DVNTY: A day in the life

by Nebelflecke

A small random collection of short stories (not chapters) set in the Divinity series's timeline. No storyline if it's read on its own. Cleaned, edited, and updated. Disclaimer here that I only own this plot and some characters.

13. To the Moon and back

TO THE MOON AND BACK TO WHERE WE BELONG

---

The sound of rush hour. There were so many people crowding the streets of Tokyo, all in a hurry to get to their destination.

It was around two in the afternoon, still in the common margin for those who worked at an office to go out and grab a bite to eat. It was a clear summer day. That Usagi had noticed, as she stared out the window from her workstation with a pale face. A very pale face.

It was an hour and a half later since she returned from her lunch break but she couldn't wait to get home. She wasn't feeling well; she wasn't feeling well at all, and she blamed that new little Thai café and their ridiculously delicious *Gaeng Daeng dish. Her beautiful outfit wasn't helping either. The lace of her high-waisted pencil skirt didn't give in to her bloated stomach."

Her coworker walked into their office whistling a happy tune staring down at a portfolio for a new project they had been working on for weeks. She sat at her desk, right across from Usagi's. "These are nice..."

The dark-haired woman smiled with accomplishment, "Maya will be pleased to see these when she returns. I think we hit the mark with this pitch," She looks up to find it strange having no quick response, and blinked a little startled, "Usagi-san?"

Usagi looked a little lost, "Ah, y-yeah... that's—that's great,"

Her lack of enthusiasm caught Mika by surprise. It had been a big accomplishment for her to have the opportunity to participate in photoshoots that were usually exclusive to senior members of the staff, such as her.

Usagi loved working in the field and she was good at getting things done faster than anyone. Mika liked to bring Usagi because a natural to make things easy to talk and take instructions from the photographers. They made a good team, Mika, and Usagi. But now, the always bubbly and cheerful young woman was too far from her usual self.

"Usagi-san, are you okay?"

"Yeah..."

"Are you sure?"

"N-No..." Usagi turned with a shy look, "I don't feel so good,"

"What's wrong?" Mika's eyes went big with worry. Quickly going to see her friend up close, she put a hand on her cheek, "Oh god, Usagi, you're so pale! What's going on?"

"I think it was my lunch..." Usagi sighed, "I think it was a little too spicy for me..."

"Do you have heartburn?" Mika blinked, very worried. Usagi shook her head, "My stomach hurts,"

Mika pursed her lips, "You look very pale, Usagi-san, you need to go to see the doctor,"

"It's okay, it will go away..." Usagi turned to her computer but no matter how much she tried to focus, the pain in the pit of her stomach was stealing more and more of her attention and Mika wasn't buying it.

"No, it won't go away and if you don't treat it, it will get worse. Come on, I'll take you."

Usagi looked up at her friend, "B-But what about Yuki-san or Maya? She'll get upset if she finds out I left the office early,"

"Let me handle that—don't worry." Mika went to put her computer to hibernate and grabbed her small black purse from one of the bottom drawers on her desk. "Come on,"

Usagi shook her head, "I can go on my own, Mika-san. Don't worry, you don't have to come with me, I can walk,"

Mika looked back at the guards by the lobby and leaned closer, "Usagi. I can't let you go alone in this condition,"

"I'll be fine," Usagi smiled at her co-worker and raised her right hand, "I promise,"

"Are you sure?"

"Yes, I am sure,"

Mika sighed in defeat, "Fine. But at least let me help you get there, once you've been admitted, I'll come back, okay?"

"Okay…" Usagi turned to grab her pale pink satchel handbag and walked down the hallway all the way to the elevator and started feeling chills all over her body.

Mika held Usagi by her arm and walked her through the main lobby and into the busy sidewalk. "There is a small clinic nearby, it shouldn't take us long to get—" She looked at her phone.

"No," Usagi turned to Mika, "I'll go to Tokyo Hospital,"

Mika blinked a little shocked, "Usagi, are you sure?"

"Yes,"

"Isn't that a private hospital?"

"Yes,"

"Usagi, we're in Omotesando. It would take you like 47 minutes to get there if you decide to walk to that hospital. It's like 20 minutes away by car but at this time of the day it could take you a little more time to get there," Mika unlocked her phone and started typing something, "It's best to call for a ride... let me check if—ah, there is one car close by, want me to book it?"

"Yes, please,"

Mika frowned and pursed her lips showing a little concern, "Usagi... you do know that is kind of a specialties hospital, right?"

"Yes..."

"And an expensive one, for that matter. A simple consultation there will cost you much more than if you get one at a smaller clinic,"

Usagi turned to Mika with a smile, not wanting to go into much detail. "I know. It's okay, Mika-san."

"Alright, as you wish," Mika quickly spotted the driver, "Come on, your ride is here. Don't care about the payment—I already took care of it," she opened the door of the small white car and helped her friend get in. She leaned on the door and looked at her friend with worry, "Please text me when you get there to know you are alright,"

"I will. Thank you so much, Mika-san,"

"Anytime, Sweetie." Mika smiled and watched the car drive away into the busy traffic before walking back into the building.

The ride felt just as Mika predicted, but Usagi was finally on the hospital premises.

Usagi was welcomed by a young receptionist with a tight bun at the nape of her neck looking polished in her black and white uniform behind the large round desk with other five receptionists busy on the line. "Good afternoon, Miss. How can I help you?"

"Hi. I am here for a consultation. I'm not sure if you take walk-ins…?"

"We can," The receptionist started typing on her computer, "Have you been a patient here before?"

"No, this would be my first time."

"Alright. Please take a seat; could you help us fill out this form for us? It's to create a new file under your name, so we can keep track of your medical history and send you to the appropriate unit for a consultation."

"U-Uh, excuse me," Usagi grabbed the chart and turned to the young woman with a subtle blush on her cheeks. "Actually... I was hoping you could tell me if one doctor, in particular, is available at the moment for a consultation?"

"Oh." She blinked, "Certainly. What is the doctor's name?"

-O-

The fast typing sound was Mamoru's only company as he worked on a medical diagnosis for Motoki regarding a patient's complex health chart.

It became a custom for the blonde doctor to ask Mamoru for a second opinion in cases of patients with serious health conditions. They were known to be a dynamic duo with Mamoru, as a specialized internist, he would make a more in-depth analysis and diagnosis of the patient's medical history and run all the necessary tests to define treatment and if needed, Motoki as a surgeon, would step in and take care of the rest.

Mamoru had a sharp intuition and he acted fast compared to his other peers which made him stand out for his dedication and hard work.

It had been a busy day for everyone at the hospital, but he finally found the time to read and study the results for this new patient. But his mind, as much as he tried to remain focused on the case, was fixed on something that had nothing to do with the matter at hand, and the more he thought about it, the more torn he felt.

A month after Usagi and Mamoru finally set the date to marry, the idea of looking for another place to live started to round the couple's minds.

From the conversation they had at Motoki's wedding, moving to a house didn't sound like a bad idea.

Usagi even discussed how much it would cost them to actually own a house instead of paying rent for the rest of their lives in an apartment that was slowly but surely becoming too small and unpractical to fill their needs and keep all of their stuff. By now, Usagi had taken possession of the small room Mamoru once used as a study to keep her drawing board and all of her art supplies safe from her brother and his friends who had acquired the habit to use whenever she wasn't around to work on their own projects for Uni.

At first, it started with a simple search on what neighborhoods were best to consider, but Mamoru had to be smarter than his bunny fiancé and act fast. He knew Usagi too well to tell she would pause the search because she would feel she was forcing the idea onto him after Motoki's wedding.

They were on the same boat and they both aimed in the same direction but they were not the same kind of captain. Mamoru was practical, and Usagi was indecisive. Mamoru was straightforward, and Usagi was way too creative.

Mamoru was analytical, and Usagi was impulsive. After many years of dating, Mamoru finally understood how he needed to work his way to impulse Usagi to push aside whatever doubts she had.

At first, they were just testing the waters and didn't think much about it until one they found a house about 10 minutes away from their current residences that literally took Usagi's breath away.

It was rare to find a one-story house. A brand-new home with clean lines and a more modern aesthetic with a lovely spacious and very lit common area. It had tall ceilings, and panoramic windows facing a terrace and garden. You were welcomed to a spacious genkan with a skylight in line with the rest of the property.

It brought a sense of freedom Usagi hadn't found or seen in any other place they visited in the past. With very few dividing walls, the kitchen and dining area were assigned custom-designed green walls to keep kitchen herbs and other greenery. The living room had probably the largest windows Usagi had seen with a full view of a wooden deck wrapped in greenery and tiny little flowers outside it was like it was carved out of a dream. It even had a small garden shed Usagi thought she could totally adapt as a working studio where she could keep all her art and sewing supplies.

But what really won Usagi's heart was the breathtaking master bedroom and its impressive walk-in closet connecting to a complete bathroom with the tub and a shower working separately from one another.

The bedroom had the same large windows with its own private deck. It was perfect to have their morning brew, she thought. Living in such property would be a perfect dream; one Usagi felt was way out of their league.

Mamoru noticed her beautiful eyes lit up with awe and excitement every time they went into another room. She didn't really need to say how much she loved it, it was all written on her face and that was all he needed to know they have found it—their home.

Unfortunately, his plans were soon haltered after talking to the person responsible for the sale and were informed the house had already been taken by another couple ready to set the bidding.

Usagi had a basic knowledge of Mamoru's situation, but she didn't find it appropriate to ask more than she imagined he would be willing to share. She knew Mamoru had a good paycheck from his job at the hospital, but not even he with his current economic stability could afford a house like that; not even if she threw her more modest paycheck into the mix. After this, Usagi started donating many of the things she wasn't using anymore, claiming they could easily just live in the apartment in Azabu without a problem. She was set on making space for them to live comfortably.

Mamoru exhaled for as long as he stared at his phone. Clearly, he was dealing with a battle between his reason and his heart. He sighed again, and rubbed his forehead; Mamoru was torn.

