RIVALS
CHAPTER 10
By: R.UMALI
November 14,2000


*********************************************************************

Saturday evening, a celebration went underway, being held at a very 
notable and exclusive Resort and Hotel, exclusive to club members of 
having more than six digit incomes to be exact. Everywhere you could 
see, foliage and tapestries were being arranged, and dinnerware 
being skillfully set and the servicemen and women were dressed at 
their best uniforms.  Jitters came from the owners knowingly that 
Mr. Kina is a very respectable man and has brought him many 
businesses throughout the years.  Their nervousness became more 
overwhelming when they were handed the list of attendees for the 
party.  The list consisted of honorary guest from the most riches, 
prominent influences of Japan and other Investing countries. 

"Everyone, can I have your attention please" said Mr. Lang one of 
the owners.  Trying to get the attention of his many servicemen and 
women "I want to tell you how very important this event is for us" 
he began and ended his speech as he looked at the time. "Guest will 
be arriving any minute and I suggest that everyone put on their 
happiest faces." he smiled as he shooed them off.  

At the strike of six, limousines and elegant automobiles began to 
clutter the driveway entrance, where valets and other hotel 
concierge helped attendees step out to the beautiful red carpet. 
Guest we're then delightfully greeted by rehearsed men and women, 
directing them to the right places and areas of registries.

"Mina" like fire is to burn, Rei was beautifully dressed in the 
reddest shade of red and had naturally left her beautiful raven hair 
down.
"Hi Rei, Hi Jayson" said Mina, wearing the burnished of orange. With 
strings of hair hanging lose from her swept up twist. "Oh you look 
hot Rei," pointed Mina as she gave her another look and whispered  
"I wonder what you and Jayson have planned for later on tonight" 
winked Mina.
"Oh Mina, don't you think of anything else" grinned Rei "But I can 
probably say that you and Michael have the same intentions as Jayson 
and I do" she giggled.
"By all means" winked Mina.
"Hey what about me?" asked Jayson posing, waiting 
for his remarks.
"Oh you look great," said Mina giving him a hug while seeing Ami 
walking towards them
"Ami, you look absolutely gorgeous," yelp Mina and Rei as they 
greeted their friend.  "Oh this ice blue just suits you Ami, where 
did you get this dress?" asked the girls. Ami smiled as she twirled 
her dress that's fitted to her slim figure.
"I found it in Serena's closet" hushed Ami smiling
"You went shopping in Serena's closet?" said Mina 
"Where was I?"
"Well. You were out with Michael I think," said Ami "But gods you 
guys gotta see her dresses.  Since I'm not the one to go to parties 
I didn't know the first thing about buying a dress.  So I called 
Serena and she asked me to come over.  She brought out dresses of 
every shade and this one came to focus" glimmered Ami.  "Although 
certain areas didn't fit me," she said gesturing to her breast area 
and hips. "I just don't have what assets Serena has, But Elaine, 
helped me out with that" as they all giggled.
"Oh what beautiful women you all are" said a manly voice 
interrupting the girls conversation.
"Yeah, and what beautiful best friends they are to your fiancée" 
smirked Lita to her comedic fiancé.
"Lita, Andrew" said the girls and Jayson
"Finally another guy" said Jayson to Andrew "I was 
kind of getting left out here"
"Wow talk about emerald green" said Rei taking note of Lita's 
beautiful emerald green dress.
"Well I can say the same for you Miss Lady in RED" pointed Lita 
"Hey, have you guys seen Serena?"
"No not since I left her house today" said Ami
"I haven't seen her since yesterday" said both Rei and Mina.
"Can you believe it!" said Mina "She's…."
"Mina!" said Lita giving her they cold eyes and hinting that Rei was 
present within the group.
"Oh. I almost forgot," said Mina
"What????" said Rei feeling a little left out of the conversation.
"Um nothing"said Mina
"Don't worry Rei" said Ami "Serena will tell you later on this 
evening"
"Tell me what?" asked Rei questionably
"Oh there's Molly," said Mina trying to avoid the question.  
Everyone turned to see the petite girl wearing a silk teal slip 
dress, which suited her very well.
"Hi guys.. Oh you guys look so beautiful," said Molly to her best 
friends. The girls giggled about their struggles in finding their 
dresses and where the best places to find the right matching shoes, 
while the two men conversed quietly about the evening's events.

"So where's the Chiba guys?" asked Jayson
"I don't know, I thought they would be here by now" said Andrew 
looking around " You know with Darien really upset about the take 
over bid, I thought he would be snooping around and trying to crack 
the tight lid information about Serena"
"I know," said Jayson " But I wonder how Darien will react once he 
finds out that Serena is Mr. Kina's replacement"
"No kidding" said Andrew as he thought about what Darien will think 
of Serena once he finds out that she's his number one rival.

