Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Wing
Italics=thought
Chapter 1
AC 196 Christmas Eve
A fierce battle was raging in Brussels. The Gundam Pilots and members of the Preventers were locked in a battle with mobile suits of the Mariemaia army. They were heavily outnumbered and running low on ammunition. As the pilots were about to use self-detonation as a last resort, Heero Yuy arrived in Wing Zero and proceeded to destroy the shield of the Presidential bunker where Relena Peacecraft was being held hostage. In the process, Wing Zero was destroyed from the impact of three consecutive full powered shots, the remains fell to the ground where Heero proceeded to exit the cockpit and enter the bunker.
Inside, Relena and Lady Une were comforting a wounded Mariemaia after she took a bullet that was meant for Relena. The little girl apologized for what had happened as the two woman tried to stop her from dying.
"I'll relieve you of your pain," came a deep voice from the shadows.
The three looked up to see a young man in jeans with a green tank top, who had messy brown hair and deep blue eyes. He held a gun, aimed at Mariemaia.
"Heero?' asked Relena in surprise.
Mariemaia looked at Heero before closing her eyes, resigning herself to her fate. "Thank you."
Relena and Une watched as Heero pulled the trigger, but no bullet left the barrel. Mariemaia passed out from the pain and blood loss.
"I've killed Marimaia," stated Heero. "I will never kill anyone ever again. I don't have to anymore."
Heero dropped the gun to the ground as the last of his strength left him and he started to pass out from battle exhaustion.
"Heero!" shouted Relena as she ran to catch the falling pilot before he hit the ground.
Relena fell to the ground as she cradled Heero's body. She held his head to her shoulder and tenderly stroked his head. "Heero."
"We can still save her, take her to the doctor," ordered Une as the soldiers in the bunker gathered up Mariemaia and rushed her from the room.
Oblivious to what was going on, Relena continued to hold Heero to her.
"Finally, it's all over," she said as Heero let out a groan as he pushed himself closer to Relena.
Relena rested her head on Heero's and held him until he was taken to the hospital.
8 days later - AC 197 New Year's Day
Heero was floating in darkness. He had no idea of where he was. He had assumed he was dead. As he passed out he swore that an angel had caught him, but he was confused as to why an angel would come for him after all the evil he had done. As he pondered the reason for why he was in his current position, he heard a familiar voice in his head.
"Time to wake up Heero, you have one final mission to complete."
Heero slowly opened his eyes. As he had done countless times before, he was able to regain consciousness without causing his heart rate and brainwaves to fluctuate. As he took in his surroundings he was able to instantly recognize where he was. The plain white walls, smell of disinfectant and beeping machines gave it away.
"Great, I'm in a hospital. I hate these places."
Heero tried to move but his whole body felt numb. He didn't know if he was in the hands of the enemy or in an ESUN hospital. As he tried to move his arms, he felt a weight shift at his side. Looking down he saw a mess of golden hair, the sunlight streaming through the window illuminated the person lying with their head on his bed as they sat on a chair.
"Are you my angel?"
He then noticed that whoever was next to him was also holding his hand. The figure turned their head in their sleep and Heero was able to see who it was.
"Relena," gasped Heero, barely above a whisper.
At the sound of her name, Relena was roused from her sleep. Opening her eyes she saw Heero's Prussian blue orbs staring down at her ocean blue ones.
"Heero?" whispered Relena as she started to exit her sleepy state. "Heero!"
Relena launched out of her chair and wrapped Heero in a tight hug, only releasing him when he let out a groan.
"I'm sorry," she said as she sat down on the bed and adjusted Heero to a better position. "How are you feeling?"
"Like I've been squished by a Gundam. Where am I?"
"ESUN hospital in Brussells. You've been here for eight days."
"Eight days! Relena, I need to get out of here, Barton could still be…" started Heero as he tried to get out of bed, Relena held him down which didn't take much effort.
"It's okay Heero, Barton is dead, the revolution is over. We're all safe, thanks to you. What do you remember?"
Heero closed his eyes as he forced his brain to work. "I remember I was in Wing Zero, I was firing the buster rifle at the bunker. Wing Zero fell to pieces in the process. I fell to the ground. I entered the bunker and shot Mariemaia. I then started to fall and I was caught by an angel," Relena blushed at the comment as Heero continued. "I thought it was strange that an angel had come for me after everything I had done. She stroked my head and said my name softly, like…"
"Heero," replied Relena like she had that night.
