Simple Sweetness

by TropicalRemix

The first half of a journey of finding, losing, and finding again the most important thing of all. Love.-AU Image by: angielaura on deviantart.

14. Chapter 14

Chapter 14

The twins funeral had been held quietly at one of the local Church's in this small mid west city, cradled in the obscurity of the lush northern prairie. Another grand rosy brick chapel, with elaborate carved facades and giant stained glass windows, as they all seemed to be. Deep in the city's down town core, of office towers and narrow one way streets. An elaborate building of rising steeples with a majestic main rotunda in the center of a vast cathedral like roof. With traditional stained glass windows along it's outer walls, that both beckoned in welcome to those who sought spiritual sanctuary. Or loomed accusingly, to all those who were deemed to be living in sin in some way.

The twins came from a humble back ground, with a very large family that lived mostly within the city and surrounding villages. Only family and a few close friends were allowed to attend the service. While the major bulk of the high school populace turned out with out invitation, amassing on the sidewalk just outside the grande glass doors to the front foyer. Some seen as friends, mostly just acquaintances. The majority merely being drawn to be a part of such morbid and highly emotional gatherings. Just to say that they were there, so come monday morning they had something to gossip about in the halls. The horde of high school students, waited out in the cold fall winds. Milling on the side walk just before the large glass and wooden double doors that would led into the grand foyer with a large red carpeted stairwell. Which vaulted upward towards the great chapel, set above in this majestic cathedral.

Darien had been able to attend the funeral itself, on request of Amelia. Who had been the twin's closest friend for many years. He stood stoic and guarded at the very end of a long wooden pew, in one of the center sections of the packed church. Dressed in his best black suit, crisp white shirt, knife pleated black pants and an awkwardly knotted grey tie. With a silent and brooding Amelia sitting in a simple black leather wheel chair beside him in the aisle. The girl was dressed in a simple black dress, with a rounded collar and long tight sleeves that hugged her arms. It was the most conservative article of clothing Darien thought he had ever seen her in. She had even draped a dark navy wool shawl over her shoulder's to keep the fall chill off her skin. Her hair was loose, spiralling over her shoulder's in thick soft green tinted curls. Her emerald green eyes were dull and vacant, laking any vitality. As she absently listened to the priest drone on and on. About the glory of the afterlife that awaited the unfortunate girls. Darien could hear their mother wailing in the front of the church. Along with several male members of their family discretely clearing the bleak emotions from their souls, as they repeatedly cleared their throats.

The air in the church was hot and stuffy, the sunlight filtering in through the flanking stain glass windows casting the mourners in a surreal unearthly pale glow. The grand dome of glass glowing above the parishioners, casting everyone in a sharp hazy light that made one feel sluggish and dozy. The powerful aura of malaise hung heavy around the church, slowly drowning Darien in those same ill feelings he had experienced years before.

Darien hadn't set foot in a church, since his parents funeral's ten years ago. Truthfully he had been kinda an ass to Amelia, vehemently refusing to come to this wretched service. When Amelia had first proposed the idea of him escorting her to the church. His temper and callous attitude had always been his way to protect himself from unwanted situations and feelings. It had surged full force upon Amelia, as he stubbornly refused to accompany her. Adamant and uncaring over how deeply hurt she was, by his lack of sympathy or support. Drawing a line and keeping himself firmly protected from emotional harm, by distancing himself from her pain. Reminding himself that she wasn't a nice person, that he was just using her and should not get attached. Yet the fear and anguish cast in her eyes over going the funeral alone broke his resolve quick enough. In the end he couldn't treat her like a lifeless tool, a means to an end. She was a person, vile or not in pain. She needed someone to lean on, someone to support her through all this.

He had promised himself back when he was a kid that he was never going to be trapped in a church full of fake mourner's yet again. He had found the whole event, pompous and conceited. Hating how powerless he had felt, trapped amongst a flock of strange adults he barely knew. Who were constantly reminding him of his loss with their tears and condolences. Knowing damn well all the attention and sympathy was a fleeting emotion. As soon as his parents were in the ground, all those acquaintances and so called family friends faded away none wanting to be shackled with a kid. Leaving him bouncing from foster home to group home till he turned sixteen and was able to claim adult status and get out on his own.

He had fought and stubbornly refused to come to this thing, wanting to stay as far away from mourning crowds as he could. It was Amelia's true unrestrained tears of loss that had ultimately changed his mind and his heart. He was regretting how cruel and jaded his thoughts of her had been. Yes, she wasn't a very nice person, selfish, arrogant and a every bit a mean spirited loudmouth. But she was still a person, who had feelings and a history that perhaps molded the vicious, self serving young woman she had become. After many long hours talking to her in the hospital. He was now beginning to peel back all those many defensive layer's and coming to understand who Amelia really was. Seeing the girl in a new light, his hatred turning to pity and perhaps an common understanding.

He was uncomfortable and itchy in his heavy, dark polyester suit, nervously pulling at his collar trying to release some of the anxious heat building against his skin. He casually cast his gaze away from his fidgeting hands upon the rim of the highly polished, blonde wooden pew, ahead of him to view the dark polyester suit of a stranger's back. Then to the deathly silent Amelia beside him. The strong willed girl was staring straight ahead at the ivory white caskets surrounded by a florists garden of mourning flowers. The priest's wide red velvet dais sat just behind the wreaths of lilly's and roses. While the portly priest himself paced back and forth in his white robes behind a large ceremonial mahogany alter. A white silk runner cascading over the edges, scattered with the various religious items he may need to carry out an honourable funeral service.

Amelia looked so still and stiff in her wheel chair, barely breathing even. That she seemed to resemble a doll more then a living thing. He reached out to her then, clasping one of her hands that was braced white knuckled in her lap with one of his. The warmth of his hand seeking to comfort the hurting girl.

"Don't" She hissed back with mild threat, never taking her eyes off the caskets.

Darien released her hand in understanding, catching sight of the tears beading in the corner of her piercing ivy green eyes. That she fought vehemently to contain. Swallowing hard and blinking the tears away angrily. Refusing to break down in public, now allowing the weight of her guilt to crush her just yet.

He had been the very same at his parents funeral, wearing the same dower mask of emotional strength. As if crying, or mourning their loss among the strangers in the church would be a show of weakness. He had kept his tears firmly contained. Until he was alone in his sparce white washed room back the Family Shelter they had placed him a few days prior. There he had cried himself hoarse, upon his simple iron cot, all alone and sealed up tight behind his locked bedroom door. It took him three days to emerge, finally forced from hiding by his hunger and the frightened Social Worker threatening to break down the door if he didn't come out. He understood Amelia on so many more levels now, a common ground that had released her from her pawn status and upgraded her in his eyes as perhaps someone he could call a friend. She hated Daniel as much as he did, had gone through as much unjust hardships in her own ways as he had. He was no longer going to use her, he would find his blackmail material else were. She was now free of his loathing, had become a person in his eyes. He would treat her now with respect and true kindness. A level of friendship only a few could lay claim to in his well fortified and jaded heart. He would be by her side until she was strong enough to stand on her own again, both in body and spirit. All the while he would never betray Serena, he would keep his promises. Amelia would soon come to understand that they would and could only be close friends and nothing more, his heart belonged to another.

The service ended in a slow meandering stampede of all the mourner's making their ways down the aisles towards the back of the church. Amelia refused to move out of their way, sitting as still as stone, staring unblinking towards the twin caskets at the front before the velvet dais. Forcing the crowds to slow and part as they moved politely around her wheelchair.

"I want to pay my final respects." She whispered tightly, as soon as the crowds thinned, pushing her wheels. Urging her chair forward, with Darien trailing respectfully behind her. She wished no help from him or anyone in concerns to her locomotion. She was a fighter, would always stare the disaster's in her life in the eye. Meet them on her own terms and prevail, as she had through out her life.

Amelia slowly made her way towards the open caskets, finding bitterly they were mounted to high for her to look inside while seated. With a frustrated curse she cast Darien a pleading look. He rushed to her side, helping to ease her broken body out of the chair. Leaning herself against his chest, her arms wrapped around his strong neck. As he easily held her slender body up right, with strong bracing arms around her hour glass waist.

As she stared down at the two identical blondes, laying so serene and peaceful in their white silk resting places. Silent tears finally began to trail down her elegant cheeks. Streaking painfully hot, burning her sensitive skin to drip off her chin. As she worried her lower lip, trying and failing to contain the agony now coursing rampantly through her. Her body trembled as she finally released her pent up misery. No longer allowing it to fester, as it did during the service. Staring down at the twins, with a mixture of bewilderment and agony. They looked as if asleep, dressed in matching simple white gowns. Each holding one lone white lily in their clasped hands, upon their stomachs. Their long honey blonde hair draped over the white silk pillow beneath their heads, looking like immortal angels. It all seemed so surreal, as if this tragic moment could just be a nightmare she might wake up from. The bitterness that this nightmare was reality for her, roiled in her gut like caustic acid, eating away at her even more. Having such fanciful thoughts only burdened her further, she needed to deal with her guilt and her crushing loneliness herself. She was no stranger to strife, it had walked beside her her whole life. Piling one injustice upon her after another, as if she was born cursed. She had struggled and strived to become a island onto herself, strong and self reliant. She had wanted to one day know happiness and live well and that promise alone is what kept her going before. Now with so much pain and guilt heaped upon her, crushing her soul so thoroughly, she wondered if she still had the strength to go on? If she even wanted too...it would be just to easy to let it all go and follow her friends?

