Family
Chapter 37: Summer Part 1
Author's Note: My sincere apologies for the far too long hiatus. I am still writing chapters for this story but due to a writer's block in the middle of some of the chapters, it was hard to fill in the missing gap. But I am motivated to continue on. Thank you, my dear fans who are still reading the story after so many years. I hope to be able to write better chapters for this story.
Previously on Family, Federick refused to return to Moonstone Mansion and Fate is worried about her brother who chose to avoid her due to their fight. Heero knew about this and decided to persuade Federick to return to Moonstone Mansion. In the end, Heero and Federick got into a physical fight, causing Fate to show up at Wingate Mansion. Fate and Federick managed to reconcile with each other. Heero and Fate had a private talk whereby Heero described Fate as a crystal. Federick and Heero met each other again at the Preventers' Headquarters, where Heero was there to meet with Lady Une. The two of them managed to have a private chat of their own.
This chapter will not be broken down into shorter chapters, but will be a long chapter instead.
Thank you for reading this story and I hope that you continue to support it. Please read and review, NO FLAMERS! Pairing: HeeroXOC
After Colony 203, 3rd July
Colony L1, VLA, Wingate Mansion
Morning,
Almost one month have passed and it was now the start of July. July was also the mid-point of the summer season in the Colonies. The weather was warmer and most schools were on their summer break. This has allowed students to go for a long break to enjoy their summer days. Rachel Wingate is currently seated in the living room, considering the choices that she has laid in front of her. She is picking a location for her entire family to go to for their summer vacation. Then again her children seemed perfectly happy to remain in VLA. Many parties were being held at the mansion, hence there were definitely more people around. The mansion was becoming noisier, but she should be glad that her children are bringing their friends over.
Sadly, those who were working will not be able to go on a vacation. Speaking of vacation, she is also aware that Heero hadn't seen Fate since 22nd of May. Both of them were busy with their own job and the paparazzi that were stalking Fate made it hard for both of them to see each other again. Maybe she could use this opportunity to bring the two of them together again. The news was slowly dying down since there had not been any new sightings or new updates since the announcement Heero made at his own birthday party. The two of them were not seen together at all and maybe the media was tired of waiting for something to happen. Hence there was nothing new to talk about but mere speculations, gossip, and untruths. Even the general public was getting bored by the lack of any update on the situation. For the Wingate family, they were glad that the news is finally dying down. Rachel is certain that Heero and Fate are feeling the same way. Although some persistent paparazzi still continued to follow Fate around hoping to snap photos of her being seen with Heero.
As Rachel was staring at the options before her, she finally picked up a photo of a large mansion. They used to go there often for their summer vacations but they stopped going there for various reasons. Maybe it was time to relive those past summer vacation days again. Hence she made a phone call to the staff at the mansion as there were many preparations that have to be made.
Moonstone Mansion, Night time
Fate was surprised when Rachel invited her to go on a summer vacation with her family. Rachel had also invited her entire family and she mentioned that she had hired enough bodyguards in case the paparazzi ever hear about this. The Wingate family will be going to the City of Ashford, which was the third largest city in Colony L1. As the city is located near the sea, it is an ideal place for summer vacation. Many rich and famous people have bought property in Ashford and they will usually go to Ashford during the summer. Hence there was a certain degree of privacy as many celebrities and singers are there. She remembered going to Ashford with the Wingates for their summer vacation in AC 199. It was a great location to enjoy the summer days. Yet she remembered the bitter sweet moments during the summer of AC 199, where she got herself injured and Heero had to save her.
"It would be good to take some time off your hectic schedule and enjoy your summer days as well." Rachel told her.
They were currently conversing through a video call. Fate was silent for a short moment. She wanted to spend some time alone with Heero during the summer season, but thanks to the paparazzi they hadn't seen each other since the end of May. But will Heero be able to take time off to join them?
"It will be one week long but you can choose to stay there longer if you want to." Rachel told her with a smile.
"Will Heero be going?" Fate asked.
She hated herself for asking this, but she didn't want to enjoy her summer break without him around.
"He needs to check his schedule as well." Rachel told her.
"I see." Fate whispered.
"You know how to contact me when you have made up your mind." Rachel told her.
Fate nodded and they bid each other goodbye. She then texted Heero and asked if he was going for the summer vacation. Heero only replied her three hours later saying that he could only go for three days, with two days being the weekend. Fate then checked her schedule and planned accordingly to fit Heero's schedule.
7 days later, 10th July
VLA, Moonstone Mansion
Early Morning, 5am
Fate and Federick are going to the City of Ashford on their own from VLA. Federick was assigned to be Fate's bodyguard hence he was able to escort Fate to the City of Ashford. If not he would only be able to join them on the weekends. They had already packed their luggage bags and will only return to VLA four days later. Fate planned to go to Ashford one day earlier than Heero as she wanted to spend more time at Ashford. Plus she needed a longer break from the paparazzi and press situation. Most of the members of the Wingate family have already gone ahead to the City of Ashford on the 7th of July. Hence, they will be joining up with the people who are already at Ashford. While the City of Ashford was not extremely far away from VLA, it still required a six hour drive along the highway. They could choose to get there by plane, but the plane journey was too short. Including the necessary customs that they need to go through made getting there by plane much more troublesome. Hence most of them will be driving to Ashford instead.
Federick planned for them to leave in the early morning so that the paparazzi camping outside their mansion gates will not notice that something was amiss. Federick was checking the security detail for the mansion with a junior Preventer when Fate walked down the stairs. A male servant had helped her to carry her luggage bag down to the first floor. She thanked him and waited for Federick to finish the last minute details. As they will be going away for four days, Federick was making sure that the security around the mansion is tight to protect their mansion's staff. Plus it would be best if no one knew that they were going to Ashford for a short summer vacation.
Federick nodded and thanked the junior Preventer before he walked towards her.
"You look sleepy." Federick commented.
"I am, it's five in the morning." Fate whispered.
