Ami sits at her table in the early morning sunlight with her hot chocolate and breakfast sandwich, she made it special that morning, an English muffin with turkey, sausage, egg and cheese. She is reading a graphic novel for a change while eating when a very loud knock is heard from the front door.
"Brrr it's fr-freezing this morning." Usagi says. Light snow is falling and it's sunny but it don't help with it being minus sixteen, I hope Ami gets to the door soon. I can't feel my fingers. "Brrrrrr." I shiver, after another moment of waiting I set all my shopping bags down on her porch to blow some heat on my poor fingers!
I open the door to see Usagi on my porch with a bunch of shopping bags, there are icicles in her hair and she is shaking like a leaf. "Good morning." I help her with all the bags and bring her inside. "I am surprised to see you up, it's early for you, I thought we were meeting at the mall in the afternoon but looks like you been there already. Did you want some hot chocolate?" Ami asks?
"My mom woke me up and there was a quick sale that my mom found out about from a friend, tons of clothes and stuff, I am not even fully dressed. I am still wearing my bunny pyjama shirt but I got lucky, there was lots there at more then fifty percent off. I picked out a bunch of great clothes, all put outside at subzero prices. brrrrr and yes please, I am just getting feeling back in my hands, brrr you can help me pick out the best one to wear when we go see Minako!" Usagi shivers.
I turn on the kettle. "I can always pick up flowers at the hospital gift shop when we get there in the afternoon, I do hope she feels much better, being a Scout does give her an advantage so that is a positive thing to remember." I take out a mug from the cupboard.
"I am sure glad that I found that lotion Minako liked last week and that shirt too." Usagi sits down and after a moment notices Ami's sandwich. "Wow that sandwich looks yummy! Can I have half? I didn't get to have a bite of breakfast because I had to rush to get there, even with the cold lots of people were fighting over clothes!" As I say that my stomach lets out a loud hungry grrrrooowwwllll.
"Wow, you can go ahead and eat it. I can make another one, it's no problem. I suppose with it getting close to Christmas people must be after any sale they can get"...
I wake up and I can already hear Haruka in the kitchen, I look at the clock it's after eleven, man did I ever sleep in. After a moment I pull myself out of bed, I put on my robe, only when I get to the kitchen I feel over dressed. Because there Haruka is, in just her black sports bra and navy blue work out pants, she is making some pasta at the stove for lunch. "Good morning gorgeous." I put my hands around her waist. "The food smells great."
"Well good morning to you too." I turn and kiss her deeply. Haruka yawns. "I am sorry Hailey but I just could not sleep last night. Not with everything that happened and I didn't want to wake you so I been out here since five am, I put the coffee on and I am making pasta and a garden salad for lunch."
"Haruka you could of woke me if something is bothering you at anytime lover, you can talk to me." I kiss her. "Well it looks like we both need a fresh cup this morning, I am a zombie too if I don't have a cup every morning.Here, I looked up the visiting hours at the hospital just in case, it's basically from eleven to nine pm. So we could go after we finish lunch, you go ahead and shower let a pro take over the cooking."
"Thanks Hailey, you go ahead and take over, I won't be too long. We got a big day ahead of us and I still have no idea if I should buy something or..." Haruka yawns. "Wear what I already got to that Gala." I walk to the bathroom, it's been awhile since I have been to such a formal thing when I stop to think about it, I only went to a few semi formals with Michiru. Shaking my head, those no longer count for me, it's bad enough those dreams won't go away. I step in to the shower to get cleaned up and hopefully wake up.
Poor Haruka looks exhausted already and the day isn't even half over yet, maybe she can catch a nap before we go. I focus back on stirring the pasta, it sure smells good, it's the one dish she can cook but it don't hurt for me to add a few of my own ingredients to the mix. I walk to the freezer and check what spices she has and I am lucky to find at least one I use and add it in.
We always have made a pretty good team, I pour two cups of fresh coffee and set them on the table with bowls and plates, hopefully she will feel at least a little less stressed when she sees her friend...
"Michiru, come out here please. You only have so much time to get ready and pick out your dress for the gala. You have practised many hours and I want to see a new song composed as well, you must have accomplished something with being in that room for so long. The maid said you refused even breakfast this morning, I want answers Michiru Kaioh."
I sigh with frustration before I open the door. "Yes mother, I managed to compose a song and I was busy perfecting it when the maid disturbed me and ruined my concentration, the music sheets are all on that table if you wish to see them. Now if you excuse me I have lunch and a bath spa to get to." I walk away quickly and into my room where I use the house phone to tell the maid to please bring me lunch now, then pick up my new phone and try Ruka's number again.
RING RING RING!
That phone always seems to go off when Haruka is busy, Hailey thinks. She turns off the stove, picks up a pen and paper and answer the phone. "Hello, how can I help you?"
