Chapter 6: Again, And Again, And Again...
Monday, bloody Monday! Once again she sat by her desk typing in the computer. More than a hundred times has she looked at Darien in the last thirty seconds, only to find that he was not looking back! Maybe he isn't in love he her anymore. Maybe Peter just gave her some un-updated information. Maybe he had found another woman! Oh God knows! Serena stopped typing and literally slammed her hand against her forehead feeling frustrated, disappointed, and angry with herself. A sign of rage escaped her lips, making both men turn their attention to her.
"You look agitated today, Ms. Tsukino," Mr. Chiba remarked, "Is there anything which I could help with?"
'Yes!' she though in a frenzy, 'Get your play-boy of a grandson to look at me, now and then would be appreciated!' but all she really dared to utter was, "No, sir. I'm just a bit worried about graduation tomorrow, I mean if everything goes right I will officially become a jurist tomorrow, and my books is getting printed, and... I think I have a slight overload!"
"Gee, Serena, calm down," soothed Darien, " Take that over again...in nice complete sentences, so that we can understand."
Serena drew a deep breath to calm her tidal wave of negative emotions, and re-began, "The graduation ceremony is tomorrow...and I think I'm almost tense..."
"Lovely, my dear!" exclaimed Mr. Chiba, "We are invited to come, aren't we? At what time is it?"
"You're most welcome to come," Serena answered, "It starts at three o'clock, and I was meaning to ask you for permission to not come to work tomorrow."
"Of course-"
"...And what about that printed book?" Darien asked enthusiastically.
"Oh that isn't so important..." she returned, "It's just a manuscript of a book that I wrote...It's going to be printed, that's all."
"That's all?" Darien practically shouted surprised, "What do u mean that's all, we've got a multitalented genius inside this room that is working on things inferior to her capacity... and all she says is "that's all"! Grandpa, read my thoughts please!"
"Yes, Darien," Mr. Chiba seemed to affirm, "I completely agree with you...in fact Ms. Tsukino I was wondering if you would like to sign the contract the day after tomorrow. We are in need of a lawyer, as Mr. Jenkins has retired five months ago."
"But Mr. Chiba," Serena apprehended, "I'm not even through school, yet!"
"Well, you will be," he said amused, "tomorrow!"
Now, had she just thought "Monday, bloody Monday"? Right now, it's more like Monday, lucky Monday! She had just had a job proposal, one of the world most prosperous banks that's the way to start a career! Her book could possibly become a best seller, and if she made much money on it, she could become a full time writer. And most exciting of all Darien was coming to watch her at the ceremony. Things were actually going her way, after all these years of struggling! She was living in a physical dreamland!
A warm east breeze tickled Serena's face, tempting. She locked her sky blue eyes as she dried her forehead from the crystal sweat drops, feeling Eurus kiss her gentle face. So cool, so refreshing... The breeze breathed slower and slower until it finally died. She bent over a chair again, placing it in its respective place beside another chair, filling a third row. Right behind her was one of her colleagues, forming a forth row of chairs. Today afternoon would be one of the most important, unforgettable days in the whole life! The stage was splendidly decorated with all sorts of wild summer flowers. All her friends would later be sitting in one of these chairs, proud to see her standing up there! And she would be proud to feel that she'd made it, that she had attained her commitments all according to plan.
After having helped her fellow mates with the graduation preparations, she tripped into the university building, up to one of her professor's office. He had told her previously in the morning, her to come up when all the decorating was finished. She had hypothesized what the professor wanted to tell her...Like in most universities someone is a very exceptional. And that special someone would be honored to write a short graduation speech. She was perfectly right! The next one-hour of her last of her day in university was spent in the professor's office typing a speech. She was proud to be the chosen one, and so happy that she didn't mind working an extra hour.
Finally, the sun was slowly moving it's way towards afternoon. From behind the curtain, Serena and some of the colleagues watched the rows of chairs being occupied. At first only a few people arrived, but as the time ticked closer towards three o'clock more and more people pulled in. Some of them, who had arrived minutes before the ceremony started had to stand, she recognized none of the people standing. The bell of a church nearby struck three, and the principal, Mr. Bennett walked half way across the stage to a wooden stand. He set him papers of the stand and began his yearly, extended opening speech.
Soon after, he proceeded with calling the graduates into the stage, shaking their hands (to the boys), or hugging them (to the girls), and finally handing the diploma over. Serena last the last one to enter the stage. As she heard her name she straightened her black mantle, inhaled a deep breath, and confidently walked out to the crowd. Once she had received her diploma she marched to the far right of the row of graduates, and at that very second a sensational feeling of ecstasy, triumph, and self-satisfaction overflowed her heart. All nine of her dearest friends saw her, and she could tell by their smiles that they were all proud of her. Mr. Chiba and Darien, standing in one of the back rows were amazed especially when she was requested to give her speech. Hutaru gazed at her in awe, as she had always been Hutaru's role model. She didn't want this feeling to end, because she wasn't sure if there was any better feeling that this. She wasn't sure if she'd feel like this again in her life. She only wished that her parents and siblings could have been watching her.