"You will be able to sleep in the car." Federick said.
"Provided that you don't speed too much and it's taxing for you to drive so early in the morning." Fate whispered.
She is worried about their safety while Federick merely laughed.
"Trust me, I can handle driving at such hours. We should get going." Federick told her.
Killian and the male servant wheeled their luggage bags for them as they all walked towards the garage. Federick loaded both their luggage bags into the boot of his sports car.
"Are you certain that you do not wish for a chauffeur to drive the two of you there instead?" Killian asked them again.
Fate would have went with the idea as both of them can get some sleep in the limo but Federick still refused. With that they got into Federick's sports car.
"Look after the mansion, call me or Fate if there is any emergency. I will call to check in on the mansion once every night if there's nothing amiss." Federick told Killian.
"Yes, Master Federick." Killian said.
Federick started his car's engine.
"Have a safe and good trip, Master Federick and Miss Fate." Killian said.
Fate nodded and gave Killian a smile as she waved goodbye. Killian and the male servant bowed at them before Federick pressed the button to open the car garage's door. Federick drove the sports car out of the garage and turned towards the mansion gates. He stepped on the accelerator and sped through the opened mansion gates. He then drove as fast as he could towards the main City of VLA. Fate did notice that they have surprised the paparazzi who were camping outside her mansion gates when they drove out. Federick drove around the City of VLA in a few loops to try to throw anyone off. Fate remained silent as she observed how Federick was checking the rear view mirror to ensure that they were not being followed. After a while Federick drove towards the highways. Fate finally relaxed and tried to stay awake for Federick's sake, but she was getting really sleepy.
"You don't have to worry about me, I can manage. Get some sleep. I will wake you up when we stop for breaks." Federick told her.
Fate noticed that there wasn't a lot of cars on the highway probably because it was still in the early morning. But she wasn't surprised to see Federick speeding up.
"Fed, aren't we going a little too fast?" She asked.
"Not as fast as your boyfriend's usual speed. He drives like a road demon." Federick said.
"I am aware of that. I do get car sick as I am no longer used to his driving." Fate pointed out.
Federick didn't say anything else. Even though Federick was speeding on the highways, his driving was relatively stable hence Fate felt more assured. Eventually she fell asleep instead as she had woken up too early to prepare to go Ashford.
5 hours later, 10am
City of Ashford, Winchester Mansion
Federick was driving at a slightly slower speed for Fate's sake and they reached Ashford in five hours even though he could have reached in four hours. He woke Fate up and Fate was happy to be woken up as her neck was getting sore from the sleeping position she was in. Fate looked out of the passenger seat's window at the city in front of her. Although Ashford wasn't VLA, it was mostly populated with short buildings. There were many bungalows and mansions around, making tall apartment houses a rare sight. The city didn't seem to have changed much since the last time she was here four years ago. As Federick continued driving through the streets of Ashford, she noticed that they were heading towards the beach area. There were still a lot of mansions along the entire beach, as if everyone wanted a mansion near the coastline. Fate smiled when she saw the sea in front of them. It has been a very long time since she went to the beach.
"You seem excited for someone who doesn't like to swim in public." Federick said.
Fate merely smiled as Federick is the only person who knows that she can swim, just that she hates to do so publicly.
"It's been too long since I have been to the beach." Fate explained.
Federick didn't say anything else as he continued driving. Soon they were driving through the small streets as if looking for the mansion that the Wingate Family owns. The beach is located directly behind Winchester Mansion's back gates. Fate smiled as she recognized the large mansion grounds and it didn't take them long before they stopped in front of the mansion gates for a security check. The security guards lets them in and they were driving through the mansion grounds to go to the main mansion. The land that comes with the mansion wasn't as large as the Wingate Mansion's lands. But it was still the largest mansion in the City of Ashford. Federick pulled his sports car to a stop in front of the mansion's main doors.
"Do you want to go in first? I will bring our luggage along after parking my car." Federick asked.
"Sure, I will inform them to prepare breakfast for us." Fate told him.
She got out of the car and felt that her legs were numb after sitting down for five hours. She bids Federick goodbye for now and entered the mansion. The butler of the mansion immediately greeted her and relayed her request to the kitchen staff. Fate looked around the mansion slowly, feeling nostalgic as she remembered the last time she was here four years ago.
"Oh Fate, you are finally here!"
She turned and smiled to see Felicia and Isabelle coming down the stairs, both smiling at her. They greeted each other and Fate allowed herself to be dragged by the two ladies to the living room. They sat down and chat a little before Federick entered the mansion with their luggage bags.
"Oh Federick, you are here." Felicia greeted with a smile.
Federick greeted them with a smile before the butler came forward to show Federick and Fate where their rooms were. Fate excused herself and they went up the stairs where the butler showed Fate her room first before leading Federick to where his room was. The rooms for the males were opposite where the females' rooms were. They weren't very far away from them, but it still required at least a three minute walk to get to the other side.
Fate opened the door to her assigned room and smiled at what she saw. The room is spacious and has a simple yet classic look. She continued smiling as she looked around the room slowly, placing her luggage bag near the tall wardrobe. Fate crossed the room and slowly pushed back the curtains. She looked out of the glass doors that lead out to a small balcony. She could see the entire beach and the endless sea from where she was standing. Fate is glad that she came for this trip with the Wingate Family, for the view in front of her is breathtaking. She could stand here and stare at the sea for hours. There was a knock on her door and she turned to see Federick entering her room.
"Looks like Mrs. Wingate gave the females the rooms with the best view." Federick commented.
"Is that so? What is the view from your room?" Fate asked.
"The gardens, it isn't that bad but yours is still better." Federick said.
Fate smiled and both of them looked out at the sea in silence.
"The food is ready, we should go down for breakfast." Federick said.
Fate nodded and both of them went down to the dining room for their breakfast. They met Rachel there who was busy sorting out last minute details with the mansion's staff.
