Moana could say that she had been eagerly looking forward to the next day. Actually, eager was a bit of an understatement. She had been excited to start the next day. So excited. Increasingly and immensely excited. So excited that she finds herself literally jumping out of the bed the second she caught sight of the sun's bright rays spilling through the cracks of her closed drapes over her window as it had just been rising from its peak.
After she and Maui had returned home from work last night, Maui didn't even have a chance to take his shoes off before Moana found herself eagerly wanting to give him the grand tour of her house. Which to her surprise, he chased with a chuckle and had graciously accepted the offer. Sure, he had been living in her house for a full month now, so it was clear that he managed to find his way around the house before. But because of their agreement to patch things up and to have started a brand new relationship, Moana had insisted that re-introducing the atmosphere of her house to him was another good way to start.
So she did what any great hostess would do and showed him around his 'new' home for the very first time. Though it was no secret to the both of them that they were fully aware of how knowledgeable Maui had become of the house. After all, they were starting over, so in the end, it didn't hurt to have played along.
Thankfully, that had gone well.
Dinner that night was another one that had been successful.
They had agreed to settle on ordering in for the evening. Seeing as there was little time left to have prepared such a heavy meal. They decided on pizza. Both agreeing to split the cost between the two. Though Moana wasn't really one for eating take-out due to the circumstances of her health, she had agreed that maybe stealing two little slices of pizza wouldn't increase the ending of her life to near any time soon. Thankfully to her benefit, the size wasn't insanely large. It was a medium filled with only six to eight slices.
They settled in on the couch in the family room with paper plates and the box of pizza resting on the Odom in and chatted for the rest of the night. Now that the ice was broken, and Moana having felt more successful in finally getting Maui to have a change of heart towards her, she was happy that their conversation had gone well from there. They managed to shuffle between various topics, changing from one subject to the next like flipping through channels on a television as if a toddler had gained control over the remote. They spoke about a lot of things. Asking one another how either of them had managed to land shipwrecked in a cultural country like Canada. Moana was even surprised to find that they even managed to throw in the topic of their favorite types of music, and even how both shared a love of appreciating various cultural backgrounds and what not. Another thing that they managed to have in common with one another.
They enjoyed having the opportunity to talk to one another. And they were especially beginning to enjoy each other's company. Both discovering a mutual level of comfort between the two of them. One minute, Moana had been doing most of the talking for a bit. And then the next minute, Maui strangely found himself switching to that position, while Moana had switched to the role of the listener. Both fascinated to hear what next word or phrase would come out of the other's mouth.
Moana couldn't help but think that Maui had been right all along.
He did like to talk. A lot actually. Not that Moana was complaining at all.
For the rest of the night, they had taken turns sharing some stories about their high school days. Well again, Moana was the one who had graciously taken that lead. Maui in turn only listened. Naturally when it came to that specific topic about their child hood/adolescent years, Maui had made sure to choose his words carefully. Omitting some details, choosing instead to be quite vague with some things and speaking in fairly short sentences. Not wanting to give away more than he had wanted to. It mildly confused Moana a little bit. But thankfully, she was able to brush it off and find something else to talk about.
Before the topic of family could emerge, the clock had already reached 1:30am. Which secretly was much to both of their relief. Though they paused, gave each other wary looks, and then burst out laughing without a second thought. Both of them commenting how insane it was that they had managed to talk for so long that the hours had seemed to fly by without any advanced warning. But it wasn't like neither of them were complaining. Not at all. But unfortunately, they had both agreed that they needed to be refreshed and energized for work in a few hours. So it looked like hitting the sac needed to be an option. Though it was clear that neither of them seemed to have no interest in putting the conversation on hold for another few hours.
Her giggling, his chuckling followed by a few moments of intense gazing into another's eyes and even a smidge of harmless flirting being the final coating of icing sugar on top of the cake, the attempt to put an end to their conversation and resuming from where they left off in the morning didn't seem to be part of the plan. But it had to be done. Much to their grief.
Moana vaguely recalled the moment they bid each other good night. How Maui had confessed that he was happy that things between them were starting to settle. Moana had agreed, heart fluttering as she told him likewise. So after standing face to face in the hallway for about five seconds of the passing silence, both grinning at each other sheepishly, they agreed on shaking hands for the time being.
Awkward? A little bit. Lame? Totally.
Though it was clear that even with the looks of longing that had been in both their eyes, it was Moana who had to resist the urge to reach on her tip toes and press a sweet kiss to his cheek. Not wanting to scare him off or turn him off from her completely. But it was also Maui who had to resist the temptation swelling inside him to just envelope her tiny form in his large embrace and hold her to his chest. And never letting her go. But even the thought of that seemed to intimidate him.
So they went their separate ways that night. Both departing to their bedrooms. And Moana had been certain of one thing that night. That she hadn't remembered when she felt those butterflies lightly swirling about in her stomach in such a long time.
And if she was being honest with herself, it was the feeling she had been yearning for.
So, she had woken up extra early (Five am to be exact) and had immediately found herself in the kitchen. Rummaging through one cupboard and the next, rushing to the fridge and making sure that she'd grabbed every single ingredient she could think of. Stove had been on and ready to go. The kettle had been steaming with two mugs having taken their places next to it, scurrying from point A to B, whisking the batter, making sure that her pan was hot and the oil was ready to fry. And at exactly six am, she had to admit that she couldn't withhold the widening grin that was stretching to her cheeks as she eyed everything set out in front of her. Everything was in its place. The food for a nice early morning meal were all neatly spread out around the Ocean Club South Sea Hawaiian Dining set that her father had built himself when she was at the age of ten. Placemats were all set with their respective plates, and cutlery was on each side.
That had made her feel satisfied at the thought of being able to accomplish what she had set out to do.
Yes, she had made sure to take her usual, hot morning shower and made sure that her teeth had been scrubbed well so that her pearly whites sparkled in the glass mirror. She made sure that her face was properly clean and polished, hoping to have erased any trace of exhaustion that still lingered amongst her features. She had managed to follow her morning routine in the exact same order as always.
Shower first for about twenty minutes to half an hour. Brush teeth second for about ten minutes. Wash and scrub face for no more than seven minutes. And lastly, blow dry her waves for a minute, and let the rest air dry neatly. Her curls were essential to her look. There was no way she was losing them.
So after wiggling into her outfit that she reminded herself to lay out every single morning (her favorite cream colored pencil skirt with thin magenta stripes going vertically downwards, her matching magenta off the shoulder crop top and last but not least, the matching colored kitten heels), followed by a couple dashes of face powder and a swipe of subtle peach lip gloss, Moana finds herself in the kitchen, feeling scarcely eager to start a brand new day.
She makes sure to pour the boiling hot water from the kettle into to the two mugs that she had placed out earlier. Plain black coffee for Maui with two sugars. Green tea with one teaspoon of sugar for herself. The usual. She hadn't heard the stampede of large footfalls having made their grand entrance, and she nearly jumps out of her shoes with a soft 'yelp' as Maui's large figure stood in the entrance to the kitchen. Eyes widened, mouth agape, and blinking rapidly.
"Gods Maui! You scared me again!"
His mouth opened and closed. A few times too many, resembling the image of a goldfish at this point. Until he finally clamped it shut, and shook his head.
