Author's Note: [July 6, 2010] HI! Long, long time no see! -please excuse the excess exclamation marks- It's time to introduce my... FILLER CHAPPIE! Yayyyyyy! -Or nay, really. -sheepishly laughs- It isn't really a filler chappie, its just a chappie that has a little less Shiho and Yzak at the moment.

'

Italics - thoughts / phone conversation / behind door conversation

Words in italic - to emphasize

Disclaimer: I, Candide Avedo, do not own anything that has to do with Gundam Seed. Or any other commercial franchise that I fail to mention.

'

Cagalli's Remedy, Dearka's Nightmare

'

Total mess.

Chaos.

Never ending trouble of mass proportions.

Propped open between her hands was a folder recently given to her by Kisaka. Within the folder was a highly-detailed report on the incident at the main shuttle terminal yesterday, where terror to the general public leaked. A collection of statements from Yzak, Shiho, and countless shuttle employees as well as the security officers on duty at the time had been stapled over the shuttle report.

It had been cautiously taken apart that day, with workers examining the parts until well past midnight. The door where the bomb had been implanted was taken apart with care. An explosives expert had concluded what they all assumed from the beginning- nuclear-based weapon that would have detonated after the door shut.

The Lion of Orb flipped the folder closed, then patted her cheeks which had somehow grown numb.

Restlessness had plagued her like an uncontrollable wildfire, with new problems spurting everywhere.

First there was that financial stability she constantly had to maintain; second there was the precarious position of the peace they had achieved, which required plenty of supervision. Another concern was Lacus's safety during her stay, including the fiasco of yesterday.

She had to personally see Lacus off in her own private shuttle just so that it was guaranteed to be safe. Just as she gets back to work, news gets to her that their only positive suspect had died and linked to one of her council members.

Things just got worse when there was no doubt that deceased suspect had spoken for in favor of Blue Cosmos.

Imagine, a Blue Cosmos activist, right under their noses!

As though sensing Cagalli's fury, Fadein Vogel requested a meeting with her about his right-hand man. That meeting she arranged in two day's time, with Yzak and Shiho in her place. She would leave the questioning to them only if they relayed the answers he received to her when he returned.

It was too bad she had planned that day to sort things out with the press.

A dull ache began to form around her shoulders, stiff from rummaging through thick volumes of paper. She rolled her shoulders a few times, feeling tenderness at certain areas.

Her lamp light began to wane, as the sunrise gradually chased the darkness away. Faint sounds of birds twittering outside her window sang louder. Noticing that she was still in her pajamas, Cagalli couldn't help but imagine that with her continuous sleep depravity, this day would be as tiring as the last.

Gravity and exhaustion took it's toll on her head, pulling it gently down. Head rested on it's side on the table, Cagalli yawned.

Seeing as the day was almost upon them, she might as well have a cup of coffee.

As her mind envisioned a steaming cup of the black caffeinated drink a cup was placed beside her, near Cagalli's nose. She barely stifled a gasp.

''You looked like you could use a cup.'' came Athrun's voice close to her ear.

Pleasantly surprised, Cagalli turned to meet warm green eyes smiling down at her. ''Athrun, I didn't hear you come in.'' Cagalli fixed her posture on the chair. Eager hands reached for the cup of coffee beside her. ''Thanks, I was thinking about having one at this moment.''

''I figured. This is the second time I noticed you are up earlier than usual.'' He leaned against her desk, watching her carefully. Athrun's eyes slowly roved over her pajama-clad form, then upwards to her tousled hair. He swiftly covered a smile with his hand.

''What?'' Cagalli demanded, noticing his amusement on her hair. Frantically she patted any possible stray strands on her head, but to obviously no avail. ''Athrun, I'm a mess. I appreciate the coffee, but really, you can't be in here because I'm in no way presentable right now.''

