Author's Note
Sorry it's been so long since I've last posted, but so much has happened in my life that I just couldn't keep up with everything. I've had so many problems going on in my life that it's absurd to even imagine how I actually pulled through it.
(1) I got diagnosed with PCOS, something every girl is afraid to hear. (2) I had to visit the emergency room numerous times. (3) My grandmother, whom had Lung Cancer, had a heart bypass while I was in the emergency room so I couldn't be there with her. (4) I had to go into surgery to remove scar tissue and in the middle of that my appendix decided it wanted to explode so I had an emergency appendectomy as well, which caused me even more down time from life. (5) My grandmother passed away on the same week that I had my surgery done, which delayed my recovery even further.
Chapter XXII: The Banquet
"Well, I was going to tell you about daddy's gift too, but I guess that's supposed to be a surprise too!" replied Keith as he held a finger up to his lips and laughed at my shocked look. He ran off to play before I could reach down and tickle him.
"So, what's this I hear about a gift?" I turned around and questioned Andrew curiously. I noticed that he started to slowly edge away from me and quickly latched onto his arm before he could make a run for the nearest exit.
"Oh, no. I don't think so missy, you're not getting anything out of me," replied Andrew as he backed up against a wall.
"Aw, why not sweetie?" I asked sweetly, batting my eyes repeatedly.
"What on earth are you two doing?" interrupted my father suddenly.
"Thank you so much for rescuing me Mr. Tsukino," said Andrew with a sigh of relief as he hurriedly ran pass my grasp and into the living room with everyone else.
"Hey!" I cried, crossing my arms and pouting.
"It's a surprise bunny, don't ruin it for them honey," explained my father in a hushed tone as he pulled me in and squeezed me tightly.
"I know daddy, I was just teasing," I answered with a big smile. We spent the rest of the nigh celebrating and talking amongst ourselves as Keith finished watching 'Finding Nemo' in my parents' brand new entertainment room.
Next Morning at Hotel
"So Michelle, what exactly are our plans for this big banquet?" asked Alex as he stretched his arms back and yawned.
"Well, I rented out the ballroom and dining hall at the Starlight Towers for tomorrow night," answered Michelle as she looked over the guest list.
"Who all is attending this thing?" interrupted Trista from the doorway of their adjoined suites. Alex and Michelle both looked over to see Trista and Heath both standing there with a tired look on their faces.
"Well, I'm not quite done with the guest list. Would you care to look it over and tell me who I'm missing?" asked Michelle quietly as she took her glasses off and leaned backwards to relax her back.
"Sure, I think I have and idea of who all needs to be there after our guest of honor and her loved ones," answered Trista.
"I can tell you all the girls are expecting to be on the V.I.P. list that's for sure," interrupted Heather in a cheerful tone. When she said girls, she wasn't referring to Serena's friends; she meant all the top models of Moonlight Fashions Inc.
"Well, I wasn't quite sure which ones were attending, so I left two tables empty for them," replied Michelle quietly.
"I'll give Galen a call and he can let the girls know about it," said Alex, walking over to the kitchen to brew up some coffee for everyone.
"Good morning everyone!" greeted Leah in a bubbly mood. Leah Jacobs, the youngest model in MFI, not to mention one of the famous Jacobs triplets.
"When did you get here Leah?!" screamed Heather as she ran over to hug her, jumping up and down in excitement.
"I just got here this morning," Leah answered plopping down in the chair beside Michelle. She glanced over at the list and mentally nodded at the few names that she recognized. "Oh yeah, Lexxie is flying in tonight around six o'clock," she added while resting her feet on the nearest ottoman she could find.
"Oh good, Rena will be thrilled to see her!" exclaimed Heather happily.
"Yeah, she's been rather stressed since you girls have last seen her," agreed Alex silently from his seat.
"Do you know if any of the other girls are free for a birthday banquet?" Michelle asked curiously still penning in the names on invitation cards.
"I spoke to them this morning before I left for the airport, as far as I know, all the girls intend on surprising Rena the night of her birthday," Leah answered tiredly.
"All right then, I'll have them R.S.V.P. with the hotel so they can get in without any trouble then," replied Michelle setting the invitations aside to finish her drink.
"So have you gotten a gown for the ball yet?" asked Trista.
"Actually, I was hoping I could just sport one of the new gowns from the winter line, I mean we can get all the publicity we need right?" thought Leah with a slight grin on her face.
"Hey that wouldn't be such a bad idea!" jumped in Alex suddenly. "If we could get all the top models in the industry to attend, each appearing in one of our exclusive new gowns, they would show up in every magazine around the world. What better way to show off Rena's talent?" he added with a satisfied smirk.
