Vision Of Escaflowne Fan Fiction ❯ The Promise ❯ Calm before the Storm ( Chapter 6 )

::Disclaimer::

CvR: Anyone who believes that I own Escaflowne raise you hands!! *CvR stares incredulously as an enthusiastic reader raises their right hand. Sighing, CvR turns to the happy acres attendees and waves them toward the smiling lunatic*

CvR: Go on boys take him away!

Attendee 1: Sure thing ma'am

Attendee 2: No doubt about it, only an insane idiot would ever think you owned Escaflowne!

*CvR happily nods her head in agreement before a startled look crosses her features. Glaring at the mean attendee, she sticks her tongue out a him before swinging away to face her readers. *

CvR: *Sigh* I keep telling you people!! I don't own Escaflowne!

The Promise

Chapter Six

(Calm before the storm)

The sun hung low in the sky as Hitomi and Van pushed their way into her apartment, their arms loaded with packages. Hitomi stumbled a bit as her foot caught the edge of the rug upon entering. Quickly managing to regain her balance, she turned and held the door open for Van who bore the bulk of their shopping endeavors.

"Watch out for the rug! Just put the packages on the couch. We can distribute things from there."

Hitomi watched as he quickly made his way over to the couch and carefully set their things down. Following behind, she placed her own packages alongside his.

"Lets get the food into the fridge first then we'll see about the rest." She said, picking up two of the grocery bags and motioning for him to follow.

In the kitchen they worked in relative silence, each lost in their own thoughts. After their run in with her friends at the diner, things had continued on smoothly up until the time that they were ready to leave. Joey had handed them their bill, which had already been taken care of by himself and Corin, then handed Yukari a special dessert made just for her. Ten minutes later Amano was still arguing over the bill, while restraining Yukari from throwing ice cream covered pickles at Joey's head.

A short time later they left the diner in a state of chaos as Kari and Joey continued to throw friendly insults back and forth, while Corin blatantly ignored Amano as he continued to argue over their bill.

As far as first impressions go, Hitomi wasn't sure what Van was thinking as they left the restaurant. She could only hope that he had seen the humor in the situation, if not the absurdity.

Hitomi sighed silently as she glanced over at Van. A familiar heat began to spread through out her lower body as she watched his black cotton t-shirt stretch tightly against his shoulder as he reached up to place a box of spaghetti towards the top of a shelf.

Hitomi quickly tore her eyes away from him just as he began to turn around and ask her where the chicken soup went. It took her a moment to get her mind away from the dangerous path it had taken, and bring it back to focus on placing the can of soup.

"...I- uhh the same shelf is fine."

Van stared at her for a moment, an unreadable look in his eyes. Hitomi turned away from him when she felt a blush steal up into her cheeks. She just hoped he hadn't noticed.

It was bad enough that this had gone on all day, ever since the incident in the men's changing room. Hitomi sighed softly as she began to recall her day with Van.

After breakfast they had headed over to a shop nearby, where Hitomi knew they would find something that would suit Van. Upon entering the store, a young sales girl had swooped down upon them, and had proceeded to hover over Van.

Hitomi had tried not to let it get to her, but the girl had just made a disgusting display of herself. For his part, Van had remained expressionless throughout most of her flirtatious remarks, and had only offered up a polite smile here and there. Hitomi knew that he wasn't really paying attention to the girl's obvious attempts to get closer to him, but she just couldn't help but feel a smoldering jealousy every time the other woman had purposely brushed against him.

The last straw had really come when Van was in one of the small cubicles dressing. The sales girl had just come back from finding another piece of clothing that she had insisted would look `awesome' on him, and had proceeded to brush past Hitomi and swing the dressing room door open.

Out of the three of them, Hitomi had to say that she was probably the one who had been most embarrassed. There Van had stood, back facing towards them, stark naked. Even in that moment of discomfort, Hitomi couldn't help but look over his body. Her eyes had roamed up the length of his legs, traced past his well-muscled back, only to collide with heated chocolate just over his shoulder. He had quietly stood there, as she had taken in his body, his eyes watching her reaction through the mirror in front of him. Hitomi had felt the breath rush out of her, as she suddenly realized the situation.

Turning from him she had pushed the gawking girl out of the way, and slammed the door closed. Snatching the garment from the sales girl, she had shakily informed her that they would no longer need her assistance.

