The Unseen Pathway- Ch.9 (TB x HS)
Posted: Sat Jan 11, 2003 5:00 pm
Disclaimer: I do not own Gundam Wing or any of its characters.
Second Semester
Chapter Nine
A most interesting evening…
Hilde’s incessant pleading could be heard all the way down to the first floor of their gigantic castle-like dorm. She was determined to get Sariah to go out on a date with Quatre, and be her support for this mystery date the blonde businessman was supposed to bring. Hilde also thought it would be fun to surprise Sariah with the dashing young Winner on the eve of the date, so getting Sariah to agree to a blind date was proving harder than the dark haired girl originally thought. For some reason, her roommate shied away from anything social. The quiet girl had only once blamed her “rather unusual” upbringing for her lack of enthusiasm for going out, but confided that it took a lot for her to gain trust in a person, leaving Hilde exceedingly puzzled, but content with the answer for the time being.
“Pleeeeeeese??? Pretty please with a cherry on top and chocolate fudge and caramel, I know you like caramel sauce…but no whipped cream,” Hilde babbled on to her roommate.
Sariah laughed. “I still can’t believe your pie story. But, seriously, Hilde, I don’t even know the guy. I mean, I’ll admit I have attended social functions with my family where there were other young gentlemen present, but I’ve hardly been on any dates. How do you expect me to fare with a blind one?”
“I’ve told you before, Sariah, you will absolutely looooooove this guy. He’s my friend, so have a little faith in me. You know how I explained he wanted to go out? I felt so bad refusing him, but I know he’s not my type. You, on the other hand, are perfect for him. Your dad’s a businessman, right?”
“’Well, yes but that shouldn’t really matter--” Sariah began.
“No, that’s great. My friend’s really…” Hilde chose her words carefully. “…into business. His dad was a businessman.”
“Into business, huh?” Sariah repeated. “Sounds like loads of fun,” she sighed sarcastically. “Besides, most of the businessmen’s sons I know aren’t all that great.”
“Sariah,” Hilde looked at her friend with her best puppy dog eyes that could rival even Duo’s. “Do this one favor, for me,” she said gently.
“Oh, alright, just stop with the puppy eyes, will ya?” the girl finally conceded, resulting in a tremendous bear hug from her relieved roommate.
~*~*~
Hilde flipped through the pages of her diary while waiting for some nail polish to dry. Usually, she didn’t mess with the stuff. She had tried once, but just didn’t possess the talent for painting nails, and never had the patience to let them dry anyway. But Sariah had insisted on giving her a manicure, so she let the artist go to work. Besides, she owed her roommate big for going on the double date with her.
Yes, tonight was the big night, and Hilde couldn’t contain her butterflies. Just who was Quatre bringing for her? It seemed like he was always up to matchmaking. She only hoped she could return the favor to him with Sariah.
After skimming a few more pages, one particularly girly entry caught Hilde’s eye, as she read the passage and imagined her date being just the hero she hoped would meet her tonight…though she knew enough to realize that he would exist only in her daydreams.
Could there be such a man…so handsome, glowing, strong, yet with deep, endless eyes? He wouldn’t have to smile much, if he saved those rare and precious smiles just for me. Gentle, calm, graceful, like the wind, yet firm like the earth to keep me grounded. One who would notice the little things, who would become intoxicated just by the shampoo in my hair and wrap his arms around my waist and hold me. A whisperer, murmuring sweet words with his delicious voice, incomprehensible because he was so taken with me. With a softness and a kind heart. A touch of radiating warmth to balance my cold hands. A perfect fit.
“Could there be such a man for me?” Hilde whispered to no one in particular.
“What are you talking about over there?” Sariah turned from examining herself in the mirror to look at her mumbling roomie.
“Oh nothing,” Hilde blushed a little embarrassed. “Wow, you look gorgeous, Sariah.” She gazed at the girl’s deep aqua velvety shirt, which caused her usually pale teal eyes to soak up the rich color, causing them to glow brilliantly. A simple crystal on a delicate chain adorned her neck, adding subtle beauty to the v-neck of her princess style shirt that had long, wide sleeves and a simple though elegant pattern stitched in. Sariah had actually made it herself, and it perfectly mirrored the unique, though sophisticated style of its wearer.