Between appointments, he received a call from one of the people selling the property. Since he showed interest in it, they contacted him to let him know the house was on the market again due to some issues with the previous bidders. But, due to its location and its growing value, a realty agency had bought the exclusivity to add it to their listings, with all negotiations to be made through them.

What at first was a stroke of luck, things took a bitter and unexpected turn for Mamoru when he learned the agency was the very one he knew was co-owned and run by no other but Shimuta Chieko.

With the passing of years, Mamoru heard rumors about Chieko. It was inevitable.

Chieko got married as soon as she turned twenty-two to a man a few years older than her. A realtor himself, he kneaded a fortune that could easily give her the life she wanted. She had a degree in Business from a private university abroad, and while she had good credentials, her prestigious position in business was due to her family's reputation, and her husband's surname. In the end, she got what she wanted—what she was so set to believe she deserved.

So now, Mamoru felt in the middle of an important decision. As if life was playing a sick prank on him. To make his future bride's dream a reality, he had to bite his tongue, push his pride aside, and break a life's promise of never striding back into his past and much less, talk to Chieko again.

Oh, the irony—he bitterly thought to himself. The freaking irony.

"Ugh…"

Mamoru pursed his lips and gave his phone one last glance before putting it back inside his black slacks' pocket and going back to work; ignoring the matter for now.

The door opened showing Motoki with his usual grin gracing his good-looking face, "Ah! Here you are,"

"Hey," Mamoru mumbled as he kept typing on his laptop. Motoki walked into the office and closed the door behind him, "I was looking all over for you. I was wondering if you were on your lunch break."

"Haven't taken one yet," Mamoru's deep frown was enough to get Motoki's attention, "Found something else about the patient?"

"I am noticing the pattern in his blood samples and after checking his medical history, this comes clear as to what is the root of the problem. It's his liver."

Motoki leaned closer to check the patient's chart, "But he does not live a life that could give problems to his liver. He is not a heavy drinker, doesn't smoke—tries to live a healthy life."

"He hasn't had any blood transfusions in his life either, I know, but all the signs are there," turned his laptop for Motoki to read his diagnosis, "He has hemochromatosis, an autosomal recessive disorder. His body is storing a big amounts of iron in his livers. We couldn't track the root of the problem from his lab results, but this disorder doesn't come with obvious symptoms, most people don't think it exists or that it is linked to genetics. This is a silent disease."

"A genetics issue then. So this means someone in his family has it too,"

"Most likely he inherited it from his father or mother," Mamoru put the patient's chart on the desk with a heavy sigh. "But that is a whole other story to talk about. I suggest having a conversation with Ishida-sensei about this since he's the specialized geneticist. For my part, I can confirm the patient's condition requires immediate action to reduce the heavy amount of accumulated iron; otherwise, his liver will shut down."

"Can you intervene?"

"With his treatment? Sure," Mamoru nodded, "I'll talk to him. When is his next appointment?"

"Tomorrow,"

Mamoru turned to his laptop to check his schedule and appointments, biting his lower lip as he considered his options, "What time?"

"Nine thirty, but we can push it to ten," Motoki crossed his arms, "You have a busy day tomorrow? Oh, right… Tomorrow is your birthday,"

Mamoru arched his brow as focused again on his agenda. Motoki chuckled, "Right... That too."

"What are you talking about?"

"You hate your birthday,"

"I don't hate it. I don't celebrate it, that's all,"

"Bah, potato-patata..." Motoki dismissed the weak response, "By now, I would have guessed Usagi-chan might have changed that twisted perspective of yours. But, man, you're stubborn."

Mamoru gave his best friend a wry look, "I have scheduled appointments during the morning and the afternoon."

Motoki pursed his lips, "How's your schedule for today?"

"Ah, well... Ugh..." Mamoru sighed again, catching Motoki's attention. "Okay, that doesn't sound too good,"

"Hm,"

"You alright?"

Mamoru leaned back in his chair and rubbed his teeth on his lower lip for a minute, sorting his emotions. "Yeah..."

This was enough for Motoki to know Mamoru was straight-up lying. He took the chair across from him, "You're a damn bad liar," He tapped the table, calling for Mamoru to look at him, "What's wrong? Tell me."

"Tch," Mamoru turned on his chair with a frown, "Don't you have appointments to go to?"

"No. Don't you snap at me Chiba Mamoru. Come on, spit it out," Motoki waved his hand, "Are things with you and Usagi-chan okay?"

Mamoru nodded; Motoki arched his brow "Her father?"

"Everything's fine with her father." Mamoru sighed, "It does have to do with Usa, in a way. We've started looking at house listings,"

"Wow, really!?" Motoki widened his eyes, "That's great!"

"Yeah..."

"Any luck?"

Mamoru chuckled with classic hints of sarcasm, "We did. Usa fell in love with a house we went to see, but before we even asked how much they wanted for it, we were told another couple had started the bidding,"

"Ah, man, I'm sorry. Where is it located?"

"Futako-Tamagawa,"

"Ah, a place with space and a view," Motoki grinned at his best friend, "Nice. Very nice. Closer to our house, too. So, you decided to branch out of Minato-ku and leave the hectic streets of AzabuJuban, eh? You can't go quieter than Futako-Tamagawa."

"It's a more private residential area; compared to Azabu. There's a low-key life quality despite being a merge area. Being right in the middle of Shibuya and the river is what gives the house its high value,"

"It's not that far from Usagi-chan's parents in Minato-ku, and it's a lot closer to where Reika and I live. I know it to be a very refined residential area."

Mamoru leaned his arms over the desk with a sigh, "Usa quickly dismissed the idea because she knows it costs way more than what I pay where I currently live."

"But…" Motoki narrowed his eyes, "You can afford that easily,"

Mamoru held a very serious gaze, "I can,"

"But, she doesn't know it,"

"I am not sure, she does."

Motoki held his frown but also gave his friend a curious glance. "Mamoru. How much Usa-chan knows of your, you know, situation? Because if she believes you can't afford a house, but you can live comfortably in an apartment in such an up-scale area like Azabu, then it means she doesn't have all of her facts clear,"

Mamoru leaned back in his chair, and crossed his arms, "Usagi knows the basics. She knows how much I make here, and that I was left an inheritance after my parents passed. She has never asked me anything else—"

"—Because Usagi being Usagi, she doesn't want to make you feel like she's prying into your privacy,"

"Exactly," Mamoru took a deep breath, "I have always made it clear. The apartment, the car, and all the things I have are hers too, but she wants to contribute and I understand and respect her wishes."

"So, what are you going to do?"

"That's the thing Motoki. I could go on with the original plan and give her the surprise about the house."

Motoki frowned, confused, "But didn't you just say it was already—"

"I got a call this morning informing me it's on the market again. The couple that was bidding for it had a problem with their paperwork and the process was canceled,"

"Dude, that's great!" Motoki grinned and made a quick stop, "Ah, no, wait. It's who we are talking about; there has to be a catch, yes?

"There is a catch,"

Motoki snapped his fingers, grinning as he leaned back in his chair. "Let's hear it,"

"The property has now been taken by a real state agency and put in their exclusive listings, due to its location. They know what it's worth and they want to make good money out of it, of course." Mamoru narrowed his eyes, "You know you're a jerk, right?"

"Ah, I get it now!" Motoki snapped his fingers again, "I kind of have a feeling where this is going."

"The exclusive deal is with Environ," Mamoru kept his annoyed glare at Motoki, "Shimuta Chieko's agency,"

"There it is."

Mamoru sighed, "You can imagine just how thrilled I was when I found out about all this,"

"I bet." Motoki giggled, leaning closer, "Your face says it all. Oh man, life really likes to give you some hard punches, huh?"

Mamoru rubbed the bridge of his nose with exasperation, "It's like I'm an amusement to fate." Motoki crossed his arms and leaned back in his chair, "What are you going to do?"

"That's the thing, Motoki. I don't know what to do," Mamoru put his reading glasses back in their case, looking baffled "I really don't,"

"Well, it's a tough call; for you. This is about calling your ex-girlfriend and acting as if nothing happened between you two." Motoki puffed, "Man, Reika has caught a few rumors about her."

"She is a difficult person. I'd dare say chaotic."

"She's married now, right?"

Mamoru shrugged his shoulders, he started to feel uncomfortable. Motoki lessened his teasing of Mamoru.

"Did you ever speak to her again?"

"No," Mamoru frowned, "We both said what was needed to be said when the relationship went to hell."

"Does Usa-chan know about her?"

"No. I don't see why bringing my past with her would do Usagi any good, Motoki." Mamoru sighed, "You are the only one that happens to know and that's because you wouldn't let it go." He narrowed his deep blue eyes, "Creep."

"Oi! I had questions and you're a freaking closed book! I didn't believe you never dated."

"I wouldn't exactly call a relationship, whatever I had with Chieko."

"Because it wasn't a healthy one." Motoki arched his brow, "And it happened at the worst time for you to be in one."

"I was a doormat with high hopes."

"Well, that proves my theory," Motoki grinned, "Everyone has carcasses under their table,"

Mamoru leaned closer, "Oi, Mr. Carcass. Does Reika know about Nikita?"

"Dude, no. Nobody knows about Nikita," Motoki's eyes widened, "And don't you ever dare—"

"Ah, see? Is there a purpose to telling someone about it?" Mamoru grinned at Motoki's reaction, and he leaned back in his chair "Just as I thought. Plus, who the hell do you think I am?"

"Nikita was a fling; a wild one. Your thing with Chieko was too toxic."

Mamoru sighed, "But then there's Usagi; the smile she had when touring the house. It's not about its worth, but what it represents. A place for us to make a home, and I want to give her exactly that."

"You didn't know any better with Chieko-san; with Usa-chan is a whole other story. You are madly in love with her." Motoki grinned at a blushing Mamoru. "She does," he frowned sardonically, "Like you weren't mad for Reika,"

"I never said I wasn't. You even brought it up at our wedding; we are what love should look like." Motoki smiled with a more genuine heart. "It's not hard to see why you live to make Usa-chan happy. She changed your life. You and I are friends because of her. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if you didn't get together."

