Still The One - C3
By Raq
~ TWO MONTHS LATER
Mamoru sat behind his desk, shuffling through paper work in his home office. It just didn't seem to end, his work his job as chief of staff in Juban General Hospital, young and prosperous he was the leading man. Back then. He was satisfied just being one of the doctors, but with a bit more time in his hands after graduation, he was lonely. Mamoru glanced towards a framed photo on his desk. With one swift movement, he picked up the frame. The most recent picture of his 'wife' or with a brief pause he corrected himself 'ex-wife'. Taken a month ago, she had sent this picture.
A picture of Usagi in an ice blue off the shoulder sweater. Hugging her favorite bunny. 'Usako #2' he laughed inwardly noticing the bunny too had a light blue sweater just like Usagi's. He had given her that same bunny on their two-month anniversary of dating and the three had been in separable then. Mamoru smiled as he remembered that even on their wedding night, he found the bunny in her suitcase. 'Usako #2' he was the one that named it. Usagi was smiling one of her million dollar smiles. Her hair was down, flaring long and silkily over her shoulder, cascading down her back, she was stunning, maturity suited her. He could clearly see the curve that had developed within those two years. Her features became more defined, high cheekbones, her lips that were temptingly irresistible before were more pronounced, naturally pouting and plump for kissing, and in her eyes, he can still see the vibrant girl he had loved. Thousands of miles or years passing could never change the love that thrived deeply in his heart. Nothing could.
Mamoru placed the photo back down and with a heavy sigh he leaned back. Resting his head against the leather backing, his eyes closed remembering, reminiscing.
~ A Bad Day
Mamoru sat in his personal stool, drinking his usual dosage of coffee, waiting for his wonderful Usako to come along. He knew she was going to be late. With words traveling easily to him at Azabu, he had found out earlier that day that Usagi had a large booming impact in her chemistry class. She had been cleaning up and accidentally mixed a few chemicals that didn't react well. After that incident, she had been accused of cheating on her math test. On top of her educational dilemma, she had gotten into a quick brawl with girl. A few words were exchanged from what he heard, something about Ami, Serena's other best friend. A moment later, there was a slap and Usagi was caught retracting her hand in defense and anger. Quickly she was sent to the principles office, where she was informed that her parents were on their way.
"Did you hear about Usagi-chan?" asked his best friend Motoki who stood on the other side wiping the bar.
"We all did" Another good friend of theirs came and sat beside Mamoru.
"Hey Haruka, I thought you had track practice?" Mamoru questioned.
"It was cancelled," she returned.
"SO how much do you two know?"
"All of them?" Haruka gave Motoki his answer.
"Must be nice to know your girlfriend is being watched at all times" Motoki grinned.
"OH YEAH... great news travel fast" Haruka freely and sarcastically voiced before Mamoru could. "When I get my hands on that girl who slapped Usagi-chan I swear I'll" Mamoru laughed at his friends' protective demeanor over his girlfriend. She had gotten close to Usagi with Mamoru bringing her along and the two looked so alike that they were at times passed on as siblings.
"When did you find out?"
"Well I got the first chemistry bit, while I was in Economics. The cheating part I heard during passing period, and the last was during calculus." Sighed Mamoru "Its not her day" Just when he spoke those words, the door bells chimed.
"She's here" Motoki gestured, nodding his head behind Mamoru. Mamoru swiveled around and found his Usako in the middle of her best friends, Rei and Ami. Her face, tear stained and was being comforted by the two girls. His heart reached for her without a second that pass, he made his way towards her.
"Usako." He called, both Ami and Rei parted at once, giving Mamoru room to approach his girlfriend. Before Mamoru could close the three-step gap between the two, Usagi leapt into his already open arms.
"Oh Mamo-chan I had a horrible day" Usagi pressed herself deeper in her boyfriends embrace. He hushed her sobs, running his hands smoothly down her back. Trying his best to sooth her.
"I heard" he spoke softly, his eyes looked around. Standing in the middle of the arcade, with everyone hearing what had happened that day, they were the show! Giving everyone a quick cold, distasteful stare he slowly released Usagi in his arms. Lifting her chin up he spoke "Lets go sit down" he motioned her to follow him. Nodding, hand in hand, Usagi followed. He led the way to a corner booth, were they were somewhat hidden. Mamoru sat down and instinctively he pulled her down onto his lap. Her head wedged between the crook of his neck.
"Are you okay?" He felt Usagi nod her head, the lifted in a defiant "How could they think I would cheat. I mean. I know math was my worse subject but. Cheating. I have more sense of pride than that." Mamoru watched his girlfriend turn angrier and angrier at each explanation. He couldn't blame her; his Usako would rather fail a test than cheat, which was just her nature.
