Title: I Think She Likes Me [Part 1 of ?]
Author: Pythoness
Written: 2001
Disclaimer: Magic Knight Rayearth owned by CLAMP, I Think She Likes Me sung by Billy Gillman, Karu owned by me [*squealz* I own something!]
Author's Notes: This is written based off of an rpg between me and close friends. Karu is a fictional character owned by me. Events happen approximately a year after the anime/manga takes place. The NSX is resting somewhere near the castle. Eagle is staying in the castle. Hikaru and Lantis are a couple, Fuu and Ferio are a couple, Umi and Ascot are a couple [it's more realistic than Umi and Clef]. Hmm.. anything else.. Please note, this is a work in progress. I have several of the chapters completed, but the story is not done. I do not know when more chapters will be available, but I do know that commentary will help speed that process. ^.~ If for some odd reason you'd like to use the character Karu in any other reference, please contact me and I'm certain we can work something out. Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoy.
I Think She Likes Me
I think she likes me, and I know I like her.
It's kinda funny, cause it's too soon to be sure.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Should I be patient, or should I ask her strait out?
That smile she gave me don't leave too much room for doubt.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Our first kiss said more than goodnight.
I bet I relived it a thousand times.
And I can't predict what the future's gonna bring,
But those looks that she's been giving me can only mean one thing.
I think she likes me. I think she might be the one.
And more than likely, the best is still yet to come.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Our first kiss said more than goodnight.
I bet I relived it a thousand times.
And I can't predict what the future's gonna bring,
But those looks that she's been giving me can only mean one thing.
I think she likes me, and I know I like her.
It's kinda funny, cause it's too soon to be sure.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
I enter the ballroom wearing my usual white suit, nothing fancy, but not too shabby. I run a hand through my nearly white hair as I stand, a bit uneasy.
Suddenly a very bubbly and happy Hikaru bounds over with a quiet Lantis following. "Hiya!" Hikaru chirps out. I smile lightly. She's so cute sometimes. I sometimes wish she had fallen in love with me and not Lantis, but fate is fate, and if it made the both of them happy, I would ignore my aching heart and let it be so. I am not one to interfere with happiness and perfection.
"Hello," I reply politely.
Lantis nods in his own greeting that I recognize. I smile lightly and listen to Hikaru and Lantis talking. My eyes wander as they speak, their words soon just becoming a light hum in my ears.
My eyes catch sight of a young girl, her beautiful blond hair flowing gently down her back, two braids starting at her temples and meeting at the back of her head form a 'crown' or 'halo' around her. Her beautiful off-white dress flows gently to the ground, fitting her perfectly I notice. Around her wrists I note a few bangles, all golden. On her ears I see beautiful blue stones. As she turns her head I catch sight of her ice blue eyes, the studs on her ears complimenting them perfectly.
I notice that she is standing alone against the wall. I wonder why such a beauty would be alone. She appeared to be in her later teens, just a few years younger than me.
I scold myself in my mind. Why would I be worrying about how many years apart her and I are?
Suddenly the interested Hikaru catches me staring at the young woman. She follows my gaze and grins. I know that grin. She suspects something.
"Who's she?" Hikaru asks.
I shrug. "I have no clue."
Hikaru grins and looks back at me. "You like her don't you?"
I can feel it as my face gains a surprised expression. "I don't even know who she is!" I cry out, wondering in the back of my mind if perhaps I do like her.
"That doesn't matter. Haven't you ever heard of love at first sight? I KNOW that look! It's the same look Lantis gives me."
I can feel my cheeks take on a light shade of crimson at the comment. I glance over to see Lantis' cheeks sharing my color. That makes me feel a little better.
"Why don't you go talk to her?" Hikaru asks me.
I try to think up a reason quickly. There is no real reason that I can't go over there. Except that I'm nervous.
Nervous? Does that mean I do like her? Perhaps, but I cannot just like her on looks alone. But how will I ever get to know her if I don't talk to her?
I listen as Hikaru trys to bribe me into talking to the young lady.
"I mean, what can really happen?" she begins. "I'm sure she'll like you back, and it'll turn out to be the greatest thing that ever happened to you."
That started to make me confident. Then she continued.
"Of course, it could backfire and she could hate your guts."
I glanced at her, my look showing her that that was not what I needed to hear when my confidence was almost ready.
She just grins. "I was only kidding."
"I can't go over there," I complain, glancing back up at the gorgeous creature of the opposite sex, standing not thirty feet away, her beauty nearly dragging me towards her.
