IMPORTANT NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR (PLEASE READ):
Back to the reunion between Seiya and Usagi. I have been able to update faster this week because I have been off work - that's why there have been so many chapters posted in such a short amount of time. Thank you everyone for sticking with me.
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Crossroads in Life
Written by Princess Kayla
Inspired by Naoko Takeuchi's "Pretty Soldier Sailor Moon"
Chapter Twelve
View from a Rabbit
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As moved across the dance floor, I realized that his beard and hair were fake. The man before me was really one of the most famous men in Japan, someone I knew. Shocked, I spoke a little too loudly, "Seiya?"
He immediately shushed me. With a smirk, he lifted the glasses and winked at me. "Seiya?" I whispered, "Is it really you?"
Lowering the glasses, he spoke quietly, "I'm undercover."
"What do you mean?" I asked.
"I'm hear to scope out some talent," he stated.
"What?" My confusion only grew.
Gently, he tugged on my hand and led me out of the ballroom. He guided me to a more secluded sitting area. After looking around to make sure no one was near, he took the glasses off. "What gave me away?" he laughed.
I shook my head in amusement, "Well, the whole disguise is pretty bad."
"Hey, it took me a solid ten minutes to come up with this!" he joked. Immediately, I was reminded of his childish personality; obviously, not much had changed. He took off the beard and wig, and all remaining doubts disappeared; this man was Seiya Kou.
"Why are you dressed like this?" I asked.
"I heard that Michiru and Haruka were performing here tonight. I really like their music, but I have never heard them in person," he explained, "I am interested in seeing if they would want to work together sometime." He paused, "I didn't want the press to know I was here, so wa-lah!"
"I see," I commented.
He grinned, "However, I never imagined I would see you here. Honestly, I almost didn't recognize you." He motioned to me, "You look so different."
I shrugged and crossed my arms, "I grew up."
"Yes, you did," he smiled, "You are very beautiful." I blushed. "But, I do miss that hairstyle of yours," he stated.
I ran my hand over my hair, "Things change."
"Not everything. Want to know how I knew it was you?" I nodded. "That look on your face when you were listening to the music. It is the same as when we were little," he told me. Again, I blushed. "Those were fun times," he commented, but I said nothing. Tilting his head, he asked, "You haven't forgotten?"
Of course, I hadn't; it just seemed so long ago. "I feel like that summer was a dream," I stated. He laughed the signature Seiya laugh that I remembered. "How long will you be in town?" I asked.
He shrugged, "Actually, we are on a hiatus." He noticed my confusion. Collapsing on the couch, he sighed, "We have hit a rough patch in our creativity. We have no inspiration. So, I said we should come back to Tokyo."
"Why?" I questioned as I sat down next to him.
"This is where it all started," he grinned, "This is where I met you." My eyes widened. His smile deepened, "Honestly, I didn't know if I would actually see you again. But, here you are, in the most random of places."
"You're right about that," I agreed, "What are the chances?"
"I know!" he said enthusiastically and then asked, "So, what have you been up to?" I froze at this question; I was definitely not that little girl he remembered. He turned to look at me more directly, "Did you become a writer?"
I loosened up a bit and nodded, "Actually, in a way, yes."
"Really?" he said with interest.
I nodded again, "Yes. I write for The Cherry Project; it's a literary magazine. I am also working on my own book."
"That's awesome. What's it about?" he inquired.
"Well," I said slowly, "It's about my life."
"Interesting," he smiled, "Tell me more about your life."
I laughed, "Wait for the book."
He laughed as well, "That's not fair."
"What have you been up to?" I tried to redirect the conversation.
He shook his head, "No, I want to know more about you." He pulled a small notepad and pen from the inner pocket of his jacket, "Let me know your number. We need to go out for coffee or something to catch up."
Stunned for a moment, my thoughts ran through the many things I didn't know if I wanted to tell him.
He saw my apprehension and smiled gently, "Usa, it's still me. Just coffee." Slowly, I nodded and wrote down my contact information.
"Usagi, there you are." As Setsuna appeared around the corner, I handed the pen back to Seiya and stood up. She stopped, "I'm sorry, was I interrupting?"
"No," I shook my head, "This is Seiya. We knew each other when we were kids."
"Seiya," Setsuna stared at him curiously, "Of the Three Lights?"
Seiya nodded and gave a bow of greeting, "Yes, and you are?"
She returned the greeting and replied, "I am Setsuna."
"Nice to meet you," he said.
