A/N – I am SO sorry for the long update but I promise this should satisfy some of you. Yes, things are slow moving but that's because it is necessary to set the mood for it all. Anyway, I hope you all enjoy this, it has taken me over a week to write this one chapter, so you had better! Thanks to RukaMichi for making me update with her ever so subtle hints ;) Anyway enough ranting and on with the show! (Thanks for all the awesome reviews for the last chapter by the way, they were uber smexxi - thats's a hint to give me more!)
CHAPTER 10 – I'D BE SURPRISINGLY GOOD FOR YOU
BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!
A rough hand crawled out from under the covers and smacked the offensive alarm clock. Soon, duvet covers were moved back from the bed and a tuft of blonde hair became visible. The form in the bed groaned loudly, and slowly the racer sat up in her bed, gripping her head, still reliving the nightmare that was last night. Her father had set it up, her parents had no meeting to go to, Hotaru called him while in the kitchen, he annoyed her and made them go work in her room, then he put the heating on full and spied on them just as they were about to – oh God, that should have been the greatest kiss of the tomboy's life, and she was so close to claiming Michiru's lips and the entire moment was stolen by her family once again embarrassing her to high heaven. And poor Michiru, the blonde called her a few hours later, when it was near midnight, and it was one of the awkward moments of her life.
"Moshi moshi, Kaioh Michiru speaking." The blonde gulped nervously at her end of the phone.
"Michiru... hi." Another silence, it was almost deafening. It seemed as though the younger girl wasn't going to say anything, so the blonde took the initiative.
"About tonight, I don't know what happened but I'm sorry." Another silence. At the other end of the phone, the blonde couldn't see the aqua-haired teen fight a tear back. Before regaining her graceful composure Michiru responded,
"That's fine, Haruka-sama. Is that all? It is quite late." Haruka frowned, she had to stall.
"What about the project? We need to finish it and email it by tomorrow and we don't get that -"
"Don't worry about the project," Michiru interrupted and sighed, "The project's finished, I emailed it yesterday." The blonde frowned again.
"Yesterday, but we only started it tonight." A very clear sigh could be heard down the phone,
"No, I did it over a week ago. Haruka I have to go. Goodnight."
"Wait! Will I see you tomorrow?" Another silence. Haruka could only think of how painful every silence was to her. Finally Michiru spoke,
"Goodnight, Haruka-sama." The click of a phone being hung up was heard then the only sound that graced Haruka's ears was that of the dialling tone. It took another thirty seconds before she hung up then threw herself into her covers. She turned over and yelled,
"I HATE YOU ALL!"
The blonde shook her head and sat in her bed, had she really been that stupid? Were all the signs there all along? If so, she really was, no wait; not was, she really IS an idiot. And her father had been such an idiot, but he knew how she felt, the old ass probably thought he was helping her. Did Michiru truly feel that way for her? If it was that obvious then who else knew? Haruka closed her eyes and thought back, there was no way Seiya knew, he seemed convinced he had a chance with Michiru, but Haruka had this feeling that after last night, Michiru was strictly interested in girls. The blonde thought to all her friends, Elza knew Haruka liked her, but Haruka needed to speak to someone who would have known about Michiru's feelings. Who? Who spoke to Michiru the most? Not Usagi, definitely not Mina-chan or Rei... Ami? No... Mako-chan! The blonde instantly reached for her phone and madly began tapping in Makoto's phone number. After four attempts, it was finally answered.
"Moshi moshi? Kino residence." Haruka's eyebrows rose higher than ever before,
"Ami? Oh..." Wow, this was awkward, why would Ami be at Makoto's apartment that early? Haruka knew they had been going out for a few months but so quickly? Mako, you sly dog, you! "Is... Mako-chan there, Ami-san?" An instant 'eep' could be heard followed by shuffling and after a few seconds the distinct sound of Makoto chuckling could be heard.
"Hey, Haruka, I think you scared the hell out of Ami... um, do you think you could – " The blonde instantly cut her friend off;
"Listen, I won't tell anyone but I do need to talk to you, it's important." Haruka took a deep breath, readying her nerves to tell Makoto everything about last night, about Michiru, everything.
"Yeah, yeah I know, your dad already called me last night, so what do you want, Haru-chan?" After Haruka regained her senses which were temporarily dulled by her seething rage, she found her voice.
"He called you? Does he not know when to leave me be?!" A sigh was heard from Makoto's end,
"Look, Haruka before you get angry at him, he told me how he fucked up your chance with Michiru last night. He feels pretty bad, he just wanted me to make sure you came to Hachi's tonight."
"Of course, I'm going, even though I'm now in a shitty mood, I'd never let down uncle Hachi by not turning up."
"Really? Good, Mina-chan's ensuring that Michiru comes tonight." Haruka frowned,
"Why is everyone getting involved?" Makoto groaned;
"Because if we don't, you two will take forever to get together. See, we all know you like her Haruka and Michiru told me she likes you. Now, it used to be you getting to admit your feelings, now it's getting both of you to get the guts to just get over your embarrassment and admit it to each other, and after you say it, acting on it instead of being a bunch of shy little girls. So tonight, turn up and take the girl of your dreams. Got it?" A silence. Makoto waited patiently.
"Wow, you don't fuck around eh, Kino? But... I'm leaving in a week, is there a point now?" Makoto sighed,
"Is there ever a point? Just make sure you turn up at Hachi's okay? See you at eight, idiot."
Haruka stared at her phone is a state of shock. Makoto could really be a bitch when necessary. And it was necessary. But now, Haruka had other things to deal with; her father being a main thing today, and shortly after that, she had to get the guts to go to Hachi's. Ah, Uncle Hachi!
Hachi is a long time friends of Leon Tenoh. He was half Japanese, half Argentinean, he spent his childhood in Miami, where his father emigrated to shortly before Hachi's birth. Then when Hachi was ten, they moved to Japan to provide better for him and when Hachi was eighteen he wanted to go to NYU to study music and history, and after he was accepted that was where he met Leon in their youth, and Hachi was taught by Leon how to dance and the two used to tell Haruka about how they used these same dance moves to attract girls when they used to go to dancing clubs. That's where Leon met Yumi and fell in love, Hachi in fact dared Leon to dance with Yumi, as the usually confident dancer was so scared of approaching such a beautiful woman, but after Hachi dared him and Leon accepted he couldn't have been happier; Leon had found the love of his life, and he owed it all to Hachi being an annoying ass. When Hachi completed university, he moved back to Japan and opened up his own bar, with money he inherited shortly after his father's death. Hachi had to look after his mother when she got older and the club more than provided it. It was one of, if not, the most popular Latin-quarter club in all of Tokyo – 'A Paixao de Vida', Leon told him to name the club passion of life because at the end of the day, that's what dancing is about, passion of life. When Haruka was born, Hachi was made Haruka's godfather instantly, and Haruka couldn't ask for a better man to be her godfather, she was never told the exact story but Yumi said that Hachi was once married after arriving in Japan, but his wife never had the chance to have his baby, as she died giving birth and the baby didn't survive either. Hachi never remarried but Haruka adored him as she did her real father and he adored her as though she was his own daughter, though she hadn't seen him very often due to F2 but any opportunity to see Hachi was a chance to take advantage of. Hachi's real name was Marcos Hachimachi Hajiro, but he earned the nickname Hachimaki when Haruka was three and her father called him Hachimachi all the time but due to the white cloth around his head Haruka thought her father called him Hachimaki, so that's what she called him... and everyone has called him it ever since. And they will most probably continue to call him that till their dying days.
