RIVALS – Chapter 12 R.UMALI Umalific@hotmail.com November 20, 2000 @@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@@ Opening her eyes Serena slowly rose to a sitting up position. She squinted as the suns bright welcoming rays reflected from her mirror that stood on its way. Serena blocked the beams with her hand; Just then a knock came along with a soft voice. "Serena, are you awake?" "Yes, please come in" she replied politely. The doors opened as Elaine slowly made her way in, at hand was a tray with Serena's breakfast. "Goodmorning" said Serena "Goodmorning to you" said Elaine slowly giving her the tray of food. "So how was your induction?" asked Elaine as she walked quickly to close the balcony doors before sitting down in front of Serena. "My induction" said Serena as she took a sip of her coco. "It went well" she said thinking of the celebration that had just past. Then she remembered what had happened between Darien and her. "Well… I take that back" she said "Wellll" repeated Elaine. "Everything went fine regarding the clients and such" said Serena leaning back "But?" "Do you remember that man with black hair and blue eyes that we saw at the market the other day?" she asked. "Yes and the same one that was by your balcony" said Elaine. "Right, well it so happens that He's Darien Chiba, The Darien Chiba of Chiba Bank of Commerce" she said watching Elaine's features. "Oh…Oh.." "Oh.. Oh.. is an understatement" said Serena taking another sip of her cocoa. "he was so nice and sweet for the most part then as soon as the announcements came and he found out who I was he became bitterly cold." She ended as Serena looked down to her cup of hot chocolate. "What happened" "He started accusing me of using my female possessions to insure deals with high ranking companies." She shrugged. "I mean I couldn't believe what he said" "So what did you do?" "Well…I…Kinda played his own little game" said Serena as she blushed and remembered what she had done. Elaine seeing her flush features sensed Serena did something she doesn't normally do. "What did you do?" asked Elaine eagerly. "Well…" she slightly paused then she sighed "Let me start from the beginning." In another area in the city, a man groggily awoke and stared at the dark features of his room. Deep in thought Darien blankly stared beyond the walls of his sky rise condominium. Not even as much as blink nor flinch even broke such stare. He was silent and not amused at all with what had happened during the celebration. Thinking about the evening's event, he couldn't grasp to what he had done. To Serena it didn't matter at the moment, she was his true rival but to Andrew and Lita. He knew that he had gone too far with his comments and 'need' to apologize for what fool he made himself. 'Some best man you turned out to be' he thought to himself as he thought of what he had accuse Andrew of in front of Lita. Now he could only hope for understanding and forgiveness from those who had always been there for him. With his mind at ease that Andrew would forgive him without a doubt. He now thought about the one woman who has the ability to turn his business to the lines of bankruptcy, Serena. "Serena Usagi Tsukino" he said amusingly. CEO to Tsukino Financial and daughter of Kenji Tsukino. His mind became an instant replay of what had happened and it only made him more restless to the fact that he himself knew that she had won the confrontation. Usually his wittful acts would give him the lead or victory to any challenge. But this was different, he was sparing with an experienced opponent. One that wasn't afraid of him nor his pressing intimidations. The things she said were all so straightforward, he least expected it from her. Being in Japan for only a week how did she know of his ways. Not by her features could he imagine that the person he was calling innocent and his angel could even comprehend into thinking such things. 'But oh she did it so………uh!' he thought as he stopped himself from dwelling in it even more. Then again he deserved it, he didn't even know the girl and already assumed she had the traits of being a whore like Beryl. He padded across his rug and opened the curtains before him making all that was dark into light. He grinned for the moment. "You might have won that match Tsukino-San, But it won't happen again," he said again with cold dark eyes. "And I will find a way" he thought as he remembered her seducing movements. "Then I said, "Those rumors, their nothing but true, a history that you should be afraid of" stated Serena ending the explanation needed. "Serena.." said Elaine smilingly "I know…. I know…" she said as she played with her half eaten bowl of grapefruit. "that was pretty bad of me wasn't it?" she said quietly, regretting the mean words she uttered last night. "Serena, you did what you had to do" she said "besides he started it" "I know but I feel bad for what I said to him, I mean I don't even know him" she said putting her spoon down and leaning back once more "and I literally had called him a whore…" she paused "well whatever you call a man whore". Serena and Elaine both giggled at her statement and instantly lightened the mood. "Well Serena, as far as what I have heard" she said cleaning up Serena's tray. "You just defended yourself from his egotistic comments. I think you'll be fine" "But why do I feel so bad and want to apologize" asked Serena as she stood up to open the door for Elaine. "Well cause your only human and when you feel like you did something wrong you want to make and set things right" she ended before she walked out. "I suppose your right," said Serena as she closed the door. Just then the phone rang. Serena answered half cheerfully still doubting if her actions were too much. "Hello Tsukino residence, OH hi Lita……nothing……sure you can…lets say about 12 and we can have