THANK YOU Everyone for all your support. And to Asma and Robin my wonderful beta readers for all their hard work and input ^_^
Chapter 12
The petite blonde crept after her blue haired friend careful to keep her in sight while remaining far enough behind so as not to attract her attention. Silently she watched as Ami walked up to the male dorms, coincidently the same one that Kevin and Mamoru inhabited. Creeping closer with a small frown of puzzlement upon her brow Usagi watched as Ami entered before quickly slipping in behind her.
The blue-haired girl walked up the stairs leading to the second floor completely unaware, that she was being followed, in her haste to see Greg again.
Sure she had seen him a few hours ago, but that felt like a lifetime to the infatuated girl.
"Who is it?" a voice called from within
"It's me…" Ami stated as the door opened. Usagi watched from where she stood partially hidden with only her head peaking around a corner to get a glimpse of the guy Ami had come to see, when she did something she hadn't done in a number of years, Usagi tripped and fell flat on her face.
The unexpected crash, combined with a wail of astonishment caused the couple at the doorway to turn.
"Usagi-chan?" exclaimed Ami in shock, "What are you doing here?"
"Um…. I …… I.. followed you…" stated Usagi shamefacedly.
"Usagi" grumbled Ami going to help her friend up, "well since you're here you might as well meet Greg."
Then, turning to the tall auburn haired man in the doorway she said,
"Greg this is my friend and roommate Usagi Tuskino, Usagi this is Greg"
"Nice to meet you!" exclaimed Usagi holding her hand out for him to shake while she smiled adorably up at him…a rose blush spread across Greg's cheeks as he said,
"Nice to meet you too. Uh… would you like to come in?"
"I would love to, but someone's expecting me." said Usagi after glancing at the warning look on Ami's face.
"Oh, ok then, some other time perhaps?"
Flushing pink Usagi replied, "Maybe." She winked at Ami as she called out "See you later Ami-chan" and left.
Turning her attention to Greg, Ami watched as he stared after her friend.
"Beautiful isn't she?" Ami questioned him
"Yeah," Greg agreed focusing his attention back on the blue haired girl beside him; then giving her an appraising look he smiled and said, "but no where near as gorgeous as you…" which caused Ami to flush red from the tips of her toes to the roots of her aqua hair as she laughed gaily saying,
"Greg, you're such a charmer." as he shut the door behind the long gone blonde.
After Usagi had left Greg's room she quickly made up her mind, and walked up another flight of stairs to the dorm room Mamoru and Kevin shared. Reaching it she knocked lightly on the door only to have it opened moments later.
"Hi Angel" Kevin stated using his private nickname for her
"Hey! Kev," Laughed Usagi, "is Mamoru around?"
"Mamoru are you here?" called Kevin winking at Usagi
"Depends who's asking!" answered Mamoru.
"Well, what if it's your girl friend?" A moment's silence greeted this question as Kevin let Usagi in.
"My girl friend you say?" Mamoru's responded as he exited his bedroom with only a towel wrapped around his waist.
"Mamoru-baka!!" squealed Usagi covering her eyes moaning "Oh, my Virgin eyes!!" before secretly peeping out at him from between her fingers taking in the heart racing site of his broad muscular chest, then up further, eyes darting over his strong jaw to the lock of his sexy raven hair that drooped carelessly over his deep sapphire eyes.
"KEVIN! You should have told me you were letting her in!" raged Mamoru.
"Well, how was I supposed to know you would come out in a towel?"
"You must be deaf if you can't here the water running."
"Well…it stopped like 10minutes ago. How was I to know you wouldn't be presentable?"
The sound of a throat clearing stopped their argument as both men turned to look at Usagi, standing with her hands still pressed firmly in front of her eyes…. and a red blush spread over her cheeks.
"Sorry." They said in unison as Mamoru returned to his room to change.
"Can I get you anything?" Kevin asked the blue-eyed girl before him.
"Uh… a glass of water?" stated Usagi following him into their kitchenette. Looking around Usagi spotted a freshly baked batch of cookies cooling on some brown paper near the stove, a little evil grin lighted her features as she crept toward them.
"Um Kevin, Could I have some milk instead?" she asked leaning casually on the counter while pretending to look out the window.
"Sure thing" said Kevin reaching into the fridge.
Quickly, while his back was turned, Usagi scooped up one of the cookies and shoved it into her mouth a happy grin spreading across her face as the taste of warm chocolate spread across her tongue, mixed with the delightful taste of the cookie dough.
Laughter at the door way caused both Usagi and Kevin to face the doorway.
"What?" questioned Kevin. Still grinning Mamoru pointed at Usagi, then at the brown paper….
"Usagi! You stole a cookie!" sighed Kevin dramatically, "Do you know how long it took me to make them??"
Usagi looked shamefacedly at the floor, then up at Kevin from under her long golden lashes….
"I'm soooo sorry." she said sounding miserable, "I didn't know." her bright blue eyes threatened to overflow with tears in a legendary gesture that had never failed to melt the hardest of hearts.
Kevin felt very guilty as he gazed into her watery orbs.
"Aw… it's ok." He said coming towards her
"Are you sure?" she asked a tremor of hope dawning in her voice
"Positive. Just don't worry about it; you can even have another one"
"Really?" she asked wiping the moisture away from her eyes.
"Really" he replied
"Thank you!" exclaimed Usagi giving him a hug.
Causing Mamoru to feel a twinge of jealously as Kevin stood with his arms wrapped gently around his Usako. It was not long before Usagi squirmed out of Kevin's grasp and devoted her full attention to choosing the largest chocolatiest cookie of the bunch; making both men laugh at her antics.
Then as Usagi sat huddled in a large arm chair with her glass of milk and another cookie Mamoru asked,
"So Usagi…. What brings you by?"
"Ah... well…. Actually I was following Ami…."
