She looked up, and met up with a pair of pleading dark eyes
Her own eyes began to fill with tears.
"Serena," the gentleman that had stopped her whispered.
"Darien..." she said back softly, "Please... don't do this..."
"Serena," the man with black hair repeated, then got down on his knees.
He put the flowers aside and took out a small, blue box from his pocket.
"Serena Tsukino," he said as he opened it to reveal a ring,
"Will you marry me?"
Uncertainty II
by Phantasy Star
--------------------
Part Five: Feelings
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
Exactly two months after that day, my new project "Uncertainty II" began.
It would tell the story of me and Serena. Our story.
Like for its predecessor, I wrote the plot of the RPG myself.
As I wrote the story, I recalled everything about us. How I had met her.
How I had fallen in love with her.
And how it had ended.
------@
Four years ago...
"You all right?" I said, leaning out of the driver's window.
The blonde girl with her hair done up in two identical buns took a deep breath.
"Sorry about that," I said, "I was in a hurry. Shouldn't have tried running that
red light."
To my horror, the girl's eyes suddenly welled up with tears.
"I just lost my job, I'm tired, I'm hungry," the girl said, "and now some crazy
guy's trying to run me over!"
Feeling extremely uncomfortable, I spoke quickly, "Well, like I said, I'm sorry.
I didn't-"
"I don't even have a place to stay the night," the girl said, sniffling, "Maybe
it would have been better if you _had_ run me over."
Cars around me when sounding their horns impatiently. Mumbling my apology one last
time, I drove off, suddenly embarrassed.
Wow, you sure meet some interesting people on the streets. Hopefully, I won't see
_this_ particular one again.
* * *
I opened my bedroom door to be greeted by smells of bacon and egg, and the sight of
Serena rummaging through our kitchen drawers.
"Good morning, Darien!" Serena said cheerfully, turning around, as if we were the best
of friends, "I made breakfast! Isn't Andrew up yet?"
I shook my head, still shocked at the sight of her in her bunny pyjamas and Garfield
slippers. Then I noticed how I must have looked and escaped to the bathroom to get
washed and dressed up.
Oh, horror! My precious, clean bathroom has been invaded!
The counter was lined with bottles, soaps, and unknown substances as far as the eye
could see! Meanwhile, my old toiletry were no where to be found.
"What happened to everything?" I cried frantically.
She came in quickly, "Oh, I got everything replaced. No wonder your hair looks like
wires! You've been using all the wrong shampoo."
Then she picked up a bottle filled with lime-green liquid.
"This," she said wisely, "This is the shampoo you should be using."
I stared.
"Well, I'm going to finish fixing breakfast. You go ahead and do your thing in here."
I nodded dumbly. I think I was blushing.
Serena was going to take some getting used to.
* * *
Then one night, when we went home at eleven, I made a decision.
Andrew was out, the situation was perfect.
"Long day..." Serena said as she and I walked into the apartment.
"Yeah," I agreed, hanging my green jacket in the closet.
"Wonder where Andrew is..." Serena said worriedly.
"Mm-hmm," I replied, not really paying attention.
I sat down on the couch.
"Well, I'm going to bed," Serena announced, "It's getting late."
She walked to her room, but I stopped her.
"Wait," I called out.
She turned around, "What is it?"
There was a pause. I hesitated.
"Serena, I..."
* * *
I was about to turn around and leave when the door opened and I found myself facing
a man with brown hair, about two inches shorter than I was. Fairly attractive, I
guess.
"May I help you?" he asked coldly.
"Is this Serena's room?"
"Yeah. What do you want?"
I froze.
This was... Serena's boyfriend.
I stared hard at him, returning the gaze.
"Darien Shields. I'm Serena's friend."
"I see. I'm Alan, her boyfriend."
I winced as he emphasized the final word. There was no way I could talk to
her now.
I shook my head and turned away.
Whispering a couple of words I knew I shouldn't say under my breath, I shoved my hands
into my pockets and walked off.
I hated this feeling that washed over me.