"Uh…sorry…." He stammers, then turns to look at her. "G-good morning." Then he blinks again.
She giggles. "And good morning to you too!" She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear. "Did you have a good sleep?"
His eyes are blinking again. "Uh…yea…sure." Then he focuses his attention back on the elaborate view of the kitchen table that resembled what looked like a masterpiece. "Wow….um…pardon me for asking but…what's all this?"
"Oh!" She laughs lightly, and follows his line of sight. "It's breakfast silly!"
He chuckles. "Well, I know that." And shake his head. "But….wow that's um….that's quite a bit of food there."
"You don't like it?"
"Huh? Oh! No, no! I-I mean-"
"Is it too much?"
His gaze meet hers. Noting the way how her smile had vanished. Brows creasing with worry. He shakes his head once again.
"No! I mean…." He looks back at the table that's covered with plates upon plates of delicious dishes. "Did you do all this…f-for me?"
"Well….yes." She gives a small smile. "I mean….I guess I just figured that since we're….starting over again…I um…." Another soft laugh. "….I wanted to give you a proper welcome."
"Oh…." He blinks again. Staring in awe. "Moana I uh….I don't know what to say."
She giggles again. Moving towards the table where the food is still present.
"I never did get the chance to give you a proper welcome, Maui." She stands behind the chair, smiling at him. "So….all this…." She gestures towards the table. "This is my way of officially welcoming you to my home."
He wasn't sure how many times or exactly how long he had been standing there, blinking and gawking at the items that lay out in front of him. Breakfast looked delicious. Actually, more than delicious. In fact, it looked like a portrait of an elaborate masterpiece of various cultural foods. The rich aroma of dish beckoned for him. His stomach rumbling and growling in protest. Unable to resist the rather delightful sensations that whipped up inside his memory at the mere thought of delving his teeth deep and fast into each and every one of the various colorful schemes of food that lay out in front of him.
The table laden with handcrafted delicacies – clear that each dish was carefully prepared with love and care- spread around neatly. Every single dish he could think of, and things he had never thought he would see again, lie in wait. Two bowls contained slices of breadfruit and papaya (Maui's most favorite fruits) that were the perfect amount of ripe. Portuguese Sausage with eggs and white rice with steam rising off signifying the perfect temperature of not too hot, but still warm and tasty. There was countless amounts of Puna Goat Cheese. His mouth watered the moment he spotted what looked like to be Panikeke Lapotopoto. The fresh residue of sweet dough covered in a slithers of soft, sweet Fa'alifu. And Maui would be lying if he said that he didn't feel tears of happiness beginning to build in his eyes. But he did not dare let one slip. And to add the icing to the cake, there were glasses laid out with waterfalls of Savi'i Popo poured into them.
"I hope you like it."
He had been so divulged in the beautiful sight of food that he nearly forgot of the young woman that was still present in the kitchen with him. He forced himself to peel his gaze from the sight, and his wide eyes instantly connected with hers.
"I'm not going overboard again….am I?"
"I – well – I –" He nervously scratches the back of his neck. "It's just…..Moana…..you really didn't have to go through the trouble of doing…..this." He lifts a hand towards the glorious meal. "To be honest, I would've just been fine with coffee and some scrambled eggs."
She smiled. "But I wanted to." And sunk her teeth into her lower lip. "I wanted to return the favor for what you did for me yesterday."
He keeps his gaze trained on hers. That same, beautiful and gleaming smile boring right into his person, inducing the butterflies to flutter about in his stomach. Not to mention, the determination in her eyes, the warmth that her entire being was capable of spreading around like a contagious but addicting disease. Though, there was still a bit of apprehension that lingered, noting how she seemed to look as though she was silently praying that this elaborate scheme wouldn't scare him off. And truth be told, it didn't. Not one bit. In fact, he felt anything but. And if he was being honest with himself, he was fighting the temptation to just march over behind that table, scoop her up into his massive arms and kiss her senseless. And the feeling was still there. Ebbing against his bones and penetrating through his ribcage.
Only he didn't.
Instead, he offers her a kind smile. "I'm….flattered." He croaks. "Really, I am." A light chuckle follows. "Everything….the food….it looks amazing."
"Really?"
"Really."
"You're sure? I mean….you don't think it's….too much?"
"Not at all. It's perfect, actually."
He didn't miss the flash of red in her cheeks as her smile widened. "Great! I'm glad!"
He chuckles again. "Actually funny enough, breakfast happens to be my favorite meal of the day." His eyes still on hers. "Looks like you lucked out, Curly."
Another giggle. "I….guess I did." Pushing strays of hair from her face. "Actually, that's even better! Cause breakfast is my favorite meal also!"
"Huh. Looks like that's another thing we both seem to have in common."
"Looks like it." She smiles. "So….wanna eat now?"
"Of course!" Maui put his briefcase down against the wall and eagerly trots his way to the table. He pauses as his hands come in contact with the chair, then shoots her a wary look. "But first…." He cautiously shifts around the table, Moana's eyes following his person as he big form is looming over hers. Lifting a curious brow as she follows to where his hand is resting on the cusp of her chair. "Ladies first?"
She blinks rapidly, staring up at him. "Oh! I uh…." She laughs lightly. "You don't have to do that, Maui-"
"I insist."
Before she could protest once more, her words faltered in the back of her throat as he graciously pulls out her chair for her. She swallowed at the sight of his large hand gesturing for her to take a seat. Her lips going dry as she had to force herself to shift into her chair. Her cheeks now a shade of red tint as she watches him shift into his own seat across from hers.
"How about we dig in?" He offers with a smile. "Shall we?"
She bites her lip and giggles. "Absolutely!"
Without a second thought, they each fill up their plates with food. Maui pretty much going for every single piece of dish that was laid out in front of him. After all, now was definitely not the time for discrimination against foods now. Moana herself had made sure to select the healthiest options, although she did manage to steal only one of the Panikeke Lapotopoto. After all, it wasn't like she couldn't resist the temptation that wallowed in the pit of her stomach.
"I hope you don't mind." She says. "About the food that is. I uh…I decided it might be better if I went a little less with the usual North American style."
"You mean without the usual bacon, pancakes and French toast?" He says as he shoves a roll of the Panikeke Lapotopoto into his mouth. "Not at all!"
"You mean it?"
He nods eagerly. "Absolutely!" Moana couldn't stop the giggle as he exclaimed through an eager mouth full of food. "Everything here is delicious!"
She chuckles. "Well great then! I'm glad!"
"Mmfgmf!" He nodded and insisted through a mouth full of food. "Mmf!"
She pauses mid-way from scooping a spoonful of rice into her mouth. And from there, she couldn't stop the laugh that now filed out of her mouth. "Slow down, Maui!" She tries to bite back another one. "The food's not going anywhere."
"Mmphf?" He looks at her wide eyed, cheeks so full of food that he could easily resemble the character, Po, from Kung Fu Panda with a face and mouth full of cookies.
"You're eating like you haven't done so in years!"
The heat rises to his cheeks. And blinks. "Mfmg?"
"Sorry." She laughs and sticks the spoonful of rice into her mouth. "I can't seem to understand you with all that food in your mouth."
