Hey, guys! Yes, finally the next chapter is up. I'm sorry for the delay,
but school's getting tough now, with a report due every other day. Anyway,
I'm beginning to get used to this pattern now, so I'll be getting out the
next chapters (hopefully) sooner. Anyway, I hope you enjoy. Please R&R!
Later!
P.S. Check out my other fic, "The New Sailor Moon World". It's (in my opinion) reeeaaaaly good. Well, I won't bug you anymore. Enjoy the story =Þ!
Serena slowly stood up and even more slowly walked to her closet, her shoulders slumped. She felt she was just hit by a bus. She dug though her closet and pulled out her purse. She had gotten it two years before. It was white and had a pink bunny on the front. Serena smiled and reached into her pocket to pull out her wallet. She opened it and gasped, quickly closing it. She opened it, looked inside, and quickly closed it again.
"I HAVE NO MONEY," Serena cried. Her mother quickly ran into her room, worried.
"What's wrong?" she asked. Serena turned to her and then down at her wallet, then back to her.
"I'M BROKE," she cried. Her mother rolled her eyes and walked out the door. Just to make sure, Serena turned her wallet upside down and shook it. All that came out was a piece of lint, but it was quickly carried away by the wind coming from the window. Right then, however, an idea popped into her head, making her smile.
"Well I guess I can't go out now," she announced, bouncing to her feet. She turned to the door to see Jill leaning against it, grinning. Her grin made Serena's become a frown.
"Don't worry, dear sister," Jill said slyly, "I'll pay for you." She waved around her credit card to stress her point. Serena had to get out of this some way or another.
"Like you have enough money," Serena retorted in a last dying effort. Her sister grinned, making Serena droop again. Game over!
"Remember that clothing store I used to work at?" Jill asked. Serena used to love that place. "Well, I was recently promoted to manager, so I got tons of money now." She smiled in satisfaction. Serena's eyes narrowed.
'My little sister is probably making more than me,' Serena thought pathetically. Right then, Jill grabbed her hand and dragged her out the door.
"Let's go," she chirped, dragging the helpless girl down the stairs. "BYE MOM," she called as she dragged Serena out the front door. Serena gasped when she saw a red Mustang in the driveway.
"Who's car is that?" she asked. 'No way,' she thought, slowly turning her head to Jill, her mouth open in shock. Jill smiled at her and nodded. Serena slowly turned her head back to the car. If this was a sign of things to come, Serena would be dead by the end of the day.
"I'll drive," Jill said, running to the car. Serena regained her composure slightly and walked into the passenger seat. Serena could tell that her sister had not improved in driving much from the last time she drove with her. Last time, they almost got into ten accidents, and this time wasn't any different. By the time they reached the mall, Serena's head was spinning.
"We're there," Jill chirped. Serena could only nod and quickly open the door and run out of the car as quickly as possible. She decided then that next time, she'd drive. They both walked into the mall, Serena dragging far behind. Once they were inside, Jill grinned at all the stores around them. People were walking around in every direction, hitting several stores. Serena always found the amount of people in malls overwhelming. She would much rather be in a place with a smaller crowd.
Serena noticed many men turning their heads to face her. Most received a slap on the side of the head by their jealous girlfriends. Serena blushed. Jill, noticing this, sighed.
"Serena," Jill sighed. Serena rolled her eyes. She knew very well what was about to happen. "You should be flattered," Jill said. "I wish I had so many guys looking me over like that." Her eyes had a far-away look in them at the thought. Serena shrugged.
"What, it's the way I am," Serena retorted. Jill simply rolled her eyes and grabbed her hand, grinning. She began dragging her further into the mall.
"Well, you ARE going to be talking to that guy tomorrow," said Jill. "And you ARE going to hook up with him." Serena was about to say something, but Jill turned her head and glared at her evilly. Serena shut her mouth. "Or else," Jill said, stressing the "else". Serena gulped.
"I-I'll try my best," Serena stuttered, forcing a crooked grin. Jill smiled sweetly and continued dragging Serena through the mall. After walking around for a few minutes, Jill squealed in delight. Sighing, Serena decided to look at what got her so excited. She had to hold back her scream.
"2 CUTE? YOU'RE BRINGING ME HERE?" Serena cried. Jill covered her ears, and everybody walking around their area stopped and looked at the girl. "THIS IS A TEENY STORE!" Serena continued. Jill grinned.
"Well, I'm trying to find you the PERFECT dress for the guy tonight," Jill said. Jill had no intention of bringing Serena in there, however. She just wanted to get a reaction out of her older sister. Obviously, she got one. Jill laughed, "I was just kidding!" Serena clenched her teeth, rising up her fist. Jill only grinned in return.
"You don't want me interfering, right?" Jill threatened. Serena shook her head and lowered her fist. She realized then that Jill had her cornered, right where she wanted her. Jill then smiled innocently, and led Serena around the mall again. They ended up in Lord & Taylor, to where Jill dragged Serena to where the dresses were.
"Now," said Jill, standing in thought, "what should you wear tonight?" Serena stood uncomfortably as Jill looked around. It had been years since Serena had worn a dress for an occasion except a work party. Those dresses were always conservative, however. She couldn't recall when she last wore a flashy dress.
