he had come by to visit. Kira's nervousness was starting to rub off on her, and now Athrun had put a few fears out of her mind. Well, she thought, some of mine, but now I think Kira has more concerns now.

She had to admit to herself she missed Athrun's calm demeanor and sternness. He was a dear friend and she wished her and Kira could spend more time together with him.

Instead he is rushing off to the PLANTs again. He always seemed to be searching, never seeming to find what he wanted.

Glancing around she noticed Kira had wandered off somewhere. She walked into the house only to find Caridad and Reverend Malchio holding a small conversation. Giving them a small nod, she continued searching the house for the young teen.

"I should figure out when I should visit Ms. Cagalli." Lacus said quietly to herself. Before he left, Athrun asked her to visit Cagalli soon. She could tell from his tone he meant to make sure she was alright. Lacus delightfully agreed, but noted the blue-haired teen seemed very concern about leaving Cagalli behind.

As her thoughts wandered over Athrun's strange behavior, a lone figure caught her eye. She stepped back to see him standing in their room, staring out the window.

"A kiss for your thoughts?"

Kira swirled around unaware someone was watching him. Once he saw Lacus, his trade smile appeared.

"I wouldn't mind that."

Giggling, Lacus approached him, loving their innocent banter. Though she wouldn't hesitate to kiss him on the spot, seeing the adoring look he was giving her at that moment. "So," She started trying to make the conversation seem casual. "Athrun seems very determined."

The smile slipped off his face as he sighed heavily. "Yes, I can't stop him. He was always stubborn that way."

"Yes. In that way, you are both very much alike."

Kira glanced at her and shrugged indifferently. "I guess that's true. I can be very stubborn about some things. Sorry for when you have to put up with me." Lacus grinned at him, placing her hands on her hips.

"Oh, you are stubborn and so am I. That's why we make a great pair!"

"Besides our stubbornness, I think we make a perfect pair." Kira copied her grin and was rewarded with a quick kiss.

"I think I can completely agree with that notion." Their next kiss was soft and tender. Slowly pulling away, Kira's eyes held hers yearning for her to read them as easily as she always could. His message got through as Lacus' furrowed her brow at his sudden change.

"What's wrong Kira?"

He breathed deeply, feelings of regret rising in chest. Before Lacus has shown up, Kira was thinking about his own personal choices instead of Athrun's. Instead he was inspired by his best friend to do something he was always afraid to do.

"Lacus, I think I'm ready to see it." She titled her head gazing at him with concern. "I want to visit the cenotaph."

Letting her voice reach out, Lacus happily continue picking flowers. Nothing could bring down her mood, and her singing only added to her happiness. She felt a little guilty at her obvious excitement as it was the day that Athrun left. Both she and Kira were surprised that only one day after telling them of his decision, Athrun boarded a shuttle to the PLANTs.

Kira's sullen mood had return at his friend's departure, but after some distractions from his mother and the children, his cheery-self came quickly back. Lacus was thankful for that as this was the day Kira finally wanted to pay his respects.

She nearly started crying when Kira had told her he wanted to see the cenotaph. It was the memorial for all the Orb citizens who had perished during the attack of Orb during the war. Kira, who was holding much grudge against himself for not doing well enough to protect the citizens, never wanted to step a foot near the memorial.

Lacus had gone several times to pay her respect, but she never pushed Kira. She told him to take all the time he needed and they will go together when he was ready. She never expected him to suddenly want to visit. But her heart filled with joy when she heard those words. Kira was ready to start healing his past regrets and it deeply honored Lacus to help his healing.

"I hope he hasn't been scared off." She joked as she quickly made her way back to the memorial, a fresh bouquet in her hands.

Though he was quiet nervous before we even got here this afternoon. Hopefully allowing him some time alone has helped eased his mind.

As she walked, Lacus started humming her favorite song again not noticing that two figures instead of one were standing near the memorial. The pink-haired songstress noticed a little too late that Kira was in a quiet conversation with young a man about their age.

Stopping abruptly, she was a little embarrassed to be singing in front of a stranger. Her confusion overcame her embarrassment as Kira looked concern over what the black-haired teenager had said. After a few more moments and mumbled words, the young boy took off never looking back at them. Kira watched him leave as Lacus placed the flowers near the memorial.

