Chapter 50: Out of the mist
He thought about the recent events while driving home. For a day that started out ordinarily, it had turned out pretty eventful, but thankfully now everything was okay. She was safe and their relationship was.
Where was their relationship going?
Their temporary separation had been a misunderstanding, right?
Actually, it wasn't that simple. He knew she didn't really mean it, but that night her words hurt him. She made everything they went through together seem unimportant. He felt betrayed. It made him almost do something he knew now he would have regretted forever-something he already did to someone he cared about, before. This time, though, he didn't let his anger get the best of him. He stopped himself from saying something too hurtful.
Later, when she told him the real reason for her strange behavior, he still had a sense of let-down. If only she had been honest with him. When she doubted herself, she also doubted them together.
He knew he couldn't place all the blame on her though, and didn't want to. He had been secretive himself, just adding to her insecurities. Sure, he was only thinking of protecting her, but he knew now it had only made things worse.
When they finally did talk it out, he knew it would be wrong to just go back and act as if nothing had happened. They needed to work their way through their troubles. They had to start over again, learning from each other along the way.
He said he wanted to take it slow, but where did they go now?
Their friendship was strong and solid. Beyond that, he knew without question there was more; he FELT it. He could sense her believing in it more too.
There was just one more thing.
~*~
WEEKS LATER:
As Mimi rinsed out the rags she used to clean out the locker rooms, she thought about Philip. She felt entirely lucky to have him as a friend, but she wondered, was that all they would ever be?
Deep down, she knew the answer. She had to admit, it still scared her a bit. It wasn't Philip, himself that scared her. She felt entirely safe and secure with him. It was the thought of being more than just friends with him, of becoming an actual couple. How would everybody else react? How would it change their relationship?
She knew now she wasn't the only one that had insecurities. He had them too though he hid them well and even then, he still had more confidence than her. Her humor and sarcastic wit was a part of HER cover. It helped her appear more self-assured than she really was.
Even so, it made her feels good that he believed in her so much. Of course, she felt the same way about him, even though she enjoyed teasing him about his sometimes over-inflated ego. It was like he said, they were best friends. They looked out for each other, helping one another when needed.
She sighed, rinsing out the last rag.
One worry continued to plague her more than any other. She knew how she felt. She couldn't deny it anymore, but what about him?
She knew he cared about her a lot, but he couldn't possibly feel the same way she did, could he?
****
Mimi walked with Jan out the front doors of the school. It was Friday, one of those horrible afternoons that she and Jan had to stay late working on the locker rooms together. At least she wasn't bugging her too much. Mimi made it clear earlier that she wasn't going to put up with any of her griping. She also let her know that any hurtful words weren't going to affect her.
Ha-ha. She was getting stronger.
"Excuse me Miss."
Mimi stopped, caught off guard.
"Uh, yes?" Who was this guy?
"Pardon me Miss, but if I may have a moment?"
He was talking to her?
She was dreaming. That had to be it. She was having a nice little fantasy, but now it was time to come back to reality. Wake up Mimi!
Wait a second. He must be there for Jan. That had to be it.
"Pardon me Miss, but I was told to come here and find you."
Mimi looked up at the man wearing a black suit and matching black cap suspiciously.
"Who are you and why are you here?" She sighed. "You obviously have the wrong person. It's probably her you want."
Mimi flippantly referred to Jan and then started walking off.
Unfortunately, the strange man didn't seem to be giving up.
"Miss, wait please. Miss Lockhart!"
Mimi stopped, turning around in shock. "How do you know my name?"
"I was informed that the young lady I would be looking for has auburn hair and green eyes-like jade."
Mimi regarded him incredulously. "Who told you that?"
"I am sorry Miss. My orders were simply to find you and to escort you to an undisclosed location."
Mimi looked up at the well-dressed man like he was crazy.
Jan just stood there, looking surprised.
"Escort me? Are you nuts? What are you talking about?!"
The well-dressed man remained completely composed, not at all put off by her resistant manner. "If you look that way Miss, you will notice that the car is over there."
Mimi looked, her eyes focusing on a very regal looking black stretch limousine. "What the?!"
Jan's look of surprise was turning to one of shock. "HER? You've been sent to take HER in a limousine?! You've got to be crazy!"
Mimi nearly laughed at the way the well-dressed man didn't even give Jan a cursory glance, ignoring her completely. Well one thing was for sure.this guy judged people well. But that didn't mean she was going to get into a car, even if it was a luxurious looking limousine, with a perfect stranger.
"I don't know who you are or who sent you, but there is no way I'm going to go anywhere with someone I don't even know!"
Mimi looked up at the darkening sky, noticing the fog settling in for the night. "I've got to get going before it gets any darker."
She started to walk away again, but the well-dressed man remained persistent. "Miss Lockhart, I was told not to accept no for an answer. I was also told to give you this if you refused."
He handed her an unmarked letter sized envelope.
Mimi looked up at the man with apprehension, but slowly took the envelope. She studied it silently at first, and then finally opened it, taking out a white folded piece of paper. She began to read the typed words:
{Greetings Thalia: I call you that for you remind me of her. In Greek history, she was the muse of comedy.
It is I. Poseidon. No, not the Greek Mythical God of the Sea. Even better. I am the horse and I (write) this as a favor to someone you know well.
I know you must remember me for I am entirely unforgettable, grand, majestic, graceful and as perfect as one can get.
Though we have only met on a couple of occasions due to a certain someone, I have grown quite fond of you, even though you weren't entirely comfortable with me at our first meeting. I forgive you my jade-eyed Muse for your temporary rudeness. I understand that I can be quite foreboding to those unaccustomed to my grandeur, my magnificence, my superiority-
Humph! The one who has asked me to send this to you reminds me to not get off the subject. The subject indeed.
Does he forget that I am Poseidon, ruler of the sea?
Excuse me. Got a little carried away there. Anyway, you must be feeling quite peculiar at this time, I suppose.
Do not be alarmed by the gentleman who has asked you to come with him. He has simply been sent by the one we both know well.
Your presence is requested upon this evening. Please enter the chariot awaiting you and you will be escorted to Parnassus, home of the muses, befitting don't you think?
Be warned, if you don't go with him (the driver) I shall have to come down and strike you with my trident! It can shatter any object!
OW!
I have just been rudely reminded by my mas, uh, the one we both know, that I need to stay on topic and that I shouldn't be making any silly threats. Silly indeed! I am Poseidon, ruler of the sea, protectors of all waters, brother of Zeus-
Uh. Yeah. Went a little off there again. Anyway, like I said earlier, your presence would be very much appreciated at the place I told you of before. Do not worry how to get there. The driver of your chariot knows the way.
So my lady, what is your answer?
Respectfully Poseidon (Once again, no, not the Mythical god.The Most Important One: The Horse)}
Throughout reading the letter Mimi had been laughing, smiling and reacting in various other ways.
Poseidon, huh? Hmmm, what was he up to?
Well, he definitely made her laugh and without a doubt her curiosity was piqued.
"Miss Lockhart, will you come with me now?"
Mimi broke away from her reverie, looked away from the strange, yet familiar letter to look up at the driver.
"Yes, I will come with you."
The driver smiled. "Very well. Oh, and I was told to give you these."
Mimi stared at the bouquet of wildflowers that were being handed to her. She took them, inhaling the sweet and diverse fragrances. "Thank you."
"Oh, do not thank me. They are from.well, you will find out soon enough. Shall we?"
Mimi smiled, taking the arm she was being offered. "Yes, we shall. Bye Jan."
She laughed at the way Jan just stood there, her mouth wide open. "Better close your mouth Jan. You don't want to catch a fly."
The driver had a hard time keeping a straight face after that comment. He opened the limousine door for Mimi, making sure she got in all right. Then he walked over to the front door, opened it, sat down inside and closed the door to the car. He looked through the rearview mirror. "Miss Lockhart, I must request something of you."
Mimi looked up, breaking away from her scrutiny of the car. "Yes?"
"If you look down on the seat, you will notice a large manila envelope. It is for you."
Mimi checked the seat, noticing the envelope addressed to Thalia lying there. She picked it up and opened it, finding a note and a peculiar object. She started to read the note:
{My dearest Thalia,
Yep, it's me again, Poseidon, ruler of the sea, brother of-well, you get the picture. We don't have any time for that now.
You might have noticed the blindfold in the envelope by now, wondering what on Earth it is for.
Actually, it is for you. Now don't be alarmed my Muse. As I told you before, you are being taken to a place called Parnassus. In order for this destination to be a complete surprise, I have to ask that you wear the blindfold. If you do not feel up for this journey just keep it off and you will remain in your own world.
The final choice is yours my Muse.
Respectfully, Poseidon (The Horse)}
Mimi looked at the blindfold questioningly, at the flowers, then back to the blindfold. Well, she had trusted him so far.
She put it on, feeling a little silly.
About a minute later, she felt the car start to move. She let her head fall back against the cushiony seat, holding the wildflowers to her nose. She took a whiff of the appealing scent. Wildflowers had always been a favorite of hers-the delightful mix of smells had a luxuriant aura to them.
Relaxing even more against the seat, she was a bit surprised at how she was feeling. She was a bit nervous, but not really scared or worried, more excited actually, about what was going to happen...
Earlier at school, he hadn't shown any signs of being up to anything. He was his normal self-his normal friendly self. It was great being friends with him, wonderful, but.
The driver inadvertently disturbed her from her thoughts as the car came to a stop. "Okay Miss Lockhart, please wait just a minute and I will assist you out of the car.
"Can I take the blindfold off?"
"I would prefer that you not."
She took that as a very polite way of saying 'no.'
"Okay." She heard a door close, and then heard the one beside her open. A hand touched hers as the driver helped her out of the car. She stepped outside, gradually aware of what smelled and sounded like horses. A thought clicked in her mind.
"The stables! We're at the stables!" She exclaimed excitedly, and then wondered- Why? Why was she at the stables?
The driver said nothing as he helped her walk. Suddenly, they stopped.
"All right Miss Lockhart, this is where I must exit, but I am leaving you in very good hands."
Mimi wondered who that meant. Then she laughed.
"Okay Philip, this has been fun and everything, but the joke's over!"
"I am sorry Miss Lockhart, but I am not who you think I am."
"Who are you?" Mimi asked, after getting over the shock of the unfamiliar voice. She had been so sure that Philip would have come out of hiding by now. What was going on?
"I apologize to you, but I cannot tell you anything about myself. Please, come with me." He touched her arm lightly.
Mimi wasn't sure what to do. This just kept getting stranger and stranger. She shivered involuntarily.
"Miss Lockhart, are you cold? Should I get you another jacket?"
Mimi pulled her own jacket closer around her, but shook her head no. Poseidon had told her not to be scared and since Poseidon was obviously.
She had to trust him.
"No, I'm alright. I'm ready to go now."
She felt herself being led again. Then before she knew it, she was being helped up on what had to be a horse.
She felt them start moving upward.
{'There's a place I want to show you, but we have to climb up the hill. Do you mind?'}
As they reached the top, Mimi realized where she was being taken. And if she was going up there then he must be.
