Dear Readers,

Can't believe we're FINALLY here! But this will be my last post on this story. Don't fret too much lovely readers. I already have plans for my next projects, and even better still. Another story for next Christmas (possibly, it's so hard to picture Christmas without working on this). So this isn't the last you'll hear from me, the last time you'll see me or the last thing I'll ever write. But this story finally felt nearly done in the last chapter. This was the ending I'd been planning since the very beginning.

Before we get in too deep, I want to thank that lovely reviewer who wrote in so often in Spanish. You're lovely words of encouragement mean more than you know. I couldn't have gotten here without you.

I also want to think anyone else who wrote in (or will in the future), or even if you just read all the way to this chapter… THANK YOU SO MUCH! I hope I can give you all the ending you deserve. As well as the best ending for these guys!

So here we go, readers! The last chapter! Thank you all so much for being with me from the first chapter to now. No matter when it started for you. THANK YOU! ALL of you!

Standard Disclaimers Apply - I don't own Sailor Moon or any of the other trademarked things mentioned. I am merely borrowing all of this stuff for my own plots and schemes. Most will be returned unharmed.

Dedicated to all of those guardian angels hidden out there. Hiding and helping us through these tougher times and moments. So many of them have been there for me in my worst moments and I will never forget them. And several of you made this possible! God bless!

"A Memorable Christmas"

Chapter 26 - The DATE and New Years

…Un-Stirred Kool-Aid…

(Andrew's Perspective)

The Day after Christmas…

Nobody went anywhere or did anything.

Luna and Artemis became cats again... but other than that... nothing else really happened. Besides a bad case of the after-Christmas blahs!

We were all simply too tired, Serena more than anyone else. She slept most of that day and the next to the point that Darien was beyond worried. He was throwing around the word "hospital," and Amy was consulting her mother via cell phone. About extreme cases of exhaustion, and the best ways to treat it. Thankfully the best remedy was lots of sleep, as much as she could get. Even with no trip to the hospital necessary, Ann and Alan felt terrible, like it was their fault and even the tree was trying to use it's protective shields. To amplify the Moonlight and Sunlight to help her heal more rapidly. And that helped, but the tree picked up on another thing that seemed to help Serena heal that much quicker.

Which was that she healed quicker whenever Darien was close. Even more so when he would lay down beside her. So he was camped next to her most of the day and night. Our group of hosts thought he would be bored to death. But I knew better, and what a homebody my best friend is, usually. When I did get up there to check on him and Serena. He had a stack of books on the nightstand to distract him while she slept. Whenever she was awake she had his undivided attention.

So the day after the day after Christmas (the 27th) was a full array "date night." To say thanks to all the unexpected guests before we went home. (Even if we all had to promise to come back for New Year's Eve and sleepover till New Year's Day) So it was a date night for Molly and Melvin, My parents, Rita, and me. Everyone (except Serena and Darien) made sure we had a magical night.

While Lizzie and Garrett were schooling Ann and Alan on how actual dates are supposed to go. Because now that the two of them had agreed to continue living here. Also they had agreed to be more like siblings instead of partners. So with this new boundary line outlined and reinforced. They needed to know a little more about how our social world works. And Lizzie appointed herself as their guide to this tricky view… may very well have scored two new best friends in the process.

Along with her former boyfriend (Conner) who is now just a friend, and may or may not already have an adorable crush on Alan… It isn't creepy or overkill either it was just so cute. I'm just calling it like I see it. Lizzie also had to keep Garrett in check. Who was heavily flirting with Ann the whole session. My little sis is clearly aiming for sainthood in this new year.

Then the next few days were all designated date nights for the other guys. Starting with Amy and Zane's private Concert in the Music room. Happening the same night as Raye and Jaden's night at the Ballet. (That was all the 28th)

(The 29th) Then Mina and Kirk's night at the theater. At the same time, Nate was cooking for Lita… and everyone else in the house apparently. I won't lie, I showed up for that spectacle and was not disappointed. That man can cook and came to impress! I always thought whoever ended up with Lita would be well-fed for life. I never thought she'd meet someone as passionate about food as she is.

But while I was visiting on the day of Nathan's culinary talents being shown…

I had no idea I would be walking into a figurative minefield when I dared walk into the library. But that was where I found myself, the moment I cleared the doorframe. It might as well have been ridden with gaping holes of a ravaged earth. Where some poor souls had made the wrong step. But that was where Darien's mentality was when I found him… The place looked neat as a pin and wasn't really a razed battlefield. It was thankfully all fictional and in Darien's dark little twisted imagination… this time. But here was what my best friend asked me the moment he saw me and we were alone.

"Have you heard about the crazy dates all of the OTHER guys planned?" Darien had asked, with a panicked edge to his voice.

"Yeah sure," I'd shrugged. Complementing, "Sounds like they went all out and it sounds like they all went very well. Even if I am more partial to the plan that fed me too! Like Nate's plan for Lita today. Have you tried this food?" I asked him.

"Yeah, it's great." He bit out, "It could be served in a restaurant! A high-end restaurant and no one would question it!" Even though all of that feedback looks positive on paper. He said it like this was all terrible news. Absolutely horrible, and he was insulted by its quality rather than enjoying it…

That was when Rita and Lizzie found me. Rita said, "Hey you guys, this was all appetizers. He's serving the entrees and sides now. Come on!"

Lizzie added, "While it's hot!"

Then Rita saw Darien and asked, "Whhhhhhhat's wrong with him?"

"I don't know," I shrugged, and lied. Only because I knew when he was this frantic there was no reasoning with him. He needs to freak out a little more before he'll listen. So I took a hold of Rita's waist and started leading her backward. "He's gotta let a little more of whatever that is out... You said this was all teasers and appetizers?"

"Yeah… but shouldn't we help him?" Rita pointed.

"Nuh!" I waved off, before I went on softer. "He'll come to us when he's really ready… Or I'll come back up here and drag him out after his little diva-fit. He's not quite there yet, let's eat."

Lizzie asked, "Are you sure… cause he looks pretty close to me, bro."

"Nuh!" I repeated, "It's when he starts throwing things or threatening to hit me that he'll be ready to listen. In the meantime. Let's go sit with Serena, I bet she's eating."

Before I left the book room Darien had been hiding away in, pretending to read. I called over my shoulder. "We'll be going to dinner now. If it's Serena that has you freaking out like this, you might want to come with us and eat. Talk to her… It might even help you more than talking to us… just an idea."

Then I took Rita on one arm, Lizzie on my other, and escorted them to the dining hall. As expected Serena was already there and she was trying everything. She was even giving us way more detail on all of the other's dates. As always these stories were entertaining and complementary to all people in them. But as I listened, I pinpointed exactly what was eating my friend. In case there had been any doubt before, they were gone now. The guy who still hadn't shown up for this meal… which is his usual 'I-want-to-torture-myself' behavior for him. That he usually saves for exam season and times he's super stressed.

All of these outrageous dates were a lot to compete with. And I believe my best friend was feeling the pressure. So I excused myself and snuck back to see if I could help him… again.