* * *
"Darien," she said turning to face me, "Let's remember each other as friends,
okay?"
I shook my head silently.
"I really care about you, Darien," she said quietly, "You're one of the most
important people in my life. I don't want us to lose that. Please..."
She headed for the car, but I grabbed her arm.
"Serena, look me in the eye and tell me you don't want this to happen."
"Darien..."
"Serena, we were meant for each other," I said firmly.
-------@
Too many memories.
I wasn't used to this. These feelings. So strong and apparent.
I stopped typing up the story on my computer.
I couldn't.
Because, for the first time after my parents' death...
I cried.
I couldn't write anymore. All I could do was think about that day, the day
at the airport.
* * *
"Serena Tsukino, will you marry me?"
She remained silent for a few minutes, and I looked, worried, into her eyes,
searching for an answer.
"Darien... Can you give me some time to think?"
I shook my head, "I don't have any more time... I... I don't have anything more
to give you..."
She closed her eyes.
"Serena... please just tell me and get it over with," I pleaded.
She knelt down on the floor beside me.
"I'm sorry, Darien," she whispered.
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
"Serena, is that you?"
"Oh, Lita!"
The brunette smiled as her friend gave her a hug.
"What are you doing here in America?" Lita asked, letting Serena into the
apartment.
"I'm sorry I didn't give you a call before dropping in," the blonde apologized,
"I... came back kinda suddenly. I haven't made any reservations at a hotel yet."
"Who wouldn't let the famous Serena Tsukino stay at their hotel?" Lita said
teasingly.
Serena smiled, but the smile didn't hold the cheerfulness it usually did.
"Serena, you look troubled... Want to talk?"
* * *
"But..." Lita said, "Do you... still like him?"
"I don't know!" Serena cried, "I really don't..."
"No," Lita said firmly, "You do. What does your heart say?"
"My heart...?" Serena said, "My heart says... yes. But my brain keeps screaming
no."
"You have to listen to your heart," Lita said.
Serena frowned as she paused to think.
"I've gotten hurt before listening to it," Serena said slowly, "We've both
gotten hurt too many times. I guess that's what my mind is warning me about..."
"But that's how a relationship works," Lita said, "You gotta take some chances.
You can't let uncertainty prevent you from happiness..."
Serena sighed, "Maybe you're right. But I don't want to go back..."
"Serena..." Lita said, ready to convince her.
"I need some time to think everything over."
"Well, meanwhile, you can stay here with me." Lita said with a smile.
"Thanks, Lita," Serena said, brightening a little, "Thanks for being here for me."
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
"Darien, please eat," Mina said.
I didn't answer.
I didn't even turn around when she walked off and went to Amy, whispering.
"How long has he been like this?" she asked.
I could hear Amy's voice full of concern, "Since Serena left."
Mina sighed behind me.
In all my life, I had never felt like this.
Not since the first day at the orphanage.
"Come on, Darien," Mina tried again, "Serena's a great girl, but you've got to
keep your options open. There are plenty of other girls who-"
"I don't _care_ about other girls!" I interrupted, my voice rising.
Realizing how harsh I must have sounded, I calmed myself down a little, "Just...
leave me alone, okay?"
Mina didn't move.
"Amy, don't you have work to do?" I asked, not caring how unpleasant I sounded.
Amy nodded, "Sorry, Mr. Shields."
I went back to staring at the cup of coffee sitting in front of me as my
secretary hurried out of the room.
"Darien..." Mina said, "Remember that we all love and care about you, okay? I'll
come by later to see you."
I didn't say anything for a second.
Then I sighed.
"I know..." I said quietly.
She gave me a hug from behind.
Putting my head on my arms, I waited for her to leave and shut the door behind her.
Then I headed out the door and out of the office without bothering to put on a
jacket. It was freezing cold outside, but I barely noticed it.
I wandered aimlessly down the sidewalk, simply not caring where I was or what
I was doing. I just wanted to forget.
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX
On a certain stone bridge in central Tokyo, a young man stared at the sea ahead
of him.