lunch…………… oh… okay Ill hold……" said Serena as she sat on her chair drumming her fingers on her desk... "Hi……… sure she can…………… what. Okay Ill hold………………(moments passed)………… Lita… who… Rei… yes she can come… why wouldn't I………… tell her I want her to come over" said Serena amazed that her friend would ask her that "yes Ill hold AGAIN" rolled Serena's eyes this is getting ridiculous she thought "now what, Ami…. Yes she can come….. gezzzz… Lita if anyone else calls you just tell them YES……… okay…… see you soon…" she ended smiling at her friends… them goofies…. She paused and looked at herself in the mirror before she went for her bath. It was 11:30 and brunch was being served at Café Millennia. Darien strolled in slowly as he stood to find Andrew amongst the people dinning. Andrew is usually good with public relations and always walked around making sure the needs of his customers were met. He was indeed kind and always neutral to many things, Darien already knew where he stood between the lines of being a Chiba friend or a Tsukino. Andrew would never take sides knowing too well that Lita is one of Serena's best friends. During the drive down to the café he thought about what he would say to Andrew and him being his childhood friend he knew that Andrew would forgive him but Lita was another story, after all he did not only insult her fiancé but her best friend as well. The clocks turned in his head for the right apology but he had a feeling that she wasn't going to accept his apology that easy. "Darien" called a familiar voice. He casually walked over to the table and bid his hello to his friend. "Hey Mike" he said as he took a seat. "Mr. Chiba…, would you like coffee sir" asked Joshua with a pot at hand. "Yes I do," he said giving the young man his mug. "So, what are you doing here?" asked Mike, knowing all to well that he was here to apologize. The three of them have been friends for the longest time. He and Andrew can read Darien like a book… Its no wonder that there both the best man for Andrew and Litas wedding. Darien glared at his friend for a moment before he spoke. "I think you know why…." "Because of your stupid, dumb, arrogant and egoistic behavior?", said a man behind him. Darien turned to find Andrew staring at him irritatedly. Andrew on the other hand already knew that Darien would be there to apologize for his dumb act. They've been friends long enough to almost counter each other's move. "Andrew" said Darien standing up "Darien" he interrupted "just what were you thinking?" he asked. "Andrew I was angry………… and you know sometimes I don't think straight" "Not thinking straight is an understatement," said Michael not helping Darien at all. Darien gave him a silencing stare before he again faced Andrew. "Look, I'm here to apologize for my actions last night. I know what I did to you and Lita was wrong and I'm admitting that I'm wrong" he said. "Darien, apologizing" said Michael eating his scrambled eggs. "Mike, shut up!" "Dare" said Andrew half hearted "off all the stupid things you've done I cant believe I still have the nerves to forgive you. But………" thought Andrew "You've been my best friend for so long that I just cant think of a day when I won't deal with your arrogant jack ass" said Andrew laughingly as he held his hand out to shake the truce between them. Darien chuckled at his statement and shook his hand and they gave each other a half hug. "Jack ass I am" he chuckled at the statement. "awwwwwwwwwwwww…" said Mike "this is such and emotional moment" he pretended sniffing and wiping his eyes with his napkin. "OH shut up Michael," said Andrew before again turning back to Darien who was now sitting down next to Michael. "Darien" catching his attention. "Lita is going to be harder on you, so don't think what you gave me will do, right now she's pretty pissed at you" "I figured she would be. Where is she anyways?" he asked curious to what areas of the restaurant he should be avoiding. He wanted to give her a cooling moment before he apologized. "she went to Serena's house with the other girls" said Andrew thinking quietly to himself. "What did they go there for?" asked Michael "Just to talk to Serena and make sure she was okay" said Andrew. "Okay………… to make sure she was okay" said Mike chuckling "I think she held herself pretty well" "She did, didn't she" said Andrew now staring at Darien. "Admit it Darien she got you pretty bad last night". Darien at the whole time ignored and just sat there as if no one was speaking. HE knew himself that she had won There first match but stubborn and prideful as he was he wouldn't admit it loudly. "Dare….DARE" said Andrew "Oh I'm sorry Andrew, where you saying something?" "gezz… your in denial Darien" said Andrew rolling his eyes. "I can admit that I wasn't expecting her to give me that type of reaction," said Darien stirring his cup of coffee. "And what type of reaction is that Darien?" asked Andrew "One that would cringe at your harsh words and crawl under a rock to avoid your stares" "Yeah something like that" chuckled Darien "Well" said Michael "I certainly think you've got a challenge here Darien. I don't see Serena as a person who gives up easily and mercily. Just look how she kept on going last night………………" "All RIGHT!!! ALL RIGHT ALLREADY!" said Darien. The clock struck 12 at the residence on Moonrose Drive and immediately the doorbell rang. Serena was with Elaine in the kitchen making the final touches to their lunch. "Ill get it," said Ben as he came to wash his hands dirty from the garden work. He causally walked over to the door and quickly answered it. "Um… Is Serena home?" asked Rei "Yes, she is. Do come in she's in the kitchen" said Ben as he closed the door. "Where would that be?" asked Molly curiously. "I'm sorry, please follow me" "HI GUYS!" beamed Serena to her friends as they entered the