Obsession
By: Kutabare
Author's Notes: Well, it has been decided. The couple is Hotaru/Heero. Well, this chapter is...explanatory..in a way. Just read it. : Main characters in here are Hotaru and Heero. This is for the purpose to have their history out there for everyone. It helps with the whole plot of the story. Enjoy it, if you can. Also, be careful as you read along because I had inserted some "present day" pieces in between the flashbacks. These are just as important to what happens in the next chapter.
-------------------------The Past-------------------------------
It was storming heavily that day, the angry storm clouds blocking the sun from view as the many beings of Earth fled for shelter. Except for those that could not find one so easily. The weather forecast had said this summer was to be the hottest, and the best yet. Well, they were wrong. For Heero Yuy, the worst was yet to come. He knew it was true. But sometimes, he couldn't help thinking, that this was rock bottom.
Bankrupt, in debt to many creditors, and homeless, this former businessman had fallen from the ladder of success in a quick descension. Dark-haired, and dark tempered, he never allowed anyone to get close, and trusted very few. His corruption had only been surpassed by his own arrogance. He thought he was invincible, this fallen angel of the business world.
But, invincible he was not.
Closing his eyes, he leaned against a brick wall of a cafe, his breathing shallow from spending one too many nights in the rain. Many times after his downfall, Heero wondered what he would have done if someone could have told him that in 6 months after his business started, he would be on the street, without a penny to his name..
'Probably sneered at them.'
The world was a cruel place. It had always been that thought that pushed him forward. Now, it was that very same thought that kept him where he was. His defenses had slipped and his body relaxed as he continued thinking of his many mistakes. He was lost to the world once more. Fading in and out of a harsh reality with no light at the end of the tunnel.
Heero Yuy, at the reasonably young age of 20, was oblivious to the footsteps that approached him. Oblivious to the gentle hands and small, yet strong, arms wrapping about his shoulders..guiding him. When he did realize what had taken place, it was too late for him to go back.
Looking across the breakfast table, his midnight blue gaze rested on the lady sitting there. Her food was untouched, her mind set on the beautiful descriptions of another time, in another land. Frowning slightly, he realized for the first time since he arrived, almost three months ago, that he didn't want to go back.
Heero wanted to start anew. Thus, he allowed his barriers to fall slowly, allowing the girl to shed light into the dark places of his heart. Until he only had one barrier left, and she...
She had nothing left to give.
--------------------------Present Time------------------------------
"Mizuno-san, is she alright?"
Beep...beep...beep..
Once again, that sound echoed around her, and she could feel the light blanket placed on top of her. It was suffocating her. Peering through her dark lashes, dull purple orbs looked around her, expecting to see herself in a hospital. It was all a dream, her escape, her freedom another false reality she had invented. But the voices...they were different.
"She's fine, Miss Peacecraft. Don't worry."
"And my brother?" Concern had flooded her voice; their 'patient' could almost taste that aura coming from the woman. It reminded her of so much. Concern. She had felt that once for some one.
Who? Trying to remember, she pushed her limits until she whimpered in pain. Immediately, two pairs of eyes stared down at her, then a gentle, reassuring voice spoke.
"It's okay. We won't hurt you, little one."
A warm hand was placed on her arm, trying to comfort her. But, all she felt was hunger, for something. Oh, the intensity! Hissing, her eyes flew open, and she jerked her arm away. The words echoed in her mind, but she did not speak, she merely stared at the calm blue eyes.
'Don't touch me. Don't touch me.' The compulsion reached the woman in the white lab coat, and all she could do was follow the order. Pulling her hand away quickly, she held it as if she was burned.
"What's wrong? Mizuno-san? Mizuno-san..? Ami!" The other woman shook the slender shoulders of the doctor, Ami. Turning her cornflower blue eyes to the patient, she frowned slightly, disconcerted by the reaction of the blue-haired woman.
"No..it's alright." Turning her sapphire gaze to the mysterious woman on her couch, she smiled calmly, although some fear tinged her eyes. Her duty was to help. That was her job as a doctor, and Ami was serious about this. "What is your name, little one?"
Opening her mouth, she tried to speak, but found that her vocal chords were not working properly. Why? Her delicate black brows furrowed together in annoyance and confusion. Coughing slightly, she once more opened her mouth, a rasp emerging forth from her abused throat.
"H-H-H-"
"Is she trying to speak?"
"Shh."