Thankfully, he was threatening bodily harm before I was even in sight. He was ready to listen to me when I returned. I told him honestly, "I can understand how pressured and stressed you must be feeling, right now. I heard about all of the dates the other guys planned and I know you told Serena you would plan everything for your first real date with her."

"I had no idea I would be planning up against them…" Darien said as he visibly sweated, and I tried not to smile as I enjoyed it a little. He went on adding, "Or I would feel this inadequate."

"Inadequate… in DATING?" I asked incredulously. "Please tell me you're joking?"

"Why would I joke about something like that?" Darien asked me, perfectly serious.

"Because I don't know anyone whose been on more dates? Not even Garrett can compete with you." I reasoned before I confided. "If you can't plan something after all of that experience… what kind of chance do the rest of us have?"

"I didn't care about any of those dates like I care about this one!" He practically shouted at me. Then he added in a more hurt tone, "I didn't care about any of those girls… like I care about this one. I feel like I'm completely out of my depth like I'm gonna fail her. And I can't fail her AGAIN!"

Then he added behind his hand, "... I just can't… Not again."

"I know you won't, man," I said slapping him on the back. When I saw no improvement, I tried to lighten him up, "Hey! You're completely overthinking this. If everyone looked at going out with the person they love, the way that you are, right no... No one would ever do it, they'd all buckle under the sheer pressure of it."

"Well, what do you think I should do?" He asked me and I could tell it had been hard for him to ask. His face squinched all up like he was in physical pain.

I had to tease him, "Did it really hurt that much?"

"Yes!" He insisted.

I still helped him, "Serena's not asking for miraculous, she's just looking for a first date. Nothing more, and technically you've already been on several. This is all just a formality." When he still appeared unsure I had to assure him. "Look I figured this was why you were torturing yourself. When I heard Serena speaking about the other girl's dates. But you know the other thing I noticed?"

"What?" He did ask like he was paying attention. Even though he was still covering his face.

"Serena's not expecting phenomenal… what's she's expecting is… you. Okay? You and the fun you've both started to have together. During this season, this Christmas and whole regaining memories… thing. That's what she wants…"

"You think?" He asked me.

"Yes, and right now she's downstairs eating with us and looking a little glum. Because she doesn't even know what's wrong. So why don't we go there, let you eat and before we head home? I can help you plan the perfect simple first date. Okay? Something good, that you guys can proudly share with children and grandchildren someday. Because we all know that's happening!"

"I thought you were helping me not stress, here?" He complained, but followed me regardless and when I re-entered the dinning hall, bestie in tow.

You should have seen the way Serena lit up… The moment she saw him.

I CAN'T be the only one to notice! I can't be!

So I did the best thing I could possibly do for Darien's preconceived notions. I took Rita's hand in mine and pulled her over to Lizzie's table. Where she was talking to Ann and Alan. I let Serena work on him, and watched all of the tension slowly leave his shoulders and face. While she was just herself, and talking about the food probably.

While I was there, I pitched his dilemma to Lizzie's crowd and we made a list of possibilities for Darien to consider when we were planning together after this. The list helped IMMENSELY when Darien met back up with me again too. After eating and chilling out a little. It all went by so quickly after his panic attack.

When it was decided that we were done planning all essentials and I was getting my coat. Darien slapped me on the back and said, "Hey Andrew… thanks for all your help. I know I'll never say it enough but… you're the best."

"I know," I agreed, wrapping my scarf around my neck. "But that, right there, was a start."

We shook hands, and hugged and I wished him luck, while Rita added, "And we want to hear all about it at New Year's, Darien."

Lizzie added, "We need all of the deets! You better not skimp on us either! Love ya!"

I really did hope it went well… for both of them. Even though I knew that I would be in on most of the plot. It's probably a strange thing, for a straight-guy friend to pray for his straight-guy best friend. Asking God to grace Darien with game and good judgment in place of snide humor and insults. But that was what I found myself doing, as I said my prayers that night. "Help him not screw this up, Lord. He needs all the help he can get." Though I also found myself praying for the millionth time. "Thanks Again Lord for bringing Serena in all of our lives. Even if especially for bringing her to Darien. In Jesus' name, Amen."

… Planning a Night to Remember…

(Darien's Perspective)

Now that I had a plan, I was able to relax the rest of the night. I even go to bed, knowing I could possibly sleep, I could rest at ease. After a day and most of a night worrying myself sick, that was amazing. As I was climbing into the bed I had been sharing with Serena since we came to the manor. I asked her. "Hey, do you have any plans for tomorrow?"

"Nope, nothing concrete." She shrugged. "Except hanging around here… like we've been doing. Why?"

"I was just thinking… maybe… we could go on that date I promised you. The date I asked you about on Christmas Day?" I said as we met in the middle of the bed. I got up close to her, face-to-face as she thought about it.

"Did you think I forgot?" She had to ask me, and could feel my answering smile. She assured, "No. Of course, I didn't forget and I would love that."

"Good," I said as I could feel my face impossibly brighten and I kissed her deeply to say goodnight. But instead of 'goodnight,' I said. "Now I can't wait for tomorrow to get here."

"Isn't that usually the case?" She asked me with a smile.

I had to admit, "Not recently, not since my sleeping arrangement started including you."

"What's that supposed to mean?" She asked playfully.

I got right up to her ear and only loud enough for her to hear me. I said, "It means, I'm not as excited for a new day to start so much. When I get to hold you all night long and I have to let go in the morning."

She took my hands as my arms wrapped around her waist. She smiled so contently, "I can't believe we've gotten to be this close either."

I had to agree, "I know, I always saw Andrew like this with Rita. And I just knew I would never find that connection with anyone."

"I know, same." Serena agreed with me. I knew why I thought I could never have that. But I had no idea why Serena had felt that way about herself.

So I asked her, "Why would you never find anything like that? You love everyone so easily."

"Yeah," she shrugged, "But that doesn't mean everyone loves me back so easily. Case and point, you, my dear boyfriend. Who fought with me venomously till our ceasefire."

"I guess that never occurred to me before," I had to give her. I couldn't see how anyone could hate or hurt her on purpose. I couldn't fathom it, even when I was in the worst of fights with her. Even when I had been her enemy and I had been working for Beryl. She could find every kink in that armor, every soft spot, EVERY weakness, and bring me back before I could complete a single battle. I spent more time in that brainwashing coffin thing than anywhere else when I was living in the Nega Verse.

"Well, regardless… I love you-"

"I love you too." She smiled back at me over her shoulder.

"And I can't wait for you to see what I have planned tomorrow," I said excitedly. She smiled so beautifully back at me.

"I can't wait to see either," she revealed before popping up off of her pillow and kissing me right on the mouth effectively ending the conversation. When her head went back downward, to break the kiss off. I just followed her downwards and rolled us never-ending contact. I could feel her giggles echoing down my throat. But I could also feel the way her hands were clinging to my back and shoulders. I knew… neither of us wanted it to end.

So after a light impromptu make out, I breathed, "Goodnight." For real.

