What Cross Dressing Fools….

"Are you certain about this?" Lelouch's face tightened while he balled his free hand into a fist digging his nails into his skin. He listened intently to the informant on the other side of the phone but the news seemed to get worse when his other hand began gripping his cell phone tighter and tighter. Lelouch remained silent trying to let the information sink in. His anger though was clouding his judgment at that moment. This was all happening way too fast; faster than he anticipated. What would he do?

"Lelouch?"

Lelouch was taken away from his thoughts from the all too familiar voice of the person he shared an apartment with. "I'll call you back." Quickly, Lelouch hung up his cell phone and tried to rid his mind of the disturbing news he had just received. He allowed his face to soften. He forced a slight smile on his face.

"Lelouch? Oh there you are."

"What is it, Suzaku?" Lelouch turned around to face his lover who had just stepped into the living room.

"Who were you talking to just now? I thought I heard your voice."

"Oh" Lelouch lifted his cell phone. "I was on the phone."

'Who was it?"

"It was a wrong number."
"I see. Lelouch?"

"Hm?"

Suzaku moved closer to Lelouch. He looked at him intently.

"Is something wrong, Suzaku?" Lelouch puzzled.

'You tell me."

"I don't understand."

"You look a little pale."

"Do I?"

"Did something happen?"

Lelouch met Suzaku's gaze. They stared at each other in silence for a long moment, facial expressions serious. Lelouch brought his hand to his forehead and sighed.

"Suzaku, the only thing that's wrong is you asking me if something is wrong." He removed his hand from his forehead revealing a rather bright and happy expression. It was Suzaku's turn to be confused. Lelouch laughed. "Stop worrying. Nothing is wrong."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes I'm sure. I'm just a little tired that's all."

Suzaku's serious/confused face finally softened and he smiled at Lelouch. "As long as you're ok."

"Suzaku, why are you wearing your work clothes?" Lelouch finally noticed the uniform.

"Oh, I just received a phone call. It looks like they need me in tonight. Sorry, I know we had plans to go to dinner but if I don't go in…."

Lelouch raised his hand to stop Suzaku from speaking. "No need to explain. We can go out to dinner next time. I'll hold you to it."

"Definitely. I will make it up to you. Thanks for understanding."

"When are you leaving?"

"Very shortly. Are you going to be ok by yourself?"

"Stop treating me like a kid!" Lelouch said angrily.

"Sorry. Sorry. You're just too cute when you're angry."

Before he knew what was going on, Suzaku had leaned in and kissed Lelouch. Being dragged in by the passionate kiss, Lelouch kissed Suzaku back. I guess Suzaku really liked seeing Lelouch get angry and that thought pissed off Lelouch even more.

Suzaku took the kiss deeper. Soft moans came from Lelouch. After a few moments Suzaku opened his eyes to look at his lover. Once he was convinced that Lelouch had calmed down he slowly removed his tongue from Lelouch's mouth and moved away from Lelouch. Lelouch opened his eyes and looked dreamily at Suzaku.

"Try to get some sleep tonight. I'll see you in the morning." Suzaku whispered. In silence Suzaku gathered his things and left the apartment.

"So, what are you going to do?" Tieria asked Neil as he poured the hot water into the cup over the tea bag. He placed the cup in front of Neil.

"Thanks. I don't know. I could be wrong." Neil grabbed the tea bag string and began to move the bag up and down in his hot water.

Tieria began to prepare himself a cup of tea. "You could just ask him outright. He is your brother."

"Yes he is my brother, but I don't think he'll be open with me. He can be very stubborn when it comes to me."

"Why is your relationship with your brother so complicated?" Tieria asked rhetorically.

"You're one to talk." Neil shot back.

"We're not talking about me here."

"You're the one who brought it up."

Aggravated, Tieria steered the conversation back to its original topic. "What about Anew? Have you considered asking her?"

"Yes, I did." Neil took a sip of his tea. "But I don't want to worry her."

"Well, I'm not sure you have any other options at this point."

Neil remained in silence.

"Do you really think Lyle would be so obvious about it? You'd think he'd be more discrete."

"You're right Tieria, of course. I just can't help but shake this feeling. Meeting the same sketchy person night after night….." Neil drank more of his tea before finiShinng his thought. "…..I just hope Lyle isn't getting himself involved in anything, dangerous."

Tieria studied Neil. He watched as he drank his tea. He saw how heavily this weighed on his mind, how worried he was about his brother.

Neil finished the rest of his tea and put the cup on the table. "Well, I guess I'll just worry about this later. Thanks for listening, Tieria." Neil got up and patted Tieria's head.

Tieria looked at Neil with much concern.

"Don't worry about me Tieria. I just needed someone to listen to me. I'll figure something out."

Lelouch walked out onto his balcony and very carefully looked over the edge. He moved back when he saw Suzaku emerge from the building and make his way down the walkway. He moved forward again to get a better view. Down below he saw Lyle Dylandy approaching Suzaku. Lelouch took out his cell phone and began dialing.

"Sorry about before. Suzaku interrupted."

"Good evening Lyle."

"Suzaku, where are you off to at this time? We're still on for tonight right?"

"Oh, I'm sorry Lyle but I was called into work so I have to cancel our double date. Sorry it's such short notice."

"But…." Lyle began to protest.

"Don't worry Lyle. It's all taken care of. Everything will go as planned. I promise."

Lyle studied Suzaku's face. Suzaku was one of the few people he trusted in this world. When he said everything was taken care of, he meant it. Lyle smiled. "I guess I'll forgive you this time."

"Please convey my apologies to Anew."

"I will. Have a good night a work."

"Thanks."

Suzaku and Lyle walked past each other in opposite directions.

"W-w-what? What did you say?" Lelouch turned as white as a ghost and began to shake. Sweat began to form on his forehead. The words he just heard were ones he did and didn't want to hear.

"Nii-san? Nii-san? Are you ok?"

"Yes Rolo, I'm fine." Lelouch thought for a moment. "Rolo, I need your help."

"I'll be right up."

"No. No Rolo. I'll come see you since you have what I need."

"So I guess it's just you and me tonight." Lyle slipped his arms around Anew's waist from behind and held her close.

"Lyle!"

"What?" Lyle rested his chin on Anew's shoulder.

"It's too bad they won't be able to come. I was looking forward to it."

"I know. We'll just go another time with them."

Anew put her hands on Lyle's hands that were around her waist. "I should be getting ready then. We don't want to be late for our reservations." She slowly removed those loving arms from holding her.

"All right, all right." Lyle smiled at his wife. The two held hands as they made their way to the bedroom to change for the evening ahead of them.

Tieria knocked on the door, this time louder but there still was no answer. Where the hell is he? Tieria stood in front of Regene's apartment door. Five minutes had past since he arrived at his brother's door trying to get him to answer. Tieria sighed angrily. He put his hand in his pocket and pulled out a key attached to a key chain. The key chain was small, clear and plastic with room for a small picture. The picture Tieria was staring at was one of him and his brother. It was one of the very few he had of him and Regene together.