kitchen. "Come in and make yourself comfortable". "COOL kitchen Serena" said Lita "Oh hi Elaine" "Hi Elaine" said Rei and the others. "Hello to all of you" she said smiling to the women. "So, what are you making?" asked Lita eyeing Serena. "I'm making my mom's favorite tea sandwiches. Chicken grape salads with slices of cucumber" "Wha?" said Rei "Rei, don't say anything until you've tasted the salads" said Lita, being a chief she knew not to judge until you've actually tasted the food. "Thank you Lita" smiled Serena "Wow Serena, This is good," said Molly tasting the jiggling desserts in front of her. "Oh Molly, you need to take it easy on that" said Serena "Why" said Ami taking a small cup herself. "They look good," said Mina dipping her finger taking a swipe of cool whip. "Serena, this has a distinct taste of liquor. What's in it" said Molly taking another spoon full. "They're called Jell-O shots" smiled Serena as she looked at the others. Lita's eyes opened wide as she remembered what Jell-O shots were. "There's tequila in them" said Serena "Whats…teq…" said Molly looking at her dessert. "Tequila" said Lita laughingly "Its an imported liquor from Mexico, Serena where did you get it?" asked Lita "I guess my father brought some the last time he was here, I found it in the bar when I was looking for Kalua" she said eyeing Molly as she kept spooning the Jell-O in her mouth. "My gosh Molly I can only take a few spoons of that and I'm done" said Serena watching Rei, Ami, Molly and Mina. "This is good?" said Rei "Yummy" said Mina "Umm. Did you guys have breakfast?" asked Serena "Nope, Lita said you were making lunch," said Rei "Better ease off on that then before it gets to you" laughed Lita "Oh, we'll be fine," said Molly "Okay don't say we didn't warn you," said Serena eyeing Lita. "So Serena that was a bold move you made last night" stated Rei eating her jell-o. "On what?" said Serena as she finished the last of the tea sandwiches layering them on top of tiered platters. "On the whole swaying movement thing" said Rei as she copied Serena's movement "Is this what your taking about" said Rei as she leaned down to mimic Serena's movement to Mina. The girls now laughed at the thought. "and…………you know Mr. China……………WAIT A MINUTE" said Rei as she stood "Why didn't you tell me that your MISS CEO?" asked Rei turning around to her friend. "Well, I think we all can answer that," said Mina "HELLO REI" rolled Molly's eyes "Miss I'm an assistant to MR. DARIEN CHIBA of CHIBA BANK CORPORATION" "Well thanks a lot," said Rei a little hurt. "Rei, it wasn't meant to hurt you," said Serena hugging her friend "It was just Mr. Kina's wishes" "You mean to tell me that Mr. Kina planned this tight lid game" "uh huh" said the others.. "Darien thought that you didn't tell him cause you were trying to humiliate him in front of everybody" said Rei "He what?" said Serena "why would I do such a thing" "Well humiliation isn't the only thing Serena did to him last night" said Molly "did you guys noticed his tuxedo's pants" she ended scooping the last of her jell-o "they had somewhat of a bul..". Molly stopped herself to the silence and turned beet red. "Molly" said Ami "What were you doing looking down there" "I…well…..i…." fiddled Molly as the girls laughed out loud. "Molly I didn't know you had it in ya" smiled Rei "Umm… I… couldn't help it," said an embarrassed Molly. "I was curious" "Well did Serena's movements work?" asked Lita still laughing "I mean since you looked down there" "It sure did!" said Molly slightly turning away. "Molly I wouldn't of thought" said Ami "Okay…Okay…… SO my skeletons are out" "Serena what made you possessed to do such thing?" asked Mina "Yeah" said Mina, Lita and Molly in unison. "Such bravery" said Rei "Unlike the Serena we used to know" "Oh come on Rei. I'm sure many women stand up to his egotistic attitude," she said taking the other cold cuts out of the refrigerator. "NOPE" said Mina "Not likely" said Ami "I don't think that's ever happened," said Rei "Never" said Molly "The only one that even came close to that is Lita" "Yeah, well he doesn't get me mad being Andrew's fiancée" "I don't believe that, I mean how can the other women stand him then?" "Serena, Darien doesn't actually deal with women your likeness" "What do you mean by that?" she asked curiously "Let's say Darien's magnetism with women always hooks them right in, then his charm then…" said Mina "It's a done deal," said Lita "Rei-chan is that true?" "Being my boss and all I shouldn't say such thing…… But yeah he's such a sleazy snake. Using women like that then…" "Well, I had to do something. I couldn't just let him drag my name down like that. I worked too hard for this," she said cutting the cheeses into blocks. "Serena you should have stayed around afterwards" said Ami "Boy was he pissed afterwards," said Rei "but how I wanted to laugh" she grinned. "Yeah I know he finally got a taste of his own medicine," said Mina "But girl don't think he will let you live quietly without revenge" said Lita "From this moment on, Darien will be thinking of ways to get you back so be ready" "I'm always ready" smiled Serena. The four chatted throughout the whole day. Mina managed to rummage around Serena's closet and take a few dresses that Serena didn't mind giving up. It was later on during the evening when and after 5 cups of jell-o each, Mina, Ami, Rei and Molly were feeling a little light headed. "Oh my gosh" said Molly "I feel light-headed" she said standing up and falling straight back to the ground. "me too" chuckled Ami laughing at Molly "Boy do I feel good" said Rei standing up and dancing to the music playing. Convulsing like a kangaroo and waving her arms erratically. "Mina how about you" asked Serena and Lita smiling and giggling at Rei. "me… um…" said Mina poking the side of her head "yeah you can