Rivals - Chap 11
By Raq
Written 11.00
Re-written 12.02
"Chiba Mamoru," Usagi whispered. Call her insane, but under the moonlight, Mamoru's devilish and charming smile almost looked angelic. Breaking the stillness, her breathing became husky as her knees quivered, Mamoru's right hand traveled up to the side of her rib cage.
"At your service." With known practice, Mamoru took her right hand, lifting it to his awaiting lips. Hot, sensually lips lingered over her cool skin. Warm and inviting, was how Usagi could describe it. 'dangerous' the words ran through her mind over again.
Moments before, Mamoru quietly observed Usagi from his shadowed place. Hidden behind high planters and greenery, he stood admiring her beauty. Usagi thoughtfully gazed at the evening sky, twinkling stars littered in the dark abyss. She had looked completely at peace. The aura he had seen her in inside the ballroom, could not be compared to how she floated and graced the moonlight. Her hip leaning causally on the marble baluster, she had the beauty to hold over any goddess.
Cool air lingered, fluttering tiny ringlets of her hair, causally but sensual within his eyes, she checked them behind her ear. He had seen her blushed then quickly turned away. It was a wonder to him what had caused such a stir within her cheeks. Mamoru's smile was wicked but tame, he would love to be the reason to cause her to blush, hear his name deeply within her throat, begging for more. If he played his cards right, she will wake on his bed the very morning. So when she said his very name, whispered within her vulumptious lips, then a soft and meaningful sigh followed. He couldn't resist, bold and confident he quietly took the few silent steps.
"What... what are you doing here?" a bit shaken and whispered, Usagi found her voice. His eyes, lingered over Usagi's for a moment, dropping down to her lips.
"Would you believe.... I was invited?" he grinned, Mamoru felt the weakening of her knees and held on to slender waist. The man can cause woman to be completely mindless, was all Usagi could think.
"Invited?" Still mesmerized by his lusterous stare, Usagi muttered absentmindedly "Of course you are." Chuckling, Mamoru swiveled and trapped her against the marble railings. "I mean" lowering his face, Mamoru, grazed his softly shaven chin on the top of her neck. Usagi was fighting and she very well knew it, this attraction wasn't good.
"I... I.. wanted to be alone" eyes closing, relishing the sensual feeling, she murmured "out here."
"But you invited me," he whispered as his lips trailed soft kisses from tips of her lobes to the midst of her chin. Clearly tranced, Usagi closed her eyes, 'this can not be good!' she thought. Her heated skin shivered at the cool garden fragrant smell and heated under Mamoru's lips. Opening her eyes, Usagi held his stare.
"I did?" she whispered, mind as clouded as a gray day. Usagi was clearly lost for words.
"Mmm hmm.." his lips made its way down to her collarbone. "When you passed me by, with your hips swaying like a pendalum, and your eyes. That look, it was an invitation I could hardly refuse.
"Oh" she whispered as his lips made its way back to her neck. Suddenly it dawned on her, he thought she invited him! Jaq had always said, her eyes would get her into trouble, 'they have the seductive and lustful calling for a mate'. 'A Dangerous formidiable mate.' Now staring at Mamoru, she silently swallowed the lump forming in her throat. "You've mistaken, I di...." and before she was able to get another word, hard, firm and eager lips swooped down to cover her own. The impact was fierce and hungry, then slowly it became passionate, laced with desire and lust. Holding her arms at her side, Usagi fought with her conscience, trying to pull whatever ounce of self control she had left. The fight she knew was futile, his experienced lips, suckled and drew her near. The novice in her wanted more! The feeling of soft silk, the taste of strawberries and champagne, the need to be taught what she had forgotten so long ago. Her last visteage fluttered, as he parted her already swollen lips. Usagi's hands raveled from his chest, her arms snaking its way around his neck. There was a tightening around her waist, his solid arms drawing her even closer, branding his body on to hers.
Mamoru, was lost in his own desire and lustful assault to notice anything else. He had been happy just caressing her cool skin with his lips. Enticing her to take his offer after the evening ended, but when she had said, he had mistaken. Losing his control, Usagi would pay for any regrets. It wasn't a mistake to come out here, invited or not! He felt the reluctance in her kisses, the hesitation, the ackwardness of school-girl. Mamoru kept his assault, she was not going to get away that easy, he wanted a response! He had felt her igniting as he sweetly nibbled on her neck, then held back into a core as she started to regret. He would be damned if he let this end, leaving him on fire and painfully aroused.
Both fully aroused and breathless, Mamoru watched as Usagi's slowly opened her eyes. Smiling as her eyes twinkled with uncertain desire. She had the loveliest blue eyes, he had ever seen, so crisp, so preciously blue. He watched as she brought her fingers towards her bruised lips. "I have never.." she whispered "experienced anything like that before" a blush crept to the high cheek bones as she watched Mamoru's eye brows raise. Embarrassed to have admitted how naïve she must be, Usagi turned from his embrace and walked a few steps, putting distance between herself and Mamoru.
Mamoru silently watched her move, contemplating and other things he could not read, crossed her features. After a moment of silence, she quickly turned to him "Mamoru, I don't think we should."
"Should what Usagi-chan?" Usagi blushed at his teasing.
"You know what I mean." Her cheeks pinkened.
"If your referring to the kiss, I thought you rather liked it" slowly he approached her, closing the few steps that took to reach her.
"I.. well.." she just could not get herself to stop blushing "I've never felt anything like that before. I mean" she turned away, looking out towards the endless span of darkness. "You felt how ackward that was for me." Mamoru listened to her words, indeed he had felt her ackwardness in the kiss, with his persistence she had given in and followed his movements. "It's been years since I've been intimate with anyone, let alone having been kissed in that, way."
She was toying with him, he had first thought. The way she flirted with her sensual movements, enticing every male in sight. Usagi could not possibly be a novice at playing the sultry vixen, not when she looked so damned beautiful. But just they way she was looking about now, vulnerable, ackward, and something akin to being frightened brought him to the truth. His hand made its way to the small of her back. "Perhaps all you need is a teacher." Usagi caught his meaning and moved a few steps away.