The girl had left in a snit, leaving Hitomi to weakly lean against the wall, the image of Van's body burned into her mind. When she had heard him call out to her through the closed door, she was forced to snap back to attention. Taking a shaky step forward she had raised her hand over the door to hand him the last article of clothing. Hitomi had jumped at the sensation of his callused thumb gently brushing the side of her hand as he had taken the shirt from her numb fingers.

After that it had taken her hours to get over her embarrassment. For his part, Van didn't seem especially uncomfortable; as a matter of fact Hitomi could have sworn that she had seen amusement flit across his features every time she had turned away from him her cheeks burning.

Returning to the present, Hitomi grimaced as she once again scolded herself for her embarrassment every time she looked into Van's eyes. If he wasn't embarrassed then why should she be? Nodding her head in determination she swung back around and looked him straight in the eye.

He smiled softly down at her and the image of his beautiful body again flitted through her mind, effectively stealing her breath. Hitomi felt the warmth of a blush stain her cheeks and nearly groaned at her stupidity. `Hitomi you are such a ninny!'

Van watched in amusement as a telling redness stole onto her cheeks once again. He knew what she was thinking about and found himself unconsciously grinning in amusement.

The incident in the dressing room had initially embarrassed him, especially in light of the sales girls rudeness, but all thoughts of embarrassment had fled the moment he had caught sight of Hitomi's arrested expression.

He had watched her eyes trace a slow path up his back, causing his body to tighten, as he observed Hitomi's breathlessness. After that moment he had trouble containing his grin the rest of the day, because he knew, that she had liked what she had seen.

And he was reminded of that every time she blushed. Van had had to restrain himself from grabbing hold of her and dragging her off someplace private. It was a trial the entire day holding himself back from touching her.

As he looked down into her soft green eyes now, Van was reminded of just what he had wanted to say to her since the moment he had arrived. Straightening away from the counter, he moved close to her and gently brushed her hair behind her ear. Marveling at the softness of it, he ran his fingers through the soft strands and continued to gaze deeply into her eyes.

"Hitomi I…"

"Van there's something I…"

The both stopped and smiled sheepishly at one another.

"Ladies first."

Hitomi blushed and looked away. She wanted so much to get lost in his eyes but knew that she had to tell him about her engagement before things progressed any further.

Nodding slowly, she forced herself to step away from him and walk back into the living room.

"There is something I have been wanting to talk to you about."

Lowering herself to the couch, Hitomi motioned for him to sit beside her. Feeling a little frightened she clenched her hands on her lap and tried to marshal her courage. `You can do this Hitomi! You have to do this!'

Van glanced at her and felt a nervousness come over him once again.

"Actually, I really wanted to speak to you also." He said running a hand through his hair in agitation.

She looked at him in surprise before her eyes slid from his. Hitomi wasn't sure if she was ready to hear what he had to say or not. In a bid for time she jokingly asked.

"So who goes first?"

He smiled at her a little less nervous and motioned for her to begin. Nodding, she stared at him and opened her mouth to speak, but she couldn't. The words stayed trapped in her throat and all she could do was stare deep into his eyes, praying that she never had to tell him that she was promised to another, wishing that she had never accepted Alex's offer of marriage.

`There you go again Hitomi wishing and dreaming for things that can never be. Stop being a coward and just tell him! He has a right to know!'

Turning from him she let out a shaky breath, swallowing convulsively as she tried to find her voice again.

"Hitomi?"

Leaning forward, he captured her chin in his hand and turned her face towards his. He could see the conflict in her eyes and wondered what the cause of it was.

What if it was him? What if she was trying to find a way to let him know that she didn't want him here??

Dark thoughts filled his head, but he fought off his insecurities and tried to look at the situation in a clear light. Hitomi didn't act as though she didn't want him around, and unless he was totally mistaken she had enjoyed the time they had spent together. Frowning softly he stared into her eyes and tried to understand what she was trying to tell him.

"Hitomi you know you can…"

Unable to stand the worried expression he wore she leaned forward and captured his lips, trapping the rest of his words inside her mouth. She felt him hesitate only seconds before his arms wound around her and dragged her closer to him.

Her breath caught as she felt his rough hands make their way under her shirt and settle on the skin of her back. Slanting his head over her mouth he deepened their kiss. Tasting in her, a passion that now equaled his own. Van felt as if his heart was beating a million miles and hour and all he wanted to do was rip their clothes off and lay her down against the cool material of the sofa.

