Leather and Lace
By: Maidens of Konan
Disclaimer: Fushigi Yûgi was created and is owned by Yû Watase. The non canon elements of this story be it character, plot or dialogue based are the intellectual property of the author(s). Plagiarizing is a no no, and will result in an embarrasingly public expression of retribution, sung and delivered by the Celestial Warrior Nakago.
'Iris' was written by J. Reznik of the Goo Goo Dolls. No copyright infringement is intended in referring to it.
Chapter Thirteen
Miaka's heart did a crazy leap and then did its level best to pound its way out of her chest.
The thought of a weekend spent at Dante's was thrilling, but also unsettling. Going out to eat or for a walk in a public park with him was one thing...but to be his guest for a weekend after just meeting him seemed hypocritical at best given her steadfast refusals to cohabitate with Taka even though they were in a long term relationship. And the fact that she was willing to reconsider her stance said volumes about her relationships with both men.
That epiphany was but the first drop in a bucket of her self-realizations, but she couldn't acknowledge the others until she figured out if she should go there.
She'd already made a choice in not telling Taka about Dante; the consequences being that she'd taken the path that could end in the ultimate act of infidelity.
But it wasn't that straightforward, was it? She'd stayed faithful for years, and after Taka had already made his choice clear; work was his mistress, and his keeper. She had tallied up all the disappointment handed her in the past year, and had already been on the verge of reconsidering things with Taka. Her heart had set changes in motion, and meeting Dante had been the push to keep it going. Her task now was to use her head, to make sure she wasn't rushing into things out of the fear of finding herself alone, or out of a misguided longing for something that could not exist.
As far as Dante having been Tasuki and related intimacy issues- she was feeling fairly comfortable. Though things had gotten hot and heavy in the park, she hadn't experienced panic or the flashback that had her confusing Dante with Tasuki the night before.
But there still was no avoiding the certainty that an extended amount of private time with him would lead to…that, which brought her back in a full circle to the 'what should I say' dilemma.
Dante had made his feelings clear about not crossing that line until she'd officially chosen him. She agreed with him, one hundred percent. To say no until she was truly free to say yes was the right thing to do, the only thing to do.
The problem was she couldn't say no to herself.
"So whaddaya say, Miaka?"
He was looking at her like she had the power to grant his biggest wish. In desperation, she averted her face, but warm fingertips found the underside of her chin and tilted it back up.
"You wanna say yes, I can see it in your eyes." He informed her without conceit. "But somethin's botherin' ya. Let's get it out in the open."
She couldn't deny him. "I'm scared!"
Dante let go of her chin, looking as if she had slapped him. "Of me?"
She vehemently shook her head.
"Then what?"
"It's me."
"Huh? I'm not followin' ya."
Taking a deep breath, she blurted, "I'm scared of myself. I have no control over my impulses when it comes to you and I honestly think that my staying at your house is setting us up for an epic failure as far as not observing the boundaries you set tonight."
She looked down, feeling idiotic and relieved at the same time.
Dante sat back in his chair and stared at her for a long minute.
"Fair enough." He said at last. "Then I got another thing for you to consider."
"What...what is it?"
"First ya gotta give me your hand."
She placed her hand in his outstretched palm, enjoying the feeling of his fingers closing around hers in spite of her agitation.
"Now you gotta look at me."
She complied, her gaze lifting from their joined hands to his face.
"Thank you. That's better." Dante said. "So. First, let's be clear on one thing. If you decide to stay over, I won't promise that I'll treat ya like you're my little sister. It's a given that there's gonna be a kiss or two. Or more. Okay?"
She gave a nod, wondering if she should be reassured or more worried.
"Having said that, what I can guarantee is that I won't let things get so outta hand that we can't stop. And I'm countin' on you to understand that, okay? When I say stop, we stop. When I have to leave, you let me go. No pushing the limits, okay?"
She nodded again.
"So we're both horny and we're both impulsive." He continued. "But more important than that is that we both want it to be the right time and the right way. That's what's gonna keep us both honest. So why be scared of what we feel? We just hafta communicate, let each other know when to back off." He shrugged and gave her a look that was surprisingly shy. "So there it is. Don't know how you feel, but if having to work out like a crazy person and taking two dozen cold showers a day means my getting the chance to know you better, then I'll do it."
For an impulsive guy, he'd made a logical and straightforward argument. Miaka realized she didn't need to give it much consideration.
He's right. She thought. Why be scared? Nothing is ever resolved if you run away from it. It would be stupid of me to turn down this opportunity just because I'm afraid something might happen that I can't handle.
In another second, her decision was made. "If you say we can do it, then we will. Mizu and I accept your kind invitation."
"Thatta girl!" He gently squeezed her hand."It'll be great, you'll see. There's a guest room for you and the kitty cat, and there'll be a place for his food and a litter box too. We can set ya up with the email thing, and at some point, you have to use the Jacuzzi. And there's no cooking allowed either- this weekend what we eat is on me."