"Hi..." She breathed nervously, giving the mute corpses a painful smile.

"I am so sorry...you guys." She faltered into sobs, her face crumpling away into unrestrained pain.

"Forgive me...please." She pleaded brokenly to her forever silent friends, curling her face into Darien's shoulder as she wept bitterly. She blamed herself for dragging the twins out to the rocks that night, she was the one driving...always the one that needed to be in charge. She never ever felt secure allowing others to lead her. Now her rash choices, her failures as a leader had resulted in their deaths. She could barely live with herself now. Daniel had warned her about the storm with a text before she had headed out that night. She never paid it any mind, he always had a hidden agenda and she had long since stopped obeying his commands. But then he had come to the hospital after just to rub it in... The Bastard!

Daniel was another who needed constant control, and since she hadn't heeded him that night he felt he had to reclaim his control. Which was the reason for his little visit. When Darien had returned after giving in to her demands to let her have some alone time with Daniel. He had found her in quiet tears, refusing to even look at him as she brooded over Daniel's cruel words. Knowing it had been something Daniel had said, it only fuelled his hatred of the guy. But she never shared what happened when he asked, and he didn't press because she was in enough emotional pain.

The reason she hadn't listened to Daniel that night, was she had felt threatened by Serena and needed to be out there to make sure nothing happened between her and Darien. She had a fierce competitive streak, and needed to always be at the top. She didn't want Serena messing up her plans, by further attracting her man away from her. Refusing to allow the little clueless freshmen any kind of break to take Darien out from under her. He was her ticket for seeking more power over the cattle at Cross Roads, by being Darien's girl. Her reign over Cross Roads High would be secure and she would have her revenge on Daniel. Yet she had never even found him in the crowds of the bush party that night, before the mad scramble of evacuation from the valley. It had been a total waste of time anyway. She regretted her actions, allowing her jealousy to rule her good sense, resulting in her closest friends getting killed. She barely remembered what happened one minute she was screaming at her terrorfied friends wailing in the car. Needing to focus on her driving while their sobs and screams were distracting her. Making it more difficult to navigate through the raging storm. She could not see through the rain, couldn't hear the roaring of the wind before it was to late. Then they were air borne in seconds, her little car cast miles into a field like a forgotten toy. The last thing she could recall was looking at her two friends silent terror. One twin sat beside her gripping the dash, her blue eyes wild. Her sister had cowered down in the back seat, mewling like an infant. Then the world exploded around them as they crashed back to earth, darkness claimed them all and she was the only one to reclaim the light once more. Suffering a compressed spinal cord some dislocated disks, a shattered pelvis, a punctured lung and various broken ribs. Having had to be pulled from the cars crumpled and twisted hulk with the jaws of life. She had been given a second chance, she might walk again if she fought hard enough. Her struggle just seemed so insurmountable. She just wondered if she wanted to keep fighting?

The universe was trying to tell her something, but she was just to angry to listen to it just now.

"Lets go!" She cried out in fury, twisting in his grasp to get back into her chair. To escape the turmoil writhing in her gut by confronting her dead friends.

Darien walked sombrely behind Amelia's chair, as she slammed her palm against the large silver button for the automatic door at the front of the church. Angrily rolling out of the church into the cold wind outside, rudely pushing her chair through the milling crowds out front as if it was a weapon. The people swiftly moved aside to allow her to pass. Darien glanced nervously around the crowds, his gut was on fire to many intense emotions surrounding him and filling him at the same time. It was getting rather suffocating now, he was wishing to be anywhere but here dealing with it all. A mental wish of finding solace out in the rocks, soon shrouding his thoughts. As soon as this was all over, he was going to pack up and disappear for a few days out there. Then he caught sight of her...her golden blonde tails fluttering out from behind the back of some stranger in a grey suit. Blinking he swallowed hard, as her sweet angelic face peered around the man's elbow to stare mournfully up to him. Her clear brilliant blue eyes full of compassion and sympathy for what he was going through. Then falling timidly towards Amelia, taking in all the pain she was feeling right now. Understanding it all...

As he passed by into the fringe of the crowd, he silently bid her a small nod of thanks that she would show and give Amelia her support. Serena gave him a small smile and nod as well, her beautiful face hidden just behind a semi-opaque dark mourner's veil. Meekly clasping her hands before her, dressed in a simple black dress with a conservative victorian collar. A very old style oval ivory brooch pinned to the rounded trim that hugged her neck. A black velvet vest was buttoned over the dresses light material. Long flowing skirts that trailed down to her ankles, twisting around her slender legs in the wind. Long flowing translucent black sleeves trailed down her arms, ending in very wide black cuffs.

She adorned her head with a small black translucent veil of Tulle, falling discretely over her saddened features. Attached to a tiny rounded hat pinned just before one of her buns, her white darted barrette sat just above her golden fringe. She looked strangely gothic, yet elegant at the same time. She was amazingly beautiful even in mourning. Standing alone in the middle of the mob of humbled adults, not truly able to blend into them. As she quietly watched him leave sadly down the street with Amelia.

The sky was slowly filling with heavy grey clouds, that began to obscure the dull blue sky on the out skirts of the city. Swallowing the light and casting the prairie below into a grim shade. The bitter cold winds of coming winter picked up and began to howl around Serena, as she walked a lonely path through the sprawling graveyard. Her long dark skirts fluttering and twisting in the wind, her long golden tails snapping behind her like bright ribbons through the encompassing gloom. Her dark leather boots crunching softly over the clumps of dry grass and loose stones. The chill wind assaulting the trees that curtained around and within the solemn graveyard. A scattering of small groves of fall coloured trees surrounded her, the wind whispering through the branches almost ominously. While silent stone guardian angels stood sombrely, scattered among the rows of old grave stones, and more modern metal plaques. Far off in the distance of the fall enshrouded, sacred ground, stood several small stone mausoleums. Faint ghosts on the horizon of a time long ago, when the bodies of a families dead were laid to rest within stone walls. Allowed to have eternity laying safely and with respect among their ancestors. Awaiting the ones they loved in life, to join them there in death. Instead of being crowded together within the earth, in urns or caskets to rot away in time.

The brief final memorial service was optional to all who had known the twins. A good number of high school peers had already arrived and were clustered around the opened ground far ahead.

As Serena moved softly yet steadily up the corridor of grave stones towards the mass of friends and family standing around two fresh graves. Their heads bowed listening to the priest in now all black robes giving final rights, putting the two girls to their eternal rest. She quietly took her place near the back of the mourner's, her stomach filled with an uneasy burning. The dull baritone of the priests words echoing around her, vibrating within her very soul. Her mind filling with anguished thoughts of her own lost mother. She had never been given the chance to attend her mother's funeral service, if she even had one. She had never been able to say goodbye...

"God our Father, Your power brings us to birth, Your providence guides our lives, and by Your command we return to dust." His deep voice rumbled out over the bowed heads.

Serena sniffed, holding steadfast onto her dismal sobs, closing her eyes as she slowly bowed her head. As memories of her mother flooded her thoughts. Her gentle smile, her voice to which she barely remembered now. Was a sad whisper in her mind's eye. That thought frightened her like nothing before. Swallowing the growing lump of grief in her throat she sought to delve harder into those bitter sweet memories wanting to resurrect anything and everything she might recall of her mother. Terrorfied now that she was dieing all over again by her faded remembrance of her.

"Lord, those who die still live in Your presence, their lives change but do not end. I pray in hope for their family, relatives and friends, and for all the dead known to You alone." His voice rang like a reaper scythe. Finalizing the loss of the twins and all who had passed before.

Serena jammed a knuckle into her mouth, biting down hard to hold her powerful sob back. She couldn't remember anymore what her mother's voice truly sounded like...she could see her speaking but there was no decipherable sound to accompany the memory. Just an beautiful image of her, burned long ago into her heart. She had been in their small vegetable garden out back, of their middle class home back in Minato ward. The sun was glowing behind her, casting a halo around her dark curly hair. Dressed modestly in pleated grey skirts and a pearl white blouse, a frilly off-white apron tied up around her waist. As she tended to the fragile plants, a content almost peaceful aura surrounding her. She was smiling in that patient, motherly way down towards her daughter. Speaking softly but Serena had no memory of what she was saying. It was slowly killing her now that her mother had begun fading from her memories.

She truly didn't think of her much over the years, her own issues with life taking up most of her thoughts. Her mothers memory was now like a moth eaten photo. Full of holes and faded colours, of a time in her life that was slowly dissolving away into nothing. The terror that gripped her was an all consuming, suffocation of tortured emotions. That held her heart in a vice like grip, her chest constricting with the pain of raw unrestrained grief. She couldn't breathe, as panic set in. Her chest was heavy as if a great weight was bearing down upon her, her unresolved grief seeking to crush her.

"In company with the Lord, May they rejoice in Your kingdom, where all our tears are wiped away. Unite us together again in one family, to sing Your praise forever and ever. Amen." The priest finished in clipped tones, as the people echoed back.

"Amen." A sea of hushed voices repeated.

