RIVALS-Chapter 7
By: Raq
Authors Note:
Thanks to all that had a wonderful response to this story. I have to say it made me get off my ass and get on working. I did some major scalping in this chapter, I found that the original line was horrible, well to me at lease.
Changes
As you've seen, I've done some changes throughout the recent chapters and it wont end there. I would like to make some obvious factors.
Name changes, I've decided since they were in Japan they should at lease hold Japanese names.
Mamoru and Jeshi hostile attitude, Jeshi doesn't like Mamoru very much as you can see now. In the original story, they were much friends, I've decided that Jeshi and Mina will come to champion Usagi when it comes and definitely give our Mamo a hard ass time.
Yes, Mamoru is as arrogant as they come nower days but we have to admit we all love it when he comes down on his knees, humbling himself for his Usako neh?
And Usagi, I had her pretty innocent and naïve before, but I think it will all change.
Anyhow Enjoy!
~
"A special delivery just arrived for you, it's on your desk", Mina's assistant told her boss as the striking blonde returned from a meeting.
"Arigato, screen my calls Kayu, I have quite a bit of paperwork to review."
"How about Mr. Nakamura?" her assistant arched a knowledge brow.
"He's an exception", a slight blush touched Mina's cheeks. She quickly retreated to her office before her blushing increased. Her eyes immediately caught sight of a vase holding delicate yellow roses. Sinking in her chair and with a dreamy expression on her face. She plucked a single rose and inhaled he sweet scent. 'Oh, Kunikaze', she sighed before opening the attached card.
"I request the honor of your presence at the Café Millennia this Thursday at noon. Please bring this invitation." 'Kunikaze, you're so romantic', Mina sighed dreamily again. She quickly dialed his number, and patiently waited for that familiar voice that always caught her breath.
"Mr. Nakamura please, its It's Miss. Aino" Kunikaze's secretary immediately transferred her through.
"Mina"
"Kunikaze! I know you're busy, but arigato for the roses. They're lovely, and yes, I'll be there!"
"Flowers? What flowers?" puzzled and bewildered, Kunikaze's pride soon turned to jealousy.
"Oh Kaze!" Mina giggled, "Stop pretending! I just received the yellow roses and the invitation to meet you for lunch tomorrow at Café Millennia." Romantically he heard her sigh.
"Gomen ne, Sweetie, but I didn't send you flowers, and I haven't been able to plan for lunch tomorrow."
"Its not you?" Mina was puzzled, taking the note out again, she re-read every word.
"No honey its not me"
"If you didn't, then who did?" the question directed to herself. She was not only extremely confused, but curious as well.
"I don't know, but I don't like this! Don't go!" He said it out of concern, but also out of jealousy.
"Kaze, don't tell me what to do!"
"Minako, it isn't safe! You don't even know who sent it to you!" Kunikaze argued, her felt a steam of concern. Who could have sent it? What were their intentions? Unanswered questions flowed through his mind. "Don't go!"
"First of all Kaze, I don't see any ring on this finger, further more, I will not tolerate your tone and temper. I will go, and if you don't like it and its just to bad! Serves you right for not thinking of sending me roses in the first place, humpf!"
"MINA" the line was dead.
In her office, Mina inspected the roses, yellow, not red. So it couldn't be of someone that was obsessed with her. No these bright yellow roses, symbolized something else.
Kunikaze stared at the phone, disbelief, she hung up! Anger and jealousy swept through him, slamming the phone down on its cradle, storming out towards Mamoru's office. Completely ignoring Mamoru's secretary informing him that her boss was currently in a meeting.
"Mamoru!" barging into the office, not a care that Mamoru held a scowling face.
"Kaze, yes you are my best friend, but don't think I don't have enough balls to fire you!" with irritation from his narrowed gaze, he stared at his friend. "Take a brake" Mamoru turned to the two managers that were present.
"I need your advice! Perhaps even cancel a meeting for me."
"Now why would I want to do that?" Mamoru cocked an eyebrow.
"You and Zenji are going to Café Millennia with me at noon tomorrow!"
"Kunikaze, we go there every lunch time and besides I cant, it took months to arrange this meeting." Quietly Zenji sat on the couch quite amused.
"Mina just called and" Mamoru's eyes rolled heavenly.
"Mina, is your personal business, not mine, Zenji's or the four other men coming from afar"
"Stop being a bastard and listen will you and besides what's gotten your boxers wadded?" Mamoru looked on impatiently, he wasn't about to tell them anything about his frustrated evening. "She received 'roses', with a note inviting her to lunch", Kunikaze paced back and forth angrily as he relayed the information. "She thought I sent it to her, WHICH I DIDN'T!" he stopped pacing to look at Mamoru and Zenji. "Don't you guys see?! Someone's trying to move in on my Mina!" Mamoru and Zenji exchanged glances.
"Why not, its not like you two are married!"
"That's what she said!" With a scowl, Kunikaze went on "But that's not the point. The point is, its not safe" Mamoru and Zenji stared at one another the back to their friend. "OKAY, so im jealous too!"
"So I should cancel my meetings cause you can't keep other men from pursuing Miss. Aino!" Mamoru's question was more of an impatient statement.
"I still don't see why we need to be there or what you want us to do about it?" asked Zenji.
Kaze's explanations went on, why he needed to be there, and what type of problems he would have to deal with. Amusingly Mamoru looked at his friend, he was completely taken in by the Tsukino executive. No doubt their relationship was deepening. Perhaps, this would be a good thing. Leaning back on his leather chair, he listened.
Throughout the day all the other girls received invitations that mirrored Mina's. Ami received a bouquet of lavender roses, Rei's were pink, and Molly's were white, each, looking forward to their mysterious luncheon.
~ Thursday
Molly had impatiently endured her ten o'clock meeting. She could hardly wait for lunch. As she headed out, she ran into Amy and Mina near Jeshi's office.
"I'm on my way to a special lunch at Café Millennia." she heard Amy relay to Mina.
"That's where I'm going, too and for the same reason!" Mina and Molly revealed. Both were curious then but now!
"Minna" Amy began, "you didn't happen to get a bouquet of roses and an invitation did you?" Ami watched their eyes widen.
"Hai!" said Mina and Molly in surprise. Then they looked at one another "You got one, too?"
"What is going on here? What's this about roses?" asked Jeshi, as he emerged from his office.
"It seems that all three of us received roses and are going to a luncheon", said Ami. "Do any of you know who sent these invitations?"
"What invitations? and why wasn't I invited?" Jeshi never liked to be left out.
"I certainly don't know. I first thought it was Kunikaze, but he denied everything," Mina quickly relayed the conversation she had with him the previous day.
"Well, at least we don't have to go alone" Molly sounded somewhat relieved and stared at Jeshi.
"Can someone please tell me what's going on here?" frustrated, Jeshi questioned. The girls throughout the years had become his close sisters. They were family to him in a way but all these girlie things were quite odd.
"Minna, we better go or will be late!" Ami began heading towards the elevator with the girls quickly in tow.
"Jeshi, we're sorry! We'll explain to you on the way"
"Come on, Handsome. You get the lucky job of playing bodyguard in case we end up dining with a looney!" Mina playfully grabbed Jeshi's arm and dragged him along.
Makoto hummed a pretty tune as she put the finishing touches to the table. Each plate had a single rose that corresponded with the color of the bouquet that was sent earlier. 'Oh this is gonna be so fun!' she smiled as she looked at her watch. 'They should be coming any minute now!'
"Makoto", called out a familiar voice.
"Hi, Honey!" She walked over to her finance, giving him a hug and a kiss.
"Makoto, what's going on?" asked Motoki looking at the elegantly decorated table.
"Well . . .umm . . .someone paid extra to have this table reserved with finishing touches." Makoto giggled. It wasn't a complete lie - besides, he would find out soon enough. "Why do you ask?"
Motoki chuckled. "Because, I had a very angry Kunikaze on the phone earlier about Mina meeting someone here for lunch. Not only have you added special touches to this table, but you brought out your best china and linen!" Makoto tried to speak, but found herself in a fit of giggles.
"Honey, it's not funny. He actually thinks that someone's trying to move in on Mina!"
"Gomen", Makoto tried to control her laughter, "but, Honey, Kunikaze doesn't have anything to worry about. As you can clearly see, it's a table for six not two."
"I see that, but can you please clue me in."
"Hey Motoki", Kunikaze strolled in, looking around from his entrance.
"Hey guys, your table's right there." Motoki pointed to a table to the right of the especially reserved one. Makoto had to choke back more laughter as she saw Kunikaze staring down every man in the restaurant.
"How about Mamoru-san's table?" asked Zenji
"He's coming?" asked Kunikaze
"He decided to have a lunch meeting instead"
"I knew he wouldn't let me down"
"Unfortunately the upstairs is occupied and already reserved so I had to sit him there" Motoki pointed.
"Perfect!" Kunikaze and the rest of the men took their seats. While Zenji, who had set sight on Mamoru's secretary, followed by their investors met them.
The group was settled and started their orders when Mina entered with the rest of the girls and poor Jeshi behind.
"We'll it seems that Mina isn't the only one attending this rendezvous", Narahiko observed
From behind the Tsukino's Groups Entrance, Mamoru and one other investor approached, Zenji, speaking to him silently before ushering them to their table. It was on the other side of the Tsukino girls, opposite to Kunikaze's seat.