"Mamo-chan. Ive been per.per.."
"Persecuted... I see you've been paying attention in your government class," he grinned at her sobbing face.
"I have, I've been paying attention in all my classes and you know that. Now my parents are having a one on one conference with the principal. My father had ordered me to come here. My father knows you've been tutoring me in all my subjects and he knows how my grades had dramatically improved and. an. he"
"Sh... its okay" Mamoru thought about the letter he had dropped off at Usagi's principals office. Several of his own teachers, had signed for Mamoru's credibility that he has been tutoring Usagi. They would know he was receiving extra credit.
"Thanks Mamo-chan" at that, Mamoru remember that he had something for his Usako. Pulling Usagi out of his lap, he asked her to wait. Usagi sat alone in the booth, her head bowed as she contemplated her situation.
"How's it going?" asked Motoki.
"She's real upset"
"Yeah she had been crying since the chemistry incident," Ami had added as both she and Rei sat with the two.
"Those bastard," muttered Haruka "AND I can't wait to get my hands on that bitch Miyuki. "
"When I get my hands on the guy who copied her test." Mamoru's eyes blazed, he took a quick glance at his Usako and his heat felt her pain. Usagi was bothered and he didn't like seeing her so distress. "Motoki, hand me that box that I gave you earlier will you?" Motoki smiled. Underneath he the counter he picked up the box. Rei and Ami smiled, Mamoru was so generous to Usagi that many envied their relationship.
"This should cheer her up" Motoki answered, handing Mamoru a large box wrapped in pink and roses on top intertwined, serving as the bow.
"I hope so" Mamoru slowly made his way towards her. When he reached the booth, Usagi looked up and her eyes went straight to the box. Wiping the tears away, she did another take then looked up at him.
"Mamo-chan?" He placed the box in front of her and sliding in down the other side. "What's this?" her eyes on the beautifully wrapped package.
"It's for you silly... open it," he instructed. Usagi wiped the tears in her eyes then stood. From his seat, Mamoru crossed his arms and watched Usagi unwrapped her present. Smiling at how gentle she tried to be. Trying not to loose any petals as she pried the roses from the lid. A few seconds from when she started, the bows and roses were out. Now it was clearly unwrapping and removing its contents. Usagi stopped to glance at Mamoru who held a large smile on his face. With his arched brow, Usagi bit her lip; she tore the wrapping paper apart.
"Ohhhhhh.. Mamo-chan.." She whispered and half cried "She's sooo adorable" Usagi held on to the medium size bunny. Holding it out away from her, Usagi inspected it for its cuteness. Mamoru couldn't be any happier as she turned to him, seeing her once saddened eyes turn to bright and beautiful. Pulling her down on his lap, he kissed her temple.
"Happy two month anniversary Usako"
"Oh Mamo-chan" Usagi threw her arms around him, hooking over his neck and pulling him close the bunny between them. "I love you" Mamoru hugged her tightly finally having his Usako back. Pulling apart, Mamoru stared into her eyes, saying the words that always had her in the clouds.
"I love you too" carefully he guided her chin towards his and they met for a blissful kiss. The kiss lingered for minutes, soft pecks and sweet nuzzling.
"Uhh hem.." Usagi and Mamoru broke off hearing a presence and turned. Mamoru's eyes grew large, 'Busted' he thought.
"MOM... DAD!" Usagi jumped to her feet. It was one thing having Mamoru help her with her studies, but making out in the back booth with him was something different. Behind them were Motoki, Haruka, Rei and Ami with a worried expression.
"Usagi," her father eyed her accusingly. Then turned towards Mamoru. Mamoru felt uneasy, sure he knew he was dating his daughter, but he would never kiss Usagi that way in front of her parents. After a few moments of silence, Usagi spoke.
"What happened? What did the principal say?" nervously she asked, clutching the bunny even closer to her body.
"Well about the Chemistry incident," Kenji sighed, "we will have to pay for the damages. Which doesn't faze me. AS for your math test, the teacher was considering suspending you, but with your letter" he turned towards Mamoru.
"What letter?"
"Mamoru wrote a letter to the principal and with all those teachers signing to its credibility." Usagi turned towards Mamoru with a bewildered expression " the principal propose that you take the test over again, alone." Usagi smiled "that means that boy that had accused you will also retake the test. It would prove who hasn't and who has been paying attention. SO you just better not let me and your mom down." Kenji took a quick glance at Mamoru "and Mamoru as well. He's got his name on the line for tutoring you" Usagi lunged for her father... thanking them. "Don't thank me yet Usagi... We still have to discuss this fight of yours" Usagi sighed, she had forgotten about that.