"No..." she half whispered, "Things would just get complicated Mamoru."
"How so?" Mamoru crossed his arms.
"Among other things, there are some things you do not know about me that would make things VERY complicated."
"Care to elaborate?"
"Not really" she swallowed nervously. Where was her control? Where was her self-assurance? Dam Chiba to cause her such confusion.
"Well perhaps Ill have to pry it out of you" Usagi turned to find him taking a few steps towards her with a devilish smile. Backing away to match his step, he stopped at her actions. 'Was she frightened?' "What's the matter Usagi? Do I frighten you?" Perhaps he had assumed too much, perhaps she 'is' what she claims to be.
"No"
"Then?" They were inches apart. Mamoru wanting answers and Usagi wanting to retreat to safety.
"You just confuse me Mamoru-san," Usagi was honest, the man confused her. He made her doubt herself, throwing away all her confidence and composure for one kiss, one sensual unforgettable kiss. Usagi knew that kiss was going to haunt her for evenings and even days end. Slowly his head began to dip down, Usagi though refusing to give in, waited for the silky invasion of his lips.
'COUGH.' Mamoru and Usagi hesitantly turned to the man hidden behind the shadows. "Excuse my interruption"
"Yes," Kaze stepped away, his eyes greeting Usagi calmly then turning towards Mamoru. Usagi blushed and wondered how much Kaze had seen.
"Mr. Tofuyima is looking for you, he had needed to speak to you immediately."
"I have to go as well," Usagi started for the door. Mamoru wasn't going to let her get away that easily. His large hands reached out and gripped her wrist, halting her quick steps.
"Later?" Turning, she looked upon the features of the man. He was handsome, he would be a wonderful teacher, then again, she doubted he would like to teach her anything, when he found out who she was. Things between just would not and could not work.
"No," she whispered. His face masked, he shook his head. It wasn't the answer he had wanted. Tightening his grip on her wrist he had the urge to hurl her against his chest and prove to her how wrong her answer had been. "You'll understand soon enough, Mamoru." pulling her small wrist from his grip, she picked up her dress and walked off.
Usagi returned and seated herself between Mina and Motoki. Motoki had seen her exit towards the balcony, later found Mamoru to exit the very same door. He had the urge to go and make sure Usagi was okay, Mamoru could be very demanding and presistent when it came to women. Not only would it be wrong but he would never hear the end of it from his fiancé. Motoki took a quick glance towards his smiling woman. No, things would not go lightly if Usagi-chan were just another one of his conquest. In fact, he mind as well find another best man. Determine to intervene, he made his way but was side tracked when an old friend had pulled him aside.
Now, as Usagi sat, he almost wanted to ask flat out if 'anything' had happened. Her lips he noted, as he watched her sip her wine, were heavily plump, albeit, he thought with a sigh, courtesy of Mamoru and his expert ways. She conversed and then stilled, Motoki took a quick glance at what had gotten her attention and found no other than Mamoru. Who at the very moment, trained only on Usagi. Had the deepest and laziest blue eyes he had ever seen.
Usagi had felt the inspection beside her and with a quick turn found Motoki to be eyeing her lips. "Something happened?" he hesitated "Usagi-chan?" he asked nodding towards Mamoru then back at her.
Usagi shook her head, but then spoke differently "I would prefer to talk about it elsewhere," Motoki nodded, his fiancé busy speaking to Naru-chan.
"Well if you need to talk Usagi-chan, I'm here. Besides," he nodded towards Mamoru who was currently speaking to a woman, hanging on his every word. "I've known that man for quite sometime now"
"Do you?" she asked quietly. Not wanting Mina to over hear their conversation.
"My grandparents and his are great friends. We grew up together." Usagi still had her eyes on Mamoru. Leaning down and whispering something to the woman for her only to hear. It was then his eyes caught Usagi's, his grin seductive, lifting his wine glass to acknowledge her.
"Tell me Motoki-san" Usagi returned her conversation with Motoki "Being close friends and all, what do you think he would do when he finds out who I am?" Motoki didn't know how to answer. His eyes traveled towards his friend of many years.
Chiba Mamoru, the enigmatic man who roamed Japan with ease, the man who emanated wealth and success. Wealthy before he was born, wealthier with his own business, a business that was easily his to conquer. What would he do? Motoki asked himself. If anyone had gotten in the way of his empire they would meet his wrath, as he had seen before. And now, Motoki turned to eye Tsukino Usagi, who was still measuring Mamoru. Daughter of Tsukino Kenji, and new CEO of Tsukino Financial, Chiba's number one rival. With a sigh, he chooses his words carefully.
"Usagi-chan. That is a question that I can not answer" Usagi nodded in agreement.
"Chiba-san isn't a man to let any woman ruin anything for him. I think, we will be at swords and fences"
"It's what you'll get when you put two brilliant business icons together" he took a sip of his wine and leaned towards Makoto, whispering something in her ear. With an elegant nod, he stood.
"What? What do you get?" she asked curiously, still hanging on his statement.
"War! An all out war!" Usagi chuckled "May I have this dance Usagi-chan?" Motoki stood and waited for her acceptance.
"I would be delighted" Usagi stood and placed her small hands onto his.
Across the ballroom, Mamoru stood within a group of associates. Ignoring the gibes and nonsense as his eyes followed the retreating back of his best friend and the enchantress Usagi. Just moments ago, Mamoru had caught both Motoki's and Usagi's stare. It had seemed from his point of view that the topic was of him. No doubt, he would have to speak to Motoki, if it concerned him, he would like to be included. As he stared, he consciously lingered over Usagi's last statement. She said things would get complicated, in which way? Through his eyes, the only way things would get complicated is if she kept denying him. Narrowing his eyes, he found the hand that Motoki placed on the small of her back to be pricking his sense. Indeed he would need to speak to him.