Mamoru waited until all we're seated before taking a quick glance towards the girls then to Kunikaze. This was pure childish, Mamoru thought, unbelieving what had compelled him to bring his meeting here.
Jeshi followed the ladies and stood, while each girl took their seat. When his own fiancé appeared behind him. "Jeshi what are you doing here?" she asked.
Jeshi had narrowed his eyes at his fiancé "You got one too and didn't tell me about it?" Rei had the consort to blush.
"I didn't think it was necessary since."
"Since what? You receive flowers from someone you don't know and you say it isn't necessary!" Jeshi was furious, it made him feel as if Rei was sneaking around. The girls saw the subject escalating to something and Makoto went between the two.
"Jeshi, why don't you go sit with Motoki and them" Makoto slowly pushed Jeshi towards the next table. With a small sigh, Rei turned to look to the others as Jeshi sat amongst the men.
"Don't tell me you guys got invitations, too?" Jeshi asked distastefully.
"No, we didn't. We're here to observe" said Kunikaze.
"Spy is more the word" Narahiko stated.
"Good, I was actually feeling a little left out!" Jeshi "aside form that, I'm going to pound on the person that had the gal to send Rei flowers and the fact that she didn't tell me only angers me more" Jeshi took a sip of his water, still keeping an eye on his fiancé.
"Maybe she didn't want you to react like Kunikaze!" Motoki included.
"That's aside the point.. She's my fiancée, she's suppose to tell me these things and not sneak around. How would you feel if Makoto.."
"I wouldn't cause she would of told me" Motoki agreed, he would be extremely upset.
"Makoto you have outdone yourself" the girls gawked at the fine settings, decorated in pastels and whites.
"You've even taken out your fine china Makoto, What's going on?" asked Mina
Makoto sat smilingly and giddily. "It's a surprise so I cant tell you yet" Molly had turned slightly and saw the faces of the men that sat near them.
"Mina! There's Kunikaze." she whispered sheepishly "and he doesn't look happy." glancing over at the table full of handsome men, blushing at the contact she and Narahiko made.
"Jeshi don't look too thrilled either" Ami set sights on her silently fuming co-worker.
"Tough! he'll just have to deal with it"
"Rei, why didn't you tell him" asked Mina
"I don't have to tell him everything you know"
"He's your fiancé, he has the right to know if he has to confront another man" Makoto easily put it, she had not agreed with Rei's actions in not telling her fiancé. Rei's gaze fell forward to the silverware and in a quick thought, she looked over at Jeshi.
Jeshi remained seated as he watched Rei maker her way towards him. He stared at her impatiently then stood. They all watched as the two of them went outside.
"Sometimes I wonder if those two will survive their honeymoon"
"Yeah seeing that their both so stubborn and temperamental."
"Okay Makoto, I want to know!" happily Mina questioned, picking up the bouquet of flowers and arrangements all around.
"You'll just have to wait and see." Makoto gave her friends a sly grin.
The guys looked on curiously. "Hey Motoki, do you have any idea what or who is this all about?" asked Kunikaze.
"Well, all I know Kaze is that it's a girl thing, so you don't have to worry."
"Makoto is part of this whole thing?"
"Yes she is, but she's keeping a tight lid on it so I don't know what's going on either."
"You know, all these roses remind me of our childhood" Ami whispered
"Yeah remember when we sold roses at the corner to make some money for the movies, cause our parents wouldn't give us any" laughed Molly.
"Mrs. Masauki was sure upset when she found out it was her roses we were selling" Makoto chuckled.
"you know something Jeshi, Kunikaze, I didn't our girlfriends were such delinguquents when they were young" Motoki had his laugh.
"All those cut off bushes we left." They all started to laugh, when a sudden shussshing sound came from the table beside them. Their gazes went directly to Mamoru who at that moment was not pleased. "Excuse us" Makoto apologized.
"Well excuse me!" Mina bitterly whispered. "He was the one with no sense and had a lunch meeting at a restaurant"
"You don't like him do you?" asked Ami
"No.. its not that I don't like him. I don't know him personally. It's just I think he plays dirty and I'm not up for that." Mina silently gave a glance towards Kunikaze "I just hope Kunikaze is not trying to..."
"He's not!" cutting her off, Makoto already knew the answer.
"Hey" Molly cut in before the mood soured "remember when Usagi-chan, gave us a bunch of roses before she left?" It didn't work.
"Yes," Amy sighed "she did always love roses. I remember her giving us each a rose right before she left for New York."
"I still have mine pressed between the pages in my yearbook." Mina commented.
"Mine, too! I even still have some of notes we passed back and forth in class!"
"Hey guys" Rei returned from her make up with Jeshi and seated. Giving the girls curious looks when their eyes all seemed misty. "Why look so glum?"
"We were just talking about Usagi-chan" Rei always knew that was a happy but sad subject. All of them had been great friends, and even with the distance that lie between all of them, they still wrote and kept up with each other.
The girls slowly went into a melancholy state as they thought of their beloved friend, whom they hadn't seen in so very long. Missing her greatly, they began reminiscing. A few stories were exchanged before Molly caught a familiar figure out of the corner of her eye.
"Is.. that...!" she pointed towards the entrance. Everyone including the table that Motoki and the others occupied turned to see an amazingly beautiful woman in a light pink suit. Tightly wrapping her body, her short skirt was detailed with deeply embroidered flowers and finished off with three-inch slits on each side. The same smile that they had always known, the same blue depths that always got them in trouble with her antics but it was her old, familiar hairstyle that caught the attention of the five waiting girls. Her beauty caught the attention of the male customers. Even Mamoru, who had been engrossed in his meeting had to stop.
"Hey its.." Kunikaze was about to say.
"USAGI!" the girls squealed in perfect unison. Mamoru was speechless, if he thought she was a sight in her casual summer dress, she was even eye catching in a business suit.
Usagi had started to make her way towards the group of girls, one by one after the initial shock, they stood and quickly made their way for their first hug. The group hug, more like a group tackle, was filled with laughter and tears.
"Oh, Minna! I've missed you all so much!" Usagi's sweet voice was music to their ears.
"We've missed you, too . . . Meatball Head!"
"Oh, Rei! You haven't changed one bit!"
~
"I don't believe it" Motoki smiled
"She's very familiar?" Jeshi couldn't quite figure it out "But I know I've seen her somewhere"
"I bet you have"
"Where?" he inquired.
"Old school photos of the girls" Jeshi saw the reunion and tried to remember. Trying to place where he had seen... "I got it! She's that girl who moved to America" Five men turned to watch the misty eyed women. Intrigued by the new comer, conducting a meeting, a man with navy black hair had to stop and watch in curiosity.
~
"I see you still use these" Rei pulled one of her pigtails "but you know what? I've missed them!", she smiled as she gave one final, playful tug. Usagi giggled before giving her friend a hug.
"I wore them just for you!"
"Wait a minute, Makoto, when did you find out that Usagi was here?" The girls suddenly realized that if Makoto was in on this whole surprise, then she must have been meeting with Usagi.
"I found out Tuesday!" the secret competition, that were always an underlying factor in the girl's friendship, made Makoto feel a little pride in being the first to know about Usagi's homecoming.
"Hey! How come she got to find out on Tuesday?" Mina asked with a little pout.
"Well I needed her help to surprise all of you, I surely couldn't do it myself", said Usagi. "Besides, if I invited you guys to my place, you would of all probably declined."
"Yeah probably" Answered Mina. Dropping her napkin, Mina bent to pick it up when her line of vision met Mamoru's stare. His hard and focused stare, and it all directed to Usagi. Returning to her position, Mina had to admit, she didn't like that look at all.
Motoki had taken leave and now returned with a frame in hand. He sat down quietly and turned the frame around for all of them to see. "You see, this is Makoto, Rei, Molly, Ami, Mina and that's her", he pointed to a younger version of the pigtailed blonde. "That's Usagi"
"Why did she leave Japan?"
"I think Makoto said that her father decided to start a business in New York or something." Motoki looked at Mamoru. "Hey what's up with your boss?"
"Remember the story we told you about yellow roses, stuffings, grapes, and bunnies?" Motoki and the others nodded. "Well.." Kunikaze nodded towards Usagi.
"Are you serious! Oh man, wouldn't Mako love to hear this." Taking a glance towards his friend, Motoki shook his head, then a dark though ran through his mind. "On second thought, I rather not tell Mako about this"
Kaze looked on between Mamoru's line of focus. Mamoru seemed to listen with little interest, his eyes glazed and completely remaining on Usagi.
"Usagi, where are you staying?"
"Oh, she bought a house here! Isn't that great!" Makoto piped up happily.
"You bought a house?" The girls were pleasantly surprised.
"Did I hear you correctly, did you just say you bought a house!" Rei wiped her mouth, stunned into silence.
"I thought you were here on vacation!"
"No, I'm not, I'm here, for good or at lease till I retire" Happily Usagi patted Molly's hand.
"That's great! Oh this is so awesome" Mina piped, a chorus of cheers went around the table.
"I really didn't think you would ever come back!" Rei began,
"For once, I'm happy to be wrong!"