say that" grinned Mina downing her last cup of jell-o. Standing up Mina was determined to mimic the dancer on TV. Struggling to stay up she laughed as she swayed. They all cried in fits of laughter, especially Serena and Lita fully aware of how ridiculous and stupid they looked. "This is just too good," said Molly taking another cup. "I don't think you'll be saying that tomorrow" replied Serena. "Rei, I don't think that's the way your suppose to swing your arms" said Mina laughingly. "Well, I better get all of you home." said Lita standing up to help her friends. The girls all bid their farewell to Serena and drunkenly left her home. Preparing herself for bed, she thought about what Lita had said. She for herself didn't know Darien too well, but how far can his antics go? A knock came from the door and openly Elaine entered the room. "This came for you," said Elaine carrying a large manila envelope. "Who is it from?" said Serena brushing her hair. "From Mr. Kina" "Thanks" ? The next morning. Monday morning Serena woke with jitters, she was indeed excited to her real first day at work. At the strike of 5:30, she bubbly jumped off her bed to start her day. Saving her from the painstaking ritual of washing her very long hair, Serena always washed her hair in the evening. Come morning Serena would not have to spend a whole two hours to dry her rapunzle hair do. She sat in front of her mirror thinking of the notes and documents she received from Mr. Kina. Apparently he knew that Darien would cause such a commotion that he instinctively prepared documents for her to review stats about Chiba Bank of Commerce and the owner himself Darien Chiba. Knowing already that Darien was the owner she still read to gain deeper knowledge of Darien himself. Through the history lesson of Darien's business she sense a feeling of deep RIVALSHIP… From his records he had built the business from his inheritance and thrived by any means of success. It can be clearly seen by many investors that backed him we're of that womanly owned companies. 'He does play dirty' she thought silently 'I can clearly understand why he acted the way he did… he doesn't like to be second best especially to a woman…'. Brushing on the last touches of her flawless skin a knock came. "Serena" "Yes, come in". Elaine walked through the doors to find Serena dressed up and ready. "For your first day, you look great," said Elaine. "But then again when do you not ever?" she grinned making up Serena's bed. "Thanks Elaine" "Will you be having breakfast?" "You know…I don't think I will this morning" Said Serena as she put on her elegant peal earrings. "Alright then" said Elaine smoothing the creases on Serena's bed. "Hey Dare" "Morning Mike" said Darien sitting at his usual place at the coffee house reading the newspaper. "So I take it you've already read the article" said Michael sitting. "I will not waste no time in reading such false information," he said lyingly. A full-page article in the business section was of Serena Tsukino's welcoming. Many facts and information about Serena's rise were published, including many investors' comments. It was truthfully the first article Darien read. Though not admittingly he was quite impressed with such background. "Maybe you should read it and know who's on her side" said Mike. "I don't give a damn about who's on her side.," he said putting the newspaper down. "So, what happened to 'my angel'" said Michael motioning to the server with a grin. "Angel… not likely, she just deceived me to think she was" "Oh really!" questioned Mike as he see's the elevator door open. Stepping out was a walking beauty being admired adorningly by others. She wore a suit of the palest blue, enhancing her creamy skin. Her smile was quite heavenly, greater than the sun she was to brighten anyone's day. Even Michael couldn't deny that she was an angel. Darien noticed Michaels stare running through him and curiously turned around. Darien now stared in a trance to how her bright aura seemed to not even dull a bit. She was happy and always reflected that to others around, especially to the men that often gawk at all her movements. Michael done with his own thoughts grinned at Darien who still held a gaze on Serena. "So Darien, what were you saying about being deceived" asked Michael grinningly. Darien snapped out of his stupor and returned his attention back to Michael. "Umm…" thought Darien not remembering what they were talking about. Michael laughed at his friends cover up. Just then Serena noticing the two men casually walked towards them. She couldn't get Saturday evening off her mind. 'Maybe he's over it' she though 'and perhaps maybe even become friends' "Darien, she's coming over" "She is not," said Darien thinking what nerve she would have to greet them. "She wouldn't dare…" "Good morning". Darien paused from drinking his coffee as he was reminded of who's voice that was. "She did" he whispered through silent breath. "Hello Serena" said Michael "Why, if it isn't the high and mighty profit maker Miss Tsukino" said Darien sarcastically. 