"Ami?" questioned Kevin.
"Yeah. She snuck out when she thought I was absorbed in my homework…but I heard her leave and decided to follow her. Turns out she has a boyfriend named Greg."
"Greg…. Greg…" mussed Kevin.
"Tall…. Auburn hair? Brown eyes?" Questioned Mamoru.
"Yup!"
"Oh, I remember him. He's in a few of my classes," stated Mamoru, "Quite smart."
"Mmm…. yummy!" squealed Usagi in reply as she took another bite of her cookie managing to get chocolate all around her mouth and crumbs on her chin.
Kevin laughed as he watched her, before going to the kitchen to get himself another glass of water, leaving Usagi and Mamoru alone together in the room.
She just looked so cute sitting there, with her glass of milk that Mamoru soon found himself leaning over to wipe her face with the corner of his napkin.
As his hand drew nearer and nearer, his dark blue hypnotic gaze fixed firmly upon his target, Usagi watched him, her breathing growing shallower before she snapped out of her daze and questioned,
"Um, what are you doing?" moving away slightly.
Mamoru stopped as his gaze still focused upon her lips as he suddenly realized where he was. 'What were you thinking?' He berated himself, as he slowly drew away in response to her actions.
While Usagi sighed to herself thinking 'Jesh Usa, what did you do that for? It's not like he's going to hurt you or anything.'
They sat in an uneasy silence until Kevin returned.
"What is this? A mummers meeting?" he joked sending all three of them into waves of laughter.
Looking at her watch Usagi and seeing that it was already after ten-thirty she stood "I really have to go."
Both men nodded and stood up to walk her to the door.
"G'night! Usagi" they called after her.
"Bye!" she replied waving over her shoulder.
Arriving back at her dorm room Usagi noticed that Ami still hadn't returned from her meeting with Greg, and with a shrug of her shoulders Usagi decided not to worry about it, and instead got ready for bed….
~Two uneventful days later~
Usagi was still trying to get Ami to tell her more about her relationship with Greg, and surprisingly Ami was being more than secretive, she was just being plain annoying. Online, talking to Rei through MSN Usagi was explaining the frustrating situation, complaining about Ami's unwillingness to fork out the juicy tidbits like all the others did when they were serious about someone.
"Rei," whined Usagi, "she won't tell me anything."
"Well, I don't blame her Usagi."
"But it's just not fair, I've told her a lot about Mamo-chan."
"Well, you do have a tendency to pry into other peoples business."
"Speak for yourself PYRO!" exclaimed Usagi.
Just then the "You've got mail." icon flashed up, and clicking on it Usagi opened a message from Minako.
Hi Usagi-chan,
I'm doing well….
Here's the song you requested…tell me how everything goes.
I'm in a bit of a rush…. So I can't talk….
Luv Ya and ja ne
Mina-chan
There below was the complete song quickly Usagi bade Rei good bye and printed out two copies of the song then rushed out the door while the instrumental was downloading, to drop one of with Mamoru so he could practice.
~The day of the Try outs~
Usagi arrived early for once, so that she and Mamoru could practice their duet together as neither had had time over the course of the week, and they had decided that they would probably do ok with just one practice together.
They started the instrumental, and as the music flowed through out the room everyone fell silent as they turned to listen…
(A/N Bold is Mamo singing.)
(reg. is Usa.)
(Italics is both)
I do swear that I'll always be there. I'd give anything and everything and I will always care.
Through weakness and strength through happiness and sorrow for better for worse,
Will love you with every beat of my heart
From this moment life has begun
From this moment you are the one
Right beside you
Is where I belong from this moment on
From this moment I have been blessed
I live only for your happiness
And for your love
I'd give my last breath
From this moment on
I give my hand to you with all my heart
Can't wait to live my life with you can't wait to start
You and I will never be apart
My dreams came true because of you
From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn't give
From this moment on
You're the reason I believe in love
And you're the answer to my prayers from up above
All we need is just the two of us
My dreams came true because of you
From this moment as long as I live
I will love you, I promise you this
There is nothing I wouldn't give
From this moment
I will love,
I will love you
As long as I live from this moment on.
As the music faded away, Mamoru turned to her and whispered softly in a voice choked with emotion,
"I have always loved you Usagi, and I always will now and forever." Then he slowly drifted away from her amidst the roars of applause. Deep inside of herself, Usagi felt all the threads of resentment break as the last thoughts of the game drifted away until only a single thought remained in her brain, 'I love him…. I love him more than I love life itself'
Watching his still retreating back she ran after him, reaching out to place her hand upon his shoulder, and as he paused she said in Japanese, "Mamo-chan, I need to talk to you."
He turned around, and she leapt into his arms, her slender arms going about his neck as she buried her face in his chest.
"Usako." He breathed against her fingertips as she silenced him.
"Mamo-chan, I, I forgive you for everything." she stated looking into the depths of his sapphire eyes. Mamoru remained silent as he stood holding her; it felt like a dream, the feeling amplified as she went on to say,
"I…. I don't want to be alone anymore… I love you Mamo-chan." and as her small hands twined themselves within the strands of his silky hair she stood on tiptoe to whisper in his ear,
"Don't ever let me go."
Those final words spurned Mamoru into action as he tightened his grip about her waist, and just before leaning down to capture her soft rose petal lips he whispered for only her to hear,
"Aishiteru Usagi, aishiteru."
The raging passion of their love swept through them both, as their lips met in a gentle kiss. It was like this that the music instructor saw them as he entered the room, a scowl crossing his features at the public display of affection.
(The song isn't mine…it's from this moment by Shania Twain accompanied by Brian White)
Chapter 13
"Well, well," began Prof. Montaine clearing his throat.
The kissing couple didn't hear him and continued what they were doing.
"Ok… Line up!" stated the Prof. Thinking 'those to suck faces are going first!'
