Disclaimer: Neither the show nor the song is mine. But it would be sooooooo awesome if they were.
-
READ ALL THE NOTES PLEASE. TOP AND BOTTOM.
Notes: Ok, here's how I've got it. All outers and Usagi and Minako use the "chan" for each other, and the other inners are different, but that's not an issue now. Each person may have their own customizations for names, using both "chan" and nothing and also the usual nicknames.
-
Anyway, HUGE CHAPTER. BIGGEST YET. LOVE ME. Why? Well, since I doubt I'd keep readers for 3 years or so while the time passes, and because I never planned to write 3 years of story, here comes the time jump. Or jumps, instead. There has to be SOME kind of transition, and I didn't feel as if just a "2 years and 4 months later..." was appropriate. So... yeah. You'll see. I used birthdays as a few days to write about die to lack of a better idea. Also, I concentrated mostly on Usagi, as Seiya's days were basically the same every day, so he's only mentioned a little in here. Usagi has some stuff going on, and it needs coverage. Thus, not a lot of my lovely Seiya, alas.
-
One last thing. Here's a question for you: do you want some side romance at all? I'd prefer not to write that in, as I feel it would take away from the story a bit, but I'd like your input. I do plan one some stuff coming in, but it would be very minor and more in passing. While I won't turn this into a three-story romance fic, I could add some other side stories in there, if you really want them. So, tell me what you want! I am at the mercy of my readers, and I care about what you say. Suggestions both on this matter and on other matters are welcome and appreciated.
-
But I digress, go and read. And enjoy! Because it took me forever.
-
You know what my favorite word is? I'll give you a hint. It starts with an "r" and rhymes with "eview!"
-
Posted 4/19/06
Dirty Little Secret
Summary: Alternate ending and continuation of the Stars season. Before the lights leave, Usagi confesses to Seiya that she returns his love, and he leaves with a promise to someday return. Soon after the departure, Usagi suddenly and strangely moves to an unknown university, very far away. Few know her secret, but they promise to help her until the day Seiya will return-and when he does, he will make a great discovery. A Seiya and Usagi love story.
Last chapter:
"Oh, okay then... Well I'm going back, walk with me?"
"Actually, I want to stay here for a while."
Bella pouted and put her hands on her hips. "Well, do you want some company? I could st-"
"I'm fine, thanks." Seiya turned away from her.
"Suit yourself then. Goodnight." She frowned and walked away, grumbling a bit when he didn't respond to her farewell. Seiya looked back up at the sky, and felt at ease. Back on Earth, the skies cleared and a certain blonde smiled, feeling her despair simply melt away.
and
Usagi tried to stay cheerful, even though the time separating her from Seiya was staring her in the face. She missed his company so much, not to mention the way he made her feel. She missed his touch, his kisses... just thinking about it made her feel elated-only to make her feel equally depressed after she ceased her thoughts. I want you to be with me, Seiya. I want you to be Kari's father. I want to spend every day with you. I want us three to be a family... Usagi turned away from the day-tracker on her wall. Kari needs a father, Seiya. And I need you. Come back to me...
Usagi crossed the room to her bed, where a sleeping Kari lay. Picking her up, Usagi went into the living room, picked up a book Setsuna had brought her the other day, and began to read.
-
Chapter 10: Time
If I had the chance love
You know I would not hesitate
To tell you all the things I never said before
Don't tell me it's too late
-
Usagi checked her calendar every day when she got up, and every night before she went to bed, counting down the days. She was just waiting, waiting... he said he would be gone for three years, and sometimes she wondered if she would be able to make it that long.
September 16th. When he would come back. Yet, she hadn't even waited a year-she still had almost two and a half left. And it was only May. May 29th, to be exact, a Monday. Usagi had just finished reading chapter seven of the book Setsuna had given her (yes, Usagi read books now-and for fun, to boot), and it was late. So, she went off to bed, and kept counting the days until she would see Seiya again.
-
Year One: Tuesday, May 30th
The next morning, Usagi slept in, for two reasons: one, because she was Usagi Tsukino and was partial to hibernation, and two, Kari had kept her up all night. Kari's progress was as such: moving arms and hands and wiggling toes, or... sort of wiggling. Not too bad for less than a month old, Usagi thought. Setsuna had come to visit that day for breakfast, and the three senshi discussed Usagi's situation during the course of the meal, which happened to be pancakes. Chocolate chip pancakes, that Usagi had made, in fact-and they actually tasted good.
The result of the conversation was that Haruka would stay as long as possible, and would leave when Michiru and Hotaru would return. Setsuna would continue her visits, and Haruka would visit, too, as much as possible. Usagi had decided, after much hesitation, that she would soon start telling the others about her situation. Her first thought was Minako, simply because of the bond the two shared. But after further discussion, the three came to the conclusion that letting Michiru in on it would be most efficient. They would work on the rest later.
Hotaru, though, was too young to be entrusted with something like this that might slip out in front of company that was ignorant of the whole thing. So, for the moment, Usagi would only tell Michiru. Usagi also desperately wanted to tell her mother, who so wanted grandchildren, but was too scared to actually tell her. Usagi wanted the fun and the happiness of her mother knowing, without actually having to tell her. But, again, there was time for that later.
After deciding who would be the next to be "in" on the whole thing, the three talked about Seiya's return. Usagi explained to them the date and location she was expected to meet him, and asked for advice about how to actually tell him that he had a daughter. In the end, the decision for telling Seiya was to first only reunite him with Usagi, then later introduce him to Kari. How to introduce him to Kari was another thing to worry about later. After the discussion, Usagi felt much less stressed about the upcoming confrontations.
