Chapter Eleven
Usagi looked at her reflection in the mirror and sighed. She really didn't want to go to the dance, and she really didn't want to go with Squall and Minako.
She pouted, slumping in the chair in front of her vanity. She picked up the brush, and slowly ran it through her thick blonde hair. She was dressed in nothing but the towel she put on before leaving the bathroom. Her hair was wet from the bath she took, and she smelled faintly of vanilla.
She sighed again, pulling the brush through her hair, ridding her hair of tangles.
A knock on her door startled her. She looked up, and saw her okaasan through the mirror. "Hai okaasan?" The older woman smiled. "I'm glad you decided to go Usagi chan."
She nodded, and looked away. Her okaasan asked, "is something wrong dear?" Usagi replied, "I don't want to go. And I don't want to go with Squall. Mina chan's forcing me to go."
Ikuko walked into the room, and shut the door. She rested her hands on her musume's shoulders. "Usagi chan, it's alright for you to have fun, while Mamoru kun, is in America. You're not bound to him. I want you to go to this dance, and have fun. You're not there to date, just to have fun with your friends."
Usagi nodded, fiddling with a piece of her hair. Ikuko continued, "And what's wrong with going with Squall? He's a bright young man, who actually is sacrificing his night, for you to have fun."
Usagi frowned, "Nani?" Ikuko sighed, and knelt down, and looked at her musume in the mirror. "He wants you to go, and he wants to see you have fun. The only reason he will go, is if you come along. To me, he doesn't seem to like your friend Minako very much."
She giggled, and looked at her okaasan, "I never thought of it like that. I thought he just wanted to see me suffer, since he would have to. Domo artigato okaasan." She turned, and hugged the older woman.
Ikuko smiled, and hugged her musume back, and asked, "Want some help getting ready?" She watched as her musume's eye lit up, "honto?" She nodded, and Usagi hugged her again. "Artigato okaasan!"
Ikuko nodded, and opened the make up kit; she had let Usagi have when she had turned fourteen. "Lets see what we can do."
Ikuko turned the chair around, so she could see her musume, and took out a few things from the box. She picked out a soft rose red, and dusted it onto her eyelids. She then took out a lighter rose red, and dusted it up top, blending the colors together. Picking out a matching blush, she brushed her cheeks lightly, blending the color in to look natural.
Deciding on pink lip-gloss, she colored Usagi's lips, giving them a nice color. She studied her musume's face, and nodded in satisfaction.
Usagi blinked, and turned herself around, and saw her face in the mirror. "Kami okaasan, you did a great job. Luna chan look at me!" The black cat lifted its head off the bed, and meowed, before falling back to sleep.
Ikuko picked up the brush, and ran it through her hair, finishing what Usagi had started. Once done, she took a clip, and pulled the golden locks up into a French twist, leaving the occasional ringlets down, to frame her face.
"My okaasan did the same for me on my dance night. And you look lovely Usagi chan. Just exquisite. Now lets get that dress you bought at the mall the other day."
Usagi stood, and rushed to the closet, where the dress she had bought, hung. She pulled it out, still on the hanger, and held it up against her body.
Ikuko nodded, "lets put it on." Usagi nodded, and slipped it off the hanger, and laid it on the bed. She slipped off the towel, and slid on a pair of panties. She gently picked up the dress, and unzipped the back. Carefully she squeezed inside, and reached behind her to zip it up.
Ikuko smiled, and came up behind her, and zipped up the back. She stepped away, and looked her musume up and down. "Beautiful."
Usagi turned around, looking at her okaasan.
She wore a small, tight, light pink slip dress, with a small two inch slit in front. It stopped short of her mid thighs, short enough, to accent her long toned legs. It hugged her waist enough to show the curves of her hips. The bodice was snug against her chest, boosting her breast some, and the top came up from under her arms, stopping just below her collarbone. The inch thick straps crossed, and slipped behind her neck, clasping in the back, were a soft rose red, which matched the trim at the bottom of her dress.
She looked down, at the matching high heels, and slipped them on. She strapped the buckles around her ankles, and stood back up.
Ikuko nodded in approval, "you look wonderful Usagi."
The blonde haired girl smiled, and hugged her okaasan, "Artigato." Ikuko pulled back, "wait, I have something." Usagi watched, as her okaasan left the room, only to come back with jewelry. Ikuko stepped up to her musume, slipped the white pearls around the girl's neck, and slipped the matching bracelet on her wrist.
Ikuko looked at her watch, "are you ready?" Usagi slowly nodded, "hai I think."
At that second, there was a honk outside the house. She stated, "That would be Haruka and Michiru. They said they would take me to the dance."
Her okaasan nodded, and kissed her cheek, "have fun, and try to get home halfway early. If you need a ride, just call."
Usagi nodded, and hurried out of her room. Ikuko looked out the window, and saw a couple sitting in a yellow sports car. A minute later, Usagi came rushing out, and waved to her from below. She waved back, and watched Usagi climb into the back seat, before the car drove off.
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Squall ran a weary hand through his hair, as he waited in front of the school. He watched as a car pulled up, and Minako stepped out. He raised an eyebrow in interest. Her blonde hair was left down as usual, but she was missing the bow. She was dressed in an orange form fitting dress that stopped at her knees. As she spun around, the skirt flared, and he caught glimpse of her long nicely tanned legs. She wore matching high heels, and a golden necklace, with gold studs in her ears. He watched, as Ami stepped out with a boy her age. Ami was dressed in a light blue blouse, which was buttoned up, and a darker blue fitting skirt, that reached her calves, and held a slit at the side. She wore light blue sandals on her feet, and a blue anklet.
