Femme Fatale C7
raq-UMALI
6/15/01


It had been a short day for Serena, after lunch she and Darien had gone back to 
the office to straighten out a few things.  First off, where her office would 
be, undoubting near Darien's of course.  Then it was showing Serena around again 
but with more detailed introductions and specific areas where he mostly spends 
time in, his lab.

Though the whole building was almost labeled as Dr. Chiba's stomp and ground, he 
still had his personal favorite.  It was where many gadgets and many devices 
were started, blue prints for many of his inventions strewn about.  Serena's 
eyes inspected everything, from the littered mess of paper work that was left by 
others to the spilled coffee cup.  Serena's eyes went a bit gray as she knew 
that this would upset Darien.  He was a perfectionist when it came to his work, 
be him sloppy was not his background.  A neat freak and an idealist for many 
things, he would sure be upset with the mess that was left for him to see.  
Serena peered through her glasses and found Darien to be near another area 
checking out another gizmo he was building.  Picking up a few pieces of paper, 
one by one she looked at them to see if they were of mere importance.  Noting 
that they were nothing but scribbles or drawings of female parts of some kind, 
she threw them away. While trying to be discreet, she gathered up napkins to 
wipe the coffee when the door opened and entered two young male interns.  The 
badge they held spoke the fresh out of college or in college venue.  Both young 
men looked a little pale at the fact that Darien was in, it was the sign of 
surprise on their faces that gave way when they looked towards Darien then to 
the desk they left a mess.  Serena looked at both with a bit of stern but yet 
relaxed smile.  Crossing her arms, she moved aside to show the men that it was 
cleaned up.

"Ahh... my interns"  Darien came strolling towards the two men who now stood 
close to Serena "Serena may I introduce to you, my personally picked interns.  
James Johnson and Max Roberts, gentlemen this is Miss Serena Tsukino, she is my 
assistant" he added.

"Gentlemen" Serena extended her hand for the professional shake.  Both shook it 
politely and a little too weakly for Serena.

"Serena, these two will make fine scientist one day, and who's to say that they 
are not already making a name for themselves by working here..." Darien went on 
about how the two were very well mannered and very efficient in everything.  
'Neat' and never leaving a job unfinished.  Serena smiled somewhat at the word 
'NEAT'.

"I'm sure they are..." Serena added to Darien's description of the two.  The two 
looked at her with a bit shades of red.  Flushing for Serena had caught them in 
the time of wasting while Darien was away.

"In fact I have a feeling that when I am away they make up plans or other ways 
of perfecting other gadgets or other gizmos of sorts" Serena all about laughed 
at the comment.  The young men were being embellished and Serena knew too well, 
the real boys Darien had described to be perfect interns.  Darien's name was 
announced and as usual he was being paged.  Leaving the three to stand amongst 
themselves Darien left to take the call in the hallway.

"So gentlemen, I hope I don't come in here with Dr. Chiba seeing the mess you 
have left ever again" Serena sternly smiled as both men nodded.  "I don't want 
to have to save your intern asses for leaving spilled cup of coffee or indecent 
drawings of young women."  The two men looked shamefully down, finding something 
more interesting on the floor rather than face Serena.  
"We didn't think he was coming back today, seeing that he left for lunch early"

"I have only known Dr. Chiba for a day and I can clearly see that he is a man by 
his work.  A brilliant mind does not leave work to be unfinished or unstable.  I 
even knew for our mere meeting to not assume Dr. Chiba.  And even if he hadn't 
returned, you should be ashamed of the blue prints you are doing of women."

"Apologies Miss. Tsukino"

"Gentlemen... from what I see you two should be proud of yourself for being so 
thoughtfully picked and liked by Dr. Chiba, don't let his description be false 
perception, he seems to think highly of both of you.  Letting him down would be 
anal!" she reprimanded.  Both men dropped their heads again, her words were 
right on the money.

"Serena, we need to go to the chemical lab.  Michael needs my assistance" he 
motioned as she began to walk away from the two men.  Darien had already gone 
out the door when Serena turned around.

"Boys, your blue prints are in the trash.  I expect nothing but what Dr. Chiba 
perceives of you or else.  Do I make myself clear?" she threatened as she waited 
for a response from the two boys.

***

After the trip to the chemical lab and to the weaponry center Serena was a bit 
tired and it was only 3:00.  Which kind of puzzled her in a way, usually she was 
awake at all time and prepared to jump out of an airplane.  But today was 
different, then again she had jetlag and had woken up so early in the morning.

Serena sat down for a bit, looking at her empty desk.  For the moment all that 
was one their were a phone, stapler and other secretarial necessities.  As 
Serena stifled a yawn, Darien came walking in looking at her a little concerned.

"Tired already?" he asked with a bit of sarcasm.  She blushed a bit before 
retorting to his sarcasm.

"Hello... jet-lag...... early morning pep show...... " Serena held her laughter 
in as Darien's face turned away with a sly grin "new faces to remember 
........... then rounds of labs.. I think I'm entitled to a yawn" she sat back 
to her chair as he sat on the edge watching her.

