AN: Special thanks to bobo-q, Mony19, Kikyo4ever, Harumira, King of Esca, MisslzzyB, & Akira Sasaki for their reviews!
Chapter 6
The karaoke part was winding down, as most of the participants already left. The few that remained were Mai, Mikoto, Reito, Natsuki, and Shizuru. Although Natsuki wanted to leave early, she stayed because she wanted to talk to Shizuru for a moment. Thus far, she didn't get a proper chance all day with the graduation ceremony in the morning, then the HiME Ranger lunch that Midori organized, and now the karaoke part Mai hosted. It's been a long day, and the delinquent just wanted to go home and crash, maybe sleep for a few days, but she had to talk to Shizuru first.
If only she could get the chance.
Casting a meaningful glance at the ex-student council president, Natsuki hoped that the taller girl understood the silent message: 'I need to talk to you, let's get outta here.' Whether Shizuru understood the message or not had yet to be seen, as the former student continued to converse with Mai on genres of musical talent. It really felt like Shizuru was ignoring Natsuki, and it was bugging her all day! Sure there were times when the playful Shizuru emerged throughout the day, but for the most part, the two girls were unable to get a moment alone.
Natsuki just wanted to go up and say: 'Hey, Shizuru, let's go.' but she was nervous the older girl would just dismiss her. So she kept quiet. After the world was re-set by Mashiro's power, and everyone was alive again, things have never been the same between them. Whereas most of the HiMEs tried to come to terms with the happenings (Haruka and Yukino started exploring their feelings, Akane and Kazuya became an official couple, Yukariko and Wataru were hastily married, and even Yuichi and Shiho started therapy), everyone was gradually moving forwards. Everyone except Natsuki and Shizuru. It was like they were taking two steps back while everyone was moving on, leaving them behind. Gone was their casual friendship and silent communications. All that was left was the awkward silence and forced politeness. It was as if they weren't even friends anymore.
It left an empty feeling.
It was past one-fifteen AM when Shizuru bade Mai and a dozing Mikoto farewell. Walking out into the chilly early morning air, Shizuru tried to ignore the girl that trailed behind her by two steps. It was only when she raised her hand for a taxi, that she felt Natsuki's warm hand encompass her own. It sent shivers down her spine that had nothing to do with the cold. "I'll take you home" was Natsuki gruff statement as she lightly tugged on Shizuru's captured hand. The honey haired girl wanted to protest, she could get home by herself, but she had been ignoring Natsuki most of the day.
So out of guilt, and a bit of weariness, she complied. She felt bad. It was hard to pretend not to notice the plea in bright emerald eyes, but she did it. Shizuru had to, because it hurt too much to hope.
Quietly following her heart's forbidden desire, Shizuru mounted the sleek Ducati after her love. This was their last ride together, Shizuru knew, so she hugged Natsuki a little tighter. Tomorrow she would head back to Kyoto, as per her parent's request. The distance would do her good she surmised. She needed time to get over the rejection. She just loved Natsuki too much to just be her friend. It was a fate worse than death she felt. So she had to distance herself. For her heart's sake.
Natsuki briefly glance back at Shizuru as she felt the ruby eyed girl gently caress her taunt abs and hold her a little tighter. With her eyes closed, Shizuru looked at peace. As if time stood still, and it was just the two of them. It was a view that clenched Natuki's heart painfully. As the gentle fingers continued their silent ministration on Natsuki's stomach, the action set butterflies loose in her belly, but she tried to concentrate on the road ahead.
They were close to Shizuru's family town house, but both parties wanted the moment to last a little longer. 'When did this happen?' The thought startled Natsuki as stared intently ahead of her. 'When did I fall of her?'
The day began for Shizuru like any other. It was 6:00 am, and hitting the 'off' button on the alarm before it had a chance to sound twice, the young business woman slipped out of bed. Her fiancé behind her still lay sprawled, clutching a pillow with her back to her, caught up in a dream it seemed.
Making her way to the shower, Shizuru's ruby eyes made a dull note that it was Friday. Six days since she had confronted the private detective, Yuuki Nao.
After a quick shower, Shizuru made her way to the large walk-in closet. Contemplating for a moment what she would wear, the ruby eyed woman selected one of her designer business suit/skirt combination. It was of fine material, a creamy brown that accented her hair. Donning a pale-violet silk blouse and adding a touch of cosmetics, the young business woman would be ready.
It has been three days since she has agreed to sponsor Artemis, and today was the project presentation. Suzushiro Incorporated as well as all the staff members working on the project will be there. Smiling at her reflection, Shizuru applied a creamy pink lipstick. Making sure she looked presentable, the young ash blonde woman began to pull her hair up into a bun. Moving away from the vanity mirror, the young woman looked herself over one last time at the full length mirrors. Fuji Corporation needs to make a good impression—she—needs to make a good impression since Maria-han will be attending with her.
She could already feel the stress coming on.
Although a joint business meeting is nothing new to her, this is the first time Maria-han had specifically insisted they invest in Artemis' offer, as it had more pros than cons to the company. Over looking her own personal feelings about the matter, Shizuru had agreed with her long time friend and advisor. Doing business with Artemis would prove beneficial to Fuji Corp. in the long run. Also there was the fact that Suzushiro Inc. had referred them to Artemis in the first place to consider too. Gathering her things for the day, the young woman headed out the door.
As she entered the lobby, stopping by the desk, Shizuru smiled as Minami stood to greet her. Handing the blond girl a package to be mailed, the young heir waited patiently as the postage was tallied. Waiting patiently, a man entered the hotel's lobby, and heads straight to the reception desk.
"Excuse me, Miss, my name is Sergay Kruger," the man said as he rested his large hands on the counter, a simple gold ring seemed to stand out on his tanned skin. "I was wondering which room my wife is staying in."
Ayumi, a short brunette; a part-time worker, Shizuru noted, was eyeing the older man slowly. He was tall, and ruggedly handsome. He had a small scar between his eye brows, but it did not take away from his boyish good looks. "Ah yes." The young Fuji heir internally cringed at the thick flirtatious voice Ayumi used to address the man. "Um…do you have the name the room was registered under sir?"
Glancing out the corner of her eye, a ruby orb noticed the slightly older man lean towards the desk. Smiling a charming smile, Sergay spoke smoothly as he watched the young girl before him blush. "It should be registered under my wife's name, 'Natsuki Kruger.' She should be staying here with our daughter, Nina."
Pausing while marking the needed postage, Minami looked at the man talking with her co-worker. Sirens were definitely sounding in her head as green eyes took in the appearance of the man before her. He was dressed sharply in business casuals, and he had his mustard blond hair spiked back to give him a dashing look. However what caught her attention and sounded the alarm in her head, was his claim to be Kruger's husband and Nina-chan's father.
Minami knew instantly that it was a lie.