–
That day on Kinmoku, Seiya, Yaten, and their Princess were celebrating Taiki's birthday. Bella's clinging to Seiya was consistent, and he grew increasingly irritated with her, finding himself snapping at her a few times-or more than a few.
The next month went by peacefully and was very relaxing for Usagi, as well as for her daughter and the Princess of Uranus.
-
Year One: Tuesday, June 30th
Usagi was sad that she couldn't go back home to visit her family on her birthday, but Setsuna and Haruka made the day as exciting as possible. After taking their Princess out to a very fancy dinner, the three had a movie marathon at Usagi's and ate lots of ice cream, popcorn, and candy. During the day they had a picnic at the park, having all kinds of Usagi's favorite foods. On her eighteenth birthday, Usagi got many helpful baby supplies from Haruka and Setsuna, as well as other, more fun gifts. Except for Minako, all of Usagi's friends sent her cards and gifts (even Motoki and Naru sent cards, and Luna and Artemis and talked to Usagi through Rei's phone at some point), as well as her parents, and even Mamoru sent a card. The card was very interesting to Usagi.
Mamoru had written how very grateful he was to Usagi, as he had just realized a week or so ago that she had been right about them. He wasn't in love with her, but he did love her, like she loved him. He had said that she would always be his Usako, and his good friend. The card, also wishing her a happy 18th birthday, was her favorite of all the ones she received. Not only because it was nice and from the heart, but because it relieved her so much and removed the burden of breaking his heart from her shoulders. Usagi's happiness and relief made her eyes tear up as she finished reading Mamoru's long message, and she wrote him back. The two would become good pen pals over the next few years.
Ami and Rei had sent cards and gifts, while Makoto had done both and called Usagi. The girls had talked for hours, though Makoto was unable to persuade Usagi to come back and visit or persuade her to let them come to visit her. Usagi had simply said she was too busy. Her mother also called, and she talked to both her parents and her brother for about an hour, catching up on each other's lives. Usagi hated lying to her family and friends, and tried to keep it to a minimum. Setsuna had left when Usagi started talking on the phone, knowing that Usagi would be talking for a while, and Haruka had taken Kari to her room to entertain her for a bit while Usagi used the phone.
After the talk, Usagi realized she still hadn't heard from Minako. She wasn't heartbroken, but she was a little sad that she didn't get to talk to perhaps her closest friend of the inners. Not five minutes after the phone conversations ended, a happy Usagi heard the doorbell ring, which kind of befuddled her. The mail had already come, and she wasn't expecting anyone...
She walked to the door and peered through the peephole, but no one was there. More confused, the curious girl opened the door and popped her head out. "Hello? Is anyone th-"
And then, seemingly from out of no where, popped out a very energetic teenager, who pulled Usagi into a bear hug.
"USAGI-CHAAAAAAN!"
Surprised beyond belief, Usagi pulled back quickly, and immediately recognized the face.
"Minako-chan!" OH SHIT! She began to panic.
"OHMYGOSH I MISSED YOU SO MUCH!" Minako jumped on Usagi again and hugged her.
"Heh heh... I missed you too..."
"I decided that since it's your 18th birthday, I would come surprise you! I didn't tell anyone else, though."
Oh shiiiit. "Um, Minako, how about we... go somewhere? Let me just get my purse and we'll go around town, I can show you everythi-"
"Okay! Oooh, but first, let me see this place of yours!" Usagi's eyes widened and she hastily moved in front of her friend.
"Um, I think that's a bad idea. You see, it's quite a mess, and-"
"Oh, no, my room is a mess. And..." Minako peeked behind her friend. "Hey, your place is super clean! Now, let me in, I've only got one day. Oh, and I'm spending the night. I hope you don't mind."
"Um, actually..." Usagi closed her eyes and scratched the back of her head sheepishly, not noticing Minako walking past her and into the condo.
"Oh, wow, Usagi-chan! This place is really nice!"
"Minako-chan, no! It's, um, really stuffy in here, let's go out somewhere-"
"Oh, no it's not, I'm fine. Let me put my suitcase down. I'll take the couch if it's what you have."
"Minako-chan!"
Then, a new presence entered the room-one who happened to be holding a sleeping Kari.
"Koneko-chan, what's all this racket? Do you want to wake up your daughter or are you just yelling for fun!" Usagi's eyes widened and she froze. Minako turned around to look at Haruka.
"Oh, hey, Haruka-chan! What are you doing he... wait, what did you say?" Haruka stepped back a bit in shock.
"M-Minako! What are you doing here! Koneko-chan!"
"I swear I didn't know-"
"Usagi-chan, I don't really care that you invited her... and not me... wait, who's that?" Minako's gaze turned to Kari. "Wait a minute... did you say... Usagi's daughter, just now?" Minako spoke again before anyone else could. "You did, didn't you? Usagi-chan... what's going on here? I didn't know you could adopt when you were so young..." Minako approached Haruka and Kari.
"Um, Minako-chan," Usagi said nervously, "I think I need to tell you something..."
Usagi was spared telling her friend that Kari was not adopted when Minako had finally reached Kari.
"Usagi-chan... she looks just like you..." Minako turned to Usagi. "Is she... is she yours?" Usagi sighed as she approached the other three females.
"Minako-chan... I have some explaining to do..." Usagi took Kari from Haruka.
"She is yours! But... but how?"
At least she didn't blow up like Haruka-chan did... Usagi didn't notice Haruka leaving the room, letting Usagi have a moment alone with her friend.