I snap myself out of it. I glance back at Hikaru, just in time to see her shove me forwards.
"Oh just go!"
I fall forwards, nearly falling on my face. I quickly regain my balance, spinning around to face the wall, knowing I had caused a scene with the noise I made in fear.
I stand, my face burning crimson. Lantis stands next to me, not really knowing what to do. Heck, I don't even know what to do. Was she staring at me? had I made a complete fool of myself?
Hikaru stands next to me. "Oops," is all she can say. She might have made me loose my chance to talk to the only girl that I might ever love that might ever love me back and all she can say is 'oops.'
Wait, why am I making such a big deal about this? I guess maybe..... maybe I do really like her. Why else would it mean so much to me that I nearly tripped. I'm not exactly the most perfect person. I mean, everyone is clumsy sometimes, but I take the cake. It never bothers me. At least, not until now.
I take a shaky breath. "Is she staring at me?" I ask Hikaru.
She glances over to where I know the girl is standing and looks back at me, smiling.
"YES! She's got THE LOOK!"
"The look? What's the look?" I ask of her.
She grins at me. "I'll let you figure that out."
I glare slightly. Doesn't she understand how nervous I am? Of course she does. That's why she's torturing me like this. She loves teasing people when they are in love.
Did I just think that? Am I in love with someone other than Hikaru? How... how can that be? The thought of loving someone who might possibly love me back has never crossed my mind.
No, I shouldn't say that. It has crosses my mind a few times while I dream. Perhaps I should move on and stop wasting my time loving a girl who cannot return my love, for she loves another.
Hikaru obviously senses my nervousness and anger, and decides to have a heart. She sighs and walks away. I notice from the corner of my eye that she is walking towards where the girl is standing. My mind goes numb as I turn to watch her. Maybe she doesn't have a heart after all!
She walks silently towards the girl. The girl looks up. She smiles lightly to Hikaru. Gods, she's adorable when she smiles.
I wipe the grin off my face and realize the situation. Hikaru was going to talk to this girl that she assumed that I like. This is not good.
"Lantis, tell me she wouldn't do that," I demand of my best friend.
Lantis stands, unsure of how to respond. I cling at his suit collar helplessly. "Lantis! Tell me she wouldn't do this to me!!!"
Lantis stands, watching the same thing as me. Hikaru had said hello and the two were talking. I couldn't hear a word they said.
The girl glanced over at me and looked back at Hikaru.
"I'm afraid she would," Lantis replied. I wanted to wring his neck.
Lantis obviously sensed my anger and politely removed my hands from his suit collar, not wanting my clenched fists to ruin his outfit.
I watch as Hikaru begins leading the girl over towards us. I turn back around quickly, my face growing crimson again. I don't think I've ever blushed so much in my life.
The next thing I knew Hikaru was introducing the girl to Lantis and me.
"Karu, this is Lantis. Lantis, meet Karu. Karu, this is Eagle. Eagle, turn around and meet Karu."
Karu? Was that her name? What a beautiful name. Like poetry.
Ack! What am I thinking? Since when have I ever found someone's name to be poetry? I must really have been bitten by the love bug this time.
I turn around, looking at the beautiful angel. She stood so close. I could reach out and touch her beautiful hair, brush a hand against her cheek softly. Take her in my arms and....
What was I thinking? I've never felt this way before. True I loved, and still love Hikaru, but it was never this strong. Perhaps because I knew she was taken.
"Hello," I manage to say, though almost inaudibly.
Hikaru grins, knowing her plot was going to work. Lantis decides this to be the perfect moment to help her little scheme.
"Hikaru, love, would you care to dance?" he asks her.
"I'd love to," she says while grinning lovingly at him.
I watch as the two walk away, glaring at Lantis. Why was he being so unkind to me now? Couldn't he see that after my embarrassing moment, being alone with this perfect young woman was not what I wanted?
I looked at her. She was the perfect height. A little taller than Hikaru, but still short enough to make me feel like the man.
Karu smiles. God, did she know how beautiful she was? If only I could tell her, to whisper sweet nothings in her ear forever....
What is happening to me? I'm going love sick. And I don't even know this girl. I haven't said two words to her yet.
That was about to change. "Would you care to dance?" I ask in the calmest voice I can manage.
That beautiful smile crosses her face again. "I'd love to."
She'd love to. The words played around in my mind for a few moments as I held out my hand for her.