"That's stupid Alex, can you imagine what people are going to think? They'll think that we're trying to take advantage of the free publicity, it'll be shameless!" retorted Michelle before going back to her invitations.
"I agree but that doesn't mean that some of our top models can't wear some of our most prized designs to the ball," Heather put in her own thoughts as well.
"I know, why don't we decide who gets to wear what and how many dresses can show up together at the party," thought Leah excitedly. "Of course, we all know that I get first choice to any dress I want," she added quickly.
"You know what, it would be kind of quirky if we had 'Triple L' wear gowns from three of Rena's top lines," interrupted Alex suddenly.
"Oh, I'm liking that idea," Trista jumped in as well. Every time 'Triple L' made an appearance, they got the most spotlight over any other girls.
"That's great, but how are we going to convince Lana to go along with the idea? You know how she hates abusing 'Triple L' for such exposure," rebutted Alex.
"Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you, Lana called and said she's not missing out on Rena's birthday for anything in the world. So she'll be attending the ball, but I don't know how you're going to get my sister to agree to such a crazy idea," explained Leah as she got up, grabbed her luggage and headed towards the door. "I'll leave the scheming out to you geniuses, I have an appointment with the salon down stairs to get everything touched up for the ball tomorrow night, see you guys!" she added before shutting the door behind her. 'Now, what should I get for Rena's birthday gift?' pondered Leah while walking towards the elevators.
"That girl, the least she could have done was call Lana and ask her for us!" cried Alex restlessly. He fidgeted back and forth before pulling out his cell phone. "Hey Galen, we need a favor," he started out telling Galen about everything.
"Maybe Galen can help us out," prayed Michelle while pulling out her floor plan of where all the tables would be set up and who would be sitting with who and where. "Hey Trista, do you think the girls would be upset if I didn't let them sit up front near Rena and all the attention?" she joked.
"You know damn well what that is going to cause," answered Trista.
"Don't be so mean Michelle, you do know that Trista and I have to sit near the girls at all times don't you?" added Heather with a frown on her face. "You wouldn't make us sit with a bunch of crazed models now would you?" she asked, almost begged, fearing what the girls might do.
"I'm just kidding, I know how badly our girls love the attention, they'd probably all walk out on us then quit by midnight if I placed them towards the back with all the snobby elites," laughed Michelle.
"That wasn't very funny!" replied Heather, crossing her arms and turning away from Michelle who by now was laughing hysterically.
"Anyway, here is a chart of where everyone will be seated. Why don't you look it over and tell me if I should make any changes okay?" Michelle told Heather before setting the parchment down in front of her and Trista. "I'm going to take a little break to call and check up on the orders I've placed for the ball tomorrow night," she added
"Oh yeah, Galen says don't forget to call and ask about his rose orders," added Alex, covering the receiver end of his cell phone.
"What roses?" asked Michelle with a confused look on her face.
"Here, let him fill you in," replied Alex, handing the phone over to her.
"Galen? Hey, what's this I hear about you ordering roses without me knowing?" asked Michelle curiously.
"Hey Michelle, nice to hear from you too darling," replied Galen while laughing slightly. "Oh and about the roses, I placed an order just a few hours ago, but I want you to double check it for me. You know how lavender roses are Rena's favorites, well, I ordered about 100 long stem roses to be placed on vases all around her seating area," he explained briefly. "One more thing before you go though, do you think you could draw up an arrangement plan for them?" he asked.
"Sure, no problem Galen," answered Michelle quietly over the phone. "I'll see you tomorrow night mister," she said before tossing the phone back to Alex and walking out the door. "I expect to see everyone down at the ballroom tonight to help me finalize last minute preparations!" she ordered before the door slammed shut.
Ballroom
"Good afternoon Miss Michelle," greeted the hotel manager, Mr. Tanaka.
"Hi Mr. Tanaka, I'm just down here to check on how the arrangements are fairing," replied Michelle, entering the ballroom and glancing around. Tables were set up in the center of the room right in front of the stage where all the entertainment would be performed. A rather large dancing floor was laying to the right of the tables and there was lavender tulle wrapped around the pillars surrounding the entire ballroom. Decorating the ceilings were yards and yards of white and lavender chiffon, cascading from the center of the room down the walls and doorways, creating a tent-like theme. In one corner of dance floor there was a waterfall with little angel statues shooting water into the air and a stream flowing from the top into the floor-level pond. On the left side of the room a place was set up for the string quartet that had been hired for the occasion and the bar was located opposite to that area along another corner of the ballroom.
