Disclaimers: I do not own Sailor Moon or Gundam Wing. Both series belong to their rightful owner(s) and creator(s). I do not own the song, "This I Promise You," by N' Sync. Enjoy the story!! =0)
Warning: MAJOR FLUFF. Some kawaii scenes that are just meant to be there.
Krys: Hi! *grins* Another chapter of "Love's Ways." Expect *at least* one more chapter before the end of this series. Since this fanfic was intended to be dedicated to Heero and Usagi, it will remain that way. So this is mostly them together but I have tried to have equal amounts of the other scouts plus the Gundam pilots. Just telling you this to warn you. Oh! And I switched from American names to the Japanese ones.
Heero: *enters soaking wet, wearing a white T-shirt (*drool*) and blue jeans*
Krys: *trying to hold back laugh while failing miserably* H-chan... ha ha ha... wh- ha ha... what ha- ha ha ha... happened ha ha ha... to y- ha ha... you?
Heero: *glares but then ignores Krys and mutters* Kill.... Shinigami... Duo... die....
Krys: I don't think D-chan (I mean Duo, not the fantastic author of DCL and others!) is going to live much longer... *gets on phone and dials number* D-chan? Yes, it's me. No, don't come over. *whispers* I suggest you leave the country for awhile until H-chan calms down. Yeah. Okay, good. Bye! See you in a week! *turns to face the end of Heero's gun*
Heero: *growls* Krys.... who was that?
Krys: *sweatdrop* Umm.... nobody.
Heero: I don't believe you.
Krys: Well... you see... umm... it was Q-chan! Yeah, that's who it was! *nods eagerly*
Heero: Quatre?
Krys: Yeah, that's right.
Heero: *walks away* I'm going to check.
Krys: *blows out a breath of relief* Thank goodness. I thought I was a goner for a second. *turns to readers* Don't forget to read and review! *winks*
Dedications: To my friend, Maxine-chan (Chibi Tenshi) and my oneechan, Usa-chan (Sailor Ronin). I want to thank them for being so patient for this to come out. I said I was going to get this out at least months ago. So, gomen nasai to all of you but finally, here is the result of it all.
(******) - Author's Notes
"When I write, I feel as though nothing is impossible. I enter a world where anything and everything is at my fingertips." ~ Krys Yuy (Me)
[Has somebody every said what is above? 'Cause I just made it up right now. I want to know if somebody has said that so I won't be plagiarizing what anyone has said. It might have leaked from my subconscious and it was from something I read before.]
"Love is the only thing worth living for, and the only thing worth dying for."
******************************
Love's Ways
Chapter 10 - One Fine Day
Author: Krys Yuy
******************************
Each young man and woman woke up in their rooms, feeling the urge to be with their loved ones. All that was in their minds were those they were bonded to. Nothing else seemed to matter. It didn't matter how they met or what was going on around them. Families, birthdays, responsibilities, and other topics were gone from their mind. Nothing else existed except them.
No Sailor Senshi.
No Gundam pilots.
No Moon Princess.
No OZ or Treize.
No Queen Beryl or Metallia.
Just them. For that one day.
* * * * *
Ami dressed hurriedly, not knowing why. She had to see Trowa. Something had happened and she was not going to waste her time when she just had this gut feeling. She put on her shoes as a question filtered through her head.
'Why do I need to see him so much?'
Her mind quickly shook it off and she dashed out the door of the top floor apartment, where she lived with her mother, to head towards the zoo. She smiled as she remembered that was where Trowa had first asked her out. It was a place which would be kept in her memory.
* * * * *
'Why am I here?' Rei asked herself.
For some reason, she had gone straight out of bed the moment she woke up. After dressing in her favorite pink overalls, she had walked directly out of the temple and headed to the grassy area shaded by the cherry blossom trees. She smiled slightly as she realized this is where she and Wufei had their spar. She closed her eyes slowly.
'And our first kiss...'
* * * * *
Makoto gazed at the pink roses with a tender look in her eyes. She had no idea why, but she came to the rose gardens again.
'This is where Duo first kissed me...' she thought with a grin.
Something in her told her she had to see him. Like it would be the last time she would see him in a long time. Makoto couldn't shake the feeling off and decided to listen to it. Someone must be watching over them. She smiled thankfully to the heavens, deep down knowing this was their doing.
* * * * *
Minako sat down in a bench by the lake in the Juuban Park. She sighed peacefully as she looked upon the rippling waters. A beautiful voice had told her to come here and try to find Quatre.
'Why?' she asked herself, frowning slightly. 'Why do I have to see him so urgently?'
However, her mind didn't dwell too much on that subject. She wouldn't ask questions, not today. She would just spend the day with her love and make the most of it, for that was what her heart told her to do. Minako smiled, her soul warming for some reason.
* * * * *
Usagi was surprisingly up early. She dashed out of the house straight after having her breakfast. There was this feeling that she couldn't decipher. It told her to run, just run, and let her feet take her to the destination she needed to be. How did she come back? Wasn't she kidnapped? Questions like these were blocked from her common sense and mind. An effect of the spell that had taken place.
'Heero...' she thought with longing.
For some reason, she needed to be in his arms. She needed to feel safe because the feeling she was having told her that she didn't have much time before something big would happen. She wasn't about to be stubborn and not listen. Something had occurred and this day would not be wasted. Of that she was sure.
* * * * *
Trowa was in the zoo, his normally expressionless face looking eager and anxious like a small child waiting for his ice cream cone. However, he was not waiting to taste that delicious dessert. (AN: *sweatdrop* I'm craving for ice cream right now, okay?!) No, it was something far better and wonderful to him. He was searching for Ami. His Ami.
'Make the best of today...' a voice whispered in his head.
And that Trowa would. He was going to make this the most fantastic day possible for him and his love, so that they would remember it forever. Now all he had to do was find her...
* * * * *
Wufei exited the flower shop, a bouquet of casablancas in his hand. He held them to his face and inhaled the sweet scent.
'Perfect,' he thought, smiling and gazing at the soft petals.
This young man had decided to buy the flowers which had reminded him of his love. He was going to surprise her with them. He still couldn't believe what one Rei Hino had done to him. She had managed to prove to him that not all women were weak. She had also captured his heart. It was almost as if she had cast a spell on him. If she did, then he didn't want it to end.
* * * * *
Duo whistled as he walked briskly down the paths of the Juuban Park. His mind was on his fair lady. He chuckled as he remembered the day of their first kiss. What a day that was.
'Where is she?' he thought impatiently, looking around the park.
Duo had this sudden urge to be with Makoto Kino. He tried to think of where she could be. Then it struck him. She was probably in the rose gardens. A wide grin spread across his face as he made his way toward his destination. He couldn't wait to feel the familiar warmth when he would hold her again.
* * * * *
Quatre took off his jacket and tied it around his waist. It was a warm day in Juuban. The sun was out and a cool breeze blew. As the wind ruffled his platinum gold hair, he glanced this way and that, his eyes searching for blonde hair and light blue eyes.