"Hello, I am looking for Haruka." Michiru is confused, who is this answering Haruka's phone? She always carries her cell on her.
"I am sorry but she's busy at the moment, can I take a message?" The lady on the other end sounds tense to Hailey.
"No thanks." Michiru hangs up thinking, if I leave a message Haruka will block this number too, but who was that on the other end? She puts her cell away as the maid comes in with the lunch tray. "Thank you Mary." She bows and leaves. I have not slept a wink I barely have an appetite but starving myself wont solve my issues with Haruka. I sit down taking a bite of the steak on my plate and a sip of tea, I don't really care what I wear for this event all that is on my mind is Haruka...
"Theodore, I think it would be a good idea if you go out and buy the best bouquet of flowers for Michiru and chocolates too, then I want you to leave them here on the table with a card for her to discover. That should cheer her up, she may be nervous due to all the important people and possibilities at this gala."
"Good idea Miss Kaioh, I will go out with my butler and do that as soon as I am done my business meeting and the final fitting for my Canali suit. I have made sure we will be seated in the very best area with the most important group of people to socialize with.
"Very good work Theodore, you both could find some amazing opportunities tonight which is what is most important, go ahead and finish your business. I have important meetings this morning as well to attend to...
"Good thing we caught the bus Ami." There are so many people, it's so crowded, shoulder to shoulder. A lady next to me is eating a messy poutine, the gravy overflowing half dripping out. I hold Minako's gift close to me so it don't get any on it. She will just love what I got, I know it.
POP!
"Usagi we may want to stop at the salon first, that little boy just lost his gum in your hair."
"Oh no! Yuck, it's all tangled and gooey. Gross! I can't get it out! Um, Ami some is on your pants too!"
"Oh!" I take a step back to get a better look when I hear an. "Ow!" From Usagi, her hair is stuck to my pants! "We will want to walk to the salon carefully, my what a mess, that gum has everything stuck together in one piece.Don't worry we will still get to the hospital to see Minako."
The mother of the boy smiles at Usagi and I and says "Oh it's not one piece, it's 15, his school club has kids trying to break records, isn't it cute?" She pulls another pack of gum out of her purse. "Go ahead son, try again." Usagi and I look at each other, we wish them a good day and get off the bus at the next stop.
"Ok, Usagi we take this one step at a time." I tend to walk slower then the energetic Moon princess, I am not much of an athlete but neither is she with how clumsy she is, that still has her faster then I am. My thoughts are interrupted when Usagi trips on a piece of ice in front of the salon, we both land in the dirty slush...
"Haruka you had a phone call while you were in the shower, I don't know who it was but the woman sounded tense to say the least. Here is your phone, you look like you feel much better." I kiss her deeply. "Here is your salad and your pasta, I kept it warm, it's covered right here on the table. I already cleaned the kitchen up for you too. Now I need to shower and dress."
"Hmm." I look at the number. "I don't know who that is." I take a bite of salad. Tense woman? I wonder who would that be, unless it was Michiru? Well when I get my new phone I will be changing my number, so only people I want in my life can contact me. I set down my cell, I take my meds and turn on my tv to listen to the sports and racing news while I eat.
I better make this shower quick, it's after one'o clock and we still need to pick up the Gala tickets. I was Glad to see Haruka a little less tense. I quickly get in and close the door, washing as fast as I can, there's the surprise I still need to get for Haruka tonight. Hmm I wonder? "HEY LOVER COME HERE A SECOND!" I shout.
Haruka walks into the steamy bathroom. "Hey, is everything ok Hailey?"
"Yes lover, I am fine but I think you should go on ahead and get the tickets. I got to go to pick up my camera after I shower. But I will be ready by the time your back, I promise."
"Well ok, if you want I will head out now then and pick them up, did you want me to get you anything?"
"No, you go ahead, I am just fine." I am glad that the bathroom is so steamy, it hides my grin, my little white lie worked. I just know she will love her surprise tonight, I make sure that I hear the door shut before I get out of the shower and dry off. Good thing my hair is short, it won't take long to dry, if I go out with it this wet it would freeze solid...
When I get to my sports car I get in and check the back seat before I leave. It has some ice, using my gloves I wipe it off the seat, the spot of blood is still there. My thoughts go back to last night as I start up my car and begin the short drive to Pearl's house. That kiss was something, sweet and soft. I better keep my mind on the road, I watch as a small parade of people playing jingle bells crosses the street, they are marching proudly in toy soldier costumes, they don't sound bad. I turn on to Pearl's street, hers is a small street and quiet with nice houses on both sides. As I park in her driveway she opens her door and yells for me to come on in.
"Hey Haruka, don't worry she saw the doctor it's chicken pox and I know you have had them. Trying to stop Lee from scratching is the worst part of it like I told Hailey, she was up all night feeling awful. I have the tickets over here, you don't owe us a damn thing by the way. Were just happy someone can use them and they are not wasted." Pearl takes down an envelope from her shelf, then a thought seems to hit her and she looks Haruka up and down.