"I hope everything meets your wishes madam," Mr. Tanaka spoke up with a smile. He looked over the room once more while a few of his employees were setting up the rest of the tables. Twenty-five tables covered in white satin sat in the middle of the room with a floating candle centerpiece sitting in the center of each table with eight chairs covered in lavender fabric knotted in the back with a satin ribbon. Directly above the tables, a beautiful chandelier hung off the ceiling, shining prisms of light in every direction of the room. A light show was set up around the dance floor as well as a fog machine to mist up the room for a romantic affect.
"It's perfect, I'm sure Rena will be mesmerized. Thank you for all the effort you and the hotel staff has put into this special occasion," answered Michelle with a smile plastered on her face as she continued starring at the decorations.
"Well, thank you so much for the compliments madam," replied Mr. Tanaka. "Am I to assume that the floral arrangements have been made?" he added, just now noticing the lack of flowers.
"Now that you mention it, we've ordered a shipment of roses that should arrive at any moment. Would it be okay if we were to take up some of your cooler space to store them until we're ready to finalize the details? That way we can have fresh floral arrangements tomorrow night," asked Michelle hopefully.
"Of course, anything that you shall need is yours for the taking miss," responded Mr. Tanaka quickly. "Will you need any assistance with the arrangements?" he added curiously.
"No that won't be necessary, that is what we're here for after all, isn't that right Michelle?" interrupted Alex's voice from the main doorway with a smile on his face. Following shortly behind him were Trista, Heather, Rachel, Laura, and last but not least Galen, the coordinator of the banquet himself.
"Hello, how is everyone?" greeted the manager after his brief moment of shock. Everyone smiled and waved their hand in a 'so-so' motion. "Shall I leave you all to your planning then?" he asked courteously.
"Yes, we should be getting down to business," answered Galen suddenly. "Thank you so much for all the help you've offered with our last minute plans, we greatly appreciate your hospitality," he thanked the manager while shaking hands with him before letting him be on his way. "Okay guys, shall we start rearranging stuff?" he asked with a huge smile plastered on his face.
"So how we are we going to arrange the floral centerpieces when we have no flowers to work with?" replied Alex pointing around the empty ballroom. Just as he finished his sentence, a string of deliverymen walked into the room carrying several vases of roses and other supplies for all the floral arrangements.
"I suggest we each design our own for each individual table, that way we have a variety of arrangements," Michelle spoke up already walking towards the supplies and setting it on one of the tables.
"Sounds great, why don't we get started then?" replied Galen enthusiastically. "I'm going to go talk with the chef about the dinner menu okay? Good luck with the flowers guys!" he cheered the group on before walking out the ballroom and into the adjoined kitchen. After about an hour or two, there were twelve beautiful flower displays decorating the top of the twelve tables.
"So what else do you have planned for us to do?" asked Alex tiredly taking a seat and letting out a deep breath.
"We're finished with everything, just have to see how the food turns out so we can all decide on with entrées to select," answered Michelle happily.
"Okay, I hope everyone is up to a food tasting!" announced Galen merrily as he and several waiters walked out from the kitchen with samples of different dishes that would be served at the dinner. After everyone tried each dish, they all took a vote on which one would suit the occasion best and all agreed on a seven dishes along with an extravagant dessert and savory soup. "Well, on behalf of Sere, I'd like to thank the hotel and everyone who has lent a helping hand to make this wonderful event come to life," Galen thanked everyone before they all got up to go their separate ways.
"One more thing before you go gallivanting off, please be sure to be dressed and ready for the banquet at least half an hour before it begins so that I can have everything in order when Rena arrives back at the hotel," interrupted Michelle as everyone was filing out of the ballroom. In response, all she got was a round of grumbles.
Andrew's Loft
It was beginning to get dark outside and here I was still going through my luggage trying to figure out what to wear to my banquet. 'God, I'll never find a gown at this rate!' I screamed to myself throwing clothes everywhere in Andrew's spacey walk-in closet. "Andy, I need your opinion on something babe!" I called out loudly.
"What is it Sere?" answered Andrew, still huffing from running up the stairs so quickly. I laughed and got up to place a kiss on his cheek. "Wow, if I get a kiss every time I race to your every beck and call then what do I get for cleaning the house every now and then?" came Andy's remark.
"Oh shush you, this is important though. Which gown takes your breath away more?" I asked quietly, holding up two gowns for him to see. One was a low cut black chiffon gown that was slightly form fitting at the bust and flared out at the ankles, tying around the neck with a plunging back. The other was a lavender satin gown with three-inch straps that hung a little off the shoulder, it was form fitting with a short train and had an empire bust line with a string of ribbons wrapping around the bust and hanging down from the center.