"All right Miss Lockhart. That is as far as I can take you. You must go the rest of the way yourself."
Mimi protested wildly as he helped her get off the horse. "But I can't even see!"
"Count to ten slowly. Then you may take the blindfold off. Don't worry. Goodbye."
Mimi grabbed for his arm. "You're going to just leave me here alone? How am I going to get down?!"
She felt him move away from her grasp and she started to panic a little. "Hello? Hey!"
Nothing.
There was only silence.
"PHILIP!" She called out, receiving no answer, her vision filled with blackness from the blindfold.
"Okay, calm down." She told herself. "It's not like you're lost or anything. All you have to do is follow his directions."
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five. {'Boy, you thought of everything, huh'}
Six.
Seven. {'You know me, can't do things just half way!'}
Eight.
Nine. {'Predictability is boring.'}
Ten.
She took the blindfold off to find herself standing next to a tree in the dark. On the lowest branch, lay a letter.
She moved closer, picking it up.
On the outside, it simply said her name, not Thalia, but her actual name, Mimi, in writing that was familiar. She opened it up quickly, then smiled as she read the words on top.
{Hey Meems.
Surprise! Surprise! So are you totally confused by now? Well, there's more to come.
By the time you read this, the fog will probably be pretty thick, but if you continue on a little ahead, you will come to a familiar area, a lighted area.
There you will find another letter.}
The minute she read the way her name was written on top she knew without a doubt who the letter was from and it had filled her with tremendous warmth.
Finally, it was something written in Philip's handwriting, in his familiar friendly way. Sure, he was still being mysterious, but.
She didn't know for sure. She just felt closer to him now.
She walked ahead, then gasped at what her eyes beheld.
In front of her was the creek and the bridge, but the pathway to it was lit up by tiny white lights that were strung through the trees, leading all the way to the bridge, also lit up by lights, though not entirely visible yet. The effect of the lights illuminating the way to the bridge was amazing and beautiful. The misty fog lent an air of mystique to everything.
It really was as if she was in some mythical place.like Poseidon said.
Parnassus.
She looked around once more, then down at the ground, noticing another letter. Once again, it had the writing 'Mimi' on it. She opened it up and began to read.
{Mimi,
I told you before that this is now one of my favorite places to come to and I shared it with you because I wanted my best friend to know about it too. That's what you are to me: my dearest friend, but now.
Well, let me show you.
Poseidon compares this place to Parnassus, yes Poseidon. No, that wasn't me.
Honestly.
And you're probably laughing your head off right now!
Actually, that's why Poseidon considers you the muse of comedy, because of your wonderful sense of humor. Her name was Thalia and she held the happy mask. She was of course beautiful. All of the muses were, as are you. But this one liked making others happy by helping them to laugh, something you're good at.
So for tonight Mimi, pretend this is the mountain that the muses lived on, that it's a secret world that only two people know about. And that the rest of the world no longer exists.
Tonight, take a walk down a lane of remembrances, of reflections of events we have shared.together.
Walk with me Mimi, in thought for now, later.
Well, you'll see.
Philip}
Mimi smiled, realizing he was right. She was laughing pretty hard at the parts about Poseidon. Oh, he could be so nutty sometimes, but, he could also be.
Entirely wonderful.
She started to make her way down the lit path, the white lights in the trees guiding her. Then she stopped as she came to.
{Listen. I have an idea. Since you have to work late on Tuesdays and Thursdays and I have to stay late because of football practice, why don't we just walk together.}
{Oooooh! You going to protect me Phil?}
{You better believe it baby!...}
{Deal?}
{Deal.}
She looked down again at the object on the ground, which made her remember. It was a 'Let's make a deal' card and attached to it was a note.
{This is where it all started from. I remember you thought I was trying to sneak up on you that night. Your face.man, you were angry! But you made me laugh that night too which was something I really needed at the time. After the island, I was feeling so bad about my physical condition.
This card, I think pretty much handles what started that night- a deal that would bring.
Anyway, there is a bag next to this card. Pick it up and you can start putting all the memories in it. There are more just waiting for you to find them.}
Mimi smiled, took the card with the attached note and placed them in the bag.
She continued.
{You better start drying your hair before you catch pneumonia or something.Here, I'll do it.I'm sorry. Am I pulling too hard?}
{No, no.it feels.uh.no you're not pulling too hard. I'm fine.}
{I was just moving a hair away from the side of your face. It was wet and sticking to your cheek.}
Mimi picked up the towel, remembering.
{You came out that night in a foul mood and your hair soaking wet, but what really got me was when you started explaining, then suddenly shivered. I wanted to take care of you.keep you warm.As I dried your hair I felt like you were keeping something from me, but at the same time I started feeling something that surprised me.}
Mimi read the last words with wonder in her mind. She thought she was the only one who felt something that night. Now, she knew that wasn't true. She put the towel that looked so much like the one he used that night in the bag and began walking again.
{Did I do that right? Oh Master?...My, my, my Philip after all the times we went pee wee golfing as kids did you honestly think I didn't remember how to play?}
{You tricked me!}
{Yep and you deserved it, acting so smug.You should have seen your face just now, but I especially liked the part when you hit the ball into the pond.}
{Why you little.}
Mimi laughed as she picked up the colored golf ball, then once again began to read the attached note.
{Boy oh boy, weren't you the little show-off that day? Ha-ha. That turned out to be one of the most fun afternoons I ever had. Joking together, playing together and even spending time with our family.we just all had such fun together!
Then, when you got upset about not being able to find Connor I was so glad that you confided in me.I felt us getting closer.}
Mimi's face reflected how she felt that day too, as she put the colored golf ball in the bag.
She walked further.
{Ready}
{Yes, I'm ready.You first.}
{An 87!...What did I get?}
{An 86!}
{WOO-HOO!...Meems, we did it! We passed!..We have to celebrate!}
She grinned, picking up that all so very important first test.the first one that they had studied together for.
{We made such a great team, didn't we? Working together, we got through one tough test after another.we also started helping each other in many different ways.}
With a face that showed agreement she placed his test in the bag, then walked to the next memory.
{YOU WOULDN'T!}
{You don't think so?}
{YOU COULDN'T!}
{You're sure about that?}
{YOU SHOULDN'T!}
{Probably not.But...What the heck!}
Mimi smirked, picking up the silk fall leaf.
{Can't really find these things during spring, so here's a fake one. Another fun filled day, that.Well, before Brady came, looking into your face, all those orange and red leaves surrounding you.let's just say, if he hadn't come.
You were in your element that day... that auburn hair mixed in with those leaves.what a picture!}
His complement made her face beam.
She placed the leaf in the bag and kept going.
{How come you didn't stay at the dance?}
{Because I wasn't enjoying myself.}
{Are you enjoying yourself now?}
{Yes I am.}
Mimi looked at the ticket from the carnival.
{Touchdown! Thanks to you.when I was running down the field that night, I felt you with me. I could just feel your support.
At the carnival, after the dance which just made me feel empty, I enjoyed myself because I was with you. You even rode that roller coaster with me.thanks for taking the chance with me Meems.
The hayride.it just felt so right, having you close to me.}
The emotions were coming now as she placed the ticket in the bag.all the feelings she was starting to experience, remembering how their friendship kept growing.
She walked on.
{Mimi?...Meems?...What was it?...What were you looking at?}
{Nothing, nothing important.}
{You sure?}
{Yeah.}
She read the note.
{Yeah, just a note this time. I don't really have anything to attach to it this time and I don't want to include some Halloween thing that just makes me remember you hitting your head that night.
Man, I was worried about you! When you finally opened your eyes, it was such a relief.
I know you saw something that night.you've told me some of it, but I know there's more. I hope some day you'll explain more of it to me. I really want to know.}
Mimi flashbacked to Melinda and Robert.what a night that was!
She continued on.
{Baby let's cruise
Away from here}
{Don't be confused
The way is clear}
She picked up his letter jacket, looking at it with wonder.
{It's yours.to wear whenever you want to.that is if it's what you want. If anybody thinks it means anything, then fine, because it will be the truth. There's no one I could think of that I want to have wear it more than you. Pure and simple.
Baby let's cruise.hand in hand.}
She closed her eyes.inhaling the undeniable masculine scent of him the jacket had. She put it in the bag and then made her way further down the lighted path.
{So are you going to be all right now?
{Yeah, I'm feeling better.mostly because of you. I don't know how to.how do I thank you for what you did for me tonight?}
{You don't have to thank me. I care about you.there was no way I was going to let anyone hurt you.}
{How Philip? How did you even know? I mean why would you come after me, unless you knew}
{I didn't know anything for sure.I just had this.awful feeling that something was going to happen.and so I went after you.}
{And you saved me.}
With shaking hands, Mimi read the note.
{I'm so sorry if this brings back painful memories for you, but I wanted to include everything we've gone through together and unfortunately, that includes times that were less than pleasant. It's important though, don't you think.because our relationship has always been built on honesty.
Oh man, that night. That night I felt such fear the moment I knew you lied to me. My one driving force was finding you and protecting you. Holding you in my arms that night, all I wanted to do was take away all the fear.the pain. I wanted to help you feel safe again. Slowly I felt it, you feeling safe again. I hope you know you're always safe with me.and you're safe now.you're not alone Mimi. I am here.}
Tears came from her eyes as she remembered that night, but his words in that note, the way he made her feel when he held her that night DID make her feel safe. He was right. Their relationship was built on honesty, and though a part of her wanted to forget that night ever happened, another part wanted to remember it.remember how in his arms she began to feel something new, something special.
It made her smile as she put the note in the bag and kept going.
{So what do you need?}
{A turkey}
{Excuse me?}
{You wouldn't happen to have an extra one would you?}
{Oh sure Meems. WE always have spare turkeys at the Kiriakis house.}
{I've felt that pain before.I.I-}
{Oh Philly, Let it out.just let it out.}
Mimi giggled, picking up the plastic turkey.
{Gobble, gobble. Now how could I forget Birdzilla. I swear, it felt like we were in the middle of some Mission Impossible movie or something. But we did it! We completed our great turkey heist. Ha-ha!
Onto more serious matters. I learned a lot, just helping out at the center that night. Meeting Selena was quite an experience. It made me remember some of the less than pleasant aspects of my childhood. Your help though, when you held me up and comforted me.it meant so much to me. I realized just how incredibly special you are.I watched you that night and felt something that would only grow with time.}
"Oh Philly," she whispered, putting the turkey in the bag.
She walked to the next object.
{I'M SORRY!}
{Can you forgive me?}
{If you'll forgive me.}
{That's it Lockhart. This means war!}
{Oh no!}
{Oh yes!}
She laughed, looking at his plastic snowball.
{Our first fight, since this all got started. At the party, you didn't hold back. You told me what I needed to hear. That night I went to a place that had been special for me and Chloe. It was the last time I went there. I knew I had to start letting go of the past and you were the one who showed me that more than anyone else.
When we reconciled I felt tremendous relief and I knew you felt it too as we held each other.
We had that crazy snowball fight, then we almost.just to let you know.I wanted to, before you sneezed.}
Mimi smiled, knowing what he meant. She had wanted it too.
She walked further.