In that moment, Maui wasn't sure what he was more embarrassed by. The fact that he was indeed devouring his food like a caveman would, or the fact that he didn't seem to be fully aware of how much heat had been racing to the surface of his cheeks. He probably resembled the color of a bright red tomato right now. Especially the fact that he's sitting across from a young woman who had the table manners of a debutante. He blinks again, takes a moment to swallow down his food, all the while his eyes were still trained on hers.
He clears his throat and scratches the back of his neck. "Er….s-sorry…." He shakes his head. "I uh….I probably looked like a freak, didn't I?"
She bites on her lower lip. "A freak? Not really. Food deprived? Most definitely."
"That obvious huh."
"A little bit."
"Ah…." He goes to pinch the bridge of his nose. "I'm er….I'm sorry. It's just that….it's been a while since I've had a decent home cooked meal."
She chuckles. "You poor thing." Grabbing her cup of tea and bringing it to her lips. Still keeping her eyes on him. "I guess with all that travelling, the meal choices weren't that great then?"
He shakes his head. "Not really." He scrunches up his nose and offers a nervous smile. "I'm sorry that I looked like a gorilla just now."
She laughs again. "Don't be sorry! Actually, that's a good sign."
"It is?"
She nods. "That just means that you strangely enough, you enjoy my cooking."
He smiles. "Strangely?" He quirks an amused brow. "Why wouldn't I enjoy it? It's amazing."
"You think so?"
"Of course!" He grabs a piece of the breadfruit. "Actually, out of all the cooking I've tried during the times I've travelled, yours comes in first place."
She blinks. Mouth agape. "R-really?"
He sinks his teeth into the fruit. "Yup." He nods, savoring the sweet taste dancing amongst his taste buds. "I mean, who would go through the trouble of whipping up some of this amazing food?" He then gestures towards the steaming meat on his plate that he still had yet to devouring. "Like the Portuguese sausage for example."
"Also known as linguica." Moana couldn't seem to take her eyes off him. "You've had linguica before?"
"Of course!" He laughs. "It's one of my favorite foods that I used to eat all the time when I was back home in Savi'i."
"Really? I didn't know that."
"Well, I could say the same for you." He grabs another piece of the round fluffy dough that was still warm against his flesh. "You eat Panikeke Lapotopoto too huh."
She nods eagerly. "Those are round pancakes." She herself grabs one of those as well and breaks off piece. "My gramma always used to make these for us when we were younger. Even when were back home in Kohala."
He takes a bite and sighs in satisfaction. "Now I see where you get your cooking skills from."
She chuckles again. "I wouldn't say that." She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear. "My gramma's cooking was…unbeatable." And she throws the piece into her mouth. "No one, not even my own mother could even compete with her cooking."
"Hm, for some reason, I'm not really convinced."
"It's true though!" She says meekly. "I mean, sure I've been cooking since I was nine and all, but…" She pauses, then says, "no matter how many of my gramma's recipes I follow, I just…can't seem to get the same results."
He nods and chews slowly. "I see." Then brings his mug of coffee and tilts it to his lips. "But….you also need to learn how to take a compliment, Curly."
And instantly, Moana feels herself blinking rapidly. Cheeks now flushed with a mixture of red with a tinge of pale. Suddenly wanting to cower down in her seat at the words that came out of his mouth. There was an edge to his tone, but not one that signified any sort of judgement or bitterness. More like security and encouragement. Though the way how his voice sounded when it was low didn't seem to really help the situation.
"Oh…." She looks down at her plate of food, which was still half full. "I'm sorry…."
He looks at her. "For what?"
"It's just….I…you're right."
He quirks a brow.
"This might sound weird but….." She twirls a stand of hair between her fingers. "….I've always found it hard for myself to accept compliments and such."
He shrugs. "It's not weird. That's usually the case for a lot of people."
"That's true." She ponders, slowly nodding. "But still, I should've just said 'thank you' instead of….bagging on myself." She lifts her heard to look at him.
"I won't lie, it would've been a nicer start."
She bites her lip, and the nods again. "You're right." Then she offers him a soft smile. "So…thank you."
He offers one of his own in return. "You're welcome." He sips his coffee again. "I meant every word I said, by the way."
She smiles.
"Your cooking is very tasty. Delicious actually." He puts his mug. "So….thank you for this amazing breakfast. I uh….I really appreciated it."
"Well, I'm glad you liked it."
"I would actually say that I loved it actually."
She grins. "Well, I mean…..why wouldn't you?" She grabs her own mug and drinks.
He cocks a brow.
"I mean after all," She makes a dramatic flip of her hair over her shoulder. "You did say that I'm a pretty amazing cook, right?"
He blinks. "Amazing?"
"Yup."
A grin tugs on his lips. "I said that? Really?"
"Loud and clear."
"Huh." He reaches to grab a napkin from the dispenser, his eyes never her amused ones. "You sure I said those exact words?"
She crosses her arms over her chest. "You totally said that." Grinning mischievously.
"I dunno, Curly." He wipes his hands. "I think I would remember if I said something like that."
"So you're denying it all of sudden?"
He shakes his head. "Nope." His grin widening. "I'm not denying it, cause I know that I didn't say that."
"Liar."
"Whoa, whoa! You calling me a liar now?"
"Yup!"
"Alright then, prove it."
She lifts an amused brow, leaning forward so her arms are folded on the table top. "If the shoe fits," her own grin spreading across her features, "where 'em."
Oh….she's good.
Of course, he couldn't stop the mischievous grin from spreading wider amongst his face. She was definitely, not word a lie, a ball of 'spit fire'. Those deep brown eyes that signified determination boring right into his, the corners of her lips curling upwards, the tone in her voice far too smug for its own good, the way her body was leaning deviously against the table (her crop top slightly low enough to where the crease of her cleavage had the opportunity to present itself) and her left eyebrow raised as if daring him to challenge her.
And it was in the second that the sight of her now left Maui feeling slightly at loss for words. His lips had gone dry, but careful to not show it. The way how his stomach was doing those flips, and dare he say it, the aching he felt swirling about his whole body (even all the way down between his legs), it was rather difficult for him to resist the thought of her looking so…..sexy.
Oh gods….
He doesn't take his eyes off her. Nor does she with him. It was that moment where Maui literally had to resist the urge to do something he would regret. His mind suddenly clouded with the thoughts of some of the things he could do to her right then and there.
Careful there dude….
Honestly, he really could if he wanted to. After all, it wasn't necessarily a bad thing if he were to have reached across the table and scoop her up in massive arms and kiss her senseless. That wasn't a bad thing. There was that, and also he could easily just maybe toss all the dishes and tableware off the table so that he could shove her on it while he climbed on top of her. That didn't seem like such a bad thing either. It wasn't like she would have a problem refusing. Maybe he could eventually rip off her skirt, tear open her shirt and claim her body for himself. Her nails digging into his back, crying and moaning his name while his massive form dominated her small one in the most lustful, seductive and kinkiest way possible…..
CHILL OUT! COOL IT!
"You're lying, and you know it."
Her voice breaks through his thoughts. Grateful that she was able to bring him back to the familiar planet of earth. The smirk still on her features, not daring to vanish any time soon. She was asking for it. She definitely seemed to want it just as badly as he does. Only hers seems to masked under her impudent gaze that she's giving him. So instead, he chuckles. A low one.