"Yes poppa..." Ikuko laid a gentle hand on her husband shoulder
"Its getting late, we'll go pick up Shingo and go out for dinner" her father stated "Mamoru, why don't you join us?" Kenji turned to face the young man. At first Mamoru didn't know what to say. For the two months the two had been dating never once did Kenji invite him to dinner. Mamoru was speechless, he looked into the face of the Usagi's father, within them, was respect and acceptance. He stood and when he did, Kenji's hand extended.
"Thank you" was all Mamoru could muster as he shook the elder Tsukino hand.
~
"Mamoru-san?" asked a female voice "Mamoru-san wake up?" Mamoru started to wake from his remembrance of the past. His eyes automatically going straight to the photo on his desk, a look of longing and needing in his features, the woman in front didn't miss it. "Mamoru-san, they're someone here to see you". From the photo on his desk, his eyes traveled to the woman, chocolate skin, dark hair and dark brown eyes, a complete opposite of his Usako. "Mamoru?" she said again. This time Mamoru responded seeing the impatience in her eyes.
"I'm sorry Saori-san, who did you say is here?" he leaned forward and returned the photo at the corner of his desk, next and near the photo of the woman that stood before him. Soari didn't say a word, she didn't know whether to feel angry or what? "I said theirs some one here to see you."
Lita and Rei sat, in the middle of a sunken living room, Lita's hands on a pale pink box on her lap and Rei smiling proudly. Visiting a few times, Rei had already been there, the large condo was gorgeous. View's as breathtaking as the sights in Paris. "You'll love it here" Rei tried to calm her friend.
Mamoru silently walked towards the living room, followed by Saori. "Rei-chan" he walked politely to her and giving her a warm brotherly hug "what a surprise, you've finally left your servitude life at the shrine" he joked.
"Har har.. Mamoru. It's your birthday and I wanted to wish you well"
"It's my birthday?" Mamoru thought, forgetting the day then turning to Saori who faintly smiled. She had been so busy that she too had forgotten.
"You didn't?" Rei asked bewildered. Shaking her head, she couldn't believe he had forgotten but then again he had been so forgetful since Usagi left his life. "I swear, if Usagi-chan was here she would knock you upside your head for being so busy and forgetting your own birthday."
"If Usako was 'here'" he emphasized and didn't notice the look that Saori gave him. "I wouldn't forget because she would have had a large bash and baked me that wonderful chocolate cake of hers" Upon hearing that, Rei turned.
"Oh Mamoru-san" she gestured towards Lita. Lita stood politely with the box in hand. "Mamoru Chiba, this is Lita Hamil" Mamoru shook one of her hand as she balanced the box with the other.
"And this is Saori" Mamoru introduce, Rei catching that he has not mentioned that she was his girlfriend. Then again, that was Mamoru, ever since Usagi left he had always longed for her return.
"Nice to meet you Lita" they both greeted.
"Lita is from the US and she's going to be staying in with me for her tour of Japan"
"Tour?"
"I'm a culinary arts student and our school has this 7 month tour where we would go to one country to another to study their culinary ways."
"That's great. Oh please sit" he motioned. When they all got comfortable, Mamoru asked. "So what school do you go too?"
"I had attended USC, when I thought I would be majoring in sports medicine"
"Change of mind huh?"
"Actually someone had me realize it wasn't what I wanted to do."
"USC, that's where Usako attends nursing school?" Rei nodded and Lita smiled.
"She's one of my room mates" His eyes gleamed a magnificent blue.
"She is!" Lita and Rei nodded agreeing happily. "I had just arrived from Canada, when she asked me to do her a favor when I go to visit Japan."
"Actually Mamoru-san, I had just picked Lita up from the Airport and I had instructions from Usagi-chan to bring her here."
"Instructions?" he laughed "What for?" Just then Mamoru's phone rang, graciously he lifted the phone, Rei and Lita held knowing looks at one another.
"Moshi...Moshi" They watch his eyes turn from its normalcy to a bright gleam and an infectious smile. "USAKO!" loudly he greeted, voicing his happiness.
"Right on time," Lita whispered to Rei, Saori just sat and watched Mamoru's features. He was so happy whenever she had called; it was a wonder if she can ever make him that happy.
"Yes. There here.. Sure..." Mamoru placed the receiver back down and pressed the speaker button.
"Rei.... chan? Lita? " The groggy voice greeted. Lita and Rei started laughing
"Problems Serena?" Lita joked
"It's freaking 3am here, I feel I'm coming down with a flu, Mina and Andy hasn't stopped wrestling, if you know what I mean!!!!!!!!!! We're all out of coffee and I'm trying to re-write a paper that my computer decided to misplace and did I mention its due in six hours. NOW ask me again if I've got problems." The three shared a laugh and even Saori had to crack a smile.
