Disclaimer: I donÕt own Gundam Wing.

 

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Last Call

By Loyce

Rating: NC-17

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His dark hands contrasted with her milky complexion. Each brush of his fingertips across her flushed skin, elicited another moan from the back of her throat.

 

ÒHeeroÉÓ

 

His name escaped as one of those erotic sounds and his stomach jerked in response.  He traced the contours of her body; his fingers memorized the flare of her hips, the gentle swell of her stomach, and the hidden strength in her arms.

 

ÒTouch me again.Ó

 

Relena's soft-spoken command urged him to explore the taut expanse of her stomach.  His palm trailed from the valley of her breasts down to tease the sensitive skin below her navel.

 

She gasped when his hand slipped further to toy with her overly heated body.  Need rushed through him and consumed every thought. 

 

He wanted her.  He needed her.

 

He loved her and sheÉ

 

ÒHeero, I loÉÓ

 

The shrill noise of the com-link broke into his deep sleep.  Groaning, he threw back the covers and swung his feet over the edge of the bed.  His body protested each movement, and his mind had already devised a way to deal with the intruder that pulled him from his dream. Heero pushed himself up from the comfortable mattress; his small toe connected with his work boots and muttering a few expletives, he meandered over to the desk.

 

A quick flick of his wrist and the link was established.  He drummed his fingers on the oak tabletop as the computer hummed and began to glow with life.  The cold machine took longer than normal to boot, giving him enough time to pace the room and think about the lingering image of Relena beneath him.

 

At first the dreams had been few and far between, but lately theyÕd become a nightly occurrence and within the last week, more vivid.  Now each morning was greeted with the icy sting of water on his heated body.  Even with the cold shower, the mirror in the bathroom still managed to cloud with steam.

 

But now, he had not only to deal with his aroused body, but the unconscious confession his mind had made.

 

When the room finally illuminated with the light from the screen, he sank down into the chair and glowered at the person on the monitor.

 

ÒGood Morning, Heero.Ó

 

ÒWhy are you calling me?Ó

 

Titling her head to the side, her silver colored eyes laughed at him. ÒCanÕt a friend call at anytime, or do they have to have a reason?Ó

 

ÒIÕm not in the mood to play games, Dorothy.Ó

 

ÒIt seems youÕve been playing gamesÉÓ

 

ÒDorothyÉÓ His tone held more than a hint of warning.

 

ÒFine.Ó She huffed and a huge Cheshire grin spread across her face. ÒHeero, itÕs nearly 2 am, do you know where your princess is?Ó

 

The question sparked the itch to wrap his hands around one green-eyed PreventerÕs neck.  Trowa was on the night shift this week.  His mind raced as it reviewed every event listed on her schedule.  As he thought, there was no mention of any functions in this weekÕs schedule that should keep Relena out after midnight. 

 

ÒSince youÕre calling, my guess is, she isnÕt sound asleep in her bed.Ó His eyes narrowed into his infamous glare. ÒWhere is she?Ó

 

ÒShe and Hilde just went back up to the bar for Ôlast callÕ...Ó

 

Dorothy was shoved out of the way and the object of his affliction came into view. 

 

At first glance, Heero thought she was naked, until he noticed the thin scarlet colored straps on her shoulders.  The cut of the dress was far too low in his opinion.  It spoke, and when it did, it said ÔCome get me - if you dare.Õ  Her hair was pulled back and curled, so the tendrils fell around her face like a golden waterfall.  The red shade of her lips matched the dress and reminded him of a shiny apple, the kind that you wanted to sink your teeth into and taste the forbidden sweetness.

 

A fierce growl rumbled in the back of his throat.

 

ÒHello, Mr. Yuy.  Would you care for a drink?Ó  Relena held up the small crystal glass filled with light amber colored liquid.  In the other hand, she had a slice of lemon.  She lifted the glass to her mouth and teased him by rubbing the rim back and forth along her bottom lip.  Finally she downed the shot and stuck the piece of fruit in her mouth, and sucked on itÉ hard. 

 

Heero shifted in his chair when she pulled the rind away from her mouth and sent him a seductive smile.

 

In the background, the band started another set.

 

ÒOh Hilde, theyÕre playing our songÉÓ And without a backward glance, she was gone.

 

Smoothing the wrinkles out of her dress, Dorothy came back into view.  ÒIÕve already called Maxwell to come pick up Hilde.  I was going to call a cab for Relena, butÉÓ She tossed her hair. ÒI donÕt think she needs this type of publicityÉÓ

 

ÒIÕm on my way.Ó

 

**********

 

The lights on the outside of the club had already been extinguished by the time he arrived. 

 

RelenaÕs arm was slung across DorothyÕs shoulders as she staggered from side to side with each wobbling step.  Duo had already arrived and was in the process of walking Hilde toward his motorcycle.  Both of them were so wrapped up in holding onto their ÔwardsÕ, they didnÕt hear him approach.

 

ÒThere once was a man from NantucketÉÓ

 

Dorothy scoffed. ÒReally, Relena.  Where did you learn such language?Ó

 

Relena tossed her head from side to side, finally focusing on Duo. ÒHim.Ó

 

ÒHey!Ó

 

ÒReally Maxwell, canÕt you keep your lude behavior contained to yourself or must you infect everyone around you?Ó

 

ÒCome on Dorothy, cut him a ÔwittleÕ slack?Ó

 

ÒYour behavior is just as appalling as his, Hilde.Ó

 

Hilde extracted herself from DuoÕs hold and bowed low, losing her balance in the process. ÒWhy thank you.Ó

 

Relena laughed.  It was the first time in months heÕd heard her laugh, and not the polite giggles or forced sounds she made when awkward situations came about.  The sound of it stirred something inside of him; his stomach clenched at the sheer joy it expressed. 