And she whispered back "Sweet Dreams." Then she somehow managed to drift off to an easy sleep. I will admit, that I sat there watching her for far longer than I meant to. Savoring every breath she took. Knowing I would soon have to give this up when she went home and so did I. So I made a promise to myself to cherish this while I could, and to always cherish this gorgeous person. To never ever let her feel any less than a Queen from this moment on.

It was then and only then, I was able to sleep myself. Crossing my fingers that I could pull off a first date she deserved. Especially after being so wrong about her for so long… 'Please let me pull this off,' I prayed. Hoping that prayer was heard.

…The Next Morning…

(Serena's Perspective)

When I woke up Darien was already gone, but he'd left a note for me on the nightstand. After I could focus my eyes enough, (it was early and bright in my room). I was finally able to read it.

"Serena," it began.

"You have no idea how hard it was to let go of you and get up early this morning. It was nearly impossible. But if we're really going to have our first best date ever today, I needed to do a few things before that can happen. All I need you to do is be ready at five sharp. I have arranged everything and don't fret over what to wear. You'll be beautiful in anything. Till then."

"-Darien"

Then he added a "P.S." at the bottom that said, "In case there's any doubt, I've left my heart with you. Where it has always belonged and I couldn't love you more. Can't wait to see you."

Even though it was a brief and to-the-point kind of note, it was so sweet. I know I read it over and over again. As I got ready for my day, with our friends. I ate breakfast and lunch surrounded in our friends and teammates. Even though it's only been a few days since Darien's memories have returned. And he was able to fully join our gatherings and meetings… I missed him terribly! I had gotten so used to having him with me, it felt like something was missing all day today.

All of the team noticed (I could see the whispers and nudging each other) and kept trying to keep my mind off of it. By involving me in what they were up to today. Lizzie had been coming every day and helping newly human Ann and Alan adjust a little more and more to life here on Earth. Her work was doing wonders for their confidence. Their overall progress was day and night difference. Which was also great for my peace of mind.

I have no idea how the team pulled off a distraction of this level. But one of the recurring concerns of our whole team (even if our male members were more worried than any of us girls) was confirmed and fully realized today. Since the male members of our team were enemies in this life before they were allies. They have often wondered if Beryl was reborn and freed the way that they were…

But up until today. These thoughts were groundless and baseless…

Then this morning, Jaden and Kirk stepped into a coffee shop downtown and were gifted the shock of their new lives. It turns out Beryl has been freed and reborn the same as them. Her freed human form in this life is a slutty barista working for "Coffee-Nuts" right by the park. Her clothes weren't much different and she wasn't wearing nearly as much makeup. But she was the freed Evil Queen Beryl for sure, and just as disgruntled as any de-throwned Queen with a rent to pay should be.

I realize this is only something a team of superheroes can enjoy between crises. This just happened to find us in those rarely peaceful times. And turned out to be WAY more fun and therapeutic than any of us expected. Especially for our male teammates who had far too much fun giving her the most complicated drink orders imaginable.

For the thousandth time today, I found myself unable to share this news with Darien. And I found myself hoping he wasn't going to too much trouble with whatever he was planning.

Another method of distraction (clearly thought up by Amy and Zane) was showing me all of the good the 'Tree of Life' has been doing in its adjustment to our planet and ecosystems (their word, not mine). Not only has it established a niche for itself, and a seriously sophisticated network. Where it could use the plants, trees and grass to have eyes all over the city in a completely new way. But it also has improved our shielding around the manor to make it a safe haven like no other. Far better than any of us thought possible.

The next villains to dare challenge us, we'll know the moment something's a miss…

And all of us have a feeling… it's not 'if' it's 'when.'

But as the day dragged on and my Prince's note was still burning a hole in my pocket. I started to get anxious and started looking through my closet here at the manor. Thank heavens I have been slowly bringing over things here and there to make it feel a little more. Since it was made for me, and even better still. I had gotten to bring over far more than the rest of my female teammates. Who were all talking about doing the same as we all moved forward.

More than ever, I think this place could eventually be a home for ALL of us. Exactly the way my male teammates have always dreamed. And reformed villains! Even though I think their original plans had only included them as the reformed villains. Including Ann and Alan was their idea, and I think all of them are warming up to that idea a little more each day.

But for now, I was still excited for my family to come home… even though it would be very hard to let go of the home happening here now too. The only first date preparation I've ever had where I had a full audience of both female and male teammates all way too invested in my success… and Darien's.

I ended up going with the shoes picked out by Jaden (they were Pink and cozy for the cold ride out), the dress picked out by Mina (It brought out my eyes and hair color… she was right), earrings picked out by Lita, gloves picked out by Amy. Hair accessories were picked out by Raye, Lizzie helped with my makeup. Rita had helped me pick out the best fancy scarf to wear, to go with my coat. So on sight I looked ready for a date. Ann even helped me with my coat and encouraged, that I "looked beautiful." So nice!

I had to tell her she looked beautiful too. While I was going out on my date with Darien. The others were all taking Ann and Alan out for dinner someplace nice. Now that they were more reliant on food, Nathan and Lita were determined to show them the good stuff. They called it, "developing their pallets." While I just called it, "Friends that were Secretly Chefs."

But everybody kept assuring me, "Don't worry!" "We won't be intruding on your plans." Or "It's not the same place you're going."

Like I cared! I told them, I wasn't some diva who was gonna make a scene if we all ended up at the same place. But something about all of their smiles told me there was something they all knew and I didn't. Darien had even mentioned in his note, "I arranged everything."

Somehow, I think that included our team…

When all of us girls were ready and everyone was getting ready to leave. Kirk came over to me and asked me, "Serena? Why aren't you getting ready too?"

He even pointed at the coat and scarf I had hung over my arm. I explained, "Darien said to be ready at five and it's nowhere near five yet." I shrugged.

Jaden piped in, "Yeah, but by the time we arrive at his location. It will be five."

"Did he ask you guys to take me to him?" I realized.

"Yes, he did," Zane verified, before going on. "He wanted to do it all himself. But we told him we would bring you to the place where he'll be."

Nate stole my scarf before wrapping it around my neck and told me, "Now, bundle up, little moon bunny. We're still gonna be using snowmobiles since not all of the streets have been plowed."

So we rode on the mobiles till we reached the still-closed-down Crown Arcade. The guys parked all of the mobiles in the parking lot there. And we were to go the rest of the way on foot. Which would feel more like a normal day to all of us. We usually went everywhere on foot after all. It had been so weird NOT doing that lately, because of all of the heavy snow. It had simply been too dangerous, even in battles.

But when we walked around to the entrance of the arcade… I noticed all of the Christmas lights were lit inside… and some of the game machines close to the windows looked like they were turned on too. As I mentioned this to my surrounding crowd… I started to notice snickers and scoffs. As we got to the locked-up automatic doors of the Arcade… my gang was knocking and playing around with the door. But I thought they were all kidding. I was shocked to see Andrew squinting through the frosted glass at me.

He pushed open the doors and told them, "Hey! Can't you slackers read the sign? We're closed!"

