Disclaimer: I own nothing from sailor moon.

A/N: I am so sorry for taking forever with this next chapter. I know it's been a long time, and I apologize. But you see I've been failing school and I've lost my job, so you know life sucks. But thanks to this story, it has taken away my slight depression. And thanks to my readers. You're the best. Hope you enjoy this one.

Warning: Rated R - Sexual content. Not suitable for readers under 18

Chapter 15: Old Acquaintances

After the flood tide of sensation, Serena shifted, feeling dazed and relaxed. Lying on top of a hard, warm body she sighed, settling more comfortably against her husband. Aware of him adjusting the crotch of his trousers several times, she lifted her head and stared down at him, his lips as swollen as her own. Reaching out to touch his cheek, she smiled before placing her head back onto his chest.

"You are wonderful," she murmured softly, her cheeks reddening as he chuckled.

"Am I?"

"Oh yes, "she whispered shyly. "I can barely think when you put your hands on me."

"Is that a compliment?"

Giggling softly, she nodded. "You have wonderful hands," she sighed, as she breathed in his scent. "Now I know why you were quite the rake. Women must have had a hard time letting you go."

"I don't blame them." Darien grinned.

"You certainly have a very high opinion of yourself." Serena muttered, rolling her eyes.

"Why shouldn't I? I'm a fine looking lad."

"Lad? I beg to differ."

"You think I'm old?"

Laughing at his tone of voice Serena squealed, as Darien set his fingers to her naked flesh, tickling her unmercifully.

"Alright, alright. I take it back. I take it back!" She howled, still giggling as he stopped. Breathless and panting a moment later she lifted her head, her dark blonde hair a tangled mess. Scowling down at him, she thumped his chest. "You don't play nice."

"I never do." Darien said before flipping her onto her back.

Looming above her as he framed her face with his hands, he stared down at her, her lovely blue eyes bright and sparkly. Leaning down to feather soft kisses along the bridge of her nose, he lowered his mouth to hers, kissing her gently as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Brushing her lips once more as he lifted his head, his eyes fell upon the clock. Staring at the time, he groaned.

"What's wrong?"

"Mrs Colebrook and her cake?"

"Oh goodness! We have kept her waiting for far too long!"

Chuckling as she wriggled beneath him, Darien obligingly rolled to the side allowing her to scramble out of the bed as she rushed towards the wardrobe. Sitting up as he stared at the lush curves of her naked bottom, he folded his arms across his chest. Watching as she pulled out a gown, chemise, garters and stockings, he was about to get more comfortable when she looked over her shoulder.

"Aren't you going to get changed? Your clothes are wet!"

Looking down at the sight of his clothes, he grinned. And so they were. Throwing his legs over the bed as he got to his feet, he ran a hand through his hair. Patting down his clothes, he grimaced, the wet fabric sticking to his skin. With one last look at his wife who was now starting to pull on her undergarments, he turned away.

Hearing the door click shut and the sound of his fading footsteps, Serena looked over her shoulder and groaned. The bed was a mess.

Sitting at the dining table with a second helping of cake later, Serena busied herself with cutting her piece into four quarters when Mrs Colebrook came bustling in. Glancing up at the envelope in her hand, she paused. "What have you got there, Mrs Colebrook?"

"Letter for you, lass. From Baron Whiteley."

"From who?" Darien interjected his mouth full of cake.

Ignoring him and the smile that split Mrs Colebrook's stern face, she took the envelope. "Baron Whiteley?" she repeated perusing the name of the sender. Then re-reading the name, her mouth dropped open.

"Melvin!" She cried.

Pulling out the letter and scanning the contents quickly, Darien wiped his mouth. Who in the world was Melvin? Curious now, he waited patiently for her to finish reading the letter.

"Well?" he asked when she finally put it down.

"Well what?" she asked politely.

"What has delighted you so?"

Giving him a brilliant smile, she clapped her hands together. "An old friend of mine has invited us to the Vauxhall Gardens!"

"And that's got you grinning from ear to ear?"

"Of course! Do you know how long it's been since I last saw him?"

"I wouldn't have a clue. Mind giving me a brief description of this… Melvin?"

Letting out a merry laugh, Serena nodded her head. "Why certainly. He's one of my closet friends. A tradesman before he came into his inheritance two years ago. A very likeable fellow, believe me."