“Thank you, Hilde. How do you like the shirt I made you?” she asked timidly. Hilde couldn’t believe Sariah’s almost self-conscious nature regarding her fashion masterpiece. Hilde looked at the royal purple wonder Sariah had created, which was currently laid out on her bed. It was in a couple of pieces, one a rather corset looking bodice accented with beautiful violet ribbon running up the front and ending in a bow. Next, there were two arm pieces, which covered the whole of Hilde’s arms, ending just below the shoulders, matching up with the top of the bodice. It was exquisite, and undeniably sexy, yet held that elegant flare which Sariah always seemed to express in her designs. Hilde always thought it was such a shame Sariah was enrolled in the business school when she had oodles of artistic talent, but kept her opinion to herself, at least thankful her roommate had the creative outlet of being in the fashion design club.
Lost in her thoughts while gazing at the beautiful shirt, Hilde was brought out of her revere by Sariah saying, “Come on, I won’t let you off that easy. I heard you saying something about a man before.”
Hidle laughed. “I was wondering when Mr. Right would show his face, that’s all.”
“What if your dream guy is right here on campus?” Sariah mused. “Maybe even the guy you are going out with tonight!?”
“Hmpf. That’s not very likely, is it? A blind date? Ick!” Hilde snorted. “Besides, last semester going to all of those parties, I saw a lot of people. None of the guys on campus seemed to really catch my eye, though,” Hilde said, disappointed.
“You can’t rule out every guy that goes here based on that fact. Maybe the guy you’re looking for doesn’t go to the parties,” Sariah suggested.
“Why do you never go to parties?” Hilde asked, trying to change the focus to the girl herself. Even though Sariah had given her a vague reason before, she thought it odd that such a gorgeous girl with a wonderful character would skip the party scene. Hilde was sure Sariah would be loved by everyone if she ever made an appearance.
“I had just rather not go,” she stated simply, giving Hilde her best serene smile, causing the more outgoing girl to drop the matter entirely. Besides, after glancing at her clock, Hilde had to scramble to get her outfit on, as somehow she managed to let time slip away from her again. Dabbing on a bit of moonflower perfume to complete her date preparations, Hilde and Sariah grabbled their coats and rushed to the Italian restaurant because, as one can only guess, Hilde had caused the girls to run late…again.
~*~*~
Hilde was practically dragging Sariah--who at this point looked more than a bit nervous--into the fancy Italian restaurant. It was a lovely little place, one of the many quaint local spots. Sparkling with the stars above and a multitude of glowing candles, Little Italy had a beautiful outside fountain area and an even more cozy and romantic ancient roman interior. Hilde spotted a familiar flash of platinum blonde hair and tugged at Sariah’s elbow in excitement.
“Are you ready?” Hilde squealed to the other girl and she began moving them both in the direction of Quatre and the very tall shadow standing next to him.
Sariah looked a bit concerned and kept her gaze towards the ground, “You have that unmistakable tone of mischief in your voice,” Sariah noted accusingly as Hilde was now shoving her towards the entrance from behind.
Finally, Hilde caught the eye of Quatre and approached him. Not even bothering to discover her own mystery date at the moment, she was too involved in gauging Sariah’s reaction to her amazing blind date. The secrecy in the matter was all too sweetly rewarded when seeing the quiet girl’s wide-eyed reaction. The other unexpected joy was the look on Quatre’s face as well, as Hilde could clearly see the surprising hint of recognition on his handsome features.
“Why, Mr. Winner!” Sariah breathed, and stumbled back so that Hilde almost had to catch the startled girl.
Finally finding the words to speak, an equally bewildered Quatre managed to say, “You’re Brennon’s daughter, aren’t you? Miss--?”
“Laraway,” she answered, now remarkably composed, offering her hand. “Sariah Laraway.”
A deep, though quiet and smooth chuckle then escaped from the shadows. This time Hilde was the one to be caught off guard. Taking in Trowa Barton’s dapper form as he moved from the darkness, after a moment of frozen silence, followed by a gasp, all Hilde could do was smile and lightly shake her head. Some mystery man!
“Shall we?” was all the taller boy said, as he smiled with his eyes and motioned them into the restaurant. He offered Hilde his arm with an accompanying eyebrow quirk, and she accepted it with delight as they moved into the glowing candlelit embrace of the most secluded table in Little Italy.
The moment they all were comfortably seated, Hilde turned her attentions directly to Quatre. Before she could speak, he quickly remarked, “So, how do you like my matchmaking handiwork?”
“You little devil, you! You had this all planned!” was the only thing Hilde could mutter before the mysterious blushing syndrome she was having recently set in yet again having caught Trowa’s intrigued, sparkling stare. Quick to change the subject, the girl was now quite perplexed by Quatre and Sariah’s former acquaintance and was longing for more details.