"Andrew! What are you doing here?" I asked.

"Mom and Dad wanted me to clean up some more after the party. So it's not so much when we open up again." He shrugged, while all of my friends were complimenting his new sign. But I was distracted because I knew Andrew was lying.

When I caught on to the fact everyone wanted me to look at the new sign over the neon 'OPEN' sign. I looked at it and gasped, it was new… but it said, "Closed Today (unless your name is Serena)."

Then he asked me, "The real question here is are any of you, Serena?" Then he singled me out, "You kind of look like Serena, and sound like Serena… but you're so much prettier than normal."

"Thank you," I said while trying not to blush. I did once have a mega-crush on this guy too. With good reason! Rita landed herself a catch.

Then as Rita and I were both brought inside, and all of my other friends were either saying their name was Serena too. Or kidding around openly planning what game's they were gonna play. Andrew shooed them all away and tried to hurriedly lock the doors again. Some other teenage boys had been standing nearby and were also knocking on the doors and hoping to get in. Andrew had to shoo all of them too. "Sorry We're Closed, See Ya Next Year!"

When he was done with all of that… he turned to me and gentlemanly told me I "looked beautiful." Before he asked for my coat and scarf to hang it up for me.

I asked them, "So I take it this is where Darien has been all this time?"

"Yeah," Andrew chuckled good-naturedly. "But is there a more perfect place for your first official and non-Christmas date?" Then he was saying, "Feel free to ignore all of the mistletoe and Christmas trees lit everywhere. New Year's is tomorrow and it's all coming down."

I had to laugh as he was even using my cute little pink coat to obscure my view. "No, it's perfect, you're right." I agreed, "There isn't a better place for a first date. Even if this place usually wasn't quite so private as it is right now."

"But you have to admit, it gives it a little something special doesn't it?" Andrew asked elbowing me. "Huh? Huh?"

"Yes, it is very romantic." I complimented.

He celebrated, with both arms straight up in the air. "YAY! She loves it! I told you, Darien!"

While Rita shushed him and told him, "Alright! That's enough of that, go get your coat so we can join the others and leave them alone."

I did hear Andrew say, "Yes Ma'am." As he was pushed into the back and disappeared from view. I couldn't help but feel like there wasn't a better place on planet Earth for us to be right now.

…I Saw Her Standing There…

(Darien Perspective)

The moment she stepped inside the Crown, I know that she was smiling and talking to everyone. But I swear I couldn't tell you one thing that was said. I was so concentrated on making my soundless approach. On top of that, she looked so beautiful… She was always so beautiful. But today I knew she had dolled herself up special, for me, and I already couldn't stop smiling.

Andrew helped her out of her coat and she spun out of it making her dress' skirt fan out. There's no way anyone could have been more perfect than she was. It was like the whole world had stopped and this was the longest we'd been apart. Since I showed up at her house in the lull of that record-smashing blizzard… Hard to believe that was more than a week ago… nearly two weeks ago.

But the moment Andrew was stepping into the back to stash her coat. I stepped right up behind her and seemingly appeared from nowhere. As I said, "Impressed yet?"

Serena covered her heart and tried to contain her flinch. She was getting used to my stealthy ways. She rolled her eyes and said, "I knew you were gonna do that. And you still made me jump."

That was when I had reached my limit of what I could stand. I pulled her to me and kissed her. Hopefully giving her a peek of just how much I'd missed her since letting her go this morning. But I couldn't tell if I had sent her these emotions correctly while we kissed. Because I was too bombarded with all of her feelings of how much she had missed me. All of the time she'd spent without me this morning. Every glance at an empty chair beside her or the empty bed beside her tugged at my heartstrings. When we parted, I stared into her eyes while my heartbeat resumed its average pace… or close to it.

She thankfully asked, "Did you mean to show me all of that 'missing me' stuff, just now? Or was that just a happy accident?"

"No, I meant for you to see that." I explained. "I know it's pathetically been hours and yet I was nuts the whole time. Till you walked through that door, just now."

"Aww." she said before kissing me again. And Andrew passed loudly saying, "Don't mind me, I'm just grabbing your dinner before I leave the place all to you good buddy... and princess. I have my own wooing to do. And my own lovely lady to spoil tonight."

Serena broke off our kiss to encourage Andy, "Yes, you do! And she deserves it, Andrew. Both of you do!"

"Aww shucks!" Andrew waved off. While I wasn't finished greeting my princess and waved the chatterbox on as he and Rita laughed. Andrew went about his business, humming annoyingly after that, as he walked back into the kitchen. If I'm not totally nuts I think the tune Andrew was humming was "With or Without You." Which he used to swear was the theme of Serena and my relationship long before anything had happened between us.

You see how even now, he pushes his luck?

He's just fortunate, that Serena initiated that next kiss, and made me forget how peeved I was. Swept away in her kiss, I lifted her and carried her over to the spot. Where I had planned to have this date. Serena's usual booth, which was only across the aisle from mine. Because my booth was a window seat and even though the glass was iced over and frosted… I really didn't want to share this moment with anyone. So Serena's booth was just better, and I sat her in the very place I had watched her take up too many days. Never crossing that aisle, even though I had wanted to… badly.

I blocked her in as I sat on the same side and bench as her. But I don't think she minded, as she smiled so sweetly and reminded me, "I could have walked, I don't think we're required to be lip-locked passing under all of that mistletoe anymore. With New Year's nearly here now and Christmas last week."

"Just playing it safe," I reasoned. That was my story I was sticking to it. "You know, while our notorious tally keeper is still here and all. We're gonna have the place all to ourselves, for a little while. But just for tonight and I have to be careful when we leave. I gotta remember to lock up everything the way Andrew told me."

Speak of the devil, and he appears. Andrew showed up already wearing his coat, gloves, hat and scarf. As he placed the steaming pizza boxes in front of us he'd been keeping hot in the back. Saying, "Oh you'll be fine. It won't be the first or last time you locked up for me."

I admitted, "That's true." Before thanking my friend for the thousandth time since last night.

Serena joined in saying, "Yes! Thank you Andrew so much!"

"My pleasure!" He waved off before saying. "I went ahead and turned off everything back there. You kids just have a great time." Then he and Rita both stepped out leaving us locked inside with the place all to ourselves…

As excited as I was to finally have her here and to myself completely… Of course, in true Serena fashion…she was eyeing the pizza boxes Andrew had brought and left for us. Along with plates, napkins, drinks and it did smell fantastic. She went to open the box and was tickled that the box was nearly too hot to touch. She was impressed, saying, "Wow! Those warmers back there is no joke! These pizzas are gonna still be HOT!"

I said hopefully, "Maybe they're a little too hot to eat yet… Maybe we should give them a second to cool off."

"Seriously?" she said before she'd looked me in the eye and caught on to where I was going with this. And adorably said, "Oh!" Before reclaiming my hands in hers. Saying, "I don't know if I'll ever get used to you having ulterior motives all the time."

Before she kissed me again and I nearly forgot what we had been talking about. But when we did part again I told her. "I've always had ulterior motives..." Kissing her in between. "...I was just... way better at keeping them hidden before... I knew what this was like."