{No way! Uh-uh! You are not getting me to-this was your idea of fun?! Are you crazy?! I'm not-I'm not.!!}
{Haven't you ever done this before?}
{NO! I didn't even know you knew how to!...She's a.a.a.}
{A horse Meems! She's just a horse!}
{Isn't this place great? When my dad first moved into the new mansion, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it or not.especially cause Nicole's living in it, but after the island I found this place.well Poseidon and I did.now I love to come here to get away and be by myself.but I'm glad now that you know about it too.I wanted to share it with one of my closest friends and well.you've become that lately.}
Mimi gazed at the plastic horse quietly.
{Your face that day! I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to get you to come riding with me for a while, but I pushed. It was important to me. I knew it had been hard for you going to the station so I wanted to help you have some fun finally. You ended up trusting me and it turned out to be a great day.
It was the first time I shared this place with you. It felt so right, sharing it with my best friend.
Later, I found out what an incredible photographer you are. You have some talent Meems! Those pictures you took of me and Poseidon.
My favorite part though was when we rode together.your face so carefree, full of joy.how for the first time I noticed the amazing scent of wildflowers that you carry with you.how it felt to hold you close.}
Mimi closed her eyes. He was so observant of everything.
She made her way further down the path.
{Of course I wasn't planning on kidnapping Santa! I was thinking.uh.that.well.}
{Spit it out Meems.}
{That you could dress up as Santa.}
{Now are you just going to make me stand here like a fool with my hands out waiting for you to answer or are you going to dance with me?}
Mimi eyes danced with humor as she picked up the Santa hat.
{Talk about the ultimate humiliation. At least there's no pictures of that day.grrrr.there better not be! There was of course one perk of being Santa. I got to hold my one and only elf on my lap. One naughty little elf that is! You definitely got me back for that day on the swings.you also nearly sent me into cardiac arrest! Ooooohhh!
I didn't go to the dance that night for one reason. You weren't there.}
Mimi sighed at his very honest answer to why he hadn't gone to the dance. She put the hat in her bag and kept going.
{I get so many gifts.sometimes I don't know what to do with half of them, but this.this I'm keeping forever.}
{Walking in a winter wonderland.}
Mimi smiled at the sight of the snow globe. She shook it, watching the snow fall down on the plastic trees and houses.
{I keep my framed picture right next to my bed. Whenever I look at it, it makes me think of you.thank you for giving me a gift that stirred a place deep in my heart. It meant.it means a lot.
Our own little duet in the snow was fun too, so humorous, brought such joy.everything I feel when I'm with you.you make me happy.}
He made her happy too.unbelievably happy.
She continued on.
{Well, don't stay on my account Philip. Go dance.}
{What?}
{I said go dance!}
{Maybe I don't want to!}
{I just don't want you to think you have to stay here with me. I'm fine.}
{Don't I know that.}
{What?}
{Nothing.}
{Dance with me.}
{Sorry, didn't mean to wake you.}
No, it's okay.}
She traced her fingers over the drink size napkin from the club.
{I was annoyed with you at first that night and with that guy you danced with. I finally had to admit to myself.I wanted to be the one dancing with you, holding you close in my arms. You looked amazing that night.so grown up. When we finally did start dancing together, I was flying high on cloud nine.
Our almost kiss.do you know how much I just wanted to take you with me out of that car and finally have happen what we had waited so long for? But I was still unsure and the moment seemed gone. Then our trip came.}
Mimi closed her eyes, remembering what it felt like to be in his arms, how close they had come.
She put the napkin in the bag and walked further.
{Ready?}
{Yeah.}
{Boston, here we come!}
{Not what you expect out of a dumb jock, huh?}
{Don't you dare say that Philip Kiriakis. You're a lot smarter than some of those so-called brains. And I'm so glad you shared this with me.}
{Me too Meems.it's getting so easy for me to talk to you.}
{Thanks for coming with me today and showing me Boston.}
{Thanks for wanting me to be the one to come with you.}
She smiled sweetly at the group of pictures they took together in that tiny little booth.
{Going to Boston together was the best. We had a great time together, didn't we? I got that rare book for my dad. He's absolutely ecstatic to have it again, by the way. We talked so easily together, something I appreciate so much about our relationship. You took tons of pictures.it was just one fantastic time!}
Mimi put the pictures in the bag, highly anticipating what she would find next.
She rushed on.
{LOOK AT ME, we will be okay, but you need to be strong okay.We can do this alright, but only if we work together. Meems, I need you to be brave.}
{I'll try. I promise.}
{I know you're scared, but I'm going to do everything I can to keep you safe, all right?}
{All right and I'll be brave, I will Philip!}
{Phil-ip?}
{Yeah, Meems it's going to be okay. I'm not going to let anything happen to us, I promise.}
{No, n-o I s-ee, I see a ch-im-n-ey, over-there.}
{Philip, you said you dreamed about the island.}
{Yeah.I remembered.that I was scared-scared that I was going to die.}
{It's okay. You're not there anymore. You're safe now.}
{I remembered.feeling.that.I.I was going to die.alone.}
{Meems, tell me what happened with you and Kevin on the island.}
{It doesn't matter.}
{It matters to me.I just want to know more about you.}
{It didn't happen.I'm glad it didn't because.it was, it was just about one thing.}
{You deserve so much more than what you were going to get that night on the island.so much more.}
{We already are great friends, best friends, now this is our chance to be something more, but lets take our time with it, okay?}
{Okay.}
Mimi looked at the unfamiliar picture questioningly. Who.
{Wondering who that is in the picture? I'll tell you in a minute.
After our great day in Boston, we went through one wild adventure, didn't we? I was scared when we were out in that blizzard Meems that you were getting too weak. You don't know how relieved I was when you ended up being okay.my trooper.
All the things we talked about.the island.Kevin. I'm still petrified of the ocean. Did you know that? It terrifies me. That night, I swam through it again, but this time you were with me.we battled the waves together. I asked you about Kevin because I wanted to know, I wanted to know as much as I could about you.
We kissed.finally. It was so worth the wait because the bond we share had just become so much stronger. It was so new, so exciting and so special because I was with my best friend.
The picture.
Still haven't figured it out?
They're the owners of the cabin. I managed to track them down. They want to meet us. I've only talked to them on the phone, but they were so nice and they sent me this picture to have of them. They said they were very grateful that we made it through that storm.that that's what matters. They built that cabin shortly after they were married. It's so small because it's all they could afford at the time. Later, when their wealth grew, they refrained from building another cabin.they like the quaintness of this one.
They barely use it now, as they're getting along in age, but they said we're more than welcome to visit it any time we want to.just use the door this time.}
Mimi looked at the picture again, at the old couple that looked so loving, so caring of one another. He found them.was there anything he wasn't capable of? How he continued to amaze her. She put the picture in the bag and kept walking.
{You're pretty wonderful Philip Kiriakis.}
{You too Mimi Lockhart.}
{Meems, nothing's going to change. Don't worry.}
Mimi laughed at the beanie weenie can.
{Couldn't forget these, could I? Thank you for showing me a whole new culinary delight!
Okay, enough silliness. I woke up in the middle of the night and saw you lying there against my stomach. I pulled you into my arms because I wanted you close to me.
The next day there was that crazy squirrel, remember? He interrupted us.reluctantly I have to say: probably at a good time too because you looked so irresistible in that snow.}
His last words made her feel a little embarrassed, but also made her glow all over. He felt THAT way about her. She put the can in the bag and looked for the next thing.
{We got caught up in the moment, in all the drama and it was a nice kiss and everything.but it didn't really mean anything..I don't want to go out with you.Why can't you understand that?}
{Why can't I understand that?! WE NEARLY DIED TOGETHER!...Now you tell me it meant NOTHING!}
{This is what I want. What is wrong with you anyway, huh, you like being such a cold calculating little-}
{I don't want to have anything to do with you ever again. You got it?}
{Y-yes, I understand. I w-won't bother you ever again.}
Tears came to her eyes again as she remembered that night.that horrible night.
{OH Meems, we hurt each other good that night didn't we? Just a note again. The only thing I could think of is a mental picture of our faces that night. Yours.I saw such a dullness in your eyes. I wanted to end all those ugly words and just hold you, but.I was tired, emotionally exhausted and I was afraid of making the same mistakes I made with Chloe. I thought I could let go.I was wrong.
I knew being without you would be hard, but I had no idea how empty it would make me feel, how the pain wouldn't ever really go away.how it would just stay there, linger there.deep inside me.
Why bring up such a painful memory? So we never make that mistake again. Let's remember to always be honest with each other. I should have told you I was going to see Chloe that night. You should have told me you saw us together. For now on, let's always tell each other the truth}
Mimi wiped away a tear, nodding her head yes. They always had to be honest. She put the note in the bag and continued.
{You actually care about me?}
{How can you even ask that? You know the answer.}
{What are you afraid of Mimi?}
{Please.}
{I don't want to dance with you.}
{Why, are you afraid of how it might make you feel?}
{It's cold!}
{Then you better hold onto me to stay warm.}
{Mimi, what is it?...I don't believe it anymore, that you feel nothing, that when we're together like this that it doesn't mean anything to you. Tell me. Is it me? Do I do something to scare you}
{No.you don't scare me.I have to go.}
She sighed, moving her hands over the leftover party decoration.
{Intoxicated.that's the best way to describe how I felt at my party, in the stables.intoxicated by you, not some outside stimulant. I knew after we danced.you were hiding something big from me. You felt the same way as me.something was just scaring you so much. I was so afraid it was me, but you reassured me that wasn't it. So I wondered.slowly I started to get it, but I wouldn't see the whole picture until later.}
She closed her eyes, thinking of how his kiss felt that night.how every thought flew out of her mind at his touch.
She put the party favor in the bag and kept going.
{I was unsure when it started to turn to something more, but I was willing to take the chance as long as you were too.}
[What do you have to be afraid of?}
{A lot Mimi.}
{It's something so special about us.how nothing's one sided.}
I think we both need to heal and hopefully we can help each other.}
{So how do we do that? How do we start?}
{We start by building our friendship again.}
Filled with emotion, Mimi held the toy swing set.
{Swings, because they hold so many memories. We grew up on them and now.That night we argued, I went to them, feeling hurt, but also wanting to be there because it made me remember all the times we spent together there. I thought the argument would ruin our relationship. Actually, it made it stronger. We could have let go then, something I've been guilty of before. But we didn't. We fought for our friendship.thankfully we did.}
Mimi had to agree with him as she placed the toy in the bag and walked further.
{Just let us know when you guys are ready for a re-match! We can take you again!!}
{Yeah that's right! You tell them Meems!}
Mimi smiled with amusement, throwing the miniature basketball up in the air.
{Ready for that re-match partner? What can I say? We make a great team.in everything we do.}
His comments made her happy as she put the ball in the bag and continued.