Setsuna gave me a look of interest, but I shrugged with a small smile. A soft chime caused Setsuna to take her phone from her clutch. She ran her finger across the screen. "Usagi, I'm sorry, but didn't we plan on leaving no later than eleven o'clock?" I nodded and she sighed, "Well, it's five past."
I turned to Seiya and apologized, "I'm sorry. I have to go."
A small frown pulled at his lips. "That's okay. I will be calling you."
"Sounds great," I responded with a smile and followed Setsuna.
She whispered as we headed to coat check, "Well, that was interesting."
I let out a laugh, "It's a long story."
. . .
"Thank you again, Mrs. Tsukino," Setsuna said to my mother, "Hotaru obviously had a wonderful time." She shifted her weight to hold her sleeping daughter more comfortably.
"It was my pleasure," my mother replied, "Do you need any help?"
She shook her head, "No, thank you." As I opened the door, Setsuna said to me, "Usagi, I will talk to you tomorrow. Thank you for coming with me."
"Thank you for inviting me," I smiled. After she left, I sat down and rubbed my feet that were sore from the high heels.
"How was the party?" my mother asked me as she put away some clean dishes.
"Surprising," I answered flatly.
She paused what she was doing and joined me at the table, "What does that mean?"
I let out an ironic chuckle, "Do you remember that summer when I spent time with Seiya and his brothers?"
"Those musicians?" she questioned.
I nodded, "Yes. Seiya was there tonight."
"Goodness, it's been a long time since you've seen him," she commented.
"I know," I sighed, "He asked for my number; he wants to go out for coffee."
Her eyes brightened, "That's exciting!"
Shaking my head, I sighed, "I don't know. I'm not that little girl anymore."
"You grew up, so did he," she stated.
"I know that, but things are different," I said softly.
"Because of Chibiusa?" my mother asked me gently.
"No," I tried to argue but the word sounded unconvincing.
My mother placed a hand on my shoulder, "Usagi, do not let your insecurities overcome the fact that you are a wonderful mother, which makes you an even more amazing woman. He was a dear friend to you, so give him the benefit of the doubt." I looked into my mother's sweet and loving eyes. She was so wise, and I hoped that someday I could be like her.
"Thank you, mom," I hugged her, gratefully.
. . . . . . . . . .
It took less than twenty-four hours for Seiya to call me and eagerly ask me out for coffee. After the discussion with my mother, I decided to agree to his invitation, so two days later, I found myself sitting across from him at the back of a cozy coffee shop. So many years had passed, but we reminisced about that summer like it was yesterday. We laughed at the old jokes and talked about writing the music. It surprised me how familiar and comfortable I was with him.
"We were so inspired that summer; the music came so easily," Seiya commented.
I took a sip of my coffee. "But you were obviously successful after that," I remarked, "Your career proves that."
"So, you kept up with me?" he smirked.
"Well, I did by all of your CD's," I stated, "Your music really is good."
He chuckled, "Thank you, but we are needing some new inspiration if we want to continue."
"You mentioned that before," I said, "What's going on?"
With a sigh, he shrugged, "I don't know. I guess we burnt ourselves out. We decided to take a break and look for new ideas."
"That could be interesting," I affirmed.
"What about you?" he asked inquisitively, "Want to join the gang and help write some new music?"
I shook my head, "Oh, no. Those days have past. I have way too much going on now."
"Like what?" he asked.
"I have my writing and editing for work, and..." My words trailed off as I tried to reassure myself of my mother's guidance. 'Do not let your insecurities overcome the fact that you are a wonderful mother,' she said.
"Usa?" he looked at me with concern.
I took a deep breath and blew out slowly. "...and I have to take care of Chibiusa."
"Who is Chibiusa?" he questioned me.
I swallowed. "Chibiusa is my daughter." I watched Seiya's silent face. There was no expression, which perplexed me.
Finally, after several moments, he smiled brightly, "You're a mom now? That's wonderful!" His reaction startled me, but he continued to grin. "How old is she?" he asked.
"She's three," I replied.
"I would love to meet her," he stated happily. My anxiety started to lessen until he asked that pertinent question. "Are you married?"
Slowly, I shook my head and decided to let the honesty flow from my lips, "I got pregnant at the end of high school. Her father was a year older than me and left to go to college in America. I never got to tell him about her." I paused for him to say something, but he didn't, so I continued. "I'm not going to lie. I have the opportunity to reach out to him, but I haven't. He..."