"Can I at least get a visual?" he asked with a silly grin on his face.
"No! Now answer my question or you'll be spending the night with Keith," I retorted tossing one of his socks at him.
"Okay, for my eyes, I like the black one because you're showing off all that creamy luscious skin of yours. For everyone else's eyes, I'd prefer to see you in the lavender gown so I won't have to pound anybody for gawking at my girl," answered Andrew honestly. I sighed not knowing what to do, on one hand I wanted to look sexy and beautiful, on the other I did not want the love of my life to beat the crap out of all my guests, oh what is a girl to do in this kind of situation!
"I guess I'll go with the lavender, I think I can still make a few changes to it so that I can still stand out," I replied quietly. Andrew smiled and leaned down to gently kiss me on the lips, only it got a little too steamy and he almost fell over as I tried to pull him in closer to me. "Are you sure I can't wear the black one? It's a lot easier to get out of at the end of the night," I half told half teased him with a seductive smile on my face.
"Yes baby, I am pretty sure, otherwise I'd rip it right off your body half way through the evening," replied Andrew quietly. I laughed and pushed him away as I got up and hung the gown up so I could take a quick look at it to think of any other changes I could do to make the gown more couture.
"Okay, so how about I redo the straps to be lavender and white Swarovski crystals and wrapped chiffon around to the bust line with the ribbons, then I can swing the train around the front and attach it to my left ring finger. And for jewelry, I can wear my diamond chandelier earrings and the new platinum necklace I designed with a lavender pendant," I rambled on about my outfit.
"Don't you think you're getting a little too worked up baby?" asked Andrew, shocked at how fast I was speaking about gown designs.
"No! This is my first birthday as a designer in Tokyo, I have to look spectacular otherwise the media will think little of my future lines!" I half argued, pouting from my position at the floor of my gown.
"Okay, I'll just leave you alone then," replied Andrew, bending over and kissing the top of my head before leaving me alone in the closet. I spent the next two hours re-designing my gown. After I finished, I headed back outside to find my two special men asleep on the couch with a movie still playing. I smiled and crept quietly past them into the kitchen to prepare dinner. I made bow tie pasta with my specially marinated chicken and a creamy butter sauce with a hint of cheese blended in with broccoli, red bell peppers, mushroom, and zucchini all tossed in. After I finished, I set the table and snuck over to wake my men with a kiss on the forehead and ruffled their sandy locks a little.
"Hey," replied Andrew groggily. "You finished with your little creation in there?" he asked curiously, smiling as I playfully smacked him.
"Shut up, dinner is ready dork," I laughed wiping Keith's face with a wet wipe. "Are you hungry baby?" I asked my son as he quietly nodded.
"I'm starving!" replied Andrew as I shook my head and helped Keith get into his seat beside me. "Oh, you weren't asking me? I'm hurt," he laughed as I poured Keith some juice and placed a linen napkin on his lap.
"Just be quiet and eat. Make sure you drink all your juice okay honey?" I reminded Keith as he nodded and started eating. I giggled and sat down to eat as well. We all ate and joked around before cleaning up for the night.
"You should get to bed, we have a big day tomorrow," suggested Andrew as he caught me glancing at my gown yet again. I laughed and got up before tackling him onto the bed and kissed the day lights out of him.
"You should be thanking me for making it look so hot, you'll be the envy of every man in the room tomorrow night!" I teased in between kisses.
"I thank you every day for being in my life," he replied before giving me a passionate kiss. After that we just held each other before falling asleep.
June 30th
"Good morning mama!" yelled Keith at the top of his lungs while jumping up and down on my bed, disturbing me from my peaceful slumber. It was six in the morning and my son was already awake, sometimes I wonder who he got it from.
"Tell your son to go back to sleep," muttered Andrew from under the covers. I laughed and swatted him as he hid under his pillow.
"Hey, he's your son too! Besides, today he's your responsibility because I have to get ready for my party," I replied before rolling over and going back to sleep.
"Dad!" screamed Keith after pouncing Andrew. I laughed from my place on the bed, I wasn't tired anymore but I wanted to see how far Andy would let this go before giving in to our son's pleas.
"Okay, I'm up squirt. I'll bet you're hungry, that's why you just had to wake us up right?" Andrew finally gave in and got out of bed, slipping into his robe and lifting Keith in his arms. He smacked my bottom over the covers before leaving the room, causing a fit of giggles to erupt afterwards.
