Author's Note: Ten years ago, I wrote my first fanfic. Within a year, I had abandoned it. I always wanted to finish it, but with the passing of time and losing my plot notes, I felt it was a hopeless endeavor. Finally, I decided to finish the fic only to realize that it was impossible. I tried to avoid a rewrite, but after rereading it, it was the only way to salvage this story. So, I've tried to keep as much as possible from the original story. Without future ado, here is the first chapter.

Chapter 1: Mamoru?

Disclaimer: I DON'T OWN ANYTHING ALREADY COPYRIGHTED SO YOU CAN'T SUE ME, ETC. and even if you tried all I have is a pack of gum to my name.

Usagi Tsukino, financial manager at Nyaco Group, debated whether or not to answer her cell phone. It was Mr. Haraguchi calling again. He was offering her a position at his new company. Working for Haraguchi was something that she and other finance grad students had dreamed of, but the risk of joining one of his companies was too great. His business ventures were either smashing successes or dismal failures. She certainly couldn't take such a chance as she had just been promoted at Nyaco Group.

She had been ignoring him for the past week, but she knew she would have to make a decision soon. Whatever she decided would make or break her career, she was sure of it. Just then, the Director of Finance walked into her office.

"Hello, Miss Tsukino. I've been thinking that lately you've been overwhelmed with all your duties as operations manager."

"Well, Mr. Aomori, there are difficult tasks now and then, but nothing I wasn't prepared for."

"Nevertheless, I find that the workload is too much for a person of your limited experience. I assure you, I am not demeaning your skills."

"Of course not..." She trembled slightly, her fingers digging into the seat of her chair. Surely Mr. Aomori didn't mean to fire her… but what else could he be implying? She thought of Haraguchi's offer. That would be her only hope now.

"Miss Tsukino... Miss Tsukino?"

"Yes... of course..."

"Excellent. Are you ready to meet your new financial analyst?"

"Financial analyst?"

"Yes... he's waiting outside the office."

"Do let him in then, Mr. Aomori." Usagi relaxed; she was relieved she hadn't lost her job. But having to work alongside another person? She shuddered. Perhaps he was one of those high and mighty Ivy League snobs who were really nothing but pale geeky outcasts under the suits. Well, things could be worse…right?

"Miss Tsukino, allow me to introduce Mr. Chiba."

Usagi's gaze flew to the man standing next to Aomori; his cobalt blue eyes widened in shock.

"Mamoru…?" Usagi's voiced cracked.