Knowing how pearl designs clothes and is staring at me I have a feeling I am in for it. Next I know she has me follow her to what she calls her Creative Room, she closes the door with a smile then pulls the cover off one of tables. Where there lays two woman's tuxedos, one black and white in colour the other white and pink both formal and very nice looking. I have never worn the woman's one I always wore men's. "They look good pearl."
"Now I know that Hailey will love the white and pink one, I will put it in this bag here, she will be so surprised. But I was thinking how about you, try the black one, I know will look just gorgeous, it will fit you too I adjusted it last night." Before Haruka answers Pearl puts it in the other bag. "Take it home try it out, you got nothing to lose and if you like it keep it."
"Well ok, why not." I take the bags from her. "Thanks for everything, I hope Lee gets better soon. I better get going, there is a friend of mine in the hospital and we are visiting her before we get ready for the Gala tonight."
"Aww, well I hope your friend gets better too and have fun tonight." Pearl waves to Haruka as she watches her get in to her car and leave.
I walk in and Hailey is ready and waiting for me, she takes my hand and we walk to the car, when she spots the bags I hand them to her so she can take a look. "Pearl sent them over, she designed those."
I hear Haruka close the drivers side door. "The tuxes are beautiful Haruka, so kind of her to give me this, I am wearing the pink one tonight for sure." When I go to put it back there's another one too, I look inside. "This one is beautiful too, are you wearing it?"
"I might try it out, we can put them on when we get back from visiting Minako." Turning off the engine, I get out and open Hailey's door for her, she takes my hand as we walk to the hospital...
"I bet Minako will love those flowers Ami and it's nice that were not stuck together anymore, that gum was worse then glue! It's to bad they had to cut my hair though, I wonder if she will recognize me? Which way is her room? This place is huge."
"I believe it's down that hall, from what I wrote down. Haruka told me that Minako woke up a little last night and seems to be doing better." Walking down the hall, it's a bit dark and the floor is a beige white. It's very quiet, other then the sounds of nurses speaking and some beeps from machines. "There's her room, right there."
I am a little nervous to go in, so I have Ami go first and follow after her. She sets the flowers on the table. There in the hospital bed, with tubes all over her, is Minako. She is asleep and holding the teddy bear I left for her. I set my gift beside the flowers. "She looks awful Ami."
"Try to look on the bright side Usagi, she's getting the best care and I bet she will be well in no time." I set my hand gently on hers. "Minako just needs some time and we can tell her all about everything that has happened." Before I can finish comforting Usagi I hear foot steps enter the room, I turn to see Haruka with Hailey by the door, they also brought flowers. Usagi is distracted looking at Minako with a lot of worry and has yet to notice them.
I set the flowers by the other bouquets on the counter by the window, there's other cards and even some balloons. It's no surprise, she's so kind to anyone she meets, she lights the room up like spotlights on a stage. A nurse walks in to check her stats, she walks out only to return with more cards and a small doll, I read the writing it's from the dance club she's in, she will love that.
I turn my attention back to Odango, I know this is not the best time but all the questions I have are getting the best of me. I put my hand on her shoulder, I feel her tense up and I see the bandage on her head. I gently turn her to face me, she's looking at the ground with tears in her eyes. "You and me need too talk." But everything stops when we all hear a small whisper.
I open my eyes to see my friends and a girl I don't know? My throat hurts and my head pounds but I need to talk to them, this worrying silence is hurting me more! I clear my throat as best I can muster but all I can manage is a low whisper. "Hey guys, cough cough, am I glad to see you." I keep hugging the bear with me and I see flowers and another gift on the table with a pile of cards.
The thought warms my heart that so many care for me and think about me but I can tell something is going on. Ami and Usagi are on one side, Haruka and a girl I don't know is on the other side of the room... and Haruka is holding this new girl's hand?
You could hear a pin drop with how silent the room is, even Usagi froze when she saw Minako's sleepy blue eyes looking at her. Haruka is the first to do anything, she walks over and gives a kiss to Minako's hand, she tell her to get well soon, and shows her the flowers Hailey and her brought, then introduces her to Hailey telling her about how she's Haruka's new girlfriend. Ami asks her if she needs anything and tells her a bit about the Christmas events happening and her new studies she's started for fun.
I put my arm around Hailey. I know hospitals make her nervous, Haruka thinks.I check the time on my cellphone, her and I have to leave so we can get ready in time to get to the Gala. I didn't get to have a talk with Usagi either, this is frustrating as hell. Time never really is on my side, I learned that the hard way when I started being a scout and met the Inners, it always ended up that we would be guiding them and making the toughest choices while trying not to let it effect us. To the Inners we had been cold, rude or distant but that sometime cannot be helped when your living two lives and fighting monsters.