"That's what you get for getting drunk and not keeping your hands to yourself baby!" I laughed before rolling out of bed as well. I stretched and put on my silk robe and slippers before trudging over to the bathroom. Reaching down I filled my tub with warm water and poured some Victoria's Secret Endless Love Shower Gel into the water so I could soak in it for a bit before my real shower. 'Now, what am I going to do with my hair and make-up?' I asked myself curiously before laying my robe on an ottoman in front of my vanity. I took off my slippers as my nightgown fell to the floor before I slid into the warm bubble bath.
"You know, you should have locked the door honey. What if Keith walked in while you were undressing?" asked Andrew, scaring me because I hadn't even noticed he was in the bathroom.
"Don't do that!" I scolded him as he walked over and kissing the top of my head. "Where is Keith and since when were you in here anyways?" I asked curiously, eyeing him as he sat down and watched me bathe.
"Keith is brushing his teeth as he speak. I made some breakfast for him already so you don't have to worry about our little pig starving," answered Andrew with a chuckle as I threw some bubbles at him.
"He's not a pig!" I laughed, knowing full well that he was referring to the bottomless stomach he inherited from me.
"Anyways, I think I got in here right when the nightgown dropped. It was a really sexy sight by the way," added Andrew with a wink.
"You sneaky little peeping tom," I replied with a smile. "If you want a show, you just have to ask, no need to go sneaking around baby," I teased in a husky voice.
"Is that an invitation?" came Andrew's shocked reply. One of his eyebrows propped up over the other as he looked at me questioningly.
"It's whatever you want it to be," I answered while washing my body with a towel. After about five minutes I rinsed off all the soap and got up from the tub, draining all the water out before heading over the shower. "Coming?" I asked before slipping into the shower stall. I smirked and turned the water on as I heard Andrew's clothes hurriedly thrown on the bathroom floor. "Amazing how fast you can undress when you want to," I laughed as he came up behind me.
"Well, when you have a naked goddess in front of you, there is no time to think twice baby," answered Andrew as he pulled me in and kissed me passionately. I think we were in there for about half an hour before it got a little too hot for me.
"I think that's enough, I'm all wrinkly now Andy," I whined showing him my fingertips. He sucked on my finger and kissed my lips before turning the water off.
"Come here," said Andrew as he lifted me in his arms and walked out of the shower stall. He threw one of our terry towels on the floor and laid me down before taking me there in the bathroom. I swear I was praying that Keith had the television on while he was eating because you could hear moans left and right coming from our bathroom. After, oh I don't know anymore, an hour I guess, we came out of our bedroom completely dressed to eat breakfast.
"That was a long shower mama," came Keith's reaction as he looked at the time.
"Sorry sugar, daddy was bothering mommy while she took her bubble bath," I answered sheepishly. Andrew laughed as I started blushing at my own son's comment because we both knew that Keith most likely knew what we were doing
"Mama, you don't have to lie to me, I think it would be cool to have a baby sister of brother," Keith replied casually, getting up to put his plate up and walking out to the living room to watch cartoons. I swear my eyes almost popped out of their sockets after that comment. Andrew just broke down and laughed as I turned beet red.
"That's not funny, we shouldn't be letting him hear these things Andy!" I whispered seriously.
"He's bound to hear it sooner or later Sere," answered Andrew not caring too much that our son had overheard our little escapade.
"God, I'll never here the end of this now," I complained, burying my face in my hands as Andrew got my breakfast ready.
"Just eat so you can get ready for tonight already," laughed Andy as I glared at him. He was right though, I had an appointment with my manicurist to get my nails touched up. I had to have my fingers and toes look their best on my special day. I was going for a more natural look so I decided to just get a French manicure.
"Is Keith's tux in his room? I don't think I'll be able to dress him if I don't know exactly what you want him to wear," asked Andrew as we ate.
"Yeah, his shoes are next to his dresser and the tux is hanging on his closet door. Make sure you do his hair really cute too," I instructed him before getting up to do the dishes and straighten up the kitchen.
"Hey, he'll look just like me so you have nothing to worry about," answered Andrew with a sexy smile.
"That's what I'm afraid of," I replied and laughed when Andrew had a shocked look on his face. "I'm just kidding honey, he'll be gorgeous I'm sure," I added, kissing him lightly on the lips. After cleaning up the kitchen, I bid my boys goodbye and good luck before leaving for the hotel's private salon. I got my nails done and headed over to the spa to get a quick facial to relax my pores before applying my own make-up.