"War!" Usagi laughed again "Motoki your exaggerating, it wouldn't be that bad"
"You don't think so?" Motoki had arched his brow "You can run his business through the ground Usagi, I'm sure he wont take that too lightly"
"I don't now!" she sighed heavily "You don't think he will at lease be civil?"
"Civil? Sometimes I think the man doesn't know what that means" Motoki eyed her silently as they slowly danced to the melody. "Besides, unless your interested in Chiba Mamoru, you shouldn't be worried" Usagi lifted her eyes and covered what ever revealing feelings she had. "Are you?"
"Am I what?"
"Interested?"
"Don't be silly" she chuckled "I've got better things to think about without fighting other women of Tokyo for his attention" Motoki smiled, if she only listened to what she had admitted too.
"So, if you had time you wouldn't mind vying for his attention?" he asked with a grin.
"Motoki, your asking more than I want to share." She smiled
"and?"
"I'm trying to get an insight!"
"An insight on what?" An insight on what? She asked herself. What was the man thinking.
"On how you truly feel?"
"Why?" Usagi asked now quite confused.
"SO I know as how I can help you?"
"This is getting now where Motoki, help me in what?" They stopped dancing and was staring at one another.
"Whether to help protect you from him or lay a few encouraging words his way or vice versa" Her feature couldn't be more than telling. Her eyes wide her mouth somewhat opened, she stared at him. "What?" She said nothing! Thought about her answer and came to a dead end. Motoki was a wonderful man, wonderful for her best friend and a great edition to their circle of friends. He was also the best friend to the man she knew, would be in her dreams this very evening. With a soft sigh, she finally spoke.
"Honest the truth Motoki, I think the man to be utterly attractive."
"And?"
"And utterly dangerous!" Motoki chuckled but couldn't deny it. Mamoru was lethal in his own way.
Twirling Usagi, he laughed at her 'please don't tell the girls look' Looking for his fiancé, he survyed the area where he had left her. There she was, smiling away with Ami this time when a solid figure blocked his view. His brown eyes lifted to see he was, sure enough, Mamoru's figure neared at every step. The man, looked determined and noted the look he was currently sending his way. Best friends they may be, but the look he was receiving could burn him to ashes.
"Just to warn you." His step not giving way to his friends prowling.
"Hmmm" Usagi looked up at him.
"Mamoru is coming this way"
Usagi straightened "Please stay.."
"May I cut in?" Motoki twirled Usagi to face Mamoru. Motoki smiled "Can't have her all to yourself now can you?"
"Of course not" smiling, Motoki took a quick step back. "I'll see you later Usagi-chan" with a quick nod he left them. Firm hands gripped her own as the other were heavily placed on her waist. Silence instilled between them. Refusing to look up, she didn't want to reveal the vulnerability she had when he was near. Usagi didn't know what to say, much less how to say it.
"You dance very well, very graceful." Thankful, she smiled and finally looked up. His eyes though calm, she still could see remnants of passion burning within.
"You wouldn't of said that if you knew me in junior high" Usagi chuckled "I was clumsy as an ox"
"You, clumsy?" Mamoru smiled "pulling my leg?"
"No really, ask one of the girls and they'll tell you. I tripped on my own two feet at just about every block in Juban" Usagi shared that much, she thought of younger days. Where she and the girls would walk to the famous arcade. Lita and Rei purposely stood beside her incase she needed anchor. Smiling, she looked up about to share her memory. A mistake!
Watching her intensely, Mamoru glided her through the dance floor. They say one's eyes are the windows to a soul and that all you had to do was look within. But his, Mamoru's were masked, his soul hidden behind the turbulent ocean. His eyes averted to her cherry lips "You are nothing but graceful now" voice husky. A shiver ran through Usagi, his breath on her shoulder.
"Arigato" she whispered, caught in his once again hypnotic stare "That's very sweet of you"
"Sweet? That's the first" chuckling at her comment, she didn't know him at all. He had been called many things, asshole, prick, a bastard but never sweet. It made a man weak and 'he' was not weak.
"Why not?"
"I am everything but sweet,"
"Really" Usagi questioned him with a subtly arched brow.
"Yes, Really"
"I don't believe it! A nice and handsome guy like yourself"
"You think I'm handsome?" he asked teasingly. Usagi blushed, she had just admitted to being attracted to him. First she reveals herself to Motoki and now, him! 'Were men this difficult in the US?'.
"Tall, raven hair, blue eyes." She caught his gleaming smile widen at each compliment. His ego was rising, she had to deflate it somehow, or he would think she was just another pawn in his pursuits. "No.. no. I think I changed my mind, your features are very common." His grip on her waist became tighter, a menacing gleam caught her eye. She laughed at his response and freely giggled at his smiling eyes. "A woman is aloud to change her mind"
"Not in my case" he chuckled and twirled her around the dance floor.
~
"Molly, would you like to have dinner with me sometime?" Narahiko asked calmly. Molly's faced turned a deep shade of red for the whole gang was waiting for her answer.
Motoki sat in silence as everyone waited and taunted Narahiko and Naru-chan. He had joined the group and now sat along Makoto's left side, his attention clearly on the couple he had left on the dance floor. Mamoru whirled Usagi around, without a care on who was seething beside him. Beryl at the moment stiffly stood along the dance floor, rying to catch Mamoru's attention. Another, giving Usagi a green look of jealousy. Of course Usagi didn't know what attention she had. She had every male, married or not crooning to catch her attention. Women glowered at her and heads turned at the sight her in Mamoru's arms. With frustrated sigh, Motoki couldn't shake off the feeling that somehow, under all the high corporate business rivalry they held, seeing them together was right! Why? He didn't know, perhaps it was the way Mamoru was smiling at Usagi. Fondly and even intimately, her glittering reaction when she looked up to him. It felt right.
"You okay honey?" Makoto draped her arm along his shoulder.