The ceremony ended just in time! Once Serena was off the stage and all people were hurrying to the punch tables, her friends surprised her with a huge group hug! They were all complimenting her, and expressing their pride. The most surprising speeches were of Raye and Mina. They had flattered her by telling her how happy they were that she achieved her goal and finished her studies, and that she didn't them as a bad influence. She wasn't too surprised about Mina saying these words, as she had always been emotional, but Raye would have never said something like that to her. Raye and Serena and always had a friendship-bulling relationship, maybe Raye wasn't feeling so well, or perhaps she was just too hyper. She wondered if Raye and sneaked her way to the punch before the ceremony or something.
Finally, she having been released from their suffocation embrace, she grasped for breath. After having returned her normal pulse he looked up to see Mr. Chiba and Darien waiting to congratulate her. Mr. Chiba confidently walked over to her shaking her right hand while giving her a hug resembling partnership and maybe kinship. Darien of the other hand found himself apprehensive about moving towards her; he wasn't very sure what to expect of her. Serena faced his way to find him blushing, with his head overlaying his feet. She took it as a sing that he wasn't interested anymore. He managed to near her and give her a handshake, right now, he really wished he could act like he had done a few months before, but he couldn't. He was afraid he'd hurt her, or let his chance of her loving him slip away. He was trying to be perfect, he encountered himself changing his ways to please her, and he was trying to act nonchalantly but the ball of love inside his heart kept on growing at the speed of light for every second that hid his feelings. Secretly he fancied himself on top of a mountain with her, shouting those three special words. But in reality, he accidentally withdrew his hand sooner than both had expected. Serena was nearly sure that he wasn't after her anymore.
Nonetheless, Serena continued with her happy face. She had better reasons to keep it on, and a phone call to make. Finding so time to escape to the public coin phones, quickly, yet excitedly tipped to the phone hall. Soon she was dialing the number to Seattle, and next thing she knew she heard her mother give a shout of happiness, a shout that she only did when heart could bear more happiness! HerDad then took over the phone, he had a much less hysterical voice, but Serena could just picture his face, even from London. She heard her brother felicitating her in the background, this only made her smile. They talked until the phone had eaten the last value of her ultimate penny. Then she walked back to reencounter her friends.
"So," Serena started, "Who wants to come over today to grab some food?"
"What?" exclaimed Lita surprised, "You are actually going to invite us for dinner at your place?"
"Yes!"
"Wow," sighed Amy amazed, "We haven't dinned there as a whole group for four years!"
Mina had noticed her fiancé's friend's longing look. She knew they were all invited, and "they" meaning all eight of them, but she wanted HIM to come along too, which was mainly why she ventured to ask "Who exactly was invited" placing herself beside Darien.
"Well, as normal..." Serena answered dully, "Lita, Nick, Raye, Amy, Simon, Joakim, Mario, and you..." there was a bit of a silence when the finally understood what Mina meant. Should she invite him? Let's call the congress on! 'I say she shouldn't because he's already caused enough damage,' protested he rational depute. 'I recommend she should to see his reaction, because if he does say no then it's obvious he's dating someone else, but if accepts-' he spokesman from the emotional side attempted. 'That doesn't mean anything, because he can simply not have a date with the other one today...' the mind interrupted. 'We should do it for Mina's and Mario's sake...remember Darien is Mario's college friend!' now that one was a winner. 'You've got a point,' end of the debate... three to one for the emotional depute!
"You're invited too," Serena stated looking at Darien.
Wow! He had gone from coffee to a whole dinner, skipping lunch, just by acting aloof! If he kept this mask just a little longer he'd have her, and then he'd tell her everything that has been on his heart for all this time. He had figured out how to impress his lover, or so he thought... "I'm honored to come," he answered hiding all his want to just squeeze her in between his arms and passionately kiss her.
"Great then," she concluded excitedly, "We'll all meet at six o'clock!"
Serena was just starting to cook her special Chinese chicken curry, when the heard her bell ring. Last time she checked the clock showed a few minutes before five p.m., a bit early for any of her guests to be arriving. But she still walked over to the door, and opened it. The stood Darien a little uncertain of what he'd expect, with a tiny wrapped box. Serena motioned him to step inside, as he stretched his presents towards her.
"I didn't tell anyone to bring presents, you know," she observed.
"Well," he noted, "It's your graduation day...and your birthday is just a week away, so I might as well give it to you now!"