Athrun's eyes widened for a second before letting out a chuckle. ''You, concerned about your attire right now? Somebody's starting to sound like a woman.'' He watched as Cagalli stood up, attempting to hide her blushing face. Without missing a beat he caught up to her and with her back to him, Athrun wrapped his arms around her waist.

She gave small stammered bouts of protest, but Athrun felt her relax a moment later. Only he, Athrun Zala was allowed to hold her this way. Anyone else would be nursing a broken nose. He gently squeezed her waist, leaning forward to make eye contact.

''I was only joking.'' he said lightly, giving another squeeze to her waist for reassurance. Cagalli glared at him lightly, but leaned into his embrace.

''Consider yourself a lucky man, Athrun.'' mumbled Cagalli, yawning. She felt surprised to feel soft lips briefly peck against her cheek.

''Oh I know I am.'' As Athrun finally let her go, she sat herself back down on her chair to reach for the cup of coffee again. He sat on the corner of her desk, zipping up his coat.

Cagalli finally noticed that he had already been dressed, not in the usual uniform of his designated rank, but of casual attire. ''Athrun, are you going somewhere?'' she asked, putting her cup down.

Athrun nodded in confirmation. ''Yzak and I are going to pick up someone that Lacus requested to send over. She reckons the job would be done faster with an extra pair of hands around.''

''Oh.''

''I won't be gone long.'' He gave a smooth smile in response to the crestfallen tone of her voice.

Cagalli sighed. ''I'm sorry. I know you could use some time off away from work-'' She ran a hand through her hair once again, yet it remained stubborn. ''-with your own people to delegate, it does get exhausting.''

She expected him to agree immediately, however Cagalli was wrong. ''Thanks for being concerned, but you forget I love my work. Some parts more than others.'' Athrun grinned. ''I think it's you that needs a break.'' He leaned forward until they were nose to nose. ''I talked to Kisaka today, and he pretty much agrees with me. I'd get to do my favourite part of my job and keep you preoccupied.''

Athrun watched in amusement at Cagalli's skeptical expression. ''You're bluffing. He's even against the mere thought of it right now.'' she replied, rubbing her temples. ''I'm going to be behind in my work, Athrun, you know that.'' Taking another folder from her desk, Cagalli flipped it's cover open. ''We've gotten so much done recently, but-'' Her sentence was cut short upon seeing Athrun's serious face.

His eyes seemed to be boring into hers determinedly, his body inching closer.

''Athrun?'' asked Cagalli, confused. She saw him glance at the folder in her possession.

''One day off from working too much.'' Athrun said, leaning forward. He reached a hand to cup the side of her face. Cagalli's face blushed further, closing her eyes as his lips sought hers. Unknowingly deepening their kiss, she vowed to overcome his current method of persuasion at some point.

For now, from the way he easily pulled the folder from her hands, Cagalli was succumbing to a well-earned day off.

'

Shiho gave an alarmed gasp, waking up to check her clock which read 1000 hours. The sleeping pills prescribed to her had indeed done their job well. Despite the dull throb in her arm she was as alert and energetic as she could ever be. If only she had better use for that energy than to panic once more about being late.

Getting dressed was difficult; Shiho felt too shy to ask for help, and it was good practice to dress up independently with an injury. Problem was, it took her almost twice as long, since it was more than uncomfortable to reach down below her knees to slip on her shoes.

Shiho's pace gradually decreased, as she made her way downstairs. The usual bustling traffic of Cagalli's staff excused themselves, rushing past her.

Yesterday had been a jumbled blur now, save for the awkward episode with Yzak in the men's washroom. Sudden warmth spread to her toes as Shiho recalled the thorough yet gentle treatment she received from him. If her eyes were shut, she could almost pretend that he cared for her the way she clearly now did.

Almost.

Not cognizant of her surroundings, Shiho almost collided with Cagalli, whom was turning around the corner she was approaching. The blond dodged in time as Shiho looked up.

''Oh, I'm so sorry Cagalli, I hadn't been watching where I was going.'' Shiho flushed darkly, lowering her eyes demurely. She gave a respectful salute out of sheer reflex.