“Soooo,” she began, looking at the other couple, “how did you know each other before? And Sariah, why did I not know that you were the daughter of the man owning the most prestigious technology company in the Earthsphere?”
After stealing a glance at Quatre, Sariah spoke first. “Well…you see Hilde, as Mr. Winner is probably well aware, being in such a family, it is almost impossible to avoid stereotypes. If people heard the name Brennon belonging to a student at EU, and in the business school no less, I would immediately be recognized and judged.” The girl’s voice turned small, and held a hint of sadness as she continued on. “People would never see me as I truly am. They would only see my name. That’s why I chose to keep my mother’s last name. She came from a well-respected family from the colonies, but hardly anyone here on Earth knows of the Laraway’s. I never told you of this because…” she paused, her brow now lightly furrowed, “…because I loved how you accepted me immediately without even knowing my name at all. I didn’t want to ruin that.”
“Aw, Sariah,” Hilde said gently, but giving a huge smile back to the girl. “Nothing will ever change our friendship. You are the best roommate ever, whatever your name may be.”
“You two are roommates!?” Quatre suddenly entered the conversation, very interested in this new discovery. He had almost toppled over in his seat upon hearing Sariah’s heartfelt speech. The girl was so sincere, and knew exactly how he felt growing up as the Winner heir…how he still feels. Finally, he thought, someone like me, someone who understands...
Upon placing their orders, the nervousness and surprise that had surrounded the group now melted away in the golden hue of the flames that danced upon their table, carefully contained within fine crystal orbs.
“So Hilde mentioned my date was ‘into business’,” Sariah said playfully. “What might you know about business, Mr. Winner?”
“It’s Quatre, please,” he charmed her gently, “And I might know a thing or two.”
During the whole discussion, Trowa had managed to sit in silence, fully amused by the events playing out. He had never seen his best friend so mesmerized, especially when dazzled by Sariah’s glowing smile. Occasionally he would catch the straying gaze of a most seductive looking Hilde, who, when caught would immediately flush and turn away. Yes, this is becoming a most interesting evening after all…
~*~*~
After a delightful dinner, the couples moved to walk about the beautiful garden area. It was a mild evening, full of magic, as a pure white moon glowed and spilled its silver to the world below. The moonbeams flowed as if to encourage the violin player who was entertaining the various pairs now roaming about the softly lit paths around the fountain.
Somehow, Hilde found herself being escorted by Trowa to admire the sparkling waters of the fountain, while Quatre and Sariah were floating off to another corner of the moonlit garden. When Hilde looked up at her quiet companion, eyes inquiring about the apparent separation of their party, he merely graced her with the slightest trace of a smile.
“I thought,” he began quietly, transfixed on the glimmer of light blue waters, “that we should give them some time alone.”
Hilde was surprised at this, but merely joked, “Trowa, you are almost as bad as Quatre in your matchmaking conspiracies.”
He met her eyes, shining now from the reflection of lighted liquid. His face was as placid as his words, “He really likes her.” But Hilde couldn’t help feeling he meant something more.
“You must have been surprised to see me waltzing up to meet you, huh?” Hilde asked him.
“Seeing how late my date was, I should have known it was you,” he teased her.
Hilde giggled. This was…nice. The relaxed atmosphere suited Hilde just fine, as she couldn’t have imagined all of the potential horrible happenings she might have been subject to on a real blind date.
To be honest, she had felt a bit awkward at first, as the fact began to sink in that she was out on an official date with one of her best guy friends, who was also hands down the most popular catch in the freshman class. However they both decided to humor their friends and act somewhat like a couple, just for this night. And now, separating from their group, they had managed to turn the tables on Quatre and Sariah and play matchmakers themselves.
Hilde gazed at the couple across the small garden, soaking in the sweet melody of the violin. She had never seen Sariah so happy. Her smile was full, a thing that happened but rarely. Hilde noted her graceful posture and regal air and could not believe she did not realize who her roommate was before tonight.
“You knew, didn’t you?” Hilde asked the seemingly stone statue standing next to her.
The Adonis came to life and moved to face her. It was a vague question, but somehow just from following Hilde’s stare, he understood and answered. “I had an idea of who she was when we first met, yes.”
“Of course you would,” Hilde remarked, bringing her attention back to her current ‘date’. “You’re a watcher.”
“I am many things,” he said stoically.
Hilde studied him, puzzled. It was at this point Hilde realized the casual atmosphere surrounding them had started to grow more serious, although a notion surfaced that perhaps it was turning into something else entirely.
“It still amazes me how you can read people so well,” she said quietly.