"I am glad your awake, you look much better; we would stay longer but unfortunately we need to go Minako. But we will visit again soon, rest well." I turn to Odango and pull her in to my arms and whisper in to her ear. "We still need to talk, I will call you tomorrow." I take Hailey's hand as we walk away...
I clear my throat, it's hard to talk but I reach out and grasp my best friends hand. "Usagi, did I hear her say that right? About that girl? Cough cough cough. Just how long have I been out cold?" Ami hands me some ice water that the nurse must have left me earlier.
"To be honest, we are not fully sure on all the details about Michiru and Haruka. We know that something must of occurred before the Youma attack because even there her and Neptune were not on speaking terms." I give a glance to Usagi who has been very quiet.
Usagi look peeks at Ami and then to the curious Minako, who I know if she felt better would not let us leave until she knew all of what was going on. Instead of just answering about Hailey or about how long she's been out cold, I end up telling her about Haruka. "Um, well, I accidentally kissed Haruka and banged my head, then ran from her and now she's out to get me." Minako eyes could not go wider if she tried...
I am straightening my tie while patiently waiting on Michiru I know women take longer then men to get dressed but tonight isn't just about pleasure, it's about opportunity. I look at the clock we better hurry. We don't want to be late...
With frustration I finish the touch ups on my hair that I have in a tight bun with a piece of hair neatly curled hanging down. I pull out my drawer, pick out the locket Ruka gave me and put it on my neck. I hear Theo shouting for me to hurry but he can wait, everything is out of control, the cruise, Ruka, Theo. I straighten out my baby blue dress, I am not looking forward to socializing with people I don't care about, with a deep breath I walk to the steps toward him.
"You look so gorgeous Michiru." Theo kisses her hand, making her skin crawl. "I promise you a perfect evening my sweet, this place is known for it's amazing food and dancing, it should brighten you right up." Theo leads her to the limo. "This will be a night you won't forget."
My eyes won't meet his. As I take a seat on the black velvet bench I spot a champagne bottle and grab a glass, I pour myself a drink. I want to forget all of this, I normally never touch alcohol but right now I am done caring, I tip the glass to my lips and take my first sips.
"I am glad you like the sparkling fake champagne, I find it tastes a bit funny but it looks so much like the real thing and its not to bad. I tried a glass of real champagne of course at a party last year, I find the tastes are rather similar with only a slight difference due to after taste."
I feel my stomach bubbling and the taste, even if its fake, is not one I like. I try to hold in a big burp, it causes my stomach to ache, I feel it bubble more and start traveling in the other direction. Looks like this evening will begin in the bathroom for me...
At the apartment Hailey has me trying on the woman's black tux first before she gets dressed herself. "This is pretty new for me." As I finish buttoning up the shirt and put on the jacket, I step out for her to get a look at me.
"You look absolutely amazing but why are you wearing a binder top underneath?" Hailey asks.
"I am used to wearing one, it's habit but you do have a point." Hailey asks me if I want to wear it and when I think about it. having a break for a change would be good. "No, I don't think I want to wear it tonight."
Hailey kisses her deeply. "Then don't." She unbuttons Haruka's shirt all the way down. "I like you for who you are." As she slowly run her hands down Haruka's figure. "You are so beautiful Haruka."
"Keep doing that and I promise you Hailey, we won't make those reservations." I murmur as I kiss her neck with a slight bite.
"I will just have to try and resist striping you down, at least not till after the dance. I will just have to try and control myself until later tonight. I better get ready." I slowly leave her embrace. I walk to the bathroom and close the door.
I take off the binder top, putting on my sports bra instead, re-button my shirt and put on my suit jacket and look in the mirror at myself. It feels different for sure but it's worth a try to see how it feels to be just me, not playing the part of the hot guy from school...
I step out of the bathroom wearing the woman's white tux and pink shirt, I put a bit of perfume on and some lip gloss before asking Haruka if she'd like some too? She nods, I hand her the tube of gloss as I look in the mirror to recheck one last time how I look. We put on our winter jackets and head out the door...
I walk with Michiru into the building and have a seat at one of the most exclusive tables, only for those who can afford it, with a perfect view and hearing range of the band. The musicians are all done up in red, green and white suits on the stage. The food smells almost heavenly as we sit down and get handed menus and fresh hot tea is fills our cups. "Isn't this the perfect place to sit? We have a great view of everything and everyone."
Michiru sighs. "Yes Theodore, it is quite beautiful here" Looking around at all the people, talking, eating or dancing. The tables all have bright white table cloths with lace, the dance floor is reflecting all the colours from the picturesque ceiling with it's beautiful design. I take a sip of tea, as I knew he would, Theo begins to point out all the important people in the crowds and smiles as he realized we are near the tables where many of them are seated.