'Where could she be?' he thought, worry creasing his angelic features.
Quatre already missed Minako Aino a lot since he had last seen her. His heart was telling him that he had to locate her and make the most of this day. Today was special and he shouldn't waste it. He started walking through the large park of Juuban. He had this feeling she would be here and he couldn't take the chance not to listen to it.
* * * * *
Heero's dark brown hair fell against his face roughly as the wind whistled past him. His feet made urgent noises against the gray sidewalk as he ran. The perfect soldier just had to see Usagi Tsukino. It was as if he hadn't seen her in almost two weeks. (AN: Remember, they're under a spell.) Usagi was like a drug to him. An addiction. She was the light which kept the darkness from eating at his soul. However, his face still remained with no emotions. It takes quite some time to get someone who was trained since childhood to be an assassin to show emotion. Under that exterior, feelings were whirling through him like a fierce tornado.
'Usagi... what have you done to me?' asked Heero in his head, his face expressionless.
Heero wasn't sure if should be grateful or hateful towards what had happened to him. Definitely though, he was happy. It had been such a long time since he had experienced real happiness. It was all because of one person, one girl. Somehow, Usagi was the one person who had found a place in his cold heart. Ever so slowly, starting from that place, the thawing of the perfect soldier's heart was beginning.
* * * * *
~When the visions around you
Bring tears to your eyes~
* * * * *
Usagi, Ami, Rei, Makoto, and Minako suddenly clutched their heads. Their foreheads throbbed with pain. They collapsed on the ground, their heads foggy, not noticing the arms wrapping around them and catching them before they fell completely. Their breathing pattern became more rapid and uneven. They closed their eyes as visions swept through their minds.
*Vision of the Past*
(AN: The following was taken from Prologue - Dreams.)
All of a sudden, the reunion scene was replaced by one of destruction. They were by the palace, the once tall standing pillars now crumbling under the dark energy. The princess and her Guard were on the barren land, watching helplessly. They all turned to see the five boys not far away trying to get toward five special machines in the terMinakol. They then noticed Beryl gathering a large amount of energy to destroy them and the boys were too occupied to notice. A horrible sinking feeling settled in their stomachs.
The girls all looked at each other, not needing to say anything, before taking off towards the boys. None of them could yell a warning for all their voices were caught in their throats. They needed to get there in time to save them. Just as Beryl released the energy, the girls pushed the boys out of the way while shouting, "Get out of the way!!"
Just as they pushed the teenage boys out of the way, the energy hit them and made them fly back several feet. Immense pain shot through their bodies even before they landed. All of them knew they were going to die. The girls could hear the boys' screams of despair and their footsteps as they ran to their loves.
*End Vision*
*Vision of the Past*
(AN: The following was in Ch. 3 - Kidnapped.)
Princess Serenity screamed as the energy hit her, leaking into her system. Her pure white gown reverted back to her street clothes. "No..." she whispered quietly, before unwillingly letting the darkness envelop her.
"Usagi!!" Quatre screamed, watching his friend crumple to the ground.
Beryl glanced at the four only conscious people in the room. "This is not over. I will be back and be sure that I will not spare your lives the next time we meet." She extended her right arm toward Usagi. A black bubble formed around the girl, lifting her above the ground. Beryl snapped her fingers and she and the bubble disappeared.
*End Vision*
* * * * *
~And all that surrounds you
Are secrets and lies...~
* * * * *
*Vision*
Energy.
It was everywhere at once. Blue, red, green, and orange flared to life. Rage consumed them. Pain blurred their senses. There was nothing left. They had now become empty.
One object in front of them. To die was the fate of the object. To die for the pain caused to them. Merging together as one but not enough. Their eyes drift close but not without seeing the new four colored energy annihilating the object which had destroyed what they lived for.
Death.
Now they welcomed it with open arms. Smiles rest on their faces as they realize the object had gotten its proper punishment. Silver light fill their vision and all now comes to a halt in snow and ice.
*End Vision*
*Vision*
"More will come...."
"They do not need to know."
"... normal lives..."
"They don't deserve it."
"It is the way of the heavens..."
"... another chance..."
"Then so it shall be..."
*End Vision*
* * * * *
Where the many dimensions and worlds are born....
"Destiny! What are you doing?" asked Fate angrily.
"Giving them visions," Destiny replied simply, not the least bit afraid of her companion for eternity.
Fate wore a furious look. "They are to have one day of happiness. Stop the visions and block the ones you did give them. Let Love work," she stated.
Destiny glared at her but complied. Her hand swept over the water pool containing the five images of the heirs to the planets and moon. She began to whisper softly.
(AN: The following is not supposed to rhyme.)
"Visions which I gave to thee,
Be blocked until the barrier
Is to be dropped
In the right hour and place.
Follow my command...
Here my order."
Sparkles flew from Destiny's right hand and entered the pool of images.
* * * * *
As the five young men checked on their girlfriends, they did not notice the sparkles which had appeared from the sky. The glittering lights entered the heads of each respective girl. A soft golden glow escaped but soon dwindled to nothing. The girls' breathing slowed down and became normal once again. The young men held the girls close to them, fearing what had happened.
* * * * *
~I'll be your strength
I'll give you hope~
* * * * *
Ami & Trowa...
Ami's eyes opened, confused at what had happened. She was met with a concerned Trowa bending over her. She felt herself flush in embarrassment but made no move to retreat from her satisfactory position, which was in fact, seated on Trowa's lap with his arms wrapped around her.
"Ames, are you all right? What happened?"
Ami squirmed a bit in her position, her cheeks flaming at the nickname Trowa had called her. The pilot of Heavyarms almost laughed at her expression but there were more important matters to attend to. He wanted to figure out why she had collapsed. She could have gotten seriously injured if he wasn't there to catch her.
"Ames?" Trowa questioned.
Ami found her voice. "I don't recall anything..." she trailed off, her face lost in thought.
A feeling came over her at that moment, which frightened her. She clutched onto the fabric of Trowa's turtleneck. It was a feeling of despair which would make one lose hope. Trowa sensed her change in mood and tipped her face to his. His worried face searched her eyes for a sign or anything to inform him what was wrong. There was confusion, slight fear but love still shone through all of that. He sighed but then remembered his promise. He was to make this the best day possible for her and him.
Trowa leaned down so that his mouth was right by her ear. "Don't worry... I'm here."
Ami took comfort in those words as she leaned into his strong embrace. She realized that Trowa would be there to give her the hope she needed.
'Always....'
* * * * *
~Keeping your faith when it's gone~
* * * * *
Rei & Wufei...
Wufei sat under the shade of the trees as he held Rei's head in his lap. The casablancas lay forgotten on his side as he stroked her cheek, his face creased with worry. He had arrived in the area where they had sparred to see Rei a few feet in front of him, with her back to him. She didn't appear to have heard him. As he was about to call her, Rei had suddenly collapsed. Luckily, his quick reflexes had allowed him to catch her before her head hit the ground.