"SO what do you do Usagi chan?" Asked Ami. Usagi turned towards Makoto. Finding Usagi's plead for help, Makoto motioned for there food.
"Ah, Minna, let's enjoy our meal"
Mamoru tried to stay focus, his eyes held numbers but his mind were elsewhere. The idea of having a meeting during lunch wasn't such a bad idea at first, but now. Mamoru glanced from his report to the table the girls sat on, finding Usagi listening to Rei. It was trouble. Usagi innocently giggled as Rei and the others shared a thing or two. Even when she ate, she was gracious and lovely. Incredibly, she was beautiful. With a slight frown, his head bent back towards the report. Squinting a bit, he read. His life would not be undermined over a pretty face, distractions were not allowed. Mamoru took another glance up, his eyes searching for her. To his surprise, she was looking at him. Their eyes meet, a greeting was passed with her smile and his. It was then he vowed, he must have her and have her he shall the perhaps, his infatuation would be satisfied. Mamoru winked before returning to his associate.
Usagi was about to dig in, but then began eyeing the dish cautiously. "Usagi chan, is everything okay?"
"Makoto, this doesn't happen to have any"
"Don't worry, babe. I cooked it myself and gave my assistants strict instructions." Makoto then giggled. "Silly rabbit, did you think I would forget! I was always so careful when I sent you cookies!"
Usagi smiled gratefully as she picked up her utensils.
"What are you taking about? Are you watching your weight, Usagi?"
"Don't you remember? Usagi is fatally allergic to any type of nuts! It's actually a fairly common allergy - we have had several requests for meals free of any type of nuts." Rei knitted her brow together.
"Right, but this dish don't look like it has nuts in it." Sometimes Makoto would dress up asparagus with almond slivers, but she hadn't seen any on the dish.
"True, but the dish can be cooked in peanut oil or have an extract from nuts that she will react to. People with food allergies really have to be careful and double check ingredients. You would be surprised at what types of foods can be found in a recipe." Remembering a terrible incident where she had to be hospitalized, Usagi quickly changed the subject and began sharing happy times with her friends.
Motoki admired the reunited friends. For as long as he had been with Makoto, she had always spoken very fondly of Usagi. Indeed she was beautiful. With a quick look towards Mamoru's table, he found him speaking to his clients then every few seconds glanced towards Usagi. Motoki didn't know if Mamoru's interest in Usagi would be good, in fact he almost felt uneasy about the whole situation.
"I can't imagine what could possibly be on his mind!" Kunikaze drawled sarcastically.
"I wouldn't blame him" Narahiko leaned back from his meal "she is a sight to see" His eyes then traveled to Molly.
"Hey man, what cha thinking about?" Kunikaze nudged Motoki as he forked up more beef. "You've had that frown for five minutes. What's up?"
"Mamoru" Kaze, Narahiko and Zenji all glanced towards Mamoru.
"What about him?" asked Zenji.
"He's not focused"
"Yeah so!"
"I don't like the way he looks at Usagi"
"What do you mean?"
"Like that" Motoki pointed as Mamoru, leaned back on his chair, his hands on his lap. Apparently his clients had stepped away for a moment. Relax, Mamoru eyed Usagi, his eyes turning to different gleams of light. Ideas forming, and Motoki didn't know if he liked these ideas.
"What's the matter with how he's looking at her, its not like we've never seen it before" Zenji's comment had hit a nerve, Kunikaze didn't say anything, this would cause a problem with things. As it was, Mina didn't like Mamoru, being her rival company and all. In fact it took him months to get Mina to open to him. "He does it all the time with other women"
"No, I don't think so Zenji. He's got ideas brewing in that head of his" Kunikaze looked on. The man almost looked as if he was about starved for Usagi. Yes, it would definitely complicate things between Mina and him if Mamoru decides to play playboy with Mina's best friend.
Joshua came over to stand beside Usagi. "Excuse me, Miss Usagi, but the gentleman would like to know if you are attached." He gestured towards a window table where two well-dressed business men were sitting. The man facing them was directing a charming smile towards Usagi, who returned it. The men all had heard, and turned.
"That's Steven Mancini, the owner of Nitron Electronics", Molly nudged Usagi as she offered the information. Steven smiled at all the ladies, raising his wineglass to them all, but particularly Usagi.
"I see that Mr. Mancini isn't wasting his time", Motoki noted then turned towards Mamoru. Clearly, Mamoru had seen the exchange, an impassive look came upon his face, underneath the façade, Motoki knew was anger.
"This isn't good" Kunikaze had also noticed Mamoru's features.
Mancini and Mamoru just don't mix.
"Seems to me, they're both after the same game"
"Usagi, answer the man" Rei prodded, anxious herself to hear the response. Mina was also about to add her two cents when she caught site of Mamoru, he look tense.
"Well, I" she muttered. Sure Usagi was flattered, but her mind was elsewhere at the moment. A second pass before she looked up to find a relaxed Mamoru to be watching. It took a while, but he smiled, sweetly and menacingly. With a quick turn from his gaze, she answered.
"Joshua, please tell Mr. Mancini that I am flattered, but I am currently involved in a relationship." She could feel Mamoru's stare.
"Usagi, why did you tell him that you are involved in a relationship? You said to me the other day that you were single." asked Makoto.
"I am, but I don't think I'm ready to jump right into a relationship with anyone, I just arrived for goodness sakes."
"So you're saying that you are not involved with anyone?"
"Correct!" she responded.
"So once you are settle in" Mina questioned Usagi as she kept her eyes on Mamoru. "You'll start dating?" Usagi laughed at her friends' curiosity. She had missed them so much.
"Perhaps"
"Oh please! You're just playing hard-to-get! I mean, look at you! You are probably never without male company!" Usagi stuck out her tongue in response.
The guys were deeply interested in the girls' conversation, taking note in Usagi's private life.
Mamoru smile gleamed, it mattered not if she was single, he thought absently. But none the less, he was happy that she was very single, silently he grinned in defeat. A quick observation of his surroundings, he found a watching Mancini. Both with curt nods they agreed to a silent challenge. "Bastard" chuckled Mamoru.
Kunikaze and Motoki exchanged amused glances with each other as they watched their friend flaunt his hidden victory. "I didn't like that at all Kaze, those two had challenged one another"
"And the prize is Usagi" No Motoki didn't like this at all. Poor girl, glancing towards Usagi, she was innocent and free going, well as both Chiba and Mancini were wolves out on a prowl and what was worst, they both intended to win.
"No, Mina, I'm not playing hard to get! I'm just not"
Usagi shifted uncomfortably in her chair, "I just haven't found the right man, and I'm inexperience when it comes to relationships." She tried whispering quietly only for the girls to hear, but on the other table the men were quiet as a mouse, leaning as far as they could to hear.
"WHAT?" said Rei, this outburst startled the men who literally almost fell out of their seats. Kunikaze grabbed onto Zenji before he went flying backwards into the girls' table.
"Shhh!" Makoto hissed at Rei, aware of the curious table next to them.
"Did you say that you were inexperience?", whispered Mina
"Minna, I think we better talk about Usagi's love life later and in private", Ami discreetly gestured towards the guys' table.
"Thanks Ami", a blushing Usagi suddenly became very interested in her dessert.
The girls laughed and chatted happily long after their meal was done, catching up on missing years. Usagi always seemed to keep the conversation on what the others were doing and stayed elusive as to her own doings. The guys were interested in the small tidbits they gathered about Usagi, as well as what they were learning about the others. Unknowing to the others around them, Mamoru and Usagi were stealing glances at one another. The restaurant now was almost empty, it was 2:15 the usual time for afternoon closing in preparation for dinner. There was still the usual outburst of laughter from the girls.
"I noticed your outfit is a Jaqes" Ami began, trying to pry a little something more out of Usagi. The others waited for Usagi's answer, wondering just what she did.
"Yeah, Sere, just what do you do?" asked Mina as she looks at her friend. Usagi, not wanting to give it away just yet, looked at
Makoto. Knowing that Usagi wasn't quite ready to drop the bomb, nodded in agreement to not say anything just yet. All eyes focused on Usagi as they waited for her response.
"There's plenty of time to talk about that. Right now, I want to talk about all of you", Usagi tried to change the subject.
"Why won't you tell us Usagi?" Molly was curious as to her friend's secretive nature.
"Honestly Usagi, why so tight lipped? It's not like you're a call girl or something, right? Right?" Rei eyed her friend suspiciously.
Usagi had choked on her water.
"WHAT?"
"Usagi, you're not involved in anything illegal are you?"
"Oh my goodness, Usagi! Was this lunch a cry for help? Did you come to Tokyo to escape your life of crime?"
"I've heard that moving to New York can really change a person! Oh Usa chan, I knew you shouldn't have moved there!"
Usagi looked incredulously at her friends as their overactive imaginations got the best of them. A blush tainted her delicate cheeks from their line of questioning.
"MINNA! Knock it off!" Makoto stormed at her friends. "This is Usagi we're talking about! She'll tell her about her legitimate job when she's ready! Geez "
"Poor Usagi! Guess she'll have to get readjusted to the girls' again!" Motoki laughed as he sipped the coffee that Joshua had just served.
"And to think that we thought the afternoon would be spent holding Kunikaze down!" Narahiko joked as he stirred sugar into his coffee.