"Sir" said a young man opening the doors to the emerald green 
Mercedes.  Two handsome men stepped out on the red carpet, looking 
more handsomely than ever.  Darien wearing the traditional formal 
attire, the black and white tuxedo made him exceptionally handsome.  
As if he could not get anymore, he was simply gorgeous.  The tuxedo 
suited him well, and indeed with his piercing dark sapphire eyes he 
was certainly pleasing to the eye.  Women quivered at his sight 
making their flirtatious egos take over.
"Here's your ticket Sir"
"Thank you" said Darien adjusting his coat and smiling to others 
around him
"Wow, so many guest" said Michael eyeing everyone.
"Well Mr. Kina knows how to throw a party," said Darien looking 
around and adjusting his coat.
"Awwww………shit!" said Michael as they made their way towards the 
entrance.
"What?"
"Try, Millie" said Michael looking left "Tanya" looking right 
"Jessica" looking straight  "and Dina" looking right again.  Darien 
followed his gazes and found women that he indeed used to sometime 
ago date.  A few found his attention as he looks they smiled at him 
seductively.  Darien chuckled as he shook his head.
"I know for a fact that this party is going to be filled with them" 
smirked Michael taking note of Dina's smile.  "Lets just hope Serena 
isn't here" he ended causing Darien to groan.
"Michael," sighed Darien
"If she is here," said Michael "this is going to be a long evening 
full of interruptions" he smirked.

"Hey have you guys seen Serena?" asked Molly
"No, we were just talking about that," said Rei as she turned 
towards Mina "Now what will Serena tell me" 
"Umm…ah…" fluttered Mina asking for help from her co-workers, when 
she was interrupted.
"Good evening ladies" said Nathan eyeing Molly and 
making her blush.
"And gentlemen" remarked Andrew
"And gentlemen" said Nathan acknowledging Jayson and Andrew
"So is any of you ladies not taken?" asked Nathan eyeing Molly
"Why she's not," said Mina nudging Molly towards Nathan.  A stain of 
pink on Molly face became a deeper shade of red.

"Ladies" said Mr. Kina walking towards the group "and gentlemen" 
taking note of his only male officer "I need you to help me greet 
our happy clients"
"Ill meet up with you guys later" said Rei as she kissed Jayson
"May I be reserved a dance for later," asked Nathan to Molly
"Umm…well…." Stuttered Molly
"SURE..She will" said Mina "she'll do more than that, shell save you 
a few," laughed Mina as she walked off with Molly.

The guests were finally led into the ballroom where they were to be 
served with their finest wines and horsd'oeuvers.  Seating 
arrangements were done to fit each character profiles matching the 
other to avoid any type of conflict.  The head table, decorated with 
flowers of all kind seated Mr. Kina and his wife.  Along with 
important speakers and notables.  Including Mr. Sison and Mr. 
Thompson.  In the middle, sat the Tuskino group and on the other 
side sat the Chiba group.  All were seated and held conversations 
amongst each other.

"So Darien" said Rei "I think you know way too many of these women"
"Yeah, almost like all" said Zen
"You know, is it possible for any of you to stay out of my 
business?" said Darien smilingly
"Umm.. Dare," said Michael "We are a part of your business" he 
grinned as others laughed.
"When is dinner?" complained Nathan "I'm getting hungry"
"Did you not eat anything before?" asked Rei
"No, I wanted to make sure I fit into this tuxedo" he said picking 
lint off his coat.
"Well, it looks like were having dinner now" said Zen taking note of 
all the waiters and waitresses with trays of food.

"Oh finally" said Mina "I was starting to get hunger pains" she said 
as she received a platter full of delicious food.
"Hey guys," said Ami looking around "I still haven't seen Serena"
"I think, she's suppose to be hidden till then," said Jayson as he 
laid a napkin over his lap.
"Come on… Mr. Kina wouldn't do that," said Molly
"Slow down Mina" said Lita whom was able to sit with them. "You 
might choke or something"
Just when everyone was seated a small silence broke in the room and 
whispers could be heard.  The guest, especially the men all around 
were entrance at the beautiful maiden that stood on top of the 
stairs.