"Usako, Are you okay" Mamoru spoke between laughs, fully concerned about Usagi's health.
"I'm okay Mamo-chan just a little sore throat and a mild fever" she sneezed "nothing that Tylenol flu cant cure you know those things can pack a punch"
"Did you take it already?" he asked frowning as she sneezed again and again.
"Yep. Took two and I'm good!"
"Cant you tell?" asked Lita "she's talking a hundred miles a minute. But Serena... I hope you took NON-DROWSY, you've got class later on."
"I know that!"
"Well, before you talk our ears off," said Rei "I suggest you tell Lita what you want her to do."
"Lita, please," Lita picked up the box and handed it to Mamoru.
"What's this?" asked Mamoru looking from Lita then to Rei
"Oh Mamo-chan. just open it," Usagi giggled from the line. The three watched as Mamoru untied the pink bow. He lifted the flap and carefully opened it and as it did, a bright color faux candle lit, the soft melody played and in unison, Usagi from the other line started to sing, the others joined in. 'Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you.. Happy birthday dear Mamo-channn....." Happy birthday to you....' His smile was greater than ever, the contents was so touching that he bit his lip to suppress a yell of happiness coming from his throat. Lita and Rei watched him and could tell that he was extremely happy. "Mamo-chan??" Usagi asked.
"I'm here Usako,..." he softly answered as he placed his hand inside and lifted the contents, Rei slid the box away under.
"Do you like it?" she asked over the phone, afraid what the 12 hour flight might have done to it. He placed the round delicious object on the table and smiled.
"You baked me my cake?" he eyed the round chocolate cake. Rei had started to laugh as she took one look at the cake. All around it was covered with chocolate shavings, and on top was a picture of a bunny winking, that Usagi was known for. Chocolate pieces were made into little square plates that held connected together to form
Happy Birthday Mamo-chan.
"You were wrong Mamoru-san," Mamoru took his eyes away from the cake "Even if Usagi-chan wasn't here, she would still bake you this cake." Rei smiled, seeing the love that has always brewed between the two.
"Why wouldn't I," Usagi whispered from the line. Mamoru turned from Rei to the black machine near him "its tradition" Lita who had been an outsider, only having met Serena in college and Mamoru now, could see that the two still held a flame for one another, it was strong and unmistakable.
"Traditional?" asked Lita "You mean to tell me you send him cake every year from the California? How does that turn out?" Lita wondered, Mamoru, Usagi and Rei laughed.
"Lita, every year since I've been gone, I've had my mom make a cake for Mamo-chan. Either Rei, Ami or our parents would deliver it"
"Oh...." Lita answered, "that explains it"
"But I thought since you were going there I would make this one special and make it myself." There was a brief pause, then in a whisper "Happy Birthday Mamo-chan... I'm just sorry I couldn't bring it myself"
"Usako...." He whispered in return as his throat tightened at the emotions stirring. He lifted up the phone and excused himself from the others. The three watch as Mamoru held the phone to his ear and walked away, making their conversation private and intimate.
"You think he would mind if we started without him," asked Rei eyeing the cake, she glanced towards Lita than to Saori. Rei saw it, the deep hurt and painful look in her eyes. "I'm sorry Saori-san if this hurt you" she half whispered. Rei liked the girl, she was kind and compassionate, but they were wrong for each other. For one thing, No one, Rei knew that from the moment the two decided to separate. No one. would replace 'his' Usako nor would anyone would ever replace 'her' Mamo-chan.
"Its okay" Saori finally spoke "I knew it wasn't going to last long, I mean. How can I compare to Usagi-chan" she half spoke and both Lita and Rei were speechless. "Besides we're more good friends than anything." she smiled. A few minutes later, Mamoru returned, his lips smiling to a bright curve and his eyes gleaming like stars.
"SO. Who's ready for some CAKE!" he clapped his hands together.
"I AM," Rei jumped "I haven't had Usagi-chans cake in a while"
"I'll get the plates" Saori excused herself, Mamoru failed to notice the glassy eyes and the sullen look.
To Be Continued....
I know Ive been gone a LONG TIME... Sorry! Motherly duties come first. I tried to edit theses stories and I don't think I did very well. So Im requesting for an editor please. Anyone that would like to apply please email me. Other than grammar and spelling, I need an editor that will get critical. I would like them to stay on a deadline and KEEP ME IN LINE for mine!