"Federick and Fate, I'm glad to see that the two of you have arrived safely." Rachel told them.
They smiled at her and greeted her back in greeting. They thanked her again for inviting them for this summer vacation and letting them stay in Winchester Mansion. Sitting down at the dining table, Fate was surprised by the spread of food in front of them and she picked a few items while Federick was already tucking into the food.
"The rest of your family will be arriving this afternoon. With Heero and Jace due to arrive tomorrow morning." Rachel informed them.
Fate nodded in acknowledgement before she started eating her food. The food is delicious and she fed Meteor some as well. They chat with each other over breakfast and found out from Rachel that some of them have gone on ahead to the beach. Fate wanted to unpack her luggage so she did that after breakfast. Then she went to find Felicia and Isabelle, who brought her on a shopping trip with them. Many bodyguards came with them and Fate was glad that she can finally do some shopping without being disturbed by the paparazzi. Still she was catching some attention from the shoppers along the shopping street. But they were often escorted to a back room where they could browse through the newest designer items in private. Fate was glad to have some female company with her as she does her shopping. It reminded her of the times when she was shopping with Arabella and Rebecca. Sadly she hadn't seen them in a very long time due to the paparazzi frenzy. But they still kept in contact with each other through messaging and video calls.
After going to many different stores and buying different things, the ladies went to a nearby café for high tea. They dank tea and ate cakes as they chat about how their life had been. Fate was glad to be able to catch up with Felicia and Isabella. Isabelle admits that she has been going clubbing for the past few nights and was going again tonight. She asked Fate to go with her but Fate declined the offer as she doesn't like to go clubbing.
It was evening time when she returned to Winchester Mansion with Felicia and Isabelle. She packed her new clothing and took a bath before changing into a new dress. She went down to the dining room for dinner. She was glad to see her family as well as the members of the Wingate family. It reminded her of the times both her family and Heero's will spend their summer time together. Sometimes they will be in her homeland, Japan or at times in the Colonies. She missed those times as it reminded her of how she met Heero and how she got closer to Heero's family as well.
Her mother, Helen requested that she joins her for a private chat. Fate knew that this confrontation was coming but she tried her best to be as honest as she could, without revealing too much about Heero. She apologized for causing trouble and for possibly ruining her family's name. Helen didn't question her further but advised her to be careful and to think through before doing something reckless again.
With that Fate returned to her room. She took a bath and changed into a night gown. She looked out at the sea and listened to the sound of the waves for a while before she closed the glass doors and curtains. She messaged Heero that she couldn't wait to see him tomorrow. Then she got into bed and fell asleep with a smile on her face.
The next day, 11th July
Morning, 7am
Fate woke up early this morning. She took a bath and changed into a light green sundress and went down for breakfast. She greeted her family as well as the Wingate family good morning before taking her seat. Rachel informed them that Heero and Jace left VLA at 5am, hence they should reach Ashford by 9am if nothing goes wrong. Fate ate her breakfast as they discussed what to do today. Most of them plan to go down to the beach today and Fate was likely going to do the same. She excused herself after she was full and went to find the library. She was glad that she remembered where it was.
Fate smiled at the sight of the familiar library. It was a huge and grand library with two levels and many bookshelves were filled to the brim with different kinds of books. She looked at the books on the shelves and slowly picked a novel she had not read before. She took a seat on a sofa that was located in the corner of the library. She started reading the novel as she enjoyed the solitude the quiet library has to offer. Fate was starting to feel sleepy probably because she was not used to waking up so early in the morning. Her eyelids felt heavy and she was straining to continue reading the book. But somehow she lost track of where and what she was reading. It didn't take long before she dozed off.
Flashback,
AC 199, July
Fate remembered the last time she was here in the City of Ashford four years ago. As usual her family came to join the Wingate family for their summer vacation. Fate was turning 18 that year. She and Heero were already friends and she was already very much in love with him. Naturally Heero doesn't know about her feelings for him. She was already aware that Heero was a relationship with Relena. She was desperately trying to fall out of love with him. Hence she was determined to keep her distance from him that summer, after all it was best if she lets him go. Since he was someone too far out of reach for her.
She remembered trying her best to spend as little time alone with Heero as ever. She often went out with her siblings to the city or even to the beach instead. Yet she often wondered where Heero was, for he was always performing disappearing acts. He would only appear during meal times but beyond that no one really knew what he was up to.
She would often find him in the library, going through many thick books as if sourcing for information. She would often hesitate, unsure if she should disturb him. In the end she would often turn away, knowing that he needed the time alone as he did seem busy. There was once Heero picked up on her presence.
"You have been standing there for a while now, why don't you come in?" Heero asked.
Fate was surprised that he knew that she was here especially when she was out of his view and some distance away. She sighed before going into the library, hating herself for being discovered. And partly because she had failed to stay away from him. He was busy doing research on a latest product hence he was too busy to do anything else. Fate knew that he was far too serious for a teenager at his age. Heero was all about work and no play. Sometimes she even wondered does Heero know what having fun is?
She persuaded him to put aside his work for a moment since he seems to reach a mental block as well. She decided that they should go do something fun instead. Naturally he disagreed, but she dragged him with her instead. They watched the sunset together on the observation deck before looking at the night sky together by the beach. She knew that Heero hated the fake sky above them but she was happy to spend time with him. Fate could even tell that he was still thinking about how to solve the issue at hand even though he was outside with her. He eventually had an eureka moment. She remembered laughing at his reaction, it was almost like seeing a mental light bulb getting lighted. He was excited, she could see that behind his emotionless expression on his face and he practically raced back to the mansion.
Eventually Heero was too busy with his idea that he was stuck in the library for days. Fate often wondered why Heero's definition of a summer vacation was still work instead of play. On the second last day of their summer vacation, everyone decided to go cycling instead. Their route will include cycling through the beach, up the roads that goes up to the mountain top. They will then rest there before heading down the mountain, through the beach and eventually back to the mansion. They would set off in the morning after a light breakfast. They should reach the mountain top by afternoon, stop there to rest and have lunch before cycling back. Naturally Heero did not take part in this cycling activity and so they all set off. It was tiring to cycle such long distances in a place she was unfamiliar with. But Fate eventually managed to reach the mountain top.