"How do you know when my B-day is?" she questioned a bit irritated, "I don't recall ever telling you that."
"We know everything there is to know about our employees, Ms. Tsukino," he answered trying to sound like a detective.
"Oh, why did u come so early, anyway?" she went on.
Darien was starting to think that Serena was a question machine! But he answered with a usual friendly tone, "I thought you'd use some help, after all cooking for ten people isn't that easy!"
"Gee, thanks," she, "Ok, then, start laying the table, then put the drinks out, and then u can help me with cooking the rice."
Darien just nodded and went right to work, but Serena was expecting one of his witty, boyish marks. Maybe he had just felt obligated to come to the party since his evening was free today. 'What a tough luck I have, now that I just started to like him...' she thought a bit disappointed. 'Now girl, it's good that you've just started, because you can stop to like him as easily as you started' comforted the mind. 'Like it was easy for me to get her to like him in the first place!' commented the heart, 'But then again, if he couldn't wait so long to conquer your love, then maybe he isn't worth your love,' she heart whispered, hating to admit that she was wrong about Darien. 'Now you're talking my language! See, Serena, we both agree just this one time about Darien. You should forget him,' advised the mind victoriously. Serena gave a deep sigh and walked to the kitchen, where she continued to chop chicken into small pieces. While Darien was looking for the drawer where the plates where, she glanced at him, almost ready to tell him which drawer it was, but just then, he'd found it.
Darien glanced at her triumphantly; he had found the correct plate drawer-after having opened almost all drawers. For the first time since Serena had started to wish him to glance at her, their eyes met. She tried to find out what message they send, those cobalt blue eyes, which drove her crazy with love! Figured, by the way they looked upon her, and by the way, they glittered that he could only be feeling friendship...only friendship. She might not be good at telling emotions by analyzing one's eyes, but it was plain to HER he didn't love her anymore. But who said she loved him the first place? Maybe she was just feeling affability towards him, as she's gotten to know him better.
Darien gazed into her sky-blue eyes. Oh, he was hypnotized; he loved her too much to gaze at them so intensely, without being able to kiss her, or hold her...or do something-anything! 'God help me!' he prayed silently, 'why did you make me fall for her, of all beautiful women on earth? Give me a sign, for Pete's sake!' He felt that her gaze was the gaze she showed to all her friends, why couldn't they gaze at me as much more than friends? 'Calm down, Dare, analyze the situation...You've gone from being the worst enemies to colleagues, to pleasant acquaints, and now you are friends...patience is a virtue my friend, that was his heart speaking...his mind never really interfered with heart's business, but right now he wished it would say something brainier than that of his heart.
The food cooking process passed in relatively total silence with both souls thinking about one another, doubting each other's sentiments. The curry was smelling delicious and the rice was put to cook. Darien sneakily tasted the curry with a little teaspoon; it tasted tantalizing! One more reason to love Serena even more than ever, but of course he kept finding reasons to love her even more than ever every minute of his days! She was driving him towards nuttiness, but she didn't know it yet...not yet, and maybe not ever.
The kitchen clock struck six, just seconds later they heard the bell. Serena ran to answer the door, eager to break their awkward silence. Amy and Zack, the most punctual couple, soon sat on the couch together with Darien, while Serena tipped to the kitchen to finish some last minute cooking, like making the salad. She couldn't help but to overhear a little of her guest's conversation; Darien was asking about the Mizuno clinic, and all of them seemed to be enjoying themselves. Not long after she could hear loud voices coming from downstairs. It could only be Raye, Joakim, Lita, and Nick. She shouted for one of the people in the living room to open the door. Before long, Lita came jumping in the kitchen with a bottle of
champagne in her hands. It was obviously for her, so without asking, Serena received it and put it o the table. Now they were only waiting for Mina and Mario. Being finished with making dinner, she popped into the living room to join all the others. The first thing she noticed what a life-sized firebird, flirting with her Darien! She calmed down, that could only be Raye, dressed in an outrageously short, bright dress. She looked at Joakim, she was practically green of jealousy, it was amazing that he managed to contain his emotions like that! But right now, her major thought was to find something to put Raye back in her place with her rightful man.
"Eek!" she screeched, "Who brought this colossal feathery animal into here? You all know I don't allow animals in this apartment!"
Everyone cracked up, some of them, including Joakim, and Lita, captured her jealousy. Nick finally said, "Don't worry, that's just plain old Raye...!" But that didn't bring her off Darien's lap! So Lita decided to give it another try.
"I feel so sorry for the poor man who marries Raye!" she exclaimed, "He'd have to have about as much patience as Joakim, starting by the way she dresses!"
"But Darien might also bear with me," she hypothesized not noticing Serena's and Joakim's grimaces, "I mean since he has so many gala's to go to."