Serena was having a hard time containing her sobs now. Clenching her teeth around her knuckle and hissing plaintively, while her other hand clutched fiercely at the dark material of her dress near her heart. Her self loathing at forgetting her mother eating away at what remained of her tentative resolve. A sharp cry escaped her, even as she bit down harder on her knuckle drawing blood. She was breaking down now as more painful sobs shuttered through her. Tears flowing down her cheeks unchecked, as her shoulder's trembled under the weight of her long contained sadness. Her great despair bombarding her until like a broken dam, her eyes were releasing all her pent up agony in a rain of tears. That dripped off her bowed chin upon the dry grass at her feet.

Why couldn't she remember her mother's voice, squeezing her eyes shut tight. She forced all her will upon that one memory trying to hear just one word. But only silence remained, echoing louder then thunder in her soul. She had forgotten a piece of her mother, it was gone forever. The realization hit her like a sledge hammer in the gut, her resolve finally shattered with a wail of utter misery.

Amelia heard Serena's broken cry echo over the whispered voices, it irritated her to no end. Scanning the crowds for the unwanted intruder with a cold, scathing glare. How dare she cry...her rage was building within her. At every pathetic hiccup and moan the blonde the made. She didn't know the twins, had barely spoken more then a dozen words to them. Yet here she was making a spectacle of herself, drawing attention away from the dead girls coffins now lowering into the ground, with her selfish melodramatics. The crowd of people were now glancing around trying to pin point the sudden loud sobs emitting from the back. Even the twins mother who was sobbing quietly now, at the front was distracted by the raw pain echoing from the back of the crowds. She had been leaning into her husband for support but her own cries couldn't compete with the complete despair echoing from the fringe of the mourners.

Amelia was seething now, her hatred for Serena reaching new heights.

How dare she taint this sacred moment with her selfish blubbering!

The twin's funeral had not brought her any closer to peace only sinking further into a consuming anger and unjust bitterness that they had died. Leaving her all alone to mourn them, all alone and friendless. Left to be surrounded by the fake and shallow cattle of Cross Roads. Her inner fury was now redirected away from herself towards the one she could easily blame for everything. If it hadn't been for her, then she would have listened to Daniel and not gone out there. All of this was the stupid freshman's fault!

Darien had been standing at the front with Amelia, watching the coffin's lowering into the ground. His own emotions frayed from the constant bombardment of sorrow around him all day. When his 'Simple Sweetness' had choked out a small, painful sob, weeping just loud enough to drown out the hushed mourners briefly. The sound clenched at his heart, as he was quickly scanning the crowds behind him, searching for her.

Raye, Mina and Amy were in attendance as well. Standing far off from the main crowds, out near the edge on the other side of the mourners. Each dressed in their own dark outfits. Amy in dark dress pants and a simple grey blouse, with a black poly-blend vest over top. Raye more refined in a velvet black dress, that had a long heavy skirt with black floral embroidery within the pleats. Mina was more casual in black jeans and a tight black shirt with long sleeves. When they too heard Serena's short bursts of sorrow. Now they were in motion, wading through the crowds to seek her out. Raye and Amy had told her to stay away from the funeral, knowing it would affect their overly compassionate friend. But she could be so stubborn, her sense of morals preventing her from callously disregarding the ceremony or Amelia's pain. She had known the twins, even briefly she felt she needed to pay her respects and support Amelia who was no doubt suffering. That was just Serena, always putting other's first. Yet now she was the one suffering the greatest, her unresolved past eating her up inside once more.

Raye paid Amy a knowing look, having heard that kind of bitter, heart broken sobs before. The reserved, short haired girl grimaced, her lips forming a thin line. It had been years since they heard such soul shattering anguish from their usually bubbly friend. They were the only people beside Lita who knew Serena's past and her great and deadly secret. It had been by accident one summer night years ago after experimenting with alcohol for the first time. They were all hanging out in Lita's apartment playing drinking games and just joking around as best friends tend to. When a very drunk Serena had done a one eighty from blissful inebriation to near suicidal grief. Divulging her past in one fluid emotional tirade, throwing pillows and anything else she could get her hands on. As she sobbed and raged for close to an hour, leaving her friends stunned by her tragic past. Then swiftly finished her brutal assault of Lita's living room by dashing away to the bathroom to throw up, never to touch alcohol again. They had comforted her, bandaged her psychological wounds as best they could, and never spoke of it again. She had sworn them to secrecy, stating that their own lives were now at risk because of her stupidity that night. But that secret and that night had bonded them more strongly then steel. For she wasn't the only one to confess her true self that night, every one of them took a turn purging themselves upon the others. They were a sisterhood now and forever...

Raye and Amy moved with purpose now, pushing as politely as they could to reach her side. Knowing she was unraveling. Her insurmountable grief crushing her yet again.

Amelia couldn't stand it any longer, that damn girl was once again drawing unwanted attention. With a furious snarl, she spun her chair upon the grass and pushed rudely back through the crowds. Her eyes flaring with an oncoming wrath, so fierce and profound it could lay waste any who got in her way. As she scanned the confused mourner's, now slipping franticly out of her way, for that obvious hairstyle of golden tails. Catching sight of the frail young woman as she rolled out into the open behind the muttering crowd. Serena was standing on shaking legs, the palm of her hand pressed tight against her mouth trying in vain to hold her loud sobs in, as tears flooded down her rosy cheeks. Valiantly trying to quell her sobbing, and force herself to calm down. Her blue eyes wide, franticly searching beyond the crowds and grave stones surrounding her. Looking for a discrete avenue for escape, her sobs becoming uncontrollable. Serena wasn't a gentle crier, when consumed by her emotions. She was embarrassingly loud, her small voice amplified by shuttering wails and body wrenching sobs. Sounding more like a wounded animal then a person.

"Shut the hell up! Serena!" The lime tinted woman exploded up at the very nervous and hurting freshman.

Serena spun back, she had just started taking her leave towards the line of grave stones behind the crowds when Amelia cursed out at her.

"I'm sorry..." She stuttered timidly, knowing her overly loud sobs had rudely disturbed the service.

"What right do you have to cry!" Amelia screamed up at her, spit flying from her mouth in her fury.

Serena never answered, merely stood frozen in front of her, hands clasped meekly in front of her waist.

"You are ruining this whole funeral with your annoying wails! You stupid, ugly, attention seeking whore!" She growled, as Serena stood before her taking the girls continuing abuse silently. Understanding she was merely venting, needing to find a target to cleanse her heart's pain. If this was how she was needed then Serena could endure Amelia's rage.

She had suffered in silence much of her own father's grief and rage over the years. She had managed a thicker skin to absorb such brutal verbal assaults.

Amelia then pinched her hard in the arm, glaring furiously up at her. Her weak submissive pose only fuelling her irrational anger.

"This is all your fault! It's your fault their dead, your fault. " The brutal accusation ripped forth from her lips, as if torn from her very soul. "I blame you for everything! I hate you, I Hate YOU, with every fibre of my being Serena. " She growled, watching smugly as more tears slid down the silent blonde's cheeks. Looking stricken and hurt beyond belief, submissively taking her rage and pain. Her hateful words lashing her heart, biting deep like the snap of a whip.

"You are nothing...nothing. " Amelia whispered, taking a deep, shuddering breath before keep up her verbal attack, her

own tears streaming again. "If it wasn't for you. Darien would want me. I wouldn't have gone out there. You don't even

try...he looks at you with such honest affection...and you don't even try..." She breathed, her voice croaking on her jealous

tears. Loathing herself, and despising Serena and the whole world all at once. She felt like she wanted to explode,

needing to scream and attack, and roar at how unjust fate was. So tired of having to try so hard to feel wanted, to feel

valued by others. So angry at herself for how she had treated the only two people who had truly cared about her. Now she

was alone, with only her rage to soothe the ache that was eating away at her soul.

Standing stiffly before Amelia, her eyes wet and full of sympathy. Serena was only beginning to understand what had happened that fateful night, and how completely Amelia truly hated her. Her breath was shallow and rattled weakly in her chest, her heart beating like the wings of a frightened bird in her chest.

"They were good girls, they didn't deserve...were to young...to beautiful...it's not fair!"Amelia sobbed, hanging her head in shame. Her tears bathing the knees of her black dress, as she sat with a completely shattered spirit in her wheel chair.

Darien pushed himself franticly through the crowds after Amelia, knowing the girls rage was directed towards a totally unaware and emotionally fragile Serena. Who didn't deserve the girls wrath in any way. Darien burst through the mourner's in time to see Amelia screaming up at Serena from her wheel chair. Intent on taking a swing for the short girls bowed face with an open hand.

As he burst down the grass aiming to break up the coming violence. Serena's friends were just converging upon both girls in mid confrontation on the other side.

He watched in morbid fascination as Serena took the slap with out comment, her head snapping to the side with out emotion. Slowly bringing her sad blue eyes back upon the broken girl before her, her sweet face tear stained and twisted with misery of her own. Then tentatively began reaching for Amelia, seeking to comfort her by pulling her into her embrace. As her delicate hand clasped the seated woman's trembling shoulders, Amelia sucked in a cold breath before irrupting upon her yet again.

"Don't you dare touch me!" She screamed, batting her hands off viciously.

