Leather and Lace

by Maidens of Konan

by KittyLynne w/contributions from Adriana Morgan Miaka has moved to Colorado Springs to salvage her relationship with Taka, but fate presents her with a difficult choice when she meets a cop with an uncanny resemblance to Tasuki! Update pending 1/2011

8. Chapter Eight

Leather and Lace

By: Maidens of Konan

(Disclaimer: We do not claim to own any part of Fushigi Yugi, it is owned by Watase Yû, Shogakukan Comics, Pierrot Studios, TV Tokyo and Pioneer! However, we do claim the rights to the past, present and future lives of any original characters that may appear in this story. Please do not use them without our permission, or we will be forced to send Byakko the tiger god to take a bite out of your sorry backside.)

Chapter warning: spicy language, angst and sensuality

Chapter Eight

"Hey Tager, you still there?"

"Huh? Oh yeah..."

"There's an article that mentions Sukinami in today's business section. wanna hear it?"

"Nah, I'll read it later."

"We're gonna be doing some recon on him, right?"

Already know more than I want to, Dante thought. "Nope. Not gonna go there."

"C'mon, really? This from the guy who tells me you have to know how your opponent thinks to defeat them?"

Dante grit his teeth. His best friend meant well, but every word was like a paper cut to his nerves. "It's not about me defeatin' him. It's about what will make Miaka happy."

"Dude," Craig said, after a silence of palpable astonishment, "you're really serious about her!"

"Yeah, maybe. Listen buddy, I don't mean to cut ya off, but-"

"All right, all right, ya don't want to keep the lady waiting! I got it!"

---

After an exchange of goodbyes, Dante put the phone down in its base and turned to lean a forearm against the wall.

At this point in time, the objective point of view would say that it was a damn good thing that he had been reassigned from his case before meeting Miaka and that he'd found out who her boyfriend was before he'd taken the irrevocable step of going to bed with her and totally ending any possibility of taking the case back.

That same point of view would also say that the information Craig had given him was valuable in providing an explanation for things he'd been wondering about Miaka's finances, and he should be glad he'd gotten it without any violation of her privacy. Status and bucks- from his investigation, he had already known the guy had both. Sukinami would be the kind to set her up with a designer decorated place and flashy sports car that she had no business owning on a chef-in-training's salary.

What he'd heard from Miaka tonight confirmed it had all been given by Sukinami without a thought to what she really wanted from him.

If I walk away from her, she's gonna end up with a guy who thinks he can take care of her but doesn't have a goddamn clue!

Scowling, Dante turned abruptly and put his back against the wall, a position that mirrored the way he was feeling. Yes, he was removed from the case. But even so, he had a responsibility to act on this new information. Pretending ignorance of Sukinami's presence in her life from here on out was unethical on both professional and personal levels; for him to keep seeing Miaka under the pretense of not knowing she was involved with Sukinami and Miaka not knowing her boyfriend was part of an investigation that would inevitably put Dante in direct conflict of interest both with her and those who had been helping him in building a case against Thornton Industries.

As it was, for him to have had any contact with her socially, even though it was unknowingly, was sure to bring migraines and pitfalls for the prosecution if ever the day came where there was enough evidence proof to bring charges of wrongdoing against Thornton. And though Miaka's not knowing his true role within the department was a misunderstanding that was easily corrected, telling her he had been in charge of the fraud investigation in which her boyfriend was potentially a key player was a dealbreaker for a relationship.

Would she believe him if he said that their meeting had been a coincidence? Would she think he had asked her out simply to so that he could glean information from her? And even if she did believe that he hadn't known about her connection with Sukinami before, would she forgive him for not telling her that he was a detective, not a patrolman?

And then there was the problem of her getting involved with any fallout from the case. There was no telling if the guy was willing to talk. If that continued, the next step, enforcement of a warrant, would bring embarrassment and possibly be grounds for a job termination for Sukinami. From what he had gathered, the two had been together since Miaka was seventeen years old, and she had loved the man since the age of fifteen. Would she understand that being uncooperative would bring more trouble on himself? Or would she see his pursuit of Sukinami as a betrayal of her trust?

The one thing that gave him hope that she'd be reasonable was her point of view on Tasuki. He'd had enough experience with interviewing date crime victims to know that she wasn't telling him everything the guy did to her, and her almost panic over his resemblance to the perpetrator was a clear indication that there was a lot more than drunken kisses and hugging going on at that inn. To see that she cared for and was worried about the guy even after he'd made a terrible, colassal blunder in judgement...well, that showed a capacity for empathy and forgiveness that was beyond anything he'd ever experienced.

If she could forgive Tasuki for that kind of transgression, then there was a good chance she shouldn't have a problem extending forgiveness to anyone who had unthinkingly wronged her. But having her forgiveness didn't mean everything would work out between the two of them. Telling her about the investigation would be putting Miaka in an impossible position in regards to Sukinami. With as loyal as she'd been, it couldn't be expected that she wouldn't talk to and warn the man about the potential trouble he was in. If Sukinami told her he wasn't involved in any way, it would certainly be grounds for her to defend the man.

She might be the one needed to get Sukinami to cooperate with the investigation. After that happened, it could be that Sukinami would be an unpopular employee at Thornton, so much so that he might decide to cut his losses and go back to Japan. If that happened, it was likely Miaka would return with him. Back to their friends and their families. Back to the life they'd shared. A crisis bringing estranged lovers back together- a story he'd seen often in his line of work.

Dante clenched his fists. There was an energy building inside of him, to the point where it was almost unbearable in intensity. Frustration? Anger? Despair? Whatever it was, he needed to expend it.

He came away from the wall, standing at attention while his arm lifted and his hand unerringly reached to a spot just behind his right shoulder, as if to grasp a rifle from a holster.

It faltered, swiping and encountering nothing but air.

Bewildered and annoyed, he lowered his arm, and got yet another shock at seeing his tattoo all lit up like the end of a branding iron. He stared at the phoenix in bemusement. The outline of the bird flared, flickered, then dimmed. Another few seconds, and it was back to its original pigmentation, leaving him perplexed.

Fuckin' weird! Am I hallucinatin'?

He wished to God that was the case. He wished that he'd imagined that phone call, or better yet, that he'd stuck to his guns and not answered it at all. His evening with Miaka had gone from a dream to a nightmare. And now he was getting a headache. The events of the day; his reassignment, the chance meeting, the odd sensation of having untapped power to unleash, his unshakeable desire for Miaka, and the dilemma of what to do now that he knew Sukinami was her boyfriend, were all jumbled together, and too much to take in all at once.

He needed time to process how he felt and a chance to sort things out before deciding how to proceed.

Maybe he'd discuss it with Connery. Or Craig. Or both. They could both be trusted to give him the straight truth about his options and prospects.

But right now, top priority was how the hell he was going to give Miaka a brush off that would effectively put her out of his reach until he'd figured out a plan of action.

He thought for a minute, and then returned to his living room with lagging steps and a horrible, half-assed excuse.

---

She was standing in front of the picture window, staring out into the fading to purple dusk, obviously waiting for him to come and pick up where they had left off . He was quiet enough that she didn't hear him come in, and he took full advantage of the reprieve to take a long look at the best thing that had ever happened to him before he sent her away.

She had discarded his robe in favor of his T-shirt. The sight of her wearing something he'd taken straight off his body instilled a searing sense of possessiveness mixed with pleasure. It hung below her denim shorts, drawing attention to shapely calves and bare feet. She was sweet and sexy. And God, how he'd love to have those calves locked around his waist right now!

But that was impossible. No matter how much it hurt, he had to do this. It was the right thing to do, the only choice he had in the matter.

He cleared his throat to attract her attention. Miaka turned quickly at the sound, and the sultry smile she wore vanished as soon as she saw his face.

"Ah, I was right! You have to go, don't you?"

Her tone was laced with understanding, but Dante could still sense the disappointment she was trying to hide. He cleared his throat again, this time to get rid of the lump of regret that had lodged there.

"Yeah," he affirmed, "that was Craig. He's got...a situation."

Her eyes were wide with concern. "Oh no! Is he all right?"

"Yeah, he's fine," Dante looked away, unable to meet her gaze as he continued with the hastily concocted story, "he had some kind of major electrical problem with the coffeehouse's refrigerator units. I know a few things, so I might be able to fix 'em myself and save him a huge repair bill. There's a ton of perishables, so time is a factor, and that means I gotta go now."