"C'mon, Usa chan, admit it! You're a stripper, aren't you!" Rei accused mockingly and nodded towards the guys listening. The other caught on, "So how much do you charge?"
"It all depends" Usagi was trying her might not to laugh "If he's worth it or not, but I only call on men who can afford me"
"Wow, so how much?" asked Molly
"10k a day"
"10 thousand, oh my gosh, You think their taking Brunettes, I mean sometimes it gets a little slow here?" asked Lita, Motoki spewed his coffee out.
"Blonds are well liked" Mina added "I'm sure I can raise the price higher" It was Kaze's turn.
"Rei, I think you would look rather exotic" Ami had seen Jeshi's wonder.
"Now what the hell did you guys just mean?" Jeshi stood with a rather furious scowl. He stood, his eyes accusingly at Usagi, then at Rei. Silently brewed between them all, in an instant Rei, Usagi and the rest laughed heartily.
"Oh that was fresh" laughed Mako "Me a stripper?" she eyed Motoki who held an arched brow, then laughed even harder as she noticed his shirt. "Serves you guys right for eves dropping" He stood, and purposely yanked on her hand to get her up rooted.
"The only one your stripping for sweetheart is me, so don't go on thinking about it!" He kissed her then.
"Hey quit it!" Molly closed her eyes
"Usagi chan, this is Motoki Furuhata, my fiancé and partner" Motoki offered his hand and graciously she took it.
"I've heard so much about you"
"Good things I hope?" he asked with a chuckle.
"The best!" Oh he liked her then, she knew how to talk. "Minna, all this laughing is going to make me explode!" giggled Usagi "Point me in the direction of the nearest bathroom?" she asked.
"Why don't you use our private one, it's upstairs second door to the right", motioned Makoto.
"Thanks" she said walking away from the table.
Mamoru stood with his clients, calmly shook hands then allowed Miss. Tanaka usher them out. His standing form, caught Usagi making her way up the stairs. Appreciative, his eyes grew on a lazily gaze.
"How long have you've been listening?" Makoto interrogated.
"Long enough!" Kaze turned to Mina who had been watching Mamoru.
"Hey if Usagi over there decides to want to go out, kindly give her my number"
"They'll be no taking Usagi out, not by any of you at lease" Rei pointed out and watch Mamoru approach the group, it was time he thought to join the group. "Especially YOU!"
"What did I do?" Jeshi kept a furious frown on Mamoru. They guy was a complete jerk and he had a way of baiting him, causing his temper to flare. Motoki sighed, like any threats ever deterred Mamoru.
"Rei had just told the men that they'll be 'NO' taking Usagi chan out and included you" Mina turned her taunting eyes towards Mamoru.
"Wouldn't you think Usagi is old enough to maker her choices Mina chan" Kaze took Mina's hand and held it. He hasn't even gone out with her and things were already started to get complicated. "Besides, we've met and she's agreed to have dinner with me" Kaze and Motoki groaned. The girls just stared with opened mouths.
"You don't waste your time do you?" Mina was furious, her eyes leveling to the man who thought he was gods gift to women and hells gift for his hellfire games with women. "Just remember Mamoru! She is not like the whores you date!"
"Mina" Mako tried to ease, she knew the two sparked fire when together. They both were business rivals after all. Then the thought occurred. Holy shit, imagine the fire when he finds out what Usagi did.
"I don't know what your talking about?" Mamoru crossed his arms, she was a bitch when it regarded him, but then again, he had always been that much of an asshole to her.
"Mamoru san, Usagi has morals and values, she's just wholesome" Mako needed to tell Motoki about Usagi, soon.
"I won't tolerate anyone who hurting her" Mamoru realized that the girls were all lording over him with serious, glaring faces.
"Who said anything about hurting her?" he questioned with a self assured gleam in his eye. Usagi came back down the stairs.
She had removed her blazer, revealing a one-piece, low-cut spaghetti strap dress. The flattering design and cut of the outfit revealed just how shapely her figure was, not to mention her fully engorged breasts. The guys all swallowed the lumps in their throats as she came closer. The ladies were also in surprised, they hadn't realized that their skinny little school friend had developed so seductively.
"Who died?" asked Usagi noticing the eerie quietness in the dinning hall. She then realized that they were all staring at her. She looked down at herself. "Minna, do I have something on me? Why are you all looking at me so"
"Nothing Usagi!" Mina quickly answered the scowled again noticing how close she stood to Mamoru.
One by one, Usagi charmed them all with her natural friendliness and kawaii smile. And when it came to Kunikaze, she smiled even wider.
"Nice to see you again Kunikaze san"
"Call me Kaze" He formally shook her hand.
"You've met?" asked Mina "Where?"
"Quite a long story Mina" Usagi added "but we first met at a party then at the grocery store" Quickly Usagi turned towards Mamoru, with a smile even brighter then the one for Kaze, she hesitated then greeted.
"We meet again Chiba san"
"We do indeed" Usagi extended her hand, an he took it freely. Brought by his famous charm, Usagi was quite pleased and surprised, Mamoru laid a feathered kiss on her hand. They stared deep into each other's eyes and no one dared to say anything. Mina was glowering, and it took Kaze's hold to restrain her from pouncing on Mamoru. The girls, however, held worry in their eyes.
"Can you please explain where you three have met?" Rei narrowed her eyes.
Pulling up a chair, the three explained their encounter. Mamoru, kept his interest on Usagi. She was so feminine and breath taking that he couldn't help but stare at her, drinking in her beautiful sight.
"Wait, we didn't see you at the party?" Ami had added "What were you doing at Moonrose Country?"
"I didn't go to the party minna, I live next door to Mr. Itano is it?"
"YOU LIVE in Moon Rose Country?!" they exclaimed.
"Yes. Why?" Usagi frowned.
"Moon Rose Country is very exquisite property and is only available to those who qualify, 'money' and 'status' wise" Mamoru stated.
"That's where the rich and famous live" Mina was still looking at her in awe.
Usagi shrugged it off. "It's just a house"
"I told you they wouldn't believe it" Makoto smiled at her friend's modesty. "the place is gorgeous"
"Now, I'm really dying to know what you do!" Rei leaned in towards Usagi, preparing for her to spill at least a clue as to what she did.
"I tell you one thing!" Usagi cocked an eyebrow at her curious friends. "I . . .am . . . not . . . a . . . stripper!" She pointed her finger at all of them, emphasizing her words.
"I hate to break this up, but we can't be late for our next meeting!" Amy glanced at her watch as she motioned for Mina, Molly and Jeshi to gather their things. The rest followed suit and began their good-byes. Usagi handed out her number to the girls with an invite for a get together on the weekend.
"I see someone's eyes on a blue haired executive" Laughed Rei "would he be interested?"
"Me.. Oh come on!"
"Yeah, Ami is not his type at all, he likes the girls Mamoru goes out with" before he can stop himself he spoke freely "the real easy ones! Wham.. Bam" Mamoru was about to fire his executive. His glowering face quieted them all, his arms crossed and he looked as intimidating as ever.
"Baka!" Kunikaze hissed then motioned towards Usagi. "do you want to get yourself fired, or better yet" Kaze looked at his friend "killed!" Mamoru who usually was very cool when hiding his tracks, was rendered speechless and it didn't make it any easier your fired Narahiko!' he thought with clenched teeth.
Usagi waited for an answer as she stared back at Mamoru.
His blues eyes seemed to be filled with guilt and regret. "Mamoru's not like that" Kaze added. "He's just a.."
"Well liked!" Motoki added, to save face. Mamoru groaned even louder.
"Yeah, and I'm a monkey's uncle!" Rei crossed her arms in front of her chest and glared at Mamoru. She wasn't going to let him save face just so he could take advantage of her friend.
"You know, Mamoru", Usagi shifted the conversation as she came up to him and took his arm, "How come it feels like everyone is just interested in our affairs?" she questioned sarcastically.
Mamoru was a little surprised, but smiled at her sarcasm and playful mood. "I agree, Usagi."
"You would think they have their own lives to question"
Usagi grinned mischievously at everyone before turning to
"Usagi, you don't know him" Rei was trying to add, yes this was her boss and her job was probably on the line like Narahiko's but this was Usagi.
"Rei, don't you have to meet with Anika?" Mamoru prompted, silence went over the two, then without another word to him she picked up her purse.
"Ill see you later Usagi chan and when I do. You and I will have a long talk" she left without another glance.
"Well that was odd" Usagi had released Mamoru's arm. Taking note of the time, she too voiced that she had to go.
"How about that dinner Usagi?"
"You wont stop will you?" she smiled to his charming face.
"Not until you agree" Motoki, Mako and the others turned from Mamoru then back to Usagi. "Say yes and its that easy" he grinned, with hesitation Usagi knew when she was being played for one of the fishes in the sea.
"I'm not easy Mamoru" Usagi smiled sweetly, picking up her blazer. Motoki changed his mind, he loved Usagi, she was giving Mamoru a hard time and it was high about time a woman did. Perhaps he didn't have much to worry after all. She bid goodbye to everyone and started to maker her way when Mamoru spoke.
"You'll say yes sooner or later Usagi?" With a quick turn, she smiled and alluring and promising smile.
"It wont be easy" she started "But I believe I will"
To Be continued.