It was a cloudy day, and the wind was strong enough to flip umbrellas.
The gentleman didn't notice it though, even as his short black hair was lifted
into the air. After a while, it settled back over his forehead and his eyes.
He gazed at the water below him, longlingly.
As if he was waiting, waiting for something in a distance too far to grasp.
Someone appeared behind him, and, as if on cue, the wind stopped and there was
silence.
He didn't know when she had arrived, but when he noticed her presence, he could
tell right away who it was.
Even with her there, he didn't turn around.
He didn't move an inch.
Not until the small voice behind him whispered, "Darien..."
His heart ached when he heard the word.
Or rather, when he heard her voice.
So long... too long, since he had heard it last.
"I..." she continued, her voice soft and unsure.
Before she could say any more, the young man turned around and enveloped her
desperately in his arms.
Surprised, the blonde girl struggled a bit before letting his grip on her
tighten.
"I..." she whispered, tears streaming down her face, "I read in the paper that
you were married."
The young man closed his eyes, smiling fondly at her.
"Damn press..." he murmured, "If I did, I'd get a divorce."
The girl giggled before settling into his arms.
"I'm sorry," she whispered.
"It's all right," he answered her, "Serena... Please... don't go again..."
"I... I won't," she said softly, "I'm... staying in Tokyo this time..."
He felt his body surging with energy. He wanted to run to the top of the mountain
and proclaim to the world that the girl he had been waiting for had come back
to him. He felt like he could fly. As long as she was back with him, everything
would be okay.
"Is that what you want too?" she whispered, resting her head against his chest,
"Are you sure you want me here?"
"Serena," he said, "I've never been more certain of anything in my life."
The sun began to set, sinking into the water, disappearing behind the bridge.
"Serena," he asked seriously, "Can I..."
She looked up at him, not sure what he was trying to say.
"May I...?" he began again.
She still seemed confused as to what he was saying, so he decided to show her.
He leaned against her and closed his eyes.
The girl backed away slightly in surprise, but the young man held her closer to
him, and she stopped resisting.
Finally, and for the first time, they kissed.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN
"Are you ready for this?"
I didn't hear him for a second, lost in my own thoughts.
Actually, lost in my worries and nervousness...
"Darien..."
"Huh?" I said, startled.
"Never mind," Andrew said, "Hey, here comes Mina."
I looked towards the entrance of the chapel and saw her walking in in a beautiful
long, yellow dress.
"Look at you," Mina exclaimed, "Fancy tuxedo, all grown up. My little brother's
getting married!"
I gave her a nervous smile, "Hey, where's my brother-in-law?"
"Business," she retorted, "Oh well, forget about him. He's always off somewhere..."
"Is Jordan all ready?" I asked.
"Of course!" Mina exclaimed, "It's his first time being ringbearer... I got him all
dressed up two hours ago."
"Hey, Darien," someone interrupted.
I turned around to find Raye giving me one of her smiles that most other guys may
consider 'dangerous'.
"Congratulations," she said, offering her hand.
I took it and grinned, "Thanks. Thank you for coming..."
"Of course," she said like I had insulted her, "This morning, I prayed to the fire
for a long and happy marriage between the two of you.
"With Serena, I don't think we'll need any prayers," I said, chuckling.
"No need to make everyone jealous," Mina said, rolling her eyes.
"Hi, Mr. Shields," a small voice said behind me.
"Amy..." I said, not used to seeing Amy dressing so formally. Her light blue dress
seemed to suit her perfectly though.
"I'm glad everything worked out so well," she said with a small smile.
"Me too," I said.
Finally, I heard a fourth voice.
"Is this the groom?"
I turned around yet again to find a tall brunette about my height, wearing a green
dress.
"That would be me," I said.
"Lita!" Mina exclaimed, "What are you doing here?"
"Hey Mina," the brown-haired girl answered, "Serena invited me to be the caterer. I
flew back all the way from America."
Then she turned to me and shook my hand, "Congrats!"
I took her hand and winced at the strong grip she had.