"You seem quite confident."
"Unless there's a reason why I shouldn't?"
"Huh." He smirks. "Well, I dunno, Curly…."
She lifts her brow higher.
"I mean, ah…I don't mean to brag or anything, but…." He shakes his head and then leans back in his chair. "Now….I'm not so sure if…."
"If what?"
He grins. "If….I dunno….you're the best cook out there anymore…."
"Oh really now?" She pursues her lips, eyes challenging him. "So….you're convinced that there's a better cook out there than….moi?"
"Yup."
"Okay then, Mister Know-It-All, who is it then?"
He chuckles, then opens out his hands. "You're looking at him."
Moana lets out a guffaw. "You?"
"Uh-huh."
"Since when?"
"Since forever."
"Liar."
He laughs. "I'm serious."
She studies him. Eyes squinted, though the smirk still lay astray on her face. Finger nails tapping soundly against the wooden table.
"You're not convinced?"
She bit back another laugh. Slowly shaking her head. "Not fully." Eyes glinted, a sly smile.
"Huh." He tilts his nose to the air. "I'm sorry…." Then a dramatic sniff was sent in that direction. "Is that a challenge I smell?"
A wide grin on her face. "I would say so."
"Ha! Alright then." Maui sat up straighter in his chair. "Then it's on." His clasped together.
"Good!" She shoots back at him. "I like a good challenge."
"Careful there, Curly." His lips curl to the sides. "I wouldn't sound so confident."
"Is that a threat I'm hearing there?"
"If the shoe fits." He leans closer towards her, paraphrasing her words. "Wear 'em."
She leans closer. "We'll see about that."
"Done."
Beep Beep!
The loud chiming of Moana's phone had abruptly put their little deal to an end. One minute, their faces had been so close to the point where the other could feel spurts of breath delicately hitting their lashes. And then the next, it happened in such a blur when Moana had jolted back and quickly reached to claim the device in her hand, which left Maui fly backwards and immediately clear his throat.
"Shit!"
He looks at her. "What's wrong?"
"That was my alarm! I gotta go now!" She frantically searched through the dishes on the table for her wallet. "My bus will be here in five minutes and I can't miss it!"
He blinks. "You're taking the bus again?" Furrowing a brow.
"I have no choice!" It's amazing how minute ago, she was calm and relaxed. Daring even. And then the next, it was like the Wicked Witch of the West was mere seconds from bolting through the window on her broom stick without advanced warning. "If I miss this one, then I'll be late!" Her tone was now frantic, strained. "And I cannot afford to be late for work again – damn it! Where the hell did I put my wallet?!"
"Hey…." He hadn't realized how fast his hand had zipped forward to grab hold of her tiny wrist. "Relax."
"Relax?" Her eyes are wide. "Maui, I-I can't"
"I'll drive you to work."
"W-what?"
"I said, I'll drive you to work." His tone was calm, reassuring as he spoke carefully and kept his eyes trained on her frantic ones. "Okay?"
She couldn't seem to find the words to form on her tongue. Staring at him with a gaze so intense, though still laced with fear. All she could do really was blink. Rapid, her mouth opening and closing.
"I….Maui….you….you don't-"
"I'm driving you to work, Moana."
"But-"
"I'll drive you there." It was a statement now. No longer offering. "And I'll pick you up afterwards as well."
"A-are you sure?"
He furrows his brow. "Of course I'm sure." And he means it. "As a matter fact, until your car is ready, I'll provide you with transportation."
"Oh…." The heat is rushing to her cheeks at this point. "Maui….I couldn't-"
"I'm insisting." He suddenly became aware of the fact that his large thumb was gently rubbing her skin. "Like I said before, it's the least I can do."
"Really?"
He nods. "Yea." Seeming a hundred percent sure of his answer. "Besides," He flashes her a grin. "I don't mind being your chauffer for a while."
And something about the word chauffer has her scrunching up her nose. "When you say it like that….I…"
The smile from his face slowly vanishes. "What's wrong?"
"It's just….well….I can't help but feel….a bit guilty now."
"Guilty about what?"
She hefted a sigh. "About me forcing you to drive me around everywhere."
Maui only stared at her. His gaze softened, but the smirk was still tugging at his lips. "First of all, you're not forcing me to drive you everywhere. I'm offering."
"Well….yea but-"
"And second." He's chuckling now. "Do you hear me complaining in any way?"
"No…."
"Well, there you go."
"I….but…Maui, are you sure though?"
He has to resist the urge to roll his eyes. "Curly, if I wasn't sure, I wouldn't have offered now, would I?"
Moana was sure her face had flushed to a lighter shade. Suddenly feeling like maybe she should've just crawled into a tiny space and just stay there forever. So instead of trying to find another irrelevant excuse to try and argue his demand, she settled for a slight shake of her head. Having no choice but to agree with him and to just accept his offer once and for all. After all, it did seem like a better option to ride in a vehicle that had air conditioning with the sweet residue of mint laced with pine car freshener as opposed to having to be stuck on rickety bus with crammed between numerous bodies with the greasy residue of perspiration laced with the smoky smell of cigarettes, body odor and coffee breath.
She cringed at the thought. It was a much better option. Plus it would be having to be risk being late for work.
"Alrighty then, so it's settled." His voice breaks through her thoughts. "I'll drive you to work."
And then a soft smile slowly forms on her features. "Thank you, Maui." Her voice soft. "I um…I really appreciate that."
He can't help but return her smile. "No worries."
For some reason, Moana couldn't seem to force her gaze to part from his. And for a minute, that's how they sat. Keeping their eyes on one another. One studying the other so carefully, so intense, so curious, it was literally the definition of 'two bonds can't be broken'. His brows were slightly dented, and his lips were going dry once again at the mere sight of her staring right at him. The smile on her face, that same smile he find himself coming to cherish, so radiant that was laced with innocence and raw beauty, his belly part-taking in its own dance. And Moana's blush seared to the surface of her flesh and for a minute, she thought her face was on fire. Her cheeks suddenly kissed pink like a spring rose, the blooming color so sweet against her coco skin.
And as her gaze abruptly ventured downwards, she had suddenly became mindful at the fact that her tiny wrist was still claimed in his massive hand. Watching as his thumb gently traced over the smooth flesh of her skin. His touch so soft, so soothing, so gentle, a rush of comfort coursed through her body and she suddenly didn't feel obligated to bring her wrist back to its rightful owner. Her breathing became heavy, the saliva that washed amongst her tongue threatening to spill out the corner of her lips any second.
It happened in such a blur when she felt that her wrist was abruptly released from his gentle grip as he cleared his throat loudly, scratching the back of his neck and shaking his head. Her blush burning through her cheeks and her face immediately switched to the feel of a hot oven. Suddenly feeling awkward and embarrassed as she attempted to hide her rosy cheeks behind her curtain of locks.
"So uh….." She twirls her hair around her finger as he speaks. "How about we clean up?"
"Um…..yea." She looks at him, and nods. "Sure."
He nods as he rises from his seat and begins to clear the plates from the table. He's about to reach for the mugs, but Moana shakes her head.
"Oh, I got those." She reaches across the table to claim Maui's and her mugs. "Don't worry about it."