She placed her hand gently in mine. Her hand was so silkily soft, even through my glove. I could just imagine that all of her skin was as smooth and flawless.
I walked towards the dance floor, leading her with me. Her movements were so perfect, and the dress flowing gently around her made her look as though she were walking on a cloud.
I stop when I find an area for dancing, leading her in front of me. I hesitantly place my left hand on her waist, holding her left hand in my right hand. I smile lightly, knowing this moment was going to be perfect.
I sway to the music, holding her lightly. The rest of the world seems to fade away as we dance, the soft murmurs of the crowd disappearing beneath the music.
I close my eyes lightly, feeling Karu move the slightest bit closer. I feel the smile creep on my face. I'm sure she saw it, since she moved a bit closer again.
As the music continued, her left hand soon left mine as both her hands wrapped tightly around my neck. I slid my right hand to the other side of her waist, holding her gently. She rests her head against my chest. I have never had such a dance. Sure I've danced with Hikaru before, and many girls for that matter, but this was completely different. I can't even explain how this feels.
As the song ends I sigh, wishing that moment could have lasted forever. Now she'll go back to where she was and probably forget all about me.
I notice that she lets go slowly. Reluctantly? Could she possibly like me?
She smiles and takes my hand, leading me towards the refreshments, not giving me a chance to think about anything but following her.
I watch as she grabs two cups of punch, handing me one. I take it thankfully, smiling at her. She takes a sip. I take a gulp. She giggles lightly.
"You know, you're a good dancer," she tells me.
I smile. "Thank you."
She smiles back, taking my hand again and leading us towards a couple chair back in a secluded corner. Thank gods that she's leading me. I'd never have the nerves to lead her to a secluded corner like this. Does that mean that she likes me? Or am I just taking everything too strongly? I can't tell anymore.
I smile and sit next to Karu, taking another gulp of my punch. It was good, but that was not where my attention was focused.
I sigh happily, looking out towards Lantis and Hikaru. I suddenly realized that we have hardly talked. We need a conversation topic.
This is so unlike me. I normally have plenty of things to talk about with people. But I usually knew people better than this. All I know about this girl is that her name is Karu and she is the most beautiful female I have ever laid eyes upon.
I decide to go with an easy topic. I glance quickly at her hands, checking for a possible wedding ring. I spot two rings, but both on the wrong fingers. That was certainly good, but that did not ensure that she was not engaged.
"Do you have a boyfriend or fiancé or husband, if you don't mind my asking?" Of course now I realize my question might sound rude. Would she think I'm implying that I like her?
I have finally accepted that I like her. That's obvious. Does she like me?
"No," she replies.
I quickly realize she was answering my first question, and not the latter one in my mind. "Oh?" I use the opportunity to throw a compliment in. "That surprises me that such a beautiful young lady as yourself would not have a male friend like that."
My intelligent conversational words obviously surprised her, as she took a few moments to answer.
"Well, I really don't know many people," she responds. "My mother died before the Pillar died, so I lived alone for a while. And after the Pillar died, I was forced to come here. I live in the residential quarters with a bunch of older ladies who treat me like a little girl. I really don't know many people here, other than Hikaru and you and the ladies I live with."
I listen quietly, absorbing all the information. Her voice is so sweet. If I close my eyes I can see a beautiful sunset, morning dew clinging to emerald green blades off grass on a beautiful hill, and Karu standing atop the hill in a beautiful white gown.
I quickly snap out of it as she finishes talking. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be," she responds. I can hear the sadness in her voice, but I can also tell she's trying to hide it, so I won't say anything. "I've given up feeling sorry for myself a long time ago."
I nod slightly, not knowing how to respond. I suddenly realize how loud it is in here. Would she mind if we went somewhere quieter? But what if she didn't want to leave? Perhaps all the people around made her feel safer around me.
I decide to try it. What have I got to loose? "Karu, would you care to join me in the garden? I fear that the noise in here is going to harm my hearing."
She smiles, nodding. "I'd love to join you."
God, those words ring in my ears a thousand times. And the way she speaks, the words she uses. She's so perfect in every way imaginable.
I stand, holding out my hand for her. She takes it lightly, just as before. Is it just me or is does her hand fit mine perfectly?
I smile and lead her out of the noisy ballroom, continuing to hold her hand as we walk down the hallway and towards the garden. I stop and open the door, holding it open for her.
She enters the garden, and I follow behind. I take her hand again and lead her to a bench. We sit next to each other. I notice that she's sitting a tad closer than two people normally sit. Did she do that on purpose? God, how she keeps me guessing.