Cagalli pointed to her arm. ''You could add more injury to yourself if you walked around like that.'' Her expression was relaxed, different from yesterday, which was fully tinged with worry. Shiho hadn't forgotten yesterday that a new assignment for her and Yzak involved interviewing Fadein tomorrow.

The desire to opt out of that interview was strong, yet not as strong as her desire to be of use to their work. Besides, if things got ugly, Yzak might want some backup.

''How's your arm doing?'' asked Cagalli, watching Shiho flexing her arm carefully.

''Not bad, thanks.'' Shiho replied, nodding. ''I accidentally slept in, though. Have you seen Yzak anywhere? I'd hate for him to think I'm slacking off.'' she added sheepishly.

Cagalli laughed. ''If anything, you're not slacking off, Shiho.'' she paused, thinking. ''He and Athrun left to pick someone up a few minutes ago. Since it looks like you could use a day to heal up a bit, I think it isn't a bad thing if you rested today.''

''Picking someone up?'' repeated Shiho. There was no notice of anyone arriving today yesterday.

''Yep, a message was sent last night. Lacus sent someone over to help you two.'' Cagalli looked at Shiho again, then laughed. ''They're sending over a guy, I'm sure of it.''

Shiho jumped, as if she were awoken with a hot poker. ''Ex-excuse me?'' She had no experience in dealing with outspoken and confident females. During her stay here, Shiho had been careful, not keen on eliciting conversation that might reveal her shyness towards women in high power. Cagalli was completely overwhelming her. Her personality, and the fact that she could be so perceptive. A blush spread across her cheeks.

''I don't think that's something you want to talk about.'' smiled Cagalli, shrugging. It was clear that she didn't understand why Shiho took a liking to her old commander. To her, Yzak was probably as personable as a highly encrypted computer.

Shiho only replied with a fleeting smile. Cagalli could interpret that however she liked. ''Is there something I could help you with for the meantime, then?'' asked Shiho with genuine interest. If she was given a day to rest, there wasn't much to do here.

Cagalli grew thoughtful, eyeing Shiho in a way that made her feel uneasy. ''Now that you mention it, I do need company.'' she replied. Before Shiho could ask her to elaborate, Cagalli spoke again. ''I'm going to be buying a few personal things at this particular store; I don't like shopping alone.''

That makes the both of them.

''I'll come if you need company.'' The task seemed harmless enough. Shiho would need to be extra careful, since she would be watching over a diplomat not from the PLANTs. Somehow a part of her wanted to ask some pointers from Athrun on how to handle the woman. ''But wait, we're going now?''

The princess threw her a patronizing look. ''Of course, we have the chauffeur and a few bodyguards with us.'' added Cagalli. ''We will go once you change into ci-'' She broke off, spotting a figure approaching them both, wearing a pastel-coloured uniform. Shiho recognized the figure as one of Cagalli's secretaries. ''Yes?'' Cagalli's authoritative tone never ceased to bring Shiho to rapt attention.

''Excuse me, Miss Cagalli.'' The woman eyed Shiho for a moment before continuing, clearly not enjoying her presence beside Cagalli. ''A Miriallia Haww has arrived, claiming she has something urgent to show you. She insists you would accept to seeing her personally. I've told her to wait at the study.''

Both Cagalli's and Shiho's heads perked at the recognition of the name. Miriallia Haww? Shiho immediately envisioned a dead-panned Dearka upon hearing the name. No doubt he would get jittery upon hearing her name.

''She's already here?'' asked Cagalli, and her secretary gave a confirmation. ''Alright, I'll be right over.'' The woman paused, appearing slightly troubled. Fingers drummed the heavy-looking manila envelope she held. Hesitation stood out like a sore thumb.

''Did you want me to radio a few people to escort you?''

In response to those words, Cagalli merely waved a carefree hand. ''Shiho will be more than enough to accompany me.'' Her secretary gave a sigh of defeat and excused herself, pace quick for someone with her small stature. Cagalli turned to Shiho, whom gave her an inquisitive look.