"Does he have a wife?" Darien asked.

"Yes, he does. Expecting their first child, I believe." Then pausing to give him a direct look, she tilted her head to one side. "You don't mind attending tomorrow evening, do you?"

"I wasn't aware you wanted me to come."

"Well as to that," she said quickly. "It would be rude not to bring you. Besides, my friends are quite eager to meet you. Heaven knows why."

Flashing her a grin, he shrugged his shoulders. "Well, what can I say? I'm a likeable fellow."

Rolling her eyes, she snorted. "I'm sure you are. But don't be surprised if my friends don't take to you immediately."

Later that night while sitting in front of the chess board, Serena placed her chin in her hand and contemplated her next move. It was just not fair. It had only been half an hour and already, his strategy was formidable. Raising weary eyes to watch Evelyn play with the pup in front of the fire, she smiled. Evelyn, like everyone else had fallen in love with him. Despite the argument that had blown out upon her late arrival from her day out, she had managed to fend off Darien's temper. It had not been easy, but she shut him up after he found out she had taken Emma as a chaperone.

Lounging arrogantly in his chair, Darien tapped his fingers together. He had his next move all set. Regarding her knight, Serena drew back and sighed.

"What's this?" He asked, arching a brow. "Giving up already?"

Pouting down at the board, she folded her arms across her chest.

"No, I need more time to think."

"I'm sure you do," he said tauntingly.

Scowling up at him, she averted her gaze to Evelyn once more. As oblivious as she appeared to be, Serena had a sneaky suspicion that she was quietly listening, ready to receive anything that may be of interest to her. Little eavesdropper. Aware that she was being watched by her opponent, she returned her gaze to his face. Moistening her lips, she leaned forward.

"Darien," she said slowly. "I have a question to ask you."

"Yes?'

"What did happen to your family's bank?"

Straightening in his chair, Darien narrowed his eyes. "Why do you ask?"

"Just curious. I've heard bits and pieces, but not the full story."

"Well whatever you have heard, I am in no mood to explain. Nor am I in the mood to talk about the past."

"Fair enough. I didn't mean to pry, it's just…" Serena murmured, pausing as she stared down at the board.

"Just what?"

"I need to find something to talk about before I make my next move."

"You still haven't figured out a move?" Darien asked starting to smile.

"I haven't conceded defeat yet," she scowled.

"Really? A shame."

"If you're going to take on that attitude with me, I might as well leave." She snapped.

Amused, Darien cocked a brow. "Leave? You couldn't leave even if you really wanted to. Your main aim is to defeat me. Judging by your losses, I don't blame you."

Tight-lipped and glaring from beneath her brows, Serena growled.

"I warn you not to underestimate me. You won't be so confident when I defeat you."

"Oh how you frighten me. It'll take you at least five ye-"

"Ouch! He bit me!" Evelyn cried, cutting him off and interrupting the exchange of heated words. Shaking her hand as the pup stared up at her, she grabbed him under her arm. Knuckling his head as he squirmed and whined, she held him firmly as he tried to escape.

"Evelyn!" Darien snapped, bringing her to attention. "You're only making him worse. Bring him to me."

"Yes, sir!"

Marching over and dumping the heap of fur onto his lap, she turned away and stomped out of the room. Shaking her head at the constant attitude between brother and sister, Serena sighed. Distracted now, she set her mind to the unfinished game as Darien's attention was lost on the pup. Fingering the shape of her knight, she picked it up and made a move. She was doomed to lose anyway.

Standing at the entrance of the famous gardens at the scheduled time, Serena tugged at her cloak, while Darien looking handsome in his simple evening wear, tucked his pocket watch into his jacket. Huddled close as they were pushed and shoved by other visiting patrons, Serena stood on her tiptoe as she tried to spot a white carriage. The street was packed with carriages. Realizing her height gave her a disadvantage, she tugged at Darien's sleeve who immediately looked down.

"What is it?" he half yelled, the music and roar of conversation making it difficult to hear.

"Do you see a white carriage?" she asked loudly.

"No why?"

"They should be here! I know Melvin. If he's not an hour early then he's at least five minutes late. Are you sure you don't see a white carriage?"

"Serena, I've been staring at the damned street forever. I see no white carriage."

Pouting, Serena scratched her head. Where the hell was he? Then, on cue, Darien cried out.