And tonight, Hachi had his club open only for exclusive and approved people. Haruka had to be there and ready by eight, as this was her send-off' from all her friends and family. Haruka smiled to herself but then it disappeared as soon as she thought of the possibility of Michiru not turning up tonight.
There was a knock at the door and then the gentle sound of Setsuna's voice could be heard,
"Can I come in, Haru-chan?"
"Yeah, whatever." The blonde racer leaned back in bed, still in her shorts and tank top and Setsuna opened the door, her silk robe covering her frame. She smiled gently and made her way to the end of Haruka's bed,
"Hey... Yumi told me what happened last night... you okay?" Haruka didn't say a thing, she didn't need to, Setsuna knew her so well, she could even tell what the blonde's silences meant. Setsuna half-smirked, "Hotaru told me you kissed her."
"NO!" Haruka covered her mouth with her hand and then grimaced, "No... but I was so close and they all messed it up." Setsuna smiled as Haruka covered her face with her hands.
"Hey, don't worry about it. But, let's just relax and enjoy tonight, okay? She'll be there... embarrassed or not, tonight is everyone's last chance to see you really. Next week you'll be so busy with packing and leaving we won't get to see you. So please, enjoy tonight, Haruka." Setsuna stood and left the room. The blonde looked over at her clock, it was 10am. She had ten hours to waste; she decided to just stay in bed until 6pm and then get ready then. Today was going to be one hell of an awkward day.
In the downstairs of the Tenoh household, Leon had his ear to the phone,
"Hachi, no, listen to me man, Haruka will not kill me! Just make sure that the band play that song, okay? I guarantee once they hear it, it'll bring them together again? How can I be sure? I just know, okay? Okay, see you in a few hours... and Hachi? Thanks." Leon grinned and looked over at his wife.
"Tonight is going to be fantastic, Yumes, just you wait and see."
"Michiru-san, as much as I agree that blue really is your colour, I think you should venture for something a little more daring! Not red... Rei would kill you... What about – OH MY GOD! A LBD!" Michiru's eyebrows knotted together while she sat on her bed, in her blue jeans and light blue blouse. Minako stumbled back from her closet and had to steady herself against a wall, her eyes glazed over,
"Mina-chan, are you okay?" Michiru rushed over to Minako who had nearly fainted at the sight in the wardrobe. Before Michiru could actually place a hand on Minako's shoulder, the young blonde had dived back into the wardrobe and held out a very seductive looking black dress. Minako's eyes glazed over,
"You have a Chanel LBD in your wardrobe and you didn't tell me!" Michiru looked confused at Minako, who simply continued, "This is the most astounding Little Black Dress I have ever seen in my life... oh! Look at the detail – simple on the shoulders, no sheer, I hate the sheer! Look at this fabric, I am so jealous you own a Chanel, and OH! A nice long slit up the side, must go to mid thigh, hehe, you ever worn this before, Michiru-san?!" After Minako finally took a breath and Michiru registered the hyper blonde had asked her a question, Michiru shook her head, returned to reality and smiled politely,
"Once. I was having a launch and I thought it would look nice. Although my manager thought it was a little too grown up for me." Michiru covered her mouth – damn, she had let her cover down! But it seems that Minako had not noticed, her eyes had fallen on something else in Michiru's wardrobe. Minako said nothing as she took out a dress from the back of the wardrobe, awestruck. In her hands, the blonde handled a dress as though it were the Holy Grail; it was a shimmering light blue, if anything just off-white, with a V-neck cut, and mid shoulder sleeves, the top of the dress tailed down as a slim fit to the waist, a sash of the dress's colour hung around the midriff and the dress from there appeared to trail over, reaching what one could only assume was ankle length. Minako could only stare at the beautiful dress before her.
"Michiru-san... what is this dress?" Michiru had to turn away as she could feel a lump forming in her throat. The memories from a night that seemed so long ago resurfaced, she turned to Minako and put a fake smile on her face, unbeknownst to Minako.
"I was going to wear it once to a charity fundraiser... but I never got the chance to."
"What happened Michiru-san?" Michiru could only hear concern in Minako's voice, even though she had only known the girl for a few months, she trusted her and her friends more than she had ever trusted anyone. Michiru sighed.
"I was going to dance with my old instructor. Her name was Karin and she had the most startling green eyes, a brunette too, and she had taught me for years. She was only a few years older than me but highly revered in the dance community, so my parents got her for me. I asked her to come to this fundraiser with me, because at the time I was certain I was desperately in love with her and she with me, we had stolen kisses from each other and even more when she lingered in our home after the dance." Michiru sighed and looked out of the window, Minako still stared at the young beauty with concerned eyes, the violinist took a deep breath and continued, "I was running late to the concert and decided to take the dress to ballroom and to change when I got there. I arrived an hour late and as I rushed past the ballroom to get changed, I caught sight of her in the corner of my eye, dancing with one of the younger men there, that didn't bother me... but at the end of their waltz, the two went to a corner and I saw her kiss him passionately. When I spoke to her the next day she told me she had no interest in me and was just keeping a rich brat interested so she wouldn't lose the dance hours she had with me." Michiru brought her knees up to her body and wrapped her arms around them but before she could secure her arms, Minako flung herself at Michiru, hugging the older girl tightly.
"Michiru-san, I am so sorry to hear that!" Michiru broke the embrace and looked into the slightly watering eyes of the blonde, she wiped her tears away and smiled at her,
"Don't cry, Mina-chan, I'm over it, so you shouldn't waste tears over it." Mina shook her head,
"No! Oh my Michiru, when did this happen?" Michiru suddenly was pulled into another hug and she smiled gently,
"It happened ten months ago." Minako let go of the older girl and stared at her in shock,
"So soon and you have gotten over it?" Michiru looked at the dress and smiled a little more.
"Hai, Mina-chan... I even planned to wear this dress tomorrow, for the waltz, it would be perfect." Minako nodded, then she smiled deviously, Michiru caught onto this,
"You know if that had happened to me, I would have taken a lot longer to get over it, Michiru-san." Michiru looked at the blond and raised an eyebrow curiously. Minako continued to speak,
"I mean, unless of course I had met someone else... someone new." Minako looked at Michiru knowingly and the aqua-haired teen blushed, Minako continued, "But you know, I don't understand why you don't want to see Haruka after last night. It's clear she likes you, and you like her, so why run off?" The blonde watched the aqua haired girl with interest. Michiru sighed,
"Because I got worried and nervous. I threw myself at her practically, and that's when she took advantage of it... maybe she'll think I'm – that - kind of girl. And I'm not." Minako placed a hand on Michiru's shoulder and spoke in a calm and soothing voice,
"Haru-chan would never think that about anyone. Especially not you."
Michiru turned away thinking of that sentence. It meant the world to her, if Haruka didn't see her like that then she could salvage what little they had and let Haruka know exactly her intentions to her, not lust-fuelled only, but pure and loving. After Keiko and Karin, weren't they both entitled to that? Michiru smiled gently and looked at Minako who glanced at her watch.
