Disclaimer: ROBOTECH is a trademark owned and licensed by Harmony Gold U.S.A., Inc. No infringement is intended. This fan fiction was written for entertainment purposes only. The songs used in this chapter belong to their authors – all rights reserved to them.

Chapter XIII

The next day, the whole base was buzzing with the news of Kyle and Minmei's reconciliation. Lisa pretended to ignore the comments but it was nearly impossible as she and Claudia were sitting in the cafeteria.

"Did you hear? Captain Hunter is alone, again."

"She dumped him! Can you believe it?"

"There must be something pretty wrong with him...but he's so damn cute!"

"It's his eyes! Those eyes are killers."

Lisa rolled her eyes and Claudia laughed. The girls that were gossiping noticed that Lisa was behind them and swiftly changed topics.

"So?" said Claudia raising an eyebrow.

"So?"

"What are you going to do when Rick comes knocking on your door?"

"I'm going to keep it closed." Lisa slurped from her coffee mug. "Why? Do you have any inside information I should know about?"

"I'm just guessing..."

"Well, he better stay away, Claudia."

"Really?"

"Really and that's all I have to say."

"Okay, don't bite my head off."

"Sorry." Lisa slumped in her seat. "I'm just so tired. I've been working so many hours..."

"I wouldn't complain. That guy that's working with you..." Claudia whistled.

"Who, Matt?" Lisa raised an eyebrow.

"Yes, Matt. He's gorgeous!"

Matt was a tall, athletic blond with green eyes that had been transferred from New Portland City. He looked more like a model than an engineer.

"He's a brilliant guy. Even Dr. Lang is impressed with his ideas."

"How about you?"

"What about me?"

"Do you like him?"

"Claudia! He's younger than me!"

"So? Isn't that your target market?" teased Claudia. Lisa swatted her arm, playfully.

"Stop that! He's just a nice kid..."

"That's what you used to call Hunter." Claudia's face lit up. "Hey, why don't you bring him to the wedding?"

"To the wedding?"

"Yeah, bring him over. After all, the maid of honor needs to have a date...and I know you're not going to hang around with Rick."

"Of course not."

"But you will have to dance with him after the first dance."

"Do I have to?" whined Lisa.

"It's customary."

"Fine." Lisa crossed her arms over her chest. "Only because it's your wedding."

"There comes the hunk," mumbled Claudia.

Indeed, Matt Kent was walking towards them.

"Hi Matt," said Lisa.

"Hi. Am I interrupting?" He smiled boyishly. Claudia kicked Lisa under the table.

"No, not at all. Matt, this is Commander Claudia Grant."

"Yes, of course. Vince Grant's sister."

"Guess I have a famous little brother." Claudia shook his hand and smiled.

"What's up?" Lisa looked at him curiously.

"I wanted to show you the designs I'm working on. I'd like to know what you think before I show them to Dr. Lang."

"Oh sure! No problem!" Lisa stood up and faced Claudia. "Duty calls, pal. I'll talk to you later."

"We sure will," said Claudia suggestively.

Lisa and Matt were walking towards the exit. As the door opened, they were face to face with Rick and Max. Lisa held her breath.

"Captain Hayes," greeted Max. "How are you?"

"I'm fine, Max. How's the little princess?"

"Gorgeous! And she's walking!"

"Oh, my! You guys must have a handful!"

"You could say that." Max looked at the "new" guy. "Hello, I'm Max Sterling."

"Where are my manners?" Lisa swallowed hard. "Matt, this is Commander Max Sterling."

"Very nice to meet you." Matt shook his hand. "I've heard you have a beautiful family."

"And I'm Rick Hunter." They all turned their faces towards him.

"Yes, I heard about you," said Matt rather vaguely. Rick didn't like his comment.

"Well, nice seeing you. We have to go." Lisa tugged on Matt's sleeve.

"Goodbye, captain. Goodbye, Matt."

"Goodbye."

Rick's gaze followed them as Lisa and Matt exited.

"I don't like him."

"What?" Max looked bewildered.

"He likes Lisa. I can see it in his eyes."

"What's wrong with that? She's a beautiful woman."

"What's wrong? Lisa is mine, that's what's wrong!"

Max laughed and patted his back. "Aren't we being just a bit chauvinistic?"

"Whatever." They both sat at a table. "That kid better not- -"

"What? Go after Lisa? She's a free woman, Rick."

"No, she's not."

"Ha! So, now you're jealous. I guess it's time you had some of your own medicine."