"Who was that?"

Kira shook his head as he grasped Lacus's hand. "I don't know. He seemed very emotional. He did not like the cenotaph."

"Did he say anything important?" She asked remembering the young boy apologizing before taking his leave.

"No, like me, it was his first time here. Something kept him from coming," Kira glanced back at the memorial "Something kept stopping him." Lacus noticed he was talking more about himself than the boy.

"Kira," She said softly, catching his attention. "You did a wonderful thing visiting here today. I am sure that some pain has been lifted, Hmmm, am I right?"

Kira nodded, smiling at her. "Yeah, I'm glad I did come. Thanks for coming with me, Lacus."

"Of course, wherever you'll go Kira, I want to go as well."

Linking arms, the couple slowly strolled back up the pathway, admiring the newly grown flowers that surrounded the memorial. As they left, Kira felt a huge weight lifted off his shoulders. He needed this and did not regret his decision of coming here. Yet, there was one detail still plaguing his thoughts; the fiery youth with his angry red eyes.

Silence filled the air as both girls were sitting patiently with their cups of tea, waiting for one of them to instigate a topic of conversation. Lacus's eyes watched Cagalli with curiosity. Even though I am the one who asked to come, she seemed very relieved of my presence, she thought as she took a small sip of her tea.

"Ms. Cagalli..."

Cagalli looked up, determination hidden behind her amber eyes. "I told you Lacus, just call me Cagalli." Lacus shrugged and gave a small smile.

"Sorry, a habit."

The blonde-haired woman nodded in understanding allowing the room to drift back into silence. After another minute, Lacus was ready to extinguish all the tension and dive down into Cagalli's feelings.

"Cagalli, what seems the matter? Aren't you happy to be back in Orb?" Cagalli didn't answer instead she just shifted uncomfortably. I feel like I'm being interrogated, she thought. Lacus, however, would not back down. "Do you not feel well? Or...are you upset that Athrun left?"

"That idiot doesn't know how to give proper goodbyes!"

Lacus stared at Cagalli who was now standing after her outburst. Lacus regain her composure and smile up at her friend. "Oh, I see. Yes, I understand that. Athrun was not always so personal before. He was very strict in his greetings and farewells."

Cagalli sat down, listening to her friend intently. "You mean from when you guys were engaged, right?"

"Yes, but that's so long ago. He obviously cares about you and may be less embarrassed to show it now." Lacus stifled a laugh as she saw Cagalli's blushing face.

Cagalli is just like Kira. They are both so easy to read.

Cagalli soon got her blush under control and her demeanor was aiming towards seriousness. "Hey Lacus?"

"Yes?"

"Do you..do you think I will be able to protect Orb this time?"

Lacus looked at her, seeing her seriousness and understanding the question. "I think you'll do whatever you can to protect it. Like last time."

Cagalli shook her head. That was not the answer she was looking for. "No, I mean will I be able to make the right decisions this time." Her voice became quiet as she looked at the ground, avoiding Lacus' curious gaze. "Even Athrun doesn't approve some of the decisions that just recently come to pass, but he doesn't blame me."

"Of course not. Those decisions were made by your board when you were away. So it's no way your fault, Cagalli."

"But it is!" After her second outburst, Cagalli stood up and started pacing nervously while Lacus remained seated. "It is my fault because now they are finalizing a treaty with the Atlantic Federation. What does that spell out? We are gaining allies, and aiming to become enemies with the PLANTs."

The blonde noticed her friend's blue orbs narrowed. "A treaty with the Federation. That seems odd during a time of peace."

"I don't think that peace exists anymore, Lacus."

Lacus caught her breath, "What?"

Cagalli gave a sad smile. "After the Armory One incident and the drop of Junius Seven, these events seem to be catalyzing something major. The hatred between the Naturals and the Coordinators seem never-ending and these events prove it. Even Athrun left to help keep peace between our two nations. But... I don't think that's going to happen."