Usagi and Mamoru finally broke apart for air, the professor stated, "Thank goodness…I was beginning to worry about you two." in a very sarcastic tone.
Blushing red right down to the roots of her hair Usagi mumbled an apology while Mamoru on the other hand, only tightened his grip about his girlfriend's waist.
"Yes since you too seem to feel that you do not need this time to practice, why don't you go 1st?"
The happy couple grinned sheepishly at each other and once again sang the song, which had put the incident out of both their minds, as their voices combined once more in perfect harmony as they stated the promise of the song to each other all the while looking deep into each other's eyes. Usagi's sweet high voice was perfectly balanced by Mamoru's sexy alto as the notes twined around each other causing the professor to practically beam with happiness, and as they reached the end of the song the prof. all but danced in delight exclaiming,
"You two were amazing! You can leave right away, as the new lead soloists!"
Both stared at him in stupefied silence…then thanking him with a bow Usagi grabbed Mamoru's hand and dashed out of the music hall happy that today was Saturday and she could spend the rest of the day in her love's company.
The happy couple walked out one set of doors just as Melanie walked in another, looking around to see if she could spot Darien.
Not seeing him, she walked over to one of the guys as he waited in line and put on a sweet smile,
"Excuse me, but do you know where Darien Chiba is?"
The guy sent her an appraising look thinking, 'its that slime ball that broke them up at the party' but said politely,
"I'm sorry he hasn't shown up yet"
Melanie sighed with relief and removed her fur coat revealing a short red dress beneath.
"Melanie!" stated the professor reading off his list
Melanie walked over to the CD player and inserted her music then stepped back, out towards the middle of the room and began to sing. As the first phrases left her lips everyone immediately cringed inwardly she sounded like a toad croaking away, or a scratched broken record after the sweet voices of Usagi and Mamoru.
Before she had even finished the song the prof. put a check to indicate that while she was in, she would not be receiving any solo-parts.
"Thank you Melanie, you may go." stated the professor when she had finished, with a self-satisfied smile; she sat down on the bench to wait. Time ticked by ever so slowly, and ½ an hour later when the last auditioned had finished, Melanie decided that Darien must have forgotten to set his alarm clock or something and left to go in search of him.
Meanwhile…
Usagi and Mamoru left the music hall narrowly missing an encounter with Melanie, which was the last thing, either of them wanted.
They walked across campus hand in hand, back towards the dorms. Both were happier than they had been for months.
Upon arriving Mamoru unlocked the door and held it open, allowing Usagi to enter before him.
"Mmm? What's that yummy smell?" squealed Usagi as she entered the room.
"Angel?" questioned a voice from the kitchenette.
"Kevin!" exclaimed Usagi following her nose as she dragged Mamoru along.
"So, what's up with you two?' he asked watching them. Marveling at the way Usagi stood in front of his friend with her hands resting lightly over his where they lay wrapped around her waist.
"We're back together again." stated Mamoru as Usagi smiled up at him.
"Oh really? Then this is cause for a CELEBRATION!!!" exclaimed Kevin dashing into his room; unwisely leaving his plates of cinnamon rolls unattended. A smile of delight crossed Usagi's face as she spotted them; silently she crept over and filled a plate then dragged Mamoru into the living room.
Meanwhile
Melanie made her way across the schoolyard, stopping here and there to flirt with the older guys until she finally reached the door to the guy's dorm only to find it locked.
"DAMN!" she swore as she tugged furiously at the handle.
Inside the guys room
The temperature in the living room was quickly soaring as Mamoru lay with his head in Usagi's lap, as she fed him small portions off the cinnamon rolls. Each time she moved to drop part in his mouth he attempted to lick the white frosting off her fingers making her laugh.
It was to the sound of Usagi's laughter that Kevin entered the room, and noticing how involved they were in what they were doing slipped silently past them into the kitchen to open the champagne.
Back at the door…
Melanie stood outside the door waiting patiently for someone to either enter or exit the building, unfortunately she didn't have to wait long and as one of the residents left she caught the door and entered heading straight up the stairs towards Kevin and Mamoru's room
Back at the dorm room…
DING DONG! Went the doorbell, to which everyone froze in response.
"Quick!" exclaimed Kevin rushing into the living room, "Hide!"
Outside the door Melanie heard footsteps from inside and rang the bell again "DING DONG!"
When the door suddenly opened to reveal a frowning Kevin.
"He's not here." Kevin stated not even allowing Melanie a chance to speak.
"Of course he is." Melanie argued pushing her way past him into the room.
"Melanie, GET OUT!" stated Kevin his voice cold.
"Mmm what was that?" she questioned continuing her inspection of the room noticing the crumbs on the sofa, a quickly abandoned plate, and a couple of strands of silvery gold hair….
"Where is she?" demanded Melanie plucking the strands from the couch as she drifted into Mamoru's room.
"What are you talking about" demanded Kevin nervously watching her progress.
"Oh…. Darien!" Melanie called in her sickeningly sweet voice as she tapped gently on his door.
"Melanie, he's not there." stated Kevin panic rising in his voice.
She didn't respond, just pushed the door open with her foot to reveal to lumpy shapes underneath the cover of the bed.
"Not here?" she stated triumphantly pointing at the sleeping figures "HA!"
Then she dashed forewords throwing herself on the larger of the two lumps.
"What's this?" she questioned eyes blazing…. as the shape deflated under her weight leaving only a false head resting on the pillow… Then turning to the other one she saw that it too was a fake
"What's what?" Kevin innocently replied…
"These things…" she began a note of panic rising in her voice
"Oh… decoys," he stated mater of factly "…and they seemed to have worked quite well."
"DAMN YOU!" she raged at him.
Kevin simply got out of the way… as she stormed past him on her way out of the room slamming the door behind her in frustration.