"I'm sorry Serena, I didn't even think that you had come from the east-coast 
which is three hours ahead.  Why don't you leave early" Darien was stern in his 
ways but he had a heart.  He knew Serena was tired, from the looks in her eyes 
her brain was sifting a lot.  She did well in the Chemical lab when Michael 
needed assistance. Infact she was of more use to him than he was.  Serena 
deserved to go home early, and on her first day, she had proven herself worthy 
of the position.

"I really don't think I should, I mean it is my first day and I don't want to 
give the impression that I tire easily."

"Serena, you've proven yourself enough to my colleagues better yet to me with 
your knowledge.  I know you are tired from you moving here to today's 
adventures" he smiled, thinking of this mornings show.  Serena caught on and 
threw a pencil she found to be on her desk.

"Dr. Chiba......... I know where that brilliant mind of yours is going.. Stop it 
!"

"Seriously Serena.. go ahead and go..."

"Are you sure?".  A knock on the door was heard and instinctive a familiar set 
of blondish white hair appeared.

"Dare... you still gonna help me on that project?" questioned Michael as he came 
in.

"Yeah Ill be fine.. Mike and I are going to work on a project we've been 
delaying for a while."  Michael was eyeing the two, to his eyes, the two had 
gotten pretty close in one day.

"Will you be working late?" she asked courteously as she stood.

"Not sure why?"

"Dinner... will get cold"

"Dinner?  I thought you were tired?"

Michael was hearing the conversation and it surprised him to see that Darien was 
being so caring and kind hearted to his assistant.  I mean sure he showed how 
fond he was with Serena during lunch but this casual talking was more.  Perhaps 
it is because Serena had brains and the others didn't.   But 'Dinner', not only 
did he not bring personal affairs to his office but does he ever invited his 
assistant to dinner. 

"I am but it doesn't mean I cant cook dinner.. Lets see..." thought Serena as 
she picked up her blazer "I saw some steak their last night, I think Ill cook up 
some steak parmigian and angel hair pasta with tomato basil."  

Darien looked on at the woman with sheer intrigue, 'smart, beautiful' he thought 
as his head was clouded with the scene from this morning 'and can cook' and then 
remembered that Michael did not know their living situations. 'oh boy' he 
thought 'I'm going to do some explaining' he ended as he looked at Mike's brow 
creased to the top of his forehead.

"Then again, I guess Andrew and I can just have dinner..... 'alone'" she smiled 
as she picked up her purse making her way towards the door.  Darien still sat on 
the edge of the desk, still thinking how this woman was captivating him to his 
soul.  She was different and as much as he wanted to make their relationship 
only business, his personal thoughts reminded him that he needed someone.  
Someone that he could talk to or not shy away when it regarded his work.  
Someone like Serena. Its only been 24 hours and his heart already knew but did 
he really want to submit to it.  Darien had taken a liking to her, and already 
he knew that 'this woman was dangerous' he though and nodded his head in defeat.  
Already she knew how to play his cards right.

"Time?" his lips parted as he watched her move towards the door.

"6:30.. don't be late".  

Serena left the office with a smug smile on her face.  She was tired indeed and 
as much as she didn't want to leave him unattended, the thought of being not 
well... she would not be able to  ward off anyone would do her no good.  Besides 
she knows her assassins like the back of her hand.  She has studied them 
thoroughly, they have attempted once to take him today, they wont try again till 
later.

Darien remained sitting on the edge of the table as Michael and him watched the 
retreating Serena out the door.  With a smile he looked towards Michael whom was 
ready for the response to his questions.

"Inquiring minds want to know?" taunted Darien

"YES! please... I'm more than curious to DINNER?  And she knows Andrew as well?"

"Yes.. you see.... The Unix housing company seemed to have gotten my preferences 
mixed up and thought I had wanted a female for a room mate and......."

"They sent Serena!!!!"

"BINGO!"

"Serena living with YOU!.........." then it registered "YOU LUCKY DOG! you gain 
her as an assistant now you live with her too.. What's next marriage?"

"HEY now.... Don't start rumors.. you know how many yapping employees we have in 
here. And don't jump to conclusions, we are just room mates" emphasize Darien

"Yeah... like I cant see the attraction between you two when you talk"

"What attraction?" hid Darien. "I have no clue to what your talking about"

"You know......The clouded eyes you get when she speaks or when she shows you 
what she's made of, openly testing her intellects..."

"I just think she's brilliant that's all" smiling Darien entered his office.  
Following right behind him was Mike.