Silence settled in once more as both of them were deep in their own thoughts. Cagalli was more nervous about what other changes her board was going to favor. The treaty is already finalized, what else can't I stop Cagalli asked herself, her anger and frustration building up. She glanced at Lacus who hadn't moved since the beginning of their conversation. She really wanted to know what the pink songstress was thinking, unlike her own, Lacus's face was almost unreadable.

Lacus' thoughts kept spinning around as she tried to think straight. She rubbed her hands nervously in her lap, but she didn't care to address her nervous habit at that moment.

It can't be. Orb should have never entered into a treaty. But what about the PLANTs? Aren't they the victims this time around? Will we have to fight again? And...

"I don't want Kira to fight again." Lacus said her last thought out loud, but she couldn't hide her immense feelings about the person she loved, fighting for another pointless war. She stared at his sister, willing her thoughts and feelings to be passed onto the other twin. Cagalli sighed as she shook her head.

"I don't want him to fight either, Lacus. I do not want anyone to fight again. It's just.." She paused trying to find the right words to convince Lacus of the circumstances. "This time we might not have a choice, if Orb is attacked again."

"So you'll let him fight?" Cagalli was taken aback by the bitterness in her voice. As long as she knew Lacus, she never knew the girl to hold grudges or anger. This was a different side of Lacus and she knew it had to do with the pain Kira had suffered during and after the war. Yet, Cagalli's pride got the best of her as she glared back at the other girl.

"I said I don't want him to fight, but if an enemy attacks, I will not be able to stop him from fighting again. It's his decision, and if it comes down to I believe he will pilot the Freedom again."

"The Freedom?" Lacus shook her head. "I will not let him pilot that Gundam again. So many memories, very painful memoires have been stored in that machine and Kira has not seen it since we arrived in Orb, two years ago. He won't fight, he can't fight."

Lacus jumped when Cagalli's hands slammed down on the table, causing their cups to tip over. "Stop playing these games, Lacus! You cannot choose for my brother to fight or not. If he does, it will because he wants to protect you, Lacus. You are my brother's world, if he pilots the Freedom again, it will be because of you!"

"Lady Cagalli!"

Cagalli's attention turn toward her personal maid, Merna, who had taken care of her since childhood. Instead of the sweet, usual pleasant face, the woman had an authority demeanor like she was scolding a child. This time the child was the princess "That's enough Lady Cagalli. I think your conversation has gone a little over board."

Cagalli's anger deflated as her rationalization came tumbling back. She looked down at Lacus, biting her lip knowing she did cross a line. "Lacus, I'm sor-"

"It's alright, Cagalli," Lacus interrupted her as she stood up. "You are very passionate about people you care about, and Kira is no exception."

Cagalli felt sadden at her statement. She's always so forgiving, she thought as Lacus helped pick up the fallen china with Merna's help.

"Lacus.."

Lacus gave her a small smile as she grasped her one of Cagalli's hands. "Don't worry about it. You just hang in there, alright?"

"Yeah."

Cagalli watched as Lacus walked away with Merna following close behind. She knew Merna would get Lacus home safely but she wondered if Lacus, personally, was alright. After all she had hit a nerve, and sometimes that makes even the calmest people start to change.

Trees blended in with the scenery as the black car carrying Lacus drove fast towards her new home. Lacus was staring out the window, but she was not looking at the scenery. Instead it all was a blur to her as memories from two years ago, kept flashing through her mind.

"Will this take you where you wish to go? Will it help you get there?"

Kira glanced at the new mobile suit standing in front of him. The Freedom, he thought, I can feel its strength and will power. "Neither will alone…nor strength alone." He mumbled Lacus' earlier words. They shook him to his core and he could see the promise of this machine and what it could give him as he desired. He turned back towards the pink princess who was still smiling at him. "Who are you?"

She titled her head, the smile growing. "I'm Lacus Clyne. You are...Kira Yamato." As he let her answer soak in, Lacus grasped his hand tightly. "I give you this sword to fulfill your desire to protect your friends. Hopefully we will meet again, Kira."

Kira smiled at her gratefully. "We will, Lacus. Thank you."