I decide that she must like me at least a little bit to be here in the garden with me. Either that or she was using me. I prayed it wasn't the latter. That would just wrench my heart beyond belief.
I calmly snake an arm around her waist gently. She leans her head against my shoulder. I can feel her shaking slightly. No, not shaking. Shivering.
"Are you cold?" I ask her.
"A little."
I instantly stand up, taking off my jacket without thinking. I place it around her shoulders with a smile.
"What about you?" she asks. She cares about me, at least enough to ask.
"I'll be fine," I reply, even though the wind was ripping through my shirt like a hot knife through butter. But making her happy was all that mattered.
She smiles, cuddling under my jacket. I resume my seat next to her and place my arm around her again. She leans her head on my shoulder again. This night is so perfect. How could it get any better?
Kiss. The word rips through my mind. Kiss? I can't kiss her. She'd push me away and think me hentai.
She cuddles up closer, closing her eyes lightly. I smile, glancing down at her beautiful face. She is so beautiful. She could make the moon envious.
A few moments later I realize she has fallen asleep. I smile. She sleeps like an angel.
But then I realize that I have to do something with her. I can't just leave her here, and I don't know how she would react to waking up in my room. That would not be a good idea. If only I knew where she lived.
Well, I know she lives in the residential quarters. I suppose I could take her there and pray that she wakes up. Or maybe someone will know where she lives. But it's so late. It's nearly midnight. I doubt anyone will be up.
I feel her shiver, and I know I have to at least take her inside.
I carefully slide out from under her, pulling her up into my arms. She seemed so light. I hold her close, walking towards the door.
* * *
As I enter the residential quarters, Karu stirs slightly. I glance down just in time to see her open her eyes, those beautiful ice blue eyes that send chills down my spine.
I smile down. Did I just smile lovingly? What if she picks up on that? I hope I'm not ruining everything. I need to stop worrying.
She smiles back and slides her hands around my neck, leaning her head against my shoulder. I smile lightly, holding her a bit tighter. I love the way she leans against me. It makes me feel strong, as though she depends on me. It's like she needs me.
"I'm glad you woke," I confess.
"I didn't mean to fall asleep," she says apologetically. "I'm sorry. You don't have to carry me. I can walk."
"It's alright. I don't mind." Or was that a subtle hint? "Unless you don't want me to carry you?"
"Actually, if you don't mind...."
I smile. "Of course not. But I do need to know one thing. Where is your living quarter?"
She smiles, closing her eyes lightly, holding my neck. "Down the first hall on the right, and it's the door at the very end of the hall."
I smile and nod, carrying her in the directions she stated.
As we reach the door, I feel my steps seeming to get slower. I don't want this perfect night to end, but she was nearly falling asleep in my arms.
I sigh as we reach her door. She opens her eyes and looks at the door, looking as though she were about to cast a spell on it. But people who live in the residential quarters can't cast spells.
I reluctantly place her feet back on the ground, my hand lingering around her waist, though she doesn't seem to mind.
"I want to thank you," she says.
"For what?" I asked, quite confusedly. If anything I should be thanking her for being so perfect.
"For making this the best night of my life."
My heart skips a beat at her words. She smiles. Lovingly? Perhaps. I can't tell.
The next moment moves so quickly. She wraps her arms around my neck, pulling me close. Her lips brush along my cheek and to my own lips, bonding them in a kiss. My eyes close as I wrap both arms around her waist.
The next few seconds are filled with the most extreme emotions and senses. All I can hear, feel, smell, and taste is her. The passion whirls around me. My mind feels like it's been fried. I can't think straight. All I know is that this is the most right anything in my life has ever been.
Then, as suddenly as it began, the moment was over. Her lips broke away from mine, leaving me wanting more. I open my eyes slowly, looking at her beauty.
"Goodnight," she whispers softly.
"Goodnight," I reply in the same manner, my mind unable to make me say anything more intelligent.
She turns and opens her door. She hesitates a moment and turns back towards me. "Eagle?"
"Yes?"
"Will...... will I ever see you again?"
I can't believe she's asking me this! I would stop time for a moment to see her. There is nothing that can keep me from not ever seeing her again. But, I can't tell by her voice if that's what she wants. What if she's asking me to leave her. No, that can't be. She wouldn't have spent the entire evening with me, or thanked me, or.... kissed me.
I nod slightly.
"Do you promise?" she asks.
"I promise."