 

Lost in her laughter as it repeated in his ears, he hadnÕt realized that the chilly night fell silent.

 

ÒWhy hello there, Mr. Yuy.Ó

 

Delilah couldnÕt have been as tempting when she stole SamsonÕs hair.  Over the screen, she had taken his breath away, but in person, sheÕd stopped his heart.  The dress was not only cut in a way that it revealed the gentle swell of her breast, but the bottom hem teased the top of her garters. 

 

Even from a distance, he could see the shining mischief in her eyes.  She pushed herself out of DorothyÕs hold and took a few stumbling steps until she stood within an arm's reach.  Heavy lidded eyes challenged him and an impish half smile tugged at the corner of her mouth.

 

ÒYouÕre drunk.Ó

 

ÒNope.Ó She said as she nodded. ÒJust a tiny bit tipsy.  Hilde and I played this drinking game, of course, I lost, but it was worth it.Ó  She rocked back on her heels and wobbled.

 

His hand shot out and grabbed hold of her wrist.  Though the contact phased him, it didnÕt seem to stop Relena from babbling. ÒWeÕll have to do this again!  Next time, I get to win, Hilde.Ó 

 

Her eyes focused on Heero.  ÒMaybe you should join us in a round or two.  What was the name of that damn game calledÉÓ Biting her bottom lip, a look of determination at remembering the name of the ÔgameÕ marred her flushed face.

 

ÒQuarter shots!Ó Hilde supplied in a voice that was normally reserved for cheering at sporting events.

 

Both women broke into a fit of giggles at HildeÕs outburst and then tried to ÔSshhÕ each other into being quiet.

 

ÒI hold you personally responsible for this, Maxwell.Ó

 

ÒMe?!  What the hell did I do?!Ó

 

ÒItÕs what you didnÕt do thatÕs the problem.Ó

 

ÒStop talking in circle and get to the point, Heero.Ó

 

ÒYou need to learn to controlÉÓ He was at a loss at finding a title for Hilde; she was neither DuoÕs girlfriend, fiancŽe, or wife. Making a motion with his hand, he semi pointed at the dark-haired girl. ÒHer.Ó

 

ÒHilde? Dude, sheÕs a free spirit. Controlling her is like trying to control the tide.Ó

 

ÒThatÕs right, Heero.  IÕm a free schpr...Ó

 

Duo rolled his eyes. ÒYouÕre not helping matters, babe.Ó

 

ÒWhatÕs wrong with a little fun?Ó Hilde managed to ask just as she slumped against Duo.

 

ÒJust great.  How in the hell am I going to get her home now?Ó

 

ÒOops, HildeÕs in trouble,Ó Relena said in a sing-song voice.

 

Duo eyed Heero. ÒI donÕt think HildeÕs the only one in trouble, princess.Ó

 

ÒPffffft. IÕm hardly in trouble.Ó

 

ÒI wouldnÕt count on that.Ó The words were out of his mouth before Heero could stop himself.  Her eyes flashed at his remark.  But, he was in a mood to verbally spar with her - residual effects from his abrupt awakening.

 

ÒCome on.  You need to get home.Ó

 

Her red lips pouted. ÒI can walk by myself.Ó 

 

ÒYou think you can?Ó He let go of her wrist.

 

ÒOf course.Ó  She tossed her glossy curls in defiance.  ÒIÕm perfectly capable of using my own two feet.Ó  Moving around him, Relena took a shaky step toward the truck but gave him a triumphant smile.

 

Like a metronome, the sound of her heels slowly clicked out on the concrete as she walked beside him.   He counted along and waited for the moment the rhythm would break. 

 

About halfway from the truck, RelenaÕs movements shattered like the glass beer bottle under her foot.  A cry of distress passed her lips, but before it could echo in the night, heÕd already moved to catch her.

 

His arm came around her waist and she melted into him.  She buried her face into the fabric of his shirt, while the subtle smell of her perfume played with his senses. He couldnÕt recall how long they stood, locked in that position, under the light from a single street lamplight before he could feel the weight of two pairs of eyes boring into his back.

 

Grabbing her shoulders, he moved her out of his embrace, surprised at how much cooler he felt once the contact was gone.  ÒAre you okay?Ó

 

ÒYeah.Ó  Her voice danced with a light laugh.  ÒIÕm just the walking personification of grace, arenÕt I?Ó

 

ÒIÉÓ His voice failed him.  How was he supposed to answer that question?  Instead, he took hold of her hand and ushered her over to the truck.  The door opened with a whine and as she climbed into the cab, she offered him a nice view of her legs.  Soft skin stretched over toned muscle and just begging for a touch; his touch. 

 

With a strangled groan, and more force than necessary, he slammed the door shut and marched around to the driverÕs side of the vehicle.

 

He felt her eyes weighing down on him before he finished climbing inside.  ÒIs everything okay?Ó 

 

ÒFine.Ó

 

The engine roared to life and he pulled out of the parking lot.  Making the turn to head back to the mansion, his eyes drifted over to the woman laying her head against the cool glass of the passenger window.

 

And wondered how he was going to survive another night without her in his bed.