He groaned as his imagination provided a mental image of what would follow, were he to give into his desires. Struggling for control he pulled away from the sweetness of her lips and closed his eyes.

Hitomi stared at him through half closed lids and felt disappointment wash over her.

Why did he pull away? Had she assumed wrongly, that he would welcome her kisses?

Hitomi watched as his ragged breathing slowly came under control. He had yet to open his eyes and he held himself so still beside her.

"I-I'm sorry I shouldn't have done that." She whispered easing away from him. She didn't see the tortured expression on his face as he forced himself to let her go. Standing, she turned away from him and fought to gather her composure. She had wanted to kiss him all day, but it was obvious to her now, that he didn't feel the same way.

Hitomi glanced over at him and observed how stiffly he sat. Was he angry with her? She wondered, panic quickly rising in her. Have I ruined everything? Unable to stand it anymore she looked away.

"Van forgive me, I know I shouldn't have, but…but I…I know you didn't want that and I shouldn't have forced myself on you like that!"

Van looked at Hitomi in surprise and let out a bark of laughter. He saw her turn towards him in surprise, a wounded expression on her face.

"Hitomi, you have no idea do you?" Noting her uncertain expression, he stood and walked over to her.

"You have nothing to be sorry for. I have been wanting to kiss you all day."

Her eyes widened in surprise as she slowly began to understand what he was saying to her.

"You wanted to kiss me?"

Nodding he reached out and brought her closer to him. Lowering his head, he softly nuzzled the side of her neck, waiting as she continued to sort out the confusion inside her.

"But, if you wanted to kiss me, then why did you pull away?"

Van held himself still and wondered how he should answer her question. He knew why he had stopped, but was he ready to lay himself open to rejection if she took his words the wrong way?

Sighing, he lowered his head to her shoulder and briefly tightened his hold. He needed to be honest with her.

"I pulled away because I…I didn't want to stop at just a kiss." His soft words sent a warm shiver racing through her. The tingling warmth settled low in her abdomen and spread through to her toes. Hitomi's heart began to beat rapidly as the implications of what he had just said slammed into her.

He stood still in her arms and waited for her reaction, dreading her answer, anticipating her response. He waited in agony, as she stood still in his arms. Her mouth so close to his chest blew a trailing heat with each burst of air that escaped her.

Ever so slowly Hitomi's hand crept up to cup his head, her fingers burying themselves into his thick dark hair.

"I-I didn't want to stop at just a kiss either."

Her whispered confession sent a burning heat racing through his body, and convulsively his arms tightened around her. Feeling elated, Van forced his hands to stay still on her back, but couldn't resist placing a heated kiss at the base of her neck.

Closing his eyes he forced his raging need back under control, and managed to step away from her. She looked up at him shyly, her hand playing with a few strands of hair, close to where he had placed his kiss. Van saw her fingers lightly brush the spot and hunger swept through him again.

Breathing in slowly he finally brought his body under control as waited for her to make the next move.

Hitomi's breath still came in fast and shallow. Her eyes darted everywhere but up to his, as she still felt the brush of his lips against her skin. Reaching over her fingertips lightly traced a path over the still tingling area. His kisses held a danger to her sanity, but somehow she just couldn't seem to stop thinking about them.

Still trying to avoid his gaze her eyes came to rest on the clock that hung on the wall just over Van's shoulder. Gasping, she momentarily forgot her embarrassment and grabbed hold of his hand dragging him over to the sofa.

"I didn't realize it was so late! Hurry Van we have to get dressed!" Grabbing up the two bags that lay on the sofa, she shoved them into his arms and quickly managed to push him into the bathroom.

Van's quick reflexes were the only way he was able to catch the door before it closed in his face.

"Wait Hitomi. I-…we still need to talk about…"

Hitomi placed a hand over his mouth shaking her head.

"I know Van, there are many things I need to speak to you about as well but we don't have time to do this right now. Do you mind if we wait till after we've come back from my parents house?"

Van looked at her worried expression and couldn't deny her. Even though he was anxious to speak with her about his situation back on Gaea, as well as his feeling for her, he understood that now was not the time to do it. Sighing quietly in frustration, he nodded his agreement and allowed her to swing the door close.

"It never seems to be the right moment to speak to you Hitomi." He should know, as he had tried to do just that, all day long.