"Hey look," said Rei, pointing at the top of the steps "Its Serena".
All eyes averted to her and were completely taken to how beautiful 
she was.  Darien, with eyes that roamed, stared at the goddess that 
stood.  Starting from the top he drank Serena's beautiful features.  
With her hair up and strands of hair flowing down she was extremely 
breath taking.  A strand of twinkling silver jewels adorned her swan 
like neck.  Lips so luscious, he wanted to run up to her and devour 
them hungrily. A man then approached her as she smiled. He stood 
behind her as he removed her jacket allowing everyone to be 
enchanted by her delicate and physical beauty.
"whoo…It's getting hot in here" said a man from behind them.  Darien 
understood what he had meant, fore he new that this woman was being 
admired and adored by men all around, wanting and needing to meet 
her.  He too was also feeling the warmth of burning desire as he 
stared.  Wearing a white irridesant strapless gown, it shimmered at 
her every move.  Hugging her body smoothly the dress was simple 
flattering to her curvaceous body.  The heart shape top revealed her 
fully defined breast, the point being so low, exposing her infernal 
cleavage. Waistline being so small it signified her hourglass 
structure.  One long high slit ran down her right side, uncovering 
her very well define limbs.  Smoothly, her thighs and hind legs 
twinkled at the evening lights.  Fine silver straps wrapped around 
her ankles as her toes where uniquely painted.  Ending her ensemble 
the bottom of her dressed was decorated with small precious crystals 
forming small rosebuds all around.
"Breath taking" said Michael staring at Serena.
"Indeed she is" said Nathan gulped as he senses 
Darien's attention towards him.  Just then an 
older man walked up to Serena as she smiled.

"Good evening to the beautiful Serena" said Mr. Thompson walking up 
the stairs.
"Good evening to you too Mr. Thompson" said Serena blushing and 
waiting for his approach.  Once on the top of the stairs, Serena 
gave Mr. Thompson a small hug to greet him.

"Who is that man?" asked Darien watching Mr. Thompson approach 
Serena.
"I…. I don't know Darien," said Michael "But he does look familiar"
"Rei…" called Darien who was enjoying dinner "Who is that man".  Rei 
looked up to find a blond hair man hugging Serena.
"I don't know Darien," said Rei.  Rei watched Darien's face turn 
into a flush crimson red.  His face was on fire, jealous of the man 
holding the angel before him.
"That better be some relative," he whispered only for Michael to 
hear.

"My lady" said Mr. Thompson offering his arm "May I escort you to 
your table"
"Why of course" she smiled greatly as they began to descend down the 
stairs.

"Wow" said Molly "Check out Serena"
"Look at her dress" said Mina "I really have to check out her 
closet"
"She's stunning" said Andrew now searching for Darien.  He smiled 
greatly at the sight of Darien's huge grin. 

"Could you believe that, that girl you see before 
you was a clumsy?" said Rei to the others as they 
watched Serena walked down the stairs.
"Nauhhh" said Nathan
"You've got to be joking," said Zen
"Really" said Rei "I remember teasing her a lot 
for tripping"
"Well what ever she was back then," said Michael 
"She's nothing but graceful now"
Darien followed her figure moving about, content 
to just have the sight of her.

"So how has your first week in Japan?" asked Mr. Thompson as they 
walked to her seat.
"It's been wonderful, I have merely forgotten how beautiful it 
looked," said Serena smiling as they moved closer to her friends.
"Good evening Miss. Aino, Ms. Muzuno, Ms. Bauer and Mr. Preston.
"Good evening Mr. Thompson" they all said in perfect unison 
"Serena" said Mina "Where did you get that dress?"
"I see you have acquainted yourself with your assistants"
"Oh yes we have" she said smiling at all of them as she turned and 
smiled at Lita and Andrew.
"Oh my" she said as she looked at Mr. Thompson "Mr. Thompson, may I 
introduce to you the owners of Café Millennia and close friends of 
mine, Mr. Andrew Furuhata and Lita Kino"
"Well, it is a pleasure.  I always dine in your restaurant every 
time I visit" said Mr. Thompson to the two "Thank you, Mr. Thompson" 
said Andrew as he stood and shook the mans hand.
"Mr. Thompson is my fathers advisor," said Serena
"Speaking of your father Serena" he said taking an 
envelope out from his pockets "Serena, your dad 
asked me to give you this"
"Thank you" said Serena as she kindly took the envelope.
"Serena, well you excuse me while I greet some clients of ours" said 
Mr. Thompson as he winked.
"Thank you for escorting me"
"Anytime my dear" he said as he turned "Mr. Furuhata, Miss. Kino it 
was nice meeting you.  To you ladies and gentleman I will see you 
later" he said as he started to walk off.  
"Serena, you look stunning," said Andrew giving her hug and feeling 
Lita's nudge "Well not as stunning as my lovely fiancée" he said 
turning around to give her a kiss.
"If I didn't know better," said Lita "I would think your hitting on 
her" eyed Lita comically.
"Serena, sit here" said Mina.  Andrew followed Serena as he pulled 
the seat for her.