'I guess being friends is out of the question' she thought clearly. "If the name Tsukino really bothers you, then Miss Serena will do," she said amusingly. "Thank you for your kindness but I don't think you and I are at a first name basis" said Darien turning around and eyeing her intently. Michael is a little uneasy to where this conversation was going. "That's okay I prefer CHIBA MAMORU anyways" said Serena cocking her eye as she stared at Darien's surprised face. "Well, Miss Tsukino knows a lot about me" said Darien "How did you ever find out" he stated not being amused about her knowing information about him, especially as personal as his never mentioned middle name. No one with the exception of his grandparents and a few knew of his middle name for it was a touchy name. Michael too was quite surprised as he stared at Serena. "I research my information well and get the facts" she said smilingly "unlike someone who believes in ridiculous assumptions" "assumptions" said Darien smilingly "I think there not as far fetched as you think" "Really now" said Serena "and what supermarket magazines have you been reading?" asked Serena. Michael sat quietly as both Darien and Serena measure their wits. One right after another they both responded to each other's comments. "I'm usually right about ones character" said Darien "Don't flatter yourself too much Mr. Chiba" said Serena "Never by the likes of you" retorted Darien "flatter….ha… never by me BUT obviously by your women" "who's not far from your kind at all" "and what kind would that be?" "deceitful, conniving and perhaps even a snake" "Deceitful, Conniving and even a Snake… I'm a bit hurt Mr. Chiba……… But it seems that your describing yourself." smiled Serena. "You are typical" he retorted. "I assure you Mr. Chiba that I am the least typical" "and why not you are a women and by any means use your beauty and flaunt it to gain business to your direction?" said Darien bravely. "I Mr. Chiba deal business by the book and never has there been any bottly fluids exchanged during signings or offers" "Well a pure snake I never heard such a thing" "A snake is someone you call your whores Chiba Mamoru" "Whores…… they are of very prominent business ventures…You should give it a try sometimes" said Darien winking at her "Might make your business thrive even higher". Serena smiled 'unbelievable'. "Business Ventures is that what you call it? Hmm.. Surely I would never go into business with you" "And why not? You might enjoy it" "Though I know you'd love to get into this skirt" she said amusingly "I will never allow myself to ever be touched and seduced by the likes of 'YOU'" smiled Serena as she waited for Darien's response. "I've never had one to complain," said Darien "That's because their too stupid and caught up on themselves to realize what scum of a man they're dealing with" smiled Serena. Darien's comments were not fazing Serena at all, her easy ness with the situation infuriated him. He was getting tired of Serena's easiness and bright smile, one that he so wanted to upset. "Well" said Serena "I seem to have caught you speechless" "Not at all Miss. Tsukino just tired of your presence" "I'm all but hurt," said Serena "This has all been fun gentlemen and I'm quite sure this isn't the end Mr. Chiba" she smiled. "You can count on it," said Darien. "Good day gentlemen" said Serena as she left brightly. "Bye Serena" said Michael eyeing Darien whom was once again staring annoyingly at Serena's retreating back. "ding…ding…" said Michael "SHUT UP!" said Darien picking up his cup of coffee. Drinking slowly as he peeked over the cup to watch Serena walk through the double doors. "Good-morning Miss Tsukino" "Good-morning Andrea" said Serena walking casually to her. "Mr. Kina had already removed his personal items" she smiled briefly "The office is all yours Miss. Tsukino" "Andrea please, Serena will do" "Yes Miss Serena" smiled Andrea as she opened the door for her new boss. She followed her inside making sure everything was neatly placed. "This reports are for your review, they are of what you have requested for your assistants to do" said Andrea as she motioned to the files on her desk. "Thank You" smiled Serena as she set her brief case down on her desk. "Will you need anything else Serena?" "No that will be just fine, thank you" Beamed Serena. Andrea left Serena to get accustomed to her new office. It was large and quite executively decorated. The desk and all of the hard furniture were of a dark mahogany color. A black couch and two black chairs were seating furniture for her clients and guest. A large captains chair pushed in behind her large desk. Serena sat contently at her desk still lingering the feeling that she will be head of this company, across thousands of miles away from the main office in New York. She smiled greatly as she opened her brief case. Removing from her case were picture frames of her family. On a large black frame was of her parents. The next was of her brother and her at a family gathering a year ago and right on the same frame was of Mika and Sammy hugging each other. The third frame was of her and Jaq at his fall fashion show several months ago. The fourth and not the least were of her friends, back in school uniforms and shorter pigtails. Serena causally set them at their proper place and breathed heavily. As she sat down she turned her seat around facing the beautiful city of Tokyo. Looking around to all the high-rise buildings she settled at one 'Chiba Bank of Commerce' she read, immediately thinking about Darien and how they were 'getting' along. Serena grinned and hiddenly laughed to herself at her own antics of provoking such conversations. Serena couldn't help it, something about Darien brought this out in her, usually dormant and unknown. No one has every really nerved her or provoked her for the matter where she would result into using such wit. It was some time later when a knock came at the door. "Come in" said Serena stopping a moment to wait for the knockers entrance. Enter came Mina, Ami, Jayson and Molly. "Hey girl" said Mina "Busy?" she said propping herself besides Serena's arm rest. The others stood in front of her desk. Serena noticed Ami's and Molly's bags under their eyes and asked if something was wrong. "Ami, Molly is something the matter?" "No… no…" said Ami a little dazed "I'm fine just a headache". Serena grinned and looked at Molly who was in worse state than Ami. "Molly, how about you?". Serena waited for an answer, Mina nudged Serena and they both wanted to laugh. "Oh… I'm fine just a little nauseous" she said holding her stomach. "Hey