Wufei gave a start as he heard her moan. He watched as Rei opened her violet eyes. She looked up at him puzzled, as if she had never seen him before. Then she blinked and smiled up at him, recognition and love radiating from her. He returned her smile in relief.
"You had me worried," he told her. "Are you okay, Rei?"
Rei shut her eyes. "I... I think so..."
Rei sat up and opened her eyes again as she sensed something. An uneasy feeling came over her. She shivered unconsciously and wrapped her arms around herself. Wufei noticed this and shifted so he was behind her. He put his arms around her in an attempt to warm her. Rei relaxed onto his body and sighed. That feeling was indescribable. She didn't know what it was but at that moment, she just wanted to be with her love.
It seemed as if Wufei sensed her troubles. He said words of comfort. "It's okay. I'm with you. Have faith..."
* * * * *
~The one you should call
Was standing here all along...~
* * * * *
Makoto & Duo...
Makoto groaned and she brought a hand to her head as if that would help to stop the throbbing taking place. Her eyes opened slightly and when the weariness was gone from her eyes, she noticed cobalt blue eyes staring intently into her own green orbs. She gave a reassuring smile to her past and future lover.
Duo grinned back in pure relief. "Hey there, beautiful," he complimented with a casual wink, though inside, he was screaming with joy that she was all right.
Despite what had happened, Makoto blushed the same color as her earrings. "Hey to you, too," she replied.
Before Duo could say anything, Makoto's eyes glazed over. She was alone in the dark and everything was the color of the darkest night. Screams echoed around her, which sounded suspiciously like that of Duo's and her fellow friends'. She fell to her knees in despair. Tears fell from her eyes unconsciously as she looked up to stare into the dark abyss. However, this time, she was met with silhouettes that stood in front of her cowering form. Light began to grow and right when they were going to be revealed...
"Makoto!" Duo exclaimed. He wrapped her in a tight bear hug, shocked to see tears. "What's the matter?"
"Duo?" Makoto asked hesitantly, temporarily forgetting where she was. Then she remembered that he was with her. Makoto felt as if a great weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She hugged Duo back with all the strength she had in her. "God! I was so scared!" she exclaimed. "So scared..."
"Shh..." Duo said softly. "Makoto, you don't have to say anything. Relax, I'll be by your side. I'll stand by you..."
'Thank you, Duo,' Makoto said to him silently. 'Thank you...'
* * * * *
~And I will take you in my arms
And hold you right where you belong~
* * * * *
Minako & Quatre...
Quatre was kneeling next to Minako, watching for any sign of recovery. He had reached her just before she collapsed. He carried her unconscious body under a tree in the huge park. There he laid her on the soft grass with worried eyes and tears threatening to fall. Strands of Minako's blonde hair waved in the gentle breeze as it passed by her. The sunlight peeked through the leaves of the tree, creating eerie shadows on her troubled expression. Quatre traced his fingers on the lines of her face. He laid his head on her stomach and turned his body sideways.
"Wake up, Minako," Quatre pleaded quietly as he closed his eyes. "Please...."
Minako moaned a bit painfully as she woke up to feel a weight on her stomach. She lifted her eyelids to see the leaves and branches of a tree. The weight seemed to be moving and Minako sat up slowly. She gasped in surprise to see Quatre there with tears in his eyes and he had not yet noticed that she was awake. She stroked his cheek and he sat up in surprise.
"Quatre, are you all right?" Minako asked, brushing a hand against his cheek.
The blonde pilot just smiled at her thankfully. "Minako, I should be asking you that. Not the other way around," he commented.
Minako returned his smile ten-fold. Though she still had a headache, she felt fine with him. "I'm-"
Minako suddenly shuddered violently. Quatre quickly took her in his arms, holding her close. Minako felt as if something was not quite right. A certain sense came over her and she knew something was going to happen. Something that would destroy her happiness. Tears stung her eyes briefly and she hastily brushed them away. Her tremors stopped and she took a deep breath.
"Minako... what's happening?" inquired Quatre.
"I don't know, Quatre," Minako answered, her voice shaking. "I don't know..."
Quatre just pulled her closer in response and she hugged him back. She sighed wearily and relished the feeling of being in her love's arms. It was then that she realized this was where she belonged. Always with Quatre and his kind nature. This was where she was meant to be, forever.
* * * * *
~Till the day my life is through
This I promise you
This I promise you~
* * * * *
Usagi & Heero...
The golden angel stirred in his arms. He stiffened noticeably but soon relaxed. Her eyes fluttered open and blue orbs searched his own. They held slight confusion but most of all, love, as they recognized the figure in front of them. A warm sensation ran through Heero's body as he stared into her eyes. Those eyes that could tell you anything that you needed to know. Anything that *he* needed to know.
"Usagi?" he inquired softly. He noticed that her eyes held tears.
"Heero?"
"Are you all right?" he asked, concern evident in his deep blue eyes.
Usagi didn't break her gaze as she stared into his fathomless blue orbs. "I think so," she mumbled as she sniffed a bit.
"What happened?"
Usagi blinked a couple of times. A puzzled expression made its way onto her face. "I'm... I'm not sure," she answered. "I can't remember." She brought her right hand to her forehead.
Feelings of dread washed over her as she tried to recall what she had forgotten. It was as if it was not meant to be seen but she had been sent a warning. The tears grew stronger as she fought the urge to cry. To prevent herself, she buried her head in the crook of Heero's neck. Her eyes closed and her hands which had been placed on her lap, made its way to wrap around Heero's waist. Heero glanced down at the top of her golden head.
"Usagi... you can tell me," he said softly, tilting her chin so she would look at him. The sight of her frightened face tore at his heart. He hated to see her like this.
"Heero, I can't remember anything," she replied tearfully. "Nothing's making sense..."
Heero sighed as she laid her head against his chest. He breathed in her scent and couldn't resist smiling a bit. "Usagi, don't worry. I'll be here with you. If not by your side, in here." He took her hand and placed it over her heart, his hand covering hers.
The blonde looked at him, any evidence of her previous tears starting to dwindle. "Forever?"
Heero hesitantly gave her a small smile, which spread a warmth she had never known through her body. "Forever..." he whispered as he stroked her hair.
* * * * *
~I've loved you forever
In lifetimes before~
* * * * *
Ami felt a strange tingling suddenly run through her body, as she continued to hold onto Trowa. It made her feel kind of light-headed and released all foreboding from her mind. For no apparent reason, she smiled brightly at her boyfriend. She jumped to her feet, surprising him.
Trowa looked at her, a little startled by her change in behavior. "Are you okay?" he asked cautiously.
"Yes, Trowa," Ami reassured, while grabbing his hand.
Trowa felt something similar to an electric shock go through him as they continued holding hands. He glanced at her doubtfully before smiling down at her. "Okay, if you're sure," he said, squeezing her hand.
"Of course!" Ami beamed, smiling. She tugged his sleeve in a childish gesture. "Let's go to the zoo, Tro-chan!"