The view of the sky and of the sea on the mountain top was breathtaking. She was really tired and was glad that they stopped to rest. They had a picnic there and rested for a few hours before they have to cycle back. The sky had darkened during their time there and most of the females have chosen to go back the mansion via the sedan cars. The servants have driven up the mountain to bring them their lunch as well as bring back those who are exhausted back to the mansion. The only people who wanted to cycle back to the mansion was Jace, Joshua, Federick and Fate. Federick insisted that Fate return with the sedan car for it would be too dangerous to cycle in the rain. However as both cars were already full, Fate had no choice but to cycle back as well. She doesn't want anyone to give up their seat in the car for her.
Eventually it started to rain heavily and they had no choice but to cycle down the mountain and stop at the nearest shelter at the bottom of the mountain. However the males were planning to sprint back to the mansion as the sky was so dark that it was highly unlikely that the rain would stop so soon. Hence Fate would be the only one who would make a stop at the shelter. The males were indeed too fast to catch up to and Fate lost sight of them. Plus the rain only grew heavier, hindering her vision and making the roads much more slippery. It was getting really cold as well, but she had no choice but to continue. After all the cars have already left and there was no shelter at all until she reach the bottom of the mountain.
It was indeed hard to cycle in the heavy rain and she did her best to control her bike. However she lost control of her bike while going down a steep slope and she fell off the road, before rolling down the mountain. She did not remember what happened after that, but she remembered waking up to find herself lying on wet ground. She looked around her surroundings to find herself surrounded by tall trees and green grass. She had no idea where she was and she didn't know where the nearest mountain trail was. Meteor informed her that her shield had protected her from getting a concussion as she rolled down the steep mountain. She tried to get up but she must have twisted her ankle as her ankle hurts, making it hard for her to stand up.
She knew that she was stranded and in deep trouble for she couldn't make her way out of the mountains in the state she was in. The rain kept on falling from the sky and it continued to drench her. She forced herself to stand and limped her way to a large tree. She sat down near the trunk and was glad that at least the tree's thick branches and leaves managed to give her some shelter from the rain. She sat there for a long time, waiting for someone to notice that she wasn't back. Fate activated Meteor's emergency signal, hoping that her father or even Federick will pick up the signal and use it to find where she was.
A long time passed by and Fate slowly doubted that anyone was coming to rescue her. All she could see was the heavy rain and the trees in front of her. She could have fallen so far away from the mountain trail that it was impossible for anyone to notice that she needed help. She had no idea where the bicycle was as well. There was nothing she could do but wait for someone to rescue her. A part of her was fearful that no one will notice that she was missing and that she might probably die out here in the woods. It frightened her to think of it, hence she tried to stay awake. An hour passed by and yet no one was in sight. The rain wasn't clearing up and Fate wondered if it was possible for her to make her way out of the woods. It would take hours and she might end up damaging her ankle further.
She asked Meteor to send out another emergency signal, hoping that someone else will catch the signal as well. She tried making calls through Meteor, but the phone signal was very weak in the mountains. Hence the call was disrupted before anyone could pick up the call. The next thing that surprised her was when lightning flashed in the sky and thunder roared loudly. She knew that there was a chance she would be struck by lightning especially since she is under a tall tree. Also she was totally drenched from the rain, hence it was unlikely for her to survive a lightning strike. Fate hugged Meteor close to her as she continued to wait for someone to rescue her. She hoped that Meteor's defense shield was strong enough to protect her from the lightning if it ever strike her or the tree she was sitting close to. The heavy rain and the strong winds made her feel cold.
Another hour passed by without any signs of rescue coming, she simply wanted to fall asleep. But will she be able to wake up if she fell asleep? Forcing herself to stay awake, she thought about her life. Will she have any regrets if she died today? She had a very big one, and it involved not telling Heero how she felt about him. Tears fell from her eyes and she didn't bother trying to calm herself down again. She didn't know how long it had been when she heard sounds. She sat up straight and looked at the heavy rain before her. Could it be that her ears were deceiving her? But she heard it again, and she knew that it wasn't her imagination. She sent Meteor out to find out who or what it was and lead the person to her. And so she waited as Meteor flew out in the rain. But the rain and the winds were too strong that Meteor had to return as it would have been blown too far away for Fate to retrieve it. She tried to shout for help, but her voice was too soft against the heavy rain. The sound faded and Fate was disheartened, there was no way anyone will notice her like this.
"Fate!"
She heard her name! She gathered her strength and shouted as loud as she could. She was shocked when the person who found her wasn't Federick but Heero.
"Heero? What are you doing here? Where…"
Heero was soaked to the skin but he was wearing a black trench coat to keep him warm. Heero immediately checked on her and knew that she couldn't walk on her twisted ankle. He removed his trench coat and put it on her. He then gave her a brief update on what happened and how they have deployed the mansion's servants and the police to search for her once they received Meteor's emergency signal. Heero had simply joined the search since it was an emergency case. He then knelt down and said that he was going to piggy back her. Fate blushed almost immediately and knew that she had no options left as she can't walk anymore. But she tried to persuade him to use other methods to get help but Heero won't hear it. Eventually she gave in and allowed Heero to piggy back her.
It was one of those times when she was so close to him that she could feel his body's warmth. He smelled like the rain, probably because he was drenched as well. Heero carried her as he continued walking, as if he knew how to get out of the wooded area. Fate felt safe to be with him and knew that Heero will bring her back to the mansion. She eventually fell asleep, knowing that she was finally safe and rescued by the man she loves.