"You stupid, slu..." She never got a chance to finish, before Raye's hand swung out and clocked her across the cheek. Amelia's head snapped to the side, her curse silenced by Raye's sudden violence. The raven haired girl moved in front of Serena, seething and glaring dangerously down at Amelia. Becoming a human shield to ward off Amelia's further attacks. While Amy interceded, guiding the now tragically sobbing Serena off into the graveyard. While Mina stood completely stunned just behind Raye.

Darien finally made it to the two girls now engaged in a glaring death match. Grasping the dark leather handles of Amelia's wheel chair, he sought to soothe the situation.

"Amelia, lets get you home. " He offered compassionately, all the while staring mournfully towards Serena. Who was now sobbing uncontrollably in Amy's tender embrace a few rows of grave stones away. Huddled in the gentle girls arms, her face cradled lovingly under her chin. As Amy offered comfort with soft whispers and soothing strokes of her hands up and down Serena's back. As she trembled and quaked in her arms, clutching her hands tight into the slightly taller girls shoulder's seeking to burrow deeper into her as she bathed her shirt in her tears.

He so wanted to go to her, to help comfort and soothe her pain. Even though he had no understanding as to why she was so very upset. Just knowing she was hurting was enough for him, his heart was straining with conflict. Amelia had no one to lean on right now, Serena at least had her girlfriends.

"Take her away, Shields. Before I lose my temper for real." Raye growled, her eyes ablaze with righteous fury. Her slight body shaking with the effort to restrain herself from further violence.

"Try it bitch!" Amelia snarled back, even though she was in a broken body. Her fierce sense of self never faltered. She may not be able to defend herself physically very well anymore, but the weapon of her venomous tongue still worked just fine.

"You are nothing but a shrill, cold hearted Harpy!" Raye snarled back, "Your not worth beating down." She scoffed, turning her back on Amelia just to spite her rage.

Amelia narrowed her eyes, wondering darkly if her new hated nickname around the school had started from this girls wretched lips. She hated Raye as much if not more then Serena. As a politician's daughter she had everything, Amelia coveted. Wealth, good standing in the community and a bright future at an Ivy League University that only money could buy. She had everything handed to her with out having to work hard for any of it. Everyone loved her with out question, with out her having to earn it. Just because her father was someone powerful in the local government. Her righteous, better then thou attitude only fuelled Amelia's need to beat her down in any way she could. To prove to everyone at Cross Roads that she held more power, more influence, that Raye would never get the better of her. That at least at school she was Queen, and she had earned that title through three years of hard work on the Cheer Team. Building a reputation of excellence and taking her team year after year to the finals. The football team had never been anything great, but the Cheer Squad had been champions in the past. On a personal level the High School populace knew to fear her, that she ruled with an iron fist. Those who crossed her were quickly brought to heel and banished from the social scene. Destined to fade into obscurity until graduation. But Raye had refused to submit! Always finding subtle ways to fight back against her, public and social abuses at Cross Roads. Able to keep her pride and dignity firmly attached, even after everything she had done to her to try and drag her down. The hatred that seethed inside her heart now burned hot and molten like a volcano wanting to irrupt.

"Ok...play nice ladies. This is a funeral now." Darien chidded both of them, quickly pushing Amelia away. Glancing over his shoulder repeatedly, keeping a close eye on Serena wishing he could be at her side. Acknowledging that her friends were now surrounding her, comforting her in their own ways.

"I can't believe you just decked a cripple." Mina commented, laughing dryly, as they moved swiftly towards Amy and Serena.

Raye smirked with satisfaction at her briefly, before directing all her intentions on task. Pulling Serena from Amy's arms and embracing her tightly. Petting the back of her head tenderly, whispering low and comforting in her ear seeking to soothe her heart breaking sobs.

Mina stood somewhat uselessly nearby not knowing why Serena was so upset, Amy caught on to Mina's unease.

Casting Raye a knowing look and quickly beginning crisis management.

"We'll see you at Fruits in a little while?" The short haired girl offered, heading towards the floundering Mina. Who was standing unsure and fretting nearby, wanting to comfort Serena but feeling she would be intruding if she approached. She was the newest member of this group and still some what of an outsider.

Raye merely nodded, cradling Serena's head tight to her breast, as the two other girls wandered away. It wasn't their place to inform Mina about Serena's past. They would not over step the trust the little blonde had given them.

Raye silently allowed Usagi to draw away meekly, embarrassed and shamed by her weak behaviour. As she lightly sought out the blondes hand with her own, clasping it tight just like when they were in elementary. She gave the soggy girl a warm smile guiding her away from the mourners. Moving deeper into the avenues of trees and grave stones.

"It's going to be ok. Usagi." Raye sighed, using Serena's given name as an intimate way to reach through her pain. Her dark hair fluttering in the wind as she shepherded Serena ever deeper into the cemetery. As her dearest friend merely sniffed loudly, rubbing a finger under her dripping nose, never lifting her head from watching her feet shuffle before her.

"Just breathe..." Raye took a deep breath then released it in a drawn out somewhat exaggerated way.

Usagi reluctantly began to take deep breaths, mimicking her closest friend.

"I am such an idiot..." Usagi finally spoke, her voice a faint croak.

"No, you are not." Raye stated grumpily.

"Breaking down like that was so selfish, I ruined that service with my blubbering." She growled, casting a sad look over her shoulder at the dull silhouette of the funeral far in the distance.

"Never feel ashamed of your feelings!" Raye turned, griping both of her hands. Her dark soulful brown eyes boring into Usagi's with a fierceness that Usagi wished she could emulate. "You are allowed to feel sad, to feel mad, to want things...you are allowed to tell people how you feel, what you want, what you need to be happy. You have that right, ya know!" She stated vehemently. Needing her soft spoken, kind hearted friend to stop her self loathing. Raye some times felt Usagi had no spine at all, and that if she could she would give her some of her own. In the end all she could do was protect and defend the sweet girl from the cruelty of the world. Lita as well had taken on that role, knowing right away she could never be as pure and kind in spirit as Usagi. So she wished to protect and defend the innocent little blonde as well. Never wanting the real world to tarnish her kind heart. Amy was more timid then even Usagi so she had always taken on a more back up role in taking care of their sweet little bunny. She looked out for Usagi as well but in more subtle ways, as in playing diversion by taking Mina away so Usagi didn't have to try and explain her pain to an obviously curious Mina. So Raye could speak frankly with Usagi, to comfort and care for her in all the ways she needed, and allow her secret to remain hidden.

"I've forgotten my mother..." Usagi whispered brokenly, smiling weakly and swallowing the lump in her throat from crying. Needing to bear her heart and change the tense subject at the same time. Raye lightly brushed some of the golden fringe out of her gorgeous shimmering baby blue eyes. Giving her a rueful look.

"You sure are a pain in the ass some times, Tsukino. Will you ever try to defend yourself, you need to speak up more and stop being everyones punching bag!" She commented unwilling to be sidetracked, knowing damn well her words barely sunk in past her hair line. The girl was just not that bold, at least not with people she barely knew. Easily cowed, and easily scared Usagi usually ended up in tears more then fist fights. With a heavy sigh, she smiled knowingly down at the bowed girl shelving her tirade and seeking to deal with the issues at hand.

"I want to show you something." Raye held her hand tight, leading her off under a canopy of bronze leafed trees. Heading to the far side of the grave yard, taking to a narrow foot trail that wound lazily between much older grave markers. Raye searched the rows they past, as Usagi glanced up at the great stone angel now crossing their path. She was serene and some what sad, in flowing stone robes. Her long hair dancing between her two outstretched dove wings, as she bowed in respect to the dead. Her slender hands clasped in prayer upon her breast, almond shaped eyes staring unseeing towards the graves that surrounded her. Her pure countenance slightly marred by mud, dirt and moss. A stoic eternal guardian to the dead. The angel brought her peace, a sense of tranquility falling over her soul that now matter how painful life could get. There might be a higher power at work, protecting all the souls of earth and that in the end everyone could know happiness and peace.

Usagi gasped, startled as she felt Raye's hand yank her down to her knees. She fell to the ground with out resistance, finding her ebony haired best friend upon her knees beside her. Rapping her knuckles smartly upon a simple metal engraved rectangular plaque that marked a grave. The grass cut short and weeded immaculately, showing that someone took great care in tending this particular grave site.

"Hi, Mom." Raye stated cheerfully.

Usagi just looked at her with doubtful eyes, not able to understand how Raye could be so happy when visiting her mother's grave. If it was her mother she would be in tears...the very thought of her lost mother, dragged her down rather deep into a pit of complete ```````anguish.

"I want you to meet a good friend of mine, her name is Usagi Tsukino." Raye began passing Usagi a bright smile, though she had tears in her eyes now. "She lost her mother a few years back, and she misses her very much. If you ever run into her..." Raye stopped, looking at her quizzically. "What's your mother's name?" She questioned.

Usagi looked at her quizzically, as if the girl had suddenly grown two heads.

"Well if mom's spirit runs into her spirit, up there in heaven or where ever our souls go when they pass on. She will need to know what she looks like and what her name is to pass on my message. " Raye finished with a encouraging smile, wanting Usagi to just go with it. This was a very private almost sacred practice she was letting her dear friend participate in. Raye always talked to her mother's grave as if she was not really gone, but just resting. Able to listen to all her daughter's secrets, hopes, wishes and dreams that she would share only with her grave.