"You sure? I don't mind-"
"It's okay!" She smiles as she pushes her chair backwards so that she has room to stand. "I'm fine!"
"Positive?"
"Maui, I'm fine!" She giggles. "Really," She rises from her own seat with a spring. "I'm-" The rest of the words are suddenly cut off by the heavy panting. Her head beginning to spin, and her vision abruptly producing splotches of different shapes and colors. "Whoa….."
"You okay?" His brows furrows, creasing with worry.
She tries blinking. But even the way how her eyelids are flapping so abruptly, even that didn't seem to clear her vision. "I-I…" She reaches down to place the mugs back on the table, and suddenly even the mugs that weighed no more than two pounds had seemed to weigh her down more than she had anticipated. The mugs meeting the wooden table with a dull thud. "S-sorry…..I….u-um…."
"Moana." Maui instinctively drops the plates back onto the table and he quickly moves around to stand by her, placing a gentle hand on the small of her back as she is now curled over the edge of the table. "Are you okay?"
She moves her head to nod, but fails in doing so. "I-I'm fine…..I um…." Her chest is tightening. Her breathing growing rapid, heavy, much heavier than she's ever felt before. She's bent over, face hidden in her curtain of her hair, hands shaking, waves of heat coursed through her blood and a cold sweat glistening in her features. Her chest clenching, squeezing harder and harder, begging for the oxygen that was dangerously slipping away.
"Hey, hey, Moana."
She feels her body slowly being lifted from its state, propped up against his chest and the tender feel of both his large hands grasping onto her shoulders him brought a rush of heat throughout her body. Her eyelids drooping, but not from exhaustion. His massive figure that loomed over hers suddenly becoming blurry. His face alarmed, steadying her person.
"Hey. Look at me."
She does. As best as she can. Her breathing still heavy. Her eyes glossy.
He peers into her gaze closely, searching her features. "Moana," He takes his hand and sticks up his thick fingers in her line of vision. "How many fingers am I holding up?"
She blinks. Attempting to study the amount of fingers that are lined in front of her. Though her sight was still blurry, she had to do everything in her power to convince herself to produce the right answer. The answer that Maui wanted to hear. Needed to hear.
"….six."
Maui looks at his three fingers. Brows creasing with worry, and then shifts his gaze back onto hers.
"A-am I right?"
He sighs. "No, Moana. It was three. Not six."
"Oh…." Her own brows furrowed. And suddenly, the blur in her vision was slowly beginning to disperse. "Well….that's still….c-close enough….." She breathes, attempting but failing miserably to form a reassuring smile. "Right….?"
Maui only stared at her. Hands still grasping her shoulders to steady her. Face slipping into a more serious expression as he swallowed. Moana suddenly took on a pale look, as if she'd been painted with bleach, even her lips were barely there.
"Maui….." She sighed heavily, so heavy. "I'm fine….."
"Moana, I think we should-"
"Honest…."
"Moana….."
She wiggles herself free of his grip. And when she goes to move around him towards the sink, just like that with one step forward, she loses her balance and crumpled like a puppet suddenly released of the strings. Thankfully, she didn't hit the ground like she normally would. But was instead caught in Maui's hold as he lunged forward to catch her.
"Moana!"
He brings her to his chest. Slightly grateful that she still seemed to remain conscious, her eyes still glossy as he holds her close and looks down at her. Her own gaze lifting to meet his. The fear he had in his eyes were obvious.
"Maui….."
"Hey, hey." He coos, pinching her chin between his forefinger and thumb so she can look at him. "Are you okay?"
And just the look of pure concern that was laced with some sort of compassion in his eyes was enough to steady her breathing, slowly but surely bringing it back to its normal state. Without a second thought, she reaches a hand to desperate grab onto his. The color in her face returning to its surface. She breathes another sigh, as she slowly nods, keeping her eyes on his.
"I'm fine now…." She sighs, confident with her answer. "I'm okay."
He swallows. Definitely not convinced of her answer. Considering the fact that she was still wrapped in his arms.
Sensing his concern, she reassures him with a smile. "I'm fine now, Maui." And she slowly regains her strength as she gently eases out of his grasp and begins to rise. "I'm much better." She smiles, placing a tender hand on his shoulder.
He shakes. Wondering if what he saw was actually real. "Are you sure?"
She nods. "Mhm." Then she flicks her wrist to check her watch. "We should finish cleaning up."
He rises from the floor, his figure blocking her from moving around him. "Moana." She looks up at him. "Are you positive that you're okay?"
"I'm fine." She says through a wide smile. "We should hurry," She gestures towards the table. "Otherwise, we're both gonna be late for work."
So he grants her the opportunity to move back towards the table, reclaiming the mugs she picked up earlier and bringing them to place in the sink. Maui watches her, careful to trail her every move, searching for any sign of weakness that might abruptly resurface once again. Though he felt some sort of relief that she seemed mobile and operating normally, there was something that didn't seem to sit well with him. He couldn't put his finger on it, but for some reason, something wasn't right.
She's leaning against the sink, hands sudsy with soap as she's scrubbing the mugs. And he doesn't stop himself as he moves to stand beside her, frowning.
"Curly?"
"Yea?"
"You're sure you're okay, right?"
She turns to look at him. "Maui, relax. I'm fine."
"And…you're positive?"
She smiles. Smiles so wide her cheeks start to hurt. "Of course. One hundred percent."
And even the sight of her smile seemed off. It wasn't the genuine smile that he was beginning to grow used to. No, something wasn't right. He was sure of it.
"Hey, Maui?"
He looks at her.
"Do you mind passing me those plates over there?"
He hesitates, then nods. "Yea." He breathes. "Sure."
"Thanks!"
Yup. Something was definitely not right.
"Hey! So guess what?"
It was lunch hour again, much to Moana's satisfaction. At this point, lunch hour seemed to be the only thing that Moana looked forward to do when coming to work. It was too bad that it didn't require a nice fat pay check she could evidently stick into her pocket and proudly walk away with it. Truth be told, she could just imagine how beautiful that pay check would be if something like 'lunch hour' was part of the job. She would've been a millionaire right now if that had been the case. Unfortunately, it would take something as ridiculous as pigs to fly to convince the government of that.
Moana cocked a brow. "You seem happy today."
"Because I am!" Rapunzel was eagerly bouncing in her seat. "And you wanna know why?"
Moana nodded. Scooping a forkful of salad into her mouth.
"So, you know how we're getting our bonuses from work?"
She furrowed her brow. "That's not for another two weeks though."
Rapunzel scoffed. "Well obviously I know that!" She shakes her head. "But anyways, so when I get my bonus, guess what I'm gonna do?"
"What's that?"
She smiles. Smiles so wide her cheeks are able to stretch all the way to Mars by now. "Well, I've been doing a lot of thinking lately." She places her hands flat on the table. "And so…I've decided that I'm gonna use the money to travel back home to visit Munich!"
"Oh!" Moana blinks, nodding. "Well that sounds nice."
"I know! And I'm actually really excited!"
"That's great, Punzie." She smiles, a genuine smile. "I'm glad. Do you know how long you're gonna go for?"