Fate woke up to realize that she was back in her room at Winchester Mansion. She felt weak and her mother informed her what happened after that. Heero had brought her out of the woods and they sent her to the nearest hospital as Heero called the search off. They eventually brought her back to the mansion to rest while everyone have returned and were getting warmed up after being in the rain or so long. Federick apologized for leaving her behind but Fate didn't blame him for she only had herself to blame.
Many of them who came to see her had apologized. Fate could see the guilt and worry in their eyes as they looked at her. Heero was the last person to see her and Fare thanked him for rescuing her. Heero advised her to keep off her feet and not to push herself too hard in the future. Fate merely nodded before Heero turned to leave. After going through such an incident and almost fearing that she will die, she tried to confess her love for Heero. But she couldn't say it, not to his face as he stood there and looked her in silence.
"I…. I'm sorry for making you worried." She said instead, knowing that she had failed to confess to him yet again.
Heero merely gave her a curt nod. Silence fell between them and Fate knew that he was taking his leave.
"I saw the bike you were on. It was so badly damaged that it would be better to buy a new one." Heero said.
Fate's eyes widen in surprise to hear that but she looked down sadly instead.
"Seeing the damage to the bike, I know for certain that you wouldn't have survived that fall if not for Meteor's shield."
Fate continued to remain silent as she looked down sadly. They would have been planning a funeral for her instead if she didn't have Meteor with her.
"I'm glad that you are still alive and that you are safe now." Heero said softly.
His words surprised her and she looked up at him instead. Their eyes met before Heero turned and left the room. Fate didn't move for a while before tears started to fall from her eyes. Part of her was glad to be alive as well. But the other part was surprised that Heero actually does care about her and it was making her more hopeful instead. Hopeful that somehow, someday Heero will love her as much as she loves him. She was crying because she had failed miserably to fall out of love with him. After all today, only made her love him more. For he was the one who rescued her from the woods and the one who piggy backed her to safety.
"Why? Why do you always do this to me? Please stop being so nice to me… It will only make me more hopeful for something that will never happen." She said to no one but herself.
Meteor jumped up the bed and stayed by her side as if to comfort her.
"Why? Why of all people in the world must I love you?" She whispered to herself as she continued crying.
End of Flashback
Back to the Present
Library of Winchester Mansion, 8.15am
Fate woke up and it took a while before her vision focused. She realized that she must have fallen asleep while reading. She leaned too much to the right as she was reading and now her upper body was lying sideways on the sofa. She sat up straight almost immediately and noticed that the book she was initially reading was now placed on the coffee table in front of her. She didn't remember placing it there. Fate looked around the library and saw that she was still the only person in the library. She reached a hand out to touch her right cheek, feeling if there was any weird line on it since she was sleeping in that position just now. She was surprised to find that her cheek was damp. She gently brushed her finger against her eye to know that she had been crying in her sleep. She looked at her tear stained finger and wondered how long had she been crying in her sleep.
"You were crying in your sleep."
It was a statement, not a question as if the person who said it did see her cry in her sleep. She looked up and was surprised to see Heero. He was dressed in a light gray summer suit and he looked as dashing as ever. Fate smiled up at him but her smile died when she noticed the concern in his eyes.
"When did you reach Winchester Mansion?" She asked, changing the subject.
Heero closed the gap between them in a few strides.
"Fifteen minutes ago, I found you sleeping five minutes ago." Heero said.
Fate nodded and with that Heero sat down on the seat beside her. He reached out and held her hand.
"What were you dreaming about?" He asked.
Fate debated on whether to tell him, but she decided to do so since she knows that Heero wouldn't drop the subject until he got the answer he was looking for.
"The summer vacation four years ago, in this same City of Ashford." Fate whispered.
"The bike incident." Heero said almost immediately.
"Yes." She whispered.
There was a short moment of silence between them.
"Are you afraid to be back here in Ashford again?" Heero asked her softly.
His hand felt warm and familiar against her hand and Fate thought of his question.
"No I am not, just that… it brought back memories of the last time I was here." Fate whispered.
"Bad memories, judging from how you have been crying in your sleep." Heero said.
Their eyes met and Fate gave him a sad smile. She felt him tighten his hold around her hand.
"I wanted to wake you up when I saw you as you looked like you were in pain." Heero told her.
Fate didn't respond and Heero surprised her by pulling her into a tight hug. She hugged him back almost immediately, feeling relieved that it was already in the past. What matters now was that they are finally together now. She had definitely waited too long for this day.
"And so that I can do this." Heero said softly.
Fate closed her eyes as she breathed in his familiar and unique cologne. She loves the warmth of his body close to hers as well. Fate sighed after some time, it has indeed been too long since they last saw each other. Seven weeks to be exact and it had been a tough seven weeks as she had to deal with the paparazzi every day. The news was finally dying down and she was glad that she can see Heero regularly soon. Heero sighed as well and they stayed in this position for a few minutes.
"It's good to finally see you again." Fate whispered.
Heero kissed her cheek before he broke their hug. They still continued to hold each other's hand.
"Have you eaten your breakfast?" Fate asked instead.
Heero shook his head and Fate smiled instead.
"Let's go to the dining room then. I'm sure the chefs can make something for you. The rest will be going to the beach later this morning." Fate said.
Heero remained silent as Fate released her hold on his hand and stood up. But Heero gave her hand another tug, turning her to face him again.
"Are you feeling better?" He asked.
Fate was about to answer when Heero stood up as well.
"We can stay here and talk about that dream of yours if you want to." Heero told her.
"I'm fine, really. It's just a… bad dream." She whispered.
With that she freed herself from his hold and started to walk towards the library door. She paused and raised an eyebrow at him when she noticed that he wasn't following her.
"Heero?" She asked.
"You never did greet me." Heero reminded her.
Fate smiled instead, knowing what Heero was referring to.
"Good Morning Heero." She said.
He closed the distance between them, his intense Prussian blue eyes staring deeply into hers.
"I just greeted you." Fate pointed out.
Heero was about to speak when Fate opened the door and slipped out of the library before he could do anything to her. She waited outside for him and flashed him a playful smile. Heero didn't say anything else and both of them made their way into the dining room.