"You really did?" she complimented… I think. But then she made me wonder when she added. "I thought you hated me, pitied me and didn't think I had a brain between my ears. Just a plate of spaghetti and meatballs on top."

"Well, I had to get creative and keep my mind busy." I rationalized again. "Otherwise, all of this would have happened a lot sooner than it did." I teased but truly believed.

Then she asked me so wisely, "Then why didn't this happen before now? What held you back before? Was it the vigilante thing? Or was it the age difference? What was it?"

I had to tell her the absolute truth. "I think the main thing that held me back before was Tux. I thought I was endangering everyone I knew, the same way you said you felt after I found out you were Sailor Moon again. It got especially dramatic back then after Rita and Raye's grandfather were both rainbow crystal carriers, if you remember… If you'd gotten hurt because of me… I would have never forgiven myself."

"But then I turned out to be Sailor Moon…" She filled in that blank herself. "And it turns out I'm already in the fight."

"Right," I smiled, "But by the time we shared our identities. I was captured and twisted by Beryl. I didn't get to act on those feelings at all. Not till my memories returned… not till tonight."

Then she did compliment, "You have a gift then… it's kinda dark-humored and not spotless at all… but it's a gift, nonetheless."

"Are you saying it's a little dirty?" I read between the lines. Not able to help the devilish smile the quirked across my face.

She got up on her knees in the bench so she could reach me better and wrap her arms more comfortably around my neck and shoulders. As she claimed, "Well when you kiss me like you just did. Things are bound to get messy from there."

I kissed her again, and let a little more of that wildness out. Her teasing had just brought that out of me, naturally. But when we parted again, I realized that if I wasn't very careful. I would spend this whole time making out with my new girlfriend. And she wouldn't have a single moment to think back on when she looked back at this first date… well, besides chapped lips and me saying sorry while not being sorry at all.

But she deserved better than that. So much better than that. So I forced myself to pull back and when we caught our breaths, I reminded her, "Okay! I bet the pizzas are good now."

"Yeah!" She perked right up. "Let's dig in."

Thankfully, the food was good! A very important thing for anyone dating a person as obsessed with cuisine as my date. Our gang had tipped me off to Serena's favorite toppings and after trying a piece she'd offered me. I may also have a new favorite.

One of the main things I had been stressing over. As I had planned this evening, had been during this time frame. When we were eating or sitting, I was terrified of the moments we weren't kissing. I was worried we would run out of things to talk about. Since the whole Christmas thing was over now, and that had been a major topic of most conversations before. I was worried that we would be in uncomfortable silences now…

But just like the last time we were here… the flow of conversation was magic. We were already thinking up other possible activities for other dates. Even already stamping some specific calendar dates for those possibilities too.

I've never felt so close or comfortable with anyone before. It was wonderfully healing in ways that amazed even me. After dinner, I dashed back to the fridge and got dessert. Lita had whipped something up claiming it was one of Serena's favorites. And hearing from a little birdy (Probably Andrew) that anything chocolate usually won me over easily.

It turned out to be a "fudge strata" with "raspberry sauce" drizzled on the plate it sat on. It looked more like something in a restaurant menu photo, rather than something a friend had made. And when Serena realized what cake this was… she called it "lick your fork amazing." A concept I had never heard of before. But I found myself doing just that, once I'd tried it. So my foodie girlfriend's ravenous side was well-satisfied before we got to the more fun side of the date. A full arcade all to ourselves.

Now, I'm no pro gamer or anything, I'm more of a social or casual one. But Serena is pretty good at some of them. I wouldn't dare challenge her to a duel on the "Sailor V game," "Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles," "Power Rangers" or "Street Fighter" consoles. She's had the top scores on those machines before. Andrew had warned me about that, but in some of the other games, I was interested to see how we did. Either one of us.

We started out with ski ball, a nice classic game… we both sucked at. But it turned out to be a great ice-breaker and we were laughing as we changed over to our next game. Air hockey, which I was good at. Followed by Bowling, which she somehow beat me at, even though she bent her knees and threw the ball from between her legs. Rolling it at granny speeds like an old lady had thrown it. She bowled a perfect strike every single time and her score was a perfect 300!

Then we were shooting aliens with these huge guns in a game. I can't remember the name of it. Followed by several others that all blur because of the stand-out favorite moment of this whole game-fueled night… which was the last game we played together.

Which was when we raced against each other in that console that made it feel like you were in a race car. Our seats were connected like we were sitting in the same car. But we both had steering wheels and on the screen, we were racing against each other. But this wasn't my favorite moment because I won or because she was so funny smack-talking me the whole ride. It was my favorite because long after we'd finished actually racing. We sat there and talked like we were in a parked car. It was by far my favorite conversation and part of the whole night.

I'd managed to stash our Christmas wishes in my pockets. The ones we'd written down during the Crown Extravaganza at the beginning of this winter break. The few that we'd accumulated throughout that first party and we'd carried with us everywhere we'd stayed. They had traveled from here to Serena's house, then they were put on the Christmas tree in Serena's room at the manor when we moved there. Now I pulled them out to show them to Serena.

She couldn't get over it, "You even remembered them."

How could I not? I have been dying to know if she got all she wanted since that day. So I asked her, if we could open these together here. While we're alone like this… and of course, Serena said, "Yes."

Before I encouraged her, "Lady's first." I remembered she had somehow managed to walk away with more than me that day.

She picked up her first one and opened it, claiming. "I have no idea which one is which anymore. I should have done a better job marking them differently."

"It's okay, what does it say?" I asked.

She opened the first one and flipped it so I could see. It read, "That Sammy gets that new gaming console he wants most." Then she explained, "My little brother's been nuts about it all season."

"Did he get it?" I asked, knowing her brother had called about his haul after Christmas day in America.

"Yes, he did." Serena smiled relieved before adding, "And the added perk is that we live in the same house so I can play on it too."

"Perks to having siblings who game." I nodded along.

She smiled brightly, "Exactly! There has to be a perk or two to make up for the rest of my life dealing with that little twerp."

I had to point out, "But for you to use one of your Christmas wishes on him. He must mean a great deal to you."

"He does, but please don't tell him that." She pleaded, "That little monster already gets away with murder. If he KNOWS he's got me in his back pocket, like our parents. There'll be no stopping him."

I even laughed, "He'll be our next enemy then."

"And way worse than all we've already faced, no doubt." Then she laughed before pointing at me and telling me to open one of mine. I already knew what all of them said, so I came up with a better idea. I asked if we could trade and I open hers while she opened mine.

She warned, "I don't know if you'll be able to read my handwriting… it's been compared to chicken scratch, crushed bugs and doctor's note scribbles."

I still wanted to trade. So she handed me her remaining wishes and I handed her mine. Then I opened her next one and read it out loud. "Everyone to have the BEST Christmas?"

Then I added, "Well you got that wish, as far as I'm concerned."

"Yeah, it's gonna be a tough one to beat next year." She agreed before opening one of mine.