As he grinned at her, Miaka felt her blush returning in force; there was a bit of chagrin that she'd adapted to his way of thinking so easily, but she couldn't help being pleased at the unreserved pleasure with which he solicited her company. "It all sounds wonderful, but please don't go to extra trouble on my account! I don't want you doing all the work in the kitchen, and a shower will do just as fine!"
"It's no trouble." He assured her firmly. "I cook, or I'll get us take out. And trust me, you're gonna be beggin' for a nice hot soak after a day of sightseein' with yours truly!"
She gaped at him. "You're going to take me sightseeing?"
"Well yeah! What kinda lame host would I be if I didn't show ya around town?" Dante exclaimed. "Cripes, it's just wrong that you've been here over six months and ya haven't even been to the top of Pike's Peak or visited the Garden of the Gods yet-" He paused, amber eyes narrowed in thought. "I don't suppose you've had any experience with horses, either, have ya?"
She stifled a laugh at the question. We rode together plenty of times in Konan… if you could only remember! "I actually have, but it's been a long while since I've ridden one. Why?"
"'Cause the best way to see Garden of the Gods is on horseback." He replied eagerly. "There's stuff on the trails that the typical tourist never gets to see! An early morning ride is best, then we can go get some breakfast. Mizu will have to miss out on those parts, though, 'cause of the rules about animals, but since ya have a leash for him, later we can take him up to Pike's Peak with us in the Jeep."
Miaka felt her spirits being lifted sky high. Dante's speech was delightfully free of the reticent 'ifs' and 'maybes' that always peppered her conversations with Taka whenever they attempted to make plans. In addition, there was no doubt in her mind that he would follow through on everything he had said and more. Like Tasuki, he was someone who she could depend on to be where he said he was going to be, and to do what he said he was going to do.
"That sounds fun!" She said, eyes shining with excitement. "I'm really looking forward to riding again!"
"We'll have t'get ya some ridin' gloves, though, to protect your finger." He briefly kissed the bandaged finger in question, and released her hand. "And now that's all settled..."
She stared inquiringly at him as he got to his feet. "Yes?"
"We both work tomorrow, so I suppose I better be hittin' the road."
His expression made it clear he wasn't happy about having to leave.
Miaka found she wasn't ready to let him go.
"But what about the CDs we talked about?" She asked, in a fit of inspiration. "You can't leave until you pick some to take home!"
Dante's expression lightened. "That sounds like an offer I can't refuse."
"They're out in the living room. I'm just going to make some more coffee and take care of the dishes and then I'll get them for you."
She stood and reached for a plate, but he stopped her.
"I'll do those. Your finger has to be hurtin'."
It was, but she didn't want to give him any cause for concern. "Thank you Dante, but I can manage-"
It was apparent he wasn't going to listen when he plucked the mugs and plates out of her hands and carried them over to the sink. Then, also without asking, he turned on the faucet and proceeded to squirt soap from the dispenser standing next to it, showing the ease of a man long used to doing his own housework.
Miaka grinned, then sat back down and took advantage of the opportunity he'd given her to watch him from behind. Her admiring gaze wandered freely, taking in broad shoulders, a back that rippled with muscle, and a taut, toned butt that filled out his jeans in a way that made her hands itch to grab hold of it.
Really, she was getting just as shameless about ogling men's attributes as American girls! But who could blame her for acting a little out of character around this impressive specimen of manhood? Strong and sexy and vibrant, Dante had been gifted with Tasuki's masculine beauty, a beauty which she admitted she hadn't taken time to appreciate in the past. But this was a different time, a different place, and she was a far cry from the unseeing person she had been at fifteen. Right or wrong, for good or bad, there was no denying that she now wanted the pleasure of looking her fill.
It was her misfortune that Dante was extremely efficient and soon finished the task of washing, rinsing and drying. As he turned to face her, she guiltily jerked her gaze up to his face, only to feel herself succumb to a most delightful view once again.
The man was a masterpiece twice over. She could take him in for forever and a day. Those eyes, they were beautifully expressive, so hot and mysterious...and suddenly, she was back in a remote mountain cabin, held in thrall by a Phantom wolf's predatory gaze…
"Earth to Miaka! Please respond, Miaka!"
She gave a start, and then an uneasy laugh. "Sorry. I was spacing out a little."
"Huh. I guess you were."
His smirk and the gleam in his eyes told her that Dante had a good idea of what she'd been contemplating, but her feminine pride wouldn't allow her to acknowledge it.
"Thank you for doing the dishes," she said, lifting her chin. "It was very nice of you."
He grinned at her prim expression. "You're welcome. What cupboards do ya keep 'em in?"
"You've done enough, Dante-kun. Just leave them on the counter, it'll give me something to do later."