The tall teenager immediately blushed at his newfound nickname, something he rarely did. It seemed all the shy and timid Ami had disappeared for the time being. However, he still couldn't deny her anything. "Well... what are you waiting for?" he asked quietly, a smirk forming on his lips. He gently took his hand away from hers, dismissing the cold he quickly felt, and walked in the general direction of the zoo.
Ami blinked momentarily before her face broke out into a small smile. She ran past her boyfriend, and glanced over her shoulder to see him staring after her. "What are you waiting for?" she called out, repeating what he had just said. She then turned and went on her way.
Trowa shook his head and ran after her. 'What a puzzle...' he thought. Then he smirked for a second time. 'I love puzzles.'
* * * * *
~And I promise you never
Will you hurt anymore...~
* * * * *
Rei felt a burst of energy pass through her, so sudden and unexpected, she jerked in Wufei's embrace. Wufei wrapped his arms tighter around her, his attempt to calm her down even more. "Daijoubu ka?" he murmured.
She suddenly smiled and broke from his bear hug. She looked down at him and pulled him up, all negative feelings gone. Her mind had become clear and care-free. "Daijoubu!" she replied, her violet eyes flashing with joy.
Wufei studied her warily. "Rei, something just happened here..." he said, picking out his words. "You fainted... remember?"
Rei tilted her head to the side, smiling mysteriously. "What do you mean, Fei-kun?" she asked innocently.
"Fe- Fei-kun?" Wufei sputtered out at the nickname. His eyes widened in shock. "In- injustice!"
Rei seemed unfazed and instead pulled him to her, looking up into his obsidian eyes. "Injustice?" she repeated, her own eyes taking on a kind of fire. She placed a hand behind his head and pushed it down slightly, so it was centimeters away from her own. "I don't see any injustice, Fei-kun..." she murmured, eyes half-closing.
Wufei gasped sharply as her breathing tickled him with pleasure. He smirked, ready to lean in and kiss her. 'My priestess...' he thought, warming to the idea.
She pulled back at the last possible second, and stepped away from him. A twinkle had settled in her eye. "No kisses for you," she said, laughing at his stunned expression.
"Nani?! Why?" Wufei demanded, disappointed as he frowned. He crossed his arms over his chest as he glared at her.
Rei just smiled and started backing away slowly. "Guess you'll never find out..." she commented nonchalantly. She turned and began to walk away with a swing in her hips.
Wufei just stared at her back, before he snapped out of his stupor. "Hey! Come back here, Rei!" he shouted as he followed her. She just ran faster, her hair whipping behind her. He could clearly imagine the smirk on her lips. 'You're not getting away that easy, Rei-chan,' he thought with determination. 'Not when I just found you.'
* * * * *
~I give you my word
I give you my heart~
* * * * *
Makoto gasped as she felt her body become energized as her playful attitude returned full force. She pulled back from her hug with Duo, but kept her hand on his shoulder. "Come on, Duo," she said. "I know the perfect place we can go." She brushed her lips against his in a chaste kiss, before she turned around.
Duo stared at her before he pulled her back into his warm embrace. Her back was to his chest as she giggled lightly. "Hey, babe, you okay?" he asked, pure concern flashing across his face.
"I'm all right, Duo-kun," she replied in a confident tone. She broke from his hold yet again as she laughed. "Now come on! We're wasting time!" She waved her hand in a random direction as she walked with sure steps.
Duo quickly fell in step with her, wrapping one arm around her shoulder. "Where exactly are you leading me?" he asked suspiciously, glancing at her from the corner of his eye.
"Nowhere special," she lied, grinning. She picked up the pace as Duo let his fingers trail across her back.
Duo pouted adorably as he tried to keep up with her. "Tell me, o-negai?" he pleaded, his eyes growing wide.
Makoto wisely avoided his puppy-dog gaze, even though it wasn't half as effective as Quatre's would be to anyone. "Duo, your face has to be just a little bit more kawaii," she teased, eyes always staying forward.
Duo mocked hurt as he held a hand over his heart. "What? I resent that," he retorted, glaring slightly.
Makoto turned and grinned at him. "You know I'm just playing," she commented with a roll of her eyes. "You're the man of my dreams..."
Duo kissed her on the cheek, and rubbed her shoulders. "Better believe it," he winked.
* * * * *
~This is a battle we've won~
* * * * *
Minako sighed as she leaned her head against Quatre's shoulder. However, she shot up as a sudden tingling sensation overcame her. She grinned cheerfully at her boyfriend, who gazed at her worriedly. "Quatre! Why so glum?" she inquired, raising an eyebrow.
Quatre lifted a hesitant hand to wipe a lock of hair hanging over her eyes. "Minako-chan, I don't think you should be sitting up so fast," he commented sternly. "You need to rest."
She stood up, getting off the soft grass of the park. She brushed away any dirt from her skirt. As she straightened, she looked into Quatre's pure blue eyes. "Tre-chan, you needn't worry so much," she whispered. "I feel great. I feel happy. With you, I can't be depressed for long."
Quatre blushed a bright red at both the new nickname and the compliment. "Demo Mina-chan, I really don't thi-"
Minako covered his lips with hers swiftly, cutting off all his protests. "Tre-chan, o-negai... let's do all we can today," she whispered. She was now kneeling down in front of him, her own blue eyes pleading with his. "And I know just where we can go!" Her clouded eyes had suddenly cleared once again and she pulled him to his feet.
"If you're sure," Quatre said with a smile, yet doubt still remained in his eyes.
She saw his smile, but she also saw the betrayal in his blue orbs. She smiled softly at him in a reassuring gesture. "Sometimes, Quatre, I think you care too much," she commented in a light tone. She began pulling him out of the park.
Quatre just allowed her to drag him along, as he looked down at the ground. He sighed softly as he saw some couples walking past them. 'I wish... we could be like them... for more than a day,' he thought absently, not realizing what he was thinking.
"And that's why I love you," Minako added quietly, but just as seriously. She tossed him s bright smile over her shoulder.
Quatre felt an immediate warmth spread through him. 'I love you,' he thought simply.
* * * * *
~And with this vow
Forever has now begun...~
* * * * *
Usagi pulled back to stare into Heero's penetrating Prussian blue eyes. She leaned forward in surprise as she felt a rush of sensations flow through her. In doing so, she caught his lips in an unexpected kiss. Heero's eyes widened, but soon closed as he responded to her efforts. Usagi's arms never left his waist as she drew patterns on his lower back with her fingers as they continued in their embrace.
It was Heero who broke it first as he turned away from her, panting slightly. "Usagi, do you truly want to be with me?" he asked softly, but in monotone.
She leaned against his shoulder as she looked past him, her eyes confused. "After all we've seen, all we've been through... you still have to ask me that?" she retorted, her mouth by his ear.
"I'm different now," he replied, voice eerily low. "I don't know if Heero is my real name in this life. I didn't even know if it was my real name before... in the far past." He said the last part in an even more hushed tone, as if he didn't want to break something sacred.