"He hurt you," Seiya finished for me. Looking down at my coffee, I nodded. Gently, he reached across the table and touched my hand. "Usa, I don't know what to say, but I think you should be able to do as you think is best and when." I noticed the sincerity in his gaze and thanked him. He sat back and smiled, "Is Chibiusa like you?"
"No," I smiled sadly, "She is so carefree and full of life."
His brow furrowed, "You are too."
"No, I'm not," I disagreed.
"You were," he rebutted.
"Were," I repeated, "That was a long time ago. I'm not that girl anymore."
He laughed, "You will always be that girl."
"Is that Seiya Kou?" I heard a girl from across the room ask.
Seiya looked up and then whispered, "Oops. Time to go!" He stood up, took my hand, and before I knew it, we were out the back entrance into an alley. "Come on!" he exclaimed as we heard footsteps following us. He rushed us out of the alley and down the street.
"Seiya!" a girl shrieked behind us.
"Is it always like this?" I shouted.
He looked back at me with a playful smile, "Sometimes." For some reason, the situation triggered a grin on my face and an odd giggle. At the sound, he laughed as well.
We turned down a street, and I realized where we were. I pointed up at the building ahead of us, "That's my apartment building. Go there!" Hurrying, we flew into the building. We peeked out the window as a group of girls ran past. I exhaled roughly, "Goodness, that was weird."
He shrugged, "It happens." He glanced around the entryway, "Since we are here, can I walk you home?"
Hesitantly, I agreed and we walked up the stairs to my apartment. I took out my keys and paused. Turning towards him, I asked, "My friend is here with Chibiusa. I haven't told her about my knowing you."
"So, I'm a secret," he whispered teasingly.
Like in the past, I shoved him in the shoulder, "It's not like that."
He smiled, "Okay, I'll play it cool." Then, his face turned serious, "Is it okay if I meet Chibiusa now? I really want to." After a moment of thought, I nodded and then unlocked the door.
"I'm home," I exclaimed as I entered the apartment, "And I brought a guest."
Minako stood up from the couch, "Hey, Usagi. You're back..." Her words trailed off at the sight of Seiya. Her mouth dropped open, and she pointed at him in awkward shock.
As I closed the door, I took off my jacket and said, "Mina, this is Seiya Kou. You've heard of him." I watched her slowly close her mouth and nod. "Seiya, this is Minako Aino," I finished the introductions.
"Nice to meet you," he bowed.
Gradually, she bowed in return. "Um..." she tried to collect herself, "Why are you..."
"Usa and I go way back," he said like it was an everyday statement.
"What?" Minako's eyes shot to me.
I sighed, "I'll explain everything later." She gave me a look that clearly said 'you better.'
"Momma!" Chibiusa shouted as she bounced into the room. She ran straight to me.
I gave her a tight squeeze, "Did you miss me?"
"Yes," she said and then noticed Seiya standing behind me. Immediately, her shyness took over.
"Sweetie, this is momma's friend, Seiya," I explained to her gently.
Seiya squatted down to Chibiusa's level and bowed to her, "Hello, Chibiusa. I am so happy to meet you." She studied him. "I knew your mommy when we were kids," he told her, "She sang beautiful songs with me." I glanced at Minako's dumbstruck form as Seiya spoke.
Seiya looked around the room until his eyes stopped on the refrigerator. He pointed at the many papers full of drawings and scribbles that Chibiusa had made. "Did you do those?" She nodded cautiously, still determining what she thought of him. He grinned, "Wow, those are wonderful! Can you show me how to do that?"
After some moments of consideration, Chibiusa let go of me and motioned for him to follow her to the coffee table in the living area. She had paper and crayons scattered all over it. Seiya joined her on the floor. I watched as she handed him a crayon and piece of paper. She demonstrated what to do and he mimicked her. Slowly, a smile appeared on her little face, causing one for me.
"Okay, what the heck is going on?" Minako whispered to me.
I shrugged and pointed at the pair in their own little world. Seiya had a way about him that made people just want to be around him, and Chibiusa appeared to be no exception. My heart warmed a bit.
. . . . . . . . . .
After Minako finally forgave me for keeping quiet about my past with Seiya, it wasn't awkward for him to join us when we would get together. Motoki didn't mind the addition; he actually enjoyed having another man to talk to. Seiya wasn't all show business about his career, so he related with Motoki like any other normal guy. However, because of his status, Seiya was able to give Minako pointers on dealing with the press for promoting her upcoming movie. Topics like that reminded me that Seiya was still a celebrity; the more and more he came around, it was easy to forget.