Author: Pythoness
Written: 2001
Disclaimer: Magic Knight Rayearth owned by CLAMP, I Think She Likes Me sung by Billy Gillman, Karu owned by me [*squealz* I own something!]
Author's Notes: This is written based off of an rpg between me and close friends. Karu is a fictional character owned by me. Events happen approximately a year after the anime/manga takes place. The NSX is resting somewhere near the castle. Eagle is staying in the castle. Hikaru and Lantis are a couple, Fuu and Ferio are a couple, Umi and Ascot are a couple [it's more realistic than Umi and Clef]. Hmm.. anything else.. Please note, this is a work in progress. I have several of the chapters completed, but the story is not done. I do not know when more chapters will be available, but I do know that commentary will help speed that process. ^.~ If for some odd reason you'd like to use the character Karu in any other reference, please contact me and I'm certain we can work something out. Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoy.
I Think She Likes Me
I think she likes me, and I know I like her.
It's kinda funny, cause it's too soon to be sure.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Should I be patient, or should I ask her strait out?
That smile she gave me don't leave too much room for doubt.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Our first kiss said more than goodnight.
I bet I relived it a thousand times.
And I can't predict what the future's gonna bring,
But those looks that she's been giving me can only mean one thing.
I think she likes me. I think she might be the one.
And more than likely, the best is still yet to come.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
Our first kiss said more than goodnight.
I bet I relived it a thousand times.
And I can't predict what the future's gonna bring,
But those looks that she's been giving me can only mean one thing.
I think she likes me, and I know I like her.
It's kinda funny, cause it's too soon to be sure.
I think she likes me, maybe even might be love.
I enter the ballroom wearing my usual white suit, nothing fancy, but not too shabby. I run a hand through my nearly white hair as I stand, a bit uneasy.
Suddenly a very bubbly and happy Hikaru bounds over with a quiet Lantis following. "Hiya!" Hikaru chirps out. I smile lightly. She's so cute sometimes. I sometimes wish she had fallen in love with me and not Lantis, but fate is fate, and if it made the both of them happy, I would ignore my aching heart and let it be so. I am not one to interfere with happiness and perfection.
"Hello," I reply politely.
Lantis nods in his own greeting that I recognize. I smile lightly and listen to Hikaru and Lantis talking. My eyes wander as they speak, their words soon just becoming a light hum in my ears.
My eyes catch sight of a young girl, her beautiful blond hair flowing gently down her back, two braids starting at her temples and meeting at the back of her head form a 'crown' or 'halo' around her. Her beautiful off-white dress flows gently to the ground, fitting her perfectly I notice. Around her wrists I note a few bangles, all golden. On her ears I see beautiful blue stones. As she turns her head I catch sight of her ice blue eyes, the studs on her ears complimenting them perfectly.
I notice that she is standing alone against the wall. I wonder why such a beauty would be alone. She appeared to be in her later teens, just a few years younger than me.
I scold myself in my mind. Why would I be worrying about how many years apart her and I are?
Suddenly the interested Hikaru catches me staring at the young woman. She follows my gaze and grins. I know that grin. She suspects something.
"Who's she?" Hikaru asks.
I shrug. "I have no clue."
Hikaru grins and looks back at me. "You like her don't you?"
I can feel it as my face gains a surprised expression. "I don't even know who she is!" I cry out, wondering in the back of my mind if perhaps I do like her.
"That doesn't matter. Haven't you ever heard of love at first sight? I KNOW that look! It's the same look Lantis gives me."
I can feel my cheeks take on a light shade of crimson at the comment. I glance over to see Lantis' cheeks sharing my color. That makes me feel a little better.
"Why don't you go talk to her?" Hikaru asks me.
I try to think up a reason quickly. There is no real reason that I can't go over there. Except that I'm nervous.
Nervous? Does that mean I do like her? Perhaps, but I cannot just like her on looks alone. But how will I ever get to know her if I don't talk to her?
I listen as Hikaru trys to bribe me into talking to the young lady.
"I mean, what can really happen?" she begins. "I'm sure she'll like you back, and it'll turn out to be the greatest thing that ever happened to you."
That started to make me confident. Then she continued.
"Of course, it could backfire and she could hate your guts."
I glanced at her, my look showing her that that was not what I needed to hear when my confidence was almost ready.
She just grins. "I was only kidding."
"I can't go over there," I complain, glancing back up at the gorgeous creature of the opposite sex, standing not thirty feet away, her beauty nearly dragging me towards her.