Usagi slowly got off him and stood on the grass. They were located in a far side of the park, away from prying and nosy eyes. She caught his gaze and kept eye contact as she pulled him up as well. "I don't care what your name is," she confessed softly, caressing his cheek, "... as long as I can call you my own."
(AN: That line was in 'A Knight's Tale,' with Heath Ledger. My friend is like obsessed with him. I didn't actually watch the movie, but I got the line from the preview.)
Heero's heart nearly swelled with joy at those words. He took one of her hands into his own left hand. He brought it up to his cheek as he placed his free hand on her own cheek. "I will always be yours," he murmured, eyes shining in one rare moment.
Usagi grinned and kissed his lips gently. As she turned around, she felt an arm wrap around her waist. She glanced up at her beloved, amused at his sudden displays of affection. "Heero, let's go to the fair they're holding today," she suggested impulsively.
Heero nodded. "All right," he replied. "Let's go then." He began walking out of the park, turned at one of the sidewalks and suddenly Usagi could hear the sounds of the carnival nearby.
"How did you do that?" she asked, amazed. She looked at him with questioning eyes.
He just shrugged nonchalantly. "Nothing special," he grunted. Then he quickly added, "About before..."
Usagi's ears perked up. "Hai?" she asked, curious.
"Don't tell Duo. He's going to annoy me for the rest of my life if he hears about this," Heero muttered, clenching his left fist, which was at his side. If he was telling this to himself or to her, Usagi didn't know.
As she recalled his last sentence, Usagi smirked. "I got news for you, Heero-chan..." she started off.
"Nani?" he asked. If it was because of the nickname or something else, he didn't really care.
"Duo will still annoy you for the rest of your life," she giggled, bringing a hand to her mouth.
Heero growled in his throat. "Don't remind me, Usagi," he said, his eyes rolling upwards to the sky. "Just for that..." He glanced at her slyly, but she caught the look.
Usagi quickly broke from his comforting embrace and dashed down the street towards the carnival. She laughed aloud as she saw him just standing there before he shook his head. "You'll never catch me!" she taunted.
"Mission... accepted," he stated in monotone. He immediately chased after her, the long blonde pigtails in his sights.
* * * * *
~Just close your eyes
Each lovin' day~
* * * * *
Ami reached the zoo, ready to stop and catch her breath. She panted as she leaned against the entrance gate. She didn't have enough time to do any of those things as a pair of arms picked her up. She looked up, startled, at an expressionless Trowa except for maybe the mischievous twinkle in his eye.
"Trowa!" Ami exclaimed, cheeks bright with a blush. "What are you doing?"
He gave her no answer, but just twirled around with her secure in his arms. Ami gasped in surprise and held onto his turtleneck. She felt the rush of wind blow through her hair and the scent of something wonderful. Trowa stopped as he realized they were getting some stares. He nodded to them and they all quickly dispersed. Ami then noted that Trowa was still carrying her.
"Umm... Trowa? Can you please put me down?" she asked politely, but inwardly, she really didn't want him to.
"Why?" Trowa replied, holding her gently. "I like what I'm doing." He leaned down and kissed her full on the lips.
Ami's blush grew brighter but she just smiled against his lips, before she responded. 'I'm glad you're mine,' she thought sincerely.
* * * * *
~And I know this feeling won't go away
'Till the day my life is through~
* * * * *
Rei laughed as Wufei finally caught up with her. They were now by the carnival, people swarming all around them. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her against him closely. He smirked against her skin as he laid his head on her neck. Rei smiled and reached behind his head. She pulled out the elastic band that held his ponytail together. His ebony hair fell against his shoulders softly, the locks gleaming the light.
"Much better," she whispered softly.
Wufei blinked and stared into her violet eyes. "What did you do that for?!" he demanded defensively, touching his now free hair.
Rei just shook her head. "You look even more handsome this way, Fei-kun," she informed, grinning. She fingered the strands tenderly, reveling in its silky touch.
"I haven't worn it like this since... since..." Wufei stopped there, the memories still too painful in his mind.
Rei sensed his pain, knowing that the source was from a long lost love. She was familiar with that sorrow all too well. She closed her eyes to shut out her tears, but she knew that for her and Wufei, their former loves were lost to them forever. But they had each other...
Rei leaned towards him and let their lips meet in a tender kiss they both desperately needed to erase away the past. When they broke apart, Rei squeezed his shoulder affectionately. "You don't have to if you don't want to," she murmured, glancing at his hair.
Wufei smiled at her, his anger and frustration gone. "I need to move on... and forget," he whispered. He felt his hair and then kissed her forehead. "Ai shiteru always," he mumbled.
"Ai shiteru always," Rei repeated, content in his embrace.
* * * * *
~This I promise you~
* * * * *
Makoto and Duo entered the carnival laughing. "What do you want to do first?" Duo asked, playing with her brown ponytail. He accidentally tugged too hard on it.
"Duo!" Makoto yelped as she brought a hand to the back of her head, rubbing it gently. "Itai..."
Duo quickly kissed the top of her head. "Geez, I'm sorry, babe," he apologized, guilt shining in his cobalt blue orbs. He frowned at his mistake.
Makoto shook her head, and laughed softly at his guilty look. "It's all right, Duo-kun. Just an accident," she commented, kissing his cheek. "Besides," she paused and pulled on his braid. He let out a yelp of his own. "Do that again, and I'll just pull on your braid."
Duo pouted and grabbed his braid tenderly. "Okay, Mako-chan," he sighed. His eyes lit up quickly as he spotted the food stands. "Come on!" he cried, dragging her with him.
Makoto sighed as she let her boyfriend drag her to the stands. "Here we go again," she stated under her breath, smiling slightly. She was taken by complete surprise when she felt a handful of cotton candy being stuffed into her mouth. She gagged, before taking it in, chewing, and swallowing it. Once she was done, she glared straight into the eyes of one whistling Duo, holding cotton candy in one hand and chewing happily.
Duo caught her glare and smiled meekly. He tore off another piece of the pink fluff, and held it out to her. "Want some more?" he squeaked out, shrinking before her death look. 'At least it's not as bad as Heero's,' he thought, wincing.
"I almost choked, Duo!" she yelled out, drawing the attention of some nearby people. What she did next completely took the teenager off guard. She took the offered cotton candy and swallowed it as well. She winked at him as he stared at her with wide eyes. "At least you had the taste to get cotton candy," she commented nonchalantly. "The best thing to get when you're at a carnival."
Duo's jaw dropped as he didn't receive the reaction he was expecting. "Nani?" he asked, sputtering.
Makoto grinned, kissing him full on the lips. "I just like surprising you," she whispered, taking another piece of the pink fluff for herself.
* * * * *
~This I promise you~
* * * * *
"O-negai, Tre-chan?" Minako pleaded as they came across a Ferris wheel.
Minutes ago, the couple had entered the fair with excited eyes. Well, mostly Minako was the one hyper with excitement. Quatre was just smiling at her, and ignoring all else. She began leading him to the rides' section, giggling with anxiousness. Quatre had soon snapped out of his trance, and looked warily upon the rides.