Revised 11.02
By: Raq
Authors Note:
Thanks to all that had a wonderful response to this story. I have to say it made me get off my ass and get on working. I did some major scalping in this chapter, I found that the original line was horrible, well to me at lease.
Changes
As you've seen, I've done some changes throughout the recent chapters and it wont end there. I would like to make some obvious factors.
Name changes, I've decided since they were in Japan they should at lease hold Japanese names.
Mamoru and Jeshi hostile attitude, Jeshi doesn't like Mamoru very much as you can see now. In the original story, they were much friends, I've decided that Jeshi and Mina will come to champion Usagi when it comes and definitely give our Mamo a hard ass time.
Yes, Mamoru is as arrogant as they come nower days but we have to admit we all love it when he comes down on his knees, humbling himself for his Usako neh?
And Usagi, I had her pretty innocent and naïve before, but I think it will all change.
Anyhow Enjoy!
~
"A special delivery just arrived for you, it's on your desk", Mina's assistant told her boss as the striking blonde returned from a meeting.
"Arigato, screen my calls Kayu, I have quite a bit of paperwork to review."
"How about Mr. Nakamura?" her assistant arched a knowledge brow.
"He's an exception", a slight blush touched Mina's cheeks. She quickly retreated to her office before her blushing increased. Her eyes immediately caught sight of a vase holding delicate yellow roses. Sinking in her chair and with a dreamy expression on her face. She plucked a single rose and inhaled he sweet scent. 'Oh, Kunikaze', she sighed before opening the attached card.
"I request the honor of your presence at the Café Millennia this Thursday at noon. Please bring this invitation." 'Kunikaze, you're so romantic', Mina sighed dreamily again. She quickly dialed his number, and patiently waited for that familiar voice that always caught her breath.
"Mr. Nakamura please, its It's Miss. Aino" Kunikaze's secretary immediately transferred her through.
"Mina"
"Kunikaze! I know you're busy, but arigato for the roses. They're lovely, and yes, I'll be there!"
"Flowers? What flowers?" puzzled and bewildered, Kunikaze's pride soon turned to jealousy.
"Oh Kaze!" Mina giggled, "Stop pretending! I just received the yellow roses and the invitation to meet you for lunch tomorrow at Café Millennia." Romantically he heard her sigh.
"Gomen ne, Sweetie, but I didn't send you flowers, and I haven't been able to plan for lunch tomorrow."
"Its not you?" Mina was puzzled, taking the note out again, she re-read every word.
"No honey its not me"
"If you didn't, then who did?" the question directed to herself. She was not only extremely confused, but curious as well.
"I don't know, but I don't like this! Don't go!" He said it out of concern, but also out of jealousy.
"Kaze, don't tell me what to do!"
"Minako, it isn't safe! You don't even know who sent it to you!" Kunikaze argued, her felt a steam of concern. Who could have sent it? What were their intentions? Unanswered questions flowed through his mind. "Don't go!"
"First of all Kaze, I don't see any ring on this finger, further more, I will not tolerate your tone and temper. I will go, and if you don't like it and its just to bad! Serves you right for not thinking of sending me roses in the first place, humpf!"
"MINA" the line was dead.
In her office, Mina inspected the roses, yellow, not red. So it couldn't be of someone that was obsessed with her. No these bright yellow roses, symbolized something else.
Kunikaze stared at the phone, disbelief, she hung up! Anger and jealousy swept through him, slamming the phone down on its cradle, storming out towards Mamoru's office. Completely ignoring Mamoru's secretary informing him that her boss was currently in a meeting.
"Mamoru!" barging into the office, not a care that Mamoru held a scowling face.
"Kaze, yes you are my best friend, but don't think I don't have enough balls to fire you!" with irritation from his narrowed gaze, he stared at his friend. "Take a brake" Mamoru turned to the two managers that were present.
"I need your advice! Perhaps even cancel a meeting for me."
"Now why would I want to do that?" Mamoru cocked an eyebrow.
"You and Zenji are going to Café Millennia with me at noon tomorrow!"
"Kunikaze, we go there every lunch time and besides I cant, it took months to arrange this meeting." Quietly Zenji sat on the couch quite amused.
"Mina just called and" Mamoru's eyes rolled heavenly.
"Mina, is your personal business, not mine, Zenji's or the four other men coming from afar"
"Stop being a bastard and listen will you and besides what's gotten your boxers wadded?" Mamoru looked on impatiently, he wasn't about to tell them anything about his frustrated evening. "She received 'roses', with a note inviting her to lunch", Kunikaze paced back and forth angrily as he relayed the information. "She thought I sent it to her, WHICH I DIDN'T!" he stopped pacing to look at Mamoru and Zenji. "Don't you guys see?! Someone's trying to move in on my Mina!" Mamoru and Zenji exchanged glances.
"Why not, its not like you two are married!"
"That's what she said!" With a scowl, Kunikaze went on "But that's not the point. The point is, its not safe" Mamoru and Zenji stared at one another the back to their friend. "OKAY, so im jealous too!"
"So I should cancel my meetings cause you can't keep other men from pursuing Miss. Aino!" Mamoru's question was more of an impatient statement.
"I still don't see why we need to be there or what you want us to do about it?" asked Zenji.
Kaze's explanations went on, why he needed to be there, and what type of problems he would have to deal with. Amusingly Mamoru looked at his friend, he was completely taken in by the Tsukino executive. No doubt their relationship was deepening. Perhaps, this would be a good thing. Leaning back on his leather chair, he listened.
Throughout the day all the other girls received invitations that mirrored Mina's. Ami received a bouquet of lavender roses, Rei's were pink, and Molly's were white, each, looking forward to their mysterious luncheon.
~ Thursday
Molly had impatiently endured her ten o'clock meeting. She could hardly wait for lunch. As she headed out, she ran into Amy and Mina near Jeshi's office.
"I'm on my way to a special lunch at Café Millennia." she heard Amy relay to Mina.
"That's where I'm going, too and for the same reason!" Mina and Molly revealed. Both were curious then but now!
"Minna" Amy began, "you didn't happen to get a bouquet of roses and an invitation did you?" Ami watched their eyes widen.
"Hai!" said Mina and Molly in surprise. Then they looked at one another "You got one, too?"
"What is going on here? What's this about roses?" asked Jeshi, as he emerged from his office.
"It seems that all three of us received roses and are going to a luncheon", said Ami. "Do any of you know who sent these invitations?"
"What invitations? and why wasn't I invited?" Jeshi never liked to be left out.
"I certainly don't know. I first thought it was Kunikaze, but he denied everything," Mina quickly relayed the conversation she had with him the previous day.
"Well, at least we don't have to go alone" Molly sounded somewhat relieved and stared at Jeshi.
"Can someone please tell me what's going on here?" frustrated, Jeshi questioned. The girls throughout the years had become his close sisters. They were family to him in a way but all these girlie things were quite odd.
"Minna, we better go or will be late!" Ami began heading towards the elevator with the girls quickly in tow.
"Jeshi, we're sorry! We'll explain to you on the way"
"Come on, Handsome. You get the lucky job of playing bodyguard in case we end up dining with a looney!" Mina playfully grabbed Jeshi's arm and dragged him along.
Makoto hummed a pretty tune as she put the finishing touches to the table. Each plate had a single rose that corresponded with the color of the bouquet that was sent earlier. 'Oh this is gonna be so fun!' she smiled as she looked at her watch. 'They should be coming any minute now!'
"Makoto", called out a familiar voice.
"Hi, Honey!" She walked over to her finance, giving him a hug and a kiss.
"Makoto, what's going on?" asked Motoki looking at the elegantly decorated table.
"Well . . .umm . . .someone paid extra to have this table reserved with finishing touches." Makoto giggled. It wasn't a complete lie - besides, he would find out soon enough. "Why do you ask?"
Motoki chuckled. "Because, I had a very angry Kunikaze on the phone earlier about Mina meeting someone here for lunch. Not only have you added special touches to this table, but you brought out your best china and linen!" Makoto tried to speak, but found herself in a fit of giggles.
"Honey, it's not funny. He actually thinks that someone's trying to move in on Mina!"
"Gomen", Makoto tried to control her laughter, "but, Honey, Kunikaze doesn't have anything to worry about. As you can clearly see, it's a table for six not two."
"I see that, but can you please clue me in."
"Hey Motoki", Kunikaze strolled in, looking around from his entrance.
"Hey guys, your table's right there." Motoki pointed to a table to the right of the especially reserved one. Makoto had to choke back more laughter as she saw Kunikaze staring down every man in the restaurant.
"How about Mamoru-san's table?" asked Zenji
"He's coming?" asked Kunikaze
"He decided to have a lunch meeting instead"
"I knew he wouldn't let me down"
"Unfortunately the upstairs is occupied and already reserved so I had to sit him there" Motoki pointed.
"Perfect!" Kunikaze and the rest of the men took their seats. While Zenji, who had set sight on Mamoru's secretary, followed by their investors met them.
The group was settled and started their orders when Mina entered with the rest of the girls and poor Jeshi behind.
"We'll it seems that Mina isn't the only one attending this rendezvous", Narahiko observed
From behind the Tsukino's Groups Entrance, Mamoru and one other investor approached, Zenji, speaking to him silently before ushering them to their table. It was on the other side of the Tsukino girls, opposite to Kunikaze's seat.