Regene had given him this key almost immediately after him and Neil moved in. Tieria never imagined he would have to resort to using his brother's key.

He stopped staring at the key and unlocked the door. Tieria proceeded inside carefully. He knew how untidy Regene could be so he didn't want to cause any more of a mess just by opening the door.

As he entered he looked around. The apartment actually didn't look too bad today. "So Regene I guess you had enough energy to clean up or was it Ribbons who got after you?" Tieria said to himself. He began looking around for Regene. "Regene?" He called out as he checked the rooms on the lower half of the apartment. Tieria went upstairs. "Regene?" Tieria searched every room thoroughly.

When he was finished searching the entire upstairs he made his way back downstairs. When he got to the foot of the stairs he called out his brother's name again. "Regene!" He sighed then actually chuckled to himself. "How ironic. When I don't need him or want to see him he shows up everywhere. But the moment I need his help he's nowhere to be found." Tieria was getting frustrated. He tried calming himself down. "Maybe he's at Ribbons. He does hang out there a lot. Probably more than he should." Tieria began making his way toward the door to leave with the intention of going next door to Ribbons' apartment to find Regene. As Tieria made it almost halfway to the exit the door automatically opened. The door stopped a little ways open. Tieria puzzled for a moment but then realized who it must be.

"Regene?" Tieria called out.

"Tieria?" The door was pushed open revealing his brother standing in the doorway of his own apartment. Regene stared at his brother in shock.

"Are you all right, Regene?" Tieria asked.

"Tieria's here, in my apartment." Regene said to himself.

"What?"

Regene stepped inside. "You're here, inside my apartment."

"Yeah, so?"

"How did you get in? I locked the door."

"How do you thing I got in?" Tieria took out the key and dangled it in front of him. Regene was surprised.

"You used the key I gave you."

"I had to. Your door was loc…"

"You used the key I gave you!" Regene interrupted. It was quicker than flipping on a light switch. Regene had jumped on Tieria before he knew what was happening. Regene's arms were locked tightly around Tieria. "I can't believe this is happening. I'm so happy!"

"Regene, please get off of me!" Tieria struggled with all his might.

"I never thought this day would come!"

"Regene!" Tieria finally mustered enough strength to get himself away from his overly exuberant brother. He took a few steps back and readied himself just in case Regene tried to jump on him again. "Control yourself!" Tieria scolded.

"When it comes to you Tieria I just can't contain myself."

"Please try." Tieria could never figure out why Regene acted the way he did when he was around him. He was very tempted to ask but was afraid of the answer. But this isn't why he was here.

"So what was so important that drove my sweet, dear brother to my apartment looking for me?" Regene reached out for Tieria but Tieria just slapped his hand away like a pesky bug had intruded on his space.

"I need your help."

"Help? You're asking me for help?"

"You're the only one I can turn to in this situation."

"Situation? Your husband can't help you?"

"No because it involves him."

A realization hit Regene. He glared at Tieria. "What did he do?"

"What?"

Regene closed the distance between the two of them. Tieria tried backing up but Regene grabbed his arm. "What did Neil do? Did he hurt you?"

"What? No! Regene I came here because Neil is worried about something and I was hoping you would be able to help get some information for me!" Tieria was breathing hard. "Stop jumping to conclusions!"

Regene released his grip on Tieria. "What information do you need?"

"I need some information on Lyle." Tieria saw Regene about to speak. "I know what you're going to say but Neil can't ask his brother."

"And Anew?" Tieria didn't need to say anything. Regene understood the answer when their eyes met. "Well, I can get the information for you. When do you need it?"

"Right now. I would like to get this resolved for Neil and if I can get this done before he gets home from work that would be even better." Tieria's expression changed after speaking those last words. He looked sad yet determined to help the man he loved so dearly.

"Neil is a lucky man to have you, Tieria. Ok, I'll help you."

"I appreciate it Regene."

"However, you need to do something for me."

"Excuse me? Aren't you the one who always told me that if I ever needed anything from you to just ask? You wouldn't expect anything from me?"

"You're right I did say that and I still mean it."

"Then what is this about me having to do something for you nonsense?"

"I am scheduled to attend a business meeting tonight with Ribbons."

"Then cancel."

"I can't just cancel. Ribbons would kill me."

"But I really need you to help me out with this. If you need me to talk to Ribbons…"

"That won't work."

"Then what do you need me to do?"

"Ribbons?" Regene knocked on Ribbons' door. He didn't wait for anyone to answer. Regene just let himself in as if it were his own apartment.

"Regene, aren't you ready yet?" Ribbons emerged from one of the rooms adjacent to the living room. He was in the middle of getting dressed for the dinner tonight.

"About that Ribbons, I won't be able to attend tonight. An emergency has come up."

Ribbons laughed. "Really Regene, I would've expected more out of you. No matter how hard you try you can't get out of this one."

"I am not making this up Ribbons."

"Enlighten me as to this 'emergency'."

"Tieria has fallen ill and so I must care for him."

Ribbons turned around and gave Regene a look. "Why can't Neil take care of him?"

"He has to work tonight so he brought Tieria up to my apartment for me to care for him." Ribbons continued to stare at Regene. "I can't leave his side. He has a pretty high fever and so needs constant supervision. This is my brother we're talking about."

"He's in your apartment?"

"Yes Ribbons."

"Right now?"

"Yes, you can see for yourself if you'd like."

Regene held the door open for Ribbons as he walked into his apartment.

"Cough cough."

Ribbons attention was directed toward the coughs. He immediately noticed the couch in the living room was occupied by none other than Tieria Erde.

"Don't get too close Ribbons. I don't want you to catch his illness."

Ribbons kept his attention on Tieria. He moved up to the back of the couch and looked down on Tieria. His glasses were neatly placed on the table to his left. A white cloth was placed on his forehead. His face was drenched with sweat. Ribbons couldn't believe it.

"Tieria, how are you feeling?"

'Cough cough cough cough.'

"He's pretty weak, Ribbons."

"Did you give him anything?"

"Yes, just before I came to see you."

Ribbons walked around the couch. "Your wash cloth must be warm by now. Let me cool it off for you." Ribbons removed the wet cloth from Tieria's forehead and dunked it in the bowl of water that was on the table next to him. He soaked it thoroughly then rung it out, refolded it and placed it back on Tieria's forehead. Ribbons placed the back of his hand up against Tieria's cheek.

"Ribbons?" Regene started.

"Neil must be very worried about you. I'm surprised he didn't take the night off from work to take care of you himself."

"He couldn't get out of work tonight." Tieria said in a soft voice. "But Regene is here to take care of me now." Cough cough.

"And I'm sure he'll do an excellent job for his younger brother." Ribbons got up and walked back around the couch to Regene. He motioned for Regene to walk with him to the door. They both stepped out into the hallway and Regene closed the apartment door.

"All right Regene, I'll excuse you from the meeting."