"Try this one," Jill said, knocking Serena away from her thoughts. Jill was holding a long black dress, which had a white slip going down the back. It was cut fairly low, but high enough that guys would still have to use their imaginations. Serena's eyes widened.
"It's so cute," she said, eyeing the dress. She, herself, was surprised that Jill actually picked out a good dress. Serena took it and walked into the dressing room. After a few minutes, she was out again. Serena stepped out, smiling. Jill gasped. Serena spun herself around to show the dress to Jill. The dress hugged Serena perfectly, showing off every curve. Still, however, the dress still looked classy. The skirt dragged the ground slightly, and the back trailed the floor a few inches behind her.
The dress had two straps going over her shoulders, and no pack until just below her midsection. Jill smiled and nodded. Serena giggled and looked at herself in the tall mirror. She spun around again to look at herself. Once she was done, she giggled again and turned to Jill.
"I feel so beautiful," Serena said, happily. Jill nodded in agreement. She had actually spotted the dress a few days prior, and realized that it was perfect for Serena.
"You are beautiful," Jill said, tears in her eyes. "You look like a princess." Serena blushed. A few guys who were walking past her turned their heads, only to once again be hit by his girlfriend next to him. Serena blushed more, and turned to Jill.
"Umm," began Serena, nervously, "Let's go, okay?" Jill simply sighed and nodded, dropping her head into her hand. Serena went back into the dressing room and changed her dress before coming back out. She and Jill brought it to the checkout. The woman behind it wordlessly took it and scanned it.
"One hundred and forty eight dollars?" Serena gasped. Right then, Jill held out her credit card. Serena gasped again, "No, you can't!" Jill just smiled and nodded.
"Hey, don't worry, Sere," Jill said. "It's on me." She handed the lady her credit card while Serena just shook her head in disbelief. She wished she had the money to just spend like that. "Remember," Jill said, "I want you to look your best for that guy tonight." Serena cringed. She had forgotten all about him, and wanted to keep it that way.
"Well," Jill said, handing the bagged dress to Serena, "Let's get home. Lunch should be done soon." Serena nodded, and they both left the mall. On the way out, Serena was deep in thought. She never noticed the person walking right towards her until *CRASH*!
Serena fell to the ground, but quickly stood up, blushing at the amount of people looking at her. She quickly bowed to apologize.
"I'm so sorry I hit you," Serena said quickly. "I wasn't looking! Please don't get angry! Please! I'm soooooo sorry!" She was quickly cut off by friendly laughter. She swallowed and looked up. Instantly, she gasped. Ahead of her stood a tall man with midnight black hair. He had dark, ocean- blue eyes. He was wearing a white button-down shirt with a black tie, and black pants. Over his shoulder hung a black jacket.
This man was well tanned, and even with his clothing on, looked well built. Serena swallowed and opened her mouth. She couldn't find her voice, though.
"It's okay," the man spoke in a firm, but friendly voice. "I wasn't looking either." His eyes turned worried, "Are you hurt at all, miss?" Serena slowly shook her head. "Good," said the man, smiling. He began walking away. "Have a nice day," he called behind him. With that, he was gone. Jill stood still, drooling.
"OH MY GOD!" Jill squealed, tugging Serena's arm. "You are soooo lucky, Sere," Jill said, jealous. Serena only managed to nod, still unable to find her voice. Suddenly, Jill looked confused, but she quickly smirked. Serena almost instantly fell out of her trance.
"No, no, it isn't what you think at all," Serena quickly said, waving her arms. "I was just in shock from the fall, really." Jill's grin only widened. Even to the untrained eye, it was obvious that Serena had the hots for the guy.
"Just admit it, Sere," Jill said, "You have the hots for that guy." Serena just shook her head. Jill sighed. She was beginning to have enough of these games. "JUST ADMIT IT! STOP BEING SO STUPID!" Serena swallowed.
"OKAY, OKAY ALREADY! THAT GUY WAS HOT! HE WAS THE HOTTEST GUY I HAVE EVER SEEN IN MY ENTIRE LIFE! YOU HAPPY?" Serena screamed. Jill gulped and nodded, but quickly grinned.
"Umm, is this yours, miss?" asked a voice from behind them. Serena froze dead in her feet. Even though she had just "met" the guy, she already recognized the voice. Slowly, and painfully, Serena turned her head to face the man behind her. As she expected, it was the same man she bumped into earlier. He had a friendly smile across his face. In his hand was her wallet.
"I believe I picked it up on accident," the man said. Slowly, Serena took the wallet from his hand. The man grinned playfully. "So," began the man in a teasing voice, "who is that 'hot' guy you were talking about?" Serena stopped breathing. She felt everything around her become dark.
'Oh no,' Serena thought to herself nervously, 'he heard me.' Realizing that she wasn't breathing, Serena quickly forced herself to again. "I." Serena said gasped. "I'M SORRY!" She finished saying, crying, running away. The man stepped forward in shock, then stopped, stepping back again. He turned to her sister, who was just gaping at where Serena was just standing in shock.