Usagi sighed, giving Raye a rueful grin, shaking her head and feeling foolish.

"Well, she is short like me. With long wavy dark black hair and the most beautiful soft blue eyes. She likes to wear very feminine dresses, with lace or cute frills or...her favourite Yukata. It was the most beautiful lavender silk, with pink cherry blossoms all over it. Yeah...she would most probably wear that. Her name was..." Usagi rambled on, her mind scrolling through all the wonderful things she remembered about her mother.

"Is." Raye instructed, her brown eyes shining with compassionate warmth.

Usagi giggled, "Yes...Is. Her name is Ikuko Tsukino..and she would be very shy when you first meet her. But she is really friendly and kind once you get to know her though. She loves flowers, and can cook the most delicious cakes you have ever tasted." Usagi kept on, grinning happily as she continued to boast about how amazing her mother was. Going on and on about her most favourite things, what she disliked, and what she most loved about knowing her mother.

While Raye got comfortable listening to every loving word her friend spoke. Revelling in the fond memories now flowing like soothing water from the once sorrow filled Usagi. After a bit Usagi grew quiet once more, staring at her with such grateful fondness it was bringing tears to Raye's eyes. Realizing that she would never forget her mother, that it was impossible. Even though she may not think of her everyday, a large part of her heart would always enshrine her memory. She lighter now, more free. As if a great burden had been lifted from her heart and soul.

"I love you, Raye." She whispered, falling into the dark haired girls embrace once more. Holding tight, with no more tears, her heart lifted along with her spirit by the sly wisdom bestowed upon her by her dear friend.

"Just because she can't be with you, it doesn't mean she's gone. She lives in you, in how you carry yourself as a demure, quietly strong woman. She taught you so much with out even trying. In all the ways you show love and kindness. We all know that she raised you with that same love and kindness. In the ways you laugh and smile, we know she taught you to see the goodness all around you. In the quiet moments, when we find you lost in thought. We know you are thinking about her, loving her, remembering her and cherishing all that she was as a mother. Even if her memory becomes less vivid over the years, you honour her every day by living. By trying to find happiness. " Raye finished, staring sternly into her eyes needing her to understand.

"How did you get to be so wise?" Usagi sighed, pulling away from her and sitting primely on her butt with her hands in her lap.

"I lost my mom to cancer when I was quite young." Raye began, divulging to her the full story of her past for the first time. Usagi had gotten bits and pieces over the years. A brutally truthful version of how upset and enraged she was about her father continued absence that fateful night of drunken sharing. How he always placed his career in politics over his families needs. Expecting everyone to just tow the line and not interfere in his ambitions. But Raye guarded her past as fiercely as her true thoughts and feelings. Usagi listened with wonder and awe at how truly strong her friend was. How her ailing grandfather had moved into their home, instead of an seniors residence. How her mother wished to care for him, in his final years. But ended up getting cancer instead. Passing that responsibility to her daughter. How she had cared for her grandfather and her mother, as she slowly succumbed to the terminal disease. Learning all she could about running the house and caring for her grandfathers needs, as her mothers body slowly began to fail. After she lost her mother in the early years of elementary, she was left to care for her father and grandfather. Her father worked and traveled all over the country, being in state politics. Leaving her elderly, grandfather in her care for weeks on end. She became the woman of the household, taking care of the cleaning, cooking and shopping. She was eager and proud to take on her mothers role as caregiver and manager of their house. She may be in high school but she had become an adult at the tender age of ten.

"Grandfather will be passing soon, and then I will pretty much be on my own." Raye sighed at the end of her tale. "But I think I'm ready." she finished with a bitter grin.

"Oh, Raye...your amazing." Usagi breathed, cupping her cheeks with her hands. Holding the girls watery gaze with a tender strength.

"Thanks, Usagi." She commented, lightly patting her cupping hands before rising up to her feet.

"Shall we get to 'Fruits?' " Raye asked, offering her a hand up.

"Yeah. " Usagi sighed, rising up to her own feet and taking Raye's hand. They walked out of the graveyard hand in hand offering comfort and strength to one another.

The evening sun was a burning ember upon the tree framed horizon. The underside of the low lying clouds that converged upon the tree line, just past the football field glowed in a painter's light. Of bold blazing color and somber undertones of lavender shade. As Darien packed and ready to head out to Crescent Valley in his truck, passed by the high school. Eager to hide for the remainder of the weekend. He had his window down and an arm resting upon the doorframe, dressed in a pair of faded jeans, his heavy tan steel toe hiking boots. With a black turtle neck with a navy and black Hurley plaid hoody over top. He was slowly driving past the field, when he heard the dull beats of dance music echoing through his open window. Casting his head to the side mildly taking in the beat up bleachers, and the old field with the blinding sun sinking just behind the line of trees beyond. Catching sight of a slight figure moving in the faint dusk light, dressed in a pair of tight black spandex kick pants and matching body suit with a pink hoody tied around her waist. Her golden tails whipping around as she moved fluidly from one dance move to another. Transitioning almost eroticly from lock and popping with her arms, to swinging her hips down into a series of floor work. Of revolving her body around one bracing arm, into a series of break dancing moves. Darien was quickly enraptured with her talent once again, turning his black Ridgeline into the High Schools parking lot. Minutes later, he moved briskly along the side of the bleacher's, the light beats of dance music echoing around him.

(Body rock...theres no fate.. fly with me.. on the wave of the future...)

A trance techno remix that enthralled the listener, with a low thrumming beat and rhythmic chanting filled the air. A song easily found in almost any dance club in the city.

Serena moved in a flurry of full body movements, leaping and spinning upon the turf. Her golden tails snapping and twisting around her body like gloriously brilliant streamers. Her face red, flushed with sweat as if she had been at it for a long time. Pushing her body and mind well beyond it's normal endurance. He leaned against the bleacher's amazed by how ungodly beautiful she was when dancing. He could see those white darts in her hair glowing in the half light, as if they had some inner power charging them.

The dance music transitioned into another song and she continued to move fluidly through another series of routines. Completely enthralled by her music and her body's twisting and arching to the beats. The passion she displayed was intoxicating, her focus so intense it reminded him of how he was when sparing in the cage.

God she was amazing...

The music suddenly died breaking the spell. Serena stopped in mid lunge, planting her sneaker clad foot firmly upon the grass, gliding her other leg down slowly. Her gentle blue eyes growing wide in surprise as she found Darien leaning casually against the bleacher's. His arms crossed over his hoody covered chest, grinning with pride, his soulful blue eyes filled with a silent wonder towards her.

"Darien!" She exclaimed, then darted her eyes up to the electronic's box. Finding a glowering Isabella holding her i-pod firmly hostage in one hand. The agent was dressed in jeans and a tight pink t-shirt, her strawberry blonde hair tied back in a long pony tail.

Serena had skipped her promised meeting with the agent over two hours ago, needing some time alone to think and not wanting to feel trapped in the house. Now she was in trouble again, for not keeping her promises. Her grounding would be extended for sure.

She released a tired sigh, as Bella mounted the steel ladder from the over hanging box above the bleachers.

"That was awesome!" Darien commented enthusiasticly, coming up to her and eagerly taking her hands in his.

"I am so sorry about just abandoning you back at the graveyard...I didn't want too. Truly." He instantly apologized, his eye filled with remorse. Catching the anxious worry crossing her features, mistaking her unease for hurt feelings. Thinking it had to do with him and not the agent now storming up behind them.

"It's ok, Darien. I'm just kinda emotional. You know that." She amended, shaking her hands free from his grasp as Bella moved in beside them.

"Time to go Sere." she stated rudely, not even acknowledging Darien.

"Well, I'll see you on Monday then." Serena gave him a weak smile, sidestepping around him to go to Bella's side.

"Wait!...are you her aunt then?" Darien darted in front of the retreating woman intent on holding them up.

"I...yes. I am." Bella stuttered, casting Serena a confused glance. Truthfully, both her and Emmett were supposed to be in the shadow's. But Serena kept forcing their hands by running away and lying. So now they needed a cover story just to stay close to the unruly teen, who just refused to do as she was told.

"Aunt Bella...this is Darien Shields." Serena introduced him politely, with a sweet smile.

Darien took in the older woman, trying to see the family resemblance. She wasn't similar in the least.

Possessing a lean body shape, as if she was a runner. With long legs and a curvy, almost voluptuous build that Serena did not possess. Several years older, with a plain, unremarkable beauty that made her look mousey. With soft warm eyes and a small dainty face, she seemed so material almost timid? With a sour disposition and as non threatening as de-clawed cat. She scrutinized him casually, with a long sweeping stare. Taking him in from head to toe, silently accessing his threat.

"Pleased to meet you." Darien chucked a thumb over his shoulder. "I would love to take you two out for supper. There's a delicious Chinese food restaurant not far from here." he offered hopefully.

"I don't like chinese." Bella stated with a dead pan expression that left Darien cold.

Serena groaned and ducked her head in defeat, understanding that it would be asking to much at this point to have a nice supper with Darien.