After Ami, a girl with dark raven hair came out. Her hair was braided back from her face, and she wore a splendid red silk dress, with spaghetti straps, and a flare type skirt. A man came out with her, with shaggy brown hair. The girl wore red heels, and a silver chain around her neck.
The car pulled away, only to have another pull up. The door opened, and Makoto stepped out. Her brown hair, was left down, and had been straightened, falling against her breasts nicely. She wore her usual rose earrings, and a dark green dress, that hugged her lovely, but shapely body perfectly. The sleeves reached her elbows, but fell off the shoulders, showing skin. The dress fell to her waist in a form-fitting manner, only to continue, from the waist, hugging her hips, and barely touching her knees.
Squall watched, as a young man stepped out with her, and the car pulled away.
Minako turned, and saw him. She waved him over, and he walked up to the group. Ami looked around, "where is Haruka and Michiru?" Makoto supplied easily, "they called, and told me they were going to pick Usagi chan."
The dark haired girl pointed to the yellow car, that parked itself in the parking lot, "There they are."
Squall looked up, and saw Haruka climb out. As usual, she was dressed, in men's clothes. A pair of kakis, and a white dress shirt. She opened the door for Michiru. Michiru was dressed in a gorgeous blue dress that fit snug in the waist, but loose around her legs.
He frowned, when he didn't see Usagi. Minako gasped, "oh my kami! I knew that dress was for her, the first time I saw her put it on."
She caught his attention immediately, when he saw the flash of pink and soft red. She slowly made her way across the parking lot towards them. Her hips swayed as she moved, and her arms swung at her sides, as she strolled across the street.
She reached them, and he caught the scent of vanilla, which tickled his senses. Haruka, and Michiru joined them, and the taller woman stated, "lets go inside where it's warm."
The girls agreed, and they headed inside.
The moment he stepped into the gym, Minako turned to him, and pulled him to the dance floor. The dance had started an hour ago, and was fully into the party when they had arrived. Everyone in the room, had a partner, and was dancing. He was used to the classical music that played at the dance he had gone to at the garden. He looked around, and saw couples close, dancing with their hips touching, and moving to a fast rhythm.
Minako started swaying in front of him, and he copied her moves. He listened to the song, trying to keep up with the beat, and caught a few words. Minako was singing along, and when a certain part came, everyone on the floor screamed out, "I like big butts, and I cannot lie, you other brothers can't deny...!"
He danced with her, and was able to keep up with everyone else on the dance floor. Minako looked at him, and flashed him a smile, that made him worry. She moved to the beat, and he followed closely. He inwardly smirked, and admitted to himself, that he was actually having fun.
All too soon, the song ended, and they left the dance floor. They reached a table, where Usagi sat with Rei, and Ami. They were talking intently. When they reached the table, Usagi looked up, at them. The two fell into a seat, dripping with exertion from the face passed dancing.
Turning her eyes to Squall, while he was looking around the dance floor, watching everyone dancing, she studied him closely. He was dressed in a pair of black dress slacks, and a midnight blue dress shirt, that showed off his blue eyes. His brown hair framed his face, and his long bangs, fell into his gorgeous eyes.
He looked at her, and she flushed, dropping her gaze to the floor. Minako scooted her chair closer to him, and held up a cup. "Here Squall have some punch." He took the cup, and nodded his thanks, as he set it down on the table. "I'm not thirsty at the moment, but thanks anyway."
Usagi watched Minako's mouth drop, "Try it anyway. You don't know, maybe you're thirsty, and you don't know about it." He looked at her oddly, "No I'm fine."
Rei turned to Squall, "Squall, since you invited Usagi along, why don't you take her out to dance."
Usagi looked up startled, "me? Iie, I don't really like to dance and..." Squall ran his fingers through his hair, and looked away. The dark haired girl grinned, "Oh come on Usagi chan, it'll be fun. Loosen up some, and have fun." The blonde sighed, and stood, "alright."
She looked up at him, and he stated, "You don't have to." Minako jumped to her feet, "He's right you don't have to, Hey Squall try some punch." She shoved the cup into his hands. He looked at the pink liquid inside, "No that's okay, Usagi?" Usagi sighed with defeat, but answered anyway, "It's alright, I do need to loosen up, I guess."
He nodded, as he handed the cup to a man passing by, and led her out to the dance floor. The young man shrugged, and took a sip. Minako cried out in frustration, causing the man to turn to her. His glasses were huge, and his thick matty brown hair fell over his forehead, and into his eyes.
Minako dropped into her chair, covering her face with her hands. Before she knew it, someone took her by the shoulders, and planted his lips on hers. Wrenching herself away, she slapped him, "Eechi!"
The boy with glasses replied, "But my love..." Screaming, she shot back, "I'm not your love you baka!"
Usagi glanced over her shoulder, seeing Minako ran away from Umino. She shook her head, an amused smile playing on her face. She turned back around as new song started up. They reached the dance floor, and stood in front of each other looking at the other awkwardly.
Haruka waltz up towards them, with Michiru in her arms, and stated matter of factly "Are two going to dance, or just stand there like bakas?"
Michiru frowned, "Haruka, don't bother them. If they don't want to dance, its fine." The couple turned, and moved back through the crowd, still dancing to the music.
Usagi laughed nervously, "I've never really got the chance to slow dance with someone...and well..." Squall smiled, "either have I. Why don't we just take it slow, and see what happens." She nodded, but waited for him to go first.
He slipped his arms around her waist, liked he saw many of the guys around him doing. He pulled her closer, and slowly started to move with the music. Usagi awkwardly reached up, and clasped her hands behind his neck.
They moved to the music, neither one knowing who sang the song or what it was called. But it was slow, and easy for them to move with.