"I would probably still be alone."

"Good thing we met,"

"Yes,"

"I mean, I'm a very cool person to hang out with,"

"Yes, you are,"

"I'm fun,"

"Sure,"

"And awesome,"

"I get your point," Mamoru laughed, "But you're right, my life would be completely different if you and I weren't friends."

"Then you know what to do." Motoki smiled, "Start the bidding and give her the life of her dreams. Now it's time to put all that impressive wealth to good use. Wasn't this the purpose of it all?"

"True." Mamoru looked away.

"It's a big agency," Motoki reassured him. "You might not even have to deal with her at all. She has a lot of people working for her."

"As much as I wouldn't like to admit it, Chieko has the means to get me that house quicker than any other agent could." Mamoru pursed his lips, "She is influential and manipulative by nature; a trait that works marvelously in the business world."

"That is true," Motoki nodded "Well, my friend, then you better hurry up and give her a call. Before someone else takes that house from you a second time."

"I will,"

Motoki smiled, "Are you going to tell Usagi-chan?"

"No. I want it to be a wedding gift for her,"

"Damn it," Motoki grinned and clicked his tongue. "You are one smooth man, Chiba Mamoru."

Mamoru chuckled. Soon after both doctors heard Maki knocking on the door, "Excuse me?"

"Yes, Maki-san, what is it?" Motoki turned to the nurse.

"I am sorry to interrupt, Dr. Furuhata. Is Dr. Chiba with you?"

"I'm here,"

"Ah, thank goodness," Nurse Maki smiled. "We received a call for a walk-in consultation on the first floor," she then turned to Motoki, "Dr. Furuhata, your next patient is waiting in room 344."

"Right, the evaluation, thank you, Maki-san," Motoki nodded and stood up, "Are you going to call her, then?"

Mamoru closed his laptop and put it back in his messenger bag along with some other notes, "Yes,"

"Let me know how that goes,"

"You just want to know the dirt," Mamoru turned to his friend as he walked out the door. "Here," he handed a folder to Motoki, "This is my extended diagnosis. Let me know when the patient is coming for his results so I can join the consultation,"

"Ah, great. Thanks. I'll text you as soon I finish with this patient to give you the details of the appointment,"

After shutting his locker, he took the elevator to the first floor for an unexpected walk-in consultation. Most of his days would be usually busy with scheduled appointments with his patients. Or doing his rounds among hospitalized patients at the ICU.

Mamoru stepped out of the elevator and walked straight to the nurse's station on the first floor, "Good afternoon, Ika-san,"

"Ah, Chiba-sensei. Good afternoon,"

"I got the message from ICU that I was needed for a walk-in consultation?"

"Yes," the young nurse smiled and handed him a new chart with information, "Here's the patient's chart, Isha-san,"

Mamoru followed his usual protocol and gave it a quick read. His sapphire blue eyes widened twice in size when he read the patient's name. He turns to the nurse with surprising concern, "Ika-san, what room is this patient in?"

The urgent tone of his voice startled the young nurse, "132, Isha-san,"

Mamoru went straight to the assigned room and much to his surprise, he found Usagi sitting in a chair. She turns her head slowly to greet her doctor. "Hi, Mamo-chan..."

Mamoru immediately knew there was something going on with her. He sat next to her and held her head with worry, "Usako, what's wrong?"

"I don't feel so good Mamo-chan..." Usagi looked weak. She leaned her head on his shoulder, "Mika-san, my senior supervisor, insisted I had to go see the doctor, so I left the office."

"And you came here from Omotesando? By yourself?" Mamoru frowned, "Usa, why didn't you call me? I would have gone and picked you up at work!"

"It's okay," Usagi took a deep breath, "I know you're busy, Mamo-chan. The receptionist warned me you might not be able to take the consultation because your schedule was tight. I would have asked for Ami-chan, but I know she's away with her mother at a conference, and I was told Furu-chan was with the patient. I feel like I'm babbling so much right now... I'm sorry,"

"Usa, you should have told the receptionist that you are my family. They would have looked for me right away,"

Usagi tilted her head, "I didn't want to sound snobbish by bringing it up when there are many people with much more serious problems that require your full attention,"

"You are a sweetheart, Buns, but you are my priority," Mamoru rubbed her arm, "No matter how busy my schedule is." He pulled back and looked at her, "Tell me what's wrong?"

"I feel off. I have goosebumps running all over me and my stomach hurts pretty bad..."

"Hm," Mamoru helped her stand up, "Come here with me," he offered his hand for support so she could sit on the cushioned consultation bed and tilted her face up to look into her eyes, "How long have you been feeling off?" He took her arm to check her blood pressure and waited.

"Around two hours. At first, I just felt a little bloated but then I started getting confused and dizzy, and I knew something was wrong,"

"Do you have a headache?" Mamoru kept his eyes on the numbers on her pressure. Usagi pursed her lips, "A little... I can't focus much." Mamoru turned to look at her and cupped her cheek with his hand, "Hazed?"

"Yes,"

Mamoru helped her lay down on the bed and looked at her, "I need to lift your blouse,"

Usagi looked at him with a mischievous smile, one that made Mamoru crack a chuckle "You are unbelievable,"

Usagi helped him with a giggle and pulled her black lace blouse up enough to expose her stomach. Mamoru pressed the stethoscope at certain points on her belly and stayed quiet for a minute.

Usagi watched him with the most loving eyes despite feeling like hell, many patients were lucky to have him as their doctor.

"Tell me if it hurts, okay Buns?"

Usagi nodded and squinted her eyes a little, "I feel so bloated, and this skirt isn't helping me feel any better,"

"You are bloated," Mamoru put a little pressure on the other side of her stomach, "Do you feel heavy?"

"Yes," Usagi nodded slowly, "Uncomfortable,"

"Have you felt any cramps?"

"Mostly pain, but it comes and goes,"

Mamoru moved his hand to her lower belly and put a little pressure, this time he saw her flinch "It's here, isn't it?"

"Yes,"

"Do you feel nauseous?"

"Yeah,"

"You are very pale," Mamoru mumbled, "Buns, what did you eat? Tell me what you have eaten or drank so far today,"

"Well, I had my usual fruit smoothie for breakfast and I snacked some almonds throughout the morning," Usagi pursed her lips, "For lunch, I went to this little Thai food place that just opened close to work,"

Mamoru kept monitoring her with his stethoscope, "What did you order?"

"Actually, it was very tasty. It was a curry dish. It had chunky morsels of meat, red curry paste, coconut milk, and some kaffir lime leaves sprinkled on top," Usagi closed her eyes and took a deep breath, "Ugh, no. I can feel another rush of chills and nausea kicking in,"

"Hm, not so tasty now. It got you sick," Mamoru pulled her blouse down and helped her sit with much care. Usagi shook her head, "It feels weird," she opened her eyes and looked at her fiancé with worry, "Is it too bad?"

"You got food poisoning, Usa," Mamoru cupped her cheek, "And I am almost certain it was the meat. Either it wasn't fully cooked, or it wasn't in a good state and caused you an infection,"

"Oww," Usagi leaned her head on her boyfriend's chest and closed her eyes, "That sucks,"

Mamoru pulled her closer and rubbed her back, "I'll prescribe you some antibiotics to fight the infection, but I need you to stay in bed for the rest of the day. You need plenty of rest and liquids, you are dehydrated and you also have a fever." He went to look for a prescription pad in one of the desk drawers.

Usagi pouted, "I have a fever?"

"Yes,"

"Is it bad?"

"Slight, but it's there. That's why you feel disoriented and chilly," he wrote down some medicines and sighed. "You really should have called me, Usa."

"It's okay. I'll just need a very good excuse to give my boss explaining why I left,"

Mamoru kept his gaze down as he continued his writing, "You don't need an excuse. I will write a medical certificate saying you need to take a few days off work to get better. You can't work in this condition,"

Usagi's gasped. Her eyes sparkled with wonder, "You have the power to do that?"

"Yes," Mamoru chuckled and handed her the prescription. "Let me drive you to your parent's house, but promise me you'll rest. I'll go check on you as soon as I am done with the rest of my appointments,"

"I promise." Usagi sighed, "But you have to tell Shingo to look out for me. He will listen to you more than he will listen to me. He's always busy at school or with his friends. Ask him to leave me food in the fridge, he always eats everything when Mama and Papa are not home."

"Shingo?" Mamoru frowned, "Where are your parents?"

"They left on this cruise Mama wanted to take for their anniversary, remember? They won't be back for another week," Usagi sighed, "Papa's so afraid of the ocean, I don't know why he went on a cruise of all things,"

Mamoru smiled, "Because he loves your mother very much,"

Usagi chuckled, "I'll ask Shingo to do me the favor and buy me—" she read the prescription in silence, "These are some very strange names..." She looked up with a smile, "Thank you so much, Mamo-chan,"

"You don't need to thank me, Buns," Mamoru tucked a piece of her long fringe behind her ear, "I'll let Shingo know you'll be staying with me," he leaned his forehead on hers, "Thankfully, he's a good alibi for us,"

"Yeah, to you, because he likes you a lot. You're his idol, literally."

"That's so out of proportion," Mamoru laughed. Usagi looked at him with hopeful eyes, "Can I really stay with you?"

"Of course,"

"But I am so sick,"

"I'll be fine."

"So," Usagi cupped his cheeks, "How much do I owe you, Isha-san?"

"A kiss would be nice," Mamoru smiled, "A kiss is more than enough."

Usagi gasped in response. "Isha-san!"

Mamoru smiled, "You are one beautiful patient, Tsukino Usagi. I have to take my chances and try to steal a kiss from you,"

"I really hope I am the only patient you care about stealing kisses from," Usagi narrowed her eyes making Mamoru break into laughter, "I swear, Buns. Just you."