 

**********

 

ÒWhew, I thought theyÕd never leave.Ó  Hilde straightened her once limp body and cracked her neck.  ÒYouÕre not the most comfortable person to lean on, Duo.Ó

 

Cobalt eyes widened in disbelief.  ÒYouÉ you were out cold a minute agoÉÓ

 

ÒYouÕre such a trusting soul.Ó Dorothy scoffed. ÒIf youÕll excuse me, my part in this game is complete and I have a warm bed calling my name at home.Ó  Her blond hair followed her every move as she poured herself into the waiting cab. 

 

It wasnÕt until the red taillights turned the corner that Duo spoke.

 

ÒWhat was all ÔthatÕ supposed to mean?  What game was she talking about?Ó

 

Hilde let go an exasperated sigh.  The man was more stubborn than a bulldog with an old bone.  Once heÕd sunk his teeth in, there was no way to get him to let go.

 

ÒDuo, how long have we known each other, now?  FiveÉ six years?Ó 

 

Hilde continued after he nodded.  ÒIn all that time, have you ever seen me so drunk that I couldnÕt walk a straight line?Ó

 

He raised his hand and opened his mouth to respond, but spoke nothing.

 

ÒIf memory serves me correctly, IÕve drunk you under the table a time or two.Ó

 

Even the darkness, DuoÕs cheeks glowed with a faint blush.  ÒBut IÉÓ

 

ÒNo ÔbutsÕ Duo.  You lost those games fair and square.Ó

 

He sighed and leaned against his bike.  ÒAlright, so what gives?  Why the deception?Ó

 

ÒYou wouldnÕt believe me if I told you.Ó

 

He flashed her a grin and said: ÒTry me.Ó

 

There it was.  His secret weapon: that 100-watt Ôdevil may careÕ smile.  The same one that Hilde could never resist.  He knew how that look could break down her defensives and she slumped her shoulders in defeat.

 

ÒResorting to your old tactics?Ó

 

ÒWhy change something that works?Ó

 

ÒAlright.  It all started about a week agoÉÓ

 

********

The mountain of paperwork threatened to landside all over her desk and the jackhammer in her head hadn't quit in the guaranteed time listed on the bottle of ibuprofen.   Relena slumped down in her chair and laid the side of her face on the cool marble.  Her eyes were just drifting closed when the intercom buzzed.

 

ÒMs. Dorlian?Ó

 

ÒYes?Ó

 

ÒThereÕs a Ms. Catalonia and Ms. Schbeiker here to see you.  They donÕt have an appointmentÉÓ

 

A smile, the first one sheÕd felt all day, spread across her face. ÒThatÕs okay, Felicia.  Send them in.Ó

 

ÒI donÕt care what you say.  HeÕs perfect.Ó

 

Hinges squeaked as the oak door was pushed open and her two bickering friends entered the room.

 

ÒPerfect?Ó  Dorothy looked at the petite woman as if she had grown another head.  ÒHe opens beer bottles with his toes, Hilde.  HeÕs loud, crude, obnoxious and IÕd be surprised if he could read.Ó

 

ÒDuo can read.Ó Hilde growled her answer.

 

ÒReally?Ó

 

She watched the growing debate with amusement.  It was the same one theyÕd started a few years ago; after Hilde in a drunken haze, admitted that she was in love with the blue-eyed American.  Noticing that HildeÕs temper was getting the better of her, Relena decided it was time to intervene.

 

ÒIf you two are done fighting nowÉÓ

 

ÒWe werenÕt fighting, Rel.Ó

 

ÒOf course not.  We were discussing DuoÕs more,Ó Dorothy cleared her throat, Òcolorful personality traits.Ó

 

ÒI didnÕt buy you a years' subscription to Ôthe bibleÕ for Christmas for nothing.Ó Dorothy poured herself a cup of tea.

 

ÒIÕve read every issue from cover to end.Ó

 

Relena held up her hand to stop the conversation. ÒTime out. She got Cosmo for Christmas and all I got was a pen set?Ó

 

ÒI only give out gifts that will be useful to the receiver.Ó

 

ÒThanks a lot.Ó  With a huff, she leaned back into her chair and glared over her coffee cup.  ÒI could have used a subscription too.Ó

 

DorothyÕs pointed look returned to Hilde. ÒAnd have you learned anything?Ó

 

ÒOf course I have.Ó She spat out and twisted the top off her bottle of water.  ÒIÕve read every article on ÔHow to turn a bad man into a good man.Õ  Skimmed over all the instructions on how to find his g-spots and rock his world in seven quick steps.  Hell, IÕve even taken the damn quizzes to find out how much of a bitch I am and whatÕs my inner sexuality.Ó

 

ÒSo based on all of that, have you made your move yet?Ó

 

Hilde slumped in her chair. ÒYes. I suggested we spend our free Friday at the movies.  I even went and bought tickets to that new slasher movie with the thought in mind that I could ÔclingÕ to him during the scary parts.Ó

 

ÒAnd?Ó  Dorothy asked, raising an eyebrow.

 

ÒHe freaked out.  He spent more time clinging to me and yelling at the screen ÔDonÕt open that door!Õ then I could try and snuggle up to him.Ó

 

She couldnÕt help herself and laughed, warranting a glare from her best friend.  ÒIÕm sorry, Hilde, but you have to admit that itÕs hysterical that even after all heÕs been through, horror movies scare him.Ó

 

ÒHeÕs hopeless.Ó

 

Relena saw HildeÕs face fall and tried to take the tactful approach.  ÒMaybe youÕre trying too hard.Ó

 

Dorothy rolled her eyes.  ÒYou're one to talk.  You haven't even tried to make a move on Heero.Ó

 

Relena felt her cheeks warm and knew she was blushing.  ÒWellÉ IÉÓ

 

Hilde chuckled. ÒYouÕre chicken.Ó

 

The diplomat made a wry face.  "I'm not chicken.  I just don't want to--"

 

"Bock bock bock bock bock bock."