While I was waiting for feeling to come back into my hand, the girls shared some more
mindless chatter that no guy can possibly understand.
"Hey, let's go see the bride!" Mina said excitedly.
I watched the four of them run off, a blur of red, yellow, blue, and green,
disappearing through the doors.
I was feeling pretty excited myself, but more nervous than anything.
Straightening my tie and smoothing out my shirt, I gulped.
Relax, Darien, I told myself, you'll be fine.
"Whoa hey! Here's the lucky guy!"
I could tell that voice anywhere.
"Ann!" I said, then blinked in surprise at the person standing beside her, "And...
and Alan."
"Hey Darien!" the redhead said as she came towards me.
My first thought: He wasn't one of those people who raised their hand when the minister
said "Speak now or forever who your peace", was he?
I think she noticed the shocked expression on my face, because she quickly went on to
explain why my former worst enemy was here at my big day.
"Alan's only my date," Ann said reassuringly.
I looked at them, still in disbelief.
"No time to chat, Dare. I'm off to see Serena!" Ann said, "Don't follow me, cuz you're
not allowed to see her before the wedding, ya know!"
I think she was more excited than I was.
"I know..." I said.
Ann hurried off, dragging Alan along with her.
"Well," Andrew turned to look at me, "The wedding's about to begin... You ready?"
"Yeah..." I said, feeling a lump in my throat.
Yep... I was getting married.
To the most amazing girl in the world.
But still...
"Breathe, Darien," my best man told me, "Think happy thoughts..."
------@
EPILOGUE
Sunlight pouring into my room woke me up.
I sat up and walked to the bathroom to throw cold water at my face.
Giving a loud yawn, I went to the closet and got dressed, before stepping out into
the living room.
"'Morning, Serena," I murmured as I walked over to her.
I made my voice as captivating as I could, as my right arm circled around her waist.
To my disappointment, she giggled instead of giving me the reaction I had hoped for.
"Hurry up and eat your breakfast," she said, "You'll be late."
While we were eating, Serena interrupted me with a hesitant voice, "Darien... I
know we've been married two months... but... I want to ask you something."
I glanced up at her curiously.
"Have you ever..." she said, "...wished that you hadn't proposed? I mean...
are you really sure you want to spend the rest of your life with me?"
I looked into her eyes intently. Then I smiled.
"Serena... I've never been more sure of anything in my life. You're the best
thing that ever happened to me. I love you."
Serena returned my smile, relief flooding her face, "Oh, Darien..."
I put down my fork and stood up. Walking over to her, I took her hands in mine.
"Now, you want to know how much?" I whispered.
I closed my eyes and leaned over.
We were only two inches apart, when she suddenly spoke up.
"Um... Maybe later."
I opened my eyes.
"Darien, you've got to get to work!"
Oh, of all the things she could say to ruin the moment.
"But..." I started.
"No 'but's, Darien," Serena said, "I don't want us to be late!"
I sighed and sat down to finish my scrambled eggs, though I could barely concentrate
on the food now.
"All right, Serena," I said in defeat.
She sat down beside me.
Turning to her, I gave her my most mischievious smile,
"_Later_."
She blushed.
The End
------@
Author's Notes:
...
...
I can't believe this is finally over!
First of all, special thanks to my two editors: Nicole and
Kendra Maxwell (happygoluckylll), who edited the ending.
Thank you!
Secondly, I'm dedicating this final chapter to Silent Serenade,
my original editor, who's really sick right now. In fact, I
haven't heard from her for a while and I'm getting worried...
Hope she is okay.
To the people who suggested that I do two endings, I liked the
idea, but hopefully, this ending satisfied everybody.
Finally, and for the last time, THANK YOU FOR READING.
I wouldn't have finished this 'fic if it weren't for you people,
and all the nice reviews you gave me. Your feedback means more
to me than you can imagine.
Thank you again!
Oh, and don't forget to review this chapter too :)
It's the last time I'll get reviews on this 'fic...
Hope I'll get new stories out to you soon!