"I don't know, Minako," he said hesitantly, craning his neck upward to see the top of wheel.
"It'll be fun!" she squealed enthusiastically.
Before the Arabian knew what was happening, she had grabbed his hand and led him to the line. Everyone else had already gotten on the ride, and there was one more space left for the both of them. Minako led Quatre to the man controlling the ride, giving him two tickets. The man nodded and gestured for them to get on the last one. The two did, and the man made sure they were secure before starting the ride.
Minako giggled as they rocked in their seats. "Wow! Isn't this great, Tre-chan?" she asked. She flashed him a peace sign.
Quatre just sighed and studied her face. "Why do you like the Ferris wheel anyways, Minako-chan?" he questioned, not answering her. "It's slow and nothing happens..."
Minako's smile never faltered from her face. She waited a few moments as the Ferris wheel slowly turned and then stopped. "Because of this," she murmured. "Isn't it beautiful?"
Quatre looked away from her face, and only then did he realize they were at the very top. He gazed down at the busy streets of Juuban, looking at the laughing adults and delighted children. As his gaze swept over them, he couldn't help but let out a laugh of joy.
"You're right, Minako," he whispered. "It must be beautiful at night though."
"Oh it is, Quatre," Minako mumbled, eyes going starry. "It's so romantic..." She sighed wistfully, and clasped both hands together.
Quatre smiled lovingly at her, reaching to brush a strand of hair from her blue eyes. "It's beautiful by day as well," he murmured. He leaned over while she was still day-dreaming, and caught her lips in a gentle kiss.
Minako responded at once, wrapping her arms around his neck. 'I love this ride,' she thought dreamily.
* * * * *
~Over and over I fall
When I hear you call~
* * * * *
Usagi couldn't help but laugh aloud as she was grabbed from behind and turned around to face emotionless blue eyes. 'So happy...' she thought with a giggle. She had led him to the entertainment section of the fair, where several people were located. The DJ was playing some rock music in the background, and mostly teenagers were out on the dance floor with their respective boyfriends or girlfriends.
"Why are you laughing?" Heero asked, a bit irritated. 'Mission accomplished.' He began tickling her mercilessly.
Usagi's laughter became louder as she shrieked. She tried to escape, but tears came trailing down her cheeks. She was laughing too hard, she couldn't do anything else. "Heero, please!" she gasped between giggles, smiling. "I need to breath!"
"Hn." Heero acknowledged her need and stopped tickling her, but let his arms fall to her waist.
Usagi took deep, calming breaths. When she gained her normal breathing pattern, she threw a glare at her boyfriend, which could rival his own. "Don't ever do that again!" she exclaimed, sticking her tongue out at him and crossing her eyes.
Heero rolled his eyes at her attitude. "Very mature," he muttered, smacking her forehead lightly.
"Owie..." Usagi said as she rubbed her forehead. The rock music in the background had stopped, changing to a slow song. It was the same exact music from Usagi's locket.
Heero ignored it and just smirked down at his girlfriend. "Gotta be more careful next time, Usa," he said lightly.
Usagi pouted and then glared at him again. However, she stepped back from him to try to slow the rapid beating of her heart. Her ears quickly picked up on the music, and she grinned evilly. 'Let's see if he's perfect in everything,' she thought playfully.
Her boyfriend picked up on her grin, and looked at her suspiciously. "What's going on in your head?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
She cleared her throat and said in a serious voice, "As punishment for your actions, you must grant me a dance." She nearly burst out laughing at the look of disbelief that crossed his face. However, she managed to keep a straight face and stepped back from him. She held out her hand. "Well?" Her voice had changed back to its usual tone, light and cheerful. "Care to dance?"
Heero hesitated, unsure of what he should do. 'Dance?' he thought, his face twitching. 'I haven't danced since...' He stopped his train of thoughts and took her hand. "Why not?" he muttered, loud enough for only Usagi to hear.
The pair got to the middle of the dance floor in the midst of all the couples. Heero again pulled her towards him. He put a hand on her waist, while his free hand took a hold of her right hand. Usagi gripped his left hand as she let her own left rest on his shoulder. They weren't that close together as they started moving to the music, Heero leading.
For some reason, Usagi didn't want to look Heero in the eye, and turned her head away from him. Before he could inquire about it, her voice pierced through the silence passing between them. "Heero..." Though she only said his name, he sensed there was something more she wanted to say.
"Hai, Usa-chan?" he asked, his voice masking his worry.
"I... I..." Usagi didn't know why she couldn't say it. She felt it, she knew it... but she just couldn't say it. Heero had told her before she could say anything, back when she was... She snapped her head up to look into his deep eyes, the action causing him to jump slightly.
"What is it?" he inquired, eyes searching her own.
"I love you, Heero," she declared softly, meant only for him to hear. Her eyes sparkled with unshed tears as she pressed herself against him suddenly, crushing her lips to his.
After getting over his shock, he stopped their dancing and responded to her kiss. It was the first time in this life that she had actually said it. That one sentence that could restore his heart, as well as his soul. Now he belonged to her, forever.
It was Usagi who started to dance again, Heero following her. The funny thing was that they were still locked in a kiss. They parted just as the song was about to end, panting softly. The last verse played on as Heero dipped Usagi low, her hair touching the ground. As he pulled her back up, happiness shone through his eyes.
"I love you, too," he replied simply.
* * * * *
~Without you, in my life, baby
I just wouldn't be living at all...~
* * * * *
"Trowa? Which animal is that again?" Ami asked, her knowledge failing her for the moment. She was pointing to a white striped tiger.
Trowa glanced at the animal and then at his beloved. "A Siberian tiger," he answered quietly.
"Oh! Doomo arigato," she said, once again gazing at the strong looking animal.
"Anything," Trowa replied, turning his head away. Inside, he felt satisfied and complete with her by his side.
"I can't believe how much I've forgotten about this place," Ami sighed to herself, but Trowa caught the sentence.
"You never came here often?" he inquired, eyes suddenly curious.
"Iie," she replied absently, brushing away a few of her bangs. She leaned against the railing of the exhibit. "I was always too busy studying, or what not. My parents had taken me when I was very little." She bowed her head. "Before they divorced."
Trowa sympathized with her, yet he didn't know a thing of his past. He had no idea where he came from, and had grown up knowing only war. "Ami-"
She whirled around to face him impulsively. "Let's forget it, Tro-kun," she said. "I want to think of happier times... like when I'm with you." She blushed, but not as bright as the other times.
"Of course, Ami," he replied, nodding to her request. "What would you like to talk about?"
"How Wufei and Duo haven't changed that much since the past," she replied, laughing softly. As she gazed up into his green eyes, her own blue eyes twinkled with mirth. "Just like Rei and Usagi, a pair of best friends, too stubborn for their own good." She shook her head, continuing to laugh aloud.
Trowa had rarely seen her so care-free in this life. He couldn't help it. He let out a rich deep laugh. 'I haven't laughed since the war,' he thought.