Heero opened his eyes at the sound. "It was you? My angel was you?"
"Yes," Relena noded while trying not to blush or tear up.
"Thank you," said Heero as he gently rubbed his thumb on the back of the hand he was holding. "What about the others?"
"They're all safe. They all decided to destroy their Gundams after the battle. We kept Wing Zero's remains. I told them that you would want to decide what to do with them."
"Where are they?"
"Une has them locked up safe."
"Leave them there, I don't think I will have any need for them anymore," said Heero as he looked at Relena with a soft smile. He noticed she was still holding his hand. He then noticed how tired she looked. "Have you been here this whole time?"
"Yes, I wanted to be here when you woke up," she replied with a smile of her own.
"What about your job? Don't they need you?"
"No," answered Relena while shaking her head. "I quit."
"Why? I thought you lived for what you do."
"After everything that's happened I needed a break. I'm not even seventeen and I've spent the last two years working. Besides I needed to quit so I can take care of you."
"What do you mean?"
"I know you don't like hospitals; that's why you've been asleep for eight days. I had them keep you sedated so that you could have a chance to heal as I knew that as soon as you woke up you would try to escape. So the deal is, and I had to pull a few strings by the way, you can be discharged but you have to stay with me for the next four weeks."
"Relena…"
"No Heero, it's not up for debate, it's either come into my care or I'll make sure they keep you doped up enough you can't move," finished Relena sternly.
Heero didn't have time to reply as the nurse walked in.
"Ah, Mr Yuy, good to see you're awake, I'm sure you wife has filled you in on everything?" asked the nurse as she looked at the monitors.
Heero turned to Relena. "Wife?" he mouthed.
"Later," replied Relena.
"Yes she has. I'm essentially good to go?"
"Once the doctor has one final check-up, but yes I imagine you will be out of here my noon. Ms Darlian here has made quite a fuss to make sure you could leave as soon as you woke. Though I didn't know the vice-foreign minister was married."
"It's only new and something we wanted to keep private. Plus we both travel a lot with our work for ESUN so it's something we like to keep to ourselves," replied Relena before Heero could stuff her plan up.
"And what do you do Mr Yuy?"
"Software security systems, so I go around all the ESUN buildings and such on Earth and the Colonies," answered Heero. Which wasn't far from the truth as he had helped ESUN and Preventer develop their security systems. "Speaking of which, can I get this cast off of my arm? They make it hard to type. Just add some extra strapping and a splint and I'll be fine."
"I don't know Mr Yuy, that was a pretty nasty break. Not to mention the shrapnel we had to dig out of your left shoulder, the broken ribs and bruising to your back."
"I've had worse, as you've probably seen from my x-rays?" continued Heero as the nurse nodded but suddenly noticing that his left shoulder was tender. "Trust me I've done this before, it works."
"Alright I'll discuss it with the doctor, he'll be in to see you soon," finished the nurse as she left.
Heero then looked back at Relena with a questioning gaze.
"It was the only way they would let me stay and take you home."
"So we're married?"
"As far as the staff here are concerned."
"Didn't think you had the sneaky streak in you."
"There's a lot you don't know about me," replied Relena teasingly.
"You should probably go home and rest for a bit."
"No, I'm staying, besides by the time I get there I'll need to come back."
"And you're worried if you leave, I'll be gone?"
"Wouldn't be the first time would it?" retorted Relena with an accusing stare.
Heero just shook his head, resisting the urge to chuckle as it would hurt too much.
"Anyway, everyone came to see you while you were out to it, even Milliardo. Une also stopped by and offered you a job."
"I'll have to think about it, I don't like…"
"Working with others, I know. Still got an option now that the fighting seems to be over. Duo also visited again yesterday as he said he would bring your things," continued Relena, nodding towards a bag. "And he brought Hilde to give me some company. She's so nice, we got along great. But they had to go back to L2 this morning but Duo said he wants to see you when you're up for it."
"Does he now?" asked Heero suspiciously.
"Don't be like that. It's clear you're both good friends since it looks like you've been living with him and Hilde."
"I tolerate the braided fool," replied Heero trying to be cold, Relena could see right through it. Being doped up stopped Heero from controlling his facial expressions. "Okay we're friends, probably my only friend."
"And what does that make me?" asked Relena pulling her hand away from Heero's, feigning being wounded.