"I'm fine" Grabbing her hand on his shoulder, giving it a subtle squeez.
"Then what's got you frowning?" She stared off to where his eyes wandered.
"Them!" he nodded towards the now laughing couple "I have this feeling, this odd feeling"
"Feeling?" he looked at his fiancé, she was absolutely wonderful!
"Not at the moment" he smiled "maybe later, when there's no one around" his eyes gestured towards the others.
"I have to admit" Makoto returned her gaze back to the dance floor. "They do make a handsome couple" Motoki agreed. If opposites attract, it was true in physical sense as well. Usagi was petite, and very feminine, Mamoru was tall, and very masculine in every way.
"He doesn't waste his time does he?" Mina's tone held more malice than she wanted. Everyone, including Motoki turned to look at Mina. Her hands on her waist, she stared towards the dance floor. Following her gaze, the table looked on to the still dancing couple. Kaze took one of her hands and held it.
"Minako baby, leave him alone. As far as we can see, they're both enjoying the night, lets not start anything" She glared at him. Start anything? He was the one that pricked her senses when he was near. He was the one that irked her every bone when he would even speak his pig headed ways. He was the one playing dirty and she will not just stand here and let him swindle Usagi-chan off her feet to be hurt and used.
"Mina, there out on the dance floor" Ami's calm voice soothed her. "She'll be fine, remember what Usagi-chan said to us?" She was right, Mina thought, Usagi could hold her own. Besides, Mina looked up at the clock and smiled.
"I will not even ask what that smile was about?" Kaze pulled Mina down on his lap and hugged her.
"That's good, cause I wouldn't of told you" Mina glanced at her co-workers who were busily talking with others. Wasn't there one of them concerned for Usagi's reputation being with him? Mina returned to her own chair and remained quiet, troubling thoughts of what will happen once the announcements came. Mamoru was as arrogant as they came and had even more pride then he should own. She had to separate them before the announcement, Mamoru's known for his temper. But then again, Mina smiled larger, a gleam in her eyes that Kaze noticed. It would be classic to see his reaction when he realizes he's been dancing with his rival.
Jeshi sat next to Motoki and had been watching the scene himself. Quietly he eyed the two, if the man didn't leave such a bad taste in his mouth when ever he saw him. He would agree to them being friends. But the guy was walking trouble. As for Rei, he sighed, he'll talk to her when he got home.
~
"Isn't that Chiba Mamoru?" Mrs. Kina observed the dance floor.
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina watching the two dance. 'this should be interesting' he thought.
"He doesn't know does he?" asked Mrs. Kina turning to her husband.
"No" he smiled.
"You're a devious old man, Mr. Kina" chuckling at her response, Mr. Kina returned his attention to the dancing couple.
~
"Who is that girl?" asked Beryl bitterly as she watched the two. She had been sniffing for Mamoru all evening, trying to get in his good side. But he was occupied, if not with a client with her!
"Who?" asked Damon
"HER!" pointed Beryl. Damon followed he gaze and found the nerve that was hitting Beryl.
"Jealous?" he said, Beryl returned the comment with a glare. "Beautiful though"
"If you like blonds"
~
"Its getting late" said Mr. Thompson "I think its time to introduce your officer." Motioning to Usagi. Then taking note of the man she was dancing with. "Is that Chiba Mamoru?"
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina with a smile.
"I hope you know what you're getting her into" he chuckled
"She knows of him"
"And he?"
"Not a dam thing" Kina walked of with Thompson trailing behind. Smiling and weaving throughout the floor, he smiled at his CEOs and made his way towards the podium.
~
"Its time," said Mina as she spotted Mr. Kina and Mr. Thompson talking and making there way towards the podium.
"We'll see you guys later" Still staring at Usagi and Mamoru, Mina had not even realized that Kaze had kissed her cheek. "Mina!"
"Oh, sorry honey" quickly she returned the kiss on his cheek. With a sigh he and the others retreated to their table.
~
Mamoru and Usagi conversed, things that they find interesting. Simple things, the weather, the places she's lived. Completely ignoring his probing comments on what she did. It was easier for her to ignore the questions, he was persistent and more than likely her answers will just make him even more curious.
"Why is it that every time I mention career's you choose to ignore it?"
"I can't tell you all about myself in a single evening can I"
"Then, have dinner with me?" Usagi eyed him. "And you can tell me all about your" Mamoru didn't go on, he caught eye of the Mr. Kina and the very same man who escorted Usagi to her table. "Usagi who is that man?"
"Hmmm?" Mamoru turned her towards Kina and associates.
"The one who escorted you to your table earlier" Usagi caught eyes with Kina and Associates and nodded. Mamoru saw the silent transmission but said nothing.
"That's Uly Thompson,"
"I've heard of him, he's the right hand man to Kenji Tsukino right?" It came to him, the name had sounded familiar. Usagi's figure became rigid as he recognized the name.
"I have to go Mamoru."
"Ill see you later then?" he asked, still trying to decipher the silent exchange that had passed between them. Usagi eyed him carefully but said nothing. He wasn't going to want to see her later.
"We'll see" she whispered then walked off towards her table.
"May I have your attention please" Mamoru made his way to his own table. "My name is Uly Thompson and I would like to thank all those who have attended." Without one word from any of his colleagues he sat. Once settled, he took one sip of his water and exhaled. At lease now he could finally find out who he would be up against. Instinctively his eyes darted over towards the Tsukino Executives, Mina, Ami, Jeshi, Naru, Motoki and Makoto, where was Usagi?
Please stay tune for chapter 11
I know Ive been gone a LONG TIME... Sorry! Motherly duties come first. I tried to edit theses stories and I don't think I did very well. So Im requesting for an editor please. Anyone that would like to apply please email me. Other than grammar and spelling, I need an editor that will get critical. I would like them to stay on a deadline and KEEP ME IN LINE for mine!