"Max..." said Rick menacingly.

"You better start making your move, boss."


Claudia was making her famous pineapple salad when Rick arrived for dinner. Roy opened the door for him and they walked towards the kitchen.

"Hi Rick! What do you have there?"

"Apple pie." He placed it over the counter and sat on the stool. "Something smells wonderful."

"Claudia's making roast beef as a goodbye present," said Roy.

"Goodbye present?" Rick raised his eyebrow.

"I'm spending the next two nights with you, little brother." He swung his arm around his neck.

"Why?" Rick didn't seem to enthusiastic.

"I want him out of the house before the wedding," explained Claudia.

"Oh, yeah! I forgot..."

"We're going to have fun, Ricky. Just like old times."

Rick elbowed him. "Don't call me that."

"Temper, temper! What's bothering you?" Roy looked at him suspiciously.

"Do you know a guy named Matt?"

"Doesn't ring a bell," said Roy.

"I told you about him, darling..." Claudia gave him the eye. "It's the new guy that's working with Lisa."

"Oh! That guy! I've heard he's a genius."

"A genius?" Rick looked irate.

"He's working under Lang. He's definitely got brains." Claudia sighed. "And, he's so handsome...no offense, honey."

"None taken." Roy shrugged his shoulders. "What's the matter with you, Rick?"

"I met him today. He was with Lisa and I didn't like him."

"Why is that?" said Claudia leaning over the counter.

"He seemed...arrogant."

The couple looked at each other before they burst out laughing.

"What's so funny?" Rick was miffed.

"You are! You are jealous!"

"Am not! He's a wet nose- -"

"Just like you!" Roy tousled his hair.

"He was staring at Lisa, hanging on to each of her words."

"What's wrong with that?"

"I don't like it..." He crossed his arms.

"Well, you better think what'cha gonna go 'cause Lisa's taking him to the wedding."


Hours later Rick was tossing and turning on the bed.

"Stop moving..." mumbled Roy.

Rick glared at his big brother. "I can't sleep with you next to me, doofus."

"I'm not sleeping on the couch...too small."

"Well, I'm not either. I spent more than a month there because of Minmei."

"You should be used to it by now." Roy pulled the covers his way.

"Hey!"

Rick tugged at them. Roy tugged back with all his force and Rick fell off the bed. The blonde pilot slid over to his brother's side and glanced at him over the edge with an amused look.

"Feel better?"

Rick stood up with an angry glare.

"Why don't you take a walk, Rick? Go solve what's bothering you."

"Whatever, Roy!"

"You are so immature!"

Rick hit him with a pillow over the head before grabbing his jogging suit.


He stood outside Lisa's house as if he were a stalker. She had closed the curtains but she was still awake as he could see her shadow over the window. Taking a deep breath he walked towards the door and rang the bell.

"Rick! What are you doing here? Is it an emergency? I haven't been called."

"Calm down, Lisa. I...I just needed to talk to you and I saw the lights on..." He rubbed the tip of his sneaker on the concrete. "May I come in?"

"It's pretty late, Rick."

"Please, Lisa."

Blue eyes met green eyes...and she couldn't say no. She opened her door wide and stepped aside. He walked into the living room and sat on the couch.

"What are you doing up so late, Lisa?"

"You know I have insomnia."

"You never had it while you were with me."

Lisa frowned at him. "That wasn't very proper of you to say, Rick."

"Sorry. I was just stating the facts."

"Why are you here, Rick?"

"Because I want us to be together, Lisa."

"Now that Minmei's out of the picture? How convenient!"

"You know there was nothing going on between us. Minmei told me she spoke to you."

"Yes, she did but that has no relevance."

"Why? Why can't we be together, Lisa? I love you."

"Rick, please stop."

"Lisa, let's give it a try..."

"No." She stood up.

"Why?"

"Because you cause me pain."

"Pain?"

"All I know is that I fell in love with you and I got hurt. Then, you fell in love with me, and I still got hurt! I'm not going to put myself through that again!"

"This time it'll be different, baby."

"There isn't going to be a this time. No way."

Rick took her in his arms.

"Don't say no, Lisa." His face was only inches away from hers.

"Don't you dare- -"

He dared. His lips came down on hers, fully pressing on them. He felt her struggle but wouldn't budge.

Lisa felt all her air leave her lungs. Good heavens! He was kissing her and it had been so long! She felt her knees go weak.

Rick also felt it and held her close. He diminished the pressure and began kissing her gently, nibbling, teasing her lower lip.