I already knew what it said, but it was still fun watching her face. She laughed, "To render Andrew speechless more often?"

"You don't know how priceless that was to me that day." I said making her laugh harder into my arm.

"And that definitely has come true a few times since then." She giggled even cuter, I planted a kiss on the top of her head before she straightened up again.

I immediately opened one of hers when she was back. It said, "That Luna and Artemis date already?"

Serena confirmed, "Which they did, though I had no idea they would become human for so long."

"That was crazy." I agreed. As she opened another of mine.

"Make time to read more?" She asked me before adding. "And you've already done that too."

"Yes, I have," I said opening another one of hers. Then reading what it said carefully, hoping it didn't trigger something. "That Tessa finds peace." I had to add, "And she did."

"Yes, I know she did…" She smiled, "So it came true too."

"It did." So she opened another one of mine and read… "This one just says 'Serena.' Just my name."

"I know." I said.

"Well, that's pretty vague, don't you think? What exactly did you mean by that?" She asked me and it was a good question. I had been expecting as much, so I had been thinking about my answer since I wrote it.

I ended up sharing, "When I first wrote your name there. I simply meant I wanted to keep you with me. Once I knew what it could be like… but since then… It's all become so much more than that. I had already fallen completely and totally in love with you before any of this. Spending all of this time with you, it's just made it all that much stronger."

She added, "Then your memories came back and-"

"It all made me love you that much more… Thinking about when you go back to your home and I go back to mine… I really don't know how I'm gonna bear it." I admitted before further confessing that. "I really don't want any of this to end… Just like I said on Christmas Eve."

She smiled at me and said, "Me too." Before she climbed over to sit in my lap, between me and the steering wheel in front of me. Claiming, "She'd felt too far away." I couldn't have agreed more.

When she was settled comfortably on my lap she said, "Hi." Like she was seeing me for the very first time today.

I chuckled back "Hi," before wrapping my arms around her. Pulling her as close as I could. At the same time she wrapped her arms and legs around me. And we just sat there holding each other. We still had a few wishes left to share. We both knew it, but I couldn't bring myself to end this. After spending the whole day away from her, I felt like I needed this more than anything else.

Whenever I caught couples in an embrace like this… even Andrew and Rita. I used to think it sounded like way too much contact. I didn't see how it could feel anything but intrusive and awkward. If I ever said as much, Rita would wink at me and say. "He just hasn't found the right pair of arms yet."

She was right it turns out, I couldn't even imagine it. Till these thin, soft, and precious arms found their way around me. Her legs were an added bonus right now that I didn't have as much experience with. But I was already addicted to the change it had on our kisses and the heat rising between us. It turns out all I had needed was the right person. The only person who could ever have this effect on me.

When we parted and she rested her head on my shoulder, she asked. "Does this have to end?"

I laughed, "Well, we do have to leave and lock up here. It was very kind of Andrew and his family to let us have the place tonight."

"Yes, it was," She agreed, while not moving a muscle. Didn't move an inch from where she was resting against me. Actually, her legs tightened a little too… shooting a chill down my spine. As she promised, "I'll have to thank them for everything the next time I see them."

I have no idea if my answer was even words or just nodding after that one. Just color me affected in the best possible way. As I tried to regain control of my voice to say what I needed to. "But since we're both returning to the manor and sharing a room there…"

"Yeeeeeeees?" She drew out smiling into my shoulder as she drove me completely crazy. I struggled to even speak I was so nuts.

"I don't think this-this has to end quite like it would normally." I finally got out.

"I was hoping you would say as much." Serena revealed, before suggesting, "Why don't we go ahead and head back home then. So that we can finish the rest of these wishes in a more comfortable place?"

I couldn't help it, I had to ask her, "Are you teasing me? Right now?" When she giggled I asked, "Do you know how crazy you're making me?"

"Hmm…" She thought about this for a minute before saying, "Only as crazy as you've made me for days and days on end, I'm sure."

"What?" I asked.

"Darien can't you see? I've loved every minute we've shared, but there's something still missing from this reunion that hasn't happened yet… something I have been wondering this entire time."

"What was that?" I asked.

She looked into my eyes and asked. "Is there even the littlest chance that you could… possibly… want more… than just kissing tonight? More than just holding me tonight, while we're still together at the manor? Before we have to go home and live so separately again?"

"More?" I heard myself repeat before confessing, "Serena… I've never wanted anyone or anything more in all of my life. But we can't be as reckless as we were before. I can't fail you again like I did during the Moon Kingdom… Or after we defeated Beryl and I didn't even know you anymore. We can't let history repeat itself... I can't lose you again. I couldn't survive it again."

"So it isn't because you don't want or need me the same as before? It's because you want to be more careful this time?" She asked and I could tell this had been something she'd been so worried about. It was all over her face and body language. As she sagged so relieved to finally have the words out in the air between us.

I felt horrible for a second there, that she'd even thought there was a possibility that I wouldn't want her. That I had put her through even for a second of uncertainty.

So I assured her, "No! Serena… I have been having more trouble keeping it all under wraps." Before adding under my breath, "I guess I was doing a better job than I realized."

She squeezed me a little tighter in a hug breathing, "Thank God! I thought for sure that you just didn't feel that way about me anymore, not yet."

"No, that's not it at all." I hope I assured her. But after hearing her worries. I feel like I needed to shift some of our plans for the rest of this night. I had to show her that she has nothing to worry about on that score. While also showing her that this thing happening between us isn't punching any kind of clock. It's happening on its own, naturally, and at its own speed.

While taking note in my mind…

She wants more…

Just like I want more…

Had we always been this in sync? Or was this just a new part of this life?

It wasn't very long after that before we decided to return, to the Manor. It was dark out and everything was starting to freeze over again. So I switched everything off again, bundled up, and locked up, before stealing Serena's hand. Walking back to the parking lot around the back of the building. With the Crown dark again, I reclaimed the snowmobile I'd used earlier to get here. I drove and Serena hung on like the day of the Furahata House party. Let me just say, that when you're planning to crank up the heat. Like I'm planning to do when we get back. It helps to have the person you love hang onto you for dear life the way that Serena had to hang on to me. The gears and cogs in my mind were all working overtime. But even being exposed to all of that cold and snow… I was so not cold.

When we got back to the manor, we did see Jeeves at the door when he let us in. He did ask if our "Evening had gone well?"

I reached for Serena's hand at the same time that she reached for mine and we looked at each other. I said. "Yeah, it was okay."

She said, "Yeah, it was alright."

Jeeves had said, "I'm glad to hear it. Is there anything I can do for the two of you? You're the first one's to return, so far."

"Oh no," Serena said smiling, "We're both very tired. We'll just be off to bed, thank you. Good night, Jeeves."

I agreed waving. "See ya later."

While he sent us off saying "Pleasant dreams to you both."

As soon as we rounded the corner and were out of sight. Serena giggled, "I'm keeping it to myself that this has been the BEST first date I've ever been on."

I brought her hand I was holding up to my mouth so I could kissed it. As I agreed, "Me too. Our little secret."