"Crazy stalker turned nurse maid?" replied Heero in his best attempt at sarcasm. Relena could tell that he was trying to be funny but decided not to let him know.
"Well if that's the case I don't know why I even bother with you Heero Yuy. I'll tell the nurses that you're staying here," said Relena in her best attempt to sound upset as she made to get off of the bed.
Even in his weakened state, Heero still had lightning reflexes; he was able to grab Relena's hand before she got anywhere. She turned to look at him.
"No, you're more than a friend, you're the person I care for most," said Heero with his sincerest smile and a touch of warmth in his eyes.
Relena smiled back. She could tell that Heero was being genuine and kind. She then remembered something.
"Oh by the way, when Duo and Hilde were, Duo got bored and he…I don't know if I should say."
"What?"
"Okay, promise you won't get mad?" asked Relena as Heero nodded. She pulled out her phone and showed him a picture.
On it was Heero, unconscious, and with what looked like a mask of a Gundam drawn onto Heero's face.
"That little braided baka! So he decided to get one up on me while I was defenceless," said Heero as he looked at the photo with an amused smile.
Relena was confused as she had never seen Heero like this before. It was more emotion then he'd ever shown. "What do you mean?"
"Well you see, Duo and I have a prank war going on," replied Heero causing Relena to looked confused.
"Prank war?"
"Yeah, started last year when I started staying with him. Began innocently enough. Itching powder in clothes, salt or too much sugar in coffee, stirred up soda cans, making things sticky, drawing on the face of someone when they're asleep. But we had rules, no body damage, no hair removal and nothing permanent. So it looks like he decided to take advantage of my weakened state."
Relena was shocked. "I had no idea that you would be into something like that."
"Guess you don't know everything about me," replied Heero teasingly.
"So I guess that means Duo is actually two up on you?" giggled Relena as she scrolled through her phone to show another picture.
This one had Heero in a Santa hat with a big white beard.
"Oh he's going to get his now," said Heero. "And it looks like I missed Christmas."
"Yes," replied Relena trying to stop the giggles.
"Did you at least go see your mom and Pagan then?"
"No, they're busy in Sanc and I wasn't leaving you. She said she'll come for a visit once you're settled."
"So she knows about your babysitting job?"
"Yes, and she wants to meet you."
"Does she know we're married?" asked Heero starting to get curious as to whom else this story has been told to.
"No," replied Relena giggling. "I just told her that you're someone who is important to me and that I'm going to be taking care of you."
"Fair enough."
"I think that after everything that's happened she was relieved that I left ESUN."
"Understandable."
"Oh by the way Heero," began Relena as she leant forward and pecked Heero on the cheek before pulling back with a blush. "Happy New Year."
Heero looked confused, from the kiss and what Relena had said.
"It's the first of January, start of a brand new year."
Heero allowed himself a small smile. "Happy New Year Relena."
The two continued chatting away until the doctor came to discharge Heero. He replaced Heero's cast with extra strapping as requested and gave Relena the medication along with some physical therapy exercises to help keep his limbs and muscles from deteriorating.
"Okay Mr Yuy, you're free to go. I've given you're wife the required instructions and I'll need you to come in once a week for a check-up until you're fully healed which should be about four weeks' time. Now I want you to restrict your movements as much as possible. What's your house like?"
"It's two storey but there's a pull out sofa and bathroom on the ground floor so Heero will just have to stay there for now," replied Relena.
"For now? Is she just playing the role of my wife or hinting at something else?"
"And you'll probably need help getting to and from the bathroom," continued the doctor.
"It's exactly ten metres to the bathroom from the couch," replied Heero starting to get ticked off. "I'm sure I'll manage."
Relena was confused as to how Heero knew that but she could also sense Heero's growing frustration. "He's very exact with things," she said trying to cool things down. "Don't worry we'll be fine."
"And if you end up back in here from over doing things too early, you'll be staying until you're fully healed. No matter how many strings your wife pulls, is that clear?"
"Hn," replied Heero trying his best to give his death glare which probably came off as a pout in his current condition.
"That's Heero speak for yes when out voted," said Relena trying to defuse the situation before Heero did something.
"Now I'll go get a wheel chair so you can get down to you vehicle, and you'll probably want to get out of that hospital gown," finished the doctor as he left the room.
"That was uncalled for Heero," scolded Relena. "He's just trying to help."
