Fighting For Your Love

A/N: Hello everyone! I missed you :) Really sorry for the long wait but I'm back to writing for SM now. Well, about this chapter, so that you know what to expect. You might find it a filler to set up the stage, so to say, slightly mocking and somewhat cliché (yes, I'm aware of that, sorry guys to disappoint you but it was just too much fun to not go that way after all that drinking in last chapter *grins*) but I hope you'll like it :)

Ah and as I said in the very beginning of the story… please don't grow to hate Haruka from now on. She's a love, it's just that in this story she got the most difficult role, I'd say ;)) But you will see it yourself :)

P.S. And to those who wait, Michiru should appear in the next chapter. Although, I've been really sympathizing with her lately, and I hope she will forgive me for what I'm going to do with her *sheepish smile*

Okay, okay, I know, too much babbling here… I just really missed writing this story and talking to all of you! Thank you very much for waiting *hugs* Please enjoy the chapter.

Disclaimer: I don't own Sailor Moon :)

Chapter 20. Do You Take It Back?

* * *

Bright sunbeams flooded the room and hit the sleeping sandy blonde in her eyes as the curtains were drawn apart by someone.

"Ah, what the hell…! Bummer, my head…" Haruka shifted in her bed, grunting, and roughly rubbed her forehead. She didn't dare open her eyes because her head felt like it could explode and shatter into pieces any second now. "Craaap, my cheek…! My body… What was it, a truck? Michi, kill me…"

"I would have said it serves you right but I can't stand the sight of your suffering." A calm voice resounded next to her, making the sandy blonde flinch and squeeze her eyelids shut even tighter. "So, painkillers or beer, what works for you?"

"Jeez, don't… shout." The wind senshi's face puckered up in pain. "Too loud…" The girl finally dared crack her eyes slightly open and, as she did so she recognized the smiling person sitting on her bed. "Usagi-chan? How… come…?" Haruka rubbed her eyes. "Oh, this is weird."

"Huh?!" Usagi blinked.

The tomboy carefully opened her eyes again, cringing as she did so, and then she spoke slowly, "Hmm, you're still here. I guess it's reality after all. But then why… I mean… what are you doing here?" She didn't sound angry though, more like utterly puzzled.

Usagi tilted her head, her expression slowly turning into half-shocked, half-curious.

"Eh? Are you serious?" And in a moment the bedroom was filled with a sound of her hearty laughter.

"What?" The wind senshi frowned in irritation, trying to bury her poor head deeper in the fluffy pillows and escape the disturbingly loud sound. "Don't laugh when I'm in so much pain, it's so rude. As a future queen, aren't you supposed to have some mercy on those who suffer?"

The princess nodded and bit her lower lip, trying hard to hold back the laugh. This was something new. Haruka and a hangover sure made quite a funny and an unbelievably cute mix.

"Umm, let me ask you something first. How much of last night do you remember exactly?"

The wind senshi glared at the mirthful blonde.

"Oh please, who do you think I am?!" She huffed indignantly, her headache not making her any friendlier. "Of course I remem…" she blinked in confusion and furrowed her eyebrows. "Damn it, it's really stupid! Bummer…" Her eyebrows kept knitting tighter as she was obviously trying to recall the events of the past night, and the tighter they got the wider Usagi's smile grew. "Argh, to hell with it, this is so annoying! Of course I remember! At least, some parts of it. Here, I drank, we had a fight, I told you to get out, then I think you came here after me and… and… I wonder if we had sex, though. Knowing me, it's highly possible, but…" Haruka grabbed another pillow and covered her face with it, mumbling incoherently, "Honestly, this is driving me crazy! Really stupid. I am sure I'll remember everything once this damn headache's gone."

"So, I take it as you don't remember the most interesting part of the night", Usagi said mysteriously. "Something I would never forget."

"Why, you're giving me creeps here", came the muffled mumble from under the pillow, a heavy groan following it. "Painkillers… you said you've got some?" The sandy blonde finally pushed the pillow off her face and, evading the amused look of the sky-blue eyes, sat up in the bed. "It's impossible to remember anything when my head is heavy and noisy like this."

"Okay, here. These will help you quickly." The young princess handed the tomboy a couple of pills and a glass of water she had brought over to the bedroom earlier in the morning. "Trust me, they do wonders when it comes to hangovers."

Teal eyes skeptically glanced over the beaming beauty, and Haruka smiled wryly, gulping down the cure. "Oh really? I wonder how you know about that." She let out a small wicked chuckle but then gripped her temples in pain and, cursing quietly, rubbed them again. "Don't tell me you go through this hell from time to time? I bet a drunken Koneko is a funny sight!"