"Look, Darien I am sure your a great guy and all, but Serena did not keep her promise today. " Bella informed him sternly, casting Serena a disgruntled look. Serena merely nodded resigned to further punishments, but she had needed some space after Fruits. She'd gotten into it with the girls over Daniel's supposed alibi, the conversation became tense and heated in no time. Leaving everyone with anxious uncertain feelings about Lita's first day of school on monday. They made plans to be the first people she saw when entering onto campus. So with a plan in place, and investigation underway with Amy's guidance they would get to the bottom of who drugged and assaulted one of their own. So again she felt disobeying the agents had been worth it, she had needed to clear her head after that intense conversation.

Darien sighed, and rubbed the back of his neck unwilling to just give up. He missed her to much, this day had sucked beyond measure and he needed a little dose of his Simple Sweetness to improve his outlook upon the grim realities of the world, that successfully kicked him in the stomach today. Leaving him feeling antsy and all twisted up into tight knots inside.

"I understand..but that funeral was brutal." He began, raising a hand to shush Bella when she opened her mouth to interrupted him.

"I just want one hour maybe two to spend with her...Please. She means a- lot to me, I just want to make sure she's ok." He continued, pleading with her good heart to give him some time.

Bella frowned, staring at Serena then Darien making the love connections pretty quickly. With a frustrated sigh she finally nodded.

"One hour...that's it and she better be in front of Cross Roads by then!" She stated.

"Oh...Arigatio...Bella..." Serena bounced on her toes excitedly. "Aie..ya. I mean Oba-san..." She bowed and grinned ear to ear. So happy and flustered she didn't know which language to speak in. Darien laughed happily then eagerly grabbed her hand and rushed her across the street to his truck before her supposed guardian changed her mind.

"I need to freshen up, first." Serena stated, blushing. It was strange but this was feeling kinda like their first date. She did not want to be seen with Darien in spandex and a hoody, smelling all sour and sweaty from her workout.

"Ok, sure." Darien grinned, inclineing the schools side door. "You got keys?"

"No, After the stink bomb incident the custodial staff took all our spare keys. We can't practice on the weekends anymore. I have other clothes though. Could you take me to the Interstate Bus Station?" She offered a bit nervously. Knowing full well she was coming off quite strange.

"Uh...sure. I guess." Darien stuttered, casting her a strange look.

Serena merely giggled again, avoiding his amused gaze by ducking into his truck. Darien soon followed, driving out of the parking lot a few minutes later.

Bella sat before the wheel of their white electronic's van, kicking the vehicle into gear and following Darien at a discrete distance. Glancing over to her tablet, propped up against the black leather side console at her elbow. Acknowledging proudly Serena's tracer blinking upon a map of the city, moving smoothly along one avenue then another headed down town.

The ride was quiet and slightly awkward, Serena knew at some point Darien was going to just stop trusting her blindly.

She would need to let him in even just a little bit, to stop a rift from forming.

But she was scared. Scared about what might happen, if he knew the truth.

If she allowed him in and shared with him all her fears and anxieties. That had been living with since leaving Japan. If he ended up involved, even remotely. With those dangerous people currently hunting her family, she would put him at risk. She would never forgive herself, if he got hurt of worse because of her. He meant everything to her.

"Lets play a game." She stated with a small, hesitant smile.

"What kind of game?" Darien intoned suspiciously.

"Truth or dare." She admitted with a nod. "That way I can answer any of of your questions that I want to, or avoid them but you would still gain something in return."

"ok..then, deal." Darien chuckled approvingly, a mischievous glint in his deep blue eyes. That was now making her extremely nervous. Now she wondered what she had gotten herself into, how far would he take the dare side of this game? She could be in real trouble...

"You were a mess today at the graveyard." He stated, giving her a wondering look as they slowed to a stop light.

"Yeah..." She admitted weakly, turning to stare forlorn out her side window refusing to meet his concerned eyes. Still feeling ashamed of her loss of control. She really made a spectacle of herself and Amelia really didn't help much either with her massive explosion towards her.

"So, Truth or Dare. You barely knew those girls, so why were you so upset?" He added, accelerating out of the light.

"Truth..." Serena took a deep breath. "I lost my mother a couple months before I came to the states. The funeral just brought on a-lot of buried grief."

Darien nodded understanding her tragic emotions today he had been feeling the same. He avoided these kinds of morbid functions for that very same reason. That he seemed to have to relive all the memories and dark emotions of his parents funeral so long ago. With a sympathetic smile he then placed an arm around her shoulder pulling her in close for a hug.

"I lost my parents too, a long time ago. So I completely understand what your going through today." He disclosed a bit of his own grief, feeling now was a good time to start opening up to her more.

"I am so sorry...Mamo-chan!" She responded, her sweet face filled with great sadness towards him. She had heard second hand from Andrew about the tragedy befell Darien as a small boy. This was the first time he had admitted it outright to her.

"It happened a long time ago, I've made peace with it." He finished with a grim smile, wanting her to let it go. Talking about his parents was uncomfortable and always left a lingering bitter taste deep inside of him.

Serena sighed, curling into his chest, understanding that he was all alone had been for a very, very long time. She felt horrible for him, unsure if she would have the strength to carry on with out any family. All she had left was Shingo now...having him die or leave her wasn't something she wanted to dwell upon.

"I'm sorry I just left you there. " He started, petting her head soothingly. "I wanted to be there for you, but Amelia...she was raging and I felt I had to get her out of there." he admitted. " That scene was intense. I am sorry she took it out on you." He sighed, drooping his head and staring down at her like all apologetic, like a shamed hound dog.

It was so charming and cute she couldn't help but smile up at him.

"It's ok. " She answered in quiet understanding.

"No, It's not ok. Sere, I chose Amelia over you today. That's killing me, she must have said some really hurtful things to you that you didn't deserve. She was just hurting and it's just her way. " He kept on, bearing his torn heart for her to heal with her sweet forgiveness.

"Yeah, she said some pretty nasty stuff. But she was venting and I don't mind, if that's what she needs to feel better. I want to help her, and I had Raye today so I wasn't left all alone." She regarded him with a knowing smile. Understanding how hard it must of been to watch her in such emotional turmoil and just walk away. Then ducked back into his chest, enjoying his warmth for a few moments before pulling away, having questions of her own.

"Alright my turn. Why did you join the Football team?" She asked, casting him a sideways look of confusion.

"Truth, Because I wanted to keep an eye on you. I was really worried about you going to Senior parties and being alone with that loser...Daniel." He answered, giving her shoulder a squeeze and pulling her back into his chest to avoid her dirty look.

"You really have no faith in me, do you?" She stated, her disgruntled voice slightly muffled by the soft cotton of his hoody.

As he had her head pressed quite tightly against him.

"Sorry...but no. You can be a bit of a trusting fool." he started, grimacing as he felt her squirm angrily out of his grasp.

"Fool?" she quipped incredulously. Her eyes shimmering with hurt.

"But I've realized that when it comes to Daniel you've figured him out and are not going to let him take advantage of you again. You took pretty good care of yourself, when he drove you back into town from the Dam that night." he quickly amended, trying to cover for his hurtful comment.

"You really are stalking me now aren't you?" She folded her arms over her chest, sliding away from him to the far side of her chair. Giving him a playful frown and slight pout at his protective yet slightly out of line behaviour.

Darien faked being hurt by her avoidance of his affections, giving her sad puppy dog eyes.

"I worry..." He admitted, then turned into the semi circle drive before a huge cube shaped building, with an arching roof of glass that spanned the whole building. The Main Bus Station for city transit and Inter- State transport, was a modern marvel of architecture. Built in a modern style of glass and girders. Looking more like some abstract version of a steel and glass sculpture then a building. With four stories of square glass windows, making it look like a Rubik's cube, with a dome on top as if it was a living snow globe. A huge arching awning spanned over the circular driveway and down the entrance walkway, attaching a story up from the main doors. With a wide sidewalk stretching to the four set of double doors to the vast main foyer. All the bus terminals sat at the back of the massive building,the busses jutting out in their own respective junctions, like missiles ready to launch.

A single wide lane turning away from the back of the building towards the busy traffic congested avenue, was the buses main exit.

The sun had set, leaving the streets in heavy shadow with only the lamps to cast a faint glow upon the sidewalks. The city took on a whole new, more exciting demeanour as night settled in. The signs of all the bars and restaurants coming to life along the street beside the Bus Station, inviting the night prowlers to come and enjoy their evening.

"I'll be back real quick." Serena stated, slipping out of the truck and dashing down the covered walkway and into the terminal.

Darien moved the truck away to a parking meter a few spaces beyond the awning. The long series of windows of the ground level of the building, glowing with an inner warmth through the passenger side window. He scrutinized those windows seeking to see inside the building, finding they had a privacy coating to mirror the world back at him. He then spent his time listening to Linkin Park on his phone, which he had in it's black plastic cradle set on the stereo's main display in the middle of his central dash. Plugged into the speaker's through an adaptor cord installed into his glove box. He had adapted the truck's stereo to play Mp3's, the original stereo not equipped beyond cd's since it was a used vehicle several years old. He blasted the angst filled music, wallowing in his tumultuous emotions. Cleansing himself of some of his guilt and painful memories this day had burdened him with once again. As promised Serena returned, having used the bus station's showers to clean up and dress in fresh clothes. She had an alternate bug out bag stashed in a locker at the station. Just incase she didn't get a chance to head home when or if things got bad again. That anxiety of being hunted had always hung over her head since leaving Japan, like some kind of invisible clock ticking away. That supposed clock had already chimed for her father, now he was either dead or on the run.

