AN: Back with another one-shot! Please take into account that this is an alternate universe fic. Thanks for the past reviews! Please review for this one too…I like to see what people think about it.

Disclaimer: I don't own Gundam Seed/Destiny.

Story description: AthrunxCagalli, (hints of KiraxLacus, MeyrinxAuel, and ShinnxLuna): Romance/Drama fic.

Cagalli has stood by as Athrun's best friend and watched as he dated and broken up with many girls. When will it be her turn? And when will Athrun realize that what he has with her is perfect?

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Shewas his best friend. The loyal, caring, yet somewhat tomboyish girl who had always been by his side since childhood. She was strong, courageous, and stubborn to boot. She was Cagalli Yula Athha and she fell in love with him.

Cagalli hadn't realized her feelings until it was too late. She wanted to hit herself multiple times for it but there was nothing she could do. She wasn't the type of person to interfere. Somehow throughout their years of being best friends…playing sports together, hanging out on Friday nights with Kira, going to the park or the mall or wherever…she started to have feelings for him. It was crazy, really. Cagalli…the girl who loved sports more than shopping was crushing on her best friend! Over time, she stopped trying to push her feelings away and just held on…hoping that one day he would pick her.

When will it be me?

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She had been stupid. She had been careless. She had let those feelings sneak up on here unaware and there was nothing she could do to change it. Cagalli Yula Athha had fallen in love with Athrun Zala.

Sadly, Athrun had already gone with another. Her name was Lacus Clyne and she was beautiful beyond comparison. Her long pink locks flowed down her back and her bright blue eyes held plenty of compassion. She was so caring and loving that Cagalli felt she hadn't stood a chance. Her whole aura held the kind of innocence that only children were capable of. She was a childhood friend of all of them: Cagalli, Athrun, and Kira. She was Athrun's first girlfriend and Cagalli was left playing the roll of the best friend. Her heart had cracked but she kept it well hidden.

Although this relationship lasted for a while, six months to be exact, Cagalli never failed to notice that they were rather formal to each other. Lacus, being well mannered, never initiated anything beyond holding hands. Athrun, strangely enough, acted polite as ever, as if he was afraid she would be scared off. He often told Cagalli how confused he was and how their relationship was so dry. They lacked not only a physical connection but also a mental one. The only reason why it lasted so long was that they had been good friends before. Cagalli talked to him and advised him to follow his heart.

She never expected them to mutually break up the next day. It turned out that Lacus had felt the same and was convinced that friendship was all she shared with the blue haired boy. They lacked the strong bond that both were seeking. Athrun was sad but not broken hearted.

The day of the break up Athrun asked to meet Cagalli under their favorite tree in the park. It stood on a hill that overlooked the city. They met around sunset, like always, and talked. They talked about Athrun's failed relationship until he got it out of his system. Cagalli realized that she needed to cheer him up so she started joking and laughing about old times…when they were children and didn't need to worry about boyfriends or girlfriend. Athrun felt better and thanked her for cheering him up. His gratitude was all she needed to be happy. They spent the rest of the night star gazing and being the best friends that they were.

Surprisingly…well maybe not…Lacus had started dating Kira not long after their break up. It turned out that Cagalli's twin had always harbored feelings for the pink haired girl but pushed them aside because Athrun had been there. Athrun had no problem with this and wished them luck. They had the sweetest relationship anyone saw in the high school. They were really meant to be and Athrun knew this. To this day, they were still dating and as close as ever. Cagalli in some ways envied them...but she was still extremely happy for her brother and friend.

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The school year went by and Cagalli felt better. She had great friends and a loving family. Her crush had yet to know her feelings but overall, things were going well. That is…until Athrun found a second girlfriend by the name of Mia Campbell.

Right from the start, Cagalli was uneasy about the new girl who moved into their city. She resembled Lacus somewhat and Cagalli had a slight suspicion that that was why he was interested. Apart from looking like Lacus, Mia was anything else but. She was far from innocent and caring. She was downright snobby and possessive. Kira and Lacus voiced their disapproval but Cagalli stayed quiet. She wouldn't want Athrun angry and if someone as sassy as Mia Campbell made him happy, then so be it. But she could not deny that her heart cracked a bit more.

Athrun's relationship with Mia was a very rocky period in his friendship with the others. He spent his free time going to the mall or attending parties with her. Cagalli felt like she was losing her best friend all over again. Things went on for a few weeks until Athrun saw Mia yell at Cagalli and attempt to slap her. She was warning Cagalli to stay away from him but the fiery blonde would not hear any of it. They were still friends and no one could take that away from her.

That was the end of that relationship.

It ended with a great big argument in which Athrun dumped her for being so possessive and jealous. He was so angry and frustrated when Mia shouted back saying that she was cheating on him anyways. That ended to horrible relationship.

Once again Cagalli met Athrun under their favorite tree at sunset. He apologized for being a jerk and not realizing how Mia really was. Cagalli, back in best friend mode, accepted and forgave. She couldn't stay mad at him for long. Of course, being as fiery and spirited as she was, she made sure he would never fall for someone like that again by giving him a piece of her mind. After, things were back to normal and the pair spent the night talking and eating cookies while watching the city below.