"I've managed perfectly fine this far without doctors. Trowa did a pretty good job when I was in a coma for a month after I blew myself up."
"Just stop it or I'll leave you here," replied Relena as she pulled out some of Heero's clothes, not understanding why Heero was acting like this.
"Hn."
"Now, let me help you," said Relena as she helped Heero lean forward and to undo the strings at the back.
Luckily for Heero someone had put some underwear on him so he was spared the embarrassment of Relena seeing him naked. She helped him slip on a shirt and pair of pants as they waited for the doctor.
"Here we are," announced the doctor as he came in with the wheelchair and started to lower Heero's bed so he could get in the chair.
Heero didn't even wait for help; he swung his legs over the side and lifted himself into the chair, wincing in some pain, Relena gasped at the look on his face. He really was stubborn.
"Mr Yuy, please, I must insist that you don't do that."
"I set my own broken leg after a fall from a ten story building and a jagged cliff, this bit of pain is nothing."
The doctor looked at Relena who giggled nervously. "It's a long story."
The doctor was starting to have second thoughts about letting Heero go. But the order came from the ESUN chief of Health so he had no option.
Relena wheeled Heero out to the car where Heero once again lifted himself into the seat without waiting for help.
"Lucky you drive a sedan Relena or this would have been difficult," grunted Heero as he settled in the seat.
Relena didn't know how to respond. Heero's attitude had changed since he first woke up. She really didn't feel like getting into an argument before they'd even gotten home so she let it go for now. After putting Heero's bag in the car and returning the wheelchair, Relena got in the car and headed for her house.
The trip was quiet for a time; Heero just looked out the window as Relena dodged traffic.
"Thanks for getting me out of there Relena, but you don't have to go to all this trouble. Just drop me off at the first hotel you see. I'll be fine for a couple of weeks."
"What are you talking about?"
"I don't want to be a burden. You've got enough to worry about without looking after me. Couple weeks rest and I'll be right to go."
"And then what? You'll just up and leave like you usually do?" asked Relena, starting to get upset by Heero's attitude.
"Most likely."
"And what about me? I've quit my job, lied to the hospital, all for you. What happens when they come looking for you when you miss your appointments."
"Just say you were trying to help out a friend that turned out to be a big jerk that ran away first chance he got."
"I'm not going to argue with the jerk part. Why are you being like this?"
"I don't deserve your kindness Relena."
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not a good person. If you knew half the things I've done you'd probably dump me out of the car right now. You don't need to taint your life with my presence any longer."
"I get it; he's still trying to punish himself for his past."
"Heero, look at me," said Relena as she pulled the car up at a red light. She put her hand on Heero's leg to get his attention.
Heero turned; he could see sadness in Relena's eyes.
"What you did in the past doesn't matter now. You deserve a fresh start like everyone else. You've also done a lot of good. Saved a lot of people, including me. You may try to hide it, but deep down you're a kind person that cares for others, and I think you know it. So don't you think it's time to move on?"
"So why are you doing this for me? You don't owe me anything."
"I owe you everything. I'm doing this because I want to and because you do deserve it. And because you're the person I care for most, and we don't abandon those people. Besides, who else is going to keep your reckless butt from getting into more trouble?" finished Relena trying to lighten the mood as the light turned green.
"Fair point, Mrs Yuy," teased Heero. Relena's words making Heero realise he was being a dick.
"Oh stop it," replied Relena with a giggle, glad to see Heero change.
"Why? It's got a nice ring to it. Relena Katrina Yuy."
"You know my middle name?"
"Yep."
"Of course you do, you know everything about me, probably even know my bra size," said Relena as a joke.
"32C," said Heero under his breath.
"What was that?" asked Relena, not sure if she heard what she thought.
"Nothing," replied Heero as he looked back out the window so Relena couldn't see his smirk, or the small redness starting to appear.
Relena just gave Heero a suspicious look and continued on driving. They continued out of the busy city centre and started to head to the outer suburbs where it became more open with trees and parks. As they stopped at an intersection, the car behind beeped as Relena was taking too long to go. She gave him the finger and continued on. Heero was chuckling.
"What?" asked Relena.
"Never thought I'd see the day Queen Relena would flip off the common folk," replied Heero still amused.
"Well I am a teenager. Besides, there's more to me than the princess of peace, like there's more to you than the perfect soldier."