"All righty." He obediently set the dried dishes on the counter along with the towel he'd been using, then followed her as she led the way to the living room.
Her entertainment center was tucked away in a far corner of the room, and housed a brand new television, a DVD player, and stereo system. Behind her, Dante let out a soft whistle as he read the brand and make of the equipment.
"That's a first rate set up ya got there." He remarked, as she pulled out a CD case from a storage area beneath the television.
"Thanks." Miaka said briefly. She always felt uncomfortable talking about her more extravagant possessions, whether it be to friends or her family, not to mention being certain Dante wouldn't like the answer as to where she'd acquired them.
She was both relieved and grateful that he didn't ask as he took the case out of her hands.
"Please don't hesitate," she urged, as he made his way over to the couch and sat down. "If you see something you'd like to have, just take it!"
A silence followed in which she belatedly realized how her words could be misconstrued.
Sure enough, the look Dante was giving her would have melted ice.
"Um...er..." This was ridiculous. She was tongue tied again.
"Why thank you, Miss Miaka." His accent was as thick and deliberate as honey sliding from a spoon. "Be assured that I'll be doin' just that."
Her exhalation was shaky as he turned his attention to unzipping the CD case, but flustered or not, she was unable to look away from his hands as he lifted the cover and his lean, strong fingers slid over the row of jewel cases in a way that made it all too easy for her to imagine them caressing her flesh. Ripples of desire lapped at her loins, begining to submerge her in yet another fantasy...
...until something soft and furry saved her further embarrassment by insistently bumping her ankles.
In an instant, she emerged from her reverie to find her pet actively encircling her feet.
"Are you hungry, my little neko?"
A glare and a mew confirmed her guess.
"I'll go and get you something right now." She promised, bending over to caress the feline, grateful for the task and the excuse it provided for her to go and regain her composure. "Excuse me, Dante, I'll be right back."
"Okey dokey."
As Miaka left the room, her guest shot an half-amused, half-exasperated glance at the cat, who padded over and jumped up to sit next to him on the sofa.
Unblinking eyes returned the look with a stare that was more of an unspoken command.
Taking the hint, Dante obligingly reached out and began to scratch the feline behind his ears.
"Gotta say that I'm jealous as hell of ya, Mizu." He confided in an undertone. "You're pretty damn lucky to be sleeping with her every night- you know that, don't ya?"
The purring Siamese stretched out on its side, smirking at him.
Obviously, it knew.
Twenty minutes later Mizu had finished his treat and fallen asleep in a nearby chair, while Dante had selected a number of CDs that he could honestly say he was very excited to hear. On top of that, he had managed to regain most of his good humor by thinking that in less than three days Miaka would be in his territory and away from anything that reeked of her boyfriend and his dirty money. The worried look on her face hadn't escaped him, and he knew its cause. He also knew he didn't have the right to say anything about her getting rid of certain possessions…yet.
Nevertheless, when Miaka excused herself to go and find a bag for his borrowed loot, he seized the chance to take a longer look at the costly sound system, and then wandered around, checking out the artworks, glass vases, candles and brass decorations that were strategically placed about the room. As he did so, his initial impression of the décor was strengthened; though the room's expensive furnishings were tastefully understated and stylish, none of them captured Miaka's warmth and down- to -earth personality.
Obviously, she didn't spend much time in this room. Even the entertainment center bore the look of disuse; there were barely any fingerprints on the glass doors, and the TV still had its sales sticker on it. He resisted the urge to look to check for a price by speculating what she did when she was alone if she didn't watch TV. But the thought that any of those activities might have involved Taka Sukinami only served to irritate him, so he moved on to the framed photographs on one of the end tables next to the sofa, the only items that did anything to bring a touch of home to the room.
Curious to see who and what the pictures contained, he sat down on the sofa and reached for the nearest frame. It was a candid shot of Miaka and a blonde he recognized as her best friend Yui, along with a laughing young man that, by virtue of his looks, had to be Miaka's brother, and sunglasses wearing young man who looked to be with Yui. He smiled at it, then set it down and picked up another.
This one showed Miaka with an arm slung around a middle aged version of herself, who he guessed was most likely her mother; though their hair styles and coloring were different, their eyes and their smiles were certainly the same. She looked like a nice lady, but he couldn't help wondering how she would feel about her daughter hooking up with a foreigner, an American in particular.
Guess he'd have to cross that bridge when he came to it.
The last photo was the largest and was of Miaka with Taka Sukinami. It had obviously been taken by a professional at some corporate gala, for both were dressed in the kind of formal attire typically worn by the movers and shakers in the society pages. Maybe this was the picture in the paper that Craig had seen?
He stared at the photo in masochistic fascination, and felt his gut clench with jealousy at the sight of the proprietary masculine arm wrapped around Miaka's shoulders and the glowing look she was giving the man.