"Michiru, they are some of the richest people in the city but not only that, that woman there works in the music industry. She's very well known, it would be a good idea to speak with her and tell her about you and your Mother's performance coming up on the cruise."
Before I can object, Theodore is already waving the woman over to our table, he introduces me and starts a conversation, my stomach is still bubbling and what makes it worse is the three other people that are coming over to socialize and discuss business...
We arrive but Haruka doesn't allow the parking attendant to touch the car, she parks it herself. We get out, walking towards the huge impressive building, we get some looks but we don't give a shit. We are here to enjoy ourselves. Haruka lets the man know her name and reservation, we walk inside and have a seat at a table in a]the special section. "Wow, this place is beautiful." I take the opportunity to take out my camera and snap a few photos as the waiter sets down our menus and pours us fresh hot tea.
I sip my tea. "It's too bad Pearl's girlfriend got sick, I will need to repay them for letting us use such a great reservation. The music is great too." After we give the waiter our orders I stand up. "Would you like to dance Hailey?"
"I'd love to Haruka." I take her hand as we head for the beautiful dance floor. She pulls me close to her as we dance together slowly to the live bands beautiful tune...
I am not very hungry when I look up from my menu and take a sip of tea and I choke at what I see. "COUGH COUGH COUGH." The waitress immediately begins pounding my back. I feel my heart just shatter at the sight before me, there on the dance floor is Haruka, she looks very different and in her arms is some Red headed girl. I put my hand up to stop the waiter from pounding me like a drum. "I am fine. Really."
"Are you sure your alright Michiru?" Theo asks, wrapping his arms around her and turning to the waiter. "I demand you get us a fresh pot of tea and new cups right away, I do not want this happening again!" Theo watches her closely with worry. "What happened that made you cough so violently?"
"I just swallowed the wrong way, it's of my own clumsy mistake. There was no need for you to yell at the waiter." My eyes can't look any other way but at the sight of Haruka with that other girl. As I watch them dance closely to the music I feel my temper rising. The song slowly ends and I see that Red Headed woman excuse herself and head to the ladies room.
"Please excuse me Theo, I am going to go freshen up."
"Well, if you are sure you are alright."Theo stands up as Michiru leaves the table...
I wash my hands and dry them with a towel, that tea is great but I don't want to spend the night in the bathroom. When I turn around a woman with sea blue hair and a baby blue dress is coming into the bathroom. This woman looks tense with the anger I can see in her eyes, dangerous even, whoever she is after is going to get it.
There's that redhead, Michiru thinks. I take a breath and block her path, preventing her from leaving the bathroom. "You and me need to talk! You follow me or I know people who can make your life hard." I hate using my connections like this but this is about Haruka and with that I have no limit.
"I don't know who you are but fine, whatever lead the way." At this point I don't have a choice but to follow the blue haired nutcase to where she wants. She has my hand in hers, making sure I don't go anywhere, we look like just two friendly ladies stepping out for a few moments to chat but I know otherwise.
We enter a room that has no windows, I hear her shut the door behind us and the click of a lock, which sets off my anxiety because this crazy woman could want to kill me. I could call out for Haruka but that would put her in danger and that is the last thing I want, I turn to face her the angry women.
I shut the door and lock it then turn to look at the girl who has been with my Ruka, she looks uncomfortable that's a good advantage for me. "Whats your name? Tell me about yourself." I walk toward her, standing not far from where she is...
"Hey Haruka." I shake her hand. "So nice to see you here."
I shake Mr Crawford's hand. "It's a pleasure to see you too." Next thing I know I am lead with him to a table FULL of people in different positions of many companies including some who work in the racing industry and I am asked to have a seat as each person shakes my hand.
"Here's a drink Haruka, tell them about yourself. It's alright, they know about you, relax. She's a real champ out there, her skill goes well beyond what you would expect to see in a young lady of her age."
"Thank you very much, racing for me is not a job, I enjoy it." As I sip the coffee I wonder where Hailey is, last I checked people were not rushing to the bathrooms. My thoughts are interrupted by the sight of the two ladies I recognize from the last race I was in, they work for the company that owns the track...
"Now that you know my name is Hailey and about my career. Who are you? Why are you locking me in here with you? Most papers I write for or take pictures are about community events from different parts of the world so it couldn't be anything that offended you?"
"I am Michiru, that's all you need to know about me. Whats happening don't make any sense, I want answers and since Ruka wont talk your going to and I got plenty of time."
My eyes don't leave hers. Great I am locked in a room with Haruka's crazy Ex. So this is what she looks like. I can tell she means what she says by her tone but locked rooms don't really go to well with me, which is why most my assignments are either outdoor events or concerts with easy exits, Haruka isn't the only one with abuse in her past. Ok, I need to remember my coping skills, maybe I can calm her and then get the fuck out of here. "Look, lets sit down and I will tell you what you want to know, whatever it is."