"Andrew…. is being too much a gentleman" said Darien jealously, 
first watching the hug then his gentleman gesture of pulling her 
seat.
"Dare" said Michael "You know dam well that he would do that to any 
other woman" said Michael
Darien sighs; he was too upset at the thought of other men near 
Serena.  But he knew that Michael was right.  Andrew is a gentleman 
all the time, even when they were in high school he had always 
charmed the girls around him. "Your right" said Darien.
"Oh man….." said Zen
"What's the matter?" asked Michael
"Don't look now" said Nathan "But the snake is coming this way".  
Michael and Darien turned around to find Beryl walking towards them.  
Turning back around Darien sighs..
"This is going to be a long evening" Michael whispered as he looked 
at Darien.
"Good evening……Darien" said Beryl from behind.  Darien turns around 
and blankly acknowledging her.
"Same to you" he said as he waited for her next response knowing all 
too well of her ways. She caressingly slid her hand across his 
shoulder.
"Darien" she said poutingly "I'm really sorry about the other day" 
coo-ed Beryl "But if you come over, I promised to make it up to you" 
she said while licking her lips tying to temp Darien.  In the mean 
time Rei stared in disgust as the others kept quiet waiting for 
Darien's response.
"Beryl" he said standing up.  Beryl was forced to stare into his 
eyes as she felt his piercing gaze slamming to her body.  "I meant 
what I said, I DO NOT want to see you anymore" he said as he swiped 
her hand away from his shoulder.  Darien looked at her once more, 
before he walked away, leaving Beryl to stand before his assistants.
Rei smiled and chuckled as to Beryl's shocken features.
"What are you smiling at?" asked Beryl
"I'm smiling at a woman who has a big 'R' on her forehead" said Rei
"R" questioned Beryl not knowing what Rei had meant.
"YES, 'R' for REJECT" she said as she stood up and walked away 
smiling in defeat.
The three men on the table smirked comically and held their laughter 
in as much as they could.  Snickers slipped from their mouths as 
Beryl was now fuming.
"FUCK all of you" she sneered before walking away.  Once gone they 
men laughed.
"Oh my…." Breathed Zen
"That was a good one," said Nathan
"REJECT," said Michael "Oh man, I gotta tell Dare about that"

 After Dinner the evening progressed, the lights were dim and the 
band played on.  People danced from one song to another.  Investors, 
Clients and other guest eluded themselves on all the champagne.  
Still the evening was so busy Darien still has not been able to 
approach Serena, nor Serena to even notice Darien.  She had past, 
present and future clients at bay and she was not about to be rude 
and not speak to them.

"Serena has become a beauty," said Mrs. Kina 
speaking to her husband softly.  Mr. Kina stared 
at Serena and smiled.
"Yes she is" he chuckled "Do you remember when she 
would come over the house.  Serena and Tyler would 
get into so much trouble"
"Yes I remember, what about the time when they had 
put some frogs inside the bathtub with Nikki," he 
said laughingly.
"Nikki was so mad.  It took her a long time to 
like Serena again," said Mrs. Kina.
"Speaking of Tyler, where is he?" questioned Mr. 
Kina
"He said he would be later, its understandable 
coming from miles away"
"Yes I suppose your right"
"Dear" paused Mrs. Kina "Isn't it about time Tyler 
settles down don't you think" she ended staring at 
Serena.  Mr. Kina looked at his wife and it didn't 
dawn on him till he followed her gaze.
"Mrs. KINA, just what do you have planning in the 
head of yours?"
"Oh nothing" she said smilingly

The people around her overwhelmed Serena, she was actually tired.   
Thinking of a moment to escape for even just a little she excused 
herself amongst her friends.
"Mina" said Serena "Ill be right back" she said walking away then 
returning. "if anyone is looking for me Ill be in the balcony" she 
winked.
"Okay Serena, but be right back.  I think the announcement is about 
to beginning." Said Ami.