Rapunzel shrugs, reaching for her glass of lemon water. "Probably for about a week or so." She tilts the glass to her lips and swallows. "I'll most likely be staying with some relatives or something like that."
"Only a week?"
Rapunzel scrunches up her nose. "Yea….I know, it's not very long, but you know Gothel already." She cringes and scoffs. "We're only allowed one week's vacation three times a year."
Surprise. Surprise.
"Oh right….." Moana hefts a heavy sigh, picking at her salad. "How could I possibly forget that….."
"I know, right." Rapunzel stirs and tosses her salad around. "I mean let's face it, she'd probably feed me to her dogs if I ever were to request time off for more than a week."
"Well, that's Gothel for ya…."
"Tell me about it."
Moana only nodded slowly. Gaze venturing down to her bowl of Greek salad, and suddenly feeling her appetite begin to gradually diminish. Of course, it seemed as if just the mere mention of her boss's name being thrown into existence, only seemed to either increase her stress levels, or decrease her appetite. Gothel wasn't a nice person. She had come to realize that the moment she had first stepped foot into that woman's office for her job interview. Gothel was the epitome of 'Wicked Witch of the West'. You do what she says, when she says it and where she says. No questions asked. No objections.
Nothing.
How Moana managed to put up with literally working as this woman's pack mule? It was beyond her reasoning. More importantly, the why she continued to work at such a high end and prestigious magazine company under high anarchies who showed below zero respect for their employees? Again, the question still remained a mystery to her. Or maybe it was the fact that the job paid good money. Well, not exactly good money per say. A decent amount of income was better than nothing. But of course, as her doctor would always say, 'it's not worth the stress if it's only going to make you miserable, or sick'.
"Well regardless of the fact," Rapunzel's voice broke through her thoughts. "I'm just happy that I'm going."
Moana smiled. "I'm happy for you Punzie. This will be good for you to get away and such."
"Ugh, I know! I can't wait! It's been forever since I've had a vacation!"
"You and me both."
"Seriously! I mean, I'm just so excited that not only do I get to go on vacation, but I get to-"
It's amazing how even after eight years of friendship, Moana sometimes tends to forget just how much and how often Rapunzel tends to talk. Let's face it, the girl could go on and go for hours without so much as needing a quick breath before resuming back to where she had left off. Not that Moana didn't love Rapunzel. Of course she loved her! She was her best friend! After all, she was the one who had stood by Moana for all these years and the thought of giving up on her like most people would do, well, that didn't seem to be a page turner in Rapunzel's books.
"-and I get to stay with family, and go on adventures, and-"
One minute, Moana had been trying her hardest to hang onto every single of her best friend's words. And then the next, the slight rumble on the table immediately alerted her that she had just received an incoming text message. Thankfully, Rapunzel was too busy babbling to notice Moana quickly swiping her phone from the table and tapping her thumbs against the screen to open her window.
Her heart stopped.
Butterflies in her stomach as her eyes scanned over the name of the recipient who had sent the message.
From: Maui Deeming
Hey Curly, just checking in to see if you're still okay from this morning? You took a pretty nasty fall there and I just wanted to make sure that you're good? If you need anything, please let me know!:-)
For some reason, Moana couldn't seem to stop the goofy grin that had her lips quivering upwards. At first, it seemed kind of strange that he would text her in the middle of the day, seeing as he's never done so before. But again, that was before they had broken the ice and pushed their differences far away to the side. And then the next, her body was tingling at the thought of him being so kind as to reach out to her, just to make sure that she was okay. It was such a sweet gesture.
That she couldn't deny.
She bites her lower lip. And in an instant, her thumbs were racing amongst the keyboard of the touch screen to send back a reply.
To: Maui Deeming
Hey Maui, don't worry about me! Like I said before, I'm one hundred percent fine:-) Really, it's nothing serious and right now, everything is great! But thank you for checking in. It was very sweet of you to do so and I really appreciate it:-)
(Liar)
Lies. All lies. Well, that is except for that last part in the sentence. Her eyes scan over the message one last time, her thumb hovering over the 'send' option. And sucking in a breath, she wastes no time in hitting the button and that familiar blue bubble with letters and phrasing in it pops up. Signifying that her text was sent and there was no looking back.
"-oh! I can't wait!" Rapunzel's perky voice managed to slip through her eardrums. "It's gonna be an amazing adventure! And-"
It wasn't long before the events from the morning had begun to recur in her brain. For some reason, Moana could barely recall what exactly had happened. All she really remembered was seeing Maui who seemed to have been discovered what a single touch of heaven felt like having scarfed down her food in almost one bite. Maui having offered to drive her to work as opposed to her having to take the bus. All that she easily remembered. And then the next, it was as if her memory had been briefly swiped from her brain and before she knew it, she had somehow ended up on the floor in Maui's arms. With Maui having been hovering over her, asking her repeatedly if she was alright. And in turn, she had reassured him numerous times – including the ones from the car ride to work – that was absolutely fine and that nothing was wrong.
(Liar!)
At least, that's what she had wanted him to think.
After all, it wasn't like he needed to be aware that this hadn't been the first time this has happened to her.
Did she feel bad about lying to him? Of course she did. It wasn't just out of spontaneity that she had decided to end up embraced in Maui's tender hold. There was a reason for that. A reason that stretched all the way down to her bones and was penetrating through her organs and blood tissue.
"-and I haven't seen my grandmother in a while." The perky blonde went to scoop another salad full fork into her mouth, then pause mid-way, emerald eyes lighting up like fireworks on the fourth of July. "Oh my god! I'll get to see my granny again!"
Moana's phone was quick to vibrate again. She quickly tapped in her four digit passcode to retrieve the text. Her heart skipping a beat once it was open.
From: Maui Deeming
Alright! If you say so! I'm glad to hear that you're okay though:-) Also, I want to thank you again for breakfast this morning. It was amazing and everything tasted delicious! And…..I didn't get a chance to say this to you this morning, but…..I'm glad that things between us are getting better. You're a great person to talk to:-)
It was combination of her heartbeat doing a tango, and the heat in her cheeks transitioning to a raging crimson. Of course, it was no doubt that she couldn't seem to supress the wild grin that tugged at the corners of her lips. She's about to type again, but pauses instead. Her gaze scanning over the wording of his message. Her mind trying to cook up her next reply so that she could easily reiterate it in writing. Part of her was thinking that there are so many positive things she could say to him. Including their late night conversation that had them up awake until almost two am in the morning.
But part of her had been thinking against it. Instead, thinking that it would be wise of her to maybe stay away from producing an essay that neither of them had expected.
At this point, playing it safe seemed to be the best route for now.
To: Maui Deeming
I'm glad you enjoyed breakfast this morning! I wasn't sure how it would turn out, but judging by your positive feedback, I think I did okay:-) You're so sweet! I'm happy that things are progressing between us as well! You're awesome and funny and I'm eager to get to know you more! So thank you!:-)
Lame? A little bit. But it was better than nothing. Or worse. Writing an essay.
She pauses again. Scanning over her choice in wording. And it wasn't long until a mischievous grin appears, and her fingers type in their last phrase.
By the way…..I still think that I'm the better cook. LOLxD
After she hit send once again, it was a bit of a struggle to switch from focusing her attention to Rapunzel –who seemed to be completely oblivious to the fact that she had ended up talking to herself at this point – and checking her IPhone to see if he may have responded just as quickly as she sent that message.