"Sure we can sit over in that corner." I walk over with her and we sit in the hard chairs. "Tell me what is going on with her now, it's not like her to be this way. I know the mall was terrible but she knows how my life is and the constant pressure I am under."
After listening to her, it didn't take long for something in me to click. "You think it was just something minor, you watched her get hit, you stood there and did nothing she told me about it and I can honestly say it made me sick."
"You have no idea! Do you think I wanted to see her hurt? Or have that happen? It's not as if I set it up! My life is very complicated and I will not waste time explaining it to you! I love Haruka and I would do anything for her."
"Well you have a damn funny way of showing it! Because if someone I loved was getting hurt in front of me I'd be kicking ass!" We both stand now and her eyes show more anger then before...
I look at my watch, just what is Hailey doing, going on a bathroom tour? I better check on her but that means I need to find a way to leave this conversation I am in. My thoughts are interrupted when I hear my name mentioned. "Yes, I agree with you, more females should be involved in racing. There's so much talent out there and it's not just guys who have it. Will you please excuse me? I must check on my date." They all shake my hand and nod but before I leave I am told to expect calls and to enjoy myself as I rush to find Hailey...
I take deep breaths, my coping skills are hitting my limit, my heart is beating fast. "Michiru, I get that life is complicated, mine is too and I told you what you wanted to know so please let me go."
"I am not even close to done talking to you, why are you breathing so quickly? I have not put one hand on you." My temper is boiling in me, everything is so out of control and right now any control I do have I will take it.
"Not like it's your business but locked rooms don't agree with me, to put it lightly, my ability to be calm has left me at this point. Now let me OUT!" Not long after I have shouted that I hear Haruka.
I look at the wooden door I am sure I heard her voice in there. I knock on the door hard. "Hailey you in there?"
"Yes I am!" I feel dizzy and my anxiety is way too high, my chest feels tight, it don't take Haruka long to open the door. I feel her arms around me, holding me to her as my tears begin to flow, she knows my past too like I know hers, we have protected each other many times.
I don't bother to waste words on Michiru as I rub Hailey's back gently and hold her close, I just focus on helping her walk with me to get out of there. "Take it easy now, I got you"
I have never seen such a cold look from Haruka, she didn't even say a word to me, she barely looked at me her focus was on that other girl who panicked like a child. This is all wrong, we have had fights in the past but we would work things out, we have never been apart so long before...
I sit down with Hailey at our table, she's slowly getting her breathing back to normal. I grab a glass of water and hand it to her. "We should leave." I put my arm around her shaking form. "I am sorry, I had no idea that Michiru would be here."
I lean my head on her shoulder as my anxiety goes down and my dizziness subsides. "I will be alright, really. Thank you for getting me out of that room, she's a very angry person, possessive too." I sip some tea. "In a few minutes I will be perfectly fine thanks to my coping skills."The waiter sees us at our table, brings our food and refills our cups with fresh tea.
"Hailey, I don't think its a good idea to stay after everything that has happened. I honestly find it strange, Michiru has never acted that way before, then again we only dated six months but now I know more about her that's for sure."
"Haruka I don't want our night to be ruined, besides she won't try anything in front of everyone. Right now my focus is us." I kiss her sweet lips and I pick up my spoon. "Lets enjoy our dinner." She nods to me with some concern still showing in her eyes.
"You continue to keep me guessing,I'm sorry about Michiru, I don't get her at all." I take the last bite of my soup, I notice her table was not far from ours, I feel her pain and a bunch of other emotions all at once even, if I try to ignore it. This connection has to break some how don't it?
The second course arrives and Haruka don't look any less tense or upset, she's staring at the table with her hand in a fist. I try to focus on taking a bite of my pasta, I gently rub her hand to try to get her attention, and feel her begin to relax a little. "I know it's not easy but I am here for you." She nods to me and slowly begins to eat...
I listen to Theodore and the other men gossiping about what the next hot business deal will be. He barely noticed I was gone till I came back. I sneak a look at Haruka, my heart aches, I am still so in love with her but she's moved on as if I didn't matter. Maybe it's best to go on the cruise, she won't listen to me now no matter what I do. I try to distract myself talking with the three ladies at the table.
Abigail is making her opinion well known of how hard it is for one so deep in work matters to also keep her appearance at its best and stay with in the fashion trend. She then adds that women are put under so much more strain and pressure just to rise to a notable position.
What she's talking of is the only part of the conversation that interests me at all because she does have a point. As much as I myself enjoy looking my best I am not addicted to the fashion industry standards of dress, I don't know much about Abigail, we just got introduced.The other two are the same yet a bit different, I know of them from some parties I attended with my mother.