It must have been taken back when she'd first arrived in the Springs. She looked happy and excited.
Well, what did you expect? He chided himself. He's been her boyfriend for years. She's gonna have a few pictures of him and her lookin' like this.
He went to set the frame down, then stopped and frowned at it.
There was no question that Sukinami gave off a positive vibe. He had impeccable style and princely good looks. He appeared to be in great shape, happy and supremely confident in his future. But then again, who wouldn't with someone like Miaka standing at his side?
But despite an assumption of ample intelligence, this Taka had to be some kind of an idiot, otherwise he'd see how he was losing his girlfriend. If he could talk to the man right now, he'd give him a piece of his mind.
How stupid was it to make a girl as sweet and loving as Miaka wait for him?
How unforgivable was it to feel justified in making her unhappy?
You've made her cry. I can't forgive you.
Caught up in his musings, Dante barely noticed the familiar surge of pure energy that jolted through him.
In his mind's eye, an image formed- a sneering, ninja garbed warrior named Taka Sukinami.
The sounds of paper being ripped to shreds and heartrending feminine sobs filled the air.
Sukinami's smile was cold and pitiless as he lifted his arm with a jerk and brandished a nunchuk over the bowed head of a woman-
Miaka.
Dante sucked in a sharp breath.
"Tamahome!" A voice growled in his mind. "You crushed her spirit! I ain't gonna let it happen again!"
He saw himself springing into action as the black clad arm snapped the weapon downwards with a vicious clatter of chains; a dull roar had filled his ears- intense fury, mixed with a speed induced wind…
"Dante!"
As soon as he heard his name, Dante's eyes flew open. Heart still pounding with adrenaline, he tensed, then relaxed as he saw Miaka standing in front of the coffee table.
"Are you all right? You weren't answering..."
Her voice trailed off as she stared at him.
It was then that he noticed the faint crimson colored light emanating from the vicinity of his right arm.
Shit, the thing's really lightin' up this time! Covering the glowing phoenix with a hand, he managed a reply. "Sorry. Didn't mean to scare you."
"You're all flushed." She stated anxiously. "Do you think you're coming down with something?"
Dante almost lifted a hand to his brow, but caught himself and kept his arm covered. She had to see the red light. He thought. There's no way she could have missed it. But she's acting like it's normal and not sayin' anything- ah, what am I saying? She'd be too damn polite to mention somethin' so abnormal!
"I'm okay." He said aloud. Strong emotions must trigger it somehow. I just gotta calm down and it'll go away. I just gotta relax.
With a concentrated effort, he found that he could let go of the anger that was still lurking in the depths of his mind. Relief took its place as he sensed a decrease in the energy that had been building up within him. He cast a quick glance down at his arm; was it his imagination, or had the light beneath his fingers also grown much fainter?
Cautiously, he let go of the picture frame and then lifted the hand covering the tattoo by degrees. A sigh of relief escaped him at seeing that it was back to normal, and the red-tinged glow had vanished.
It worked. Weird! Too fuckin' weird!
"Is there something I can do or should know, Dante?"
The question was calmly spoken, but Miaka was still regarding him with an intensity that said he was going to have to do a better job of assauging her concern.
"No, I'm fine. I was pettin' Mizu an' lookin' at all your pictures, and I must have nodded off for a minute. Next thing I know I'm having a bad dream. You callin' my name woke me up. That's all."
Not a lie, not the whole truth, but he couldn't bring himself to tell her about the little 'episode' he'd just been having until he had a better idea of what it all meant.
Why was Sukinami dressed in black and using a weapon? And who the hell was Tamahome?
She wasn't appeased by his quick explanation. He could tell by her frowning reaction. But how much worse would it be if he shared some of the bizarre visions he'd been having about Sukinami, or her being in some kind of a bubble, for that matter?
Even now, the thought of her finding out was propelling him to his feet.
"Dante-"
"There's nothing to tell. I nodded off and musta been dreaming." He echoed stubbornly. "I think it's time for me to go. You're looking kinda tired too."
"Maybe I do, but I don't feel tired." She said. Her gaze wavered, and then fell away from his. "I'm sorry if I've kept you too long. It's been nice to have someone here to talk to for a change. Mizu's good company, but…it's just not the same, you know?"
The sadness in her eyes and the melancholic catch in her voice hit Dante like an arrow, and all thoughts of leaving her crumbled under its impact. Hell's Bell's, he didn't really want to go. He had only suggested it as a way to divert her attention from his strange behavior.
Which had worked, not that it brought him any satisfaction.
What mattered was that his leaving so abruptly would make Miaka unhappy. Knowing that, there was no way in hell he would refuse her request. Their boundaries would not be compromised if he stayed a bit longer. He could handle it, because his reason had nothing to do with his desire to get her into the sack.