Mamoru waited until all we're seated before taking a quick glance towards the girls then to Kunikaze. This was pure childish, Mamoru thought, unbelieving what had compelled him to bring his meeting here.
Jeshi followed the ladies and stood, while each girl took their seat. When his own fiancé appeared behind him. "Jeshi what are you doing here?" she asked.
Jeshi had narrowed his eyes at his fiancé "You got one too and didn't tell me about it?" Rei had the consort to blush.
"I didn't think it was necessary since."
"Since what? You receive flowers from someone you don't know and you say it isn't necessary!" Jeshi was furious, it made him feel as if Rei was sneaking around. The girls saw the subject escalating to something and Makoto went between the two.
"Jeshi, why don't you go sit with Motoki and them" Makoto slowly pushed Jeshi towards the next table. With a small sigh, Rei turned to look to the others as Jeshi sat amongst the men.
"Don't tell me you guys got invitations, too?" Jeshi asked distastefully.
"No, we didn't. We're here to observe" said Kunikaze.
"Spy is more the word" Narahiko stated.
"Good, I was actually feeling a little left out!" Jeshi "aside form that, I'm going to pound on the person that had the gal to send Rei flowers and the fact that she didn't tell me only angers me more" Jeshi took a sip of his water, still keeping an eye on his fiancé.
"Maybe she didn't want you to react like Kunikaze!" Motoki included.
"That's aside the point.. She's my fiancée, she's suppose to tell me these things and not sneak around. How would you feel if Makoto.."
"I wouldn't cause she would of told me" Motoki agreed, he would be extremely upset.
"Makoto you have outdone yourself" the girls gawked at the fine settings, decorated in pastels and whites.
"You've even taken out your fine china Makoto, What's going on?" asked Mina
Makoto sat smilingly and giddily. "It's a surprise so I cant tell you yet" Molly had turned slightly and saw the faces of the men that sat near them.
"Mina! There's Kunikaze." she whispered sheepishly "and he doesn't look happy." glancing over at the table full of handsome men, blushing at the contact she and Narahiko made.
"Jeshi don't look too thrilled either" Ami set sights on her silently fuming co-worker.
"Tough! he'll just have to deal with it"
"Rei, why didn't you tell him" asked Mina
"I don't have to tell him everything you know"
"He's your fiancé, he has the right to know if he has to confront another man" Makoto easily put it, she had not agreed with Rei's actions in not telling her fiancé. Rei's gaze fell forward to the silverware and in a quick thought, she looked over at Jeshi.
Jeshi remained seated as he watched Rei maker her way towards him. He stared at her impatiently then stood. They all watched as the two of them went outside.
"Sometimes I wonder if those two will survive their honeymoon"
"Yeah seeing that their both so stubborn and temperamental."
"Okay Makoto, I want to know!" happily Mina questioned, picking up the bouquet of flowers and arrangements all around.
"You'll just have to wait and see." Makoto gave her friends a sly grin.
The guys looked on curiously. "Hey Motoki, do you have any idea what or who is this all about?" asked Kunikaze.
"Well, all I know Kaze is that it's a girl thing, so you don't have to worry."
"Makoto is part of this whole thing?"
"Yes she is, but she's keeping a tight lid on it so I don't know what's going on either."
"You know, all these roses remind me of our childhood" Ami whispered
"Yeah remember when we sold roses at the corner to make some money for the movies, cause our parents wouldn't give us any" laughed Molly.
"Mrs. Masauki was sure upset when she found out it was her roses we were selling" Makoto chuckled.
"you know something Jeshi, Kunikaze, I didn't our girlfriends were such delinguquents when they were young" Motoki had his laugh.
"All those cut off bushes we left." They all started to laugh, when a sudden shussshing sound came from the table beside them. Their gazes went directly to Mamoru who at that moment was not pleased. "Excuse us" Makoto apologized.
"Well excuse me!" Mina bitterly whispered. "He was the one with no sense and had a lunch meeting at a restaurant"
"You don't like him do you?" asked Ami
"No.. its not that I don't like him. I don't know him personally. It's just I think he plays dirty and I'm not up for that." Mina silently gave a glance towards Kunikaze "I just hope Kunikaze is not trying to..."
"He's not!" cutting her off, Makoto already knew the answer.
"Hey" Molly cut in before the mood soured "remember when Usagi-chan, gave us a bunch of roses before she left?" It didn't work.
"Yes," Amy sighed "she did always love roses. I remember her giving us each a rose right before she left for New York."
"I still have mine pressed between the pages in my yearbook." Mina commented.
"Mine, too! I even still have some of notes we passed back and forth in class!"
"Hey guys" Rei returned from her make up with Jeshi and seated. Giving the girls curious looks when their eyes all seemed misty. "Why look so glum?"
"We were just talking about Usagi-chan" Rei always knew that was a happy but sad subject. All of them had been great friends, and even with the distance that lie between all of them, they still wrote and kept up with each other.
The girls slowly went into a melancholy state as they thought of their beloved friend, whom they hadn't seen in so very long. Missing her greatly, they began reminiscing. A few stories were exchanged before Molly caught a familiar figure out of the corner of her eye.
"Is.. that...!" she pointed towards the entrance. Everyone including the table that Motoki and the others occupied turned to see an amazingly beautiful woman in a light pink suit. Tightly wrapping her body, her short skirt was detailed with deeply embroidered flowers and finished off with three-inch slits on each side. The same smile that they had always known, the same blue depths that always got them in trouble with her antics but it was her old, familiar hairstyle that caught the attention of the five waiting girls. Her beauty caught the attention of the male customers. Even Mamoru, who had been engrossed in his meeting had to stop.
"Hey its.." Kunikaze was about to say.
"USAGI!" the girls squealed in perfect unison. Mamoru was speechless, if he thought she was a sight in her casual summer dress, she was even eye catching in a business suit.
Usagi had started to make her way towards the group of girls, one by one after the initial shock, they stood and quickly made their way for their first hug. The group hug, more like a group tackle, was filled with laughter and tears.
"Oh, Minna! I've missed you all so much!" Usagi's sweet voice was music to their ears.
"We've missed you, too . . . Meatball Head!"
"Oh, Rei! You haven't changed one bit!"
~
"I don't believe it" Motoki smiled
"She's very familiar?" Jeshi couldn't quite figure it out "But I know I've seen her somewhere"
"I bet you have"
"Where?" he inquired.
"Old school photos of the girls" Jeshi saw the reunion and tried to remember. Trying to place where he had seen... "I got it! She's that girl who moved to America" Five men turned to watch the misty eyed women. Intrigued by the new comer, conducting a meeting, a man with navy black hair had to stop and watch in curiosity.
~
"I see you still use these" Rei pulled one of her pigtails "but you know what? I've missed them!", she smiled as she gave one final, playful tug. Usagi giggled before giving her friend a hug.
"I wore them just for you!"
"Wait a minute, Makoto, when did you find out that Usagi was here?" The girls suddenly realized that if Makoto was in on this whole surprise, then she must have been meeting with Usagi.
"I found out Tuesday!" the secret competition, that were always an underlying factor in the girl's friendship, made Makoto feel a little pride in being the first to know about Usagi's homecoming.
"Hey! How come she got to find out on Tuesday?" Mina asked with a little pout.
"Well I needed her help to surprise all of you, I surely couldn't do it myself", said Usagi. "Besides, if I invited you guys to my place, you would of all probably declined."
"Yeah probably" Answered Mina. Dropping her napkin, Mina bent to pick it up when her line of vision met Mamoru's stare. His hard and focused stare, and it all directed to Usagi. Returning to her position, Mina had to admit, she didn't like that look at all.
Motoki had taken leave and now returned with a frame in hand. He sat down quietly and turned the frame around for all of them to see. "You see, this is Makoto, Rei, Molly, Ami, Mina and that's her", he pointed to a younger version of the pigtailed blonde. "That's Usagi"
"Why did she leave Japan?"
"I think Makoto said that her father decided to start a business in New York or something." Motoki looked at Mamoru. "Hey what's up with your boss?"
"Remember the story we told you about yellow roses, stuffings, grapes, and bunnies?" Motoki and the others nodded. "Well.." Kunikaze nodded towards Usagi.
"Are you serious! Oh man, wouldn't Mako love to hear this." Taking a glance towards his friend, Motoki shook his head, then a dark though ran through his mind. "On second thought, I rather not tell Mako about this"
Kaze looked on between Mamoru's line of focus. Mamoru seemed to listen with little interest, his eyes glazed and completely remaining on Usagi.
"Usagi, where are you staying?"
"Oh, she bought a house here! Isn't that great!" Makoto piped up happily.
"You bought a house?" The girls were pleasantly surprised.
"Did I hear you correctly, did you just say you bought a house!" Rei wiped her mouth, stunned into silence.
"I thought you were here on vacation!"
"No, I'm not, I'm here, for good or at lease till I retire" Happily Usagi patted Molly's hand.
"That's great! Oh this is so awesome" Mina piped, a chorus of cheers went around the table.
"I really didn't think you would ever come back!" Rei began,
"For once, I'm happy to be wrong!"