Usagi laughed at her teasing and shook her head. At least, Haruka was calling her by her pet name again, and it sounded natural.

And they were bantering again… which felt so right and cool she could sing and dance in joy.

"Shame on you, Haruka-chan! How could you think so low of me?" She pouted cutely though. "But, believe it or not, you're not the only person who drinks their mind away. Don't forget I live with a man who experiences troubles sometimes. I'm just surprised that someone as strong as you… also finds escape in alcohol's company."

The wind senshi's face darkened as Usagi unintentionally reminded her of Mamoru.

"Yeah, whatever." She shrugged in a rude manner, her former jealousy getting the best of her. "Who cares? Jeez, is this drug gonna work at all?! You said it was supposed to work quickly, right?"

The princess was taken aback by that unreasonable fit of irritation but didn't let it get to her. Watching her lover attentively yet gently, Usagi leaned over and kissed the whining 'big kid' on the forehead.

"Ah, okay, this helps. Do that again, thanks." Haruka grumbled jokingly, feeling something inside her soften immediately. "Anyway, how much did I drink yesterday?!"

The somewhat helpless expression of the wind senshi made the golden-haired princess laugh again.

"I'd say there was enough to make you forget things. Unfortunately for me."

Haruka nodded reluctantly.

"Yeah, I guess so. Okay, now you may tell me about madness that consumed me last night." Her lips curved in a sneer as the girl leaned into the mid-soft embrace of her pillow. "I think I'm ready. Besides, I'm very curious about how come you're so lovey-dovey around me now. Seems like things changed a lot since yesterday."

"Oh, but it was quite a long way to go", Usagi retorted meaningfully. "And it was the first time I realized you could be really rude…"

"Rude? Me? When I told you to leave?" The tomboy interrupted, her eyes getting guarded and questioning. She scratched the back of her head somewhat sheepishly. "Well, umm… But it doesn't look like you obeyed, anyway."

"And thank goodness I didn't!" The golden blonde exclaimed eagerly. "Otherwise I would never get to know what you held inside. You really are stubborn, holding back all those feelings for so long!"

The sandy blonde groaned and shook her head.

"Not helping, princess, I still don't understand a thing." She paused and glanced at her lover unsurely. "To me, it's obvious we had a fight last night and I clearly remember how I told you to… umm, leave this house. What I don't get is why you're still here and, on top of that, why you are brimming over with happiness – that's what puzzles me the most!" Letting out a sigh, she carefully asked, "Look, I… didn't hurt you, did I? I really don't remember much of the last night, but what I'm able to recall… gives away quite a wild and violent impression." A guilty expression – so rare to be seen on the face of the wind senshi – looked incredibly adorable. Who could resist that?

Usagi couldn't. So she pretended pondering on Haruka's words but quickly gave up and smiled, "Well, regardless, everything was worth it, Haruka-chan, as long as you truly meant it."

"Worth what? Meant what? You're speaking in riddles again."

The princess sat silently for a while, gazing afar and thinking of the best way to tell the tomboy about everything that happened, and Haruka couldn't help but got lost in admiration while watching the young girl's relaxed yet graceful posture, her tenderly glowing pearly skin, sparkling azure eyes and soft rosy lips. Unwittingly, the tomboy's lips curved in a gentle smile as the serenity of Usagi's presence washed over her soul, calming her and chasing all the worries away.

That peaceful smile was still on her lips when the golden blonde turned her head to look in the eyes of the tomboy, her gaze searching for something in the girl's face.

"Do you love me, Haruka-chan?" Usagi asked finally.

The teal eyes rounded in surprise at once as the tall girl shrank back a little.

"Huh? Where does this come from?" The wind senshi began grumbling in confusion. "Honestly, asking me such things right out of the blue… Like you don't know…"

The golden blonde shook her head fervently, her gaze flittering down to the sheets where her restless fingers were drawing small random lines, giving away her nervousness.

"It's not that! Of course you can say you love me so easily, as a friend, as a lover, as a guardian. But all that – it isn't what I'm talking about." Beautiful blue eyes looked up and pierced Haruka's soul just like every time she got that look – so infinitely trustful, so unbelievably pure she couldn't lie to it. Usagi moved closer and quietly asked again, "Do you love me?"

The wind senshi swallowed hard. Of course she loved Usagi; there was no doubt to it; but to say that straight out… Michiru had always been the only one she would say those words to. But drop the words aside, they themselves didn't matter that much. What really mattered was this feeling flooding her veins and overwhelming her heart every time she thought of a certain golden-haired, blue-eyed beaming girl full of love for life. It was clear. It was pure. Yes, it was forbidden to start with, she was highly aware of that. But it was also mighty and more than she could conceal or pretend she had never had.