Heero just nodded as they continued on until they came to an area that was surrounded by woodlands and fields. There was still a light snow covering that gave the area a magical effect. Heero looked over and could see Relena smiling as she looked at the scenery.
"She has a nice smile."
"Here we are, home sweet home," announced Relena, bringing Heero out of his thoughts as they pulled up to a modest two story brick house surrounded by a small yard with a rose garden.
"I know," replied Heero.
"You know? Of course you know where I live, that's why you knew how far the couch was from the bathroom. You probably know the whole lay out?"
"Yep."
"And I'm guessing you did the security?" asked Relena as she thought back to what Heero said in the hospital.
"Yep."
"You've been all through my house?"
"Yep," replied Heero as he was starting to get amused at all the realisations going off in Relena's head.
"And my bedroom?"
"Yep."
"Heero! I hope you didn't go through my clothes or read my diary?"
"No I didn't do that," replied Heero chuckling at Relena's distress. "All I did was sweep the house for bugs before I put in my system. I may have my faults but I do respect other's privacy."
"So how do you know my bra size?" asked Relena sternly.
"You heard that?"
"Yep."
"I didn't snoop. You had a pile of clothes on the floor and the tag was showing, I just happen to be very observant."
"Fine, I'll let you off this time," replied Relena in mock scolding. "Now are you going to let me help you out of the car?"
Heero nodded.
"Good, I'll open the door to the house first."
After some awkward juggling and slow moving, Relena managed to help Heero waddle into the house and sit down on the couch. Relena's house consisted of a large living area that had a bathroom towards the back that doubled as the laundry, a large dining room with a spacious kitchen. Upstairs were two bedrooms, which one had been converted into a study and another bathroom in between the two rooms. She had bought it when she started at ESUN. She liked the quietness of the area as it allowed her a place to relax away from the hustle of the city.
"Thank you Relena," said Heero after Relena had helped lower him to the couch and sat beside him. "For everything. I'm sorry for being a dick earlier, you didn't deserve it. I honestly don't want to be a burden so if it gets too much I'll leave."
"Don't worry about it," she replied while placing her hand on his. "You've done so much for me, this is the least I can do."
"You've done a lot for me too."
"Compared to you, I doubt it."
"I thought I said not to make me repeat myself. I'm nothing compared to you. Don't confuse bravery with stupidity. Only fools fight in battles with weapons. There's nothing brave about what I've done, it's just pure luck that I'm not dead. What you have done takes more courage than anything else I've seen. You chose to use your words and beliefs to help change the world as we know it. You have brought about true peace that hasn't been seen before. Many have tried but only you have succeeded in uniting the people of Earth and colonies. Yes my actions and those of others helped end the war, but you're the one that fought the true battle. Even when you were challenged and threatened, you never let your ideals die. You fought for what you believe in. And not only that, but you are kind, and caring and are always thinking of others before yourself. You showed me what true strength is. You made me believe that true peace was achievable so that I wouldn't have to fight again. You honestly saved me from myself. That's why I'm nothing compared to you. You're the strongest person I know. So don't forget it."
By this stage Relena could feel her eyes tearing up. She had never heard Heero speak like this. She could tell that he was being genuine. His words made her heart ache from the kindness he was showing. It just made her love him more. She lowered her head so that Heero wouldn't see her cry. As the tears started to fall, she felt a hand on her chin and lifted her head to see Heero gazing at her with concern. He lifted his hand and gently wiped away some tears with his finger before cupping her cheek, continuing to hold her eyes with his. Relena felt herself smile at Heero's tenderness.
"Don't hide your tears, there's nothing wrong with acting on your emotions, at least that's what I was taught," said Heero as he rubbed his thumb along her cheek, which was slightly painful as it was the arm that was broken.
Before Heero knew what was happening, Relena threw herself into his body, wrapped her arms around his chest and started to cry. The impact caused pain to shoot through Heero's body. But he didn't care. He gritted through the pain as he knew Relena needed this. He wrapped his arms around her body and held her as she let out all of the emotion and stress that she had been holding in for the past two years.
After a couple of minutes, Relena started to calm down and pulled away from Heero. She wiped away the last of the tears and noticed a wet patch on his shirt.
"Sorry about that," said Relena feeling a bit embarrassed from her outburst.
"Don't be, any time, I'll be here," replied Heero with a soft smile as Relena nodded.