Usagi looked at the strange necklace he wore, and asked, "do you always where that necklace?" He looked down at it, and nodded. "Yes, it gives me courage. My sister Ellon, who adopted me, gave it to me."
She nodded, "is it a lion?"
He smirked, "a lion's heart. It's shaped into a lion, but it means Lion Heart."
She smiled, looking up at him. How could she feel so comfortable in his arms? So welcomed?
Slowly, the song came to an end, and they pulled apart. He looked up, when his name was called out. He spotted Minako, looking for him.
Usagi slightly frowned, at the fact that the dance ended to soon, and she wasn't quite ready to sit out for another dance.
A faster song started, and Squall took her hand, and pulled her further into the ocean of bodies. She yelped, when she was pulled against him. Her eyes widened, when his hand rested on the lower part of her back, and one of his legs, parted hers. They moved together, following the beat of the song, and their hips swayed as one.
She flushed red, when he looked down at her; his eyes were pair of smoldering blue flames. She caught a hint of passion in their depths, and she gasped.
His free hand, took hold of one of hers, linking their fingers together. He raised their hands up, and slowly lowered it down. He brushed his knuckled against her cheek, and ran a finger along her neck. He watched her eyes darken, as her cheeks flushed.
Her free hand moved up, attentively, touching his chest. She ran her fingers down, and then brought them up, rubbing his shoulder. Their hips grinned together as they moved, and swayed to the rhythm.
The beat picked up, and they moved faster, their bodies never loosing contact. Their eyes never left the others as they danced.
The song ended quickly, and they stopped moving, but still stood close enough, still touching. Slowly reality came back, leaving them breathless, and drenched with sweat. Usagi pulled away, her face red, and she mumbled something, before disappearing into the crowd.
Squall watched her go, before he looked down at his hands, and stared in astonishment. Shaking his head, he moved through the crowd, heading for the snack stand.
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Usagi shut the bathroom door locking it behind her. She moved to the sink, and stared at her reflection in the mirror. Reaching out, she flicked on the light switch, and continued to stare at her mirror image. She let out a shaky breath, and rested her forehead against the cool glass. "What's happening to me?"
She thought about Squall, and went red with embarrassment. "Why'd he do that?" Tears welled up in her eyes. She didn't need this. Didn't she have enough problems? And now her heart fluttered at even the thought of his name.
She groaned, banging her head against the surface, and winced. She reeled back, and touched the red mark she made. Sighing, she turned around, as someone knocked on the door. "Hello? I'd like to go to the bathroom sometime soon."
Frowning, Usagi replied, "I'll be out in a minute."
The reply was, "you better, or I'll kick this damn door down, I really got to go!" Usagi moved to the door, and leaned against it. Silently, she pulled out her communicator, and studied the pink watch. She listened, from inside the bathroom, as a new song started, and the beat, was nice, the music calming, almost like it was trying to sooth someone's pain.
She inhaled deeply, looking at the screen. Gnawing on her lips, she pressed a button, and listened as it beeped lightly. She waited patiently, waiting for the call to come through.
'I just need to hear his voice, and everything will be fine again.'
Tears clouded her eyes, as she thought about her dance with Squall. 'Iie, I'm wrong, all wrong.' She shook her head in denial. 'I love Mamo chan, and he loves me.'
She sighed gratefully, as the screen clicked on. "Mamo chan." She waited patiently. Glancing up, she looked at the clock; it was nearly ten now. 'Baka.'
She felt stupid now, calling him so early, but she just wanted to hear his voice, see him at least, and know that they were still together. She still loved him.
She had to.
Catching her bottom lip, she ignored the banging behind her. She stared at the screen, thinking of ending the call, when suddenly she heard a voice. Her eyebrows drew together in confusion, and she listened.
"Oh yes...Umhmm yes more..."
Shocked, she dropped the little wristwatch on the floor, and stared at the image as tears formed in her eyes. She watched the two shadows moving in the dark room.
Before she could feel pain, anger shot through her body. She stood up, and slammed her heel on the watch, breaking it into pieces. "Kono yaro." She moved across the bathroom, going to the stall. Her nails dug into her palms, and blood dripped to the floor.
A new song started up, the beat faster than the last, and a voice began to scream through the bathroom door.
Cut my life into Pieces
I've reached my last resort
She turned, after catching her image in the mirror. She stared at the face that looked back at her. Tears trailed down her cheeks, and her body shook with the pain in her heart.
With a frustrated sob, she threw out her fist, slamming it into the mirror. It splintered, creating a spider web, before it shattered. Glass flew about her form. Shards cut into her skin, while others where embedded into her flesh. She didn't even flinch. She turned, moving back to the stall. More tears fell from her eyes, as she grabbed the toilet paper that was on the wall, and ripped it from where it had been. She threw it, denting the sink, chipping it.
I never realized I was spread too thin
Till it was too late and I was empty within
Hungry, feeding on chaos and living in sin
Rage seeped out of her, leaving her a walking zombie filled with pain, and sorrow.
Unable to stand it, she moved to the bathroom door, trying to jerk it open. It didn't, and a sob escaped her lips. "Just open, kami bachiatara!" She slipped the lock out of place, and threw open the door.
Downward spiral, where do I begin?
She ran out, ignoring the girl that tried to get up in her face. She pushed through the crowd, reaching the exit. She stumbled out, on her heels, nearly falling over. She gasped for air, clutching her heart. Her hand shook, and people looked at her.
Would it be wrong would it be right
If I took my life tonight
Chances are that I might
She leaned against the wall, and yanked off her shoes, and threw them. A man jumped back with surprise, ready to yell at her. He stopped, when she covered her face with her hands. She took a shaky step away from the gym, ready to run away.