"Yeah but I think that's what turns you on huh.... " said Mike out loud as his 
mind reeled at the situation  "Shannon and Melissa were airheads.... They didn't 
last more than a week or two with you." Mike was thoughtfully thinking as he 
held his finger near his chin. "Shannon was the longest and I think you just 
tolerated her ignorance because you were lonely...." Darien walked out of the 
office, still being followed by Mike, all a while the smile on his face was 
larger and much brighter.  "But Serena has only been one that can talk to your 
level without trying to break it down to high school logics. She can talk 
physics for Pete's sakes and she's not afraid to use her intellects.....the 
beauty is just the icing isn't it?"  Darien entered the elevator and stood in 
front of Mike.  Mike still inquiring about the situation stared from outside the 
elevator waiting for Darien to answer.  "That's it.... YOU LIKE HER... Your more 
than attracted to her..." he waited for an answer.  Darien only grinned.

"We need to hurry.... I have dinner waiting!" he responded as the elevator door 
closed leaving Mike.

***

Serena had gone home and did as she intended.  After a nice hour nap and a 
shower, she had done the honors of making dinner as she planned.  Wearing fitted 
jeans and a some-what short white baby tee, she was comfortable and dressed to 
be comfortable.

The clock was striking 5:30 when she heard the doors open and close.  From the 
sounds of items flopping down, it is Andrew.  Cutting up the veggies in small 
bite size, she turned to see Andrew.  With a large smile she welcomed him home.

"Hi.. hows work?" she asked

"same ol same ol" he grunted as he took a seat on one of the stools "Hey I never 
knew your hair was so long?" he mentioned as he leaned over to take a look at 
her knee length hair.  

"I usually have it up but since its wet I left it down"

"OH!...... anyways.... how about you how was your first day?  Here let me help 
you" he motioned for her to give him the veggies to cut.

"nah uh.. not until you wash your hands"

"Women...... you know... we don't have sinks out in the wilderness or when were 
at war to wash our hands every time we eat"

"Well were not outside in the wilderness or do we live uncivilized at the 
moment" she laughed a bit.

"Okay" he motioned as he held his hands up for inspection.  Hearing the door 
open again and a light hello.

"good....in the kitchen..." Handing over the cutting board to Andrew and going 
over towards the stove.  

"Serena, how was your day... did you like the new people you'll be working 
with?"

"My day went well... As for my BOSS...." Teased Serena as she knew Darien was 
listening. "He was a SLAVE DRIVER...... He's SOOOO MEAN... and HE SMELLS!"

"BEG YOUR PARDON... I do not smell!" replied Darien as he came in rolling up his 
sleeves.

"I knew you were listening" she teased then looking at Andrew who was a little 
confused.  Darien went to the sink and washed his hands.  "See Andrew that's how 
you offer to help... you first wash your hands"  With a slide glance then back 
to washing his hands, Darien smiled to the way Serena had looked.  She was so 
comfortable, no make up to hide behind, no fripperies of all sorts to contort a 
mans mind to how they can wear such things.  She was just beautifully o 
naturale!

"Wait... Darien how did you get included in the conversation... Serena your boss 
smells??..... Darien how would you know... how her day went... and if her boss 
smelled" Andrew rambled on.  Darien stood next to Serena as he took the stalk of 
carrot she was trying gather.  Then it dawned on him, 'she's teasing Darien' 
stopping what he was doing he looked at the two.

"hey.." Serena frowned towards Darien as he took the carrot and stuck it in his 
mouth.  "you'll spoil your diner"

"You said Dinner will be ready when I got home..." he mentioned as he got 
another sleeve of carrot from her pile.

"No I didn't... " she said facing him and pulling the stalk that hung from his 
lips.  "I said dinner will be at 6:30 and its only 6." Serena then put the 
carrot in her mouth.  Darien's eyes a little amused at what she had done.  
Serena realized what she had done and blushed a bit as they watched each other.

"Serena did you say your boss smells?" asked Andrew

"YEAH.. he does!" she faced Darien a bit

"and you said I Don't smell" he pointed at Darien "Serena are you saying you 
work with Darien?"

"Uh huh." She mumbled as she ate the carrot.

"She's my new assistant" Darien cut in as he stole another carrot from the pile 
before quickly walking away towards the other side of the counter.

"Darien.... Ooo... will you just set up the table already and get away from my 
carrots.".  Andrew watched the two as they flirted.  The two made such a warm 
couple he couldn't smile any larger.  'These living conditions are gonna be 
priceless' he thought, 'wait till the guys hear about this.'

***

To Serena's happiness, the weeks ahead went on without much confrontations or 
killings.  Just a few rug rat spies she had to deal with and it had been quiet.  
Serena was some what relaxed with her surroundings and new environment.  Just 
like what they said, being his assistant and his room mate was perfect.  Indeed 
she was everywhere he went, from the office, rounds at the labs and to his home 
she was with him.  At lunch, he would invite her and take her along or just 
order in and lounge in their office for playful conversations.

Serena was very well liked and envied at the most.  She had the respects of many 
of her colleagues and other high ties.  She was beautiful and very well rounded, 
envies came from woman for not only her beauty but her relationship with their 
handsome Dr. Chiba.  Though it was a mere boss/secretary-assistant relationship 
and aside from the flirting that they do.  It was clearly seen that the two were 
attracted to one another.