Hope a few of you are interested... [email protected]
By Raq
Written 11.00
Re-written 12.02
"Chiba Mamoru," Usagi whispered. Call her insane, but under the moonlight, Mamoru's devilish and charming smile almost looked angelic. Breaking the stillness, her breathing became husky as her knees quivered, Mamoru's right hand traveled up to the side of her rib cage.
"At your service." With known practice, Mamoru took her right hand, lifting it to his awaiting lips. Hot, sensually lips lingered over her cool skin. Warm and inviting, was how Usagi could describe it. 'dangerous' the words ran through her mind over again.
Moments before, Mamoru quietly observed Usagi from his shadowed place. Hidden behind high planters and greenery, he stood admiring her beauty. Usagi thoughtfully gazed at the evening sky, twinkling stars littered in the dark abyss. She had looked completely at peace. The aura he had seen her in inside the ballroom, could not be compared to how she floated and graced the moonlight. Her hip leaning causally on the marble baluster, she had the beauty to hold over any goddess.
Cool air lingered, fluttering tiny ringlets of her hair, causally but sensual within his eyes, she checked them behind her ear. He had seen her blushed then quickly turned away. It was a wonder to him what had caused such a stir within her cheeks. Mamoru's smile was wicked but tame, he would love to be the reason to cause her to blush, hear his name deeply within her throat, begging for more. If he played his cards right, she will wake on his bed the very morning. So when she said his very name, whispered within her vulumptious lips, then a soft and meaningful sigh followed. He couldn't resist, bold and confident he quietly took the few silent steps.
"What... what are you doing here?" a bit shaken and whispered, Usagi found her voice. His eyes, lingered over Usagi's for a moment, dropping down to her lips.
"Would you believe.... I was invited?" he grinned, Mamoru felt the weakening of her knees and held on to slender waist. The man can cause woman to be completely mindless, was all Usagi could think.
"Invited?" Still mesmerized by his lusterous stare, Usagi muttered absentmindedly "Of course you are." Chuckling, Mamoru swiveled and trapped her against the marble railings. "I mean" lowering his face, Mamoru, grazed his softly shaven chin on the top of her neck. Usagi was fighting and she very well knew it, this attraction wasn't good.
"I... I.. wanted to be alone" eyes closing, relishing the sensual feeling, she murmured "out here."
"But you invited me," he whispered as his lips trailed soft kisses from tips of her lobes to the midst of her chin. Clearly tranced, Usagi closed her eyes, 'this can not be good!' she thought. Her heated skin shivered at the cool garden fragrant smell and heated under Mamoru's lips. Opening her eyes, Usagi held his stare.
"I did?" she whispered, mind as clouded as a gray day. Usagi was clearly lost for words.
"Mmm hmm.." his lips made its way down to her collarbone. "When you passed me by, with your hips swaying like a pendalum, and your eyes. That look, it was an invitation I could hardly refuse.
"Oh" she whispered as his lips made its way back to her neck. Suddenly it dawned on her, he thought she invited him! Jaq had always said, her eyes would get her into trouble, 'they have the seductive and lustful calling for a mate'. 'A Dangerous formidiable mate.' Now staring at Mamoru, she silently swallowed the lump forming in her throat. "You've mistaken, I di...." and before she was able to get another word, hard, firm and eager lips swooped down to cover her own. The impact was fierce and hungry, then slowly it became passionate, laced with desire and lust. Holding her arms at her side, Usagi fought with her conscience, trying to pull whatever ounce of self control she had left. The fight she knew was futile, his experienced lips, suckled and drew her near. The novice in her wanted more! The feeling of soft silk, the taste of strawberries and champagne, the need to be taught what she had forgotten so long ago. Her last visteage fluttered, as he parted her already swollen lips. Usagi's hands raveled from his chest, her arms snaking its way around his neck. There was a tightening around her waist, his solid arms drawing her even closer, branding his body on to hers.
Mamoru, was lost in his own desire and lustful assault to notice anything else. He had been happy just caressing her cool skin with his lips. Enticing her to take his offer after the evening ended, but when she had said, he had mistaken. Losing his control, Usagi would pay for any regrets. It wasn't a mistake to come out here, invited or not! He felt the reluctance in her kisses, the hesitation, the ackwardness of school-girl. Mamoru kept his assault, she was not going to get away that easy, he wanted a response! He had felt her igniting as he sweetly nibbled on her neck, then held back into a core as she started to regret. He would be damned if he let this end, leaving him on fire and painfully aroused.
Both fully aroused and breathless, Mamoru watched as Usagi's slowly opened her eyes. Smiling as her eyes twinkled with uncertain desire. She had the loveliest blue eyes, he had ever seen, so crisp, so preciously blue. He watched as she brought her fingers towards her bruised lips. "I have never.." she whispered "experienced anything like that before" a blush crept to the high cheek bones as she watched Mamoru's eye brows raise. Embarrassed to have admitted how naïve she must be, Usagi turned from his embrace and walked a few steps, putting distance between herself and Mamoru.
Mamoru silently watched her move, contemplating and other things he could not read, crossed her features. After a moment of silence, she quickly turned to him "Mamoru, I don't think we should."
"Should what Usagi-chan?" Usagi blushed at his teasing.
"You know what I mean." Her cheeks pinkened.
"If your referring to the kiss, I thought you rather liked it" slowly he approached her, closing the few steps that took to reach her.
"I.. well.." she just could not get herself to stop blushing "I've never felt anything like that before. I mean" she turned away, looking out towards the endless span of darkness. "You felt how ackward that was for me." Mamoru listened to her words, indeed he had felt her ackwardness in the kiss, with his persistence she had given in and followed his movements. "It's been years since I've been intimate with anyone, let alone having been kissed in that, way."
She was toying with him, he had first thought. The way she flirted with her sensual movements, enticing every male in sight. Usagi could not possibly be a novice at playing the sultry vixen, not when she looked so damned beautiful. But just they way she was looking about now, vulnerable, ackward, and something akin to being frightened brought him to the truth. His hand made its way to the small of her back. "Perhaps all you need is a teacher." Usagi caught his meaning and moved a few steps away.