Schooling her features, the blonde receptionist continued to applying the necessary postage to the package, as she calmly began to speak. "Strange, I'm the one who checked Kruger-san in, and she didn't say anything about you joining her sir." Not looking up from the package she was attending to, Minami mentally smirked. Looking at the poser briefly, then to the owner of the hotel, the blonde smiled sweetly as she passed over the receipt. "There you go; I'll send this out right away."
Nodding to Minami as she took her recipe, Shizuru glanced at the suspicious man, and walked out. Although hearing the name 'Natsuki Kruger' sent a pang through her, she did not really know why. After all, there were surely more than one 'Natsuki' in the world, so there was no reason the feel the way she did. Nevertheless she didn't have time to linger as she needed to meet with Maria-han and head to Artemis for the 10:00 meeting.
Bright hazel eyes glance at the blonde receptionist for a moment and returned to the flustered girl before him. The blond was already being troublesome, but the brunette could easily be manipulated. Sighing dramatically, Sergay moved to pull out his wallet, and casually showed how it was stuffed with a wad of cash. "I was away on a business trip in China, but I left early to be with my family. Here's my ID, as you can see, we have the same last name. I don't know how else to prove to you that she is my dear wife….ah, I know! Please give her a call. I'm sure you have her number."
"I'm sorry sir, we cannot do that. Our phones cannot call an outside number." Minami's voice was deadpan, but she smiled politely none the less. She wouldn't give Ayumi the chance to help aid the lier before her. "Perhaps you could call her yourself?" Mentally smirking to herself, Minami knew the man before her couldn't follow through with the suggestion.
"Well I would, however my wife recently purchased a new cell phone—since her purse was stolen a few days ago—and I don't recall the number. Perhaps you can give me her number, and I can call her using my cell phone?" Sergay completely ignored the blond, as he turned hopeful eyes to the junior receptionist. He gave a charming smile in hopes of winning her over.
Nudging Ayumi over a bit, she ignoring the hand still holding out the identification card. Minami smiled politely at the man before her, memorizing his exact features. Trying her best to school the twitch of her brow, she took a relaxing breath and mentally counted to ten. He was a sly bastard. "I'm sorry sir, but she did not leave a number." Which was true.
Looking between her senior and the handsome man before her, Ayumi hesitantly took the proffered identification card. Blushing as their fingers lightly touched, the shorter woman started at the plastic card. The Nationality was American. Sergay W. Kruger. Six foot two inches. Blond hair. Brown eyes. Gulping nervously the brunette receptionist quickly pulled up the needed information for the man before her. If only to please him and get another dashing smile that showed off his left dimple. "Ah, yes sir. She's in room 514." Passing a key card over the counter of the desk, the receptionist almost fainted at the dashing smile she received.
As the man walked away, the brunette let out a sigh and collapsed on to the chair. A low mumbled how all the handsome men were always either married, taken, or gay was heard, but her co-worker seemed to have not heard it.
Watching the man enter the elevator with a blank expression, the blonde receptionist turned to her co-worker who is still slumped in a chair with a dreamy far away look. "Ayumi-chan, I'm going on break for a bit."
Seeing the brown haired woman nod in acknowledgment, the young blonde exited out the back of the hotel lobby. Quickly striding to her destination, she enters the floral garden to the west of the hotel. Taking out a sleek cell phone, Minami dials an out of the country number. Clearing her throat, and pacing as she counted off each ring, the receptionist prepared herself as she knew she would be waking her friend up.
On the tenth ring the person on the other line picked up with a sleepy 'hello?'
Wasting no time, Minami took a breath and started. "Laura, we've got a problem. It seems that that guy you warmed me about is here. He's claiming to be Kuga's husband too."
"What do you mean?" The voice on the other line rasps out, now fully awake. "Explain." Laura demanded in urgency.
"Well he just strolled into the Hotel a few minutes ago saying his name is 'Sergay Kruger,' and that Natsuki-san is his wife, and Nina-chan is his daughter." The distress in the young blonde's voice was evident as it echoed around the empty garden. Pacing back and forth, she tried to calm her nerves.
"Shit. Does Natsuki know he's there?"
"No. She left with Nina-chan this morning…about two hours ago. It's seven-thirty now." Minami said as she bit down on her thumb nail. A nervous habit she was unable to break.
"I see…okay, good. Keep an eye on them. If Sergay leaves the hotel, contact me immediately. If he stays there, then when Natsuki arrives, try to warn her not to go in. I'll be on the next flight out there."
"Sure; I'll do my best." Sighing and running her slender fingers through her short blonde hair, the young woman massaged the back of her neck. "I'm actually really fond of Natsuki-san and Nina-chan; so I'd rather Schwartz not get their hands on either of them."
Amid the rustling of cloths and movement, Laura paused to exhale deeply. "Me too…Thanks…Erstin." The line went dead, and the blond woman quietly pocked the device and headed back into the hotel. One thing was for sure, she would not let Schwartz hurt another person she cared about.
"Are you nervous?" came Sifr's airy question from the doorway.
Scowling at the mirror as viridian eyes locked on Sifr's amused reflection, Natsuki huffed. "What's to be nervous about? We've done this before a dozen times. We just go in there and prove to them how right we are." Giving the pestering woman an arrogant smirk, Natsuki continued to fiddle with the lightening bolt hair clip Alyssa sent her. She just had to choose today of all days to try it on. Now if only the stupid thing would set right!
"Allow me." Sifr said as she closed the distance between them. Gently taking the hair clip from Natsuki's hands, Sifr bushed silky raven locks behind her ear. Natsuki instantly closed her eyes at the sensation as she felt her cheeks burn at the close proximity. It was an embarrassing, but pleasant feeling.
It was over in a matter of moments as Sifr stepped back to examine her work.
"You look beautiful." The burgundy haired woman whispered, as she softly held a few cobalt locks in her hand. The texture was smooth, and smelled of lavender.
Blinking away the moment, Natsuki felt guilt settle on her conscience. "Uh...thanks..Sifr." Quirking a smile, Natsuki ripped her eyes away from her best friend's intelligent violet orbs, to stare at her reflection in the mirror. The hair pin was placed perfectly.
"Okay, I'm ready."
The clock in Natsuki's office chimed at 9:00am signaling that she only had one hour before the meeting, with all the 'corporate snobs' as Midori had put it, would begin. It was not something new to Natsuki, as she had lots of practice in presenting the ideas and findings of a major project due to her experience from working at Schwartz. Only this time she will be facing them solo. Sifr wasn't here to back her up like before.
That thought alone caused the normally confident woman to slump her shoulders as she carried Nina out the door.
Also unlike before she wouldn't actually be doing any of the presentations, but only sitting in, showing her moral support by being by Alyssa's side. 'At least Miyu was right about one thing,' Natsuki thought as she made her way to her sister's office. 'Alyssa-chan is happier with me being one of her advisors of sorts. Although she still relies on Miyu a great deal, at least now she knows I'm not going anywhere.'