''I had a feeling it's best that you come with me to see Miriallia.'' She led Shiho through the hustle and bustle of the first floor. The strong smell of floor wax attacked their noses. They passed a man feverishly working with a machine that smelled of the strong wax. ''If she's asked to speak to me directly, then it's something important. Usually she has someone pass reports to me.''

A pudgy chambermaid carrying a large bundle of white linen gave way, mumbling an apology.

The two rounded another corner to a less busier corridor. An impeccably-dressed butler stood in front of the study door, no doubt keeping tabs on their guest. Cagalli nodded for him to step aside. Similar as to what the secretary had done a few moments ago, the butler gave a perplexed and distrustful look at Shiho. His posture stiffened, very much unlike his composed position moments before.

Shiho wasn't surprised. Not everyone could be swayed to like coordinators just because the war ended. To see this disapproval towards a coordinator however, made Shiho wonder why certain people chose to live in Orb.

Cagalli pulled open the door, ushering Shiho inside first. The room was brightly lit from large windows, yet quite chilly. Silk drapery that scaled the entire length of each window framed beautiful views of the garden below. There Miriallia was waiting, sitting up to meet them.

''Sorry about the butler Shiho.'' Cagalli said. Shiho wasn't aware that Cagalli paid any attention to it.

''Ah, I'm used to it.'' Shiho replied, but bit her tongue, knowing that she could have phrased that better. Cagalli only gave her an apologetic look, as they neared Miriallia, who held a brown folder within her hands.

She was wearing a white coat of spring weight, over a frilly summer shirt and black slacks. Miriallia's hair had grown considerably longer from the last time Shiho saw her. It now graced her shoulders, strands that would frame her face held back with a pearl comb.

Miriallia appeared surprised to see Shiho, but smiled at her just the same. Shiho knew that Miriallia had been at first uneasy about her stated friendship with Dearka; however over time, Miriallia had grown to learn from Shiho that her interests lay away from Dearka. Of course, even when the two had been together or not, Miriallia still occasionally gave Shiho a call or two, to ask how things were going.

''Cagalli, Shiho, thanks for seeing me.'' Miriallia sat down between Cagalli and Shiho on a large suede couch. She gestured to a tray of tea and biscuits in front of her, to which both Cagalli and Shiho declined.

''So, how are things, Miriallia?'' asked Cagalli, accepting the brown folder and leaving it on the table in front of her.

''Nothing much besides this, actually.'' Miriallia replied, brushing a few crumbs off her lap. ''I heard unfortunately about the incidents going on. You must really have your hands full, Cagalli.''

Cagalli brushed the idea of being by the whole thing. ''There's not a thing to do about it, that's what I'm thrown at. I have Shiho and Yzak to thank for doing a bunch of the work though.'' she grinned at Shiho, who smiled back.

''Oh yes, I did see Shiho at the news days back.'' added Miriallia in memory. ''Hope that this file helps you, Shiho.''

Shiho nodded earnestly, reassuring the woman. ''Anything helps at this point. There has been a few ideas, but so we wouldn't have any doubts, Yzak and I will be gathering as much information as we could about our ideal suspects.''

Cagalli looked around in interest. ''To confirm?''

''I don't like the idea of accusing someone without real evidence.'' answered Shiho firmly. In this environment with more than just herself and Cagalli, Shiho felt herself relax. Miriallia appeared delighted at her words.

''You can keep Yzak in line then, just in case he gets carried away.''

Orb's leader donned a sneaky look. ''Yes, I'm sure she won't mind doing that.'' The two girls laughed, leaving Shiho with a healthy flush. Shiho had been doing that far too often than she would like lately.

Miriallia grew serious again, just as quickly. ''Be that as may be, I think this will help you erase any doubts, Shiho.'' Cagalli gave her a worried glance, but Miriallia instead gave a pat to her arm playfully. ''I have to put suspense into these things Cagalli, or you'll think it's to easy.''