"Stop Rick..." whispered Lisa turning her face.

"Lisa, we deserve another chance." He caressed her hair.

"Please leave, Rick." She pulled away. "We're done."

"If you say so but I'm not giving up."

"You'll only waste your time."

"To get you back is not wasting my time."

He walked out her door as Lisa sighed.


Lisa walked onto the ship the next morning to be met by a smiling crew.

"What's going on?"

The people aboard the SDF-2 didn't know her well enough to say anything aloud, so they only grinned. Lisa ignored them and opened the door to find at least a dozen flower arrangements in her office.

"What's this?" She turned to the secretary. "How did they get here? No one has clearance."

"The truck was waiting at the entrance and we brought the flowers up ourselves." The girl smiled. "Aren't they pretty?"

"Very." Lisa stopped at each one of them looking for a card. Of course, the last arrangement had it.

I'm not giving up, baby.

I need you. I want you. I love you.

Rick.

"Thinks he can buy me with flowers? Ha!"


Rick was on patrol that morning. The skies were blue and the sun was shining beautifully. Once again he flew over the patch of marigolds he had discovered months ago and wished he had brought Lisa.

I wonder if she liked the flowers...

He wasn't going to give up. No matter how stubborn Lisa got, he could be stubborn, too. She still loved him; he had sensed it in that brief moment she had faintly kissed him back. There were so many things he wanted to tell her besides that he was sorry...he just couldn't find the words.

He remembered Minmei and her small belly...a life was growing inside her. A new life amidst all the violence and horror they had seen and lived through. For a brief moment he wondered what it would be like to have a child of his own with Lisa, and he smiled.


"Captain Hayes, are you in here?"

Lisa turned away from her computer. "Hello, Matt."

"Seems like someone's trying to get on your good side." He pointed at the flowers.

"Seems like it. What did Lang say about your designs?"

"He liked them."

"Great!"

"But then he gave me a thousand and one pointers on how to make things better."

"Don't take it personally, Matt." She smiled to give him comfort. "You'll catch on."

"I hope so."

"It'll be alright."

"Captain Hayes, I don't want to seem to forward but I was wondering if you'd like to have dinner with me."

"Dinner?" She opened her eyes in surprise. "I don't think- -"

"It's just dinner, Captain Hayes. You see, I'm new in town and spend so many hours on the SDF-2 that I really don't know anyone besides you, Dr. Lang, and Gloval. It gets boring eating alone."

"I understand. I know what it's like to be the new kid on the block."

"Then, you'll have dinner with me?" He smiled a smile of relief.

"Sure. I know a cute little diner not far away from the base."

"Great!"

Lisa looked at her watch. "Shall we go then? It's after seven."

"Sure."


"How was your flight, Captain Hunter?" asked the technician.

"Great." Rick jumped out of the cockpit and removed his helmet.

"Captain Fokker was looking for you. He asked to tell you that he'd wait for you in the lounge."

"Thanks."

Rick entered the lounge to see Roy staring at the TV.

"What's up,Roy?"

"I needed someone to whine to." He placed his forehead on the table. "I can't take this desk duty anymore! It's driving me nuts!"

"Chill out, Roy! You'll be back flying after the honeymoon!" Rick patted his head.

"If they don't remove this cast by then, I will!"

"I think you're just nervous. You've got only one more day, Roy."

"I know!" He grinned. "Tell me, how did it go with Lisa?"

"She told me she didn't want anything with me."

"And?"

"And I sent her flowers."

"Flowers?" He punched him. "Flowers? What are you thinking?"

"What's wrong?"

"After what you did, flowers are not gonna get you anywhere. You gotta give her little things, you know? Trinkets, pins, earrings, mementos..."

"Like you did with Claudia?"

"It worked didn't it?"

"Don't know what to- - Holy crap!"

"What?" Roy turned around and started laughing.

"I can't believe this!" Rick hit his forehead.

There they were...Rick's flowers were being carried by some of the female crew as they exited the building.

"Told you it wouldn't work!"

"I can't believe her! She'll see! Tomorrow I'll send her two dozen."

"You should go with the trinkets..."

Rick's jaw dropped and he pointed with his finger. It was Lisa and Matt exiting the building.


The two dozen flowered appeared at the SDF-2 and once again Lisa gave them away to the female crew. Rick couldn't believe it! And to make matters worse, the girls were winking at him and the guys were making him the target of all jokes.

"I told you the flowers weren't good enough," said Roy.