When school started again, they found out that Mia had moved and all was well again. Kira and Lacus were still together and Cagalli had her best friend back.

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Half the school year went by and things were looking up. The group had matured a great deal. Unaware of all the attention she was getting from the opposite sex, Cagalli was still Cagalli: loyal, caring, and tomboyish, though not as much. She had also grown and looked prettier than ever…of course she hadn't realized this. She was too oblivious of the extra attention…too focused on being a great friend to her crush.

She was met with more sadness when Athrun started dating a quiet and shy freshman by the name of Meyrin Hawke. She was a year younger than them and also the sister of their good friend Lunamaria. Athrun was her tutor and they spent the afternoon in the library studying. That is how he fell for the timid girl after he got to know her. The crack in Cagalli's heart grew and she once again stood to the side and watched their relationship develop.

In many ways, this new relationship was much like Athrun and Lacus's…the only difference being that Athrun was more mature and less shy. Cagalli didn't know Meyrin very well but she had the feeling that she intimidated the soft-spoken red head. Whenever Athrun brought her along to hang out, she would keep quiet and reserved. Cagalli's outgoing and fiery attitude shadowed Meyrin's by far. There was still something lacking in their relationship and in took Athrun a month to notice.

The day before the break up Athrun called Cagalli and asked her advice on what to do. He felt that Meyrin was just too shy and quiet and that she was somewhat uncomfortable around him. Cagalli tried to sound patient and told him to do what he thought was best. Even though it hurt so much, she told him that maybe Meyrin needed time to get used to things. Athrun thanked her for the advice and hung up. Cagalli spent the night eating ice cream feeling depressed over her loss. Kira and Lacus tried to cheer her up but it didn't work.

It came as a shock when Athrun told the others that he and Meyrin were through. He had gently broken up with her at the steps leading to the library saying that even though she was a wonderful person, he didn't think it would work out. Meyrin confessed that she thought the same and at first the only reason she was interested was because her sister had talked about him. In the end, they remained on friendly terms and he still tutored her. Things weren't uncomfortable anymore.

Once again, at sunset, Cagalli met up with Athrun. He brought a blanket and she brought some snacks. She cherished these moments the most and listened as Athrun talked about how he thought Meyrin was more of a sister than a love interest. The blonde haired girl let out a sigh of relief. She only hoped that Athrun didn't see her as a sister but decided not to ask. They spent the evening sharing the blanket and talking about the future.

The summer before their junior year, the group found out that Meyrin found a boyfriend her age named Auel Neider. He was the complete opposite of Athrun. The light blue haired boy was rude, arrogant, and a loud mouth. He went really well with Meyrin, who as a result wasn't as shy and timid. She voiced her opinions and argued back. They made a cute couple and Athrun was happy for them. The summer went by in a flash and Cagalli became better friends with Meyrin's sister, Lunamaria.

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It was devastating when Athrun began having feelings for Luna. They became boyfriend and girlfriend shortly after. Cagalli was back to playing best friend and she didn't know how much she could take.

The worst part was that Luna was a good girlfriend. She was outgoing, cheerful, and optimistic. Her short magenta hair made her look cute but still mature. She cared for Athrun and got along well with their group. Everyone said they made a good couple. Cagalli wanted to yell out her frustrations and pain. Her heart literally shattered when she realized that they were a good couple.

Months went by and they got closer. Cagalli felt so hurt when she realized how comfortable Athrun was around Luna. At first, he was somewhat overwhelmed by her cheerful attitude but grew used to it. Cagalli hid her pain well. She kept up her tom boyish façade and even tried dating other guys. It never helped; no one got past the first date. She couldn't replace Athrun; not now, not ever.

After seven long months of agony in their junior year, Cagalli was surprised to hear about the break up. She had given up hope, but one day, at the picnic the group was having, she heard yelling. Athrun was yelling at Luna for breaking up with him. She was crying and extremely sorry but said she couldn't help her feelings. She couldn't help that she started noticing Shinn Asuka, the somewhat tough boy who still had a soft side. She told him that she cared about him a lot but she knew their relationship wouldn't last. She said those words that would ring in Cagalli's mind.

"There's only one special girl in your life and it isn't me!"

Luna ran away from the group in tears followed by a shocked-looking Shinn. Athrun was left standing alone on the grass. He was in deep thought as if processing her words. Slowly, he turned around and walked home, leaving the group in silence. That was the end of Athrun's relationship with Luna.

Cagalli waited on the hill at sunset that night but was shocked to see that he didn't come. She waited until the sun set and it was dark; too stubborn and unwilling to leave. Athrun finally came when the stars were out.