He hated himself for being good at lying. It would serve him right if she figured it all out and told him to go to hell. He almost hoped she would.

But kind-hearted Miaka did nothing of the kind.

"Of course you have to go! To lose that much food would be terrible!" She exclaimed, looking just as shocked as if he had said Craig had been robbed at gunpoint. "I could move the food to coolers while you-"

Damn, Dante thought, I shoulda known she'd want to help. "Craig an' his staff will have that part covered." He said. "An' besides, you have to be to work early tomorrow, don'tcha? I have no idea how long this is gonna take."

"I don't mind losing a little sleep if I can help out a friend-"

Her words faltered as he folded his arms across his chest and gave her his most uncompromising stare. "No. There's nothing for you to do."

"But I could-"

He cut her off. "You'd be a distraction at best. The only way to help is to go home!"

For a drawn out moment she just stared at him with an expression that made his heart feel like lead.

"All right." She finally said. "I'll... be going home then."

Before she could move to carry out the words, Dante surprised her and himself by impulsively stepping in front of her. It would be better and a helluva a lot less painful to end the encounter without fanning the flames, but he couldn't do it. Not when every part of him knew that something very precious was slipping away and he was a fool to let it go.

"Thank you for a terrific dinner," he said, lowering his guard to give her his warmest look. "it was awesome in every respect."

He didn't miss how quickly her expression had brightened in response to his softened demeanor. He'd never met anyone so in tune to his moods.

"I enjoyed making it for you!" She said, giving him a small smile. "And thank you again for the neck rub- it was awesome too!"

As he had thought, she was generous and quick to forgive him for a slight. Because of that, he had to touch her just once more. He reached out, and his fingertips traced the curve of her cheek.

"It was my pleasure," he said huskily, savoring the way her eyes closed and her lips parted at the physical contact.

But savor was all he could do. His hand fell away as her eyes opened, and the desire he saw in their depths was almost his undoing. He leaned forward to kiss her, stopped himself when halfway there, and then out of sheer desperation, turned his back to her. "I shouldn't have done that. Sorry."

There was a short silence in which he could feel her gaze burning a hole between his shoulder blades.

"What have I done to upset you, Dante?"

He assumed a bland expression before turning around to face her. "Nothing. What makes ya think I'm upset?"

"What makes me think that?" Her cheeks were flagged with color, and her eyes were ablaze as she answered. "Maybe because just a few minutes ago you were behaving like you wanted me more than anything, and now you're acting like touching me is poison!"

He shook his head. "It's not what you think."

"Then what is it? Considering what we were about to do, I think you could take a moment to tell me what happened to change your attitude towards me?"

There was no reasonable response but the truth. Dante closed his eyes and sighed, a defense against spilling his guts before he had a handle on what to say. "Look, don't take it personally! I'm not happy about havin' to end tonight this way either." Biggest fuckin' understatement of the year! I'm fuckin' pissed!

"But Dante-kun...it doesn't have to end if you bring me with you!"

He wasn't prepared to feel her arms wrapping around him, or for the softness of her body pressing against his side. Before he could control the reflex, he had jerked away from her, making a sharp sound of denial against the raging need the unexpected contact with her had brought on.

She made a sound.

His eyes flew open to see her standing with her arms hanging in midair, looking as if she'd been burned.

Oh shit! Dante thought. That was really bad!

"I see." Her voice was almost a whisper as her arms dropped to her sides, underlining the fact that his involuntary reflex had hurt her far more than any words he could have spoken. "Clearly, you're uncomfortable with my situation, and us... I've pushed you into doing something you are having second thoughts about. I'm so sorry."

The pain in her eyes had his stomach twisting into knots. This was crazy, what was he doing? "Miaka, wait! I'm not-"

Her upraised, trembling hand stayed his words and froze him in place.

"You don't have to say anything more, Officer." She emphasized his title with quiet dignity rather than sarcasm. "I may be naïve and stupid about some things, but I'm not so dense that I don't recognize a convenient excuse when my company is no longer wanted."

She knew, dammit, she knew he was blowing her off! The heat of shame stung his skin.

"I'll need to use your bathroom, and then I'll be leaving," the words 'for good' were conveyed in her tone, "please excuse me."

Stone-faced and silent, Dante watched her hurry from the room.

---

The room grew ice cold in her absence, despite the heat radiating from the gas fireplace. A fireplace she had thoroughly enjoyed with him even though it wasn't a real one.

He walked over to it, and stared down at dancing flames that would never reduce logs to a char. He had convinced himself he was happy with the imitation logs of fire, just as he'd once been satisfied by companionship and sex without commitment.

But tonight had changed all of that. He now knew exactly what he'd been missing, what he'd never had before and what he would be depriving himself if she left.

Miaka was his fire. Without her, his passion couldn't burn.

In the space of the next few seconds, Dante came to a firm conclusion. Though it was an ethical breach and conflict of interest to keep seeing Miaka, he couldn't and wouldn't give her and what they could be up without a fight. What they had shared eclipsed everything that had been important to him up until now, including his career. He'd give it up and find something else it meant he could keep her with him.

She needs time to regroup. When she's done in the bathroom I'll go get her and apologize. He decided, already starting to feel better. I'll tell her what happened and how I feel about it. I'll ask for understanding and forgiveness, and we'll take things from there.

It didn't dawn on him that she had been lying about having to use the bathroom until he heard the sound of his front door being closed.

Spitting out a loud curse, Dante raced to the door and yanked it open. He was greeted by the sight of a visibly crying Miaka slamming her car door shut as she started the engine. He yelled for her to stop, made frantic gestures to attract her attention, but she wasn't looking or listening. Before he could even think of running after her, she was out of the driveway and headed down the street.

All he could do was stand on his porch and stare at the retreating tail lights until they had blurred beyond recognition.

---

Miaka parked in the lot of her apartment building and switched off the ignition, still shaking with the aftermath of emotion that had hit as soon as she had left Dante's. She didn't remember much about the drive home, except wiping away tears and the heart wrenching sense of loss she had endured from the moment she had sensed his withdrawal.

How could he have changed his attitude so quickly? I was so sure he felt the same way I did…at least… I know he wanted me…he couldn't hide that...

Could it be that he was unsure of her feelings, and worried that she might end up regretting making love with him ? Had something been said during his phone call that put him off? But if it was Craig, that certainly shouldn't have happened, he was all for his friend getting a girl, wasn't he? There couldn't have been anything he would have heard that would make Dante change his mind. The book was the only secret she had, and she was absolutely sure Craig wasn't aware of it.

That left karma. She was getting what she deserved. This was the universe telling her that she should have been forthright and broken up with Taka before venturing anywhere near Dante and his abode.

She took several deep breaths, trying to calm herself and summon the energy to move. Sitting in a parked car in the middle of the night was not going to help her figure out what had gone wrong and she still had to go to work the next day. If she sat here much longer pining over the situation she would never get any sleep, not to mention that Dante' thin cotton t-shirt afforded little protection against the cool evening air. She couldn't afford to get sick and miss work on top of everything else.

Wiping the back of her hand across her eyes, she yanked her keys from the ignition and pulled herself out of the car.

Once she had reached the apartment, she took a moment to give Mizu the treat she had remembered to buy him before going to Dante's, went into the bathroom to wash her face and brush her teeth, and then headed straight for her bedroom.

Her body and mind were desperately crying out for the oblivion of slumber. Nevertheless, her hands stilled in the process of drawing the borrowed T-shirt over her head. After a moment, she released the hem to tug the collar up right up under her nose. She inhaled deeply. A mixture of Dante's cologne and natural masculine scent filled her nostrils and she closed her eyes against the ache of longing it provoked. Tears stung her eyes once again.

Something soft and furry rubbed against her ankles, jolting her out of her painful reverie.

Miaka blinked away her tears, and smiled down at her pet, who had abandoned his beloved smoked fish to console her. She bent to pick him up and he held still as she rubbed her cheek against his fuzzy head.

"Mizu, I may have grown up on the outside, but nothing else has changed since the book! I'm still that fifteen year old running after the boy she adores and can't have!"

The cat gave a gruff meow.