"I'm spending a small fortune on them and she's giving them away!" complained Rick.

"I think you need to change your strategy, skipper." Max patted his shoulder.

The three men were sitting in Rick's living room, drinking beer and eating junk food to celebrate Roy's last night of "freedom".

"Maybe you should just give up, Rick," said Roy. "I hate to tell you this but Claudia told me that Lisa had a great time at dinner with Matt."

"Oh! That guy we met? He's seems so nice." Max smiled.

"They have a lot in common," piped in Roy.

Rick felt the urge to punch Max and Roy. He took a drink from his bottle.

"He's too damn young for her. They can't have that much in common."

"He's your age, Hunter and you had a lot in common with Lisa."

"I'm mature for my age."

Max and Roy burst in laughter. "Sure you are!"

"I'm serious guys! Besides, I'm in the military. I'm a pilot, I know about combat, about strategies...what does this guy know? He's just an engineer."

"An engineer that has access to Lisa twenty-four hours a day."

"You're not helping, Roy! All I'm trying to do is get her back and I just don't know how."

"Give her some time?" suggested Max.

"I can't give her time!" Rick shook his head. "We've wasted so much time already."

"That's your fault."

Rick glared at Roy. "I don't need a reminder."

"Calm down, Rick. Let's have a drink in the name of love." Max raised his bottle.

"What am I going to do?" Rick rested his head on the sofa.

"Humiliate yourself until she says yes," suggested Roy.

"And if that doesn't work...keep on trying!" said Max.


Back at Claudia's place, Lisa, Miriya, Vanessa, Kim, Sammie, and little Dana were gathered round the living room in sleeping bags.

"This reminds me of the sleepovers I used to have as a kid," said Sammie.

"You're still a kid," teased Vanessa. Sammie stuck her tongue out at her friend.

"So, how does it feel to know that tomorrow you'll be Mrs. Roy Fokker?"

"You mean Mrs. Grant-Fokker." She stepped into the living room with a few bowls and spoons while Lisa brought the ice-cream.

"You're not taking his name alone?" asked Sammie. "I've always thought it was so romantic to be Mrs. Something."

"Take Miriya," said Kim. "She's Miriya Sterling."

"Yes, I am. I like my husband's name." She fed Dana a spoonful of ice cream.

"You could have kept yours," said Claudia, smiling. "Tell us, Lisa, what would you like to be Mrs. Hayes-Hunter or Mrs. Hunter?"

"WH-what?" The question caught her off guard. "I've never thought about it."

"Right," teased Sammie. "Like you never scribbled the commander's name next to yours."

"You mean the captain's," said Lisa full of pride.

All the women laughed. Lisa couldn't help but blush and trying to hide her embarrassment she took Dana in her arms.

"You're not going to laugh at me, precious, are you?" Dana giggled.

"Is it true that you've been having dinner with that new hunk on the SDF-2?" asked Kim.

"If you mean Matt, yes I have. He's a nice guy."

"Humm, I've heard he might have a crush on you," said Vanessa.

"That's just gossip. We had a nice talk last night and he told me I reminded him of his sister."

"His sister?"

"She had green eyes like me. Matt told me she passed away during Dolza's attack."

"Poor kid! Does he need any comforting?"

"Sammie!" Lisa scolded her. "Don't you have a boyfriend?"

"I was just wondering..."

"He has a girlfriend back at New Portland City. He's planning on marrying her next year."

"How sweet!"

"Is he coming tomorrow?" asked Claudia.

"Yes and he told me to thank you for the invitation."

"He's coming to the wedding?" asked a bewildered Kim.

"Captain Hunter is not going to like that," said Miriya.

"No...like..." said Dana. The women looked at the baby. Sometimes it seemed as if she understood everything that was going around her.

"How do you know that, Miriya?" asked Lisa.

"Rick's been talking to Max. He thinks this man is interested in you."

Vanessa, Kim, and Sammie clapped gleefully. "He's jealous!"

"Nonsense." Lisa shook her head.

"He does love you, Lisa." Miriya looked at her. "Don't you?"

"I--"

"Nothing to be ashamed of," said Vanessa. "Even though he has been a jerk."

"Men are idiots, Lisa" said Sammie matter of factly. "Give him another chance."

"Ick...Ick..." Dana clapped her hands. Once again they all looked at the baby. Miriya smiled.

"Let's leave Lisa alone." Claudia showed them her hands. "Who's giving me a manicure?"


