AN: Oops, I did it again! Another interrupted moment! Won't these two ever catch a break? Did anybody catch that cameo of a certain blond popstar and his bandmate?

We are now halfway through the conference. That baka couple better hurry up, there's not much time left!

This chapter truly lives up to its name size-wise (at least for this story). I didn't have the heart to break it up, so enjoy!

Woo-hoo! This story just hit 1000 views and two weeks in a row with over 100 views! Thank you all again for the reviews, follows, and favorites!

Disclaimer: I do not own KWMS. All honor and glory to Hiro Fujiwara-san! Nor do I own any other fairy tales or stories.

Chapter 12 – Titanic, James Cameron, 1997.

Early the next morning Misaki stopped by the concierge desk at the resort. She inquired after the manager of the wait-staff. A tall, thin, dour looking man arrived.

"Good morning madam, how may I be of assistance?" Everything about him spoke of somber efficiency.

"I wish to commend Sebastian for his exceptional service at last night's event." She hid her nervous anticipation well.

"I'm sorry madam, but we do not have anyone by that name on our wait-staff."

"Oh, my mistake. I meant Thomas." She tittered frivolously, hoping that he would overlook her implausible error.

"Ah, yes, Thomas. Very good. I shall page him. Please have a seat." The manager's face brightened considerably.

After a few moments, he returned to where she was now seated with Thomas in tow. When the man in question came into view, she hid her shock well. Standing next to the manager was a short 60-year-old man, pudgy and balding with a bushy grey walrus mustache. Misaki rose gracefully from her seat and graciously thanked him, then quickly excused herself before her confusion and disappointment gave her away, leaving the two older men basking in the warmth of her smile.

As she was heading towards the elevators, the concierge called out to her.

"Excuse me Ms. Ayuzawa, you have a package."

Back in her room, she stared at the confounding package. She was baffled by what it could be. As far as she could remember, she hadn't ordered anything or was expecting to receive any forgotten items. The medium sized, rectangular box was wrapped in plain brown paper and contained no information, save her name and room number. She stared at it a bit longer; finally deciding the only way to solve the mystery was to open it. She chided herself for her hesitation. What was the likelihood of it containing something dangerous or upsetting? Grabbing her letter opener, she carefully sliced through the tape on the end and folded back the wrapping. Misaki gingerly slid out the contents. Flabbergasted, she gawked at the framed photograph, instantly recognizing it from last night.

"That guy!" She smacked her forehead in disbelief, while roses bloomed on her cheeks.

Kanou's presentation was in the session after lunch. Misaki slipped into a seat near the front, joining Yukimura and the rest of the team. She was looking forward to the session, especially after her unproductive morning. It was embarrassing to think of all the time she wasted hunting through the conference attendee list again. It was amazing that the name Thomas was so popular in the business world. There must have been at least fifty, too many to justify spending all her time researching them. Although she hated to concede defeat, she had to move on to higher priority tasks.

One hour later "Building a More Effective Corporate Infrastructure" was a rousing success and Misaki could not have been prouder. It was hard to believe that shy, stoic fellow would have such a metamorphosis, delivering his speech with authority and passion. His presence and poise at the podium was every bit of that of a highly capable leader. The team crowded around him afterwards, slapping him on the back, offering their congratulations.

Misaki reluctantly waved goodbye to her team then headed up the gangplank and boarded the luxury yacht for a three-hour tour (1) around the harbor. She was not surprised that no one wanted to accompany her on the dinner cruise. It was a pity the organizers only extended the invitations to the CEOs/Presidents and a single guest of their choosing. Kanou was the obvious choice to attend the dinner with her since he was her right-hand man at the company. However, he had quickly declined on account of his propensity for severe sea-sickness. The others were all excited to be attending the alternate event with their significant others and families. Even though she wasn't a big fan of crowds, attending the local festival sounded much more enjoyable than a boat ride.

Hors d'oeuvres were being passed by wait-staff in nautical uniforms as she headed to the bar. Moments later, token glass of wine in hand, she drifted through the crowd. Over the years, she had found it to be a useful prop, greatly minimizing the amount of advances starting with "Can I get you a drink?" And while not her first choice, due to making it that much more challenging to extricate herself from unwanted conversations, flying solo tonight could work to her advantage. She just needed to find a quiet corner to people watch, or rather watch (or watch out) for a certain person. Although, given the restricted guest list, she doubted he would make an appearance tonight. She still wasn't completely sure if she felt relief or disappointment at that last thought. All she knew was that she was inexplicably drawn to him, professionally of course, she added quickly (her subconscious rolled its eyes). His presence would surely turn an otherwise dull evening into something much more stimulating, intellectually speaking of course (eye roll again)! Plus, she needed to thank him for that picture.