"Hold on! A white carriage with a silver emblem on the side has just arrived. Is that the one?"

Recalling the information Melvin had jotted in the invite, Serena grinned. "That's the one!"

Bubbling with excitement as she craned her neck for the familiar faces a short time later, a short man with large spectacles appeared. Pushing his way through couples and families he managed to pull himself out of the milling crowd. Stumbling behind him, Molly looking radiant with her new pregnancy froze as they spotted her.

"Serenaaaaaaaa!" Melvin squawked, the frames of his spectacles glinting from the brilliant lamps.

"Melvin! Molly!" Serena cried racing towards them.

"Serena wait!" Darien yelled after her, shaking his head as he watched her weave a path through the crowd.

Squealing as she wrapped her arms around Molly, the women laughed and cried, ignoring the irritated looks of people trying to get by. "Oh my, it's so good to see you!" She cried, hugging her tighter. "When did you get here?"

Drawing back to wipe her eyes, Molly's eyes glowed. "Two days ago," she yelled. Then placing a protective hand over her flat belly, she beamed. Following the hand, Serena grinned. "How many months?" she yelled.

"Two months!" Letting out another squeal, they jumped up and down while Melvin, squeezing in between them, seized Serena by the waist. Lifting her up, he spun her about as she laughed in delight. Feeling the telltale tremble in his arms, she begged him to put her down. After being placed back onto her feet, Serena straightened her clothing. Glancing over at Darien who was now striding towards them, she gave him a brilliant smile as he came to a halt. Taking his arm, she introduced him.

"Molly, Melvin. May I introduce you to Darien,"

"Ah, so this is your husband. Lita was right. He is a very dashing man," Molly smiled, the compliment making Darien cringe.

"Lita exaggerates," Serena said, rolling her eyes. "Besides, how is she?"

"Very well the last time I saw her. Though I believe she's off touring Italy by now."

"Italy? She has gone to Italy? How come she didn't tell me?" Serena asked, surprised.

"I wouldn't have a clue. I suppose Melvin and I wouldn't have found out if we hadn't caught her shopping with her husband on our first day in Town."

"So much for keeping in contact."

"Well that's Lita," Molly sighed. "But that's neither here nor there is it?"

"I suppose so," Serena murmured, a little upset.

"Oh come now," Molly said soothingly. "Let's go and enjoy ourselves."

"An excellent suggestion my dear," Melvin chirped, his smile swallowing up his face. "And since we have wasted exactly ten minutes and twelve seconds on useless chit-chat, I suggest we trudge through those gates before a thousand pairs of feet trample us to death."

Laughing at his ill-use of mathematics, they walked through the gates, the landscape resembling an enchanted land.

Viewing the illuminated pavilions, elegant fountains and falling in love with the unique displays of unusual objects, food and drink passed through the crowd like a wave. Onto his fifth glass of punch, Melvin and Molly were soon locked in a battle over who got the last bit of meat pie. As they continued to bicker, Serena let out a sigh before cuffing Melvin over the head. Only then did he relinquish his efforts.

Drawing near to the musicians who were playing a beautiful piece of music, Melvin brightened as he reached into his jacket. Pulling out a flute, he grinned. "Aha! Look what I have here!"

"You play the flute?" Serena asked incredulous, silently wondering how he had managed to stuff the instrument in as Molly groaned, slapping a hand against her forehead.

"Oh Melvin, what are you planning to do?"

"Showing that I can play the flute!"

"You cannot be serious!"

Ignoring her, he drew the flute to his mouth and played alongside the musicians, his instrument disrupting the music. Causing several angry shouts and curses from patrons, he continued to play off-key, oblivious to everything around him. His music career however, ended abruptly when Molly snatched the flute and thumped him soundly on the head. Earning themselves a collective mix of laughter and applause, Molly dragged her husband away by the ear, as Serena and Darien followed, their laughter joining with that of the crowd.

As hours of food, laughter, music and dancing wore on, the crowd started to disperse, with many families departing the festivities. In their place drunkards, pickpockets and prostitutes roamed freely, creating an increasingly dangerous atmosphere. Concerned for his wife's safety as the crowd turned rowdy, Melvin decided to call it a night, promising to see Serena tomorrow. Then wrapping a protective arm about Molly, he led her away.