"Thank you so much Ribbons."

"It doesn't get you out of any work that comes from this meeting though."

"I completely understand. Whatever you need me to do Ribbons, you just let me know."

"Well, I best be getting ready. I will pass on your deepest apologies."

"Thank you again Ribbons."

"Take good care of your brother, Regene." Ribbons walked back to his apartment. Regene waited for Ribbons to be inside his apartment before entering his own. Once he entered and shut the door, "It worked, Tieria."

"He bought it?"

"Yes, you were very convincing."

Tieria sat up on the couch. "I'm glad that's over with. I can't believe you made me do all of this just to convince him that I'm sick."

"You want my help don't you?"

Tieria grabbed a nearby towel and began wiping the sweat off his face.

"Don't worry Tieria. I promise you that I will get you the answers you need."

I can't believe I'm doing this, but I must! In order to accomplish my mission tonight I must make sacrifices to reach my goal. Lelouch breathed in deeply then slowly exhaled. "All right Rolo, hand it over."

"Yes nii-san."

"So what did you find out from VEDA?" Tieria asked the moment he saw Regene emerge from the restricted room in the basement of the building.

"I'm sorry to say, Tieria but not much."

Tieria sighed.

"But Lyle is definitely hiding something."

"What makes you say that?"

"I have reviewed Lyle's behavior over the past couple of weeks and he has been quite secretive about something. I have witnessed many instances in which he'd met with individuals I am unfamiliar with in areas of this building besides his apartment."

"I see." Tieria brought his hand to his chin and began to process the information Regene had just given him.

"The last time he met with such individuals was last night. It was a very brief meeting."

"Do you know what was said?"

"Unfortunately I could not decipher what was being said however during their last meeting something was exchanged."

"Exchanged? What was?"

Regene shook his head. "That was hidden from me as well."

"Well VEDA wasn't too helpful."

"It does have its limits Tieria besides Lyle was being overly cautious in every instance so it's no wonder I have such limited information for you."

"Damn." Tieria swore under his breath. "I'm back to square one."

"Not so fast Tieria. There is one more piece of information that may prove to be helpful."

Tieria's full attention was focused on his brother.

"It seems that whatever Lyle has been planning is about to go down tonight."

"I don't suppose you would happen to know where he will be?"

"He will be with Anew at a restaurant downtown."

"I have to go there and find out what's going on."

"And if Lyle and Anew see you? What then? I'm sure you don't want them to know what you're doing."

"I just have to make sure they don't recognize me."

"And how do you plan on doing that?"

Tieria thought for a moment before looking at his brother. "Sumeragi Li Noriega will be able to provide a solution."

"AHHHH! How aggravating!"
"Nii-san are you ok in there?" Rolo called through the door.

"How do women do it?" The door was thrown open causing Rolo to jump. Rolo's face turned bright red once he saw Lelouch. His attention was drawn to the lower half of his body. Lelouch was standing before Rolo dressed only in his black speedos and thigh high white stockings. He wore something else over his speedos that Rolo wasn't too familiar with. Rolo felt his face grow even hotter. He quickly turned away.

"I can't figure this out for the life of me!" Lelouch yelled in frustration

"What would that be nii-san?" Rolo kept his eyes averted.

"This!" Rolo slowly turned his head to see that the garmet Lelouch was referring to was the piece of clothing he was wearing over his underwear. There were two straps that were hanging from that piece of clothing.

"What are you supposed to do with those?" Rolo asked trying not to stare at his brother's crotch.

"They're supposed to attach to my stockings but I can't get these to cooperate! Do you know how to attach them?"

"How would I know? I've never worn stockings let alone….that!"

Lelouch sighed. "Why do I even bother?"

"Nii-san?"

"Well, there are other ways to find out. Bring your laptop in here." Lelouch commanded.

"What are we gonna do with my laptop?"

"We will find instructions on how to properly wear this attire. Now hurry!"

"Yes, nii-san." Rolo ran from the room as fast as he could.

"I see." Sumeragi began to run through the situation that was just explained to her in her mind. "So this is a reconnaissance mission?"

"Yes."

"A way to make you unrecognizable…." Sumeragi said to herself trailing off. An idea finally came to mind. She raised her head and looked at Tieria. "How far are you willing to go?"

"As far as I have to. Just tell me what I should do."

"All right, then you must follow my precise instructions." Sumeragi's attention was drawn to the person sitting next to Tieria. "What about you?"

"I'm just here to support Tieria." Regene stated.

"Well then let's get started."

"…..stretch your leg out onto your bed or a chair to adjust the straps and then you are all set to go. This is definitely the 'spice' that'll excite your special someone. We guarantee it!" The video came to an end.

"Ah, I see." Lelouch finished adjusting the strap on his right leg. He made sure everything felt comfortable or at least as comfortable as it can be. He put his right leg down off the bed and moved his left leg up onto the bed and proceeded to attach the strap to his stocking. Rolo, in the meantime was sitting off to the side on his bed trying his hardest not to look at his brother. He heart was racing and sweat was forming on the sides of his temple. He tried desperately to calm himself down. This was almost a dream come true. His older brother whom he truly idolized and loved was in his bedroom practically naked. Of course he was only interested in the task at hand but Rolo allowed his mind to wander. A fantasy began to play out.

'Rolo enters his room to find Lelouch draped across his bed. Lingerie adorned his thin body. Rolo made his way across the bedroom to Lelouch who was calling to him with his eyes. He so desperately wanted to answer that need. "Rolo." Lelouch called out to him. "Take me." Rolo was almost at the bed. "Rolo. Rolo." The sound of his name being called sent shivers down his spine.

"Rolo!" Rolo jumped. "What are you doing?"

"Huh?"

"Stop spacing out and take this!" Lelouch held out his hand. Rolo finally noticed the object Lelouch was holding.

"Nii-san, why are you giving this to me?" Rolo took it hesitantly.

"I need you to load it for me while I get dressed." Rolo took the derringer. "Where's the…"

"Here." Lelouch handed over a small cardboard box. While Rolo busied himself loading the gun with bullets, Lelouch walked over to the closet. There, he unzipped the garment bag that was hanging on a hanger on the inside of the door revealing a long, lavender, sleeveless dress.

"There" Sumeragi took one more look at Tieria. "You're all set." She stepped out of the way of the mirror revealing to Tieria a female version of himself. She had disguised him as a woman dressing him up in a long cranberry red dress that connected in the back of the neck. His arms were bare with the exception of a plain silver bracelet that he wore on his left wrist. Slits ran down both sides of the dress. His hair was much longer and ran down to his waist. Tieria looked at his chest. Sumeragi actually added in the detail of bigger breasts to create the illusion that he actually was a woman. As he looked at himself in the mirror he was pleased with what Sumeragi had come up with. This was the perfect disguise.

"What do you think Tieria?"

"This will keep me inconspicuous. Thank you, Sumeragi Li Noriega."

"You're welcome." I don't know about being inconspicuous. Sumeragi thought as she stared at Tieria.