He said nothing at that, turning his attentions back towards what had to be the most interesting looking water, as he had been staring at it for most of the time they had lingered outside, and Hilde was left to keep gazing at his contemplating form.
She couldn’t think of a previous moment in their entire friendship when he had looked as handsome as he did now. Even the night of Quatre’s party could not compare to the more relaxed, though incredibly sexy look of the man who was actually hers this moon caressed night. At first, her mind tried to dismiss the thoughts. Maybe it was the silk of moonbeams, maybe it was the perfume of midnight blossoms, or maybe it was the hint of spice when she neared him, but tonight, Hilde decided to indulge herself.
She let her eyes soak in the white of his dress shirt, which seemed to flow about him, flooding shadows in the contours of his muscles, betraying nothing of the chiseled body underneath.
Trowa felt her eyes on him, and contained a smirk before turning to her once more. This action only gave the girl more pleasure as she watched the fabric, glowing from the wash of moonlight, move across his body in a seductive fluid motion. As he stood before her, her eyes now had full access to admiring the way the first few buttons of the shirt were undone, tempting anyone to finish the job that was started. It was at this thought, Hilde blinked at her own dirty little mind which was beginning to wander in a place she did not want to go in regards to her friend. Hoping her blush was hidden by the dark, she tried the tactic of jesting with him to ease her own growing nervousness.
“I have to say, you clean up quite well there, Trowa-boy. I know it must have been hard, you know, to actually do some laundry, but I’ve very impressed,” she remarked referring to the earlier pie incident when he had barely any clean clothes at all to offer her.
He stared at her with a look of his that Hilde could now read. He was thinking of a comeback, and Trowa’s comebacks were always a demonstration of the most supreme wit.
She thought he was about to speak, when they both stilled at the sound of the most hauntingly beautiful violin music Hilde had ever heard. Her body refused to move from the spot she was standing and allowed only a glance to realize Quatre Winner had now captivated an entire audience of dining couples within an ear shot of his accomplished violin playing. He must have borrowed the instrument from the musician playing before and was now serenading Sariah, who looked liked she was in an absolutely blissful dream.
The music was dark, powerful, though sensual and enchanting. Trowa caught Hilde’s deep gaze before she could think a moment more. And when Hilde Schbeiker cannot think, a certain reaction is sure to follow. The girl began to babble.
Going back to the previous topic about the day she was pied, words flowed from the girl that would have been completely incoherent for the average person to understand. But Trowa was not the average person, and he was deeply captivated by the movement of her crimson stained lips.
“I never really thanked you enough for all of the help you gave me that day. Your kindness meant so much to me. And I still have your shirts. Don’t you need your lacrosse shirt to practice in? I really should give it back to you--”
His voice had grown husky and cut her off. “Keep it,” he breathed.
Feeling as though she was caught in a spell, Hilde was rendered powerless as he moved closer to her. The back of his fingertips lightly whispered to her neck, sending tingles chasing their path as he brushed them ever so slowly down to her collarbone.
All breath, all time, all space seemed to swiftly drift away from them and expand to surround a captured moment that would most certainly end in a kiss, unless…
Beep
Beep beep
Startled, they jumped away from each other, spell broken. Breath quickly returned as the air seemed to drown Hilde’s lungs causing the girl to take short, shallow gasps.
Trowa growled as he rummaged through the jacket he had been holding to his side and found the small vidlink he was forever cursed to carry around due to Preventers emergencies.
He turned and answered the call as Hilde hugged her arms, trying to figure out exactly what had happened, or would have happened, if not for the sudden interruption.
Trowa swirled around to face her abruptly, any previous sign of their intimate moment now gone. He swallowed hard, his eyes darkened.
“What? What is it, Trowa?” Hilde asked, now very concerned.
“Heero’s back,” he stated in monotone.
Cupping a hand to her mouth, Hilde could not contain the whisper that escaped her, not knowing how much a single word could hurt her companion.
“Duo”.
She surprised herself that she did not remember him throughout the entire evening until now. But recalling his goofy grin and violet eyes, she felt a pain run through her heart as she cringed at Trowa’s next words.
“Heero’s back, and he’s pissed.”
~*~*~
AN: Wowza! I can’t believe I finished another. Thanks to those who offered feedback and support, this chapter is for you! Just to let you know, I’m going back to school now, so that was the last chapter for a while. I have some parts of the next chapter already written, so hopefully, if time permits, I may get out another chapter while at school. If not, I will most definitely finish this story on my breaks. Thank you for your patience. Giant bear hugs for everyone!!!