Well, very little to with it, anyway.
He'd just have to make sure to keep tight control over his emotions, and that was that.
"I know. Livin' alone can be a real bitch sometimes." He agreed huskily. "I'll stay a little longer. But you have to promise to kick me out before midnight, okay?"
"Okay. I think maybe we should have another cup of coffee and another snack." She said, and turned and trotted towards the kitchen.
Dante chuckled and followed her. "Sounds like a fine idea."
They took the coffee and cookies to the sofa in the living room this time. A comfortable silence had fallen, since neither of them felt much like conversing at the moment; they were just content to bask in the glow of doing something as a couple.
"Did you want to watch the late edition news, Dante?" Miaka finally asked.
"Not really. I get enough of that reality at work." He replied. "How about listenin' to some music? We still have to find me a theme song."
Miaka reached for the stereo remote control lying on the coffee table in front of them, and tossed it over to him with a smile. "Here you go! Go ahead and knock yourself up!"
With a happy sigh, she settled back against the cushions, proud of showing Dante her command of English slang. She'd been practicing a lot of new catch phrases, but had very little chance to use them in regular conversation.
A sound like a muffled chuckle reached her ears.
Bewildered, she turned her head to find that her guest was shaking with suppressed laughter. "What's so funny?"
It was a moment before he could answer.
"I think I should tell you that the phrase is 'knock yourself out'." He explained matter of factly. "The phrase 'knocked up' is actually a slang reference for…um… being gettin' someone pregnant."
"Oh." She sighed. That was what she got for trying to show off. She bowed her head to express her regrets. "Gomen nasai, Dante-kun. I hope I didn't offend you by implying you should get pregnant."
She thought she'd handled it well, but to her consternation, he seemed to be finding her apology to be almost as funny as her mistake. If it had been Alan or Hannah correcting her, she would have laughed with them at her mistake, but this was different. She wanted Dante to admire her, and to be proud of her, but he was American, and she was Japanese. The cultural differences between them could end up causing him embarrassment in front of his family and friends. Just the thought of it had her face burning with mortification. "I'm sorry. I'll do better."
Dante took one look at her expression, and was instantly sobered. "You're doin' just fine, Miaka. I shouldn't have laughed, but I couldn't help it. You're so damn cute when you do things like that..."
The remorse in his voice and the comforting hand covering hers went a long way towards soothing her ruffled feelings, but she wasn't ready to let him off the hook just yet. "In Japan, a man would have taken great offense to my comparing him to a woman in any way." She stated coolly. "That's why I apologized for the insult, as I was taught to do by my mother."
"An' I'm an idiot who doesn't deserve the sweet and gracious one you just gave to me! I owe one to you…and I hope I do this right..."
He stood up, moved in front of her.
"Gomen nasai, Miaka. Please forgive me for hurtin' your feelings."
Then he executed a perfect bow.
She looked up at him, feeling a new kind of heat, one that had nothing to do with shame or embarrassment.
Up until now she couldn't have imagined someone not of her culture being able to pull off such a graceful apology without tutelage-not even Taka had done one this well. It made her feel hopeful, that although there were bound to be many disparities in their cultural and social upbringings, and even though these kinds of misunderstandings might often prove frustrating, they could provide opportunities for increasing their mutual respect and appreciation for each other.
With that thought, she stood and embraced him.
After an initial moment of surprise, he hugged her back with an enthusiasm that lifted her off her feet and made her giggle.
"Great job." Dante said, when they drew apart. "A classic, American style apology. It was just right."
"You did well too." She said, smiling. "Now let's just sit back down and enjoy some music, okay?"
"Okay!"
Dante had no problems wielding the stereo's complicated remote, and soon found the same radio station they had been listening to in the Jeep. The deejay announced that it was a commercial-free hour, and Miaka leaned back against the sofa, sipped at her coffee and listened intently to the songs that came one after the other.
Though none seemed right for Dante's theme, there was one that stood out for him as having captured the mood of their relationship.
"The Goo Goo Dolls. This one's called 'Iris'." He commented, after a few seconds of listening. "An outstanding song."
Miaka nodded her agreement as their gazes locked. "They're a well known band where I come from. One of their albums, 'Bang' was released exclusively in Japan." She smiled. "Some of their stuff isn't for me, but I think the guitar parts in this one are beautiful."
"The lyrics in this one speak to me." Dante replied in a low voice.
His eyes fixed on the coffee mug he clutched in both hands, he softly sang along with the chorus. When the song had ended he looked up, his expression dark with purpose. Miaka remained motionless as he deliberately set his cup down, then took hers and set it next to his on the coffee table before turning back to her. Caught in the hypnotic amber depths of his eyes and swayed by the power of music, she felt compelled to speak.
