Chapter Forty-Six
Charity Ball

Heero had started his morning on a good note, till Serena had called him back. They ended up in another argument which only resulted in her hanging up the phone on him. Heero didn't bother to call Serena back. The worst part was he never even apologized to her as he intended to.

At first, Heero couldn't bring himself to do it, then once he felt like he could, Serena brought up the Charity Ball, asking if she could attend as backup and see if she recognized anyone there who was associated with ROE. Her question wasn't posed with any intent other than pure curiosity, but when Heero tried to explain things in what he assumed was a calm response, Serena fired back. They didn't raise their voices, but both tried to persuade the other into giving in. In the end, it seemed Heero had won this battle.

Trowa had informed him when they had all gathered for their meeting before the event that Serena had agreed to stay home. Heero knew he wasn't going to be able to check on her all night since his priority was to keep his undivided attention on Relena. Heero was just praying that Serena would be smart enough and not show up under any circumstances. But it didn't mean that Heero wouldn't allow her in if they truly needed help.

Heero had made sure while going over the security of the building that he put Serena's number on speed dial. If anything should arise, Heero knew she could be there in fifteen minutes, ten minutes tops if Serena sped through the city. Especially since Heero knew Trowa had taken his SVU, which left Serena with Trowa's bike.

Heero had been feeling uneasy since his conversation with Serena. Heero tried to push away the feelings he had over it. Heero had gone from being angry to being worried, which was another reason he had placed Serena on speed dial.

If Heero felt something was truly wrong or more like the nagging voice in his head grew to be too loud for him to ignore, Heero would call Serena. That was if he could break away from Relena's side. In a worst-case scenario, Heero knew he could ask someone else to call and check on Serena, but so far, Heero hadn't felt anything.

The worry was still there but it could've also been from keeping a close eye on Relena as she mingled with guests. Heero had only left her side a few times that evening, making a quick round, around the ballroom. Checking in personally with his team. When Heero did so, either Duo, Trowa, Wufei, or Quatre stepped in to stand close to Relena.

Quatre wasn't working for Preventers that night but Heero had made sure Quatre was armed just in case something came up, this way Quatre could step in and help assist them.

Quatre had recently come over to speak with a couple who happened to be talking with Relena, taking the opportunity, Heero nodded to Quatre when he stepped closer. With the exchange made, Quatre slipped into conversation with the couple and Relena while Heero stepped away to make another round.

So far, everything had been going smoothly. But Heero wasn't taking any chances.

Catherine and Serena had ended up at a bar that was hosting a karaoke night. Catherine had been enjoying the night with Serena so far. They had gone to dinner before she told Serena that they'd be going bar hopping.

Serena wasn't thrilled at first, but the more alcohol Catherine got in her, the more Serena loosened up. Catherine had learned a lot about her and had concluded that she liked Serena.

Even when Serena was stubborn and did not elaborate more when Catherine would prompt a follow-up question.

Catherine was happy Trowa had found Serena and that the two of them had started a relationship. She could see why Trowa liked Serena so much.

"C'mon it'll be fun!" Catherine tried again. She had been trying for a while to get Serena to go up and sing with her.

"I don't do this," Serena deadpanned.

"Please?! It's girl's night!" Catherine turned back to the stage where a group of people walked off. "Please?" Catherine turned pleading eyes to Serena. Serena gave her a look before grabbing the shot glass that was in front of her, throwing it back before slamming it back down on the table.

"One song, and one song only, got it?"

"One song, I promise!" Catherine downed her shot. Smiling she grabbed Serena, dragging her to the DJ was set up off to the side.

Their girl's night was turning into one of the best nights Catherine had had in a long time. And Catherine was excited she was spending it with someone she could see herself growing close to.

Especially if Trowa was planning to keep Serena around for a long time. Which was something Catherine was hoping for. It was about damn time her brother settled down.

Nick Renwood had been walking around Brussels hoping to find some clue as to where Delta was. General Gavin had told him to put together a team and head to Earth.

Going on a whim, Nick along with five others headed for Brussels. If Delta knew or found out about the Charity Ball there was a good possibility she was there. Whether Delta was going to make some move and expose herself or she was laying low. Chances were Delta was staying close to her targets.

Nick had sent his other men out as well. They didn't have a lead but maybe one of them would spot her. There was still a chance Delta had changed her features to better disguise herself, which meant they needed to look for any tell-tale signs that it was her.

Glances that seemed to linger a little longer than a normal person. A woman moving in such a way to suggest she was trying to lose her tail. Nick had made a point to go over everything before they split up. No one was to engage with Delta, but to follow her and to call and notify him if they spotted her.

Nick had been walking around for a good two hours when he came across a bar that had a drink special to go along with its 'Saturday Karaoke Night.' Deciding that a cold beer wouldn't hurt, he walked inside. To Nick's surprise and luck, the object of his mission just happened to be there.