"But... I thought you and Mamoru... wait, it wasn't Mamoru, was it?" Minako put down her suitcase and put her hands on her friend's shoulders. "Usagi-chan... you? Of all people?" Usagi sighed again, took Minako's hand, and lead her to the living room and to the couch, where they both sat down.
"Well, Minako-chan, you see..."
It took over two hours to tell Minako the entire story and explain everything. Usagi, despite her hard efforts, ended up shedding a few tears. At first, Minako had been very skeptical and looked at Usagi with a critical eye, still disbelieving the whole thing. But after a while, Minako had embraced her from the side, Usagi leaning onto her, Kari sleeping through it all. Usagi was relieved that Minako had been so accepting and understanding-she hadn't anticipated for so many people to take the news so well. Whether it was because she was just that kind of person, or because she was the senshi of love, or because she was both that she had understood so easily, Usagi didn't know. But it didn't matter; Usagi had one more friend to help her through her struggle-at least emotionally.
"So, Usagi-chan, who knows?"
"You, me, Haruka-chan, and Setsuna-chan." Minako blinked.
"Not even Seiya?"
"No. He was gone before I found out. But I already told you everything, so, yeah... I'm going to tell Michiru-chan, so that it won't be a secret between Haruka and Setsuna and she, though Hotaru I think not. At least not yet. Eventually my Mom, and Dad, and Shingo, and the rest of the girls too... and Seiya, when he gets back."
"I have to say, Usagi-chan, I... really admire you." Usagi looked at her, confused. "Like, I mean, how you've dealt with everything. I don't think I'd be able to make it out okay if I were in your shoes. You've really grown up, and I'm proud of you."
"Thank you, Minako-chan."
"It's nothing, really." Minako smiled. "Now, I think Haruka-chan might be a little bored, or frustrated, or whatever, so let's go get Kari, eh? Plus, I want to officially meet her!"
Usagi beamed at her. "Okay." Wow, I love my friends so much. Just... wow.
-
Year One: Saturday, July 30th
Usagi and Kari were abruptly awakened in the morning by a loud yell coming from Haruka's room.
"OH SHIT!"
This word was becoming more and more regular in Usagi's condo. She only hoped that her daughter wouldn't one day say the word.
Usagi grabbed Kari from the bed and dashed to Haruka's room. It was good that she slowed down as she neared the door, as Haruka rushed out of the room at the same time, nearly knocking Usagi to the ground and hurting Kari.
"Haruka-chan, what's going on!"
Haruka spoke quite fast. "It's Michiru. She called the house and Setsuna picked up and Michiru got it out of her that I was with you but Setsuna said that I was just visiting for the day. Brilliant idea that was because Michiru immediately said that it was perfect then and she could see us both at the same time now that you were having visitors not to mention there was a discount on the flight here. So since she decided to come back even earlier than expected she wants to take us all out to lunch and spend the day with us. I missed her call on my cell and just got the message and she'll be here in less than half an hour." Haruka took a deep breath. Usagi spoke much more calmly and rationally.
"What so wrong with that? I was going to tell her about Kari, anyway."
"Koneko-chan, she's bringing Hotaru. I love that child to death, but she's young again and has a big mouth. I don't think she should know about Kari yet. Wait, didn't we already talk about this?"
"Yeah, we did. Okay, so we just... er... what are we going to do?"
"I don't know!"
"Crap!" Usagi groaned in frustration. "I know! We can have Setsuna-chan take Hotaru out for a while. I can't have anyone babysit Kari, I need to feed her every few hours or so-"
"Can't she have like formula for one day?"
"I don't know if she's old enough to have that. I don't think so. But I need to feed her for me, too. Because... yeah, it kinda hurts if you don't for a while."
It took Haruka a moment to understand. "Oh, right. Okay, so we'll just call Setsu... uh oh, no, we can't."
"Why not? We're running out of time!"
"She told us she was going out of town to visit family, remember?"
"Gaaah! Setsuna-chan, why?"
"Okay, so how about I get the door and you can explain to Michiru while I entertain Hotaru, and then you can stay here while I take Hotaru out and that will be you visiting with Michiru, then... hmm. Okay, then... uh, I don't know." Haruka was very stressed because she would have to leave Usagi eventually, though maybe not after Michiru knew, and maybe she could convince Michiru to stay with them as well, because she really missed her. But then Hotaru would be alone, Setsuna wasn't always home. Argh! Why does this have to be so hard! It's all Seiya's fault. Stupid man. Hmph, when there's no one else to blame, blame Seiya.
"Alright, that sounds good enough. We don't have time to make a more elaborate plan right now, so it'll have to do. When did you say she was coming again?"
"In like... twenty minutes, now. Though if I know her, she'll be early, and-"
The doorbell rang. Usagi half sobbed and half laughed. "How do all these people find my place!"
Haruka quickly and quietly ushered Usagi back to her room and closed the door, putting a finger to her lips to silence her, and then walked briskly to the door. Fixing her hair and clothes as to not appear rushed and disheveled like she was, Haruka took a deep breath and opened the door.
"Hey, you guys, I missed you! Sorry I missed your call, come in for a second and I'll go get Koneko-chan."
Michiru's reaction had been very similar to Setsuna's, though she took a little longer to come to terms with everything. Haruka's plan to keep Hotaru from knowing all worked out, and in the end they decided that while Haruka had to go back, she and Michiru and Setsuna would take turns being with Usagi every day. So, she would never be alone for as long as she needed help. She was happy that even though people kept finding out about her and Kari unscheduled, they eventually were very accepting and helpful. Usagi was very relieved and grateful. Becoming a mother had matured her greatly both physically and emotionally, making her more graceful and more an adult. She was still a long way from being the Queen she would be in the future, but she was getting there nonetheless.