Hope a few of you are interested... raqcorpuz@sbcglobal.net
By Raq
~ TWO MONTHS LATER
Mamoru sat behind his desk, shuffling through paper work in his home office. It just didn't seem to end, his work his job as chief of staff in Juban General Hospital, young and prosperous he was the leading man. Back then. He was satisfied just being one of the doctors, but with a bit more time in his hands after graduation, he was lonely. Mamoru glanced towards a framed photo on his desk. With one swift movement, he picked up the frame. The most recent picture of his 'wife' or with a brief pause he corrected himself 'ex-wife'. Taken a month ago, she had sent this picture.
A picture of Usagi in an ice blue off the shoulder sweater. Hugging her favorite bunny. 'Usako #2' he laughed inwardly noticing the bunny too had a light blue sweater just like Usagi's. He had given her that same bunny on their two-month anniversary of dating and the three had been in separable then. Mamoru smiled as he remembered that even on their wedding night, he found the bunny in her suitcase. 'Usako #2' he was the one that named it. Usagi was smiling one of her million dollar smiles. Her hair was down, flaring long and silkily over her shoulder, cascading down her back, she was stunning, maturity suited her. He could clearly see the curve that had developed within those two years. Her features became more defined, high cheekbones, her lips that were temptingly irresistible before were more pronounced, naturally pouting and plump for kissing, and in her eyes, he can still see the vibrant girl he had loved. Thousands of miles or years passing could never change the love that thrived deeply in his heart. Nothing could.
Mamoru placed the photo back down and with a heavy sigh he leaned back. Resting his head against the leather backing, his eyes closed remembering, reminiscing.
~ A Bad Day
Mamoru sat in his personal stool, drinking his usual dosage of coffee, waiting for his wonderful Usako to come along. He knew she was going to be late. With words traveling easily to him at Azabu, he had found out earlier that day that Usagi had a large booming impact in her chemistry class. She had been cleaning up and accidentally mixed a few chemicals that didn't react well. After that incident, she had been accused of cheating on her math test. On top of her educational dilemma, she had gotten into a quick brawl with girl. A few words were exchanged from what he heard, something about Ami, Serena's other best friend. A moment later, there was a slap and Usagi was caught retracting her hand in defense and anger. Quickly she was sent to the principles office, where she was informed that her parents were on their way.
"Did you hear about Usagi-chan?" asked his best friend Motoki who stood on the other side wiping the bar.
"We all did" Another good friend of theirs came and sat beside Mamoru.
"Hey Haruka, I thought you had track practice?" Mamoru questioned.
"It was cancelled," she returned.
"SO how much do you two know?"
"All of them?" Haruka gave Motoki his answer.
"Must be nice to know your girlfriend is being watched at all times" Motoki grinned.
"OH YEAH... great news travel fast" Haruka freely and sarcastically voiced before Mamoru could. "When I get my hands on that girl who slapped Usagi-chan I swear I'll" Mamoru laughed at his friends' protective demeanor over his girlfriend. She had gotten close to Usagi with Mamoru bringing her along and the two looked so alike that they were at times passed on as siblings.
"When did you find out?"
"Well I got the first chemistry bit, while I was in Economics. The cheating part I heard during passing period, and the last was during calculus." Sighed Mamoru "Its not her day" Just when he spoke those words, the door bells chimed.
"She's here" Motoki gestured, nodding his head behind Mamoru. Mamoru swiveled around and found his Usako in the middle of her best friends, Rei and Ami. Her face, tear stained and was being comforted by the two girls. His heart reached for her without a second that pass, he made his way towards her.
"Usako." He called, both Ami and Rei parted at once, giving Mamoru room to approach his girlfriend. Before Mamoru could close the three-step gap between the two, Usagi leapt into his already open arms.
"Oh Mamo-chan I had a horrible day" Usagi pressed herself deeper in her boyfriends embrace. He hushed her sobs, running his hands smoothly down her back. Trying his best to sooth her.
"I heard" he spoke softly, his eyes looked around. Standing in the middle of the arcade, with everyone hearing what had happened that day, they were the show! Giving everyone a quick cold, distasteful stare he slowly released Usagi in his arms. Lifting her chin up he spoke "Lets go sit down" he motioned her to follow him. Nodding, hand in hand, Usagi followed. He led the way to a corner booth, were they were somewhat hidden. Mamoru sat down and instinctively he pulled her down onto his lap. Her head wedged between the crook of his neck.
"Are you okay?" He felt Usagi nod her head, the lifted in a defiant "How could they think I would cheat. I mean. I know math was my worse subject but. Cheating. I have more sense of pride than that." Mamoru watched his girlfriend turn angrier and angrier at each explanation. He couldn't blame her; his Usako would rather fail a test than cheat, which was just her nature.