Holding Nina in one arm, her right hand rested on the cool door knob for a moment before she pushed the door open. She paused midway through the threshold. Quirking an awkward smile, the young mother tried in vain to school her facial features as she took in the sight before her.
Sugiura Midori was holding Yumemiya Arika down, as Woods Irina hovered above her, arms akimbo. All three froze in spot at as the office door swung open to reveal an equally frozen mother and daughter.
Nina was the one that broke the awkward spell by voicing a high pitched 'Uwah?' as she tried to understand why the three redheads were hugging each other on the floor.
Being snapped out of her stupor, Natsuki cleared her voice before she calmly closed the door before her. Turning on her heel, the young mother quickly made for the elevator as she heard the three behind the office doors scramble to follow her.
"NATSUKI-CHAN WAIT!!!" Midori's voice echoed along the hall as she raced to the elevator. Shouts of 'Kruger-san' also accompanied the plea as the elevator's steel and glass doors began to close. Sticking a foot in between the closing doors, the tallest redhead grinned as the elevator doors began to open again. "Yo!" Midori mock saluted as she entered the enclosed box.
Strolling into the steel and glass box, the accomplished engineer grinned triumphantly, as the doors closed before the other two women could enter. Neither of the two adult occupants said a word as they began their decent. Mid way down, the tall red head pushed the 'stop' button, and halted the device between two levels. Turning bright lime-green eyes to cold jade ones, the directing head of Project MAID smirked playfully at the young mother. "You know Natsuki-chan, with Suzushiro Inc. and Fuji Corp. attending the presentation meeting in less than an hour; I wonder how you will deal with them?"
Feeling a headache coming on, the young mother tried to calm her nerves. "Leave how I will deal with them up to me. It's none of your concern anyways." Natsuki knew it would be inconvenient to sit in the meeting with Suzushiro Inc., as Haruka and Yukino would be there for sure. But she had already promised Alyssa she would attend, so she was determined to go. Let them bombard her with questions after the meeting, so long as the project continued, Natsuki would deal with the consequences as they come. She knew just by being back in Japan she would eventually meet those from her past, she just didn't think she would have to meet them so soon.
Pouting, the self proclaimed seventeen-year-old leaned back against the door as Natsuki did the same. "You know Suzushiro Haruka and Kikukawa Yukino will more than likely be attending the meeting. What will you tell them? After all, they, we—myself included—thought you were dead. Yet here you are! And with a daughter no less. Right, Nina-chan?'
Surprised by the playful wink directed at her, the girl in question hid her face in the crook of her mother's neck. Holding her daughter closer to her, Natsuki felt the need to defend herself and her child. "Leave Nina-chan out of this. Besides me being 'dead' is only what the news reported. It's not my concern if you, and everyone else, believes whatever the media tells you."
"Now that's just mean Natsuki-chan. We're a team remember? Why didn't you at least tell us?" Midori pouted as she tried to ruffle Nina's hair, only to have Natsuki slap her hand away.
"A 'team'? You mean the HiME Rangers? Pffh! That ended with the festival." Readjusting Nina on her hip, Natsuki stared out the side of the glass elevator.
"True, but you still haven't answered my question. What will you tell them, Natsuki-chan?" All playfulness gone, Midori stood back and really looked at the younger girl before her. She had changed so much, motherhood suited her, but she was still the same hardheaded person Midori knew eight years ago.
Growling at the smug look her former teacher was giving her, the cobalt haired woman frowned. She knew she had to face the loud mouth Suzushiro and the mousy Kikukawa, but she tried not to think of it. Meeting up with Sugiura Midori, Sagisawa Youko, and Himeno Fumi two days ago was a stressful situation, that was awkward at best, and just plain shitty and shot to hell at worse. Still it was not something she wanted to go though again with Kikukawa and Suzushiro. Biting her lower lip as she glared at the smirking woman before her, Natsuki's thoughts raced.
She could count on Yukino's stunned silence, but knew with out a doubt Haruka would have a nuclear blow up at seeing her "alive". There would be damage—especially if it happened prior to the meeting—but the question was, how to keep the damage at a minimum so it would not have an ill effect for the project.
Two days ago, the day after she agreed to be Alyssa's advisor, Alyssa, Miyu, and herself, flew out to Fuuka academy. They met with Fumi-san and Youko-sensei and explained Project MAID to the both of them. The two Fuuka administrators readily agreed and were very excited about the prospect of the project. Mid-way through the presentation, Midori entered the room—having just returned from a trip in Egypt— to visit with Youko first before she reported in with Artemis. The presentation was left aside as polite manners, and previously held back questions, all but erupted into a full on interrogation with Midori leading the way. The original visit that was supposed to last for two hours ended up stretching out to five hours and ended with all of them hitting a local bar.
It was not something Natsuki wanted to repeat. Exhaling deeply, her glare softened as she rubbed her daughter's back. Pushing herself up to face her mother, Nina's bright yellow-red eyes looked in to her mother's soft green orbs. "Uwah?"
Smiling down at her daughter in her arms, the young mother kissed Nina's forehead and inhaled her scent. Look into curious and amused lime eyes; Natsuki pushed the 'stop' button on the elevator's control panel to resume the decent to the lobby. "I'll just meet with them before the meeting starts. That way, they won't make a scene in front of all the other corporate and financial investors, and embarrass Alyssa-chan."
Smiling charmingly, Midori nodded. "Good plan." Glancing at her watch, the redhead's smile widened. "It's 9:23 right now. They should be here any minute. Go to conference room 1G, and I'll prepare them to meet you, ne?"
Nodding to her co-worker, the younger woman stepped out of the elevator as the door opened up behind her. "Thanks, Midori."
"No prob." the tall red head didn't bother to look back as she made her way to the entrance of the building. She could already see Suzushiro Inc.'s limousine pull up to the curb of the short flight of steps outside the front glass doors.
Pushing open the heavy glass doors, Midori extended her arm into the air in an exaggerated wave. "Hi~! Haruka-chan, Yukino-chan! Did you both enjoy the ride over?"
As the two executives exited the long white limo, they greeted the excited redhead in turn. Yukino with a bashful smile; and Haruka with a huff as the two made their way up the short flight of stairs.
"The ride over was fine, Midori-sensei. How was your trip to Egypt? We've missed you on our first visit to Artemis a few weeks ago."
"It was very educational, Yukino-chan." Holding the heavy tempered glass door open, Midori ushered the two inside. "By the way, I heard that you've recommended Fuji Corp. to help with the backing?" Looking pointedly at Haruka, the tall researcher just smiled as the busty blonde nodded curtly.
"It's easier to do business with those you are familiar with, than those you are not. Besides, where is that Bubuzuke-Onna? It's almost nine-thirty and she isn't even here yet!"