~Sphinx
Second Semester
Chapter Nine
A most interesting evening…
Hilde’s incessant pleading could be heard all the way down to the first floor of their gigantic castle-like dorm. She was determined to get Sariah to go out on a date with Quatre, and be her support for this mystery date the blonde businessman was supposed to bring. Hilde also thought it would be fun to surprise Sariah with the dashing young Winner on the eve of the date, so getting Sariah to agree to a blind date was proving harder than the dark haired girl originally thought. For some reason, her roommate shied away from anything social. The quiet girl had only once blamed her “rather unusual” upbringing for her lack of enthusiasm for going out, but confided that it took a lot for her to gain trust in a person, leaving Hilde exceedingly puzzled, but content with the answer for the time being.
“Pleeeeeeese??? Pretty please with a cherry on top and chocolate fudge and caramel, I know you like caramel sauce…but no whipped cream,” Hilde babbled on to her roommate.
Sariah laughed. “I still can’t believe your pie story. But, seriously, Hilde, I don’t even know the guy. I mean, I’ll admit I have attended social functions with my family where there were other young gentlemen present, but I’ve hardly been on any dates. How do you expect me to fare with a blind one?”
“I’ve told you before, Sariah, you will absolutely looooooove this guy. He’s my friend, so have a little faith in me. You know how I explained he wanted to go out? I felt so bad refusing him, but I know he’s not my type. You, on the other hand, are perfect for him. Your dad’s a businessman, right?”
“’Well, yes but that shouldn’t really matter--” Sariah began.
“No, that’s great. My friend’s really…” Hilde chose her words carefully. “…into business. His dad was a businessman.”
“Into business, huh?” Sariah repeated. “Sounds like loads of fun,” she sighed sarcastically. “Besides, most of the businessmen’s sons I know aren’t all that great.”
“Sariah,” Hilde looked at her friend with her best puppy dog eyes that could rival even Duo’s. “Do this one favor, for me,” she said gently.
“Oh, alright, just stop with the puppy eyes, will ya?” the girl finally conceded, resulting in a tremendous bear hug from her relieved roommate.
~*~*~
Hilde flipped through the pages of her diary while waiting for some nail polish to dry. Usually, she didn’t mess with the stuff. She had tried once, but just didn’t possess the talent for painting nails, and never had the patience to let them dry anyway. But Sariah had insisted on giving her a manicure, so she let the artist go to work. Besides, she owed her roommate big for going on the double date with her.
Yes, tonight was the big night, and Hilde couldn’t contain her butterflies. Just who was Quatre bringing for her? It seemed like he was always up to matchmaking. She only hoped she could return the favor to him with Sariah.
After skimming a few more pages, one particularly girly entry caught Hilde’s eye, as she read the passage and imagined her date being just the hero she hoped would meet her tonight…though she knew enough to realize that he would exist only in her daydreams.
Could there be such a man…so handsome, glowing, strong, yet with deep, endless eyes? He wouldn’t have to smile much, if he saved those rare and precious smiles just for me. Gentle, calm, graceful, like the wind, yet firm like the earth to keep me grounded. One who would notice the little things, who would become intoxicated just by the shampoo in my hair and wrap his arms around my waist and hold me. A whisperer, murmuring sweet words with his delicious voice, incomprehensible because he was so taken with me. With a softness and a kind heart. A touch of radiating warmth to balance my cold hands. A perfect fit.
“Could there be such a man for me?” Hilde whispered to no one in particular.
“What are you talking about over there?” Sariah turned from examining herself in the mirror to look at her mumbling roomie.
“Oh nothing,” Hilde blushed a little embarrassed. “Wow, you look gorgeous, Sariah.” She gazed at the girl’s deep aqua velvety shirt, which caused her usually pale teal eyes to soak up the rich color, causing them to glow brilliantly. A simple crystal on a delicate chain adorned her neck, adding subtle beauty to the v-neck of her princess style shirt that had long, wide sleeves and a simple though elegant pattern stitched in. Sariah had actually made it herself, and it perfectly mirrored the unique, though sophisticated style of its wearer.
“Thank you, Hilde. How do you like the shirt I made you?” she asked timidly. Hilde couldn’t believe Sariah’s almost self-conscious nature regarding her fashion masterpiece. Hilde looked at the royal purple wonder Sariah had created, which was currently laid out on her bed. It was in a couple of pieces, one a rather corset looking bodice accented with beautiful violet ribbon running up the front and ending in a bow. Next, there were two arm pieces, which covered the whole of Hilde’s arms, ending just below the shoulders, matching up with the top of the bodice. It was exquisite, and undeniably sexy, yet held that elegant flare which Sariah always seemed to express in her designs. Hilde always thought it was such a shame Sariah was enrolled in the business school when she had oodles of artistic talent, but kept her opinion to herself, at least thankful her roommate had the creative outlet of being in the fashion design club.