"Mamo-chan. Ive been per.per.."
"Persecuted... I see you've been paying attention in your government class," he grinned at her sobbing face.
"I have, I've been paying attention in all my classes and you know that. Now my parents are having a one on one conference with the principal. My father had ordered me to come here. My father knows you've been tutoring me in all my subjects and he knows how my grades had dramatically improved and. an. he"
"Sh... its okay" Mamoru thought about the letter he had dropped off at Usagi's principals office. Several of his own teachers, had signed for Mamoru's credibility that he has been tutoring Usagi. They would know he was receiving extra credit.
"Thanks Mamo-chan" at that, Mamoru remember that he had something for his Usako. Pulling Usagi out of his lap, he asked her to wait. Usagi sat alone in the booth, her head bowed as she contemplated her situation.
"How's it going?" asked Motoki.
"She's real upset"
"Yeah she had been crying since the chemistry incident," Ami had added as both she and Rei sat with the two.
"Those bastard," muttered Haruka "AND I can't wait to get my hands on that bitch Miyuki. "
"When I get my hands on the guy who copied her test." Mamoru's eyes blazed, he took a quick glance at his Usako and his heat felt her pain. Usagi was bothered and he didn't like seeing her so distress. "Motoki, hand me that box that I gave you earlier will you?" Motoki smiled. Underneath he the counter he picked up the box. Rei and Ami smiled, Mamoru was so generous to Usagi that many envied their relationship.
"This should cheer her up" Motoki answered, handing Mamoru a large box wrapped in pink and roses on top intertwined, serving as the bow.
"I hope so" Mamoru slowly made his way towards her. When he reached the booth, Usagi looked up and her eyes went straight to the box. Wiping the tears away, she did another take then looked up at him.
"Mamo-chan?" He placed the box in front of her and sliding in down the other side. "What's this?" her eyes on the beautifully wrapped package.
"It's for you silly... open it," he instructed. Usagi wiped the tears in her eyes then stood. From his seat, Mamoru crossed his arms and watched Usagi unwrapped her present. Smiling at how gentle she tried to be. Trying not to loose any petals as she pried the roses from the lid. A few seconds from when she started, the bows and roses were out. Now it was clearly unwrapping and removing its contents. Usagi stopped to glance at Mamoru who held a large smile on his face. With his arched brow, Usagi bit her lip; she tore the wrapping paper apart.
"Ohhhhhh.. Mamo-chan.." She whispered and half cried "She's sooo adorable" Usagi held on to the medium size bunny. Holding it out away from her, Usagi inspected it for its cuteness. Mamoru couldn't be any happier as she turned to him, seeing her once saddened eyes turn to bright and beautiful. Pulling her down on his lap, he kissed her temple.
"Happy two month anniversary Usako"
"Oh Mamo-chan" Usagi threw her arms around him, hooking over his neck and pulling him close the bunny between them. "I love you" Mamoru hugged her tightly finally having his Usako back. Pulling apart, Mamoru stared into her eyes, saying the words that always had her in the clouds.
"I love you too" carefully he guided her chin towards his and they met for a blissful kiss. The kiss lingered for minutes, soft pecks and sweet nuzzling.
"Uhh hem.." Usagi and Mamoru broke off hearing a presence and turned. Mamoru's eyes grew large, 'Busted' he thought.
"MOM... DAD!" Usagi jumped to her feet. It was one thing having Mamoru help her with her studies, but making out in the back booth with him was something different. Behind them were Motoki, Haruka, Rei and Ami with a worried expression.
"Usagi," her father eyed her accusingly. Then turned towards Mamoru. Mamoru felt uneasy, sure he knew he was dating his daughter, but he would never kiss Usagi that way in front of her parents. After a few moments of silence, Usagi spoke.
"What happened? What did the principal say?" nervously she asked, clutching the bunny even closer to her body.
"Well about the Chemistry incident," Kenji sighed, "we will have to pay for the damages. Which doesn't faze me. AS for your math test, the teacher was considering suspending you, but with your letter" he turned towards Mamoru.
"What letter?"
"Mamoru wrote a letter to the principal and with all those teachers signing to its credibility." Usagi turned towards Mamoru with a bewildered expression " the principal propose that you take the test over again, alone." Usagi smiled "that means that boy that had accused you will also retake the test. It would prove who hasn't and who has been paying attention. SO you just better not let me and your mom down." Kenji took a quick glance at Mamoru "and Mamoru as well. He's got his name on the line for tutoring you" Usagi lunged for her father... thanking them. "Don't thank me yet Usagi... We still have to discuss this fight of yours" Usagi sighed, she had forgotten about that.