"Oh my, it's nearly four... I don't know about you but I take hours to prepare for a night out, we had better get ready Michiru!" Michiru threw her a confused look;
"Ready for what?" If Minako had held a glass, she surely would have dropped it, instead it was just her jaw that hit the floor. Instantly an intensity took over her eyes and she seemed to glow eerily,
"YOU ARE GOING TO THE PARTY TONIGHT, REGARDLESS WHAT YOU SAY!" She returned to her normal smiling self, and giggled, "So grab your LBD and follow me to Rei's, I gotta help her undress, I mean, help her dress!" The young blonde grinned, Minako was glad that Michiru hadn't noticed her slip, but still the older girl stood there in shock, not moving. Minako waved her hand in front of Michiru's face,
"Earth to Neptune!" Instantly Michiru was thrown from her trace from the use of the word 'Neptune'.
"Neptune?"
"You ARE Aiko Neptune, aren't you?" Usually the young violinist would deny any claim like that but today Michiru didn't see the need to lie.
"Hai. I am." Minako looked at Michiru, she seemed confused as the aqua-haired teen sat down. Minako jumped in the air and struck a victory pose,
"I knew it!" Michiru seemed confused as she followed the blonde out of the house, but before Michiru could say anything, Minako continued to boast of her newly confirmed suspicion.
"It doesn't take a genius to figure out that the world famous violinist Aiko Neptune and Mugen Gakuen first string violin Michiru Kaioh are the same person!" Michiru's face almost drained of colour
"How did you know?" Minako laughed out loud, but then sweat-dropped.
"Er... Ami told me." It was Michiru's turn to laugh now... doesn't take a genius huh? Minako then recovered from her wounded pride and smiled,
"Hey if you can keep a secret... you're not the only superstar you know... everyone knows about Haruka but not many know about me," Michiru raised her eyebrows in anticipation and Minako once again struck her victory pose, "I am Sailor V!" She said proudly. Michiru looked at Minako and soon all the similarities were making sense. The popular TV show and Minako's obsession with fame and being an idol. Michiru smiled, she wasn't alone now, the others were like her. Minako grabbed her arm and threw Michiru into her car,
"Now, come on, let's go and sex you up, Michiru!" All this time, Michiru hadn't noticed the little black dress that Minako had grabbed for her. The young violinist had no interest in going to the party tonight but she had just decided to face Haruka. Michiru was sure she had made a fool of herself in front of the girl, sure they had nearly kissed but Michiru had to really put herself out there to get the blonde's attention; And Michiru really couldn't shake off completely the feeling that maybe the tomboy only had a physical interest in Michiru, not a deeper feeling for her. Even though Minako and the others may think otherwise, Haruka has only ever shown an interest in her when she acted seductively. She was either only interested in one thing or the blonde was shy around the young violinist. Michiru couldn't stop to think of how Haruka only seemed to take an interest when dancing and Michiru became more sensual and was all over the blonde, and of course the night before when Michiru had to practically shove her chest in the blonde's face before she declared how much she liked her and finally they made it to the next level... well nearly. Michiru found herself sighing at this highly depressing thought, but the more she thought of it, the more it made her confused, tonight she had to really sort everything out – Haruka wouldn't be at the Comps tomorrow and they'd probably not see each other for a year, maybe more, and Michiru couldn't go that long without finding out exactly how the tall racer felt about her. None of this mattered at the moment though because Minako was on a mission and she was determined. She had to get Michiru to Hachi's dressed to the nine's, and to the nine's she would be!
Back in the Tenoh household, it was 7:30pm, and Yumi, Leon, Setsuna and Hotaru sat in the living room patiently. Yumi was in a simple golden velvet dress, not too clingy but Leon thought it showed her femininity perfectly, and he did love her feminine side... and her curves too. Leon himself was dressed in black dress pants, with a very loud but somehow complimenting orange dress shirt, made of a very smooth material, that Yumi had a hard time not touching at the moment. Hotaru was in her favourite black and purple dress, with long sleeves and came to just below her knees. Setsuna was dressed in a halter neck, with a chocolate brown blazer and skirt that came just above her knees and a killer pair of Manolo's that Yumi gave for her to wear that night. They all looked at the clock and patiently still they waited, until they all looked up at the stairs after the distinct sound of a door closing caught their attention. They all stood up and looked at the stairs expectedly, and sure enough after a few moments, Haruka came walking leisurely down the stairs, dressed in black pants, black leather shoes, a black blazer, a white dress shirt with a white fitted t-shirt underneath, her hair was under more control than usual, giving it a dirty blonde look under the hair products that were used to make it appear a little slicker than usual.
"You look good, Ruka!" Hotaru beamed at her 'papa' and was greeted with a half-hearted smile. Leon grinned too, Haruka looked perfect for the night he had planned.
"Ready to go, Haruka?" The blonde ignored her father and this did not go unnoticed.
"Oh, c'mon! You cannot still be pissed off at me!" Still Haruka ignored him, she stood staring at the door, Leon sighed, "Fine, we had better get to Hachi's quickly." Yumi threw her husband a look and he ignored her, intent on getting into the car and getting everyone to Hachi's as soon as possble.
At 8:05pm, the residents of the Tenoh household pulled into the parking lot of a tall building, seemingly made of wood, large in its stature, but appearing to be similar to the buildings you saw in the slums of South American cities. In large green letters above the doors were the lively neon letters that spelt out 'A Paixao De Vida!' Yumi was first out of the car, smiling fondly at the club, from inside the gentle sound of music could be heard from inside – Hachi had the live band as well as the DJ here, tonight should be fun as hell. Leo stepped out of the car, took a deep breath and grinned,
"Oh man, the air here is so good! I bet Hachi has a bunch of good food... Let's head in!" Leon led the way, followed by Yumi who had her arm linked with his, Setsuna and Hotaru walked ahead leaving a particularly miserable Haruka walking slowly behind them. Leon looked over at his daughter and sighed, he thought of how in a matter of hours she would be thanking him for everything that happened tonight – providing Minako got here in time, and that Elza managed to get Haruka onto the dance-floor. Hachi had even got every single song to be played tonight from Leon, as Leon liked to call it – irresistible sexy music. Hey, if it worked for him and Yumi it should work for Haruka and Michiru.
As he reached the steps he thought of how similar they all were. Michiru was a fine and elegant young lady, well dressed, well spoken and well mannered, just like his Yumi. Then there was Haruka, she was flirtatious, curt, sarcastic but totally fun loving if not sometimes crude, but she could have her suave moments. Leon only saw himself in his daughter and he grinned to himself.
"At least they'll have tonight." Yumi looked at Leon as he muttered this out loud. She saw his downcast look, and realised that although all the effort he had put into tonight would not go unrewarded, it was sad that even if Haruka and Michiru finally got together tonight, they would only have tonight for each other for at least a year. Yumi too found herself with the same downcast look; why couldn't her little Ruka, after finding a girl she really liked, maybe even loved just have the opportunity to stay with her for a little, let their romance bloom. For the first time in a long while, Yumi found herself inwardly cursing the racing team and Haruka's love for motorsports. Even Haruka loved this girl, Haruka's dream of being in the F1 only came around once, and no-one could blame her for taking advantage of the opportunity thrown in her face.
Leon opened the door and his ears were instantly attacked with fierce but passionate music. The live band that played was on top form in their last minute practice. The trumpets were bringing a life to the place that they hadn't seen in a while, and for Leon it felt like he could really let go tonight, have fun, and maybe see his daughter happy for the first time in ages. He couldn't help but grin at the way tonight should go, he really had a lot of faith in his abilities. But before Leon could think any further, Leon found himself enveloped in a hug from a man he considered to be like the brother he never had.