At the work place, a few who had the courage to try, had many times openly 
invited Darien to dinner or even for some coffee, which many knew was his 
concoction for a great morning.  It was one of those things where 'If you want 
to get on Dr. Chiba's good side... you get him coffee'.  Much to the invitee's 
disappointment, never would he take any offers or even give it a second chance.  
But if Serena had ever mentioned the word Dinner or Coffee of anything else of 
the matter, the only answer she ever received was 'TIME? See you then.'.  The 
other women didn't know how Serena did it, but literally she had Darien.

From the other's point of view, Serena too was stricken.  Making sure her boss's 
documents perfected or went out of her way to complete a task or assignment for 
him.  She was very well capable of anything, reading his blue prints and editing 
his mistakes, he trusted her to the fullest.  Serena knew his inventions like it 
was her own.  Being one of the first person he showed it too, she knew which 
areas need focus on or needed redoing.  Thus when Darien could not come by to do 
the final inspection or he was busy with meetings, she would make it her duty to 
inspect it herself.  Some how pleasing him was her first priority.

Everyone had their own assumptions or even ideas to their boss/secretary-
assistant relationship.  It was obvious to how much the two paired or more so 
when their talks would seem more intimate than the last.

***

Their living conditions were awesome to all three of them.  Serena loved living 
with them, infact she was treating this assignment almost permanent.  Darien of 
course felt the same way.  He had grown to have Serena always with him.  She 
with each passing day, he was still captivated with her in more ways than any 
woman had ever.  Looking forward to a new day in which he would be shared to 
Serena's other hidden talents.  Her intellects he appreciated the most, 
articulate and open to new ideas was helpful to him. Well rounded to know that 
she was very feminine.  Cooking was another specialty trait she had perfected.  
In fact Darien and Andrew had gained a couple of pounds while she's been there.  
Now he would make sure that he would take that morning jog with her.
 
***

"So Darien, we still on for poker at your place tonight?"

"Umm.. you know I don't know if something came up let me check my calendar" 
thought Darien as he and Kyle walked towards another lab when they heard 
Darien's name being called from an angelic voice he would know anywhere.

"Dr. Chiba.."  Darien and Kyle turned around and faced the professionally 
dressed Serena.  As always, her hair was up.  Never would he ever see her hair 
loose around working hours.

"And where have you been hiding Miss. Tsukino?" he asked

"Hi Kyle, In your office... with these" she handed him "Just to let you know 
that I edited pages 3 and 8.  From the data, it was the opposite to what the 
report had described so I took the liberty to change it.  It just needs your 
approval and signature before I bring it down to Mr. Lancaster."  Darien had 
opened the report quickly to review and skim through.  Noting the areas in which 
she edited.  Signing the document for approval then handing it back.

"Oh and by the way, you have an appointment at 2:30 with Lynberg and Smead, and 
your poker with the boys tonight" Just then a face that she had been avoiding 
all day came to view and made eye contact with her. "ohhhhh" she whined as 
Darien grew concerned for his prized possession.

"Serena, what's the matter?"

"him" she turned to a smile as she felt him approach her.  Darien through a side 
glance and found the fiber optics tech to be coming towards them.

"Charles?"

"uh huh"

"I heard" said Kyle to Serena

"heard what?" asked Darien to Kyle

"he's determined to get Serena to go out with him".  

"Is he now?" Darien looked at Serena, seeing her irritated he was at ease..  To 
his knowledge, not once had anyone asked Serena out and frankly that's the way 
he liked it.  If it seemed that he was protective of her, it was true.  He has 
heard many men talk about her, wondering many things they thought she can do 
behind closed doors.  And many times he had interrupted those men to give them 
an earful and some cold hearted advice on talking about Serena again.  Many with 
that advice clearly found the bearing that he held over Serena and did not or 
could not find the nerve to even ask her out, well that is until Charles.

"Serena..." Serena greeted the man with a false smile. "hello Dr. Chiba, Dr. 
Manning"

"hello" said both men

"If I was a impatient man, Serena I would think that you were avoiding me"

"Oh.. I didn't know you were looking for me.  What did you need me for?"

"Serena... I wanted to know if you were free this evening."

"Free.. um.. I'm afraid not. You see..."

"She's having dinner with me" responded Darien as he looked up at the man 
awaiting for any challenges.  Serena looked at him with thankful eyes.

"But I thought you were having poker with the guys"

"No its been canceled" affirmed Darien.  Kyle looked a little stunned.  'what 
poker is being canceled... but I can see why' he trailed as he looked at Serena 
and Darien who eyed each other.

"I see" said Charles who eyed the two.  'so the rumors are true.. these two have 
something going on'. "Perhaps some other time" he ended "Ill see you around 
Serena... Dr. Chiba, Dr. Manning"

"Yes perhaps..." smiled Serena

"Good day Charles".  Darien held a hidden smile.  'some other time.. I think 
not'.  Once he was out of ear shot.  Serena faced and him smiled largely.

