Rakurai desu.

Disclaimer:

I wish I own Sailor Moon.

『Artwork Cover』 belongs to TASUKU （タスクさん）on Twitter tasukurukuru_

『Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon （美少女戦士セーラームーン）』belongs to Naoko Takeuchi.

『Story's idea』 belongs to bravd's 『Christmas story: Facing Love』

This story is based on bravd's Christmas story: Facing Love. The original idea is theirs but I've re-written it into my own plot.

The bar where they chose to meet was one of the best Bourbon places in town, according to the girl she had flirted with. She told Haruka it was going to be a mildly noisy bar. However, standing in front of a place that was littered with drunk couples making out, she began to wonder what the brunette's true motive was.

Haruka shook her head. This was not the time to be thinking about such things. She was here, instead, to put an end to this stupid fling. Stepping inside, Haruka was more irritated than ever to find it was more a full-blast nightclub than a bar. Normally, she wouldn't mind the noise. She was a famous racer, after all. She was used to loud noises. Nonetheless, she felt there was a time and place for these kinds of things. Being on Christmas vacation like she was now, she found a peaceful atmosphere most welcoming.

Crunching her face, she went over her instruction to the girl. She had stated clearly that she wanted a quiet night out, just drinking and talking. Nothing else. In spite of her request, she had deliberately chosen a place like this…

There went one thing she'd actually liked about the brunette.

Weaving her way through the wild, dancing crowds, Haruka found the girl drinking happily away at the bar. The brunette noticed her and waved her hand fervently at her. Now closer to the girl, Haruka finally took notice of her attire. Vulgar was putting it lightly. The brunette was wearing a silky silver satin dress with a really, really low cut on the front and the back; the end reaching just above her thighs.

Haruka scowled. The image of a seemingly plain, normal girl on that mountain slope shattered. Instead, replaced by this girl who was trying to bend down as much as she could to shove her cleavage into Haruka's vision, without trying to seem crude (and failing miserably in Haruka's opinion).

It went without saying that her appearance had attracted attention and said attention was two guys drinking next to her, ogling her all the while, without any restraints.

"Haruka!" the lack of formality made her cringe. "You're finally here!"

How many shots had this girl taken?

"Come here, let me get you a drink!" the girl dragged her over to the counter, pushing her in between the two guys, and literally scraped her own lewd body against Haruka.

She gritted her teeth at the unwelcomed contact. She hated it when someone other than Michiru touched her. She was made even more uncomfortable by the way the men were staring at her. Thank god she was always seen as a guy. God knew what they would do to her.

"Hey...," the brunette's words were slurred. "You kept me waiting for so long… these men have finally decided to keep me company, you know? How are you going to make up for that, oh great Formula 1 racer, Tenou Haruka-san?"

Her eyes widened. What?

The girl giggled. Her face was the colour of ripe tomatoes. "You think I wouldn't find out? Now that I know who you are, I'm not gonna let you go that easily."

Haruka was getting grossed out, by how this girl was declaring possession over her. By how those men were glaring at her. Although it was true she was probably a guy in their eyes, she still disliked it when men's attention was on her, whether it'd be positive or negative.

"Get off," Haruka growled.

The girl didn't seem to hear her. Whether it was because she couldn't hear it, or she chose to ignore it, the girl didn't show. Because right now, she was intent on jumping Haruka and turning her into her own possession. The brunette gave her a lascivious wink and forcefully pulled her onto the dance floor. Once there, her fingers clawed at Haruka, crushing her bosom against her. To conclude, she was trying so very hard to win Haruka over.

One thing she didn't know in her drunken haze, was that what she was doing was completely counter-effective.

Enough was enough.

Using minimum strength, Haruka easily peeled her off. Even though the girl now disgusted her, she tried to keep her demeanour gentlemanly, but firm.

"I'm sorry but I don't want to see you anymore."

"What? Why?" she dragged her words out. An expression of bafflement settled onto the girl's face. Instantly, she grabbed hold of Haruka's arms, suddenly afraid she might run away. Haruka had lost count of how many times this girl had invaded her space. It was putting her off, but Haruka still tried her best to keep her calm.

"It was just a game, that's all," Haruka explained, while struggling her arm free. "Now, let go."

"No!" the brunette tightened her grip. "If you think that's going to convince me, you're dead wrong!"

"You—!"

"There you are, Haruka."

