JC: In the previous chapter, Cagalli and Athrun shared their very first kiss. Kyahh! And there will be more coming soon. I love them so much. Okay, this chapter will focus about the party. No bad guys will be coming after Cagalli for now. I'll reserve the action for the next chapter.

Disclaimer: I don't own Cagalli Yula Athha, Athrun Zala, and all the other characters of Gundam SEED. All rights belong to Sunrise.

Summary: When their mother died, Cagalli and her twin brother were taken in by a man who claims to be their uncle. Since they had nowhere else to go, they decided to live with him in his mansion. But there was something dreadfully suspicious about their uncle. He seemed to be so fond of the twins, going so far as to arrange a marriage between Cagalli and a rich business associate. Because of this, Cagalli is determined to escape her fate—even if it means running away from home and dealing with a handsome yet clever agent. Athrun Zala's job is to bring Cagalli home. But as things start to get more complicated, he finds himself falling for her.

Her Kind of Love

Phase 06: The Princess and the Prince

Cagalli Yula Hibiki was so taken aback at the unexpected kiss. She froze while Athrun's lips worked magic on hers. Before she knew what was happening, he was exploring her mouth scrupulously, and she wasn't doing anything to stop him. Heart pounding rapidly, she placed her hands against his chest to push him away. But rather than pushing, she closed her eyes as a divine feeling filled her. At that moment, she felt safe and secured, she felt like a true woman for the first time in her life. She responded to his kiss, clinging to his arms. She was enjoying it until she heard the red-haired girl clapped her hands in joy. Snapping back to reality, she shoved Athrun away.

She wasn't the only one appalled, he thought as he locked gazes with her. Truth to be known, he only planned on giving her a short and delicate kiss. But he gave her a passionate one instead. He didn't know what came over him. "C-Cagalli…" he called her name, a faint blush creeping across his face. Remembering their act, he asked, "Am I forgiven?"

The red-haired girl was giggling sweetly. "I have never seen a couple kissed in front of me like that before," she said, clearly thrilled with them. "You two are so sweet. You should forgive him. I'm sure he won't forget your wedding anniversary again. But it's really surprising to see such a young married couple. You guys are probably about my age, correct?"

Cagalli nodded her head at the girl. "Yeah… Age doesn't matter to us…" She then turned to Athrun, regaining back her composure. "All right… I forgive you… And I'm going to that party with you." It would be absurd to refuse him in front of the girl.

Athrun presented a smile. "Thank you, Cagalli…" He wanted to persuade her through other means and not by suddenly kissing her. However, there was no denying the fact that he liked the kiss.

"So, you're name is Cagalli…" the red-haired girl beamed. "What a nice name! I'm Fllay… Fllay Alster! It's a pleasure to meet you."

"Nice to meet you too," Cagalli replied. She seems nice. I kinda feel guilty for lying to her. Oh well… She gestured her hand towards Athrun and introduced him to her. "This is my husband, Athrun Zala." Her voice was a little strained when she mentioned the word 'husband'. Why did she have to bring up the whole wedding anniversary thing?

Fllay placed a hand on her cheek, tilting her head a little to the left, as she put on a sincere expression. "Oh, I apologize for calling you a jerk earlier," she said. "I shouldn't have jumped to conclusions like I always do."

"Apology accepted, Miss Alster," he said.

"Call me Fllay," she told them. "I'm going to attend the grand party tonight in this hotel. I can introduce you two to some of my friends. I'm sure they're going to love you."

"Then we'll be looking forward to it," he replied, clamping his hand on the round of Cagalli's shoulder, bringing her closer to him. He was enjoying acting like a couple.

Fllay clasped her hands together in delight. "Well, I better get ready," she said. "I'll see you later!" She spun around and walked away.

As soon as Fllay was out of sight, Cagalli stepped away from Athrun and shot him a glare. "I think I'm going to hurl," she said, putting on a disgusted look. "I feel sorry for lying to that girl. She really thinks we're married. And I can't believe you played along. I thought you were always serious with things."

"I like the idea of being married to you," Athrun said, facing the door once again. He slipped the card key into the slot and opened the door. "We have to prepare for the party as well. You can have the honor of taking a shower first."

Why did he seem so normal? Wasn't he affected by the kiss at all? Well, there was nothing romantic about that kiss. It was only Athrun's ploy to smooth things over. And she'd been foolish enough to go along with it. Frankly, Cagalli admitted she had felt something. She couldn't pretend it never happened. "Are you used to kissing girls?" she asked flatly. "You gave quite a convincing act."

"You were the one who started it," he said, and Cagalli scowled at him. "And for the record, you're the first girl I've ever kissed on the lips." He had his back facing her, so she wasn't able to see him blush like crazy.

Her pulse raced. She was Athrun's first kiss? How unbelievable! With his stunning good looks, she thought he already had tons of experiences with girls. "Y-You're lying…" she managed to say without stuttering. "I bet you have a girlfriend already." She was beginning to feel nervous.