"Well, you better..." Usagi pulled him from his white coat's lapels and kissed him deeply. She had so much love for that man that made her almost lose all reason.

She smiled when she recognized the navy blue dress shirt he was wearing under his impeccable white coat. There was something about that shirt that made him look more sultry that made her heart flutter in her chest. It was a gift for his birthday precisely one year ago.

Ever since she met him, Mamoru has never celebrated his birthday. And she noticed, that in all their years of being in a relationship, it always rained every 3rd of August. She didn't find it sensible to ask more than what he was willing to share about the tragedy, and two years back, she learned surprise birthday parties were also not a good idea to spend the day.

"Come on," Mamoru offered her his hand to help her get off of the examination bed and turned to put the instruments in a box for disinfection. "We'll go to your parent's house so you can pack some clothes and then I'll drive you to the apartment, okay?"

"But don't you have more patients to see?" Usagi blinked a little confused, "Mamo-chan, I can wait for you until you are done with your appointments, or I can call for a ride and meet you there when you're done,"

"You can't go on your own while this sick. It's okay, Usa, I have enough time to take you and come back to finish my shift. I haven't gone out for lunch, so that's some extra time for us," Mamoru put his arm on her back for support and walked with her to the nurses' station to fill out the protocolary form of discharge.

He checked his phone when he heard an alert and quickly turned to the young nurse, "Ika-san, can you try and reach Dr. Furuhata in ICU, please?"

"はい Dr. Chiba, right away," The young nurse turned to call for Motoki, giving Usagi the time to lean closer with a shy look on her face. "Isha-san. How much is for the consultation?"

"Nothing," Mamoru chuckled while writing some notes on the sheet form, "Don't worry about it,"

"I do worry. Your experience and services deserve proper payment," Usagi saw Mamoru give her a grin and felt her cheeks start burning. "Seriously, Mamo-Chiba-sensei." Usagi tried to keep her composure.

"Seriously, Tsukino-san," Mamoru signed the form and turned to take the phone from the nurse. "I got your message, I can make it. I need to take care of something important, but I'll return in time for the consultation. Did you talk to Dr. Ishida? Okay, good—I will see you then."

Mamoru hung up the phone and turned to the nurse, "Thank you Ika-san. This would be all on my part. The consultation and prescription are covered. I'll go pick them up in a minute at the pharmacy,"

"Noted, Isha-san. I will let Hada-san send the charge receipt to human resources and send the prescription to the pharmacy,"

Mamoru smiled "One more thing. I won't be available for the rest of the afternoon. Unless is one of my patients, I can't take new walk-ins for the rest of the afternoon"

"Yes, Dr. Chiba, understood."

"Thank you,"

Mamoru offered Usagi his arm for her to take as support and walked into the elevator. He pressed the lobby button and pulled her closer to him so she could lean her head on his shoulder. Usagi ran her arm around his waist from under his white coat and smiled, "You are the best doctor ever. Look at you, making sure I get home safely."

Mamoru kissed the top of her head, "Of course,"

"I promise I'll pay you back,"

"The only way you can repay me is by never going back to that place to have lunch ever again," he nudged her arm, "No matter how tasty it is, it's no good for moon bunnies,"

"I promise," Usagi smiled at his loving nickname, "And I promise I'll lay still,"

"Good." Mamoru turned, "Do you want me to carry you to the car?"

Usagi giggled, "It's okay, Mamo-chan. I can walk,"

"In those killer heels?"

"Believe it or not."

-O-

After a few stumbles, Mamoru finally helped Usagi get settled at his apartment. By now, she was more asleep than awake, but reluctant to have her boyfriend out of sight.

He helped her change her clothes to something loose and comfortable for her to sleep in and sat next to her on the bed to prepare a syringe with an antibiotic. "Buns, I need you to turn to the side for me please,"

Usagi turned with doe-eyes, shocked at his request, "W-What are you doing?"

"I'm giving you a shot,"

"W-Why?" Usagi bit her lip, staring at the needle like the nastiest youma she has ever had to encounter.

"We need to attack the infection and this is the fastest way to do it,"

"B-But..."

"I won't hurt you,"

"That's a total lie!" Usagi narrowed her eyes, "All doctors end up leaving nasty bruises on the skin,"

Mamoru arched his brow, "Usa-ko,"

"No! Injections hurt!"

"Usa-"

"Doctors lie all the time! Doctors are evil!"

Mamoru let out a dry cackle, "Thank you, that's sweet."

"Can't I take a pill or something?" Usagi frowned with noticeable panic crossing her face. Mamoru gathered all the patience in the world and shook his head. Right now, he wasn't willing to negotiate, "No. You're very sick,"

"We won't know until we try,"

"Usa," Mamoru took a deep breath and tried to keep his calm, this wasn't new to him. "Love, your fever has gone up,"

"I can take it," Usagi smiled, "A simple fever can't take me down,"

"It's not just the fever. You have an infection and it can get worse," Mamoru sighed "What do you prefer? Do you want to feel better or do you want to feel worse?"

Usagi sighed, "I don't like this,"

"Usa?"

"No, I won't turn,"

"Not even for me?"

"..."

Mamoru raised his brows, surprised. "Alright." He turned and put the cap back on the syringe and put it on the nightstand, "I have to go back to the hospital, my break is almost over. I'll take the other room when I get back."

"The other room?" Usagi's eyes widened with panic, "Why?!"

"I can't allow myself to get sick, Usa," Mamoru handed her a small glass of water and a couple of pills, "Drink this please,"

"This is contagious?!"

"By the way you are choosing to handle your sickness, it's best if I stay in the other room."

"I wasn't lying when I said doctors lie all the time!" Usagi frowned, hurt. Mamoru gave her a sad smile. "I'm trying to take care of you, but there's not much I can do if you don't let me. If you want to take pills for your infection, you can take them, they're right here but you won't feel better soon. I respect you. I won't do something you don't want to do, but I also can't stay close to you under these conditions, Baby, I'm sorry. I have patients to look after,"

He looked down at his watch, "I have to go, Love. I have a consultation and other doctors are expected to join too."

Usagi pouted her lips, "Alright..."

"What?"

"I'll turn around. I'll sacrifice my derriere for you,"

"Usa, you don't have to—"

Usagi gave her boyfriend a sheepish look, "I want you to sleep with me! Being alone while sick is the worst," she pouted, she looked close to tears.

Mamoru pinched her hot cheek lovingly and saw her staring at the syringe in his hand "Don't look at it, you'll freak out more."

"I can't help it! I don't like needles!"

"Nobody does, Love. Believe me," Mamoru rubbed her skin with a cotton pad. Usagi squeezed her pillow, scared. "What if it hurts?"

With his free hand, Mamoru tightened the skin and put the needle into the muscle at a 90-degree angle and pushed down on the plunger with the lightest pressure, and pulled the needle as quickly as it went in.

"Mamo-chan?"

"Mm?"

"Please stop with this torment and pinch me with that needle already!"

"I already did."

"What?" Usagi blinked startled; Mamoru pointed to the capped syringe in the trash bag, "I already did,"

Usagi looked at him shocked. Mamoru chuckled while disinfecting his hands again "Did it hurt?"

"You have magical hands..." Usagi looked at him with astonishment. Mamoru cupped her warm cheek, "You'll feel better after this, Buns."

"I'm so sorry Mamo-chan,"

Mamoru leaned down and kissed her forehead, "Now, I really have to go,"

"Is the patient very sick?" Usagi showed her boyfriend concern. Mamoru nodded and handed her a water bottle. "Please drink this slowly,"

"I will,"

"If anything, call me on my cellphone. If for some reason I don't answer you right away, call the hospital and tell them you are my patient and that you need to speak to me urgently." Usagi smiled, "I'll be fine, Mamo-chan."

"Promise?"

"I promise,"

Mamoru leaned down again and kissed her on the lips, "I'll be back soon. To the Moon…"

"And back, I love you too." Usagi sighed and watched him leave before snuggling sheets. She loved the scent in them, the perfect cloud of comfort that was Mamoru's bed. "I love you madly, Mamo-chan." She drifted off to sleep.

-O-

A couple of hours later, Usagi's phone started beeping. She opened her eyes and checked the hour, "Five..." She mumbled, still groggy from the effects of the antibiotic.

"Huh, that shot sure did wonders. I am very impressed, Mamo-chan," she smiled, staring at her phone, "God, I miss you..." she mumbled. Looking up she realized something important.

"I forgot your birthday present because of this stupid infection..." she groaned, "Stupid delicious red curry, this is all your fault!" She unlocked her screen and realized the medication must have completely knocked her out because she didn't hear any of these text alerts. There were two from Mamoru checking up on her.

Usagi was about to reply when her phone started to ring, and smiled at the caller, "Hi, Mika-san."

"Ah, thank goodness Usagi! You answered! I was worried, I never got your message.

"I am sorry! Mika-san, I completely forgot... I'm so sorry!"

"How are you feeling?"

"Much better than how I was when I left the office,"

"Where are you now?"

Usagi smiled softly and blushed, "Home,"

"What happened to you? Did you see a doctor?"

Usagi's smile widened, "Yes... A marvelous one. I got food poisoning; my doctor prescribed me antibiotics."

"What?! Oh my god!"

"I just need to have plenty of rest and keep myself hydrated, but, I feel horrible. I had a fever by the time I got to the hospital. Oh, my doctor sent me a medical certificate to justify what happened, and the recommendations I need to follow for the next couple of days. I might need to take a couple of days off. Can I send it to you?"

"Of course, I will send it to Maya."

Usagi put her phone in speaker mode while she sent Mamoru's email to Mika, "Did she get upset?"

"Surprisingly, no. She said that it was best you left, otherwise, you would have spread the virus to others."

"She's so sweet,"

"I got your email—oh wow, you have a serious stomach infection, Usagi!"

"Yes…"

"Your doctor has a cool signature,"

Usagi smiled, knowing exactly what she meant by it, "So not Japanese, right? He's also very handsome,"

"Really?"