"I would hug you fiercely right now.."

"What's stopping you?" he grinned.

"Dr. Chiba.. do you want to feed the fire" she grinned

"What fire?"

"You haven't heard?" she asked

"heard what?" Darien turned to Kyle "heard what?"

"Rumors of you and Serena more than just in a working relationship" Kyle 
answered.  He knew Darien didn't know this, for Darien was too busy to trouble 
his mind with rumors.

"Yeah... and they even said that we do shameless things during lunch at our 
office behind closed doors"  Serena giggled.  Darien turned to Serena with a 
smile than back to Kyle.

"For goodness sakes, Kyle you've joined us a few times" Darien chuckled.

"Hey don't look at me I didn't start it.  But my favorite is the one where you 
two were in the weaponry room and did the naughty on top of the missile.

"WHAT?" Darien look a bit surprised then he contemplated.  Staring at Serena's 
bright eyes tempted him. "I'll feed that fire any day" grinned Darien as he 
grabbed Serena for a large fierce hug.  Unexpected Serena laughed full heartedly 
as Kyle grinned then looked around. Sure enough many were looking at all the 
commotion.

"Now look what you've done... Dr. Chiba" laughed Kyle "you've got the whole 
floor watching you, you two will never hear the end of it now"

"I don't mind as long as it doesn't bother Serena" he said as he released Serena 
who was still laughing.

"I don't mind...Thanks Darien...but what about your poker night?" she remembered 
"you shouldn't cancel it, for the sakes of my social life."

"Well, let's see"

"How about you just tell the guys to come over and keep it to yourself and Ill 
cook you guys something. How's that?"  Before Darien was able to say anything 
Kyle had interrupted.

"That's sounds good...Serena can you make that potato salad I had the ends of 
last time you brought some in.  The guys hogged it all up"

"Sure can... what else? Any other request?" she faced Darien, unknowing to the 
both of them but clearly seen to others was Darien's arm was still draped around 
her waist.

"Serena you know what ever you cook is more than acceptable to me." He whispered 
as he moved locks of loose hair away from her face.  Blushing a bit Serena can 
only smile larger and brighter.

"Yeah and it's not like he and Andrew were eating 'gourmet' before you came 
along"

"I beg your pardon..."

"Paging....Dr. Chiba, you have a call on line four"  Darien cringed then 
exhaled.

"Hate to brake this ring of fire up but I seem to have a call"

"Well its just as well, I have to get this to Dr. Braxton in a few minutes" 

"Serena, if you don't mind, Ill walk with you" asked Kyle as Darien watched them 
while he spoke on the phone.  

"No.. I don't"

"shall we?" Kyle offered his arm to Serena catching Darien's eyeful.  With a 
slight playful mock Kyle winked at Serena, waving a final goodbye to Darien.

"I shall see you later Dr. Chiba"  Darien held the phones ear piece as he 
yelled.

"I expect a full report on the fire I've started today Kyle" Kyle waved an arm 
as he retreated.

****

Serena was in her room, sending an email to her superiors when she heard noise 
coming from outside.  A little suspicious she made her way towards the window.  
With her eyes adjusting to the dark, she was used her own nocturnal senses, she 
developed.  Seeing nothing, she went around her bed to the night stand and 
pulled out night shade, a device that enables her to clearly see the dark.  
Using it just like binoculars, she scanned the area, from the far away trees to 
the balcony she found no one suspicious.

Masculine laughter rang through her mind and she quickly turned towards the 
patio area.  Where six men  speaking to each other loudly with a beer in hand.  
Her eye drifting to one in particular, Darien.  Talking and laughing among his 
friends is how she liked seeing him.  Though nothing was ever geared towards 
her, she knew when he was working he was always in a heap of unstoppable stress.  
From a man with his brilliance he just should be kept happy, rather than solve 
the worlds problems.  Serena still lingered, leaning against the slightly 
chilled window pains.  Her eyes still watching over Darien, as if he knew she 
was watching his eyes lifted to see her's.  For a brief moment their eyes were 
interlocked and then as the others noticed it as well, he smiled and lifted his 
beer towards her figure.  Nodding her head she returned to her lap top to resume 
her email and updated her superiors on the happens and what they needed to know.

Serena heard a nock on the door.  In bed now reading a book she made herself 
comfortable and not revealing anything she told the knocker to enter.  The door 
creaked open and Darien entered.  

"HI"

"HI"

"Poker over already?"

"No not yet, the guys are just taking a break"

"I see.... You guys have plenty of food right?"

"Plenty.. you've made more than plenty.  They guys are scouring the cabinets for 
take out containers."

"Well I'm glad that you all like it."

"Serena.. we're all bachelors"

"Yes, I forgot" she giggled.

"Anyhow I just wanted to thank you and make sure you didn't need anything" he 
smiled warmly.