Marsha has never worked, she's never had a financial worry in her life. Her days have been full of lavish luxury and her husband, from an arranged marriage, works for one of the biggest computer companies. She's six years older then me and she explains how happy she is that she can do what she wants, when she wants, no questions asked.
Marie came from a Middle class family and she worked at a factory job, it was there she bumped in to whom she calls her dream man, he swept her off to a life of luxury later on when they got engaged and he admitted to her how he was part owner of that factory. They married, she'd had already quit her job and like Marsha shes happy to just be doing what she wants.
"Once long ago when my mother and I were at her home, I remember Marie and I flying away to Paris because she wanted food that was different for me. It was her way of showing off her new found wealth, I had looked at the degree from college at the time treated more like past art then to accomplish what she first set to do."
Abigail interrupts them both in the middle of their recalling of their vacation in Jamaica and asks me to follow her, she says that she is sure that what she has will interest me quite a lot. I follow her over to the elegantly decorated table where a document is set out in front of me...
"Haruka before we start dessert I have something special for you." I pull the small decorated box out of my pocket and gently hand it too her.
"Hailey you didn't need to get anything for me."I take the box and open it seeing a promise ring, my breath caught in my throat. I study the silver band with a small heart that has a simple yet elegant design. "It's so beautiful Hailey."
"The ring is about my love for you, we have been through so much and since we are starting from where we were, I thought it would be ok to get this for you." I take her hand in mine. "Would you wear this ring Haruka?"
For a question that is supposed to make someone feel pure happiness, it's a tense moment for me, my heart still feels broken along with the emotions I am still trying to not feel from Michiru. A voice from my heart is screaming, No you know where your destined love is, quit being foolish and go to her. I don't know who the voice is but I ignore it along with the mixed torn emotions of Michiru.
"Yes Hailey, I would be proud to wear your ring." I feel the lump in my throat as I say those words. I feel her gently take my hand in hers and while she slips the ring on my finger, I hear the mysterious voice in my heart speak yet again saying I would regret making such a choice. Questions filled my mind as to who the hell it is that is speaking within me.
Haruka and I share a deep kiss, I feel so happy that we are official now instead of just for kicks, I can proudly call her my girlfriend. She's still in a bit of silent shock, it's so sweet. She then looks at me and suggests we leave to celebrate alone.
We then wave down the waiter and ask if we could please take the dessert to go, he nods and goes to tell the chef. Haruka pays and sits back looking at the ring she now wears with a thoughtful look. I bet shes thinking of our future together...
Before I can open the thick document I catch a very bright flash from Haruka's hand as they pass by, I spot the ring... Well she always did say nothing controls her,I see her choice is clear, she no longer wants her destiny with me.I am so numb right now, I can't feel anymore. All I can do is sit and watch the person I love leave with another.
Abigail taps my shoulder to get my attention, she tells me people like that love attention and its best not to stare at them, even if we disagree with their beliefs. She gently pushes the thick document closer to me, then takes a cup and pours fresh green tea in to it and sets it to my left.
I can barely think but this isn't the time to fall apart, I open the shiny folder and begin to read the paperwork in front of me, this is no regular document at all! It's a contract, here I thought the news of the cruise was big but this take it all to a new level.
Abigail was not joking when she said she had something of my interest, many artists struggle just to get the right persons attention, many not getting a turn in the spotlight or barely keep their career as a side job from their main career, this offers me a huge tour with other orchestras. It would also extend my time away from home to a year or more...
We walk in to the apartment and Haruka scoops me up in her arms, carrying me to the bedroom and laying me on the bed, she sets our dessert on the dresser, kisses me heatedly and tells me to be undressed when she comes out of the bathroom. I begin to take off my clothes, I can't help but feel thankful to have her back in my life, we seen a lot of shit and even hurt each other at times but we both knew we were broken when we met and the attraction to each other just never left. I hang up my clothes in the closet and lay under the blankets.
I splash water on my face, for now whatever voice was yelling at me has gone silent, I look at the ring given to me by a person who accepts me and all the issues included in this messed up life I live, I am sure that I have made the right choice, I just wish I knew who or what it was?
I shake the question out of my thoughts and open the bathroom door, soft light lit up the room and the sweet smell of desert is in the air. My mouth waters looking forward to the treat, I reach out and pull the blanket off Hailey, slowly revealing her beautiful body to me. I start kissing her heatedly as I let my robe drop to the floor...
When I arrive home I don't care about proper greetings, I just run as fast as I could away, I let the uncomfortable high heels drop to the steps and dashing to my room. I lock my door shut and collapse in an ocean of my own tears. I hear the knocking at my door but I ignore them all.
I signed the contract, although most right now would be celebrating, I felt my heart shatter instead even though I am so thankful to Abigail for this opportunity it will be hard to leave everyone. The Scouts are my first friends really and the only ones just as Haruka is my only love. I think back to the party when we were known as the perfect couple, I wish I could turn back time.