"Oh yeah,"

"No wonder why you wanted to go there. Lucky you, I guess I will have to save my coins to go to that hospital next time I get sick," Mika's laughter infected Usagi.

"Is there anything you need? I can drop by your house and help you out. Oh before I forget, a package came with your name on it—I signed for it."

"It did!?" Usagi jumped in bed, "Yes! I was so worried it wouldn't make it on time! Thank you so much! Can I send a friend to pick it up tomorrow? Do you think it's okay?"

"Sure thing, Usagi. Don't worry, it's safe with me. And this certificate is enough to justify your absence from work. Maya won't even budge to believe you are really sick since it's from a high-class hospital."

Usagi laughed, "Yeah, maybe she'll send me flowers! Tell her I like tulips and roses,"

"I'll make sure to let her know, take care Usagi,"

"じゃあまたね!"

Usagi felt very weak and disoriented. She considered watching some television before deciding sleeping would be a better option to kill time for Mamoru to return from work. She finished her drink and put her phone back on the nightstand after replying to his messages and went back to sleep.

-O-

Mamoru tossed his keys on the large plate over the table by the genkan and was quick to notice Usagi had kept her promise. He found her sound asleep, and put his hand on her cheek to check her temperature; the sweet gesture woke her up and saw his handsome face painted with the warm colors of the setting sun.

He leaned down and kissed her temple, "How are you feeling?"

Usagi smiled and held his hand, "Much better... My stomach doesn't hurt that much anymore, but I feel weak..."

"That's normal Bunny. It's the antibiotic fighting the infection in your system. You won't be able to move much for a little while," Mamoru turned to grab the thermometer again and put it under her arm. Turning his night lamp on, he checked the numbers. God, she loved to see him wearing his glasses. "You don't feel like you have a fever but I still want to make sure where you at,"

Usagi obediently waited for her boyfriend to check her temperature. "Is it gone?"

Mamoru shook the thermometer and put it back on the nightstand, "You still have a little going on, but it's because of the antibiotics."

Usagi tried to sit on the bed but her arms felt wobbly and fell back, "I'm so weak…" She broke into laughter, "I feel like a doll! don't like this..."

Mamoru chuckled, "You need to stay still,"

He started emptying his pockets and turned to take off his watch and put it on the nightstand along with his wallet and phone. Usagi noticed the exhaustion in his handsome face; she recognized that look in his eyes. With all the energy she could muster to sit, she inched closer and traced the line of his brow with her fingers, "How did things go with the patient?"

Mamoru sighed, he liked to run his hands through her long fringe, "Uh, well..."

"Is he very sick?" Usagi blinked and saw Mamoru nodding, "Yes, Usa-ko. He's very sick; his condition is more complicated than how I anticipated,"

"Is he going to be okay?"

"We are working on it,"

"Are you going to be okay?" Usagi held his hand and looked up at him again.

Mamoru pressed his cheek on her hand and smiled, "As long as you are okay, I'll be okay." He pinched her nose gently and pulled back to undo his tie and the buttons of his navy-blue shirt.

With the passing years, Usagi was witness of the changes in Mamoru's work clothes. From scrubs, to his now much serious dress shirts and slacks. His white coat always intact. Usagi couldn't take her eyes off him as he roamed around the bedroom and went inside the walk-in closet to look for his trusty grey sweats before heading to take a shower.

Usagi was glad he was home but she was having a hard time trying to keep her eyes open, and slowly drifted off to sleep again not really knowing what happened afterward until she felt his warm hand rubbing her back. Her nose was quick to pick up a very nice smell.

"Usa-ko," He nudged her, "It's time for your antibiotics. You can't take them on an empty stomach,"

"But... I'm not hungry..." Usagi turned her head and let out a heavy exhale, "Mamo-chan... I feel so weak..."

"I know, but you really need to eat something," Mamoru put the steaming mug on the nightstand and scooped her in his arms to help her sit straight on the bed. Usagi put her head on his shoulder, feeling more like a burden than a guest. "What is it?"

"Chicken broth with white rice—I know, it's boring, but it's good for your stomach,"

Usagi smiled and opened her mouth to take the first spoonful. She blinked, quite surprised, "It's very good... Where did you buy it?"

"I made it," Mamoru waited for her to completely swallow what she had in her mouth and took another spoonful; Usagi widened her eyes "You made this? For me?" She opened her mouth.

"Yes," Mamoru waited for her to be ready for the next bite, "You were not expecting me to feed you take-out food while you are dealing with a stomach infection, or do you?"

"I didn't know you knew how to make something like this," Usagi licked the corner of her mouth. She saw him smile with a hint of melancholy, "We used to make a lot of soup when I was in the orphanage because it was faster to make and more filling; not to mention cheaper for the people in charge of managing the budget for groceries."

Usagi was very surprised to hear him speak about the orphanage so casually, it was very rare Mamoru would give her glimpses of his childhood. And she always treasured every little bit of his memories.

"That's why you know how to cook so well,"

"I don't know if so well hits the mark." Mamoru chuckled, "I'm no near to be as good as Mako is,"

"It's still very good,"

Mamoru fed her again, "I had chores around the kitchen when I was a kid. Chop, peel, slice, broil, and boil; everyday."

Usagi felt her heart shrink. The way he spoke about his childhood, it made her heart feel tender.

A day would not go by where Usagi would not think about how much Mamoru shows a sweet side to her; naive even.

He helped her get up and go to the bathroom to brush her teeth and wash her face and took her back to the bed again, snuggling her between the pillows. Mamoru stayed by Usagi's side for the rest of the night monitoring her while he studied the patient's case from the beginning.

Usagi woke a few times during the night because she had cold sweats or everything spinned around. He put damp cloths on her forehead and neck to break her fever, give her water to keep her hydrated, or carry her to the bathroom every time she felt nauseous and rub her back to soothe her and lull her so she could go back to sleep.

Mamoru blinked only to realize it was the next morning. Exhausted, he turned to check on Usagi who had been sleeping for over two hours straight with no alarming symptoms. Careful not wake her up, he got out of bed and started getting ready for work. A half hour later he was ready to head out the door. He leaned down and kissed her on her temple.

"I love you Buns, to the moon and back."

-O-

Usagi woke up to the sound of her phone again. She stretched in bed feeling much like herself; the worst seems to have passed. She jumped in her bed, and turned to the other side only to find the bed empty.

"Mamo-chan?" She checked her phone and let out a sigh when she saw the hour, "Ten-thirty..."

She laid back on the bed, her nose picking the faint traces of his scent. "I didn't get to see you," Usagi pouted, "I didn't get to wish you a happy birthday..." She turned to her nightstand to get her phone again and saw the little Post-it he left next to her medicines. She smiled as she read his impeccable handwriting.

うさこ,

台所に食べ物がある、それを（慎重に）加熱し、青と黄色の容器に丸薬を取る

多量の水分を飲ませて休ませる

これはあなたが一日中眠るための最良の機会です。

どちらかと言えば、私を呼んでください、私はあなたを愛しています

Usako,

There is food in the kitchen, heat it (carefully) and take the pills in the blue and yellow containers.

Drink plenty of liquids and rest.

This is the best opportunity for you to sleep all day—take it.

If anything, call me, I love you.

-O-

The little note brought back the counts of that happened the night before. The sweating, the nausea, the tears of frustration for not being able to move on her own and depend on him for everything; the intense fever and how her loving boyfriend never left her side through all that hell.

It was then she realized Mamoru stayed up all night watching over her and felt her heart become tender again. Usagi pulled the covers and slowly got out of bed, took her pills and the little note, and walked out of the bedroom. As soon she stepped into the kitchen, she saw there was another pastel yellow post it waiting for her, this time, over a wooden lid,

申し訳ありませんが、今回はバターミルクより小麦粉が優れていますが、それでもまだ良いです。

Sorry, wheat flour is better than buttermilk this time, but they're still good.

Usagi took the lid and saw a stack of three mini wheat pancakes and made her break into tears thinking how this wonderful man had gone to the very lengths to take care of her and make her feel better even if he was not there.

She heated the small stack of pancakes in the microwave and went to turn on the radio while she waited for her breakfast.

"It's a warm summer day, for today August 3rd, the temperatures will rise up to 60 °F with an 80% chance of showers. Heavy rain is expected to fall throughout the day so please take your precautions when driving and carry that umbrella under your arm if you are walking or taking public transportation. No thunderstorms are expected to visit us, but you never know! Let's be safe out there!"

Usagi was cutting some fruit to add to her pancakes and turned to peek through the window. She sighed when she spotted the heavy dark clouds in the sky, "It always rains…" She felt limited with her options due to her current situation. Usagi wanted to brighten this day for her boyfriend one way or another.

The minute Usagi finally admitted she had fallen in love with Mamoru all those years back, she swore to always do her best to make him smile. As soon as she finished her breakfast, she went to get her phone started working on a plan and dialed a number she knew by heart.

-O-

Usagi opened the door thirty minutes after she ended her call and smiled when she saw her good friend and self-declared soul sister standing in the hall.

"Thank you so much for coming,"

Minako tilted her head with a smile. She stopped at the genkan to take off her black stilettos. "You are most certainly welcome, Usa-chan. The minute you told me you were sick I used it as an excuse to take an extra hour after my lunch break to come and see you,"

She smiled and turned grabbed a pair of clean slippers, "I couldn't even ask, what happened to you?"

"Food poisoning that viciously morphed into a severe stomach infection," Usagi walked back into the kitchen and put her plates in the sink. Minako leaned on the kitchen island. "Good gracious, that doesn't sound too good,"

"I felt like I was going to die," Usagi said while washing her dirty dishes, "The worst,"

"How did you get sick?" Minako went to the fridge and turned to her friend, "Can I get something to drink?"

"Please, Mina-chan, what kind of question is that? Of course, you can, help yourself out."

Minako opened the fridge, "I am always very surprised how your darling boyfriend always has his fridge so full of goodies."