Slapping the violet eyed woman on the back lightly, Midori chuckled. "Are you that eager to see her? Well before we get on with this little HiME Ranger's reunion—" too caught up in the moment, Midori didn't notice Yukino swat drop, "there's one princess you both have got to meet! I have to warn you though….she is sooooo super cute you just might die!"
Taken aback by the scientist's serious demeanor, both were a little confused by the sudden declaration. As such, neither put up much resistance when the green-eyed woman linked arms with them, one on each side, and literally dragged them to conference room 1G.
Nao wasn't sure what she expected to find when she inserted the CD on Schwartz into her laptop. But from what she was able to gather in the past few days, she knew knew the company, originating in Northern Europe, was a shady, manipulative bunch. She learned, and was later backed up by Yamada two days ago, was that Schwartz was secretly funding the Asian First District during the HiME Festival. Not only that, but Schwartz was the child company of the American Searss Foundation. All the information caused Nao to feel nauseous as dread seeped into her body, weighing her down.
Just what the Hell had Natsuki gotten herself in to?!
Growling in annoyance, Nao's green eyes glared at the computer screen as she waited for the CD to open. She just knew the information wouldn't be good news. She was dealing with a huge conspiracy for god's sake! Nibbling her bottom lip in worry, the redhead took a deep breath as the CD window opened, and three text documents and two video files showed up. Moving the cursor past the two videos files, Nao clicked on the first text document titled, 'Project Slavic/Slave.'
The shrill ringing of her cell phone cut through the silent apartment, can caused the young private investigator to jump. Her heart was racing and as she frantically searched for the offending device, she knocked down folders and books from the desk in her rush. Finally securing the ringing cell, Nao snarled into the device, a harsh "What'd ya want?!"
"...Nao. It's me, Laura. Look, I need you're help."
The familiar voice on the line was quiet, but caused Nao's scowl to deepen nonetheless. Tiredly rubbing her temples, Nao leaned back into her swivel chair. Why the hell is everyone calling on me?! Exhaling deeply, Nao screwed her eyes shut as she tried to speak calmly. "Again, what do you want?"
Ignoring the stressed annoyance, the caller continued after a moment of silence. "It's Schwartz. They've picked up Natsuki and Nina's location. My contact in Japan just alerted me, and I've been trying to get in touch with Natsuki, but she won't answer my call."
Scoffing, Nao began picking up all the things she knocked off her desk during her rush to pick up the phone. "No shit, retard! Ever figure she's still pissed at you?!" Picking up an old and crumpled 4x6 photo of a graduating class from University, jade eyes instantly picked out the dark skinned and fair haired Laura Bianchi standing next to Natsuki. Sifr Fran stood on Natsuki's other side. "And what's this about Schwartz 'picking up Natsuki and Nina's location?'" Just because Nao used Laura as a contact to get more info on Schwartz's project (and before to stay updated on Natsuki), didn't mean she particularly liked the woman. Far from it.
They only worked together for the sake of Natsuki.
"I mean exactly what I said. They've sent someone to check out Natsuki's hotel this morning. Luckily, they already left for the day. But my source tells me that Schwartz is camping out in her room, so I need to warn her about it."
Laura's voice sounded calm, but there was a hint of underlying anxiety. It was so subtle that not many would have picked up on it, but Nao heard it loud and clear. Years of experience in seducing men, talking her way out of trouble, and manipulating others to get her way, has taught her all she needed to know to be one of the best at what she does: read people. "I'll warn Natsuki." Laura tried to protest this, but Nao easily cut her off, "You try to distract Schwartz, get them outta here if you can."
There was a long moment of pause, in which Nao began to think the other woman actually hung up, but then she spoke. Tightly and with more pronounced anger. She was frustrated. "Look, I said I was sorry. I know what I did was wrong, my priorities were all mixed up back then, and I'm trying my best to make up for it now. But I need your help Nao."
Hearing the other woman beg brought a sadistic smile to Nao's face. She could only think that Laura deserved it. "Just distract them." Nao didn't bother saying goodbye, she just ended the conversation. As far as she was concerned, she was just looking out for her best friend.
It was 9:50 am when Shizuru and Maria entered the Artemis building. They were not late per say, but business etiquette normally required one to be at least thirty minutes early to an appointment. More time to scout out the competition or potential business alliance. Often that extra time would allow one the leisure of exploring the new surroundings, chatting with colleagues, and preparing one's self for the meeting. Time of which was sadly and frustratingly cut short, due to a highway accident involving a pick-up truck and a pack of loose chickens running about the expressway. Luckily none of the poultry were injured, but it delayed Fuji Corp. by half an hour.
As the two smartly dressed business women strolled into the towering building of glass and steel, they were greeted by Tomoe and Arika in the spacious lobby. Both seemed rather anxious to see them, Shizuru noted.
"Shizuru-Onee-sama! Thank goodness you've arrive safely. The meeting is about to start, and we were worried."
Nodding kindly to the olive haired receptionist, the Fuji heir smiled sweetly to the two younger workers. "Ara, my executive director and I were caught up in a highway accident. I hope we are not too late."
"Not at all Shizuru-Onee-sama! It is a pleasure to see you again Graceburt-san!" Beaming a bring smile, Arika lead the two Fuji Corp. representatives towards the glass elevators and entered. "Actually Suzushiro Inc. is in a private meeting with our project Director, Sugiura Midori-san, at the moment, and will be joining us shortly. Also I was asked to remind you that Fuji Corp. has yet to sign the contract with Artemis Foundation. Alyssa-sama would like to invite you, and Graceburt-san, to her office once the presentation meeting is over to sign the needed paperwork."
"Of course." Maria and Shizuru replied. Once the doors of the elevator opened, they were ushered to a fine conference room.
The conference room was large, and surrounded by glass windows that reached from floor to ceiling on one side. It was a corner room, and had a wonderful view of the forest that surrounds the Artemis Foundation Compound. There was an expected long conference table, and dozens of plush leather executive chairs around the table. Only nine of the thirty chairs were filled, and all of the business men and women were gathered towards the far end of the room. All eyes were on the three that just entered the room. The large face clock read 10:00 am.
"Hi! Sorry we're late!" Arika's chipper mood seemed to break the stuffy tension as more than half the waiting occupants smiled up at the hyper secretary.
"Good! It's about time you showed up Fujino!" Shizuru didn't have to turn around to know that Suzushiro Haruka had just entered the room behind her. The dark-blonde's boisterous voice echoed in the silent conference room and ricocheted off the sound proof glass windows. The effect was Haruka's greeting in stereo. Shizuru mentally sighed, but outwardly smiled. She has missed the ex-executive director.
Turning around to face the violet eyed blonde, Shizuru smiled charmingly as she placed a delicate hand on her cheek. "Ara, ara, I hope you will be able to forgive my tardiness, Haruka-san. I did not mean to enter the conference room before you and Yukino-san."