"Hey did the guys tell you what happened when you walked off?" said 
Michael
"No what happened?" said Darien curiously raising an eyebrow.
"When you left Rei was grinning and chuckling.  Beryl got mad and 
asked her what was funny, Rei said you have a big 'R' on her 
forehead" said Michael
"and…." Asked Darien
"Well, Beryl didn't understand so Rei said you have a big 'R' for 
'REJECT" laughed Michael.  Darien smiled
"That's our Rei," said Darien now laughing himself 
"So what did Beryl say"
"She walked off, but she told me, Nathan and Zen to fuck off" he 
said taking his shoes off…"My feet hurt"


 "I swear I feel like I'm at a convention," said Darien
"I know what you mean.," said Michael wiggling his toes under the 
table.
"Serves you right for buying new shoes at the same day" chuckled 
Darien
"Oh, yeah Mr. I need a new tuxedo" said Michael.  
After a moment of silence and wonder to when the announcement was to 
begin.  Darien again thought about Serena.  She was beautiful and 
intriguing at the most, she was someone he wouldn't mind talking to 
right now he thought.  Darien's eyes roamed the many dancers dancing 
and people talking, looking around for any sight of her.
"What's up Dare?" asked Michael curious to who he was looking for 
"Who are you looking for". 
"I was just looking for……." he said before he caught a glimpse of a 
beauty escaping to the balcony "bingo" he said.  "Mike I would 
really love to chat with you about your foot, but I feel like 
talking to an angel" winked Darien as he walked away.
"You sly dog" said Michael "fine leave me to sulk about my feet by 
myself" he said laughingly.  But found company once he felt familiar 
hands on his shoulder.
"Hi baby" said Mina as she gave him a kiss
"Hello, my goddess" he said pulling her close to sit on his lap.
"How are you doing?" she said brushing her nose against his.
"I'm okay, except for these dam shoes. They're killing me"
"I told you not to buy new shoes to wear for the same evening," said 
Mina pointing a finger at him.
"I know, I know," he said putting his shoes back on "Darien said the 
same thing"
"Speaking of your boss" said Mina looking around "where is he?  You 
two are usually in-separatable.  I bet he's insuring a deal 
somewhere," giggled Mina "Like in one of the hotel rooms"
"As a matter of fact my curious goddess.  He's trying to find 
Serena," said Michael as Mina's face frowned.
"Michael, he isn't trying to sliver his way into Serena's bed, is 
he?  Cause if he is, its not gonna happen"
"Sliver, Mina Darien isn't a snake.  He might go out with some" he 
said making a face and nodding at the same time "but he's not a 
snake.  Quite frankly I think he likes Serena"
"How do you know that?" she asked curiously.
"Well there's something different about him when she's around.  You 
should see how he gets when any man goes near her, even Andrew"
"Are you serious?"
"Nope, he watched the whole thing when Andrew gave her a hug earlier 
and when Andrew pulled her chair out.  And boy was he jealous".  
"Your kidding, him mad at Andrew, that's like being mad at you".  
Mina laughed at the thought then immediately thought about Serena's 
position.  'Oh… Oh…' she thought.
"Um, Michael I don't think it would work out between them too"
"What do you mean its perfect, I think Darien finally met his match" 
he ended
"I don't know about relationship wise, but indeed he's met his 
match," she said not elaborating.
"and what does that mean?"
"Nothing"
"Mina? What did you mean by that?".  Mina kissed him on the lips 
softly as she stood.
"You'll find out later.  And when you do you'll now what I mean" 
said Mina.

Serena stood along the beautifully marbled rails enjoying the sight 
of the moon hovering over the night sky.  It was always a liking to 
her, to envy the moon.  SO quiet, peaceful and serene, not having to 
worry about anything but lighting the dark sky.  The stars danced to 
her amusement as smiled as she remembered her father.

*Flashback*
"Serena look"
"yes poppa," said a small Serena
"you see all the stars that shine over the sky" he said pointing at 
the endless sky.
"Yes, there like mommies jew…jewll…" said the small girl
"Jewelry" ended her father
"yeah, like the one she wore on her hand," said Serena thinking 
about the diamond ring.
"They do sparkle like that don't they"
"uh huh"
"Well you wanna know what those are?"
"What poppa?"
"Their gods and goddess who watch over the earth"
"they are" said Serena surprised
"uh huh.. they make sure that all is well and sometimes you'll see a 
falling star that means that the gods think you're a special person 
and will grant you a wish"
"REALLY POPPA" said small Serena as she hopes she would find a 
falling star.  After waiting for some time she was saddened.  
"Poppa"
"yes, Usa"
"I'm not special, I don't see any falling star" said a depressed 
Serena
"It might take some time, but the gods will notice how special you 
are.  Do you realize how many children they have to look at?" said 
her father.
"I guess so," she said as she sadly looked up. "POPPA LOOK".  Serena 
looked up to her surprise to find many stars falling.
"Usa" said her father "see the gods and goddess think you're VERY 
special they not only sent you one but many stars to wish on"
"Oh POPPA" she said as she clapped her hands.
"Now go on and wish," said her father.  Serena closed her eyes as 
she thought long and hard.
"I wish…. I wish to be like you daddy," said Serena as she placed 
her hands on her fathers face. "I want to work in an office and be 
just like you"
"No" said Kenji "you'll be better".  He kissed his daughter on the 
cheek as he brought her back into the house.
*END of FLASHBACK*