"What did I say?" the man asked. Jill sighed and looked up at him. Forcing a grin, she shrugged.
"Ah, don't worry, it was nothing you said." With that, she hurried after Serena. The man blinked, then turned around, continuing towards the mall.
"I must say," he thought aloud as he walked. "That girl was pretty cute." He smiled and walked into the mall. He had to buy something to wear to the party that night.
Serena ran to Jill's car, tears in her eyes. Once she made it to the car, she collapsed against it, holding back her tears. Soon after, Jill made it to her.
"Serena, are you okay?" Jill asked. Serena didn't answer. She just stayed where she was, her head between her folded arms. "I'm sorry," Jill said, looking at the floor. "It was all my fault. If I wouldn't have brought you here, this wouldn't have."
"No, no, it isn't your fault," Serena interrupted, standing up. She turned to face Jill and forced a smile. Jill's eyes narrowed. Serena's smile had none of its usual radiance in it. It was obvious that the smile was forced. "I was an idiot. I shouldn't have yelled it out like that." She sighed and leant back against the car. "I'm such an idiot," she said.
"Don't say that," Jill said in a commanding voice. Serena looked at her, puzzled. "Don't say that. If you never have confidence in yourself, you'll get nowhere in life." Serena gasped.
'Do I.lack confidence?' Serena asked herself. 'Is that why I do so badly at work? Is that also why I never had a real boyfriend?' She sighed and looked down at the pavement. "I just can't help it," Serena said in a defeated tone of voice. "I just can't help the way I am. I'm going to be single forever," Serena said, her voice cracking at the end. Jill sighed and placed her hand on Serena's shoulder. Serena looked up at her, tears in her eyes.
"Don't think that way," Jill said, soothingly. In actuality, however, she was trying to hold back her own tears. She couldn't stand seeing her sister hurt. "Come on," she said, "let's get home before lunch." Serena smiled and nodded. They both sat down in the car and drove out of the parking lot.
The drive home was silent. Serena was still thinking about what had happened earlier. When she saw the man, she felt a feeling she had never felt in her entire life. She didn't know what it was, but all she knew was her entire body felt warm all over just by looking into his eyes. She sighed and sat back. Jill watched her out of the corner of her eyes. She, herself, sighed. She still felt it was all her fault.
Once they made it home, both Serena and Jill walked slowly into the house. Serena opened the door, and Jill followed her slowly inside.
"You're just in time," said their mother's voice from the kitchen. "I just fixed lunch." Right then, Serena's eyes brightened, making Jill giggle. It was always good to know that if Serena were ever down, food would cheer her right back up again. They both hurried to the kitchen and greeted their mother before sitting down.
The lunch was simple: grilled cheese sandwiches. Serena didn't hesitate a second before swiping two from the plate. Jill smiled and took a sandwich of her own. Their mother sat down soon to join them.
"So," began their mother, "What did you guys get?" Jill's eyes brightened as she remembered the dress. Serena, on the other hand, remembered what the dress was for. She thought the dress was beautiful, but was still shady on wearing it that night.
"We got a beautiful dress for Serena to wear tonight," Jill said, taking a bite from her sandwich. Their mother smiled and turned to Serena, who was reaching for her third sandwich.
"Trying to impress somebody tonight?" asked her mom, winking. Serena blushed, and continued eating her sandwich. Their mother turned back to Jill. "What are you wearing tonight?" she asked. Jill smiled.
"I'm going to wear my graduation dress," Jill said. Their mother nodded, her smile widening. It was a beautiful dress. There was silence again. Serena reached for her forth sandwich, and her mother and Jill looked at each other, giggling. Serena blushed, but still began eating the sandwich. Her mother's eyes opened wide as she remembered something.
"Oh yeah," she said to Serena, who asked "what" with her eyes, unable to speak with a full mouth. "Your friends called today. They miss you a lot and want to see you." Serena, who had swallowed her food by that time, gasped. She had forgotten all about her friends. "Actually," their mother continued, "I have an idea. Why don't you invite them over tonight? We've known them since they were children, and are like part of the family. They are all welcomed." Serena smiled brightly and bounced to her feet.
"Thanks, mommy," Serena said, giving her a kiss. "I'll call them right now." With that, she ran to the other room to use the phone. Jill giggled, making her mother giggle in return. Ever since Serena returned earlier that day, she had slowly been returning to her normal self. It was a relief, for the most part. They didn't like the mature and conservative Serena as much.
Serena picked up the phone in the next room and quickly called her closest friend. After a few rings, the phone was picked up.
"Hello?" asked an energetic voice from the other side. Serena giggled softly. She instantly recognized the voice as the one of her friend. She knew for a fact that she would be shocked to hear that she was back home, and for a whole two weeks. She grinned as she thought of what everybody's reaction would be.
"Hi, Mina," Serena said. There was silence, followed by more silence, and then even more silence. "Uhh, hello?" Serena asked. Out of all the reactions she imagined, she did not imagine this one. Still, more silence, then a sudden gasp.
"Se-Serena?" asked Mina. Serena giggled, making Mina scream with Joy. "OH MY GOD," Mina squealed, making Serena cringe back. "IT'S BEEN SOOOO LONG SINCE YOU CALLED! HOW ARE YOU?" Serena laughed. There was something about Mina that just always made her smile.