'Maybe this really is hopeless?' she thought to herself as she walked down the stairs.
Back in the dorm room Kevin chuckled to himself and set about cleaning up…before writing an e-mail to Makoto…telling her of the days events…
~Meanwhile~
Usagi and Mamoru were laughing as they strolled away down the path. Wishing that they could have been there to see the look on Melanie's face when she found the decoys.
"I can't believe she forgot about the fire escape!" exclaimed a delighted Usagi.
Mamoru laughed…. Then steered her towards the school parking lot.
"Where are we going?" questioned Usagi… as they got in his deep red BMW convertible (drools)
"It's a surprise." Mamoru answered, and sped off down the street.
Chapter 14
Dear Mako-chan,
Thanks for the recipes you sent me, although I barely get to try any of the stuff I bake, That Usagi, always snatching food from right under my nose.
Well, you wanted me to inform you of any changes in their relationship, and there is definitely a big change. They are back together now, but Melanie doesn't know yet. Usagi and Mamoru managed to sneak out two days ago down the fire escape, when Melanie arrived. You should have been here to see the look on Melanie's face, it was 100% priceless. She was totally furious!!
Mamoru took Usagi shopping, and when they returned confided that he had wanted to take her to look at engagement rings, to see what type she liked. He tells me that it went well. But Usagi was getting suspicious after the 10th jewelry store, but I guess the other four hours of shopping made up for it… as she hasn't mentioned anything to me…. except about her new outfits…which do look great on her. I'm expecting the two of them to be back any moment… they went out again today for lunch.
Your other friend Ami is heading into a serious relationship with Greg, a guy in almost all her classes.
Ami told me not to tell anyone… but I think I can trust you not to tell Usagi… Ami wants to tell Usagi all about it herself.
Are you going to come and visit at Christmas break? I would love to see you, and I know the rest of the gang here would as well.
Aishiteru,
Kevin
"KEVIN!!" came Mamoru's voice from the doorway, "KEVIN ARE YOU HERE!!"
"What is it?" Kevin shouted quickly hitting the send button.
"Great, I need you to do me a HUGE favor."
"What is it buddy?"
"Could you keep Usa busy for a bit, while I run back out a grab some stuff?"
"What do you want me to do?"
"I don't know, take her somewhere, spy on Ami, just keep her away from here!"
"Uh…. Ok…" replied Kevin stunned at his friends odd behavior. Quickly walking to the door in response to a knock.
"Who is it?" Kevin asked going to the door.
"Me!" squealed Usagi.
"Shit!" muttered Mamoru running to the window and down the fire escape to his car.
"Hey Usagi." Kevin said.
"Hi Kevin, um where's Mamoru?" Usagi asked confused.
"Oh…. He had to run an errand, and he wants us to go do something for a little while."
"Okay, so what should we do?"
"Why don't we…." Then thinking quickly suggested "Go to the arcade for a while?"
"Ok." Usa agreed thinking that she hadn't been to one since she left Tokyo.
Meanwhile….
Mamoru drove frantically downtown, and parked his car. Jumping out he ran into the large professional looking store where he immediately asked the sales clerk if he could see one particular ring that had caught Usagi and his attention two days prior.
About 15mins later he remerged and headed to the local supermarket to pick up some ingredients for the dinner he was going to cook for his beloved little Usako.
"Kevin, can we go now?" asked Usagi after she managed to get the high score on the Sailor V game for about the 5th time in a row.
"Usagi, don't worry, Mamoru is perfectly fine." responded Kevin then realizing what he had done, quickly asked, "Are you up for a game of lazar tag?"
"Fine." Usagi consented, wondering what Mamoru's state of heath had to do with anything, as Kevin dragged her out of the arcade, and down the street.
Ring ring went Kevin's cell phone after their 3rd game of lazar tag….
"Hello?"
"Kev. You can come back now." stated Mamoru on the other end of the line.
"Ok, be there shortly."
"K." replied Mamoru hanging up.
"Who was that?" Usagi demanded as Kevin rushed her out the door.
"Mamoru, he said we can go back now." Kevin replied heading back towards campus,
"Oh… OK!" Usagi exclaimed beginning to run, and soon leaving Kevin behind in the dust.
Unknown to either of them Melanie had been following them around for the last hour hoping to find some sign that Usagi was being unfaithful, and then be able to use that knowledge to capture Darien's heart after he broke up with Usagi.
"Hmm…. I wonder where's she's going in such a rush." Melanie asked herself watching Usagi's bolt off towards the campus with Kevin hot on her heels. Making up her mind she raced after them a plan forming in her mind as they went up to and entered the front door of the guy's dorms.
Meanwhile, in the dorm room, Mamoru was putting the final touches on his surprise, and as a knock sounded on the door, he lit the last candle, turned off the final light and picked up the blindfold, before heading to the door.
Slowly he opened the door just wide enough for him to slip out, shutting it behind him, as he turned to look down into the astonished face of his angel.
"Mamo-chan?" she questioned as he placed the blindfold over her eyes.
"It's a surprise." he told her, and then sent Kevin a look, which said please, just for tonight. Then led Usagi inside.
Her eye-site being temporarily denied, Usagi used her other senses to try and guess what was going on.
The room smelled sweetly of roses and cinnamon… the hand on her arm was gentle and strong, and as she entered she could here slow romantic music playing in the background… but the best part of all was that she could smell the delicious food as Mamoru led her too the table.
"Mmm… smells good." stated Usagi beaming up at him from place on the chair.
Her smile was like a ray of sunshine in the darkness of the candle light room causing Mamoru's breath to catch in his throat with its beauty. He sighed, wanting to be able to look into the clear pools that were her eyes, to see the light of her smile in them, mixed with the love and adoration he knew would be there.
Bending down he removed the blindfold, allowing her to look around at her surroundings. But to his surprise and utmost delight, her eyes locked onto his the instant the blindfold was removed,
"Mamo-chan…" she breathed, "you did all this for me?"