Phantasy Star,
May 23, 2003
Her own eyes began to fill with tears.
"Serena," the gentleman that had stopped her whispered.
"Darien..." she said back softly, "Please... don't do this..."
"Serena," the man with black hair repeated, then got down on his knees.
He put the flowers aside and took out a small, blue box from his pocket.
"Serena Tsukino," he said as he opened it to reveal a ring,
"Will you marry me?"
Uncertainty II
by Phantasy Star
--------------------
Part Five: Feelings
CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE
Exactly two months after that day, my new project "Uncertainty II" began.
It would tell the story of me and Serena. Our story.
Like for its predecessor, I wrote the plot of the RPG myself.
As I wrote the story, I recalled everything about us. How I had met her.
How I had fallen in love with her.
And how it had ended.
------@
Four years ago...
"You all right?" I said, leaning out of the driver's window.
The blonde girl with her hair done up in two identical buns took a deep breath.
"Sorry about that," I said, "I was in a hurry. Shouldn't have tried running that
red light."
To my horror, the girl's eyes suddenly welled up with tears.
"I just lost my job, I'm tired, I'm hungry," the girl said, "and now some crazy
guy's trying to run me over!"
Feeling extremely uncomfortable, I spoke quickly, "Well, like I said, I'm sorry.
I didn't-"
"I don't even have a place to stay the night," the girl said, sniffling, "Maybe
it would have been better if you _had_ run me over."
Cars around me when sounding their horns impatiently. Mumbling my apology one last
time, I drove off, suddenly embarrassed.
Wow, you sure meet some interesting people on the streets. Hopefully, I won't see
_this_ particular one again.
* * *
I opened my bedroom door to be greeted by smells of bacon and egg, and the sight of
Serena rummaging through our kitchen drawers.
"Good morning, Darien!" Serena said cheerfully, turning around, as if we were the best
of friends, "I made breakfast! Isn't Andrew up yet?"
I shook my head, still shocked at the sight of her in her bunny pyjamas and Garfield
slippers. Then I noticed how I must have looked and escaped to the bathroom to get
washed and dressed up.
Oh, horror! My precious, clean bathroom has been invaded!
The counter was lined with bottles, soaps, and unknown substances as far as the eye
could see! Meanwhile, my old toiletry were no where to be found.
"What happened to everything?" I cried frantically.
She came in quickly, "Oh, I got everything replaced. No wonder your hair looks like
wires! You've been using all the wrong shampoo."
Then she picked up a bottle filled with lime-green liquid.
"This," she said wisely, "This is the shampoo you should be using."
I stared.
"Well, I'm going to finish fixing breakfast. You go ahead and do your thing in here."
I nodded dumbly. I think I was blushing.
Serena was going to take some getting used to.
* * *
Then one night, when we went home at eleven, I made a decision.
Andrew was out, the situation was perfect.
"Long day..." Serena said as she and I walked into the apartment.
"Yeah," I agreed, hanging my green jacket in the closet.
"Wonder where Andrew is..." Serena said worriedly.
"Mm-hmm," I replied, not really paying attention.
I sat down on the couch.
"Well, I'm going to bed," Serena announced, "It's getting late."
She walked to her room, but I stopped her.
"Wait," I called out.
She turned around, "What is it?"
There was a pause. I hesitated.
"Serena, I..."
* * *
I was about to turn around and leave when the door opened and I found myself facing
a man with brown hair, about two inches shorter than I was. Fairly attractive, I
guess.
"May I help you?" he asked coldly.
"Is this Serena's room?"
"Yeah. What do you want?"
I froze.
This was... Serena's boyfriend.
I stared hard at him, returning the gaze.
"Darien Shields. I'm Serena's friend."
"I see. I'm Alan, her boyfriend."
I winced as he emphasized the final word. There was no way I could talk to
her now.
I shook my head and turned away.
Whispering a couple of words I knew I shouldn't say under my breath, I shoved my hands
into my pockets and walked off.
I hated this feeling that washed over me.
* * *
"Darien," she said turning to face me, "Let's remember each other as friends,
okay?"