"Yes poppa..." Ikuko laid a gentle hand on her husband shoulder
"Its getting late, we'll go pick up Shingo and go out for dinner" her father stated "Mamoru, why don't you join us?" Kenji turned to face the young man. At first Mamoru didn't know what to say. For the two months the two had been dating never once did Kenji invite him to dinner. Mamoru was speechless, he looked into the face of the Usagi's father, within them, was respect and acceptance. He stood and when he did, Kenji's hand extended.
"Thank you" was all Mamoru could muster as he shook the elder Tsukino hand.
~
"Mamoru-san?" asked a female voice "Mamoru-san wake up?" Mamoru started to wake from his remembrance of the past. His eyes automatically going straight to the photo on his desk, a look of longing and needing in his features, the woman in front didn't miss it. "Mamoru-san, they're someone here to see you". From the photo on his desk, his eyes traveled to the woman, chocolate skin, dark hair and dark brown eyes, a complete opposite of his Usako. "Mamoru?" she said again. This time Mamoru responded seeing the impatience in her eyes.
"I'm sorry Saori-san, who did you say is here?" he leaned forward and returned the photo at the corner of his desk, next and near the photo of the woman that stood before him. Soari didn't say a word, she didn't know whether to feel angry or what? "I said theirs some one here to see you."
Lita and Rei sat, in the middle of a sunken living room, Lita's hands on a pale pink box on her lap and Rei smiling proudly. Visiting a few times, Rei had already been there, the large condo was gorgeous. View's as breathtaking as the sights in Paris. "You'll love it here" Rei tried to calm her friend.
Mamoru silently walked towards the living room, followed by Saori. "Rei-chan" he walked politely to her and giving her a warm brotherly hug "what a surprise, you've finally left your servitude life at the shrine" he joked.
"Har har.. Mamoru. It's your birthday and I wanted to wish you well"
"It's my birthday?" Mamoru thought, forgetting the day then turning to Saori who faintly smiled. She had been so busy that she too had forgotten.
"You didn't?" Rei asked bewildered. Shaking her head, she couldn't believe he had forgotten but then again he had been so forgetful since Usagi left his life. "I swear, if Usagi-chan was here she would knock you upside your head for being so busy and forgetting your own birthday."
"If Usako was 'here'" he emphasized and didn't notice the look that Saori gave him. "I wouldn't forget because she would have had a large bash and baked me that wonderful chocolate cake of hers" Upon hearing that, Rei turned.
"Oh Mamoru-san" she gestured towards Lita. Lita stood politely with the box in hand. "Mamoru Chiba, this is Lita Hamil" Mamoru shook one of her hand as she balanced the box with the other.
"And this is Saori" Mamoru introduce, Rei catching that he has not mentioned that she was his girlfriend. Then again, that was Mamoru, ever since Usagi left he had always longed for her return.
"Nice to meet you Lita" they both greeted.
"Lita is from the US and she's going to be staying in with me for her tour of Japan"
"Tour?"
"I'm a culinary arts student and our school has this 7 month tour where we would go to one country to another to study their culinary ways."
"That's great. Oh please sit" he motioned. When they all got comfortable, Mamoru asked. "So what school do you go too?"
"I had attended USC, when I thought I would be majoring in sports medicine"
"Change of mind huh?"
"Actually someone had me realize it wasn't what I wanted to do."
"USC, that's where Usako attends nursing school?" Rei nodded and Lita smiled.
"She's one of my room mates" His eyes gleamed a magnificent blue.
"She is!" Lita and Rei nodded agreeing happily. "I had just arrived from Canada, when she asked me to do her a favor when I go to visit Japan."
"Actually Mamoru-san, I had just picked Lita up from the Airport and I had instructions from Usagi-chan to bring her here."
"Instructions?" he laughed "What for?" Just then Mamoru's phone rang, graciously he lifted the phone, Rei and Lita held knowing looks at one another.
"Moshi...Moshi" They watch his eyes turn from its normalcy to a bright gleam and an infectious smile. "USAKO!" loudly he greeted, voicing his happiness.
"Right on time," Lita whispered to Rei, Saori just sat and watched Mamoru's features. He was so happy whenever she had called; it was a wonder if she can ever make him that happy.
"Yes. There here.. Sure..." Mamoru placed the receiver back down and pressed the speaker button.
"Rei.... chan? Lita? " The groggy voice greeted. Lita and Rei started laughing
"Problems Serena?" Lita joked
"It's freaking 3am here, I feel I'm coming down with a flu, Mina and Andy hasn't stopped wrestling, if you know what I mean!!!!!!!!!! We're all out of coffee and I'm trying to re-write a paper that my computer decided to misplace and did I mention its due in six hours. NOW ask me again if I've got problems." The three shared a laugh and even Saori had to crack a smile.