A melodic, velvety voice sounded from the side. They both turned their heads to find Michiru standing there, smiling mysteriously. Wearing a simple creamy A-line dress that reached just above her knees, a beige winter coat with a small belt of the same colour around her waist, and a Carolina blue scarf to finish the set; she looked majestically out of place in this wild nightclub.

Haruka was a bit dazed by how spectacularly beautiful Michiru appeared—so much that she stopped struggling with the girl in her arms, actually. Took her quite a few minutes to realise she was holding on to the girl's arm, which she was trying to push away moments ago.

She let go, hoping she didn't send across any mixed signal.

That being said, it was impossible not to sweat profusely at the way Michiru's cerulean eyes perceived how vulgar the attire the girl was wearing, then her eyes travelled up and down. Only to finally land on the position they're in: Haruka's arm, squashed between the brunette's generous rack.

"Who are you?" the brunette asked haughtily, not forgetting to add in a hiccup or two. Haruka's face fell even more at that.

"I'm Haruka's partner," Michiru coolly replied. The mysterious smile was evident on her face, yet there was no warmth or friendliness in it. The aura radiating from her at the very moment was deadly chilly. She seemed like a tiger about to pounce on its prey.

"Would you mind letting go?"

It was frightening how Michiru's coolness had such a terrifying effect over people. Haruka could see, no matter how drunk this brunette was, her hands started trembling as she felt the air around her actually drop a few degrees. She should have been used to the coldness by now, considering that she lived on the mountainside, Haruka sarcastically mused.

"Who do you think you are? Coming here telling people what to do!" the girl yelled, though her voice was wavering significantly, and so did her hands.

Taking advantage of her weakened moment, Haruka wriggled her arm out from the girl's grasp.

"Oh? How about you?" Michiru narrowed her eyes, she stepped closer to the girl. "Because I believe you were flirting with my partner."

The brunette shrunk back a few steps. Hiccups still emerged from her throat. Though, something told Haruka it was more from terror than being drunk.

"H-He flirted with me first…"

"And with what proof do you have of that?"

She stammered for a while, searching desperately for a comeback. After a while, realising she was completely outwitted, the brunette turned and fled. Disappearing into the crowd.

Haruka exhaled in relief. She hadn't even realised she was holding her breath the entire time, but she flinched when she found Michiru's had eyes had fallen on her. There was nothing but indifference in them. Her smile was nowhere to be found.

"…Michiru?"

"Let's get back." With that, she turned and left. Haruka stumbled close behind, not knowing what to say precisely.

It was an eerily quiet walk.

Michiru didn't say anything until they reached the frozen fountain, just before the entrance to the shopping centre of town. Then she suddenly stopped, her back turned to Haruka. As she stood, Haruka watched her. Opening her mouth, then closing it, for Haruka absolutely couldn't find the right word to say.

"Looks like you needed the help after all." There was a lightness in Michiru's tone. One that surprised Haruka.

"What?" asked the blonde, a bit stupefied at how composed she was. She quickly regained her coolness, scratching her head and laughing nervously. "Oh, yeah, you're right. Seems like I did need it after all."

"It's a bit strange to find you no longer the flirt you used to be."

Michiru turned around and properly faced her. On her features was the ghost of a smile. Other than that, there was nothing that gave any indication of emotion. Haruka tried to gauge her feelings but to no avail. Whenever Michiru wanted to put on a mask and shut people out, she'd always do so successfully. A bit irked that she couldn't read Michiru the way she used to, Haruka could only stand her ground.

They used to be able to know each other so well. So in sync they were, they would know what the other needed without voicing it out loud. Perhaps, they'd lost that connection during the time they were apart. Had they changed, however? Had Michiru changed? Haruka dreaded the question the moment it popped into her mind. She was all for change, but if changing meant she'd lose Michiru then she'd rather not change at all.

"What do you mean by 'no longer the flirt I used to be'?" her bangs shadowed her eyes as she asked.

"You would have loved it when they're all over you like that." Michiru tilted her head, an expression of amusement nestled near. "You've changed."

"So have you."

"True, it used to be so unbearable when you did those things before." Haruka winced at that. Honestly, she did flirt aimlessly, but she'd never heard Michiru vocalise how she would feel back then. Maybe it was because of their understanding of each other. It made sense. Michiru must have trusted she could figure it out on her own. And figure it out she did. But not as she had been before, instead, as she was now.

"Now, however, it's amusing to watch." Michiru's delicious lips drew into a sweet smirk.

That was all it took for Haruka to know Michiru was actually enjoying this.

Haruka stared dumbfounded at her. Her mouth slightly agape.

"You're… not mad?"