Shiho could tell that Miriallia knew about their ideal suspect. Appearing as a mere photographer, Miriallia was certainly more skilled than any out there. Her life experiences made her absolutely resourceful and clever.

Yzak may have clearly underestimated Miriallia, but Shiho knew better. Miriallia had as much potential as herself.

While Cagalli and Miriallia continued on a conversation, Shiho enjoyed just to listen, giving her input every now and then. The folder lay innocently on the table, to be opened for later.

Without the chance of changing the topic to their main business, the door to the study opened again, this time Athrun walked casually in. He was closely followed by Yzak.

''Hello Cagalli, your secretary mentioned you would be here.'' Athrun said, spotting the three of them sitting on the couch. His gaze spotted Miriallia, who waved pleasantly. There was a long pause until, ''Oh, hey, Miriallia, good to see ya.'' He threw Yzak a worried look, which he was ignored. Yzak was rubbing his eyes and squinting at the three of them in disbelief.

Shiho wondered what is going on.

''I'm glad she led you to the right place this time.'' answered Cagalli. ''Where is the guy Lacus sent us? Hey, why don't you guys have a seat, we were just about to discuss what Miriallia brought over.''

Athrun appeared stumped at her request, until Yzak side-stepped over him. ''Sorry Cagalli, we figured we forgot something at the car. We'll explain the details later.'' Yzak was about to exit with Athrun through the door, but another figure stumbled in, a little disheveled.

''You'd get lost in a place like this without maps, geez.''

Finally, the reason for their uneasy behaviour upon entry was explained. There, clearly just arrived was none other than Dearka himself. Wearing a black leather jacket with jeans, he looked to Shiho healthier than she saw him last.

The latter merely froze, as he scanned all the faces in the room. Besides Dearka and Miriallia who were now facing each other in the same room, all four were concerned as to how this would turn out.

Both were like deer caught in the headlights, now oblivious to the presence of four other people in the room.

''Miriallia.'' Dearka breathed, laying his eyes upon her.

''Dearka.'' whispered Miriallia, shaken. Moments passed with no one speaking, until Miriallia stood up abruptly. ''I gotta go.''

Not knowing what else to do, Cagalli and Shiho both stood up quickly, hurrying themselves out of her way.

''Never mind, I'll go.'' said Dearka, and all they could see was his figure closing the door behind him. Clearly feeling the awkwardness in the room, Yzak and Athrun both excused themselves, closing the door behind them as well.

The door echoed loudly.

Miriallia, still shaken, sat back down. Cagalli gazed down sympathetically at her beside Shiho. This brief encounter clearly broke their previously happy atmosphere.

''Cagalli, I'm so sorry.'' Miriallia finally said, looking about her to gather her things. ''I hope you don't mind me leaving you with those pictures. I just have to go.'' She gave a thankful smile at Shiho, who passed her purse. Her fingers fumbled over the clasp to shut it closed.

Shiho felt sorry for Miriallia. She assumed that after all the conversations with her that she would be alright. Today definitely proved her wrong.

''Just a moment.'' said Cagalli, standing up quickly before Miriallia did.

''What is it?''

''How about I make sure the exit for you is clear? Shiho and I will make sure he isn't anywhere near the exit, how about that?'' Cagalli herself was elated at the idea. Even before Miriallia could answer, Cagalli had pulled Shiho along beside her, heading for the door.

'

Cagalli shut the door behind them, narrowly missing Shiho by mere inches. The female coordinator could only guess what was on her mind judging by the solemn look on Cagalli's face. The blond leaned against the wall, crossing her arms. Shiho followed suit, relaxing onto the wall.

What now?

Remembering Shiho beside her, Cagalli turned, excitement beginning to emanate from her. ''Let's keep a close watch at this door to make sure she doesn't go anywhere. If she comes out the door, we'll just tell her that we were coming back to tell her that Dearka is still around.''