you know Rei was feeling like that this morning too" said Jayson "What did you guys eat, maybe you've all caught some parasite or something" questioned Jayson. Mina and Serena just laughed and laughed as Jayson stared at them dumbfounded. "No Jayson, we didn't catch any parasite" said Serena "those two just had a little too much jell-o" laughed Mina. As the word jell-o was heard Ami and Molly cringed loudly which made the two laugh harder. "I told you to take it easy" said Serena then looking at Mina "How about you?" "Oh I'm fine" said Mina "I drink wine every night so I guess my system was used to all this" she grinned. "So…Where are you guys going?" asked Serena with a grin. "To lunch" said Jayson aren't you coming? "I cant, I still have these files to review" "awe come on Serena, Its your first day you don't want to get burned do you?" asked Ami quietly waiting for a response. "Come on Serena, you can do those things later" said Jayson. Just in time Serena's stomach began to protest the emptiness of her stomach. "Oh MY!" said Serena quite embarrassed. The others laughed as they gave her an I told you so look. "I think your stomach is in agreement for some lunch" said Mina "Alright" said Serena standing up and taking her blazer from the coat rack. "Hey who's this?" asked Mina looking at the photo frame. "That's Sammy and me, that one is of Sammy and Mika his girlfriend for 6 years" "Wow that's Sammy" said Mina eyeing the handsome blonde. "He's not that skinny little spore anymore" said a raspy Molly "and who's this Serena?" asked Ami slowly picking up a picture of her and Jaq. "that person right there is also my best friend" said Serena putting on her blazer. "Best friend huh, sure" said Mina staring at the photo of Serena and Jaq hugging. "Mina, I'm surprised" stated Serena "With a fashion craze like yours, you don't know who that is?" "No" she stared and tried to figure out where she should know this man. "that's Jaq" said Serena "Jaq…… Jaq…… Jaq the fashion designer" asked Mina with her eyes bulging. "you got it. And If you don't already know. Jaq is…." "GAY!" said Molly "I read that somewhere. He has a lover name Jerico" "Molly you really need to quit reading those magazines" said Ami "Yes he's gay but that whole Jerico thing was a phase. He's seeing another man by the name of Armand. They are so cute together.. Although Armand is quite moody. He's been my best friend since I left Japan" she said as she held the doorknob of her office waiting for her friends. "Now can we get going" "Yeah, but I want to know more about Jaq?" said Mina "Lunch I love lunch" said Nathan eating his hamburger. "I think you like food in general" said drinking her glass of water stopping at several occasion to hold her head still. "Rei are you okay?" asked Darien. "Umm, yeah just a little headache that's all" she said not wanting to elaborate on jell-o shots. "Hi guys" said Lita approaching the group. Darien, the evening before waited for Lita at their house to apologize. *Flashback Lita came walking in her home that she and Andrew shared for several years. Noticing the green Benz that sat in the driveway, she knew that Mr. Arrogant was there to apologize. Quietly she walked in and said nothing to announce her arrival. She heard voices in the living room and strolled over promising herself to give him a piece of her mind. Andrew sat in the couch comfortably while Darien at the sight of Lita sat up. "Hi honey," said Andrew getting up to kiss her welcomingly. "Hi baby" she said not turning to face Andrew but kept her piercing stare at Darien. "Honey, Darien needs to speak to you" he said "Now you too be good while I get some drinks" he ended leaving the two in a bit of a thick fog. After Lita had removed her sweater and comfortably sat down Darien began. "Lita look I'm Sorry… I" "Sorry… Darien what made you become an even more arrogant asshole? Could it be that you've been spending tooooo much time with Beryl and all those rich bitches" "Lita…I…" said Darien as Andrew comes walking in with tray at hand. "Honey, let him finish" he hushed. "Lita, I know I wasn't the most likable person Saturday evening but I was angry and a bit confused. You know how a person can say many things when angered and not mean it" he argued. "I never meant to hurt you nor Andrew" "Oh but you had every intentions on hurting my best friend" she said roughly. "shhh… honey" "Lita… you have to understand Serena has been the person that I've been searching for, for months. Preparing myself for any financial challenges that would cause me and my business to fall. With her profile she can and would probably send my dreams to crumble" he said as Lita's face began to lighten a little at the mention of his dreams. "Her fathers company has always been my only concern in this business and him having the upper hand with international businesses I cant have him grasp Tokyo's finances either. It would leave me no-where to contest. She is a RIVAL Lita and one acts different towards a rival. I know my actions weren't at all acceptable but I was angry and to the fact that I let myself be taken by her" he said as he waited for a response. "Darien, I know that theirs a whole different person in there when not dealing in business like yours.. I saw that when you didn't know Serena is a Tsukino, you were kind and even surprisingly good natured but once you've found out you became a horrible pig." She stated as the two men lightly chuckled. "But I do understand that the business you both are in have many competitions and will result to almost anything to be at the top" she paused "BUT Darien you must remember she might be your rival but she is also my best friend. What hurts her hurts me and who offends her offends me. I mean remember when Andrew was pissed because Jeff Hisikawa insulted me. Well you and Michael we're fummingly