"Why would I be?" Michiru laced her fingers behind her, smiling mischievously.

"Well, I mean, given what's just happened and what you've seen… you have every right to be." Was she seriously asking Michiru to be mad at her? Shouldn't she be glad Michiru wasn't angry at all?

"Haruka, you should know me better than anyone by now." Michiru sauntered towards her, bringing her hand up to cup Haruka's face, she gently admonished. "I hardly get mad over things like that."

"But you do get mad over Hotaru," she chuckled, circling Michiru's waist with her arms, Haruka pulled her in closer.

"And occasionally with Setsuna," Michiru added.

They both broke into laughter then.

Haruka never thought she could laugh so freely like this again. To be rid of burden. To be lighthearted. The constantly thick clutch clogging her chest finally cleared away, leaving her feeling carefree. For the first time in a long while, she felt at ease. Like she had been all those years ago, when they were raising their little family.

After her mirth cleared, she gazed at Michiru. Marvelling at how just being with her was enough to light up her day. All the discomforts that girl had caused Haruka from earlier had utterly dissipated.

"Thank you."

"For what?" Michiru tilted her head, arcing her brow.

"For being you."

And there was no denying that. Michiru was everything she could have ever hoped to have. There was no one who could be as gracious and compassionate as she was. Haruka had been with plenty of women, but none of them could compare to Michiru. To Haruka, she was unique. And she was hers. All hers. Haruka tightened her embrace as possessiveness stole over her thoughts.

Leaning in, she touched Michiru's forehead with hers, relishing the moment.

Michiru seemed to realise her intention and squeezed back. Closing her eyes, she let the moment continued on as long as it could.

The first snow began to fell, interrupting their perfect moment.

"Snow?"

"About time," Haruka mused. "Let's go back."

Taking Michiru's hand, she held on without letting go the whole walk back.

"We're back," Haruka called as she closed the door.

The first to welcome them back was Usagi, as she hurried from the living room. She staggered a bit when she saw them both home. A broad grin was plastered onto her face at the sight of their held hands.

"Welcome back," she said. "How was the walk?"

"Walk? What walk?" Haruka asked, bemused at the question.

"Setsuna-san told us you guys were out for a stroll." Rei came out, regarding them with a cocked brow.

"We get it. You couldn't help it. It's been so long after all." Minako poked out from the living room.

"You should come inside and warm yourselves up by the fire," Ami advised.

They all retreated into the living room. Each took their respective seats; The Inners huddled together on the sofa, while the future royals claimed their own couch. Meanwhile, the Outers settled into their own couch, facing the Inners.

The night was soothing as they revisited and relived happier moments from their lives and told stories of their mischievous endeavours. Of when their younger and foolish selves had made fond mistakes that made them laugh when looked back upon. Of future promises which were full of pleasant intuition that brought delighted smiles to their faces.

Makoto then remembered her prepared hot chocolate in the kitchen and asked if they wanted the beverage. They all fancied for it as it was almost Christmas.

Later on, they retired for the night.

Most of them already went upstairs. Right now, it was just Setsuna, Haruka and Michiru preparing to retreat to their rooms. Michiru went on ahead. Before Haruka could follow her, however, Setsuna tugged on her hand.

"I see you two managed to make up."

"Yeah, we did."

"I take it you won't flirt randomly again now that she's back?" crossing her arms, Setsuna eyed her impassively.

"I won't. I'm done with it," Haruka frowned, declaring her intentions.

"You don't sound so sure."

Haruka avoided her scrutinizing gaze, saying nothing.

"She went after you," Setsuna demanded quietly. "It wasn't handled thoroughly?"

"That girl just turned and fled. I don't think anyone's coming back after that." Haruka waved her arm dismissively.

The Senshi of Time hummed thoughtfully, but didn't elaborate on her thoughts.

Haruka gave her a barely contained look of urgency. "Now can I go cuddle with her?"

"Go ahead." With that, Haruka obliged more than willingly. She turned and headed towards the stairs, overly ecstatic. The older senshi shook her head in fond exasperation. She turned out the last lights in the house and went to bed herself.

The last few days of fun for the Senshi were days of relaxation. They had agreed to spend their days in a hot spring nearby before staying home for Christmas. Their necessities were packed and were now on their way to the planned spa.

Upon reaching their destination, the Senshi of Venus was the first to hopped out of the car. Hands on her hips, chest puffed out in determination, she declared. "There's bound to be handsome men in this hot spring!" she drew in a breath. "I'm sure of it!"

Sweats dropped all around.