'Poppa, My wish came true' she thought and smiled.  Although missing 
her parents, Brother, Mika and Jaq, Serena was still very happy.  
Tokyo was beautiful, more than she can remember.  She was glad to be 
back and being reunited with her best friends what more could she 
ask.  Then as if on cue, a handsome name came to pass her mind 
'DARIEN'.  She smiled at the thought of his name and turned a 
lighter shade of red remembering his touch.  His eyes were intense 
and very hypnotic.  'Oh but he has so many' thought Serena.  Just 
then she looked up to witness a falling star.  
She smiled thinking she said out loud;
"Starlight Star Bright, I ask the Gods and Goddess whom I see 
tonight, I wish I may, I wish I might, have this wish I wish 
tonight" she said as she closed her eyes and held her hands together 
near her chest.

Darien slowly walked towards the Balcony as he heard her recite an 
un-usual children's poem.  He listened carefully and smiled.  
'She's making a wish' he said as he caught sight of her.  Darien 
sighed to find Serena in the most angelic pose.  The moonbeams 
seemed to hit her features in all the perfect places making her 
seem a glow.  Serena was at the moment seemingly too beautiful to 
be true and too beautiful to touch. 'If I come near you angel will 
you disappear?' Darien thought afraid to startle her.

It was a few minutes till Serena had opened her eyes.  She smiled 
greatly and can only smile at to what she had wished for.
"Only time will tell if my wish comes true," she said loudly.
"A wish from a beautiful angel as yourself will surely come true" 
said Darien, doing what he had not want to do. Once Serena's her 
heart came back down to earth, she turned around not expect to find 
Darien at view.
"Darien" she said giddily "please don't ever sneak up on me like 
that again". 
"I'm sorry," he said "did I intrude on something?" he said with 
hopeful eyes.
"No… no..that's okay," said Serena smiling.  Darien now made his way 
towards her, finding a great view of Serena, he rested beside her.
"What are you doing out here all by yourself?" asked Darien as he 
explored her features.
"Well I was getting tired of talking to all those people," she said 
also exploring his.
"yeah, me too?" he said curious to know how she new all these people 
but for right now all he wanted was her 'personal' info.
"Serena" he said softly "what was that poem you recited?' he asked 
as he witness her cheeks get flushed.
"You heard that" she said embarrassed.
"I'm sorry, I should have made my presence known," he said kindly.
"that you should of but its okay" she beamed turning back to her 
original color. "that poem was something my dad taught me when I was 
young.  Every time I would see a falling star I would make a wish to 
the gods and goddess".
"and your wish being?" asked Darien smilingly.
"well um…" stuttered Serena blushing at the thought of revealing her 
wish to Darien "Darien, I can't tell you for a wish is sacred"
"Is that so?" asked Darien now more curious than ever.  "even just a 
little hint to what you had wished for?" he said holding his index 
finger and thumb showing a small size.  Serena laughed at his humor 
and sighed at his handsome features.
"No can do… Besides if I reveal my wish it won't come true," she 
said playfully slapping his shoulder.
"All right" said Darien poutingly.  Serena stared to her surprise; 
he was so adorable and completely gorgeous.  His smile, his antics, 
his presence was really getting to her.  They both laughed once 
Darien realized what he was doing.
"I'm sorry, I don't know where that came from," he said quite 
embarrassed himself.
"That's okay, I wont tell if you wont" winked Serena
"Deal!" said Darien.  Both at the moment were taken, speechless at 
each other's presence.  Rippling waves crashed madly at the rocks 
underneath breaking the silence impending over them.  At this time 
Darien contemplated to what he should say or ask.
" Serena" he paused and held his breath as she turned. "Where, if I 
may ask are you from?".  He then thought he could answer his own 
question 'Heaven or Mt. Olympus' he thought watching her move under 
his gaze.
""Why do you ask?" she said curious
"Curious" he said with a sly grin "Besides I was unable to pry that 
information at our few meetings" .  Serena laughed as the thought of 
the many times he had tried to get her name.
"I'm from New York but I was born here" she said leaning over the 
marble.
"that's right," said Darien "Rei told me you used to be clumsy" he 
said as he noticed her attention.
"She said what?" as she grinned "Oh that girl" she laughed.
"Is it true?" he asked as he closely fidgeted towards her "Well I 
only ask because Michael, Nathan, Zen and I don't believe her"
"Well….." she thought watching him "If you really need to know I was 
and still am actually"
"you, clumsy" said Darien "Serena, I don't see you as being clumsy" 
he said watching her intensely "You are nothing but graceful" he 
said as he saw an intense shade of red flowing to her face.
"Thank you" she said being caught in his once again hypnotic stare.  
Mindly she shook her head and brought herself back to reality. 
"That's very sweet of you"
"Sweet..me nahhh…"
"Oh and Why not?"
"I am everything but sweet," he said leaning against the rail with 
his arms crossed.
"really" said Serena questioningly
"really" said Darien
"Oh I don't believe that.  You've been nothing but sweet to me," she 
said as she turned beet red from her choice of words.
"But with you it comes naturally".  Now it was Darien's turn to 
blush at his words. 'get a grip Chiba' his mind raced.  After both 
regaining from their redness it again became quiet.  That is until….
"Serena, would you like to dance?" said Darien the man of higher 
will and never nervous about asking any woman for anything.  The 
silence was deafeningly getting to him, either he was going to walk 
away with Serena to the dance floor or hang a big 'R' on his 
forehead.
"I would love too," she said without hesitation.  He smiled at her 
answer and kindly offered his elbow.
"Shall we?" asked Darien.
"We shall," said Serena.  