After that we took off at a run for Serena's room. Still holding hands and booking it through that huge house. When we finally reached the hallway we'd been aiming for. I couldn't stand it anymore. I caught her on the wall of the opening and kissed her breathless. I had meant it to be teasing and short, but we carried on for longer than either of us meant to.

While we had been kissing I had been getting all kinds of visions flashing behind my eyelids. All of them had been of moments when Serena has been the most worried. The most convinced that I just wasn't interested in her that way. I don't think she'd meant to show me that. But I was so glad that she had, whether it was accidental or intentional. It was nice to know just how often I had messed up. It gave me a better idea of just how much I had to make up for. While I had the chance.

When we parted, I scoped her up and carried her the rest of the way down the hall. As she found herself being carried. Serena felt the need to ask, "I thought you were saying we had to be so much more cautious in this life?"

"I did," I agreed trailing kisses down her neck.

Even though it took some effort, Serena managed to ask, "I-I thought… that was you back at the arcade… sa-saying that we couldn't be as reckless in this li-li-Life. That was you, wasn't it?"

"It was," I confirmed before I pinned her to the wall so I could get her door open. Without hurting either one of us, but as her door opened and I pulled her inside with me. I let her know, "That doesn't mean there isn't hundreds of things I want to try with you before we take things that far."

"Really?" She asked me so hopefully, so happily. I knew we were on the right path. I carried her into her room and kicked the door shut behind me. Placing her in the center of her bed, I said, "But if we are really going to do this. If we are going to take this a little further, there are going to have to be a few ground rules here, okay?"

She sat up on her knees and pulled me to sit down next her saying, "Ground rules are good… I think I need rules too. But I'm not sure because I've never felt like this before."

I let out a breath as I confessed, "Me either. So we'll just ease into this a step at a time. The same way we've eased into this relationship we're in now… okay?"

"That sounds good." She agreed.

"Rule number one," I began. "I will explain everything I'm doing before I touch you. If any of it makes you uncomfortable or doesn't sound good. You have to tell me right away. Okay?"

"That's a great rule to have." She said taking my hands. Then she asked, "Do you want me to tell you everything I'm doing before I do it too?"

"I think that will help me, just as we're getting more comfortable together." I nodded, and I planned on starting this new year right. New Year's Eve is tomorrow and I had a lot to make up for as it is.

"Rule number two," I said holding up two fingers. "While we're in this experimental phase. I want everything that happens here between us to remain strictly between us."

She agreed, "I have always preferred it that way anyway."

"Good," I smiled and before I could count off number two. Serena distracted me with a kiss that shouldn't be legal. Pinned me completely on my back in the bed and took over the countdown.

She held up three fingers and said, "Rule number three-"

I objected, "Wasn't I counting these off?"

"And you were doing great, but we're both in this together and I should have some say." She demanded. How could I deny her when she was perfectly right?

I submitted, still pinned in place saying, "Okay, let's hear number three."

"Whenever we do decide to be 'reckless' again, in this life and go all the way. It is only… ONLY when both of us have consented to do so. When we're both ready…"

"Right!" I agreed, that was a great rule. But I did feel the need to add. "It can only happen when we can't live without that part of this love anymore..."

She waved her hand and said, "Yes of course. Good rule?"

"Yeah, great rule." I had to give her.

Then she somehow trapped me in place, in the sexiest way I've ever seen her move before. And she said, "Even if it comes up tonight, it is only if we're both in full agreement that this needs to happen now… okay?"

I think I would have agreed with just about anything she'd said. But I heard myself whispering back to her, "Okay."

Before all of our focus shifted to each other and maintaining the rules just established. There couldn't have been a more perfect way to say farewell to this year and hello to the new one. As we stayed up all night just loving in this new way… I hoped I never had to spend another day without her… without this love in my life. I felt whole, I was at peace, and I could not wait to see what else the future held for us… for both of us.

…Rose-Tinted New Year's…

(Serena's Perspective)

The night that followed our date, was nothing short of magical. All day today (New Year's Eve) I keep spacing out and checking out of conversations. Just to be transported back to last night and some of that shared magic.

The way he'd held on to me... Like I was the most precious thing in the world.

Like he would never let me go.

The way he kissed me like there was no tomorrow.

Looked at me like I was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.

I even remembered the way he'd breathed as alluring...

I'd never felt anything like it before, that wasn't a memory or dream.

When I woke up this morning, he was still there and I got to tell myself it wasn't all a dream... for a change.

Then all day I keep daydreaming about what I remember. Our friends and teammates had way too much fun exploiting this fact. But to my absolute delight, I wasn't the only one affected by this particular change. Darien was having the same struggle and the same attention span issues. More than ten times today, his hand found mine when it was particularly embarrassing.

As affected as we both have been all day, I still wouldn't have changed a thing. Even now as the sky was darkening and a new year was inching closer all the while. I couldn't find a single regret or notable shortcoming on my mind. I could only think of good and what was to come. For all of our gathered group.

I kept noticing moments between all of my friends and their significant others. Even though I wanted to focus on what they were saying and how things were worded or handled. I kept getting transported to last night or a time before that when Darien had done something similar or I had.

He had been so careful and sweet with me…

While also so impassioned and affected by my touch, kiss or reactions…

I never wanted to forget those precious moments shared or promises we'd whispered. I somehow knew Darien felt the same. Even before he told me so.

Another thing that had happened today had been my mom calling to plan out everything with me for her return. Tessa's funeral wouldn't be taking place till January 5th, and even then she won't be home for several days. I would need to figure out what I was doing. Before I could even hang up with my mom, my brute squad of big brothers were already telling my mom (and me all at once) that they would be "looking out for me. No matter where I decided to go."

Then when I did hang up, they asked me what I wanted to do. Kirk said, "I totally understand if you miss home and your bed. If you want to go there, please know that we'll make it work. But please know that you're more than welcome to stay here with us as long as you would like."

Kirk did manage to say all of that before Nathan cut him off and added, "We want to always keep you."

I thanked them and promised to think about it. When I told the girls about my lack of plans, all four offered me a place with them when they had to go home.

Then I told Darien about my uncertainties, and he even offered his place as an alternative too. Before assuring me, that wherever I decided to go, I wouldn't be going alone. He intended to follow me where ever I went. Until my family was home. he even whispered "I'm gonna be right here with you. No matter what you decide." And "I'm not going anywhere. I won't let you be alone unless that's what you want."

While it had all reminded me that not all I would be facing this new year would be fun or easy. It also had me marveling at just how fortunate I was, as well. How did I ever get so lucky to deserve such a surrounding of wonderful people in my life? I'll never know! All I can do is love them all for it.

The day was a blur and before we knew it. We were all standing together, with noisemakers, hats, and glasses with the new year proudly painted on them. Glasses of sparkling grape juices or sparkling apple ciders (Most of us were underaged for the real stuff). "New Year's Rocking Eve" was blaring on every television in the house. Mina had brought her karaoke machine (A total Scout Tradition) and the guys had loud music playing between karaoke performances.