"SO what do you do Usagi chan?" Asked Ami. Usagi turned towards Makoto. Finding Usagi's plead for help, Makoto motioned for there food.
"Ah, Minna, let's enjoy our meal"
Mamoru tried to stay focus, his eyes held numbers but his mind were elsewhere. The idea of having a meeting during lunch wasn't such a bad idea at first, but now. Mamoru glanced from his report to the table the girls sat on, finding Usagi listening to Rei. It was trouble. Usagi innocently giggled as Rei and the others shared a thing or two. Even when she ate, she was gracious and lovely. Incredibly, she was beautiful. With a slight frown, his head bent back towards the report. Squinting a bit, he read. His life would not be undermined over a pretty face, distractions were not allowed. Mamoru took another glance up, his eyes searching for her. To his surprise, she was looking at him. Their eyes meet, a greeting was passed with her smile and his. It was then he vowed, he must have her and have her he shall the perhaps, his infatuation would be satisfied. Mamoru winked before returning to his associate.
Usagi was about to dig in, but then began eyeing the dish cautiously. "Usagi chan, is everything okay?"
"Makoto, this doesn't happen to have any"
"Don't worry, babe. I cooked it myself and gave my assistants strict instructions." Makoto then giggled. "Silly rabbit, did you think I would forget! I was always so careful when I sent you cookies!"
Usagi smiled gratefully as she picked up her utensils.
"What are you taking about? Are you watching your weight, Usagi?"
"Don't you remember? Usagi is fatally allergic to any type of nuts! It's actually a fairly common allergy - we have had several requests for meals free of any type of nuts." Rei knitted her brow together.
"Right, but this dish don't look like it has nuts in it." Sometimes Makoto would dress up asparagus with almond slivers, but she hadn't seen any on the dish.
"True, but the dish can be cooked in peanut oil or have an extract from nuts that she will react to. People with food allergies really have to be careful and double check ingredients. You would be surprised at what types of foods can be found in a recipe." Remembering a terrible incident where she had to be hospitalized, Usagi quickly changed the subject and began sharing happy times with her friends.
Motoki admired the reunited friends. For as long as he had been with Makoto, she had always spoken very fondly of Usagi. Indeed she was beautiful. With a quick look towards Mamoru's table, he found him speaking to his clients then every few seconds glanced towards Usagi. Motoki didn't know if Mamoru's interest in Usagi would be good, in fact he almost felt uneasy about the whole situation.
"I can't imagine what could possibly be on his mind!" Kunikaze drawled sarcastically.
"I wouldn't blame him" Narahiko leaned back from his meal "she is a sight to see" His eyes then traveled to Molly.
"Hey man, what cha thinking about?" Kunikaze nudged Motoki as he forked up more beef. "You've had that frown for five minutes. What's up?"
"Mamoru" Kaze, Narahiko and Zenji all glanced towards Mamoru.
"What about him?" asked Zenji.
"He's not focused"
"Yeah so!"
"I don't like the way he looks at Usagi"
"What do you mean?"
"Like that" Motoki pointed as Mamoru, leaned back on his chair, his hands on his lap. Apparently his clients had stepped away for a moment. Relax, Mamoru eyed Usagi, his eyes turning to different gleams of light. Ideas forming, and Motoki didn't know if he liked these ideas.
"What's the matter with how he's looking at her, its not like we've never seen it before" Zenji's comment had hit a nerve, Kunikaze didn't say anything, this would cause a problem with things. As it was, Mina didn't like Mamoru, being her rival company and all. In fact it took him months to get Mina to open to him. "He does it all the time with other women"
"No, I don't think so Zenji. He's got ideas brewing in that head of his" Kunikaze looked on. The man almost looked as if he was about starved for Usagi. Yes, it would definitely complicate things between Mina and him if Mamoru decides to play playboy with Mina's best friend.
Joshua came over to stand beside Usagi. "Excuse me, Miss Usagi, but the gentleman would like to know if you are attached." He gestured towards a window table where two well-dressed business men were sitting. The man facing them was directing a charming smile towards Usagi, who returned it. The men all had heard, and turned.
"That's Steven Mancini, the owner of Nitron Electronics", Molly nudged Usagi as she offered the information. Steven smiled at all the ladies, raising his wineglass to them all, but particularly Usagi.
"I see that Mr. Mancini isn't wasting his time", Motoki noted then turned towards Mamoru. Clearly, Mamoru had seen the exchange, an impassive look came upon his face, underneath the façade, Motoki knew was anger.
"This isn't good" Kunikaze had also noticed Mamoru's features.
Mancini and Mamoru just don't mix.
"Seems to me, they're both after the same game"
"Usagi, answer the man" Rei prodded, anxious herself to hear the response. Mina was also about to add her two cents when she caught site of Mamoru, he look tense.
"Well, I" she muttered. Sure Usagi was flattered, but her mind was elsewhere at the moment. A second pass before she looked up to find a relaxed Mamoru to be watching. It took a while, but he smiled, sweetly and menacingly. With a quick turn from his gaze, she answered.
"Joshua, please tell Mr. Mancini that I am flattered, but I am currently involved in a relationship." She could feel Mamoru's stare.
"Usagi, why did you tell him that you are involved in a relationship? You said to me the other day that you were single." asked Makoto.
"I am, but I don't think I'm ready to jump right into a relationship with anyone, I just arrived for goodness sakes."
"So you're saying that you are not involved with anyone?"
"Correct!" she responded.
"So once you are settle in" Mina questioned Usagi as she kept her eyes on Mamoru. "You'll start dating?" Usagi laughed at her friends' curiosity. She had missed them so much.
"Perhaps"
"Oh please! You're just playing hard-to-get! I mean, look at you! You are probably never without male company!" Usagi stuck out her tongue in response.
The guys were deeply interested in the girls' conversation, taking note in Usagi's private life.
Mamoru smile gleamed, it mattered not if she was single, he thought absently. But none the less, he was happy that she was very single, silently he grinned in defeat. A quick observation of his surroundings, he found a watching Mancini. Both with curt nods they agreed to a silent challenge. "Bastard" chuckled Mamoru.
Kunikaze and Motoki exchanged amused glances with each other as they watched their friend flaunt his hidden victory. "I didn't like that at all Kaze, those two had challenged one another"
"And the prize is Usagi" No Motoki didn't like this at all. Poor girl, glancing towards Usagi, she was innocent and free going, well as both Chiba and Mancini were wolves out on a prowl and what was worst, they both intended to win.
"No, Mina, I'm not playing hard to get! I'm just not"
Usagi shifted uncomfortably in her chair, "I just haven't found the right man, and I'm inexperience when it comes to relationships." She tried whispering quietly only for the girls to hear, but on the other table the men were quiet as a mouse, leaning as far as they could to hear.
"WHAT?" said Rei, this outburst startled the men who literally almost fell out of their seats. Kunikaze grabbed onto Zenji before he went flying backwards into the girls' table.
"Shhh!" Makoto hissed at Rei, aware of the curious table next to them.
"Did you say that you were inexperience?", whispered Mina
"Minna, I think we better talk about Usagi's love life later and in private", Ami discreetly gestured towards the guys' table.
"Thanks Ami", a blushing Usagi suddenly became very interested in her dessert.
The girls laughed and chatted happily long after their meal was done, catching up on missing years. Usagi always seemed to keep the conversation on what the others were doing and stayed elusive as to her own doings. The guys were interested in the small tidbits they gathered about Usagi, as well as what they were learning about the others. Unknowing to the others around them, Mamoru and Usagi were stealing glances at one another. The restaurant now was almost empty, it was 2:15 the usual time for afternoon closing in preparation for dinner. There was still the usual outburst of laughter from the girls.
"I noticed your outfit is a Jaqes" Ami began, trying to pry a little something more out of Usagi. The others waited for Usagi's answer, wondering just what she did.
"Yeah, Sere, just what do you do?" asked Mina as she looks at her friend. Usagi, not wanting to give it away just yet, looked at
Makoto. Knowing that Usagi wasn't quite ready to drop the bomb, nodded in agreement to not say anything just yet. All eyes focused on Usagi as they waited for her response.
"There's plenty of time to talk about that. Right now, I want to talk about all of you", Usagi tried to change the subject.
"Why won't you tell us Usagi?" Molly was curious as to her friend's secretive nature.
"Honestly Usagi, why so tight lipped? It's not like you're a call girl or something, right? Right?" Rei eyed her friend suspiciously.
Usagi had choked on her water.
"WHAT?"
"Usagi, you're not involved in anything illegal are you?"
"Oh my goodness, Usagi! Was this lunch a cry for help? Did you come to Tokyo to escape your life of crime?"
"I've heard that moving to New York can really change a person! Oh Usa chan, I knew you shouldn't have moved there!"
Usagi looked incredulously at her friends as their overactive imaginations got the best of them. A blush tainted her delicate cheeks from their line of questioning.
"MINNA! Knock it off!" Makoto stormed at her friends. "This is Usagi we're talking about! She'll tell her about her legitimate job when she's ready! Geez "
"Poor Usagi! Guess she'll have to get readjusted to the girls' again!" Motoki laughed as he sipped the coffee that Joshua had just served.
"And to think that we thought the afternoon would be spent holding Kunikaze down!" Narahiko joked as he stirred sugar into his coffee.