"Dante, listen. There are a lot of things you don't know about me and - "
He made a shushing gesture. "I have things t' get off my chest too, but let's leave it for the weekend when we'll have more time to discuss them, okay? I don't want us to start spillin' our guts to each other right before I hafta leave." An apologetic smile curved his lips. "An' I am going to have to go home soon, darlin', 'cause I've gotta be to work at six."
She was aghast. "I'm so inconsiderate! I should never have asked-"
"Hush now. Even if ya hadn't asked, I woulda found a reason to stay longer." His eyes smiled at her as he moved closer. "So, Miss Miaka...since we're gettin' into cultural exchanges...what would ya say to an ol' fashioned American goodnight kiss?"
Her answering smile was as sweet as sugar as she slid her arms around his neck.
"What do you think?" She whispered, then said no more as his mouth covered hers.
One kiss had actually turned into several before Dante finally found the will to disengage himself from Miaka, pick up his bag of music, and make for her door. She trailed after him out into the entryway with meandering steps, feeling as if she were treading on air.
"Make sure ya lock and bolt the door after I leave." He informed her in stern tones, as they paused in the foyer. "There are an awful lot of weirdos runnin' around out there."
Miaka simply nodded as she stared up at him with a dreamy smile; not even the knowledge that he had switched to 'cop mode' could break the romantic spell Dante had just cast upon her. The kisses he'd just given her had been different than any they'd exchanged thus far; they had been like moonlight and roses, and a soft, cozy blanket being wrapped around her…making her feel safe, cherished, and wonderfully pampered all at once.
She wasn't quite ready to let go of those feelings. On impulse she flung herself at Dante, wrapping her arms tightly about his waist. His shoulders fell back against the door under the impetus of her weight, and he gasped out a laugh as his arms automatically rose to encircle her.
"Whoa! What's all this about?"
"I'm so glad I met you!" She declared with joyful abandon. "You make me so happy!"
He looked stunned for a moment, then a blinding smile lit his face. "Back at ya, sweetheart!"
She snuggled in as close to him as she could, even though it meant she'd have to tilt her head even further back to meet his gaze. A dull red tinged Dante's cheeks as she pressed her body against him. He gave her a fierce squeeze in response, then grudgingly released her as she slowly backed out of his arms.
"Thank you so much, Dante. I had the best time!"
"I hope so." He said, thinking of her earlier tears, then asked quickly, "Is it okay if I call ya tomorrow after work?"
She nodded, her expression shining with pleasure. "I'm on the lunch and early supper shift so I'll get home around seven-thirty. Would eight o' clock work for you?"
"'Course it does." He confirmed, a bit throatily. "Eight it is."
The light in his eyes gave Miaka goose bumps of happiness. She smiled as her arms fell to her sides. "I'll be waiting."
There was nothing more to say. After giving her a final -and markedly possessive- kiss on the lips, Dante quickly turned, flung open the door, and stepped out into the cold mountain air. He paused, not turning around, waiting for her to shut and bolt it behind him, which she reluctantly did. Then she leaned her head against the door, listening to his slowly retreating footsteps until the sound had completely faded away.
He was gone. An ache swelled within her chest as she went back into her living room, which seemed colder and emptier than ever before.
Her gaze fell on the picture of her and Taka, which was out of place, then moved on to the sofa, where Dante had been sitting and dreaming.
His phoenix had been glowing.
She moved on to the table holding two coffee cups, one of which had felt the touch of Dante's lips. then lifted her hand to her mouth, which still tingled from his farewell kiss.
Such a roller coaster of an evening.
Heady. Intense. Confusing. Wonderful.
Bittersweet.
One evening, and she couldn't imagine living out a life without him in it.
To her right, Mizu was stirring in a chair.
The cat stretched, then sat up with an inquiring meow, for his mistress seemed to be frozen in place, her expression now hovering somewhere between agony and ecstasy.
"I'm in love with Dante, Mizu." She announced.
And then burst into tears.
Once he was on the road, Dante discovered that he was too keyed up to go straight home.
His mind was buzzing, constantly replaying everything that had happened on the date, everything that Miaka had said and everything she had done, until he was ready to scream with the sheer bliss and frustration of it all. Bliss, because she had made it very clear tonight that she harbored tender feelings for him that went way beyond physical attraction. Frustration, because there were two major things that kept him from going all out to win her; the fact that he hadn't set Miaka straight about his job for one, and that she was still seeing Sukinami, for another. He had to hold back until those things were resolved, but damn if it wasn't eating away at his gut to do so.
By nature, he wasn't a patient person. He had been able to learn patience for things related to his job, but when it came to women, it had never been an issue, mainly because he hadn't cared enough to worry about any of his relationships. The woman had done all the pursuing, and he had merely sat back and reaped the benefits.
That would never, ever happen with Miaka.