Sometimes I worried about Seiya's career even though he appeared not to. I asked him if it was okay for him to take so much time off, but he would simply smile and tell me that everything was fine. When I finally saw Yaten and Taiki again, they didn't have much to say about the matter either. It seemed that they desired the time off. I didn't realize how tiring it was to constantly be touring from town to town, all the while trying to stay inspired.
However, there was one person who seemed very annoyed with their vacation. I still remember the day Seiya invited us to a local recording studio.
"Okay, now push this key," Seiya instructed Chibiusa as they sat at the piano. She did as he directed. "That's a B note," Seiya stated. Chibiusa played it again and smiled brightly. I watched them with a grin.
"They look like they could be father and daughter," Yaten commented. My eyes widened at his remark. "You and Chibiusa are all he ever talks about, you know," Yaten rolled his eyes, "It's annoying really."
"Now, Yaten. Don't be rude," Taiki scolded his brother. He stepped towards me and gave me a kind impression, "Yaten, is speaking the truth, though. Miss Usagi, you are very important to him."
"Yes, very important." I jumped and turned to see an older Mr. Juanbi at the door. He walked towards me and bowed, "Greetings again, Miss Tsukino. You have grown into a beautiful woman." His statement was nice, but his voice instantly made me uncomfortable. He went and leaned over the piano, "Nice to see someone playing music in here. Hello, little one."
I don't know if Chibiusa sensed the same unease that I did, but she snuggled into Seiya and hid her face. "It's okay, Chibiusa," Seiya comforted her, "This is Mr. Juanbi. He works for me."
I noticed a swift expression of anger cross Mr. Juanbi's face. He straightened up and his tone turned harder. "Listen, boys, I told you that I expect some new music by the end of this month. We need to start planning a new tour."
"Juanbi, calm down. Why the rush?" Yaten asked, "It's not like we don't have money."
Taiki nodded, "That is right. Besides, we do not want to rush this album. We were not pleased by the last one."
"It was on the top of the charts," Mr. Juanbi was becoming irritated.
"That may be, but it wasn't good. Not in our opinion," Seiya argued, "Our new music needs to be something we are proud of." Seiya stared him in the eyes, "I want our music to matter, really matter."
Mr. Juanbi let out an aggravated groan, "Fine."
Seiya sighed, "Don't worry. I have started working on a few things." He glanced at me, "I have felt more inspired lately." My face grew hot at his statement.
"Well, good," Mr. Juanbi said, "I want to hear something soon, and I mean soon." Suddenly, a phone rang, causing him to reach in his pocket and pull out his cell. He answered it and left the room.
"So, you have some new music?" Yaten asked Seiya.
"Just a few ideas," he replied, "Some tunes, but more lyrics than anything. Actually, I am wondering if Usa would edit them for me."
"What?" I questioned, "Seiya, I told you I don't work on music anymore."
"I know, I know," he said, "I am asking for a proof-reader." He pushed Chibiusa's hair out of her face, "I think your mommy would be great at helping me, don't you?" Chibiusa nodded with a big smile.
I sighed, "That's not fair!" Seiya showed Chibiusa how to pout and then they both looked at me with the most pathetic expressions. I gave in. "Okay. I will just look over them."
"Yay!" Chibiusa cheered and clapped her hands. We all laughed at her sweet enthusiasm.
After that conversation, I helped by reviewing some lyrics that Seiya had written. There were several songs; different from anything the Three Lights had done before. Once I had done some editing, I turned them back into the brothers and they would create the melodies to go along with the lyrics. Yes, even the way they played their instruments was different. Their new sound almost reminded me of Harkua's and Michiru's music. It was clear that the pair had inspired Seiya, just as they had inspired me to write more of my book.
Thankful for that, I shut my laptop and sighed with relief - another chapter done. I looked at the time and stood up quickly from the table. "Mom, Setsuna will be here soon!" I shouted to Chibiusa's bedroom. I hurried into the bathroom where I fixed my hair and straightened my clothes. A knock came at the front door. "Mom, that's her!" I shouted again.
"Hello, Setsuna, Hotaru. Please come in," I greeted as I held the door open to the beautifully dressed mother and daughter. They wore elegant kimonos - Setsuna's burgundy and Hotaru's violet. "You both look lovely. Perfect for the lantern festival," I commented.
"I wish you could come," Hotaru said to me.
I frowned, "I'm sorry, Hotaru, but I promised to help Seiya and his brothers finish one last song. Take care of Chibiusa for me."
"Where is she?" Hotaru asked.