"Ironic that in this world, there aren't any rules about not being able to stay together save for the ones we make for ourselves." She gave a mirthless laugh. "And on top of that, the book is still controlling things. Its mere existence is a problem for my having a solid relationship with Dante!"

Mizu cocked his head inquiringly.

"One reason for being with Taka is because I can talk about the book - I don't have to hide anything having to do with it because he remembers that he was a part of it! But with Dante- I can't say anything, he doesn't have a clue about our past. Oh, he's got his tattoo and even saw it lighting up when he's feeling a connection to me, but he was very quick to dismiss it as an overactive imagination." She sighed. "To be honest, I was halfway hoping that us being together tonight might have triggered a memory that would give us a good reason to talk about it. But I don't think that's going to happen anytime soon, if at all. He's not ready for me as I am in the present, much less finding out about me and the book and the past!"

She looked down at the t-shirt, which had fallen to her thighs. She should exchange it for a nightie, but she was weak and knew she'd be sleeping in it.

"Anyway," she continued, "Dante doesn't have memories of being Tasuki, but I do think aspects of his past self are an influence on him. He's funny and has a temper. He's protective, forthright and bossy when it comes to what I should be doing, and secretive when it comes to letting me know what he's feeling. And Tasuki was wary about getting involved with women- he always said that they took advantage and were cheaters…" Her lips turned downward. "And in my case, he was right! Taka and I are together, and I was willing to sleep with Dante within hours of meeting him. I gave in, and got him to the point where he couldn't say no. And even then he was willing to hold back when I had a flashback of Tasuki..."

She paused, but Mizu was silent in her arms. If cats could frown, Miaka thought, he probably was doing it. But he seemed to be listening intently, so she may as well tell him the rest.

"Dante was so understanding when I told him about the incident with Tasuki. It was weird and wonderful that talking to him about it helped me resolve those feelings. I just wish...that I had waited for the rest. Even if that phone call hadn't come, he still probably would have been regretting everything in the light of morning."

She was tearing up again, but struggled on. Saying the words was important to coping with her feelings of loss, if nothing else. "If he has decided he doesn't want me in his life after all, that's okay. I will accept the consequences of my feelings for him. If today is all that I will have of Dante, then it will be enough."

Setting her cat down on the bed, she jerked back the covers and climbed into it. Once she had settled in, Mizu padded over to make a place for himself against her chest, instead of curling up in his usual spot behind her knees. As he kneaded the comforter with large, velveteen paws, he kept his unblinking gaze upon her.

Miaka's hand lifted to stroke his soft fur, taking solace in the soothing sound of a low, vibrant purr.

"Oh my little neko, humans could take a lesson in listening from you! I love you, thank you for being here!"

She closed her eyes and her hand slowed its stroking motion as she relaxed.

Mizu did not close his eyes. He remained watchful as his mistress' tears gradually ceased soaking her pillow, and her deep, even breathing told him she was asleep.

---

Dante shut his ticket book with a snap and stalked back to his squad car, leaving a thoroughly intimidated teenage male cowering in his wake.

Yanking the door open, he got in and then shut it behind him with a slam that rocked the vehicle.

He had just issued his fifteenth speeding ticket of the day which made up for his sub-par performance the day before. It also put him close to his assigned quota for the entire week, not that he gave a hoot in hell. His ruthless efficiency wasn't motivated by numbers, but by his being in no mood to let anyone off the hook- least of all himself.

After Miaka had left him, he had wandered around his house while debating whether to follow or call her. Eventually, he'd succeeded in convincing himself that they both needed space and some time to regroup. He then had forced himself to sit down and watch some TV, hoping the monotony of channel flipping would distract him from thoughts of Miaka and his dilemma with her boyfriend.

When that didn't work, he had gone to bed early but couldn't fall asleep as thoughts buzzed in his head and his emotions continued to spin out of control.

He finally dozed off well after midnight, but once again his dreams brought him no peace. The frustration of not being able to reach his captive woman was replaced by a new kind, generated by dark and erotic images of her undulating beneath his thrusting body, her long, supple legs and womanhood clamped around him like a silken vise. Just as he neared climax, the sensations were so intense and so real that he awakened to find himself saddled with a painful erection and an insatiable need to have Miaka beneath him so he could finish what they'd started in the dream.

Taking an ice cold shower at five a.m. had helped him get his hormones under control, but it hadn't washed away the sadness and pain he felt every time he pictured tear-filled green eyes and trembling hand as she told him she could 'take a hint'.

No doubt about it, he had been a complete jerk and the worst kind of coward last night. He had deliberately hurt Miaka because he had been afraid to take a chance based on his feelings for her.

Since when had he started avoiding conflict? Since when was giving up on something an option when things got a little tough to deal with? Never, that's when! It wasn't like him at all! One of the reasons he had a sterling service record was because he had never backed away from a tough situation or hesitated in bucking conventional wisdom when it was warranted. Although it was true that acting on his instincts occasionally got him in trouble- as his present position on the force proved- it was equally true that thinking outside of the box had paid off dividends in solved cases, commendations and promotions. Listening to his instincts was what made him a damn good cop! Why had he questioned them when it came to Miaka?

He had finally found his perfect match, and had thrown her away because he was afraid. Afraid to trust. Afraid of the consequences. Afraid of what people would say.

Afraid that he'd put it all on the line and she would end up choosing Sukinami.

That was the most galling thing of all. Not doing his best to win Miaka's heart because he might lose her?

Dante slammed his fist down on the steering wheel in disgust.

What the hell is wrong with me? I've never been a coward or a quitter, and I ain't about to start!

A glance at his watch said that now was the time to quit dithering and take some decisive action. He hadn't had his break yet, which now provided him with an immediate window of opportunity to make things right. The lunch crowd at the restaurant should be pretty much gone. Hopefully she'll give me a chance to say my piece even if I don't deserve that consideration.

Spirit renewed, Dante started the car and pulled out onto the freeway with a spray of gravel and a screeching of tires.

---

It had been a hellish day so far, and it was about to get worse.

"It's the delectable Miss Miaka Yuuki," a deep voice announced, "bringing her sweetness and spice to my kitchen."

Miaka sighed quietly, bracing herself for the onslaught of compliments and the inevitable invitation to dinner.

"Hello Chef McMasters." She replied, without looking up from the potatoes she was dicing for that evening's special entree. Perhaps he'd take the hint that she was busy and wait to pester her later.

He didn't. "Have I ever told you how exotic your accent makes things sound?"

It had been like this since she had started working for him- Kevin asking her out and she refusing repeatedly. "I would rather you tell me that I'm doing a good job with my english."

"You have worked hard and improved immensely." He said, with a seriousness that had her glancing at him in surprise. "The accent is the only thing that gives you away."

She nodded, gratified by his sincerity, but continuing to chop, knowing it was best not to let down her guard. "Thank you."

"The lunch rush is over, you know." He said dryly. "I'm not a complete slave driver, it's all right if you relax a little now."

"It's not you, it's me!" She said in a cheerful tone. "I like to take the opportunity to get ahead." She'd also liked to be proactive in avoiding his potentially amorous overtures. If she didn't distract him, one was sure to be on its way."Olivia was looking for you earlier. She didn't say what she wanted, but you might want to go check with her." Take that, she thought. He can't blow off one of the owners!

"Alas, Olivia left ten minutes ago." McMasters countered with a smile, as he leaned over her shoulder on the pretext of examining her work. His far superior height would have allowed him to also look down the v- neck of the scrub top she usually wore, which was why she had recently taken to wearing traditional high necked chef garb, though it wasn't required. "You do very nice work, Miaka. Your hands are deft and strong."

Miaka tensed as she felt his breath tease her neck, bared by a pretty but practical chignon. She could deflect Kevin's innuendos, but physical contact was another matter. He hadn't crossed that line so far, but there was always a first time.

He exhaled again- on purpose this time, she was sure. Apparently the man was more interested in the making stray wisps of hair dance against her nape than in watching her cutting techniques.

She set down the knife she held for safety's sake and turned her head so that her nape was out of breathing range. He had moved to stand in front of her as she turned, and his close proximity to her forced her to look up at him.

"What do you think you're doing?" She asked him, as quietly and respectfully as she could. It wouldn't be wise to be accusatory or insubordinate, but neither did she want him to think her easy prey by doing nothing to stop his little game.