Lost in her thoughts while gazing at the beautiful shirt, Hilde was brought out of her revere by Sariah saying, “Come on, I won’t let you off that easy. I heard you saying something about a man before.”
Hidle laughed. “I was wondering when Mr. Right would show his face, that’s all.”
“What if your dream guy is right here on campus?” Sariah mused. “Maybe even the guy you are going out with tonight!?”
“Hmpf. That’s not very likely, is it? A blind date? Ick!” Hilde snorted. “Besides, last semester going to all of those parties, I saw a lot of people. None of the guys on campus seemed to really catch my eye, though,” Hilde said, disappointed.
“You can’t rule out every guy that goes here based on that fact. Maybe the guy you’re looking for doesn’t go to the parties,” Sariah suggested.
“Why do you never go to parties?” Hilde asked, trying to change the focus to the girl herself. Even though Sariah had given her a vague reason before, she thought it odd that such a gorgeous girl with a wonderful character would skip the party scene. Hilde was sure Sariah would be loved by everyone if she ever made an appearance.
“I had just rather not go,” she stated simply, giving Hilde her best serene smile, causing the more outgoing girl to drop the matter entirely. Besides, after glancing at her clock, Hilde had to scramble to get her outfit on, as somehow she managed to let time slip away from her again. Dabbing on a bit of moonflower perfume to complete her date preparations, Hilde and Sariah grabbled their coats and rushed to the Italian restaurant because, as one can only guess, Hilde had caused the girls to run late…again.
~*~*~
Hilde was practically dragging Sariah--who at this point looked more than a bit nervous--into the fancy Italian restaurant. It was a lovely little place, one of the many quaint local spots. Sparkling with the stars above and a multitude of glowing candles, Little Italy had a beautiful outside fountain area and an even more cozy and romantic ancient roman interior. Hilde spotted a familiar flash of platinum blonde hair and tugged at Sariah’s elbow in excitement.
“Are you ready?” Hilde squealed to the other girl and she began moving them both in the direction of Quatre and the very tall shadow standing next to him.
Sariah looked a bit concerned and kept her gaze towards the ground, “You have that unmistakable tone of mischief in your voice,” Sariah noted accusingly as Hilde was now shoving her towards the entrance from behind.
Finally, Hilde caught the eye of Quatre and approached him. Not even bothering to discover her own mystery date at the moment, she was too involved in gauging Sariah’s reaction to her amazing blind date. The secrecy in the matter was all too sweetly rewarded when seeing the quiet girl’s wide-eyed reaction. The other unexpected joy was the look on Quatre’s face as well, as Hilde could clearly see the surprising hint of recognition on his handsome features.
“Why, Mr. Winner!” Sariah breathed, and stumbled back so that Hilde almost had to catch the startled girl.
Finally finding the words to speak, an equally bewildered Quatre managed to say, “You’re Brennon’s daughter, aren’t you? Miss--?”
“Laraway,” she answered, now remarkably composed, offering her hand. “Sariah Laraway.”
A deep, though quiet and smooth chuckle then escaped from the shadows. This time Hilde was the one to be caught off guard. Taking in Trowa Barton’s dapper form as he moved from the darkness, after a moment of frozen silence, followed by a gasp, all Hilde could do was smile and lightly shake her head. Some mystery man!
“Shall we?” was all the taller boy said, as he smiled with his eyes and motioned them into the restaurant. He offered Hilde his arm with an accompanying eyebrow quirk, and she accepted it with delight as they moved into the glowing candlelit embrace of the most secluded table in Little Italy.
The moment they all were comfortably seated, Hilde turned her attentions directly to Quatre. Before she could speak, he quickly remarked, “So, how do you like my matchmaking handiwork?”
“You little devil, you! You had this all planned!” was the only thing Hilde could mutter before the mysterious blushing syndrome she was having recently set in yet again having caught Trowa’s intrigued, sparkling stare. Quick to change the subject, the girl was now quite perplexed by Quatre and Sariah’s former acquaintance and was longing for more details.
“Soooo,” she began, looking at the other couple, “how did you know each other before? And Sariah, why did I not know that you were the daughter of the man owning the most prestigious technology company in the Earthsphere?”