"Right here." At the sound of my mother's voice, I turned around to see my tiny girl also dressed in a kimono, a pretty pink one. However, my eyes widened when I noticed her hair. Though her raven locks weren't that long, my mother was able to tie them up in two buns on her head. In my mind, I could hear my father's voice calling me his 'little bunny.' Somehow, I wanted to cry.
"You look lovely, Chibiusa," Setsuna remarked.
I had to swallow before I went to my daughter and said, "Yes, sweetie, you look beautiful."
She grinned, "Thank you, Momma."
"Let my get your picture." I quickly grabbed my phone and snapped a photo of her. "Perfect." I hugged her and kissed the top of her head, "Listen to what Setsuna says and make a wish when you let go of your lantern."
"Okay," she promised and joined Setsuna and Hotaru. She took Hotaru's hand as they headed out.
"Have a good time!" I shouted as they left. After shutting the door, I smiled at my mother, "Thank you for helping her get ready. Because of your help, I was able to finish another chapter."
"You're welcome," she replied happily, "She is just precious. Reminds me of you when you were little." She went to the door and put on her shoes. "So...you are meeting with Seiya again this evening?" she inquired.
I nodded, "Yes, I've been helping him with some songs. It took awhile for Seiya and his brother's to get back into the groove, but I think their time off has helped them quite a bit."
"Or, you have?" she remarked and then asked, "How do you feel about everything?"
"Mom, I'm just helping them. It's fun, and Seiya is so great with Chibiusa," I stated.
She shook her head, "But how do you feel about Seiya?" When I said nothing, she sighed, "You have spent a lot of time with him these past several weeks."
"I don't know what you are insinuating," I didn't look at her.
"Usagi, if you are falling for Seiya, I couldn't be happier, but I just hope you aren't rushing things," she said.
"It's not like that," I argued, "Seiya is just a good friend of mine."
She frowned, "Okay." Thankfully, she didn't push the subject any further. "I am going to head home now. I love you, Usagi."
I went to her and took her into a hug, "I love you, too. Thank you so much for everything."
She gave me a tighter squeeze before letting me go. "Have a good time tonight," she said as she left.
Once she was gone, I rested my back against the door. The more I thought about it, I knew she was right. Chibiusa and I had been spending a lot of time with Seiya. I glanced over at the calendar that was hanging on the wall and wondered how it was possible that summer was almost over. I recalled the past several weeks and knew the days were full of more than music. We had gone to different summer festivals, shared meals and time with my parents and friends, and other simple everyday things. I wondered if I was letting Chibiusa get attached...letting myself get attached. I needed to remind myself that the Three Lights were eventually going to leave, and I would have to be okay with that.
I jumped when someone knocked on the door. I collected myself and opened it only to be surprised at the sight of Seiya. "I thought I was going to meet you at your place."
He grinned with delight, "I have exciting news. I want to take you somewhere."
"Where?" I asked.
"Just come on," he took motioned for me to hurry. He was clearly eager, so I grabbed my shoes and quickly locked the door behind us.
"Seiya, slow down!" I told him as we hurried downtown. Finally, we stopped in the middle of the square, and I had to catch my breath. "What are we doing here?" I asked.
He pointed ahead of us and grinned, "Right there. That's where the stage is going to go."
"What?" I questioned him in confusion.
He turned to me, eyes shining, "The craziest thing happened. Michiru called me. She and Haruka are performing at a charity concert next month, right here, and she asked if the Three Lights would join them." My mouth dropped open in surprise. "It's a free concert, but we will be asking for donations for ASHINAGA. They are a great organization that helps orphans to get a good education."
"Seiya, that's wonderful!" I exclaimed.
"Juanbi hates the idea, but Yaten, Taiki and I love it!" he stated.
I raised an eyebrow, "Why does Mr. Juanbi hate the idea?"
He sighed, "We won't be getting paid for performing." He shrugged while grinning, "We don't care. We are excited and want to play a new song or two. Thank you so much for helping us."
I shook my head, "I didn't do much."
"Yes, you did!" he rebutted, "It's the first time in awhile that I am actually proud of our work."
"You have been creating some amazing music," I declared.
"Come on," he startled me.
"What now?" I asked.
"Let's go for a walk," he said and took my hand.
"Do we have to hurry?" I groaned, "I think I'm too tired now to work on anything tonight."
He laughed, "No working tonight. Just a walk." As he led me out of the hustle and bustle of downtown, we talked about random things. We were pleased about how good Chibiusa was getting at counting and spelling some simple words. We laughed at how much Luna loved Yaten. We discussed the possibility of letting Seiya's producer friend help Minako with a new film opportunity. Seiya loved helping however he could and I was grateful.