Usagi closed the faucet and took a towel to dry her hands and turned to Minako, "I'm sure it has to do with the fact that I raid his fridge all the time. I spend more time here than my house lately, so much, Luna prefers to stay with you than me."

"I don't blame her. Artemis lives there." Minako smiled and grabbed a bottle of water. "And I don't blame you either. Who would not want to be in your shoes?"

Usagi felt lost for words and just chuckled nervously. Minako caught the hint, "So, what's the culprit of this horrible infection?"

"I had lunch at this new Thai place but most likely the meat was in a bad state," Usagi leaned on the island counter, "Mika-san, my supervisor, was so worried. She sent me to get medical attention and left the office in the middle of the day without notice,"

"And went straight into the arms of your beloved," Minako grinned, making Usagi laugh, "Of course! He's the best!"

Minako pinched her friend's nose and winked an eye at her, "Good girl." She smiled, "How are you feeling now?"

"I still feel a little weak, but I am so much better than how I was yesterday," Usagi crossed her arms and leaned back on the counter, "I had this terrible fever that wouldn't go down, Mamo-chan had to give me an injection with an antibiotic." She sighed, completely embarrassed, "I was such a baby yesterday and instead, he stayed up all night taking care of me. He's probably exhausted; and it's his birthday for goodness sake!"

"Oi! That's right! It's his birthday! It's August 3rd!" Minako's eyes widened and looked for her phone, "Oh, I am going to send him a message! I imagine he's busy right now,"

"It's okay, he'll eventually read it. He's been treating a very sick patient that is keeping him busy, poor Mamo-chan, he barely slept."

Minako leaned to pinch her cheek, "I am more than certain that he did it gladly." She smiled, "A bad night's sleep is probably nothing for him as long as he's sure you are okay. He adores you."

"He's can be super cute, I feel like bursting. Like I want to squash his cheeks!" Usagi smiled, "That's why I asked you this huge favor since I can't go out on my own."

"No problem, Sis. I got your back," Minako winked and pointed the paper bags, "I may have overdone it, though."

"It's okay," She started taking things out of the bags with Minako's help. "I do have one question Usa-chan,"

"Mm?"

"Have you ever baked a chocolate cake before?"

"No,"

"Okay." She chuckled, "Not that I mind you called me for the favor, but why not Mako-chan? She could have baked it for you or give you any tips on how to bake one,"

"I know, but it's something I want to do on my own. I checked online for easy recipes and I found one that isn't too complicated and it's made with dark chocolate. It's supposed to be less sweet than a normal chocolate cake, so that will hit the mark."

"You're adorable, Usa-chan," Minako pursed her lips, "But do you even know how to use an oven?"

"I've used an oven before, even you've seen me cook!"

"Exactly, Dear," Minako laughed, "Okay, let me rephrase… Do you know how to use this oven?"

"How hard can it be?"

"Well, for starters, where are the buttons?"

Usagi sighed, feeling the same concern as Minako. "Trust me, this isn't remotely close to what I had in mind for his birthday. I know he likes to keep things simple so I thought this would be a nice way to spend the afternoon, and still give him a small element of surprise. And also it's pouring outside, it will be nice to have a slice of good chocolate cake with coffee,"

"So weird how it always rains on this day,"

"Every year,"

"So strange," Minako bit her lower lip, "And he never talks about it?"

"No," Usagi sighed, "He doesn't act depressed or mad, or anything, but I always sense some disconnection. He does get sad,"

Minako turned to look outside with a sad gleam in her cornflower eyes and sighed to shake the gloom, "Well, my Dear, that's why he's head over heels for you." She turned to her best friend with a big genuine smile, "You're the best ever. If there's someone that makes him feel at home, is you."

Usagi felt her heart turn tender again. It was so delicate and soft… She felt she could cry any minute now.

"Okay Bunny Girl. Be very careful with all the sparklers. I don't think your fiancé wants to blow a fire in his apartment instead of a cake." She chuckled, "I got you tall and short candles, sprinkles of all colors of the rainbow, dark chocolate chips, cocoa powder; you said you had baking powder here, right?"

"Yes," Usagi said with a big smile, "I checked and I have all the ingredients I need,"

"Perfect," Minako widened her eyes, "Oh! And last but not least..." She went to get her large orange tote purse and put a black box in front of her, "Here you go, Princess. Your loot."

"Ahh!" Usagi's eyes lit up with excitement "You picked it up! Thank you! Thank you so much!"

"Of course! You asked me for a favor and I delivered," Minako saw at the box with curiosity, "What is it, anyway?"

"Mamo-chan's birthday present," Usagi felt so proud as she opened the box to show her friend her rare and unique find. "I ordered it the very minute I saw the ad online. I knew it was perfect for him."

Minako's eyes grew twice their size when she paid attention to the eye-catching wristwatch in front of her. "Oh my god. This is beautiful!" She blinked, marveled at the exquisite piece. "This must have cost you a freaking fortune!"

Usagi took the watch with tremendous care, "Well, it sure was on the pricey side, but, Minako-chan..." she blushed, "I didn't even think about how much it cost, when it's about him, I just... I can't help myself..."

"Awww! Look at you!" Minako grinned and pinched her friend's cheek, "You're so sweet!"

"I love him, Minako-chan, I love him so much," Usagi sighed again and looked down at the exquisite watch, "I just… I don't ever think I've felt like this before in my life. Not even with the biggest of crushes,"

"That's because Mamoru-kun has always been your biggest crush, Usagi."

Usagi's blush deepened. Minako's smile softened for her friend. It sure was something beautiful, to see her friend so happy and in love. She took another glance at the watch, and read the card inside the box.

"TerraLuna. What a beautiful name."

Usagi nodded as she put the watch back inside the velvet case and closed the thick box, "It's an exclusive model from this brand of fine watches inspired by astronomy,"

"Wow," Minako looked at her friend with awe, "It's like it was meant for you to find it and for him to have it,"

"Right!?" Usagi nodded, she was excited. "Also, it's formal enough for him to wear it for work and casual enough for him to wear it every day."

"Are you kidding? With a watch like this… I don't think he will even mind if it fits the occasion or not, he is going to love it—it's beautiful!"

Thank you again for picking it up. And thank goodness Mika-san was there to sign for it, too." Usagi sighed, "I didn't have time to wrap it as I would have liked—"

"Oh Sweetie, trust me, he won't mind." Minako cupped her cheek, "It fills my heart with tremendous joy to see you two so happy and so in love, you deserve it."

Usagi hug her friend, "Thank you so much, Mina-chan,"

"Of course! I am the goddess of love and I was on a mission," Minako giggled and looked down at her phone to check the hour, "Oh... I have to go! The power of love doesn't pay my bills. I'll leave you to your baking adventure. Please let me know how that goes," she chuckled, "Send me pictures too!"

"I promise," Usagi walked her friend to the door, "Wish me luck."

Minako smiled, "You'll do fine... but..." she turned and put the fire extinguisher next to Usagi, "You know... Just in case,"

Usagi burst into laughter and waved her friend goodbye and watched Minako close the door behind her. She took a deep breath and returned to the kitchen with the extinguisher in her hand but with her mind set on a mission to bake the perfect dark chocolate cake to celebrate her boyfriend's birthday.

She had everything ready to go, recipe, ingredients and utensils. She even took pictures of her whole process. Things got tricky when it was time for her to bake the cake; after many failed attempts to find the buttons, she went to use the intercom to call for for management.

"Ohayo, Takahina-san!"

"Tsukino-san, good day," the man smiled, "Well, I was really surprised to get a buzz from this apartment since Chiba-san rarely uses that intercom," he looked at her with slight worry, "Is something wrong?"

Usagi chuckled, embarrassed. "Uh, no, everything's fine. I was hoping you could help with something more technical?"

"Sure thing, Tsukino-san, what can I do for you?"

"Uh well," Usagi stepped aside to let the manager in after taking his shoes off and walked into the kitchen, "I want to bake a cake, but I don't know how to turn this on. Usually Mamoru is the one that knows how to use it," she blushed and turned to look at him, "I could do it myself, but I really don't want to make a mistake and cause a fire,"

"No problem, Tsukino-san, that's easy. I'll teach you how to do it," He went to take a look at the fancy oven, "Ah, it's one of these ones. No wonder." He chuckled, "You click here to turn it on, and then the whole list of settings shows up. It's easy."

Usagi watched with wonder, "Ah, it sure is!" she sighed with relief, "I'm so sorry for having you come up all the way here just for this,"

"Don't worry, Tsukino-san, I am always glad to be of help. Chiba-san has always been very attentive and polite towards me and he has even helped me when I haven't felt my best." The man smiled at her, "Anything else I can help you with?"

"No, that was all, thank you so much, Takahina-san." Usagi let the oven preheat and walked the manager to the front door, "If anything comes up with the oven, let me know," the man waved his hand; Usagi waved her hand and closed the door, doing a little mental countdown on things she had to do next.

-O-

"Hey, Usagi-chan!"

"Hi Motoki-oniisan, how are you? Are you busy? Am I interrupting?"

"It's fine, Usa-chan, don't worry. I was about to take my lunch break, actually. What's up? Oh, by the way, how are you doing? Mamoru told me what happened to you, how are you feeling?"

"Much better, thank you. Having food poisoning is the worst... I felt like I was going to die,"

"Yeah, I know. The first 24 hours are hell on Earth..." He chuckled, "Trust me, I've been there. But I am glad you are doing much better. Tell me, Usa-chan, what do I owe this lovely call from you? Is it by any chance related to the birthday boy?"

"Yes," Usagi giggled, "You know me well, Furu-chan,"

"Are you trying spying on him?"

"Uh, kind of? I am planning a little surprise for him. I know he preferes to act like nothing happened, but how can I ignore the fact that he was born today? I can't just play the fool and not celebrate it with him,"

"It's complicated, Usa-chan. Only he knows what he feels and why he likes to keep things low-key."