It was after midnight when Claudia heard someone tapping on her bedroom window. She opened her eyes and walked towards the window. As she raised the blinds she saw Roy's smiling face.

"What are you doing here, honey?" she asked after opening the window.

"I needed to see you. Would you mind coming out here?"

"What's wrong, Roy?"

"Please come out."

"Okay. Meet me at the front porch."

"No, you'll probably wake the girls. Just come out the window."

"Out the window?" She raised her eyebrow.

"I'll be here to catch you, sweetie."

Claudia gave his a puzzled looked but jumped out the window. Roy hugged her close.

"Is there something wrong, Roy?"

"Not at all." He nuzzled her neck. "I just missed you."

"I miss you, too." Claudia caressed his cheek. "For a moment I thought you were going to back out of the wedding."

"Heck no! I can't imagine my life without you. I haven't been with you in two days and I feel so incomplete."

"I guess Rick's cooking is really bad, huh?"

Roy laughed and kissed her nose. "No one cooks like you, it's true but it's more than that. I need you, I love you."

"I love you, too, Roy." She kissed him lightly on the lips.

"I promise you that I will do my best to make you happy, Claudia. I promise you that we'll always be together...no matter what." His eyes got misty.

"I promise you that my love will only be yours, forever and ever...no matter what."

"Including pineapple salad?" He winked at her.

"You wouldn't be Roy Fokker if you didn't--"

Roy silenced her with a loving kiss. She laced her arms around his neck and caressed his hair. When they parted, they were both misty eyed and smiling.

"I think you should have cut your hair for the wedding."

"My hair?" He gave her a look of utter terror. "No way. We pilots don't cut our hair."

"You pilots are nothing but trouble." She smiled. "Did you tell your little brother to hurry up and get Lisa back?"

"He's trying, Claudia. I told him to give her little trinkets..."

"Like you did?" She placed her hands over her hips.

"It worked, didn't it?" Roy smiled arrogantly before bringing Claudia close for a passionate kiss.


The wedding was to be held in an auditorium that had been converted into a ballroom for the joyous occasion. Decorations were hanging from wall to wall such as paper wedding bells and balloons. Round tables were decorated with pastel linens and flower arrangements. Minmei looked very professional dressed in a pastel colored suit and was giving last minute directions to the servers and the caterers.

Lynn Kyle was looking at his bride to be with a smile on his handsome face. He had to admit that maternity gave her a beautiful glow. It also impressed her to see her taking her duties as wedding coordinator so serious. She saw her hold the team's hand before shouting out "Showtime!" The servers all scrambled as Minmei spoke into her microphone. He approached her from behind and wrapped his arm around her waist. She looked up at him and kissed his cheek as she finished giving instructions – which surprised Kyle; normally she would push him away.

"I'm so excited!" She removed her mic to fluff her hair.

"I can see that. Your cheeks are all flushed. Is that good for the baby?"

"It's good excitement! This wedding is going to be awesome!"

"Are you ready to sing? You haven't done it in a while."

"I'll be fine. Did I sing so awful last night?" She gave him a worried look.

"I didn't mean that Minmei. It's just that you haven't been on a stage for a while."

"I'll be fine...and even though it's their song, I'll be singing only for you."

"Really?"

"Really." She took his face in his hands and kissed him sweetly.


"I can't get this knot straight," complained Roy.

"Calm down." Rick came to his aid and fixed his bow. "There!"

"Thanks." He stared into the mirror. "I must say I look quite dashing..."

"Let's hope Claudia thinks that. In my opinion you look like a server."

"Ha, ha! Not funny, Rick." He started fumbling with the cufflinks.

"I'll do that. I've never seen you this nervous before, Roy."

"I can't help it! I'm getting married!"

"So? You've been together for a while."

"It's not the same. I'm becoming a husband, hopefully a father...what if I'm not cut out for it?"

"You'll be fine. You were the best brother I could have ever had. I'd say you'd had training." Rick patted him on the shoulder. "I didn't come out so bad, did I?"

"Only when it comes to women..." teased Roy.

"I can't argue with you about that...I really messed up...and I don't know how to fix it."

"You're a man, aren't you? If you want a girl, you must be prepared to go after her." (1)

"She asked me to stay away and I don't want to hurt her feelings, Roy."

"Don't get carried away laboring not to hurt her feelings. If you really love her, you must have the guts to make her yours by force, if necessary." (2)

"By force? She'll have me locked up!" Rick grinned.

"Wouldn't it be worth it? Roy grinned back.