"So, how is your book coming?" he asked me as we reached a much quieter area of Tokyo.
I looked up at the stars and sighed, "Some days the words come easier than others. I get stuck sometimes."
"How so?" he questioned.
"It's hard to write about Mamoru..." I stopped myself; I couldn't believe I had let his name just slip out.
"Mamoru is Chibiusa's dad?" Seiya asked gently. I nodded in reply. "You can talk about him with me if you want."
I sighed and shared what was bothering me, "I worry sometimes. I haven't told Chibiusa about her dad yet. I don't know how or when to tell her everything. I worry if she will hate me."
Seiya stopped and stared at me, "Usa, Chibiusa will never hate you. You have no idea how wonderful of a mom you are. She adores you."
I looked down at the ground and whispered, "Thank you, Seiya."
Seiya placed his hand under my chin and gently tilted my face up to see my eyes. "You are a great mom, but that's not all that you are. Usa, you realize that you deserve to be happy, right?"
I searched his eyes and dots of light sprinkled across them. Turning around, I looked behind me to see several lanterns floating high into the sky. "Beautiful," I said softly, "I wonder if one of those is Chibiusa's."
"Hey, is that the lake that we jumped in when we were kids?" Seiya asked, grabbing my attention. He was right. Suddenly, a huge grin covered his face, and I knew what he was thinking.
"No, Seiya," I refused, "We aren't kids anymore."
"What does that matter?" Seiya started pulling my hand towards the lake.
"No!" I yelled, but tried to keep my voice low, "This is crazy!"
"Yes, it is," he said like it was no big deal. Unexpectedly, he picked me up and sprinted. Before I could do anything in protest, we reached the water. With a huge splash, we went under. Once I broke through the surface and gasped for air, I sputtered around. The lake was deeper than I remembered.
"Hold on, hold on," Seiya chuckled and pulled me close to him.
In anger, I shoved him away. Immediately, I regretted it, so I gave in and let him hold me up. "You are horrible, Seiya Kou," I growled, but then I became distracted as my eyes caught sight of something remarkable. The lake shimmered from the light of the many lanterns in the sky. As I watched them dance freely amongst the stars, I was entranced. In the water, even though Seiya held me, I felt weightless.
"Usa, you deserve to feel free and loved," Seiya whispered. I gazed at him as he spoke softly. "Usa, let me love you in all the ways you need." Our eyes remained locked for several minutes before Seiya slowly leaned his face towards me. My heart began to race as his lips brushed against mine. For a moment, I hesitated, but then, I gradually kissed him back. It was a simple and tender kiss. For the first time since Mamoru, I felt my heart open a bit. However, as we floated there under the brilliant night sky, I wondered if this was the right thing.
. . . . . . . . . .
Minako grabbed my arm as we trailed behind Motoki and Seiya. "Motoki seems to really like Seiya," Minako whispered to me. I watched as the two men talked about random things. We were on our way home from another double date. "That makes me so happy," she kept her voice low, even though she was clearly excited.
"It is nice," I commented with a smile.
"And, I am so happy you have him," she told me, "I knew you would fall in love again." My eyes widened, which made her look at me in confusion, "Usagi, you do love him, right? He is completely head over heels for you."
I stared at Seiya's back, "He is?"
"Of course," she stated, "How do you feel?"
I thought for a moment, trying to figure out what to say. Suddenly, my emotions seemed all twisted. I watched as Seiya laughed at something Motoki said, and I smiled lightly. Seiya was a wonderful man; he made me very happy. I was comfortable when I was with him, and he was so good with Chibiusa. It made me think about how much my parent's cared for me. I felt safe with them; I realized that I felt the same with Seiya. I swallowed the lump that had formed in my throat and slowly replied, "I think I love him."
"You think?" she frowned.
With more determination, I forced a stronger reply, "Yes. I love him." However, Minako's frown didn't leave her face.
Motoki turned around at that moment, "Mina, you ready?"
Seeing that we had arrived at an intersection, Minako gave me a hug and took Motoki's hand. "I'll talk to you later, Usagi," she waved 'goodbye' and the couple headed their own way home.
"Shall we?" Seiya extended his hand. I took it and we headed in the opposite direction. "The countdown to the concert is upon us. Only a couple of weeks left. I really appreciate all the time you have sacrificed to help us. I love the song we settled on. Thank you for helping me to revise it," he said as he walked me home.