I snap myself out of it. I glance back at Hikaru, just in time to see her shove me forwards.
"Oh just go!"
I fall forwards, nearly falling on my face. I quickly regain my balance, spinning around to face the wall, knowing I had caused a scene with the noise I made in fear.
I stand, my face burning crimson. Lantis stands next to me, not really knowing what to do. Heck, I don't even know what to do. Was she staring at me? had I made a complete fool of myself?
Hikaru stands next to me. "Oops," is all she can say. She might have made me loose my chance to talk to the only girl that I might ever love that might ever love me back and all she can say is 'oops.'
Wait, why am I making such a big deal about this? I guess maybe..... maybe I do really like her. Why else would it mean so much to me that I nearly tripped. I'm not exactly the most perfect person. I mean, everyone is clumsy sometimes, but I take the cake. It never bothers me. At least, not until now.
I take a shaky breath. "Is she staring at me?" I ask Hikaru.
She glances over to where I know the girl is standing and looks back at me, smiling.
"YES! She's got THE LOOK!"
"The look? What's the look?" I ask of her.
She grins at me. "I'll let you figure that out."
I glare slightly. Doesn't she understand how nervous I am? Of course she does. That's why she's torturing me like this. She loves teasing people when they are in love.
Did I just think that? Am I in love with someone other than Hikaru? How... how can that be? The thought of loving someone who might possibly love me back has never crossed my mind.
No, I shouldn't say that. It has crosses my mind a few times while I dream. Perhaps I should move on and stop wasting my time loving a girl who cannot return my love, for she loves another.
Hikaru obviously senses my nervousness and anger, and decides to have a heart. She sighs and walks away. I notice from the corner of my eye that she is walking towards where the girl is standing. My mind goes numb as I turn to watch her. Maybe she doesn't have a heart after all!
She walks silently towards the girl. The girl looks up. She smiles lightly to Hikaru. Gods, she's adorable when she smiles.
I wipe the grin off my face and realize the situation. Hikaru was going to talk to this girl that she assumed that I like. This is not good.
"Lantis, tell me she wouldn't do that," I demand of my best friend.
Lantis stands, unsure of how to respond. I cling at his suit collar helplessly. "Lantis! Tell me she wouldn't do this to me!!!"
Lantis stands, watching the same thing as me. Hikaru had said hello and the two were talking. I couldn't hear a word they said.
The girl glanced over at me and looked back at Hikaru.
"I'm afraid she would," Lantis replied. I wanted to wring his neck.
Lantis obviously sensed my anger and politely removed my hands from his suit collar, not wanting my clenched fists to ruin his outfit.
I watch as Hikaru begins leading the girl over towards us. I turn back around quickly, my face growing crimson again. I don't think I've ever blushed so much in my life.
The next thing I knew Hikaru was introducing the girl to Lantis and me.
"Karu, this is Lantis. Lantis, meet Karu. Karu, this is Eagle. Eagle, turn around and meet Karu."
Karu? Was that her name? What a beautiful name. Like poetry.
Ack! What am I thinking? Since when have I ever found someone's name to be poetry? I must really have been bitten by the love bug this time.
I turn around, looking at the beautiful angel. She stood so close. I could reach out and touch her beautiful hair, brush a hand against her cheek softly. Take her in my arms and....
What was I thinking? I've never felt this way before. True I loved, and still love Hikaru, but it was never this strong. Perhaps because I knew she was taken.
"Hello," I manage to say, though almost inaudibly.
Hikaru grins, knowing her plot was going to work. Lantis decides this to be the perfect moment to help her little scheme.
"Hikaru, love, would you care to dance?" he asks her.
"I'd love to," she says while grinning lovingly at him.
I watch as the two walk away, glaring at Lantis. Why was he being so unkind to me now? Couldn't he see that after my embarrassing moment, being alone with this perfect young woman was not what I wanted?
I looked at her. She was the perfect height. A little taller than Hikaru, but still short enough to make me feel like the man.
Karu smiles. God, did she know how beautiful she was? If only I could tell her, to whisper sweet nothings in her ear forever....
What is happening to me? I'm going love sick. And I don't even know this girl. I haven't said two words to her yet.
That was about to change. "Would you care to dance?" I ask in the calmest voice I can manage.
That beautiful smile crosses her face again. "I'd love to."
She'd love to. The words played around in my mind for a few moments as I held out my hand for her.
She placed her hand gently in mine. Her hand was so silkily soft, even through my glove. I could just imagine that all of her skin was as smooth and flawless.