Haruka had always been sure she would never have such a strong feeling for anyone else but Michiru. And yet – unwittingly… unmistakably… – it was here. She was here.

…

Seeing Haruka remain silent, struggling deep inside, Usagi bit her lip, feeling uncertain all of a sudden.

"It's just that you let me know how you feel, and I felt it in every little thing you did as we've been making love last night. I didn't think I could be mistaken at that, but…" her voice trembled a little and she suddenly frowned, raising her voice a little. "You told me all those things about missing me, longing for me, needing me so much! How come you don't remember that at all? Did it mean so little to you?!"

"How… how could I say all that? Why did I?!" The wind senshi exclaimed, following the trail of her thoughts. She covered her eyes with her palm. "Jeez, what was I thinking?"

'I had no right to confess my feelings for you. How come I did that after all this time of hiding and pretending? What was I thinking, honestly?!'

Usagi abruptly sprang from the bed to her feet, her fists clasping tight.

"What do you mean, Haruka-chan?! Was it all a lie? After all, I got mistaken and… you really lied to me? You said all those things… and they actually meant nothing? Are you saying that now?"

A strong hand shot forwards immediately and grasped the frantic princess's arm firmly.

"Wait, stop. Rewind", the tomboy quickly pulled Usagi back, making her sit down on the bed. Entwining their fingers together, Haruka took in a deep breath, slowly exhaled and quietly said, "It's not what I'm saying, Odango Atama. It's not that, at all. Don't jump to conclusions. Ahh, really, you're so quick to judge it's crazy…" She couldn't hold a smirk.

It wasn't what Haruka said but the way she said that that appeased the golden blonde and eased her anxiety as if it had never arisen. The tone of the elder girl's voice full of calm determination and soothing reassurance made Usagi feel safe, strangely enough.

"Then…" after a short while she spoke carefully, not without a tiny teasing smile now, "are you saying you do love me?"

"Koneko…" Haruka knitted her brows, evading the scrutinizing look of those adorable blue eyes, "have some mercy, let's leave this talk for later? I still don't feel quite myself now, okay? Besides, my gut feelings is telling me that last night I have probably said a lot of things that I'm going to regret later so now I'd rather opt for keeping my mouth shut. And if you will excuse me… I think I need a shower right now… desperately." That was the best idea she could come up with right now; a tactical retreat.

The sandy blonde began crawling out of her bed but the tender voice of Usagi and the words that were said made her freeze in her tracks…

"No matter what, Haruka, I love you. Truly, I do."

…and fall on the floor ungracefully, her face displaying pure bewilderment.

"What did you say just now?" Haruka thought she was beginning to hear things.

'Shouldn't have drunk that much, that's a golden rule I should've always followed…'

Usagi resolutely slid down from the bed and landed near the sandy blonde. She leaned closer, her hands resting on the tomboy's bare thighs, and gently kissed the dumbfounded girl on the lips. Just a light sweet kiss, - so light it could have been that of a friend. Haruka had no idea why her heart had gone crazy, fluttering, at that slightest touch.

"Don't be so surprised", the golden blonde said softly. "You heard that last night. I just wanted to remind you of something you forgot." She remained silent for a moment and then quietly added, "It's up to you, Haruka-chan, whether or not to accept my feelings, I just wanted you to know."

The attentive teal eyes watched the younger girl get up from the floor graciously and smile. It was one of the loveliest smiles Haruka had ever seen, and she smiled back involuntarily.

"Koneko, I…"

"Shh", the princess hushed the tomboy with her finger, "take your time. I should go back home now. Besides, as you said, you don't feel quite yourself now, so… don't say anything now, take your time, okay?" Walking to the door, Usagi turned around and grinned. "Ah, there's a light breakfast waiting for you downstairs. You can heat it up and eat when you have freshenen up. I hope it's edible. And I… okay, see you later."

Another lovely smile and the princess was gone, leaving the wind senshi quite in a tumult.

* * *

'As you smile and close the door, leaving me behind like that… weirdly, I fear you might never come back again. …It scares.'

* * *

Sitting in her bedroom at home, the princess tried to digest the events from the past night.

The fight and the harsh words of Haruka, her own tears… Haruka's bitter and angry confession… their beautiful lovemaking… Usagi shivered sweetly, her mind wandering astray for a moment in the direction her body yielded to so eagerly last night. That was surely an outstanding night of her life.

Come to think of it, maybe she shouldn't have told the wind senshi about her love. Maybe she should have let it go if Haruka didn't remember what actually happened. But…

Going back to being worse than even strangers… going on without the wind senshi's smile and affectionate gestures… from then on she would have chosen a total breakup instead, perhaps. It would have been more humane towards her poor heart than having it shattered over and over again by the cold looks and short meaningless kisses of the woman she had grown to love.