"Well actually," Serena started, "I'm home right now, on vacation." Mina gasped. Out of all the things that Mina expected her to say, it was definitely not that.
"Is this a joke?" Mina asked, seriously. Serena laughed, then suddenly stopped. She wondered if everybody viewed her of that much of a work-a- holic.
'I guess I DID need this break,' Serena thought to herself before answering, "Nope, I'm home right now." She heard Mina squeal again. "I wanted to ask you if you were free tonight. My father is having a retirement party and I want you and the others to come. It would be great to see you again."
"And there's gonna be a hot guy there, too," Jill cut in on her own phone. Serena and Mina both gasped. "And Serena's gonna hook up with him," Jill continued. Serena clenched her fist and looked behind her. Jill was standing behind her, leaning against the wall on the cordless phone, winking. Serena sighed.
"Wait a second," Mina said. "You still don't have a boyfriend?" Ouch, that one hurt. Serena sighed. She should have known that this conversation would come up eventually. She had been trying to avoid in entirely. She reminded herself to kill Jill once this whole thing was over.
"Well, last time I checked, you were no different," Serena retorted. She patted herself on the back. She was proud to have thought of such a witty comeback. Then suddenly, Mina began laughing. Serena sighed, knowing right then she lost this battle.
"Well actually," Mina started, "I began dating that pub owner. You know, Andrew?" Serena remembered him well. That was a long time ago. She and Mina went to the pub to get a bite to eat, and Mina was flirting with a cute blonde guy most of the time. She never would have expected that it would turn to a serious relationship, however.
"Anyway," Mina said, "I'll call the others for you, and we'll all come down there soon." Serena smiled, partially because her friends were coming over, and partially because the whole talk about boyfriends was over. Serena heard a doorbell ring in the background. "Well, I gotta go," Mina said. "That's Lita right now. We were supposed to go shopping today, but that can wait, right?" Serena could almost see her winking. "Later!" she chirped before hanging up the phone, not giving Serena time to say her own goodbyes.
"Mina hasn't changed a bit," Serena said, smiling. She hung up the phone and skipped upstairs to her room. She had to get ready for the party. After showering, Serena put on her dress. She smiled again as she looked at herself in the mirror. She had to admit that she looked beautiful. Se giggled and walked across the room to her makeup drawer. Usually, she didn't wear any makeup, but she decided that she needed a little something to go with the dress.
While looking through her drawer, she noticed a gold star-shaped locket. She smiled as she looked at it. She could never forget the day she received it. It had been so many years ago, but still, she considered it one of the most special days of her life. She smiled as she remembered.
Serena stood on her front lawn. She was about five years old, with blonde hair put up in two buns on the top of her head. Short pigtails ran down from each one. She was wearing a pink shirt and denim overalls. Next to her was a slightly older-looking boy. He had black hair and blue eyes, and was wearing a white shirt and black shorts.
"Why do you have to go?" Serena wined. The boy slumped his shoulders. It was obvious by the looks in their eyes that they were both about to cry any second then.
"I dunno," the boy said. "Mom's makin' me go! I don't wanna!" He kicked the ground with his foot. Serena swallowed, trying to hold back her tears. She couldn't though. She began sniffling, tears pouring down her face. The boy smiled.
"Hey, you know what?" he asked, making Serena look up at him. "You can borrow this," he said, grinning. He held out a gold star-shaped locket. "You always liked it, right?" he asked. Serena looked at it, then back at him.
"But your grandma gave that to you," Serena said through tears. The boy shrugged his shoulders.
"I never said you can have it," he said, smiling. Serena giggled. "Just, uhh.think of me when you open it." He laughed, putting his hand behind his head, blushing. "Haha, I saw that in some movie the other day!" Serena giggled and took the locket from him.
"You better come back for this," Serena said. The boy nodded and grinned. Right then, Serena smiled shyly and leant forward, kissing the boy on his cheek. He blushed, his eyes opened wide. Serena giggled and blushed.
"Come on, we're going," called a voice from behind them. Tears began pouring out of Serena's eyes again. He was her best friend. She didn't want him to go.
"I gotta go," the boy said, before waking way. Serena stepped forward but stopped. She looked down at the locket, then back up at him, tears in her eyes.
"YOU BETTER COME BACK FOR THIS!" Serena cried. "YOU PROMISED!" The boy stopped and turned around. He smiled at her and nodded again, before running away into the car. Soon after, the car drove away. Serena fell to her knees, holding the locket, sobbing.
'He never came back,' Serena thought sadly, coming back to reality. She wiped the tears from her eyes and sat down on her bed. "Like I care," she said, putting the locket back into the drawer. "It was some childish gibberish anyway." She lied back and stared at her ceiling. "I wish I could remember his name." Right then, she heard the doorbell ring.
I wonder who's at the door? Is it Serena's friends, or did the guests arrive early? Hmm.you'll have to find out for yourself! =Þ Anyway, I should have the next chapter up in a few days. REMEMBER to also check out my other fic: "The New Sailor Moon World!" I have been putting my heart and soul into that fic, and NOBODY reads it -_-!!! Anyway, I would appreciate it if you guys check it out. Well, later!