On the far side of the ship, away from the boarding guests, the crew was just finishing loading the catering supplies for the cruise. Unbeknownst to them, a stealthy figure slipped into the hold and made his way to the crew quarters. In his head, played a theme song for his impossible mission. (2) Luckily the quarters were deserted; the crew already at their stations preparing to set sail. He rummaged through the lockers and found a spare officer's uniform. Glancing in the mirror to adjust his hat, Usui paused. He was being reckless again. But it was the only way he could see her tonight after finding out that only Gerard and Igarashi received invitations. He smirked remembering Gerard's reaction when their grandfather insisted on being his "plus one". At least with them thinking he was stuck on shore, he could move about easily and not have to worry about switching his appearance back and forth. He was continually thankful he had brought along his contacts and had bumped into Aoi that first night (Ch7).

Usui had never felt so alive when he was around her. What was it about her that messed him up so much? It was agony today to sit through all those boring business meetings. What was once tolerable was now misery. All the fake smiling and politeness, all the sucking up and false compliments were making him sick. Funny how it hadn't really bothered him in the last ten or so years.

She kept invading his mind and he found himself sporting a goofy grin at random times, so much so that the two other rank-and-file employees, brought along to share in the grunt work, started looking a bit disconcerted. Their colleague normally sported a serious, no-nonsense look and while he would occasionally smile, never in a million years would it cross their minds to describe that smile as silly. Now they would catch him staring off into space, a ridiculously blissful expression plastered across his features. Secretly they wondered if the pressure had finally gotten to him and decided to give him a wide berth around the makeshift office.

It was still hard for him to believe he had almost kissed her that first night (Ch10). And then last night, he had been overcome by his desire and was ready to sweep her into his arms, like countless movie heroes. Too bad they had been interrupted both times. It was just like high school all over again, either lacking the nerve or being interrupted before he could make a move. Never had there been two such clueless and awkward adolescents: the man-hating demon and the nerdy alien.

Now was his chance to fulfill his destiny! He made his way up to the main deck.

From her far table, Misaki surveyed the well-heeled crowd. She recognized a number of CEOs and presidents from top companies. It was disgusting. All those old men in suits, flirting with some young thing on their arm. She had already met most of their wives during the previous evenings. And now, here they were, flaunting what she assumed were their secretaries, with no wives in sight. She sighed, what fun this cruise was going to be. As her eyes scanned further, someone caught her attention. He was here! And dressed in an officer's uniform? And flirting with one of those secretaries?!

Misaki saw red. Her eyes narrowed as her demon aura started flowing. She stood abruptly and hurried away from the table. She needed to find a private spot and fast. Too many emotions were threatening to overwhelm her. Anger, disappointment, sadness, hurt, were colliding into a lump in her throat. She was jealous!

The moment Usui arrived on deck, he was swarmed by a group of young sirens who had grown bored of listening to their sugar daddies talk business. There was certainly something about that uniform. He finally managed to slip away on the pretense of having to follow the captain's orders. While trying to continue his search for her, yet another girl approached him. Fortunately, she was just inquiring about the location of the washrooms (the head, in nautical terms). He caught a sudden flash of raven mixed with blue and cream in the corner of his eye. He quickly excused himself and hurried to pursue his quarry.

As Misaki moved through the inner corridors lost in her thoughts, a sudden yell brought her back to reality. Two crewmembers were transporting a large cart loaded with tureens of soup. They had lost control of it. The cart was heading right towards another group of two who had just entered from an adjacent passageway pushing a trolley full of pies. It had all the makings of an epic food fight. Misaki jumped into action, literally. She landed in between the food transport devices, stopping the errant soup cart. Fortunately, for all those on deck, a dinner disaster was averted. Unfortunately, for Misaki, her lower leg had become sandwiched between the cart and the trolley. The crew rushed over apologizing and asking if she was ok. She, of course, shrugged them off, reassuring that it was nothing. Continuing along her interrupted path, she walked as normally as possible, ignoring the growing pain in her leg.

Usui was about 10 paces back and witnessed the whole thing. He was impressed and worried at the same time. There was no way she had escaped without a scratch. It was too easy for him to catch up with her, especially now that she was moving so much more slowly.