I walked towards the dance floor, leading her with me. Her movements were so perfect, and the dress flowing gently around her made her look as though she were walking on a cloud.
I stop when I find an area for dancing, leading her in front of me. I hesitantly place my left hand on her waist, holding her left hand in my right hand. I smile lightly, knowing this moment was going to be perfect.
I sway to the music, holding her lightly. The rest of the world seems to fade away as we dance, the soft murmurs of the crowd disappearing beneath the music.
I close my eyes lightly, feeling Karu move the slightest bit closer. I feel the smile creep on my face. I'm sure she saw it, since she moved a bit closer again.
As the music continued, her left hand soon left mine as both her hands wrapped tightly around my neck. I slid my right hand to the other side of her waist, holding her gently. She rests her head against my chest. I have never had such a dance. Sure I've danced with Hikaru before, and many girls for that matter, but this was completely different. I can't even explain how this feels.
As the song ends I sigh, wishing that moment could have lasted forever. Now she'll go back to where she was and probably forget all about me.
I notice that she lets go slowly. Reluctantly? Could she possibly like me?
She smiles and takes my hand, leading me towards the refreshments, not giving me a chance to think about anything but following her.
I watch as she grabs two cups of punch, handing me one. I take it thankfully, smiling at her. She takes a sip. I take a gulp. She giggles lightly.
"You know, you're a good dancer," she tells me.
I smile. "Thank you."
She smiles back, taking my hand again and leading us towards a couple chair back in a secluded corner. Thank gods that she's leading me. I'd never have the nerves to lead her to a secluded corner like this. Does that mean that she likes me? Or am I just taking everything too strongly? I can't tell anymore.
I smile and sit next to Karu, taking another gulp of my punch. It was good, but that was not where my attention was focused.
I sigh happily, looking out towards Lantis and Hikaru. I suddenly realized that we have hardly talked. We need a conversation topic.
This is so unlike me. I normally have plenty of things to talk about with people. But I usually knew people better than this. All I know about this girl is that her name is Karu and she is the most beautiful female I have ever laid eyes upon.
I decide to go with an easy topic. I glance quickly at her hands, checking for a possible wedding ring. I spot two rings, but both on the wrong fingers. That was certainly good, but that did not ensure that she was not engaged.
"Do you have a boyfriend or fiancé or husband, if you don't mind my asking?" Of course now I realize my question might sound rude. Would she think I'm implying that I like her?
I have finally accepted that I like her. That's obvious. Does she like me?
"No," she replies.
I quickly realize she was answering my first question, and not the latter one in my mind. "Oh?" I use the opportunity to throw a compliment in. "That surprises me that such a beautiful young lady as yourself would not have a male friend like that."
My intelligent conversational words obviously surprised her, as she took a few moments to answer.
"Well, I really don't know many people," she responds. "My mother died before the Pillar died, so I lived alone for a while. And after the Pillar died, I was forced to come here. I live in the residential quarters with a bunch of older ladies who treat me like a little girl. I really don't know many people here, other than Hikaru and you and the ladies I live with."
I listen quietly, absorbing all the information. Her voice is so sweet. If I close my eyes I can see a beautiful sunset, morning dew clinging to emerald green blades off grass on a beautiful hill, and Karu standing atop the hill in a beautiful white gown.
I quickly snap out of it as she finishes talking. "I'm sorry."
"Don't be," she responds. I can hear the sadness in her voice, but I can also tell she's trying to hide it, so I won't say anything. "I've given up feeling sorry for myself a long time ago."
I nod slightly, not knowing how to respond. I suddenly realize how loud it is in here. Would she mind if we went somewhere quieter? But what if she didn't want to leave? Perhaps all the people around made her feel safer around me.
I decide to try it. What have I got to loose? "Karu, would you care to join me in the garden? I fear that the noise in here is going to harm my hearing."
She smiles, nodding. "I'd love to join you."
God, those words ring in my ears a thousand times. And the way she speaks, the words she uses. She's so perfect in every way imaginable.
I stand, holding out my hand for her. She takes it lightly, just as before. Is it just me or is does her hand fit mine perfectly?
I smile and lead her out of the noisy ballroom, continuing to hold her hand as we walk down the hallway and towards the garden. I stop and open the door, holding it open for her.
She enters the garden, and I follow behind. I take her hand again and lead her to a bench. We sit next to each other. I notice that she's sitting a tad closer than two people normally sit. Did she do that on purpose? God, how she keeps me guessing.