A single tear slid down her cheek, but she made no noise. She had given him the Freedom so willing last time. She knew it would help him. Angry at herself for her easy-going personality during the last war, she closed her eyes, letting the quiet noise of the engine calm her. After a moment, she reopened her eyes, determination filling them, a silent vow on her lips.

I will not let him worry. I will protect him this time.

"I will."

"Huh? Leave for the PLANTs? What has gotten into you, Lacus?"

Lacus crossed her arms, ready to stand her ground. Kira was facing her with both a confused and frustrated look crossing his handsome face. She had just gotten back from Cagalli's a few hours ago, and with the children finally asleep, Lacus was determine to tell Kira of her plan. During her ride home, Lacus was filled with promise at the idea of going to the PLANTs. She reasoned with herself, it would be the safest bet to take time away from all the controversy of the treaty between the Federation and Orb. Yet, now facing her love, it was no easy task to come up with a good excuse.

"I think it will be a nice change of scenery. I would love to go back and we can visit my old home. I'm sure some lovely changes have been done there."

Kira shook his head, not believing one word she was saying.

She seems more determine to leave than ever. What happened with her conversation with Cagalli?

Lacus saw he was not buying it. Hmm, I knew this wouldn't be easy she thought as she changed her tactic.

"Don't you want to go see the PLANTs again, Kira? We could visit Athrun while he's up there." Kira raised his eyebrows, making Lacus curse herself making her excuses sound too obvious.

Kira kept staring at her, trying to read her expressions. Though he was suspicious of her sudden reasoning, he would never be able to deny a request from her. "I guess we can go visit there for a while," He saw a smile of relief cross her face. Kira nervously rubbed the back of his neck, knowing this wasn't the end of their conversation. "But, I need a valid reason for why, Lacus."

Her smile fell, and he felt his heart drop as well. If anything, Kira could stand seeing her upset, especially because of him. He watched her fumbling with her beautiful hair as her eyes kept darting around the room, completely avoiding his.

Kira sighed, knowing she was not going to tell him the real reason. Even now she's hiding stuff from me and I do not like secrets he thought sadly.

He didn't blame her for keeping secrets, yet she usually only did when the matter concerned him deeply. He learned of her secrets when he found her bottling up her feelings after all the nightmares he had a few months after the war. It hurt him deeply to see her hide her sadness and hurt. Though it took time, a few months they were able to get over their relenting pain. He had thought they left the sadness and nightmares behind, but now he could see something was still holding Lacus back.

What can I do to help her? I do not if she's scared or hurt, but I can't stand her to be aloof like this. I love her too much to let her suffer alone.

"Lacus."

She looked at him, her mind fumbling as she still hadn't thought of a valid excuse. I can't tell him the real reason she thought as she accidently looked directly into Kira's eyes. Lacus found his eyes on the surface full of suspicion and worry, but behind it all warmth was obvious in his violet orbs. Lacus nearly melted at his gaze, and she lost all the will to lie to him anymore.

He still trusts me even though I'm just lying horribly to him. I never wanted to lie, I just wanted to take him away from here. Away from it.

Realizing she got caught, Lacus decided to come clean. "Kira, I thin-"

"I think that's a great idea!"

Both teens jumped at the older man's voice. Andrew walked in eyeing both of them before smiling and placing a hand on Kira's shoulder. "The songstress' idea of a vacation sounds like a perfect plan."

Kira glanced at Lacus before looking back at Andrew. "A vacation?"

The older man nodded, laughing as he slapped Kira on the back. "Yes, she wanted to surprise you with a trip back to her home for a while, but sadly you caught her kid."

Kira's eyes widen in surprise. He was wrong? He looked back at Lacus who looked just as surprised as him.

"Is this true?"

Lacus was pulled out of her shock at Kira's question. She nodded her head like Andrew and gave Kira a huge smile. "Yes, I wanted it to be a surprise, but you know me so well that I just can't keep surprises anymore." Lacus squeezed her hands tightly, praying he would believe the lie Andrew had set up.

Lacus knew it wasn't a total lie as she told the older commander she did want to visit her home someday, and obviously Andrew thought that's her current reason for going. From his expression, Lacus could tell he was still not convinced, but nearly shouted in joy when he gave his consent.