P.S. Check out my other fic, "The New Sailor Moon World". It's (in my opinion) reeeaaaaly good. Well, I won't bug you anymore. Enjoy the story =Þ!
Serena slowly stood up and even more slowly walked to her closet, her shoulders slumped. She felt she was just hit by a bus. She dug though her closet and pulled out her purse. She had gotten it two years before. It was white and had a pink bunny on the front. Serena smiled and reached into her pocket to pull out her wallet. She opened it and gasped, quickly closing it. She opened it, looked inside, and quickly closed it again.
"I HAVE NO MONEY," Serena cried. Her mother quickly ran into her room, worried.
"What's wrong?" she asked. Serena turned to her and then down at her wallet, then back to her.
"I'M BROKE," she cried. Her mother rolled her eyes and walked out the door. Just to make sure, Serena turned her wallet upside down and shook it. All that came out was a piece of lint, but it was quickly carried away by the wind coming from the window. Right then, however, an idea popped into her head, making her smile.
"Well I guess I can't go out now," she announced, bouncing to her feet. She turned to the door to see Jill leaning against it, grinning. Her grin made Serena's become a frown.
"Don't worry, dear sister," Jill said slyly, "I'll pay for you." She waved around her credit card to stress her point. Serena had to get out of this some way or another.
"Like you have enough money," Serena retorted in a last dying effort. Her sister grinned, making Serena droop again. Game over!
"Remember that clothing store I used to work at?" Jill asked. Serena used to love that place. "Well, I was recently promoted to manager, so I got tons of money now." She smiled in satisfaction. Serena's eyes narrowed.
'My little sister is probably making more than me,' Serena thought pathetically. Right then, Jill grabbed her hand and dragged her out the door.
"Let's go," she chirped, dragging the helpless girl down the stairs. "BYE MOM," she called as she dragged Serena out the front door. Serena gasped when she saw a red Mustang in the driveway.
"Who's car is that?" she asked. 'No way,' she thought, slowly turning her head to Jill, her mouth open in shock. Jill smiled at her and nodded. Serena slowly turned her head back to the car. If this was a sign of things to come, Serena would be dead by the end of the day.
"I'll drive," Jill said, running to the car. Serena regained her composure slightly and walked into the passenger seat. Serena could tell that her sister had not improved in driving much from the last time she drove with her. Last time, they almost got into ten accidents, and this time wasn't any different. By the time they reached the mall, Serena's head was spinning.
"We're there," Jill chirped. Serena could only nod and quickly open the door and run out of the car as quickly as possible. She decided then that next time, she'd drive. They both walked into the mall, Serena dragging far behind. Once they were inside, Jill grinned at all the stores around them. People were walking around in every direction, hitting several stores. Serena always found the amount of people in malls overwhelming. She would much rather be in a place with a smaller crowd.
Serena noticed many men turning their heads to face her. Most received a slap on the side of the head by their jealous girlfriends. Serena blushed. Jill, noticing this, sighed.
"Serena," Jill sighed. Serena rolled her eyes. She knew very well what was about to happen. "You should be flattered," Jill said. "I wish I had so many guys looking me over like that." Her eyes had a far-away look in them at the thought. Serena shrugged.
"What, it's the way I am," Serena retorted. Jill simply rolled her eyes and grabbed her hand, grinning. She began dragging her further into the mall.
"Well, you ARE going to be talking to that guy tomorrow," said Jill. "And you ARE going to hook up with him." Serena was about to say something, but Jill turned her head and glared at her evilly. Serena shut her mouth. "Or else," Jill said, stressing the "else". Serena gulped.
"I-I'll try my best," Serena stuttered, forcing a crooked grin. Jill smiled sweetly and continued dragging Serena through the mall. After walking around for a few minutes, Jill squealed in delight. Sighing, Serena decided to look at what got her so excited. She had to hold back her scream.
"2 CUTE? YOU'RE BRINGING ME HERE?" Serena cried. Jill covered her ears, and everybody walking around their area stopped and looked at the girl. "THIS IS A TEENY STORE!" Serena continued. Jill grinned.
"Well, I'm trying to find you the PERFECT dress for the guy tonight," Jill said. Jill had no intention of bringing Serena in there, however. She just wanted to get a reaction out of her older sister. Obviously, she got one. Jill laughed, "I was just kidding!" Serena clenched her teeth, rising up her fist. Jill only grinned in return.
"You don't want me interfering, right?" Jill threatened. Serena shook her head and lowered her fist. She realized then that Jill had her cornered, right where she wanted her. Jill then smiled innocently, and led Serena around the mall again. They ended up in Lord & Taylor, to where Jill dragged Serena to where the dresses were.
"Now," said Jill, standing in thought, "what should you wear tonight?" Serena stood uncomfortably as Jill looked around. It had been years since Serena had worn a dress for an occasion except a work party. Those dresses were always conservative, however. She couldn't recall when she last wore a flashy dress.