upset too and swore revenge for your best friend." The two men nodded in understandment remembering what they did to the pervert. "Serena has always been kind hearted and never in my wildest dreams could I have thought she would retaliate to what she did in response to your comments. But she's a woman of respect, respect for others and respect for herself. And you kicked all that around with your stupid insults and believe me you insulted her when you pretentiously called her a whore, therefore you insulted the others and me as well. Though most of them wanted your blood for that, none of the other girls would really say anything. But I do understand Darien, just watch your comments, especially in front of me" she said smilingly. "So does this mean you forgive me?" he asked "Well, since you are the best man for our wedding and would have to deal with your jack ass I would say so" she smirked as she hugged her fiancé. "Jack ass? Why is everyone calling me a jack ass?" ? End of Flashback "Hi Lita" said the group with the exception of Rei. Lita notices Rei sluggish movements and started to laugh loudly. "What's up Lita?" asked Mike wondering what the deal was when they said nothing. "Its Rei" she said "She's hung over…. Hahahhahahaha…." Everyone's eyes turned to Rei. Rei was already not feeling to well and Lita's laughter wasn't helping either. Now she would have to explain the embarrassment of getting hung over from jell-o. "Rei?" asked Zen "What did you drink?". Rei's features were flushed and bowed her head to avoid the stares from her co-workers. Darien and the group smiled, they should have noticed it from the start. "Rei what did you have?" asked Mike. "You mean what did she eat?" laughed Lita holding her stomach. "All right all right… I had some jell-o shots," she said getting a nauseous feeling at the word jell-o. "What's that?" asked Nathan "Where did you have it?" asked Zen "We went to Serena's yesterday and she made lunch. She made some jell- o shots with te…te…" she said feeling the sickening rumble from her stomach. "Tequila" said Lita laughing at her friend. "She had tequila," said Mike "Where ever did you guys get tequila?" asked Darien "that stuff's expensive being imported and all" "Serena found some at her house, she thinks her father brought it from his last trip here" "Jell-o???" asked Nathan "Well Serena had mixed tequila and jell-o together and Rei, Mina, Molly and Ami wouldn't heed our warning on taking it easy. Before they left they all had 10 cups of jell-o and were dancing and tripping themselves" laughed Lita as she remembered the four. The men laughed as they stared at Rei and her uneasy feeling. "You didn't warn us," said Rei "Oh yes we did. we told you to take it easy and noooo… you kept on eating it" laughed Lita. Just then a group of familiar customers arrived and waited for their usual table. "Hey guys" said Lita waving to Serena and the others. Darien glanced over to Serena whom he's been seeing in his mind all day ever since that morning. Mike taking note of this just smiled. Both Molly and Ami also had uneasy looks on their faces, Lita noticing this laughed even harder. "Well Rei, your not the only one feeling the after affects of jell-o" said Nathan eyeing Molly and her pale features. "This is just way too funny," said Zen looking Ami over. "Mina is just fine," said Mike noticing her talking to Serena. "I take is she's used to it" said Lita. Darien and Serena's gazes fell upon each other. The two held their stare measuring each other's confidence to another wit-full battle. Everyone noticed this and felt also somewhat uneasy feeling in their stomach. "Darien" said Lita hitting him on the shoulder. Still Darien stared at Serena. His face tightened remembering what had occurred Saturday and this morning. He stared and both did not flinch nor move. "You know I've seen this episode before," said Nathan "What episode?" asked Mike "You know in one of those cowboy western movies with Clint Eastwood" said Nate then he remembered as the others did too. Suddenly the three men and Lita whistled the tune for 'the good the bad and the ugly'. Although it was quite funny and the others laughed around him, Darien still held his stare, but slightly amused. Suddenly Serena was being pulled to their table, Not moving from her spot she smiled at Darien a large one at that and then unexpectedly winked before retreating with Mina and the others. The group saw this and grinned. Though Daren falsely seemed angry deep inside without the chaperone of his devilish id, he smiled. Her smile always softened others and when she winked it just sparked up some unknown feelings inside of him. He smiled as he picked up his cup of coffee, the others stared at him with unspoken questions to what that was. For weeks that followed it was as usual between Serena and Darien, a confrontation each time. They both didn't led up to any type of truce. Among friends they didn't say a word, they just kept their on-going challenge amongst themselves. Though throughout the ongoing gestures Darien and Serena began to tire at their constant bickering but none would step down to admit anything. Darien was busy to his usual work, he had ongoing meetings to keep their investors happy and made sure his rival didn't get too ahead of the investing world. He enjoyed running into her and making the most of his days, making it difficult for her. Accusing her of everything but as usual Serena was quick to her wit and always defended herself with much sophistication. Darien couldn't figure this woman out, she was indeed a fighter and not to mention a good one to not falter at his remarks. Serena was too very much busy at the most. She had little time to be annoyed by her rival. Once settled in her office and reviewing many necessary and needed files, she traveled and held meetings across