"Yeah…"

"Well, as for now, I know he is in consultation and he has more appointments scheduled. I also need him to join a team meeting to discuss a patient's treatment. I think you will have plenty of time before he ends his shift,"

"He told me about a very sick patient he's treating."

"Yeah, that case has been keeping us busy all morning. His lunch break isn't until another hour—if he decides to take one, that is. I'll let you know if anything changes,"

"Thank you so much Furu-chan! I haven't gotten another message from him, so I was just checking that he wasn't driving all the way here to check on me because that would ruin the surprise,"

"I'll find an excuse to stall him, Usa-chan, don't worry."

"You're the best Furu-chan,"

"Not for nothing I'm your Oniisan," He chuckled, "Alright, little Sis, I have to go, but I will keep you posted,"

"Thank you, thank you!"

"You are very welcome and take care alright? Are you taking your medicines as your doctor instructed?"

"Yes, Isha-san, I am."

"Alright, good girl. Take care, Usa-chan."

O.o.O

Motoki hung up and turned to Mamoru who was walking back to the nurse's station and gave Maki a chart with the information on the patient he just consulted.

Motoki arched his brow, "Tired?"

Mamoru rubbed his temple, "It's been a long day,"

"So, I got a text from your fiancé," Motoki smiled and waved his hand to dismiss his friend's worried look, "Don't worry, she's fine. She tried to reach you, but you were busy with a patient. She's better and resting. In other words, let her sleep, don't go." He frowned at the lack of response from his friend, "Hey, you okay?"

Mamoru let out a soft sigh of relief and nodded, "Yeah, I'm fine. I'm just tired,"

"You didn't sleep last night, I assume,"

"I won't lie to you, I wish I could push all of my appointments for tomorrow."

"But?" Motoki crossed his arms, waiting the bomb to crash.

"I'm meeting Chieko in 30 minutes,"

Motoki's eyes widened "Oh,"

"Yeah..."

"Really?"

"Yes,"

"Today?"

"Today,"

"August 3rd,"

"Yes,"

"Your birthday,"

"Yes, today, my birthday." Mamoru sighed, "I spoke to her assistant to set up the meeting and this was the only day she was available to meet with me,"

"Of course she was,"

"..."

Motoki shook his head and let out a hearty chuckle, "Please don't rip her head off. I need you to come back to work in an hour."

Mamoru shrugged his shoulders and turned to sign a discharge form, "I don't care,"

"Hmm," Motoki frowned, "You may not care, but she forces you to care."

"Better do this sooner than later and be over with it,"

"Rip the moment like a band-aid,"

"Exactly,"

"Ah, wow… You are really going to purchase that house," Motoki pressed the elevator button and looked at his friend with both admiration and awe; Mamoru nodded, "I'm trying to focus on the bigger picture, and to me, it's Usa."

"I hear you, alright," Motoki patted Mamoru's shoulder when the doors opened, "Let me know when you're back, I want to hear how that meeting went." Motoki smiled and turned on his heel, "Oh, and Mamoru?" he stopped and looked at his friend over his shoulder with a grin.

"Yeah?" Mamoru stepped into the elevator, Motoki arched his brow, "Please, try not to rip each other's heads off. I really need you to be back in an hour."

Mamoru watched him annoyed and pressed the lobby button closing doors to close in front of him.

O.o.O

Twenty minutes later into the traffic, Mamoru finally parked his black Audi outside of the Ritz-Carlton and gave his keys to the valet as he walked into the fancy lobby. He was immediately greeted by a very attentive staff member, "Welcome to the Ritz-Carlton, Sir. May I ask where are you heading?"

"The Lobby Lounge," Mamoru looked down at his watch to make sure he was in time, "I'm meeting with someone there,"

"Allow me to take you there, Sir, please, right this way,"

Mamoru was led to a more private area at the lobby where a was already waiting for him with the same politeness, "My apologies for the inconvenience, Chiba-san. Hisakawa-san is here." The woman bowed with a polite smile, "Please, right this way,"

At the very end of the fancy and well-lit lounge, Hisakawa Chieko sat with her assistant and froze at the sigh of Mamoru. All she thought she had let go just hit her light a freight train.

Her assistant was quick to her feet and bowed to greet their client, "Chiba-san, it is very nice to meet you. We spoke over the phone yesterday, I am Shimizu Hanae. Hisa-"

"That's alright, Hanae-san." Chieko interrupted the young assistant and stood up with a posh attitude. Her almond eyes never leaving Mamoru's striking glare, "I will take the meeting from here. No further protocol is necessary." She turns to her assistant with an arched her brow, showing her authority, "This is a private conversation between Chiba-san and me. Please wait for me in the lobby."

"Certainly, Hisakawa-san,"

Mamoru turned to Chieko, who had not moved from her place behind the the table; admiring the wonders time had done to her ex-boyfriend. Looking impeccable in that steel-gray suit, and navy-blue shirt and tie. "Well, this is quite an unexpected surprise,"

"Good afternoon, Chieko-san."

Chieko felt pulled by the low and warm tone of his voice and magnetic presence. It was really him; the same kid who used to work as a clerk boy.

"Good afternoon, Mamoru. Please, have a seat." She turned to take her seat, "If it wasn't because you're standing right in front of me, I would have thought my assistant played a joke so distasteful to get her fired."

"Interesting choice of words," Mamoru took the chair in front of her and turned to take a glance around the lounge, "Meeting here was unnecessary. I could have gone to your office for this."

"I met a client here before you; this worked for me," Chieko leaned back in her chair, "Besides, you are not just any client. I had to give you some special treatment, you know, for old time's sake,"

"How considerate,"

"Of course," Chieko smiled. She knew how to push anyone's buttons.

His measured patience came out in a chuckle, "I came here to talk business with you."

Chieko looked at him with interest, "What can I do for you, Mamoru?"

"I am interested in a house your company has under its exclusive listings. I thought it was best to talk about this with you directly to know where I stand in the bidding."

Chieko checked her agenda on her tablet, "You talked to my assistant yesterday,"

"Yes,"

"Did you give the information about the property to her?"

"Yes,"

Chieko gave Mamoru a quick glance before looking down at her tablet again, "I didn't know it was you until today,"

"..."

"She did mention—" Their conversation was interrupted by one of the waiters, "Excuse me, can I offer you something to drink?"

"Coffee," both Mamoru and Chieko answered at the same time and looked at each other in silence for a couple of seconds. The tension between them was strong. A battle of resistance, both trying to ignore but acknowledging it's there at the same time.

Chieko felt bitter. She hated to remember the attraction she had for him and the standard she set because of him.

"I see which one it is. We recently got its exclusivity. The previous real estate company was underselling it; I knew we could get more from that property, and got them to sell it. We are now listing it as exclusive. Its cost, of course, given the circumstances, could not be matched and I cancelled the bidding."

Chieko looked impressed, "Futako-Tamagawa's value skyrocketed due to all the fusion in commerce built around it. This is expensive property, Mamoru. It's elite."

Mamoru sighed, "Fine. How much are you asking to start the bid? I don't mind the cost,"

Chieko chuckled, "No, of course, you don't." She looked at him, ready to face the tension up front, "I can see you finally embrace your wealth. Now bidding for exclusive properties in high-class neighborhoods; given your initial thoughts on the matter."

"Please get to the point,"

"I don't know if you have been there, but that that house is far from being humble."

"My principles remain very much the same, Chieko." Mamoru leaned back, "Me having money has nothing to do with my decisitions."

"You hired my father to be your legal and financial advisor at seventeen,"

"Yes, so?"

Chieko sighed and leaned forward, "The kind of life you have led after we split up hasn't been very humble, in my opinion. It hasn't had that honest flair you so much presumed."

"Again, your point is?"

"I know you live in Azabu Juban, Mamoru; I know the cost of living in that apartment of yours. You weren't able to pay for it just by living with your humble philosophy of staying true to your achievements and doing things on your own."

"Pardon me, but what a pointless conversation." Mamoru sighed, Chieko rests her chin on her hand, "I am just stating a truth. I work in real estate Mamoru, whenever I see a property, I see numbers, and wherever I see numbers, I see the price of a lifestyle and a person's value,"

"Well, thank you again for such intruding insult," Mamoru muttered, "That way we can put this out of the way and talk about the business in hand."

"The property is new," Chieko read the information on the house, "Completely rebuilt from the ground,"

"I was given the information when I was there."

"You visited the premises, then,"

"Yes,"

Chieko took her phone and started typing her assistant. "It came to me the rumor that you are dating someone; you are engaged?"

Mamoru leaned to take his cup of coffee and took a sip, "Rumors still spread like wildfire in your fine circle of socialites,"

"That usually happens with known people,"

Mamoru chuckled, "Sure,"

"Oh please. You're your family's only survivor, of course, you are known."

"It's so ironic," Mamoru put his cup down and broke in chuckles, "That wasn't the case eleven years ago,"

"Eleven years ago you were different."

"Because I was an employee at a store? Because I had no class?"

"You wore second-hand clothing for goodness sake, Mamoru."

"We are too far from the point; can we go back to talk about business?"

"It's true then?"

"Chieko,"

"What? It's an honest question, Mamoru."

"Yes, it's true."

Chieko frowned, "To whom? Don't tell me, Keiko,"

Mamoru let out a hearty chuckle and shook his head as he put his cup down, "Patience, please,"

"What's with that?"

"I can't believe it," Mamoru gave her a wry look, "Keiko-san? Really?"

"Well, didn't you cheat on me with her?"

"Ah..." Mamoru broke in laughter, "Right, right." He tilted his head, looking at her. His smile vanished, "It came to me Watanabe-san was looking for some funding. You do not happen to know something about how is he getting the money, I assume?"

The comment fell like a bucket of ice over Chieko's head. Mamoru tilted his head and crossed his arms, "This is a stupid game, Chieko. I'm done talking about my personal life, I'm here for business."

"Whether you like it or not, you will need to share personal information to see if you qualify for the bidding on that property,"

"Such as?"