 

Relena put her coffee down on the desk and templed her fingers.  "That is really undignified, Hilde. As I was sayingÉ Heero is a different--"

 

"Bock bock bock bock bock bock bock! Relena's a chicken." 

 

The heat of the blush was taken over by anger as Relena slammed her hand down on the desk. ÒI am not!Ó

 

ÒYou couldnÕt be any more chicken if you started growing feathers and a big beak.Ó

 

Relena took her glare off her best friend long enough to stare at the silver eyed blond. ÒI canÕt believe you just said that.Ó

 

ÒMiss Prim and Proper herselfÉWhoÕd have thought it?Ó

 

Dorothy ignored HildeÕs comment and sent Relena a smug glare. ÒI dare you.Ó

 

She felt a blank look cross her face.  ÒDare me?Ó

 

ÒMake the move on Mr. ÔStone-facedÕ Heero Yuy.Ó

 

ÒWhat good would come out of it?Ó Relena drummed her fingers along the marble desktop. ÒIÕd probably just make a fool out of myself like HildeÉ Oh, sorry, Hilde.Ó

 

Hilde unfolded her arms and leaned forward in her chair.  ÒSure, I might have failed with Duo, but that wonÕt stop me from trying again.  I just need to think of another plan of action. IÕm not giving up.Ó  Her eyes softened. ÒAnd you wonÕt know unless you try, Rel.Ó

 

ÒI donÕt even know if he feels the same way.Ó

 

ÒIsnÕt it better to have an answer than to float around always wondering?Ó

 

ÒI wouldnÕt even know where to start.Ó Relena sighed and propped her head up with a hand under her chin.

 

ÒThatÕs why you have usÉÓ Hilde grinned.

 

Dorothy unlatched her rather large purse and pulled out a tall, amber bottle;  she set it on Relena's desk.  ÒAnd a bottle of tequila.Ó

 

ÒWhat does a bottle of alcohol have to do with any of this?Ó

 

Feeling like the proverbial canary that was caught by the cat- in this instance, cats- Relena gulped and inched back in her chair. ÒWhy are you guys looking at me like that?Ó

 

ÒCourage in a bottle, Rel.Ó  Hilde's grin widened.

 

ÒYouÕre joking, right?Ó

 

ÒIn order to make a move on Mr. Yuy, youÕll need to be relaxed.Ó Dorothy's voice sounded even, measured.  Like she was patiently explaining the point of brushing's one teeth to a child.

 

ÒI am relaxed.Ó

 

Her friends shared another one of those doubting looks.

 

Dorothy stood up from her chair.  ÒItÕs about time you wore that dress you bought the last time we went to L2.Ó

 

ÒThe little red one?Ó  Hilde chirped and tossed her water bottle across the room, into the trashcan.

 

ÒOh no. I canÕt really wear that thing in public.Ó

 

ÒWhy the hell not?Ó

 

ÒBecause itÉ itÉÓ

 

ÒReveals more skin then a hooker on payday.Ó Hilde supplied as got out of the chair and arched her back.

 

ÒHilde!Ó

 

ÒThen you shouldnÕt have bought it.Ó

 

ÒYou guys made me.Ó

 

Hilde tapped a finger along the side of her cheek and feigned a look of deep concentration. ÒI donÕt recall holding a gun to your head at the time.Ó

 

ÒHn.Ó

 

ÒSheÕs starting to sound like him.Ó  Dorothy shook her head.

 

ÒDo we really want them to get together?  Their childÕs first word will be ÔHn.ÕÓ

 

ÒYou're both hopeless.Ó Looking at the clock, she made a few flustered motions with her hands. ÒNow, out!  I have an appointment with Senator Kvaleberg and he doesnÕt like to be kept waiting.Ó

 

ÒFine, but we expect you at The Dive this Saturday night.Ó

 

ÒDoes it have to be this Saturday night?  CanÕt it be sometime, I donÕt know, maybe next month?Ó

 

ÒNo, this Saturday.Ó Hilde tossed over her shoulder as she opened the door to let herself out.

 

ÒWhy?Ó

 

ÒCause HeeroÕs not on duty.Ó  Dorothy smiled and waved.  Both girls stopped in the doorway to peer back at their friend.

 

Relena sighed.  ÒI donÕt even want to know how or why you found that out.Ó

 

ÒBe there or weÕll drag you kicking and screaming.Ó

 

"Fine, but you have to take this with you!"  She gestured at the bottle of tequila.

 

Dorothy grinned and shut the door behind her.

 

"Dorothy!" Relena eyed the bottle of Jose Cuervo Gold, and picked it up off her desk.  "If I start drinking nowÉ"

 

She tucked it away in her bottom desk drawer.

 

"Maybe then I'd be ready for Saturday night."

 

********

 

Relena traced the outline of the city with her finger as it slid by outside the window.  Soon the skyline gave way to treetops; which passed her in a blur.