Ami blinked in surprise. The sound sent shivers down her spine, and she smiled wider. Her face lit up and she kissed his cheek. "We should meet up at Rei's shrine later, Tro-kun," she murmured. "Everyone will most likely be there."
"How do you know?" he asked, touching her shoulders.
"Just have a feeling," she smiled.
* * * * *
~And I will take you in my arms
And hold you right where you belong~
* * * * *
Rei smiled thankfully at Wufei as he handed her a big brown bear. "It's so kawaii, Fei-kun!" Rei commented, but not as loud as Usagi or Minako would have.
Wufei gave her a smile of his own as he watched her hug the bear he won. 'Wait... I had gotten something for her earlier... what was it?' he thought, bringing a hand to his forehead.
Rei noticed his eyes zone out, and she waved a hand in front of his face. "Fei-kun? Wufei?" she asked. "You in there?"
Wufei blinked and looked Rei in the face. Her delicate features and violet eyes reminded him of something. "Casablancas," he murmured.
"What?" Rei whispered, wondering how he could know about her favorite flower.
Wufei looked at her as she embraced the brown bear, suddenly wishing he was the stuffed animal. "I got you casablancas," he replied. "... to surprise you."
Her eyes almost immediately softened. Then a playful gleam entered her gaze. "Well, where are they baka?" she said in a teasing tone, taking the harshness out of the sentence.
Wufei was slightly taken aback, but he smirked as he recognized her tone. "I left them at your shrine," he replied, crossing his arms. "I forgot about them when you fainted! Just like a weak onna." He snorted and tried to forget the concern he felt as he recalled the memory.
Rei's face turned red as she smacked her bear against his head. "Wufei! Do we have to bring this up again?!" she demanded, frowning but enjoying the argument.
"Do you know how kawaii you are when you're mad?" Wufei asked nonchalantly, looking at his fingers.
"Oh yeah!" Rei exclaimed, eyes burning. "Well, you're nothing but a-" Her brain finally registered what he had said, and her mouth began moving slowly. "... a... senseless..."
'I won this time,' Wufei thought. He smiled and leaned closer towards her.
"... baka..." Rei continued as her eyes half closed.
Wufei touched her lips with his own, reveling in the now familiar silkiness. When they parted, he rested his form against hers, the stuffed animal pressed between them. "Let's go get your flowers," he whispered.
* * * * *
~'Till the day my life is through
This I promise you, baby~
* * * * *
Makoto grinned as she and Duo left the carnival, him trailing behind her. "That was great!" she exclaimed, twirling around as they headed down the sidewalk.
Duo shook his head as she skipped ahead of him. "Where are we going again?" he called after her.
She stopped and turned towards him, tilting her head to the side. "To Rei's shrine of course," she answered, her hand reaching out to his.
Duo accepted her hand, squeezing it as if in assurance that she was indeed there with him. "Is everyone going to be there?" he asked as they now walked side by side.
"Most likely," Makoto replied, leaning against him as a pair of eight year olds raced past her. She turned her head to see them laughing as their father scooped them up into his arms. She couldn't but smile and let her eyes water slightly.
Duo glanced back as well to see what she was looking at. He grinned sadly at the sight, realizing he didn't have memories like those two kids would have when they got older. "I wish I could be like them," he whispered impulsively. "To have a family..."
Makoto sighed as she faced forward again, the noises of the fair fading ever so slowly. "When I have children... if I have children... even one, I'll try never ever to leave him or her until it really is my time to go," she murmured sincerely. "I wouldn't want them to end up like me." She bowed her head, unwilling to let any tears trail down her cheeks. She had cried enough over her parents and lost childhood. She didn't need any more of it.
Duo let go of her hand and gripped her shoulders tight. "Neither would I, Mako-chan... neither would I," he replied softly. He kissed the side of her head. "I'd never wish that on anyone..." He grinned weakly as a thought passed through his head. "... okay, maybe the doctors that put us through hell... but that's beside the point..."
Makoto couldn't help but giggle at his statement. He had told her about all the doctors who worked on the Gundams. She knew a lot about him, some of the stuff which reopened old wounds. But leave it up to him to make her laugh again. "Ai shiteru, Duo," she whispered, tugging slightly on his braid playfully.
"Ai shiteru, Mako," he replied, gazing at her with a tender look. "You're my family now." He kissed her cheek as a tear escaped her eye.
"You're my family too," she mumbled, joy swelling within her soul. 'I'm finally at peace,' she thought. 'Finally...'
* * * * *
~Just close your eyes
Each lovin' day~
* * * * *
Minako giggled up at the stars as she held Quatre's hand loosely, swinging it back and forth. It was now night, and the day's events had her tired. She had a new bright red bow in her hair, except this one was trimmed with red glitter material. Quatre had won it for her at a strange booth at the fair. She had immediately changed it with her old bow, loving the feel of it. They were now headed in the direction of the shrine.
"I had a wonderful time today Quatre," Minako said dreamily as she rested her head on his shoulder.
Quatre glanced at the top of her golden head, before smiling. "Me too, Minako-chan," he replied, squeezing her hand. He watched a young couple conversing on a park bench. They seemed happy with each other, exchanging embarrassed tender looks. 'I wish you well,' he thought, before letting his thumb caress Minako's palm gently.
Minako glanced up at her boyfriend who seemed to be lost in his thoughts. "Tre-chan, we'll be together for all time, ne?" she asked.
Quatre turned to look into her blue eyes. "Of course, Minako-chan. Always," he said, smiling.
Minako looked away from his pure face and instead focused on the colorful lights hanging from lamppost to lamppost. She had a feeling deep inside her that what he said would be broken all too soon. "Quatre... if we do separate-"
"Minako-" Quatre interrupted but was stopped himself when she put a finger to his lips.
"I will find you again," she promised. They rounded a corner, the sounds of the fair quieting. They strolled down the deserted street slowly. "Never forget me, Quatre," she whispered, a certain pleading in her voice.
"Even if I wanted to, I couldn't," he replied. He kissed her softly as they stopped walking. "Return the favor," he mumbled.
"Of course," Minako smiled. "I could never forget you either, Tre-chan." She resumed the direction they were walking in, Quatre quickly following suit.
"Minako, let's go meet our friends," he said, catching her by the waist.
Minako giggled and brushed the bangs from his face. "Anywhere with you," she murmured.
* * * * *
~And know this feeling won't go away
Every word I say is true~
* * * * *
Usagi led Heero up the steps of the shrine, holding his hand as she panted. "Why did there have to be so many steps?" she whined.
Heero smirked at her actions. "There's not that many, Usa," he replied.
She threw him a glare over her shoulder. "Easy for you to say, Mr. Perfect," she retorted as she reached the top. "Finally!" She fell backwards into Heero's arms in a mock faint.
Heero grunted and lifted her, placing one arm around her shoulders, while his free one was placed under her legs. "You weigh a ton," he teased, but in monotone.