"Hachi!" Leon laughed and returned the hug. Leon looked at his best friend and smiled fondly; even after Hachi's wife's death almost twenty years ago, he seemed as youthful and energetic as ever, even when Yumi and he were worried about Hachi's depression and thought he would even take his own life. But here he was, his ear length brown hair was as unruly as ever but held back that familiar white cloth that covered his forehead and tied at the back, and trailed past his shoulders. His familiar blue eyes sparkled with that warmth and happiness that Leon was glad to see ever present. Tonight, Hachi had opted to wear his chocolate brown suit with a cream shirt and his cream dress shoes. Hachi pulled apart from his hug with his 'brother' and smiled,
"Hey, Leon, long time no see, how you doing?"
"I'm good Hachi... is everything ready for tonight?" Hachi simply smiled and nodded, but he instantly turned to Yumi and bowed slightly and took her hand in his and kissed the back of it.
"Yumi, you look as fabulous as ever." Leon rose an eyebrow and playfully punched Hachi in the arm, Hachi mock pouted.
"Hachi, that's my wife, remember?" Hachi smirked while Yumi simply grinned and looked to Leon, she gave him a gentle kiss on his cheek,
"Don't be jealous, darling... just because your eyes are green doesn't mean that's all you have to see with them." Leon looked at Yumi and smiled.
"Let's get in, I'm starving!" Yumi could only roll her eyes at her husband's obsession with eating. She simply took him by the arm and headed over to the table that was set up for at least twenty people, by the edge of the dance-floor. Hotaru and Setsuna followed Yumi and Leon and Haruka skulked into the room, Hachi saw her downcast look and slung his arm over his shoulder,
"Hey now, what's that face for? You should be happy Haru-chan, you got your big race tomorrow right? So why so sad?" Hachi already knew everything; Leon called him the night before and told him what had happened between Haruka and this girl. Hachi had the band arranged to get here last minute to play the songs that Leon selected, he knew that Haruka being the dancer she was would not be able to resist at least one of the songs, and if all went Leon's way, his daughter would end up dancing with this girl; who Leon was convinced had finally gotten Haruka over that Keiko girl.
"Nothing, uncle Hachi. People will be here soon though, so I'm gonna go take my seat, is that okay?" Hachi smiled gently,
"Of course, my Haru-chan. Go take a seat, you should find a little present out by the seat at the head of the table. It's for you. Now go, I gotta make sure everything's up to par for you." Haruka smiled at Hachi and walked away, she loved Hachi but right now she was moody as hell. Haruka walked along the club slowly, every single step resonating along the hardwood floor with a slight click as the hell on her shoe hit the surface beneath her. She stopped before the table and looked up to see Hotaru and Setsuna smiling at her, she smiled gently back. Her eyes then fell onto her parents, her mother looking at her with so much pride and love and then there was her father, smiling at her too. He was smiling a like a bit of a child, he seemed to be more than sorry about the night before and she had given him the cold shoulder all day. Right now he looked like a bit of a puppy that's been told off by its master.
"Can you stop with the pathetic puppy routine, dad?" Leon raised one eyebrow and pouted,
"Can you stop being mean to me? I did say sorry." Haruka kept her gaze locked with her father. This was their game usually, but right now, it was their test; the first to look away loses. They kept staring, a smirk raising to Leon's lips while Haruka clenched her jaw slightly. Both were so involved, that neither noticed that more people had entered the club and were being led over to the large area reserved for the 'Tenoh party'. Yumi sighed at the two stubborn Tenoh's in front of her and turned her head to greet the guests who had just arrived. She was greeted with the sight of Rei, Ami, Makoto, Usagi and Mamoru; Rei in a red dress that clung to her waist and curves but was a looser fit on the top half of her body. Usagi was in a cute little matching off-white near pink skirt and blouse with a mid body waistcoat, and Mamoru was dressed in dark blue trousers and a deep purple/blue shirt. Ami was dressed a blue summer dress, ideal for the weather and Makoto had a pair of brown slacks and a chocolate brown shirt with green trim, she had her hand proudly on Ami's shoulder.
"Glad to see you could all make it. Well, well, don't we look beautiful tonight, girls? Rei you look divine and Usagi-chan, you are looking very kawaii tonight. Mamo-chan, you're as handsome as ever." Yumi listened to the giggle of the young girls, "Where is Mina?" Usagi grinned,
"She's outside with Michiru-chan, deciding whether or not to come in. But don't worry, Mina-chan is making sure she comes in!" Usagi beamed but then began to drool as soon as she saw all the food behind Yumi that was being placed on the table. Mamoru had to hold for dear life as Usagi leapt at the table and began stuffing as much as she could into her mouth. Yumi was about to comment when the door opened and in walked Minako and Michiru. Hotaru and Setsuna couldn't help but look too and when they did Hotaru couldn't contain the words that came from her mouth,
"Sugoi... Michiru looks so beautiful!" The second that Michiru was said, Haruka nearly fell backwards of her chair, but was saved by a pair of arms; looking up to see her saviour, she saw Hachi with a big grin on his face.
"Wow, who is that, Yumi?" Yumi looked over to Hachi and smiled,
"You remember Aino Minako ne, Hachi? And that is Kaioh Michiru... friends of Haru-chan's." Haruka still had not regained the ability to speak yet, but she did make it to her feet, Hachi put his hand on her shoulder and grinned at Haruka, who appeared to have not noticed her mouth was wide open and she couldn't keep her eyes off of Michiru. The aqua-haired goddess had her hair up in a simple bun, but with hair down framing her face, and her make-up was matching in shade to her natural beauty, and her dress, oh God the dress... she was wearing the little black dress Minako picked out earlier. It had straps, sleeveless, a simple cut to the waist, where a single black band went around the middle, to accentuate Michiru's curves, and then from the waist downwards it clung to every single curve, as it did for her top half. Hachi chuckled next to Haruka and put his hand under her jaw and closed her mouth,
"Haru-chan, be careful, you don't want birds to start nesting." At Hachi's words, Haruka shook her head, returning to the world she belonged to. She looked to the group that arrived, the only people missing were Taiki, Yaten and Seiya, even Elza had arrived a few minutes after the others and began talking to Hachi. Not that Seiya's absence would dampen her mood but Haruka didn't mind Yaten or Taiki and they usually went everywhere together. Haruka turned to Rei, Usagi, Minako, Makoto and Ami.
"I'm glad you could all come." Haruka bowed low as she spoke. She turned to Michiru who seemed to be a little uncomfortable.
"Thank you for coming, Michiru." Haruka bowed low again and as she rose she smiled gently to the younger girl. Michiru's features softened and she looked down to the tomboy and smiled back. Before Haruka could stop herself, Leon spoke up,
"No Seiya with you, Michiru-chan?" Haruka threw a glare to Leon who only seemed to be smirking. Michiru shook her head gently,
"Not yet, he said he would be here soon, he had to go to Mie Prefecture today... he said he was visiting relatives." Leon glanced over to Haruka who seemed to have avoided looking at Michiru after hearing this information. Leon smiled gently,
"Well, Haru-chan will be there this time tomorrow too. It's a nice place." Michiru winced slightly at the reminder of Haruka's F1 opportunity. Yumi saw this and smiled gently,
"Well, we should all forget about the future. Hachi has prepared a fabulous meal for us all – that's right, Usagi, keep eating, my dear. Let's get on with the night, shall we?" Leon kissed his wife on the cheek at her diplomacy, where would he be without her?