Athrun heaved a deep sigh. "Because of my job, I can't afford to have a girlfriend," he said, peering over his shoulders to gaze at her. "Besides, I haven't found the right girl yet. Who knows? Maybe you're the right one for me, Cagalli."

Cagalli's face flushed red. "Don't be ridiculous!" she uttered, clenching her fists. "I will never fall in love with you even if you're the last guy on earth." With a shrug, she walked past him and went in to the bathroom. Inside, she leaned her back against the door and looked down at the tip of her shoes. She mentally scolded herself for losing her temper yet again. She didn't mean to say such a thing to Athrun.

The dress and some accessories were sent over an hour before the party. One look at the dress and Cagalli already felt uncomfortable. There was no backing out. She told Athrun she would go with him. Too bad they have to act like a married couple in front of Fllay Alster. It took her a while to put on a dress. Then she wondered what to do with her new short hair. She wished she could call Miriallia to help her with her dilemma, but her cell phone was confiscated by Athrun. She glanced at the ribbons, hair clips, and barrettes, and figured to make things simple.

His eyes flickered over her the moment she went out of the bathroom. She was dressed in a light green stylish gown. The fitted bodice was detailed top and bottom with beautiful ruched panels which were finished with large bead and crystal gem flowers. The Carmeuse in between was scattered with beads and sequins. For footwear she wore a pair of strappy high-heeled silver sandals. Her wrists were decorated with crystal accessories. Hair was done in an updo style. The side-sweet bangs were highlighted with ribbons of highlights and lowlights. The side sections of hair were swept up and loosely pinned into soft messy loops that trickle from top of the crown down to the nape of the neck. The updo style made her look elegant and definitely sassy.

Athrun couldn't seem to stop himself from staring at her. He tugged at the collar of his white shirt and loosened his tie. "I-I don't know what to say…" he said, almost stuttering. He was too mesmerized with the beauty in front of his eyes. She was like a true princess. "You're beautiful, Cagalli."

A faint blush appeared on her cheeks. "Um…Thanks…" Her heart was leaping with joy because of the compliment, but she pretended to stay composed. Taking a good look at him, she had to admit that he looked so handsome in a black suit with a red tie. It was her first time to see him wear something so formal. She thought of complimenting him too but hesitated. He might think I have a crush on him.

Athrun took her hand and placed a kiss on it. "Shall we go, princess?" he spoke like a true prince with emerald eyes shimmering in brilliance.

Cagalli pulled her hand away. "Don't call me princess," she said. Her heart was pounding fast again. Only he could make her so uneasy. "Come on or we'll be late…" She walked past him to the door and went out of the room first.

Giggling, Athrun said, "It looks like she's a little shy,"

When they stepped into the elevator, Athrun pressed the button of the highest floor. "Since Miss Alster is going to be there, we have to act like we're married," he said, taking hold of her hand, as the elevator door snapped shut.

Cagalli felt a quiver deep in her belly. "Don't touch me as you like," she said.

"Your hand is trembling, Cagalli." Athrun entwined his fingers with hers. "Why, I wonder?"

She snatched her hand away. "Oh, shut up!" she exclaimed.

He gazed down at her. A flush tinged her delicate skin; he'd felt the racing pulse beat as he'd held her hand. An uncontrolled excitement coursed through him. "Don't be stubborn." His emerald eyes glittered. "We have to put up a good act. Why don't we get in character right now? What would a couple do if they found themselves alone in an elevator?"

"How should I know?" Cagalli said quickly. "I haven't been in a relationship before."

The elevator doors opened to a brightly lit corridor. "This is it." Athrun cupped her elbow in his hand and guided her toward the grand ball room. The place was huge and classy. There were a lot of people talking and dancing, and Cagalli could tell that they were all influential and wealthy. "We'll fit in real nicely here."

"This reminds me of my party the other day," Cagalli said with a sigh. "So, where's your friend?"

"He's by the window on the left, watching us," Athrun said, smiling charmingly. "The girl standing beside him is his cousin."

"You mean the one who lent me this dress?"

"That's right. They're agents like me and they know about our situation."

"Then we don't have to act lovey-dovey in front of them."

He made the introductions and the two talked with Cagalli for a while. Just as he'd expected, his friends have come to like Cagalli. And Cagalli was charming to them, smiling, saying the right things.

"This dress actually belonged to my mom and I can't believe it fits you perfectly," Stellar Loussier exclaimed happily. She was a cute 14-year old girl with soft shoulder-length blonde hair and a pair of attractive eyes dyed in magenta. Her baby-blue dress was a feminine masterpiece, shaped to flatter, in gorgeous satin. Boned bustier created an incredible silhouette with a draped knee-length skirt and white wrap tie belt. "I made the right choice."

"Thanks for lending me this dress," Cagalli said, embodying the essence of an elegant woman. She couldn't act her usual ruthless self in a formal party.

Nicol Amalfi, the 15-year old host of the party, took two glasses of champagne from the waiter and gave them to Athrun and Cagalli. He had short curly green hair and golden-brown eyes. He was definitely a handsome young man with a kind expression. "Have you found out about the people who are after her?" he asked Athrun.