People around her began whispering watching her, with confused looks, and curious glances. Glaring at them, she swung her hand, trying to rid the pain. The audience gasped, seeing the blood, that seeped into her once pale dress, and dripped from her bloody hand.
And I'm contemplating suicide
Cause I'm loosing my sight, loosing my mind
She sobbed out, tears running away down her face, "Fakku it hurts!" The people stepped back, offended by her curses, as she held her hand. One of the woman, tried to reach out to her, offering her help, but the blonde just turned away, tears, and pain raking her body with uncontrollable sobs. She shook her head, "Fakku bakayaro!" Without another thought, she took off running down the sidewalk.
Wish somebody would tell me I'm fine
Nothing is alright, nothing is fine
I'm running and I'm crying...
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Squall stepped out into the cold air, ready to leave the dance, now that he had danced with Minako enough times, to keep him dizzy all night.
He glanced up, as a couple pointed to something on the ground. Looking down, he spotted blood. He frowned, and tugged his jacket closer. He took a cautious step in the direction of his apartment, when he spotted one of the girls from his class.
He looked down at the blood again, when the dark haired girl pointed. "Hai I know what I saw. She came out here, covered in blood, whose I'm not sure."
The man she was with asked, "Are you sure it was that ditzy blonde from Haruna's class?"
The girl frowned at him, "what are you saying? I cant see or something? Of course it was Usagi. How could I not recognize that girl? She got such a lovely full head of hair, a girl would kill for."
Frowning, Squall walked up to the two. "Did you say Usagi came out here?" The girl looked up at him, and smiled. "Hai Squall. She went that way. I've never heard that girl cuss so much in my life, until now. She looked really upset."
Squall gave her curt nod, and took off running in the direction, the small drips of blood led.
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She tripped over something that had uplifted in her path. She hit the ground, landing on the grass, staining her knees, and her dress even more. A sob tore from her throat, and she clawed at the ground. Her nails dug into the dirt, forming lines, as she dragged her fingers back.
Her body quivered, and it took every ounce of will in her, not to scream from the pain inside her heart. She hit the ground, with her fists, beating it with angry hits. "Bastard! Bastard!!!!! Fakku bastard!"
She crumbled, her hands latching onto the blades of grass, as if it would keep her from falling from the cliff of pure pain and sorrow. She rubbed her face in the grass, smearing what was left of her makeup. Tears dried, only to be replaced with fresh ones.
Finding strength, she pushed herself up onto her knees, and stared up at the sky. "Okaasan! Why? Oh kami okaasan it hurts so much. Make it go away!" She broke out into more shaking sobs, as she clutched a hand over her heart. It ached, and it bled.
She looked out across the grass, and found a bench. Unwillingly, she stood, and nearly floated towards it. She didn't know how she found the strength to move from the ground, to the bench yards away. But she fell onto it, and felt the weight on her shoulders vanish. She curled up into a ball, pulling her knees up, and crossed her arms tightly over her chest, grasping her dress in a firm grip. She leaned her head against the back of the bench, and let the tears fall freely, and let the pain come in waves.
Unlike her normal whines, or wailing, she cried out a heartfelt sob that made her body shake with an unbearable pain, and sorrow.
"Why does it have to hurt so much?"
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Squall stopped near a tree, breathing heavily. Glancing around, he searched for a trail she might have made for him. He looked up, and saw the moon. Unlike the other night, it was a full moon, with a hint of red. Frowning, he eyed the way the rays shinned down on a single spot, beyond the trees in front of him.
Nodding, he jogged across the grass, to the trees, and pushed his way in. He moved through the trees, taking care, not to brush up against them. He pushed a large branch out of his way, and ducked under it, before letting it go. That's when he heard it. The sound was so faint; he would have missed it, if he hadn't been listening.
He moved through the trees faster, jumping over a log with ease. He neared the end, and was able to recognize the sound now that he was closer. He shoved a branch out of his way, so he could see out in the clearing.
On a bench, was the huddled form of Usagi; the moon's rays blanketed her in its warmth and shine. He quietly stepped out, being carefully not to make a sound. He moved across the grass, stopping where an imprint had been made. He stared down, and saw blood smeared on the already dark grass.
He looked up, staring at Usagi's huddled form. She was shaking, and he could hear her crying from here. He started towards her again, coming up from behind. He stopped at the bench, staring at her for only a second.
Reaching out, he touched her shoulder. She flinched, burying her face, so he couldn't see it. But she couldn't stop the tears from coming. "Usagi?" He felt her tense beneath his hand, but he didn't pull back. He saw goosebumps form on her skin. Cursing under his breath, he jerked off the jacket he had brought with him, and draped it over her shoulders.
She drew in a shaky breath, but refused to look at him. "What do you want?" Her voice wobbled, and he felt something inside him give a nice jerk at his heart. "Are you alright?"
She jerked her head up and down, but a sob escaped her lips. He scowled, "you're a terrible liar." She choked on a sob, which strangled the laugh that wanted to come out. She lifted her head, wiping her eyes, but she wouldn't meet his eyes.
He took a seat behind her, "Are you okay? I mean it, this time tell me the truth."
She took a few minutes, to collect her wits, before she turned her head to look at him. She had tearstains on her cheeks, a dirt smudge on her chin, and blood smeared across her face, from when she tried to wipe her eyes. Slowly she shook her head, fresh tears filling her eyes. Her bottom lips trembled, and Squall felt fury well up inside him.
Cursing under his breath, he jumped to his feet, only to move in front of her. Without her consent, he reached out, and lifted her up in his arms, cradling her much like he would a baby.
She didn't fight him, but buried her face in his shirt, trying to hide her tears, and her pain. Squall turned, and headed for the fastest way out of the park.