 

She showed up, without Ôkicking and screamingÕ.  In fact she had beaten Dorothy and Hilde to the club and had waited outside for the two of them.  The looks the Ôlittle red dress' had drawn both excited and frightened her.   But there was only one person she wanted to gawk at her in such away; and he was currently racing down the road as if hell was after him.

 

ÒYou can slow down, you know.Ó

 

ÒIÕm doing the speed limit." Heero somehow managed to speak even with his jaw set so tight he was worthy of the nickname 'stone-face'.

 

ÒYouÕre driving as fast as Wing could fly.Ó

 

ÒThe alcohol has impaired your perception of speed.Ó

 

She leaned over and eyed the dashboard.  ÒI donÕt believe that the legal limit on this road is 72 mph.Ó

 

The dark figures outside slowed enough that she could make out their outlines against the moonlit sky.

 

ÔWhat have I gotten myself into?Õ

 

Relena blew a strand of hair from her face.  SheÕd played it out in her mind how it was going to work.  He would pick her up at the bar under the pretense that she was too drunk to drive, take her home, and then sheÕd seduce him into her bed - where they would make wild, passionate love until each of them was breathless.

 

ÒYeah right.Ó 

 

ÒExcuse me?Ó

 

She turned in her seat to face  him.  Had she been talking aloud? ÒItÕsÉ itÕs nothing.Ó

 

He dismissed the whole ÔconversationÕ with a curt nod and focused back on the road ahead of them. 

 

The plan was stupid.  What had she been thinking when she agreed to this?  Apparently, she hadnÕt been thinking at all and thatÕs where her problem was.  Whenever it came to Heero, she lost all reasoning and common sense.  She shook her head and went back to staring out the window, but the shapes outside the window all blurred together.

 

ÔWhat would it be like?  To be wrapped in those strong arms and crushed under that lean body? Would he make me scream loud enough to wake up the servants? Or would he just make me purr?Õ

 

ÒAre you cold?Ó

 

His question startled her. ÒNo.Ó

 

ÒThen why are you shivering?Ó

 

She grimaced. ÒIÕm cold.Ó  To support the lie, she reached over and turned on the heat.  Hot air blasted her in the face. ÒSee?Ó

 

Heero answered her with an arched eyebrow and a doubtful look. Relena had to resist the childish urge to stick her tongue out at him.  The relaxation techniques that Quatre had taught her came to mind and she was desperate to do anything to get him out of her head.

 

ÔThe rolling tide along the beach.  Sunlight streaming through a canopy of trees.  The sweet song of the cardinal.Õ

 

She slumped back, turned her face into the cushion of the seat and was assaulted by the faint smell of his cologne. 

 

Why did he have to torment her at every turn?  CouldnÕt she have one day, just one day where he didnÕt fill some place in her wayward thoughts?

 

By the time the dark truck glided passed the security gates and came to a rest at the bottom of the stairs, she had all but decided to give up on her silly quest.  It could only end in heartbreak and humiliation.  Not to mention outright rejection.

 

Before he had a chance to kill the engine, she had opened the door and shimmed out of the cab.  Her dress clung to the material of the seat and inched up the back of her thighs, higher than the tops of her stockings. 

 

Cursing under her breath, she started up the stairs and tried to smooth out the fabric as she walked.  A strong hand wrapped around her upper arm.

 

ÒWhat are you doing?Ó

 

ÒHelping you up the stairs.Ó

 

She narrowed her eyes to match the look he was sending her. ÒI can do this by myself.Ó

 

ÒLike you could walk to the truck by yourself.Ó

 

ÒI was doing fine until that bottle got in my way.Ó

 

ÒThe bottle was there before you took that step. You werenÕt paying attention.Ó  His eyes glinted in the dim light of the outdoor lanterns.  ÒIÕdÉ Preventer would feel better if you were seen safely inside the mansion.Ó

 

ÔDid he just say ÔIÕ?Õ

 

Her heart beat loudly in her ears but she remained outwardly calm.  ÒFine.Ó She took hold of his offered hand and let him lead her up the stairs. 

 

Once inside, they moved through the corridors of the mansion as quiet as ghosts. The buzz from the tequila still flowed through her veins and a RelenaÕs balance had endangered a couple of glass vases. And a coat rack.

 

As they neared the door to her room, she untangled herself from his hold.

 

ÒIÕd like to thank you for seeing me safely inside.Ó She gave him a mock salute. ÒIÕll be sure to inform Preventer of the fine job you performed tonight.Ó

 

It could have been the dim lighting in the hall, but Relena could have sworn that heÕd just rolled his eyes at her.

 

Giving him her sweetest look, she cocked her head to the side and asked, ÒIs there a problem?Ó

 

ÒNo.Ó

 

ÒBack to one word answers I seeÉÓ

 

He held onto her as he pushed open the door to her bedroom and flicked on the lights.  It unnerved her that he didnÕt have to fumble around to find the switch, and the bright light felt like hot needles in her eyes.

 

Lifting a hand, she covered her eyes and let Heero guide her into the room, and over to the bed.  The colored spots cleared from her vision with a few blinks.

 

ÒStay here.Ó 

 

Her knees gave out and the soft bed caught her.  How many nights had she come home and groped the wall for a few moments in order to turn on the lights?  And with one deft movement, heÕd illuminated the room, like heÕd been sleeping in the king-sized bed for the past five years and not her. Though the daze, she watched him breeze about her room.  When most people would be asking questions on where things were, he marched over to the dresser, pulled open one drawer, and took out her pajamas. 

