Standard disclaimers applied. See the first chapter for further details.

Author's Note: Sequel to 12 - Caramel. More about Mako & Nephrite. I completely forgot that I still had this fic lying around, so apologize for lack of updates. Thank you all for your continual support.


5- Private Picnic

Words: 404

She had spent the entire day making all his favourite foods. He had wanted more of her cooking and she was set for a challenge. She couldn't find Endy or Kunzite anywhere, so she had to settle with consulting Zoicite and Jadeite, though both generals looked slightly preoccupied when she asked them. Ami-chan was missing as well. Mako couldn't locate the blue-haired senshi either at the library or the computer controls. Rei-chan was supposedly still meditating, while both Minako-chan and Serenity-hime were conspicuously missing. Mako decided that whatever mischief the two blondes were plotting better not involved food in any shape or form.

She received his invitation to accompany him to the palace observatory that afternoon. Packing the last of the dishes into a picnic basket, she changed out of apron into something more comfortable. Grabbing the foodstuff, she made her way over to the lookout point.

He was waiting for her. She took a moment to study the back of his profile without seeing his face. He stood with his back erected, emitting an aura of magnificence. He was an enigma to her, but she was ready to venture into the unknown with him.

"I'm glad that you are here."

"I couldn't refuse."

"What is this?" indicating the basket.

"I brought food. I hope you will like them," she said holding it up for his inspection.

"There will be little doubt about that," he replied taking the basket from her. He stood close, invading her personal space with his scent. Musky and overpowering ...

"Why did you ask me to come?"

"Because, I wanted to taste your cooking."

"You could do that in the kitchen."

"Yes, but I find that having a picnic in our own little sanctuary will be more comfortable."

"Ours?"

"Yes," he confessed boldly. He stood closer to her, until their chests were only millimeters apart.

"Is that the only reason?" She stepped closer, the smell of freshly baked goods invaded his nostrils, but he was more distracted by her slightly-parted lips.

"I find you intriguing, Lady Jupiter."

"Really?"

"Yes, but it is also intriguing to know that you have been inquiring about my favourite foods."

"They say in Venus that the best way to a man's heart is through his stomach."

"Venusians are always too roundabout for my taste. All you had to do was asked, and I would have gladly showed you all the different ways to my heart."