"Anyways, today's your day, buddy, so let's concentrate on getting you mildly presentable...some hair gel would be nice."

"Hair gel? No way!" Roy backed away. "Leave my hair alone!"

"Claudia wants your eyes to be seen."

"She said that?"

"She actually ordered me to do something about your hair."

"Oh man!" He gave Rick a sorrowful look. "Fine."

"Claudia is going to be one happy woman."

"May I come in?"

Rick had gel in his hands and his hands were in Roy's hair when they heard Gloval's voice. They both stood up and saluted him.

"At ease, gentlemen." He smiled. "I'm not here as your superior, I'm here as your friend."

"It's an honor, sir." Roy sat down again to have Rick finish his hair.

"I see you have a second profession, Captain Hunter," teased Gloval.

Rick blushed to the roots of his hair. "Sir, yes, sir!"

Gloval laughed at Rick's response and turned to Roy.

"We've know each other for a long time, haven't we, my boy?"

"Very long, sir."

"You were a rebellious teenager when I met you, Roy. Everyone thought you would amount to no good but did you prove them wrong! I am very proud of you, Roy and I want you to know that the RDF wouldn't be the same without you."

"Thank you, sir. It's been a pleasure to serve under you."

"I want to wish you the best with Claudia. You are taking one of my "girls" today, and I expect you to treat her as she deserves."

"You don't have to doubt that, Captain Gloval. I adore her."

"I'm glad to hear that. I don't like to see any of them getting hurt..." He stood. "I' going back to my seat before Miss Minmei starts panicking."

"Was he trying to tell me something?" Rick lifted an eyebrow when Gloval left.

"If the glove fits..." Roy smirked at him.


In another room, Lisa was placing a tiara on Claudia, and smiled when she was done.

"You look like a princess."

"I rather look like a queen." Claudia smiled playfully.

"Captain Fokker is going to be a very happy man. The dress looks fantastic on you."

Claudia had chosen a sequined spaghetti-strap slip dress with embroidered lace overlay. The dress had belonged to her mother and she had always kept it with her in a wooden chest. Now, looking at her reflection, a few tears fell down her cheek.

"What's wrong?" Lisa handed her a tissue.

"I was just thinking about my parents. My mom would have loved to see this day."

"I'm sure she's watching from high above." Lisa smiled.

"You think?"

"I'm sure."

A discrete knock interrupted their conversation. Vince's face appeared through the door.

"May I come in?"

"Of course, little brother. Tell me what you think?"

Vince grinned at her. "Stunning!"

"Thank you."

"You're also looking nice, Lisa."

"Thank you, Vince."

"Are you ready, Claude? I can see that Roy's nervous."

"Then, let's take another five minutes."


"What's taking her so long?" whispered Roy pulling on his shirt's neck. "Did she change her mind, Rick?"

"It's traditional for the bride to be late...and stop fussing."

"Do you have the rings?"

"Rings? What rings?"

"What?!"

"Just kidding, Roy!"

"You little--"

Roy's banter was interrupted by the first chords of the Wedding March. The door at the end of the room opened to the sight of Miriya and Max pulling a red wagon with Dana in it. The baby was throwing petals off the wagon and onto the runner.

Next was Lisa. She was carrying a small bouquet in her hands that matched her lavender silk V-neck gown. Her hair was half pulled up and it fell in soft waves down her back.

Rick blinked twice when he saw her walk in and tried to make eye contact with her but she averted her gaze. He followed her with his eyes until she took her spot on the bride's side.

Claudia entered by her brother's side. Roy saw her and smiled, bearing all his teeth. The bride winked at him and paced slowly to the altar as Minmei had taught her. When Claudia was within his reach, he shook hands with Vince.

"Take care of her Fokker!"

"Roger that," said Roy happily.

The couple held hands and turned to face the minister. Claudia handed Lisa her bouquet.

"Shall we begin?"

"Sir, yes, sir!" responded the couple eliciting laughter from the crowd.

"Well, I can see you've been properly trained," answered the minister good-naturedly.

"Why don't you just declare us husband and wife? I can't wait to take her home!" said Roy mischievously.

"Oh, you!" Claudia blushed. The crowd laughed once again.

"Okay then, let's not waste any time. Dearly beloved..."

Lisa was listening to the words of the minister and the vows the couple were giving each other. She could feel her eyes get misty and swallowed hard to fight her tears. To make matters worse, Rick didn't stop staring at her. She raised her gaze to meet his.