{I thought it would be nice for old time's sake for us to just walk together.}
{It's about to start pouring any minute and you're thinking about being sentimental?}
{Now Mimi calm down! I was only trying to be nice!}
{Philip Robert Kiriakis, you are a dimwit!}
{HEY, now that's just not nice!}
{OOOOHHH, let's just go home.}
{Another dumb Kiriakis idea, huh?}
{Yep! What is it with you crazy Greeks anyway?}
{What can I say? We're passionate, but not always sensible.}
{You look like a nymph of the sea, absolutely adorable and beautiful at the same time.}
{I'm sorry. I never really wanted to break our deal.}
You don't have to apologize. I really didn't give you much choice. I'm glad we have our friendship back though.}
{Me too Meems.}
She slowly picked up a miniature, yet beautiful stained glass rainbow.
{Funny, how sometimes moments in time come back to you later in life, isn't it? Playing as kids in the rain.sharing the same experience later on.but oh how things have changed..for the better.
Having our friendship again meant so much, but knowing, fully knowing that it was turning into.experiencing new feelings.I saw you in a completely new light that day in the rain, Mimi. I saw pure beauty.}
Mimi closed her eyes, letting his words wash over her, like the way his lips had in the rain.
She put the rainbow in the bag and kept going.
{Oh Mimi.It's okay now.you're not alone.}
{You're here?}
{I came to find you. I was worried.}
{Don't you get it...all I care about is you.}
{Thank you.}
{Let go of it Mimi.let me carry the weight.}
{When I found this.I took it as a sign.}
{Why don't you take a look in the mirror Gretchen and see who the real loser is?}
{I think that just about sums it all up.}
{She looks happy.yet sad too..It really doesn't matter. She's still beautiful.}
Mimi picked up the abandoned fairy, and then read the note.
{A reminder of our childhood days and the object that helped me find you that night, just weeks ago. I was so proud of you that night, the way you stood up to Gretchen and especially how you spoke to Chloe. Not because she was my girlfriend, but because I know how you feel about her and I think I understand a lot more now, why.
I hope you understand, I will always care about Chloe, but I don't want to be with her again. We're better off being friends, not the type of friendship we share, but friends nonetheless.
When Ramon showed me your painting that night I learned something else. I know now with certainty we both felt the same way when we were apart: the painting revealed that. Your eyes are naturally a smooth green, like jade. That's what I see when I look into them, but in the picture they were dull, lifeless. Don't get me wrong. I meant it when I said you were still beautiful, and it wasn't even that noticeable on first glance, but after really gazing at the portrait, I could see it. It was in my eyes too. I know it was because I felt so desolate during that time also, like a desert that was drying up inside.
It hurt us both Mimi: deep inside.
So, we started out with a deal that renewed our friendship, that led to for one fleeting moment: more, before it fell apart in one blow.now it's been allowed the time to repair itself to lead to.this.
It's a chance Mimi. It's a risk, one I was afraid of taking at first and I think you were too. But we're ready now, don't you think?
Keep walking.to the bridge.}
Mimi looked up from the fairy, searched the area around her. Where was he? She didn't want to wait anymore. She wanted to be in his arms.she wanted what he wanted. She sighed and for the first time really noticed how close she was now to the bridge.
"OH MY." She gasped.
It was strung with lights too, alternating colors of green and white, and the creek below, that was lit up so enchantingly, was adorned by floating flowers: wildflowers. She held onto her bag and walked onto the bridge.
There she found another note.
{Mimi,
The night we had that awful fight I heard a song. It was strange, but in some way it gave me hope. Somehow I knew we'd find our way back to each other.
Look up Meems; look far into the night, into the mist.
Philly}
Into the mist? What did that mean?
Mimi looked up and across, seeing the trees now in full spring bloom, though the shadows of the night left very little definition to them. She strained to look further, but the fog and mist was in her way.if only it was clearer.
"Philip." She called out softly.
"Philly."
All of the sudden she heard the beginning of a song seemingly coming out of nowhere. She kept searching the area with her eyes, trying to find where it was coming from, but she found no answers as the slow beats of the song began to very slowly build and increase in volume. The sounds of guitars.keys of a piano being played..
Wait a minute! She heard this song before.she knew she had.no it couldn't be.
Out of the mist came.
She gasped.watching the horse start to come out of the foggy night.Poseidon.with.
He slowly led Poseidon through the shadow of the trees, through the mist.
Mimi covered her mouth with her hand. It was taking every ounce of willpower she had to keep from running to him. She watched as his face slowly started to appear, as his whole being started to appear, as he came out of the haze. He was dressed simply in black jeans, a midnight blue long sleeved shirt and his black leather jacket, but he looked.
It was like he was one of those grand mythical figures.
Philip kept gazing at her, never taking his eyes away from the one he had come to feel something very special for. He took in her chocolate colored coat, her gold colored blouse and her pants that were an almost similar color, all finished off by that auburn hair of hers, hanging loose.
Mimi watched as he came closer.yet still so far. Her eyes stayed on him as he slowly got off Poseidon and began to.
{Every endless night has a dawning day
Every darkest sky has a shining ray}
Sing!
He was singing.to her.
Philip started to walk away from Poseidon and began to softly vocalize the words of the song.
Mimi couldn't believe it. He was doing this for her! And this song.it couldn't be, but it was.that night, she had heard it too and it had been the one thing that had made her tears stop, gave her hope.
He kept walking towards the creek, towards the bridge, singing to her.
{And it shines on you baby can't you see
You're the only one who can shine for me}
His singing wasn't perfect, wasn't technically correct, but she didn't care and didn't even notice. She noticed more how he gestured with his hands to her, when he crooned 'baby can't you see.'
It made her stomach feel like it was turning over. It made her heart beat wildly as she waited anxiously.
{It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
{And a silence falls between us}
He continued, wanting to be closer to her, but not wanting to rush anything.
He wanted to show her how he felt, taking his time with it.
{As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it}
She let the silkiness of his voice wash over her, like the gentle ripples of the creek below her.
{Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As the female voice of the song sang over and over 'Come to me', he made his way to the bridge, then began heading up it.making his way.
To her.
Feeling so much emotion, she watched with bated breath as he began to make his way across the bridge.
As he finally came to stand right in front of her, Philip reached for her hands, singing soulfully: {Come to me}
Mimi closed her eyes at his touch, the effect of their contact: electric.
{When your soul is tired and your heart is weak
Do you think of love as a one way street}
Holding her hands in his, filled with such intensity at just being close to her, he continued to sing, gently reaching out for her face, wanting to see her jade eyes.
Mimi opened her eyes at his touch, his hands caressing her face. She looked up at him as he continued to sing to her: words that meant so much.
{Well it runs both ways open up your eyes
Can't you see me here how can you deny}
Philip let his head fall back, keeping a tight grip of her hands as he sang the next part with a fervor of emotion.
{Oooooooh, It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
And a silence falls between us}
Mimi watched him as he sang to her with such feeling. She felt his voice permeating her very soul.his sea foam blue eyes capturing it.
{As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it
Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As the instrumental part of the song broke through, he let go of her hands and moved them up to her face, gazing quietly into her eyes. She moved her own hands to around his waist, holding onto him, not looking away from his face.
The female voice sang once again 'Come to me' over and over again as Philip moved away from her. Mimi started to turn, but he placed his hands on her shoulders, keeping her from moving as he positioned himself behind her.
Mimi let out a sigh of pleasure as she felt his arms wrap around her waist from behind, as he held her against his chest and began to sing to her from that position.
{Every endless night has a dawning day
Every darkest sky has a shining ray}
He moved his lips close to her face, singing softly against it, watching her eyes slowly close.
As Mimi opened her eyes again, she couldn't keep her tears from coming. That he would do all this for her.
Philip gently let go of her and turned her to face him again, holding her loosely in his arms.
{It takes a lot to laugh as your tears go by
But you can find me here till your tears run dry}
He gazed into her eyes as he sang those words, lifting away her tears with the touch of his hand.
{It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
And a silence falls between us
As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it
Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As he sang those words, he moved his hands until they were holding hers again. He smiled down at her, receiving an answering smile that lit up her face in return. Yes, there was still fear, for both of them, but there was no longer any doubt in either of them.
They both wanted this.
With his eyes dancing with joy and the utmost trust and belief in them, Philip began to move his hands away from hers as he sang over and over {Come to me}
At first Mimi felt fear as his hands left hers, but as he backed up from her slowly, she saw in his eyes what he meant. She returned his trusting smile.
Philip kept his hands out for her, though they were now on opposite sides of the bridge from each other. He sang out one last time very softly {Come to me} then closed his eyes, waiting.
As the song began to fade away.
Mimi ran the short distance, throwing her arms around him joyously, bringing her lips up to his as they kissed a kiss of.
The beginning of an emotion that neither were yet willing to admit to just starting to feel, at least, not with words. Their actions spoke volumes though as they lost themselves completely in each other. His arms held her protectively, caringly, as she moved her fingers against his neck tenderly.
Hearing the song end completely, they pulled back from each other, feeling their breathing slowly come back to normal.
Philip laughed as Mimi let out a cry of happiness.
"WOO-HOO" She yelled out, feeling him picking her up by the waist and spinning her around in his arms. She let her head fall back, letting out another happy cry. Philip let out his own, and then stopped, placing her back securely on the ground.
"I can't believe you did this all for me." Mimi admitted, feeling his hands move around her waist as he held her close to him.
"Well it wasn't really all for you. It was for us. It's about what we are.together."
Mimi smiled at his response, wrapping her own arms around his waist. "You're incredible." She simply said.
Philip smiled at her slyly. "So if you really think that will you grant me one tiny favor?"
"It depends on what it is." Mimi responded with firmness.
Philip laughed. "Will you let me kiss you again?"
Mimi grabbed onto his jacket collar, surprising him. She teasingly held on though. "You better.considering the fact that you really haven't kissed me yet."
"But"
Mimi cut him off with her own sly smile. "I kissed you, remember? You've said so many times how our relationship isn't one sided. Well then, I think you have to prove it. I kissed you last time. Now it's your turn."
Philip grinned. "My pleasure." He reached out for her face with his hands and brought his lips down to hers. He began to kiss her slowly, softly, but as it went on, the kiss deepened, becoming more passionate, their mouths moving together as one, as he moved his hands to her back, holding her close to him.
Realizing though, there was no reason to rush, that this was just the start, they slowly ended the kiss, holding onto each other.
Philip moved his forehead against hers. "Meems." He softly whispered.
Mimi closed her eyes, feeling she was where she belonged. "Philly." She simply whispered back.
And that was it. There was no more they had to say to each other. They were too caught up in the ocean of emotion they were feeling anyway. The time for words would come later. For now, they were content to just be with each other.
As the heart and mind joined together in a complete connection, the two friends whose relationship had grown ever stronger with time held each other close in a place that was meant just for them.
It was the start of something more.
So much more.
The End.
'Private Emotion' by Ricky Martin and Meja
Thank you so much for reading! This story continues and Mimi and Philip's relationship grows more in the sequel: An Awakening Emotion. I just realized something too. It seems that when posting the story here on Fanfiction Net, anytime I do (dot dot dot) it ends up looking like a period. I'm going to try to see if I can fix that.
So if you're interested in reading the rest, the sequel, and I do have a couple other Phimi stories, let me know and I will post. Thanks!
Mara
He thought about the recent events while driving home. For a day that started out ordinarily, it had turned out pretty eventful, but thankfully now everything was okay. She was safe and their relationship was.
