Note from the Author:

I'm so sorry for the delay. March and April were INCREDIBLY busy for my family and me. I've decided to update with TWO CHAPTERS, so make sure you read both this chapter and then Chapter Five. Thank you so much for your patience.

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It All Started with a Rose

Written by Princess Kayla

Inspired by Naoko Takeuchi's "Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon"

Chapter Four

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AUGUST - YEAR 3

As we followed behind Mrs. Tsukino and her stroller, I wished she would slow down a bit. Hand in hand like usual, Usagi and I were walking home from our last day of school before summer break. I couldn't help but be a little sad, knowing it would be a little over a month before we shared another walk to school. Even if we didn't get to see each other like normal, I was hoping that we could spend time together.

"Goodness, this heat is yucky," Mrs. Tsukino commented, "I can't wait to leave for the lake next week."

Uncontrollably, I stopped, causing Usagi to stop as well. "Mamo?" she said my name with concern.

"Are you going away?" I asked.

Usagi nodded as her mom answered, "Every summer break we go stay at Lake Nikko."

"That sounds like fun," I forced a smile, "How long will you be gone?"

"We get to stay for the month," she replied with a grin.

"Oh," I tried my best to not appear disappointed, but needless to say, I was. Since moving to Juuban, I hadn't done my best at making friends. I know it was my fault; I had become too dependent on my family's friendship with the Tsukino's. My parents had bonded with Mr. and Mrs. Tsukino, and we all enjoyed each other's company.

"We go every summer," Usagi added happily, "It's so pretty!" Giving her a smile, I began walking again. She swung our hands back and forth, "Your family should come too, Mamo!"

"That would be fun," I admitted, "But I think a trip like that would be hard on my dad right now."

She frowned, "I didn't think about that."

"Maybe someday, though," I tried to cheer her up.

"Yes, someday," she agreed upliftingly.

As we came to my house, Usagi gave me a hug with the promise of seeing each other soon. However, as I watched her disappear down the street, I just knew 'soon' wasn't going to come fast enough.

. . . . .

My mom singing woke me from my slumber. Blinking away my sleep, I opened my eyes to see her standing next to my bed, a tray of pancakes in her hands. "Happy birthday, Mamoru!" she exclaimed. As I sat up in my bed, she placed the tray of food next to me; it both looked and smelt amazing. "Here's a hearty breakfast for my handsome nine year old." Lovingly, she kissed my forehead.

"Nine?!" My dad wheeled himself into my room. With a huge grin, he exclaimed with a teasing disbelief, "There's no way my boy is already nine! It just can't be!" I laughed at his silliness.

Unexpectedly, the doorbell rang. "It's so early. Who could that be?" my mom wondered aloud. She pointed to my food as she went to answer the door, "Eat up before it gets cold."

"Or before I eat it," my dad joked as he playfully reached for my food.

"Dad!" I pulled the tray away as we both laughed.

"Mamoru!" my mom called from the front door, "There is someone here to see you!" My dad and I exchanged curious glances. Setting my breakfast aside, I went to the door.

At the sight of Usagi and Mrs. Tsukino waiting at the door, I hurried to them. "Hi!" I greeted with surprise, "I thought you had left."

"Hello there," my dad said as he joined us, "Would you like to come in for some breakfast?"

Mrs. Tsukino shook her head. "No thank you. My husband is waiting in the car. We are leaving for our trip now, but we had to make a stop first. Right, Usagi?" her mom explained. She gently pushed her hesitant daughter forward.

With a shy expression, Usagi stepped forward and revealed a card from behind her back. Apprehensively, she handed it to me, "Happy birthday, Mamo!"

I took the card and immediately realized that she had made it herself. On the front, scribbled in crayon were the words 'Happy Birthday Mamo!' and inside, was a stick figure drawing of a boy and girl, holding hands. Written next to the boy was 'Mamo' and next to the girl was 'Usagi.' Then, in every different color were the words 'Best Friends Forever!'

Looking up, I gave her a thankful smile, "Thank you; I love it."

"Really?" her face brightened.