No matter how lovely and interesting the company of the ocean senshi might have been it could never completely fill the void Haruka's absence and indifference caused. Couldn't because Michiru wasn't the one Usagi fell in love with. Without the sandy blonde tomboy with sincere emerald eyes those relations had no meaning to her.

And now that she knew Haruka's feelings – even if that stubborn blonde refused to say the words aloud – Usagi actually felt happy. Simply happy. From the top of her head to the tip of her toes. The feeling was so huge and bright she couldn't even hold it inside.

There still was Michiru to think about.

There still was Mamoru to think about.

And of course, Usagi knew what happened last night was only the beginning of the path that would bring a lot of troubles (if they would have the courage to follow it at all, that is). Many questions would arise, none of them she had an answer for right now.

Yet… she didn't care. She let herself to not care. There would come a time and she would think everything through.

But right now… even if just for a briefest moment of her life, Usagi let herself feel simply happy because she finally knew – the person she loved actually loved her back. Even though she had no right to fall in love with Haruka, it was something she couldn't control. Who in their sane mind could resist the wind senshi's amazing personality and her beautiful soul? 'Not to mention her oh so attractive… sensual… sexual… appearance...'

But before she could come up with any sufficing decision about the current situation, her body gave in to sleep already, the tiredness of the sleepless night catching up with her.

…

Usagi didn't know how long she had been asleep but the sound of the doorbell woke her up.

Walking slowly and stumbling every now and then, the girl finally made it to the door and opened it.

"Hey." A slightly husky voice sounded very familiar as if she was still in her dream.

"Haruka-chan?" The princess looked up and blinked sleepily, still not being fully awake. "Umm, hi. I… umm, didn't expect you here… so soon."

"Ah, so sweet, thanks", the tomboy couldn't help but chuckle at the blunt cutie before her. She reached out and ruffled the smaller girl's hair. "At least, luckily for me, your neighbors were kind enough to let me in. Can I…?"

Usagi rolled her eyes furtively, she could have bet Haruka charmed another prey to slip in here. She stepped aside, letting the wind senshi in, and closed the door as soon as the latter walked in. The remnants of her sleep disappeared little by little and it felt as if a fresh breeze filled her apartment, with just the presence of a certain teal-eyed sandy blonde who had already made herself comfortable in the sofa.

"How are you feeling now?" The princess walked to the sofa and sat down as well, the painful state of the aforesaid blonde in the morning still lingering in her mind. "Can I get you anything?"

"No, I'm fine, thanks. Feeling much better already", Haruka smiled brightly, and that sexy grin made Usagi's heart miss a beat. "You have already gotten me a really good medicine in the morning."

"I'm very glad it helped. So…" And all of a sudden Usagi realized she didn't know what to say next. The situation felt strangely awkward for no particular reason. Her beloved acted somewhat weird, and the young girl wondered if it was a good thing or a bad thing. She shifted in her seat and looked at Haruka expectantly. The tomboy grinned and narrowed her eyes mockingly.

"Looks like someone's feeling pretty awkward, ne, princess?"

"Me?! No!" The short blonde exclaimed before realizing how much she gave away. Looking away, she still tried to explain. "No, not at all. I mean… not me. I mean… why would I? Well, if only a little bit… maybe."

"I bet you're wondering what brought me here." Out of the blue a pair of warm strong arms coiled Usagi's waist. Lifted her a little and pulled her on the taller blonde's lap, taking the girl by surprise and making her stutter slightly.

"U-umm, I g-guess so, yes." She felt quite nervous about what her lover had to say but she also had to admit it felt incredibly cozy and sweet being in Haruka's embrace again. Being held by the wind senshi so softly, so affectionately… basking in her familiar fresh scent and warmth of her body… hearing her breath so close… it felt incredibly intimate now and Usagi wished she could prolong that pleasure.

She only hoped Mamoru wouldn't walk in right now. There was no way she could've explained her… err, current position. Nor did she have any desire to.

The sandy blonde nuzzled and smelled Usagi's hair and breathed out with satisfaction. And as if by magic, the stray thoughts of her boyfriend disappeared from the princess's mind at once.

"You smell great. I missed it, you know", the racer held the smaller girl tight. "Holding you like that. Breathing in your scent. Knowing that I have the right to do so… I missed that."