"No..." she half whispered, "Things would just get complicated Mamoru."
"How so?" Mamoru crossed his arms.
"Among other things, there are some things you do not know about me that would make things VERY complicated."
"Care to elaborate?"
"Not really" she swallowed nervously. Where was her control? Where was her self-assurance? Dam Chiba to cause her such confusion.
"Well perhaps Ill have to pry it out of you" Usagi turned to find him taking a few steps towards her with a devilish smile. Backing away to match his step, he stopped at her actions. 'Was she frightened?' "What's the matter Usagi? Do I frighten you?" Perhaps he had assumed too much, perhaps she 'is' what she claims to be.
"No"
"Then?" They were inches apart. Mamoru wanting answers and Usagi wanting to retreat to safety.
"You just confuse me Mamoru-san," Usagi was honest, the man confused her. He made her doubt herself, throwing away all her confidence and composure for one kiss, one sensual unforgettable kiss. Usagi knew that kiss was going to haunt her for evenings and even days end. Slowly his head began to dip down, Usagi though refusing to give in, waited for the silky invasion of his lips.
'COUGH.' Mamoru and Usagi hesitantly turned to the man hidden behind the shadows. "Excuse my interruption"
"Yes," Kaze stepped away, his eyes greeting Usagi calmly then turning towards Mamoru. Usagi blushed and wondered how much Kaze had seen.
"Mr. Tofuyima is looking for you, he had needed to speak to you immediately."
"I have to go as well," Usagi started for the door. Mamoru wasn't going to let her get away that easily. His large hands reached out and gripped her wrist, halting her quick steps.
"Later?" Turning, she looked upon the features of the man. He was handsome, he would be a wonderful teacher, then again, she doubted he would like to teach her anything, when he found out who she was. Things between just would not and could not work.
"No," she whispered. His face masked, he shook his head. It wasn't the answer he had wanted. Tightening his grip on her wrist he had the urge to hurl her against his chest and prove to her how wrong her answer had been. "You'll understand soon enough, Mamoru." pulling her small wrist from his grip, she picked up her dress and walked off.
Usagi returned and seated herself between Mina and Motoki. Motoki had seen her exit towards the balcony, later found Mamoru to exit the very same door. He had the urge to go and make sure Usagi was okay, Mamoru could be very demanding and presistent when it came to women. Not only would it be wrong but he would never hear the end of it from his fiancé. Motoki took a quick glance towards his smiling woman. No, things would not go lightly if Usagi-chan were just another one of his conquest. In fact, he mind as well find another best man. Determine to intervene, he made his way but was side tracked when an old friend had pulled him aside.
Now, as Usagi sat, he almost wanted to ask flat out if 'anything' had happened. Her lips he noted, as he watched her sip her wine, were heavily plump, albeit, he thought with a sigh, courtesy of Mamoru and his expert ways. She conversed and then stilled, Motoki took a quick glance at what had gotten her attention and found no other than Mamoru. Who at the very moment, trained only on Usagi. Had the deepest and laziest blue eyes he had ever seen.
Usagi had felt the inspection beside her and with a quick turn found Motoki to be eyeing her lips. "Something happened?" he hesitated "Usagi-chan?" he asked nodding towards Mamoru then back at her.
Usagi shook her head, but then spoke differently "I would prefer to talk about it elsewhere," Motoki nodded, his fiancé busy speaking to Naru-chan.
"Well if you need to talk Usagi-chan, I'm here. Besides," he nodded towards Mamoru who was currently speaking to a woman, hanging on his every word. "I've known that man for quite sometime now"
"Do you?" she asked quietly. Not wanting Mina to over hear their conversation.
"My grandparents and his are great friends. We grew up together." Usagi still had her eyes on Mamoru. Leaning down and whispering something to the woman for her only to hear. It was then his eyes caught Usagi's, his grin seductive, lifting his wine glass to acknowledge her.
"Tell me Motoki-san" Usagi returned her conversation with Motoki "Being close friends and all, what do you think he would do when he finds out who I am?" Motoki didn't know how to answer. His eyes traveled towards his friend of many years.
Chiba Mamoru, the enigmatic man who roamed Japan with ease, the man who emanated wealth and success. Wealthy before he was born, wealthier with his own business, a business that was easily his to conquer. What would he do? Motoki asked himself. If anyone had gotten in the way of his empire they would meet his wrath, as he had seen before. And now, Motoki turned to eye Tsukino Usagi, who was still measuring Mamoru. Daughter of Tsukino Kenji, and new CEO of Tsukino Financial, Chiba's number one rival. With a sigh, he chooses his words carefully.
"Usagi-chan. That is a question that I can not answer" Usagi nodded in agreement.
"Chiba-san isn't a man to let any woman ruin anything for him. I think, we will be at swords and fences"
"It's what you'll get when you put two brilliant business icons together" he took a sip of his wine and leaned towards Makoto, whispering something in her ear. With an elegant nod, he stood.
"What? What do you get?" she asked curiously, still hanging on his statement.
"War! An all out war!" Usagi chuckled "May I have this dance Usagi-chan?" Motoki stood and waited for her acceptance.
"I would be delighted" Usagi stood and placed her small hands onto his.
Across the ballroom, Mamoru stood within a group of associates. Ignoring the gibes and nonsense as his eyes followed the retreating back of his best friend and the enchantress Usagi. Just moments ago, Mamoru had caught both Motoki's and Usagi's stare. It had seemed from his point of view that the topic was of him. No doubt, he would have to speak to Motoki, if it concerned him, he would like to be included. As he stared, he consciously lingered over Usagi's last statement. She said things would get complicated, in which way? Through his eyes, the only way things would get complicated is if she kept denying him. Narrowing his eyes, he found the hand that Motoki placed on the small of her back to be pricking his sense. Indeed he would need to speak to him.