I shook my head silently.
"I really care about you, Darien," she said quietly, "You're one of the most
important people in my life. I don't want us to lose that. Please..."
She headed for the car, but I grabbed her arm.
"Serena, look me in the eye and tell me you don't want this to happen."
"Darien..."
"Serena, we were meant for each other," I said firmly.
-------@
Too many memories.
I wasn't used to this. These feelings. So strong and apparent.
I stopped typing up the story on my computer.
I couldn't.
Because, for the first time after my parents' death...
I cried.
I couldn't write anymore. All I could do was think about that day, the day
at the airport.
* * *
"Serena Tsukino, will you marry me?"
She remained silent for a few minutes, and I looked, worried, into her eyes,
searching for an answer.
"Darien... Can you give me some time to think?"
I shook my head, "I don't have any more time... I... I don't have anything more
to give you..."
She closed her eyes.
"Serena... please just tell me and get it over with," I pleaded.
She knelt down on the floor beside me.
"I'm sorry, Darien," she whispered.
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR
"Serena, is that you?"
"Oh, Lita!"
The brunette smiled as her friend gave her a hug.
"What are you doing here in America?" Lita asked, letting Serena into the
apartment.
"I'm sorry I didn't give you a call before dropping in," the blonde apologized,
"I... came back kinda suddenly. I haven't made any reservations at a hotel yet."
"Who wouldn't let the famous Serena Tsukino stay at their hotel?" Lita said
teasingly.
Serena smiled, but the smile didn't hold the cheerfulness it usually did.
"Serena, you look troubled... Want to talk?"
* * *
"But..." Lita said, "Do you... still like him?"
"I don't know!" Serena cried, "I really don't..."
"No," Lita said firmly, "You do. What does your heart say?"
"My heart...?" Serena said, "My heart says... yes. But my brain keeps screaming
no."
"You have to listen to your heart," Lita said.
Serena frowned as she paused to think.
"I've gotten hurt before listening to it," Serena said slowly, "We've both
gotten hurt too many times. I guess that's what my mind is warning me about..."
"But that's how a relationship works," Lita said, "You gotta take some chances.
You can't let uncertainty prevent you from happiness..."
Serena sighed, "Maybe you're right. But I don't want to go back..."
"Serena..." Lita said, ready to convince her.
"I need some time to think everything over."
"Well, meanwhile, you can stay here with me." Lita said with a smile.
"Thanks, Lita," Serena said, brightening a little, "Thanks for being here for me."
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE
"Darien, please eat," Mina said.
I didn't answer.
I didn't even turn around when she walked off and went to Amy, whispering.
"How long has he been like this?" she asked.
I could hear Amy's voice full of concern, "Since Serena left."
Mina sighed behind me.
In all my life, I had never felt like this.
Not since the first day at the orphanage.
"Come on, Darien," Mina tried again, "Serena's a great girl, but you've got to
keep your options open. There are plenty of other girls who-"
"I don't _care_ about other girls!" I interrupted, my voice rising.
Realizing how harsh I must have sounded, I calmed myself down a little, "Just...
leave me alone, okay?"
Mina didn't move.
"Amy, don't you have work to do?" I asked, not caring how unpleasant I sounded.
Amy nodded, "Sorry, Mr. Shields."
I went back to staring at the cup of coffee sitting in front of me as my
secretary hurried out of the room.
"Darien..." Mina said, "Remember that we all love and care about you, okay? I'll
come by later to see you."
I didn't say anything for a second.
Then I sighed.
"I know..." I said quietly.
She gave me a hug from behind.
Putting my head on my arms, I waited for her to leave and shut the door behind her.
Then I headed out the door and out of the office without bothering to put on a
jacket. It was freezing cold outside, but I barely noticed it.
I wandered aimlessly down the sidewalk, simply not caring where I was or what
I was doing. I just wanted to forget.
------@
CHAPTER TWENTY-SIX
On a certain stone bridge in central Tokyo, a young man stared at the sea ahead
of him.