"I love you..." mouthed Rick. She promptly turned to look at Claudia.

Rick could feel his heart beating hard in his chest. That's what he wanted-to marry Lisa! He remembered the ring and the whole speech he had prepared for Lisa upon her return from space...and how it had all gone down the drain.

Why can't you believe I love you?

"Rick!" Roy shook his shoulder to get his attention. "The ring, Rick."

"It's in the nightstand..." babbled the pilot.

"What are you talking about?" mumbled Roy. "My rings..."

"Sorry!" He blushed and handed them over to Roy. The couple placed them on their respective fingers.

"I now declare you, husband and wife. Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Fokker!"

The whole room exploded in applause and shouts as Roy kissed his bride, tipping her back, Hollywood style. Claudia held her tiara in place and laughed against his lips.

In the back of the room, Minmei was crying her eyes out and Kyle was holding her close.

"Why are you crying, Mimi?"

"Weddings always make me cry." She sniffled. "They are so beautiful."

"Ours will be more beautiful," said Kyle casually.

"Ours?" Minmei's eyes lit. "Lynn Kyle, are you asking me to marry you?"

"I know this is not the kind of proposal you'd dream of but- -"

"No buts! It's beautiful!" She threw her arms around his neck. "Ask me!"

"Lynn Minmei, will you marry me?"

"Yes, yes, and yes!"

Kyle took her hand in his and placed a ring with a sapphire in her finger.

"To match the color of your eyes," explained the pacifist.

"I love you!" She kissed him before speaking into the mic. "Start serving the drinks."

"You need to get dressed, Mimi. It's show time!"

"I know." She handed him the mic. "Think you can handle the show for a while?"

"Anything for you, Mimi."

She blew him a kiss before disappearing into the back.


The lights were dimmed as Minmei took center stage. She had changed into a light turquoise empire cut dress that revealed her pregnancy. A few gasps were heard.

"Hello friends." Minmei smiled. "I am very honored to be here tonight and join you in the celebration of this marriage. I can only wish you happiness now and forever."

The singer looked at Roy and Claudia and they smiled back at her. She cleared her throat before flattening the front of her dress. "As you may have noticed, I will be a mommy and have decided to retire for a while but would like to sing this special song for the couple before I leave the stage."

"Minmei! Don't leave us!" shouted someone. The girl smiled.

"Sorry, buddy! But thank you for your support during all these years and special thanks to Rick Hunter..."

All eyes turned to the pilot.

"I have said on numerous occasions that Rick's my best friend but he's more than that, he's like a brother. He saved me that day on Macross Island and it's thanks to him that I am here today."

"We'll miss you, Minmei!"

"Claudia, Roy told me this was your special song. I hope you like it..."

For all those times you stood by me
For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come true
For all the love I found in you
I'll be forever thankful baby
You're the one who held me up
Never let me fall
You're the one who saw me through, through it all (3)

Claudia gave Roy a surprised look. The blond man kissed her cheek and offered his hand to her. They both rose from their seats and danced their first dance.

"You remembered, Roy..."

"It was playing the first time we danced together..."

"In Wyoming."

The couple kissed softly as everyone applauded. Minmei kept singing and softly swayed her hips. After a few moments, she urged the others to join them. Rick saw his opportunity and grabbed Lisa's hand.

"No." She tugged away.

"It's tradition. You can't say no, and you promised Claudia."

Hesitantly she rose and Rick took her in his arms. Minmei continued her song.

You were always there for me
The tender wind that carried me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You've been my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you (4)

"Lisa, I..."

"Don't even start, commander."

"It's Captain Hunter," he replied with a twinkle in his eyes. "Can't you forgive me?"

"I forgive you, Rick. I just don't want to be with you anymore."

"You can't mean that..."

Roy and Claudia twirled past their friends and winked at them. Rick and Lisa smiled weakly. Minmei gave Rick a discrete "thumbs up".

You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn't reach
You gave me faith'cuz you believed
I'm everything I am
Because you loved me ...(5)

Minmei's voice faded and the whole room applauded. The singer threw kisses at them before leaving the stage. The happy couple took their seats once again at the table of honor. Lisa thanked Rick and walked towards the table were the Trio was sitting with their boyfriends and Matt.

"What's wrong with them?" Asked Lisa puzzled as the three Zentraedi were crying.

"They're upset because Minmei's retiring." Kim rolled her eyes.

"Oh." Lisa smiled at Matt. "How are you doing?"

"I'm alright. Lang was actually nice today."