"C'mon, Usa chan, admit it! You're a stripper, aren't you!" Rei accused mockingly and nodded towards the guys listening. The other caught on, "So how much do you charge?"
"It all depends" Usagi was trying her might not to laugh "If he's worth it or not, but I only call on men who can afford me"
"Wow, so how much?" asked Molly
"10k a day"
"10 thousand, oh my gosh, You think their taking Brunettes, I mean sometimes it gets a little slow here?" asked Lita, Motoki spewed his coffee out.
"Blonds are well liked" Mina added "I'm sure I can raise the price higher" It was Kaze's turn.
"Rei, I think you would look rather exotic" Ami had seen Jeshi's wonder.
"Now what the hell did you guys just mean?" Jeshi stood with a rather furious scowl. He stood, his eyes accusingly at Usagi, then at Rei. Silently brewed between them all, in an instant Rei, Usagi and the rest laughed heartily.
"Oh that was fresh" laughed Mako "Me a stripper?" she eyed Motoki who held an arched brow, then laughed even harder as she noticed his shirt. "Serves you guys right for eves dropping" He stood, and purposely yanked on her hand to get her up rooted.
"The only one your stripping for sweetheart is me, so don't go on thinking about it!" He kissed her then.
"Hey quit it!" Molly closed her eyes
"Usagi chan, this is Motoki Furuhata, my fiancé and partner" Motoki offered his hand and graciously she took it.
"I've heard so much about you"
"Good things I hope?" he asked with a chuckle.
"The best!" Oh he liked her then, she knew how to talk. "Minna, all this laughing is going to make me explode!" giggled Usagi "Point me in the direction of the nearest bathroom?" she asked.
"Why don't you use our private one, it's upstairs second door to the right", motioned Makoto.
"Thanks" she said walking away from the table.
Mamoru stood with his clients, calmly shook hands then allowed Miss. Tanaka usher them out. His standing form, caught Usagi making her way up the stairs. Appreciative, his eyes grew on a lazily gaze.
"How long have you've been listening?" Makoto interrogated.
"Long enough!" Kaze turned to Mina who had been watching Mamoru.
"Hey if Usagi over there decides to want to go out, kindly give her my number"
"They'll be no taking Usagi out, not by any of you at lease" Rei pointed out and watch Mamoru approach the group, it was time he thought to join the group. "Especially YOU!"
"What did I do?" Jeshi kept a furious frown on Mamoru. They guy was a complete jerk and he had a way of baiting him, causing his temper to flare. Motoki sighed, like any threats ever deterred Mamoru.
"Rei had just told the men that they'll be 'NO' taking Usagi chan out and included you" Mina turned her taunting eyes towards Mamoru.
"Wouldn't you think Usagi is old enough to maker her choices Mina chan" Kaze took Mina's hand and held it. He hasn't even gone out with her and things were already started to get complicated. "Besides, we've met and she's agreed to have dinner with me" Kaze and Motoki groaned. The girls just stared with opened mouths.
"You don't waste your time do you?" Mina was furious, her eyes leveling to the man who thought he was gods gift to women and hells gift for his hellfire games with women. "Just remember Mamoru! She is not like the whores you date!"
"Mina" Mako tried to ease, she knew the two sparked fire when together. They both were business rivals after all. Then the thought occurred. Holy shit, imagine the fire when he finds out what Usagi did.
"I don't know what your talking about?" Mamoru crossed his arms, she was a bitch when it regarded him, but then again, he had always been that much of an asshole to her.
"Mamoru san, Usagi has morals and values, she's just wholesome" Mako needed to tell Motoki about Usagi, soon.
"I won't tolerate anyone who hurting her" Mamoru realized that the girls were all lording over him with serious, glaring faces.
"Who said anything about hurting her?" he questioned with a self assured gleam in his eye. Usagi came back down the stairs.
She had removed her blazer, revealing a one-piece, low-cut spaghetti strap dress. The flattering design and cut of the outfit revealed just how shapely her figure was, not to mention her fully engorged breasts. The guys all swallowed the lumps in their throats as she came closer. The ladies were also in surprised, they hadn't realized that their skinny little school friend had developed so seductively.
"Who died?" asked Usagi noticing the eerie quietness in the dinning hall. She then realized that they were all staring at her. She looked down at herself. "Minna, do I have something on me? Why are you all looking at me so"
"Nothing Usagi!" Mina quickly answered the scowled again noticing how close she stood to Mamoru.
One by one, Usagi charmed them all with her natural friendliness and kawaii smile. And when it came to Kunikaze, she smiled even wider.
"Nice to see you again Kunikaze san"
"Call me Kaze" He formally shook her hand.
"You've met?" asked Mina "Where?"
"Quite a long story Mina" Usagi added "but we first met at a party then at the grocery store" Quickly Usagi turned towards Mamoru, with a smile even brighter then the one for Kaze, she hesitated then greeted.
"We meet again Chiba san"
"We do indeed" Usagi extended her hand, an he took it freely. Brought by his famous charm, Usagi was quite pleased and surprised, Mamoru laid a feathered kiss on her hand. They stared deep into each other's eyes and no one dared to say anything. Mina was glowering, and it took Kaze's hold to restrain her from pouncing on Mamoru. The girls, however, held worry in their eyes.
"Can you please explain where you three have met?" Rei narrowed her eyes.
Pulling up a chair, the three explained their encounter. Mamoru, kept his interest on Usagi. She was so feminine and breath taking that he couldn't help but stare at her, drinking in her beautiful sight.
"Wait, we didn't see you at the party?" Ami had added "What were you doing at Moonrose Country?"
"I didn't go to the party minna, I live next door to Mr. Itano is it?"
"YOU LIVE in Moon Rose Country?!" they exclaimed.
"Yes. Why?" Usagi frowned.
"Moon Rose Country is very exquisite property and is only available to those who qualify, 'money' and 'status' wise" Mamoru stated.
"That's where the rich and famous live" Mina was still looking at her in awe.
Usagi shrugged it off. "It's just a house"
"I told you they wouldn't believe it" Makoto smiled at her friend's modesty. "the place is gorgeous"
"Now, I'm really dying to know what you do!" Rei leaned in towards Usagi, preparing for her to spill at least a clue as to what she did.
"I tell you one thing!" Usagi cocked an eyebrow at her curious friends. "I . . .am . . . not . . . a . . . stripper!" She pointed her finger at all of them, emphasizing her words.
"I hate to break this up, but we can't be late for our next meeting!" Amy glanced at her watch as she motioned for Mina, Molly and Jeshi to gather their things. The rest followed suit and began their good-byes. Usagi handed out her number to the girls with an invite for a get together on the weekend.
"I see someone's eyes on a blue haired executive" Laughed Rei "would he be interested?"
"Me.. Oh come on!"
"Yeah, Ami is not his type at all, he likes the girls Mamoru goes out with" before he can stop himself he spoke freely "the real easy ones! Wham.. Bam" Mamoru was about to fire his executive. His glowering face quieted them all, his arms crossed and he looked as intimidating as ever.
"Baka!" Kunikaze hissed then motioned towards Usagi. "do you want to get yourself fired, or better yet" Kaze looked at his friend "killed!" Mamoru who usually was very cool when hiding his tracks, was rendered speechless and it didn't make it any easier your fired Narahiko!' he thought with clenched teeth.
Usagi waited for an answer as she stared back at Mamoru.
His blues eyes seemed to be filled with guilt and regret. "Mamoru's not like that" Kaze added. "He's just a.."
"Well liked!" Motoki added, to save face. Mamoru groaned even louder.
"Yeah, and I'm a monkey's uncle!" Rei crossed her arms in front of her chest and glared at Mamoru. She wasn't going to let him save face just so he could take advantage of her friend.
"You know, Mamoru", Usagi shifted the conversation as she came up to him and took his arm, "How come it feels like everyone is just interested in our affairs?" she questioned sarcastically.
Mamoru was a little surprised, but smiled at her sarcasm and playful mood. "I agree, Usagi."
"You would think they have their own lives to question"
Usagi grinned mischievously at everyone before turning to
"Usagi, you don't know him" Rei was trying to add, yes this was her boss and her job was probably on the line like Narahiko's but this was Usagi.
"Rei, don't you have to meet with Anika?" Mamoru prompted, silence went over the two, then without another word to him she picked up her purse.
"Ill see you later Usagi chan and when I do. You and I will have a long talk" she left without another glance.
"Well that was odd" Usagi had released Mamoru's arm. Taking note of the time, she too voiced that she had to go.
"How about that dinner Usagi?"
"You wont stop will you?" she smiled to his charming face.
"Not until you agree" Motoki, Mako and the others turned from Mamoru then back to Usagi. "Say yes and its that easy" he grinned, with hesitation Usagi knew when she was being played for one of the fishes in the sea.
"I'm not easy Mamoru" Usagi smiled sweetly, picking up her blazer. Motoki changed his mind, he loved Usagi, she was giving Mamoru a hard time and it was high about time a woman did. Perhaps he didn't have much to worry after all. She bid goodbye to everyone and started to maker her way when Mamoru spoke.
"You'll say yes sooner or later Usagi?" With a quick turn, she smiled and alluring and promising smile.
"It wont be easy" she started "But I believe I will"
To Be continued.
Revised 11.02