Most times I would never give up, never, but all I seem to do is keep making that pain I somehow gave Haruka worse. There is something I know that I cannot seem to understand but she wont talk, which is just like her to close up quickly. Maybe it's best this way, I see the pictures taken at Minako's party, she sent them to everyone's cellphone. Who am I kidding, it's not for the best. I have my dream job and I will be miserable, I collapse back in to my soaked pillow.
Theodore and I stand in front of Michiru's door, I am tempted to use my skeleton key to make her answer and stop acting so childish but the phone ringing at this late of night changes my plan. I turn to Theodore. "She's probably over tired, she will be fine in the morning, let her rest. She has more practice tomorrow after all."
"Mary put that call through to my office phone and pick up Michiru's shoes, as for you Theodore, go to bed and get rest. I have a feeling tomorrow holds a great many events..."
I wake up to the sound of my Alarm clock with the bunny ears going off.After a few groggy minutes I get up and take a chocolate out of my Christmas calendar, it's December 21ST. Haruka left me a text, inviting Ami and I to decorate the tree they picked out, I know Haruka wants to talk to me and as embarrassing as it is we do need to talk, so I pick up my phone to call Ami to see if she wants to go.
"Good morning Ami, I got a text inviting us to decorate her and Hailey's Christmas tree, there is no way I could go without you, I just know she's going to yell at me. You'll go too? great! I will meet you at the bus stop this afternoon, thanks Ami! Bye!"
I feel better knowing Ami is going to come with me to Haruka's house. When I open the door to go use the washroom a delicious smell fills my room and I recognize it instantly, it's my favourite breakfast ever, I better get down there quickly before my annoying little brother eats it all...
"Good morning Usagi dear, how are you feeling this morning?" I watch as my kids begin to argue and grab at the bacon, yelling about who has more. I sigh, what a way to start the morning. "No need to fight over the bacon. There is plenty to go around".
"I am fine mom but he always takes all the bacon! It's no fair!" I pour syrup on my pancakes. "Ami and I are going to a tree decorating party at Haruka's." The thought of it brings both worry and a little excitement to me, my mom wasn't sure about letting me go but I reminded her on how Haruka had saved me and how I'd be home just fine because Haruka said she'd give us a ride and how I'd be perfectly safe.
"Alright Usagi but I expect you to be home before midnight." She nods and begins to speed eat to beat her brother to the last big pancake on the table. sigh...
"I finished my work on the Christmas Market articles and saw my new assignment for New years events, it's awesome! How is your work coming along Haruka?"
"There is no news on the Luna Mall investigation and I am to expect calls about my racing and sponsorship opportunities. I was told about it yesterday, I never expected to meet all of those people at the dance last night." Haruka stretches. "It's time for me to get some exercise, I am going to go work out."
"Alright don't forget that Thorn and Jade should arrive in four hours."
I do up my jacket "There's no way I'd never forget that." Closing the door I head out for a brisk cold jog to clear my head, I jog out of my building and keep going. Last night dream was the worst yet, it was so vivid it was as if Neptune was really in front of me.This needs to stop. I run even faster only my thoughts are interrupted by loud screaming, I see a guy running purse in his hand, I can catch him easily, I take a shortcut, grab his shoulder and slam him into the ground.
"Thanks for helping to catch em young man, he's a fast one been after him for weeks, there is a reward, one thousand dollars. Just go to the station to pick it up."
I hand the purse to the young brunette she looks thirteen.
"GASP! YOUR HARUKA TENOH, THE FAMOUS RACER!"
Next I know it don't take long for thirty girls to come running, I take off as fast as I can, it figures this would happen. I am dressed more of masculine today, I have jeans on with my thick black jacket and since I am wearing my chest binder it all adds up to trouble. I run in to the first easy place to get in to.
At this point I can't be picky on where I go, I say excuse me to a lady who is holding a towel and run behind a curtain catching my breath when I see the sign MASSAGE 4 YOU.
"Hello handsome, I knew they had service here but this is better then I ever expected, so young man how do we start?"
I turn around to see a woman she looks to be in her sixties laying on the table she opens her towel to give me a view of her body I quickly turn away out of respect. "I don't work here sorry." There are other seniors there giving me a wink as I get out the door quick hoping I lost those other screaming teens but no such luck.
I hear one shout. "THERE HE IS!" And I am back to my work out in a way that I never prepared for, the next street I run on to is all fucking ice. "Don't anyone salt anymore!?" I focus on not falling on my face while half sliding down this hill. There's a small street coming up on my left, making a quick move crossing the road a car misses me by an inch and honks loudly.
I get on the small snowy street, there's a limo near a clothing boutique that opens it's door, a hand signalling to come inside. Anything is better then this, I slide inside and shut the door. "Thanks I appreciate the help."
"Having a rough day Haruka?" An alarmingly familiar voice asks...