Holding up his hands in feigned innocence he said, "I thought I was giving you a compliment?"

She put a hand to her forehead, wishing she had a headache as an excuse to leave his presence. But no, despite the stress and aggravation, she was feeling fine.

"My dear girl, what is this?"

She blinked as he switched gears, reaching for her injured hand. Removing the glove that covered it, he eyed the bandage on her finger with genuine and professional concern.

"I cut it last night making a salad." She said, then gently but firmly removed her hand from his grasp.

"It looks serious! Did it require stitches?"

"No, thank goodness, it wasn't that deep. It's just a little sore."

"It the pain affecting your dexterity?"

She shook her head. "It's not bad. I'm concentrating, so most of the time I don't even notice."

"I'm glad to hear that." He paused. "So, a salad. Cooking for one again?"

Miaka silently counted to ten. "As you can see, I still have a lot of prep work to do-"

"You have time to spare." The master chef let his eyes roam in a manner she assumed she was supposed to find flattering. "You shouldn't be eating alone so much. I'm sorry that Taka doesn't understand that his lack of attention will cost him."

"With all due respect Chef McMasters, I'd appreciate it if you kept comments about my personal life to yourself."

"I'm sorry that my admiration for you makes you angry." He said, moving so that she was forced to avoid contact. "Look, please don't take me the wrong way. We are both single. You love food, as do I. It's a waste for both of us to cook for one. If you would do me the honor of consenting, we could put together a five star feast. I'd like to teach you how to make my version of Oysters Rockefeller, which the New York Times food critic adores by the way, but I'd rather hear your opinion of it!"

"You're kind to offer, and I'm sure it's a wonderful dish, but I have to decline."

"You have to decline." He mimicked her prim tone. "Why? Someone as career oriented as Sukinami understands the importance of networking, and I'm sure he wouldn't object to your doing the same! What's the harm in two coworkers having a gourmet meal and swapping cooking tips?" He leaned forward and placed his hands on the table behind her. "I'll teach you new cooking techniques that could help you get that big promotion. How can you say no?"

Ice blue eyes regarded her with innocence, but the smile gave him away.

Miaka opened her mouth to tell him just what he could do with his oysters, his invitation and the promotion, but stopped when one of the afternoon waitresses entered the kitchen. Frowning, Kevin stepped back as she approached.

"Excuse me, Chef, but there's a gentleman here who's asking to talk to Miss Yuuki." The waitress barely flicked a look at Miaka before returning her full attention to McMasters. "I told him that she was working, but he's very insistent on seeing her."

"You don't have to go, Miaka, I'll be happy to deal with him." Kevin offered.

"No, it's all right." Miaka set down her knife once again. She had no idea why someone would be asking for her unless was a reviewer with a complaint, or someone from immigration, checking up on her application. She didn't relish either scenario, but this was her chance to escape an embarrassing confrontation, and she wasn't going to pass it up. "Thank you, Chef, but I think it's best that I go find out what he wants if he asked for me by name. I don't want to be responsible for displeasing a customer or a food critic!"

Her boss grimaced. Customers were priority, and one bad review could sink a restaurant. "All right, take a break and go see what he wants. And be sure to call me if there's trouble."

"I will. Thank you, Chef."

"You're most welcome." McMasters looked around, saving face by reverting to temperamental mode. "Where's Alan? These vegetables aren't going to chop themselves!"

---

As Miaka took off her apron and hurried out of the kitchen, her boss paused to watch her depart, then turned to address the very pretty waitress who had been patiently and obviously waiting for some kind of acknowlegement.

"You must be the young woman who just started working here, aren't you?"

Blushing at having his full attention, she nodded shyly. "It's been three weeks, Chef."

"I'm Kevin McMasters. Welcome to the Phoenix, er... He paused to smile apologetically. "I'm afraid I haven't been told your name."

"It's Brianna. I-I'm very happy to finally meet you."

She was looking at him like he was a rock star. Predictable, and yet a balm for his frustration over Yuuki getting away. "Ah, Brianna. It's a name I'd choose for a beautiful woman..."

It was a given that he was able to secure a date with the smitten waitress. His charm, when he chose to use it, coupled with his Nordic good looks and tightly muscled physique ensured that he didn't have any problems hooking up with whatever woman he decided he wanted.

No problems, that is, until Miaka Yuuki came along.

He had been in a rush to find a new sous-chef and hired the first applicant he had run across whose resume had met all of his requirements. Her interview had been conducted by the owner of the restaurant, so the first time he'd seen her had been when she'd reported for her first day of orientation. Her appearance had been a most pleasant surprise, and he'd been disappointed to learn she was in a serious relationship.

But after almost six months, it was apparent that relationship had gone nowhere, and he was hovering on the brink of indiscretion in trying to make her see that. That she excited him both as a man and as a chef was a novelty. She had enthusiasm, great personal energy and talent for food preparation. She listened to and followed his suggestions, and he never had to explain anything to her twice.

She was serious about food, a trait which he found utterly charming and irresistible.

She was a hard worker, a breath of fresh air in his cynical world. Even if he gave her a bad time, he actually respected her steadfast refusal to cheat on her boyfriend, as misguided as it was.

But those who knew him best also knew that his respect and admiration for Miaka's principles would not stand in the way of his pursuit of her. His ambition to have her paralleled his single minded quest for culinary perfection. His failure to produce the results he wanted after preliminary tries only challenged him to try again, to do better, and to think of new ways to get her to accept him and a date.

Maybe she could be enticed by the sharing of secrets of his exotic past. He hadn't always been a chef, and he had knowledge of talents no one else would believe. And through discipline and restraint in his training and their practice, he had learned that anything worth his time was worth exerting patience and diligence to attain.

Today he had seen a crack in the cheerful, excruciatingly polite demeanor of his sweet Asian flower. She seemed tense and unhappy, and had uncharacteristically lashed out. He'd provoked it, but this time, her rejection of his male admiration was too strong not to have deeper significance.

It could be that things were not going well in her love life.

A little more time, and perhaps a gallant and sensitive approach would win her over.

---

Miaka strode through the nearly empty restaurant, smiling a greeting to the handful of customers still lingering over their lunches. As much as she was relieved to have escaped her boss' attentions and ire, she hoped what awaited her wouldn't be upsetting or take a long time to resolve since it was past two o'clock and in a couple of hours the restaurant would start to fill up again.

She had been truthful with Kevin about wanting to get a jump on the food preparation awaiting her before the dinnertime rush. There were three different sauces that needed the finishing touch, salmon fillets to de-bone, vegetables to dice, not to mention having to put together the elaborate garnishes that McMasters insisted should accompany all of his specialties. There was also the problem of her fragile emotional state to worry about and she prayed the visitor wouldn't give her too hard a time or she might embarrass them both by breaking down right then and there.

Her worries about her work and a potentially angry customer vanished as soon she turned the corner and got a view of the reception area. The foyer was empty of patrons, save for a tall, uniformed officer who was standing at attention as he waited. This had to be her unexpected caller. Funny that Brianna hadn't said anything about it being a police call. But was he a customer? He was on duty, obviously. What could he possibly be-

Her brisk stride faltered, and then dropped to a snail's pace as she watched the officer take off his hat and tuck it under one arm. Even at this distance, blazing red hair gave away his identity.

Her stomach dropped to her feet, and the pain she had managed to push aside for a few busy hours returned in full force. She fought it back and clamped down on her emotions, determined not to let them get the best of her.

Calm down, Miaka, you can handle this. Last night was all a big mistake. You've done it before. Just tell him goodbye and then get on with your life.

Spending the entire morning replaying the previous day's events in her mind had brought her the conclusion that despite her bond with Dante as the reincarnation of Tasuki, it was best for all concerned if she severed all ties to a relationship.

Okay, they hadn't reached official relationship status yet. But she was certain that Dante couldn't deny any more than she could that what they had shared with each other last night was born of more than a physical attraction.

What was between them was a force to be reckoned with, unstoppable and fierce. Acccepting that, she had given up trying to rationalize her craven behavior in the last twenty-four hours and simply decided the only way to deal with it was not to see him again.

The fact that he never tried to call last night or this morning as she half hoped he might have only reinforced that decision.

So what the heck was he doing here? What could he possibly have to say?