"So are you hungry? You haven't eaten in a week and who knows how long before that. I don't have much in the house but I'm sure that there's probably something canned and some bread in the freezer."
"I'm fine for now thanks. Honestly I feel like dozing off."
"Did you want me to pull out the bed?"
"No it actually feels pretty good just sitting like this."
"Okay," replied Relena as she got up off the couch. "I might go do a bit of work while you rest. And I might get some groceries delivered. Is there anything you like or don't like?"
"Not really, when you live off of rations for a while you learn to eat anything," replied Heero with a smile. "And don't feel obligated to stay here, if you'd prefer to go yourself."
"No I'm honestly too exhausted to go driving, we can go when you're feeling better in a week or so," said Relena as she headed for the door to give Heero some space. "I'll be upstairs if you need me, just shout."
"Okay. But I thought you quit?" asked Heero referring back to Relena saying work.
"I still have to look after the Darlian and Peacecraft estates. All the charities and the schools and orphanages."
"You were doing that on top of working for ESUN?" asked Heero as Relena nodded. "See, you really are incredible."
Relena couldn't help but blush at the compliment. "Alright I'll let you get some rest," she said as she left the room and headed up the stairs to the study.
Heero watched Relena walk away and felt himself doze off. He felt like he had been asleep for a couple of hours when he was woken by sounds coming from the kitchen. Always on high alert, Heero jumped off the couch, as best he could, and gingerly moved to the kitchen. When he got there he saw Relena wrestling with grocery bags. He cursed himself that he hadn't woken when the delivery man arrived. If it had been an assassin they would both be dead. He shook those thoughts away as he knew his security system would have alerted him of any intruders.
"Got enough?" asked Heero as he saw the island covered in bags.
"Oh Heero, you scared me, and you shouldn't be walking around."
"Its fine," replied Heero as he went to lean against the door but pulled back as felt pain in his shoulder. "So how many people are planning on feeding?"
"I went a bit overboard didn't I?" said Relena as she looked at all the bags. "I wasn't sure what to get so I got a bit of everything. I don't do this often as I normally eat at work or at restaurants with the other delegates."
Heero started to feel guilty. "I'm putting you out. Maybe it would be better if I went."
"No Heero. Honestly don't worry. I'm looking forward to giving the kitchen a proper work out. Plus I have to do this, I need to do this," she finished as she looked down at her hands.
"What do you mean?"
"If it wasn't me for you wouldn't be in this condition. If I had stood up to Mariemaia and Barton sooner maybe none of it would have happened."
Heero felt himself soften at Relena's guilt. "It wouldn't have made a difference. It may have ended up worse."
"How do you mean?"
"They may have killed you. And if that happened I wouldn't have had a reason to live anymore. So don't fret on it. You told me to forget my past. So I'll tell you to do the same," replied Heero trying to sound reassuring.
"Thanks Heero. Now are you sure you're not hungry now we have some options?"
"No I honestly don't feel like eating."
"Okay, but you have to have dinner. You need to eat after you take your medication," said Relena sternly so that Heero knew he had no room to argue.
"Fine," replied Heero defeated. "I might just do back to the couch."
"Do you need a hand?"
"I'm fine, you carry on, it might be Christmas by the time you finish," replied Heero cheekily as he walked away.
Relena gasped open mouthed at Heero's insinuation but couldn't help feel amused. She quickly finished unpacking and headed up stair, but not before checking on Heero. She looked in the living room and saw him sound asleep on the couch. She smiled at the peaceful look on his face and left before the urge to cuddle up next to him took over.
Several hours later, Heero woke up feeling sore. He looked at his phone and saw that he was an hour late for his medication. He knew Relena wouldn't forget to make him take it as she wasn't that kind of person. Getting worried he got up and went looking for her. She wasn't in the kitchen so he headed to the stairs. Heero looked at the challenge in front of him and knew that every step would hurt.
After the struggle that was climbing the stairs, Heero decided to check the study. Upon entering the room, Heero took in how spacious it was. The walls were surrounded by book shelves and towards the back was a big window that looked out over the fields behind the house. In the centre was a large wooden desk that his carer was currently sleeping on.
Heero smiled as he slowly walked towards Relena. She was face down in a pile of papers. With some difficulty, Heero managed to kneel down next to Relena and gently brushed her hair from her face. Relena stirred at the touch.
"Heero?" she said sleepily as she opened her eyes and remembered where she was. "How did you get up here?"