Watching as they were swallowed up by the crowd, Serena chewed on her lip. She had hoped they would stay for the fireworks. Aware of Darien's hand tightening on her own, she looked up.

"Shall we follow?" He asked, face stern.

Glancing uneasily about her, she shook her head. "Can we stay for a few more minutes? I want to watch the fireworks."

"I don't think that's a good idea."

"Please?"

Unable to refuse her request, Darien sighed. "Alright. But only a few minutes. I swear, you do not know how many thieves have tried to rob me."

Giving him a smile, she stood on tiptoe and kissed him gently on the cheek. "Thank you," she whispered as the night sky burst into colour. Grunting in response, Darien tightened his grip on her hand.

Arriving at their townhouse just after midnight, Serena yawned as she descended the steps from the carriage. Bidding the coachman good night, she went to join Darien who was standing at the door. Pulling out the key from his pocket, he placed it into the lock. They had given Tom the night off. Giving the key a short quick turn the door swung open, revealing a brightly lit hallway. Ever since the attempted robbery the staff had taken to lighting the halls every night.

Blinking as her eyes adjusted to the light, Serena yawned again as she stepped into the house. Removing her cloak from her shoulders, she folded it neatly over one arm. Turning to watch Darien lock the door, she rubbed her neck. Exhausted from the night's excitement, she gave a weary smile as Darien stood beside her.

"You look tired," he murmured.

"I am," she said softly. "I think I had too much fun."

"So did I. Only when I wasn't being pestered by thieves."

Remembering the pocket watch he carried religiously, she looked up in alarm. "They didn't take anything did they?"

Giving her a reassuring smile, he grinned. "Do you honestly think they would succeed? I've given them enough marks to last them a lifetime. Thanks to you, they got a taste of the fingernails, a skill I obviously learnt from you."

Blinking as the words sunk in, she smiled slowly. Then throwing her head back, Serena laughed in disbelief. "Fingernails?"

"You think that's funny do you?" Darien growled, reaching for her.

Laughing harder as she danced out of reach, she ran down the length of the hall. Following her, they raced each other up the stairs, the light from the hall making the steps easier to see.

Continuing the race to their rooms, Serena held up a hand as she doubled over in front of her bedchamber, breathless. "No more," she panted, giggling.

"No more what?" Darien replied, a grin on his face.

Taking a breath and drawing herself up, Serena found herself caged against the door. Looking up into glowing eyes, she felt a jolt at the boyish grin. He looked so young. It certainly took off five years from his age. Realizing that he was staring at her lips, she licked them self-consciously. "Well, it's time for bed," she said awkwardly, the atmosphere suddenly tense. "Good night," she mumbled as she reached for the knob.

Lifting a hand and planting it firmly on the door above her head, Darien leaned close. "No kiss goodnight?"

Giving him an exasperated look, she stood on tip toe and gave him a light, quick kiss on the lips.

"That's your goodnight kiss?" he asked incredulous.

Opening her mouth to respond, Serena widened her eyes as he pressed himself against her, his frame blocking all means of escape. Trapped, excited and a little nervous, she gasped as he kissed her, his mouth hard and warm. Holding herself still as he slid his hands down her body, he cupped her buttocks.

Massaging the lush globes with his hands, Darien deepened the kiss, forcing her mouth to open. Letting her feel the bulge between his legs, his tongue stroked richly, swallowing her breathy gasps as she wrapped her arms about his neck, her cloak dropping to the floor. Releasing one hand from her buttocks he reached for the knob. Giving it a quick turn, the door swung open.

With their lips still locked, they stumbled into the room. Tripping over her cloak as they stepped over the threshold, Darien ended the kiss, his breathing ragged. Gazing down at Serena who was still clinging to him, his heart skipped a beat at the lust in her eyes.

With her lips parted and cheeks flushed, she pressed closer. "Will you stay?" she asked boldly, wanting to feel his hands all over her.

"No," he whispered hoarsely.

"No? Why not?" she asked, frowning.

"Because if I do, I will ravish you."

"I don't mind," she breathed, her lower body tingling with arousal.

Cupping her face in his hands, he shook his head. "Don't let your lust get the better of you, sweetheart. You're not ready yet. And as much as I want to stay, I don't want to rush things."

"But –"

"I made a promise to take things slowly, Serena. And I will stick to that promise."