"Excuse me miss, this is a restricted area."

She instantly recognized his voice and familiar cologne. Of course, it was him. He seemed to have super powers or alien abilities. Always turning up when she least expected it.

"Oh, hello Thomas, or should I say Sebastian?" She would play along with his little game tonight.

"Actually, it's Jack."

"Don't tell me, Captain Jack?"(3) She rolled her eyes.

"Argh, matey! Actually, I'm merely an officer." He winked at her. "How about I give you a personal tour? We can start with the officers' quarters." He took a step towards her.

"Why you...!" Her anger from earlier boiled to the surface as she swung her leg at him. He caught it easily, eliciting a wince and sharp gasp of pain.

"That's what I thought. Come with me to the medical bay." His tone left little room for disagreement.

"I'm fine! I don't need your help." She tried to hobble away. He swiftly scooped her into his arms and headed down the hall. She started to protest, but he only held her tighter.

It felt so right being in his arms, snuggled against his strong chest, inhaling his intoxicating scent. She crossed her arms and pouted, light pink creeping up her cheeks. She was frustrated that she couldn't escape, embarrassed at their position, betrayed by her own feelings.

He glanced down at her. "Aw, Prez is so cute looking like that."

She stiffened; there was something awfully familiar about this. Something tugging at the edge of her memories. Before she could explore them further, she was plopped onto an examining table. They had reached the medical bay.

He sat in front of her and gently placed her foot on his knee.

"I see your footwear is more appropriate tonight." He admired her silver sandal. "Now if you would please pull up your skirt a bit, we'll take a look at the damage."

Misaki complied, hiking her skirt up to her knee, making sure only to expose the minimum amount of skin necessary. A dark purple bruise was already blossoming on her shin. He began gently rubbing ointment on it then wrapped the wound.

"I suppose you were just going to continue on tonight as if everything is normal." There was slight tinge of irritation in his voice.

"Well, it's not like I was bleeding." She shrugged her shoulders.

"Why did you intervene? It's not your problem if the crew can't handle their responsibilities."

She looked at him in disbelief. "I can't just stand by and watch that happen when I could help. I would do that for anyone, even you." She finished her declaration with a sparkle in her eyes and a confident smile on her lips.

His eyes widened for a moment, then he broke into a broad grin. "I look forward to it."

Before she could respond, he grabbed her foot, "We're all done milady," and kissed the top of it. Her face instantly ablaze, the scream of "PERVERT!" echoed throughout the room followed by the chortling of a certain perverted alien. She was just too amusing.

She stalked out of the room and back towards the deck realizing along the way with a chagrin, her leg no longer ached.

Misaki stood at the ship's railing, breathing deeply, willing her thoughts to calm down. Her mind was swirling in a million different directions. She focused on admiring the moonlight dancing on the waves and the refreshing ocean breeze.

Usui admired her from afar. Tonight she was clad in a halter-style maxi dress. The various shades of blue with swirls of cream conjured up images of the ocean. A slinky silver scarf hung loosely around her bare shoulders. He would really have to thank Aoi for his exceptional work.

She was so sly standing alone and defenseless like that. He was really going to need to exercise his self-control, especially after coming in such close contact with her luscious leg earlier.

Suddenly she felt a warm breath on her neck, shuddering she glanced back. "Oh, you again."

He stood behind her and gently rubbed her shoulders. She relaxed a bit, releasing the tension from earlier. Something about him was hypnotizing, putting her mind into a trance. After a while his hands slowly drifted down her arms to encircle her waist, stopping on top of her hips, fingers entwined, resting on her stomach. She felt the heat from his chest on her back, but said nothing and continued gazing out over the dark water.

He rested his head on hers and breathed in, savoring the scent of her hair, a mix of shampoo, hair spray, and perfume. Slowly his hands began to creep up her sides as he bent down to nibble on her ear. She stiffened slightly. His lips teased her skin as his hands travelled up further and further. Her heart began to pound in anticipation. In her body, an eagerness was growing. Her brain, which should have been protesting, had gone strangely mute. His hands reached her rib cage. His lips trailed down her cheek to her neck. Her senses were being overwhelmed. Her mind was spinning, flooded with nothing but him.

Suddenly the ship's horn sounded, the hands vanished and lips disappeared. He was gone. She gripped the railing tightly as her knees threatened to buckle. She exhaled sharply, not realizing she had been holding her breath. Her mind reeled in confusion. The sensation of his warm hands and soft lips still lingered.