This hunger had weakened her, drying her blood cells until she couldn't even have full function of her voice. Choosing the only option available, her head fell back against the couch, her dark eyes once again hiding behind pale lids. A flash of memory flooded her mind, breaking through the small crack in the mental barrier placed within.
"Heero.." Her voice murmured softly.
Relena Peacecraft was not sure she heard correctly, until she looked at her friend, and physician, Dr. Ami Mizuno. The door opened to the room, the boots making a soft thud on the carpet.
"Heero." Her voice was just as soft, cornflower blue eyes widened in shock, in recognition of the name.
"Relena? What's wrong? Why did you say his name?" The voice was firm, asking a question and demanding an answer in return. But, it was gentle to her, kind and bittersweet, like honey.
"This girl said Heero's name." Turning her curious eyes to her brother, she seemed worried suddenly. "She knows him."
Milliardo wanted to think it was another Heero, some other boy that held this name. But, he understood what was reality, and most of all, he understood the potential danger this girl posed. Looking at the pale form on the couch, he frowned and kneeled slightly, scooping her into his arms.
"Wake up. Tell us who you are."
"Milliardo-san! What are you doing? Put her down!" Rising to her feet, Ami watched, with shock, as he roughly began to shake the girl. Her ebony head fell back against his arm, not a single noise escaping her lips. He continued shaking her, a deep scowl on his face as he tried to awaken the one who was bringing fear to the room. The very atmosphere held a dark intensity, depressing the life force of the occupants.
Then, he stopped, staring at the little form in his strong arms with horror written across his face. His sister and the doctor stared at him, then the girl, hoping fervently in their minds that his thoughts were not the same as theirs.
"She is sleeping, that's all.." He tried to assure them, but they continued to watch, hoping for the chest to rise and fall calmly. Anything that would seem as if she was alive! Closing her eyes, Relena sank to the floor, staring up at the lifeless form held by her brother. His silver-blond bangs hid his pale eyes from sight, his mouth pressed together in a stern line. Nothing to show his emotions.
"We killed her." Ami's quiet voice filled the room, and they all seemed to watch the still form of the ebony-haired child they had saved.
--------------------------The Past------------------------------
During his time with her, he learned as much as he could of the Fumie Corporations. Tried to understand the aspects of business that he had missed with his own failed business. He hadn't realized how close they were to each other. That she loved him.
Heero Yuy, whom many spoke of as being intelligent, intellectual, and possessing a keen eye for details, did not notice one thing. The girl that had save him a year ago was withering away slowly. Her very life being sapped out of her bit by bit as each day passed. She had never smiled a lot, but when she did, it always seemed so calm, accepting. Sad.
But, once again, he did not notice.
And she wished it to be so. Looking at her aunts, she smiled, and shook her head when they asked her, pleaded with her, to tell him. All she wanted was to be happy. And they understood. They were always with her, but he was a stranger. Someone that trusted her, if not completely, then for the most part. Their little girl, whom they watched and cared for, had grown up. Had fallen in love. And would probably never see the fruits of that particular labor, that hardship which she endured.
"She's getting worse. Isn't there anything we can do?!"
Closing the door to the study, the blonde haired woman looked at her two companions, frustration, anger, and hopelessness written on her face. Haruka Tenou had just come from upstairs, having had the duty of checking up on their little girl. Really, she wasn't so little anymore.
Going over to her lover, the wavy-haired, teal-eyed woman stood beside her, adding peace and calm to the angry woman. It wasn't fair, they thought.
"How bad?"
Sighing, Haruka slipped her hand into Michiru's own, her eyes downcast as she remembered the restless agony their 'angel' was in. When she had opened the door to peek into the room, she had to fight her own tears. Haruka had to actually remember how to be strong. Like the one they cared so much for.
Instead of sleeping peacefully in her large, four-poster bed, Hotaru was moaning softly in pain, sweat making her nightgown cling to her body. The sheets had been tossed off the bed, piled on the floor carelessly. When the tall woman had taken a seat on the edge of the bed, she was startled to see specks of blood on the nightgown and pillow. Alarmed by the sight, her eyes flew over Hotaru's thin, frail body, looking for the source.
Then she coughed. A horrible, wracking cough that seemed to tear the girl into two. When Hotaru unconsciously wiped the fluid away from her mouth, Haruka realized where the blood was coming from. Stared in horror and fright as the gentle beams of the morning sun cast its light upon her suffering 'daughter.'
'God, why her! She doesn't deserve this.'
Clenching Michiru's hand, she murmured a description of what she saw. She didn't have to look up to see the reactions on the women's faces. Hotaru's condition was near critical. It was amazing that she survived for so many years.