"Hey that's true," Lita honestly agreed with her husband, "Either Joakim or a celebrity."
Darien was shocked with himself; he had Raye sitting in his lap toying around with his hair. What would Serena think? She'd probably lost all the tiny respect she for him. He wanted to shrug Raye off his lap, and have Serena in her place, but that would be impolite. Instead, he still had that flirtatious woman on top of him. Raye however, was enjoying herself! She was sitting on the world's sexiest man alive, Lita and Amy were probably envying her, her boyfriend was once again showing the face which proved that he loved her, and Serena...what was she doing? She didn't know nor did she care for the instant. For the third time, the bell rang! It was Mina and Mario, evidently.
Mina was completely shocked by Raye's position in the living room! She knew that "that" had a boyfriend, and also how flirtatious "that" was. But what was she doing with her fiancé's college friend? Stealing him from Serena? Didn't she know already? Mina thought that Raye had once, not a long time ago, when they were at the disco, tried to help Serena...but obviously she wrong. Before greeting everyone else she walked over to Raye, and whispered in her ear, "This man belongs to Serena, get off him!" Only then did Raye realize what Serena might be feeling, and quickly hopped off Darien. She had totally forgotten about Serena, how could she be so selfish?
Raye had enough time to walk to Serena and apologize, before dinner was served. Darien was relieved; he looked at Mina with gratitude. Joakim was thinking of was he'd say, when dinner was over and they were back home. But Raye would gaze at him with one of those manipulating, loving gleams, and he'd forget about his anger. The rest of the evening passed pleasantly, with the exception that Serena had purposely placed Darien and herself away from each other. Now she was quite sure that he didn't love her anymore, if really loved her he wouldn't have Raye on his laps so willingly. Darien was a bit disappointed with himself, but he didn't let her sit on his lap...she didn't even ask! How would he have a chance with Serena now? 'Gee, thanks
Raye!' he though, looking at Serena from across the table.
After dinner they reassembled by Serena's Japanese table. Raye, the most curious person of the group found a tiny, wrapped box on top of a bookshelf close to kitchen. 'Interesting, I didn't think Amy and Zack would bring presents! Why didn't they tell me?'
"Hey guys," the shouted excitedly holding the box up, "look at this! Aren't you going to open it, Serena? Or are you afraid it's going to be another one of Amy's band aid boxes...!"
Everyone laughed, and Amy blushed. Then Serena decided to speak, snatching the box from Raye's hands she said, "This is not from Amy, you Pyro, it's from Pi-Darien!" She unwrapped the present to see a dark blue velvet box. The box revealed a necklace, a pair of earrings, and a ring of a silvery metal, with emeralds in the shape of a flower. This must be the most beautiful pieces of jewelry she owned now! How did he know that she liked emeralds? All she could say at the moment was a "thank you", not to mention that she almost threw herself into his arms! Darien welcomed the embrace.
It was Friday already; Serena felt that the week had gone by too quickly! Yet, she was done so much during such a short time. Now she was a business lawyer! Soon she'd be able to get a better apartment, it a nicer part of town! The sun of life was clearly smiling at her. Now she was on her way to Augusta Park, to pick up Hutaru. And the day after was the party! She felt so excited, yet disappointed that she'd find Darien with another woman in his arms.
Hutaru was once again by the main gates; Serena quickly stepped out of the taxi and taking Hutaru's cabin bag, let her in. Once inside, she started to question her niece of the upcoming party, and then Peter. Hutaru told her that, he hadn't even exchanged a word with her over the whole week! Serena understood, it was typical for popular boys; they never dared to talk to a normal girl just o secure their reputation as "cool". Poor Hutaru, why did she have to a crush on him of all boys in that school? Or was it in Peter's blood to be a player? She wouldn't be surprised.
This day the two friends went to watch a movie. They had a fun evening, and both of them managed to forget about their heartthrobs for a while. Half way through the movie Serena had to pay a visit to the bathrooms. When she came out, she noticed Peter. She decided not to talk to him, but he had seen her and was walking towards her. A pretty, blonde girl accompanied him.
"Hey Serena," he greeted, "what's up?"
"Yooo," she answered playfully, "nothing much...just seeing a movie with-"
"Oh," he interrupted in a low voice, and then turning to the blonde he said, "This is Giovanna. Giovanna, this is Ms. Tsukino, one of the CIB business lawyer, and my personal favorite!"
"Nice to meet you," Giovanna tried to be polite, but her snobbish tone destroyed her façade.
"Um, Gio," Peter said, "Could you get us some popcorn before our movie starts..."
"But I thought you didn't like..." Giovanna protested.
"Just go!" he replied irritated, "I want it today, alright! Besides, I have to have a private talk here."