Outside the bathroom Hitomi raced for her room and in a flurry of activity quickly slipped on a soft pink dress. It had always been one of her favorites. Simple in design, it fell just an inch above her knees, its empire waistline lending it a sheik look. Her arms where left sleeveless so she grabbed a shawl out of her dresser and wrapped it around her shoulders. She finished up by combing through her hair and slipping on a pair of heals.

Glancing at herself in the mirror she nodded, knowing that she looked the best she ever would wearing that dress. Glancing behind her, Hitomi grabbed her purse, and quickly reached inside for the tube of lipstick she had thrown in there earlier that day.

Her hand collided with the little black box she had shoved into her purse earlier, and her happy mood of only moments before quickly slid away. Without removing the box, her hand tightened its hold as she fought with her conscious over all that had happened since last night.

Her feeling for Van betrayed her commitment to Alex, and yet somehow she felt as if her commitment to Alex betrayed her feelings for Van even more. She had to tell Van that she was promised to another, but the thought of it seemed so wrong somehow. Even though she tried to imagine herself with Alex in the long years ahead of them, she couldn't do it. Instead of Alex's blond hair and blue eyes, she saw Van's wild mane, and dark gaze burning through her.

Had she made a terrible mistake? She now knew that Van desired her, but was it enough? Would one night be enough if she knew she might never see him again after? In her heart she knew the answer. Yes, one night would be enough for her if that was all she could ever have of him. One night may have to sustain her through out the rest of her long, long years.

Later, she would tell him what she really wanted from him. And after, she would deal with the consequences.

Releasing the box, she quickly located the lipstick and finished up with her makeup. She could hear Van moving around in the room next door, having already changed for what was sure to be a somewhat awkward evening for him.

Taking one last look in the mirror she fluffed her hair and with a smile proceeded to go out into the living room.

Van swung around when he heard her door open, and felt his stomach drop at the sight of her. She was so beautiful. His body tightened in reaction as his mind was once again filled with the fantasies that had haunted him ever since he had laid eyes on her.

Taking in her reaction to his new outfit, he smiled as he suddenly realized that she was just as affected by his appearance as he had been with hers.

Unable to keep her eyes off him for very long Hitomi opened the closet door, and blindly grabbed the soft woolen coat that hung just inside. Turning away from him to close the door she nearly jumped a foot as she felt him take the coat from her fingers.

Opening it up he look into her eyes and waited for to slide it on.

Staring at him for a moment, Hitomi felt her heart race once again as she took in his appearance. Who knew he could look so good in a pair of black dress slacks. Her eyes were drawn to the patch of flesh on his chest that was left exposed where he had left the soft burgundy shirt unbuttoned. Her mouth dried up as she continued to gaze down at his hands patiently holding her coat open. She loved his hands.

Blinking rapidly she managed to subdue the overwhelming desire to lock her arms around him and begin what she had planned now, rather than later. Lowering her eyes, she turned and slid her arms into her coat sleeves, gasping as she felt his warm lips leave a soft kiss in the spot that he had scalded with his mouth earlier.

Turning, he reached out and opened the door allowing her to step out into the hallways before him. Closing it behind them, he waited as she looked for her keys in the small bag she carried over her shoulder. Having found it she quickly locked the door and was about to pull the key from the lock when a loud ringing began inside her apartment. Hesitating a moment, Hitomi bit her lip thoughtfully.

"Oh…we don't have time to answer it! I'll just let the answering machine pick up." Shaking her head Hitomi drew the keys from the lock and dropped them into her purse. Swinging around she accepted Van's arm and smiled as they quickly made their way down the hallway.

Inside Hitomi's apartment the phone rang a final time before a loud click was heard. In the stillness of the room a distant voice called out.

"Hitomi? Hitomi dear, please pick up. It's your mother. Oh! I hope you get this message before you leave! You see…there's something you need to know about tonight…"

Scene two - Merle and Talis… Gaea

The stars shone bright over the darkened courtyard as a small shadow separated itself from the castle walls. Cat like eyes had little trouble seeing the large man that rode quietly out of the courtyard and into the surrounding city.

Merle's tail twitched thoughtfully as she watched Mikier ride out into the night. `He has been doing that a lot, I wonder where he goes?' A look of disgust filled her face as she recalled the hushed gossip she had heard earlier about a small whorehouse that sat alone near the outskirts of the city.

"Wouldn't surprise me…" She mumbled, as she turned from the gates and headed back inside. Merle stretched her arms, finally able to relax now that the threat of a late night visit from Mikier seemed less than likely. While he had never been so bold while Lord Van was around, Mikier had since found the nerve to seek her out twice in her own rooms since his departure.