"I have to get going."

"Of course. Here." Sumeragi handed Tieria a small weapon. "Don't forget this."

Tieria took the weapon and placed it in inside his left stocking underneath his dress.

Once that was complete, Sumeragi led Tieria out of her bedroom and out into the living room of her apartment where they found Regene sitting on the couch watching TV. In the time Sumeragi was helping Tieria 'transform' into a woman, Regene had gone back to his apartment and changed into his evening attire. Anger began to boil inside Tieria and as Regene was flipping through the channels with the remote, Tieria grabbed the remote from his hands.

"Stop fooling around, Regene!" Tieria scolded his brother. Regene was about to say something when the words dissipated before they could take form as Regene turned to look at Tieria. His face lit up. He looked at Tieria from head to toe.

"What? Stop staring at me like that!" Tieria yelled.

It took him a minute but Regene willed himself out of the fog he found himself in. He stood up. "You look good Tieria. A very fitting disguise if I may say so."

"Thank you." Sumeragi said. "And the suit goes well with the dress."

"Let's go." Tieria said feeling his anger rising. Regene followed Tieria out of the apartment.

They made their way to the parking lot to Regene's car. Regene unlocked the doors and opened the passenger side door for Tieria. "What are you doing?"

"What? I can't open the door for my brother?" Tieria glared suspiciously at Regene before getting into the car. Regene closed the door and made his way over to the driver's side. Once he got in he locked the doors. Tieria waited patiently for Regene to start the car. But instead of hearing the engine start he felt something on his right breast. He looked down only to find Regene's hand was covering it.

"Sumeragi does an excellent job. Not only do they look real, they feel real as well." Regene began squeezing Tieria's breast. Tieria's face turned red in embarrassment and anger.

"Regene!" Tieria yelled. He tried removing Regene's hand but Regene moved in closer to Tieria "Get away from me!" Regene had climbed the median between the driver's seat and the passenger seat and was now on top of Tieria. Tieria struggled. Regene took hold of one of Tieria's arms while the other tried to push him away.

"Tieria, you looking like this really turns me on."

"Regene, knock it off! You're my brother! Stop being so creepy!" Tieria continued to struggle while Regene continued to be fascinated by Tieria's breasts. Regene leaned in as if he was about to kiss Tieria but Tieria turned his face to the side.

"Let's just have a little fun before we go." Regene whispered in Tieria's ear causing Tieria to turn bright red. Then Regene kissed Tieria lightly on the cheek. This caught Tieria totally off guard. He can't be serious can he? He's my brother for Christ's sake!

"If you don't let go, I'm going to kill you!"

"You know, you are so cute when you're angry."

A thought suddenly occurred to Tieria. He turned to face his assailant who was only inches from him. Regene smiled at him mischievously. He was about to lean in and kiss Tieria when he stopped him.

"If you don't get off of me right now I promise you I will tell Ribbons about that."

Regene stopped. The color from his face drained. "You wouldn't!"

"Try me." Tieria stared into his brother's eyes. Regene dropped his head.

"You're no fun, Tieria." Regene climbed back into the driver's seat allowing Tieria to sit up again. As they were righting themselves a car passed behind them.

"Shall we get going?"

Rolo parked the car and turned off the engine. He turned to Lelouch and observed him. He watched him as he put on his white gloves and adjusted them accordingly. Rolo sensed his nervousness.

"Nii-san?" Rolo called out quietly. Lelouch ignored him. "Noise…"

"Quite Rolo. I'm thinking."

"What if they recognize you when you go in there?"

"Don't be silly Rolo. They won't recognize me in this." Lelouch's attention focused on the building he was about to enter. "I'm going." Lelouch said quietly and opened the car door.

"Nii-san, are you sure you don't need me to come with you?"

"Just stick to the plan and everything will be fine."

"The place is packed."

"I could've told you that from the parking lot." Tieria ignored his brother's comment and continued scanning the dining area for Lyle and Anew. Regene stood behind Tieria as he straightened out his suit.

"You're here, I just know it. But where are you?" Tieria said under his breath.

"If you can't find them here, we can always search the dining room over there and on the other side."

"I'm well aware of that, Regene." Tieria was getting frustrated by both his brother and the fact that he couldn't find Lyle right away. He was getting anxious and whatever was happening tonight he hoped he wasn't too late. As some of the other patrons got up to leave, Tieria finally located the man that carried the same face as his lovers'. He was with his wife on the far right side of the dining room. "I found you." Tieria whispered.

Lelouch stood up against the wall hiding in the shadows as he scanned the room. It didn't take him long to find who he was looking for or rather the several people he was looking for. They were seated to the right side of the room. There were five in all that occupied the table and even though this restaurant was an elegant, high class restaurant, those five made everyone else who sat around them look average. Lelouch glared at them. If they were trying to be inconspicuous, it wasn't working. They were dressed in their finest clothes. Anger began to boil inside of him. He was loosing his ability to control himself. He wanted nothing more than to storm in and lash out at them, but that thought quickly died when his eyes fell on the one person he had been longing to see. She was sitting at the end of the table so that he was able to see her profile. His face softened and everything else in the world disappeared. She was here. He had not seen her for so long. They had kept her from him for years and now he finally got to see her. He now wanted to run to her, to throw his arms around her and tell her how much he loved her.

Lelouch couldn't move from where he was. The only thing stopping him from approaching her was the four people she was sitting with. He had a deep hatred for them. But for her….

Someone got up from the table. Lelouch stepped back further into the shadow. One of the men from the table, a rather tall attractive blonde, was walking towards him. Shit! Did he see me? Does he recognize me? What'll I do when he gets here? Lelouch prepared himself as best he could for the inevitable, but at the last second the man turned and began speaking to the waiter. Lelouch sighed. That was too close. Perhaps I should fall back for now and rethink my strategy.

Tieria's eyes were glued to Lyle, never wavering for one moment.

"It was here? Of all the places the meeting could be held…"

"What are you complaining about now?" Tieria asked without taking his eyes off his target for a moment.

"Tieria, I'll be right back." Regene quickly left his brother's side. Tieria couldn't help but watch as his brother bolted down the hall.

"Regene!" Tieria quietly yelled out to him. Tieria crossed his arms. "What's wrong with him all of a sudden?"

Tieria was about to go back to stalking his brother-in-law when someone bumped into him. Annoyed, Tieria looked at his assailant. It was a beautiful woman with dark hair that was pinned up. She wore a long, lavender dress that complimented her body quite well.

"Excuse me." The woman said.

"It's all ri…" Wait a minute. Did I hear that right? Tieria grabbed the arm of the woman who was now walking by. That voice. It's male. Not only that…. Tieria took a closer look at the woman who bumped into him and to his surprise and horror it was the last person he wanted to run into.

"What the hell are you doing here, Lelouch?"

The woman's eyes grew wide. "W-Wh-What!?" The woman leaned in closer to get a better look. "Tieria?"

They stared at each other letting the reality of the situation sink in.