Mamoru smiled in response, leaning in to capture her inviting rose petal lips, delighting in their sweet taste, as she kissed him back, reinforcing his belief that he had made the right decision.
As they broke their kiss… gasping for breath Usagi stated as Mamoru leaned in for another kiss.
"Mamo-chan… although you taste like chocolate and I could kiss you forever… I'm hungry!"
Mamoru laughed. As he wandered into the kitchen to retrieve the 1st course of the 7-course meal he had prepared for her.
Outside on the fire escape.
Melanie was spying on the happy couple wondering what was going on, and if she should intrude.
For there before her eyes, a scene like from a romance novel or movie was being acted out… but in real life.
On one hand she really wanted Mamoru, but on the other, she knew that if she intruded now, he would never even consider her as a possible girlfriend, so instead. She just continued to watch as the drama unfolded.
Inside after the 7th course
"Mamoru-baka!! Don't laugh at me!!" exclaimed Usagi, as she heaped yet another piece of the delicious chocolate cake onto her plate.
"But its so hard." he teased watching as she happily munched away on the cake. Getting chocolate all over her pouting lips.
"Humph!" Usagi snorted, unladylike, causing Mamoru to shake even harder with mirth and Melanie still on the balcony to gag in disgust at Usagi's lack of manners.
"Usako…." Mamoru breathed… moving around the table to kneel in front of her. His dark cobalt eyes looking up into her sky-blue innocent orbs, as he takes her hands in his own, leading her away from the table and over towards the square of silvery moonlight streaming in the window.
"Usako." he breathed again, looking deep into her eyes, as he slowly kneeled down before her.
"Mamo-chan?" she whispered questioningly as she looked deep into the depths of his loved filled eyes. Losing herself in their depths.
Taking her small pale hand in his larger tanned one he reached into his pocket carefully removing the ring from its black velvet box.
"Usagi Tuskino, my little Usako…. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?" he asked staring up into her eyes as they flashed through a series of emotions, shock, joy, amusement, love, adoration, and then she was there. Her arms wrapped tightly about his neck as her lips pressed firmly against his own. Answering his question with the intensity of their kiss.
Their love raged through them like an all-consuming fire, in a kiss more passionate than either had ever experienced before.
Reluctantly, they broke apart gasping desperately for air, but still leaning into each other, and when Usagi had recovered enough to speak she replied in three simple words,
"aishiteru itsumademo Mamo-chan"
"Hai, aishiteru itsumademo Usako" Mamoru replied… lifting her small hand and carefully placing the contents of the velvet box upon it.
Usagi watched as her only love placed the beautiful ring upon the third finger of her left hand. It was white gold, set with a single heart shaped blood red stone.
"It's beautiful" Usagi breathed looking into Mamoru's midnight eyes
"Not nearly as beautiful as you." he whispered in response kissing her tenderly on the lips. before pulling her to her feet.
Out on the balcony Melanie felt hot waves of jealousy wash over her. As she saw watched Darien kneel before Usagi,
'Oh my god!' she thought 'he's going to ask her to marry him.' Startled… Melanie found herself frozen to the spot, as she realized how much they must love each other. And as they shared a long passionate kiss, a slow sad smile crept over her face, as she realized what she had lost, but it soon disappeared as a calculating gleam entered her eyes. And in a flash, she climbed down the ladder, not wanting to see anymore.
Inside Mamoru held Usagi tenderly in his arms like as if she were a china doll that would break under rougher handling, as their song began to stream out from the stereo, Mamoru lead his love into the living room amongst the flickering cinnamon scented candles and bouquets of red roses.
Deep in my soul
Love so strong, it takes control
Now we both know, the secrets there
A feeling shows
Mamoru breathed deeply taking in the scent of vanilla and sunshine that was his love, remembering the rough times that they had experienced at the beginning of their relationship, those many years ago… happy that she was their in his arms.
Driven far apart
I make a wish on a shooting star
Usagi gently rested her head against his chest, the ring on her finger, feeling alien, and yet, she was perfectly happy, her one dream now fulfilled.
That there will come a day somewhere far away
In you arms I'll stay… My only love
Swaying with the music they remember the first time they had admitted their feelings to each other, their first kiss, and now thinking of where it had led them, to this instant, where their eyes met, speaking openly of their love for each other.
Even though you're gone love will still live on…
The feeling is so strong
My only love….
Slowly Mamoru leaned down…. Inching his face closer to that of the women whom he was now promised to spend the rest of his life with…. As she leaned upwards, capturing each other's lips as the final strains of the song echoed through out the room, and their hearts…
My only love
(That's from SM! No duh)
Chapter 15
The next morning the sun shone warmly on the sleeping figures of a tall, raven-haired young man who was gently cradling a small blonde woman to his chest. She clung tightly to his shirt, her small hands wrapped tightly around a fold in the material, trying to prevent her from falling off the narrow couch where they had fallen asleep the night before.
As the light from the morning sun shone in his eyes, the man mumbled, squeezing the woman in his arms. This caused her to roll right off the couch, landing with a THUNK on the carpeted floor.
"OW!" Exclaimed the blonde as her head hit the floor. "M-A-M-O-R-U...." she whined, looking up at his sleeping form, which was now sprawled over the entire width of the couch. As she leaned over him, she caught site of his sleeping face, so calm and peaceful, like that of a child.
She sighed. Reaching over to gently brush his raven bangs back from his closed eyes, she whispered, "Mamo-chan." Her warm breath tickled his face as she leaned over to give him a light kiss on the forehead.
Mamoru murmured incoherently in his sleep. His eyes fluttered open as a knock sounded from the direction of the door.
"Oh brother." Usagi muttered, walking to the door amidst the remains of last night's romantic events, enjoying the sparkling on her finger from her new engagement ring.