 

Dropping the garments on the comforter beside her, he continued on into the bathroom.  ÒYouÕre going to have a hangover in the morning.Ó  His voice was muffled over the rattle of bottles as he dug around the medicine cabinet.  ÒIf you take some aspirin and drink a glass of water, it may alleviate the effects.Ó   Bottle in hand, he strode over to the bed, the mattress sinking with his weight.  ÒBut first I suggest you take a shower.Ó

 

ÒAre you offering?Ó

 

She watched in triumph as shock registered in his eyes, followed by a twinge of pink on along his cheekbones.

 

ÒRelenaÉÓ

 

ÒI asked you a question.  I think I deserve an answer.Ó

 

It was now or never. The alcohol-induced courage was beginning to falter, but she had him where she wanted him.  She closed her eyes as her hands found their way into her hair, freeing the heavy gold colored tresses from the confines of the barrettes.

 

ÒIÉÓ

 

A seductive giggle escaped from somewhere deep inside of her.  ÒYou what?  DonÕt know what to say?  DonÕt know what to do?Ó  Her fingers toyed with the thin straps of her dress.  ÒDonÕt worry, Heero. IÕm pretty sure I know what happens next.Ó

 

ÒYouÕre drunk.Ó

 

ÒThatÕs the second time youÕve mentioned it.Ó

 

ÒYour judgment is impaired.Ó

 

ÒIf youÕre coming up for excuses why I shouldnÕt make a move on you, then youÕre going to have to try harder than that.Ó  One strap fell off her shoulder.  ÒI know the square root of 1296 is 36, the capital of Uzbekistan is Tashkent, and I could give you a run down of all the ESUN delegates and representing colonies or countries.  I hardly think I donÕt know what IÕm doing.Ó

 

Like the stone statues outside the Senate building, he didnÕt blink an eye, but she could hear the wheels inside of his head and thought he was going to try and make his escape. 

 

Instead, he arched an eyebrow even as his eyes stayed focused on the fingers toying with her thin, red straps.  "Make a move on me?" The other eyebrow went up, and then his eyes met hers. Realization flickered, especially when she sent him her best sultry look.

She let her mouth settle into what had to be a smug grin.  "If you insist."

 

Relena walked to the door. Her fingers trembled for a second before they wrapped around the lock. Could she really pull this off?  Could she seduce the man she loved into her bed?  With her bottom lip tucked between her teeth, she glanced over her shoulder and took a good look at Heero.  She saw it, desire burning in the depths of his eyes.   It was enough to reaffirm her determination and the dead bolt slid into place with a resounding ÔclickÕ that was barely heard over the blood rushing through her ears.  

 

Striding back over to Heero, she grabbed his shirt.  His mouth was mere inches from hers, and she teased it with the weight of her breathing.  The muscle in his jaw clenched a few times when she got close enough to brush her lips against his in light butterfly touches.  She even dared to catch his bottom lip between her teeth before she let go of his shirt, gave him a shove and stalked back to the middle of the floor, keeping her back to him.

 

Relena reached around to her back and slowly began to unzip the sinful red dress.  More of her flawless skin was exposed with each inch the zipper moved further down her back.  She heard the sharp intake of breath Heero made when he realized that she wasn't wearing a bra.   And she could feel his eyes burning into her skin, igniting a fire in the pit of her stomach. Looking back at the stunned man, she licked her lips and let the loose material of her dress slip lower on her body.  Then finally, to the floor.

 

With an erotic smile, she spun around and faced him.  Heero looked like someone had pulled the rug out from underneath him and she found it hard to stifle the giggle that bubbled up.  At least she knew she was getting under his skin. Clad in a pair of red, satin, g-string panties that tied on the side along with a matching garter belt and skin colored thigh-high stockings, she sauntered back over to the bed.

 

She placed one high-heeled encased foot against his chest, and with little effort, pushed him down, until he lay flat on his back; his legs draped over the edge of the bed. RelenaÕs stomach fluttered, as if a thousand butterflies had taken up residence inside. The balled up comforter in his fisted hands, gave away the tight restraint he was keeping on his desire. It was an endearing gesture, but not necessary at the moment.  Crawling on him like a graceful cat, she straddled his waist and lowered her face close to his, each pant mingled with his ragged breaths.

 

Never had she been so bold; chalk it up to either alcohol or pent up sexual frustration -either way, Relena wasnÕt about to regret the little strip tease sheÕd performed for him.  How could she when the proof he wanted her as badly as she wanted him was nestled underneath her body?

 

ÒTell me you donÕt want me.Ó

 

Her demand was met with his familiar, cold silence.  Relena shifted and allowed more of her weight to settle against his rigid body.  Heero let loose a sound that could only be called a strangled groan when he pressed against her. 

 

ÒI canÕt.Ó

 

It was enough for her, for now.  Leaning down, she captured his lips with her own.  However, Heero assumed control the moment her mouth molded to the contours of his.  Like a stuck punch in the stomach, the kiss left her off balance and grasping for some sense of stability.

 

But Heero refused to let her recover from his onslaught.  His tongue teased the crease of her mouth and demanded access.  He was beating her at her own game; she should be the one seducing, not being seduced.  But with a blissful sigh, her lips parted and he took advantage.

 

Skilled hands skimmed down her back and callused fingers gently dug into her shoulders, coaxing them to relax.  He stroked her until she purred with contentment against his mouth.  She felt him smile, before he moved to trail kisses from the corner of her mouth, down toward her neck.  His hands stopped their mission long enough to grasp her head and tilt it, exposing the sensitive skin.