''Uhm, Cagalli, weren't we supposed to see if Dearka was anywhere near the exit?'' Shiho asked slowly. The corners of Cagalli's lips turned upwards into an unmistakable smile.

''Yes.'' she replied, eyes illuminating in humor. ''We're going to make sure Dearka isn't anywhere near the exit because he's going to be busy straightening things out with Miriallia.''

Shiho's jaw dropped at Cagalli's finesse. Straighten things out with Dearka? Fat chance, by the downtrodden look on the guy's face Miriallia would only petrify him with her presence. Whatever plan for meddling was in Cagalli's mind, Shiho was thankful that she would have to play no major role.

Thinking beyond the ridiculous plan of forcibly getting Miriallia and Dearka to talk, it was also the logical remedy to their situation. Why the leader of Orb was getting involved, she didn't know; but Shiho was willing to bet her dollars that boredom was to blame.

Not long since they left their room that approaching voices could be heard. Shiho and Cagalli waited patiently. Cagalli had trouble, barely containing her excitement. Approaching them at a steadily slow pace was Athrun, Dearka and Yzak. Slow because Dearka was between the other two, shuffling his feet, eyes downcast on the ground.

Spotting Cagalli leaning against the wall beside Shiho made Athrun speed up, and causing Yzak to increase his pace, dragging Dearka along with him. The couple exchanged a meaningful glance. Yzak merely nodded to Shiho in greeting. Dearka ignored them all, adding a touch of heaviness to their atmosphere.

''Dearka wanted to stay as far away from the exit as he could.'' explained Athrun. ''He says if Miriallia wanted to leave, he didn't want to stand in her way.''

Cagalli gave a snort of suppressed laughter, earning a glare from Dearka.

''It's completely logical if you think about it Cagalli. We don't want to see each other if we can help it.'' Dearka refused to meet any of their eyes; he kept them downcast, fists clenched stiffly at his sides. ''Dunno how to start a conversation anymore.''

''You're being ridiculous Elthman.'' came Yzak's voice in disapproval. ''Know what you're apologizing for and be done with it.'' he said simply, as though it were the obvious answer. He felt blank stares at his direction. ''What, it's obvious, even I know what to do.'' he added. Athrun laughed.

Shiho smiled to herself. Yzak sounded like he was growing up in the right places.

''Well then.'' said Cagalli in a manner of finality. ''If you have that lame excuse to not speak to your girlfriend, then that's easy enough to remedy.'' With that she gives a thumbs to up Athrun, who, in a blink of an eye has a hold of Dearka in a strong grip, pushing him towards the doors Cagalli and Shiho left Miriallia in a while back.

A sputtering Dearka looked around at them wildly, as if he were convicted of a murder he didn't commit. His feet attempted to bury itself within the carpet. His eyes traveled to each of them in turn, questioningly. ''Wh-what are you doing, Athrun?''

''He's going to help you by putting you in this room where Miriallia's waiting.'' answered Cagalli, as Athrun mouthed a ''sorry''. He held on tighter as Dearka attempted to remove his grip.

Dearka only struggled harder. ''I'm not ready yet!'' he added, voice raising another octave. His protests were being ignored, recently noticing that the silent Yzak had pulled open the doors for him into the study. ''Yzak? What are you doing, you're supposed to help me!''

His best friend's next words shocked him however, as Yzak blinked, shrugging. ''I'm a little tired of seeing you bummed out Dearka; this will do you some good.''

''Yzak, you freaking traitor!'' Dearka snapped, before finally turning to Athrun in a last valiant effort. ''Seriously Athrun! Does she have you pussy-whipped or something?''

At his last words, Athrun's eyes flashed sharply, responding with a sudden rough shove that sent Dearka sprawling into the room with Miriallia whom was sitting on the couch, watching the whole episode.

Before Dearka could attempt an escape, Yzak slammed the doors closed with Cagalli descending on the external lock pad system beside them. Athrun gave a sigh, as his girlfriend beamed at him. Yzak returned to his calm composure, a little more subtle in his pleased expression.