"We should put her in the hospital. Maybe the doctors could do something." Haruka kept her voice firm, not weak like she wanted to be at that moment.
"We tried that already. The doctors said they could do nothing." Michiru calmly stated, closing her eyes as she rests her head on her lover's shoulder.
"Then, what the hell are they good for?! Why do we PAY THEM!?"
Her voice gradually had risen to a shout, and unknown to the small group, Hotaru watched from the doorway of the study. She had heard everything. She could read what each were thinking at that moment easily. Often, since she met Heero, she had gone over ideas to help her condition. Each rejected. But there was one.
She did not tell her 'aunts' about a visit she got from the head of the Eurdice Corporations. They were experimenting with a type of 'virus' that allowed a human's white blood cells to become more active and stronger within the system. One could stay younger for a longer period of time without any excess chemicals. Also, there was an enhancement in the blood, enhancing the person's performance in physical and mental activities. It seemed too good to be true.
Hotaru had taken some papers about the experiment for her own research, trying to find anything that may be harmful to her. She had weighed the pros and cons. There were side effects, of course. But, nothing bad. Just strange cravings and a strong sensitivity to the sunlight, the paper warned. They seemed normal enough. Still...she did not want her aunts to know. They did not trust Falcon Eurdice, nor did they trust his company.
"They are trying to help, Haruka-papa. Do not get upset. I will be fine for some time yet."
Looking each of them in the eye, she smiled gently, trying to reassure them. Her oldest guardian looked at her quietly, contemplating something. Sometimes, it frightened Hotaru how much Setsuna Meioh could guess about her. Nodding slightly to Hotaru, Setsuna turned to look at the other two.
"Well, I must leave. The company won't run by itself."
Michiru opened her eyes and smiled calmly, nodding her head to acknowledge Setsuna's comment. Normally, she would have followed the older woman out the door, but today, she had taken a day off. There was nothing for her to do, anyhow. Turning her kind gaze to her ward, she tilted her head to the side, her gentle smile still in place.
"Are you going to meet Heero-kun today, Hotaru?"
Blushing faintly, Hotaru lowered her head, looking at her slippered feet as she mumbled a reply. Her guardians knew of her situation with Heero. They knew, and understood. Under normal circumstances, she would have been forbidden to see the formerly corrupt businessman.
"Yes. We are supposed to attend a symphony concert tonight."
"When?"
Lifting her head up to look at the sandy head of her guardian, Hotaru told her that the concert started at nine. She knew not to lie to her 'father' of sorts. She may be old enough under normal rules, but she was not normal. Not in the least. And Haruka was as protective as a lioness protecting her cubs.
"I will drive you two."
Her tone was firm, resolute, and unquestionable. None could contradict her. Unfortunately, the small firefly had a small temper and could use it effectively. She could contradict her guardian in this matter, and did. Tonight was the night she was going to confess, and she would not have the charm ruined by an overprotective parent.
----------------------------Present Time----------------------------
Leaning close to the girl, the famed physician, Ami Mizuno, slowly moved to the blanket to cover the dead body. It was all she could do now. As her hands moved over the head, she gasped as she felt ice cold hands grip her arm, her numb fingers dropping the sheet. Dark orbs, with pale pupils, stared at her, and the quiet voice rasped slowly.
"Don't move." She felt her body freeze into place, every muscle locking under the command. Was it fear? Or something else? Hearing the startled gasp and grunt from behind her, she knew that she was not the only one experiencing this stillness. What was happening?
A white-hot pain surged from her wrist, and her wide eyes drifted to the feasting face of the once-dead child. She was drinking her blood, almost ripping at her veins in her eagerness for her life's essence. It was almost too much for her practical self. Only in the movies did these things exist! Then, she felt her pull away, the wound closing slowly, almost painfully. There was no blood on her lips when Ami looked at the girl. Instead, she looked almost normal, and healthy as well. The veins that could have been seen beneath her transparent skin were no longer visible, and indeed, the girl looked almost beautiful. In a Gothic style.
"Thank you." The voice was gentle now, sweet and seemingly shy, despite the ruthlessness displayed earlier. When her eyes raised to meet those of the three, they were normal now, no longer pale in the center. But, they held a lifetime knowledge of true suffering, sorrow, and wisdom.
'Who are you? What are you?' The thoughts filled her mind, along with a million other scientific questions. But those would have to wait.