First it was Setsuna, then Haruka, then Minako, and now Michiru. The list was growing, and it was only a matter of time before it spread again.
–
On Kinmoku, Seiya was also awakened by a loud shout. It was, however, not a curse, but a great big "HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SEIYA!" from Taiki, Yaten, and Princess Kakyuu. Seiya's birthday passed much like Taiki's did, with a day off from work, spent doing things Seiya liked best. Though he couldn't help but think how much better it would have been if Usagi had been with him.
-
Year Two: Saturday, September 16th
While she had been pregnant, Usagi had experienced the eight longest months of her life. But the following four moths passed in a flurry of activity. Raising a baby was nothing as she had imagined. It was both easier and harder than she had thought it would be, though she could say that, in general, she had no problems with it. Well, besides being isolated from her friends, family, her original home, and the man she loved. But her current home had become as much as a home as her one in Tokyo, and her friends and Kari had become her family. So, it wasn't as bad as she thought it would be, being on her own. Because she wasn't really alone at all.
She was, however, seriously frustrated that she had only gotten through one out of three years in her separation from Seiya. It had been on this day exactly one year-and the thought that she had twice that many left was more aggravating than anything else. Sometimes she wanted to scream to let out her stress, or cry to let out her sorrow. Every now and then she shed a few tears, but not overly so. Only as expected for a woman in love who was missing her other half.
And Usagi was a woman now. Not just legally because she was eighteen, but because of her personality. It was strange (but in a good way) how the young woman had managed to retain her personality while taking on a more mature one at the same time. Maybe she had been forced to grow up too fast, but for whatever reason, she was becoming more of a role model and less of an impressionable teenager-despite her powerful position as the galaxy's guardian and having super powers.
Haruka had mentioned the subject in passing that day (it was her turn to visit the day before, but she had come that day as well, just because), though more to herself. While Usagi was chowing down on a fruit salad, Haruka had been on diaper duty for Kari. Mumbling in not-real-anger because of her dislike for changing babies, Usagi could make out her saying something about it being "stupid Seiya's job... should be here... should be slaving away... cradle-robber... I'm so awesome for this... oh, gross..." Usagi felt guilty, although Haruka had insisted on taking care of the child while Usagi ate, even though Haruka seemed to regret that decision when she had to change the diaper.
Usagi poked a slice of banana a few times absentmindedly, before spearing it next to a piece of a strawberry and popping into her mouth.
365 down, 730 more days to go... ARGH!
She speared another innocent, unsuspecting piece of fruit with vigor. The poor peach slice... it never stood a chance.
-
Year Two: Saturday, January 27th
While Usagi was unable to do anything for Hotaru's birthday, on Haruka's birthday, Michiru, Hotaru, Setsuna, and she all went out to dinner. Usagi had barely finished asking Minako if she could watch Kari for an hour before an excited "OF COURSE!" erupted from the phone. While Usagi was reluctant to leave her young child with anyone (especially after her friend's excited outburst), Minako did have some babysitting experience, and it was only for an hour, anyway. Usagi would have to come back right after dinner, and would give Haruka a gift before they (Usagi, Haruka, and Setsuna) left to meet Michiru and Hotaru. She had also made Haruka a chocolate cake, all by herself, and it tasted great. Usagi was so proud of herself! It was too bad that she ended up eating half of it without any help... and with Haruka's appetite, there wasn't much cake for anyone else. One small piece each for Setsuna and Michiru.
Usagi had explained to Minako how to use the time gates for transportation only after Minako had sworn not to tell anyone else, as she didn't want anyone just showing up at her condo. The distance was meant to prevent that. Usagi also felt guilty for using the time gates so freely for transportation, buy hey, it was efficient! Teleportation versus an airplane? It wasn't hard to pick the free and instantaneous one over the expensive one that lasted hours and required much preparation. Setsuna had also assured Usagi that since she was the future Queen of the Earth, she had a few more privileges than ordinary people.
And so went the day, ending eventually with Minako spending the night after watching a movie with Usagi and Kari. Usagi was glad that now one of her other friends could be with her, as Minako's company was different from the outers'. They were more best friends then good companions, being more silly together, and more girly and bouncy. Usagi liked the change, though still loved being with the other three, older women.
-
Year Two: Sunday, May 13th
Kari's birthday brought Usagi, Minako, Haruka, Setsuna, and Michiru all together at Usagi's for a day. There, Minako asked all about Kari's progress as the others listened. Months ago had been her first steps and first word, which happened to be "ma," much to Usagi's pleasure. Not even a week later Kari had followed up with "da," and after "ma" and "da," Kari imitated things Usagi said. They were sitting outside on the small balcony one night and Usagi pointed to the moon and said "Look Kari, it's a full moon tonight," and Kari had pointed to the moon and said "fuh moo!" Usagi assumed she had tried to say "full moon," and was elated. It was just SO CUTE.
Even further that night, Kari said new things. Usagi had talked to her all about Seiya, and said that "daddy" was "up there with the stars," and they would see him one day. Kari had said "da, sta," which was perhaps "daddy/da, star/stars." Kari now responded to and knew her name, as well as Usagi's friends' names and her parents' names and Seiya's name. Usagi could say a name and Kari could now match the name to a face, be it in person or in a picture. Usagi had gotten teary when she had asked Kari who daddy was with many photos in front of them, and Kari had pointed to a picture of Seiya.