"It's a really beautiful song," I commented, "The words you wrote are lovely."
He kissed the top of my head, "It was written for you."
I stopped walking, "For me?"
"You must have known, Usa," he smiled and kissed my hand, "I love you." My breath caught. I wondered if Minako had known that Seiya was going to bring this up tonight. "I knew I was meant to come back here. I was meant to meet you again. Usa, with all that I am, I love you."
"Seiya..." A soft sob escaped me. I was crying.
He touched my cheek, "Usa, even when you cry, you are beautiful." He kissed me softly on the forehead. He genuinely loved me. I knew, then, that I wanted him to love me. He cared for me in all the ways I wanted to be cared for...all the ways I had wanted Mamoru to care for me. With Seiya there was promise. With Seiya there was a future. With Seiya I would finally be able to let Mamoru go.
I leaned forward and kissed Seiya with all I had left to give. He pulled me closer, and I wrapped my arms around his neck. I lifted my lips from his and whispered the words I knew he needed to hear. "I love you, too." His eyes lit up with happiness and he kissed me again.
. . . . . . . . . .
In awe, I stood before Michiru and Haruka. "Usa?" I blinked and looked to see Seiya laughing at me. I must have been in a daze. "Usa, Michiru and Haruka just said hello to you."
"Oh!" I bowed in apology, "I am so sorry! Hello. I am so pleased to meet you. Your music means so much to me."
"Thank you," Haruka smiled with a light chuckle.
Michiru nodded, "Yes, thank you. We love to hear that."
"Haruka, Michiru, you two are up," a stagehand directed.
Michiru picked up her violin and smiled sweetly at me, "It was so nice to meet you."
"Enjoy the show," Haruka winked at me and followed Michiru out on stage.
"It hurts that you aren't that star-struck around me," Seiya joked.
I punched him lightly in the side, "Hush." He kissed my cheek, and together, we listened to the pair create musical bliss. They were so talented. Suddenly, Seiya let out a rough exhale. I turned to see his face slightly pale. "What's wrong?" I asked with concern.
He shrugged, "Just nervous."
"You?" I said surprised, "Since when do you get nervous?" He shrugged, so I gave him a hug, "You're okay. You will be great."
"Thank you," he rested his head on mine. As Haruka and Michiru continued playing, I listened to Seiya's heart as it slowly relaxed. "This helps," he sighed peacefully.
"I'm glad," I said, pleased that I could help. We stayed like that for some time because suddenly the stagehand returned to get Seiya, Taiki and Yaten ready for their turn to perform.
"Believe it or not," Yaten stated, "It feels good to be putting on a show."
"I know what you mean," Taiki agreed.
Applause roared as Michiru and Haruka headed off stage. We congratulated them on their performance as they headed to get some water. The announcer for the show ran past them onto the stage. "Hey, everyone!" she yelled into a microphone, "Thank you so much for coming out to support ASHINAGA! Because of people like you, thousands of our country's orphans will be able to graduate from good schools! Thank you!" I could hear the crowd cheer at her words. "Now, let's give a welcoming round of applause for the Three Lights!" I laughed when the cheers grew louder.
"Good luck," I wished them as they hurried out on stage.
With enthusiasm, Seiya ran to the center of the stage and grabbed a microphone from one of the stands, "Hello, Tokyo! I'm Seiya and these are my brothers Taiki and Yaten. Together you know us as the Three Lights." The shrieks of excitement were overwhelming. It was evident how much their fans adored them.
Seiya adjusted a second microphone stand next to him, and said "We have a new song to perform for you today, but we are going to need a little help from a very special lady." That's when he looked off stage right at me, "Usagi Tsukino, come on out here!"
Immediately, my stomach felt like it was full of bricks. This had to be a joke.
He stuck his hand out towards me, "Come on, Usa. Don't be afraid." I shook my head drastically. He tilted his head with a look that said, 'Please do this for me.'
I stiffened when the stagehand touched my back. "Go on out there, please," she begged, "We have to keep the show going."
My eyes went from her pleading face to Yaten's and Taiki's and back to Seiya's. Using all the strength I could manage, I grudgingly stepped out on the stage. The crowd got louder as I walked up next to Seiya. I mouthed a 'You are so mean!' at Seiya only to have him give me his famous grin.
He spoke into the microphone, but directed his words to me, "Usa, you have heard us sing this song several times, but I don't think you realize just how much it means to me. I would never have finished it without you. You know the words, so please sing with me."