Usagi looked at her reflection in the mirror and sighed. She really didn't want to go to the dance, and she really didn't want to go with Squall and Minako.
She pouted, slumping in the chair in front of her vanity. She picked up the brush, and slowly ran it through her thick blonde hair. She was dressed in nothing but the towel she put on before leaving the bathroom. Her hair was wet from the bath she took, and she smelled faintly of vanilla.
She sighed again, pulling the brush through her hair, ridding her hair of tangles.
A knock on her door startled her. She looked up, and saw her okaasan through the mirror. "Hai okaasan?" The older woman smiled. "I'm glad you decided to go Usagi chan."
She nodded, and looked away. Her okaasan asked, "is something wrong dear?" Usagi replied, "I don't want to go. And I don't want to go with Squall. Mina chan's forcing me to go."
Ikuko walked into the room, and shut the door. She rested her hands on her musume's shoulders. "Usagi chan, it's alright for you to have fun, while Mamoru kun, is in America. You're not bound to him. I want you to go to this dance, and have fun. You're not there to date, just to have fun with your friends."
Usagi nodded, fiddling with a piece of her hair. Ikuko continued, "And what's wrong with going with Squall? He's a bright young man, who actually is sacrificing his night, for you to have fun."
Usagi frowned, "Nani?" Ikuko sighed, and knelt down, and looked at her musume in the mirror. "He wants you to go, and he wants to see you have fun. The only reason he will go, is if you come along. To me, he doesn't seem to like your friend Minako very much."
She giggled, and looked at her okaasan, "I never thought of it like that. I thought he just wanted to see me suffer, since he would have to. Domo artigato okaasan." She turned, and hugged the older woman.
Ikuko smiled, and hugged her musume back, and asked, "Want some help getting ready?" She watched as her musume's eye lit up, "honto?" She nodded, and Usagi hugged her again. "Artigato okaasan!"
Ikuko nodded, and opened the make up kit; she had let Usagi have when she had turned fourteen. "Lets see what we can do."
Ikuko turned the chair around, so she could see her musume, and took out a few things from the box. She picked out a soft rose red, and dusted it onto her eyelids. She then took out a lighter rose red, and dusted it up top, blending the colors together. Picking out a matching blush, she brushed her cheeks lightly, blending the color in to look natural.
Deciding on pink lip-gloss, she colored Usagi's lips, giving them a nice color. She studied her musume's face, and nodded in satisfaction.
Usagi blinked, and turned herself around, and saw her face in the mirror. "Kami okaasan, you did a great job. Luna chan look at me!" The black cat lifted its head off the bed, and meowed, before falling back to sleep.
Ikuko picked up the brush, and ran it through her hair, finishing what Usagi had started. Once done, she took a clip, and pulled the golden locks up into a French twist, leaving the occasional ringlets down, to frame her face.
"My okaasan did the same for me on my dance night. And you look lovely Usagi chan. Just exquisite. Now lets get that dress you bought at the mall the other day."
Usagi stood, and rushed to the closet, where the dress she had bought, hung. She pulled it out, still on the hanger, and held it up against her body.
Ikuko nodded, "lets put it on." Usagi nodded, and slipped it off the hanger, and laid it on the bed. She slipped off the towel, and slid on a pair of panties. She gently picked up the dress, and unzipped the back. Carefully she squeezed inside, and reached behind her to zip it up.
Ikuko smiled, and came up behind her, and zipped up the back. She stepped away, and looked her musume up and down. "Beautiful."
Usagi turned around, looking at her okaasan.
She wore a small, tight, light pink slip dress, with a small two inch slit in front. It stopped short of her mid thighs, short enough, to accent her long toned legs. It hugged her waist enough to show the curves of her hips. The bodice was snug against her chest, boosting her breast some, and the top came up from under her arms, stopping just below her collarbone. The inch thick straps crossed, and slipped behind her neck, clasping in the back, were a soft rose red, which matched the trim at the bottom of her dress.
She looked down, at the matching high heels, and slipped them on. She strapped the buckles around her ankles, and stood back up.
Ikuko nodded in approval, "you look wonderful Usagi."
The blonde haired girl smiled, and hugged her okaasan, "Artigato." Ikuko pulled back, "wait, I have something." Usagi watched, as her okaasan left the room, only to come back with jewelry. Ikuko stepped up to her musume, slipped the white pearls around the girl's neck, and slipped the matching bracelet on her wrist.
Ikuko looked at her watch, "are you ready?" Usagi slowly nodded, "hai I think."
At that second, there was a honk outside the house. She stated, "That would be Haruka and Michiru. They said they would take me to the dance."
Her okaasan nodded, and kissed her cheek, "have fun, and try to get home halfway early. If you need a ride, just call."
Usagi nodded, and hurried out of her room. Ikuko looked out the window, and saw a couple sitting in a yellow sports car. A minute later, Usagi came rushing out, and waved to her from below. She waved back, and watched Usagi climb into the back seat, before the car drove off.
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Squall ran a weary hand through his hair, as he waited in front of the school. He watched as a car pulled up, and Minako stepped out. He raised an eyebrow in interest. Her blonde hair was left down as usual, but she was missing the bow. She was dressed in an orange form fitting dress that stopped at her knees. As she spun around, the skirt flared, and he caught glimpse of her long nicely tanned legs. She wore matching high heels, and a golden necklace, with gold studs in her ears. He watched, as Ami stepped out with a boy her age. Ami was dressed in a light blue blouse, which was buttoned up, and a darker blue fitting skirt, that reached her calves, and held a slit at the side. She wore light blue sandals on her feet, and a blue anklet.