Chieko took a deep breath and put her tablet down, "I will need a copy of your bank statements for the last six months. Also, a letter written and signed by you stating your profession, workplace, and monthly income,"

Mamoru nodded, "Very well,"

Chieko slid a leather portfolio with a set of forms to him and looked at him, "Here is all the information broken into different stages. This is no longer a 1 on 1 negotiation. We have other three bidders after the property.

Mamoru leaned to grab the portfolio and looked at the papers inside and continued listening to Chieko, "After having completed all of the requirements and you still want to bid, I will guide you along the whole process,"

Chieko crossed her arms, "Going for the bid will force us to stay in constant communication, Mamoru."

"I know, Chieko. I'm aware it's part of the deal." Mamoru put the portfolio aside and took a sip of coffee. "I will gather the information you need by the end of the day."

"Very well," Chieko leaned back, "Here is my card with my personal phone number. We have limited time to enter the bidding process."

Mamoru leaned forward to grab Chieko's card and put it in his dark leather wallet and nodded.

"I admit it's a strange feeling. To be talking to you," Chieko finished her coffee and took a moment to think her words. "You kept your promise all these years. Environ is a very large company; why me?"

Mamoru sighed "Your merciless nature to get the things you want makes you a great negotiator,"

"I'm flattered." Chieko smirked, "Coming from you, I will take that double-handed compliment with grace."

"I have a condition for this deal, Chieko." Mamoru handed her his business card, "Everything is to be dealt directly with me. Keep my fiancé out of any excuse to make her be present in the negotiations."

"Oh?" Chieko arched her brow, "Why so secretive Mamoru? Isn't she the woman you're marrying? Trust issues, perhaps?"

"It's a wedding surprise," Mamoru looked at her nonchalantly. His comment felt cold in Chieko's spine. "A surprise?"

"Yes,"

Chieko noticed the gleam in Mamoru's alluring eyes and let out a heavy sigh, "As you wish."

She looked at his card, "You did become a doctor, after all. And you work at a fine hospital in Tokyo; I'm impressed."

Mamoru looked at her, "It was really something I wanted to do,"

Chieko put his card in her golden wallet, "In the end, we both got what we wanted."

Mamoru looked down at his watch, "Would this be all for today? I need to go back to the hospital."

"Yes," Chieko put her things bang in her designer tote purse and turned at him with a frown, "Seriously?"

"What?" Mamoru looked confused. Chieko arched her brow "You're still doing that. So you really haven't changed. The most natural thing for me to think to have done something with said fiancé."

"It's raining,"

"At least she should have taken the courtesy to do something." Chieko shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know. She's a complete stranger,"

Mamoru smiled to himself, "You would think that,"

"You're a different species, Chiba Mamoru."

"I will give that to you," Mamoru his wallet back in his pocket, and stood up, "Society has made it very clear," He offered her hand to help her stand.

As they waited for their cars in the lobby, Chieko turned to her assistant on a call, "Hisakawa-san, your next appointment arrived at your office,"

Chieko turned to Mamoru with a smirk. "My apologies. I got busy with a very important client. If Ikeda-san wants to close the deal, he will wait." She spotted her silver Mercedes, and gaped at Mamoru's black Audi, and parked behind her car, "My, is that your car?" She chuckled, "Is that what you call being humble?"

"It's called a hard-earned achievement, Hisakawa-san." Mamoru went to grab his key from the valet, "That's what I meant."

"I hope you got rid of that horrible second-hand jacket and pair of shoes..."

"So, what happens now, Hisakawa-san?" Mamoru walked over to take his seat, "Should I expect a call?

Chieko walked to her car, "Expect my call, Chiba-san. You're going to war,"

"Good." Mamoru closed the door and drove back into the streets of downtown Tokyo. He dialed Motoki's number, hoping to get an answer.

"Is it over?"

"The first part is,"

"Still with your head in place?"

"Still with our heads in place,"

"Good. How did it go?"

Mamoru stopped at a red light and let out a much more relaxed sigh, "It could have gone worse. It was professional enough."

"That's something. Where are you now?"

"I am driving away from your wedding venue,"

"The Ritz? Really? Wow... You are such a pompous socialite,"

"Yeah, yeah..." Mamoru chuckled, "Says the man who had almost a thousand guests at his wedding,"

"It was Reika, man, all Reika," Motoki laughed, "How are the odds?"

"There are three other bidders. I'm basically going to war."

"Are you coming back?"

"How are things at the hospital?"

"Busy but nothing out of the ordinary. Actually, it says here in your agenda that you can take the rest of the afternoon."

"What do you mean?"

"It's my birthday present to you. I asked Maki-san to push your consultations to tomorrow."

"Seriously?"

"Go home to your girl, birthday boy. I will see you tomorrow."

"See you tomorrow," Mamoru smiled, "Thank you, Motoki."

"Happy birthday, my friend."

O—o—o—o—O

Usagi was finishing adding the sprinkles to her masterpiece. It did check the mark of not looking homemade. Now she only hopes it's not raw or poisonous. With much care, she put long candles all over the top and started to light them as soon as she heard the clicking sound of keys unlocking the door.

Mamoru walked in and tossed his keys on the table by the door. He walked past the genkan and stood completely taken by surprise by Usagi standing in the middle of the living room with the lit cake in her hands.

Usagi marched toward him, mentally praying not to trip. "Happy birthday to you..." she took another small step, "Happy birthday to you... Happy birthday Mamo-chan..." She stood right in front of him with a smile on her face, "Happy birthday... to... you."

Mamoru felt a lump in the back of his throat. Completely moved by the surprise, "Usa..."

Usagi bit her lower lip, "I know what you are going to say. But, you really can't expect me to ignore the most wonderful man ever was born today."

"I—" Mamoru felt on the verge of tears. He looked at the cake then at his fiancé with tear-glossed eyes, "I-I don't know what to say... This is..." he smiled, "Usa... Where did you get that cake?"

"I baked it just for you!" Usagi smiled behind the sparkling candles, "Come on! You have to make a wish before they die out otherwise it won't come true!"

Mamoru took a deep breath and blew out all the candles and put his arm around Usagi's waist bent down to kiss her. "Did you really bake it?"

"Of course," Usagi laughed. She went to over the kitchen island. Mamoru followed as he undid the knot of his tie, "Usa-ko, you're sick!"

Usagi gave him a sweet peck on his lips, "I am so much better now, all thanks to you,"

Mamoru shook his head, "I'm lost for words... Really, thank you so much,"

Usagi gave him a proud grin, "According to the recipe, it's not supposed to be super sweet."

"It looks really good," Mamoru leaned to take a closer look, "It's beautiful," he smiled and turned to her, "You didn't call Mako to help you?"

"Nope," Usagi giggled, "All me, baby, aaaall me."

Mamoru chuckled as he looked at her with eyes full of love. Usagi cupped his face in her hands, "Let the sky fall to pieces outside—I've got my sun right here," She pulls back and puts a small box in front of him."Which reminds me..."

Mamoru looked at the box and then at his girlfriend, "Usa... What's this?"

"It's your present!" Usagi chuckled, "A birthday isn't a birthday without cake and presents!"

"You really went all the way with this, didn't you?"

"It's not what I had in mind. This stupid infection got the best of me. I wanted to take you out on a date…" Usagi pouted, "I really wanted to wrap that present and make all this a perfect surprise,"

"This is more than perfect to me, Usa." Mamoru grabbed the box with care. Usagi sat next to him, "I really hope you like it. I thought it was perfect for you."

"Like the mug?"

"This is better than the mug. Much, much, much better,"

"Oh?" Mamoru chuckled, "That is one heavy statement, Tsukino Usagi. You know how much I love that mug,"

Usagi wiggled her brows, "Trust me, you'll love this way more. I'm excited! Open it!"

Mamoru pushed the lid of the fancy black box and widened his blue eyes, "Usa,"

Usagi grinned at his reaction. "Yes?"

"Usa..."

"Is perfect isn't it?"

Mamoru's lips parted in amazement as he took the precious wristwatch and paid close attention to all the little details in it, "Usagi..."

"Yes?"

"Where did you get this?" Mamoru said completely astonished.

Usagi leaned closer and started taking his own watch to tie the new one around his wrist, "I was doing art for the magazine about this company. They made a limited-edition line of watches inspired by astronomy. But that is not what caught my attention," She smiled, "You see, my beloved Prince of Earth; this watch is called the TerraLuna and it is a small exact replica of a planetarium with an orbital moon-phase display on the back. It shows the moon, and the constellation formed between the Earth, the Moon, and Sun with these three little rotating discs you see here. It symbolizes the romance between the Earth and the Moon," She looked at him, " Just like you and me."

Mamoru was completely stunned. "Usagi. This…" He blinked, still lost for words, "This must have cost you a for—"

Usagi put her index finger to his lips. "Please don't say it, don't even think about it." She leaned back in all seriousness. "I worked really hard to gift you the perfect gift. I really wanted you to wear it,"

She looked into his deep blue eyes, "This is a big deal for me. I wouldn't have my precious job and career if it wasn't for you and your undying love and support. To me, this watch is proof of all those years we had to be apart from each other. The minute I saw it, I didn't hesitate to get it for you."

"I will guard this with my life," Mamoru took a deep breath and turned to see Usagi with so much emotion "Why are you so wonderful to me, Tsukino Usagi? What did I ever do to deserve you?"

Usagi wrapped her arms around his neck, "You have loved me for more lifetimes than I can count and you found me in a world of blurry faces. I love you, Mamoru, so much, I never stop living to make you happy. There's nothing more I like in this world than to see you smile; that special one you craft just for me."

Mamoru was completely dismantled by his beautiful princess, feeling more eager to keep his plans to buy her that house and make that dream a reality. As he looked down at the gorgeous watch ticking on par with his heartbeat, he found her words and gesture very touching. She understood him; she was truly there.

"I love you, Usagi, to the Moon and back," Mamoru inched close and kissed her. Usagi tightened her arms around him and leaned closer to his ear, "To the place where we belong. Happy birthday."