It was a cloudy day, and the wind was strong enough to flip umbrellas.
The gentleman didn't notice it though, even as his short black hair was lifted
into the air. After a while, it settled back over his forehead and his eyes.
He gazed at the water below him, longlingly.
As if he was waiting, waiting for something in a distance too far to grasp.
Someone appeared behind him, and, as if on cue, the wind stopped and there was
silence.
He didn't know when she had arrived, but when he noticed her presence, he could
tell right away who it was.
Even with her there, he didn't turn around.
He didn't move an inch.
Not until the small voice behind him whispered, "Darien..."
His heart ached when he heard the word.
Or rather, when he heard her voice.
So long... too long, since he had heard it last.
"I..." she continued, her voice soft and unsure.
Before she could say any more, the young man turned around and enveloped her
desperately in his arms.
Surprised, the blonde girl struggled a bit before letting his grip on her
tighten.
"I..." she whispered, tears streaming down her face, "I read in the paper that
you were married."
The young man closed his eyes, smiling fondly at her.
"Damn press..." he murmured, "If I did, I'd get a divorce."
The girl giggled before settling into his arms.
"I'm sorry," she whispered.
"It's all right," he answered her, "Serena... Please... don't go again..."
"I... I won't," she said softly, "I'm... staying in Tokyo this time..."
He felt his body surging with energy. He wanted to run to the top of the mountain
and proclaim to the world that the girl he had been waiting for had come back
to him. He felt like he could fly. As long as she was back with him, everything
would be okay.
"Is that what you want too?" she whispered, resting her head against his chest,
"Are you sure you want me here?"
"Serena," he said, "I've never been more certain of anything in my life."
The sun began to set, sinking into the water, disappearing behind the bridge.
"Serena," he asked seriously, "Can I..."
She looked up at him, not sure what he was trying to say.
"May I...?" he began again.
She still seemed confused as to what he was saying, so he decided to show her.
He leaned against her and closed his eyes.
The girl backed away slightly in surprise, but the young man held her closer to
him, and she stopped resisting.
Finally, and for the first time, they kissed.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN
"Are you ready for this?"
I didn't hear him for a second, lost in my own thoughts.
Actually, lost in my worries and nervousness...
"Darien..."
"Huh?" I said, startled.
"Never mind," Andrew said, "Hey, here comes Mina."
I looked towards the entrance of the chapel and saw her walking in in a beautiful
long, yellow dress.
"Look at you," Mina exclaimed, "Fancy tuxedo, all grown up. My little brother's
getting married!"
I gave her a nervous smile, "Hey, where's my brother-in-law?"
"Business," she retorted, "Oh well, forget about him. He's always off somewhere..."
"Is Jordan all ready?" I asked.
"Of course!" Mina exclaimed, "It's his first time being ringbearer... I got him all
dressed up two hours ago."
"Hey, Darien," someone interrupted.
I turned around to find Raye giving me one of her smiles that most other guys may
consider 'dangerous'.
"Congratulations," she said, offering her hand.
I took it and grinned, "Thanks. Thank you for coming..."
"Of course," she said like I had insulted her, "This morning, I prayed to the fire
for a long and happy marriage between the two of you.
"With Serena, I don't think we'll need any prayers," I said, chuckling.
"No need to make everyone jealous," Mina said, rolling her eyes.
"Hi, Mr. Shields," a small voice said behind me.
"Amy..." I said, not used to seeing Amy dressing so formally. Her light blue dress
seemed to suit her perfectly though.
"I'm glad everything worked out so well," she said with a small smile.
"Me too," I said.
Finally, I heard a fourth voice.
"Is this the groom?"
I turned around yet again to find a tall brunette about my height, wearing a green
dress.
"That would be me," I said.
"Lita!" Mina exclaimed, "What are you doing here?"
"Hey Mina," the brown-haired girl answered, "Serena invited me to be the caterer. I
flew back all the way from America."
Then she turned to me and shook my hand, "Congrats!"
I took her hand and winced at the strong grip she had.