"My name.. It's Hotaru." Sitting up, she pulled the blanket around her frail shoulders, staring at the ground timidly. Her shy pose reminded her of a school girl, but Ami was certain that Hotaru was far from being a school girl.
"I am-"
"Dr. Ami Mizuno. Those two behind you are Relena Peacecraft, and her brother, Milliardo. I know." For a moment, she had not registered what she was saying. It was a miracle she was speaking now.
"How do you-" Milliardo's usually calm voice held a hint of danger for the young woman on the couch.
"You said them." She answered the unfinished question without any thought, and when she lifted her face to look at the three, she seemed frightened. A light tapping could be heard, then the telltale sound of the doorbell ringing. Hotaru stiffened beneath the blanket, her head turned in the direction of the front door.
They all waited patiently as the butler strode into the living room, stating calmly, "Miss Minako Aino is here to see Dr. Mizuno, Lady Peacecraft. It's..urgent."
The two women exchanged glances, then Relena nodded, her voice devoid of its fear and confusion when she spoke, "Very well. Let her in."
"Of course, madam."
-------------------------The Past-------------------------------
"I care for you, Heero. I..I love you.."
Those words echoed around him, drowning out the gentle gurgling of the fountain they stood near. It had taken him by surprise. Looking down at her, he kept his face impassive, trying to draw his thoughts together. He needed his wits about him in this situation. How was he going to save face and still remain a companion to this girl?
He didn't realize it then. But he was trying to protect her from being hurt. It was an unconscious act, so not even he could guess what he was doing. What was he going to do? That question plagued him as he looked down at her. She had seemed nervous that entire evening, and he just brushed that feeling off, as if it was his imagination. Now he knew the truth.
Now, she seemed uncertain, nervous, excited, and hopeful. All those emotions filled her eyes as she looked up at him. He had been silent for too long. What would he say? What could he say? Heero's earlier emotion of elation had faded beneath this new problem. He had struck gold after a very careful and profitable investment he made in a company with some money. It had worked.
They were just celebrating, when she came out with those words. His emotions scared him, his lack of control over those emotions terrified him inside. Never had he felt so unsure in his life. Truth. Deception. The only things he could choose. Hurt her in which way?
"Hotaru..this is..." His mind searched for words, but could find none to fill that blank. Slowly, he started again, his words pronounced very carefully. "I need...to think."
Looking at her, he could see her visibly relax, trusting him completely. Her emotions were in her eyes. She had handed her heart to him on a silver platter lined with many benefits. An international business, connections to other businesses, political status, social status, everything 'normal' he had wanted since he met Relena Peacecraft. Finally, Heero could have made a difference, like that of the man he was named for. Yet, he held back.
A few days later, after never returning her calls, he was surprised with a visit from one of her guardians. The toughest one. Haruka Tenou. She stood at his doorway, her entire body tense beneath the casual men's clothes she wore. When he opened the door calmly, looking at her with a cool composure he did not feel, Heero soon found himself pressed against the wall.
"Dammit, what is your problem, Yuy? Stop playing games with her. If this is a fling, you should leave her now!"
"I didn't..no..I didn't.." For once, his words failed him.
Releasing him, she turned and walked away, head held high, her back still stiff with her arrogance and pride. Turning her head, she offered one last snide remark to him, "Do you think you know her, Heero Yuy?"
With that cryptic remark, she left. The next time he saw her, he asked to borrow some money from their company. Tersely, the three guardians agreed, allowing him to go freely with some of their fortune. He saw Hotaru one last time before then. She was sitting in the booth of a cafe they often visited, alone and still. He had watched her for some time, noticing she did not drink her tea. Then, he left. No good bye. No warning. He just left.
Heero Yuy became a famous businessman in America, his companies international throughout the world. Successful, handsome, and charming, he remained single and pious, like a priest. Many wondered about him, but only a few knew why he remained alone. After some time, he recognized the emotions that he held for Hotaru. But by then..it was too late, he thought.
She knew from the beginning that he wouldn't return to her. That's what decided her. Hotaru had taken the offer and signed up as the first beta tester of the Eurdice's 'virus.' It healed her sickness, but the side effects soon caught up. In the end, she wound up in her company's clinic, an imprisoned patient caught within her own walls. The irony of the situation never bothered her. But, whenever she was lucid, Hotaru often thought about him.
Author's Notes: Okay, it's not my best chapter. And it is rather dull, but it explains a lot. Oh well. Now you know why she was in the hospital, how she's stuck the way she is, and why Heero is looking for her.
