Emotions

Chapter Three: Feelings and Surprises

The tone of Darien's voice made Serena look up. She saw him nervously looking around and rubbing his neck. What was wrong?

"Sure. I know a place." Serena started walking down a discreet path next to the daffodils. Darien followed her.

They emerged in the rose beds. Darien widened his eyes at the variety. Red, yellow, white roses surrounded the big "clearing" she found. It was beautiful, and smelled wonderful.

"Now, you needed to talk?" Serena prompted, looking a little impatient.

Darien cleared his throat. "I need your help," he stated simply.

"My help?"

"Yes," he said. He drew closer to her, trying not to think about how wonderful she looked. "I'm looking for a girlfriend, and I know you know people. Can you please help me?"

Serena straightened. Darien looking for a girlfriend? Is that he wanted her help for? She started laughing.

Darien frowned. "What's so funny?"

She collapsed, clutching her sides as tears ran down her cheeks. Darien came to her side.

"I. Can't. Help. You," she choked out, trying to calm down. Darien gripped her shoulders, trying to stop their shaking from her laughter.

"Why not?" he asked softly, eyes on hers.

Serena's breath caught. A lock of black hair flipped into his mesmerizing midnight blue eyes, making him look curious.

"I've never had a boyfriend," she stated softly, looking away.

Darien's eyes widened. Never had a boyfriend? That was crazy! Serena was the cutest girl he knew, and no one had gone out with her? Wait a minute, did I just call her "cute?"

"Why's that?" he asked her, friendly teasing entering his voice. She looked up, and he saw the edges of tears in her sparkling eyes.

Frustration grew up in her. "I've been busy with school and friends and family that I haven't gotten enough time for boys." And I'm fighting Youmas every night and all the boys are too shy, she thought silently. She stood and lent a hand to Darien, which he accepted. When he stood, he was close; his mouth was scant inches from hers.

"Sorry I can't help you," she said simply, turning away. She walked to the roses and stayed there.

Darien, seeing her like this, only walked away.

Serena lounged at the very top of Tokyo Tower. She was dressed as Sailor Moon, for she didn't want people to be suspicious. Her sky blue eyes scanned the city, watching the bright lights and tall buildings like a guardian as she sensed someone behind her.

She didn't even turn as excitement rose in her. "I haven't seen you in, what, a couple months?" she said to Tuxedo Mask as he walked up to her.

He chuckled. "I figured you could take care of yourself. Besides," his broad shoulders shrugged, "your Scouts were happier."

Serena finally turned. His cape fluttered behind him, and she realized that he wasn't wearing his top hat. His soft, thick ebony black hair was tousled, which made him look even more handsome. His eyes glittered behind his white mask.

"Oh, but I wasn't happier," she whispered to him as he drew closer. Her gloved hands itched to rest on his shoulders.

His hand rested on her cheek, and Serena felt the warmth. "I was hoping you would say that," he said as he drew her face to his, eyes half-closed. Serena closed her eyes.

Their lips met softly, gently. Excitement rose in Serena. My first kiss! With Tuxedo Mask!

A slight chill made her shiver, and he drew her into the warmth of his protective cape. His warm, strong arms went around her waist as her arms rested around his neck. Her fingers played with strands of his dark hair as his hands drew feather-light patterns on the small of her back.

He drew back first. Her eyes were still closed. He smiled. "Does that make you feel better?" he asked her, voice soft.

Her eyes opened, and a smile graced her face. "Maybe, or maybe I need another one?" she mused as she drew him towards her.

Their lips met with a little more ferocity. Serena reveled in the way he was making her feel. Emotions were battling inside her, trying to take control.

Hesitantly, she rubbed her tongue on his bottom lip. He obliged her by opening his mouth, and she heard his chuckle deep in his throat.

He tasted faintly like lemon and lime, more like Mountain Dew than anything. His tongue rubbed against hers gently, almost driving her to madness. She drew back a little, only to have him bring her back.

He was going insane. She tasted like sweet cherries, and the way she was making him feel was making him love her even more. When she drew away, he cradled her head as he deepened the kiss, almost groaning.

They surfaced, needing breath. Her chest rose with every intake, and his heart was going a million miles a minute. She leaned her forehead against his, her eyes twinkling with light.

"Did you like that?" she asked him, amusement growing. He captured her lips once more, gently this time, and drew back, grinning.

"You have no idea," he replied. He released her, but she held on, holding him tightly.

"Stay. I like this," she whined softly, burying her face into the crook of his neck. He chuckled and loosely put his arms around her again.

They stayed like that for some hours, enjoying each other's company as the midnight sky became stained with dawn.

She sighed, and reluctantly drew away to look up at him. "I've got to go," she stated, wishing she could stay. He nodded.

"I must go as well. Meet me at the park tonight?" he asked her, a pout on his face.

She laughed at his expression. "Of course." She drew him down to her lips and deeply kissed him one last time before she drew away and raced back home.