"Molly, would you like to have dinner with me sometime?" Nathan 
asked calmly.  Molly's faced turned a deep shade of red for the 
whole gang was waiting for her answer.
"I would like that" she said looking away once she exhaled her 
words.  She then caught two figures walking arm in arm towards the 
dance floor.
"Oh my gosh…GUYS look" said Molly to the gang at the table.  A chain 
reaction it was Molly nudged Mina who in turn nudged Michael, then 
Andrew to Lita, Rei to Jayson, and Ami to Zen to Nathan.  As far as 
their eyes can see, Serena and Darien were getting along just fine.  
They warmly smiled at each other, their eyes glittered and can be 
clearly seen at a far.
"She didn't tell him," whispered Lita to Andrew
"I don't think so" he said "Or I don't think he would be dancing 
with her," he whispered as he felt a little sadden.
"See Mina," said Michael watching the two glide across the dance 
floor. "I told you that it would work out," he said gloating.  Mina 
glanced at her co-workers than to Lita and Andrew and nodded their 
heads.  They all new this was going to be a surprised for them, 
mainly to Darien.  Andrew stared at the couple dancing, happy to see 
his friend smiling.  Troubling thoughts of what will happen once the 
announcements came then disturbed the moment.  He knew that his 
friends pride would interfere and it would be back to square one.  
'If somehow he can see past that.  She's perfect for him' he thought 
as his fiancee spoke interrupting.
"Honey, what's the matter?" she whispered, knowing something was 
bothering him.
"Look at him Lita" he said as he gestured towards Darien and Serena 
"have you ever seen him smile like that for a woman? Or even dance 
and actually enjoy it" he said quietly not wanting to be heard.  
Lita knew where he was getting at.
"I know baby," she said looking at Darien smiling and laughing. 
"I've never seen him this happy before".  Lita glanced at Mina and 
nodded feeling a little sad that things were going to change after 
this evening.

"look" said Mrs. Kina "Isn't that Darien Chiba of Chiba Corp.?"
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina watching the two dance. 'this should be 
interesting' he thought.
"He doesn't know does he?" asked Mrs. Kina turning to her husband.
"No he doesn't and that just the way I planned" smiled Mr. Kina.

"Who is that girl?" asked Beryl bitterly as she watched the two.
"Who?" asked Damon
"That tramp" pointed Beryl.  Damon followed he gaze and found the 
nerve that's hitting Beryl.
"I don't know," he said "But she sure is beautiful".  Beryl turned 
and gave him a deathing stare.  'I will not be dropped from his life 
for a mere blond ditz' she fumed as she kept a stare to the dance 
floor.

"Darien" said Serena enjoying herself "do you have the feeling that 
were being stared at?".  Darien looked around and did find a few 
people to be staring taking note that Beryl was fuming.  Smiling to 
the effect its causing Beryl and everyone's jealous eyes he held 
Serena closer as he whirled her around causing her to giggle 
merrily.  