"Try this one," Jill said, knocking Serena away from her thoughts. Jill was holding a long black dress, which had a white slip going down the back. It was cut fairly low, but high enough that guys would still have to use their imaginations. Serena's eyes widened.
"It's so cute," she said, eyeing the dress. She, herself, was surprised that Jill actually picked out a good dress. Serena took it and walked into the dressing room. After a few minutes, she was out again. Serena stepped out, smiling. Jill gasped. Serena spun herself around to show the dress to Jill. The dress hugged Serena perfectly, showing off every curve. Still, however, the dress still looked classy. The skirt dragged the ground slightly, and the back trailed the floor a few inches behind her.
The dress had two straps going over her shoulders, and no pack until just below her midsection. Jill smiled and nodded. Serena giggled and looked at herself in the tall mirror. She spun around again to look at herself. Once she was done, she giggled again and turned to Jill.
"I feel so beautiful," Serena said, happily. Jill nodded in agreement. She had actually spotted the dress a few days prior, and realized that it was perfect for Serena.
"You are beautiful," Jill said, tears in her eyes. "You look like a princess." Serena blushed. A few guys who were walking past her turned their heads, only to once again be hit by his girlfriend next to him. Serena blushed more, and turned to Jill.
"Umm," began Serena, nervously, "Let's go, okay?" Jill simply sighed and nodded, dropping her head into her hand. Serena went back into the dressing room and changed her dress before coming back out. She and Jill brought it to the checkout. The woman behind it wordlessly took it and scanned it.
"One hundred and forty eight dollars?" Serena gasped. Right then, Jill held out her credit card. Serena gasped again, "No, you can't!" Jill just smiled and nodded.
"Hey, don't worry, Sere," Jill said. "It's on me." She handed the lady her credit card while Serena just shook her head in disbelief. She wished she had the money to just spend like that. "Remember," Jill said, "I want you to look your best for that guy tonight." Serena cringed. She had forgotten all about him, and wanted to keep it that way.
"Well," Jill said, handing the bagged dress to Serena, "Let's get home. Lunch should be done soon." Serena nodded, and they both left the mall. On the way out, Serena was deep in thought. She never noticed the person walking right towards her until *CRASH*!
Serena fell to the ground, but quickly stood up, blushing at the amount of people looking at her. She quickly bowed to apologize.
"I'm so sorry I hit you," Serena said quickly. "I wasn't looking! Please don't get angry! Please! I'm soooooo sorry!" She was quickly cut off by friendly laughter. She swallowed and looked up. Instantly, she gasped. Ahead of her stood a tall man with midnight black hair. He had dark, ocean- blue eyes. He was wearing a white button-down shirt with a black tie, and black pants. Over his shoulder hung a black jacket.
This man was well tanned, and even with his clothing on, looked well built. Serena swallowed and opened her mouth. She couldn't find her voice, though.
"It's okay," the man spoke in a firm, but friendly voice. "I wasn't looking either." His eyes turned worried, "Are you hurt at all, miss?" Serena slowly shook her head. "Good," said the man, smiling. He began walking away. "Have a nice day," he called behind him. With that, he was gone. Jill stood still, drooling.
"OH MY GOD!" Jill squealed, tugging Serena's arm. "You are soooo lucky, Sere," Jill said, jealous. Serena only managed to nod, still unable to find her voice. Suddenly, Jill looked confused, but she quickly smirked. Serena almost instantly fell out of her trance.
"No, no, it isn't what you think at all," Serena quickly said, waving her arms. "I was just in shock from the fall, really." Jill's grin only widened. Even to the untrained eye, it was obvious that Serena had the hots for the guy.
"Just admit it, Sere," Jill said, "You have the hots for that guy." Serena just shook her head. Jill sighed. She was beginning to have enough of these games. "JUST ADMIT IT! STOP BEING SO STUPID!" Serena swallowed.
"OKAY, OKAY ALREADY! THAT GUY WAS HOT! HE WAS THE HOTTEST GUY I HAVE EVER SEEN IN MY ENTIRE LIFE! YOU HAPPY?" Serena screamed. Jill gulped and nodded, but quickly grinned.
"Umm, is this yours, miss?" asked a voice from behind them. Serena froze dead in her feet. Even though she had just "met" the guy, she already recognized the voice. Slowly, and painfully, Serena turned her head to face the man behind her. As she expected, it was the same man she bumped into earlier. He had a friendly smile across his face. In his hand was her wallet.
"I believe I picked it up on accident," the man said. Slowly, Serena took the wallet from his hand. The man grinned playfully. "So," began the man in a teasing voice, "who is that 'hot' guy you were talking about?" Serena stopped breathing. She felt everything around her become dark.
'Oh no,' Serena thought to herself nervously, 'he heard me.' Realizing that she wasn't breathing, Serena quickly forced herself to again. "I." Serena said gasped. "I'M SORRY!" She finished saying, crying, running away. The man stepped forward in shock, then stopped, stepping back again. He turned to her sister, who was just gaping at where Serena was just standing in shock.
"What did I say?" the man asked. Jill sighed and looked up at him. Forcing a grin, she shrugged.
"Ah, don't worry, it was nothing you said." With that, she hurried after Serena. The man blinked, then turned around, continuing towards the mall.