As they all sat down about to have dinner, in waltzed Seiya, not noticing the glare that Hachi and Leon were giving him, and he approached the table,
"Gomen for being late, but traffic was hell!" Haruka kept her gaze to the glass in front of her, but she spoke up to Seiya in a monotonous voice;
"Well, the traffic around this time is bad. It's expected to be worse tomorrow." She lifted her head to stare directly into Seiya's eyes. He held her gaze before smiling politely,
"Thanks for the heads up, Tenoh-san." Yumi noted the unspoken battle between the two and she smiled graciously, before making herself heard,
"Please sit Kou-san. I hope tonight will be a pleasant send-off for you, Ruka." At this Hachi began to chuckle and from behind Haruka and grabbed her around the shoulders,
"I hope I get to see you dance a few times Haru-chan before you give it all up for the glamorous world of F1!" Haruka's face hardened and she shook her head,
"Sorry Hachi, but I'm not dancing tonight." A look of genuine shock covered his face and he frowned slightly before forcing a smile.
"Oh. Well, never mind then, Haru-chan." Haruka saw his look and she sighed deeply,
"Well, I guess, one dance Hachi... I guess... If Elza doesn't mind." Hachi smiled brightly, but Leon frowned, and then looked over to Elza who simply nodded her head silently and smirked. Leon seemed confused but she then winked at him and he just shrugged and began smiling. Yumi once again smiled and looked over to Hachi,
"Hachi, this all looks amazing. What does everyone say we just eat up and get on with the festivities?" Before anyone could respond Minako and Usagi delved into the nearest plate of dumplings and rice, leaving everyone either groaning and slapping their heads or sweat-dropping out of embarrassment; poor Mamoru and Rei.
About an hour later, a slightly bloated Usagi was smiling deeply at the now empty table and Minako was simply gasping for air,
"Maybe I shouldn't have had that fifth helping of ice cream." Rei shot a look at her 'friend' and simply scoffed,
"I don't think it was the ice cream, Mina... maybe it was the four bowls of rice, two bowls of noodles and four plates of sashimi that was your downfall." Minako simply shot Rei an angelic grin and watched in slight bemusement as Reis slowly melted under that grin.
Hachi and Leon watched the bickering couple for a few seconds and smiled gently; they could see that although Rei and Minako were not open about their relationship, it was clear the two were together and felt deeply for each other. In all the time Leon had known Haruka's friends, he had always sensed that his Ruka was not the only one that inclined... when Haruka first came out, he nearly fainted but then the prospect of no man taking advantage of his daughter ever was such a relief that Leon could only think of supporting his Ruka. He was worried her friends wouldn't accept it but then it turned out Ami and Makoto were a couple and Leon was shocked, he did not see that one coming – not at all. Then there was Usagi who loved Mamoru with al her being and he loved her... and now Leon could tell Rei and Minako had those same deep feelings for each other. Although at school Minako pretended to have an interest in Yaten, Leon never understood that, as Haruka told him months ago that Yaten was a homosexual too and Mina and Yate were using each other as 'covers', Leon could only ponder if there was something in the water at Mugen. He sighed deeply; he only wanted his Ruka to be loved and to love as deeply as all her friends got to experience. As Leon finished this thought he was nudged by Hachi who looked over to the band who had been playing some ambient music for the past hour. Leon grinned and stood up, and turned to his wife,
"Ne, Yumi, give me a dance later, okay?" Yumi eyed her husband suspiciously, he grinned and asked her again, this time much more politely,
"My dearest beautiful angel, may I have the pleasure of dancing with you?" She smiled and rose from her seat,
"Much better Leon... glad to see you still remember how a gentleman should treat a lady." Leon grinned and the two adults followed Hachi over to the band, who then looked over to the table. Leon jogged back over to the table,
"Hey Mina-chan, Yaten-chan, would you guys mind singing some songs for us?" Minako nearly toppled Rei over as she jumped up, fist pumping in the air, her other hand doing a victory sign and her trademark smile and wink taking over her face. Yep, Minako loved to sing. Yaten simply bowed and accepted gracefully.
"What songs are they, Hiroji-san?" Yaten was more of the professional out of the two, he wanted to know what to sing before he made a fool of himself; Minako never seemed to have a problem with that. Hachi smiled gently and placed a quick glance over to Haruka,
"Dance with Me is the first one... then a surprise... come with me, I'll show you." Haruka's ears pricked up,
"Dance with me? A tango song? Man, you guys sure are expectant." Hachi made a look of fake shock,
"What are you implying, Ruka-chan?" Haruka stood up, getting everyone's attention, she looked over to Elza, and she chucked gently.
"Hachi, you're telling me you want to play Dance With Me and expect me to resist doing one of my favourite dances?" Hachi smirked,
"So, you gonna dance?" Haruka sighed then she simply nodded, Elza stood up and grinned, she was in a light blue slightly sequinned dress, it made her look quite mature, Haruka gestured to the dancefloor and Elza smiled,
"One moment, Haruka, I'll be there in a second." Elza walked over to the music booth where Leon and Yumi were standing, Leon eagerly awaiting her arrival. Haruka simply shrugged her father's behaviour off – she thought he was just acting like a pervert in his old age. Before Haruka could make a move to the dancefloor, she could hear Seiya's annoying voice.
"Michiru, may I have this dance?" There was no response at first and Haruka simply looked at the aqua-haired girl. Michiru shook her head,
"No, Seiya, I don't really feel like it at the moment to be honest." Seiya seemed a little downhearted, but Haruka decided to speak, trying to sound as nonchalant as one can manage when speaking to someone who has stolen your heart,
"I think you should Michiru... I mean you're tangoing tomorrow... and Kou-san needs all the extra practice with his steps." Michiru looked up at Haruka and a slight smirk graced her features again. Haruka smiled gently, both seemed to ignore Seiya scowling. Michiru stood,
"Well, if it's for the benefit of education, how can I resist?" Haruka had the urge to take Michiru's hand but was stopped by Seiya who happily took Michiru's hand and led her to the floor. Haruka turned to everyone at the table,
"No-one else is dancing? Sets? Mako?" They all shook their head and Sets spoke with a smirk on her lips,
"Haruka, seeing you four dance will be more than all the entertainment we need tonight."
"What are you on about, Sets?" She shook her head and pointed to the dancefloor.
Elza looked at Leon, and she sighed,
"She'll kill me you know. She may actually die of embarrassment, Leon-san." He grinned while Yumi simply leaned against him,
"I thought you loved seeing Ruka all embarrassed." Elza laughed,
"Yeah, but I don't wanna see her dead... or me for that matter. She'll be pissed at me. She could just walk away you know!" Leon shook his head,
"No, she won't! She's like me... stupid and proud... she won't want to embarrass herself or Michiru, in her mind dancing with her will be less embarrassing than walking away because her hormones are taking over her body!" Leon grinned, clearly pleased at his logic... it clearly only made sense to him as Yumi and Elza both seem confused. Elza shook her head,
"And how can you be sure that we can switch so easily?" Leon smiled wider than usual,
"If I know Seiya, and I do, his tango will be predictable, no imagination... so at the end, he will end on a pose where Michiru's hand will be free from his. Leaving you free to do the switch." Elza seemed to just accept Leon's explanation and she sighed in defeat.