"I'm fine Darien, but thank you"

"Your welcome" Darien made the motion to close the door but opened it right back 
up "Hey Serena.."

"mmm"

"Make sure you take your robe if you come out" Serena blushed to the comment 
than threw a pillow towards the closing door and a laughing Darien..

11:30 hit the mark on her clock and Serena's eyes were tired from her reports.  
She didn't hear much of the men outside and wondered if they all had gone home.  
Taking her robe she strolled out of her room.  Other than being quiet the men 
still played their game.  She crossed her arms and stood by the door frame 
towards the hallway.  They all made a funny site with their features.  Michael 
held his cards thoughtfully and held a  
sesame bread stick in his mouth.  Andrew and Kyle held them between their 
fingers.  Nathan had a dealers hat that made him look like a little child.  Zen 
had several pretzels in the corner of his mouth.  AS for Darien, even though he 
followed the men's actions, a sesame breadstick was wedged between his left ear 
he absolute looked adorable.

"Hit me?" said Andrew as he took the bread stick and pretending to give it a 
puff like a cigar.  Nathan gave him a card.

"Heheheh...losers.... You're all going to get it now" laughed Andrew as he 
grinned at his cards.

"Andrew you keep saying that and each time Michael takes your money" laughed 
Kyle.

"Darien how about you?"

"umm.. hit me..."

"I didn't know you played poker that way".  The men turned to face Serena.  
Laughing as they tried to take out their home made costumes of bread sticks and 
all.  "Don't worry your secrets on your poker fetishes will stay with me" she 
giggled before going to the kitchen and pouring herself some milk.

"Did we wake you?" asked Darien as he stared at her from his seat.  Nathan, 
Kyle, Michael and Zen stared at Serena in awe.  They have never seen her hair so 
free.  Serena was dressed in her short pale pink robe, waist length hair flowing 
down freely.  Darien noticed their quietness and glanced at each and every 
single one before kicking them under the table.

"ouch"

"owww'

"No.. you guys were actually too quiet that I had to come out and see if you all 
didn't pass out from all the beer consumption"

"Nah... it takes more than that to knock us out" said Andrew as he pretended to 
smoke his sesame cigar again.

"I'm sure it does... I'm sure you guys aren't playing poker either" Serena made 
her way towards Darien placing her right hand around his chair.

"Black Jack!" said Andrew a bit hoarsely, the others were still getting their 
fill on Serena.

"Lets see what you have?" she asked as she crouched a bit.  Their faces inches 
apart, Serena stared at his cards.  Darien turned a bit to stare at her so near 
and so close.  "Not bad" she whispered almost seductively as she turned to see 
Darien's face hovering quite close.  The men watching smiled, and almost held 
their breath to see if Darien and Serena would go on.   Darien was getting 
dizzy, for once he was the one feeling a bit hormonal of a woman.  The fresh 
showered scent of a woman, not only any woman but Serena's essence were doing 
heavy teasing on his sense.  Then he had a thought.

"How about a good luck kiss" he gestured bravely.  The guys that were watching 
had smiles on their faces.... Nathan even blushed to the comment and Kyle bit 
his lips to prevent from laughing.  Andrew just smiled and raised his cards 
higher so he wouldn't be caught watching.

"Good luck kiss" said Serena as she stared at him with amusement.  "you don't 
need luck.. your cards are unbeatable..."

"well.. a guy cant have too much luck" he grinned.  That smile Serena thought, 
it's a dam killer.  It gets her every time.  Quickly and smoothly she pecked him 
on the cheek, but rather than the cheek she half caught the corner of his lips.  
Flushing, she turned and walked away.  Her face was broiling to a broiled 
tomato.

"Good luck!" she smiled and never once turning back.  And if she did, she would 
of seen many faces in awe and envies. "Goodnight gentlemen, Ill see you all 
tomorrow".  They all looked over towards the hallway and made sure she was gone.

"DAMMMMMMM... I've never seen her hair down.. I never realized it was so long." 
Muttered Michael looking back at Darien still looking to where Serena had gone 
and disappeared to her room.

"Someone's smitten to the word beyond crushes" laughed Zen

"I am not" answered Darien as he was brought to reality on his comment

"Gaawed...  I didn't know she was that strikingly beautiful"

"Ol na...tu...ral" said Michael in the most horrific imitation of some accent.

"Serena is very professional and likes to keep it that way when she works.  That 
is why she keeps her hair up"

"I can see that."

The men talked a few more about Serena and her qualities and it seems that if 
Darien hadn't told them that she was off limits, they would of all been making 
their moves on her.  But clearly he had stated that any one that makes a move on 
her amongst his friends would surely get an earful from him and perhaps even 
more.

~*

A few weeks had passed and Serena was getting a bit antsy to why their has not 
been any attacks.  The last one she had was too easy and wondered if that is all 
the stupid terrorist and assassins had.  But of course she never let her guard 
down.  But her mind was occupied to Darien and her flirtatious relationship.  
After that one innocent kiss, Serena was pulled and lured more into giving him 
more.  But she kept her distance for she can see the same fire in his eyes...... 