With a frustrated sigh she settled her worried feelings, plastering a happy smile on her face before pulling the door open. Revealing herself to Darien in a pair of tight jeans and a form fitting pink t-shirt with a v-neck collar. A wide set of black suspender's clipped to the waist of her jeans, along with her black bomber jacket draped over her arm. A pink back pack was slung over the other shoulder, containing all her sweaty clothes. She tossed the bag onto the back seat, before climbing back into the truck. Reminding herself to wash those clothes and get the back pack re-packed and tucked away in her rented locker at the Station as soon as possible.

Darien held her hand tight as they crossed the parking lot towards the bold glowing red dragon, writhing over a set of double doors. The sign below stating it was called the "Lucky Dragon." Serena giggled at the gaudy, brilliant red sign. It was just so huge and in your face she couldn't help but laugh. The giant serpent was enough for advertising the little restaurant, since one could spot it all the way down the boulevard. Having it glowing like an ember in the shade of evening seemed so over the top.

"Come here often?" She commented jokingly.

"Nope, never been here." He smiled over his shoulder, skipping up onto the sidewalk out front, hauling her up briskly and through the glass entry doors laughing cheerfully.

Serena laughed happily along with him, his good cheer infectious.

Passing through the doors they were soon over come by the bold yet comfortable atmosphere inside the small restaurant. A simple glass counter sat just before the doors, with an old till and bookshelves set just behind. Filled with accent pieces of small statues of dragons and buddha's along with miniature potted trees, paper fans and scrolls. A wooden accent bench sat along a half wall just opposite of the counter for patrons to wait on, if the tables were filled.

They barely got in the door before a tiny chinese woman, dressed in a traditional red Yukata with a wide beige sash tied around her waist came to greet them. Her black hair twisted up in a central bun with two chop sticks sticking out. She was about middle age, with a kind round face and deep brown eyes. Her skin wrinkled and worn from age and laughter. She quietly ushered them through a narrow archway into the main part of the restaurant.

Serena gazed around in awe, finding the walls decorated as robustly as the small alcove beside the till. With large ink paintings, depicting traditional landscapes hanging over red leather booths on the back wall. More booths sat before a series of wide windows, that over looked the front parking lot and the avenue beyond. With various square tables setup in the middle of the open room. Instead of over head lights, they had quaint lamps that looked like traditional paper lanterns, flickering with a low light over the booths. It was a peaceful atmosphere, with several booths and tables filled with patrons in hushed conversations. The low sounds of a traditional chinese lute could be heard floating through the room only adding to the oriental ambiance.

The waitress settled them into a back corner booth by the front windows. Darien gave her a brief nod of thanks, before snatching up the two simple plastic sealed menu's from the condiment dispenser set under the window sill. Passing one to Serena with a fond smile.

Serena released an excited breath as her finger's brushed his hand upon receiving the menu. Her heart was beating a crescendo in her chest, it was so surreal sitting here with him in such a date like atmosphere. She was suddenly very nervous in his pressence, ducking her head down to hide behind the menu. She sought desperately to get her flaring blush under control. She had dreamed about her first date with Darien for years...had fantasized and built up the excitement about going on said date with him over and over in her mind. With it finally happening she found herself becoming increasingly nervous and fidgety.

"Sere...?" He questioned with a chuckle, finding her absolutely adorable with her rosy flushed cheeks. Meekly hiding behind her menu, now propped up in front of her face.

"Yes!" She chirped, her voice several octaves higher then it should be. Darting her cerulean eye's in alarm up from her menu to just barely peek at him. The menu looking like some kind of absurd shield to protect her face from his scrutiny.

"Ok...this is getting weird now." Darien leaned back in his bench, his own heart racing, feeling the date like atmosphere as well. It was a crushing weight filled with unseen expectations, and anxieties of failure hidden just beneath the surface. Making him antsy and some what irritated by the sudden pressure.

"Is this a date..." She replied nervously, suddenly feeling very underdressed in her jeans and t-shirt.

"Well...maybe...I guess..." Darien stumbled out, nervously raking his hand through his hair. Down playing his pervious intentions with his typical arrogant non-nonchalance. His own face beginning to blush, this supper had been a spur of moment affair. He really didn't know what to call it, he just wanted to spend some time alone with her.

"I love how uncertain you are about things, when it pertains to me." She intoned bitterly, her frustration with him replacing her fraying nerves.

"Well, it's just supper...really." Darien shrugged, giving her a lopsided smile. "If it was a date, date, I think I would have planned a much better night then just supper."

"Ok, fine. " She responded softly, lightly placing the menu down and propping her chin in a palm. Avoiding his eyes, seeking to hide her disappointment by pretending to read.

"Serena...we can't just go on a date. Not right now." Darien sighed, because technically he was dating Amelia right now.

"I get it, lets just eat." She responded harshly, now tapping a finger against the table feeling like a fool to even think he would take her on a date. Their relationship was a secret, her love life was just a knotted tangle of mixed messages and feelings.

"Serena, I do want to take you on a date." Darien offered, snaking his hand across the table to grasp hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. Seeking absolution from the guilt he felt at hurting her yet again.

"Truth or Dare, time!" She confronted him, her eyes flashing in frustration.

"Ok..." Darien breathed, suddenly off balance by the fierceness in her stare.

"Would you have gone after me that night at the rocks, if it wasn't for the Tornado's?" She asked, wanting to know if he would have fought for her that night. If he might have had plans to chase Simon away and proclaim his feelings, or if it had taken that storm to finally force his hand.

"Dare." Darien growled, feeling so set up right now.

Serena sniffed, understanding by his avoidance that her jaded thoughts on the matter were true. Feeling even more hurt and infuriated with him. She turned to the condiment rack scanning the array of odds and ends, finding a bottle of 'Franks Red Hot' Sauce.

With a grunt of approval she quickly left the table, Darien watched as she disappeared into the lounge area of the Restaurant set in the shadows at the back. Reappearing several minutes later with a devil's grin upon her face, sliding back into the booth with a shot glass. She silently set to work on his punishment for avoiding the truth. Pouring a full eight ounce shot full of hot sauce.

"Here ya, go." She sneered, "Bottom's up!"

Darien groaned in dread, already feeling the pain of swiging down all that cayenne pepper.

Then swiftly upended the tiny glass into his mouth. Serena watched his face turn several shades of red, and beads of sweat form on his forehead as he valiantly swallowed fire.

"Your turn..." he rasped out, clinking the shot glass back down on the table stubbornly. His deep blue eyes, rimed red and watery with held in pain.

Serena braced herself.

"Were's you father." He asked sternly, his eyes intently focused on the now stoic blonde.

"Out of country for work." She lied smoothly, unwilling to give him any details. Instantly regretting her weak story. She wasn't good at lieing, and he saw right through her little charade. For one he might be out of country but not for work, they were to poor for him to have that kind of job. Two: he had seen her camper in all it's ransacked glory so he knew something seedy was going on in her life.

"Bull shit!" he cursed vehemently.

Serena moaned in dread, casting her head down.

"I can't tell you...cause I don't know." She responded, biting her lower lip to stop it from trembling as she was on the verge of tears again.

"Well, then it's dare time!" He proclaimed merrily, this little game had become a bit of a competition now. He wasn't going to be outdone, his personal pride would not allow it.

He sat back smugly, taking in her worried features, his ire deflating away into nothing. He couldn't punish her, not even a little bit. She was everything sweet and good in his life and all he wanted was to take care of her. He just wished she would trust him...

"Serena, I care about you. Is that not enough for you to trust me." He pleaded.

"It's not that, Mamoru." she huffed, scrubbing down her face with her hands in frustration.

"My life is complicated and it's better we just keep things simple, take it slow, enjoy what we have." she responded, reaching for his hands and seeking for him to let it go. She was now letting go of all her expectations of him. Her truth question had been unfair. In the end he had come after her, showed her how much she meant to him. She needed to just let it go. To give up on the fantasy of him she had built up in her mind and just accept him as he was, faults and all. He wasn't some prince charming that was going to sweep her off her feet with confident charm and unwavering romance. He was just a teenage boy, stumbling through this overly complicated relationship just as she was.

"I would have gone after you." he admitted. "You hated me anyway, ruining your little romantic interlude wouldn't have deterred me. I probably wouldn't have told you how I felt though, but I don't regret telling you how much you mean to me!" He admitted, then back tracked. "I can't live with out you in my life, at this point I would have taken what ever I could get. Even your hatred, at least I would be able to see you everyday. At least I wouldn't be alone anymore." he spoke so softly, she had to lean forward over the table top to hear him.

Serena was having trouble breathing now, her eyes finally seeing the truth that Darien kept hidden all these years. Darien was loner, he didn't like people. Was slow to make friends, and really never felt many people were worth the effort. Except for Andrew and herself. He had no family to speak of, he was all alone in the world. When she had left last year, he had felt abandoned, forgotten and ultimately alone again. Her disappearing for a whole year, with out letting him make amends for his harsh words, was in the end more cruel then that hurtful encounter with Amelia in the graveyard. The desperate fact that he would accept anything from her, even her hating him, if she only stayed in his life just a little bit was painful to hear.