By: Kutabare
Author's Notes: Well, it has been decided. The couple is Hotaru/Heero. Well, this chapter is...explanatory..in a way. Just read it. : Main characters in here are Hotaru and Heero. This is for the purpose to have their history out there for everyone. It helps with the whole plot of the story. Enjoy it, if you can. Also, be careful as you read along because I had inserted some "present day" pieces in between the flashbacks. These are just as important to what happens in the next chapter.
-------------------------The Past-------------------------------
It was storming heavily that day, the angry storm clouds blocking the sun from view as the many beings of Earth fled for shelter. Except for those that could not find one so easily. The weather forecast had said this summer was to be the hottest, and the best yet. Well, they were wrong. For Heero Yuy, the worst was yet to come. He knew it was true. But sometimes, he couldn't help thinking, that this was rock bottom.
Bankrupt, in debt to many creditors, and homeless, this former businessman had fallen from the ladder of success in a quick descension. Dark-haired, and dark tempered, he never allowed anyone to get close, and trusted very few. His corruption had only been surpassed by his own arrogance. He thought he was invincible, this fallen angel of the business world.
But, invincible he was not.
Closing his eyes, he leaned against a brick wall of a cafe, his breathing shallow from spending one too many nights in the rain. Many times after his downfall, Heero wondered what he would have done if someone could have told him that in 6 months after his business started, he would be on the street, without a penny to his name..
'Probably sneered at them.'
The world was a cruel place. It had always been that thought that pushed him forward. Now, it was that very same thought that kept him where he was. His defenses had slipped and his body relaxed as he continued thinking of his many mistakes. He was lost to the world once more. Fading in and out of a harsh reality with no light at the end of the tunnel.
Heero Yuy, at the reasonably young age of 20, was oblivious to the footsteps that approached him. Oblivious to the gentle hands and small, yet strong, arms wrapping about his shoulders..guiding him. When he did realize what had taken place, it was too late for him to go back.
Looking across the breakfast table, his midnight blue gaze rested on the lady sitting there. Her food was untouched, her mind set on the beautiful descriptions of another time, in another land. Frowning slightly, he realized for the first time since he arrived, almost three months ago, that he didn't want to go back.
Heero wanted to start anew. Thus, he allowed his barriers to fall slowly, allowing the girl to shed light into the dark places of his heart. Until he only had one barrier left, and she...
She had nothing left to give.
--------------------------Present Time------------------------------
"Mizuno-san, is she alright?"
Beep...beep...beep..
Once again, that sound echoed around her, and she could feel the light blanket placed on top of her. It was suffocating her. Peering through her dark lashes, dull purple orbs looked around her, expecting to see herself in a hospital. It was all a dream, her escape, her freedom another false reality she had invented. But the voices...they were different.
"She's fine, Miss Peacecraft. Don't worry."
"And my brother?" Concern had flooded her voice; their 'patient' could almost taste that aura coming from the woman. It reminded her of so much. Concern. She had felt that once for some one.
Who? Trying to remember, she pushed her limits until she whimpered in pain. Immediately, two pairs of eyes stared down at her, then a gentle, reassuring voice spoke.
"It's okay. We won't hurt you, little one."
A warm hand was placed on her arm, trying to comfort her. But, all she felt was hunger, for something. Oh, the intensity! Hissing, her eyes flew open, and she jerked her arm away. The words echoed in her mind, but she did not speak, she merely stared at the calm blue eyes.
'Don't touch me. Don't touch me.' The compulsion reached the woman in the white lab coat, and all she could do was follow the order. Pulling her hand away quickly, she held it as if she was burned.
"What's wrong? Mizuno-san? Mizuno-san..? Ami!" The other woman shook the slender shoulders of the doctor, Ami. Turning her cornflower blue eyes to the patient, she frowned slightly, disconcerted by the reaction of the blue-haired woman.
"No..it's alright." Turning her sapphire gaze to the mysterious woman on her couch, she smiled calmly, although some fear tinged her eyes. Her duty was to help. That was her job as a doctor, and Ami was serious about this. "What is your name, little one?"
Opening her mouth, she tried to speak, but found that her vocal chords were not working properly. Why? Her delicate black brows furrowed together in annoyance and confusion. Coughing slightly, she once more opened her mouth, a rasp emerging forth from her abused throat.
"H-H-H-"
"Is she trying to speak?"
"Shh."