Kari was also now walking (though mostly while using a wall of furniture for help), and she was a very energetic child. She babbled all the time and got into everything, needing constant supervision to prevent chaos-much like Usagi had been as a child. Usagi thought to herself that Sailor Moon may have to go back into business to save the world from Kari Tsukino, after the baby had broken a lamp and a vase at the same time when Usagi had turned her head away. Kari had pushed the vase over and like dominos the crash went on, and the decor in the living room became a mess. Still, the young mother couldn't help but laugh and fail to berate the child. Usagi's friends were throughly impressed with Kari's progress and had many laughs from all the stories Usagi told them about the one-year-old. She was a fast learner, and ahead of most kids her age.
After Usagi had spent most of the day with her friends and they had all returned to their homes, she took Kari to the park, as she had the same time last year. But this time, Kari was older and able to move about on her own. The little girl's blue eyes had not changed in color, and her platinum-blonde hair had grown a lot and only darkened a little, still being lighter than Usagi's. She truly was an adorable sight, stumbling around trying to catch falling cherry blossom petals, and failing miserably. The little girl was chasing (and stumbling along the way) a particular petal as it rapidly blew away from her, when a delicate hand darted out in front of her and caught it.
The untransformed Sailor Moon gently placed the tiny petal in her daughter's tiny hand, smiling gently. Kari looked at the petal in her hand like it was the most amazing thing she had ever seen, then squealed happily and hugged her mother gleefully-though it was more of a weak tackle than an embrace. But at least she was walking, for only being one year old it was astounding that she could move about like a toddler. Usagi wondered if it was because Kari's parents were so... athletic? Active? Blessed with superhuman powers? But it didn't matter. Since Kari was so perceptive and alert, Usagi tried to teach her as much as she could and encourage her daughter at all times. Almost everyday now, Kari learned a new word, and Usagi figured out what today's word should be.
She turned Kari around and pointed to a cherry blossom, which she had plucked from the tree earlier.
Pointing to it, she said, "sakura."
Kari mimicked her mother's pointing and said, "arua!"
Usagi laughed. "Arua" was Kari's rendition of "Haruka." She pointed to the cherry blossom again. "Not Haruka, sakura."
"Ah-ku-ra!"
Close enough. "Yes! Great job, Kari! Sakura... cherry blossoms."
"Err lums!"
Usagi had to laugh at that one. She hugged her baby tightly, unable to express her strong emotions in a small way. At that moment, she did not think she was able to love anyone or anything more than the girl in her arms-save for the father, of course. And that was the same level of love, just a different kind.
Again, like the year before, the setting of the sun propelled the young mother to abandon the park and head home, Kari making cute noises the whole way.
-
Year Two: Wednesday, January 31st
At 9:14 AM, Usagi was eating a bagel with plain cream cheese while watching the weather channel, and Kari was on the floor next to Usagi, happily playing with a cute stuffed rabbit she got on her birthday. Usagi was seeing about the future day's weather conditions, as when she had woken up it was heavily snowing and a think layer already covered the ground. It was said on the channel that the snow would soon lighten up, but fall almost all day. Usagi found this to be absolutely perfect, because Kari had never seen snow before, and the conditions were just so that there was enough to play with, and the snow still falling lightly was enough to wonder the child without being too heavy to have a bad effect on Kari.
Just as Usagi had finished her breakfast (Kari had been fed earlier), she was surprised by a knock on the door. There was only one person who knocked on the door so sharply and that specific number of times and speed, though Usagi looked through the peephole anyway. She was greeted by the face of just who she suspected was there.
"Haruka-chan!" She grinned. "Come in, it's so cold out there... wait, wasn't Setsuna-chan supposed to come today?"
"Not happy to see me?" Haruka teased.
"Oh hush, you know I didn't mean it like that."
"Yeah, I do. Well, something come up, and Michiru was busy, so here I am! Also, I want to talk to you."
That doesn't sound good... "Well come and sit down, I was just about to make some hot chocolate. Well, warm chocolate for Kari, but hot for us."
Haruka went over to Kari and sat down next to her on the floor, picking the baby up and tickling her a little. "Will it poison me?"
"Oh hush! You know my cooking has improved! And I did it all by myself. I'll make this from scratch and you will love it. Plus, I made it yesterday and Kari loved it-she's so picky! Though I don't feed her much anything but breast milk still."
"Really? Isn't one year too old for that?"
"I wasn't sure about when weaning was supposed to start at first, but I went out and got some parenting books..." She laughed heartily. "Oh, the way the cashier looked at me! It's bad enough I'm only nineteen, but I still look fifteen. Anyway, they say that the longer you breast feed, the more immune your baby can be to sickness and stuff."
"Hey, that's pretty nifty."
"I think so." Usagi went to make the hot, and the warm, chocolate. "Though I'm not going to do it past two years. The books say two and a half maximum, but I don't know if I can do that. I mean, I have to get a job soon, and can't have my chest all painful because I haven't fed Kari in a while."
"Good point. Oh, that's kind of what I wanted to talk to you about."
"...My breasts hurting?"
Haruka laughed loudly. "Yes! That is exactly why I came here."
Usagi quirked a brow. "Oh, of course."
Haruka laughed again. "Anyway, I wanted to talk to you about your desire to get a job again so quickly."
Usagi groaned audibly. Not this again...
"As you may know..."
Yep, this again.
"Michiru, Setsuna, and I have more money than we know what to do with it."
"You are so humble, Haruka-chan."
"Oh, I know, Koneko-chan. Anyway, we three talked yesterday about you and came to the conclusion that until pretty boy comes back, we don't want you getting a job, working... anything of the sort!"