Giovanna left, frowning by the way she'd been treated. What was so private about that stupid lawyer, who looked young enough to be her sister and wore ghetto clothes?
Once she was gone, Peter started to Serena... "Please don't tell Hutaru that you saw me with Giovanna here!"
"Why? Like she'd care..." Serena snapped.
"Maybe she won't care," he said pausing think of what he was going to say, "Just please, I beg you not to tell her! I don't want her to know...I just beg on you!"
"Um, yeah," Serena promised putting a bored tone, "Whatever you say...humph!"
"Thank you, thank you, thank you!" he literally shouted, and then with a lower voice he asked, "Is she coming to the party tomorrow?"
"I wouldn't be surprised if she did," she sustained carelessly. She knew by now that Peter was heads for Hutaru! It was a pity that she'd promised him not to tell anything. But on the other hand, maybe that was a good sign, to not put any fake hope into her niece's heart. She walked back to her movie, and said nothing about her encounter outside the theater.
Finally, the big day had arrived! Both girls had been eager for this day to arrive. Now it was here, and they were beautifully dressed, with their hairs superbly done, on their way to the Chiba Mansion. As they entered the gates, they showed the invitation, and proceeded into the garden, and further into the hall of the house. There, Mr. Chiba, both Mrs. Tenous, and Peter greeted them. Serena spotted Darien blend in the crowd of guests hearty laughing with a redheaded woman. 'So that is her...' Serena thought losing all her hope of him and her. But she almost forgot her heart-wretchedness, when Peter willingly told Hutaru that he would show her around! Hutaru was extremely surprised, while Serena had just another proof for her theory. Right now Hutaru was in a real dream! Lucky for her that she didn't have emotional fights with her heart and mind and because of that she'd get him sometime soon!
When Hutaru and Peter had left the four adults started to move into the crowd of people. Mr. Chiba was busy presenting Serena all of the persons that he stopped to give a quick word with. She seemed to be his pride this evening; at last, she managed to get away from all the presentations, when the orchestra started to play a waltz. She was asked by Mr. Chiba to dance, that she could not refuse. While dancing, Mr. Chiba complemented on how well she danced, etceteras. She also noticed that Darien, on the other side of the huge room was dancing with the redhead, her eyes saddened a little. Mr. Chiba saw this, but didn't bother to ask, as he knew that she wouldn't tell him. But he was worried, what was this problem that she had that never seemed to leave her? He'd ask Darien to ask her for him; it seems that they were close to each other.
Darien and noticed a long, gold curls fly around the upper half of the room. There was his goddess in that beautiful lavender dress floating along the polished floor with his grandfather. He envied his grandfather for a moment. There he was, dancing with Athena, while he was stuck here with Medusa! The waltz ended, and was quickly flowed by a bolero. Darien technically ripped himself out of Beryl's body, and quickly walked in between the confusion of people towards Serena. He wanted to dance with her this dance...no matter what!
After having drawn away from Mr. Chiba, Serena was asked to dance by an extremely fit, blonde man. Since she was at the party to have fun, the accepted to dance with him. Darien saw this, she hadn't noticed him yet, but he'd get her to dance this bolero with him even if it mean splitting Serena and Mr. Diamond in the middle of a dance. Serena stared dreamily at Diamond's green eyes; he was so slick! Slowly she felt two familiar hands encircle her waist, she let go of Diamond, and whispered ecstatically "Darien".
"Yes, it's me," he said under his breath in her ear, feeling his heart race. He had never in his whole life felt his heart race at such speed for a girl, "Care to dance with me?"
"Excuse me," informed Diamond annoyed, "I was dancing with the lady!"
"Yes," Serena spoke inaudibly to Darien, ignoring Diamond's comment. She was racing with bliss, "I want to dance with you Darien, only dance with you..."
Darien smiled at what she'd said, although she had spoken to low for him to hear the last words that followed his name. He felt the delight in her voice, even if it was just a whisper, and as he pulled her closer to him, he felt her heartbeats. Her heart was racing for him! Only in a dream, he'd thought this would happen. Diamond, seeing that both were obviously in love decided not to bother them, although he found it surprising that Darien seemed so into the girl. The couple danced and danced, foxtrots, tarantellas, minuets, and flamencos flew by as the couple danced graciously without intervals. They only stopped when they saw curious glances being thrown at them. Their last dance for the moment was a tango, and they made a rather stylish ending, with Darien's incredible strong left arm supporting Serena's back while she looked as if she had fallen and Darien had just caught her from the fall.