"I remember all those times when I visited Munich with my family!" Rapunzel sighed happily at the memory. "My granny always used to bake us her homemade apple pies…oh! They were so yummy! And-"
New text message had popped up once again. Anxiously biting her lip to read his message.
From: Maui Deeming
Ha! Oh yea?!xD Well, hate to say it but you asked for it Curly…THE BET'S ON!
The perks of having a best friend who talks non-stop definitely had its advantages. Moana would one hundred percent agree with that. After all, Rapunzel seemed to be too preoccupied with fantasizing about her dream trip back to her home town in Munich, Germany. So oblivious to the fact that she had totally missed the scene of Moana having to stifle back a laugh at the text she had just received.
So he was not only charming, but chivalrous with touch of compassionate, and a hint of humor.
Seemed to reach almost Moana's standards.
To: Maui Deeming
Then you owe me a meal big guy!:-P
(Big guy? Did I really just say that?)
She cringes slightly at the last two words after it was too late before she hit 'send'. Praying to the gods that those wouldn't come off as offensive. And after having been seven minutes that passed with still no text from him, Moana would be lying if she said that she wasn't beginning to feel like the world's biggest idiot.
(Way to go….stupid….you probably insulted him!)
Damn it…..
Ten minutes pass. Rapunzel still yapping, switching constantly between chewing and sipping. And then the next, Moana's phone vibrates. It probably would've been a terrible thing had she knocked over her glass of water from how fast she literally jumped from her seat to swipe her phone from the table. But thankfully, that didn't happen. And her glass of water remained untouched and was standing strong and proud.
Her heart skipping a beat once again. Anxiously chewing on her lip to read his message. And mentally preparing for the worst.
From: Maui Deeming
Alright then! Dinner's on me tonight! Now tell me, what would the lovely lady like for dinner? ;-)
And yet, it was amazing at the fact that he didn't seem to take her new nickname for him offensively. So that seemed to be a good thing. Right? She chuckles softly, biting her lip as she analyzed the words 'lovely lady', followed by the wink eyed little emoji at the end. Maybe he was a big softie after all. He's definitely quite the charmer.
Grinning, she eagerly taps her thumbs and fingers against the screen.
To: Maui Deeming
Well, that depends…you cooking? Cause I mean….you can always do take out if you're too scared to lose….xD LOL!
"Oh! I almost forgot! I didn't tell you about the last time I went down, that me and my sisters had gotten into this huge fight with three of my cousins! Ugh! I've got to tell you, it was-"
New text message.
From: Maui Deeming
Me? Scared?! Pssssh! You wish Curly!xD And cooking obviously! Duh!:-P
"-ugh! And then my cousin Annabelle was all like 'well, you have no right to be going out with my ex-boyfriend!' And then, my sister, Lena was like 'well, he's not your boyfriend anymore!' And then I was like 'what the fuck guys?'-"
To: Maui Deeming
LOL alright then! You'll just have to surprise me when we get home then;-)
"Um…..excuse me! Hellloooooo! Earth to Moana!"
Her head snaps up. Wide brown eyes blinking as she met the pair of green ones that seemed to be tinged with confusion and a touch of annoyance.
"Yea? I'm listening!"
"What? No you're not!"
"Yes I am! Honest!"
"Liar! You've been on your phone for the entire time since we've been here!"
"Wha – No I haven't!" She makes sure to keep her gaze trained on her friend, while her fingers are still tapping amongst the screen. "That's not true!"
Rapunzel scoffs. Tilting her head to the side with a frown. "Well, either you've been listening to every word I've said," Then she nods toward the device, "or your phone just magically glued itself to your hands."
Moana's eye dart between the device cradled in her hands, and the annoyed blonde whose fixing her with a death stare. "Not true!" And she tosses her phone to the side and gives her friend a wide smile. "See?" She lifts her hands and wiggles her fingers. "No phone!"
Rapunzel just stares at her friend. Expression dead-panned with a cock of her brow. She purses her lips. "You really are a terrible liar, Mo. Y'know that?"
Moana blinks, sputtering a reply. "I…well – I –"
Oh just give it up already! She caught you….again!
"Who're you texting anyway?"
Moana watches as Rapunzel wrinkles her nose and tilts her head towards the devious cellular device. Even it seemed to be gazing at the both of them in triumph. Happy at the fact that it's starting to cause grief to develop between the two friends.
"Uh….no one!"
"No one?"
"Well….." She gives an innocent shrug of her shoulders. "No one that's…..really important that is.."
Rapunzel cocks a brow. "Really?"
"Mhm!"
And something about the way how Rapunzel's impudent gaze held onto hers with a tight grip somehow seemed to have Moana squirming in her seat. Sometimes, she had to ask herself what the point was in trying to keep something hidden. Especially from her best friend of all people. A best friend who seemed to have the skills and knowledge of a detective. She definitely had the qualifications for one.
And instead she seems to be spending her time working as a journalist because….
"I'm not buying it."
Moana shakes her head. "W-what?"
"You." Rapunzel gives her a pointed look. "The phone." Her gaze lands on the device. "The texting." She takes another sip of her water. "I don't buy the fact that it's not someone important" her fingers making air quotes around the word, "that you've been talking to."
Strike two!
Now she was officially caught. Trapped in the net like a writhing fish out of the fresh salt waters.
"What….what do you mean?"
"God, Mo, do I have to spell it out for you?" The blonde lets a loose smirk hang on her lips. "For starters, you're grinning like that stupid Cheshire cat…"
(Damn! She's good….)
"And not to mention," She pauses, squinting. "Your cheeks are as red as a hot stove on hot summer's day!"
Blushing would have been no problem at this point. But instead, Moana instantly goes as red as a beet-root and radiate like a hot pan. If she didn't know any better, she would've strongly believed that not even Rapunzel, but anyone as this point could've cooked a three course meal on her face.
(Correction…..she was too damn good!)
"Either you're getting sick….." Moana ducked behind her curtain of hair. "Or…..you're totally blushing!"
And the winner for the most persistent and embarrassing best friend goes to….
"I'm right aren't I?"
I wish you weren't…
"I knew it!" Rapunzel shot her fists up in victory. "I'm right!" She sing-songed. "I'm right!"
"Okay, okay!" Moana had no choice but to admit her friend's victory. "Fine! You're right as always, okay?"
"Ha! I told you!" The blonde fixes her with a devious smirk. "You can never pull one over on the 'Punz-Mister!"
Moana only groaned. Sliding further down in her chair and dragging a hand down her face. I can't believe she still calls herself that! She really couldn't. Remind me to fire whoever it was that came up with that ridiculous nickname for her….
"Oh, don't get all embarrassed Mo! I mean, it's a good thing to know that you seem much happier now!"
She slowly peels her fingers from her eyes. Scowling at her friend through the cracks of her fingers. Eyes squinting.
"So…..did you meet someone?"
She shakes her head. "No."
"Liar! You met someone! I know you did!"
She hefts a sigh. "No Punzie, I didn't meet anyone."
Rapunzel can't help but roll her eyes. "Lie all you want, Mo." And she grabs her fork to sift through her unfinished salad. "I'll just keep asking."