An angry retort was delayed as the petite hand of Yukino quelled the raging Haruka. Midori snickered as she walked in behind the two love birds. "Oi, oi! Let's get this started!" The project director beamed as she strolled into the room. Nodding to most of her staff and friends, Midori was glad to be surrounded by familiar faces. Passing Yumemiya Arika as she was busy passing out bottled water, glasses of orange juice, tea, or coffee, Midori waved to the girl happily. Sticking her tongue out playfully at the scientist, the secretary finished serving the refreshments and made herself out of the way. Sitting at the opposite end of the table, and turning the projector on, Arika gave Midori the thumbs up sign and began to quietly take notes.
On the left side of the table, the side facing the windows with their back towards the wall was the staff from Artemis. Beginning at the middle of the table sat Alyssa, Miyu to the right of her. Across from them sat Fumi and Youko, both representing their private 'Aswad Group.' Shizuru and Maria took their seats next to Fumi's group, with Suzushiro Inc seated next to them on the other side of Maria, and closes to the head of the table.
Making her way towards the front of the table, Midori stopped beside Alyssa's chair. "She said: 'She's sorry, but Nina-chan's not feel well, so she won't be attending the meeting today.'"
Haruka snorted as she over heard the message relayed to the blonde CEO, causing her companion to sigh and massage her temples. Alyssa's crystal clear blue eyes glanced at the two from Suzushiro Inc. and pouted at the news, but nonetheless nodded her head in understanding to the lime eyed woman. "Thank you, Midori-sensei. I guess we will continue as scheduled then." They were already ten minutes behind as it was.
Smiling confidently, the project director nodded, her red pony tail bobbing with the movement. From the front of the room the researcher smiled at the people gathered before her. The seating arrangements were as followed…
To the right:
Suzushiro Incorporated – Public Sponsoring Company
Suzushiro Haruka – CEO, Representative
Kikukawa Yukino – Executive Director
Fuji Corporation – Public Sponsoring Company
Fujino Shizuru – Tokyo District CEO, Representative
Graceburt Maria – Executive Director, Tokyo District
Aswad Group – Private Sponsor, NGO
Himeno Fumi – Head Director, Representative
Sagisawa Youko – Medical expert, Aswad Group Representative
To the left:
Artemis Foundation – Staff
Sugiura Modori – Project Director
Seki Rad – Cybernetic Department
Woods Irina – Materializing Physics Development
Uchida Lumen – Nano Technology Specialist
Cole Dyne – Medical Department
Inoue Gal – Data Field Analysis Department
Greer Miyu – Executive Director, Advisor
Searrs Alyssa – CEO, Founder
Kruger Natsuki – Advisor
"Alright then, I'm so glad everyone was able to attend today. As you can see we've set up the seating arrangements, and have even provided these nice little name plates, in the hopes that we can continue in a friendly atmosphere." Midori's confident and professional voice was light and energetic. She soon began into the introduction of Project MAID and the lights dimmed as a power-point started up on the wall behind the lime-eyed director. All attention was on the ex-HiME ranger leader, save one. Ruby eyes were idly glancing at the vacant seat opposite here, with the name plate that read 'Kruger Natsuki.'
By the time the presentation meeting was over and some questions answered, the group of fifteen broke for lunch. The meal was served down at the first floor cafeteria. Alyssa and Miyu excused themselves to their office and invited Maria and Shizuru to join them after their meal.
Shizuru was not feeling hungry, anxiety settling in the pit of her stomach. She had a horrible nagging feeling that hovered in the recesses of her mind over the name 'Kruger Natsuki,' that would not wish to quell. Thus after getting a cup of green tea, she was ready to just head up and sign the contract with Artemis. However that plan was impeded as Artemis' receptionist Tomoe made a bee-line to her. Maria Graceburt was socializing with Youko, Midori, and Irina about the concepts of materialization from one plane of existence to the next to notice Shizuru's distressed signals.
After about half an hour of chatting with the Artemis staff and other sponsors, Shizuru noted that Haruka and Yukino were avoiding her for some reason. It was strange, since the three of them were always inseparable during joint business meetings. Now it seemed like the two from Suzushiro Inc. found it more interesting to speak with Inoue Gal and Seki Rad about the MAID project. Shrugging off their odd behavior, the Fuji heir's gaze roamed to the little circle that her executive director was insulated in. She had enough of socializing, and just wanted to head back home after a stressful day. Although she did nothing too stressful per say, she just felt like something unpleasant was due to happen any moment. The apprehension and anxiety was beginning to fry her nerves for an unknown reason, however none of the warring emotions surfaced to her face. "Excuse me, Tomoe-han, but I have to attend a meeting with Alyssa-han soon." The green haired girl pouted, but nodded nonetheless, and thus Shizuru was finally able to break free of the annoying chatter box that was Tomoe.
Heading towards the exit of the cafeteria, and smiling as her rusty eyes made contact with Maria's sharp jade orbs, the brunette slipped out of the noisy environment. Moments later she was joined by her long time friend Maria by the glass elevators. Stepping in, they rode in silence. As the elevator stopped at the top floor, they both exited. There were only two offices on that floor. To the right was Alyssa's and to the left, well neither of them knew who resided in the office to the left, so he headed right.
The outer office, where Arika works, was open, and so the two from Fuji Corp. entered. Making their way to the inner office, they heard soft noises coming from the closed door. Looking to each other, they knocked lightly on the door. Hearing a muffled 'come in' they entered.
Stepping into the large office, Shizuru and Maria were surprised to find Arika wailing as a little girl was pulling on one auburn braid, giggling happily. Shocked to see a small child in Miyu's arms, only one word escaped Shizuru's frozen being. "Ara…?"
It was Alyssa that noticed them first, and stood to greet them. She had expected Natsuki or one of the other employees, but the speechless faces of Fuji Corp's representatives was priceless. With an amused smile, Alyssa waved them in. "Ah, please ignore them, Fujino-san, Graceburt-san. Come, have a seat."
Making their way further into the office, Shizuru noticed the child's looks was very similar to Natsuki's, but she shrugged it off quickly. After all there are many people with raven-blue hair, creamy flawless skin, and pouty lips. Assuming that because she knows Natsuki is alive, she is imagining things, and tried not to stare too long at the child. Sitting down opposite the younger blonde, Fuji Corp. begins to ask questions, and Alyssa is more than happy to answer them.
Meanwhile Maria was still standing by the couches. "Who's child is that?" Maria's stern voice asked as her voice cut through the chaos.
"Ow, ow, ow!" Finally extracting the braid from Nina-chan's death grip, Arika rubbed her head as she answered Maria's question. "This is Nina-chan. She's Kruger-san's daughter. She's really cute, but be careful! I think she's at that stage of pulling hair right now."
Clicking her tongue in disapproval, Maria frowned at the little girl. One look at the oldest woman in the room had Nina grasping Miyu's blouse tightly. Her amber eyes were watery with unshed tears as she began to hick-up and sniffle.