After Heero had his breakfast, he went back to his room to unpack and change into more comfortable clothing as they were going down to the beach. Fate changed her heels to slippers instead, knowing that heels and sand were a horrible match. And since Fate doesn't plan on going swimming in the sea or sun bathing, she packed forms of entertainment for herself as she knew that she will have to find ways to kill time as she waits for evening to come. She tied her long golden blonde hair into a side French braid so that it would not get in her way if the sea breeze blows at her. She was retrieving her white sun hat when there was a knock on her room's door.
"Come in." She said.
The door opened and Heero came into her room. He was dressed in a short sleeved light blue shirt and he matched it with a pair of black Bermuda shorts. Somehow Heero still looked smart in his casual outfit.
"You aren't really dressed for the beach." Fate commented.
"Nor are you and I know that you will most likely be staying on the beach." Heero said.
It then dawned on her that she may be the reason Heero won't be able to enjoy his summer as there were a lot of things he couldn't do as she doesn't do them. Fate isn't going to swim but she knows that Heero excels at water sports of any kind.
"I'm not going to let you ruin your summer because of me, Heero. You can always do want you want to do." Fate told him.
"I can't leave you alone." Heero said.
Fate shook her head.
"I would rather you did for I am a very boring person when it comes to the outdoors." Fate admits.
Heero frowned when he saw the beach bag next to Fate. Looks like he will have to think of something for Fate to do as she won't consider any of it fun. They left the mansion by the back door and walked through the mansion grounds, heading towards the back gate that leads to the mansion. The security was very tight at the back gate probably because the beach is an open public area, hence they won't want any random stranger to sneak into the mansion. They walked a little further before they strolled down the beach area which was packed with many people. Many were sunbathing, having a picnic on the beach, building sand castles, swimming and surfing through the high waves.
It took them a while to find the rest. Rachel wasn't kidding about the security as she have hired eight bodyguards to watch over all of them. Fate greeted the females who were sun bathing and started setting up her own shelter to hide from the sunlight. Faith came over to greet Fate and they started chatting while Heero's eye fell on the beach volleyball game that Jace and Federick were currently playing. Joshua was up to his charming moves while Aaron and Angel were swimming in the sea with a hired life guard to ensure their safety. The rest of the females were all sun bathing, minus Fate and Faith who were busy chatting. Heero watched the beach volleyball game for a short moment. It was not hard to notice that while the females were wearing their huge sunglasses, they seem to have their eyes on the game as well.
"What's the score?" Heero asked Felicia.
"Jace is winning by three points." Felicia answered.
Heero would like to join them but they needed another player to make it a two versus two team match. Fate was sitting down under the huge opened umbrella and was listening to Faith talk about how her life back in Japan has been. Jace and Federick ended their match with Jace winning. Jace saw Heero and asked him to join them. Heero turned to look at Fate who noticed his gaze immediately.
"I will be fine, there are bodyguards here as well. Go enjoy yourself." Fate told him.
Heero nodded and removed his light blue shirt, revealing that he was wearing a white tank top under his shirt. All the females suddenly quieted down as their attention turned to be on Heero instead. Fate couldn't help stare at Heero as well, she had no idea that he was hiding all that muscle and well-toned body underneath his suits. She had seldom seen Heero wearing anything else other than a formal shirt, hence it was one of those times when she could examine him closely. It wasn't as if he was topless as he was still wearing a white tank top, but somehow she could tell that Heero has an eight pack abs underneath that shirt. Heero didn't seem to notice the stares he was gaining and was carefully folding his shirt. As Fate continued to stare at him, she noticed that he had a few scars on his arms. Heero turned to look at her and Fate blushed, forcing herself to look away. She was aware that Heero had caught her staring at him. He then handled his shirt over to her for safekeeping.
"I will be back." He told her softly.
Fate nodded and watched as Heero walked towards Jace. Federick was talking to Joshua as if persuading him to join them so that they could have a team match.
"My God, I had no idea that Heero was hiding all of that under his suits!" Isabelle said.
"He's your brother, Isabelle." Fayne pointed out.
"Nevertheless no one said we can't ogle at him." Isabelle joked.
Fate looked at Jace who was standing next to Heero. Even though the two of them looked exactly identical to one another, Heero was slightly taller and more muscular than Jace is. It wasn't hard for Fate to tell them apart but it may not be the same case for others. Fate sat down on the large mat that was spread out on the sand and watched the men take their positions. Heero and Jace will be teaming up while they will be playing against Federick and Joshua. Knowing Federick, Fate wasn't surprised that he had chosen to be Heero's opponent instead of being in the same team with him. The game started and everyone could tell that it was going to be a tough fight as all four of them were strong, athletic and no one wanted to lose the game. As the females continued to watch the game, Fate wondered if they were really watching the game or the men who were playing the game. Heero and Jace worked extremely well with one another, Heero covered for Jace when he was unable to catch the ball. The game was getting intense and Fate could tell that all four men were giving their best. They were quite evenly matched as well.
Heero's attacks were swift and hard to block, as if he could manipulate the volleyball easily. He could also see through Federick and Joshua's defense. Fate would smile whenever she saw Heero and Jace giving each other a high five when they have scored a point against their opponent. Their game was drawing a lot of attention from other onlookers and Fate noticed how the bodyguards immediately moved closer to them in order to protect them. She was glad that Heero was enjoying himself during the beach volleyball match.
Federick and Joshua put up a fierce fight and the females would comment on the match sometimes. But it finally drew to a close with Heero and Jace winning two out of the three matches. It was a long game and there was a crowd surrounding them, watching the game. The crowd cheered and applauded for the winning team. All the men were tired and sweating profusely after the long game. They shook hands with each other and everyone admit that it was a great game. As the crowd slowly dispersed, the four men returned to where the ladies were.