Shiho couldn't help but feel a little sorry for Dearka; then again as Yzak said, this might do him good. The spectacle he caused for himself would no doubt be heard by Miriallia in the room.

Athrun moved to stand beside Cagalli, a little uneasy. ''You think we're doing the ri-'' none of that Cagalli heard, as she had her ears pressed to the door to listen. ''Cagalli, what are you doing?''

Putting a finger to her lips, Cagalli beckoned them all to join her. All of them did, rather reluctantly. This didn't seem like a conversation they would want to overhear. ''Elthman might mess this up and need help.'' protested Cagalli, as Athrun crept down to listen below her.

''You're meddling a little too much, don't you think?'' asked Athrun, as he too pressed his ears to the door.

Shiho strained her ears, vaguely noticing Yzak hovering right above her. So far, there was nothing but silence on the other side of these doors. There was no sound of glass breaking; she could now opt out the idea that Dearka would use any means necessary to escape.

''I call it helping.'' replied Cagalli. She didn't appear at all pleased at the lack of noise in the other room.

Athrun gave another sigh, knowing he couldn't control her once she set her mind to something. In almost every case, he loved that quality about her. In very rare cases like these, he felt a little apprehensive. ''I'm sorry if you're bored, but I promise to take you out later today.''

Shiho felt determined not to listen to their exchange. In truth, she found it very daring for Athrun to apologize in front of them on that issue. Even Yzak glanced at Athrun, watching how his friend handled the headstrong woman.

To their surprise, Cagalli glared at Athrun, who also appeared surprised and speechless. Her nostrils flared, her breathing deep. ''You might see this as ridiculous Athrun, but I would have figured you, out of all people could understand why I want them to work out.''

Athrun was puzzled. He was unable to recall any prior knowledge about that. ''But Cagalli, I really haven't figured it out. Why would I want them to work out?''

Cagalli stared at him, looking a little disappointed. ''Maybe it's a little too obvious. Dearka and Miriallia clearly haven't gotten over each other, and are equally chicken to talk about it. You can see how he looked at her when he spotted her in the room. It had always been only her in his eyes.'' Her voice was softer now, and Shiho could see that the couple affected Cagalli more than she revealed.

''I thought that you'd understand, Athrun. What we have-'' She gestured to herself and Athrun earnestly. ''-is something that I know is between them too. They're letting it die just because of a lack of communication.''

Somber, Cagalli turned away from Athrun, pressing her ear against the door firmly. ''I can't let that happen, Athrun.''

Her boyfriend remained silent as she spoke. Upon her silence, his eyes softened, looking at her in such a way that told Shiho to look away; it was as if she were witnessing something very personal come across between them. Looking up at Yzak, she knew he felt the same way.

Shiho wanted to dsitract herself- maybe start a conversation with Yzak? However she knew that would be very rude to do so. She felt further intimidated by the leader of Orb; even on assigned day-offs she was determined to make a difference.

''Cagalli-'' Further making Shiho and Yzak uncomfortable, Athrun had taken both of Cagalli's hands, stroking his thumbs gently over her knuckles. ''-look, I'm sorry for-''

A loud verbal explosion distracted them, forcing Athrun and Cagalli to return to their prior positions. They felt no need to press their ears firmly at the door anymore; anyone standing outside could hear them just fine.

''I already apologized for whatever I've done, haven't I?'' Dearka snapped.

''You haven't done anything, I've told you that already!'' Miriallia countered, and they could hear her voice on the other side of the room from where Dearka's had been seconds ago. ''Just leave me alone, Dearka- I don't belong in your world, okay? I know what your friends are saying, I know that they look down on you when I was your girlfriend.''

''And I told you that I don't care about that!''

''Don't kid yourself, Dearka. I know your parents want you to find someone better.''

''Miri-!'' Dearka attempted to cut off.