It had been sheer hell for him to even walk away from her door knowing that she was still standing on the other side of it. After tonight, after what she had said to him -and how she had said it- he wanted her so badly it had physically hurt him inside. He had her trust, though, and he cared too deeply about that and what she thought of him to try to manipulate her with sex. When she decided to leave Sukinami and come to him, he wanted it to be of her own accord, otherwise he'd always have doubts regarding the reason why she was with him. Sex was good, sex was important, but trust counted more than sex in a long term relationship.
Sukinami had been her first lover. He couldn't underestimate the power of that shared history. Or feelings of loyalty and duty... something Miaka held in spades for the man, for good reason.
For now, it would be enough to know that he had a fighting chance of winning her heart, and of earning that same kind of trust and loyalty. It wasn't out of line to think that, because having him around made Miaka happy- she had said so herself! Hearing those words had meant the world to him, and he'd do anything to put that same glow in her eyes every time they were together!
He would show her what love meant and make her love him, using every weapon he had in his arsenal. As he had told her in the park, they were meant to find each other and to be together.
He had to be patient. He had to keep believing that things would work out for the best. And he had to try not to act like a horny, sex-starved dog in the process of being patient and optimistic.
A fanged grin born of irony parted Dante's lips. Never, not even in his randy academy days, had he ever gotten so worked up over a woman. The feelings he had then weren't even pale imitations of what he was experiencing. The term 'passion' was weak. It didn't come close to defining what he felt for Miaka.
Explosive. Insatiable. All-consuming.
Those were more like it.
Adrenaline was powering through his body, filling him to the point where he felt he was going to jump right out of his skin.
He needed to break free from the confines of his vehicle, needed to find a way to rid himself of this pent-up excess energy- and the sooner, the better.
Glancing around for ideas, Dante smiled as he spotted a sign for a popular all-night supermarket.
It was the perfect solution: he could pick up some groceries for the weekend, work off the crackling energy within him, and get control of his burgeoning emotions in one fell swoop.
Due to the lateness of the hour, there were only a handful of vehicles in the market's vast parking lot. Dante swung the Jeep into a spot right across from the exit. A minute later, he was walking through the open air entry and into the store. Snagging a waiting cart with one hand, he cruised over to the produce section. Large pallets full of crates were stacked here and there, and a couple of stock boys were busily prying them open and dispersing their contents onto several displays. Dante hesitated, then pushed his cart over to a huge table holding bins of different varieties of grapes. Grapes were always a safe choice; they were easy to serve, kept well, and he didn't know of anyone who didn't like them. He bagged up a generous amount of the green and purple kinds, placed them in his cart, and was about to head for the cantaloupe bin when a sweet, pungent aroma halted him in his tracks.
Peaches! Dante's mouth watered; one of the workers had just opened a fresh crate, and their scent was filling the air, bringing thoughts of home along with it. He turned and made a beeline for the display. As he drew closer, he was a little disappointed to see they weren't Georgia grown, but brightened again when he saw the Colorado seal. Colorado grown peaches were almost as good as his home state's-not that he would ever admit that to his mother.
He picked up a peach and eyed it, noting with pleasure that it was in almost perfect condition, rosy and plump. An erotic image of Miaka biting into the succulent fruit and slowly licking the juice from her lips rose in his mind, and he instantly decided that he'd buy a dozen. Grinning wickedly, he bagged up his loot and then headed back to the cantaloupes. They were piled high, and obviously fresh. He tested a melon for ripeness, discarded it, and then reached out for another. As he picked it up, a grey-haired top knot and a pair of droopy lidded, beady eyes were revealed.
Dante choked on an indrawn breath and took a involuntary step back, almost dropping the melon he held in the process. "What the-"
An unforgettable cackle filled his ears, and he stared in stunned surprise at the diminutive old lady now walking around the pile of produce to confront him.
"It seems we meet again, Officer Dante Tager."
"What are you doing here, Grandma?" The question sounded rude, but he couldn't help it; seeing that prune-like face gave him the willies. "I mean, at this late hour." He amended quickly.
"Shopping, the same as you." She retorted. "I like to avoid the daytime crowds; for some reason, people have a tendency to step on me."
She eyed him as if daring him to laugh, but Dante wasn't in a laughing mood.
"Would ya like some help?" Though he made the offer reluctantly, it was sincere. She looked fragile, and very old, and fragile old ladies deserved courtesy. "You can put your stuff in my cart, an' I'll get things off the shelves for ya, if ya want."
The wrinkled face twisted into what he supposed was an approving smile. "Thank you, I'd appreciate that. My needs are few, just a couple things from the deli." She pointed at a cantaloupe. "And if you're intending to buy one of these, that's the one you want."
She seemed so certain that Dante automatically put down the melon he was holding and picked up the one she had indicated. "Thanks."
"You are welcome."
They moved off together in the direction of the deli.