"Hey Usagi!" Kevin greeted her. "Is it safe to come in?"
"Huh? Oh. Kevin" stated Usagi sleepily. "Yeah. Fine, just fine."
"Wow! What happened?" asked Kevin, looking at Mamoru snoring away on the couch.
Usagi smiled at him, holding out her hand.
Kevin stared at her in shock as he took in the site of the ring, before beginning to clean up.
"What time is it?" Usagi asked.
"Uh, three o' clock." Kevin responded, picking up the scattered candles and remains from last night.
"What?" Usagi demanded, looking a little alarmed.
"Three o' clock," Kevin repeated. "Oh, and the choir master told me to tell you that the trip date has changed to this Thursday, and he wants you and Mamoru to report to his office at 9:00 am Monday morning. Something about a new student that claimed to know you."
"A new student?" Usagi wondered aloud as a loud yawn escaped the previously sleeping figure on the couch.
"Usako?" Mamoru's voice questioned.
"Mamo-chan!" Usagi exclaimed, running around to sit on his lap.
"Finally awake?" Kevin questioned dryly.
"Yeah, no thanks to you." Mamoru shot back. "Is there anything to eat around here?"
Kevin raised his eyebrows "With Tenshi here? You've got to be kidding me!"
"Kevin!" Usagi exclaimed, jumping up and pounding his back with her fists.
"Ack! Just kidding, just kidding!!" Kevin shouted, running into the kitchen with Usagi hot on his heels.
"You better be." She stated, sticking her tongue out at him and trying to act tough.
"Hey, isn't that tongue thing reserved for Rei?" Mamoru questioned, watching as a tongue war erupted before his eyes, and wondering what ever possessed him to wake up.
Both turned and stuck their tongues out at him, causing Mamoru to burst out laughing.
After a delicious breakfast of eggs and toast, Usagi started gathering up her things.
"Mamo-chan, I'm going home. It's obvious I'm no longer wanted or needed here." Usagi stated, giving Mamoru a kiss on the cheek as she watched the guys getting ready to clean up the apartment. "See you tomorrow at 9:00 am."
"Bye-bye Usako." Mamoru said, giving her a light kiss on the forehead as she rushed out the door.
Girl's dormitory:
Usagi unlocked and entered the dorm room she shared with Ami, only to find a large pair of shoes discarded at the doorway. Curious, she wandered inside calling,
"Ami-chan, who's shoes are those?" in Japanese.
Muffled voices sounded from Ami's study as Usagi approached. 'What's going on?' she wondered as she knocked lightly on the door.
"Usagi-chan?" Ami's voice questioned from within.
"Hai!" Usagi responded, pushing open the door to reveal Ami sitting at her desk with an attractive American. "Who's that?" Usagi demanded, pointing at the man.
"Usagi-chan, don't point." stated Ami, shocked at her friend's lack of good manners.
"Uh, hello." The man greeted her uncertainly, watching the short exchange, and wondering what they had been saying.
"Usagi, this is Greg. Greg, this is my roommate Usagi." Ami said, introducing them.
"Hello Greg." Usagi said, smiling.
"Hi…" he replied, unheard as she turned to talk to Ami in Japanese again.
"Ami, I have so much to tell you! Just look!" she said, showing Ami her ring.
"Usagi!!! Did Mamoru-san…."
"HAI!" Usagi replied, grabbing her friend's arm and dragging her out of the room.
Greg stared after them, wondering what had just happened, and thinking about signing up for a Japanese course.
"Oh Ami, it was *so* romantic! The music, everything. Mamoru even cooked for me!!" Usagi squealed with happiness.
"Usagi, you're *so* lucky!" Ami exclaimed, admiring her friend's ring. "It's beautiful!"
"I know, but it could have been just some lump of copper and I would have loved it. He spent so much!" Usagi's happiness reflected in her eyes, which absolutely shone. "Mamoru is mine mine mine mine mine!"
Ami laughed, thinking, 'Yes, Usagi. And he always has been.' Before jumping up as she remembered that Greg was still there.
"Greg!" she called out.
"What?" he responded to her shout.
"Come here!" This cry was answered a few moments later with his appearance in the living room.
"Ami, why is he here?" Usagi questioned in Japanese
"Usagi…Greg is my…. Boyfriend…and we were…uh… studying." Said Ami, still in Japanese, and covered from forehead to neck with a bright-red blush.
"Ami…" whined Greg, "What are you saying?"
"Oh, nothing important." she teased him.
Greg just raised an eyebrow to that remark, and proposed that they go out for dinner.
The next day (Monday):
Mamoru knocked on Usagi's dorm door at 8:30 am sharp, hoping that she was up and ready.
"Ready to go?" he asked her when she opened the door.
"Hai!" she responded, linking her arm through his. Arm in arm they strolled across the campus to the auditorium, where the music instructor had requested to meet with them.
"Ah! Usagi and Darien, you're here." he stated, walking up to them with a young man in tow.
"Good morning!" They simultaneously greeted the professor. They then turned to the new student, and Usagi's jaw dropped in shock.
"Hello, Usagi." he said with a smirk.
"Hello, Seiya." Usagi replied, moving closer to Mamoru and feeling his arm tighten about her waist possessively.
"Good, I see you know each other already." the professor said. "Seiya here has joined the choir, and will be coming on the trip. I thought that you could show him around campus; maybe introduce him etc." And he walked off, leaving the young people to themselves.
The three Japanese students stood looking at each other, Mamoru and Seiya giving each other challenging looks.
Before long Mamoru demanded, "How do you know Usagi?"
Seiya smiled and replied calmly, "I was about to ask you the same thing."
"She's my fiancée" Mamoru replied, not liking how Seiya just seemed to shrug it off, smiling smugly at him before deadpanning,
"We'll see about that."