"That's good to hear." She sat next to him.

From across the room, Rick was glaring at Lisa and Matt. Max followed his eyes and let out a small whistle.

"Competition is here, huh?"

"Handsome man," said Miriya. "Not like you, Max but not bad at all." She kissed his cheek.

"Ick...Ick..." Dana was lifting her arms towards him.

"What's up, Dana?" He picked her up and smiled.

"Go...Lisa..."

"Go Lisa?" He raised an eyebrow.

"Ick...Lisa...Ick...Lisa" Dana clapped gleefully.

"I think your princess is trying to tell me something, guys." He smiled at Max and Miriya.

"Love is stronger than pride," said Miriya. "Look at me."

"Go get her, Rick," urged Max.

And that's what Rick tried to do the rest of the evening but Lisa was too slick. As soon as she saw him come anywhere near her, she would take the opposite direction. Lisa made sure she kept herself busy, taking pictures, dancing with Roy, with Gloval, with Max, with everyone but Rick.

Now Rick was getting frustrated and had a glass too many of champagne. Roy noticed his glossy stare and asked him if he was alright.

"Of course I'm alright. The woman I love is in the company of another man, she's ignoring me, and she'd rather dance with Bron than with me....do you think I have reasons to complain?"

Roy laughed.

"I think you better start begging..."


The wedding cake pictures had been taken. Roy and Claudia were wiping there faces from the butter cream frosting they had smeared on each others faces when the lights dimmed.

"What's going on?" asked Minmei through the mic.

"Ladies and gentlemen..."

"Rick?" wondered Minmei as she heard the familiar voice. She took Kyle hand's and peeked into the room.

"What on Earth is that pilot doing?" Kyle frowned.

"I think he's trying to get her back."

"Well, if he sings like he flies..."

"He'll do just fine," said Minmei.


"...this song is dedicated to the woman I love. She knows who she is...Heck! We all know who she is...oh, and forgive my singing but this is karaoke...I think our parents enjoyed this way back then..."

Lisa had frozen in her seat as soon as she heard his voice come through the speakers. Gloval had noticed the surprise on Lisa's face and suppressed a smile. Roy had looked at Claudia with an amused faced. The Trio had giggled excitedly. Max shook his head in disbelief when Rick appeared on stage.

"Ick! Ick!" chanted Dana in her mother's smiling arms.

The first chords of a techno-pop song began. Rick swayed his hips from side to side and held the mic to his lips as if it were an ice cream cone. "Hit it!"

Maybe I didn't treat you
Quite as good as I should
Maybe I didn't love you
Quite as often as I could
Little things I should have said and done
I just never took the time

You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind


Maybe I didn't hold you
All those lonely, lonely times
And I guess I never told you
I'm so happy that you're mine
If I make you feel second best
I'm so sorry I was blind

You were always on my mind
You were always on my mind

Tell me, tell me that your sweet love hasn't died
Give me, give me one more chance
To keep you satisfied, satisfied (6)

The song ended and the room remained quiet. Rick looked directly at Lisa.

"I'm sorry, Lisa." He got down on his knees. "Give me one more chance..."

All eyes went to Lisa. She was practically sweating bullets. Gloval had a sly grin on his face.

"Lisa?"

Who said her name? She had no idea. The only thing she knew is that she needed to get out of there.

"Lisa, wait!" shouted Rick as Lisa fled from her table.

The pilots let out a Whoo! Whoo! Whoo! as Rick jumped from the stage and followed her.

"Go get her, buddy!" shouted Roy enthusiastically.


On the other side of the room, Minmei was grinning.

"What are you smiling about?"

She turned to Kyle. "I didn't know Rick could sing."

"You call that singing?"

"Come on. Admit it! He's good! He could be a back up singer!"

"Minmei," warned Kyle.

"Just kidding!" And she hugged him.

To be continued...


AN: Whew! Hope you enjoyed this chapter, please review...please?

For all you guys around the age of thirty, the song Rick "sings" is the version the Pet Shop Boys came up with in 1987-wow! Remember the 80's?

Thank you all for your reviews, I really appreciate them. Please send me one and let me know if you have any questions or comments.

A special thanks to kayak that reminded me of that great piece of dialogue from DYRL.

(1) & (2) are from MACROSS: DYRL – no infringement intended.

(3), (4) & (5) Because you loved me, words and music by Diane Warren – no infringement intended!

(6) Always on my mind, written by Thompson/James/Christopher – no infringement intended!