"Haruka's going to kill me." Leon nodded,
"Probably... but remember, if they get together because of this, I will totally buy you those track shoes you've had your eye on since the summer." Elza grinned and looked back, 'holy crap', Haruka was walking over to them, clearly thinking the three were up to something suspect. Leon saw Haruka coming and signaled to Hachi and the band, who in turn gave their cue to Yaten and Minako. Haruka stopped in her tracks as the band started their quick warm-up, she was near the centre of the dance-floor. Elza began walking over to her dance partner, smiling as innocent as anything. Minako and Yaten listened to the tempo of the song. A modern song, for tango, a fun song, that spoke volumes about the feeling of the dance.
Haruka kept her eyes on Elza as the red-head approached her, smiling and seemingly happy about something. Haruak took Elza's hand in hers, while the red-head placed her other hand on the tomboy's shoulder. The blonde found her hand resting at Elza's waist as she closed her eyes, when she opened them a moment later she looked over Elza's shoulder, only to see Michiru standing close to Seiya, his hands on her waist and her hands in the same stance as Elza's. As Haruka was about to walk away, Michiru looked directly into her eyes, sending a chill down the blonde's spine. Elza smiled as she saw that Haruka was staring over her shoulder and without a doubt at the aqua-haired beauty who had taken over the tomboy's mind. Elza cleared her throat and spoke quietly as the band went quiet,
"You know, you could dance with her." Haruka scoffed back,
"And have everyone here staring at us. No thank you." Elza shook her head, the band began the intro to the song, mixed with the DJ decks, Haruka and Elza bent their right knees and let their left legs stretch out behind them. Elza giggled,
"Who cares if anyone's watching? It's obvious you both want to dance with each other." Haruka's eyebrows rose at the comment, 'she wants to dance with me too? Still? After all that happened yesterday?', but before she could start to say anything, the beat kicked in and so did Yaten and Mina's voices, causing Haruka to dance on auto-pilot to the steps that she and Elza knew all too well.
Oh come and dance with me, my baby
Let's dance, do it, go crazy
The night is young and so are we
Let's make love and dance the night away
Haruka and Elza's leg both rose at the same time, bringing them both back up to the same height, across the dancefloor, it seemed as though Seiya opted for a typically boring start of waiting for the music to kick in after the starting chorus. Haruka sighed inwardly, but she carried on dancing with Elza. They both tapped out their left legs and brought them back to their bodies with each of the beats, not once taking their eyes off of each other. As Haruka stepped forward, Elza steped back, she anticipated and followed every single one of Haruka's steps. Elza noticed how far away they were from the only other couple dancing, and decided to take the initiative; she kept her right foot firm and swept her left behind her taking them in the direction they had been coming from, Haruka seemed a little shocked, but followed Elza without complaint. The red-head smirked at her victory, nearly everyone in the room was staring at them, and she had to ensure that she got the stupid, stubborn blonde at least five feet within Michiru by the end of this song. Minako's voice became crystal clear as she sang the next verse.
What I really wanna do
Is just dance with you
And feel your body tight
Show ya how to do it right
I can show you every move
I know just what to do
Each step we do is refine
One dance and you'll be mine
Haruka watched with interest as Elza suddenly slightly rigid upper body forced her into taking steps that she didn't originally have planned. Haruka danced sideways to Elza backwards, still in the direction she had been avoiding, near Seiya and Michiru. But thankfully, she got one sidestep in and forced Elza back in front of her and they stopped moving backwards, but they didn't move forwards either, it seemed as though Haruka had to stay in the line of dancing they were in. Haruka boldly tried to step forward and was successful, a small grin on her face, but she didn't see that Elza had her feet in a slight crossover, forcing the blonde backwards, or else face the embarrassment of overbalancing her partner and seeing Elza crash on the floor on her ass. Over Elza's shoulder, Haruak could see the other couple had began to move slightly in their direction, so Haruka tried a desperate forward toe lead to get Elza backwards. The red-head was at first over the moon with this, 'I got her to comply? No way!'... her victory was short-lived when she saw Michiru and Seiya pass them as Haruka stepped forward again. The red-head growled; time for no mercy. Yaten seemed amused as he took his turn on the mike;
So baby when we hit the floor
You'll be asking for more
Let's make love and dance the night away
Elza began to dance on the balls of her toes, rigidly, not allowing the blonde the fluidity to move forward, Haruka seemed to scowl and forced a step forward, meaning Elza had to oblige. The red-head narrowed her eyes and smirked at the blonde. Their dance suddenly became fast-paced, with Elza allowing Haruka to step wherever she pleased. Haruka allowed her left foot to stay on the floor while her other swept behind her, gently dragging Elza with it. On that cue, the blonde stepped backward, Elza's right leg bent and rested on the blonde's thigh as she stepped backwards. Haruka watched from the corner of her eye as once again Michiru danced with no desire with Seiya, almost robotic. The tomboy thought about Elza's words and she couldn't help but wonder, if she did just go over and dance with Michiru would it be so bad? What's the worst that could happen? 'You could get rejected and shot down, duh'. The blonde hated her conscience sometimes.
Oh come and dance with me, my baby
Let's dance, till we, go crazy
The night is young and so are we
Let's make love and dance the night away
Elza watched Haruka's face with interest, the blonde had that arrogant smirk again, 'You have not won, Tenoh' was all Elza could think, as she finally released her leg from the tomboy's thigh and the two sidestepped in different directions, causing 'ahhs' and 'ooohs' from everyone. As Haruka looked up, she saw two bright blue eyes looking directly into her own dark green, unable to hide her blush, the racer looked away. She couldn't afford to be too close to Michiru, she didn't want to push it after the embarrassment she clearly felt last night. Elza only grinned at her friend's reaction. She looked over to Leon and grinned widely.
Oh put your hand in mine
Promise I'll take my time
We'll dance from head to toe
I can dance fast or slow
Baby look into my eyes
Let the music hypnotize
Let our bodies synchronize
One dance and you'll be mine
Clearly wanting to pay attention to the dance only, Haruka began the steps her and Elza knew had to be synchronised, so as to cause no confusion over leads, each step was in time and perfectly placed. Haruka's left foot went forward, Elza's right went back. Fast-pace and impressive to the beat of the song, causing the two friend's to start to sweat slightly.
So baby when we hit the floor
You'll be asking for more
Let's make love and dance the night away
Haruka looked up at Elza who still had a bemused look on her face, Haruka didn't say anything because at that moment she was intrigued by Seiya's steps, he had decided it was time for a dip already, but he clearly hadn't timed it well as Michiru nearly fell out of his arms. Haruka felt herself giggle a little as she and Elza executed a perfect dip in response.
Oh come and dance with me, my baby
Let's dance, till we, go crazy
The night is young and so are we
Let's make love and dance the night away
Elza and Haruka continued to twirl in tight, perfect steps to the beat, not failing to throw in a good ball-flat for good measure. For added intensity, every now and again the two let their face come within inches of each other's, causing a clear "Sugoi" to come from Usagi nearly thirty feet away but still as audible as ever.
Oh when it comes to dancing
I know how to move
When it comes to passion
I know just what to do
I feel the music inside
I feel like I am alive
Pretend I was right
Let's make love
Haruka and Elza stood facing the same direction, then threw their heads to look at each other, then stepped forward and with ferocious intensity, the two stepped forward, at each third step, stopping slightly, to tap firmly their toe and snap their heads away and back to the partner, then continuing their steps again. One look back to Seiya showed that he simply could not top this show of technical genius so he decided for flamboyant showmanship, which clearly took Michiru by surprise. She was not expecting to be thrown around the room like a ragdoll, but she saved her composure by smiling and twirling back.