"Let go of me!" Lelouch demanded as he pulled away from Tieria.

"Is there anything I can help you with ladies?" A waiter interrupted.

"We're both just fine." Lelouch said in his normal male voice. The waiter was taken aback. He wasn't expecting such a deep voice from a person whose beauty was on par or even surpassed the top models of the world.

Tieria rolled his eyes. "Thank you very much for you hospitality" Tieria said in a high pitched feminine voice very similar to the sound of Sumeragi's voice. "But we are just waiting for friends to arrive." Tieria smiled at the man.

"Of course. Just let me know if there is anything you need." The waiter walked away.

"Next time you're spoken to, don't speak. You're going to blow your cover." Tieria said in his normal voice.

Tieria finally noticed the look of shock on Lelouch's face. Another waiter walked by and Tieria smiled at him as well. He looked at Lelouch who was still confounded. "Come on" Tieria began to push Lelouch "let's go somewhere where we can talk more freely."

"How did you do that?"

"Later!"

Tieria pushed Lelouch into the women's bathroom.

"Aaaahhh! What are you doing?" Lelouch protested and began pushing back against Tieria.

"Be quiet!"

"If you haven't notice, this is the ladies room!"

"Yes, that's because right now we're women!"

Tieria pushed Lelouch back into the restroom. "Why do you have to be so difficult?"

"I'm a little on edge right now. So, how did you do that?"

"Do what?"

"Change your voice? You sounded like a girl when you were talking to the waiter."

"It's an ability I have."

Lelouch looked at Tieria suspiciously. "Are you sure you're not hiding anything?"

"What are you getting at?"

"Nevermind. So why are you here?"

"You first."

Tieria and Lelouch stared at each other in silence. Tieria actually gave in first.

"I'm not sure I want to know what you're doing, but I'm undercover."

"Don't you assume things about me! I'm here as well undercover."

"Really?" Tieria asked skeptically.

"Yes, if you must know, I'm here to see…" Lelouch realized what he was about to say and stopped himself.

"See?"

"I can't tell you."

"Fine. Have it you're way." Tieria began walking towards the door. "We'll just pretend we never saw each other so we can go about are business. I'm sure you can do that much."

Tieria began walking toward the door when it suddenly opened.

"Here, let me hold the door for you."

Tieria immediately recognized the voice and when he saw Anew standing before him he began to panic. What would he do? The only way out was being blocked at that moment. There were bathroom stalls to hide in but she was right there. Anew hadn't looked up at him yet. Her attention was focused on the other person entering the restroom.

Tieria turned around and was astounded by the reaction Lelouch showed. Lelouch was in shock. His eyes were popping out, he was frozen in place and visibly shaking.

"What's wrong?" Tieria whispered. "It's only Anew. Come on." Tieria grabbed Lelouch's arm and began pulling him further into the bathroom. It took a lot of force on Tieria's part to get Lelouch to move. Why is he being so difficult? I know he doesn't want anyone to see him like this but I'm the one who should be more worried about Anew seeing me. Tieria managed to pull Lelouch to the mirror. He made it so their backs were to Anew and the other girl entering the restroom.

"Thank you very much." The girl responded to Anew holding open the door for her. Tieria sneaked a peak. He saw a young girl enter the restroom in a wheel chair with someone else right behind her. The girl in the wheel chair had long brown wavy hair. The other looked more mature and had dark reddish hair that came to a little ways past her shoulders.

Anew waited for both of them to enter before letting the door close. Tieria turned back to the mirror and Lelouch to see how he was doing and it didn't seem like he had calmed down. Geez Lelouch. You're overreacting. Tieria noticed how tense he was. He was still visibly shaking. Tieria began 'fixing' his hair.

He watched out of the corner of his eye the three new occupants. He wanted to get out of there as quickly as possible without being recognized by Anew. Tieria looked back over at Lelouch. He was still in a state of shock. He had to jostle Lelouch out of it otherwise they would never get out of there and they would definitely be caught.

As two of them were about to enter the handicap stall, Tieria made his move. "You have nothing to worry about." Tieria started in his Sumeragi-like voice. "You look beautiful." That got Lelouch's attention. Lelouch turned to look at Tieria whose face was lit up. "I know he will think so too." Tieria put his hands on Lelouch's shoulders. "Now, let's go. We can't let them wait too long." Tieria said gently then he guided Lelouch to the door past Anew keeping his head down.

"That was too close." Tieria said once the door to the bathroom closed. "And you, I expected more out of you. Panicking like you did in there all because of Anew."

"T-that's not…." Lelouch started but his voice quickly faded.

"What?" Tieria was getting impatient.

"Excuse me." Another female walked past them and into the bathroom.

"I just can't stand here and waste any more time. I need to get back to what I was doing before I ran into you." As he walked away Lelouch reached out and grabbed his arm. Tieria turned around with the intention of telling Lelouch off but once he saw the look on his face the words escaped his mouth.

"Maybe there's a way we can help each other out." Lelouch said quietly.

Tieria was a little surprised at this suggestion. It was definitely something to think about. Regene had ditched him for some unknown reason and he had needed his help. I guess he shouldn't be surprised. Now he was being offered help. If it was only for him, he wouldn't accept it. But this had to do with Neil so he was willing to do what needed to be done in order to accomplish this mission. "First let's leave this area."

Tieria and Lelouch stood in the large foyer of the restaurant and took up a position away from the patrons who were occasionally walking in and out.

"You mind telling me what happened back there? Why did Anew upset you so much?" Tieria wasted no time with asking questions nor did he bother considering Lelouch's feelings.

"It wasn't Anew who upset me so. It was the other two that did."

"The other two? Do you know them?"

"You can say that. You see, I came here tonight to see them, especially the girl in the wheel chair."

"If you came here to see them why the disguise?"

"Because they can't know that I am here."

"I don't think I understand."

"They are my family."

"What?"

"I found out just today that they would be here and this is my only chance to see her."

"You aren't making any sense."

"She's my sister."

"But you just said that 'they' are your family."

"Nunnally, the one in the wheel chair, is my blood sister. The others we just share the same father." At the mention of his father, Lelouch's face filled with pain and disgust.

'You don't really get along with your family do you?"

"I won't bore you with all the details. Years ago I defied my father and so I was exiled from my home. In exchange for Nunnally's safety, I agreed to stay here, in Japan having no contact with my family whatsoever. I don't even know if she thinks I'm still alive."

"What about Rolo? Isn't he your brother?"

"Rolo? No, Rolo is not my brother. We aren't even related in the slightest. He only calls me big brother because he has no other family or friends to rely on."

"I didn't think you could be so compassionate."

Lelouch decided to ignore Tieria's last comment. "Listen Tieria, I have a message I want to give to Nunnally. If you could assist me with this, I will assist you with your mission."

"So that's what you meant by helping each other out."

"What do you say?"