Where was their relationship going?
Their temporary separation had been a misunderstanding, right?
Actually, it wasn't that simple. He knew she didn't really mean it, but that night her words hurt him. She made everything they went through together seem unimportant. He felt betrayed. It made him almost do something he knew now he would have regretted forever-something he already did to someone he cared about, before. This time, though, he didn't let his anger get the best of him. He stopped himself from saying something too hurtful.
Later, when she told him the real reason for her strange behavior, he still had a sense of let-down. If only she had been honest with him. When she doubted herself, she also doubted them together.
He knew he couldn't place all the blame on her though, and didn't want to. He had been secretive himself, just adding to her insecurities. Sure, he was only thinking of protecting her, but he knew now it had only made things worse.
When they finally did talk it out, he knew it would be wrong to just go back and act as if nothing had happened. They needed to work their way through their troubles. They had to start over again, learning from each other along the way.
He said he wanted to take it slow, but where did they go now?
Their friendship was strong and solid. Beyond that, he knew without question there was more; he FELT it. He could sense her believing in it more too.
There was just one more thing.
~*~
WEEKS LATER:
As Mimi rinsed out the rags she used to clean out the locker rooms, she thought about Philip. She felt entirely lucky to have him as a friend, but she wondered, was that all they would ever be?
Deep down, she knew the answer. She had to admit, it still scared her a bit. It wasn't Philip, himself that scared her. She felt entirely safe and secure with him. It was the thought of being more than just friends with him, of becoming an actual couple. How would everybody else react? How would it change their relationship?
She knew now she wasn't the only one that had insecurities. He had them too though he hid them well and even then, he still had more confidence than her. Her humor and sarcastic wit was a part of HER cover. It helped her appear more self-assured than she really was.
Even so, it made her feels good that he believed in her so much. Of course, she felt the same way about him, even though she enjoyed teasing him about his sometimes over-inflated ego. It was like he said, they were best friends. They looked out for each other, helping one another when needed.
She sighed, rinsing out the last rag.
One worry continued to plague her more than any other. She knew how she felt. She couldn't deny it anymore, but what about him?
She knew he cared about her a lot, but he couldn't possibly feel the same way she did, could he?
****
Mimi walked with Jan out the front doors of the school. It was Friday, one of those horrible afternoons that she and Jan had to stay late working on the locker rooms together. At least she wasn't bugging her too much. Mimi made it clear earlier that she wasn't going to put up with any of her griping. She also let her know that any hurtful words weren't going to affect her.
Ha-ha. She was getting stronger.
"Excuse me Miss."
Mimi stopped, caught off guard.
"Uh, yes?" Who was this guy?
"Pardon me Miss, but if I may have a moment?"
He was talking to her?
She was dreaming. That had to be it. She was having a nice little fantasy, but now it was time to come back to reality. Wake up Mimi!
Wait a second. He must be there for Jan. That had to be it.
"Pardon me Miss, but I was told to come here and find you."
Mimi looked up at the man wearing a black suit and matching black cap suspiciously.
"Who are you and why are you here?" She sighed. "You obviously have the wrong person. It's probably her you want."
Mimi flippantly referred to Jan and then started walking off.
Unfortunately, the strange man didn't seem to be giving up.
"Miss, wait please. Miss Lockhart!"
Mimi stopped, turning around in shock. "How do you know my name?"
"I was informed that the young lady I would be looking for has auburn hair and green eyes-like jade."
Mimi regarded him incredulously. "Who told you that?"
"I am sorry Miss. My orders were simply to find you and to escort you to an undisclosed location."
Mimi looked up at the well-dressed man like he was crazy.
Jan just stood there, looking surprised.
"Escort me? Are you nuts? What are you talking about?!"
The well-dressed man remained completely composed, not at all put off by her resistant manner. "If you look that way Miss, you will notice that the car is over there."
Mimi looked, her eyes focusing on a very regal looking black stretch limousine. "What the?!"
Jan's look of surprise was turning to one of shock. "HER? You've been sent to take HER in a limousine?! You've got to be crazy!"
Mimi nearly laughed at the way the well-dressed man didn't even give Jan a cursory glance, ignoring her completely. Well one thing was for sure.this guy judged people well. But that didn't mean she was going to get into a car, even if it was a luxurious looking limousine, with a perfect stranger.
"I don't know who you are or who sent you, but there is no way I'm going to go anywhere with someone I don't even know!"
Mimi looked up at the darkening sky, noticing the fog settling in for the night. "I've got to get going before it gets any darker."
She started to walk away again, but the well-dressed man remained persistent. "Miss Lockhart, I was told not to accept no for an answer. I was also told to give you this if you refused."
He handed her an unmarked letter sized envelope.
Mimi looked up at the man with apprehension, but slowly took the envelope. She studied it silently at first, and then finally opened it, taking out a white folded piece of paper. She began to read the typed words:
{Greetings Thalia: I call you that for you remind me of her. In Greek history, she was the muse of comedy.
It is I. Poseidon. No, not the Greek Mythical God of the Sea. Even better. I am the horse and I (write) this as a favor to someone you know well.
I know you must remember me for I am entirely unforgettable, grand, majestic, graceful and as perfect as one can get.
Though we have only met on a couple of occasions due to a certain someone, I have grown quite fond of you, even though you weren't entirely comfortable with me at our first meeting. I forgive you my jade-eyed Muse for your temporary rudeness. I understand that I can be quite foreboding to those unaccustomed to my grandeur, my magnificence, my superiority-
Humph! The one who has asked me to send this to you reminds me to not get off the subject. The subject indeed.
Does he forget that I am Poseidon, ruler of the sea?
Excuse me. Got a little carried away there. Anyway, you must be feeling quite peculiar at this time, I suppose.
Do not be alarmed by the gentleman who has asked you to come with him. He has simply been sent by the one we both know well.
Your presence is requested upon this evening. Please enter the chariot awaiting you and you will be escorted to Parnassus, home of the muses, befitting don't you think?
Be warned, if you don't go with him (the driver) I shall have to come down and strike you with my trident! It can shatter any object!
OW!
I have just been rudely reminded by my mas, uh, the one we both know, that I need to stay on topic and that I shouldn't be making any silly threats. Silly indeed! I am Poseidon, ruler of the sea, protectors of all waters, brother of Zeus-
Uh. Yeah. Went a little off there again. Anyway, like I said earlier, your presence would be very much appreciated at the place I told you of before. Do not worry how to get there. The driver of your chariot knows the way.
So my lady, what is your answer?
Respectfully Poseidon (Once again, no, not the Mythical god.The Most Important One: The Horse)}
Throughout reading the letter Mimi had been laughing, smiling and reacting in various other ways.
Poseidon, huh? Hmmm, what was he up to?
Well, he definitely made her laugh and without a doubt her curiosity was piqued.
"Miss Lockhart, will you come with me now?"
Mimi broke away from her reverie, looked away from the strange, yet familiar letter to look up at the driver.
"Yes, I will come with you."
The driver smiled. "Very well. Oh, and I was told to give you these."
Mimi stared at the bouquet of wildflowers that were being handed to her. She took them, inhaling the sweet and diverse fragrances. "Thank you."
"Oh, do not thank me. They are from.well, you will find out soon enough. Shall we?"
Mimi smiled, taking the arm she was being offered. "Yes, we shall. Bye Jan."
She laughed at the way Jan just stood there, her mouth wide open. "Better close your mouth Jan. You don't want to catch a fly."
The driver had a hard time keeping a straight face after that comment. He opened the limousine door for Mimi, making sure she got in all right. Then he walked over to the front door, opened it, sat down inside and closed the door to the car. He looked through the rearview mirror. "Miss Lockhart, I must request something of you."
Mimi looked up, breaking away from her scrutiny of the car. "Yes?"
"If you look down on the seat, you will notice a large manila envelope. It is for you."
Mimi checked the seat, noticing the envelope addressed to Thalia lying there. She picked it up and opened it, finding a note and a peculiar object. She started to read the note:
{My dearest Thalia,
Yep, it's me again, Poseidon, ruler of the sea, brother of-well, you get the picture. We don't have any time for that now.
You might have noticed the blindfold in the envelope by now, wondering what on Earth it is for.
Actually, it is for you. Now don't be alarmed my Muse. As I told you before, you are being taken to a place called Parnassus. In order for this destination to be a complete surprise, I have to ask that you wear the blindfold. If you do not feel up for this journey just keep it off and you will remain in your own world.
The final choice is yours my Muse.
Respectfully, Poseidon (The Horse)}
Mimi looked at the blindfold questioningly, at the flowers, then back to the blindfold. Well, she had trusted him so far.
She put it on, feeling a little silly.
About a minute later, she felt the car start to move. She let her head fall back against the cushiony seat, holding the wildflowers to her nose. She took a whiff of the appealing scent. Wildflowers had always been a favorite of hers-the delightful mix of smells had a luxuriant aura to them.
Relaxing even more against the seat, she was a bit surprised at how she was feeling. She was a bit nervous, but not really scared or worried, more excited actually, about what was going to happen...
Earlier at school, he hadn't shown any signs of being up to anything. He was his normal self-his normal friendly self. It was great being friends with him, wonderful, but.
The driver inadvertently disturbed her from her thoughts as the car came to a stop. "Okay Miss Lockhart, please wait just a minute and I will assist you out of the car.
"Can I take the blindfold off?"
"I would prefer that you not."
She took that as a very polite way of saying 'no.'
"Okay." She heard a door close, and then heard the one beside her open. A hand touched hers as the driver helped her out of the car. She stepped outside, gradually aware of what smelled and sounded like horses. A thought clicked in her mind.
"The stables! We're at the stables!" She exclaimed excitedly, and then wondered- Why? Why was she at the stables?
The driver said nothing as he helped her walk. Suddenly, they stopped.
"All right Miss Lockhart, this is where I must exit, but I am leaving you in very good hands."
Mimi wondered who that meant. Then she laughed.
"Okay Philip, this has been fun and everything, but the joke's over!"
"I am sorry Miss Lockhart, but I am not who you think I am."
"Who are you?" Mimi asked, after getting over the shock of the unfamiliar voice. She had been so sure that Philip would have come out of hiding by now. What was going on?
"I apologize to you, but I cannot tell you anything about myself. Please, come with me." He touched her arm lightly.
Mimi wasn't sure what to do. This just kept getting stranger and stranger. She shivered involuntarily.
"Miss Lockhart, are you cold? Should I get you another jacket?"
Mimi pulled her own jacket closer around her, but shook her head no. Poseidon had told her not to be scared and since Poseidon was obviously.
She had to trust him.
"No, I'm alright. I'm ready to go now."
She felt herself being led again. Then before she knew it, she was being helped up on what had to be a horse.
She felt them start moving upward.
{'There's a place I want to show you, but we have to climb up the hill. Do you mind?'}
As they reached the top, Mimi realized where she was being taken. And if she was going up there then he must be.
"All right Miss Lockhart. That is as far as I can take you. You must go the rest of the way yourself."
Mimi protested wildly as he helped her get off the horse. "But I can't even see!"