What caught Fate by surprise was that some of the females immediately went forward, offering the men clean towels and a bottle of chilled mineral water. Fayne had offered Jace the towel and the bottled water who thanked her with a smile on his face before accepting them from her. Faith offered Federick a towel and water, encouraging him for putting up a great fight. Felicia offered Joshua a towel and water, Joshua merely grunted his thanks before taking them. Heero was approaching her and Fate shyly offered him a clean towel first. He was surprised by her gesture and thanked her before accepting the towel from her. Fate watched him silently as he toweled dry.
"That was a great game, you played well." She told him shyly.
Heero gave her a small smile and Fate blushed harder, wondering why she was back to being the blushing teenager when Heero is already her boyfriend. Maybe it was because his wet tank top was sticking to his body, showing off all of his muscles and abs. She had to force herself to look away as she handled Heero the bottle of mineral water. Heero drank a few big gulps of it. While the rest of the people around them started chatting with one another about the game just now.
"Did you have fun?" Fate asked him softly.
"I did." Heero answered.
Fate smiled up at him, she's glad that he managed to enjoy himself.
"Hey Heero, we are going for a swim, want to join us?" Jace asked.
Heero looked at Fate who simply gave him an assuring smile as if telling him that she will be alright.
"Later." He told them instead.
Fate frowned at his answer and watched as the rest left to go swimming.
"Why aren't you going with them?" Fate asked.
"I will need to change into a diver's suit before I can do that." Heero explained.
"But you aren't going diving." Fate pointed out.
"No, I simply don't want to scare them with the sight of my scars." Heero told her softly.
It then dawned on her that Heero was being considerate and didn't want his family members to worry about him should they see his scars. She then vaguely remembered that Heero does have a lot of scars on his body. But she wasn't certain if he had gained new scars since AC 201. She remembered seeing him half naked some time ago, but she was too emotional then that she wasn't paying attention to his body. She regarded him with sad eyes. Heero remained silent, he didn't want to tell Fate that he was hiding his scars initially but it was the truth. He was surprised when Fate reached out and touched him briefly at the top of his arm, where the scar of a gunshot wound still remained.
He was reminded of the times when Fate would help to change his bandages. And every time she does so, he could feel her eyes focusing on the scars on his body. She would always look at him sadly, but there were times when she reached out to touch them gently. He remembered feeling the warmth of her touch on his skin and how she would trace his scars sometimes. It was a rather intimate gesture yet somehow Heero allowed her to touch him. He didn't know why, maybe it was because of the warmth her touch will usually bring. Or maybe it was assuring that the sight of his scars didn't frighten her away. He was glad that she dared to touch his scars sometimes, because in a way it was telling him that there was actually someone who didn't mind them. That maybe he doesn't have to hide them away all the time.
"I'm not scared of them." Fate whispered softly.
Her words did take him by surprise for she never did admit that to him. Their eyes met and Fate gave him a sad smile. Heero was touched by her words and was a little overwhelmed by the emotions that he was feeling. To think that she accepts him even with all the physical scars that he has.
"Thank you." He managed to say, trying to appear as calm and cool as ever.
Fate smiled at him in reply and then Heero asked Federick who was still around to watch over Fate while he returns to the mansion first. He told Fate that he would be back and walked off on his own. Fate watched him leave and wondered how many scars Heero physically has now.
Heero did return dressed in a diving suit and he went swimming with the rest. Eventually some of them returned to their area to dry up. While Heero, Jace and Federick went surfing. As the tide was high, they were able to ride many waves. Fate smiled as she watched Heero enjoying himself. Fate remained under shade as she watched the people enjoying themselves on the beach doing their activities. Eventually she ended up reading instead. Fayne teased her, saying that no one comes to the beach to read books when they should be swimming and enjoying the sea. Fate merely forced a smile and continued reading her book.
Eventually at 5pm, everyone was heading back to the mansion as they have to take a bath and change their clothing before going for the barbecue later. Fate couldn't help staring when Heero returned to join them. Even though he was wearing a diving suit, it clung to his skin, highlighting his very muscular body. He earned the stares of many women around them but he didn't seem to notice it. His hair was wet and he combed it back making it look as if it was gelled back. She had seldom seen his hair this flat as it was usually quite stubborn and would fall back into his usual hairstyle. Fate handled him a towel and he briefly toweled dry himself. She was aware that he spent most of his time riding waves or swimming.
"I saw you surfing with Jace. I'm glad to see you enjoying each other's company." Fate told him.
The rest were busy packing up their belongings as they were ready to leave.
"I enjoyed myself at the beach today, it is fun to take a break from work." Heero told her.
"More like you had fun playing sports?" Fate asked.
"That too." Heero said.
Fate picked up her bag and put on her white sun hat as they will have to walk under direct sunlight before going back into the mansion. After they have finished packing up, all of them started making their way back to the mansion. Jace was telling the females about a very tall wave that he had surfed through. The females listened to him attentively while Heero and Fate walked back together. Heero knew that Fate must have been bored as all she did was watch others enjoy themselves and read books. He noticed that she was looking at the sea and turned to do the same. He then turned to look back at her and realized that she was staring at it with longing in her eyes. As if she wanted to enjoy the gentle waves and the sea water as well, yet she couldn't do that due to many reasons. Fate looked away from the sea and smiled up at him when she caught him staring at her.
"Were you bored?" Heero asked her.
"Not really, I have my books to accompany me. I had fun watching you as well, since I seldom see you so laid back." Fate told him.
Heero gave her a small smile and they continued walking towards the mansion. After they have returned to the mansion, everyone returned to their rooms to take a bath and change into a new set of clothes. While Fate sat down on the sofa in the living room and continued reading. She didn't need to change her clothing as she didn't do much. The weather was hot in the afternoon but since she was under huge shade all day, she did not sweat much. She untied her French braid and allowed her hair to fall freely. Eventually the men came down first and they went to help the kitchen to bring the prepared food out to the barbecue pits which were located by the large swimming pool at the back of the mansion. Heero came down and he sneaked up on her easily. She seemed to be concentrating on her book and didn't notice him at all until he took the book out of her hands.