"Oh," Serena murmured, unable to keep the disappointment from her voice.

Laughing at her crest fallen face, Darien drew her close. "Oh come now. That doesn't mean I am forbidden to touch you. Quite the opposite," he grinned, lowering his head. Capturing her lips in another mind-numbing kiss, he tore his mouth away, his eyes glittering with controlled lust. "Till tomorrow, my sweet lady. The hour grows late, and I am feeling exhausted. Goodnight and sleep well."

Without waiting for a response, he turned on his heel and walked out, closing the door behind him. Absently touching her lips as she stared at the door, Serena sighed as she turned towards the bed. Feeling empty and disappointed, she threaded her fingers through her hair letting the pins drop to the floor. Those who spoke of lust and passion had the right of it, she thought quietly. It really did muddle the mind and make her want the wicked things in life. Blushing at the bold request she had made earlier, she blot out all thought as she started to undress.

The next morning…

Striding up the hall with several letters in his hand, Darien was quietly dreading the mountain of paperwork he was to prepare when coming down in the opposite direction, Serena in a bright yellow dress marched towards him.

"Good morning Darien," she said cheerfully as she came to a halt in front of him.

"Good morning,"

"You are not coming for breakfast?"

"Of course I am, I just have to check something in the study. You are going out today?" He asked assessing her gown.

Excitement brimming in her eyes, she nodded. "Yes. I received a message this morning. I'll be spending the day with Molly and Melvin. Will you join us?"

"I'm afraid not. The paperwork on my desk will keep me locked up in my study like a prisoner. Besides, your father will throttle me if I don't get the work done."

Widening her eyes at the mention of her father, Serena glanced at the letters in his hand. "He wrote to you?" she asked.

"Yes, he did."

"How did he know we were in town?"

"I don't know. I suppose Tom might have informed him of our stay."

"Any words for me?"

"Hmm, let me see," Darien mulled as he pretended to shift through the letters. Whacking him gently on the arm, she tapped her foot.

"Well?" She demanded.

"He sends you his love and wishes you well. The usual jabber a father has for his daughter."

Scowling playfully, she grinned. "Well, I suppose I shall see you much later. Do you want anything while I'm out? Some paper, ink or sweets perhaps?"

"No, nothing I can think of. Though, there is one thing…"

Giving her a sly look, Serena smiled knowingly as she stepped towards him. Wrapping her arms around his neck as she stood on tiptoe, she kissed him lightly. Sighing as he turned the simple kiss into something much hotter, she melted against him as she let him take control. Breathing heavily when the kiss ended moments later, she lowered herself to her feet, her lips swollen and full.

"What time will you be home today?" Darien asked, framing her face.

"Late."

"How late?"

"Late."

"Serena…"

"I'll be home for dinner," she muttered.

"That's a long time." Darien said frowning.

Giving him a light pat on the cheek, she grinned.

"Won't you come home a bit earlier than that?"

"Really, Darien. We're talking about my friends here. I haven't seen them in an age, surely you don't mean to imp-"

"Alright, alright. Feel free to come home at whatever time pleases you." He muttered as she gave him a dazzling smile.

"Thank you, Darien." She said sweetly. Then pulling away from his arms, she blew him a kiss and walked off.

Staring after her retreating form, Darien ran a hand through his hair. Women.

"Really Melvin, out of all places we end up at the bookshop," Serena grumbled, scanning the wall of leather bound books. None seemed to have caught her attention. Even her own library was by far a lot more interesting.

"From what I recall, you were quite eager," Melvin drawled.

"And so I was," Serena declared, closing a book. "But I've lost interest."

"In ancient history?" Melvin laughed, placing a book on crops and farming under his arm. "Very well. We shall leave in ten minutes. The Museum should be open then."

"The Museum?"

"That's right. Apparently they have a new set of artefacts from Egypt. I am quite eager to look at them."

"You've lost interest in fossil bones?"

"Ah, had a nasty incident with a chicken bone at supper a while ago. Almost choked to death and now I can't stand the sight of any bone."

Smiling as she patted his arm, she slotted the book back into its place. "Well, I'm glad you survived. Now if you don't mind, I'll go and wait for you outside."

"Alright, just don't wander off."

"I'll come with you," Molly offered, taking her arm.