"I must say," he thought aloud as he walked. "That girl was pretty cute." He smiled and walked into the mall. He had to buy something to wear to the party that night.
Serena ran to Jill's car, tears in her eyes. Once she made it to the car, she collapsed against it, holding back her tears. Soon after, Jill made it to her.
"Serena, are you okay?" Jill asked. Serena didn't answer. She just stayed where she was, her head between her folded arms. "I'm sorry," Jill said, looking at the floor. "It was all my fault. If I wouldn't have brought you here, this wouldn't have."
"No, no, it isn't your fault," Serena interrupted, standing up. She turned to face Jill and forced a smile. Jill's eyes narrowed. Serena's smile had none of its usual radiance in it. It was obvious that the smile was forced. "I was an idiot. I shouldn't have yelled it out like that." She sighed and leant back against the car. "I'm such an idiot," she said.
"Don't say that," Jill said in a commanding voice. Serena looked at her, puzzled. "Don't say that. If you never have confidence in yourself, you'll get nowhere in life." Serena gasped.
'Do I.lack confidence?' Serena asked herself. 'Is that why I do so badly at work? Is that also why I never had a real boyfriend?' She sighed and looked down at the pavement. "I just can't help it," Serena said in a defeated tone of voice. "I just can't help the way I am. I'm going to be single forever," Serena said, her voice cracking at the end. Jill sighed and placed her hand on Serena's shoulder. Serena looked up at her, tears in her eyes.
"Don't think that way," Jill said, soothingly. In actuality, however, she was trying to hold back her own tears. She couldn't stand seeing her sister hurt. "Come on," she said, "let's get home before lunch." Serena smiled and nodded. They both sat down in the car and drove out of the parking lot.
The drive home was silent. Serena was still thinking about what had happened earlier. When she saw the man, she felt a feeling she had never felt in her entire life. She didn't know what it was, but all she knew was her entire body felt warm all over just by looking into his eyes. She sighed and sat back. Jill watched her out of the corner of her eyes. She, herself, sighed. She still felt it was all her fault.
Once they made it home, both Serena and Jill walked slowly into the house. Serena opened the door, and Jill followed her slowly inside.
"You're just in time," said their mother's voice from the kitchen. "I just fixed lunch." Right then, Serena's eyes brightened, making Jill giggle. It was always good to know that if Serena were ever down, food would cheer her right back up again. They both hurried to the kitchen and greeted their mother before sitting down.
The lunch was simple: grilled cheese sandwiches. Serena didn't hesitate a second before swiping two from the plate. Jill smiled and took a sandwich of her own. Their mother sat down soon to join them.
"So," began their mother, "What did you guys get?" Jill's eyes brightened as she remembered the dress. Serena, on the other hand, remembered what the dress was for. She thought the dress was beautiful, but was still shady on wearing it that night.
"We got a beautiful dress for Serena to wear tonight," Jill said, taking a bite from her sandwich. Their mother smiled and turned to Serena, who was reaching for her third sandwich.
"Trying to impress somebody tonight?" asked her mom, winking. Serena blushed, and continued eating her sandwich. Their mother turned back to Jill. "What are you wearing tonight?" she asked. Jill smiled.
"I'm going to wear my graduation dress," Jill said. Their mother nodded, her smile widening. It was a beautiful dress. There was silence again. Serena reached for her forth sandwich, and her mother and Jill looked at each other, giggling. Serena blushed, but still began eating the sandwich. Her mother's eyes opened wide as she remembered something.
"Oh yeah," she said to Serena, who asked "what" with her eyes, unable to speak with a full mouth. "Your friends called today. They miss you a lot and want to see you." Serena, who had swallowed her food by that time, gasped. She had forgotten all about her friends. "Actually," their mother continued, "I have an idea. Why don't you invite them over tonight? We've known them since they were children, and are like part of the family. They are all welcomed." Serena smiled brightly and bounced to her feet.
"Thanks, mommy," Serena said, giving her a kiss. "I'll call them right now." With that, she ran to the other room to use the phone. Jill giggled, making her mother giggle in return. Ever since Serena returned earlier that day, she had slowly been returning to her normal self. It was a relief, for the most part. They didn't like the mature and conservative Serena as much.
Serena picked up the phone in the next room and quickly called her closest friend. After a few rings, the phone was picked up.
"Hello?" asked an energetic voice from the other side. Serena giggled softly. She instantly recognized the voice as the one of her friend. She knew for a fact that she would be shocked to hear that she was back home, and for a whole two weeks. She grinned as she thought of what everybody's reaction would be.
"Hi, Mina," Serena said. There was silence, followed by more silence, and then even more silence. "Uhh, hello?" Serena asked. Out of all the reactions she imagined, she did not imagine this one. Still, more silence, then a sudden gasp.
"Se-Serena?" asked Mina. Serena giggled, making Mina scream with Joy. "OH MY GOD," Mina squealed, making Serena cringe back. "IT'S BEEN SOOOO LONG SINCE YOU CALLED! HOW ARE YOU?" Serena laughed. There was something about Mina that just always made her smile.