I decide that she must like me at least a little bit to be here in the garden with me. Either that or she was using me. I prayed it wasn't the latter. That would just wrench my heart beyond belief.
I calmly snake an arm around her waist gently. She leans her head against my shoulder. I can feel her shaking slightly. No, not shaking. Shivering.
"Are you cold?" I ask her.
"A little."
I instantly stand up, taking off my jacket without thinking. I place it around her shoulders with a smile.
"What about you?" she asks. She cares about me, at least enough to ask.
"I'll be fine," I reply, even though the wind was ripping through my shirt like a hot knife through butter. But making her happy was all that mattered.
She smiles, cuddling under my jacket. I resume my seat next to her and place my arm around her again. She leans her head on my shoulder again. This night is so perfect. How could it get any better?
Kiss. The word rips through my mind. Kiss? I can't kiss her. She'd push me away and think me hentai.
She cuddles up closer, closing her eyes lightly. I smile, glancing down at her beautiful face. She is so beautiful. She could make the moon envious.
A few moments later I realize she has fallen asleep. I smile. She sleeps like an angel.
But then I realize that I have to do something with her. I can't just leave her here, and I don't know how she would react to waking up in my room. That would not be a good idea. If only I knew where she lived.
Well, I know she lives in the residential quarters. I suppose I could take her there and pray that she wakes up. Or maybe someone will know where she lives. But it's so late. It's nearly midnight. I doubt anyone will be up.
I feel her shiver, and I know I have to at least take her inside.
I carefully slide out from under her, pulling her up into my arms. She seemed so light. I hold her close, walking towards the door.
* * *
As I enter the residential quarters, Karu stirs slightly. I glance down just in time to see her open her eyes, those beautiful ice blue eyes that send chills down my spine.
I smile down. Did I just smile lovingly? What if she picks up on that? I hope I'm not ruining everything. I need to stop worrying.
She smiles back and slides her hands around my neck, leaning her head against my shoulder. I smile lightly, holding her a bit tighter. I love the way she leans against me. It makes me feel strong, as though she depends on me. It's like she needs me.
"I'm glad you woke," I confess.
"I didn't mean to fall asleep," she says apologetically. "I'm sorry. You don't have to carry me. I can walk."
"It's alright. I don't mind." Or was that a subtle hint? "Unless you don't want me to carry you?"
"Actually, if you don't mind...."
I smile. "Of course not. But I do need to know one thing. Where is your living quarter?"
She smiles, closing her eyes lightly, holding my neck. "Down the first hall on the right, and it's the door at the very end of the hall."
I smile and nod, carrying her in the directions she stated.
As we reach the door, I feel my steps seeming to get slower. I don't want this perfect night to end, but she was nearly falling asleep in my arms.
I sigh as we reach her door. She opens her eyes and looks at the door, looking as though she were about to cast a spell on it. But people who live in the residential quarters can't cast spells.
I reluctantly place her feet back on the ground, my hand lingering around her waist, though she doesn't seem to mind.
"I want to thank you," she says.
"For what?" I asked, quite confusedly. If anything I should be thanking her for being so perfect.
"For making this the best night of my life."
My heart skips a beat at her words. She smiles. Lovingly? Perhaps. I can't tell.
The next moment moves so quickly. She wraps her arms around my neck, pulling me close. Her lips brush along my cheek and to my own lips, bonding them in a kiss. My eyes close as I wrap both arms around her waist.
The next few seconds are filled with the most extreme emotions and senses. All I can hear, feel, smell, and taste is her. The passion whirls around me. My mind feels like it's been fried. I can't think straight. All I know is that this is the most right anything in my life has ever been.
Then, as suddenly as it began, the moment was over. Her lips broke away from mine, leaving me wanting more. I open my eyes slowly, looking at her beauty.
"Goodnight," she whispers softly.
"Goodnight," I reply in the same manner, my mind unable to make me say anything more intelligent.
She turns and opens her door. She hesitates a moment and turns back towards me. "Eagle?"
"Yes?"
"Will...... will I ever see you again?"
I can't believe she's asking me this! I would stop time for a moment to see her. There is nothing that can keep me from not ever seeing her again. But, I can't tell by her voice if that's what she wants. What if she's asking me to leave her. No, that can't be. She wouldn't have spent the entire evening with me, or thanked me, or.... kissed me.
I nod slightly.
"Do you promise?" she asks.
"I promise."