Serena walked dreamily to school that morning. She had dreamed about Tuxedo Mask all last night and still woke up early to get to school. (A/N: Serena doesn't run to school anymore. She's responsible, and wakes up early)

"Serena!" That was Amy. "You're early!"

"Yeah," she said dazedly. Lita looked at Amy and waved a hand in front of their friend's face.

"Earth to Serena! Hello Bunny!" Lita said. Serena shook her head and focused.

"What's up?" she said, a smile lighting her face. Lita and Amy only shook their heads as they entered the school yard.

"What?" Serena asked them as they walked faster. She effortlessly caught up to them and entered the school.

School passed by fast that day. Serena, Lita, and Amy were walking down the sidewalk when Mina and Raye ran up to them, panting.

"What's wrong?" Amy asked them.

"Youma…on…" Mina panted.

"Tokyo…Tower…" Raye finished.

The girls started running in the general direction of the Tower, stopping once to transform.

"You finally show up," Zoicite said to the Sailor Scouts as they clambered to the top of Tokyo Tower. "I thought I could destroy this city without you being involved."

"Oh, please, Zoicite," Serena said, pitching her voice as she crossed her arms. "As if you could destroy the city with us around." The Moon Scepter appeared in her hand; her sky blue eyes were fierce and cold. She stepped forward, away from the Scouts. "Just try. I dare you"

Zoicite snapped her fingers; the air above the Scouts shimmered. A Youma with snakes for arms descended on them with a growl.

Jupiter readied herself as the others moved. A lightning rod came out of her tiara as the air was filled with crackling. Lita's emerald eyes glittered.

"Supreme Thunder CRASH!"

The Youma fell heavily, not expecting the bolt of lightning. Raye stepped in next, putting her hands together.

"Mars Fire IGNITE!"

The Youma screamed as the fireball aimed at it scorched the skin. With an evil gleam in its eyes, it came directly at the two Scouts.

Meanwhile…

Serena, Mina, and Amy were fighting Zoicite. Amy was doing her best to confuse the female Dark General.

"Mercury Bubbles BLAST!"

Bubbles came out of nowhere, obscuring the sight of both Scouts and General. Serena looked around nervously, the Moon Scepter in hand. She was worried Zoicite would come behind her again. The scar from last time ached slightly.

Four screams sounded; the mist lifted. Serena found the Youma holding the Scouts, glowing as it collected their energy.

"What to do now, Sailor Moon?" Zoicite taunted as the Scouts grew weaker with each struggle. "You're nothing without your precious Sailor Scouts."

Serena looked up. Her eyes held pleading. "Let them go," she whispered.

Zoicite smiled cruelly. "You just confirmed my suspicions. You're still as weak as when you first transformed. It's a shame, really." She hovered closer. "And I thought you were a worthy opponent to kill, but I was wrong. Without your friends or your precious Tuxedo Mask, you're really nothing," Zoicite spat in Serena's face as she looked down.

"Don't believe her, Sailor Moon," Venus shouted. "You are something. Fight her!"

Serena lifted her gaze once more. Zoicite saw fury and rage in their depths, but also protectiveness and love for her friends.

Serena turned and lifted the Moon Scepter, aiming it at the Youma. "Moon Princess Halation!"

The Youma turned to ashes with a cry; the Sailor Team fell, coughing and sputtering as they watched their leader turn back around and face off with the General.

Sailor Moon looked coldly at her enemy and said icily, "Nobody, not even you, will insult my friends or my hero. I love them with all my heart," she thumped her chest with a closed fist, "and I'm ready to defend them!" She swung up the Scepter once more as she felt four warm presences at her back, radiating courage and strength.

Zoicite grinned menacingly; thousands of cherry blossoms flew at the girls. They brought up their hands, shielding themselves as Zoicite disappeared.

Serena looked up first. "Damn! We lost her!" The others looked up as well. "And I had her dead-cold in my aim, too! Damn!"

"Pure language, Serena," Raye said, hands on hips. Mina and Amy nodded agreement. Lita cocked her head to one side.

"What?" Serena said, seeing Lita's curious expression.

"You really feel that way about us? What you just said?" Lita asked her, affection growing in her voice.

Serena nodded as their transformations died away. "I meant every word."

All the girls ran to her, hugging her. Serena teasingly complained of being squished, which made them tighten their hug. At last, they went their separate ways.

Serena waited in the dead rosebushes, wanting a glimpse of him.

Her uniform glowed white in the moonlight, her bright red boots contrasting. Her gold crescent moon earrings jangled with soft clinks as she moved her head, her sky blue eyes searching.

At last, she saw him. He jumped down from a neighboring building with catlike grace and walked on the white sand of the lake. After looking around, he settled himself by stretching himself out to his full length and dozing.

She giggled; seeing him like that was funny. She quietly slipped out and stealthily walked over to him. Kneeling silently next to him, she noted how soft his hair looked, how clean cut his jaw was. His gloved hands supported his head and his ankles were crossed.

Leaning over him, she heard his breath quicken as she gently played with some of his hair. She gazed fondly at him while he "dozed".