Merle was not stupid, she had known what he was seeking and had made it a habit to keep her doors locked at night. She had also taken to sleeping with one eye open. The man was disgusting, and he wouldn't stop.

Merle didn't understand what his obsession with her was. She thought she had made it very clear, on several occasions, that she detested the very sight of him. It left one to wonder why he would be so foolish as to continue to chase after her.

Rubbing away the chill from her arms, Merle walked along the open corridor and inhaled the sweet fragrance of the flowers that encompassed the small garden on her left. Stopping, she turned and made her way over to a bench that sat next to a small fountain. The sound of water soothed her worry, and a soft caress of the night air lulled her into a relaxed state.

Time stood still for a few seconds as she soaked up the peacefulness of the night, momentarily forgetting all the overwhelming problems that weighed on her mind.

Lost in thought, she didn't notice the tall lithe figure approaching her on silent feet.

"So, this is where you've been."

Merle jumped from her perch, landing in a crouch only a few feet from where she had just been seated. Her heart hammering in her throat, she let out a low hiss as she stared at the cat man grinning insolently back at her.

"What are you doing here?"

Talis's grin widened as he took in the sight of his future mate seething with anger. He had been greatly troubled by her early state and was relieved to see that she was safe.

"I was on my way to see Lord Dryden."

"Then why are you still here?" She spat noticing the arrogant amusement in his bright green eyes. He failed to respond to her outburst but stood silently watching her. His unwavering gaze made her nervous. Merle shifted uncomfortably as they continued to stare at each other. She didn't like this feeling. She felt exposed, as if he could somehow see into her thoughts. Grimacing, she took in his arrogant smile and felt her anger quickly come back to her. There was no way she was ever going to let him get away with making her feel uneasy!

Feigning indifference Merle stood and combed a clawed hand through her hair.

"What do you want?"

"I should think that would be obvious."

His voice was quiet, nearly a caress. Startled by his tone she glanced over at him and felt her nervousness increase. Confused, she examined her feelings and determined that she wasn't exactly frightened of him, but at the same time she still somehow felt threatened.

Turning she began to clean herself, studiously ignoring the arrogant cat man behind her.

Chuckling softly, Talis moved closer till he stood just inches from her.

"It's a wonder that you have been allowed to run around for so long unchecked by a males guidance."

Reaching towards her he gently cupped her shoulders, unaware of the fire that had begun to burn behind her serene expression. Gently Talis turned her in his arms and for a second lost himself in the depth of her eyes.

`By the gods she is magnificent!' he thought, unable to resist the temptation she presented. Stepping closer he brought his face to hover only inches above her own.

Clawed hands brushed her soft hair gently from her face, his senses overwhelmed by the cat woman he now held.

"You have much need of my guidance Merle, allow me to show you…" His whispered words trailed off as he brought his lips closer to hers.

Momentarily forgetting her anger, Merle watched in fascination as his face came closer to hers. A second later his whispered words registered in her mind, effectively snapping her back to reality.

Roughly, she slapped his hand away and quickly put some distance between them. She gazed at his surprised expression and let out a snort of disgust.

"You are just like all the others! You wish to rule, and possess. What I want makes no difference to you does it!"

Her anger boiled over as the stress of the past few days exploded within her, adding fuel to her already raging temper.

"I will not be claimed! By you or any other male who deems himself my better!" Spitting in rage she turned on her heal and began to stalk back to her rooms.

Talis shook himself from his stupor and followed after her. Cutting through the garden he quickly cut short her escape as he landed agilely in the middle of her path.

Merle regarded the menacing male before her wearily. She could feel that Talis presented to her a danger, and yet…she did not fear for her safety. What was this effect he had on her senses? Was she so weak that she would be intimidating by someone who had just proven to her how unworthy his intentions where?

Ignoring her predatory senses for the moment she straightened her shoulders and shot a fierce glare in his direction.

"Get out of my way!"

Talis regarded his woman with steely eyes, and slowly began to start towards her.

"You will not dismiss me."

He saw her eyes flash with some hidden emotion as for every step he took, she took a hesitant one back. A fierce satisfaction filled him as he watched her unconscious surrender, knowing that in the end he would win this battle.

Merle's attention focused on the menace stalking her and ignored her surroundings. Only realizing her mistake as her back hit the cool blocks of the castle wall. A muffled gasp escaped her as she finally saw the trap. Thinking to escape, Merle quickly lunged to the side, away from her nearing adversary.