After smoothing a hand over her upswept hair, she checked her chef's whites for foods stains, relieved to find that there weren't any noticeable ones. Her shoulders were slumped, and she quickly straightened them, hoping her resolve to end things would remain as stiff as her posture. As she approached the confrontation, she took a deep, calming breath...and almost forgot to let it out again as Dante turned his head and spotted her.

In that moment, as their gazes caught and held, she realized once and for all that she couldn't be the one to say goodbye. This man and her memories of Tasuki were united, and she knew that she would never exorcise one of them from her heart without losing the other.

Dante would have to be the one that ended it.

She didn't have the will, and never would.

---

"Hey there, Miaka!"

The enthusiasm in his greeting knocked her angst-riddled thoughts off course.

"H-Hello Dante." That fanged smile was truly irresistable. And she was stammering like a lovesick schoolgirl. "Not out on a call, I hope?" There, that was more like it. Polite, but not too friendly.

"I'm on my lunch break." He replied, his smile vanishing at her cool response. "I came to see you."

She didn't know what to say, but couldn't help but feel better as she saw him swallow and a muscle jump in his cheek, which meant he wasn't nearly as relaxed as he had first appeared.

"And I thought you might be wantin' this back. " He added, holding out his hand to her in the manner of one extending an olive branch.

Her eyes lowered to stare blankly at what he offered; the t-shirt she had abandoned the night before. Folded, clean, and wrinkle free, it was as pristine as if the night before had never been.

So he was returning her property. How ironic.

Now she knew exactly how he'd felt when she'd held out his hat.

Taking the shirt from his grasp, she thanked him for the trouble he had taken in returning it.

"It wasn't any trouble. I'm happy to do it!"

She demurred. "You washed and ironed it. And you drove it here on your break. How could it not be a bother?"

"How could it be when it gave me a great excuse to come here and see ya?" He countered smoothly.

His smile was back, and had an intimate warmth that was reflected tenfold in his eyes. She blinked at him, then brought the folded shirt to her chest, crossing her arms over it defensively as she tried to figure out what was going on.

A perky sounding voice coming from directly behind her saved her the trouble.

"Hi Mia! Are you being arrested?"

Miaka turned to see Hannah DeBerg, the Phoenix Grill's lead hostess, moving from the lectern that served as a reservation desk. From her unrepentant smirk, it was obvious she'd been watching Miaka's encounter with the police officer with shameless interest.

"It's purely a social call, ma'am." Dante said, before Miaka could respond.

The hostess' eyes held twin gleams of gleeful speculation. "So you know Miaka on a personal basis?"

Dante's lips twitched at the unsubtle request for details. "Yes I do, ma'am. But not nearly well enough to suit me."

What is he saying? Miaka thought wildly. He rejected me and practically kicked me out of his house! Does he not remember that?

It was crazy. But in spite of her indignation, she had to admit there was pleasure to be found in hearing Dante boldly state his interest in her to her very attractive coworker.

Damn the man. And damn her traitorous body. Would it ever cool down when he was around?

"Is there anything else you wanted, Dante?" She asked.

Too late, she realized that it was a poor choice of words.

Her visitor's smile said that the double meaning had also registered with him and that he was exercising great restraint in answering her question in a serious fashion. "Yes, there's something we need to discuss in private. Would it be possible for you to take a break outside with me right now?" He turned to look at the avidly listening woman standing behind them. "No offense intended, ma'am."

"None taken!" Hannah replied warmly. "I'm too impressed to be offended!"

As her co-worker gave Dante a high wattage smile, Miaka felt a sharp stab of jealousy. It was unreasonable, unwarranted and irrational, but it decided the matter of whether she'd consent to his request. "Han-chan, if anyone asks, would you please tell them I'm taking an early supper break?"

"Of course, dear! Don't worry about a thing, you just go along with Officer-er...?" The hostess sent a speaking sidelong look at Miaka, who blushed at having neglected to introduce her guest.

Dante stepped into the breach by extending his hand. "Dante Tager, ma'am. It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance."

"And I'm Hannah DeBerg, Mia's best friend!" She said, shaking his hand with delicate vigor. "Speaking as such, it's good to know that she's got a guy like you keeping an eye on her. Drop in on her anytime!"

Dante smiled. "Why thank you, Miss Hannah. I'll be doin' mah very best to make that happen!"

His accent was as thick and deliberate as molasses, and Miaka had to fight an urge to smack him. How dare he use his Southern charm this blatantly to try to charm her friend into overlooking his flaws?

And Hannah was just as bad, grinning and pointing out Dante's fine backside to her as he bent over to pick up his hat, which he'd dropped when he shook hands.

Past experience had taught her that frowning or any expression of disapproval would go unheeded by her friend, and indeed, might even escalate the outrageousness, so she didn't bother attempting to quell the display. She just crossed her arms and made a point of keeping her eyes away from Dante's fine backside Hannah was so determined she notice. But as the hostess fanned herself and mouthed, 'he's a keeper, go get him!', irritation gave way to fondness and amusement. It was truly impossible to stay peeved with the woman who had the best of intentions behind her unabashedly enthusiastic efforts to point out any man who could become her friend's 'Mr. Right'.

Working together, being close in age and a sharing of common interests had led to Hannah DeBerg becoming her first and closest friend in America. Once they'd gotten comfortable enough for confidences, Hannah had made no bones about saying that Miaka should be exploring alternatives to a workaholic boyfriend. Unable to get Miaka to go to the usual singles haunts, she had gone so far to try tricking Miaka into having lunch with one of the single male regulars at the restaurant.

The man had been a scientist at the local university. He'd been handsome, intelligent, charming and fun to talk to over coffee. But she belonged with Taka, and made that clear before he could even attempt to ask her out. He'd been disappointed, but as a loyal customer, he stll dined in despite the rejection, though not as often. She'd felt so bad about putting a damper on his enjoyment of his favorite restaurant, she had secretly set up a meeting to introduce him to the very attractive and single woman who did the books for the restaurant.

Her reward was earning another girlfriend for life, and finding out the two of them had gotten engaged just last week.

Upon hearing the news, Hannah was floored. Once she'd recovered, she'd apologized for her error in judgement. As she had put it, it was now quite obvious that a man who would give up so easily in pursuit of Miaka's heart wasn't worthy of a single minute of her time.

"You need a guy who will chase you and woo you and go all out to make you happy! A guy who will do whatever it takes to be with you, even if you try and shoot him down." She'd declared, then rededicated herself to her search for her best friend's soulmate, leaving Miaka to wonder if she had indeed refused a good prospect because she'd been waiting for a better man from her past to come find her and fulfill his vow to make her happy.

She was pulled from her musings with a start as Dante took her arm with courteous assurance.

"Miaka? If you're ready, let's go."

Here he was, she thought dazedly. The man who could and had made her think of leaving Taka.

Such was the power he wielded. But did he even care?

As she was quick marched to the doors, she cast a wide-eyed, over-the-shoulder 'help me' look at the grinning Hannah, who shrugged dramatically and then waved a cheerful goodbye.

---

Once they were under the blazing midday sun, Dante wasted no time steering her over to the small, Japanese-style garden placed to one side of the entrance for the comfort of customers waiting for tables on a busy night...or just to enjoy after having dessert. They entered its gates appreciating the cool, leafy shelter provided by the young maples and mountain ash planted along its winding walkway.

Dante directed her over to the corner of the garden that boasted a landscaped pond filled with koi. When they reached it, he released her arm and they stood, side by side, looking into the water.

After several awkward moments in which nothing was said, Dante cleared his throat.

"Miaka, I'd like to talk to you about what happened last night, and I hope you'll hear me out."

She cast a sideways look at him. Lips set in a tight line, eyes fixed on the pond, a dead giveaway that what he was about to say wasn't something he was comfortable saying.

He was probably about to dump her. Well, fine. At least he'd had the courtesy to do it in person. She'd make it as easy for him as she could, and she wouldn't let him see her cry.

"There's no need for an explanation." She said, before he could say anything to release her dammed up flood of emotions. "Considering my situation, I never should have gone to your house in the first place, much less behaved as...um...wantonly as I did with you." She drew in a deep breath. Her heart felt like it was being squeezed to death. "Let's think of yesterday as temporary insanity. It's good that you put a stop to it before it went too far-"

"No. It hasn't gone far enough."