"Hi Steve" greeted Serena as she walked her way through the halls.  Serena had 
made sure she knew and profiled most of Darien's workers and even more so 
remembered and registered their faces in her mind.
"Morning Jaime"

"Morning Serena" waved the petite woman.  Serena rounded the corner and was 
about to enter her office when she saw a face that she had never seen before.  
Serena's eyes narrowed as she tried to file the features in her mind.

"HI Serena" said a light and cheery voice.

"Hi Stephanie.............Oh wait Step"  Just the woman Serena had wanted to 
see.

"hmm.." returned the woman as she had begun walking away before Serena called 
her back.

 "Has their been any new hiring's in this building?"

"mm.. Not that I know of.  I usually get informed and do the orientation before 
they are sent out to the halls, why?"  Serena looked towards the man again.  He 
was wearing black slacks and a lab coat, dark auburn hair and medium built.  
Stephanie caught Serena's eyes and followed to where it steadied.

"Do you recognize him?" asked Serena, never keeping her eyes away from him.

"No... no I don't... I mean being the assistant to the Human Resources Director.   
I'm the one that goes through the screenings and orientations and I don't at all 
recognize the man." Stephanie also narrowed her eyes. "Perhaps I should go ask 
who he is.. This cant be good being we're suppose to be tight on security"
she began to walk towards the man when Serena grabbed her arm.

"No its okay Step, I'm going to see Dr. Chiba maybe its his guest or something" 
Serena stammered.  At first Stephanie gave her an incredulous look before 
agreeing.

"Okay.. let me know if you have any problems"

"okay" after saying her goodbye to Stephanie she returned her gaze back to the 
man.  The man stood their pretending to be looking over some files.  Making the 
movements of writing and thinking.  The doors to the hall opened and walked out 
was Darien and Kyle.  She watched the man look up and smile.  Darien and Kyle 
detoured to another hall and they guy followed suit a few ways back. "shit!" she 
muttered quietly and bit her lip.  Serena thought quickly as she hurriedly 
followed them as well.  'How am I going to get him without anyone noticing?' she 
asked herself as she thought of a plan.   Darien had gone in the control room, 
chances are the men in there had gone out to their lunch meeting.  Which was 
scheduled with Mike till 3, so 'the room should be empty.'


"Serena" said a voice.  Serena turned a bit and smiled

"Yes James...." Serena returned to the man standing next to a station.

"Have you seen Dr. Chiba, I need him to go over the blue prints with me...and.." 
perfect thought Serena
"James... he's control room, why don't you go ahead and go get him...Just do me 
a favor.." she whispered a bit

"What's that?"

"Go through the back door okay"

"Why?" he asked curiously

"They're redoing the locks and have put new sealants on the doors, they need to 
settle before everyone keeps going in and out.. You know what happened last time 
they resealed your lab doors."

"yeah, I was sealed in there." James replied "Okay..." James had gone about his 
ways, to the back to see Darien.  Serena watched the man from a bit a far. 'gawd 
if this is their assasin, he's a slow one' she thought personally. 

After ten minutes had passed Serena was getting a bit anxious, she heard voices 
and turned to another hallway, she can clearly see through from an open door.  
It was James and Darien exiting the control room. Serena turned and just in time 
watched the man enter the control room. 'show time' she smiled as she turned to 
walk the other way where Darien and James had exited.

The control room was dark and just as Serena expected no-one was working.  Large 
screens were playing certain experimental tapes.  Serena slowly entered the 
room.  The only sound in the room was the audio voices from the tape, Darien's 
voice to be exact.  She stayed along the walls, behind some machinery and sorts.  
A light padded footstep was heard and she ducked to see through some machinery 
that obstruct her view.  There was the man, looking around to find who he 
thought he followed carefully.  Serena smiled.
Cat walking towards the doors, taking her badge and swiping it then locking the 
door completely, a slight beeping was heard and she instinctively disappeared.

"Where the hell is he?" he said rather loudly then all of a sudden hearing a 
slick beep.   Startled he turned to turning to his left than to his right he saw 
no one.

"I see you've stumbled upon my web" Serena smoothly coo-ed.  The man looked a 
bit baffled at the sight of Serena, blond, beautiful, quite sultry and sexy.  
Serena's white silk shirt had been unbutton a bit, her skirt pulled higher and a 
slit on the side that were there was none before.  Her flirtatious stride was 
hypnotic and alluring as she played with her next victim.  "I've been watching 
you" slowly she approached her prey and silkily ran her hand along the side of 
the machines giving the man a few side glance and a sultriest smile.

"Who are you?" asked the man, his heart raced as she came forward.  The 
movements of her hands along the machines were teasing.

"I'm Sere... I work here" stopping closely to the man as she leaned towards the 
monitor.  Left leg thrust outwards, her upper thigh clearly showing through her 
large slit.  "You... see.... I work here... and... I don't remember seeing you 
here before" laying a subtle hand on his lab coat then smoothing down to trace 
the contours of his chest then back up.