''I'm sick and tired of knowing that I'm holding you back. So why not go do it and just move on?''

''You're so stubborn Miriallia.'' Their voices had lowered, so the eavesdroppers had to press their ears upon the door again. ''I keep trying to tell you again and again,''

''That's because-''

''-Don't interrupt me until you hear me out.'' Their voice didn't sound as far apart as they had been before, either. ''Did you ever give a thought that I might not care about that? Do you really think I care about what my parents, friends, or colleagues say?''

''I know you do, and I wanted the best for you.''

''You can't be more wrong. I do care.'' A pause. ''Not about what other people think, but about you possibly walking out of my life for good.''

''Dearka...''

''I'm a mess without you, Miriallia. Isn't it proof enough that I'm willing to take this risk on making a fool of myself in front of you?''

''I...''

''Even if you don't feel the same way anymore, at least I finally manned-up and told you. You taught me to be a better person, and to learn to think things more clearly. Being the person I am, I know I should consider myself lucky that you even chose to be with me. I only need you now to think the way you've taught me to think.''

''Dearka...''

Then there was nothing. Sometime later they would see Dearka; either he would be happy, or depressed, the group will know the outcome. None of them were prepared for Dearka's sudden declaration. It only fuelled Cagalli's instincts correct. Dearka was in love with her, and he knew it. No one really understood how serious he was until now.

Shiho sighed, feeling happy for her friend. It was a mere memory now when the news of him turning traitor spread through the PLANTs like wildfire. There was speculation as to the main reason why he defected from ZAFT, but the rumors were true. Even now, years after that defection, his loyalty remained with a certain natural woman.

Cagalli still had herself pressed to the door. Athrun had detached himself from it, meeting her eyes. Slowly, he reached for her.

Feeling another uncomfortable moment happening, Shiho felt herself flush deeply, looking away. Thankfully her arm throbbed for attention, indicating that she would indeed need another dose of painkillers.

''Uhm, please excuse me, I need to get some more painkillers.'' Shiho muttered quietly, eyes pointed to the ground. She could feel his stare, eliciting the hairs on her arms stand. Athrun and Cagalli barely gave hints of hearing her voice, but Yzak gave a simple ''later''.

Pace quickening, Shiho only stopped once arriving at the kitchen. She pressed herself against the wall, hugging her arm gently.

The only other pain besides her arm was the pain in her chest. A dull, throbbing ache that bothered her more than her arm did.

Cagalli and Athrun were admirable, and so were Lacus and Kira. The two couples were happy, which Shiho knew they all deserved. Add Dearka and Miriallia to the list of happy people now, with each other to share happiness with.

Shiho couldn't help but perhaps feel... A little left out.

She fought the urge to think of ''jealous''. Jealousy wouldn't get her anywhere. It was ridiculous; was she only realizing it for the first time that Yzak may never return her feelings ever?

As that thought entered her mind, Shiho felt herself briefly losing her grasp on her beliefs. A vision of herself toppling over the edge of a hopeless abyss frightened Shiho. To fight in a battle such as in the war had a purpose and a result; but to continue a battle of emotions that may never end had Shiho in agony.

''Yzak...'' she whispered.

Whatever was left of her strength, she would try to pull through. Even if she had to give it everything she had without him ever knowing... She could. Because Shiho understood what it meant to have unrequited love.

'

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'

Author's Note: I'm sorry for the cheese, cheese, and fromage. I wanted to do this chappie, and so here it stands. I had a good time writing it- I just didn't appreciate the writer's block I had, hahaha. It got solved eventually though.

Oh yes, I'm sorry for the lack of Yzak and Shiho; I wanted Shiho to have a little bonding time with Cagalli. As for Dearka and Miriallia, I wanted things to work out with them too. I'm such a fan of their pairings, I'm getting ideas all over the place! Haha, what I didn't count on happening was this proving to be much more difficult to complete than what I anticipated!

But yes, thanks for your time, hope you liked!

C.A. [July 6, 2010]