Stepping out into the sun as she stood outside the bookshop, Serena inhaled the filthy air of London and coughed. Clearing her throat as she watched the hustle and bustle of activity, Molly sighed.

"I'm hungry."

"You are?" Serena asked, raising a brow. "But it's only been two hours since your last meal."

"Precisely. The child makes me hungrier than usual. I fear its appetite is as great as yours."

"What's that supposed to mean? Besides, we are not to wander off."

"Melvin told you not to wander off. Besides, he'll take more than ten minutes."

"So what are you suggesting?"

"I am suggesting that we dash across the road, get some cakes and be back before my dear husband steps out of the bookshop."

"Will we have time? I mean, the roads are busy enough with speeding carriages. Besides, I see no fault in the shops here."

"Oh don't be so a worry wart. The Serena I know would have no hesitations whatsoever." Then giving her a pleading look, she tugged on her arm. "Please? You've never backed down before…"

Giving into her pleading eyes, Serena groaned as Molly smiled triumphantly. Then turning and leading the way, Serena followed. Watching as she weaved her way through the crowded street, she could only marvel at her speed. For a pregnant woman, she moved very fast. Stopping at the edge of the street with a crowd of people, they waited for the traffic to clear. Turning her head left and right as carriages and coaches sped past, she almost screamed when Molly took her hand and raced out onto the street. Turning her head as a speeding carriage raced towards them, she shrieked, closing her eyes as she waited for the impending crash.

But it did not come. Screeching to a halt as the horses reared, the man cursed viciously as he struggled to control the carriage, the screaming woman at his side making matters worse. Clinging to him as her face paled, Serena glared at Molly who stood frozen, her mouth hanging open as she watched the scene in complete horror, the traffic on the road coming to a brief stop.

Breathing heavily as sweat beaded his forehead, the man jerked on the reins, finally getting the horses under control. Dropping the reins and jumping down from the carriage, he stormed towards the two idiots who were still standing in his way, their bodies huddled close. On the way he cursed as he found his pocket watch crushed to bits. It had slipped out of his pocket during the minute of madness.

"What the hell is wrong with you? Have you no idea what could have happened?" he bellowed, anger coursing through his blood as he loomed above the women. "You fools! You stupid, stupid fools! You could have been injured or worse, killed!"

"We're sorry!" Molly cried, having found her voice as her eyes filled with tears.

"Sorry? Sorry? Is that all you have to say for yourselves? I demand you pay expenses for my broken watch. You idiots. I should strike you both for being so foolish."

"Go ahead. Strike us if it eases your anger," Serena declared, having had enough of the melodrama and looking up at the man for the first time. Staring at none other than Alan D'Artois, she gaped. It was hard not to remember him.

"Mr Alan D'Artois," she gasped, still in a state of shock.

Equally taken aback, Alan stared down at the woman before him. "Mrs Sanderson," he whispered. Blinking momentarily as recognition sunk in, he surged forwards. "Oh God, I cannot believe this." Taking off his hat and running a hand through his hair, he drew in a breath. "Are you alright?" he demanded, his eyes raking her from head to toe.

"I'm fine."

"And your friend?"

Letting out a little squeak, Serena nodded. "She's fine."

"Get onto the street while I park the carriage. I will not have you run over by another."

Carrying out his instruction, Serena gripped Molly's arm as she moved towards the street, running now as coaches and carriages slowly resumed traffic. Safe and sound on the pavement minutes later, she watched as Alan parked his carriage on the side of the road. Aware of Molly clinging to her arm, Serena turned and hugged her close.

"I am so sorry," Molly whispered, her body still trembling from the ordeal.

"It's alright. We're safe now."

"But I could have killed us both. And the baby…" Molly trailed off.

Crying suddenly as she realized the stupidity of her recklessness, she started to sob.

"No don't cry," Serena said soothingly as she rubbed her back.

"I can't help it."

Crying harder now, Serena continued to rub her back as Alan emerged from the crowd, a pretty young woman hanging onto his arm.

"Mr D' Artois," she said, inclining her head.

"She is still in shock?" he asked, gesturing to Molly who was now yanking at a handkerchief and sniffing loudly.

"I'm afraid so."

"I apologize for yelling at you the way I did. I fear I did more damage to the situation."

"Have no fear sir, you had a right."