Oh come and dance with me, my baby
Let's dance, till we, go crazy
The night is young and so are we
Let's make love and dance the night away
Elza simply smiled at Haruka and whispers into her ear breathlessly,
"Why don't we end it on a spin? It'll look much better." At first frightened that Haruka would say no and their chance would be lost, Elza watched with baited breath as Haruka continued to step forward with a pensive expression, then finally she shrugged, and began the build-up the twirl that would let Elza do the switch.
Oh come and dance
Let's dance
The night
Let's make love and dance the night away
The song was coming to a slow and so did the dancers tempo, Haruka stepped back with Elza, not noticing that Seiya and Michiru were parallel to them, and she held her body back, brought Elza close again and then spun her as the song came to its end and the singers sung acapella.
Oh come and dance with me, my baby
Let's dance, till we, go crazy
The night is young and so are we
Let's make love and dance the night away
Elza spun a few feet, and realised she was perfectly in between Seiya and Michiru. She grinned and instantly placed her hands in Seiya's,
"Seiya-kun, can I steal you to get a drink?" She turned to Michiru, "You don't mind right, Michiru?" The aqua-haired teen was still a little shocked that she and Seiya had been interrupted before the actual end of their dance. Shocked but not upset. Michiru turned to walk off, and stopped at the sight of Haruka fuming at Elza; She was clearly annoyed that she was all over Seiya, leaving Haruka looking a fool at the end of their dance, and watching Elza walk away to the bar area with Seiya. Before Michiru could say a thing, the band started up again with a gentle song she knew well. To the untrained ear, it had no qualities for a tango... but to Haruka, not everything was about rules and regulations, sometimes a song just fit for a mood and a mood always fitted the tomboy for a dance. The blonde instantly recognised the song and she looked up to Michiru. The violinist avoided eye contact with the blonde as she tried to walk past Haruka, but as she passed her, she could feel someone holding her back gently by the wrist. Michiru turned around, only to see Haruka standing with her eyes looking at the ground.
"Michiru... c-could I have this dance. Please?" Michiru's heart nearly broke at Haruka's pleading tone, almost desperate to dance with the younger girl. Michiru smiled gently.
"Of course, Haruka." Before either could move, the sound of cheering could be heard from the area that Leon was currently inhabiting. As his daughter looked at him, he smiled innocently. Michiru giggled innocently, the band's long intro was almost over, and Minako was getting ready to sing, a new gleam of happiness in her eyes as she saw Haruka and Michiru, who then noticed that they were the only couple on the dance-floor. Haruka smiled sheepishly,
"Uh, your dancing was really good there Michiru... I was wondering though... cos this will probably be my last dance with you... could we do the Argentinean steps?" Michiru seemed a little shocked but then her faced seemed at ease.
"Seeing how it's your last night... you can have anything you want, Haruka." Haruka nearly blushed at the statement and so did Michiru when she realised what she had actually said. Haruka decided to turn around and start the dance from a different perspective. She could on hope that Michiru would catch on. Michiru looked at first curious when Haruka seemed to be walking away, but then the blonde stopped when the band replayed the beginning at Mina's cue, the secret idol cleared her throat and sang gently with Yaten.
I've heard so much about you
I'm amazed, for I'm only an actress (a soldier)
Nothing to shout about (One of the thousands)
Only a girl on the air (Defending the country he loves)
Michiru smirked and looked at Haruka, who was standing with her arms beside her, and she was slightly posed, so her head was turned to the side, looking at Michiru through the corner of her eye.
But when you act, the things you do affect us all
But when you act, you take us away from the squalor of the real world
Are you here on your own?
The music was gentle and enticing as Michiru began to scanter over to Haruka slowly, in time with the sensual, slow melody, with her leg flicking gently over her other leg just as she approached behind Haruka, she paused for a moment and put her finger beneath her chin and pretended to think.
Yes, oh yes
So am I, what a fortunate coincidence
Maybe you're my reward for my efforts here tonight
She grinned then she gently tapped Haruka on the shoulder. As the blonde turned around, she rose an eyebrow, in mock surprise and smirked when she saw Michiru had turned her head away, feigning innocence. Michiru turned away then spun backwards only to land directly in front of Haruka, the young violinist had her hands on Haruka' shoulders; the blonde grinned at Michiru and held her hand out, not once breaking eye contact with Michiru – Haruka was intent on keeping her gaze with the young beauty tonight. Michiru looked at Haruka's calloused yet soft hand smiled gently, she took it, her fingers stretched out before she intertwined them with the tomboy's.
It seems crazy but you must believe
There's nothing calculated, nothing planned
Please forgive me if I seem naive
I would never want to force your hand
But please understand, I'd be good for you
Michiru kept her hands in contact with the blonde's and she slowly let her foot stretch out behind her, all the while her body was supported by the strong racer in front of her. They still kept eye contact, and Michiru came to Haruka's waist height and she took a deep breath, inhaling all of Haruka's intoxicating scent as she once did before whe they danced. Haruka smirked and she pulled on Michiru's hands, smoothly bringing Michiru up to her level and close, Michiru lifted her leg so that it was raised to Haruka's waist, forcing the blonde to take the tempting limb in her hands and feel the delicate, smooth ad fine porcelain skin she now could feel in her own rough hands. Haruka shivered at the intimate touch, not yet noticing that Michiru's face was a mere few centimetres from her own, the young racer finally became aware when the sweet smell of Michiru's breath invaded her nose and caused Haruka to snap her attention to Michiru's face, where blue met green in a fierce battle of emotions.
I don't always rush in like this
Twenty seconds after saying hello
Telling strangers I'm too good to miss
If I'm wrong I hope you'll tell me so
But you really should know, I'd be good for you
I'd be surprisingly good for you
Haruka's hand reached for Michiru's, so the younger girl had no choice but to let her leg slowly drop down back to its position on the floor, her posture immediately straightened and once again she found her face almost cheek to cheek with Haruka. They sidestepped and then Haruka took a toe lead forward, gently, allowing Michiru time to comply properly. Haruka kept a shoulders-apart stance after a few more steps forward and faced Michiru who decided to do a crossover step back then forward, bringing her back to her original position, all the while still staring into an intense teal gaze. Haruka simply stepped from left to right, allowing Michiru her freedom to do all the steps she had yearned to show Haruka. When Haruka moved Michiru's shoulder slightly right, the younger girl simply let her left foot flick behind then in front of her and then back into its original position. Haruka had to hide back another smile; Michiru was clearly dancing better than she ever had before. The Argentine Tango is hard to dance in general but to a slower paced song? It takes a keen ear, which Michiru clearly had, and skill, which she also possessed. Haruka was shocked but convinced that only she could bring out this side of Michiru on the dance-floor... but was it only the dance-floor? Haruka shrugged this thought of as she flicked her foot as the same time she saw Michiru prepare to do it, Haruka pushed themselves apart, no longer cheek to cheek, so as they were side by side, hands still linked, the tomboy brought them both into a spin, fast at first, but slow as they faced each other again. Haruka had to take a deep breath, being this close to Michiru was heaven and hell all over again for her.
I won't go on if I'm boring you
But do you understand my point of view?
Do you like what you hear, what you see
And would you be, good for me too?