Dunking down, Nick moved to find a spot on the back wall. He couldn't believe his eyes. There Delta was of all places and he just happened to pick the right place to go into. Without hesitation, Nick pulled out his phone. Dialing a number, Nick brought the phone to his ear and smiled as he watched Delta.

"I've found her. She's in Brussels." Nick said as soon as the caller picked up.

"Do you have confirmation?" Gavin asked.

"Oh, it's her alright. She didn't change her appearance at all."

"Where did you find her?"

"At a bar of all places." Nick paused for a moment. "You want me to bring her back?"

"Is Delta with anyone?" Gavin asked.

"There's this cute redhead that's with her."

"Don't do anything just yet. Just keep your eyes on her. If we take her now, she'll just cause a scene. We just need to wait."

"Understood, sir."

"Call if anything changes," Gavin said before ending the call. Nick pocketed his phone as he leaned against the back wall. Nick's lips curled up into a smirk. His opportunity would come, he could feel it.

Enjoy your freedom now, Delta. Because it's all about to end. Nick thought to himself.

The Charity Ball had gone without any issues. Heero was pleased with how everything went and was even able to enjoy the sight of Relena mingling with guests and even other members of ESUN and Colony representatives. It was where she shined the most. Relena had been working hard all night to get the funds she needed to keep moving with the Mars Terraforming Project. In about five years, it would be complete if they kept up the funding, which they needed through private investors.

Other delegates had done the same. Proposing their pet projects to private investors in hopes they would select them to fund. It was a yearly event where everyone could work on their projects. Even though this happened at any and every event, this one event was set up in the hopes that people would stop trying to work their own business into other charity events that were held for their specific reason. Heero had to admit Relena was damn good at her job. She had secured more funds and seemed to be congratulating herself with a drink.

"Don't drink too much," Heero whispered in her ear once he was behind her. Relena whirled around to face him.

"I'm allowed to have one drink. Thanks to me, I was able to get the extra funding we needed," Relena lifted her chin at him.

Heero chuckled. He had finished his rounds since the evening's festivities were starting to whine down. People were heading to their rooms in the hotel or heading home. Heero's night was almost over and he was looking forward to spending the rest of it with the woman in front of him.

"You did good, but I don't want you getting too carried away." Heero reached a hand out to take her drink away.

"Oh no, you don't, Yuy. I earned this!" Relena pulled away from him. "Plus I have to deal with Dorothy." Heero's eyebrow shot up.

"I thought you two were friends. Why say it like that?" Heero asked.

"It means we can't spend the rest of the night together," Relena sighed. Heero frowned as he looked down into her light blue eyes. He could see the remorse in them.

"Can't you talk with her tomorrow?" Relena shook her head.

"Dorothy already planned to come to my room later. And since it's only eleven-thirty I'm sure she'll be staying there for a while to go over whatever it is," Relena said while waving a dismissive hand. Heero's frown deepened.

He had Relena book a room so he didn't worry about her getting home, even though they didn't live far away. But also so when he was done for the night, Heero could meet her in the room.

"Can you get out of this?" Heero asked. Relena laughed behind her hand.

"Oh, Heero, you're acting as if you'll never get any for a while," Relena teased.

"Maybe we can sneak away for a-" Relena swatted his arm, cutting him off.

"Heero, one night won't kill you, nor will it kill me. Besides, we have all day tomorrow."

"Yeah, if Dorothy leaves," Heero mumbled. Relena rolled her eyes at him.

It had been a surprise to see Dorothy, though it shouldn't have been since she came as Quatre's guest. Since Quatre was an investor with the Terraforming Project, Heero knew Quatre was coming to help Relena in any way he could. It also meant another set of eyes to watch for any signs of trouble. But the news that Dorothy was going to be spending some time with Relena, put a damper on Heero's idea of a good night.

A half-hour later, and once the last of the guests had left, Heero stood with Relena in a near-empty ballroom. He still needed to double-check a few things, but Relena had hung back to talk to him before she had to go up to her room. Heero agreed to come back in the morning and meet Relena for breakfast if he didn't come earlier than that. As they continued to talk, Duo, Quatre, Trowa, and Wufei made their way over to them.

"There you are," Duo said as he came to put his arm around Heero. "Been looking for you."

"What do you want?" Heero shrugged Duo's arm off.

"Whoa, Mr. Grumpy pants tonight, and to think all of this went without a hitch," Duo waved his arms around.

"Hm," Heero grunted.

"Everything's clear, Relena is the only one left in the ballroom," Wufei said while crossing his arms over his chest.

"You already walked through?" Heero lifted a brow.

"There weren't too many people left and the two of you have been in this little corner for some time now. The walkthrough was completed. All guests have arrived at their rooms or safely to their vehicles. All personnel have been accounted for and have checked in. Everyone is stationed on their respective floors and we have teams to do walk-throughs as well as video monitoring," Wufei said.

"You would've heard that if your earpiece was in," Duo said while pointing a finger at Heero.

Heero had taken out his earpiece a while ago. He hadn't heard anything so he figured everything was fine. Heero said nothing to Duo, even as Duo glared at him.