"He sure did have a right," the woman at his side snapped. "I could have been killed." Narrowing her eyes, she gave them a disgusted look. "Besides, you should be ashamed of yourselves. Running about like two hellions. What would your husbands say?"

"Silence, Lily," Alan muttered.

Ignoring the woman who looked no more than fifteen, Serena turned her attention back to Alan. It was either that or slap the girl for her condescending tone. Looking at the broken watch he held in limply in his hand, she stared at its sad form. Swallowing guiltily, she looked up at him. "About your watch, I am willing to pay for-"

"Don't worry about it," Alan said simply. "It is just a watch."

"Oh, come now. Let me pay for a new one. I know how important it must -"

"I said don't worry about it. I have no need of a new watch."

"But every man has a need of a watch."

"It is only a small item. Not worth discussing over," Alan said, smiling lightly.

"What are you doing, Alan?" Lily hissed in disbelief. "She is offering to buy you another. And judging by what happened, she should. Besides, you need it. You are forever late when it comes to meeting up with me. I won't stand for after we are married."

"Hold your tongue Lily," Alan growled. "I know what I am doing."

Holding her silence as she glared angrily at Serena, she lifted her nose in the air and turned away.

"Ignore her," Alan said apologetically as Serena smiled.

"So you won't accept my payment for a new watch?"

"No." He said, his tone final and hard. Then giving her a smile, he looked into her eyes. "But let us not talk about it anymore. It's been a while since we last met, hasn't it?"

"It has."

"Your husband is well?"

"As well as he could ever be."

"How unfortunate," he muttered inaudibly.

"I beg your pardon?" Serena asked politely.

"Oh, nothing. Now that we have settled down, I should be on my way. You do not mind if I visit you someday? I should very much like to see you every now and then. I mean, we are friends after all."

"It would be no problem at all." Serena said, smiling uncertainly. Had she forgotten his last visit?

Eyes glittering with pleasure as he took her hand, he kissed it gently. "Till next time."

Straightening his bent form as he tipped his hat, Serena watched as he reached for Lily. Staring after him as he started off down the street, Serena waved as his bride-to-be glared viciously over her shoulder.

"He is a friend of yours?" Molly asked quietly, finally shaken out of her tears and fright.

"An acquaintance," Serena muttered, as she took Molly's arm. "Come, let us go back. Melvin will be furious when he hears of our little escapade."

"Must we tell him?"

"This is London, Molly. The news of our near accident has spread like fire. It would be difficult to keep anything secret."

Putting aside the paperwork for tomorrow's perusal, Darien yawned as he looked at the clock. It had been a long day. Placing a small pile of finished work into a drawer, he leaned back in his chair and sighed. It was ten o'clock at night and he was tired. Surging out of his chair as he bent down to pick up the scraps of paper that lay scattered on the floor, a soft knock sounded at the door.

"Come in."

Watching as the knob turned, he frowned at the vision standing in the doorway.

"Serena?" he asked, surprised. "What are you doing here? You should be in bed."

"You should be in bed," Serena countered as she walked towards him, her hips swaying beneath her robe.

Reflecting back on the fiery argument that had erupted during the day, he frowned. After returning home much earlier than expected, he had burned with rage, fear and relief as a very upset Melvin told him of the incident. Though it was not entirely her fault she had nearly been run over by a carriage, he could not have her out and about in London without him. It was obvious danger followed her like a shadow.

"If you have come to ask me to lift the restriction for the hundredth time, it is a definite no." he said, sighing wearily.

"But Darien- "

"There are no buts. My word is final."

"That is not fair! You can't restrict me from leaving the house without you."

"I can and I will."

"You tyrant!" Serena cried angrily.

"Glad you see me that way, sweetheart."

"Stop calling me that! I am not your sweetheart," she snapped. Then marching away, she stomped towards the door.

Striding after her as she reached for the door, Darien slammed a hand above her head, watching as she pulled and twisted at the knob pathetically.

Grabbing her shoulders as he spun her round to face him, he pinned her to the door. "Why can't you see that I am doing this for your own good?"

"My own good? Hah, I don't see it that way."

"Your stubbornness is starting to get on my nerves," Darien growled through clenched teeth.

"Oh is it? I hadn't noticed." Then pushing at his shoulders, she frowned. "Release me."

"No," he said simply.