Usagi gasped and punched him in the shoulder. "I do not!" she whimpered. She looked down at her clothes and poked herself in the stomach. "Do I?" she asked in a small voice. She gazed up in Heero's eyes as her own blue orbs began to tear dangerously.
He felt his heart wince at the look she was giving him. "Iie, Usa-chan," he replied quickly. "I was only joking."
"Soo ka?" she whispered, wiping her face with her hands.
"Hai," he answered. He rubbed her back as he continued to hold her.
"Sugoi!" she squealed. She jumped out of his arms and glanced around the area. Her eyes quickly lit up as she looked back and forth from four different places. "Minna-chan!!"
* * * * *
~This I promise you
Every word I say is true~
* * * * *
"Minna-chan!!" All four couples heard Usagi exclaim happily. The girls looked up and ran to her as she stood in front of the main entrance.
"Usagi!"
"Usa-chan!"
"Usagi-chan!"
"Usa!"
The girls all cried out at the same time as they embraced their leader in a huge group hug. They felt a huge and intense relief. Why? They did not know. It was almost as if she had come back after being gone a long time. The guys gathered by Heero, who stood watching on the wooden steps of the shrine. They all nodded to each other in silence, none of them daring to speak. They did not want to ruin the moment, seeing their loves so happy talking to each other. However, they nearly jumped up in surprise when an old man appeared in front of them.
"Why, hello," the man greeted pleasantly. "What are a bunch of fine young fellows like yourselves doing here at a Shinto shrine? We're closed by the way. Shouldn't you be at the carnival with all the other teenage folk?" He looked up at all of them with curious eyes.
"Ojiichan!" Rei cried out, spotting her grandfather talking to their boyfriends. She stomped up to them, putting her hands on her hips as she looked down at her grandfather. "What are you doing?"
He looked up at her with wise innocent eyes. "Why, granddaughter... I was just inquiring why these young men are here so late," he explained. His face dawned with a sudden realization. He circled her suspiciously. "You wouldn't happen to know... would you?" He stopped in front of her and peered around her at the other girls, who were now very interested in the stars. "What about you girls?"
"Nani?" Usagi blinked as she heard him. "Why ojiisan... I have no idea what you're talking about!" She laughed nervously as she nudged Minako in the ribs. "What about you Minako-chan?"
Minako looked at Usagi and then at Rei's grandfather. "They're just our boyfriends," she squeaked out.
"Minako!" The girls exclaimed as they glared at her. She slid behind Usagi as she batted her eyes sweetly.
Rei's grandfather looked at all of them with a new light of understanding before a mischievous gleam entered his eyes. "Well granddaughter, I figured you would be having the girls over for a sleeping party... demo I'm not sure about these young men," he stated. "I had already set up five sleeping bags in the large room next to the Fire Room. Those are the only ones we have. You may sleep there." He was about to say more when Rei interrupted.
"Demo ojiichan-" Rei began but her grandfather silenced her with a look.
"Don't interrupt your elders, granddaughter," he informed, shaking his head. "As I was saying, you boys may stay here as well." He turned to walk back into the shrine.
"Ojiisan, where are they going to sleep?" Ami called after him. "You said there were only five sleeping bags."
Rei's grandfather smiled as he faced them again. "Precisely, Ami," he replied. He looked at each and every teenager. "I trust none of you will be engaging in any other activity besides sleeping." He chuckled as each of them gained their version of a blush.
"Ojiichan!" Rei exclaimed, embarrassed.
Her grandfather turned to her, patting her arm as he smiled. "I was kidding, my dear," he replied. He looked to the boys with a serious face. "Besides, these boys look trustworthy and honorable," he stated. "I know they will do none of you any harm. I sense a deep bond they have with each of you. Something great. Something which may be tampered with." He then walked up the steps and on the porch. He looked at the group one last time for the night. "Sweet dreams, children."
Rei ran up to him before he could go down the hallway towards his bedroom. "Ojiichan, we have more sleeping bags than just five," she whispered fiercely to him.
Her grandfather looked at her with mock surprise. "We do?" he asked, eyes widening slightly. "I'm sure we don't, granddaughter. He continued walking to his bedroom. He winked at her as he looked over his shoulder. "Just enjoy it. Good night." He disappeared around a corner.
'Why that old wise man...' Rei thought in disbelief before she smiled. "Doomo arigato, ojiichan," she whispered before joining her friends.
The pilots, who had not spoken a word the entire time, stood beside their respective girlfriend. Wufei met Rei halfway as she moved to join them. They looked at her curiously as she approached them. She smiled at them as she entwined her hand with Wufei's. She shifted her weight from foot to foot, waiting for them to say something.
"So?" Makoto asked, breaking the silence.
"Well, we're going to have to sleep together," Rei stated, trying to keep a straight face.
"NANI?!" They all exclaimed together, excluding Rei herself as well as Trowa and Heero, who just had a light blush covering their cheeks.
"Not like that, bakas!" Rei sighed as she brought a hand to her forehead.
"Gomen Rei-chan!" Minako exclaimed, but still blushing like mad, just as her boyfriend was.
"Come on, minna-chan," Rei said, shaking her head. She headed up the steps with Wufei in tow. The rest of them quickly followed. "We'll each share a sleeping bag, okay?" she asked.
"Hai," they chorused.
* * * * *
~This I promise you~
* * * * *
Usagi snuggled into the sleeping bag, yawning sleepily. She was placed right by the wooden door, which slid open. It was now open slightly, giving a small view of the night sky if you looked out. She smiled and then blushed as she felt a warm body slide in next to her. A pair of arms wrapped loosely around her waist from behind just after she heard the zipper being closed. She could sense her own friends getting ready for sleep.
"Hey," Heero whispered in her ear.
"Hey," she mumbled back.
"Sleepy?" he asked, brushing a hand through her semi-wet hair. They had all taken a shower before settling in their sleeping bags and Usagi was too tired to dry it with hair-dryer.
"Kinda," she yawned. She rolled over in the sleeping bag to face him. She smiled as she moved a lock of his hair, only for it to fall back.
"Nani?" He questioned curiously as she blushed.
"It's nothing," she whispered. She stared up into his handsome Prussian blue eyes, and felt her heart thump wildly. A question suddenly popped into her head as she continued to just stare at him. "You promise not to forget me?"
"Why would I?" he replied, a question in his eyes. "I love you," he whispered in a hushed tone. "And nothing will keep us apart."
"Heero..." Usagi whispered, placing both of her palms over his heart. "I will always be in your heart..." She promised the cliche phrase as she closed her eyes, a few tears trailing down her cheeks. For some reason, she knew all of this - her happiness, her friends, her love - would be gone all too soon. She felt something moist and soft on her face. Her eyes snapped open to stare in shock as Heero kissed her tears away.
He said nothing and instead brushed his lips against hers. She sighed and let her head use his chest as a pillow. She let her own arms wrap around his waist as well. Her eyes began to flutter close as sleep came to claim her for the night. Heero rested his head atop hers, eyes straying to look at the stars. He held her close, trying to keep the dawn away...
* * * * *
~I promise you~
* * * * *