This hunger had weakened her, drying her blood cells until she couldn't even have full function of her voice. Choosing the only option available, her head fell back against the couch, her dark eyes once again hiding behind pale lids. A flash of memory flooded her mind, breaking through the small crack in the mental barrier placed within.
"Heero.." Her voice murmured softly.
Relena Peacecraft was not sure she heard correctly, until she looked at her friend, and physician, Dr. Ami Mizuno. The door opened to the room, the boots making a soft thud on the carpet.
"Heero." Her voice was just as soft, cornflower blue eyes widened in shock, in recognition of the name.
"Relena? What's wrong? Why did you say his name?" The voice was firm, asking a question and demanding an answer in return. But, it was gentle to her, kind and bittersweet, like honey.
"This girl said Heero's name." Turning her curious eyes to her brother, she seemed worried suddenly. "She knows him."
Milliardo wanted to think it was another Heero, some other boy that held this name. But, he understood what was reality, and most of all, he understood the potential danger this girl posed. Looking at the pale form on the couch, he frowned and kneeled slightly, scooping her into his arms.
"Wake up. Tell us who you are."
"Milliardo-san! What are you doing? Put her down!" Rising to her feet, Ami watched, with shock, as he roughly began to shake the girl. Her ebony head fell back against his arm, not a single noise escaping her lips. He continued shaking her, a deep scowl on his face as he tried to awaken the one who was bringing fear to the room. The very atmosphere held a dark intensity, depressing the life force of the occupants.
Then, he stopped, staring at the little form in his strong arms with horror written across his face. His sister and the doctor stared at him, then the girl, hoping fervently in their minds that his thoughts were not the same as theirs.
"She is sleeping, that's all.." He tried to assure them, but they continued to watch, hoping for the chest to rise and fall calmly. Anything that would seem as if she was alive! Closing her eyes, Relena sank to the floor, staring up at the lifeless form held by her brother. His silver-blond bangs hid his pale eyes from sight, his mouth pressed together in a stern line. Nothing to show his emotions.
"We killed her." Ami's quiet voice filled the room, and they all seemed to watch the still form of the ebony-haired child they had saved.
--------------------------The Past------------------------------
During his time with her, he learned as much as he could of the Fumie Corporations. Tried to understand the aspects of business that he had missed with his own failed business. He hadn't realized how close they were to each other. That she loved him.
Heero Yuy, whom many spoke of as being intelligent, intellectual, and possessing a keen eye for details, did not notice one thing. The girl that had save him a year ago was withering away slowly. Her very life being sapped out of her bit by bit as each day passed. She had never smiled a lot, but when she did, it always seemed so calm, accepting. Sad.
But, once again, he did not notice.
And she wished it to be so. Looking at her aunts, she smiled, and shook her head when they asked her, pleaded with her, to tell him. All she wanted was to be happy. And they understood. They were always with her, but he was a stranger. Someone that trusted her, if not completely, then for the most part. Their little girl, whom they watched and cared for, had grown up. Had fallen in love. And would probably never see the fruits of that particular labor, that hardship which she endured.
"She's getting worse. Isn't there anything we can do?!"
Closing the door to the study, the blonde haired woman looked at her two companions, frustration, anger, and hopelessness written on her face. Haruka Tenou had just come from upstairs, having had the duty of checking up on their little girl. Really, she wasn't so little anymore.
Going over to her lover, the wavy-haired, teal-eyed woman stood beside her, adding peace and calm to the angry woman. It wasn't fair, they thought.
"How bad?"
Sighing, Haruka slipped her hand into Michiru's own, her eyes downcast as she remembered the restless agony their 'angel' was in. When she had opened the door to peek into the room, she had to fight her own tears. Haruka had to actually remember how to be strong. Like the one they cared so much for.
Instead of sleeping peacefully in her large, four-poster bed, Hotaru was moaning softly in pain, sweat making her nightgown cling to her body. The sheets had been tossed off the bed, piled on the floor carelessly. When the tall woman had taken a seat on the edge of the bed, she was startled to see specks of blood on the nightgown and pillow. Alarmed by the sight, her eyes flew over Hotaru's thin, frail body, looking for the source.
Then she coughed. A horrible, wracking cough that seemed to tear the girl into two. When Hotaru unconsciously wiped the fluid away from her mouth, Haruka realized where the blood was coming from. Stared in horror and fright as the gentle beams of the morning sun cast its light upon her suffering 'daughter.'
'God, why her! She doesn't deserve this.'
Clenching Michiru's hand, she murmured a description of what she saw. She didn't have to look up to see the reactions on the women's faces. Hotaru's condition was near critical. It was amazing that she survived for so many years.