I think I got out of the spa at three or four in the afternoon, so I headed back to my suite, finding it empty because the boys had already left from what Andrew had discussed with me about their schedule earlier during the morning. I decided on a dark plum and metallic white combination for my eye shadow, some mascara and eyeliner, a nude-rose lip liner on with lip-gloss coated on top for shine, and finally a touch of light blush on top of my face powder.
"Rena, you in here?" I heard Alex call out from the living room of my suite.
"In here Alex!" I yelled from my bathroom. I was already in my gown but had my robe over it so I wouldn't get any make-up on it while I finished getting ready. Like I had discussed with Andrew the previous night, I had altered my gown to have crystal shoulder straps and a layer of white chiffon on top the lavender satin that opened in the front with lavender satin ribbons tied around the bust line and hanging down from the center of the bust. I basically altered the gown so much that it was an entirely different gown in the end.
"Looking nice Rena," compliment Alex as he walked into the bathroom to find me sitting at the vanity.
"Hey Rena, you almost ready?" asked Michelle, stepping out from behind Alex's huge body. She gawked at my gown and had me do a complete spin for her. "Oh my god, is that the same gown from the line?" she asked shocked still.
"Yeah, I did the alterations last night," I answered bashfully.
"I almost didn't recognize if it the chiffon didn't move to reveal the lavender underneath it," replied Michelle with a smile. "It's even more beautiful now," she added, lightly touching my gown to inspect it further more.
"Yeah, this is my special design for tonight," I told them proudly.
"Aw, and here I was thinking maybe you got started on your next line of gowns already," pouted Alex jokingly. "Just kidding, so how much longer do you have?" he asked while taking a look at his watch. I glanced over at my own clock and noticed the time it read.
"Oh My God, it's already 6 o'clock!" I shouted in extreme shock. I rushed around the bathroom trying to clean up a bit while removing all the curlers from my hair so I could pull some of the ringlets on top back and pin them down.
"Calm down Rena, I'll help you with your hair. We still have another hour before you have to arrive at the banquet," announced Michelle in a soothing voice, which helped me ease up a little.
"Oh, can you pin in some accessories for me too?" I asked as I pointed at the plastic container that held the fresh lilacs which I had ordered from the florist. Then I handed Michelle a few tiny strings of sheer white ribbon so she could entwine them into my ringlets. Alex laughed and leaned back against my closet door to watch as Michelle pulled the side ringlets back to cross over the ones I had pinned down to cover them. So in the end, I had half of my ringlets pulled back and the other half flowing freely behind my back with one of two ringlets handing loose around my face.
"All done," announced Michelle with a smile as she took a quick glance to make sure everything was holding up okay.
"Thank you so much!" I squealed before grabbing my hand mirror and holding it up to inspect the back of my hair. "Oh, it's perfect! You're the best Michelle, I probably would've never gotten done in time," I added happily.
"So you ladies ready now?" asked Alex nudging his head in the direction of the clock to tell us it was almost time to leave. It was now half an hour before 7 o'clock and I was supposed to be ready to leave but I had yet to find my heels.
"One second, let me go grab my shoes and I'll be on my way down stairs with you guys," I answered before running into my closet to search for the heels I had set aside last night. They were white with straps of diamonds across the toes and crossed over the foot to the heel and around the ankle to buckle at the front. Afterwards, I locked up the suite and headed down stairs to the lobby with Alex and Michelle.
"About time you finished mama," I heard Keith shout from the couch in the lobby. He rushed over dressed in his tux and kissed my cheek as I bent down to hug him. It was the most adorable sight in the world. I originally picked out a white tux for him so that he could match me, but then the thought of him scuffing his white dress shoes scared me so I ended up getting him a black tux with a silver vest and accessories instead. His cuff links were black in the center and had silver trimming, which matched his vest and bow tie, it was the cutest sight in the world.
"You look so handsome!" I squirmed, leaning over and kissing him on the cheeks before ruffling his hair.
"Mom, you'll mess up my hair!" fussed Keith with a pout. I laughed and turned around to see the most gorgeous man on the face of the planet. Andrew was standing there with a rose in his hand and an amazing smile on his face. He had on this sexy white Chinese tuxedo with a silver vest and lavender handkerchief in his left pocket.
"Wow," was all I could utter while my eyes roamed up and down his body.
"Why thank you beautiful," came Andrew husky voice. He kissed me on the lips and wrapped his arms around me. "You look so good right now," he whispered tightening his grip on my hips earning him a poke in the stomach.
"So are we all ready?" asked Galen as he stood there and looked around the lobby at everyone. "We're not missing anybody are we?" he said double-checking for everyone's faces. All the girls were busy talking and complimenting one another that they completely missed the entire spew about heading out.