After Ami, a girl with dark raven hair came out. Her hair was braided back from her face, and she wore a splendid red silk dress, with spaghetti straps, and a flare type skirt. A man came out with her, with shaggy brown hair. The girl wore red heels, and a silver chain around her neck.
The car pulled away, only to have another pull up. The door opened, and Makoto stepped out. Her brown hair, was left down, and had been straightened, falling against her breasts nicely. She wore her usual rose earrings, and a dark green dress, that hugged her lovely, but shapely body perfectly. The sleeves reached her elbows, but fell off the shoulders, showing skin. The dress fell to her waist in a form-fitting manner, only to continue, from the waist, hugging her hips, and barely touching her knees.
Squall watched, as a young man stepped out with her, and the car pulled away.
Minako turned, and saw him. She waved him over, and he walked up to the group. Ami looked around, "where is Haruka and Michiru?" Makoto supplied easily, "they called, and told me they were going to pick Usagi chan."
The dark haired girl pointed to the yellow car, that parked itself in the parking lot, "There they are."
Squall looked up, and saw Haruka climb out. As usual, she was dressed, in men's clothes. A pair of kakis, and a white dress shirt. She opened the door for Michiru. Michiru was dressed in a gorgeous blue dress that fit snug in the waist, but loose around her legs.
He frowned, when he didn't see Usagi. Minako gasped, "oh my kami! I knew that dress was for her, the first time I saw her put it on."
She caught his attention immediately, when he saw the flash of pink and soft red. She slowly made her way across the parking lot towards them. Her hips swayed as she moved, and her arms swung at her sides, as she strolled across the street.
She reached them, and he caught the scent of vanilla, which tickled his senses. Haruka, and Michiru joined them, and the taller woman stated, "lets go inside where it's warm."
The girls agreed, and they headed inside.
The moment he stepped into the gym, Minako turned to him, and pulled him to the dance floor. The dance had started an hour ago, and was fully into the party when they had arrived. Everyone in the room, had a partner, and was dancing. He was used to the classical music that played at the dance he had gone to at the garden. He looked around, and saw couples close, dancing with their hips touching, and moving to a fast rhythm.
Minako started swaying in front of him, and he copied her moves. He listened to the song, trying to keep up with the beat, and caught a few words. Minako was singing along, and when a certain part came, everyone on the floor screamed out, "I like big butts, and I cannot lie, you other brothers can't deny...!"
He danced with her, and was able to keep up with everyone else on the dance floor. Minako looked at him, and flashed him a smile, that made him worry. She moved to the beat, and he followed closely. He inwardly smirked, and admitted to himself, that he was actually having fun.
All too soon, the song ended, and they left the dance floor. They reached a table, where Usagi sat with Rei, and Ami. They were talking intently. When they reached the table, Usagi looked up, at them. The two fell into a seat, dripping with exertion from the face passed dancing.
Turning her eyes to Squall, while he was looking around the dance floor, watching everyone dancing, she studied him closely. He was dressed in a pair of black dress slacks, and a midnight blue dress shirt, that showed off his blue eyes. His brown hair framed his face, and his long bangs, fell into his gorgeous eyes.
He looked at her, and she flushed, dropping her gaze to the floor. Minako scooted her chair closer to him, and held up a cup. "Here Squall have some punch." He took the cup, and nodded his thanks, as he set it down on the table. "I'm not thirsty at the moment, but thanks anyway."
Usagi watched Minako's mouth drop, "Try it anyway. You don't know, maybe you're thirsty, and you don't know about it." He looked at her oddly, "No I'm fine."
Rei turned to Squall, "Squall, since you invited Usagi along, why don't you take her out to dance."
Usagi looked up startled, "me? Iie, I don't really like to dance and..." Squall ran his fingers through his hair, and looked away. The dark haired girl grinned, "Oh come on Usagi chan, it'll be fun. Loosen up some, and have fun." The blonde sighed, and stood, "alright."
She looked up at him, and he stated, "You don't have to." Minako jumped to her feet, "He's right you don't have to, Hey Squall try some punch." She shoved the cup into his hands. He looked at the pink liquid inside, "No that's okay, Usagi?" Usagi sighed with defeat, but answered anyway, "It's alright, I do need to loosen up, I guess."
He nodded, as he handed the cup to a man passing by, and led her out to the dance floor. The young man shrugged, and took a sip. Minako cried out in frustration, causing the man to turn to her. His glasses were huge, and his thick matty brown hair fell over his forehead, and into his eyes.
Minako dropped into her chair, covering her face with her hands. Before she knew it, someone took her by the shoulders, and planted his lips on hers. Wrenching herself away, she slapped him, "Eechi!"
The boy with glasses replied, "But my love..." Screaming, she shot back, "I'm not your love you baka!"
Usagi glanced over her shoulder, seeing Minako ran away from Umino. She shook her head, an amused smile playing on her face. She turned back around as new song started up. They reached the dance floor, and stood in front of each other looking at the other awkwardly.
Haruka waltz up towards them, with Michiru in her arms, and stated matter of factly "Are two going to dance, or just stand there like bakas?"
Michiru frowned, "Haruka, don't bother them. If they don't want to dance, its fine." The couple turned, and moved back through the crowd, still dancing to the music.
Usagi laughed nervously, "I've never really got the chance to slow dance with someone...and well..." Squall smiled, "either have I. Why don't we just take it slow, and see what happens." She nodded, but waited for him to go first.
He slipped his arms around her waist, liked he saw many of the guys around him doing. He pulled her closer, and slowly started to move with the music. Usagi awkwardly reached up, and clasped her hands behind his neck.
They moved to the music, neither one knowing who sang the song or what it was called. But it was slow, and easy for them to move with.