"I guess I was wrong then. I'm sorry for ruining your surprise, Lacus. I was just worried about you since you came back from Cagalli's. You seemed distracted."

"It's quite alright. This makes planning so much easier."

Kira smiled at her as he turned to leave the room. "Then we better start packing, hmm?" Andrew chuckled as Lacus kept her smile constant until Kira was out of the room. As soon as he left, Andrew shut the door and gave the pink princess a serious glare.

"Alright, are you going to tell me what's the sudden rush to leave Orb?"

Lacus looked at the man she regarded highly. He had helped her and Kira so much during the war and it didn't seem any fairer to hide things from him as it was for Kira.

"Thank you for your assistance, Mr. Waltfeld."

Andrew snorted as he leaned back on the door as blocking it from any interruptions. "You've never been a good liar, Lacus. Especially to the kid, but this must be very serious since you were so determined to keep it up." Andrew sighed as he saw Lacus's head drop in defeat. "Come on, what's the real reason? Why force Kira to the PLANTs?"

"To make sure he doesn't pilot the Freedom again."

"What?"

Lacus glanced at him and then away. Andrew thought he had misheard her, but seeing her expression he knew he heard right. He crossed his arms, confused about the situation occurring. "I must have missed something here. Why will he pilot the Freedom again and why are you so desperate for him not to?"

Lacus sighed knowing Andrew would find out even without her. With all his informants both in Orb and the Terminal, she knew military secrets will not be silent much longer, especially the word of an impending second war. "I found out from Cagalli that Orb had entered into a treaty with the Atlantic Federation."

"What?!"

She looked at his surprised face, confirming he hadn't learned of it yet. Andrew regained his composure as he knew he interrupted her. His mind mulled over this piece of information as he nodded for her to continue.

"With this agreement, they are basically calling the PLANTs the enemy. With the recent events, it seems ZAFT had set it all up, and the Alliance seems to be pushing for another war." Her voice fell silent as Andrew took a deep breath. So this is what they have been planning, he cursed as he walked up to her, and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

"And you do not wish Kira to fight again?" Lacus nodded numbly, not being able say anything. Andrew saw she was trying to fight down her emotions, but he knew they hadn't gotten to bottom of their conversation. "Even if you don't want to kid to fight again, how do you suppose sending him to the PLANTs will stop him? The kid will still want to protect all those here on Earth, especially his stubborn sister. Sending away won't stop him if a war has started."

Lacus nearly choked as the tears broke loose. She was trying so hard to keep her emotions in check and Andrew basically summed her up; selfish.

He's right though. I am selfish for trying to take Kira away when his family is here. He would do anything to protect them.

She felt Andrew squeezed her shoulder gently for support. Lacus understood he wasn't blaming her, he was just trying to reason with her irrational feelings.

"I just wanted to protect him ..."

"And I think if you would have told him up front, he would have agreed to leave. But you can't keep playing this game. Otherwise you will lose what's most important to you."

Lacus felt her legs become weak as Andrew's words sunk in. She knew she would have to tell Kira, but it pained her to see him worry. I know he doesn't want to fight, Lacus reasoned with herself, yet I know he wouldn't want to give up the chance to protect those he loves. She winced as Cagalli's words echoed through her mind.

If he pilots the Freedom again, it will be because of you, Lacus!

Lacus didn't notice Andrew moving away from her or the slow intake of breath filling the room. All she saw was the clear hurt etched into the violet eyes staring back at her. Never knowing Kira had come back to the room or heard her confession, Lacus stood rooted to the ground. Her chest was hurting as she felt dizzy, but she could not look away.

Oh god, why I do love him so much yet cause him only pain?

"Why? Why didn't you just tell me, Lacus?"

Kira's sweet voice was all she heard as darkness consumed her. Then she felt nothing as her last thought consumed her closing mind.

Because I love you.

Ah, I didn't want leave things on a cliffhanger, but I found this would have been extremely long chapter if I kept continuing by my original plan. I know I put a struggle in their relationship and I don't like to see them fight either. I promise it will not last long! Hopefully this chapter flowed well enough. Next chapter will take a little longer than a week, so sorry for any future delays. Till next time!