While I was waiting for feeling to come back into my hand, the girls shared some more
mindless chatter that no guy can possibly understand.
"Hey, let's go see the bride!" Mina said excitedly.
I watched the four of them run off, a blur of red, yellow, blue, and green,
disappearing through the doors.
I was feeling pretty excited myself, but more nervous than anything.
Straightening my tie and smoothing out my shirt, I gulped.
Relax, Darien, I told myself, you'll be fine.
"Whoa hey! Here's the lucky guy!"
I could tell that voice anywhere.
"Ann!" I said, then blinked in surprise at the person standing beside her, "And...
and Alan."
"Hey Darien!" the redhead said as she came towards me.
My first thought: He wasn't one of those people who raised their hand when the minister
said "Speak now or forever who your peace", was he?
I think she noticed the shocked expression on my face, because she quickly went on to
explain why my former worst enemy was here at my big day.
"Alan's only my date," Ann said reassuringly.
I looked at them, still in disbelief.
"No time to chat, Dare. I'm off to see Serena!" Ann said, "Don't follow me, cuz you're
not allowed to see her before the wedding, ya know!"
I think she was more excited than I was.
"I know..." I said.
Ann hurried off, dragging Alan along with her.
"Well," Andrew turned to look at me, "The wedding's about to begin... You ready?"
"Yeah..." I said, feeling a lump in my throat.
Yep... I was getting married.
To the most amazing girl in the world.
But still...
"Breathe, Darien," my best man told me, "Think happy thoughts..."
------@
EPILOGUE
Sunlight pouring into my room woke me up.
I sat up and walked to the bathroom to throw cold water at my face.
Giving a loud yawn, I went to the closet and got dressed, before stepping out into
the living room.
"'Morning, Serena," I murmured as I walked over to her.
I made my voice as captivating as I could, as my right arm circled around her waist.
To my disappointment, she giggled instead of giving me the reaction I had hoped for.
"Hurry up and eat your breakfast," she said, "You'll be late."
While we were eating, Serena interrupted me with a hesitant voice, "Darien... I
know we've been married two months... but... I want to ask you something."
I glanced up at her curiously.
"Have you ever..." she said, "...wished that you hadn't proposed? I mean...
are you really sure you want to spend the rest of your life with me?"
I looked into her eyes intently. Then I smiled.
"Serena... I've never been more sure of anything in my life. You're the best
thing that ever happened to me. I love you."
Serena returned my smile, relief flooding her face, "Oh, Darien..."
I put down my fork and stood up. Walking over to her, I took her hands in mine.
"Now, you want to know how much?" I whispered.
I closed my eyes and leaned over.
We were only two inches apart, when she suddenly spoke up.
"Um... Maybe later."
I opened my eyes.
"Darien, you've got to get to work!"
Oh, of all the things she could say to ruin the moment.
"But..." I started.
"No 'but's, Darien," Serena said, "I don't want us to be late!"
I sighed and sat down to finish my scrambled eggs, though I could barely concentrate
on the food now.
"All right, Serena," I said in defeat.
She sat down beside me.
Turning to her, I gave her my most mischievious smile,
"_Later_."
She blushed.
The End
------@
Author's Notes:
...
...
I can't believe this is finally over!
First of all, special thanks to my two editors: Nicole and
Kendra Maxwell (happygoluckylll), who edited the ending.
Thank you!
Secondly, I'm dedicating this final chapter to Silent Serenade,
my original editor, who's really sick right now. In fact, I
haven't heard from her for a while and I'm getting worried...
Hope she is okay.
To the people who suggested that I do two endings, I liked the
idea, but hopefully, this ending satisfied everybody.
Finally, and for the last time, THANK YOU FOR READING.
I wouldn't have finished this 'fic if it weren't for you people,
and all the nice reviews you gave me. Your feedback means more
to me than you can imagine.
Thank you again!
Oh, and don't forget to review this chapter too :)
It's the last time I'll get reviews on this 'fic...
Hope I'll get new stories out to you soon!
Phantasy Star,
May 23, 2003