Usagi looked at the strange necklace he wore, and asked, "do you always where that necklace?" He looked down at it, and nodded. "Yes, it gives me courage. My sister Ellon, who adopted me, gave it to me."
She nodded, "is it a lion?"
He smirked, "a lion's heart. It's shaped into a lion, but it means Lion Heart."
She smiled, looking up at him. How could she feel so comfortable in his arms? So welcomed?
Slowly, the song came to an end, and they pulled apart. He looked up, when his name was called out. He spotted Minako, looking for him.
Usagi slightly frowned, at the fact that the dance ended to soon, and she wasn't quite ready to sit out for another dance.
A faster song started, and Squall took her hand, and pulled her further into the ocean of bodies. She yelped, when she was pulled against him. Her eyes widened, when his hand rested on the lower part of her back, and one of his legs, parted hers. They moved together, following the beat of the song, and their hips swayed as one.
She flushed red, when he looked down at her; his eyes were pair of smoldering blue flames. She caught a hint of passion in their depths, and she gasped.
His free hand, took hold of one of hers, linking their fingers together. He raised their hands up, and slowly lowered it down. He brushed his knuckled against her cheek, and ran a finger along her neck. He watched her eyes darken, as her cheeks flushed.
Her free hand moved up, attentively, touching his chest. She ran her fingers down, and then brought them up, rubbing his shoulder. Their hips grinned together as they moved, and swayed to the rhythm.
The beat picked up, and they moved faster, their bodies never loosing contact. Their eyes never left the others as they danced.
The song ended quickly, and they stopped moving, but still stood close enough, still touching. Slowly reality came back, leaving them breathless, and drenched with sweat. Usagi pulled away, her face red, and she mumbled something, before disappearing into the crowd.
Squall watched her go, before he looked down at his hands, and stared in astonishment. Shaking his head, he moved through the crowd, heading for the snack stand.
?????
Usagi shut the bathroom door locking it behind her. She moved to the sink, and stared at her reflection in the mirror. Reaching out, she flicked on the light switch, and continued to stare at her mirror image. She let out a shaky breath, and rested her forehead against the cool glass. "What's happening to me?"
She thought about Squall, and went red with embarrassment. "Why'd he do that?" Tears welled up in her eyes. She didn't need this. Didn't she have enough problems? And now her heart fluttered at even the thought of his name.
She groaned, banging her head against the surface, and winced. She reeled back, and touched the red mark she made. Sighing, she turned around, as someone knocked on the door. "Hello? I'd like to go to the bathroom sometime soon."
Frowning, Usagi replied, "I'll be out in a minute."
The reply was, "you better, or I'll kick this damn door down, I really got to go!" Usagi moved to the door, and leaned against it. Silently, she pulled out her communicator, and studied the pink watch. She listened, from inside the bathroom, as a new song started, and the beat, was nice, the music calming, almost like it was trying to sooth someone's pain.
She inhaled deeply, looking at the screen. Gnawing on her lips, she pressed a button, and listened as it beeped lightly. She waited patiently, waiting for the call to come through.
'I just need to hear his voice, and everything will be fine again.'
Tears clouded her eyes, as she thought about her dance with Squall. 'Iie, I'm wrong, all wrong.' She shook her head in denial. 'I love Mamo chan, and he loves me.'
She sighed gratefully, as the screen clicked on. "Mamo chan." She waited patiently. Glancing up, she looked at the clock; it was nearly ten now. 'Baka.'
She felt stupid now, calling him so early, but she just wanted to hear his voice, see him at least, and know that they were still together. She still loved him.
She had to.
Catching her bottom lip, she ignored the banging behind her. She stared at the screen, thinking of ending the call, when suddenly she heard a voice. Her eyebrows drew together in confusion, and she listened.
"Oh yes...Umhmm yes more..."
Shocked, she dropped the little wristwatch on the floor, and stared at the image as tears formed in her eyes. She watched the two shadows moving in the dark room.
Before she could feel pain, anger shot through her body. She stood up, and slammed her heel on the watch, breaking it into pieces. "Kono yaro." She moved across the bathroom, going to the stall. Her nails dug into her palms, and blood dripped to the floor.
A new song started up, the beat faster than the last, and a voice began to scream through the bathroom door.
Cut my life into Pieces
I've reached my last resort
She turned, after catching her image in the mirror. She stared at the face that looked back at her. Tears trailed down her cheeks, and her body shook with the pain in her heart.
With a frustrated sob, she threw out her fist, slamming it into the mirror. It splintered, creating a spider web, before it shattered. Glass flew about her form. Shards cut into her skin, while others where embedded into her flesh. She didn't even flinch. She turned, moving back to the stall. More tears fell from her eyes, as she grabbed the toilet paper that was on the wall, and ripped it from where it had been. She threw it, denting the sink, chipping it.
I never realized I was spread too thin
Till it was too late and I was empty within
Hungry, feeding on chaos and living in sin
Rage seeped out of her, leaving her a walking zombie filled with pain, and sorrow.
Unable to stand it, she moved to the bathroom door, trying to jerk it open. It didn't, and a sob escaped her lips. "Just open, kami bachiatara!" She slipped the lock out of place, and threw open the door.
Downward spiral, where do I begin?
She ran out, ignoring the girl that tried to get up in her face. She pushed through the crowd, reaching the exit. She stumbled out, on her heels, nearly falling over. She gasped for air, clutching her heart. Her hand shook, and people looked at her.
Would it be wrong would it be right
If I took my life tonight
Chances are that I might
She leaned against the wall, and yanked off her shoes, and threw them. A man jumped back with surprise, ready to yell at her. He stopped, when she covered her face with her hands. She took a shaky step away from the gym, ready to run away.