Talis almost smiled at her predictable actions, as he smoothly followed her movements before coming to a stop only inches from her. Instinctively she flattened herself against the wall, unwittingly trapping herself between a rock and a hard place.

Merle watched with unblinking eyes as he leaned in closer to her, a hand on either side of her head. Silently she cursed herself for not paying attention to her surroundings. She had trapped herself with very little coercion from the man in front of her.

Talis stared down at Merle, his bright eyes flashing with a predatory gleam as he continued to watch her. Her eyes stared up into his and he saw the deep wariness that entered into them. He recalled the man Mikier and wandered if he had ever managed to trap her the way he had now. The very thought of that man touching her sent a cold rage sweeping through him and a loud growl rumbled from deep in his throat.

At the threatening noise, Merle tensed and shrank further against the wall. Her claws springing forth as she prepared for any move on his part.

Talis immediately sensed her fear and quickly forced his emotions under control. Relaxing his stance, he looked down at her worried expression, and called himself fool. He had not meant to frighten her. He didn't want her to fear him.

"I won't hurt you." He said, his voice soft and soothing.

Merle slowly allowed her claws to retract as she regarded him carefully. Aside from his earlier growl he had made no other threatening moves towards her. Even as he had stalked her she knew that it was not her life that was in danger.

Momentarily lost in though, Merle nearly jumped out of her skin as she felt his clawed hand brush her hair away to cup her cheek. He moved so quickly that she had no chance to protest before his mouth settled over hers.

Merle's eyes widened as she felt the first tentative brush of his lips. The feel of his hard mouth against hers left her weak. `What is this feelings?'

She had never experienced a kiss before, never having desired it from anyone but Lord Van. She hadn't realized it would feel so good. Merle closed her eyes and allowed a riot of emotions sweep through her. When Talis's mouth opened over hers and she felt the soft nip of his fangs, her knees nearly buckled at the overpowering sensation that settled low in her abdomen.

Her breath hitched as her body was brought closer to his own. Talis was strength, and power. He made her feel so vulnerable in the shelter of his arms.

Feeling overwhelmed, Merle had begun to pull away when she felt the soft brush of his tongue. It ran across the seam of her lips causing her to gasp.

Talis was quick to take advantage of her reaction. His tongue swept past her lips and tasted the sweetness of her kiss. Merle was instantly lost as the sensations that had been teasing her became a living flame that settled in her stomach.

Reaching around him she pull herself closer into his warmth and felt the stirrings of something powerful take hold of her.

`Was this what the other woman talked about? Was this passion?'

A low growl rumbled in his chest as Talis felt his hunger begin to take control. He wanted so much more than just a kiss, but knew that the moment wasn't right. Allowing his himself one final sweep through her honeyed lips, he pulled back and regarded her intently.

Her breathing was heavy and her half lidded eyes regarded his as if in a daze. A primitive male satisfaction stirred in him as he observed the results of his kiss. He had never seen anyone more beautiful than she at this moment, and wished that he could take the time now to fully claim her.

Merle blinked, her senses returning to her slowly. She gazed up at the warrior before her and knew that she had surrendered to him. Taking a moment to consider her reaction to Talis, she came to the surprising conclusion that it felt right. He felt right.

Merle liked the way he had kissed her, and wished that he hadn't stopped. As a matter of fact, she thought looking at his still glistening lips. She wanted him to do it again. A small feline smile graced her features, as she looked deep into his eyes. Reaching up she brought his head down to hers and claimed his lips for her own. Her contented purr echoed through his mouth causing him to jerk in reaction. Biting his bottom lip, she pulled away and gazed up into his heated eyes, knowing that she had his full attention.

It was now his turn to wear the dazed expression as he looked down upon the beautiful woman in his arms. He had not expected her to do that. She had taken him by complete surprise with her passionate kiss, and when she had purred into his mouth his knees had nearly given out.

He frowned as he watched a sly smile make its way onto her swollen lips. `Wait a second…I am the one who is supposed to make her weak in the knees…not the other way around!' He thought.

Just as Talis snapped out of his daze he looked down to find his arms empty. A giggle from his left had him turning quickly to look at Merle as she stood, graced by the light of the moon.

"Its late." Merle said softly.