His voice was pitched low, but the wealth of feeling in his words made her feel as if he had shouted. Miaka felt a stirring of anger. How dare he disagree with her when he'd been the one to dismiss what they'd shared?

"I think it has!" She asserted.

Her tone dared him to convince her otherwise.

He looked at her then, and the sparks in his eyes said he accepted the challenge. "The only insanity that took place yesterday was you sneaking out on me before I had the chance to apologize for asking you to go home."

"That wasn't insanity! It was self-defense!"

His sheepish, fang-tipped half-smile loosened the constriction around her heart.

"Okay, I'll conceed that." He said. "But didn't your mother ever tell ya it's rude to run away when people want to talk to you?"

"Yes, which is why I'm standing here right now!" She shot back, unconsciously slipping into the bantering mode they'd shared the night before. "And doesn't that rule also apply to you? I wanted to talk, and you were the one who told me to leave!"

"A mistake that I would have rectified if you'd stuck around." Dante said. He reached out, and the warmth and gentleness of the fingers that covered her lips left her weak and unable to protest his bossiness. "That's why I'm here. I need to fix what I broke. So will ya please be quiet an' listen to me?"

She hesitated, then nodded her assent.

"Thank you." His fingers lingered for a moment longer, then fell away. "I should be doing this properly with flowers an' stuff after the crappy way I acted, but I couldn't take the time to go get 'em. The most important thing was to come an' see you as soon as I could, so I could tell you how very sorry I am for bein' a bad tempered swine and makin' ya cry."

His eyes were dark with remorse as he took her hands in his, then brought them to a place directly over his heart. "Even if I had some reservations about what would have happened if you'd stayed, there's no excuse for handlin' it the way I did." He stated somberly."Knowing I hurt ya for no good reason is the worst punishment there is! I'm very sorry, and I wanna make it right. I'm here to beg ya for a second chance so I can prove to you that I'm not the world class jerk you saw last night."

Honest, sweet and direct-as an apology, it went a long way to healing her wounds. He hadn't said why he'd rejected her, but did the specifics of that really matter? He was human, and he had some misgivings about taking such a big step. What mattered is that he was here with her, deeply and truly sorry, and that she was certain that he'd make good on his promise not to shut her out again.

But she had to let him know that trust was a two way street. If this was going to work, he couldn't hide things from her. "You did hurt me, Dante. You were so honest, and then everything changed. You withdrew, wouldn't tell me what you felt."

Her voice had thickened, and she had to swallow.

"I'm a fucking idiot." He said, looking miserable. "I don't know what I was thinkin'! There's no excuse I can give! All I can say is that it won't happen again, and ask you if you'll give me another shot?"

She couldn't refuse him a thing when he looked at her like that, but he didn't need to know that.

Her retaliation for his transgression was to keep him waiting a few more seconds before she said,

"Yes, of course I will."

Dante expelled a long breath. "Thank God!"

Her smile came more easily. "It sounds like you were worried."

"A lot more than worried!" He admitted. "Couldn't see why the hell you would forgive me, but you've got a real kind heart, so I was hopeful."

"Some people would say a kind heart is also a foolish heart." She pointed out with a smirk.

"Any idiot who would say that is gonna get their ass kicked by me!"

He looked fierce, and she liked that. "Really?"

"Damn straight! Bein' nice is a strength, not a weakness! You're a good woman, Miaka. " He put his lips next to her ear and whispered the rest. "And one hot little wanton too."

She laughed, both flattered and flustered. "Dante!"

"Only tellin' the truth-and since I'm a really bad boy, I got no problem with askin' if you'd promise to act that way with me again!"

He was so sweet and so wicked. That she'd cried herself to sleep seemed completely immaterial now; Dante still cared about her, still wanted to be with her, and everything was all right with her world once again.

Turning her head, she gave him a swift kiss and an answer. "I'll promise, but only if you promise to reciprocate when I-"

"I swear it!"

She giggled at his emphatic interruption, but pushed herself away when he began to nuzzle her neck. "Oh no, not now. We can't... "

Dante reared back. "C'mon. After all that angst, I need to muss you up a little."

She was weakening, but held herself back. "Kevin will not be pleased if I come back to work all mussed up!"

Dark eyebrows instantly drew together. "And who's Kevin?"

"My boss. He's the head chef."

"You're on break and there's no customers out here." Dante pointed out. "What's his problem?"

"Yes, well..." Miaka cursed herself for the slip. She'd have to answer, or he'd get it out of her, one way or the other. "He's asked me out. Several times. I turned him down, of course."

Dante's expression hardened. "And when was the last time?"

"Just before you got here today." She admitted, and then playfully swatted him with her T-shirt. "Don't glare. I can handle him. He's not a bad guy, he's just been spoiled by women. He's good looking, and not used to hearing the word 'no' from most of the females who work here."

"But he's givin' ya trouble on the job."

"It's nothing I can't handle." She repeated, as her companion's lips compressed into a straight line. "He's a tease and a bit of a pervert...but a harmless tease and pervert. He's not out of control, he knows where to draw the line. Eventually he'll get bored with being rejected and hit on someone else."

When that assurance failed to wipe the frown from Dante's face, she wrapped her arms around his waist and looked deeply into his eyes. "Honestly, he's not that bad! I can deal with it!"

It was clear her assurances were falling on deaf ears. Dante's expression grew even more foreboding as he told her sternly, "You shouldn't have to 'deal with' your boss comin' onto you! In case ya didn't know, we have laws in this country regardin' no verbal, physical, or sexual harassment in the workplace!"

She averted her gaze. "It won't come to that. I'll take care of it before it does."

"Or I will." Dante reached out and curled his fingers around her chin, gently forcing her to look up at him. "Ya don't have to go it alone! Personal feelings aside, it's my job-"

"-to serve and protect!" She finished with a smile. "And I promise you'll be the first one I call on if I need assistance." She fluttered her eyelashes at him.

"You damn well better!" Releasing her chin, he wrapped his arms around her, drawing her petite form tightly against him in a bear hug. "God, the hours since ya left seemed like weeks to me."

"For me too." She agreed, smiling up at him.

He lowered his head to rest his forehead against hers. "Thanks for not lettin' me screw things up."

"You're welcome." She said. "You can kiss me now."

"Yes ma'am."

Their lips met in a long, slow, and infinitely tender caress.

Dante sighed after it ended. "Thanks. I needed that."

Miaka simply nodded, and laid her head on his chest, enjoying the scent of his cologne and his natural masculine scent. His hands traveled their way up and down her back. A deep contentment was stealing over her, diminished only by not knowing when they would be together next...

She didn't realize she'd spoken the wish aloud until he asked the question.

"Then how about goin' out to dinner with me this Friday?"

She stared at him, open dismay etched in her face. Her weekend plans with Taka meant that Friday was booked.

"I-I wish I could, but I can't on Friday."

He was undaunted. "How about Saturday?"

Pulling out of his resisting arms, she gazed up at him with anxious, pleading eyes. "This entire weekend won't work. I promised someone I'd go to Cripple Creek this weekend and I can't get out of it." Her voice shook with disappointment. "I made those plans before you and I...before we... " She gestured helplessly.

"The boyfriend?" Dante asked.

Sad-eyed, she nodded. "I didn't know...I thought it was the right thing to do at the time he called. I'm sorry..."

"Don't apologize! You've known me for all of two days, can't blame ya for wantin' to make sure you're not makin' a mistake!"

"No, it's not like that!" She insisted. "I only agreed to go on this trip for the purpose of seeing a place I've wanted to visit for months. And now, it will be my first and best chance to talk to him. It would be cruel to tell him in a phone call or email."

"And I wouldn't want you to. " Dante stated. "I'm goin' into this thing with my eyes wide open. I can't say I'm happy about it, but after hearing more about him and you, it'd be stupid for me to expect him to disappear from your life just like that." He snapped his fingers.

She winced. "I'm glad to hear you say that, and I have to be honest with you too. I have to say...that being with me means accepting that I won't and can't cut him completely out of my life."

Dante's brows lowered. "What does that mean?"

"I mean that I literally owe him my life."

The eyebrows went up. "You do?"

"One night in Tokyo, when we were teenagers he fought off Na-um, this insane man who came out of nowhere and attacked me on the street. The man was bigger and more powerful, and hurt Taka badly. He was almost killed, but he kept protecting me until the man was gone and he knew I was safe."