Haruka spun her once more, only to be shocked when Michiru stopped halfway, took a half step back, her back pressed up against the blonde's chest. Haruka took in a breath and reflexively held Michiru's hand which Michiru then led Haruka's hands down to her waist. The violinist smiled, but the racer couldn't see; with a smooth movement of her right knee, Michiru bent slightly, letting her left leg travel in between the blonde's and stretch out behind them both. Haruka's breath caught in her throat at the sensation of Michiru's leg, but she managed to compose herself as Michiru brought herself back up to her standing height.
I'm not talking of a hurried night
A frantic tumble then a shy goodbye
Creeping home before it gets too light
That's not the reason that I caught your eye
Which has to imply, I'd be good for you
I'd be surprisingly good for you
Haruka grabbed Michiru around her waist again, and stepped back on her right leg and putting her left leg slightly forward for balance, she lifted Michiru up, allowing her to slightly jump up and flick both of her legs in succession in the air. Michiru was turned around as she landed and looked directly into Haruka's eyes again. Both couldn't help but notice the other smiling. Michiru turned away, to do some free steps, and managed to flick one leg perfectly over the other but she was stopped by a strong, familiar hand on her shoulder; she was turned around to face the blonde again. Michiru smiled as Haruka took her hand again and smiled at her. Michiru sandwiched Haruka's foot between her own and watched as her partner then stepped back, Michiru put her foot back and balanced on a half bent left leg. Haruka took Michiru's hands and stepped gracefully around the violinist, causing Michiru to spin on the spot. As Haruka came to her original spot, she snapped Michiru up back into her arms and stood once again with Michiru cheek to cheek.
Please go on, you enthral me
I can understand you perfectly
And I like what I hear, what I see, and knowing me
I would be good for you too
Haruka stepped forward slightly then suddenly back, causing Michiru to step forward too, leaning completely on the blonde, who took advantage and lifted the lithe girl up in one movement, with the tomboy's arm firmly around her waist. Michiru kept firm to the girl, completely aware that her chest was almost in the tomboy's face, but Haruka seemed to have not noticed and only had an interest in Michiru's face, still keeping her eyes locked with that of the other girl. The young racer simply turned in four swift steps, taking Michiru with her in each spin, Michiru's left leg straight down while her right was once again wrapped around Haruka's waist in a familiar position. Haruka smiled and let her legs widen, causing both of Michiru's to disperse from the blonde's body, Haruka half-bowed, with Michiru slowly falling to the ground but yet still in the tomboy's strong hold. Haruka's hair began to mat slightly against the back of her neck.
I'm not talking of a hurried night
A frantic tumble then a shy goodbye
Creeping home before it gets too light
Haruka rose from her half-bowing position and linked her link slightly with Michiru's, who tried to flick it but found it taken back down gracefully by Haruka who raised her and Michiru's intertwined hand to just above head height, and brought their faces so close together again, but Michiru this time pulled away from the blonde, as Haruka approached, Michiru turned away then flicked her leg between the blonde's and returned to face an impressed Haruka. Haruka stepped forward, causing Michiru to keep her leg still, but the violinist soon stepped over the blonde's again, Haruka stepped backwards and without hesitation, Michiru raised her leg so it teasingly rubbed against Haruka's from her ankle to mid-thigh then back down, in one slow, divine movement. The blonde watched in intrigue as Michiru half stepped backwards, then forwards and put her leg in between the blonde's again, not failing a single flick, nor a single half turn in all her movements. Haruka initiated some long strides, which Michiru followed, and as Michiru went to take another step, Haruka lifted her leg to her waist, causing Michiru to spin halfway on the spot and meet Haruka's leg with her own full flick. Both feet returned to the floor as did a satisfied smirk on the blonde's lips. Before Haruka could move again, the younger girl stepped in front, facing away and put her left leg behind her, wrapped around Haruka's waist and trailing down ever so slightly. Haruka simply stepped around slowly, as though exhibiting the fine dance for all the world to see. Both girls could feel their heartbeats in their ears. Never before had they danced so intimately in public, this was even worse than the samba, it was so slow, so tantalizing, the temptation to forget the song and give in to passion and desire was all too much.
That's not the reason that I caught your eye
Which has to imply, I'd be good for you
I'd be surprisingly good for you
Haruka managed to get a hold of herself; she spun a little faster, meaning Michiru had to lift her other foot and rely on Haruka to support her weight for another delicious spin. Haruka spun again, and again, but then slowed on the fourth, only one hand was needed to support Michiru, both her legs were firmly in place over her slightly bent out knee, so her legs could rest mainly on her thigh. Haruka could feel her skin tingle and her temperature rise once more as she felt the fine, smooth skin of the goddess she knew as Michiru wrap around her neck. Haruka closed her eyes as the song came to the end she still had one hand beside her, an arm doing absolutely nothing. So without really thinking, she placed it to Michiru's cheek and cupped her beautiful face in her own hands. Eyes were locked onto each other, and Haruka had the overwhelming desire to kiss her. But as the song ended and clapping and loud applause began, Haruka was brought crashing back to reality. Michiru's lips were lingering centimetres from hers, an her eyes were closed. Haruka hung her head; she wanted to kiss her but not in front of everybody like some sort of show. Their first kiss should be in private, with all the intimacy they wanted to show, not in front of everybody like some pose in a dance. Haruka could feel the tears of regret burn in her eyes. Slowly she let go of Michiru, who then opened her eyes; deep blue eyes filled with sadness... and slight disappointment. Haruka looked away in shame, only to be greeted with overzealous congratulations and applause.
"Wow. I mean, what else can I say? That was amazing, Haruka... Michiru I've never seen a dance performed so... so believably!" Elza shrieked across the dance-floor as she made her way over to the two silent teenagers. Haruka frowned and Michiru still looked at her, this time her eyes begging for answers, a response, anything!
Haruka looked up and saw that everyone was eagerly making their way to the two, so she quickly grabbed Michiru's hand, causing the violinist to look up into green eyes with surprise,
"I need to talk to you. Now." Michiru didn't protest as she felt Haruka lead her swiftly, half-running from the dace-floor to the doors in which she had arrived. She watched in intrigue as Haruka desperately opened the doors then she closed them behind her. She panted for a moment as she leant against the doors, leaving Michiru to only fidget behind her. After a few moments, Haruka turned around to the other girl, who had not yet protested and was patiently waiting. Michiru looked at Haruka; she seemed to be struggling to say something, so ever so cautiously she stepped over to her placed a tentative hand on her shoulder.
"Haruka, are you okay?" The blonde looked up to Michiru, her eyes wide and open, showing every single emotion. It almost looked as though she was going to cry. The cold night air bit at Michiru's skin but at the same time cooled it down from the intense heat it had just experienced moments ago. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, Haruka cleared her throat, she took Michiru's hand from her shoulder and held it, with a gentle firmness that the younger girl loved.
"Michiru, I'm in love with you."
A/N 2 – Okay I'm a bitch for leaving it there I know, BUT 20 pages is long enough for this chapter. For the Argentine Tango sequence, I HIGHLY recommend watching the Alesha Dixon Argentine Tango – was utterly beautiful and heavily inspired me to write this ENTIRE FIC. Anyhoo, I don't own the song used – Andrew Lloyd Webber does – It's called I'd Be Surprisingly Good For you. Italics were Mina, Italics and underlined were Yaten and bold and italics were them both singing – now R&R! Till next time! Ciao!