Turning Usagi's face by her chin, Haruka mildly kissed the girl on the lips and, with her eyes looking intent, she earnestly said, "In the future, princess, don't walk away from me like that. I know that in the morning I was totally not cool and a real mess but… As I sat there alone and thought about what happened, I couldn't help wondering if it was only my imagination. Isn't it too good to be true, saying you love me all of a sudden? Saying I confessed my love to you even earlier… I really wish I could recall the rest of the night because I think it was very special." Nuzzling the princess's neck, the tomboy quietly murmured, "You are a very special person to me. So never, never walk away from me like that, okay?"

Haruka's warm and deliberate, almost lazy, kisses trailing down her neck made Usagi melt and purr, feeling slightly dizzy. God she had missed all this! Even simply being close like that, holding each other in their arms, exchanging little kisses, talking about nothings… she had missed that for so long.

The princess secretly smiled. Haruka revealed another side of her personality, surprising her again. Coming all the way here, speaking about her uncertainties so openly… Usagi never thought the wind senshi would do that, not even in a million years.

Just how many sides did this amazing woman have?

Said woman was grazing the velvety skin of the smaller girl with her lips when something caught her attention.

She licked the darkened spot and, meeting a startled look of the azure eyes, flashed her trademark grin.

…

"A love bite."

A peal of giggles. Golden eyebrows arching in mock surprise.

"Oh really? For your information, I've got a lot of them all over my body. Someone likes biting for sure. And that certain someone doesn't even remember putting them all over me."

A casual shrug. A teasing smirk, hidden in the corners of the lips of a handsome face. The playful tone couldn't disguise the sheer tenderness in the sparkling greenish eyes.

"Maybe I did that on purpose. Do you know what they are saying?"

The same subtle huskiness – so familiar, so sensual, and this time spiced with the tint of a deep affection - it always made her shiver pleasurably inside.

"Let me see. That Mamo-chan will rip my head off when he comes back?" Yet, she tries to keep her head cool and tease the willful tomboy.

Laughing teal eyes, smiling lips and a slightly shaking head, making the sandy blonde strands flash like sunbeams – the woman in front of her is irresistibly beguiling.

"That's quite an interesting idea, Koneko. But no, wrong guess." A pause. Her straight intent look. Her husky voice that sounds barely above the whisper. "They are saying you are mine."

Flushed cheeks. A shy yet happy shining smile.

A tight embrace and a silent dialogue between the sky-blue and teal eyes. Understanding. Questioning. Confirming. And finally there's another kiss, sweet and tender. Loving.

…

"Ummm… okay, yes… Umm, fine", as their kiss ended Usagi tried really hard to keep the remnants of her self-composure. "Err, but still… I think… I think, you know, I probably might need that ointment Michiru-chan treated me with once, some time ago. To get rid of these bloody signs, you know? No bad feelings, Haruka-chan, but what if my girls come over to see me? How am I supposed to explain these? Even with our blissful senshi healing power… it might take the whole day to make the marks go away."

Haruka's lips curved in a mischievous grin. She could easily read the princess's embarrassment behind her babbling and couldn't help giving it a boost.

"Just tell the girls that you've been making love to me all night long. I believe that's exactly what happened, isn't it?"

The princess rolled her eyes, secretly enjoying the wind senshi's familiar arrogance.

"Right, genius… sure, why not…? I will tell them just exactly that", she shook her head and laughed. "They won't believe me anyway. Everyone knows you're head over heels in love with Michiru-chan."

The sandy blonde shrugged with an air of innocence and broke into a smirk.

"Perhaps."

"No, really! What was the last night about, once again?! Arghh, I can't believe it, you're so mean!" Usagi furrowed her brows and slightly hit the wind senshi's back, wriggling to break free from those strong arms.

The sandy blonde laughed light-heartedly, clasping the fuming princess closer to her heart. The world had become wonderful and iridescent again. She loved this life, definitely. And she loved this short sweet girl who made it sparkle.

"You are so cute when you're jealous", the tomboy playfully bit Usagi's ear, earning a surprised gasp, and then kissed her neck behind it. "An irresistibly charming Koneko."

Usagi smiled against her own will. It has been a really long while since she last felt the carefree and affectionate side of the woman she loved.

"Wheedling will get you nowhere." Still, she tried to sound strict but burst out laughing as Haruka nodded in agreement and casually shrugged, slowly nuzzling her neck.

"Got it. Should I stop kissing you then as well?"

"Just dare, you."

"Nah, I'd rather not."

The joyful ringing laughter reverberated through the entire apartment.

'I love you so much my heart's about to explode with happiness.' Now that the handsome tomboy was here, that she could touch her and hold her, the golden-haired princess didn't want to let her go…

…knowing that in the end she would have to, anyway.