"Hey! Wait for us!" called out Heather as she grabbed the girls by the hands and ran to catch up with us. Galen and all the boys decided they'd escort all of my lovely ladies into the ballroom before I was allowed to enter.
"We'll see you inside," Alex whispered to me before he and Michelle went in. I nodded with a smile and smoothed out any wrinkles on my gown before linking my arm through Andrew's and held my hand out for Keith.
"Ready boys?" I asked anxiously, winking at Keith before we walked through the double doors. Stepping into the dimly lit ballroom, it took a moment for my eyes to adjust before I took in the sight before me. There were roses everywhere and everything looked so exquisite that my eyes almost began tearing up.
"Happy Birthday!" yelled everyone in the entire room loudly as I smiled and hid my blushing face behind Andrew's shoulder. The room was filled with laughter as everyone saw how red I had turned.
"You know, I never thought you were one to shy away from a crowd Rena," Alex said loudly as he walked over and slipped an Asian lily behind my ear.
"Thank you for coming out everyone, I really appreciate this," I announced to the entire room once I found my voice. With a blushing smile, Andrew escorted me to our table where I sat down to catch my breath.
"A little overwhelming?" he asked quietly with a radiant smile on his face.
"A bit, I wasn't expecting it to look this breath-taking," I answered honestly.
"Mama, everything looks so yummy!" cried Keith as his eyes glazed over with excitement as he stared at my seven tiered strawberry and chocolate mousse cake.
"Dinner first, then dessert," I whispered sternly, earning a big pout from my precious little boy.
"Come on big guy, lets go say hi to your grandparents," Galen interrupted us as he grabbed Keith's hand and pulled him over to the tables where my parents were currently sitting at and waving at us. "He'll be back before the dinner starts, go mingle," he added as they walked away.
"Yes, let's mingle my dear," joked Andrew. I took his awaiting hands and we both toured the entire room as I thanked a few of my closest friends in the fashion industry. As the night started passing by, I found myself tied up with some new faces. "I'll let you two talk while I go get us some drinks," whispered Andrew, kissing me lightly on the cheek as he left me with my guest.
"So what you're proposing is that we do a joint fashion line?" I asked, curious as to where this conversation was heading.
"Somewhat along that lines, I was thinking maybe we could mix our designs," replied Paolo, as I had recalled from his brisk introduction earlier on in the conversation. "I think my new designs for the shrug and boleros would be great with the designs from your city line," he added quickly.
"Why don't you have your secretary send me some sketches and I'll see what I can do from there?" I answered after a few seconds. I'm still iffy when it comes to joint projects, because I risk conflicts and my reputation. I didn't want to turn the man down, but I most definitely did not want him to think it was a done deal.
"Okay, you'll have them by next week," replied Paolo. "Thank you so much for considering my idea," he added happily, shaking my hand before leaving me to myself. I looked around for Andrew but could not find him in sight.
"How's the lady of the evening?" a voice asked me from behind, that voice was all too familiar. I turned around, and whom do I find standing there? Darien Shields. "Shocked?" inquired Darien with a grin plastered on his face.
"Frankly, yes. This event was by invite only. How on Earth did you manage to get past my security team?" I asked, venom literally dripping from my mouth.
"Well, I had connections and I was just lucky enough to be asked to escort one of your guests here," Darien told me as he raised his champagne glass at a lady standing nearby, who only smiled in response, making me feel sick to the stomach.
"I feel sorry for the brainless woman, she obviously doesn't know what she's getting herself into," I replied as I turned and started walking away.
"Don't you think we should talk Serena?" asked Darien, grabbing my hand and spinning me around to face him. "I believe after all those years, I deserve at least five minutes of your time to explain myself," he added, I could see the anger flickering in his eyes at this moment.
"For what? That's all in the pasts, and I'd like to leave it there," I replied bluntly. "Now if you don't mind, I think I should get back to my party and family," I added, trying to pull my wrist out of his hand.
"There you are Sere! I've been looking everywhere for you," called out Andrew from behind me as he walked over to where I was standing in the corner of the ballroom. Just as he reached my side, he noticed who was standing in front of me. "You, what the hell are you doing here?" he asked furiously.
"What does it look like Drew? We're talking," spat Darien angrily.
"Can't you leave her alone once and for all Darien? Can't you see that she's moved on already? Don't you think it's about time you let go and do the same?" Andrew seethed in a hushed tone as to avoid other guests from noticing.