Tokyo at her smaller branches, meeting branch managers and other employees. Serena also involved herself with many charities and benefits that have held meaning to her. Busy as usual her life in Tokyo was of the same in New York. A strong businesswoman at day, advocate at night and charity worker during the weekends. She was indeed working herself. "Hi honey" said Mina walking over to Darien and Michael "Hi Darien" "Hey baby" said Mike and kissed his girl. "How's everything?" "Busy" said Mina "Serena has been gone for three weeks and the girls and Jayson have been keeping the fort" she said taking Michaels water. "No wonder we haven't seen her around" said Michael "and you've been turning down dinners with me" he pouted. "Where is she?" asked Darien amusingly thinking that she was out avoiding him. "She's not avoiding you Darien" she smiled "Serena has been traveling all the branches in Asia to meet branch managers and speak to employees." Said Mina. "Why is she doing that" asked Darien "I mean isn't that what branch mangers are a for, to relay messages to their employees. She's just wasting her time and company money at that" "For your info Darien" said Mina smilingly "Serena cares about her employees" "why so?" asked Darien. "Serena feels that if her employees are happy then they will in turn serve the company a whole lot better than being unhappy. You know what you do for me I will do for you" "But meeting with them isn't going to solve anything" said Darien "Yes it will, speaking to employees personally gives her an over view of what is going on within the company, She doesn't just want to hear it from the managers or supervisors. For sometimes an employee supervisor relationship can be so lax. To her she feels it's her duty to keep her employees happy and peaceful. Serena even reviewed the pay rates of all branch mangers and employees. She is currently working a budget to give everyone raises or other incentives." "and where is she getting that money from? From investments" asked Darien thinking that this was a useless act from Serena and a waste of company money. "She's taking a pay cut," said Mina knowing this was going to get them. "She's what?" asked Mike and looked at Darien with the same features. "She's taking the money from her own salary" said Mina, as she stood satisfied to have surprised the men. "You wouldn't believe where she sends her money," said Mina. "What do you mean?" asked Darien "Well her pay documents were instructed to cut her salary in different portions and…………Oh shit! I almost forgot," said Mina looking at the time. "What's the matter?" asked Mike "I'm a proxy for Serena's Children's hospital meeting" she said "Serena has gotten herself involved as a chair person for the hospitals charity fund raisers". Mina kissed Michael on the cheek and bid him farewell. "Well she's definitely not made out of money," said Michael "Sounds like Serena is very giving" said Michael. "Don't underestimate her kindness Michael" said Darien. "Darien what the hell is the matter with you?" asked Michael irritatedly "she does good for what she believes and you seem to deject all that she does. She's not like you Darien, there's no motive behind all her good doing." "And how do you know that?" asked Darien calmly. "Dare, just because she's beautiful and rich doesn't mean she's anything like your kind……… I just remembered I had a meeting" ended Michael as he got up to leave. 'ouch' thought Darien as he watched his friend leave. Darien thought of how his friends were so bewitched by Serena's kindness. His own assistant's he has noticed have started to defend Serena and is annoyed by his egotistic comments. He sat there for a few moments by himself until Andrew approached him. "Hey where's Michael?" "He had a meeting to attend to" "So how are you doing?" asked Andrew "same o same o" said Darien smilingly. "How about you, how's the wedding plans?" its going well we're actually all done, now all we have to go is walk down the isles" laughed Andrew. "Where's Lita?" "Oh, she's on a conference call with Serena" "What for?" "Serena is having a charity banquet here on next month to benefit the Battered Woman and Children Centers" said Andrew "Serena is really too involved I haven't even seen her in weeks" "Really? I would think that Serena and Lita would be glued together" "Well she's been too busy, Lita is actually worried about her" "Why so?" "Well, Serena stays in her office from early mornings to night, then she has all these charity fund raisers and benefits.. she's working too hard!.. Lita finally got complaints from Mina and the other girls that Serena is too busy to eat. So she has Joshua deliver her some lunch at her office everyday". There was a silence between the two. Andrew wondered to why Darien was so quiet and still. His mind raced to how he felt about Serena after hearing her giving nature. "Dare are you okay?" asked Andrew "Yeah…I'm fine" he said standing up to leave "I was just thinking" "about?" asked Andrew. "WORK" said Darien, Andrew shook his head. "You know, come to think of it you and Serena are of the same but in a way different" "and how is that?" "You both work hard and strive for what you believe. You just have different techniques in full-filling them" he lastly stated. Darien smiled as he shook Andrew's hand before leaving. Darien left the restaurant with somewhat of a flooded mind. He was in deep thought of how Serena could be so giving, definitely not the girl he's been trying so hard to bring down, to him she was as deceiving and conniving as Beryl and Stephanie and Millie and the girls he's been with. 'All the girls you've been with' he's mind repeated. The new information that he has received was clouding his mind. Making his feelings of angered and jealous, mellow down accepting that she was indeed a woman of different interest.