"I'm leaving now that my work is done," Wufei said as he turned away from the group.

"Aw, c'mon Wufei, stay. Come have a drink with us!" Duo frowned when Wufei rolled his eyes before walking away from them. "Well Princess I'd ask you but Q-man here says Dorothy's waiting for you. But how about the rest of you?"

"Thank you for the offer Duo, I do appreciate it. Maybe next time," Relena smiled.

"Sorry Relena, I tried to get Dorothy to change her mind. But you know how she can be," Quatre turned sorry eyes to her. Relena waved him off.

"It's okay, thank you for trying but yes, I do know how she can be. I should probably get going then," Relena moved around the group hugging everyone, before turning to Heero. "I'll see you tomorrow then?" Heero nodded his head and gave her a small smile before pulling it back.

Heero watched as Relena walked away, waving goodbye before walking out of the ballroom. Two Preventer agents flanked her on either side.

Heero knew he didn't have to worry too much. Though he didn't plan to be away from her long. He knew Dorothy was probably carrying some weapon. Most likely a firearm. Heero knew Dorothy would protect Relena if need be, plus Relena could handle herself, and if anything, Relena would find a way to call him.

"So how about a drink?" Duo asked once Relena left. Heero shrugged. He didn't have anything better to do. He could wait around in the hotel till Dorothy had gone back to her and Quatre's room, or Heero could please his braided friend.

Besides, one drink wouldn't kill him.

"Sure," Heero said. Duo grinned as he turned to Trowa and Quatre.

"How about you two?"

"Sure, I wouldn't mind getting to talk with you guys. It's been so long since I've been back on Earth," Quatre said.

"I should get home," Trowa shook his head.

"C'mon man, one drink won't hurt," Duo pleaded with him.

"Duo's right, Trowa. One drink won't hurt, plus I haven't seen you in a while. Would you rather be home alone or at least have a drink with us?" Quatre smiled warmly at Trowa.

"Sure, one drink," Trowa said.

"Great! Then let's go! I know a great bar just down the street from here," Duo said turning on his heel and making his way out of the ballroom.

A/N

Happy Wednesday!

If any of you are mad that nothing happened... well Friday something does happen so at least you have that to look forward to. Also... I know this chapter was shorter than the last several.

Monday's chapter, I didn't mention anything about the fact that Heero and Serena had gotten into another argument in my notes. I did this so we could get more information from Heero's POV, not to mention that Monday's chapter was about Catherine and Trowa, and Serena's relationship.

Heero has a bad feeling, something isn't right but is his gut onto something that has to do with Serena and not necessarily the Ball? Which at this point we know went without any issues. Other than the fact that Heero can't go up to Relena's room with her because Dorothy is going to be there! Quickly, we finally have the whole gang together! Woohoo! And don't worry, there will be more of Dorothy and Quatre to come. Back to Heero. First, Heero once again is going to say something nice and maybe he should've said it a while ago to Serena, then quickly he says "f that, she ain't getting an apology from me now." Will this come back to bite Heero in the ass? Oh yes, it will! We see that Heero's uneasiness caused him to put Serena's number on speed dial, so while Heero is still on the fence about Serena, he's clearly taken into account that if they did need her, Serena would come without question and back them up. Which now means that Heero trusts her, to a point. Oh, things are changing here! Heero's also hoping that he can trust Serena enough to now show up at the Ball, which is probably a good thing she and Catherine are out hitting up the town. Woo! Or is it?

(I want to quickly add something. If you noticed when Heero is talking about the Mars Terraforming project, you'll notice that I included a timeline for that. Roughly five years. Just store that in the back of your mind for later use.)

It seems that someone from ROE has spotted Serena, which only means bad things to come. But no one knows that... just yet. Uh-oh. Time's ticking now, Serena. Better hurry up and figure things out. This also means that word hasn't gotten back to Gavin that there's been some arrest. It's interesting to note that they don't know about this. But in the end, does it even matter? Nick has found Serena, or rather Delta, now all he has to do is find a way to get her and bring her back to Gavin so they can continue with their operation.

(Another thing, Catherine has convinced Serena to do karaoke, and Serena tells Catherine she doesn't do this kind of stuff. There's a reason for this, but I bring this point up many times and it'll happen again in two chapters, but I wanted to point it out because it's important to Serena's character. You'll just have to wait for an explanation on this... sorry, not sorry.)

Ah, the guys are heading out to get drinks, minus Wufei because he's a party pooper. Did anyone find it interesting that Trowa doesn't mention why he wants to go straight home? Also, the fact that Quatre says something about him being alone, at home. Hm... guess Trowa didn't mention anything to Quatre about the fact there's a special lady at home and that Catherine is there as well. Wonder if Quatre picked up on any of that? Maybe you'll find out in Friday's chapter titled The Incident.

Be ready! Friday's chapter is a little emotional or a lot and we're going to get to see another person's POV and what they make of a certain someone. Until then, have a great rest of your day!

-MM