"We should put her in the hospital. Maybe the doctors could do something." Haruka kept her voice firm, not weak like she wanted to be at that moment.
"We tried that already. The doctors said they could do nothing." Michiru calmly stated, closing her eyes as she rests her head on her lover's shoulder.
"Then, what the hell are they good for?! Why do we PAY THEM!?"
Her voice gradually had risen to a shout, and unknown to the small group, Hotaru watched from the doorway of the study. She had heard everything. She could read what each were thinking at that moment easily. Often, since she met Heero, she had gone over ideas to help her condition. Each rejected. But there was one.
She did not tell her 'aunts' about a visit she got from the head of the Eurdice Corporations. They were experimenting with a type of 'virus' that allowed a human's white blood cells to become more active and stronger within the system. One could stay younger for a longer period of time without any excess chemicals. Also, there was an enhancement in the blood, enhancing the person's performance in physical and mental activities. It seemed too good to be true.
Hotaru had taken some papers about the experiment for her own research, trying to find anything that may be harmful to her. She had weighed the pros and cons. There were side effects, of course. But, nothing bad. Just strange cravings and a strong sensitivity to the sunlight, the paper warned. They seemed normal enough. Still...she did not want her aunts to know. They did not trust Falcon Eurdice, nor did they trust his company.
"They are trying to help, Haruka-papa. Do not get upset. I will be fine for some time yet."
Looking each of them in the eye, she smiled gently, trying to reassure them. Her oldest guardian looked at her quietly, contemplating something. Sometimes, it frightened Hotaru how much Setsuna Meioh could guess about her. Nodding slightly to Hotaru, Setsuna turned to look at the other two.
"Well, I must leave. The company won't run by itself."
Michiru opened her eyes and smiled calmly, nodding her head to acknowledge Setsuna's comment. Normally, she would have followed the older woman out the door, but today, she had taken a day off. There was nothing for her to do, anyhow. Turning her kind gaze to her ward, she tilted her head to the side, her gentle smile still in place.
"Are you going to meet Heero-kun today, Hotaru?"
Blushing faintly, Hotaru lowered her head, looking at her slippered feet as she mumbled a reply. Her guardians knew of her situation with Heero. They knew, and understood. Under normal circumstances, she would have been forbidden to see the formerly corrupt businessman.
"Yes. We are supposed to attend a symphony concert tonight."
"When?"
Lifting her head up to look at the sandy head of her guardian, Hotaru told her that the concert started at nine. She knew not to lie to her 'father' of sorts. She may be old enough under normal rules, but she was not normal. Not in the least. And Haruka was as protective as a lioness protecting her cubs.
"I will drive you two."
Her tone was firm, resolute, and unquestionable. None could contradict her. Unfortunately, the small firefly had a small temper and could use it effectively. She could contradict her guardian in this matter, and did. Tonight was the night she was going to confess, and she would not have the charm ruined by an overprotective parent.
----------------------------Present Time----------------------------
Leaning close to the girl, the famed physician, Ami Mizuno, slowly moved to the blanket to cover the dead body. It was all she could do now. As her hands moved over the head, she gasped as she felt ice cold hands grip her arm, her numb fingers dropping the sheet. Dark orbs, with pale pupils, stared at her, and the quiet voice rasped slowly.
"Don't move." She felt her body freeze into place, every muscle locking under the command. Was it fear? Or something else? Hearing the startled gasp and grunt from behind her, she knew that she was not the only one experiencing this stillness. What was happening?
A white-hot pain surged from her wrist, and her wide eyes drifted to the feasting face of the once-dead child. She was drinking her blood, almost ripping at her veins in her eagerness for her life's essence. It was almost too much for her practical self. Only in the movies did these things exist! Then, she felt her pull away, the wound closing slowly, almost painfully. There was no blood on her lips when Ami looked at the girl. Instead, she looked almost normal, and healthy as well. The veins that could have been seen beneath her transparent skin were no longer visible, and indeed, the girl looked almost beautiful. In a Gothic style.
"Thank you." The voice was gentle now, sweet and seemingly shy, despite the ruthlessness displayed earlier. When her eyes raised to meet those of the three, they were normal now, no longer pale in the center. But, they held a lifetime knowledge of true suffering, sorrow, and wisdom.
'Who are you? What are you?' The thoughts filled her mind, along with a million other scientific questions. But those would have to wait.