His eyes snapped open and looked at her. His deep voice was soft. "I didn't sense you here," he said as he propped himself on one elbow, looking up at her.

She shrugged. "I wanted to surprise you." She quickly got up and started to walk away. "But since you were sleeping," she threw over her shoulder, "I guess I won't disturb you."

As she walked away, she felt warm, strong arms encircle her waist and his voice in her ear. "Stay. I like this."

"Do you?" she asked, gently teasing him. She drew out of his arms and faced him. A playful smile was on her face. "Those words sound familiar. Where did you hear them?"

He playfully grinned back. "A gorgeous blonde, sky blue-eyed girl that drives me absolutely crazy and has the oddest hairstyle I've ever seen. I heard them from her. Do you know her?"

Her eyes widened as she stepped back. "I drive you crazy? Really?" she asked innocently, placing a hand over her heart.

He nodded and drew her into his embrace. "Every time," he murmured to her as he closed the gap between their lips.

She closed her eyes instinctively as his soft lips covered hers. God, he's a damn good kisser!

His tongue rubbed gently on her lower lip, asking for entrance. She opened her mouth, and his tongue met hers in a passionate dance.

God! She did drive him crazy. She still tasted strongly of cherries and he liked it. A hand came up to cradle her head as her hands rested on his chest.

She could feel his heart beating a million miles a minute. She could also feel the sleek muscles rippling underneath his tuxedo.

Her fingers came up and played with his hair, also massaging his scalp. He almost groaned. She was doing maddening things to him; if she continued this, he wouldn't be able to keep his composure!

She drew back, eyes half-closed. She looked up at him and took his hand, leading him somewhere.

She stopped at the old sakura tree and sat under it, tugging his hand to sit near her. He "lost his balance" and "accidentally" fell on top of her, his hands propping up his upper body over hers. Her eyes were wide.

"Oh my," she murmured uncertainly. He looked at her and captured her lips.

Her hands came and rested on his shoulders. He drew back before he did something they would both regret and settled next to her. She sat up and he rested his head on her lap as she moved her legs to her right side.

"Mhmm, that feels good…" he mumbled as her hands started to massage his scalp again. She giggled softly at his content expression.

"What's so funny?" he asked her, raising an eyebrow.

She smiled. "Your face."

He sat up, looking at her with mock hurt. "How could you! You hurt my feelings, Sailor Moon, and I will never forgive you," he said, making his voice dramatic while placing a hand over his heart. He fell away from her to lay sprawled near the tree.

She leaned over him, her spun-gold hair brushing his face. "You will, will you?" she asked him, her voice equally dramatic. "Then I'll have to fix that little problem, won't I?"

He nodded, closing his eyes and waiting for her kiss. Instead, he heard rustling, and opened his eyes. She was running away from him, her laughter filling the night sky.

"Catch me if you want me to be forgiven!" she yelled as she drew farther away. Tuxedo Mask sighed as he got up and ran after her.

Serena giggled when she heard him behind her. She extended her long legs, adding some more speed. She heard him sigh again as he sped up as well.

They circled Tokyo before Serena collapsed on the white beach of the lake. Outstretching her arms to either side, her chest heaved as she drew in breath. She closed her eyes. Her heart beat faster than it ever had before; of course, she had never circled an entire city at the speed of a racecar!

A warm presence hovered her; she opened her eyes to see the shadowy outline of Tuxedo Mask towering above her. Suddenly he dropped beside her; she heard his deep laugh.

"You're pretty fast for a shrimp, Sailor Moon," he said as he tried to breathe. She sat up, eyes flashing.

"I'm a shrimp? I'll show you who's a shrimp!" she exclaimed as she pounced on him. He was totally unprepared when she jumped on him.

Before he said anything, Serena captured his lips. She settled while he "tried" to thrash her off; in the end, he settled also.

He tasted so sweet, like Mountain Dew. She couldn't get enough of him. She drew back right before he groaned. She stood and offered a hand, which he took. When he stood, he was close; his mouth was scant inches from hers.

Serena, instead of seeing him, saw Darien. What am I thinking! I like Tuxedo Mask, not Darien! He's a jerk, and Tuxedo's so sweet and nice to me.

The sun started to stain the sky as they said their goodbyes. Serena had to run home, take a shower, get dressed, and grab her stuff before heading to school.

On the way, she met Lita.

"Hey Lita!" Serena called as she trotted to catch up with her tall friend. Lita glanced behind her and smiled when she saw her friend.

"Hey Bunny!" Lita called back. Serena caught up to her friend breathlessly. They started walking to school together as they talked about Scout business.

YAY! Another chapter done! I'm so happy! (jumps up and down with joy) Anyway, next chapter: Serena goes to a medieval masked ball, Mina and Andrew get together, and Darien and Serena share their first kiss. Did I mention that I'm so happy? (YAY!)

Please, PLEASE (!) R&R! YOU…KNOW…YOU…WANT…TO!