"No, I can't Andrew. You are the one person who should know better than anyone else. I loved Serena with all my heart and soul. I didn't do anything with Raye she threw herself on me. I just wish Serena would listen to me and give me a chance to explain what happened," Darien spilt his heart out quietly. I felt so bad when I heard those words. I could tell he wasn't lying by the sincerity in his voice.
"Darien, I'm sorry I never let you explain. But as I said before, that is all in the past now, I have a new life and I just can't go back to the one I left behind all those years ago," I replied, reaching out and taking hold of Darien's free hand. "Please understand that I've changed, I have a son to think about now, and things just aren't the same anymore," I added. "I will always love you Darien Shields, but you're only holding on to a memory. What we had before was great and I'll never forget it, but you need to move on Darien, because I already have," was my last word to him as he let go of my hand.
"I see," Darien whispered. "I'm sorry I've waste so much of your time, I'll take my leave now," he added before turning to walk away.
"Darien wait! Please stay and celebrate my birthday with us," I called out just as he reached the exit. "We can still be friends right?" I asked, praying that he wouldn't just throw all those years away.
"Yeah, I think I can manage with that," Darien answered with a smile as he bent down and kissed the top of my head. "I guess that is better than not having you in my life," he whispered before walking back to his date for the night,
"I don't know what to say," came Andrew's quiet reply. "I'm still in awe that he took that so well," he added, coming up behind me and engulfing me in his embrace.
"I'm grateful, I didn't want to lose any more friends," I replied, turning around to pull Andrew into a passionate kiss.
"Okay everyone, please take your seats because dinner is starting!" came Mr. Tanaka's voice over the microphone. Andrew and I headed back to our table just as all the guests took their seats. We had a lovely seven-course meal, followed by a few rounds of toasts from various tables across the room.
"Before we bring out the cake, there is one last event we have planned!" announced Galen happily as he signaled for the lights to be dimmed. I looked around the room curiously just as the lights went completely out, causing a quiet gasp to escape from my lips. "Ladies and gentlemen, Mr. Andrew Forbes," whispered Galen just as a spotlight came on and fell on our table. My eyes were about ready to fall out of their sockets as I threw a scared look over at Andrew.
'What the hell is going on?' I thought frantically as I looked around the room once more. Finally, I noticed how everyone was smiling and the room was filled with complete silence as Andrew got up and took the microphone from Galen.
"Thanks Galen. Sere, I know you're frightened, but don't worry. There is nothing to worry about. I just have a few things I'd like to say," Andrew told me with his soothing voice and I could already feel myself relax slightly. I looked up at him as he walked back and forth across the stage. "You know everyone, I've known Serena since she was in junior high school. And until this very day, she has remained the same beautiful, lively, most caring person in the world. Sometimes I can't believe how much love she has for everyone, even people who have done her wrong," said Andrew, walking over to take my hand and gentle squeeze it. "She's gorgeous, inside and out, and I would be lost without her," he added, kissing my hand. "What I'm really getting at is…" he began as he let go of my hand and walked away. He walked to the center of the room and I noticed that he was fidgeting with his pockets.
'What could he possibly be nervous about?' I wondered, confusion clearly written on my face as I heard a quiet round of laughter. Just then, Andrew turned around and headed straight back to our table.
"Serena Moon, I would be the happiest man in the world if you would do me the honor of becoming my wife. Will you marry me?" asked Andrew as he got down on one knee and pulled out an exquisite princess cut diamond ring.
'Oh my GOD!' I yelled in my head as I stared down at Andrew on the floor and the ring in his hand, which I could see was beginning to shake nervously. Tears sprang to my eyes and I leapt from my chair into Andrew's arms. "Yes," I whispered in between my sobs as I wrapped my arms around him tightly and cried my heart out. I could not believe that Andrew had just asked my to marry him.
"What?" asked Andrew shakily as he pulled away from me to wipe the tears from my face before they hit the floor.
"Yes!" I yelled loudly now so that the entire room could hear. As soon as those words left my mouth, Andrew wrapped his arms tightly around me and lifted me into the air, spinning me around several times.
"I love you so much," he finally said as he placed me back down on the floor and slid the ring onto my finger. The room erupted in cheers and congratulations as we shared a loving embrace.
"I knew you'd be surprised mama, Happy Birthday!" cried Keith from behind us with a huge grin on his face. I turned around and picked him up, finally, we would be a real family now I thought as I kissed both Andrew and our son on the cheek.
A.N.
So, how was it? Hope you liked it, I know it was a little weird to have Darien settle with being just friends, but I thought it'd be nice to have the sweet Darien back. It's not over yet though, we have one more chapter to this ending and then I'll be done for real this time!