After all, Haruka couldn't stay with her, in this apartment. Nor could Usagi allow the wind senshi to do that. Mamoru was coming back tomorrow. And Michiru had probably been waiting for the tomboy since yesterday.

That blissful time the young princess could afford herself without worrying and doubting about what the future was going to bring for her and Haruka was over. The golden blonde sighed furtively but the wind senshi heard her.

Attentive teal eyes looked straight into her soul as Haruka leaned back slightly. Usagi gave her an unsure smile.

After a minute of intent searching for something in the smaller girl's expression, the tomboy nodded to her thoughts and smiled reassuringly.

"Hey, Odango Atama. You know, I was heading back home now, to Michiru. You could come along… ask for that ointment, for example. Want to do that? Spend today all together?"

The taller blonde's casual (or so she meant it to sound) offer struck Usagi. Didn't Haruka realize what she was offering? Or was it that that the recent changes hadn't settled in her mind yet, letting the tomboy say such a thing?

The princess shook her head, hiding her eyes from her lover and making the latter worried by that.

"Umm, thanks but… I… don't think I'm ready to face Michiru-chan yet." That was the softest way Usagi could express her extreme confusion. And it was the easiest part of her doubts she could reveal to Haruka.

Seeing the questioningly risen eyebrows of the wind senshi, the girl tried to explain.

"It might… feel kind of… awkward, I think. After making love to you all night long and confessing my feelings for you I need some time to settle it all down in my head. Do you understand what I mean?"

The beautiful racer leaned back in the back of the sofa, still holding Usagi on her lap, and, groaning, covered her eyes with her hand.

"Ahh, shoot… I guess we complicated things a great deal, didn't we just?"

…

Sometimes happiness makes people insensitive, making them forget everyone and everything that isn't their love.

…

"Umm, if you put it mildly like that", letting out a small smile, Usagi remained silent for a while. But then she called out hesitantly, "Haruka-chan… are you sure it's really a good idea? You and I, together. Maybe… say, just maybe… come to think of it and all the consequences, we shouldn't go this way. Maybe it'll be better if…"

"If what?" Haruka cut her short abruptly, an angry crease marring her forehead, and her arms wrapping tighter around Usagi's waist in a possessive way. "If we break up completely? If we go back to being Friday lovers? Or would you better prefer being almost strangers as we've been lately?"

"It's not that!" The princess fervently exclaimed, shaking her head. Looking away, she quietly added, "It… won't be like that anymore."

"Then how will it be?" The tomboy demanded. Heaving a groan, she visibly tried to contain herself and asked in a quieter voice, "What is it that you want now, princess? You told me to take my time to think it all over, and now that I'm here… you're saying it's not what you want anymore?"

"I… don't know." Usagi's pale fingers were restless, gently rubbing and squeezing Haruka's hands that held her so securely. "To be frank, I'm just scared, Haruka-chan. I don't want others to be hurt as we snatch all the happiness for ourselves!"

A subtle warm smile lit up the wind senshi's face as she nodded understandingly. Softly kissing the golden blonde's temple and cradling the girl in her arms, Haruka sighed and began speaking in a low comforting voice, "I understand your feelings, Koneko, I really do. It is true that things would have been much easier if our feelings stayed the same as they were in the past. Or if we didn't start this at all, in the first place. It's a fact now. But let me tell you something. You can regret those feelings, you can deny and hide them so that no one knows but you can't change what already happened. No matter what your decision will be from now on, it's going to hurt someone anyway, be that either Michiru, Mamoru-san or me. Otherwise you will end up hurting yourself."

…

It's meaningless to resist when what you're being persuaded to do is the same thing you crave for with all your heart and soul. And it becomes the hardest when you know you have no right to give in to that persuasion either.

…

Seeing the princess remain silent, obviously contemplating her heartfelt speech, Haruka sighed again and decided to go all the way.

"Listen, Odango Atama, right now I can't tell you what we will do and how we will solve this situation. It's something we have yet to figure out. But one thing I know for sure. You said you loved me. And if you expect me to back off and simply let it go as if it never had happened… you're very wrong. I'm not letting you go. Not now. Not anymore."

She still had no answers.

She still had no idea where this path would take them to.

Yet, somehow, as she heard Haruka say those words, those thoughts didn't bother her that much any longer.

'That's right. As long as I am with Haruka, everything's going to be fine. We will find a way to get through.'

…

Or so she thought…

…

Usagi smiled against her own will, unable to hold back a teasing remark.

"Last night you said the same thing. I thought you didn't remember."

The sandy blonde chuckled, releasing her tension a bit, and shook her head.

"I didn't. But it just means I was being sincere then too. Because that's how I really feel." Haruka pulled the girl closer and, burying her face in the golden hair, whispered gently, "I love you, Koneko. I came here to say that to you. I do love you."

