A/N: I got stuck on what to put, and it's meant to show that the heart does grow fonder with distance. Plus I had giant wb, so the year gave me a new option of how to direct Paine.

Kissmesosoft: maybe she cud have a little skirt, longer than Rikku's but still small? Other than that, v.good.

You're Beautiful

The young Al Bhed smiled, as she revelled in the warmth of Paine's body compared to the cool feel of the deck. Having persuaded the silver haired woman to don her old attire, and to complete the outfit, cut her hair, she found herself more attracted to Paine that she'd ever been.

"What?" The steely voice penetrated her thoughts as she realised she had been transfixed on Paine's facial features.

"Nothing. I was just thinking about how good you look. Is that ok Dr.P?" Using her trademark smile, she saw the corners of Paine's mouth turn up slightly. Indeed, Paine was back to herself, just how she liked it. Only this time, she knew how Paine felt about her, and vice versa.

"That's fine." Came the whispered reply.

'This is sooo romantic.' Rikku's thoughts flowed through to her as she watched the stars shining. It reminded her of the question she hadn't yet had answered. "Paine?"

"Yes?" Came the monotonous reply. Rikku's mind faltered, before resolution set in and she continued.

"Why did you leave?" Paine sat up, and then got up, leaving Rikku to sit up and look on with interest as the warrior stood with her back towards her. Rikku found herself becoming distracted with the warriors ass before she shook her head an awaited a reply.

"I…Rikku, it's hard. I can't tell you now." The warrior rand a trembling hand through her hair, and wondered why she was so anxious about it, I mean, she'd admitted to Rikku that she did like her, but how could she explain what happened?

"Paine, you can tell me anything, why can't you tell me now?" Paine turned briefly, to let her lips linger on the younger woman's before she turned away again.

"Just, give me time." She stated, before walking back into the ship, leaving Rikku with her questions and confusions.