"Shit." Dante murmured, looking pained. "Criminy. When I said that...I didn't mean that I actually wanted him to disappear-"

She hastened to reassure him. "I know you didn't. But I wanted you to understand that's why he'll always be a part of my life."

---

Dante did understand, even though he was reeling from a revelation that felt like a roundhouse kick to his chest. Whatever else Sukinami was mixed up in, the man deserved to be remembered for a selfless and heroic act.

"He deserves a lotta respect, and I'd give him my thanks too, if I could."

They were silent for a moment, each thinking that an expression of gratitude from Dante would certainly be spurned if he and Miaka were a couple and Miaka and Taka were not.

"I would be okay with it if he decides to forget me, though." Miaka said. "It might make him happier."

"I doubt that." Dante said. He pulled her into his arms, and felt a little better as she snuggled into his embrace. "Just know I won't be askin' ya to forget him any more. Just promise to think about me when you're out an' about with him this weekend, and I'll be okay."

"I will." She vowed, blinking hard. "I'll think about you and miss you every single minute."

His forefinger lifted to catch the fat, solitary tear that was rolling down her cheek. "Hey now, this is nothin' to be worrying about! I'll keep happy and busy planning our next date!"

"You will?" She sniffled.

"Damn straight I will!" He gave a loud, dramatic sigh. "You just go and have lots of fun shoppin', gamblin' and eatin', and don't worry your head about poor ole Dante, stuck at home, daydreamin' and crawlin' around on his hands and knees scrubbing dried up gravy off his kitchen floor with stinky ole Pine Sol …" He gave her his best puppy- in-the-rain look.

As he had hoped, his silliness produced a wobbly smile.

"Oh you…" She tapped his arm with her fist.

"That's my girl!" He gave her an encouraging squeeze, then released her to look at his watch. "Damn. My break is close to bein' over." Which means I've put off telling her yet again. "I'm off at five today. Okay if I give you a call right after that?"

She gave a teary nod. "I'll be waiting by the phone."

"I guarantee that our next date will be great."

"I know it will be." She swiped at her eyes with the back of one hand, a gesture that went right to his heart. "It's so easy being with you. It's everything else that's difficult."

Her failed attempt at a chuckle made him grab hold of her again.

"Miaka, listen to me! Everythin's gonna be okay! If ya doubt that, just think about this..."

He had intended the kiss to be tender and comforting, and it started out to be just that.

Then Miaka wrapped her t-shirt around his neck, holding one end in each hand, unashamedly using it as means of restraining him when he would have drawn back. When he capitulated and remained where he was, she brazenly tugged on it to bring him closer. He responded to the wordless command by grabbing her hips and pulling her flush against his hardness. His tongue parted her lips with a decisive prod, then shot into her mouth to court hers in a sinuous dance that grew increasingly erotic as they allowed their mutual passion to flare.

Miaka dropped the t-shirt; her freed hands traveled up his neck and delved into his hair, liberating several strands from their severe combing down. When her fingertips encountered his hat, she removed it and carelessly tossed it aside, much to Dante's amusement. His muffled snickers ended abruptly, though, when her fingers raked through the thick masses of hair behind his ears at the same time she pushed her pelvis into his.

A moan was ripped from him as his hands moved from her waist to cup the sides of her breasts. If only he could turn back time to the night before...

His body hardened, and he struggled for restraint. "Miaka... sweetheart. We gotta stop!"

Even as he protested, his need throbbed in his voice. And it seemed his hands had a mind of their own.

She smiled against his mouth. "What if I don't?"

He sucked in a tortured breath as she traced his sensitive upper lip with her tongue. "Then I'd have to arrest ya for tryin' to corrupt an officer of the law."

"Mm. That means… you'd have to frisk me." She murmured, between short, tender kisses. "And then… you'll have to handcuff me… and give me a ride downtown in the back seat of your car. I think… I could deal… with that…quite well!"

"Dammit, woman! You're killin' me here!" Half groaning, half laughing, Dante tried to pull away from her. In retaliation, Miaka caught his lower lip between her teeth and nipped it before releasing him.

"Little minx! What happened to your traditional Japanese propriety?"

She grinned. "Tossed it out, along with my traditional Japanese common sense."

Dante gave a breathless laugh, and then reflexively ran his tongue over his lip, testing to see if she had drawn blood. Seeing that she was following the movement, he couldn't resist doing it again.

Her reaction was to place her fingers over his mouth. His tongue emerged to playfully tickle their tips, eliciting a soft moan and a plea.

"Onegai, Dante...please…just one more before I have to go back?"

She seduced him with her eyes while offering him her lips.

With a groan, he granted her wish.

---

A few blissful, passion-filled moments ticked by in which they were completely lost to the real world, but it intruded once again in the form of a discreet whistle or two and soft giggling. They quickly broke apart as the last of the lunchtime diners passing by the garden grinned broadly and gave them the 'thumbs up' sign.

Miaka was blushing.

"Just look at what you're doin' to my reputation!" Dante complained in mock outrage. "How bad does it look for an officer of the law to be engagin' in public personal relations while on duty?"

"Tell them I was in trouble and you were giving me mouth to mouth." His partner in crime retorted, as she bent to pick up the discarded t-shirt. Straightening, she went to tidy up the thick swatch of bangs that had fallen in front of Dante's eyes. "Tell them you had to do it. After all, 'helpful' is your middle name."

He grinned. "So what's your excuse?"

"If anyone asks, I'll use your fifth amendment." She wrinkled her nose. "Though knowing my boss, I wouldn't be surprised if he's peeking around the corner to see what's been keeping me- "

Her words ended on a surprised squeak as Dante suddenly grasped her by the shoulders.

"I don't want him keepin' tabs on you." He said, staring deeply into her eyes. "I know you've been dealing with it, but swear that you'll call on me if he doesn't ease up or he tries anything! Swear it, or I 'm not lettin' you go back in there!"

The fierceness in Dante's words and his aggressively protective demeanor brought fresh tears to Miaka's eyes. For a moment she could only stare at him in silence, feeling completely unworthy of the devotion that had spanned more than one lifetime.

His expression and grasp gentled. "Miaka?"

"I swear." She sealed the promise with a last, lingering kiss, lips parted, tongue gliding into and over the sweetness of his until she felt her control slipping; at that point, she hastily pulled back and took off running towards the restaurant.

"Unfair!" He yelled after her. "Get yourself back here, ya little tease!"

One glance back at his hungry expression told her it was best not to obey the command. "Sorry! I'll have to make it up to you later!"

"Damn right you will!"

Her laughter floated back to him. The happiness it contained filled Dante with giddy anticipation, and his misgivings about not coming clean with her about the investigation were assauged- at least for the moment.

Baby steps. Gotta get her in the right setting and then we'll go from there.

---

He watched Miaka until she reached the door, and then grinned from ear to ear as she turned to blow him a kiss just before disappearing into the darkness of the restaurant.

Only after she was out of sight did Dante think about recovering his headpiece.

He turned his head to begin a search, and then gave a start as it appeared right under his nose.

"Thanks," he said automatically, taking the hat from the wrinkled, liver-spotted hand that held it.

"You really need to get serious about courting that girl," an elderly female voice advised him, "or she's going to end up with the wrong man."

Dante glanced down and found himself meeting the gaze of an elegantly dressed, well -groomed old woman with the face of a basset hound. Her gray hair was drawn into a top knot, emphasizing her drooping jowls, and he could see that she was also extremely short, given that her beady eyes were on a level with his elbow as she peered up at him.

"Are you a friend of Miss Yuuki?" He asked, while barely repressing a shudder. Can't believe that face is for real. Hasn't she heard of plastic surgery?

"That's one way of putting it." The woman gave a dry chuckle. "The relationship Miaka and I have goes way back. Speaking as someone who knows her very well, it's easy to see that she's quite taken with you."

At hearing this, Dante smiled. Maybe the crone wasn't so bad looking after all. "Really?"

"I never say things I don't mean!" The old lady admonished him sternly. "You will be the one to make her happy again, but only if you don't let past hurts, heartaches and self doubts get in your way."

Dante stared at her. "Excuse me, ma'am, but you're acting like you know me! Have I made your acquaintance before?"