Meanwhile…
In a shadowed corner, Melanie watched the exchange, wondering who the handsome man was.
"Damn!" she said to herself, "Who is that guy?"
She stared hungrily at Seiya,
"Although," she thought to herself, "Darien is much hotter."
As she followed the trio at a safe distance noticing Mamoru's over protective behavior and the way that Seiya kept eyeing Usagi… and trying to make her laugh.
Chapter 16
Monday evening,
Usagi trudged into her dorm and plopped down on the bed, Ami was not at home, and feeling as if she was going to burst Usagi quickly picked up the phone and dialed the only one of her friends that would not be in classes or asleep at that hour….
Ring ring went the phone, once, twice, three times... as the events of the day sifted through Usagi's mind, until a familiar voice on the other end of the phone said,
"Hello, Makoto and Lisette residence"
"Mako-chan!" Usagi exclaimed into the mouthpiece "How are you?"
Far away on the other end of the line Makoto answered, "Not too bad. So what's up?"
"Oh, Mako-chan, something awful happened today!" Usagi began, her voice trembling slightly at the memory of that days events.
"Did Mamoru try something?" Makoto demanded anger seeping into her voice
"Mako no Baka!!! Mamo-chan would never doing anything to me, besides I told you we were engaged."
"Then who was it?" Mako demanded wishing she could beat them to a pulp
"Seiya.... He..." Usagi began shuddering…. "It was gross!"
Wonderingly, Makoto questioned, "Where was Mamoru?"
"Oh…. He doesn't have all his classes with me you know… and well… it turns out Seiya is in all of mine. and he even followed me around after school when Mamoru had to on a field trip to the hospital."
"So, Usagi, what did happen?"
"Well, it all started this morning, Mamoru and I were called to meet up with the choir director to show a new student around because they had said they knew me. Well the new student was Seiya, and he kept on cracking not very funny jokes and making eyes at me, all through English, and Mamoru was tense. And I could tell he was clearly telling Seiya to back off. You know how guys get."
"All possessive, the glaring, holding you closer and tighter, kissing you?"
"Exactly, anyways, first class went fine. I sat with Mamoru, and Seiya sat behind me somewhere…but I could feel his eyes on me for the whole class, it was really creepy, shudders…. and when class was over Mamoru headed off to his next class and I went the other way towards mine. with Seiya. And I don't believe his nerve. Mamoru and I even told him that we were engaged, and guess what he did!" Usagi raged.
"….."
"That, stuck up jerk, leans over and kisses me, right in the middle of the hallway!" Usagi fumed
"WHAT!" Makoto exclaimed.
"Yeah. He kissed me, and went on and on, about how he couldn't stop thinking about me, and that I was the reason he changed schools."
"What a loser." Makoto commented. "And he knows that you love Mamoru, and he still did this"
"Yeah. And tried to kiss me again, so now he's walking around with a some bruised ribs…from when he tried to follow me into my dorm."
"Did you tell Mamoru, or Kevin?" Makoto demanded, checking her calendar.
"Mm, Not yet. Mamoru won't be back for at least another ½ hour." Usagi replied shrugging her shoulders.
"Ok… Usagi, phone Mamoru ASAP, and, just keep as far away from Seiya as possible." Makoto stated.
"Yeah, I'll try, but it's going to be hard since he's in all my classes you know."
"Well, lets hope a warning from Mamoru and Kevin to stay away, will be enough." teased Makoto
"I hope so, but at least we're leaving for the choir trip on Thursday, four whole days with Mamoru!"
"Really. Is it that bit a competition?" asked Makoto smiling to herself, as she wrote something down on a piece of paper.
"Yes! And I'm sooo excited, Mamo-chan even suggested that we get connecting rooms."
"Connecting rooms? Why don't you just share a room, with two double beds?"
"Mako. Cut it out!" Usagi exclaimed happy that her friend couldn't see her bright red blush.
"Fine, fine…uh…. Usagi my room-mate needs to use the phone, call you later?"
"Sure."
« ja ne » stated Makoto
« buh bye » Usagi replied checking the clock. 'Hmm… Mamo-chan should be home by now.' she thought dialing his number, only to find the line already busy.
Guy's dorm
Kevin was sitting around watching TV while he waited for his roommate to return
"Hello, Kevin speaking here."
"Hi Kevin" the voice on the other end of the line gushed
"Uh, who is this?" Kevin questioned getting up to check on his soufflé.
"Did you like your sweater?" said the voice in Japanese.
"Makoto?"
"Hi Kevin."
"OH MY GOD!! Mako-chan!" Kevin exclaimed. "I'm trying out that gran marnier soufflé recipe of yours, and it actually worked!!"
"Oh! I'm so proud of you!" Mako. squealed while Kevin positively beamed from her praise before realizing that she must have had another purpose in mind for her call.
"So what's up?" he asked her
"Oh… nothing much… I have some holidays and I was thinking of coming to visit."
"Really! When?" Kevin asked his heart dancing circles in his chest.
"Uh, actually I was thinking of arriving on Wednesday."
"This Wednesday? Really?"
"Yup… that's ok right?"
"Yeah. That would be excellent. You could stay with me here."
"Uh, Kevin.." Makoto interrupted, "I'm going to stay in a hotel and then go up to the music festival to surprise Usagi and ensure that Seiya keeps his filthy hands off her!"
"Huh?"
"Oh, well you see," Mako began and told Kevin everything that Usagi had told her earlier.
By the time Makoto had finished Kevin was thoroughly shocked, and close to boiling with rage at the thought of some scumbag trying to break up his two best friends.
"Kevin I'm back!" Mamoru said, breaking off his friend's train of thought
"Uh, Mako, Mamoru just got back, I have to go "
"Ok…. I'll send you all my flight information alright?"
"Sure, see you in two days." Kevin replied hanging up the phone.