"Usako, Are you okay" Mamoru spoke between laughs, fully concerned about Usagi's health.
"I'm okay Mamo-chan just a little sore throat and a mild fever" she sneezed "nothing that Tylenol flu cant cure you know those things can pack a punch"
"Did you take it already?" he asked frowning as she sneezed again and again.
"Yep. Took two and I'm good!"
"Cant you tell?" asked Lita "she's talking a hundred miles a minute. But Serena... I hope you took NON-DROWSY, you've got class later on."
"I know that!"
"Well, before you talk our ears off," said Rei "I suggest you tell Lita what you want her to do."
"Lita, please," Lita picked up the box and handed it to Mamoru.
"What's this?" asked Mamoru looking from Lita then to Rei
"Oh Mamo-chan. just open it," Usagi giggled from the line. The three watched as Mamoru untied the pink bow. He lifted the flap and carefully opened it and as it did, a bright color faux candle lit, the soft melody played and in unison, Usagi from the other line started to sing, the others joined in. 'Happy Birthday to you. Happy Birthday to you.. Happy birthday dear Mamo-channn....." Happy birthday to you....' His smile was greater than ever, the contents was so touching that he bit his lip to suppress a yell of happiness coming from his throat. Lita and Rei watched him and could tell that he was extremely happy. "Mamo-chan??" Usagi asked.
"I'm here Usako,..." he softly answered as he placed his hand inside and lifted the contents, Rei slid the box away under.
"Do you like it?" she asked over the phone, afraid what the 12 hour flight might have done to it. He placed the round delicious object on the table and smiled.
"You baked me my cake?" he eyed the round chocolate cake. Rei had started to laugh as she took one look at the cake. All around it was covered with chocolate shavings, and on top was a picture of a bunny winking, that Usagi was known for. Chocolate pieces were made into little square plates that held connected together to form
Happy Birthday Mamo-chan.
"You were wrong Mamoru-san," Mamoru took his eyes away from the cake "Even if Usagi-chan wasn't here, she would still bake you this cake." Rei smiled, seeing the love that has always brewed between the two.
"Why wouldn't I," Usagi whispered from the line. Mamoru turned from Rei to the black machine near him "its tradition" Lita who had been an outsider, only having met Serena in college and Mamoru now, could see that the two still held a flame for one another, it was strong and unmistakable.
"Traditional?" asked Lita "You mean to tell me you send him cake every year from the California? How does that turn out?" Lita wondered, Mamoru, Usagi and Rei laughed.
"Lita, every year since I've been gone, I've had my mom make a cake for Mamo-chan. Either Rei, Ami or our parents would deliver it"
"Oh...." Lita answered, "that explains it"
"But I thought since you were going there I would make this one special and make it myself." There was a brief pause, then in a whisper "Happy Birthday Mamo-chan... I'm just sorry I couldn't bring it myself"
"Usako...." He whispered in return as his throat tightened at the emotions stirring. He lifted up the phone and excused himself from the others. The three watch as Mamoru held the phone to his ear and walked away, making their conversation private and intimate.
"You think he would mind if we started without him," asked Rei eyeing the cake, she glanced towards Lita than to Saori. Rei saw it, the deep hurt and painful look in her eyes. "I'm sorry Saori-san if this hurt you" she half whispered. Rei liked the girl, she was kind and compassionate, but they were wrong for each other. For one thing, No one, Rei knew that from the moment the two decided to separate. No one. would replace 'his' Usako nor would anyone would ever replace 'her' Mamo-chan.
"Its okay" Saori finally spoke "I knew it wasn't going to last long, I mean. How can I compare to Usagi-chan" she half spoke and both Lita and Rei were speechless. "Besides we're more good friends than anything." she smiled. A few minutes later, Mamoru returned, his lips smiling to a bright curve and his eyes gleaming like stars.
"SO. Who's ready for some CAKE!" he clapped his hands together.
"I AM," Rei jumped "I haven't had Usagi-chans cake in a while"
"I'll get the plates" Saori excused herself, Mamoru failed to notice the glassy eyes and the sullen look.
To Be Continued....
I know Ive been gone a LONG TIME... Sorry! Motherly duties come first. I tried to edit theses stories and I don't think I did very well. So Im requesting for an editor please. Anyone that would like to apply please email me. Other than grammar and spelling, I need an editor that will get critical. I would like them to stay on a deadline and KEEP ME IN LINE for mine!
Hope a few of you are interested... raqcorpuz@sbcglobal.net