Usagi wanted to joke about the wind senshi being more outspoken and enthusiastic with her confession last night as she was drunk, but… instead she suddenly felt tears well up into her eyes upon hearing Haruka's quiet confession, and, hiding her flushed face in the tomboy's neck, she only whispered back, "Thank you."

A/N: I hope it made you smile at least :) Okay, so the stage is set, and we'll see where the things go from here on *grins* Have to bring Michiru in the picture, really *ponders* And to do it carefully to not give away too much, right? :)))

Ah, well, we'll see.

Time for the review replies!!! Thank you all for sending so many of them!

Reader458 – *laughs* Oh yes, you say that a lot but I never mind that, you should know that ;))) Your opinion always means very much to me and your ideas help me a lot :)) Awww… so many pleasant words, I'm truly happy you enjoyed the chapter :) Yes, I wanted to show their pain and uncertainties (like there wouldn't be enough, right? *giggles*), and also I wanted to give a glimpse on Michiru's part too. Even if just for a moment. Well, and the sex scene *giggles* it came to me in Russian but while translating I almost wrote the whole thing from the start (but I still hope mom wouldn't stumble upon the Russian version accidentally :)) Thank you, my dear! I'm so delighted you liked this stuff as well, even though I still feel somewhat shy to write 'the real thing', you know *smirks* Hehe, it seems you fulfilled your promise only recently ;)) But I can't blame you for that, not after being away myself for so long :)) Well… once more thank you so very much! I'm blessed to have you as my devoted and wonderful friend! The story wouldn't be so good without your help :) Hugs :)))

petiyaka – *beams* Awww, thank you! To get such praise from you, that means a lot! ;)) I'm truly flattered and I'm happy you liked it so much. *nods eagerly* I long to write a happier stuff before things get harder again, so it's great to hear you enjoyed it too. *bounces* Aww, thank you so very much for being so attentive and spending your time to answer my questions! I appreciate it very much *bows* I love it how much trust you put in both Michiru and Haruka *hugs* It's really great to see that! We'll see if you're right in the end ;) And as for Mamoru… hmm *grins* I think I'll need the man later. Besides, I can't let Usagi lead a too comfortable life, can I? :)) *laughs* Oh yes, he won't like it, you're so right about that! Ahh, your words make dizzy somehow, I truly love your reviews! Thank you for staying with me :) Hugs.

Unlove You – *giggles* Sorry, but it's just so funny… Last time I heard from you we were talking about spring, and now it's like your summer has already passed by. Sheesh, time flies! Well… *nods* yes, you're right, there are still many obstacles to overcome if they really want to be together. I wonder if only snatches of happiness is all they could get in the end, though. We'll see :)) True, they can't drop off their existing partners, and it makes the whole story so much more difficult (and interesting to write *grins*). *nods* Why, thank you for saying that! It's great to see you so understanding! *lol* There will be a lot of Haruka and Usagi from now on :)) Sorry for the long absence… and thank you for waiting! I'll try to update more often :) Take care, Cyn. Hugs :)

lostinhersong – *giggles* Awww, Jenn, you are so cute and funny if I'm allowed to say so! Thank you, my dear, it's always a pleasure to see your reaction and your ideas on this story. *nods* Please, don't be so upset. I don't want to make Michiru hurt either but… love stories are never so simple, do you agree? And if it comforts you a little, it's not only Michi who's going to be hurt *evil smile* Sorry for spoiling, but it's obvious with how things turned out by now, isn't it? :) And huuuuge thank you for appreciating my story this much! Wow… even making it an exception… that's an honor for me, honestly *bows* I'm so touched! Take care, Jenn. I hope you'll like this chapter as well. Hugs :)

KinoAG – *laughs* Thanks! So many emotions about it, huh? *grins* I hope you really liked it :))

batcat4eternity – *gets fuzzy and blushing* Oh sheesh… that's SOME response! You made me feel all warm and smiling from ear to ear with your review *hugs* Okay, it still makes me feel the same, no matter how many times I read it :))) You wrote so many beautiful kind words and compliments, thank you very much!!! I'm very happy you got to see the point of the story that you've been craving for ;)) Hehe, confessing is always kind of scary in itself, and when you need the person so badly and you think they don't return your feelings… it's really painful, don't you think so? But *beams* it's not our case ;) Both girls are happy together now. And from what I see, you've guessed many things very well, give or take ;)) I wonder though what the outcome will be like (I mean, I seem to change a lot of things since I'm back to writing, so the existing ending might be changed as well *giggles*). And it's so lovely how you described the relations between Haruka, Michiru and Usagi… I'm in awe :)) Thank you for your wonderful review, it really made my day, and thank you for staying with the story! Take care :))

imjce – Hi! Wow… is it THAT affecting? ;)) I'm really happy to hear that, thank you! Sorry for it took me so long to update, though *shuffles feet* I know what the waiting feels like. And please, don't let the story kill you literally ;)) I'd really like it if you could read the end of it too *grins* Take care and the best wishes :)