"Climbed the stairs," he replied trying not to laugh at Relena's sleepy state.
"You shouldn't have done that. What if you had fallen?"
"You were late for my medication, I was worried."
"Guess I was more tired than I thought. Maybe I should have joined you on the couch."
"What was that?"
"Nothing," replied Relena realising she had said that out loud. "I better get your medication. We'll have to change the times for tomorrow so you don't overdose."
"It'll be fine Relena, an hour won't make a difference to me. I'm guessing you probably saw my x-rays and the doctors probably did full blood work?" asked Heero as Relena nodded. "Did they say anything about the blood results?"
"That you have unusual genetics," replied Relena, only just remembering.
"Part of my training involved having my body genetically enhanced so I could be faster, stronger, smarter and healthier than anyone else. I still take time to heal but I do it quicker than most. Hence why I said you could leave me alone in a hotel for two weeks."
"Oh Heero, I'm sorry they did that to you."
"Don't be, if they didn't I wouldn't have met you," replied Heero with a smile.
Relena returned the smile. "Anyway I better get you medicated and then I'll start on dinner. Anything you'd like?"
"Whatever is easiest for you, you look worse than I feel," said Heero trying to be funny.
"Okay, I'll help you down the stairs so you don't face plant," replied Relena with a chuckle.
"Okay but first I'll need you to help me stand, I'm starting to lock up," said Heero as he felt his muscles seizing.
Relena stood up and place Heero's arm around her shoulder as he used his other arm on the desk as leverage. As he stood, he felt himself start to stagger and fall backwards. He was able to twist himself around so that Relena wasn't underneath him as he fell. He landed on his back with Relena lying on top of him.
"Sorry about that," said Heero laughing.
"Are you alright?" asked Relena in concern as she looked up into Heero's eyes.
"I'm fine," replied Heero as he realised their faces were only inches apart.
Heero continued to look into Relena's eyes as he brought up a hand and gently cupped her cheek.
"You really are beautiful Relena," said Heero softly.
Relena felt her face heat up at Heero's words. She was overcome with the urge to kiss him, but decided against it. Instead she quickly got off of Heero and managed to get him on his feet with their second attempt. She then helped him down the stairs and sat him on the couch.
"I'll be back, just got to get your pills," said Relena as she raced up stairs and quickly returned with some small tablets and a glass of water.
"Thanks," said Heero as he put them in his mouth, took a sip of water and swallowed.
"I'll get dinner," said Relena as she headed for the kitchen.
When she reached the door, she looked back and saw Heero raise his hand to his mouth and then put it in his pocket.
"Heero Yuy! I saw that!"
Heero froze as he slowly looked at Relena to see an angry scowl on her face as she marched back to stand in front of him.
"I'm only going to say this once more. If you can't do the right thing then you can go back to the hospital where I will personally ensure that you are kept there by the tightest security measures available. Do I make myself clear?!"
Heero just nodded his head, too afraid to speak as he had never seen Relena like this.
"Now put them back in your mouth, swallow, and then show me that you've done it."
Heero did as he was told.
"Good boy," said Relena condescendedly. "Now I'll go get dinner and you just sit here and behave. Try finding something to watch on tv."
Heero picked up the remote from the side table and started flicking through the channels. He skipped past the doom and gloom of the news, stopping on the odd occasion if one station showed Wing Zero hovering over the presidential mansion. He then came upon what looked like a game show. He watched with fascination as the contestants had to answer questions based off of cryptic clues.
Thirty minuted later, Relena walked back in with two bowls.
"I hope you like mac-n-cheese," she said cheerfully as she handed Heero his food, before sitting down and seeing what Heero was watching.
"Thanks," replied Heero as he took a bite. "It's good."
"Thanks it's my first time making it," said Relena as she noticed that Heero was watching Jeopardy.
"Quotes by Famous Roman Emperors for $200," said a contestant.
"What an artist dies in me!" asked the host.
"Nero," said Heero quickly, causing Relena to giggle. "What?" asked Heero giving her a glance.
"You're meant to answer in the form of a question. The host gives the contestants the answer, and they answer with a question. It's like a reverse quiz. Watch."
"Who is Nero?" answered the contestant.
"Oh, I see," replied Heero now more intrigued.
"Mountain Geography for $400."
"I'm the tallest mountain on Earth but I sit lower than any other."