 

The hiss escaped the moment his teeth scraped over the hollow of her neck. He nibbled and sucked, leaving reddish marks in his wake.  Her fingernails bit into the muscles in his upper arms when he took some skin between his teeth and applied pressure. 

 

She cried out as he gently tugged.  Heat spread through her body, pooling in the pit of her stomach.  Her hands let go of their grip on his arms and moved through his dark hair.  Taking hold of his head, she pulled away from his bruising mouth.   He growled his protest.

 

Untangling her hands from his hair, she rubbed the sensitized area.  But Heero didnÕt wait for her to catch her breath.  His fingers wrapped around her breasts and squeezed.  Again, pain was over run by a multitude of enjoyable sensations.  Shifting underneath her, Heero leaned up and Relena gasped as his tongue began to lavish attention to the underside of her breasts.  Her head fell back as his heated breath tickled her skin. He nuzzled, licked, and suckled her nipples until they were reddened and tight.

 

He squeezed her hips.  Under his large hands, the thin ties of her g-string rolled across her skin.  She watched his eyes darken while he rubbed the fabric between his finger and thumb.  Relena tried to brush his hands away, so she could undo the flimsy ties on the panties, but Heero tightened his grip.

 

Nimble fingers pulled at the ends of the thin strings and the ties came undone.  His hands traced down the curve of her hips and gently brushed away the ties.  Now, the only thing that stood between them was the small scrap of material remaining of her g-string and a pair of jeans. 

 

Relena looked down at the clothed man underneath of her, and for the first time, experienced the carnal urge to rip his shirt in half so she could splay her palms over his skin.  Her once idle hands reached down to the waistband of his pants and pulled at the hem of his black shirt.  But no matter how hard she tugged, the fabric wouldnÕt pull free.  Frustration colored her cheeks. 

 

ÒPatience.Ó 

 

ÒYou can be patient on your time.Ó She grunted.  ÒIÕve waited long enoughÉÓ

 

Finally, the shirt came free and with a little help from Heero, it was up and over his head in seconds.  The smooth, bronzed skin bunched under the onslaught of the chilly air and then he hissed, as if burned, when she placed her hands on him.  A shaky index finger traced the contours of his body, and she smirked in satisfaction when his stomach muscles fluttered under her touch.

 

As much as her journey, learning his body, excited her, it was the skin that teased her from just under the waistband of his jeans that sent her blood to a boil.  Raising an eyebrow, she smiled.

 

ÒNo underwear, Mr. Yuy?Ó  Her fingers danced lower along his abs and toyed with the denim. 

 

His response was lost in the soft groan that rumbled in his chest.

 

The sound was all the encouragement she needed. She fumbled to get his belt undone and muttered a few un-ladylike phrases in the process.

 

ÒAnother thing to hold Duo responsible for.Ó

 

ÒCan we not think about Duo at this moment?Ó  She asked, while pulling the belt through the loops.  ÒYou can berate me on proper speech after IÕve had my way with you.Ó

 

The leather snapped free from the last loop and she flung it across the room.  Before she could make another movement, Heero took hold of her hips and shifted her higher along his body.  His arms tightened around her waist and he pulled her solidly against him.  In the time it took her to blink, she found her back pressed into the softness of the comforter. HeÕd moved too fast for her to protest, and now she lay underneath his body, welcoming the weight that had her pinned to the bed.

 

His lips descended onto her skin again, attacking and bruising wherever they touched.  He let go long enough to push his jeans over his hips and kick them off.   She felt him pull away the last barrier between them before he settled between her legs.  The heat of his body scalded her and she couldnÕt help the sigh of bliss that whispered through her lips.

 

Winding her arms around his neck, she pulled him closer.  Her mouth met his, and her cry was muffled against them as he surged into her. She arched her back and tightened her legs around Heero's waist. 

 

They made love in a frenzy of tangled arms and legs, punctuated with heated touches and consuming kisses that left her struggling to take her next breath.  All of the dreams sheÕd had about this moment had been erotic beyond her imagination, but the feel of him inside of her was a million times more exciting.  Soon, their movements become more rushed as new sensations pooled in the center of her body. 

 

Her hands gripped his shoulder, her nails digging into his skin as she tried to fight back the building pressure.  They both were tightly strung and ready to snap, but she wanted the moment to last.  Tiny pricks of pleasure raced through every nerve of her body. Unable to hold back the tide any longer, Relena squeezed her legs and held onto Heero when their worlds exploded at the same time.

 

****************

 

Her eyes fluttered a few times before she completely surfaced from oblivion.  A frown marred her mood before she even opened her eyes.  Someone had thrown back the heavy curtains and let the ÔgloriousÕ sunlight stream into her room.  At the moment, she couldnÕt think of a more heinous tortureÉ Though the drum band rehearsing in the back part of her head came in a close second.

 

The bed creaked under her weight as she shifted to pull the blankets up over her head.  Relena winced.  Every muscle in her body screamed 'don't move' that was almost lost amidst the pounding in her head.  But she ignored the sound and shut the world away on the other side of her comforter.

 

It smelled like him.  His cologne had worked its way into the fabric sometime during one of their frantic Ôtumbles in the sheets.Õ  If she ever again ran across the professor that trained Heero, she would have to thank him for the stamina training.   Wrapped in darkness and comforted by his scent, the headache began to ebb.  After a few blissful moments, she decided to test her bravery and poke her head out from beneath the covers.