HarUsa – *bursts out laughing* Why, it was THAT hot? :))) You must be a very sensitive person ;) Well… ahem, good luck, I hope it felt nice too *grins* Thank you for your review. It was… something really extraordinary :))

alifetimeago – *wide smile* Wow, there's a whole story behind the getting alerts in your mail, huh? I can't even say how special your words make me feel :) Going through all the trouble and staying up so late to read the chapter… that's so heartwarming for me to know! I think I can't thank you enough for such a devotion I feel through your reviews and your messages. Speaking of that, thank you very much for sending me those PM too! I have to say that your words and your support made me get back to working on the 'Fighting' sooner than I expected :) It was very sweet of you *hugs* What can I say… your encouraging and your eagerness make me feel so appreciated and so… I don't know, capable of doing something really good. For that I can't thank you enough! *grins* And you still wonder why I react to your messages the way I do… :)) You really are kind to me! *chuckles* Why, that was somewhat unfair to your boyfriend, holding him on the line without really speaking and for what, just for some story! Maybe I am a bad person but I feel flattered :) *grins* It's incredible how you react to the story's events! It's like you're living them too :) Well, at least, this time I'm really happy I could bring you joy with the chapter ;) Hope you'll like this one as well. *bows deeply* Awww, you really make me blush with your words. I'm trying to become a better writer and your opinion mean a lot to me *hugs* (And no, I don't think you're stupid even if you can't tell the difference between 'affect/effect's use :)) I enjoyed learning how you see the girls :) And about Haruka, I feel just the same way as you ;)) Sacrifices… heh, yeah, sadly, there are sacrifices to be made. But on the other hand, the whole story is about getting one troubles and solving other *laughs* ah, and having great time in the meanwhile ;) Thank you for your support once more! I'll try to write a nice ending, the way I see it, at least :))) I hope to hear more from you. Hugs :)))

Peace Faith – *chuckles* Why, thank you! I can't really say if I understand you completely, but I'm glad you got at least something you wanted *grins* I guess you didn't believe they'd get together so quickly after such a long period of being distant and avoiding? Hmm… maybe it was really too quick :) But I just couldn't bear any more frustration and doubts on the girls' part :) And you know, I thought the chapter was somewhat short too ;)) But it felt like a good place to stop where it ended ;)) *bows* I'm happy you noticed that small appearance of Michiru ;) Sadly, she's not present in this chapter but she'll be back soon :) And I'm very sorry for the long wait, really sorry. Take care :) And thank you once more for your lovely review(s) ;)

Lord James Ares – *lol* Wow, it even makes you dance, huh? It's so funny! But I admit, it's very flattering if my story can make you that happy *grins* Thank you for such a high opinion *bows* :)) Yes, it's… I don't know, I like writing about their happiness so much it's addicting :)) I wonder if it makes sense. But you are right, of course, and it's not going to be that simple for them. They have to face a lot to prove their feelings… or to realize their love isn't that strong, maybe? *chuckles* Awww, there's so much to come yet… cool! *lol* Sorry, I'm getting all excited when I think about what's going to come :) As always, thank you very much for your wonderful review. I always look forward to hearing your opinion! Hugs :)

debora diskey – *bows* Thank you for your kind words. Updating :) Sadly, not so soon as I hoped but I'll try to do better next time :) Best wishes!

darkness – Thank you, I'm glad you liked it :) Well, as I promised there will be more of Michiru a bit later, and for a while it's going to be mostly Haruka and Usagi (til' things become really hard, perhaps *grins*), but Michiru will appear every once in a while, anyway :) Mamoru… heh, poor guy, seems like no one really likes him. I wonder if I should sympathize with him, though *grins* Thank you for the review, it's very nice! Best wishes.

Tinkerbad – *laughs* Wow, what a great reaction! Thank you :))) As I learned from your profile, you're quite picky about the stories you read, so it's really flattering to see you valued this one so highly ;)) I'm happy you like Haruka so much, and as for Mamoru… yes, poor guy, no one loves him (even Usagi doesn't seem to care that much right now). And why Usagi is poor? *grins* She's quite happy as of now, no? Thank you very much for your review! Best wishes :)

Once more, thank you all for your kind attention! See you next time!

Take care,

Nury