"What is Mauna Kea?" answered Heero before the contestants.
Relena just sat and watched the joy on Heero's face as he continued to get everything correct. It then came time for the final question.
"What's going on here?" asked Heero.
"This is where they put their own value for their answer. Essentially betting against themselves to get the answer right. Some people put up everything if they're one hundred percent sure, some nothing if they don't know or if they're winning. Most just put up enough to potentially get the win. But the trick is they don't know the clue until after they make their bet."
"Interesting. I'm pretty sure I'm on about $50,000 so I'll put it all up."
"Pretty confident," teased Relena while being fascinated that Heero was keeping track of what he had earned with his answers as well as enjoying the show.
"Doing alright so far," replied Heero with a smirk causing Relena to giggle.
"In November 1864 John Wilkes Booth & his brothers were fittingly part of a performance of this Shakespeare play," asked the host.
"Julius Caesar," came Heero's answer.
Relena watched on with anticipation as the host read out the correct answer. She saw the smug look on Heero's face and decided to burst his bubble.
"You lose," said Relena teasingly.
"I got it right," replied Heero confused.
"You forgot to pose the answer as a question."
"Oh, bugger," said Heero realising Relena was right.
"You make mistakes," she teased.
"Never said I didn't," replied Heero grumpily.
"Oh don't be like that, I'm only joking. Besides you did really well. You should compete on the show."
"Thanks, probably not for me though."
Relena looked at the clock and realised it was getting late.
"We should probably do you physio then give you a sponge bath before bed."
"Bath?" question Heero in surprise.
"Yep. You can't get your bandages wet so I'll have to give you a sponge bath of sorts," answered Relena, trying not to blush. "And I don't want you stinking up the clean sheets with the hospital smell so it's non optional."
Heero didn't reply as he knew he was out voted. Relena quickly gave Heero his therapy, which involved working his limbs and joints and gently massaging the muscles. Even in his weakened condition, Relena could still feel the incredible definition of Heero's muscles. Touching his body like this was causing certain thoughts to go through her head.
Once done, she led Heero to the bathroom and told him to strip. He quickly took off his shirt and pants as Relena filled the tub with some water.
"Underwear too," said Relena as she saw Heero was still wearing them.
"I'm sure I can handle that part Relena," said Heero nervously.
"Who do you think kept you clean when you were unconscious?"
Heero gave her a questioning look.
"I had to or my cover was going to be blown. It was awkward at first but I got used to it," she answered, blushing furiously. "You can just close your eyes and think of something else if you can't handle it."
Again Heero knew that he wasn't going to win this fight. He reluctantly closed his eyes and dropped his boxers to the ground. Relena giggled as she saw Heero turn red. She quickly wet a wash cloth and gently cleaned around Heero's bandages around his arm and torso, before moving to his legs. While in her kneeling position she decided to do the last part. It was definitely easier when Heero didn't know what was happening.
As Relena started to move the cloth around his pelvis, she thought she saw Heero twitch. She gazed up to his face and saw he had his eyes tightly shut.
"Keep those naughty thoughts out of your head," she chided teasingly as she went back to work.
"Bit hard not too, and I bet the same thing's crossed your mind once or twice," replied Heero as he peaked down to see Relena blushing. "Thought so."
Deciding to finish up before things got out of hand; she quickly finished washing before drying Heero off and getting him into some clean clothes. Then she pulled out the sofa bed for Heero to sleep on.
"Thanks Relena," said Heero as he got settled for the night.
"You're welcome. Now I'm just upstairs if you need me. I'll see you in the morning," she replied as she headed for her room. "Good night Heero."
"Good night Relena," replied Heero with a smile.
Relena quickly showered and changed before crawling under the covers. She fell asleep as soon as her head hit the pillow. Mind filling with thoughts of how fate had somehow dictated things so Heero Yuy had to live with her. She smiled as her exhaustion took over.
To be continued…
AN: That's it for my first chapter. As I said in the summary this is my interpretation of the time that Heero and Relena spent together after Endless Waltz. Basically what I put together using what we saw at the end of the Endless Waltz OVA and manga as well as what I've read of the Preventer 5 chapters in Frozen Teardrop.
It won't be a day to day story as that would be boring, but more covering key moments between the two. Some chapters will be long like this one, others will be shorter.
Hope you enjoyed and will stick around for the rest.
Please Review.
Cheers,
Beer-man