"Not in this life!" The aged face crinkled with humor at his bewildered expression. "But, never mind. I can see it's too soon for that conversation. The process of enlightenment is a complicated one and cannot be rushed." She patted his arm in a reassuring, grandmotherly manner. "You just need a bit more time. At least I can rest easier knowing that you've been reunited and are once again watching over her."

What the hell is this weirdo talkin' about? Did she know we had a fight? Dante thought. He could feel his temper rise, but held it in check. Experience as a beat cop had taught him that aged women loved nothing better than to ramble on about the past to anyone who would take the time to pay attention. She was probably a bit wacky in the head due to her advanced age, so what would it hurt to humor her?

"You must keep her safe at all costs," his companion was saying softly. "She's very important to me, and to countless others."

Finally, something that made sense. She probably thought of Miaka as family and was concerned about her living alone in a foreign city. It was understandable that she'd have that reaction, and being law enforcement, he'd naturally be the one she'd turn to for help in such matters.

"I'll protect her!" He assured her with confidence. "Nothing is going to happen to Miaka while I'm around!"

"I have no doubts about that." The old woman said approvingly, while giving him an assessing look. "And I must say it's pleasing to me to hear that you've got manners. You've learned to control your temper and that foul mouth of yours."

Dante gave another start, and then a frown creased his brow. "How do you know about my foul mouth?" He asked.

She waved a dismissive hand. "Feh. That's common knowledge."

"To you? I don't think so!" He folded his arms over his chest. "Come on, do we have a mutual friend or somethin'?"

"You could say that." The old lady smirked.

Dante pinned her with his most intimating glare. "Okay Grandma, the joke's over. I think it's time you answered some questions... like just who the hell are you?"

"Now that's the Flame Boy I expected!" She shot back, cackling at his expression. "You are right. This is not a joke. I know what I know, Dante Tager, but how I happen to know is none of your concern…yet!"

Leaving the cryptic words hanging in the air, the old woman turned and glided away as if she were walking on air. Dante stared after her as the ends of the shawl she wore seemed to ripple in a non-existent breeze, fluttering about her form like long, pink streamers.

He blinked as the shadowed silhouette of a tiny and squat little woman seated on a cloud flashed into his brain, then disappeared as quickly as it had appeared, leaving him oddly shaken. Now what the hell was that all about?

He was strongly tempted to follow the old woman and demand some answers, but something told him it would be a waste of time to do so. If she wouldn't even give him her name, it was certain she wouldn't satisfy his curiosity about the strong sense of déjà vu he had just experienced.

She called me Flame Boy like she knows me! He thought angrily. I feel like I know her, and yet I got no fucking idea why or where she came from! It's like somethin's been taken away from me and I can't get it back!

A siren wailed in the distance, jolting him back to reality. As badly as he wanted an explanation for the odd feelings he was experiencing, it didn't change the fact that in the present he had responsibilities and a job to carry out. Wrestling with his personal problems would have to wait until he was off duty.

With that reminder, Dante turned and strode away in the opposite direction from the one his tiny tormentor had taken, taking comfort in the thought that he'd tell Miaka about the whole incident when they got together. He had a feeling she might understand the weird stuff he'd been experiencing lately. And if Miaka did know who Grandma was, maybe he'd be able to get a reasonable explanation for the old lady's strange behavior.

---

Taka Sukinami would be the first to admit that he did not know everything there was to know about life. Time and time again events served to remind him that there were things in the world that he would never be able to figure out or control. So he took comfort in the fact that in a world of uncertainty, there was one thing he knew and controlled from top to bottom. His job.

He had spent countless hours learning the ins and outs the dos and don'ts. He knew how to woo a potential client, and how to make them feel so special that they thought they had gained a new best friend or better yet, an addition to their family. He knew how to soothe an irate client with compliments and promises of tickets to the latest sports event or theatrical production. On top of that, he knew everything about the inner workings of his company and its client base like the back of this hand. Or so he had thought…until now.

He stared at the computer monitor in front of him and once again tried to access next to bottom file that it was displaying. Once again the 'access denied-password not valid' alert message popped onto the screen and he slammed his hand down on his desk, muttering curses under his breath; after an hour of trying to access this new data base, the leash he usually had on his temper had finally started to fray.

In all his time at Thornton Investments, he had never password protected any of his files. What was the point? His job was to woo potential clients then their cases were immediately handed over to someone higher up, so there was really no need for that precaution. When the mysterious file with the unfamiliar name had appeared in his client records, naturally he had tried to access it in the usual way, only to find it was it protected. He had over one hundred files of prospects but he checked them on a daily basis- sometimes several times a day, which gave him sound basis for accessing a file that he had never laid eyes on before. He had been getting handed more and more accounts lately due to his high acquisitions rating, so it was reasonable to think that it was a new client he hadn't yet met…but how would he know if he couldn't get into the stupid thing?

With a sigh of frustration, he leaned back in his chair to collect himself for a moment, and then reached over to press a button on his phone. "Sarah? Would you mind stepping in here please?" A few seconds after his summons, the door opened and his secretary entered with her usual bright smile.

"What can I do for you, Mr. Sukinami?"

"Have you accessed my personal client files lately?"

The smile quickly vanished under his severe look. "N-No sir! I don't ever go into those files on my own unless you gave me permission to do it!"

The genuine distress in her eyes made him regret his curtness. Sarah was an exemplary employee, and he had no real reason to think that she would have broken the rules. "Forgive me, I shouldn't have barked at you like that. It's just that someone has added two files to my client database within the past two days, and for some reason I can't open them to see what they are. If you don't know anything about them, I don't know who else to ask about it."

Sarah frowned, looking thoughtful. "No one's been in here, I would have seen them. I honestly don't know who could've added them, sir. You are the only one who gets an access code to that program. You haven't given me this week's password, so I'd only get into it if you're signed in."

Taka heaved a sigh. "You're right. Again, I really apologize. I've had a bad morning."

"I'd like to help, I could check the logs to see if-"

"Thank you, Sarah, but I can't ask you to take that on-it's my responsibility, and you have a heavy workload already."

"Honestly, I wouldn't mind! I enjoy doing extra jobs for you! Er, I mean..." She blushed, flustered. "Oh, that sounded really bad."

"Only if I took it the wrong way, which I won't." Taka said, grinning at her. "I appreciate the loyalty, and I'll take you up on the offer of overtime if it comes to that."

She smiled, still blushing. "Thank you. Is there anything else?"

"Actually, there is one more thing I'd like to make a priority; call and set up a one on one meeting for me with Mr. Thornton for Friday. His assistant is a rather formidable woman in running interference for him, and I never can seem to find the right words to get on her good side...maybe you'd have better luck convincing her I'm worth his time."

"Leave it to me!" The blonde said cheerfully."What reason should I give for requesting the meeting?"

"Tell her that it's a security issue with our bigger accounts and I need to speak with him ASAP." If he was going to get answers, it was best to start at the top. He had established a good rapport with the CEO of Thornton Investments, based on mutual interests and respect. The old man had his fingers in all aspects of the company. If someone had been tampering, he would be the one who knew how to get the answers as to where, when and why. "It's probably best if you do that right away. I know he likes to leave early on Fridays."

"Of course, sir."

---

When the office door had shut quietly behind his assistant, Taka leaned back in his expensive leather chair and rubbed his eyes wearily. He had a terrible hunch that he would be having to cancel his and Miaka's tentative plans for the weekend and he knew all too well what her reaction would be to the news. She would try to be a trooper, would say it was okay and that she understood, but he would know she was deeply hurt and disappointed by him as surely as if she had voiced the sentiments aloud.

God, how he hated constantly doing this to her…but he also knew there would come a time when they would both be thankful that he had put his job first. If he attained the goals he had set for himself, they could have the kind of wedding and home she deserved, Miaka would have the means to open her own restaurant, their future children would be able to attend the best schools and they would have complete financial security from the beginning of their life together to the end of their days.

I'll make you the happiest bride in the world, my love. I meant it then and I mean it now. Just humor me a little while longer and I promise life will get so much better.

Taka glanced at his watch, and then smiled as inspiration struck him. Miaka was expecting him to call around eleven this evening, but instead he would surprise her and actually show up on her doorstep. Maybe those things and making love to her would soften the blow as well as ease the ache in his heart over disappointing her once again.

To be continued!

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