 

All signs of their lovemaking had been erased -  save for the rumpled covers and the smeared remains of her make-up.  Stretching, she tried to work out the kinks in her weary body, but it seemed like only a trip to the spa would be able to soothe away the soreness from her ÔexertionsÕ earlier that morning.

 

She was ready to climb from her bed to greet the day, when she heard the latch of the door release.  Grabbing hold of the blanket, she hiked it up to her chin in an attempt to cover her nakedness from whoever was barging into her room.

 

Relena knew he saw the look of utter shock on her face before sheÕd had a chance to mask it.   Never in a million years did she ever expect him to still be there in the morningÉCarrying a breakfast tray across the room, no less.

 

ÒI thought you would have left by now.Ó

 

He seemed at a loss for words, almost as much as she was.  They locked gazes before she broke the silence.

 

ÒYou didnÕt have to bring me breakfast in bed.Ó

 

ÒItÕs nothing more than dry toast, black coffee, and some aspirin.Ó

 

Her empty stomach rejoiced. ÒRight now, it sounds like a feast.Ó

 

He set the tray down on the nightstand and handed her a piece of toast.

 

ÒYou know a girl could get used to this type of treatment.Ó She took a small bite, ÒTell me, do you know how to make pancakes?Ó  

 

ÒYes.Ó

 

She set down the piece of toast and picked up the coffee cup.  The warmth sunk slowly into her hands and when it finally burned she looked at him.  He was wearing the same clothes she'd 'ripped' off him the night before and a few stray strands of hair stood up at odd angles.

 

It made her love him more.

 

"Is there any hope that you'd be willing to make me pancakes for dinner tonight?"

 

Rolling off her tongue, it sounded like a childish request, but it was as close as she was going to come to asking him to stay.

 

He frowned.  "Breakfast for dinner?"

 

She nodded.  "You haven't lived until you've had a plate of pancakes, smothered in syrup, while watching the eight o'clock movie."

 

"Hn."

 

She lifted the cup to her mouth to hide her disappointment. It trembled in her hand.

 

"Fine.  But then it's your turn to make me breakfast in the morning."

 

The mug nearly slipped from her hand.  She kept her face calm, though emotions poured through her and threatened to spill over in the form of tears.  Nodding, she took the aspirin he offered and chased them with a mouthful of coffee.

 

"Y-you'll have to tell me what you like.  I'm afraid I'm not the best cook."  She lifted her gaze to meet his.  He smirked and let out a breath in something like a silent laugh.

 

"What?"

 

Heero took the mug from her hand and placed it on the nightstand before sitting down on the mattress.  Her heart sped up at his proximity; she could see the dark circles under his eyes.  Her hand came up to touch his cheek.

 

He glared back. 

 

Then he kissed her. 

 

She had the sensation of falling, and realized, too late, he had pushed her back down on the bed.  He pulled the covers away from her chest and cupped her breast in his palm.  He tasted like coffee, and his lips were as warm as her mug had been.

 

Heero broke away; he hovered over her, his hand still kneading her chest.  She waited for him to kiss her again, to make love to her againÉ But several seconds later, she was still just feeling him breathe and smelled his breath - coffee breath.  Relena opened her eyes. He was staring down at her.

 

"I'm not staying for the pancakes, Relena."

 

She blinked.  Pancakes.  Who could think about pancakes right now?  "Huh?"

 

"Coffee. Just coffee." He pulled his shirt off, over his head, then leaned back down, over her, for a kiss.

 

Bare skin to bare skin, she was falling again.  His mouth nibbled at her chin and down to her neck.  Cool beads of sweat formed on her skin as her entire body reacted to his touch.

 

"I canÉmake coffee." 

 

Heero moved lower, and claimed her right breast with his tongue.  "Everyday?"  He asked, his warm breath teasing her nipple when he spoke.

 

"MmmmmmmÉ" Was her coherent reply.  He stripped the comforter from the rest of her body, and removed his pants.  She watched him for a moment through half open eyes, before she closed them again.  Her body instantly warmed when he crawled back over her again, completely nude. 

 

She waited for him to begin, to kiss her again in that wildly passionate way that would ignite her skin into an all-out flame, then invade her body and make her his again.  Seconds passed, and he didn't move.  She peered up at him.

 

"Heero?"

 

His face was so serious.  His expression absolutely grave as he looked at her. 

 

"What's wrong?"

 

Finally, an eyebrow lifted.  "I lied. I don't want just coffee."

 

She opened her mouth to reply, but he stopped her short.  His mouth descended on hers, demanding her kiss as he roughly entered her body. 

 

 

 

Relena lay there, listening to their panting, gasping breaths finally slow.

 

"Everyday?"

 

Heero rolled his head to the side so he could look at her.  A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.  "If you insist."

 

Relena gaped.  "You--"  She snagged the pillow behind her head and tried to hit him with it.  He blocked the blow.

 

Heero sat up and gazed down at her.  His eyes softened from their usual hard set expression.  He ran a hand through her hair fanned out across the mattress, then abruptly stood up and turned away.

 

"Heer--"

 

"If you want me to stay, I'll stay."

 

"I doÉwant you to stay.  IÉI love you, Heero."

 

She saw his shoulders stiffen, then release.  His head bowed slightly forward.  "I know." 

 

Silence reigned throughout the room for a few moments.  Heero finally turned, that serious expression once again gripping his features.  "Relena, I--"

 

She smiled.  "You love me, too."

 

He nodded and his face relaxed. 

 

"I know."