"Shhh…Chibi-Ojou-sama, it will be alright." Although Miyu's voice was warm and served to calm the child, her dark red eyes bore into Maria's steely green ones. "That woman will not harm you."
The two powerful women stood staring at each other for a long moment, before they were interrupted by a cough. Both looking towards the origin of the sound, and found Alyssa patiently tapping a well manicured finger nail on the large desk top. "I don't mean to interrupt Miyu, Maria-san, but we have some business we need to attend to first. You can both go back to killing each other with your eyes after."
"Of course, Ojou-sama." Miyu gently rubbed Nina's back one last time before she set the girl down, and headed to Alyssa's side. Arika took her cue to watch over the child as Maria too made her way towards the desk.
As the four women went over some of the paperwork, Shizuru agreed to sign only on the condition that she be updated on the project daily, as well as have access to all data and labs to take a very hands on involvement to the project. Alyssa chuckles, "Suzushiro Inc. and Aswad Group had requested the same thing. That won't be a problem at all Fujino-san."
Smiling slightly, Shizuru nodded in acknowledgment. The project is designed to help care for those that require special treatment, as the MAID unites are to only function in the medial care field only. However should anyone else take the blueprints, or sponsor the designs, they cannot say that it will not be used for ill purposes. Indeed, it is better to have someone she knows and trusts to develop the project, then someone she does not.
Besides Haruka has agreed, and she is even more justice and righteousness oriented than herself, Shizuru reasoned. Therefore it couldn't be that bad. Also she has known Alyssa and Miyu for years, as they had all attended Fuuka and lived through the dark HiME Festival. Glancing at Maria-han's stern expression, the young business woman picked up the pen. However she paused when she felt a tug on her skirt.
Looking down, crimson eyes stare into big curious amber eyes. "Uwah?" Nina exclaims as she tugged on the creamy brown skirt, trying to stand up.
Not knowing what to do, and just floored by the similarities she feels pulling at her, the Fuji heir sat motionless. A strangled "A…ra…?" was all she could manage.
Miyu noticing neither Funijo-san nor Nina-chan doing anything save stare at each other, walked up to Shizuru and picked up the child. "Come, Chibi-Ojou-sama, we mustn't interrupt the meeting." Turned to go back to the play area by the black couches, Miyu noticed the blue eyed secretary struggle with trying to mix a bottle of milk. However as they make their way away from the desk, Nina protested and reached out for the seated ruby eyed woman. Looking back at Shizuru, then to the fussy child, Miyu returns to the desk, and addresses the honey haired woman. "Chibi-Ojou-sama wishes you to hold her." She stated as a matter of fact.
"EH?!" The platinum blonde exclaims as she stood to glare accusingly at the child. Jaw dropping as sapphire blue eyes stare at the Fuji Corp rep take her niece into hesitant arms, Alyssa fumed. "Nina-chan, you spoiled little brat! You don't even let me hold you, and I'm your aunt. But you want a total stranger to carry you! Ugh! This is so unfair."
Smiling apologetically to Alyssa, Shizuru holds the child carefully. "Ara, ara… What a strange child, to wish to be held by a stranger." Looking deeply into amber eyes, Shizuru felt a warm feeling enter her, as Nina stared deep into her red eyes. Reaching up, a small hand grasps the loose locks of honey hair and tugs, causing the chestnut haired woman to yelp by the unexpected move. Alyssa snickers, and Miyu moves towards the two to help the child release the locks of ash blonde hair. However no one expected the child to open her mouth and plant a wet kiss on the surprised woman's nose.
The loud 'Mua' as Nina-chan kissed Shizuru's nose, froze Alyssa mid snicker, and even caused Arika to drop the bottle of milk she was preparing. Even Maria sat silently as the shock radiated in the room.
"UNFAIR!!!" Alyssa and Arika's voices united in stereo as they rushed to Nina's side.
The abruptness of the shout caused the little girl to panic, as she jumped in Shizuru's embrace and buried her face in the crook of the woman's neck. All attempts to pull the child away by her aunt, and her aunt's secretary, were made in vain as the little girl showed surprising strength and a firm grip on the calm Kyoto woman's suit jacket.
After sometime, and no luck prying the child from Fujino's bosom, Alyssa and Arika pouted as they returned to business. Miyu was able to free the ex-HiME of the terrified child by offering a bottle of milk that she prepared herself. Soon the contract was signed without further incident, and the little girl was napping contently in Miyu's embrace.
Agreeing to take a tour of Artemis Foundation's compound, Shizuru and Maria said their goodbyes quietly to Alyssa and Miyu. Turning to take one last glance at the small child resting in Miyu's arms, Shizuru followed Maria's lead as they exited the office. Bouncing up and down with pent up energy, Arika excitedly pulled on Fuji Corp.'s CEO's hand to begin the tour.
As the three enter the elevator, Arika eagerly asks where Shizuru wishes to go to first. "We could go to the gardens first, or the labs, or the residence buildings, and then there is the testing area…." however the girl trailed off as she spots a familiar person exit the basement lab elevators. Griping the railings, Arika excitedly waves to the person, "Kruger-san!!!"
Catching her breath, Shizuru recognizes Natsuki immediately, despite Arika calling her 'Kruger-san.' Feeling the dreadful pounding of her heart, and taking a tiny step back, the honey haired woman ignored Arika's mad waving. The dread that was plaguing her returned ten-fold, and now she knew why. She should have seen the signs, she should have not ignored the hints. Of course it would be her Natsuki.
Just as the elevator doors open, Arika was first to bolt out, and tackle hug Natsuki, causing the files the bluenette was holding to scatter like an eruption. The shorter girl giggled as she squeezed the taller woman. It looked as if it was a normal (disturbing) occurrence.
"What the hell, Arinko?!" Enraged, Natsuki tried to extract herself from Arika's grip and quickly tried to pick up the fallen paperwork. She was able to gather a few, but quickly finds the rest has already been gathered and is being held out to her. Slowly looking up, emerald eyes took in the from of stylish black heels, to endless shapely legs, to a creamy brown skirt/suit combination. As Natsuki's eyes continue to slowly travel up, she is left breathless as she recognizes honey blonde hair and enchanting ruby eyes. Never had she dreamed of seeing the familiar person standing before her. Never in a million years. But there she was. Fujino Shizuru, her most important person, holding the rest of the scattered files. Natsuki gulped, as she felt her palms begin to sweat.
Smiling happily, and giggling slightly, Arika begins the introductions. "Ah, Graceburt-san, Shizuru-Onee-sama, this is Kruger-san. She's Nina-chan's mother, and she's also one of the project advisors. She just started a week ago, so her profile wasn't included in the initial files we gave you a week ago. I'll send you a copy later, so don't worry!"