"Count to ten slowly. Then you may take the blindfold off. Don't worry. Goodbye."
Mimi grabbed for his arm. "You're going to just leave me here alone? How am I going to get down?!"
She felt him move away from her grasp and she started to panic a little. "Hello? Hey!"
Nothing.
There was only silence.
"PHILIP!" She called out, receiving no answer, her vision filled with blackness from the blindfold.
"Okay, calm down." She told herself. "It's not like you're lost or anything. All you have to do is follow his directions."
One.
Two.
Three.
Four.
Five. {'Boy, you thought of everything, huh'}
Six.
Seven. {'You know me, can't do things just half way!'}
Eight.
Nine. {'Predictability is boring.'}
Ten.
She took the blindfold off to find herself standing next to a tree in the dark. On the lowest branch, lay a letter.
She moved closer, picking it up.
On the outside, it simply said her name, not Thalia, but her actual name, Mimi, in writing that was familiar. She opened it up quickly, then smiled as she read the words on top.
{Hey Meems.
Surprise! Surprise! So are you totally confused by now? Well, there's more to come.
By the time you read this, the fog will probably be pretty thick, but if you continue on a little ahead, you will come to a familiar area, a lighted area.
There you will find another letter.}
The minute she read the way her name was written on top she knew without a doubt who the letter was from and it had filled her with tremendous warmth.
Finally, it was something written in Philip's handwriting, in his familiar friendly way. Sure, he was still being mysterious, but.
She didn't know for sure. She just felt closer to him now.
She walked ahead, then gasped at what her eyes beheld.
In front of her was the creek and the bridge, but the pathway to it was lit up by tiny white lights that were strung through the trees, leading all the way to the bridge, also lit up by lights, though not entirely visible yet. The effect of the lights illuminating the way to the bridge was amazing and beautiful. The misty fog lent an air of mystique to everything.
It really was as if she was in some mythical place.like Poseidon said.
Parnassus.
She looked around once more, then down at the ground, noticing another letter. Once again, it had the writing 'Mimi' on it. She opened it up and began to read.
{Mimi,
I told you before that this is now one of my favorite places to come to and I shared it with you because I wanted my best friend to know about it too. That's what you are to me: my dearest friend, but now.
Well, let me show you.
Poseidon compares this place to Parnassus, yes Poseidon. No, that wasn't me.
Honestly.
And you're probably laughing your head off right now!
Actually, that's why Poseidon considers you the muse of comedy, because of your wonderful sense of humor. Her name was Thalia and she held the happy mask. She was of course beautiful. All of the muses were, as are you. But this one liked making others happy by helping them to laugh, something you're good at.
So for tonight Mimi, pretend this is the mountain that the muses lived on, that it's a secret world that only two people know about. And that the rest of the world no longer exists.
Tonight, take a walk down a lane of remembrances, of reflections of events we have shared.together.
Walk with me Mimi, in thought for now, later.
Well, you'll see.
Philip}
Mimi smiled, realizing he was right. She was laughing pretty hard at the parts about Poseidon. Oh, he could be so nutty sometimes, but, he could also be.
Entirely wonderful.
She started to make her way down the lit path, the white lights in the trees guiding her. Then she stopped as she came to.
{Listen. I have an idea. Since you have to work late on Tuesdays and Thursdays and I have to stay late because of football practice, why don't we just walk together.}
{Oooooh! You going to protect me Phil?}
{You better believe it baby!...}
{Deal?}
{Deal.}
She looked down again at the object on the ground, which made her remember. It was a 'Let's make a deal' card and attached to it was a note.
{This is where it all started from. I remember you thought I was trying to sneak up on you that night. Your face.man, you were angry! But you made me laugh that night too which was something I really needed at the time. After the island, I was feeling so bad about my physical condition.
This card, I think pretty much handles what started that night- a deal that would bring.
Anyway, there is a bag next to this card. Pick it up and you can start putting all the memories in it. There are more just waiting for you to find them.}
Mimi smiled, took the card with the attached note and placed them in the bag.
She continued.
{You better start drying your hair before you catch pneumonia or something.Here, I'll do it.I'm sorry. Am I pulling too hard?}
{No, no.it feels.uh.no you're not pulling too hard. I'm fine.}
{I was just moving a hair away from the side of your face. It was wet and sticking to your cheek.}
Mimi picked up the towel, remembering.
{You came out that night in a foul mood and your hair soaking wet, but what really got me was when you started explaining, then suddenly shivered. I wanted to take care of you.keep you warm.As I dried your hair I felt like you were keeping something from me, but at the same time I started feeling something that surprised me.}
Mimi read the last words with wonder in her mind. She thought she was the only one who felt something that night. Now, she knew that wasn't true. She put the towel that looked so much like the one he used that night in the bag and began walking again.
{Did I do that right? Oh Master?...My, my, my Philip after all the times we went pee wee golfing as kids did you honestly think I didn't remember how to play?}
{You tricked me!}
{Yep and you deserved it, acting so smug.You should have seen your face just now, but I especially liked the part when you hit the ball into the pond.}
{Why you little.}
Mimi laughed as she picked up the colored golf ball, then once again began to read the attached note.
{Boy oh boy, weren't you the little show-off that day? Ha-ha. That turned out to be one of the most fun afternoons I ever had. Joking together, playing together and even spending time with our family.we just all had such fun together!
Then, when you got upset about not being able to find Connor I was so glad that you confided in me.I felt us getting closer.}
Mimi's face reflected how she felt that day too, as she put the colored golf ball in the bag.
She walked further.
{Ready}
{Yes, I'm ready.You first.}
{An 87!...What did I get?}
{An 86!}
{WOO-HOO!...Meems, we did it! We passed!..We have to celebrate!}
She grinned, picking up that all so very important first test.the first one that they had studied together for.
{We made such a great team, didn't we? Working together, we got through one tough test after another.we also started helping each other in many different ways.}
With a face that showed agreement she placed his test in the bag, then walked to the next memory.
{YOU WOULDN'T!}
{You don't think so?}
{YOU COULDN'T!}
{You're sure about that?}
{YOU SHOULDN'T!}
{Probably not.But...What the heck!}
Mimi smirked, picking up the silk fall leaf.
{Can't really find these things during spring, so here's a fake one. Another fun filled day, that.Well, before Brady came, looking into your face, all those orange and red leaves surrounding you.let's just say, if he hadn't come.
You were in your element that day... that auburn hair mixed in with those leaves.what a picture!}
His complement made her face beam.
She placed the leaf in the bag and kept going.
{How come you didn't stay at the dance?}
{Because I wasn't enjoying myself.}
{Are you enjoying yourself now?}
{Yes I am.}
Mimi looked at the ticket from the carnival.
{Touchdown! Thanks to you.when I was running down the field that night, I felt you with me. I could just feel your support.
At the carnival, after the dance which just made me feel empty, I enjoyed myself because I was with you. You even rode that roller coaster with me.thanks for taking the chance with me Meems.
The hayride.it just felt so right, having you close to me.}
The emotions were coming now as she placed the ticket in the bag.all the feelings she was starting to experience, remembering how their friendship kept growing.
She walked on.
{Mimi?...Meems?...What was it?...What were you looking at?}
{Nothing, nothing important.}
{You sure?}
{Yeah.}
She read the note.
{Yeah, just a note this time. I don't really have anything to attach to it this time and I don't want to include some Halloween thing that just makes me remember you hitting your head that night.
Man, I was worried about you! When you finally opened your eyes, it was such a relief.
I know you saw something that night.you've told me some of it, but I know there's more. I hope some day you'll explain more of it to me. I really want to know.}
Mimi flashbacked to Melinda and Robert.what a night that was!
She continued on.
{Baby let's cruise
Away from here}
{Don't be confused
The way is clear}
She picked up his letter jacket, looking at it with wonder.
{It's yours.to wear whenever you want to.that is if it's what you want. If anybody thinks it means anything, then fine, because it will be the truth. There's no one I could think of that I want to have wear it more than you. Pure and simple.
Baby let's cruise.hand in hand.}
She closed her eyes.inhaling the undeniable masculine scent of him the jacket had. She put it in the bag and then made her way further down the lighted path.
{So are you going to be all right now?
{Yeah, I'm feeling better.mostly because of you. I don't know how to.how do I thank you for what you did for me tonight?}
{You don't have to thank me. I care about you.there was no way I was going to let anyone hurt you.}
{How Philip? How did you even know? I mean why would you come after me, unless you knew}
{I didn't know anything for sure.I just had this.awful feeling that something was going to happen.and so I went after you.}
{And you saved me.}
With shaking hands, Mimi read the note.
{I'm so sorry if this brings back painful memories for you, but I wanted to include everything we've gone through together and unfortunately, that includes times that were less than pleasant. It's important though, don't you think.because our relationship has always been built on honesty.
Oh man, that night. That night I felt such fear the moment I knew you lied to me. My one driving force was finding you and protecting you. Holding you in my arms that night, all I wanted to do was take away all the fear.the pain. I wanted to help you feel safe again. Slowly I felt it, you feeling safe again. I hope you know you're always safe with me.and you're safe now.you're not alone Mimi. I am here.}
Tears came from her eyes as she remembered that night, but his words in that note, the way he made her feel when he held her that night DID make her feel safe. He was right. Their relationship was built on honesty, and though a part of her wanted to forget that night ever happened, another part wanted to remember it.remember how in his arms she began to feel something new, something special.
It made her smile as she put the note in the bag and kept going.
{So what do you need?}
{A turkey}
{Excuse me?}
{You wouldn't happen to have an extra one would you?}
{Oh sure Meems. WE always have spare turkeys at the Kiriakis house.}
{I've felt that pain before.I.I-}
{Oh Philly, Let it out.just let it out.}
Mimi giggled, picking up the plastic turkey.
{Gobble, gobble. Now how could I forget Birdzilla. I swear, it felt like we were in the middle of some Mission Impossible movie or something. But we did it! We completed our great turkey heist. Ha-ha!
Onto more serious matters. I learned a lot, just helping out at the center that night. Meeting Selena was quite an experience. It made me remember some of the less than pleasant aspects of my childhood. Your help though, when you held me up and comforted me.it meant so much to me. I realized just how incredibly special you are.I watched you that night and felt something that would only grow with time.}
"Oh Philly," she whispered, putting the turkey in the bag.
She walked to the next object.
{I'M SORRY!}
{Can you forgive me?}
{If you'll forgive me.}
{That's it Lockhart. This means war!}
{Oh no!}
{Oh yes!}
She laughed, looking at his plastic snowball.
{Our first fight, since this all got started. At the party, you didn't hold back. You told me what I needed to hear. That night I went to a place that had been special for me and Chloe. It was the last time I went there. I knew I had to start letting go of the past and you were the one who showed me that more than anyone else.
When we reconciled I felt tremendous relief and I knew you felt it too as we held each other.
We had that crazy snowball fight, then we almost.just to let you know.I wanted to, before you sneezed.}
Mimi smiled, knowing what he meant. She had wanted it too.
She walked further.