"I'm sorry...Mamo-chan." She sniffed, racing around the booth in a desperate sprint. As he was suddenly alarmed to find his arms full of his now sobbing girl, clutching and pleading for forgiveness. He cradled her, chuckling nervously as her wailing was make quite a spectacle of them both.

"Uhm...it's ok. " He peeled her off of him with a patient smile. "But your right lets just take our relationship as it is, one day at a time and enjoy what we have and not over think things to death anymore...ok." Offering encouragingly, as he took in her flushed, wet face once more. It was just to sweet how easily she was reduced to tears...embarrassing but cute.

"Ok." She hiccuped, pulling away feeling some what ashamed of her sudden display. She seriously needed to gain some control...she was a mess right now.

Blushing an adorable rose, she quickly scampered back to her side of the booth.

"Alright, then all settled. " He asked, a playful smile spreading over his lips.

"Yes." She admitted, smiling timidly.

"There is still a matter of your Dare..." He commented slyly, clearing his throat and glancing over his menu absently.

Serena groaned in renewed dread.

"I will need some time to ponder your punishment for lying to me." He stated in a mockingly threatening manner.

"Darien..." she whimpered, not liking the mischievous glint in his eyes.

Darien merely smiled charmingly up at her. Giving her a total poker face, revealing nothing as to what he was truly thinking for the moment.

Serena rolled her eyes with a huff, a flutter of misgivings forming uncomfortably in her stomach. She was in for it for sure, she knew that fake innocent look. He was going to make her do something horrible, eat something disgusting...or even maybe doing something kinky now that they were fooling around? Her eyes flew wide in curious alarm, as she took in his shallow breathing and soft hesitant chuckling. As he was attempting to act deep in thought over his menu. Obviously reviewing all his various options to punish her for trying to be sneaky and lie her way out of the truth question. Though for now he thought would just hold the very notion of an unknown punishment over her head. Like an invisible carrot in front of her nose and enjoy watching her squirm. She was just so adorable when she was flustered. And oh so easy to get riled up when she knew he had an advantage over her. He was going to revel in tormenting her for a little while...oh the possibilities were endless. The slow smile that crept upon Darien's lips, made Serena shudder. A heated, trembling blossoming low in her stomach at the intimate thoughts he may be having about them.

The hour closed in as supper came to a quiet end, Darien drove slowly back up to the school. Casting his now thoughtful girl small sympathetic glances, as she was staring mournfully out her window. Absently watching the traffic pass by, deep in her worries once more.

Parking along side the avenue, noticing curiously a white van with no back windows already parked near the front gates.

It unnerved him somewhat, reminding him of kidnapper's choice of transportation.

Night had set in with a blanket of stars sparkling above, with a faint crescent moon hovering above the trees on the other side of the street. Before Serena could climb out of his truck he had darted out and round the front end. Catching a hold of the worn leather sleeve of her bomber jacket by the elbow, stopping her from just leaving with out so much as a goodbye. She turned with a knowing smirk, as he guided her up against the passenger side door of the back cab. By blocking her smaller form with his broader more powerful body. Subtly shuffling forward until she had her back pressed up against the cool metal. The act was as aggressive and dominate, as it was alluring. It showed her silently how much he wanted her, how much he didn't want her to leave his side just yet.

Serena instantly blushed, casting a nervous look back down the street to the white van waiting for her. She couldn't see Bella inside, but the van's head lights were glaring down towards them. Casting the back end of Darien's truck in a sharp blinding light. Creating an impatience in the air, by those bold yellow lights and the low rumble of the van's engine thrumming nearby.

Darien was reluctant to let her go, knowing their time had grown short. But not wanting to be alone tonight just yet. He moved in close, his hot breath puffing against the cold skin of her neck. Listening with satisfaction as her own breath hitched in response. Her hand now curled into the fabric of his hoody upon his chest, her own breath heating his neck as he bent over her.

"I miss you when your gone..." He admitted. This day had put a lot of things into perspective for him. His need to never let go of her, one of them.

"I might be grounded longer..." she admitted sadly, pressing her forehead into the base of his shoulder. As he slid a hand on top of hers, which was now pressed lazily against his abdomen. Entwining his finger's with her's and pulling the delicate hand away to her side.

"Will you tell me were you live...I could come visit, we could hang out at your place?" He offered hopefully, warming her shoulder with his nuzzling. Giving her clasped hand a squeeze of reassurance.

"No." She croaked back, holding her pain in check. As she listened to his huff of disappointment, against the window glass behind her. With her eyes closed, face pressed into his hoody. She felt his body stiffen, could almost see the frustration in his face and hurt in his eyes. As he had pulled his face up from her neck upon her answer, fogging up the back passenger side window.

"Fine, but this isn't over Sere." He growled.

"I know, that's the reason you will never know." Her words carrying much more meaning then face value.

"I will protect you...what ever is going on. You can trust in me. " He then gripped her chin with his finger's guiding her face up from his chest to have her stare searchingly up at him. His dark blue eyes boring into hers, showing her how determined he was to prove himself.

She saw in his eyes a fierce love for her and it warmed her heart like nothing else could. She was instantly near tears again, over whelmed by the intensity of his feelings towards her.

"I know...and I will always protect you too. " she breathed, barely able to finish her statement before he claimed her lips with his own.

She moaned with longing as the passion within the kiss consumed her. Her cheeks burning, as waves of pleasure moved through her small frame. He intwined his fingers with her other hand, holding her arms at her sides as he deepened the kiss. Holding her willingly in place against the truck. As he began thrusting and twisting his tongue inside the wet warmth of her mouth. His movements were ravenous, the pressure of his lips brutal against hers. As if seeking to devour her, to quench a thirst for her that had been driving him insane. She sought to reciprocate his passion with her own, weaving her tongue with his attempting to match his sensual movements. Having to brace herself against the door, while on her tip toes. Her legs soon trembling as she valiantly sought to maintain her intimate contact with him. Craving him, seeking to touch every inch of his mouth and savouring the taste.

To Darien the kiss was an act of desperation, a need to find his solace in a brief moment of unrestrained pleasure. A lonely bitter soul seeking the light of another to banish the darkness seeded long ago. And like a starving man his life was saved in the form of a lingering kiss. To be forever locked against her warm always welcoming body, that to him was the keys to heaven.

She sought to twist her hands free, wanting to caress him, hold him. But he held tight, keeping her pressed tightly against him as he savoured her lower lip briefly with his tongue. Darting his tongue out and along the contour of her swollen lips, tasting the sweet candy flavour of her lip gloss. Drawing shallow pants of rising need from her. With her hands trapped, and oddly at his pleasuring mercy her whole body was vibrating with excitement. Only able to arch her back and crane her neck as he nuzzled tenderly into the soft yielding flesh at the base of her neck. Mouthing her lovingly, enjoying her soft sounds of bliss as he left a trail and sweet kisses up and down the slender column of her neck. Finding a sweet spot just under her chin, that made her cry out as he mouthed her softly. Suckling upon the salty flesh playfully, eliciting even more powerful cries from her. Before capturing her mouth with his for one final heated kiss. Pressing himself up against her, pinning her just a bit longer against the door. Wanting to feel all of her delicate body against his. How easily she molded against him, as if she was born just to fit his body. Their hands clasped so tightly together, their finger's had grown white and began to tingle. When he drew away her whole body was humming with delight, a small fire burning in her belly leaving her craving more of him.

Then Bella honked her horn, killing the heated, sensual moment instantly.

"Sorry..." Serena blurted out in alarm, as she stumbled nervously away from him. Her knees felt weak and she was worried her trembling legs were not going to hold her upright for much longer. Her heart leaping into her throat at Bella's rudeness. Face a humiliated crimson beacon in the night. Making out in front of her wasn't exactly proper either though. So she did feel a good dose of shame about giving into her desires in public.

Darien held onto her hand, refusing to let her go. As she sought to dart away in a panic for the van only to have her small body sling shot back into his chest.

"Oooph..." All her air was crushed from her breast as she collided against his hard chest. Her left hand still locked with his, with her other hand pressed flat against his cotton hoody. In a pathetic attempt to shield herself for slamming forcefully against him.

"Meet me at the boy's locker room monday morning...just before home room." he instructed cryptically.

"What...why...?" She began, staring questionably up at him. Only to find an amused almost nervous smile play across his lips.

"It's Hell Week, and the guys and I have big plans! By the end of next week, after we're done with everything. No one is going to know who Lita even is." He offered slyly.

She giggled curiously, a wondrous grin pulling on her lips. What kind of crazy things did he have planned? Now she would be spending her time thinking excitedly about next week. This once bleak day had ended on a much nicer note.

"Thank you Mamo-chan..." She leaned up on the tip toes, pressing a grateful kiss upon his waiting lips. Pulling away to linger her loving gaze up at him before finally he released her hand. She jogged away down the sidewalk for half a block then slipped out of sight through the open passenger door and into the van.

Darien watched her go, her light glowing once more within his heart. He no longer felt like he needed time out at the rocks to clear his head. Spending just a little time with her was enough to calm the raging emotions this once tense day had brought on. Leaving him in a much more sweeter mood. That's what she was...A Simple Sweetness to call his own.