"Yes," I replied, "It's so good." She was obviously relieved. "How did you know it was my birthday?" I questioned.

"After Usagi's birthday, she asked your mother," Mrs. Tsukino explained.

"Thank you," I said again.

Mrs. Tsukino patted Usagi's head, "We need to get going. Say goodbye."

Usagi gave me a hug, "I'll miss you."

"I'll miss you too," I said honestly.

"We will see you in a few weeks," her mom stated, "We will have to get together when we get back."

"That sounds great," my mom agreed.

Mrs. Tsukino took Usagi's hand, "Come on now, Usagi." My mom opened the door for them.

"Bye, bye, Mamo," she waved as they walked down our path to the \ car. I waved until it drove away.

"They are such a sweet family," my mom commented.

"Yes, they are. We are lucky to have them in our lives," my dad agreed. "Mamoru," I turned to him and noted his serious expression as he continued, "That little girl is something special. She doesn't have an older brother looking out for her, so you make sure to take care of her, okay?"

He didn't know that I had already made that promise to myself, but his request made that vow even stronger. Holding the card tighter, I gave him a determined nod.

"Okay, men," my mom said jokingly, "let's get back to the big birthday breakfast!"

"Yum," my dad licked his lips, "I can't wait to eat it all up!" He spun around in his chair and hurried down the hall.

"No, you don't! I ran past him to my room and blocked him from my food.

He crossed his arms, "Now, son, that is no way to treat your father." I just laughed and took a huge bite of pancake.

"You are both so silly!" My mom sat down on my bed and extended an envelope to me. "This is one of your birthday presents, but it's also a gift for us as a family," she stated.

Opening, the envelope, I pulled out three barcode key chains with "Kenko Center" written on it. "What are these?" I questioned.

"These key chains work as membership cards to the Kenko Center; it's an indoor swimming facility," my mom explained, "You've mentioned several times that you want to become a better swimmer." She presented a pamphlet and opened it to show me what the swimming pool looked like. "You and I can take swimming lessons here, while," she turned the page to show a man in some sort of lift, "your dad can use the swimming pool here."

I turned to my dad, "You can swim?"

He touched his knees, "I can't use my legs, but this health center can help me to swim without them."

"And that exercise will really help him," my mom added. Lovingly, she took his hand, "I think this will be fun for all of us."

Honestly, after the car accident, I thought my dad and I would never be able to do any sport together again. However, seeing that my dad and I could swim together brought joyful excitement to our future.

"I love this idea," I hugged them both.

"Wonderful!" my mom exclaimed, "We can start going any time."

"Today?!" I asked enthusiastically, causing them both to chuckle. I didn't know then, but swimming would effect my life in unexpected ways.

. . . . .

DECEMBER - YEAR 3

A shiver came through Usagi's hand, into mine, up my arm and down my spine. As I shook the chill off, I let out a breath, creating a small cloud of steam into the air. Glancing at Usagi's bundled up little body, I frowned, "It's gotten really cold."

She nodded into the scarf that was wrapped up above her nose. "I hate winter," she murmured against the cloth.

"Me too," I mumbled. I truly did hate winter, with all of its ice and snow. Another shiver ran down my spine at the thought of ice and the remembrance of the car accident. We were approaching a year since it happened, and even though I was healed from the physical impact of the crash, the impact it had on my family was still evident.

"I'm sorry," Mrs. Tsukino apologized, "If your dad didn't have the car with him at work, I would have picked you all up." She wore a shawl around her body, covering Shingo, who was strapped to her chest in a carrier. Even though we were all cold, I could hear his soft baby coos as he was snuggled all cozy up against her.

"When will it get warm again?" Usagi complained.

Mrs. Tsukino sighed, "Winter has just started, it will be quite awhile."

This reply brought an irritated groan from behind Usagi's scarf. "I miss summer and picnics and swimming and..."

An idea sparked in my mind. "You can come swimming with me," I stated. Usagi stopped walking and looked at me; confusion was clear in her eyes. "Remember that I take swim lessons?" I asked, and she nodded 'yes' in reply. "We swim indoors, and the pool is heated," I explained, "You can come."