"War!" Usagi laughed again "Motoki your exaggerating, it wouldn't be that bad"
"You don't think so?" Motoki had arched his brow "You can run his business through the ground Usagi, I'm sure he wont take that too lightly"
"I don't now!" she sighed heavily "You don't think he will at lease be civil?"
"Civil? Sometimes I think the man doesn't know what that means" Motoki eyed her silently as they slowly danced to the melody. "Besides, unless your interested in Chiba Mamoru, you shouldn't be worried" Usagi lifted her eyes and covered what ever revealing feelings she had. "Are you?"
"Am I what?"
"Interested?"
"Don't be silly" she chuckled "I've got better things to think about without fighting other women of Tokyo for his attention" Motoki smiled, if she only listened to what she had admitted too.
"So, if you had time you wouldn't mind vying for his attention?" he asked with a grin.
"Motoki, your asking more than I want to share." She smiled
"and?"
"I'm trying to get an insight!"
"An insight on what?" An insight on what? She asked herself. What was the man thinking.
"On how you truly feel?"
"Why?" Usagi asked now quite confused.
"SO I know as how I can help you?"
"This is getting now where Motoki, help me in what?" They stopped dancing and was staring at one another.
"Whether to help protect you from him or lay a few encouraging words his way or vice versa" Her feature couldn't be more than telling. Her eyes wide her mouth somewhat opened, she stared at him. "What?" She said nothing! Thought about her answer and came to a dead end. Motoki was a wonderful man, wonderful for her best friend and a great edition to their circle of friends. He was also the best friend to the man she knew, would be in her dreams this very evening. With a soft sigh, she finally spoke.
"Honest the truth Motoki, I think the man to be utterly attractive."
"And?"
"And utterly dangerous!" Motoki chuckled but couldn't deny it. Mamoru was lethal in his own way.
Twirling Usagi, he laughed at her 'please don't tell the girls look' Looking for his fiancé, he survyed the area where he had left her. There she was, smiling away with Ami this time when a solid figure blocked his view. His brown eyes lifted to see he was, sure enough, Mamoru's figure neared at every step. The man, looked determined and noted the look he was currently sending his way. Best friends they may be, but the look he was receiving could burn him to ashes.
"Just to warn you." His step not giving way to his friends prowling.
"Hmmm" Usagi looked up at him.
"Mamoru is coming this way"
Usagi straightened "Please stay.."
"May I cut in?" Motoki twirled Usagi to face Mamoru. Motoki smiled "Can't have her all to yourself now can you?"
"Of course not" smiling, Motoki took a quick step back. "I'll see you later Usagi-chan" with a quick nod he left them. Firm hands gripped her own as the other were heavily placed on her waist. Silence instilled between them. Refusing to look up, she didn't want to reveal the vulnerability she had when he was near. Usagi didn't know what to say, much less how to say it.
"You dance very well, very graceful." Thankful, she smiled and finally looked up. His eyes though calm, she still could see remnants of passion burning within.
"You wouldn't of said that if you knew me in junior high" Usagi chuckled "I was clumsy as an ox"
"You, clumsy?" Mamoru smiled "pulling my leg?"
"No really, ask one of the girls and they'll tell you. I tripped on my own two feet at just about every block in Juban" Usagi shared that much, she thought of younger days. Where she and the girls would walk to the famous arcade. Lita and Rei purposely stood beside her incase she needed anchor. Smiling, she looked up about to share her memory. A mistake!
Watching her intensely, Mamoru glided her through the dance floor. They say one's eyes are the windows to a soul and that all you had to do was look within. But his, Mamoru's were masked, his soul hidden behind the turbulent ocean. His eyes averted to her cherry lips "You are nothing but graceful now" voice husky. A shiver ran through Usagi, his breath on her shoulder.
"Arigato" she whispered, caught in his once again hypnotic stare "That's very sweet of you"
"Sweet? That's the first" chuckling at her comment, she didn't know him at all. He had been called many things, asshole, prick, a bastard but never sweet. It made a man weak and 'he' was not weak.
"Why not?"
"I am everything but sweet,"
"Really" Usagi questioned him with a subtly arched brow.
"Yes, Really"
"I don't believe it! A nice and handsome guy like yourself"
"You think I'm handsome?" he asked teasingly. Usagi blushed, she had just admitted to being attracted to him. First she reveals herself to Motoki and now, him! 'Were men this difficult in the US?'.
"Tall, raven hair, blue eyes." She caught his gleaming smile widen at each compliment. His ego was rising, she had to deflate it somehow, or he would think she was just another pawn in his pursuits. "No.. no. I think I changed my mind, your features are very common." His grip on her waist became tighter, a menacing gleam caught her eye. She laughed at his response and freely giggled at his smiling eyes. "A woman is aloud to change her mind"
"Not in my case" he chuckled and twirled her around the dance floor.
~
"Molly, would you like to have dinner with me sometime?" Narahiko asked calmly. Molly's faced turned a deep shade of red for the whole gang was waiting for her answer.
Motoki sat in silence as everyone waited and taunted Narahiko and Naru-chan. He had joined the group and now sat along Makoto's left side, his attention clearly on the couple he had left on the dance floor. Mamoru whirled Usagi around, without a care on who was seething beside him. Beryl at the moment stiffly stood along the dance floor, rying to catch Mamoru's attention. Another, giving Usagi a green look of jealousy. Of course Usagi didn't know what attention she had. She had every male, married or not crooning to catch her attention. Women glowered at her and heads turned at the sight her in Mamoru's arms. With frustrated sigh, Motoki couldn't shake off the feeling that somehow, under all the high corporate business rivalry they held, seeing them together was right! Why? He didn't know, perhaps it was the way Mamoru was smiling at Usagi. Fondly and even intimately, her glittering reaction when she looked up to him. It felt right.
"You okay honey?" Makoto draped her arm along his shoulder.