After the dance Darien and had the courage to hold Serena's hand. He didn't understand why she wasn't putting any barriers in between them that night, but he didn't bother to ask! It was going to be a perfect evening! Without thinking he led her to Beryl, he was going to show Serena to her, since she'd been curious about the "Special girl that he was talking about". They walked to the lower half of the room, to meet Beryl. Beryl had clearly seen what happened in the upper part of the room, and noticing that Serena was by far more beautiful than she was, she got extremely resentful for the stupid blonde. And now Darien was leading her blonde to her direction! No! She had to find a way to split them, quickly!
"Beryl," Darien called when they were close enough, "This is Serena! She's one of the CIB lawyers."
"Oh," Beryl answered lowering her long eyelashes, "I'm Beryl, Darien's girlfriend."
Serena's smile faded, so she was that his girlfriend.
"EX-girlfriend," Darien corrected aggravated, "I haven't had a girlfriend since the beginning of April."
"Well," she pointed out, "If you're going to have one now, please don't lower your standards for a commoner like her, the are a lot of aristocrats who are just waiting to fall into your arms."
Serena was shocked, how could such a bitch be saying things like that to her? She was just going to reply the woman, but Darien talked first.
"She might be a commoner, like you say," he started, "But at least she isn't ready to fall into my bed at the first chance! And by falling for Serena, I'll have to say that I've taken my standards to a much higher level! Now if you'd excuse us."
Darien led her out of the crowd, into a little tiny balcony. Both of them leaned against the cement reel.
"I'm sorry," Darien said with his hand brushing away the bangs covering his eyes, "I'm sorry for everything I have said, done, and put you through! Beryl was so eager to meet you; I didn't know that she'd be insolent. She seemed as if she wanted to be your friend and I never though..."
"It's alright," she soothed, "You don't need to apologize in her place. Besides, she didn't manage to hurt me."
"Are you sure," he looked seriously into her eyes.
"Sure," she smiled, and then stopped. Serena heard murmurs coming form the garden downstairs, "Listen!"
There was silence for some seconds, and then the murmur started again. It was getting louder and louder, as if two people were nearing. Darien and Serena both leaned a bit further in the reel to see who they persons were. It was Hutaru and Peter. Right now Hutaru was giggling a little.
"No really," Peter said convincing, "I mean it!"
"Oh come on!" Hutaru exclaimed in disbelief, "Nobody gets scared over a mouse nowadays!"
"You wanna bet?" he asked sneakily.
"Ok, maybe they do," Hutaru gave up.
Silence took over them again. A quarter moon seemed to smile from the heavens and the stars to the blinking encouraging at Peter. Should he tell her now, or not? He stopped abruptly, making Hutaru also cease to walk. Peter let his hand slip around Hutaru's slim frame. She shivered feeling a rush up her spine. Hutaru knew that Peter must be the expert at these things, and that she shouldn't fall too deeply in love with him for on Monday he will not notice her, and act as if they didn't know each other. Peter looked into Hutaru's dark eyes, he could see purple reflecting on them, and he loved those eyes.
"You are so pretty," he sighed catching his breath.
"You make me laugh," she replied seriously.
"I mean it," he emphasized in the most earnest tone, "I think I've had a crush on you for ages!"
"That you only say right now," she cried, "But on Monday you go back to your group and pretend that I don't exist!"
"Yes I've done that," he admitted, "But that was because I was confused, I had just realized I have had a crush on your for ages! And on Friday I stayed after school to find you, I ran all over the school buildings, and you weren't there. I went to the library, were I always see you, and you still weren't there! And instead of watching a film with you, I ended up watching it with Giovanna! Do you think that is fair?"
"I didn't know you were looking for me!" Hutaru spat, "My life isn't just school!"
Peter just noticed that they were having an argument. It was so pointless! He didn't want this; he wanted to love her, not to fight her! Without thinking twice, he pulled her body to him and kissed her lips. Hutaru was totally flabbergasted by his move, she didn't think he would ever do this to her. Oh, it was really true then! He really had a crush of her! 'I am in love with him!' Hutaru thought full of joy.
Peter slowly withdrew from her lips and breathed, "I'll never pretend that I don't know you, trust me!"
"Ok," Hutaru managed blushing.
"You're not really experienced in kissing," he said purely, "But I like it, it feels so special when your lips tremble like that!"
Hutaru blushed again, as Peter grabbed her hand and started jogging, "I'll show you the rose garden!"
Serena and Darien watched the pair run to the rose garden. They looked at each other and smiled.
"Oh, they are such a cute match!" Serena exclaimed with joy.
"Hmmm," Darien sighed, resting his head of his right hand.
"You don't think so?" Serena insisted in disbelief.
"I do think so," Darien stated standing up, "But I believe that we are an even better match, Sere!"
Serena just stood there dumbfounded, what was he saying right now? 'I think he had too much punch!' Serena thought wittily. But deep down she knew he was serious, drop dead serious! She forced herself to think that it was just a joke, but why? She didn't want to put her heart of the line.