"Minako-chan… I'm sure there's none, since this is a mountain after all," Makoto explained.

"Mako-chan! Are you not aware this is a tourist attraction?! I'm not leaving until I actually have someone to kiss under the mistletoe!"

"I'm sure you will," Ami encouraged. "There's Rei-chan after all."

The mentioned miko choked on air. "What?"

They looked at each other then at Ami.

"That's a good one, Ami-chan," Minako mock laughed, trying to thin the strange air between them.

"Yeah, there's no way I would kiss Minako-chan," Rei laughed along with her.

At this point, everyone was sharing looks between themselves and the trio. Ami, who was blinking her big blue eyes in confusion, didn't seem to understand their meaning at all.

"Putting that aside, we should go in before the place becomes crowded." Usagi stepped in.

The spa was luxuriously lavish, with bold, modern designs and warm, intangible palette decking all around. The grand hall of the place was breathtaking; an enormous ceiling with intricate Victorian designs overhead, along with the touch of a magnificent chandelier in the middle.

The suites they booked were connected by a single, spacious living room highlighted by a set of white, comfy sofas, with abstract ornaments trimming the rooms. Palatable food and drinks were also arranged on nearby counters. A large glass window, sitting in the living room, overlooked the beautiful, majestic garden below. There were even man-made waterfalls from the sides.

The spa also offered multiple secluded open bath or closed bath; hot springs, massages and saunas, bars, restaurants and a huge public pool.

Everyone settled into their rooms to put their bags away. After that, they decided to head to the hot spring together.

"This is amazing," Rei exhaled as she sunk into the warm waters. "I could really use a soaking every now and then."

"Rei-chan, you sound like an old man," Minako commented. "I heard there's a shared bath in this place. Wanna join, Mako-chan?"

"Err, no thanks. I'm uncomfortable with guys staring at me naked. Or vice versa."

"Oh come on, if we're not bold, there's no one to have fun with during Christmas!" Minako splashed around, fussing like a child.

"Minako-chan, I have no idea why you would want to soak with dudes you're not even acquainted," Haruka remarked, crunching her face in disgust at the idea.

The blonde appeared to be really satisfied with herself as Michiru leaned against her side. The girls shared knowing peeks within themselves at the sight.

"Just because you got some beef against men doesn't mean I am too." Minako poked her. "Besides, we all know you don't like men."

"How many times do I have to tell you that's just nonsense?"

"Right, because you don't like popular men," Hotaru giggled next to Setsuna. The dark green-haired senshi chuckled in agreement at her daughter's mischief.

"I do not!" bellowed Haruka.

"Then explained your irritation with the shared bath idea, please," Rei coaxed, grinning from ear to ear.

The racer was beet red. It could be embarrassment or annoyance or maybe both. Either way, Haruka was cornered. She looked like she could either run or jump them.

"Alright, guys. That's quite enough teasing for our poor Haruka-san," Usagi interceded.

Haruka lowered her head in gratitude.

"It's a shame Mamoru-san couldn't be here," Makoto wondered, changing the subject.

"Well… he is a guy, after all," Ami quipped.

Meanwhile, in the men's bath, Mamoru sneezed. Wondering to himself if he had been staying in the bath for too long.

Silence descended on the group of girls. Occasionally, Rei would sneak a peek at Haruka. Of course, the blonde noticed, but she pretended like she didn't.

Until, after more than ten recurrences, she voiced the fact.

"Uh… is something wrong, Rei-chan?"

"It's nothing. Don't mind me, Haruka-san." The raven-haired girl avoided her and Michiru's scrutinizing gazes.

"That's quite impossible with you peeking at me more than ten times."

"You sure you want to know?"

"By all means."

Whatever was bothering the raven-haired miko seemed to be serious, because she inhaled and exhaled numerous times. Her strange behaviour caught the others' attention too.

"You have really beautiful breasts, Haruka-san," she confessed, eyes closed tight and lips pressed.

Silence again.

The others' faces were priceless. A gape here, an 'O' mouth there. Especially Setsuna, they had never seen her eyes that wide before.

"Doesn't she?" Michiru swooned, a hand on her cheek.

Haruka, however, didn't seem to fare so well. Describing her as a tomato would be an understatement. She swayed slightly, then all of a sudden, her face hit the water. From the sound of the impact, it seemed like that could hurt. A lot.

Michiru and the others were calling her name urgently.

She couldn't answer them even as she tried.

For she knew no more…

Thank you for reading.

Comments reviews are welcomed.