He stood there motionless, entranced by her every movement. Slowly Talis realized that she had spoken and nodded his agreement. His breath caught as a slow smile spread across her lips. It was gentle, but still held a hint of the passion that they had shared only moments before.

Shifting uncomfortably he continued to drink in the sight of her as she stood silently only feet from him. He tried to rationalize his overwhelming reaction to her, but couldn't seem to find the source for the powerful feelings churning inside him. No female had ever made him feel this way. He didn't know what to make of her.

Merle tilted her head in thought as he continued to watch her, a puzzled frown etched across his features. He looked so handsome in that moment that she had to fight the urge to walk back and allow him to claim her kisses once again. Closing her eyes she turned away, before slowly looking back over her shoulder.

"Goodnight Talis."

His name on her lips startled him enough that he stepped towards her.

"Merle…"

Merle stopped and turned to look at him. He wore an intense expression on his face as he stared into her sapphire eyes.

"You and I are not done yet."

Merle gazed at him through shuttered eyes as she thought about his statement. No, they where not finished yet, she didn't want them to be. Curiously she felt excitement course through her veins as she shot him a wicked smile.

"No, we're not done."

Talis took another step towards her and stopped.

"I will have you for my mate."

Merle smiled as she turned from him.

"Perhaps…" she purred, laughing softly as she melted into the shadows of the night, a soft challenge making its way back to his sensitive ears.

"…but I won't make it easy for you…"

Talis watched her go and felt his warrior instincts respond to softly spoken challenge. Grinning, he turned from the small courtyard and headed back into the castle. `No you won't make it easy…but I will not fail.'

* * *

Hitomi exited the train and waited patiently for Van to join her. Stepping onto the platform Van looked around in confusion as he took in the view of the ocean. He had long since lost his sense of direction having gone underground and over many buildings. The train seemed to have gone through half the city before Hitomi had finally made her way out of the crowded vehicle. Turning to look at her he smiled sheepishly before offering her his arm. Hitomi accepted it with a smile and they started off down the stairs.

They walked in silence each lost in their own thoughts. Turning to look at the ocean, Hitomi gazed over at the outcropping of rocks several feet out and remembered the last time she had seen her angel.

Van looked down at Hitomi in concern as he heard her soft sigh.

"Hitomi?"

Turning away from the sea she looked up into his worried face, and smiled. They had both changed in the years that had followed their last meeting but essentially they where still the same.

"I was just remembering the last time I saw you. Do you remember?"

Van looked past her to where the sea surged around the cluster of rocks and smiled softly.

"Yes, I remember."

They continued to walk in silence lost in their memories of the time they had spent together. Hitomi smiled gently as she recalled their original meeting. What a fool she had been back then, to blinded by her obsessions to see what was really in her heart.

Glancing up at Van she once again stopped to wonder just why he had never returned after that. Had something happened? Suddenly, Hitomi was very curious to learn why he had left her for so long.

"Van?"

Turning towards her he looked into her eyes and noted her cautiousness.

"Why didn't you come back until now?"

Vans muscles tensed as he turned to look ahead of him. He wasn't expecting to have her ask him this question yet. He didn't know if he could answer her just now.

Turning to look at her downcast expression he pulled them to a stop and lifted her chin so that he could look into her eyes.

"Hitomi, I always wanted to come back but I-." Swallowing, Van looked over her head to the surging waves beyond and struggled to express himself.

"I made a promise to myself, that I would give you five years before coming back to you." Looking down he caught her startled expression and knew that he had eased whatever fear had taken root in her mind.

"There are many thing I want to discuss with you Hitomi, but unfortunately we don't have enough time to do that just now. When we get back I want to explain everything to you."

Slightly dazed Hitomi nodded and allowed him to lead her down the street. It wasn't long before Hitomi caught sight of her parent's house several feet ahead of them. Pointing it out to Van, they quickened their pace and hurried up the stairs. Twisting the doorknob, Hitomi peeked her head inside.

Before she could call out a greeting her mother came through the entranceway and spotted her.

"Oh Hitomi I'm…"

"Hey mom! Sorry we're a little late, my cars still in the shop and we had to take the train." Glancing back at Van she failed to catch her mother's worried look. Grabbing Van's hand she led him further inside and turned to introduce him.

"Mom I'd like you to meet Van."

Van smiled down at the small woman and noted that her eyes had darted to the doorway on her left.

"Van it's very nice to meet you, Hitomi has told me much about you." A warm smile graced her pretty face as she gently took his hand in hers.