Darien placed his hand of her maw, delicately caressing the lower half of her chin with his thumb. And he spoke again, "I love you, Serena, and there is nothing anyone can do to change that! No matter how much you despise, or hate me, I will still love you. And I will be waiting until the day you want to be with me, there is nothing I wouldn't do to be with you, not even eternity is not too long to wait for you."
"Very poetic," Serena commented trying to sound sarcastic.
"You might not believe me, but these are the purest words that my heart had ever allowed me to utter," Darien said, and then he unconsciously hissed, "It's been hell watching you dance with Diamond!"
Serena by instinct hissed back at him, "And you think it hasn't been hell for me to watch you flirt with all the women you meet?"
She had just uttered the magic words. It was clear to him that she was trying to hide her feelings from him, but now she had just said it. Slowly he let his hand trace its way from her throat to her chin. He tenderly lifted her head up to his, as he lowered his own head. She knew what he was in the process of doing, and she had time to give him two cement-hard punches, but she didn't do it. She found herself wanting to be kissed by him. At last, his lips landed on hers, Darien felt the slight quiver in her lips. He could feel that that was her first kiss by her inexperienced ways. Peter was right; it made him feel very distinct, as if he was the only one who truly belonged to her. Seconds later she broke away, drawing steps backwards until she had her back against the wall. Supported by the wall, she managed to overcome the weakness in her knees, and managed to stammer, "That was my first kiss..."
"What?" Darien said feeling frustration enter his body, "Am I not good enough to share it with you?"
Serena didn't bother answering him, she wasn't even sure of what he'd said! She was in a ecstatic shock right now, and all she could really bring herself to do what to let her index finger glide, from right to left along her lips. While Darien leaned against the reel again, with his head resting on his right hand. He had kissed her! He Had Kissed Her! HE HAD KISSED HER! ...That was the only thought that went through her head for a few trices.
Ultimately, when she had calmed down, and a little more control she whispered, "Darien..."
Darien quickly turned his gaze from the cement reel to her. He watched her from the corner of his eyes. Serena didn't wait for him to answer, not that she was waiting for and answer in the first place, but she went on, "Darien, I want you to kiss me again!"
Now that was unexpected! He had been with many girls, and as far as he few, whenever they wanted a kiss they would deviously play with his hair, or shirt... they would do anything but make him such an earnest statement! Serena was, undoubtedly, and enchanting box of surprises that messed around with his feelings like a clown juggling eggs. Many times had she been on the line of dropping those eggs. He took a step towards her, and kissed her again, this time her muscles weren't as tense, giving him the leave to deepen it a little. Moments later, he ended the kiss, butterfly kissing her on the neck.
"I want you to kiss me again, and again, and again," she breathed.
Without wasting any time, Darien obeyed her command, elated to do so. Serena on the other hand, let her body to be embraced by him. And, as she was starting to get the hang of kissing, and letting herself relax. She permitted her hands to slide up his shoulders, then tying themselves around his neck. Then they climbed up his neck, and dove into his gorgeous, thick midnight black hair. Her fingers found it really amusing to toy around with his hair. Long, long after, they both broke away from their kiss grasping for breath. Then Darien dedicated himself to rest butterfly kisses all over her temples, ears, jaw, and neck, while Serena put him through and oral questionnaire.
"If you love me, then why have you been acting so aloof these days?"
Darien leaned his forehead against hers, "Because I thought you liked it, since you suddenly became so much friendlier towards me," he explained and went on... and then he paused and said, "But I'd like us to start something true... I mean we could be at least friends!"
"Yeah, at least friends," Serena emphasized.
"Care for a dance milady?" he asked.
"I'd love to dance!" she nodded.
And so Darien led what he felt was his lady into the ballroom again. Another waltz was playing and they danced it with pleasure. Darien had noticed that Serena had not told him that she loved him, yet. But he understood that she had a bit of a difficulty to put her truest feelings into words, and let her actions be her declaration.
It was quite after breakfast when Serena sat alone in the living room meditating about the day before. She wasn't sure of how to feel, she didn't know if she really was in love with Darien or if it was just some physical attraction. Although she felt a strange feeling in heart that she couldn't really classify. She didn't how he would react next time they met; she didn't want them to start and relationship yet. But she never regretted her sharing her first kiss with Darien. On the other hand, maybe that was just what Darien wanted, to kiss her and now he was moving on to another girl. And again, there was a feeling of anxiety trapping her heart. She found herself fancying their future and how happy they would be together walking in a park, or maybe dining at Mr. Chiba's chateau.