"Oh, Heero." She greeted him.
Heero merely smiled as he placed her bookmark at the page she stopped before closing her book. He placed the book down on the coffee table in front of her.
"Shall we get going?" He asked her.
Fate smiled and both of them walked towards the mansion grounds. Heero was now dressed in a white polo T-shirt and a pair of jeans. He looked comfortable in his casual wear which was so different from his usual formal attire. Both of them remained silent on their walk over and the smile on Fate's face died when she saw her parents who were walking to the barbecue pits as well. She noticed how her father seemed to be glaring at Heero instead.
"Mr. and Mrs. Camden." Heero greeted.
Helen smiled back at him while Belmont made his displeasure at Heero obvious. Fate greeted her parents and immediately dragged Heero off with her, hoping to avoid a confrontation between her father and her boyfriend. Eventually both of them arrived at the barbecue pit area. The fire has already started and the chefs were already busy barbecuing the food. Heero released his hold on Fate's hand and the two of them left to join up with the rest. Heero stood next to Jace as the men chat among themselves. Meanwhile the ladies were all busy chatting among themselves as well. They ate as food was served and spent the rest of the night enjoying the food, wine and the company of each other. It was a good opportunity to catch up with everyone again and find out how they were doing. Carlton Wingate came to join them half way through the barbecue and Heero could tell that Rachel was relieved to see Carlton here. Hours passed by and the sky had turned dark but they were still hanging around the barbecue pit area. The food was delicious and while some of them were planning late night activities, Aaron and Angel were forced to retire early on Rachel's request. Heero then turned his attention on Fate who seemed bored by the direction the conversation was going. Most of them were going clubbing after the barbecue instead.
Jace asked Heero if he wanted to go along but Heero declined the offer. He merely asked Jace to watch over Isabelle as she can be quite a party animal. Faith and Felicia chose not to go and left to catch up with each other. Federick, Fayne and Joshua were going clubbing as well so they left to change their clothing and freshen up. The remaining people left behind were his parents, Fate's parents, Fate and him. Heero knew that they should leave soon as well. Fate then asked him if he would escort her to the beach. Heero didn't like the idea of going out to the beach when it was pitch dark outside, but he went with Fate anyway. Their parents were left alone, but Heero knew that they have much to discuss as well.
The sea was cool at night as the sea breeze continued to blow towards the shore. The waves that crashed against the shore were loud, but the tide was low. There wasn't much light at the beach especially at night, hence they weren't able to see a lot of things. Heero kept a close eye on Fate as he was in charge of her safety especially when the beach was dark. Fate walked along the beach in silence at first. Heero followed after her as they continued their stroll along the beach. Fate looked up at the night sky and smiled when she saw that there were many stars tonight. Heero followed her gaze and looked up at the night sky as well. The sky was beautiful and bright with the presence of so many stars tonight. Nevertheless no one said a single word and Fate continued walking along the beach in silence.
Heero followed after her in silence, taking in the sight of her slowly as well. The sea breeze was blowing at them, causing their hair to fly in the wind. Fate continued walking as if not caring that the wind would mess up her hair. Heero wondered why she was awfully quiet but he didn't question her. He watched as Fate took off her slippers and set them aside on the sand before making her way down the beach barefooted. She looked towards the waves that were crashing against the shore as she continued walking along the beach. She continued for some distance before she turned and made her way towards the waves. Heero stood there and watched as Fate slowly walked further towards the sea as if she wanted to experience the waves against her legs. He walked closer towards her, not wanting any accident to happen to her. Fate gasped in surprise at the contact of the cold sea water against her bare feet. The water came and went just as the waves that crashed onto the shore before they were pulled back. That was until another wave came crashing in again. Fate walked further into the sea until the water level had reached the middle of her calf.
She stood there for a short moment, experiencing the sea breeze as well as the waves at her legs. Then she looked up and stared at the starry sky for a rather long time. Fate closed her eyes and stood there in silence as if taking in the sounds of the waves, the smell of the ocean and the feeling of the waters on her legs. Heero watched her silently, admiring how beautiful she is under the starry night. Fate opened her eyes and slowly made her way back towards the sand. Their eyes met and she gave him a brief smile before she wore her slippers again. With that they slowly strolled back to the back gates of Winchester Mansion. Fate held onto his hand and Heero slowed his pace to match hers.
"Don't you like it here?" She asked him suddenly.
He knew that she was referring to the beach and Heero merely nodded.
"It's a great place for a summer holiday." He told her.
Fate smiled and they remained silent for the remainder of their walk back. They were informed that some of them had already left to go to the most popular club in the City of Ashford. Apparently that was a place most of them have been going almost every night since they came to the City of Ashford. Heero walked Fate back to the mansion and they finally stopped in front of her room.
"Thank you for walking me back." Fate told him.
"It's not too much trouble." He told her.
She smiled at him and looked around them for a short moment as if making sure that no one was around. Then she leaned in and kissed him on the cheek.
"Goodnight Heero." She told him.
"I barely felt that." Heero teased her.
Fate smiled and kissed him gently on the lips instead.
"I will see you tomorrow." She whispered.
Heero nodded and watched as she opened the door. She gave him a smile before she entered the room and closed the door behind her. Heero then turned to go back to his own room, aware that he will be spending the rest of his time working on the files he had brought with him. There was still two more days before the end of their short summer vacation. Heero intends to use the time to enjoy himself and spend more time with Fate.
To be continued…
Author's Note:
I did want them to enjoy a summer holiday together hence why not get their families involved as well? I initially wanted to plan some family drama among the two families, but I felt it was too much going on in a simple vacation hence I kept the vacation simple and fluffy.
Sidetrack: No matter which country you are from, I hope that you and your family are staying safe amidst the covid-19 virus period. We do not know how long this period will last but we will get through it. Stay strong and hopeful, thank you all.