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CHAPTER 4 - Before the Battle
Serena steadily walked through the shopping district, glancing at the windows that she passed by. Truth be told, she wasn't quite interested in the clothing as much as she was in the pastries and baked goods. Mina, however, had insisted they go look at her favorite clothing store. Hesitantly, Serena agreed and with matching steps they walked among other teenage girls heading in the same direction.
"So I suppose you and Darien have made up." Mina said as she looked to her side at Serena. That would have to explain Serena's lighter mood at the scouts meeting. She saw a flash of pain cross Serena's eyes for a second. Serena shook her head. Mina tried desperately to hide her embarrassment of making an assumption in such a delicate situation. "Forgive me Serena. I don't know what made me think-" Serena quickly cut in and said, "It's alright." They walked on in silence for a few minutes.
Mina knew that she had to tread these waters carefully. "I hope you know I'm always here for you. All the scouts and I." Mina hoped that this would make up for her mistake. She wanted to clobber herself for saying something like that. Serena nodded and took a side glance at Mina. "I know. Thank you."
After another minute of walking, they finally reached the clothing store. Mina opened the door for Serena. "After you." She said cheerfully trying to put a happier mood in their shopping trip. To Mina's dismay, Serena shook her head. "I think I'll wait out here." Mina waited for more of an explanation, but didn't receive one. I probably put her in a bad mood with when I mentioned Darien. Mina smiled at Serena and before heading into the store said, "I'll try not to take too long."
Serena leaned against the brick wall of the store and closed her eyes. The sun's heat seeped into her skin and she inhaled deeply trying for even a moment to forget her pain. Yes, she was still in pain. It never went away. Who knew that one human being could affect her so much? But Darien wasn't just a human being. He was part of her soul. They had a past that transcended through time. Darien wasn't just one of the fish in the great big sea. He was the only fish in the sea.
She knew that after the talk with Luna by the harbor, she had acquired some sort of hope. She might be foolish, insane even to think she could get Darien back, but since when was she ever logical or known for using her head? No matter what, she couldn't lose this small hope that her and Darien would be happy once again. "Darien, I hope that somewhere inside of you, you still love me." Serena whispered out loud.
"Of course I still do." Serena's eyes quickly shot open to that familiar voice. "Darien?" Serena's heart nearly stopped. The small glint of hope began to burn brighter and she hoped with all her heart that Darien meant what he said. After opening her eyes, her sight began to focus and search for that familiar tall, dark, and handsome man whom she had a love for that was in her very blood.
Her heart leapt as soon as she spotted him, but just as quickly as the flame of hope ignited, it was extinguished as soon as she realized what she was seeing. There, across the street was Darien looking more handsome than she had ever remembered. The sun shone beautifully on his dark hair and the gentle breeze tousled the few strands in front of his face. His face displayed a dazzling smile that threw Serena off balance even though she was leaning against a brick wall.
There, she stood beside him. Together, they walked down the pavement looking very much like a couple. It was her. That girl on the back of his motorcycle. The one when she asked who Serena was received the answer that she was just some girl Darien knew. Serena suddenly realized that Darien hadn't been speaking to her, but to the that girl. The girl giggled as she looked up at Darien with adoring eyes.
Serena found she felt so weak. It was as if just watching Darien with another girl had drained every ounce of her energy. It was bad enough seeing them together the first time, but seeing them together for a second time confirmed that Darien had some sort of feelings for this new girl.
Serena covered her mouth with her hand to stifle a sob that was about to escape.
"Serena!" She turned her head towards the voice and saw Mina who had just emerged from the clothing store with a concerned look on her face. Mina looked up to see what could have upset Serena so much. Then she saw Darien and another girl walking off together down the street. Mina immediately ran to Serena and put her arms around her. "Are you alright?" Mina asked pulling back a little to look into Serena's face. Serena didn't answer. Mina watched Serena hoping for a clue as to what to do to help her.
As Mina continued to watch Serena, she saw the miserable look in her eyes turn into a look of determination. Suddenly, Serena stood up straight. Mina was surprised at the sudden change in demeanor. "Mina, I think it's time to meet with the scouts for tonight's battle." Serena said, that determined look still on her face.
Mina glanced at her watch. Their appointed meeting time still wasn't for another 45 minutes. Nonetheless, Mina agreed and they began walking towards the temple.
Serena stared straight ahead, her gaze unwavering. I'll get you back Darien. My plan will work, I know it.
Author's Note: I know, not much action in this chapter. It will be different for the next couple chapters however. Thanks once again for all the reviews. Hope everyone's holiday shopping is going great!