"But-"
"We insist! Look, we seriously have a lot of extra money. We need to do something with it. And trust me, even providing for the both of you leaves us with a lot of unneeded cash."
"Haruka-chan! I've told you a thousand times tha-"
"Don't even try! We aren't letting you work until that inconsiderate, undeserving twit comes back."
"Don't talk about him like that!"
"Okay, okay... I won't. Though you have to admit, it would be so much easier for you and Kari if he was-"
"That's enough now. Stop it or I'll... I'll... dump this drink on you!" Usagi came out into the living room with two steaming mugs and a small bottle.
"I'm so scared!"
"You better be!" They both laughed.
"I'll get you one day, Koneko-chan..." Haruka shook her finger at Usagi in mock anger. Kari, not understanding the playfulness, pouted and frowned cutely at Haruka.
"Na, Arua!" (This was, in KariSpeak, "No, Haruka!")
Usagi laughed again, and Haruka, expression faltered at the baby's scolding. "Now look what you've done, you've gotten on her bad side!"
"Meh, I can take you two."
"Are you sure about that? We make a formidable team..."
"You're right, Koneko-chan. I'll hesitate before I anger Kari again!"
"You better! Kari will get you, now, won't you, darling?"
Kari beamed at her mother, and tackled her like she does, saying, "Mama!"
"Damn, that girl is adorable, Koneko-chan. I might just steal her when you aren't looking."
"Such language!"
"Oh, she doesn't know what I said."
"If I hear her say any of your foul language... you'd better watch out."
"I'll keep my eyes open. Now, what do you say to letting us support you for just a little longer? Please, Koneko-chan? We really want to do this for you."
"I..." I really don't want to accept their charity anymore... but I want to be a full-time mom even more... ugh, why do they have to be so nice? "I guess so. But only for a little while longer!"
"Brilliant!" Haruka beamed at her, and Usagi smiled back.
-
Year Two: Friday, September 7th
Usagi had not been this nervous in a long time.
Kari was finally old enough for Usagi to go away for a weekend. Michiru was kindly babysitting her for today, tomorrow, and Sunday, while Usagi did something she had been dreading for months.
She was going back to Tokyo.
It was only to see her friends and family, and she figured an occasion such as a birthday was enough reason. Ami's birthday was in three days, but it was on a Monday, so Usagi decided to come back for the weekend before the special day. She had not seen Ami, Rei, Makoto, Hotaru, her parents, or anyone else since she had left. She'd seen Minako a few weeks ago, and the usual three visitors all the time. But she hadn't been back to Tokyo in a long time. She packed lightly, only staying two nights, which she would spend at her old house. When she had told her mom she had planned to come back for a few days, Ikuko had been ecstatic-though Usagi made her promise not to tell anyone other than her Dad and Shingo. She wanted it to be a surprise.
But oh Gods, was she nervous.
Why?
Because today she was going to tell her family that she had a child.
Usagi was nauseous, had a headache, and simply terrified of the visit. She wasn't sure yet if she'd tell any of her other friends yet, and if she did, who it would be.
And so, at 2:57 PM, Usagi Tsukino was standing in front of her house in Tokyo, approaching the door.
Before she could even knock, the door burst open and three beaming people embraced her all at the same time.
"C-can't... breathe..."
Her family immediately released her, but only for Ikuko to grab her again, both women teary eyed.
"How I've missed you, my baby!"
"I've missed you too, Mom. More than you can imagine."
And so the day went, with the same greetings with Usagi's Dad and brother.
The family had a great, big, late lunch, then watched a movie together, played a board game, had a hefty dinner, the talked at the dinner table for hours. Usagi had strategically planned beforehand what she would say as to lie minimally, and talk more about what she had missed than what was happening in her life. To her surprise, it actually worked, and flawlessly.
Late that night when everyone was asleep, Usagi called Michiru on her cell phone to check up on her. With everything doing fine, Usagi went to bed a little less frazzled. The only thing stressing her out now was tomorrow's task of telling her family about Kari. If all went well, Michiru would bring the child to them. If not, well... then she wouldn't. Michiru was taking care of care at the outers' place in Tokyo, so they were close. Hotaru was spending the weekend at a friend's house.
Usagi would tell each member of her family individually, her Mom first, then her Dad, and then... maybe Shingo. She wasn't sure if he was ready to be an uncle yet; though the thought of Kari saying "Uncle Shingo" made her smile.
Morning came, and Usagi was unhappily awakened by nausea. It was like being pregnant all over again, as she promptly vomited after getting out of bed. The nervousness was overwhelming. She would tell her Mom sometime after breakfast, then her Dad after lunch, possibly after dinner-depending on how her Mother took the news. Usagi thought that her Mother would either have a fit and be more angry than Usagi had ever seen her, or be totally understanding and welcome Kari as a granddaughter with open arms.
Usagi prayed the was the latter. The former would break her heart.
She knew that at breakfast her Mother sensed her change in attitude. Lacking female intuition and acute perception, the other two males present were oblivious. After breakfast, Usagi volunteered to do the dishes with her Mother. When her Father and brother left, Usagi quietly asked her mother if they could speak in private.
Ikuko had been suspecting this. Something was wrong in Usagi's life and she wanted to know what it was, and what she could do to help.
"How private?" Ikuko asked.
Usagi bit her lip. "Um... very..." Her Mother nodded.
Hours later, exactly five hours and forty-five minutes later, Usagi had finished her whole story, spilling out everything that had happened- from the moment she had become a sailor scout to the moment she had arrived back in Tokyo yesterday. Ikuko now knew everything her child had been through for the past five years-minus the minute details and... love scenes.