"So, considerin' we're shopping together, how about givin' me your name? I can't keep callin' ya Grandma all th' time," Dante said, as they approached a refrigerated unit containing snack trays, salads and pre-made lunches. He reached for an oblong, cellophane wrapped package, and offered it to the old woman with an innocent smile. "Sandwich?"
His companion frowned at him for a moment, then abruptly relaxed her facial muscles. "No thank you. I don't care for those."
"Well I do." Dante said, as he added the smoked turkey and cheese sub to his cart. "So how about it, Grandma? What's your name?"
"I have been known by many names, but you may address me as Taiitsukun."
"Is that your first name, or your surname?"
"Yes."
He glared at her in exasperation. "What do ya mean, 'yes'! It can't be both!"
The hag smirked. "It is both- and could you please get that package of stir-fry vegetables and a bottle of duck sauce for me?"
She pointed at the highest shelf, which was obviously out of her reach.
Dante rolled his eyes at the change of subject, but did as she asked.
"Have it your way!" He grumbled. "At least it's a name."
Several minutes later Dante finished his shopping by adding eggs, juice, milk, vegetables, and tuna-flavored kitty munchies to his cart, plus a wide variety of snack items, several of which came from the specialty food section. He'd eaten Yan Yan and Pocky at Craig's plenty of times and liked them. He figured Miaka might appreciate a treat from her homeland as well.
"Things must be going very well with you and Miaka Yuuki," Taiitsukun observed, while he put the containers in the cart.
Dante gave a start. The small talk between him and the old lady had been superficial up until this point, and he had been content to leave it that way. "Why do ya say that?"
"You're buying good, healthy food as well as some of her favorite snacks." Was the snappy reply. "You're obviously planning to have her over to your place for an extended stay, and she's accepted. This means things are going well."
Dante glanced down at the carton of Pocky in his hand, and then shrugged. "Yeah, okay. So you can read a shopping cart." His gaze shifted from his groceries to Taiitsukun and narrowed. "Ya know, if you're gonna keep makin' these personal observations about me, I think I have th' right to ask who you are and how you know Miaka!"
"We met when she was fifteen, and a visitor to my country." Taiitsukun replied promptly. "You could say that I had the role of her teacher while she was there." She paused, waiting for another question.
Dante's mouth was hanging open in surprise.
"She's come a very long way since then." The old woman continued in brisk tones, when he continued to stare at her. "I was actually quite pleased to see her with you today. Despite a wonderful start to their courtship, it turns out that Taka is not right for her. He's talented, accomplished and a very good man, but he's forgotten his first duty is to her."
"He's not always a very good man." Dante muttered with resentment. "Trust me, I know."
"Do you?" Taiitsukun challenged, giving him a look that made him want to back up a step.
He thought he did. But for some reason, now he wasn't so sure. "Uh...well...it's kind of complicated..."
"I think not!" She said sternly. "Do not let your personal animosity and jealousy lead you to making false judgements! Taka is a good man! It's vital that you don't jump to conclusions about him- if you do, Miaka could end up being badly hurt!"
A chill went down Dante's spine. "What do ya mean? Is she in some kind of trouble?"
"Not yet." The old lady replied cryptically. "Now that you're in the picture, chances are much better that she will be fine. But she's going to need both you and Taka at her side to serve and protect her in times to come."
Dante was getting angry, and the increased volume of his voice showed it. "What th' hell does that mean? Are you suggestin' there could be some kind of freaky ménage a trois goin' on here? Well forget that! Once I make Miaka mine, I won't be sharin' her with-"
"It's not that!" Taiitsukun snapped. "Honestly, you're just like Tasuki after all! Losing your temper, mind in the gutter, shooting your mouth off without knowing any of the facts-"
The name electrified Dante, and he interrupted. "Tasuki! You know Tasuki?"
For the first time, Taiitsukun's fixed stare seemed to waver. "Yes, I knew him. Quite well, in fact."
"Knew?"
The old woman hesitated, appearing to choose her words carefully. "The Tasuki that I knew… is gone."
Well, that settled that, Dante thought. Strange how the news made him feel sad and edgy, rather than relieved.
"Did…Miaka care about him a lot?" He blurted, unable to stop himself from asking.
Beady eyes regarded him with disconcerting shrewdness. "She loved him. Are you bothered by that?"
Dante turned away, feigning interest in a shelf laden with Japanese food products. "If the guy's dead, then there's no reason for me to be jealous of him, is there?" I can't believe I just answered that question! Just who th' hell does she think she is, anyway, to butt into our business like this? She's just a dotty old coot, and I think it's high time I got my ass outta here!
Apparently, Taiitsukun was of like mind.
"I've said enough for one day." She announced, while flipping the ends of her shawl over her slight shoulders. "Let's go to the check out."
To be continued!
Reviewers of this chapter will have their choice of a Taiitsukun approved cantaloupe or a slice of Ma Tager's Peach Pie!