When people weren't singing or being serenaded. Our hosts had gotten together with Melvin to create a "photo booth" set up where all of us were required to take pictures. As couples, solo or as friends. Everybody was taking turns for hours. It was such a blast… It really was the best new years party I've ever been a part of.

Starting with the moment all four of my big brother teammates bunched into the photo booth together. That had made all of us watching laugh so much. What a bunch of hams! Had they always been this silly? Hadn't they seemed more refined during Beryl's reign?

Then they had made me squeeze in with them calling it the team picture of this year! We were all laughing and goofing off so hardcore in all of those pictures. I demanded copies from Melvin the moment I left the booth. He thumbs-upped me and told me, "You got it, Serena! Consider it done!"

Not to be outdone, my female teammates stole Darien for a session too. They called their picture M.I.A. of the year! Because they'd all just remembered the last week of the year if not a few days before now. Darien was sandwiched between my four best friends and you wouldn't believe how all five of them hammed up those pictures. Melvin had to assure all of us that these pictures were going to be presented as a collage and that everyone would get their own copies of everything. Because they were all just too good.

Melvin, Molly and me had a turn together. Before Andrew, Rita and Darien had their turn. Lizzie and Garrett raided the next session keeping Darien, Andrew and Rita trapped for it.

Then Lizzie let them go and called over her new crew of Conner, Alan, and Ann. Everyone agreed that was the moment their team was official, those pictures were legit to quit. Ann and Alan took sibling photos. Before the Furahatas took over again with their parents this time.

Then Andrew's parents kicked off the pair pictures, couple cuddles or romantic sessions.

They were followed by Andrew and Rita, who looked too great together in theirs. They already looked married, they had just looked that perfect.

Molly and Melvin were sweet and playful.

Kirk and Mina's started out innocent and silly. But they somehow managed to steam up the camera lens so their last pic was a little fuzzy. Leave it to the longest-lasting pair of vigilantes in our group to pull that off.

Which was in stark contrast with Zane and Amy's pictures where both of them were blushing to near oblivion for both of their first pictures… till the third picture when Zane kissed Amy, the fourth photo captured both of their shocked reactions, and the last picture they were both smiling at each other… SO cute. It was the most adorable thing I'd seen.

Lita and Nate, staged their whole session like they were roughhousing in their pictures and kissing in their last one. After Lita had won, of course. Even in a staged fight, Lita had to win. But I'm sure if you asked Nate he would say, he'd won too. His face had been too happy in her victory pictures.

Jaden and Raye's session was argued through. I thought they were gonna break up again before they left the booth. But then Raye had grabbed Jaden by the collar of his shirt and shut him up with a kiss too. Just as the next session was supposed to start. They made out through the entire second session… hey, everybody has their unique way of doing things don't they?

They were gonna start the friendship sessions, when Darien appeared from thin air saying, "Hold on guys, Serena and I haven't gotten a turn."

Melvin lookedback through all of the sessions to announce, "Darien's right, he and Serena are the ONLY couple who haven't had a session. You guys better get in there!"

He came over and took my hand and led me to the booth they'd set up. As we stepped inside and pulled the curtain. He sat down and pulled me on his lap. Our first picture we just looked at each other. It was all there in that snapshot, plain as day. The second one we were still locking eyes but we were both smiling now. For the third he pointed upwards and just as I looked up the flash happened. Mistletoe was over our heads, the same sprig that had started this whole wacky thing two Christmases ago now. I told him, "That's a little late."

Darien shrugged, "So were we, but since we're both always a little late, I thought it would be more than appropriate."

He had a point, so we ended our session in two different kissing pictures. One I initiated, and one he initiated. We both looked so happy in both, we couldn't decide which one was better. So Melvin called to us through the curtain. "Hey! Guys? Would you mind giving us a few more kiss takes. All the other pairs sat for more than one session by the time they climbed out. I want to keep it even for all of these!"

So twist our arms we had kiss more and let Melvin take more pictures. Remind me to tell Melvin how invaluable his friendship is to me after this!

After all of the friendship sessions were over and we were getting really close to midnight. I looked around and noticed that all of the couples were paired off but no Darien anywhere in sight… where could he have gone. Would he miss it? He couldn't miss it.

Places to Be!

(Darien's Perspective)

As I finished taking silly friendship pictures with Rita, I could hear people on the television warning how very close this new year loomed. There were mere moments separating this new timespan and us. If I left right now, I would have just enough time to find Serena and I would plant myself next her for one of the things she had wished for this Christmas. "A real kiss on New Years Eve."

Something that would be a complete first for me too. So when I split so quickly to find my girlfriend. I had to ignore the accompaniment of Andrew and Rita's remarks. As they commented on my speed and agility when it came to this particular target. But they couldn't get it, why I was in such a rush… there was a Christmas wish on the line here. The last one I had to make certain would come true! Just like all of her others had.

I simply could not let her down, not when so much has been going right. BECAUSE of Serena! SO much in my world had turned around. For the better! I had to do this last thing for her. Make it a perfect season in ALL ways.

So where was she?

As our friends started their counting at "58…57… 56… 55…"

I was searching frantically, and Serena was nowhere in sight. Our friends flew through the 40s and 30s. Still no sign… Where was she?

"29… 28… 27…"

Where the hell was she?

"24… 23… 22…"

I called out, "SERENA!"

"21!" Our friends counted over me.

But off in the distance I heard… "Darien?"

"20… 19… 18…"

I ran in the direction I thought I heard her voice coming from, and she must have run toward where she thought I was. Because I didn't see her till our friends were at "TEN… NINE… EIGHT…"

We did just manage to reach each other in time for, "THREE… TWO… ONE! HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

I was so relieved to reach her, I picked her up and spun her around before I kissed her. Then I was slammed with the all-consuming relief that always accompanied every kiss we've shared since that day in the park. That old tune faded in the background, the New Year's tune that no one really knows the words to. I've heard that song nearly twenty times now. And I've never been so thrilled to kiss anyone at midnight before this night. Or psyched about any new year as I was this one. All because of this precious person I held. While I knew there would never be a dull moment for either of us. I also know that I'll never be able to love anyone else the way I love her and I can only hope in the next year's time I can show her that.

After that, the Goo Goo Dolls song "Better Days," was playing on loop. Because one of our hosts had forgotten how perfect that sone was for New Year's. As Serena and I danced along we hoped that there would only be better days for all of us. The peacefulness I found in her arms, made anything seem possible.

That's all folks! THE END!

THAT's IT! We did it! And that is all for this story! I hope you liked it and I hope it somehow added to your holiday too. Even though we've all had to return to normal life and our new year is 2023. I wish you all nothing but the best!

I will share that throughout the photo-booth scene I was listening to my go to song for this feel in Sailor Moon "Never Be the Same" - Red (Yes, The Christian rock band named Red) I just think it so perfectly captures the feel of this team if it had gotten to be like this in the real series. Just a little thing to check out if you've never heard it. It always puts me in the right frame of mind for these moments.

Thank you all so much for everything and as always, Much Love!

~SailorLeia