People around her began whispering watching her, with confused looks, and curious glances. Glaring at them, she swung her hand, trying to rid the pain. The audience gasped, seeing the blood, that seeped into her once pale dress, and dripped from her bloody hand.
And I'm contemplating suicide
Cause I'm loosing my sight, loosing my mind
She sobbed out, tears running away down her face, "Fakku it hurts!" The people stepped back, offended by her curses, as she held her hand. One of the woman, tried to reach out to her, offering her help, but the blonde just turned away, tears, and pain raking her body with uncontrollable sobs. She shook her head, "Fakku bakayaro!" Without another thought, she took off running down the sidewalk.
Wish somebody would tell me I'm fine
Nothing is alright, nothing is fine
I'm running and I'm crying...
?????
Squall stepped out into the cold air, ready to leave the dance, now that he had danced with Minako enough times, to keep him dizzy all night.
He glanced up, as a couple pointed to something on the ground. Looking down, he spotted blood. He frowned, and tugged his jacket closer. He took a cautious step in the direction of his apartment, when he spotted one of the girls from his class.
He looked down at the blood again, when the dark haired girl pointed. "Hai I know what I saw. She came out here, covered in blood, whose I'm not sure."
The man she was with asked, "Are you sure it was that ditzy blonde from Haruna's class?"
The girl frowned at him, "what are you saying? I cant see or something? Of course it was Usagi. How could I not recognize that girl? She got such a lovely full head of hair, a girl would kill for."
Frowning, Squall walked up to the two. "Did you say Usagi came out here?" The girl looked up at him, and smiled. "Hai Squall. She went that way. I've never heard that girl cuss so much in my life, until now. She looked really upset."
Squall gave her curt nod, and took off running in the direction, the small drips of blood led.
?????
She tripped over something that had uplifted in her path. She hit the ground, landing on the grass, staining her knees, and her dress even more. A sob tore from her throat, and she clawed at the ground. Her nails dug into the dirt, forming lines, as she dragged her fingers back.
Her body quivered, and it took every ounce of will in her, not to scream from the pain inside her heart. She hit the ground, with her fists, beating it with angry hits. "Bastard! Bastard!!!!! Fakku bastard!"
She crumbled, her hands latching onto the blades of grass, as if it would keep her from falling from the cliff of pure pain and sorrow. She rubbed her face in the grass, smearing what was left of her makeup. Tears dried, only to be replaced with fresh ones.
Finding strength, she pushed herself up onto her knees, and stared up at the sky. "Okaasan! Why? Oh kami okaasan it hurts so much. Make it go away!" She broke out into more shaking sobs, as she clutched a hand over her heart. It ached, and it bled.
She looked out across the grass, and found a bench. Unwillingly, she stood, and nearly floated towards it. She didn't know how she found the strength to move from the ground, to the bench yards away. But she fell onto it, and felt the weight on her shoulders vanish. She curled up into a ball, pulling her knees up, and crossed her arms tightly over her chest, grasping her dress in a firm grip. She leaned her head against the back of the bench, and let the tears fall freely, and let the pain come in waves.
Unlike her normal whines, or wailing, she cried out a heartfelt sob that made her body shake with an unbearable pain, and sorrow.
"Why does it have to hurt so much?"
?????
Squall stopped near a tree, breathing heavily. Glancing around, he searched for a trail she might have made for him. He looked up, and saw the moon. Unlike the other night, it was a full moon, with a hint of red. Frowning, he eyed the way the rays shinned down on a single spot, beyond the trees in front of him.
Nodding, he jogged across the grass, to the trees, and pushed his way in. He moved through the trees, taking care, not to brush up against them. He pushed a large branch out of his way, and ducked under it, before letting it go. That's when he heard it. The sound was so faint; he would have missed it, if he hadn't been listening.
He moved through the trees faster, jumping over a log with ease. He neared the end, and was able to recognize the sound now that he was closer. He shoved a branch out of his way, so he could see out in the clearing.
On a bench, was the huddled form of Usagi; the moon's rays blanketed her in its warmth and shine. He quietly stepped out, being carefully not to make a sound. He moved across the grass, stopping where an imprint had been made. He stared down, and saw blood smeared on the already dark grass.
He looked up, staring at Usagi's huddled form. She was shaking, and he could hear her crying from here. He started towards her again, coming up from behind. He stopped at the bench, staring at her for only a second.
Reaching out, he touched her shoulder. She flinched, burying her face, so he couldn't see it. But she couldn't stop the tears from coming. "Usagi?" He felt her tense beneath his hand, but he didn't pull back. He saw goosebumps form on her skin. Cursing under his breath, he jerked off the jacket he had brought with him, and draped it over her shoulders.
She drew in a shaky breath, but refused to look at him. "What do you want?" Her voice wobbled, and he felt something inside him give a nice jerk at his heart. "Are you alright?"
She jerked her head up and down, but a sob escaped her lips. He scowled, "you're a terrible liar." She choked on a sob, which strangled the laugh that wanted to come out. She lifted her head, wiping her eyes, but she wouldn't meet his eyes.
He took a seat behind her, "Are you okay? I mean it, this time tell me the truth."
She took a few minutes, to collect her wits, before she turned her head to look at him. She had tearstains on her cheeks, a dirt smudge on her chin, and blood smeared across her face, from when she tried to wipe her eyes. Slowly she shook her head, fresh tears filling her eyes. Her bottom lips trembled, and Squall felt fury well up inside him.
Cursing under his breath, he jumped to his feet, only to move in front of her. Without her consent, he reached out, and lifted her up in his arms, cradling her much like he would a baby.
She didn't fight him, but buried her face in his shirt, trying to hide her tears, and her pain. Squall turned, and headed for the fastest way out of the park.