"My name.. It's Hotaru." Sitting up, she pulled the blanket around her frail shoulders, staring at the ground timidly. Her shy pose reminded her of a school girl, but Ami was certain that Hotaru was far from being a school girl.
"I am-"
"Dr. Ami Mizuno. Those two behind you are Relena Peacecraft, and her brother, Milliardo. I know." For a moment, she had not registered what she was saying. It was a miracle she was speaking now.
"How do you-" Milliardo's usually calm voice held a hint of danger for the young woman on the couch.
"You said them." She answered the unfinished question without any thought, and when she lifted her face to look at the three, she seemed frightened. A light tapping could be heard, then the telltale sound of the doorbell ringing. Hotaru stiffened beneath the blanket, her head turned in the direction of the front door.
They all waited patiently as the butler strode into the living room, stating calmly, "Miss Minako Aino is here to see Dr. Mizuno, Lady Peacecraft. It's..urgent."
The two women exchanged glances, then Relena nodded, her voice devoid of its fear and confusion when she spoke, "Very well. Let her in."
"Of course, madam."
-------------------------The Past-------------------------------
"I care for you, Heero. I..I love you.."
Those words echoed around him, drowning out the gentle gurgling of the fountain they stood near. It had taken him by surprise. Looking down at her, he kept his face impassive, trying to draw his thoughts together. He needed his wits about him in this situation. How was he going to save face and still remain a companion to this girl?
He didn't realize it then. But he was trying to protect her from being hurt. It was an unconscious act, so not even he could guess what he was doing. What was he going to do? That question plagued him as he looked down at her. She had seemed nervous that entire evening, and he just brushed that feeling off, as if it was his imagination. Now he knew the truth.
Now, she seemed uncertain, nervous, excited, and hopeful. All those emotions filled her eyes as she looked up at him. He had been silent for too long. What would he say? What could he say? Heero's earlier emotion of elation had faded beneath this new problem. He had struck gold after a very careful and profitable investment he made in a company with some money. It had worked.
They were just celebrating, when she came out with those words. His emotions scared him, his lack of control over those emotions terrified him inside. Never had he felt so unsure in his life. Truth. Deception. The only things he could choose. Hurt her in which way?
"Hotaru..this is..." His mind searched for words, but could find none to fill that blank. Slowly, he started again, his words pronounced very carefully. "I need...to think."
Looking at her, he could see her visibly relax, trusting him completely. Her emotions were in her eyes. She had handed her heart to him on a silver platter lined with many benefits. An international business, connections to other businesses, political status, social status, everything 'normal' he had wanted since he met Relena Peacecraft. Finally, Heero could have made a difference, like that of the man he was named for. Yet, he held back.
A few days later, after never returning her calls, he was surprised with a visit from one of her guardians. The toughest one. Haruka Tenou. She stood at his doorway, her entire body tense beneath the casual men's clothes she wore. When he opened the door calmly, looking at her with a cool composure he did not feel, Heero soon found himself pressed against the wall.
"Dammit, what is your problem, Yuy? Stop playing games with her. If this is a fling, you should leave her now!"
"I didn't..no..I didn't.." For once, his words failed him.
Releasing him, she turned and walked away, head held high, her back still stiff with her arrogance and pride. Turning her head, she offered one last snide remark to him, "Do you think you know her, Heero Yuy?"
With that cryptic remark, she left. The next time he saw her, he asked to borrow some money from their company. Tersely, the three guardians agreed, allowing him to go freely with some of their fortune. He saw Hotaru one last time before then. She was sitting in the booth of a cafe they often visited, alone and still. He had watched her for some time, noticing she did not drink her tea. Then, he left. No good bye. No warning. He just left.
Heero Yuy became a famous businessman in America, his companies international throughout the world. Successful, handsome, and charming, he remained single and pious, like a priest. Many wondered about him, but only a few knew why he remained alone. After some time, he recognized the emotions that he held for Hotaru. But by then..it was too late, he thought.
She knew from the beginning that he wouldn't return to her. That's what decided her. Hotaru had taken the offer and signed up as the first beta tester of the Eurdice's 'virus.' It healed her sickness, but the side effects soon caught up. In the end, she wound up in her company's clinic, an imprisoned patient caught within her own walls. The irony of the situation never bothered her. But, whenever she was lucid, Hotaru often thought about him.
Author's Notes: Okay, it's not my best chapter. And it is rather dull, but it explains a lot. Oh well. Now you know why she was in the hospital, how she's stuck the way she is, and why Heero is looking for her.