Turing to the young scientist, Arika continued. "Kruger-san, this is the CEO of Fuji Corp.'s Tokyo District, Fujino Shizuru-Onee-sama. And this is Graceburt Maria-san; she is the executive director of Fuji Corp.'s Tokyo District. They just signed the contract, so now we can officially begin the project!"
Standing there, only two feet way, ruby eyes took in the sight of her once dearest. Clad in simple black tennis shoes, brown capris, a black ribbed tank top, and white lab overcoat, Natsuki never looked so different. It was the eyes that had changed the most though. Before those clear emeralds were open windows into the girl's soul. Now they were steely and guarded, even her expression was blank as they continued to stare at each other. It was Shizuru who recovered first, as she smiled a polite smile to Arika. "Ookini Arika-chan for the introductions."
Clearing her throat that had suddenly gone dry, Natsuki smiled and extended her hand to the older woman. She wasn't about to touch Shizuru. She couldn't trust herself. "It is a pleasure meeting you, Graceburt-san."
"A pleasure meeting you too, Kruger-san. Your daughter looks just like you." Maria's critical jade eyes sent a shiver of dread down Natsuki's spine.
They've met Nina, and she wasn't there. Bitting her lower lip in worry over her daughter, Natsuki forced herself to remain calm. Nina was with Miyu and Alyssa, so she was safe. But she still did not like strangers seeing her child. After Nao's call moments ago, Natsuki couldn't trust anyone, she was already no longer safe in Japan as it was.
"Um…thanks." Ignoring the urge to run, Natsuki quirked an awkward smile to the older woman, and stood her ground. She was surprised to realize that Shizuru is the representative of Fuji Corp, and will be working with her on the project. She was tempted to cast a glance at the slightly older girl, but Natsuki schooled herself not to. Although she now knew the reasons behind the abrupt parting between the two, she couldn't bring herself to acknowledge Shizuru yet.
Shizuru, quite surprised to find out that Natsuki is the 'Kruger' she was always hearing about and one of the staff members working on the project, could not seem to wrap her head around it. She's moved on indeed, with a whole family too. A brief flash of jealousy flared through her mind as she recalls the man from that morning at her hotel, but she quickly pushes it down. Extending her hand, Shizuru masks her emotions perfectly. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you Kruger-han."
Shaking Shizuru's hand quickly, and pulling back as if burned, Natsuki tried not to flinch at the coldness she felt from the brunette's voice. Daring to look anywhere else but into those deep red eyes, a sparkle caught her attention. Forest green eyes locked on to a huge diamond ring that was on the hand still holding the files. Looking back up into crimson orbs, Natsuki matched the coldness in her voice with a professional smile. "Same here, Fujino-san."
If this was how she was going to play, then she would match her.
Just as the temperature was beginning to drop around them, Irina shouted at them at the third floor, interrupting the cool gaze between them. "Kruger-san! The meetings staring without you!"
Glad for the distraction, Natsuki quickly shouted back, "I'll be right there!" Relief filling her at the chance to escape the awkward moment, she shuffled the papers in her hand. Nodding to the three other women, the raven haired mother took the papers from Shizuru, careful not to touch her, and turned to walk away.
As the elevator's doors shut, behind her, Natsuki slumped against the cool doors not turning around. She dared not to, as she blushed madly trying to stop her heart from trying to explode out of her chest. Biting her lower lip, she cursed as she knocked the back of her head against the glass door. "…damn…" Her hand was still tingling from the brief contact.
That night Natsuki returned to Fuji Hotel, intent on just crashing onto bed and sleeping for days, she was greeted by Ho Minami. It was became a ritual now for the past ten days that she was staying there. When the young mother would enter the lobby, the blonde receptionist would greet them, and walk around the desk to coo at Nina. It really didn't matter what time of day or night Natsuki would enter or exit the hotel, Minami would always be there to greet her or to see her off. It was a little creepy to the scientist, and she often wondered if the blonde ever went home, because it seemed like she was always there. Considering it has only been a little over a weeks and a half since she has been staying at the Fuji Hotel, Natsuki didn't think too much of the strange behavior.
However, tonight especially was very stressful. She had not expected to ever see Shizuru again, nor had she known that Shizuru was involved in the 'Fuji Corporation,' let alone the commanding executive officer of the corporate backing that they have been waiting on. Now with the legal go-ahead, she was going to be working with both the Suzushiro and Fuji groups, attending weekly status updates, and meetings—it really was just too much for her.
She sighed as she walked pass the reception desk as she noticed Minami already moving around to stand by them.
"Good evening Kruger-san! And how are you, Nina-chan?" Although spoken with a smile, Erstin mentally frowned. Hadn't Laura contacted them yet? It's dangerous for them to be here! Knowing she has to warn them of the dangers that await them in their room, the girl lightly tugged on the uniform jacket. The fake name badge lightly reflected the over head lights as she calmly walked up to the single mother.
"She's good, Minami-san. I'm sorry, but don't you ever go home? You're like always here." Natsuki asked tiredly. She did not mean to be rude, but she was already a bit annoyed about her day.
Laughing nervously, afraid her cover was blown, the blonde girl placed a shaking hand behind her head to rub her neck. "Eheheheh…well you see Kruger-san I'm just covering a friend's shift, she had a college project to do tonight. Do…do you not like my working here?" Struggling to think of a good, natural way to inform the two before her, Erstin pouted to buy some time.
Seeing the big round sea-green eyes tear up, Natsuki sighed, she was really feeling stressed today. She didn't mean to snap at the girl. "No, that's not it. Look, I'm sorry, alright? It's…just been a long day."
"Not at all, Kruger-san." Brightening up immediately, the receptionist gave the young mother a dazzling smile. "Please forgive me then for holding you up, you must be tired. But before you go, please take this." The younger woman held an envelope out to the raven-haired woman. "It's the pictures I took of Nina-chan the other day…I wanted to give you a copy."
Noticing the small blush, the taller woman gently took the offered envelope. Opening the envelope with one hand, while Natsuki held a dozing Nina in the other, emerald eyes scanned the two photos. The first photo was of Nina by herself, the day she wore jean overalls that had a pink trim, and matching pink socks and shirt. It was not Nina's smiling expression that was captured on film, but a confused look as the young child stared into the camera. It was adorable. The last photo was of Nina sleeping in Natsuki's arms. The little girl looked really cute in the yellow sundress, as she slept with her mouth slightly ajar, still clinging to her mother's button up shirt. Natsuki knew that the young receptionist wanted to take more photos of her daughter, but really, two was more than enough for her. That just meant there were two photos out there of her and Nina. It was a liability, and could even endanger her, and her daughter. However she was nevertheless pleased to see that her daughter was simply adorable in the pictures Minami did take. Smiling at the two beautiful pictures, emerald eyes looked deep into pale green ones. "Thank you Minami-san, these are beautiful pictures."