"Not yet… But I am investigating…" Athrun replied, taking a sip of champagne.

"Nicol, it's time for you to play the piano," Stellar told her cousin, clasping her hands in delight. "Everyone's waiting."

"It's been a while since I heard you play," Athrun said.

Nicol gave him a smile. "Why don't you ask the lovely Miss Cagalli here to a dance while I play the music?" he said, patting Athrun's shoulder. "I want you two to enjoy the party as much as you can." With that, he walked towards the grand piano and sat down on the chair. He lifted his hands, carefully placing it over the keys, and closed his eyes. He took a moment to relax before he started playing a wonderful piece.

"That's one of my favorite songs," Stellar said, reminiscing. "It's so romantic, so moving."

"He's really a talented pianist." Athrun bowed in front of Cagalli as he held out his hand. "May I ask you to a dance, princess?" he asked.

Cagalli blushed furiously and growled, "Forget it."

"Come on, Cagalli, just one dance," said Athrun, winking an eye at her. There was a divine gleam in his eyes.

"Fine!" Cagalli took his hand. "One dance, and then I'm out of here." They walked to the dance floor as Stellar wished them good luck.

To the sound of the music, they danced very properly. Athrun's hand was splayed lightly across her back. Their bodies weren't close enough to touch. He felt her tense and smiled attractively. With one easy movement, he pulled her against him. He wanted to hold her. "Let's make this dance more interesting," he said as he linked his arms around her waist. "Put your arms around my neck."

There was really nowhere else for her arms to go because their bodies were so close together that she couldn't possible wedged her arms between them. Hesitantly, feeling utterly trapped, she laid her hands on his shoulders, not daring to curve her arms around him. Cagalli drew in a sharp gulp of air. She could feel the solid, muscular chest of his imprinted against the length of her whole body; she could feel his breath in her hair.

"Relax," Athrun whispered against her ear. "You're a little stiff, Cagalli."

"I-I'm not a good dancer, okay?" Well, she wasn't into ballroom dancing. She was more into hip-hop and modern.

"You're doing fine," he murmured softly. With his other hand, which was resting on her back, he began to knead the sensitive hollow of her spine. His touch was enough to give her Goosebumps.

In fact, every nerve in her body was responding to his caresses. Her skin felt as if it had just burst in flames. Her breast crushed against the muscular wall of Athrun's chest, felt heavy and full. An urge to rub against him sent her spinning. There was a pounding in her ears that pulsed in harmony with the shameful, forbidden, exciting throbbing between her thighs. Her tensions soon disappeared and she eased up. She was moving in time to the slow, dreamy music. Cagalli's eyelids drooped and then closed as she drew a deep breath. Athrun was stirring against her. But instead of pulling away, she wriggled closer. She'd never felt so intimate before. When she felt his lips on the curve of her neck, a breathless sigh escaped from her throat.

Athrun's senses kicked up. He drew a breath but when he inhaled, the sexy scent of her perfume went straight to his head, clouding his mind. She felt so soft and warm in his arms. And though their bodies were as close as they could possibly be, he wanted to be even closer.

The slow song ended and the bang struck up a more upbeat music. Stunned and dazed, Cagalli and Athrun drew apart and stared at each other. Both were flushed.

"Cagalli, Athrun!" The cheery female voice seemed to come from another dimension.

Athrun and Cagalli simultaneously turned toward the sound. A familiar red-haired girl was walking toward them. She was clad in an alluring pink dress, featuring a skirt made out rows of sewn chiffon. The sexy busty top featured boning for a flattering fit and a crystal belt completed the look. Her footwear consisted of a pair of silver sandals.

"Fllay…" Cagalli stammered. It was difficult to talk. Her mind was in a mist. "Hey there…"

"I've been looking everywhere for you." Fllay wrapped her arms around Cagalli's right arm. "This place is just too big. Anyway, you two were dancing so sexily." She gave a soft yet teasing giggle.

The passion she'd felt a while ago in Athrun's arms drained from her. You two were dancing so sexily. The phrase rang in her ears. It reminded her he was an agent on a mission to bring her home. A short memory of how she'd been dancing with him flashed through her mind. Cagalli flushed red from her cheeks to the tips of her toes.

"I wish I could dance like that with my future husband," Fllay said. "I so envy you right now, Cagalli."

"I guess," Cagalli replied. She was back in full command of her wits now.

"Athrun, I hope you don't mind if I borrow your wife for a while," Fllay said with a mischievous smile. "I want to introduce her to my friends."

"Of course, I don't mind," Athrun said smoothly as if he wasn't affected by the way they danced. "It will do Cagalli some good to spend some time with girls. I'll be on the terrace if you need me." He bowed his head politely and walked away.

To be continued…

JC: Athrun and Cagalli are getting more intimate. Their attraction for one another is strong. It won't be long until their feelings will fully bloom. Nicol, Stellar, and Fllay are just minor characters in the story—more like extras. They won't play any major roles. As promised, there will be action in the next chapter. Send in those reviews to keep me inspired. Don't send me flames.