{No way! Uh-uh! You are not getting me to-this was your idea of fun?! Are you crazy?! I'm not-I'm not.!!}
{Haven't you ever done this before?}
{NO! I didn't even know you knew how to!...She's a.a.a.}
{A horse Meems! She's just a horse!}
{Isn't this place great? When my dad first moved into the new mansion, I wasn't sure if I was going to like it or not.especially cause Nicole's living in it, but after the island I found this place.well Poseidon and I did.now I love to come here to get away and be by myself.but I'm glad now that you know about it too.I wanted to share it with one of my closest friends and well.you've become that lately.}
Mimi gazed at the plastic horse quietly.
{Your face that day! I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to get you to come riding with me for a while, but I pushed. It was important to me. I knew it had been hard for you going to the station so I wanted to help you have some fun finally. You ended up trusting me and it turned out to be a great day.
It was the first time I shared this place with you. It felt so right, sharing it with my best friend.
Later, I found out what an incredible photographer you are. You have some talent Meems! Those pictures you took of me and Poseidon.
My favorite part though was when we rode together.your face so carefree, full of joy.how for the first time I noticed the amazing scent of wildflowers that you carry with you.how it felt to hold you close.}
Mimi closed her eyes. He was so observant of everything.
She made her way further down the path.
{Of course I wasn't planning on kidnapping Santa! I was thinking.uh.that.well.}
{Spit it out Meems.}
{That you could dress up as Santa.}
{Now are you just going to make me stand here like a fool with my hands out waiting for you to answer or are you going to dance with me?}
Mimi eyes danced with humor as she picked up the Santa hat.
{Talk about the ultimate humiliation. At least there's no pictures of that day.grrrr.there better not be! There was of course one perk of being Santa. I got to hold my one and only elf on my lap. One naughty little elf that is! You definitely got me back for that day on the swings.you also nearly sent me into cardiac arrest! Ooooohhh!
I didn't go to the dance that night for one reason. You weren't there.}
Mimi sighed at his very honest answer to why he hadn't gone to the dance. She put the hat in her bag and kept going.
{I get so many gifts.sometimes I don't know what to do with half of them, but this.this I'm keeping forever.}
{Walking in a winter wonderland.}
Mimi smiled at the sight of the snow globe. She shook it, watching the snow fall down on the plastic trees and houses.
{I keep my framed picture right next to my bed. Whenever I look at it, it makes me think of you.thank you for giving me a gift that stirred a place deep in my heart. It meant.it means a lot.
Our own little duet in the snow was fun too, so humorous, brought such joy.everything I feel when I'm with you.you make me happy.}
He made her happy too.unbelievably happy.
She continued on.
{Well, don't stay on my account Philip. Go dance.}
{What?}
{I said go dance!}
{Maybe I don't want to!}
{I just don't want you to think you have to stay here with me. I'm fine.}
{Don't I know that.}
{What?}
{Nothing.}
{Dance with me.}
{Sorry, didn't mean to wake you.}
No, it's okay.}
She traced her fingers over the drink size napkin from the club.
{I was annoyed with you at first that night and with that guy you danced with. I finally had to admit to myself.I wanted to be the one dancing with you, holding you close in my arms. You looked amazing that night.so grown up. When we finally did start dancing together, I was flying high on cloud nine.
Our almost kiss.do you know how much I just wanted to take you with me out of that car and finally have happen what we had waited so long for? But I was still unsure and the moment seemed gone. Then our trip came.}
Mimi closed her eyes, remembering what it felt like to be in his arms, how close they had come.
She put the napkin in the bag and walked further.
{Ready?}
{Yeah.}
{Boston, here we come!}
{Not what you expect out of a dumb jock, huh?}
{Don't you dare say that Philip Kiriakis. You're a lot smarter than some of those so-called brains. And I'm so glad you shared this with me.}
{Me too Meems.it's getting so easy for me to talk to you.}
{Thanks for coming with me today and showing me Boston.}
{Thanks for wanting me to be the one to come with you.}
She smiled sweetly at the group of pictures they took together in that tiny little booth.
{Going to Boston together was the best. We had a great time together, didn't we? I got that rare book for my dad. He's absolutely ecstatic to have it again, by the way. We talked so easily together, something I appreciate so much about our relationship. You took tons of pictures.it was just one fantastic time!}
Mimi put the pictures in the bag, highly anticipating what she would find next.
She rushed on.
{LOOK AT ME, we will be okay, but you need to be strong okay.We can do this alright, but only if we work together. Meems, I need you to be brave.}
{I'll try. I promise.}
{I know you're scared, but I'm going to do everything I can to keep you safe, all right?}
{All right and I'll be brave, I will Philip!}
{Phil-ip?}
{Yeah, Meems it's going to be okay. I'm not going to let anything happen to us, I promise.}
{No, n-o I s-ee, I see a ch-im-n-ey, over-there.}
{Philip, you said you dreamed about the island.}
{Yeah.I remembered.that I was scared-scared that I was going to die.}
{It's okay. You're not there anymore. You're safe now.}
{I remembered.feeling.that.I.I was going to die.alone.}
{Meems, tell me what happened with you and Kevin on the island.}
{It doesn't matter.}
{It matters to me.I just want to know more about you.}
{It didn't happen.I'm glad it didn't because.it was, it was just about one thing.}
{You deserve so much more than what you were going to get that night on the island.so much more.}
{We already are great friends, best friends, now this is our chance to be something more, but lets take our time with it, okay?}
{Okay.}
Mimi looked at the unfamiliar picture questioningly. Who.
{Wondering who that is in the picture? I'll tell you in a minute.
After our great day in Boston, we went through one wild adventure, didn't we? I was scared when we were out in that blizzard Meems that you were getting too weak. You don't know how relieved I was when you ended up being okay.my trooper.
All the things we talked about.the island.Kevin. I'm still petrified of the ocean. Did you know that? It terrifies me. That night, I swam through it again, but this time you were with me.we battled the waves together. I asked you about Kevin because I wanted to know, I wanted to know as much as I could about you.
We kissed.finally. It was so worth the wait because the bond we share had just become so much stronger. It was so new, so exciting and so special because I was with my best friend.
The picture.
Still haven't figured it out?
They're the owners of the cabin. I managed to track them down. They want to meet us. I've only talked to them on the phone, but they were so nice and they sent me this picture to have of them. They said they were very grateful that we made it through that storm.that that's what matters. They built that cabin shortly after they were married. It's so small because it's all they could afford at the time. Later, when their wealth grew, they refrained from building another cabin.they like the quaintness of this one.
They barely use it now, as they're getting along in age, but they said we're more than welcome to visit it any time we want to.just use the door this time.}
Mimi looked at the picture again, at the old couple that looked so loving, so caring of one another. He found them.was there anything he wasn't capable of? How he continued to amaze her. She put the picture in the bag and kept walking.
{You're pretty wonderful Philip Kiriakis.}
{You too Mimi Lockhart.}
{Meems, nothing's going to change. Don't worry.}
Mimi laughed at the beanie weenie can.
{Couldn't forget these, could I? Thank you for showing me a whole new culinary delight!
Okay, enough silliness. I woke up in the middle of the night and saw you lying there against my stomach. I pulled you into my arms because I wanted you close to me.
The next day there was that crazy squirrel, remember? He interrupted us.reluctantly I have to say: probably at a good time too because you looked so irresistible in that snow.}
His last words made her feel a little embarrassed, but also made her glow all over. He felt THAT way about her. She put the can in the bag and looked for the next thing.
{We got caught up in the moment, in all the drama and it was a nice kiss and everything.but it didn't really mean anything..I don't want to go out with you.Why can't you understand that?}
{Why can't I understand that?! WE NEARLY DIED TOGETHER!...Now you tell me it meant NOTHING!}
{This is what I want. What is wrong with you anyway, huh, you like being such a cold calculating little-}
{I don't want to have anything to do with you ever again. You got it?}
{Y-yes, I understand. I w-won't bother you ever again.}
Tears came to her eyes again as she remembered that night.that horrible night.
{OH Meems, we hurt each other good that night didn't we? Just a note again. The only thing I could think of is a mental picture of our faces that night. Yours.I saw such a dullness in your eyes. I wanted to end all those ugly words and just hold you, but.I was tired, emotionally exhausted and I was afraid of making the same mistakes I made with Chloe. I thought I could let go.I was wrong.
I knew being without you would be hard, but I had no idea how empty it would make me feel, how the pain wouldn't ever really go away.how it would just stay there, linger there.deep inside me.
Why bring up such a painful memory? So we never make that mistake again. Let's remember to always be honest with each other. I should have told you I was going to see Chloe that night. You should have told me you saw us together. For now on, let's always tell each other the truth}
Mimi wiped away a tear, nodding her head yes. They always had to be honest. She put the note in the bag and continued.
{You actually care about me?}
{How can you even ask that? You know the answer.}
{What are you afraid of Mimi?}
{Please.}
{I don't want to dance with you.}
{Why, are you afraid of how it might make you feel?}
{It's cold!}
{Then you better hold onto me to stay warm.}
{Mimi, what is it?...I don't believe it anymore, that you feel nothing, that when we're together like this that it doesn't mean anything to you. Tell me. Is it me? Do I do something to scare you}
{No.you don't scare me.I have to go.}
She sighed, moving her hands over the leftover party decoration.
{Intoxicated.that's the best way to describe how I felt at my party, in the stables.intoxicated by you, not some outside stimulant. I knew after we danced.you were hiding something big from me. You felt the same way as me.something was just scaring you so much. I was so afraid it was me, but you reassured me that wasn't it. So I wondered.slowly I started to get it, but I wouldn't see the whole picture until later.}
She closed her eyes, thinking of how his kiss felt that night.how every thought flew out of her mind at his touch.
She put the party favor in the bag and kept going.
{I was unsure when it started to turn to something more, but I was willing to take the chance as long as you were too.}
[What do you have to be afraid of?}
{A lot Mimi.}
{It's something so special about us.how nothing's one sided.}
I think we both need to heal and hopefully we can help each other.}
{So how do we do that? How do we start?}
{We start by building our friendship again.}
Filled with emotion, Mimi held the toy swing set.
{Swings, because they hold so many memories. We grew up on them and now.That night we argued, I went to them, feeling hurt, but also wanting to be there because it made me remember all the times we spent together there. I thought the argument would ruin our relationship. Actually, it made it stronger. We could have let go then, something I've been guilty of before. But we didn't. We fought for our friendship.thankfully we did.}
Mimi had to agree with him as she placed the toy in the bag and walked further.
{Just let us know when you guys are ready for a re-match! We can take you again!!}
{Yeah that's right! You tell them Meems!}
Mimi smiled with amusement, throwing the miniature basketball up in the air.
{Ready for that re-match partner? What can I say? We make a great team.in everything we do.}
His comments made her happy as she put the ball in the bag and continued.