The bell ding-donged. She jumped up in anticipation, it must be Darien! But how would she act? She wasn't sure...Nevertheless she drove herself to the door, and opened it. It wasn't Darien. She felt a bit disappointed, yet relieved. But it was close enough to Darien, for beyond the door stood a miniature of him...Peter. He smiled at her happily. She greeted him gaily.
"So," Serena half joked, "Watcha doin' in this part of town?"
"Um, well Hutaru told me she'd be at your place over the weekend," he explained.
"You came here alone?"
"Oh, no! Darien was just finding a parking place for the car."
"Damn!" Serena swore.
"Why, thought you'd made up and everything was towards flourishing between you two..."
"Well," Serena said, "maybe, but not yet."
"Um, whatever," Peter mused, "you adults are complicated! I just hope Hutaru won't be so obscure as you two are. By the way, where is she?"
"Oh she'll be back soon, she just went to get me so milk," Serena told.
"Oh, what do you think, Serena," Peter asked for advice, "Will Hutaru want to be my girlfriend?"
"I'm pretty sure she'd want to," Serena insured.
"Well, should I ask her to be mine now?" he inquired insecurely.
"Now or never, Honey!" she encouraged, "Wait I hear steps, let me get the door."
Serena opened the door just as Hutaru and Darien set their feet on the top stair. She blushed. Oh, was it so hard, now he seemed like a stranger to her, suddenly. She had to be cheerful, Serena you can pull this one out, come on girl!
"Hi y'all," she choked out as a huge sheet of something covered her vocal organs, making her voice sound much quieter, "Huta-chan,you have someone waiting for you in there!"
"Oh yes, I know," Hutaru informed happily, "and you've got someone waiting for you to tell him to enter out here!" she exclaimed running into the living room.
"Girls," she mumble as Hutaru ran in, and then turning to Darien, laughing nervously she said sweat-dropping, "I have no clue of what to say to you..."
" 'Please come in' would be a nice thing to say right now," he laughed along, "But after that you don't need to say anything more."
"Ok...um, please come in, Darien-chan," she voiced almost sarcastically.
Darien stepped in to find the couple of youngsters have gone to the bedroom, to their private talk. "You'll never change, and I have to get used to your fiendish, sarcasm and cynicism even now?"
"Well, if you hope for the better, then yes," she reported, "Otherwise, it's easy..."
"Serena," Darien stopped her, walking towards her, and then embracing her, a gesture that he would never have done again just a month before, "You don't need to fight me now, remember! We're friends now, if not more then that."
"No we're not more than friends," Serena corrected, she saw Darien's eyes distress a whole lot as the spoke with authority, "at least not yet." Her timbre turned more affectionate as the caressed Darien jowl fondly, "Please understand!" she then begged.
"I don't," Darien admitted, but upon looking at her pleading eyes he added, "But I'll pretend to, until you're ready to want me as I want you."
"Thank you, Dare-chan!" she said cheerfully, "Gotta love you for that!"
Darien laughed, this might be informal, but she had actually said she had to love him! Wow! Things were going well for him, very well indeed! They heard laughs from the other room, and ran to check out was really was happening.
"Oh no, Peter," Hutaru said in between laughs, "This will be the
headlines of the school newspaper, "King Of Cool Enamored With Princess Of Geeks!' that won't be comfortable for your reputation!"
"I don't care about my reputation, Hutaru," Peter snapped seriously, "I want both of us to be happy, and you just have to say one word and both our wishes will come true, Hutaru!" and then he pleaded, "Say you want to be my girlfriend, Huta-chan!"
Hutaru pretended to be thinking about it for a few seconds, and then she threw herself to Peter, with her arms hugging his neck. "Is 'yes' the word you want?"
"Yeah!"
"Fine then," she gave in, "Yes! I want to be yours, forever and ever!"
"It's good that you're not as headstrong as Serena!" Peter laughed, "I feel so sorry for Darien...Can you believe this? She was kissing he yesterday and now she doesn't was to be his girlfriend! I wouldn't be surprised to visit my uncle in a mental hospital in a few weeks..."
"Jesus, you are so mean," Hutaru smiled lightheartedly, "What do you expect? First of all comes her career, once she moves out of this part of town thing will look brighter! On the other hand do you think she would put her feelings at such risk so suddenly for such a playboy like your uncle? Thinking about it I should do like Serena is doing!"
"Oh no, Hutaru, don't you dare!" Peter said a bit afraid.
"Fine, fine," she comforted Peter.
By the door, Serena and Darien started to retreat to the living-room. Now Darien understood why Serena didn't dare to be with him. 'Of course, how can she just suddenly trust a guy like me in just two months?' He understood her reasons better, but he felt a bit disappointed that he had to be such a womanizer. 'I hope she'll trust me enough to be my girlfriend soon! But it's good that she knows and accepts my feelings...I'm an almost happy man.'