"Well actually," Serena started, "I'm home right now, on vacation." Mina gasped. Out of all the things that Mina expected her to say, it was definitely not that.
"Is this a joke?" Mina asked, seriously. Serena laughed, then suddenly stopped. She wondered if everybody viewed her of that much of a work-a- holic.
'I guess I DID need this break,' Serena thought to herself before answering, "Nope, I'm home right now." She heard Mina squeal again. "I wanted to ask you if you were free tonight. My father is having a retirement party and I want you and the others to come. It would be great to see you again."
"And there's gonna be a hot guy there, too," Jill cut in on her own phone. Serena and Mina both gasped. "And Serena's gonna hook up with him," Jill continued. Serena clenched her fist and looked behind her. Jill was standing behind her, leaning against the wall on the cordless phone, winking. Serena sighed.
"Wait a second," Mina said. "You still don't have a boyfriend?" Ouch, that one hurt. Serena sighed. She should have known that this conversation would come up eventually. She had been trying to avoid in entirely. She reminded herself to kill Jill once this whole thing was over.
"Well, last time I checked, you were no different," Serena retorted. She patted herself on the back. She was proud to have thought of such a witty comeback. Then suddenly, Mina began laughing. Serena sighed, knowing right then she lost this battle.
"Well actually," Mina started, "I began dating that pub owner. You know, Andrew?" Serena remembered him well. That was a long time ago. She and Mina went to the pub to get a bite to eat, and Mina was flirting with a cute blonde guy most of the time. She never would have expected that it would turn to a serious relationship, however.
"Anyway," Mina said, "I'll call the others for you, and we'll all come down there soon." Serena smiled, partially because her friends were coming over, and partially because the whole talk about boyfriends was over. Serena heard a doorbell ring in the background. "Well, I gotta go," Mina said. "That's Lita right now. We were supposed to go shopping today, but that can wait, right?" Serena could almost see her winking. "Later!" she chirped before hanging up the phone, not giving Serena time to say her own goodbyes.
"Mina hasn't changed a bit," Serena said, smiling. She hung up the phone and skipped upstairs to her room. She had to get ready for the party. After showering, Serena put on her dress. She smiled again as she looked at herself in the mirror. She had to admit that she looked beautiful. Se giggled and walked across the room to her makeup drawer. Usually, she didn't wear any makeup, but she decided that she needed a little something to go with the dress.
While looking through her drawer, she noticed a gold star-shaped locket. She smiled as she looked at it. She could never forget the day she received it. It had been so many years ago, but still, she considered it one of the most special days of her life. She smiled as she remembered.
Serena stood on her front lawn. She was about five years old, with blonde hair put up in two buns on the top of her head. Short pigtails ran down from each one. She was wearing a pink shirt and denim overalls. Next to her was a slightly older-looking boy. He had black hair and blue eyes, and was wearing a white shirt and black shorts.
"Why do you have to go?" Serena wined. The boy slumped his shoulders. It was obvious by the looks in their eyes that they were both about to cry any second then.
"I dunno," the boy said. "Mom's makin' me go! I don't wanna!" He kicked the ground with his foot. Serena swallowed, trying to hold back her tears. She couldn't though. She began sniffling, tears pouring down her face. The boy smiled.
"Hey, you know what?" he asked, making Serena look up at him. "You can borrow this," he said, grinning. He held out a gold star-shaped locket. "You always liked it, right?" he asked. Serena looked at it, then back at him.
"But your grandma gave that to you," Serena said through tears. The boy shrugged his shoulders.
"I never said you can have it," he said, smiling. Serena giggled. "Just, uhh.think of me when you open it." He laughed, putting his hand behind his head, blushing. "Haha, I saw that in some movie the other day!" Serena giggled and took the locket from him.
"You better come back for this," Serena said. The boy nodded and grinned. Right then, Serena smiled shyly and leant forward, kissing the boy on his cheek. He blushed, his eyes opened wide. Serena giggled and blushed.
"Come on, we're going," called a voice from behind them. Tears began pouring out of Serena's eyes again. He was her best friend. She didn't want him to go.
"I gotta go," the boy said, before waking way. Serena stepped forward but stopped. She looked down at the locket, then back up at him, tears in her eyes.
"YOU BETTER COME BACK FOR THIS!" Serena cried. "YOU PROMISED!" The boy stopped and turned around. He smiled at her and nodded again, before running away into the car. Soon after, the car drove away. Serena fell to her knees, holding the locket, sobbing.
'He never came back,' Serena thought sadly, coming back to reality. She wiped the tears from her eyes and sat down on her bed. "Like I care," she said, putting the locket back into the drawer. "It was some childish gibberish anyway." She lied back and stared at her ceiling. "I wish I could remember his name." Right then, she heard the doorbell ring.
I wonder who's at the door? Is it Serena's friends, or did the guests arrive early? Hmm.you'll have to find out for yourself! =Þ Anyway, I should have the next chapter up in a few days. REMEMBER to also check out my other fic: "The New Sailor Moon World!" I have been putting my heart and soul into that fic, and NOBODY reads it -_-!!! Anyway, I would appreciate it if you guys check it out. Well, later!