Kevin barely took two steps when the phone was ringing again, sighing he turned around and picked it up,
"Hello, Kevin speaking"
"Hi Kevin, is Mamoru there?"
"Just a moment Usagi I'll get him for you."
"Mamoru… your boss is on the line."
"Huh?"
"Just pick up the phone." Kevin shouted back
"Ok." Mamoru replied picking up the phone in the living room "Hello?"
"Mamo-chan!" Usagi gushed. "I need to talk to you, its really important."
"Um, ok." said Mamoru wondering what could possibly have caused his little Usako to become all worked up.
"Great. I'll be right there."
"Can I take…" Mamoru started then realized Usagi had already hung up.
"Uh, Kevin, Usagi's coming over." Mamoru stated hanging up the phone.
"Ok." Kevin replied from his room.
A moment later a knock sounded on the door.
"Come in!" Mamoru called.
"Hi Mamo-chan!" Usagi exclaimed hurtling herself into her arms.
"What is it Usako?" he asked holding her close….
"Oh Mamo-chan, It was awful" Usagi exclaimed, tears pouring from her eyes, falling like rain, and soaking his shirt.
"Shhh, Usako. Tell me what happened." Mamoru soothed. Scooping her onto his lap as he sat down on the couch.
Usagi huddled closer to him. Feeling safe with his strong arms wrapped securely about her and his fingers gently combing out her hair.
"Oh, Mamo-chan," Usagi choked out… "He… he … kissed me!"
"It's okay Usagi. " Mamoru soothed.
"Ergh, he tasted so gross, and he was so rough…I… I…"
"Who was it Usako? Who did this?" Mamoru asked her, noticing for the first time that her lips were bruised and looked sore.
Usagi shook her head, trying to fit all of her into the safety of his lap.
"Its okay Usako. He'll never do this to you again. But first I need to know who did it.
Usagi didn't answer, just huddled closer laying her head on his chest and listened to the steady beating of his heart, as her loves arms tightened around her, then taking a breath she whispered,
"Seiya. Seiya hurt me, and then tried to follow me into my room" Mamoru saw red, as he tightened his grip about her, wondering how that bastard would even dare to touch HIS Usako. And wanting nothing more than to beat his smiling face into a bloody pulp.
"Usagi. Do you think you could wait here for me? There is something I need to do," stated Mamoru. His voice gentle, as she gripped his shirt tighter… "Don't worry Kevin will be here with you, and I won't be gone long."
Usagi nodded tears still spilling from her baby blue orbs. "Aishiteru." Mamoru whispered giving her a butterfly kiss on her sore lips. Before he gently placed her on the couch, and took off out of the room.
Once away from his dorm, Mamoru stormed off down the hall to Seiya's room and knocked loudly.
Moments later Seiya's smiling face opened the door. "Oh, hi Mamoru. Is their something I can help you with?" Seiya asked
Smash! Mamoru's fist connected with his target causing Seiya to keel over grasping his stomach,
"That was for bothering Usagi" Mamoru said his eyes dangerous…voice colder than ice…
"I didn't do anything" Seiya attempted to defend himself
Swish. Mamoru's right fist connected with Seiya's rib cage. "Don't lie. Its pointless." Mamoru spat
"I swear. I didn't do anything." Seiya stated again panic rising in his voice.
"Oh! So you didn't kiss my fiancée, or try and get into her room? That wasn't you?" Mamoru shouted clenching and unclenching his fist as he moved forwards step-by-step staring Seiya straight in the eye… daring him to lie.
Panic filled Seiya's eyes…as he stepped backwards into his apartment. "I…. I only kissed her." Seiya blubbered, cowering from the avenging black-haired god that advanced on him. "I swear… I didn't mean any harm, I love her"
"Well, SHE DOESN'T LOVE YOU! " Mamoru began his voice dropping "And I'm going to make you pay for what you did to her."
Seiya shuddered in fright at the imposing figure thinking 'This is the end….' As Mamoru moved in, his fist raised high ready to strike.
Lower and lower it came… as if in slow motion Seiya watched it approach his face preparing himself for the pain that was sure to come… when the fist stopped…
"Mamo-chan?" a sweet voice questioned.
It was then…. That Seiya saw the small hand wresting lightly on the arm of the man in front of him.
"Usagi, I didn't mean it." Seiya pleaded knowing that she was his best chance/
Usagi ignored him. "Mamo-chan, don't he's not worth it." Usagi said. Pushing Mamoru towards the door, a light smile on her face despite the tearstains still marring her perfect features
Mamoru nodded, leaning in to give her a kiss.
Usagi smiled sweetly at him…. Pushing him towards the door before turning her attention to Seiya where he remained cringing on the floor… it was then that her expression changed…. She transformed from a peaceful maiden into an avenging goddess as she spat,
"Seiya… I have a little something for you." bending down close to him, she whispered "Three words for you" then shouted,
"Go to hell" landing a solid blow to his groin.
Seiya screamed out in agony as a fiery pain shot through his groin… breathing heavily he managed to say "No matter what, I still love you Odango" before blacking out as his head collided with the floor.
Next day
Seiya continued to follow Usagi around but decided to be more discreet. His aching stomach and throbbing groin reminders not to mess with them, so for now he decided he would try and think of a way to break them up.
Rounding a corner with a good vantage point of the couple Seiya crashed right into some one, and reaching down to help her up, found himself staring into a pair of emerald green eyes.
"Are you the new student?" she asked him
"Yes, and you are?"
"Melanie."
"Oh, Nice to meet you I'm Seiya." he responded turning his attention back to the couple…
'Oh, I see.' Melanie thought to herself. Following his gaze to the petit blonde sitting between two of the hottest guys on campus, one raven-haired, and the other brown.
'Hmm, that trip is coming up.' she mused to herself. 'Maybe he could help me out.' She walked off.