{I thought it would be nice for old time's sake for us to just walk together.}
{It's about to start pouring any minute and you're thinking about being sentimental?}
{Now Mimi calm down! I was only trying to be nice!}
{Philip Robert Kiriakis, you are a dimwit!}
{HEY, now that's just not nice!}
{OOOOHHH, let's just go home.}
{Another dumb Kiriakis idea, huh?}
{Yep! What is it with you crazy Greeks anyway?}
{What can I say? We're passionate, but not always sensible.}
{You look like a nymph of the sea, absolutely adorable and beautiful at the same time.}
{I'm sorry. I never really wanted to break our deal.}
You don't have to apologize. I really didn't give you much choice. I'm glad we have our friendship back though.}
{Me too Meems.}
She slowly picked up a miniature, yet beautiful stained glass rainbow.
{Funny, how sometimes moments in time come back to you later in life, isn't it? Playing as kids in the rain.sharing the same experience later on.but oh how things have changed..for the better.
Having our friendship again meant so much, but knowing, fully knowing that it was turning into.experiencing new feelings.I saw you in a completely new light that day in the rain, Mimi. I saw pure beauty.}
Mimi closed her eyes, letting his words wash over her, like the way his lips had in the rain.
She put the rainbow in the bag and kept going.
{Oh Mimi.It's okay now.you're not alone.}
{You're here?}
{I came to find you. I was worried.}
{Don't you get it...all I care about is you.}
{Thank you.}
{Let go of it Mimi.let me carry the weight.}
{When I found this.I took it as a sign.}
{Why don't you take a look in the mirror Gretchen and see who the real loser is?}
{I think that just about sums it all up.}
{She looks happy.yet sad too..It really doesn't matter. She's still beautiful.}
Mimi picked up the abandoned fairy, and then read the note.
{A reminder of our childhood days and the object that helped me find you that night, just weeks ago. I was so proud of you that night, the way you stood up to Gretchen and especially how you spoke to Chloe. Not because she was my girlfriend, but because I know how you feel about her and I think I understand a lot more now, why.
I hope you understand, I will always care about Chloe, but I don't want to be with her again. We're better off being friends, not the type of friendship we share, but friends nonetheless.
When Ramon showed me your painting that night I learned something else. I know now with certainty we both felt the same way when we were apart: the painting revealed that. Your eyes are naturally a smooth green, like jade. That's what I see when I look into them, but in the picture they were dull, lifeless. Don't get me wrong. I meant it when I said you were still beautiful, and it wasn't even that noticeable on first glance, but after really gazing at the portrait, I could see it. It was in my eyes too. I know it was because I felt so desolate during that time also, like a desert that was drying up inside.
It hurt us both Mimi: deep inside.
So, we started out with a deal that renewed our friendship, that led to for one fleeting moment: more, before it fell apart in one blow.now it's been allowed the time to repair itself to lead to.this.
It's a chance Mimi. It's a risk, one I was afraid of taking at first and I think you were too. But we're ready now, don't you think?
Keep walking.to the bridge.}
Mimi looked up from the fairy, searched the area around her. Where was he? She didn't want to wait anymore. She wanted to be in his arms.she wanted what he wanted. She sighed and for the first time really noticed how close she was now to the bridge.
"OH MY." She gasped.
It was strung with lights too, alternating colors of green and white, and the creek below, that was lit up so enchantingly, was adorned by floating flowers: wildflowers. She held onto her bag and walked onto the bridge.
There she found another note.
{Mimi,
The night we had that awful fight I heard a song. It was strange, but in some way it gave me hope. Somehow I knew we'd find our way back to each other.
Look up Meems; look far into the night, into the mist.
Philly}
Into the mist? What did that mean?
Mimi looked up and across, seeing the trees now in full spring bloom, though the shadows of the night left very little definition to them. She strained to look further, but the fog and mist was in her way.if only it was clearer.
"Philip." She called out softly.
"Philly."
All of the sudden she heard the beginning of a song seemingly coming out of nowhere. She kept searching the area with her eyes, trying to find where it was coming from, but she found no answers as the slow beats of the song began to very slowly build and increase in volume. The sounds of guitars.keys of a piano being played..
Wait a minute! She heard this song before.she knew she had.no it couldn't be.
Out of the mist came.
She gasped.watching the horse start to come out of the foggy night.Poseidon.with.
He slowly led Poseidon through the shadow of the trees, through the mist.
Mimi covered her mouth with her hand. It was taking every ounce of willpower she had to keep from running to him. She watched as his face slowly started to appear, as his whole being started to appear, as he came out of the haze. He was dressed simply in black jeans, a midnight blue long sleeved shirt and his black leather jacket, but he looked.
It was like he was one of those grand mythical figures.
Philip kept gazing at her, never taking his eyes away from the one he had come to feel something very special for. He took in her chocolate colored coat, her gold colored blouse and her pants that were an almost similar color, all finished off by that auburn hair of hers, hanging loose.
Mimi watched as he came closer.yet still so far. Her eyes stayed on him as he slowly got off Poseidon and began to.
{Every endless night has a dawning day
Every darkest sky has a shining ray}
Sing!
He was singing.to her.
Philip started to walk away from Poseidon and began to softly vocalize the words of the song.
Mimi couldn't believe it. He was doing this for her! And this song.it couldn't be, but it was.that night, she had heard it too and it had been the one thing that had made her tears stop, gave her hope.
He kept walking towards the creek, towards the bridge, singing to her.
{And it shines on you baby can't you see
You're the only one who can shine for me}
His singing wasn't perfect, wasn't technically correct, but she didn't care and didn't even notice. She noticed more how he gestured with his hands to her, when he crooned 'baby can't you see.'
It made her stomach feel like it was turning over. It made her heart beat wildly as she waited anxiously.
{It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
{And a silence falls between us}
He continued, wanting to be closer to her, but not wanting to rush anything.
He wanted to show her how he felt, taking his time with it.
{As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it}
She let the silkiness of his voice wash over her, like the gentle ripples of the creek below her.
{Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As the female voice of the song sang over and over 'Come to me', he made his way to the bridge, then began heading up it.making his way.
To her.
Feeling so much emotion, she watched with bated breath as he began to make his way across the bridge.
As he finally came to stand right in front of her, Philip reached for her hands, singing soulfully: {Come to me}
Mimi closed her eyes at his touch, the effect of their contact: electric.
{When your soul is tired and your heart is weak
Do you think of love as a one way street}
Holding her hands in his, filled with such intensity at just being close to her, he continued to sing, gently reaching out for her face, wanting to see her jade eyes.
Mimi opened her eyes at his touch, his hands caressing her face. She looked up at him as he continued to sing to her: words that meant so much.
{Well it runs both ways open up your eyes
Can't you see me here how can you deny}
Philip let his head fall back, keeping a tight grip of her hands as he sang the next part with a fervor of emotion.
{Oooooooh, It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
And a silence falls between us}
Mimi watched him as he sang to her with such feeling. She felt his voice permeating her very soul.his sea foam blue eyes capturing it.
{As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it
Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As the instrumental part of the song broke through, he let go of her hands and moved them up to her face, gazing quietly into her eyes. She moved her own hands to around his waist, holding onto him, not looking away from his face.
The female voice sang once again 'Come to me' over and over again as Philip moved away from her. Mimi started to turn, but he placed his hands on her shoulders, keeping her from moving as he positioned himself behind her.
Mimi let out a sigh of pleasure as she felt his arms wrap around her waist from behind, as he held her against his chest and began to sing to her from that position.
{Every endless night has a dawning day
Every darkest sky has a shining ray}
He moved his lips close to her face, singing softly against it, watching her eyes slowly close.
As Mimi opened her eyes again, she couldn't keep her tears from coming. That he would do all this for her.
Philip gently let go of her and turned her to face him again, holding her loosely in his arms.
{It takes a lot to laugh as your tears go by
But you can find me here till your tears run dry}
He gazed into her eyes as he sang those words, lifting away her tears with the touch of his hand.
{It's a private emotion that fills you tonight
And a silence falls between us
As the shadows steal the light
And wherever you may find it
Wherever it may lead
Let your private emotion come to me}
As he sang those words, he moved his hands until they were holding hers again. He smiled down at her, receiving an answering smile that lit up her face in return. Yes, there was still fear, for both of them, but there was no longer any doubt in either of them.
They both wanted this.
With his eyes dancing with joy and the utmost trust and belief in them, Philip began to move his hands away from hers as he sang over and over {Come to me}
At first Mimi felt fear as his hands left hers, but as he backed up from her slowly, she saw in his eyes what he meant. She returned his trusting smile.
Philip kept his hands out for her, though they were now on opposite sides of the bridge from each other. He sang out one last time very softly {Come to me} then closed his eyes, waiting.
As the song began to fade away.
Mimi ran the short distance, throwing her arms around him joyously, bringing her lips up to his as they kissed a kiss of.
The beginning of an emotion that neither were yet willing to admit to just starting to feel, at least, not with words. Their actions spoke volumes though as they lost themselves completely in each other. His arms held her protectively, caringly, as she moved her fingers against his neck tenderly.
Hearing the song end completely, they pulled back from each other, feeling their breathing slowly come back to normal.
Philip laughed as Mimi let out a cry of happiness.
"WOO-HOO" She yelled out, feeling him picking her up by the waist and spinning her around in his arms. She let her head fall back, letting out another happy cry. Philip let out his own, and then stopped, placing her back securely on the ground.
"I can't believe you did this all for me." Mimi admitted, feeling his hands move around her waist as he held her close to him.
"Well it wasn't really all for you. It was for us. It's about what we are.together."
Mimi smiled at his response, wrapping her own arms around his waist. "You're incredible." She simply said.
Philip smiled at her slyly. "So if you really think that will you grant me one tiny favor?"
"It depends on what it is." Mimi responded with firmness.
Philip laughed. "Will you let me kiss you again?"
Mimi grabbed onto his jacket collar, surprising him. She teasingly held on though. "You better.considering the fact that you really haven't kissed me yet."
"But"
Mimi cut him off with her own sly smile. "I kissed you, remember? You've said so many times how our relationship isn't one sided. Well then, I think you have to prove it. I kissed you last time. Now it's your turn."
Philip grinned. "My pleasure." He reached out for her face with his hands and brought his lips down to hers. He began to kiss her slowly, softly, but as it went on, the kiss deepened, becoming more passionate, their mouths moving together as one, as he moved his hands to her back, holding her close to him.
Realizing though, there was no reason to rush, that this was just the start, they slowly ended the kiss, holding onto each other.
Philip moved his forehead against hers. "Meems." He softly whispered.
Mimi closed her eyes, feeling she was where she belonged. "Philly." She simply whispered back.
And that was it. There was no more they had to say to each other. They were too caught up in the ocean of emotion they were feeling anyway. The time for words would come later. For now, they were content to just be with each other.
As the heart and mind joined together in a complete connection, the two friends whose relationship had grown ever stronger with time held each other close in a place that was meant just for them.
It was the start of something more.
So much more.
The End.
'Private Emotion' by Ricky Martin and Meja
Thank you so much for reading! This story continues and Mimi and Philip's relationship grows more in the sequel: An Awakening Emotion. I just realized something too. It seems that when posting the story here on Fanfiction Net, anytime I do (dot dot dot) it ends up looking like a period. I'm going to try to see if I can fix that.
So if you're interested in reading the rest, the sequel, and I do have a couple other Phimi stories, let me know and I will post. Thanks!
Mara