"Mamoru, that is very sweet, but we don't have a membership," Mrs. Tsukino said.

"I can bring a friend," I continued, "We are going this afternoon. Usagi can come too."

Usagi gave a little hop, her hair buns resembling bunny ears for a moment. "I want to go!" she exclaimed, "Please, Momma!" I smiled at her excitement.

"Let's see what Mamoru's parents say when we get to his house," she said before actually giving her consent.

Usagi grabbed my hand tighter, "Let's hurry, Mamo!" I laughed as she pulled me ahead, barely hearing her mother telling us to slow down.

. . . . .

Pulling me ahead again, we approached the edge. The smell of chlorine was strong as we looked out over the large indoor pool. "Wow!" Usagi commented, "I've never been swimming inside!"

"Let me help my dad first, okay?" Usagi nodded and followed me to the edge of the handicap accessible entrance. There one of the lifeguards helped move my dad from his wheelchair to the swimming pool lift chair. "I'll grab your vest, dad!" I shouted and went to get his swimmers vest from our lounge chair. As I hurried back, I noticed Usagi staring at my dad with a concerned expression.

My dad noticed, too. "Usagi, this is how I can get in the pool," he explained, pointing to the crane connected to the chair, "It lifts me up and then puts me into the water. It's really fun!" He smiled reassuringly, receiving a small, but still uneasy smile. "I bet this nice man would let you try it out," he nudged the lifeguard in the arm.

The lifeguard took note of Usagi's uncertainty, and grinned, "Definitely! Let me get him in the water first." He helped my dad get the vest securely and comfortably snapped around him, and then fastened him into the chair.

"I can help him in the water," I said as I climbed down the ladder into the shallow end of the pool where I could safely rest my feet on the bottom. There I waited as the lifeguard, maneuvered the crane and lowered the lift into the water. Once in, I unfastened him from the chair, and he floated up freely.

"There we go," my dad smiled, "Thank you, Mamoru. The water feels great - so warm." He turned to Usagi, "Do you want to try the chair, Usagi?" Apprehensively, she looked at the chair. "It's okay if you don't want to," my dad reassured.

Suddenly, that recognizable determination straightened her posture, and she looked at the lifeguard. "I want to do it," she said sternly.

The lifeguard stifled a laugh. "Do you need a swim vest?" he asked as he brought the lift chair back to its first position. Pink tinted Usagi's cheeks as she gave a slight nod. "Okay, let me get you one," the lifeguard went to grab one.

"Usagi, can you swim?" my dad asked.

"A little," she shared, "I like it, but I am not that good."

"Well, don't you worry; Mamoru has been doing great with his swimming lessons, so he can help both of us," my dad winked at me.

I came to the edge of the pool, and spoke directly to her, "Yes, don't worry, Usagi. I will be right here." The sweetest smile of appreciation covered her face, and my heart fluttered a bit, causing my cheeks to heat up. It was such a weird feeling, and I couldn't understand it.

"Here we go," the lifeguard returned, taking my attention away from the strange feeling. He helped her put the vest on and got her secured in the chair. "Okay, hold on," he said as he turned the chair on and lifted her in the air. I watched her hands clench on the sides of the seat as he lowered her into the water. As soon as she was in, I swam to her side, unfastened the buckle, and extended my hands to her.

Whatever fears she may have had clearly disappeared as she took my hands and floated forward to me. "Thank you," she said softly.

"Let me know when you are ready to get out," the lifeguard instructed as he put the lift back in its first position.

"We will, thank you," my dad said with gratitude.

"Can you touch the bottom?" I asked Usagi.

She stretched out her legs, pushing against the strength of the vest, "Just my toes." I was able to stand flat footed without any floatation aid. When I first started swimming a couple of months ago, I needed a vest, but I took to my lessons and quickly didn't need it. I felt confident enough to help Usagi, but I was still glad she was wearing a one.

Usagi looked at my dad, and asked meekly, "Mr. Chiba, can I ask you a question?"