She sat down with him under their tree and looked at the city lights in silence. Athrun finally spoke about how he was sad that Luna liked someone else. Being more mature and experienced in life, he regretted not being a better boyfriend. Cagalli denied this statement. She told him that feelings and emotions were so untamed that there was nothing he could have done. She, after all, knew what it was like to have uncontrollable feelings. Athrun sighed and looked depressed. He wondered out loud why all his relationships never lasted. Cagalli listened quietly, all the while thinking about Luna's words.

There's only one special girl in your life and it isn't me!

She was broken out of her revere when Athrun repeated Luna's words out loud. He contemplated what she meant. Who was that girl?

Cagalli looked at Athrun and told him that he shouldn't feel bad about all those failed relationships. They all meant something to him and that was fine, but it was obvious that they weren't meant to be. She smiled at him and put her hand on his cheek. She told him to hold his head high and that the perfect girl would come along. He smiled back and hugged her…thanking her for always being there for him. They spent the night once again talking and laughing. Cagalli had worked her charms and cheered Athrun up; something no one else could do any better.

A few days later, Luna and Athrun had a talk that was much calmer than the one during the break up. She told him that she was sorry and Athrun said he understood. They agreed to be good friends instead. Luna hugged him and told him that she was happy to have him as a friend. Before she turned to find Shinn, for they were going to go on a date, she looked at Cagalli, who was sitting with Kira and Lacus at the lunch table, and winked. She mouthed the words,

"He's all yours."

Cagalli was shocked. Had Luna known all along about her feelings? When Athrun returned to their table, Cagalli gave him a reassuring smile. She made a joke to lighten up the mood and everyone started laughing. Things were fine once again.

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Cagalli sat under her favorite tree at sunset. She had been here so many times that she didn't even need to think as she sat down on her favorite spot. The summer before her senior year was almost over and she sighed about what new relationships and break ups would occur. Would Athrun find someone else?

She heard footsteps and looked behind her to see the object of her thoughts.

"Hey."

She smiled in reply and patted the spot next to her motioning him to sit. They stayed in contented silence watching the sunset.

Athrun finally spoke. "You remind me of the sunset."

Cagalli turned wide eyes to him, curious about what he said.

"It's beautiful and mysterious…I feel calm and in awe when I watch it…and it's always there. I'm so comfortable and relaxed with it…so much that sometimes I take it for granted."

Cagalli stared, taking in every word as a cool breeze blew by.

Athrun threw her a small smile and continued. "You're beautiful, caring and such a great person. You're always there for me and I never realized how much I rely on you. You were there for me after I saw that Lacus and I weren't ready for a relationship together and never really would be. You were there after the whole Mia problem. You were there when I saw that all the affections I had for Meyrin were just brotherly. And you were there after Luna broke it off because no matter how hard we tried to convince ourselves, we loved other people. After every break up when I needed someone to talk to, you waited here for me and made me feel better."

Cagalli didn't know what to say.

"All this time I was looking for a good relationship…I dated all these girls and realized how wrong we were together. I was always looking for "good" but now I see that "perfect" has been by my side the whole time."

Athrun grabbed her hand and Cagalli felt a blush come on her cheeks.

"I…" She started to say but he cut her off.

"I know you must have been so mad at me for not noticing until now. I've been an oblivious idiot, as Luna says. She was right when she told me that there was only one special girl in my life. It's you."

Cagalli was so red by now that she looked anywhere but his emerald eyes.

"I know I'm a great failure in relationships…but maybe that's cuz deep down I always knew that only one girl would make things fit together perfectly. No one else could compare. I want to be with you. I know because we have such a great bond from a great friendship…and we can always depend on each other. Will you give me a chance?"

He said this quietly. She could tell her was nervous by the way he kept absent-mindedly looking around everywhere. Cagalli felt so shocked. She had waited for this moment forever. Athrun finally came to his senses! She should do something…but her brain was stumped. She acted in the only way she knew how: childish and cheerful.

She surprised the guy by playfully punching him in the shoulder in the trademark Cagalli-like fashion.

"You don't even need to ask!" She said this while laughing as Athrun pretended to massage his shoulder.

He looked up; eyes brighter than Cagalli had seen and stood up while bringing her with him. A big grin appeared on his face.

"Are you sure? I promise that I'll never be this stupid again."

"All I have to say is…" Cagalli started with a stern look causing Athrun to look nervous.

"…it took you long enough!"

The blue haired boy laughed loudly and picked a startled Cagalli up in his arms while swinging her around. They hugged and Cagalli felt her heart mend back together. It was finally her turn to be with Athrun and she had a feeling that it would last forever.

They spent the rest of the day doing what they always did…star gazing and talking… the only difference was that Athrun was holding Cagalli and they both were a hundred times happier.

The sunset passed in brilliant colors of orange, pink, and yellow. Everything wasn't good…it was perfect.

…end…

AN: I really liked this one-shot! I wanted to portray how Athrun's relationship with all those other girls would never work out and that Cagalli was always by his side the whole time! It takes place through out high school. It was just a sweet idea I thought about. Haha Please give me your feedback. Sorry if it seems OOC…and I hope the ending wasn't rushed…but I really liked how this turned out. Please review! Thanks everyone, bye!