Lelouch stood right outside the dining area. His eyes were fixated on his target. He looked at the clock in the hall. It was almost time. He turned his attention back to the dining room. He watched as Lyle and Anew ate their dinner. Very soon Lyle should be excusing himself for Lelouch to follow after. What exactly will he be up to? That's what Lelouch needed to find out.

'I'm here to make sure Lyle hasn't reverted back to his old ways. Neil is worried about him and that's why I came here. I'm not sure if us switching is such a good idea. There is a possibility that with Lyle there will be some danger involved. I cannot ask that of someone who has….. limited combat experience.'

'Don't discount me just yet, Tieria. My family discovering that I am here is equally as dangerous. I have come fully prepared for the worst.' Lelouch turned to his side and parted one of his slits on his dress to reveal hidden inside his thigh high stocking a derringer. 'Just tell me what you need me to do.'

"If Tieria only knew what I was really capable of I'm sure he'd have more faith in me." Lelouch said under his breath. "Besides, he's the one I'm worried about. I hope he can handle it." Lelouch's attention wandered to the dining area a little ways down the hall. Tieria was in there now. Lelouch wanted to know what he was doing but he felt he should have more faith in the ex-military man. He was after all entrusting him with the delicate task of delivering a message to his beloved sister. This was the best way. Lelouch tried convincing himself. If my family were to find out I was here trying to make contact with Nunnally I could be endangering her life as well as my own. I don't want to see any harm come to her. He brought his attention back to Lyle. Any moment now.

All I have to do is get her alone and give her the message from Lelouch. I just need to get her when she's alone. I certainly have my work cut out for me. I don't see any of her companions leaving anytime soon. I'm sure they all came together. If only Regene were here. I'm sure he would be able to come up with something. Wait a minute. What the hell am I thinking? I can't rely on that useless brother of mine. He's the one that abandoned me. Tieria's thoughts dragged him away from what he should be thinking about and that's how to get Lelouch's message to his sister without anyone noticing.

Tieria stood off to the side of the dining room keeping a close eye on Nunnally and the other occupants of the table.

Music began to play. Tieria looked for the source only to find an orchestra located straight ahead of him. Couples began to get up and dance in the small area in the center of the dining room. Maybe I could use this to my advantage. Tieria thought.

"I see you're feeling better."

The unmistakable voice caused Tieria to freeze in place. He kept his gaze forward.

"I'm glad. I was very worried about you." Tieria felt him take position alongside him. "When Regene came to me and told me how fragile you were and the way you looked when I came to see you, it's a miracle you're able to be here let alone stand." Ribbons Almark kept his eyes forward while he spoke to his fellow innovator. "Of course I never expected to see you this way, again."

Tieria had been caught. This wasn't good at all. How was he going to explain this to Ribbons? Why he was here in the first place? The way he was dressed? His mind was in a complete whirlwind. If Regene were here….wait, Regene, this is all his fault so why the hell am I worried about Ribbons? Sure I was Regene's accomplice but he ditched me.

Tieria tried to calm himself down before addressing Ribbons. "We had no idea you would be here tonight. Actually I should say I had no idea you would be here tonight. If Regene had told me sooner…"

"So Regene wasn't listening once again. I guess that's not surprising. Where is he by the way?"

"I have no idea. He ran off a few minutes after we got here."

"That sounds like him, but when it comes to you….."

Ribbons took Tieria's hand and lifted it.

"What are you doing?" Tieria protested.

"We're drawing attention to ourselves just standing here. I'm sure you don't want that." Ribbons began walking forward still holding onto Tieria's hand. Tieria hesitated. "Let's join in. I'm sure you remember how." Ribbons looked back at Tieria with a faint smile. Reluctantly, Tieria followed Ribbons.

They found a free spot to start dancing. Ribbons placed his left hand lightly onto Tieria's waist and pulled him in closer. Then they began to dance.

"I see you haven't lost your touch." Ribbons commented on Tieria's dancing skills.

"This isn't why I came here."

"True, but if you wanted to get back at your brother for abandoning you, I'd say you're doing a good job of it now."

"What?"

"He's here. Didn't you know that? He's watching us right now and it seems as though he wants nothing more than to kill me at the moment."

"You're acting like he's jealous of you."

"Isn't he?"

"Shouldn't you be in your meeting now instead of dancing with me?" Tieria tried changing the subject.

"They've decided to take a break to enjoy themselves just like I am right now."

Ribbons glided across the dance floor guiding Tieria each step of the way. They did this effortlessly, complimenting each other. Only once before have they shared a dance but it seemed as though each read the other quite well as if they had been dance partners for years.

Ribbons smiled.

"What's so funny?"

"Nothing. I just wish I could see the look on his face right now." Ribbons locked eyes with Tieria.

Tieria knew immediately who Ribbons was talking about and he didn't like it. I guess his brother's overprotective, obsessive behavior of Tieria was well known, even to Ribbons. Tieria decided to ignore the comment. The music finally ended and the two stopped dancing.

"I must take my leave of you. Thank you for keeping me company." Ribbons slightly bowed to Tieria. As he straightened himself he said to Tieria: "Since Regene has failed to help you, and to further annoy him, I will step in and assist you."

Tieria just gave Ribbons a confused stare.

"Your window of opportunity lessens by the second as you stand there staring at me. I suggest you take advantage of the dancing to make your move." Ribbons walked away and headed back to his table. Tieria's eyes followed him. What on earth could he mean by that? As Tieria turned back around and looked straight ahead of him his eyes grew wide. There, at the table straight ahead was Lelouch's sister sitting all alone. Where were the rest of her companions? Tieria looked around and spotted them. Two of them were dancing while the other two were chatting with others off to the side. Is this what Ribbons was talking about? But how did he know what I needed to do? I wonder if he heard Lelouch and I talking. Well, there really is no time to think of that now. This is the chance I've been looking for so I'd better take it.

Tieria began making his way over to Nunnally's table being ever watchful of the others in her group. They were all distracted at the moment not paying any attention to the young girl in the wheel chair by herself. Tieria began to think what he should say once he made his way over to her. He wasn't sure how he was going to begin the conversation. He hoped that once he got there something would come to him. Only a few feet away and Nunnally turned to face him.

"Good evening." Nunnally smiled at Tieria.

Taken aback by this unexpected greeting, Tieria fumbled with his words before he could coherently reply, "Good evening" in his Sumeragi-like voice.

"We have to make this quick. Anew is waiting for me."

"Hey, I made it here on time, didn't I?"

Lelouch risked peaking around the corner of the alley outside the restaurant. There he spotted Lyle Dylandy with another person he was unfamiliar with. They began exchanging something. Lelouch placed his hand underneath his dress on onto his derringer which was located snuggly in his thigh high. He readied himself for anything.

"This wasn't easy to get you know." The unknown man said.

"I know, but it was well worth it. This will be more valuable than you know." Lyle took a small box from the man and Lyle handed over an envelope.

Lelouch observed the exchange and waited. His hand still gripped onto his derringer, ready to be pulled out at any moment.

"Ni-san?"