A knowing smile came to his lips, "Are you wondering if I can feel the bottom?" Slightly embarrassed, she nodded. He didn't seem to mind her inquiry at all. "I can't feel anything with my feet, and I can't swim with my legs, but I can use my arms," he illustrated as he pushed towards us against the water. "It's strange," he continued, "Even though I can't use my legs, sometimes they still hurt, but getting in the water feels good."

"I'm glad," she said genuinely.

"You're a very sweet girl, Usagi," my dad commented, causing her to blush. He then pointed to the other side of the pool; "I'm going to do some laps now. Take care of her, Mamoru."

"I will," I promised. As he left, I carefully walked her out into the bigger part of the shallow end. I could feel some resistance from her. "Are you okay?"

"It's just...it's a little scary being away from the edge," she admitted.

"Don't worry, Usagi. I will never let anything happen to you," I vowed.

The resistance disappeared, and she floated to me without any hesitation. "I believe you, Mamo," she smiled and held tight to my hands, "Now, spin me!" I laughed and began pulling her around in a circle. Her long blonde hair swirled behind her, and her precious giggle filled the air.

"Do you like it?" I grinned.

"Yes!" she laughed, "It's so much fun! Thank you for letting me come."

"I'm glad you're here," I happily stated. Slowly, I brought us to a stop; I didn't want to spin her so much that she got sick. I glanced over at my dad to make sure he was okay. I noticed a bit of strain on his face, but he still pushed himself forward.

"Mamo," Usagi grabbed my attention, "You're daddy is very strong."

Proudly, I nodded, "Yes, he is. After the car crash, he could have given up, but he didn't. He wants to be here for us."

"He loves you so much," Usagi commented, and I smiled with gratitude.

My dad had been one of the best doctors in Tokyo, but he couldn't work anymore after everything that had happened. However, the resolve he used in his job was now being used to get stronger every day. That strength and determination were traits that I desperately wanted, so I knew that whatever challenges found me, I would strive to overcome them to the best of my ability.

"I can tell you love him, too," Usagi sweetly added.

"Yes," I said, "He's my hero." He really was, and I wanted to make him proud.

. . . . .

That night, I was exhausted. Going to the pool with Usagi was so much fun, but, truthfully, she wasn't a very strong swimmer, and I felt a bit worn out from making sure she was okay the entire time. Once she was comfortable in the pool, she was more fearless than she probably should have been. Where she should have been cautious, she let herself go free, which included running around the side of the pool and almost slipping. Usagi sometimes needed eyes on her more than she knew.

Of course, I didn't mind watching over her. Knowing she was safe made me happy, but goodness, my mind and body were tired today. A lesson learned; I needed to brace myself for Usagi's fearlessness, and needless-to-say, her lack of judgment at times. However, we were kids, so I believed she would someday grow out of that.

Sighing, I put the last of my homework aside and collapsed on my bed. The fluff of the pillows was welcomed, and the comfort induced an uncontrollable yawn.

"My, my, somebody is tired," my dad chuckled as he entered the room. "Little Usagi kept you busy today, didn't she?"

"A lit..." Another yawn came, interrupting my words. "A little."

"You made me proud today," he said, and my sleepy eyes met his. "You are a great leader and protector. Those are important characteristics to have."

"Thank you, dad," I replied softly, "I really want to be like you."

He looked at me with genuine surprise, "How so?"

I sat up. "You are strong and brave. You have never given up," I explained, "I want to grow up and be a man just like you."

With humble appreciation, he placed his hand on my shoulder, "Thank you, Mamoru, but promise me that you won't try to grow up too quickly. Time goes by so fast; make sure you take that time to enjoy the now and just be a kid." He ran his hand through my hair and winked, "A strong and brave kid."

Not only strong and brave, my dad was smart. He was completely right; time went fast and growing up came quickly. Before I knew it, junior high arrived, and the elementary school days with Usagi were things of the past.

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Final Note from the Author:

More to come; as soon as possible. Pardon any grammatical errors and please send me encouraging reviews. - With love, Kayla -