Usui leaned his head against the wall, silently berating himself. He had almost lost control, completely overcome by her; her enthralling scent, her silky skin under his hands and lips, her delectable body pressed so close to his. His heart was beating as if he had just finished an obstacle course as he took deep breaths, attempting to steady his nerves.

Another ruined moment. At least it wasn't a phone this time. As his mind calmed, he pondered their recent rendezvous. He hoped he had not scared her away with his advances, but maybe opportunity was not lost after all. She had not reacted violently or called him a pervert, even when he was entering dangerous territory. Instead, he had felt her heart begin to race like his. And she seemed to be holding her breath, in anticipation perhaps? He wasn't sure. However, there had been no accusing shout as he escaped before he reached his limits.

There was still a bit of time before the yacht returned to shore. The game was still afoot!

"Ladies and gentlemen, I hope you have enjoyed your time aboard the S.S. Minnow (1). But before we return to shore, we have a surprise for you. The local festival is ending tonight with a fireworks display over the water. The best views can be found on the starboard side. Have a wonderful evening."

The captain's voice reverberated through the speakers. As the crowd moved towards starboard, Misaki headed to the prow of the yacht. She needed to clear her head. She stood watching the ship slice through the waves. They were not moving particularly fast, but if she closed her eyes and raised her arms, it felt as if she was flying.

Usui was on the hunt again. He spotted his target. She was truly a vision. Hair flying, skirt swirling, scarf dancing in the wind. Her eyes closed and arms spread wide as if welcoming Neptune himself.

"Feels like you're king of the world, right?" (4)

She started, surprised and embarrassed to be caught in such a ridiculous pose. The sudden spray from a large wave coated the deck, causing her to slip. Of course, a pair of strong arms were waiting.

She looked up at him. "This seems to have become a habit of yours."

"I will always be there for you." He looked unusually serious.

Caught off guard by his sincere declaration, her cheeks flushed cerise.

"By the way, I need to thank you for earlier. My leg feels much better."

"I'm glad." His expression softened.

"Oh, and thank you for the picture. You really didn't have to get that for me. I don't like feeling indebted to someone. How can I repay you?" She looked eagerly at him.

"I'm sure you can think of something." His eyes glinted mischievously.

Misaki sighed nervously. She could not believe what she was about to do. With her face blazing vermillion, she stood on tiptoe and swiftly kissed him on the cheek. She giggled at the look of astonishment on his face accompanied by a faint dusting of pink on his cheeks. Unconsciously, he raised his hand to his cheek, still feeling the light lingering touch of her lips.

"What's so funny?" he asked.

"Your face! You look like –"

What he looked like went unknown. She wasn't able to finish her sentence. He had captured her lips with his. Her eyes enlarged briefly but his lips felt so wonderfully soft and tantalizing that her eyes fluttered shut as she surrendered to the kiss.

It was a perfect kiss. They were standing on the bow of the ship, a fine spray of mist covering them as the music swelled from the speakers. A line from a favorite movie floated through his mind, 'Since the invention of the kiss, there have only been five kisses that were rated the most passionate, the most pure. This one left them all behind.' (5)

It was the finale of the fireworks display, but they took no notice. He had one hand entwined in her hair, holding her head while the other supported her back. She had both her hands on his shoulders, gripping them for support. Their bodies were pressed together, hearts beating as one.

The kiss deepened and became more passionate. Her arms slid up around his neck, pulling him yet closer as her fingers played with his hair. Together their lips moved in rhythm, each one asking and receiving. One hand of his wandered up and down her back as the other angled her head for better access. Her lips were so sweet and delectable he needed to taste more, to explore further, and she obliged. Their tongues tangled and danced about discovering new sensations. They finally broke apart when the captain announced "All ashore!"

THE END

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j/k, haha, we're only at the halfway point (plot-wise). Now that they've finally kissed, what is next for our intrepid couple? Interesting side-note: A main character in both Pirates and Titanic is named Jack.

1 – "Gilligan's Island", US sitcom, Jack Arnold, et. al. 1964

2 – "Mission: Impossible", US TV series and movie, Reza Badiyi, et. al., Brian De Palma , 1966, 1996

3 – "Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl", US movie, Gore Verbinski, 2003

4 – "Titanic", US movie, James Cameron, 1997

5 – "The Princess Bride", US movie, Rob Reiner, 1987