"No? What do you mean, no? Let go– "

Sealing her mouth with his own before she could utter another word, Darien kissed her as she pounded at his shoulders, keeping her mouth shut as she struggled against him. Pinning her to the door more firmly, Darien forced her mouth to open as he deepened the kiss, kissing her hard as he pulled her to him, the anger that had burned in him moments earlier melting away as desire settled in place.

Returning his fierce kiss with all the pent up frustration, Serena stroked her tongue in rhythm to his, kissing him angrily, as her arms wrapped tight about his neck. But as soon as she felt the bulge between his legs, all anger and fight seemed to disappear as she moaned, forgetting herself as she rubbed against him, the tingling sensation pooling in her lower body once more.

Softening the kiss as he framed her face in his hands, Darien lifted his head and gazed down at her, his chest heaving with every breath. Stroking her cheeks with the pads of his thumbs, he slid his hands down her body. Reaching around to cup her buttocks, he lifted her against him, wrapping her legs around his waist. Carrying her to the hearth where the fire still burned, he lowered her gently to the floor. Looming above her as he set his hands to her robe, he untied the sash. Parting the material reverently, his eyes gleamed at the sight of her, her creamy limbs turning a luscious gold. Raking her near naked form with a lecherous look, he groaned.

Lowering his head to the skin at her throat, he nuzzled it lovingly as the scent of her body filled his nose. Trailing a string of hot kisses down her throat and along her collarbone, he slid the straps of the chemise down her shoulders with his teeth, his breath raising goose bumps on her skin. Baring her breasts to the firelight, he cupped them with his hands, his touch making her buck against him. Looking up at her as he set his lips to one luscious mound, he kissed and licked the soft flesh before taking the pointed nipple into his mouth. Laving it with his tongue, he suckled as Serena arched against him, her cry of pleasure sending a shiver down his spine.

Panting softly as he slowly drew her other nipple into his mouth, Serena threaded her fingers through his hair, holding him to her as he lavished it with the same attention, his tongue curling and sucking at pebbled peak. Twisting and turning as his mouth worked wonders she closed her eyes, her body on fire. With his mouth still at her breast, she gasped as he pressed his hands to her stomach. Kneading and stroking the curve of her belly, he moved down her body, licking and kissing her heated flesh, the act heightening her senses. Moaning as he trained his kisses lower, she gripped his head.

Pleased with her response, Darien sent his fingers dancing along the length of her legs. Raising her knees, he spread them wide open. Settling between her thighs, he watched as he stroked the smooth skin before dipping his head, his breath stirring the blond curls of her sex. Muffling a cry as he continued to blow on the thatch of curls, she squirmed. Pinning her hips to the floor with his hands, he gave her a sensual smile, his eyes bright and intense. Heart pounding in her throat as she watched him, she gasped as he parted her with his fingers. Lowering his head to inhale her musky scent, he licked his lips and descended.

Head pressing back against the floor in ecstasy, Serena moaned as his tongue slid deep. Whimpering as his tongue stroked powerfully, she writhed, her limbs boneless. Chest heaving with every tug of his mouth, she clenched her hands in his hair, her hips swivelling of their own accord.

Drunk with her taste, Darien shifted, lifting her hips higher. Sinking his tongue even deeper, he relished the tightening of her thighs around his head. She was close. Doubling his efforts, he suckled her clitoris. Breath coming out in pants, she strained against him as he clutched at her buttocks. Crying out in sheer pleasure, she fractured, exploding against his greedy tongue. As waves of pleasure coursed through her, he suckled gently, staying with her as she clawed at the rug, the tremors from her climax making her buck against him.

Lowering her hips to the floor, Darien licked the taste of her from his lips as he gazed down at her passion dazed face. It was too much, he thought as he shrugged out of his own robe, the material whispering to the floor. Pulling at the silk pants at his hips, he slid them off. Hovering above her as he licked his lips, he lowered himself to her, settling between her raised knees. Reaching down to guide his groin to the slick heat of her release, he placed a hand on either side of her head. Lowering his head to kiss her deeply, he rubbed himself against her.

Rubbing back and forth along her hot, swollen flesh, he quickened his pace, his fingers flexing as he let out a mighty groan. Spilling his seed as it flowed all over her, he shuddered. Collapsing on top of her as he breathed heavily against her ear, he held her in his arms. He was never letting her go.

A/N: THANK YOU. I know I took forever, but I hope it was worth reading!