Lelouch jumped when he heard the quiet voice behind him. He turned around to find Rolo standing there.

"Rolo!" Lelouch yelled quietly. "What the hell are you doing here? I told you to wait in the car!"

"I was worried about you. It's been almost an hour now."

"Oh wow. It's even more beautiful in person."

Lelouch looked back down the alley. He saw Lyle holding up a necklace, observing it closely.

"That's a one of a kind, my friend. If your wife doesn't like it, I don't know what will make her happy."

"I think this will definitely make her happy. I can't wait to see the look on her face. She has no idea I got this for her."

Lelouch couldn't make out the detail of the necklace Lyle held up in front of him. Lyle quickly placed it back into the box.

"I better be getting back. Anew thinks I went to the bathroom and that was five minutes ago. I don't want her to worry now."

"No you don't." The other man said as he laughed. Lyle began walking out of the alley towards Lelouch. Lelouch backed up bumping into Rolo.

Lyle smiled and began to emerge from the alley. He noticed that someone was to his right. Startled he looked only to see the back of a woman in a lavender dress. She was clearly with someone. Lyle realized what they were doing and quickly left and went for the front entrance of the restaurant. He didn't want to disturb the couple and their moment together.

Lelouch waited another few moments before backing away from Rolo.

As Lyle was emerging from the alley he quickly grabbed Rolo and held him close creating the illusion that him and Rolo were making out.

When Lelouch finally separated himself from Rolo, Rolo was beat red and his pulse had quickened. Lelouch observed Lyle enter the restaurant. "Rolo, go back and wait in the car. I should be done soon." Lelouch said without looking at Rolo. He began heading back to the restaurant.

"Yes ni-san."

"Don't you have someone waiting for you?" Nunnally asked.

"He needed to attend to some business." Tieria answered in his female voice.

"I know what you mean. It seems that business is the reason I am alone for the moment until you were kind enough to come keep me company, that is."

"Are they your family?" Tieria asked already aware of the answer.

"Yes. They are my older siblings. How did you know?" Nunnally looked up at Tieria.

Older Siblings? All of them? "I can see the resemblance." Tieria lied. So then that means that they are also Lelouch's older siblings as well?

"Really? I think you're the first person to say that."

"Is that so?" Tieria was watching her older siblings as they wrapped up their conversations. He had to act fast and give her Lelouch's message before they made it back to the table. Tieria reached underneath his dress and pulled something out. "I know of one sibling in particular that you resemble."

"Which one?" Nunnally asked curiously.

Tieria stepped forward and placed a small piece of paper on the table in front of Nunnally. It was a badly shaped crane origami. "He's the one that is closest to you. The one that cares about you the most."

At first Nunnally was quite confused by what Tieria was saying, but once she sensed what was placed in front of her a realization hit her.

"He is always thinking about you." Tieria continued. He saw her family returning to the table and knew he had to leave at once. "Excuse me, I must be going now." Tieria turned to leave.

"Thank you." Nunnally said and smiled. She picked up the badly made paper crane and held it in her hands. "It was a good attempt at making a paper crane."

"I wasn't the one who made it."

"Then I shall have to show the one who did someday how to properly make a paper crane."

"I shall pass that along." Tieria walked out of the dining room and into the hall. He heaved a sigh of relief and looked to his right. There he saw Lelouch spying from the shadows in the other dining area.

Lelouch watched as Lyle gave Anew the necklace. Anew's eyes lit up the moment she opened the box. She was absolutely thrilled with the gift she had received.

"Lelouch?"

"Hm? Are you done already?" Lelouch said still watching Lyle and Anew.

"Yes. What about you?"

"I was done ages ago." Lelouch boasted.

Tieria ignored Lelouch. "Shall we go then? I'd like to get out of this dress as soon as possible."

"What about Nunnally? Did you speak to her?" Lelouch spun around to face Tieria.

"Yes I did. But let's not talk about it here."

"Very well."

"I just have one request to make of you."

"What is it?"

"Would you be able to give me a ride home? Apparently Regene is no where to be found."

"Do you want to go look for him?" Lelouch offered.

"Not after what he did."

Lelouch led Tieria to his car. Rolo jumped out of the driver's seat. "Nii-san!"

"Tieria will be coming home with us."

Rolo stared at Tieria as he walked by. Were the two of them in this from the start?

"Let's go Rolo." Lelouch commanded.

"Yes, nii-san."

"Nii-san, were you able to do what you came here for?"

"I'm actually about to find out." Lelouch looked at Tieria and waited for him to speak.

"I gave her your message."

"Did she understand?"

"I believe so."

Lelouch closed his eyes in relief. "Thank goodness." He whispered.

"She wanted me to let you know that she will see you again someday."

This message came as quite a shock to Lelouch. He didn't expect a reply from his beloved sister. It made him happier than he could express into words. Lelouch turned to look out the window and smiled not wanting Tieria to see his emotions. Rolo though caught his smile while looking through the rear view mirror.

"And Lyle?"

"Oh, yes. You needn't worry about him. Apparently he was only getting a very special gift for his wife."

"A gift?"

"A necklace to be exact. It was a rare item that he paid for at the last minute in the alley next to the restaurant. I saw him give it to her just before you came to get me earlier."

"I see." I guess Neil will be happy.

It took them about ten minutes to return home. Rolo parked the car and Tieria and Lelouch got out at the same time. They walked together down the sidewalk towards the apartment building with Rolo following close behind.

"I am glad this night is over." Tieria started. "I never thought I'd be doing this again."

"What? Cross dressing?" Lelouch chuckled. "I guess you'd be the one to do it."

"Why do you say that?"

"You already have the face of a female so that look suits you very well."

Tieria was quite offended by Lelouch's comment. "This coming from the guy who cooks and cleans for his boyfriend. Maybe being in that dress is what you needed to do this whole time."

"What is that supposed to mean?" Lelouch stopped and faced Tieria.

"I mean you already have the characteristics of a good female house wife, you just need the wardrobe to go along with it."

"How dare you insinuate that I act like a girl."

"You just did to me!"

"I said you look like one!"

"What's the difference?"

"Um…ni-san?" Rolo tried interrupting the growing argument.

"Looking like a female and acting like one are completely different!" Lelouch yelled to explain.

"Even I know that!" Tieria responded.

"Really? You could've fooled me!"

Tieria and Lelouch continued to argue, each one raising their voices as their anger built inside of them. They were standing right in front of the apartment complex with Rolo standing by them not sure how to break up this argument.

"Rolo, what in the world is going on here?" The familiar voice spoke right behind him. He turned only to find Suzaku Kururugi staring in disbelief at the two 'females' arguing in front of them. Rolo noticed that Suzaku was not alone. Neil Dylandy was with him.

"Suzaku, what are you doing here? I thought you had to work." Rolo asked.