Van returned the greeting and watched as Hitomi slipped out of her coat and shawl. Smiling at him she reached down to hug the smaller woman, before calling out to her father.

"Dad? Dad where are you?"

Hitomi mother grabbed her wrist and threw Van an apologetic smile.

"Please excuse us a moment dear, I need to have a quick word with my daughter, please make yourself at home."

Hitomi looked at her mother curiously before smiling distractedly back at Van.

"Don't worry I'll be right back." she called as her mother dragged her past the living room doorway. She saw that they were heading towards the kitchen and in a lowered voice she called out to the woman ahead of her.

"Mom? Is everything ok?"

Hitomi's mother rung her hands as she looked back at her daughter.

"I tried to call you before you came but I…"

Her mother stopped mid sentence and looked over her shoulder with a troubled expression. A sense of dread filled Hitomi as her eyes locked with those of her mothers.

"Hello Hitomi."

Hitomi felt her heart stop as the familiar voice drifted over to her from just behind her.

`No, please…it couldn't be!' Turning slowly she looked up into the handsome face of the man standing before her and nearly fainted. Clear blue eyes look lovingly into her own, and she suddenly felt as if a bit of her soul had died.

In shock she watched as the man came closer drawing her into an enthusiastic embrace. Swinging her up he twirled with her in his arms before planting a searing kiss on her stunned lips. Placing her down he smiled at her and cupped her face gently in his hands.

"A-Alex…" Hitomi's voice sounded hoarse as she spoke his name. Looking up at her fiancé she felt the world suddenly crash around her. She lowered her head and stared at the floor. She couldn't face either Van or Alex right now, all she wanted to do was close her eyes and run from the pain.

Mistaking her shocked silence for irritation Alex drew her chin up and looked into her pale face.

"Don't be mad honey! I know I said I would wait until Monday, but then I talked to your father and …"

Hitomi ceased to listen as her mind momentarily shut down. Noting that she had stopped paying attention Alex looked down at her in concern before noticing the dark man still standing in the door way.

He was wearing a similarly pained expression, and was staring at Hitomi. Alex observed the man and wandered at his relationship to Hitomi. His eyes narrowed slightly as he noted the stranger's dark good looks. Who was this man and why would Hitomi bring him to her parent's house? An uneasy feeling swept through him as he met the strangers eyes. The man looked as if he wanted to tear his hand away from his fiancé shoulder.

Alex looked down and frowned as he noted Hitomi's with drawl from the conversation. She hadn't introduced them yet, and when he glanced down at her left hand he noticed that she had failed to place his engagement ring on her finger.

Not that he was worried though, for in the last three years that he had known her, Hitomi had never once taken an interest in anyone but himself. There was no way she would become involved so quickly with a total stranger. Grinning at the thought he looked at the dark man again and step away from his fiancé.

Glancing down at Hitomi curiously, he left her with her mother and walked over slowly to stand in front of the tall man. Throwing on a friendly smile he reached out his hand and offered the stranger a greeting.

Finally snapping out of her daze, Hitomi turned and helplessly looked back at Van. His eyes instantly collided with hers, and she saw the hurt lurking below the surface. Hot tears burned in the back of her eyes as she observed Alex slowly make his way over to Van's side. She tried to speak before any more damage could be done but her words came to late as Alex clasped Van's hand in his an announced.

"Hi, I'm Alex. Hitomi's fiancé…"

* * *

::Authors Notes:: Oh dear are you guys hating me right now?? Hehe Sorry but it had to be done! You may have noticed that this chapter was a lot shorter then the rest but don't fret my dear readers, the next chapter will be introducing a new twist to the story.

I know I promised my readers that this chapter would be out sooner…. a lot sooner, but so much has been going on that I have not been able to get this done until now. Was one delay after another!! Oh well all that matters is that its finally done!!

I have already started work on the next chapter, and while I can't promise a date for you guys, I am hoping to get it out sooner then I did this one.

On a side note I have opened up a web site of my own! Here is the link! Come check it out if you have a chance!! http://cvrunlimited.homestead.com/index.html I started this web site in protest of ff.net's buggery treatment of me *pout* I'll show you ff.net! Just you wait!!!

*Lightning strikes in the ground behind the mad author as wicked laughter fills the room*

Ahem…Now that that is out of my system I need to ask you all a favor!

REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW, REVIEW!!!! Hehe hope you enjoyed it!! Till next time my friends!

CvR