"WOW that sure is a tight hold he has on her," said Zen.  Everyone 
on the table noticed when Darien held Serena closer to him.
"This is going well," said Nathan to Michael smiling.  Michael then 
stared at Andrew whom was not at all amused at the moment.  'Why he 
thought? Isn't he happy for Darien?'
"Andrew" said Michael "Why do glum, isn't this what you and I have 
waited for. Someone that Darien completely mad about".
"Oh, I'm just a little tired" he said as he faked a smile.  All the 
girls with the exception of Rei looked at each other and just kept 
quiet. 

"Mr. Kina" said Mr. Thompson "I think its time to introduce Serena" 
he said taking note of the man she was dancing with.
"Mr. Kina is that Darien Chiba?"
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina with a smile.  Mr. Kina very cunning in 
his own way, he knew what type of buttons to press and obviously he 
knew which ones would send Chiba-san to frenzy.

"Guys its time," said Mina as she spotted Mr. Kina and Mr. Thompson 
talking.  Mina and the other girls stood up from their seats.
"We'll see you guys later" said Mina as she kissed Michael. "Michael 
don't say I didn't warn you" she ended before walking away with the 
others.
"What was that for?" asked Zen to Mike
"I don't know," said Michael still eyeing Darien and Serena.

Enjoying themselves Darien and Serena both laughed and at the moment 
everyone was nobody and anything was nothing. They simply were 
caught up in each other's realm making everything else non-
existence.  Their dance came to a halt as soon as Mr. Sison spoke.  
But just like other guest that still wanted to dance, Serena and 
Darien stayed closely on the dance floor waiting for the music to 
start once again.

"ladies and gentleman may I have your attention please" he paused as 
everyone hushed.  Darien at this moment broke out of his and 
Serena's world and now anticipated the announcer's words.  Though he 
stood quite close to Serena he stiffened and tensed at each word.
"Are you okay?" whispered Serena
"Yeah…..I'm fine," said Darien covering his uneasy feeling.
"As it has come to our attention that Mr. Kina had some time wanted 
to retire and thus it is what lead us to this evening of 
celebration.  I know many have wondered throughout Mr. Kina's 
successful history who can compete and take charge of Tsukino 
Financial once he is gone.  Well for many years since his intentions 
were known we have search near and far, sifting through hundreds of 
resumes and interviewing the best candidates for such high position.  
Not searching far, Mr. Kina had his own ideas of his replacement.  
Unknowing to us, he had gathered information on a particular someone 
whom have impressed him with her professionalism and very well 
educated background.

"How do you think Darien and not to mention Rei will act" said Ami
"I don't know," said Mina eyeing the two who still did not move from 
the dance floor
"They're standing pretty close" eyed Jayson
"How far do you think he's going to jump once he finds out" said 
Molly

"Her successful profile include closure on multi million dollar 
deals with such companies as 'Trump Industries'" motioned the man to 
the owner. "Bernard Scott & CO"

"Bernard Scott & CO" said Zen "I worked on that deal for so long and 
it never went through"

 "Webber Industries"

"Webber Industries" said Nathan "Unbelievable"

"North Atlantic Inc."

"What" said Rei now taking her turn on being surprised as to how 
much this person can do.

Darien was taken back to how much this person had a hold over so 
many large companies; especially ones he was trying to grasp 
himself.  Waiting with much eagerness he stiffened again making 
Serena look up.

"Tripling Tsukino Financials profits, she is indeed one of a kind 
and definitely the best man and woman for this job.  It is to no 
wonder that Mr. Kina himself brought this to our attention."

'Who is it' Thought Darien impatiently.  Darien now tired at this 
wanted to sit down.  He was already maddening at the thought of this 
woman sucking him dry of his business.
"Serena" he whispered, "Lets go sit down," he said holding her hand, 
pulling her along, towards his table.  No matter how upset he was 
getting he did not want to let go and lose her with the mass of 
people around. 
"May I bring everyone's attention to the woman who will rise to 
power and take over Tsukino Financial.

"Here we go," said Mina watching Darien and Serena hand in hand.
"This isn't going to be good" is Jayson

"May I introduce to you Miss. SERENA USAGI TSUKINO" said the man as 
Darien stopped dead in his tracks at the call of Serena's name.


To be continued ………………………….Stay tune for Chapter 11



HALLO everyone I know this took long enough. 
But thanks to all, with your emails 
I actually got my butt into gear.. I hope 
you guys like it I spent my whole evening 
trying to Get this done for posting.

Now, Im not sure if Ill have Chapter 11 out 
by next Wed.  I do have TWINS and I 
Emphasize that cause it is hard trying to 
fight over the computer with them, then of
Course the holidays are coming.. So Im not 
going to promise you anything on RIVALS
But I will certainly try. 

Please email any comments to umalific@hotmail.com.
I just love the emails.

See you in chapter 11