After stealing a glance at Quatre, Sariah spoke first. “Well…you see Hilde, as Mr. Winner is probably well aware, being in such a family, it is almost impossible to avoid stereotypes. If people heard the name Brennon belonging to a student at EU, and in the business school no less, I would immediately be recognized and judged.” The girl’s voice turned small, and held a hint of sadness as she continued on. “People would never see me as I truly am. They would only see my name. That’s why I chose to keep my mother’s last name. She came from a well-respected family from the colonies, but hardly anyone here on Earth knows of the Laraway’s. I never told you of this because…” she paused, her brow now lightly furrowed, “…because I loved how you accepted me immediately without even knowing my name at all. I didn’t want to ruin that.”
“Aw, Sariah,” Hilde said gently, but giving a huge smile back to the girl. “Nothing will ever change our friendship. You are the best roommate ever, whatever your name may be.”
“You two are roommates!?” Quatre suddenly entered the conversation, very interested in this new discovery. He had almost toppled over in his seat upon hearing Sariah’s heartfelt speech. The girl was so sincere, and knew exactly how he felt growing up as the Winner heir…how he still feels. Finally, he thought, someone like me, someone who understands...
Upon placing their orders, the nervousness and surprise that had surrounded the group now melted away in the golden hue of the flames that danced upon their table, carefully contained within fine crystal orbs.
“So Hilde mentioned my date was ‘into business’,” Sariah said playfully. “What might you know about business, Mr. Winner?”
“It’s Quatre, please,” he charmed her gently, “And I might know a thing or two.”
During the whole discussion, Trowa had managed to sit in silence, fully amused by the events playing out. He had never seen his best friend so mesmerized, especially when dazzled by Sariah’s glowing smile. Occasionally he would catch the straying gaze of a most seductive looking Hilde, who, when caught would immediately flush and turn away. Yes, this is becoming a most interesting evening after all…
~*~*~
After a delightful dinner, the couples moved to walk about the beautiful garden area. It was a mild evening, full of magic, as a pure white moon glowed and spilled its silver to the world below. The moonbeams flowed as if to encourage the violin player who was entertaining the various pairs now roaming about the softly lit paths around the fountain.
Somehow, Hilde found herself being escorted by Trowa to admire the sparkling waters of the fountain, while Quatre and Sariah were floating off to another corner of the moonlit garden. When Hilde looked up at her quiet companion, eyes inquiring about the apparent separation of their party, he merely graced her with the slightest trace of a smile.
“I thought,” he began quietly, transfixed on the glimmer of light blue waters, “that we should give them some time alone.”
Hilde was surprised at this, but merely joked, “Trowa, you are almost as bad as Quatre in your matchmaking conspiracies.”
He met her eyes, shining now from the reflection of lighted liquid. His face was as placid as his words, “He really likes her.” But Hilde couldn’t help feeling he meant something more.
“You must have been surprised to see me waltzing up to meet you, huh?” Hilde asked him.
“Seeing how late my date was, I should have known it was you,” he teased her.
Hilde giggled. This was…nice. The relaxed atmosphere suited Hilde just fine, as she couldn’t have imagined all of the potential horrible happenings she might have been subject to on a real blind date.
To be honest, she had felt a bit awkward at first, as the fact began to sink in that she was out on an official date with one of her best guy friends, who was also hands down the most popular catch in the freshman class. However they both decided to humor their friends and act somewhat like a couple, just for this night. And now, separating from their group, they had managed to turn the tables on Quatre and Sariah and play matchmakers themselves.
Hilde gazed at the couple across the small garden, soaking in the sweet melody of the violin. She had never seen Sariah so happy. Her smile was full, a thing that happened but rarely. Hilde noted her graceful posture and regal air and could not believe she did not realize who her roommate was before tonight.
“You knew, didn’t you?” Hilde asked the seemingly stone statue standing next to her.
The Adonis came to life and moved to face her. It was a vague question, but somehow just from following Hilde’s stare, he understood and answered. “I had an idea of who she was when we first met, yes.”
“Of course you would,” Hilde remarked, bringing her attention back to her current ‘date’. “You’re a watcher.”
“I am many things,” he said stoically.
Hilde studied him, puzzled. It was at this point Hilde realized the casual atmosphere surrounding them had started to grow more serious, although a notion surfaced that perhaps it was turning into something else entirely.
“It still amazes me how you can read people so well,” she said quietly.
He said nothing at that, turning his attentions back towards what had to be the most interesting looking water, as he had been staring at it for most of the time they had lingered outside, and Hilde was left to keep gazing at his contemplating form.