"I'm fine" Grabbing her hand on his shoulder, giving it a subtle squeez.
"Then what's got you frowning?" She stared off to where his eyes wandered.
"Them!" he nodded towards the now laughing couple "I have this feeling, this odd feeling"
"Feeling?" he looked at his fiancé, she was absolutely wonderful!
"Not at the moment" he smiled "maybe later, when there's no one around" his eyes gestured towards the others.
"I have to admit" Makoto returned her gaze back to the dance floor. "They do make a handsome couple" Motoki agreed. If opposites attract, it was true in physical sense as well. Usagi was petite, and very feminine, Mamoru was tall, and very masculine in every way.
"He doesn't waste his time does he?" Mina's tone held more malice than she wanted. Everyone, including Motoki turned to look at Mina. Her hands on her waist, she stared towards the dance floor. Following her gaze, the table looked on to the still dancing couple. Kaze took one of her hands and held it.
"Minako baby, leave him alone. As far as we can see, they're both enjoying the night, lets not start anything" She glared at him. Start anything? He was the one that pricked her senses when he was near. He was the one that irked her every bone when he would even speak his pig headed ways. He was the one playing dirty and she will not just stand here and let him swindle Usagi-chan off her feet to be hurt and used.
"Mina, there out on the dance floor" Ami's calm voice soothed her. "She'll be fine, remember what Usagi-chan said to us?" She was right, Mina thought, Usagi could hold her own. Besides, Mina looked up at the clock and smiled.
"I will not even ask what that smile was about?" Kaze pulled Mina down on his lap and hugged her.
"That's good, cause I wouldn't of told you" Mina glanced at her co-workers who were busily talking with others. Wasn't there one of them concerned for Usagi's reputation being with him? Mina returned to her own chair and remained quiet, troubling thoughts of what will happen once the announcements came. Mamoru was as arrogant as they came and had even more pride then he should own. She had to separate them before the announcement, Mamoru's known for his temper. But then again, Mina smiled larger, a gleam in her eyes that Kaze noticed. It would be classic to see his reaction when he realizes he's been dancing with his rival.
Jeshi sat next to Motoki and had been watching the scene himself. Quietly he eyed the two, if the man didn't leave such a bad taste in his mouth when ever he saw him. He would agree to them being friends. But the guy was walking trouble. As for Rei, he sighed, he'll talk to her when he got home.
~
"Isn't that Chiba Mamoru?" Mrs. Kina observed the dance floor.
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina watching the two dance. 'this should be interesting' he thought.
"He doesn't know does he?" asked Mrs. Kina turning to her husband.
"No" he smiled.
"You're a devious old man, Mr. Kina" chuckling at her response, Mr. Kina returned his attention to the dancing couple.
~
"Who is that girl?" asked Beryl bitterly as she watched the two. She had been sniffing for Mamoru all evening, trying to get in his good side. But he was occupied, if not with a client with her!
"Who?" asked Damon
"HER!" pointed Beryl. Damon followed he gaze and found the nerve that was hitting Beryl.
"Jealous?" he said, Beryl returned the comment with a glare. "Beautiful though"
"If you like blonds"
~
"Its getting late" said Mr. Thompson "I think its time to introduce your officer." Motioning to Usagi. Then taking note of the man she was dancing with. "Is that Chiba Mamoru?"
"Yes it is" said Mr. Kina with a smile.
"I hope you know what you're getting her into" he chuckled
"She knows of him"
"And he?"
"Not a dam thing" Kina walked of with Thompson trailing behind. Smiling and weaving throughout the floor, he smiled at his CEOs and made his way towards the podium.
~
"Its time," said Mina as she spotted Mr. Kina and Mr. Thompson talking and making there way towards the podium.
"We'll see you guys later" Still staring at Usagi and Mamoru, Mina had not even realized that Kaze had kissed her cheek. "Mina!"
"Oh, sorry honey" quickly she returned the kiss on his cheek. With a sigh he and the others retreated to their table.
~
Mamoru and Usagi conversed, things that they find interesting. Simple things, the weather, the places she's lived. Completely ignoring his probing comments on what she did. It was easier for her to ignore the questions, he was persistent and more than likely her answers will just make him even more curious.
"Why is it that every time I mention career's you choose to ignore it?"
"I can't tell you all about myself in a single evening can I"
"Then, have dinner with me?" Usagi eyed him. "And you can tell me all about your" Mamoru didn't go on, he caught eye of the Mr. Kina and the very same man who escorted Usagi to her table. "Usagi who is that man?"
"Hmmm?" Mamoru turned her towards Kina and associates.
"The one who escorted you to your table earlier" Usagi caught eyes with Kina and Associates and nodded. Mamoru saw the silent transmission but said nothing.
"That's Uly Thompson,"
"I've heard of him, he's the right hand man to Kenji Tsukino right?" It came to him, the name had sounded familiar. Usagi's figure became rigid as he recognized the name.
"I have to go Mamoru."
"Ill see you later then?" he asked, still trying to decipher the silent exchange that had passed between them. Usagi eyed him carefully but said nothing. He wasn't going to want to see her later.
"We'll see" she whispered then walked off towards her table.
"May I have your attention please" Mamoru made his way to his own table. "My name is Uly Thompson and I would like to thank all those who have attended." Without one word from any of his colleagues he sat. Once settled, he took one sip of his water and exhaled. At lease now he could finally find out who he would be up against. Instinctively his eyes darted over towards the Tsukino Executives, Mina, Ami, Jeshi, Naru, Motoki and Makoto, where was Usagi?
Please stay tune for chapter 11
I know Ive been gone a LONG TIME... Sorry! Motherly duties come first. I tried to edit theses stories and I don't think I did very well. So Im requesting for an editor please. Anyone that would like to apply please email me. Other than grammar and spelling, I need an editor that will get critical. I would like them to stay on a deadline and KEEP ME IN LINE for mine!
Hope a few of you are interested... [email protected]