*So, this is a short sweet chapter.
Chapter 5: Meeting in the Park
*USAGI'S POV*
I woke up later that day completely drained and famished. I looked at the clock on the nightstand beside me and realized I was still at Rei's. I slowly got up stretching and yawning then made my way out into the common area. Rei sat across from Jadeite quietly discussing shrine business.
"Oh Usagi, you're awake. We've all been so worried. You've slept for almost 19 hours. How are you feeling? Should you even be walking around?" Rei gushed out.
"I'm okay Rei. My body is still sore, but the sleep helped so much. Thank you for bringing me in yesterday and taking care of me." I replied
"Jadeite was the one to carry you in and checked on you all yesterday. Of course, we were all here and worried, but he helped a lot. Grandpa has even hired him to help out here at the shrine because we are getting so busy. Plus, he really doesn't have anywhere to go." Rei said.
"Thank you, Jadeite, that was very kind of you. I knew you were a good person. Don't let your past deeds bring you down or define who you are. I'm glad everything is working out for you. I hope we can do the same for the rest of the Shitennou" I said without thinking.
"Don't go inflating his ego. And damn Usagi, are you sure your feeling okay? That almost sounded mature." Rei giggled.
"Maybe I slept too long. But I've got to go. I want to get some study time in this weekend and read my new manga." I laughed.
I said my goodbyes and made my way home to shower and change into something a little more comfortable. I felt bad for leaving but I didn't particularly want to spend the day with anyone. I still felt upset with myself and just wanted to be alone, yet I felt happy for Jadeite. He deserved a second chance and I'm glad the girls are treating him well.
It was October, but the sun was shining and didn't appear to have a cloud in the sky. A great day for the park. It was getting a little cold though, but I could handle it. At least I could clear my head for a couple hours before meeting up with Mamoru.
I found a nice shady spot under a big tree and lay down. I was definitely going to order a lot of food at the Crown. I was starving. It's hard to relax with my belly yelling at me. I almost didn't notice when Mamoru approached.
*Mamoru's POV*
I walked aimlessly though the park keeping an eye on my watch every so often. I often came here to clear my head. I've been lost in thoughts of the dark kingdom, sailor moon, the princess and Usagi. Strangely torn over my duties and life. Finding the princess has been my only goal for so long that I don't know how to move forward with my life until find her. This feeling of running in place is disorientating. Yet, Usagi has been plaguing my thoughts more and more lately. Her bright light can flood you and fill you with warmth. Without warning, almost like a moth to a flame, I find myself walking towards the muse herself. With a feeling of longing rising in my chest I stopped and gazed at the scene before me. Her long blonde hair catching rays of sunlight and leave's shadows playing across her chest sent a soft sigh escaping my lips. Being stuck in a moment of captivation she glanced up at me. Her eyes were so pure and inviting that I could only stand there and stare like an idiot. I just couldn't will my feet to move forward.
"You don't have to just stand there, come and join me." She said with a sweet smile.
"Why? So we can both look like weirdos sleeping under a tree? I was just trying to figure out if you were asleep meatball head. Only you could fall asleep in a crowded place like this." I said trying to make up for my lack of charm.
"No, just resting and thinking about things." She sighed. I moved closer to her and sat down noticing how puffy her eyes looked and dark circles under them.
"Are you okay Usagi?" I asked with concern.
"Yeah. I guess. I've just been really busy and needing a break. It's like one thing right after another happens and I'm never ready. You know?" She said closing her eye. Her stomach growled loud enough for me to hear and she blushed laughing. "I think my tummy wants to talk to."
"How about we call off studying today and just get something to eat? You've been doing so well. You deserve a break. Come on bunhead, my treat." I said smiling down at her.
"That sounds great. Are you sure you're not running a fever or something? Why are you being so nice?" She laughed again.
"Because you deserve it and I'm not always an asshole. Come on, let's go get some of Motoki's famous food." I said standing up and offering her my hand. She grabbed my hand and jumped up.
We made our way through the streets while she admired every snack cart. Maybe after lunch we could get some ice cream. It only took a few minutes to get to the Crown. Motoki was standing behind the counter serving some milkshakes to an elderly couple. He looked up as soon as we entered together.
"Hey guys, you have an early study date today?" Motoki asked
"No, just came to get some food. I'm letting Usagi off for the day. Figured she needed a break from all my lecturing." I said. We gave Motoki our order and made our way to a secluded booth in the back. It had become our spot over the last couple weeks. It was easier to study here without all the noise. We ate in a comfortable silence as I studied her. She was on her second plate and still wolfing down food. Didn't this girl ever get full.
"Save some room for dessert Usagi." I laughed.
"There's going to be dessert?" She asked with wide eyes.
"Yeah, well, I was thinking about taking you to get some ice cream at one of the food trucks in the park. I've been craving some and I know you never turn down sweets." I mumbled. I didn't expect it to be so hard to ask her if she wants some ice cream.
"OH, that would be great Mamoru. By the way my mom said she'd like you to stop by sometime for lunch or dinner. She's been so proud of my work and wants to thank you properly." She replied smiling.
"Tell her I would love to. Now let's get out of here and get that ice cream." I said standing up to go pay while she finished off the rest of my fries.
As I approached Motoki stopped me. "Your money is no good here today. You just be extra good to that girl over there. Got it?" He warned
"I don't know what you mean Toki. We're just friends." I told him with a blush.
"I'm not blind. I know you are sweet on her. She's the only girl you have anything to do with. You always seek her out and tease her. You're always asking about her. You're protective of her. You've chased every guy out of here that shows interest in her. Plus, I'm your best friend. I just know." Motoki rambled.
"I'd never hurt her Motoki." I vowed.
"Damn right you won't, or you'll be dealing with me." He said smiling. I returned the smile and went to wait for Usagi by the door. She really was stunning and only a couple years younger than me. I can understand why Motoki is protective of her. She came skipping her way to the door. It wasn't too cold outside, but it was chilly enough to make her shiver. I shrugged off my green jacket and put it around her. We again made our way past the busy street filled with a different assortment of venders and food trucks until we found the one she had been drooling for when we first walked by. I order us two large scoops and payed.
"Want to go back to the park with these? Its less crowded there." She suggested.
"Sure. Sounds fine to me. Lead the way." Why was I feeling so nervous all of a sudden? This is the first time we've really spent time together without studying or bickering. And without teasing her I don't really know what to say. But she seemed fine carrying the conversation. We found the same tree and sat under it.
"Thank you for the jacket. It was getting a little chilly." She said.
"You're welcome. Figured you'd need it more than me." I said
"Well it was sweet." She said leaning over and giving me a peck on the cheek. That one simple act broke all my resolve. I leaned towards her and slipped my hand around her neck and stared into her endless blue eyes. This was it. She tilted her head back and I took my shot. My lips touched hers softly at first and she tasted so sweet and divine that my kisses turned hungry and harder. She moaned into my mouth and it was my undoing. I could have lost myself right here in her. I wanted to. I wanted her.
I broke the kiss and my surroundings came back into focus. She just stared at me.
"I should get going. I'm sorry if I broke any boundaries." I said looking down.
"You didn't. Thank you for everything Mamoru. I've had an amazing day with you." She giggled.
"Well text me soon and let me know that you got home safely. Or maybe I should walk you?" I asked.
"I'll be fine. You can text me too." She replied leaning forward and making the world melt away once again just by kissing me. If I didn't get out of here my hormones were going to get the best of me and I was going to make an ass of myself.
"Goodbye Usagi. I'll see you soon." I promised. "One last thing…" I said pulling a rose out from my pocket and handing it to her. "Sleep well tonight."