Blushing at the compliment, the photographer bowed in gratitude to the young mother. "Oh no, your daughter is just really cute." Fiddling with her hands, the blonde kept looking from the young mother and daughter to the bank of elevators. Time was running out! She felt her nervousness begin to freeze in the pit of her stomach. She had to tell her, she reasoned, but how to tell her with out making a scene out of it? Stressed by her internal debate, the young receptionist nearly jumped out of her skin when her co-worker Yuna called out a greeting.
"Good evening Fujino-sama."
Damn it! She's staying here too?! That feeling dread began to oppress her again, as Natsuki casually glanced over her shoulder, and cursed her luck. Indeed Fujino Shizuru was sauntering her way. Looking just as tired, but with the same unreadable mask on as before, Shizuru didn't even look her way. It was as if the ex-HiME did not even notice Natsuki standing there. Being ignored by the Fuji heir greatly annoyed the young mother, but biting the feeling down, Natsuki returned her attention to the blonde before her. Of course it would be her luck to meet Fujino Shizuru twice in one day, she mentally groaned. Ironic how when she didn't want to see the Kyoto woman, she would, and when she desperately need to see those ruby orbs, she was never there. This was ridiculous! She needed to put Shizuru out of her mind, she was doing good for years until today! Nevertheless despite what she told herself mentally, she had little control of her physical reactions, as her heart rate increased painfully and she began to feel lightheaded. "Thanks again for the pictures, Minami-san. If you'll excuse me, I need to get Nina-chan to bed." I need to get out of here.
Seeing her chance begin to slip away, Erstin called out. "Ah…Kruger-san!" The blonde receptionist could see the owner of the Hotel make her way towards them, and she was beginning to panic. Just how was she supposed to warn Natsuki-san not to go up to her room?! Blushing as she screwed her eyes shut with her head down, she just spoke the first thing to come to mind. "There's no resemblance!" Hearing Kruger's retreating foot falls abruptly stop, gave Erstin hope, as she slowly opened one clear blue eye to look at Natsuki.
Blinking at the odd statement, and the rather loud declaration, Natsuki paused. Looking back at the shorter blonde, the cobalt haired woman felt annoyed as she was held back by the random statement. Is she talking about Nina and myself? That's ridiculous! Nina resembles me more than her other parent with out a doubt. Noticing Shizuru pause at the counter behind them to speak with the raven haired Yuna about collecting her mail for the day. Natsuki growled; her patience was wearing thin. She did not want to be there! "What are you talking about?" Natsuki asked impatiently.
Fumbling with her fingers, the blonde tried to clam her racing heart. She didn't want to make a scene, but that's just what she ended up doing anyways. Sighing deeply, the young blonde tried to continue as best she could. "I mean, your …husband… there is no resemblance of him and Nina-chan at all…"
Taking her mail for the day, Shizuru paused as she over heard the conversation. It was not like she was trying to eavesdrop, really Minami-chin's voice was just naturally clear and loud in the silent lobby. She knew since that morning that there was a man named…something Kruger…looking for his wife and child. It was nothing to her at the time, and she brushed it off as non-consequential that morning. However when she entered the meeting that morning at Artemis and saw the name plate 'Kruger Natsuki' she couldn't deny the dread she felt welling up. Then to actually meet the Kruger and Nina-chan, she had been hearing about for so long, and to realize it was none other than her Kuga Natsuki… it was a shocking blow. Now to return to her hotel, spent and stressed all due to her own making, Shizuru mentally groaned seeing Natsuki and Nina again so soon. It was a painful reminder of what could have been, and what was no longer hers to claim.
"What?!" Natsuki's indignant voice rose to a harsh whisper, but it was still loud enough for Shizuru to hear her, as she was standing ten feet behind the trio. "You must be mistaken. I'm not married—I never was—and Nina's other parent is dead." The news was a bit startling to the Fuji heir, and against her better judgment, she turned to look at the raven haired woman's supple back. The white lab coat was discarded, and the ribbed tank top did little to hide the tension. "What the hell made you…think… that…"
Nao's phone call earlier that day quickly came rushing back. After her run in with Shizuru that afternoon, she had completely forgot!
Seeing the young mother before her start to trail off and go pale in the face, the blonde tried to quickly remedy the situation. So she did the first thing that came to mind, and explain every thing. "This morning after you left, a man named 'Sergay Kruger' came in looking for you two. He said he was your husband and Nina-chan's father. He wanted to know what room you were in and your cell number." Erstin only hoped that Natsuki would be able to quickly get away and hide Nina. She had grown quite attached to them, and didn't want anything to happen to them.
Stepping back a few feet, the young scientist gulped audibility. "Wha…what did he look like?" Natsuki's voice trembled, this can't be happening! Sergay is dead! Clutching Nina in her arms a little tighter, Natsuki tried in vein to still her trembling.
Although the question was little over a whisper, the blonde heard her clear enough to answer. "He was about six feet tall. Mustard blonde hair, hazel eyes, he had this scar between his eyes brows too." Motioning to her own forehead to indicate the location of the scar. Licking dry lips, Erstin's sea-green eyes bore into Natsuki's dark forest ones. Now that the warning was been give, she needed to reassure the young family of two that they were alright. Sort of. "He's been waiting for you in your room all day. He hasn't left yet. He doesn't know your cell number, he was trying to get it from us, but luckily we didn't have it." You have to go now! Clear blue eyes bore into green orbs trying to get the silent message across.
Nodding slowly, and still staring deep into the receptionist's eyes to see if she was lying, Natsuki tried to suppress a shudder. Everyone noticed it. "I-I see. Look." Standing up straighter and willing her body to comply, the young mother took in a few deep breaths. She needed to be strong. For herself. For Nina. "Listen, Minami-san. That guy's dangerous. If he comes looking for me, tell him I didn't come back yet. My contract for the room here will expire in three days. He'll leave on his own eventually, but don't provoke him, he maybe armed."
"Natsuki…" Hearing her name being whispered, the cobalt haired mother turned around to face the person that called her. Dark forest orbs stared in shock as crimson orbs bore into her soul through her eyes. Her defenses were down. She was panicking. She didn't want anyone, least of all Shizuru, to see her like this. Forcing herself to turning away, Natsuki tighten her grip around her child and walked out of the lobby without a word to the honey haired woman.
Although a word was not spoken between them, Shizuru knew. She saw it. It was brief, and it only lasted a moment, but Shizuru saw it, deep inside Natsuki's crystal clear eyes.
It was fear.
Revised May 2010
AN: Whew! They've finally met! w00t!
I hope I did an okay job with this, let me know what you think?
Also I want to thank all those that read and reviewed. You guys and gals are AU'SOME!!! Also huge thanks to those that faved/added My Musume to their alerts and stuff. You guys ROCK!! XD
Okay and that ends what I've got so far. Until I can find the original versions of the next two chapters, I'm afraid I'll have to delay the updating until then.
However I want to give a big SHOUT OUT to bobo-q! Sweetheart, you're amazing!