"I did, but they sent me home early with Neil. We caught up with work faster than they anticipated." Suzaku changed the subject. "What is going on here?" Suzaku turned his attention back to the nonstop arguing of Lelouch and Tieria. He watched Lelouch as he yelled and screamed at Tieria in that long, lavender dress. He noticed that he even wore makeup. Suzaku blushed. What in the world would ever get Lelouch into a dress? I've always wanted to see him in one. I'd never have though in a million years I would see him like this. Suzaku got himself excited as his mind began to wander.

"So, Rolo" Neil stepped in since Rolo wasn't answering Suzaku. "Mind telling us what is going on?"

"Aren't you going to stop them?" Rolo asked back ignoring Neil's question.

"I don't know if we should. Getting in between those two when they're fighting is risky."

"I'm surprised they haven't noticed us yet." Suzaku observed.

"Well, you know how caught up they can get with each other." Neil responded.

"Shut up!" Lelouch and Tieria said in unison as they glared back at Neil and Suzaku. Neil and Suzaku jumped, both were surprised that they actually heard their comments over all their yelling. Since they got their attention, Neil decided to do the dangerous thing and ask:

"Tieria, would you mind telling me what's going on here? Why are you and Lelouch wearing dresses?"

"We were on a mission!" Tieria and Lelouch said again in unison. Sometimes Neil thought that Tieria and Lelouch should've been twins the way they can sometimes act. They both thought alike. He was surprised they didn't get along better.

"What mission?"

"I was going to tell you later, but I followed Lyle to confirm your suspicions of being involved with terrorists again and I'm happy to tell you that he isn't."

Neil's face lit up. "He's not? What a relief."

"And you went to help him?" Suzaku asked Lelouch.

"Don't insult me Suzaku!" Lelouch yelled. "It was only a coincidence this happened!"

"Oh, so you did this for me Lelouch?" Suzaku asked overconfidently.

"Don't be ridiculous! I went to see her tonight!"

Suzaku was shocked by this news. He knew exactly who Lelouch was referring to. Why didn't he tell me?

"I would never go to him" Lelouch pointed at Tieria "for help, especially concerning such a sensitive issue!"

"What? Now you're not going to acknowledge what I did for you?"

"I was desperate!"

"Desperate?..."

The arguing and yelling continued once again. Both Suzaku and Neil sighed at the same time.

"Ooooooohhh, what's going on here?" Lyle came up alongside his twin brother with Anew. "What's with the hot chicks?" Lyle asked Neil.

Neil observed Anew shaking her head. "Well…"

"Glad I came just in time for the cat fight."

"Lyle!" Anew scolded as she hit him in the back of the head.

"Oww!"

"Even I can tell they're guys." Neil, Lyle, Anew, Suzaku and Rolo looked over at the person who just made that comment. It was Shinn who just kept on walking by uninterested in the spectacle that was playing out in the front of the apartment building.

"What does he mean they're guys?" Lyle asked confused.

"Lyle, don't you recognize them?"

"Hm?" Lyle observed them closer. The one in the maroon dress looked an awful lot like Tieria and the other one….."No way!"

"Way." Neil responded.

And to think I thought they were hot. Lyle shuttered at the thought.

"Ribbons! Ribbons! Please."

Again everyone's attention was drawn to the newcomers walking up the sidewalk with the exception of Tieria and Lelouch, of course. There they saw Ribbons walking ahead of Regene who was begging him to listen to him. They ignored everything else around them as if it was just the two of them.

"If you would only listen Ribbons. I was at the restaurant. You just seemed to have everything under control as you always do so I didn't want to interrupt you and it paid off. You didn't even need me. Your brilliance…" Ribbons and Regene disappeared into the building. Everyone thought the same thing: I wonder what Regene did this time.

Everyone's attention was brought back to Tieria and Lelouch who's argument seemed to have no end in sight unless someone stepped in.

"So Suzaku what should we do? We can't let this go on much longer."

"I agree. They're bound to disturb someone not to mention they're making fools out of themselves."

Right after Suzaku made that comment they heard someone yell:

"Would you two just shut up! People are trying to sleep here!"

Neil and Suzaku looked up at the apartment building only to see Shinn yelling out of his window. As soon as they saw him he went back inside and slammed the window shut.

"I guess that's our cue." Suzaku said.

"Yep." Neil agreed.

They were about to step forward when they saw a young man with blond hair step in front of Lelouch and Tieria.

"Now what would make two beautiful young ladies get into such an ugly argument? I'm sure whatever it is could be easily solved if you allow me to assist the two of you." The young man bowed.

Lelouch and Tieria stopped arguing and stared at the man in disbelief. No words could come to them. Who was this guy? And what the hell was he spewing all this nonsense?

"I guess that's one way to stop them from arguing." Neil said.

"Who is that?" Suzaku asked.

"That is my cousin."

Neil and Suzaku turned to see Patrick standing by them.

"Your cousin?" Neil asked.

"Yep. Tamaki Suho. He came to visit for a while."

"Precious, delicate, flowers such as yourselves are too lovely to get so angry." Tamaki continued to the stunned Lelouch and Tieria. He knelt down on one knee in front of them and took each of their hands in his. "Tell me what has upset you so and I will do everything in my power to aid you in lifting this pain you two deeply feel and to have you smile once more. For good friends such as yourselves should not say such things to each other. You may regret them later."

Neil and Suzaku ran for Tieria and Lelouch. They knew that whoever this person was wasn't going to see the light of day if they didn't interfere now, and their fears were correct. When they saw the looks on Tieria's and Lelouch's faces, they knew they had to get them out of that situation and fast.

"Don't worry" Neil said to Tamaki "I'll take care of this one." Neil dragged Tieria off before he could get a word out.

Lelouch opened his mouth to say something when Suzaku covered his hand over his mouth. "Come along dear." Suzaku smiled. "We should be going now." Suzaku also dragged Lelouch with him. Rolo ran after them.

Tamaki got up off the ground and watched as they left. "Who were they?"

"Their lovers." Patrick answered.

"I see."

"Don't worry about them Tamaki. After a good night's sleep they'll forget about it in the morning."

"You don't mean to say they fight all the time?"

"They do, but that's just how they get along so well. Come on, I'll introduce you to my lovely wife."

Patrick put his arm around Tamaki's shoulders and began walking towards the entrance.

"This is where you live? In an apartment?"

"Yes."

"Wow! I go to school with someone who lives in an apartment. I can't wait to see yours. I wonder if it'll look the same." Patrick and Tamaki entered the building leaving Lyle and Anew all alone. Lyle was still beating himself up over thinking that Lelouch and Tieria were 'hot girls'. It made him sick to his stomach.

"Shall we go in? Lyle?" Lyle stood there in a stupor. Anew knew exactly what would get him out of it. "Lyle?" She tapped on his shoulder. Lyle finally turned around. When he did Anew leaned in and kissed him. He was shocked at first but then settled down and kissed his wife back.

"Thank you again for the necklace. It's absolutely beautiful."

"I'm glad you like it."

Anew smiled. "Let's go inside." Anew said softly. She took him by the hand and led him down the walkway and in the building to their apartment.