Usagi had started out saying she was about to tell her Mother a lot, and that some would be unbelievable at first. Some things she would say would shock her Mother, anger her, sadden her; some would make her happy, sympathetic, proud. But most of all, that it was a huge secret, and the majority could not be told to even her Father or Shingo. Ikuko was skeptical and frightened at Usagi's prologue, but eventually agreed to listen. Surprisingly, she hardly ever interrupted.
Usagi said that she would begin by informing her Mother of her "second identity." With that, she had taken out her broach and transformed into Eternal Sailor Moon. Needless to say it took Ikuko a while to grasp the concept that her darling girl was a super hero-hell, it took her time to grasp everything.
After that revelation, Usagi de-transformed and began to explain some of her adventures, and the bigger enemies she had encountered, and the identities of all the scouts (as well as their corresponding planets and short biographies. Ikuko was shocked to hear who they all were!). She then briefly summed up the Silver Millennium by saying that in a previous lifetime, she was Mamoru's soul mate, and that people had lived on the moon until it was destroyed. She didn't mention the Queen or her being the Moon Princess. Eventually she neared the topic she dreaded.
Usagi explained the Sailor Starlights, and how she had fallen out of love with Mamoru and in love with Seiya. She had said that on the day he was to leave she confessed her feelings to him and they had a heartbreaking goodbye. Her Mother had hugged her then, and though Usagi wasn't expecting to, Usagi cried. She cried for a good ten minutes, which was actually a long time. She was glad her Mother had accepted everything so far and had comforted her in her distress. Then, still sniffling, Usagi began the hardest part of her story.
"Mom, I'm so sorry about this... but.. I-I lied. About everything involving me moving away." Ikuko looked at her questioningly.
"What are you talking about?"
Usagi tried to prepare herself for the inevitable onslaught of emotions. "I didn't leave because of school. I left because something happened and moving away was the only thing I could do... you might disagree with me soon, or be mad, but please listen... this is... hard for me." Her Mother nodded. "I'm not stupid enough to think you'll hate me for this, although at first I certainly was." Here goes...
Usagi took a long, deep breath, before reaching into her jeans pocket. Pulling out what her Mom saw as a small piece of paper, Usagi clutched the photograph to her chest like it was her lifeline. "There's no easy way to say this, Mom. So... here, this is for you." Usagi handed the photograph taken just a few days ago to her Mother, who quietly took it.
Ikuko stared emotionless at the photo. It was of her daughter standing in the park, smiling happily. What stood out in the photo was the little girl that Usagi was holding. Ikuko immediately recognized the likeness. There was, cradled in Usagi's arms, an exact replica of Usagi when she was two years old. The only thing different was the baby's eye color, and just by a bit. Ikuko gasped and put her hand that was not holding the picture over her mouth. As completely flabbergasted as she was, Ikuko just could not feel any negative or hostile emotion. The child in her daughter's arms brought tears to her eyes, and Usagi was already crying.
The two sat there in silence for ten or so minutes. After that, Ikuko looked up at Usagi, whose head was bowed and eyes were red. The older woman lifted Usagi's chin with her hand. Usagi nervously looked into her mother's eyes-and was surprised at what was there-love and understanding. There was nothing else. Ikuko's gaze asked Usagi a question, and Usagi answered it.
"Seiya."
There was a pause. "Well I know that... and that's not what I asked, Usagi." Usagi only blinked. "What's her name?"
Usagi's bottom lip quivered. "K-Kari..."
"Usagi..." Usagi began to cry again, and again lowered her head. "Shh..." Ikuko said, brining Usagi's face up once more.
"M-Mom... I.."
"She's beautiful."
Usagi's eyes widened and she almost gasped. Silent tears fell from her Mother's eyes. Only a moment later, Usagi lunged foward into her Mother's arms and cried tears of both anguish and relief. Ikuko simply held her daughter there, and they stayed that way for a long time.
Ikuko wouldn't ask for a while why Usagi thought she couldn't rely on her family for support, and tell her that running away didn't solve problems. But now was not that time.
"I love you, Mom... thank you."
"I love you, too, my baby girl. But I have one question for you."
"Hmm?"
"Can I see her?"
This, of course, made Usagi cry all over again.
But it was short-lived.
"Of course! When?"
"How about... now?"
"Okay."
Usagi and Ikuko had decided it was for the best not to inform Kenji or Shingo of anything yet, mostly because Ikuko thought it wouldn't be as bad if Kenji knew that the Father of his daughter's baby was actually with his daughter. Usagi agreed. Ikuko was happy that Seiya would be back in about a year, though she said Usagi deserved more, anyway. But she would respect Usagi's decision and, if what Usagi said about Seiya was true, than Ikuko would welcome him as a member of the family.
Needless to say there were tears when Ikuko finally met Kari, but only tears of joy. Just like Usagi had, Ikuko immediately fell in love with her granddaughter, and promised Usagi that she would always be there for the two. And of course, Ikuko was very reluctant to let her little girl go away again, especially because of the little child that Usagi had brought along.
Relieved, content, and feeling very relaxed, Usagi decided her day with her friends tomorrow would be free from stress and worrying. And it was.
Usagi came back after that for each of her friends' birthdays. And every one was perfect. The only thing that marred the occasions was the lingering thought that Usagi would eventually have to fill in more people. The thought made her nauseous, and she chose to avoid it for the time being.