Yes, I knew the song. It was the most beautiful of all the ones I had helped him with. I had listened to the three of them sing the song many times, but still I wanted to run right off the stage and hide. Seiya mouthed to me, 'Just follow my lead.' Trying to hide my aggravation, I nodded and put my hands around the microphone in front of me.
Seiya signaled to his brothers and they began playing. It was so hard to focus because of the many faces in the crowd all staring up at me. I felt like I was surrounded by a sea of people, and at any moment, could drown. However, while there was fear, there was also something strange that called to me from that sea. I couldn't place the feeling.
I had to collect myself so I took a deep breath and forced myself to look away from the crowd. Seiya met my eyes and gave me a reassuring smile. Then, he began to sing, his voice as amazing as always. I was reminded of the contest all those years ago and found myself feeling more at ease as I watched him. I listened to him sing.
"My life was so empty,
Before you had come.
Now, your heartbeat gives me peace.
Your breath soothes my soul.
Baby, you're all, baby, you're all,
Baby, you're all I've ever needed."
He took my hand and continued, "You're all I've ever needed." I smiled, concentrating on him.
"I love you more than I knew
I could ever love someone.
And, God, it runs so deep;
I can barely even breathe.
I'll be your shelter from the storm."
He signaled me with a nod, so I took a deep breath and sang the chorus with him.
"Baby, you're all, baby, you're all,
Baby, you're all I've ever needed."
He had told me that he wrote this song for me. All those times I reviewed it, I never put two and two together. However, it made sense now. Seiya lived and loved with passion. His music was overwhelmed with it, so I paused and let him pour it out. His voice was fierce as he sang.
"Every promise I've made
Has led us up to this day.
Please remember my love,
When you've forgotten your way.
And this ache in my heart
Makes me want to stand tall."
Seiya wanted to be my rock. He wanted to take care of me. However, sometimes I wondered if Mamoru ever wanted that. He had saved me that day in the street when he didn't have to. We became close after that, but then something changed.
Seiya continued.
"When the world takes you down,
Know it isn't your fault.
Just know it's not your fault."
I just didn't understand what happened, what had changed between Mamoru and me. I didn't know what I had done wrong. I wondered if I was the reason it ended the way it did.
My eyes turned to the crowd. I fought back tears as I sang the simple, "Tell me it's not my fault." I wasn't supposed to echo Seiya with those words, but as I looked across the sea, something in me said 'sing.'
Gently, Seiya took my hand, bringing my attention back to him. Together we finished the song with one last chorus. My voice shook as we ended and the music faded out. I stepped back from the microphone, ready to flee off of the stage. However, Seiya held onto my hand.
Seiya asked the cheering crowd to quiet down and said, "Thank you so much, everyone! Isn't she amazing?" I blushed as everyone shouted in agreement. "Usa," he squeezed my hand, "You truly are amazing, in more ways than you may realize." I noticed that Seiya's hand was shaking as he spoke, "And like I sang... 'I love you more than I knew I could ever love someone.' Usa, I mean every word. You mean the world to me and I want you at my side forever."
My heart stopped as I watched him lower to one knee. I was sure the crowd was screaming but they sounded muffled and far away. With his free hand he reached into his pocket and revealed to me a huge diamond ring. He was sweating as he looked up at me in anxiousness, "Usa, I know it hasn't been long, but let's continue on this crazy journey together. Will you marry me?"
My breathing became uneven as I tried to process the entire moment. I was struggling to know if this was real. For some reason, again I looked out over the crowd. I didn't know what I was looking for, but suddenly, the tears that I had fought began to slip from my eyes. I clenched them shut. I couldn't understand why I was crying. I told myself it was the moment; I was overwhelmed with joy. Ever since I had Chibiusa, I wondered if anyone would ever want to marry, and here Seiya knelt before me, wanting to do just that.
When I opened my eyes, I turned to Seiya. Slowly, I nodded and whispered, "Yes." Seiya leaped to his feet and pulled me into his arms. He kissed me passionately and spun me around. As he sat me back on the ground, he shouted into the microphone, "In case you all couldn't tell, she said 'yes'!" The crowd erupted with cheers and applause.
Seiya took my hand and slipped the ring onto my finger. He kissed my cheek and whispered into my ear, "I love you."
"I love you, too," I said back to him. He waved to the crowd, overjoyed. However, I had to force myself to smile because I was unnerved by weight of the ring on my hand. I wondered if it truly was heavy or if it was all in my mind.
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Please Pardon Grammatical Errors and Review.
"All I've Ever Needed" by Paul McDonald (Some words changed.)