"I'm new" he whispered as he can feel his sudden excitement begin to flare.  He 
closed in on her and held her waist.  "How about you why haven't I seen you 
before?"
"Who me?... I don't see why...I've been here and there ... I get around"

"I'm sure you do" he pushed her blouse a bit to the side to reveal her smooth 
shoulders.

"mmm... but I don't know who you are" she slyly cooed seeing a chair behind him.

"call me Jack...." He dipped to graze her shoulder "and you?"  Serena brought 
her hands down to his chest and strongly shoved him, he stumbled down to the 
chair a bit puzzled.  Coyly smiling she walked towards him with her womanly 
strut.

"Call me anything you... want" she whispered as she placed her knee between his 
legs.  The man groaned at the process seeing her silky legs.  Serena came down 
to leave a butterfly kiss on his lips.  In circular motions his hands began to 
rub her legs ushering her for more. Standing up a bit she looked at him. "I 
might be wild but I'm not stupid" He looked at her confused.  "I never do 
anything without protection" she whispered as she grazed his lips once more.  
Serena moved towards a desk, where she had once stumbled upon a sleeve of 
condom.  It wasn't a surprise to her for she has seen a few time the operator 
and the engineer leave for a few and back dishelved and satiated.  Fingering the 
condom and turned to her prey, she found him watching her every move.  Showing 
him the condom as she walked back.  Handing him the condom, Serena swiveled the 
man's chair, and stood behind him.  The man was about to protest when she 
sternly said "SIT..." he sat and said nothing "I like to be the dominating one" 
she kissed his earlobe.  Slowly massaging his shoulders... kneading he was 
indeed relaxing.  With almost everything and anything Serena wore had some time 
of secret compartment or so that hid many things she liked to use.  Just like 
her poisonous hair pins, she had her own set of rings that was as lethal. Serena 
fingered the large onyx stone that was situated on her ring finger.  Opening the 
top with her thumb, their laid nestled within webs were a few tiny little 
spiders.  At the opening, the spider which seemed like were trained jumped to 
the victims neck, slowly crawled towards his scalp, now all she needed was time.

"You're experienced" he groaned "and a very bad girl that needs to be 
disciplined" Serena was smiling at the thought.

"Bad... yes... disciplined... I don't think you can handle it"  Serena's hands 
began to wander to his neck as she talked her way to his trust.  Jack became 
relax and within a few moments his legs began to tingle, he ignored it and 
assumed it was his arousal doing the tingling.

"Ohhh.. very bad..."  he groaned.  "I shall need to tame you wild thing" The 
numbness now began to crawl to his waist..

"how do you feel" she lowered her head to whisper in his ear.

"Numb" he said as he tried to move his legs, her narrowed his eyes as he heard 
her answer.

"good" she spun the man around to face her.  By now the man was paralyzed to the 
chair.  Clearly the man was trying to move, she can see the strain in his 
features as he stared at his arm.  Serena began to button her shirt with a grin.

"What did you do to me?" he asked slowly as he felt his chest tingle.

"Nothing that can be undone unless you don't cooperate. Now... tell me... who 
sent you" Serena caressed his face.  Jack was certainly horrified, he was the 
assassin and he was to assassin the Dr. not be killed in the process.

"I don't share names and who the fuck are you?"

"You don't... how about I leave you like this....paralyzed and immobile" she 
tousled his hair.

"You wouldn't?"

"Try me?" she dared as she began to take a few steps away.

"Wait..." Serena turned to the sound of his pleading voice.  He had already felt 
his upper chest tingle and he knew it was making its way to his neck.

"Yes...."

"I was hired by Mankin... Thomas Mankin... that's all I know" Serena faced him 
again and grinned.

"that's good...... now were getting somewhere...." She turned him around and 
massaged his neck. "can you feel the tingle Jack...." She whispered as she 
rubbed his chest from behind and brought it back up.

"yes... now we had a deal.... Help me" he pleaded....as he felt his neck numb 
and lifeless.

Still caressing his chest and then moving back to his neck, Serena knew the 
effects her little comrades where putting.  A tiny paralyzing chemical that they 
tend to use with their prey.  She began to rub his neck and slowly bent to his 
level.  "We never..... let widow victims live.." she whispered as she sensed his 
tension. Unable to move or say anything he sat there.  Placing her right behind 
his head and her left on his chin... she spoke once more... "Jack..... you can 
... never... tame.. a black widow" she whispered lastly to his ear at the lowest 
and most sultry voice she could make.  She heard Jack's harsh intake of breath 
before she quickly and smoothly jerked her hands, a crack was heard Jack's head 
fell limply to the side.

Serena took a step back and smiled to her job.  Looking up at the camera that 
was blinking red, for malfunction.  "another one bites the dust" she retreated, 
leaving the lifeless man sitting to be found by someone else.


Stay tune...

raq