-
Year Three: Monday, June 30th
Usagi's twentieth birthday was a blast. Every person who knew about her situation had shown up at her condo in the morning. When she woke up, she was greeted by five smiling faces, a dozen presents, and a HUGE chocolate cake. The surprise had sent her into a fit of laughter and she hopped out of bed to embrace each person. That day was, by far, the best birthday celebration she had ever experienced.
Still, she couldn't help but think that it would be better if there was a certain guy there, too.
All day the sky had been clear and beautiful.
But the night had been overcast and cold.
–
While Usagi hadn't been nervous like she had been in a long time, the "certain guy" had not been as pissed as he was right now in a long time. Years of this torture was enough to make any man partial to violence.
I swear, that if that ridiculous woman touches me again, I'll laser her head off!
The distressed Seiya was currently being pestered by Bella as he attempted to have his dinner, alone. There he had been, sitting under a small tree, enjoying his food, minding his own business, doing nothing to anyone, being perfectly silent, everything was perfect, when Bella had ruined it all.
She had pranced up to him, expressing her sadness at not being able to find him. After sitting next to him, rather close, he had told her to simply go away, because she was interrupting his meal. It was one of the harsher things he had said to her, but he sure wanted to say more. No woman had managed to infuriate him more. He was madly in love with a woman a galaxy away and there was no way he would become fond of the one next to him.
"But doesn't my company make your meal more pleasant, dear?"
"No. And my name is Seiya." He turned to her angrily, after she hadn't moved, to find her face awkwardly close to his. He took a sharp breath and backed away from her immediately, then stood up and backed away again, after seeing her face. Her eyes were opened wider than usual, making her look younger and innocent. The clear sky reflected it's blueness onto them, making them more blue than their actual color. The sun shining on her hair made it more gold than silver, a darker blonde rather than platinum. She almost resembled...
"O-Odango..." he whispered.
"Hmm?" She suddenly turned into Bella again.
Seiya shook his head, then quickly turned and briskly walked away, not sparing her a glance, though her could feel her gaze on him. Damn you, wishful thinking. He didn't know why she didn't pursue him, but it was probably for the better, as he would have had a violent reaction to anything she did.
-
Year Three: Tuesday, September 16th
It was marked in huge, bold, red letters on her calendar. Her alarm clock woke her at five, though she quickly smashed it onto the floor when it went off. Knowing this would happen, Haruka had come to Usagi's house at 5:05 to get her up. Haruka had done so much, and was now making sure Usagi was ready for this day and that Kari was being taken care of.
"Koneko-chan, you have to get up," she said, gently shaking Usagi. When the latter simply grumbled and turned away, Haruka snatched the covers off of her quickly like the wind she was associated with. "KONEKO-CHAN! DON'T YOU KNOW WHAT TODAY IS?"
"Mmph.. dark... and early..."
"Yes, and something else! You were going on and on about it yesterday, and the whole week, and the whole month! Now get up before the might Uranus strikes again!"
No response.
"Koneko-chan... someone's waiting for you in Tokyo."
She bolted up in bed.
"Or will be in a while. But hey, I got you up!"
Usagi frowned, but clumsily got out of bed anyway. The sun was beginning to rise, and the colors of dawn began to grace the clouds, which were in abundance that morning.
As soon as Usagi was fully awake, after the many attempts from Haruka to arouse the drowsy girl from her slumber, she went into her late-for-school mode (though she didn't have to run all the way to Tokyo, just to her little teleportation spot and then to the park). It seemed that she still had some skills from years ago as a teenager. But now she was a woman, having matured mentally and having filled out nicely after having her baby. But still, she was racing to get to a certain spot in a certain park in Tokyo to meet a certain person. Someone she loved with all her heart, someone who had been unconsciously tormenting her since their departure, someone who was the father of her child.
Someone she had not seen in three years.
PHEW! I now wipe the sweat from my brow and sit back in exhaustion!
Man, y'all better review like crazy people for this... I almost died. Very close to death, I tell you. Writing this chapter almost made me flop over and die! 9319... words... WHOA.
One request before I go: read the notes! I have a question for you up in there and such. And that's it. I'd give you a preview of the next chapter (which is TOTALLY, like, the BEST chapter so far), but I'm a lazy bum. Also, be happy with what I just gave you. It was 30... no wait, I just edited. 31 pages long. Exactly. Last chapter was 14. Love me.
Hang tight, the next chapter is the one you've been anticipating. I haven't decided whether or not to break it into two. We'll see.
PS!
Ok so I was at one of my favorite places to munch, and they play oldies and a few more modern songs on there. Paul Simon's "You Can Call Me Al," came on, and I recognized it when I heard the "I'f you'll be my bodyguard" line. Being the Seiya/Usagi freak that I am, I thought, hey, that would make a great storyline for a fic...
So, what do you think?After this fic is over (we're about 2/3 done) would you want another S/U fic from me? And do you think it's a good basis for a storyline? I had already come up with so many ideas in my head, it's crazy! It was funny, me sitting there eating my ice cream while my -new and very attractive- boyfriend looks at me weird. Apparently I had zoned out. Haha, he has NO idea I'm into this sort of stuff. It's hilarious.
So, would y'all read Kaelien's newest fic, "If You'll Be My Bodyguard", if it existed? Do tell, and I'll start it when I finish DLS. Ah, Dirty Little Secret, how I love you!
Laters!
Ok one more thing. Y'all did so gret with review previously, but slacked on the last chapter! It makes me sad. You'd better review for this 31 page chapter, or you won't get the next one for while! Haha, I make such pathetic threats. But you should want it, because... I'll just say that instead of having separate scenes for seiya and Usagi, there are scences with both in them. Uh huh, you know what I'm sayin? Good!