She couldn’t think of a previous moment in their entire friendship when he had looked as handsome as he did now. Even the night of Quatre’s party could not compare to the more relaxed, though incredibly sexy look of the man who was actually hers this moon caressed night. At first, her mind tried to dismiss the thoughts. Maybe it was the silk of moonbeams, maybe it was the perfume of midnight blossoms, or maybe it was the hint of spice when she neared him, but tonight, Hilde decided to indulge herself.
She let her eyes soak in the white of his dress shirt, which seemed to flow about him, flooding shadows in the contours of his muscles, betraying nothing of the chiseled body underneath.
Trowa felt her eyes on him, and contained a smirk before turning to her once more. This action only gave the girl more pleasure as she watched the fabric, glowing from the wash of moonlight, move across his body in a seductive fluid motion. As he stood before her, her eyes now had full access to admiring the way the first few buttons of the shirt were undone, tempting anyone to finish the job that was started. It was at this thought, Hilde blinked at her own dirty little mind which was beginning to wander in a place she did not want to go in regards to her friend. Hoping her blush was hidden by the dark, she tried the tactic of jesting with him to ease her own growing nervousness.
“I have to say, you clean up quite well there, Trowa-boy. I know it must have been hard, you know, to actually do some laundry, but I’ve very impressed,” she remarked referring to the earlier pie incident when he had barely any clean clothes at all to offer her.
He stared at her with a look of his that Hilde could now read. He was thinking of a comeback, and Trowa’s comebacks were always a demonstration of the most supreme wit.
She thought he was about to speak, when they both stilled at the sound of the most hauntingly beautiful violin music Hilde had ever heard. Her body refused to move from the spot she was standing and allowed only a glance to realize Quatre Winner had now captivated an entire audience of dining couples within an ear shot of his accomplished violin playing. He must have borrowed the instrument from the musician playing before and was now serenading Sariah, who looked liked she was in an absolutely blissful dream.
The music was dark, powerful, though sensual and enchanting. Trowa caught Hilde’s deep gaze before she could think a moment more. And when Hilde Schbeiker cannot think, a certain reaction is sure to follow. The girl began to babble.
Going back to the previous topic about the day she was pied, words flowed from the girl that would have been completely incoherent for the average person to understand. But Trowa was not the average person, and he was deeply captivated by the movement of her crimson stained lips.
“I never really thanked you enough for all of the help you gave me that day. Your kindness meant so much to me. And I still have your shirts. Don’t you need your lacrosse shirt to practice in? I really should give it back to you--”
His voice had grown husky and cut her off. “Keep it,” he breathed.
Feeling as though she was caught in a spell, Hilde was rendered powerless as he moved closer to her. The back of his fingertips lightly whispered to her neck, sending tingles chasing their path as he brushed them ever so slowly down to her collarbone.
All breath, all time, all space seemed to swiftly drift away from them and expand to surround a captured moment that would most certainly end in a kiss, unless…
Beep
Beep beep
Startled, they jumped away from each other, spell broken. Breath quickly returned as the air seemed to drown Hilde’s lungs causing the girl to take short, shallow gasps.
Trowa growled as he rummaged through the jacket he had been holding to his side and found the small vidlink he was forever cursed to carry around due to Preventers emergencies.
He turned and answered the call as Hilde hugged her arms, trying to figure out exactly what had happened, or would have happened, if not for the sudden interruption.
Trowa swirled around to face her abruptly, any previous sign of their intimate moment now gone. He swallowed hard, his eyes darkened.
“What? What is it, Trowa?” Hilde asked, now very concerned.
“Heero’s back,” he stated in monotone.
Cupping a hand to her mouth, Hilde could not contain the whisper that escaped her, not knowing how much a single word could hurt her companion.
“Duo”.
She surprised herself that she did not remember him throughout the entire evening until now. But recalling his goofy grin and violet eyes, she felt a pain run through her heart as she cringed at Trowa’s next words.
“Heero’s back, and he’s pissed.”
~*~*~
AN: Wowza! I can’t believe I finished another. Thanks to those who offered feedback and support, this chapter is for you! Just to let you know, I’m going back to school now, so that was the last chapter for a while. I have some parts of the next chapter already written, so hopefully, if time permits, I may get out another chapter while at school. If not, I will most definitely finish this story on my breaks. Thank you for your patience. Giant bear hugs for everyone!!!
~Sphinx
You were right, I completely missed these last two chapters! I have just spent a blissful twenty minutes reading through them both and I just love the way you are writing this ^^ 