She wouldn't…..
Another groan. "Please don't…."
"What's his name?"
And there she goes….
"How old is he? Is he cute? Hot? Sexy? Is he smart?"
Where was the remote to shut this chick off when you needed one….
"Does he live around here? Does he work? Does he-"
"Ugh! Fine! His name is Maui!" Moana jolts from her seat, eyes wide around the edges. "Are ya happy now?!"
It seemed as if the sheer volume agitation that escaped Moana's usual gentle lips would've made her little brother jump up the fence in fear and her doctor believe that she needed more of a psychoanalysis on top of the chemotherapy treatments. In fact, it seemed as if the customers at Apollo's restaurant would've definitely agreed to that last part. And what made things worse was the fact that it wasn't like her and Rapunzel were strangers to this restaurant.
At this point, Moana was shocked that the elderly couple who owned this restaurant hadn't thought to have banned her from ever coming back here. That seemed to be a good thing. Maybe….
"Whoa…." Rapunzel causally leaned farther back in her seat. Trying to stifle back a laugh. "Looks like someone woke up on the wrong side of bed this morning….."
Moana's gaze darkened. "You are so annoying, y'know that?" And the cons about having a best friend who yapped until her jaw hurt, well, it only seemed to make sense that it was part of her personality to make sure that she looked like the sane one.
"Oh stop it!" Rapunzel waved a hand her dismissively at what was supposed to be an insult. "You love me and you know it!" And instead decided to take it on as a compliment.
Not now I don't.
"Wait a minute." Rapunzel's face suddenly slipped into a more serious expression. "Did you just say….the name….Maui?"
Moana sighs. And then nods.
"As in…..your roommate, Maui?"
She nods again.
"The same guy you were having issues with before?"
Another nod.
Rapunzel's only response was to blink. For once feeling at a loss for words. Her jaw hanging open. Her eyes nearly bugging out of their sockets.
"Oh….."
"Yea….."
"So wait…." The blonde pauses, then that same wide smile is spreading. "Does this mean that you guys are starting to get along now?"
Another sigh. And surprisingly, a lighter one. "Yea…." Then a small smile. "Yea, I guess you could say that."
"Well that's great to hear, Mo!"
Considering the fact that she had just been on the verge of stuffing her friend in a trunk and dumping her off to God-knows-where, Moana couldn't seem to stop the smile from growing. "Yea. It is, actually."
"Wait! So…..when did this all happen?"
"Yesterday, actually." Moana shrugs, smiling. "We managed to put aside our differences and just…start over."
"Huh." Rapunzel's smile shifted to sly grin, crossing her arms over her chest. "What did I tell ya?"
Moana cocked a brow.
"That patience is key."
(Of course she would rub that in.)
Moana rolls her eyes. "Does that mean you're gonna say 'I told you so?'"
"Don't have to." Rapunzel shakes her head. "I already did!"
Of course you did.
"So tell me!" Her blonde friend was obviously eager to hear more of the sudden accomplishment. "What's he like?"
As always, it didn't seem to take long for Moana's cheeks to heat up once again. She hesitated at first, but decided to just suck it up and dive straight for the plunge. Making sure to explain every event and circumstance that had eventually lead Moana and Maui to where they were now. Starting with the incident of what happened in the laundry room the night before, all the way to the apologies he had confessed when he offered to give her a ride home from work. She even explained the part where they had stayed up practically all night talking and eating pizza together, and eventually mentioned the part about breakfast earlier. And now with the whole texting, well, let's just say she made sure to include Rapunzel in on the little challenge that she and Maui seemed to have going on right now.
"Wow..." Rapunzel was left stunned, but happy. "That sounds so surreal."
Moana nodded, blushing. "I know. It's hard to believe that after only one day of getting to know one another, I dunno, I just feel so…..comfortable around him."
Rapunzel nods. Smiling.
"I mean, is it a weird thing to say?"
The blonde shakes head. "Not really. I don't think so."
Moana nods. "Well, he's just so….nice….and sweet…and funny…." Her own private thoughts making her blush even more. "He's a great person to talk to."
Rapunzel stars at her friend. Then squints her eyes. "Do you…..like him?"
"What?" She nearly jumps from her seat. "No!"
"You sure about that?"
"Punzie, didn't you hear what I just said?" Leave it to her best friend to be the one to over romanticize certain things. "I don't like him!"
Rapunzel cocks a brow.
"I mean-!" She shakes her head, running a hand through her locks. "Sure! I like him, but only as a friend!" She insisted. "I don't…..like him like….that!"
Rapunzel was still for a moment. Her fingernails tapping noisily against the wooden table. And then she snorts. "I don't believe that one bit."
Moana opened her mouth. Then closed it. Then repeated the same motion five or so more times. Then she shakes her head, and groans.
"You're delusional!"
(Is she?)
"I don't like him that way."
(Liar)
"We're just friends. That's all."
(Liar! Liar! Liar!)
"Alright then, suit yourself." Rapunzel takes another sip of her water, then rises from her chair. "I'm going to the washroom quickly." She turns to leave, but then pauses and spins around. "And please…." She places a hand on her hip. "Try not to drool and blush over your phone so much when I'm gone."
And she whirls back around, blonde hair whooshing around and walks towards the bathrooms. Leaving a now aggravated Moana to gape at her back. Opening and her closing her mouth. Completely at a loss for words. Her best friend was wrong!
Wrong! Wrong! WRONG!
Please, who are you really fooling?
No. She crosses her arms over her chest and huffs. Glaring at the dampened green leaves drowning in Greek Salad dressing.
I don't like him that way. I don't like him that way.
She was not going to let her best friend win this battle like she always did. She would prove her wrong. She would claim her victory and shove her prize winning gold trophy in Rapunzel's face.
I don't like him that. She's wrong! She's insane! Delusional! I don't like him that way. I don't….
Her phone vibrates. She literally jumps from her seat to swipe it from the table. Fingers quickly tapping the four digit barcode to eagerly let herself in. A text from Maui had come through.
Her heart skipping a beat. Her stomach doing backflips.
From: Maui Deeming
Let me know when you finish work so I know where to meet you:-)
That was his last response. Moana's blush seared through her cheeks and for a minute, she thought that her face was on fire. And without a second thought, her thumbs tap against the keyboard.
To: Maui Deeming
Sounds great! Thank you! See you then!:-)
And as she pressed send, she realized something. The thought causing her to groan and bury her face in her hands. Maybe she wouldn't win that trophy after all…..
(Damn girl…..you're in way over your head).
One thing was for sure.
She would absolutely not admit that her best friend had been right all along….
I sincerely apologize for my absence! I was away for summer vacation and I couldn't bring my laptop with me to continue writing! So I'm sorry everybody! On the bright side, what did y'all think? Love it? Hate it?
Honestly, I didn't think that this was my best work, but I figured it would be better if I got something out as opposed to nothing! So again, let me know what y'all think! Mwah!
As always, special thanks and shout outs go to: TitanWolf, ArmyWife22079, Clare Prime of Ultra, Amber-Jade James, and many more! Thank you for continuing to stick by me and encourage me! You guys are truly the best fans I've ever had!
Mwah! More to come soon lovelies! Stay tuned!
~Demi
