Title: Flower of Love Part: 6 Rating: PG/PG-13 My Address: legoliza@aol.com Disclaimers: Haven?t we been through this enough? I don?t own Sailor Moon I?m sorry to say or any of her numerous friends or boyfriends or any of her shoes! Geez. Get off my back already. Hullo! Bubbles here. It?s me and I?m dodging all the tomatoes that are being thrown my way. I?m so sorry I kept you all waiting on part 5 and 6; it was purely accidental. I had a vacation, and then I got sick, and things just kept getting in my way? But fortunately, this is the last chapter of Flower of Love, and so you won?t have to wait anymore. But if you happen to like my work, stay tuned because I have a bunch of ideas just waiting to be written down! Hugs and kisses to all of you who helped me with this story, I owe a lot to you. Thank you to Chibi Serenity who originally gave me the idea for this fairy tale with her wonderful story, A Rose in the Rough. Once you read her stories, you can understand why the creative spark lit my brain on fire. The John Starr, who is a really great person, listens to awesome music, and has hair like John Lennon. And to everyone who sent me nice e-mail and great ideas, I thank you. And as for Countess Popover, she needs to get her hands on a keyboard and start typing! You know you should chica so get to it! Now, for the episode you?ve all been waiting for (drum role please!)? The sixth and final part to Flower of Love!! ----------------------------------------------------------------------- Serena sat on Mina?s bed, her blue eyes unfocused and unseeing. The past few weeks had gone by in a blur. Mina had married Andrew and was now Mrs. Davis. Serena had watched the happy event from the back of the church, with the rest of the servants. Mina seemed to glow with an inner light that only a bride can possess. But she was not as self- confidant as she appeared. Before she walked down the aisle, while Serena helped her with the wedding gown, she had confessed her fears to Lita, who was the maid of honor. Serena could not help but hear, she was after all in the room. Mina had talked of future plans, the summers they planned to spend in the country, what they would name their children, where her sons would attend college, even her daughter?s favorite color! Once again, Serena felt a certain pang inside. She would not be able to talk about such nonsense to her friends. She wouldn?t vow her undying love to a certain man? now that she knew the truth about Darien. Serena looked at Mina with a jealous eye. Sure she was beautiful, and rich, and educated, and was a good musician, but in the grand scheme of things, did that really count?! ?Of course it does, you just don?t want to admit it.? Serena carried Darien?s letters with her everywhere. It was as if she had a part of him inside her. Sometimes she even pretended that the letters were for her, the she was one Darien loved. Serena hadn?t yet gathered up the courage to face him. He had been at the wedding, and all throughout it, an expression of anguish was written clearly across his face. Again, Serena had stared at Mina in envy and anger. ?Can?t she see how much is suffering?! How could she leave him for another man?!? Then Mina and Andrew had left for Europe on their honeymoon, leaving Serena to do the regular chores at the McMullen household. She washed dished with Molly, dusted the furniture, and polished the china. Serena even sold flowers on the street. She had been desperate for a distraction, something to keep her mind off Darien and that star- melting kiss? Stop it! When Serena spied Darien on the street, she immediately ducked into the nearest alley, and waited for him to pass. She didn?t see much of Ami either, who was busy with her new duties as a housewife. Serena missed her sister, always full of hope and good sense. It had been very lonely at the flat without her? ?Serena?? A timid voice called out. Serena quickly broke out of her reverie and stared at the doorway, where Molly stood. ?Yes Moll?? Molly twisted her the hem of her apron nervously. ?Serena, I?uh? just wanted to apologize for Jamie.? She didn?t meet Serena?s eyes. ?He usually doesn?t drink that much, I think he just wanted to show off to the boys at the pub. Please don?t be too angry with him! It was entirely my fault! I?m the one who-? She had been speaking very quickly and her face was as red ad her curls. ?It?s all right Molly. Don?t blame yourself. It was just? one of those things.? Serena walked over to her friend and embraced her. ?Don?t think about it anymore, okay?? Molly broke out into a relieved grin. ?Sure. Thank you so much Serena. You?re a wonderful girl. Jamie just wasn?t the right one I guess.? She smiled sheepishly. ?Now come on Moll. We have to get to work. Mrs. Davis comes home tomorrow and everything must shine!? At Darien?s Home? Darien moodily stared at his sherry glass. It had been a frustrating few weeks, filled with agony and apprehension. He had not heard from Seiya in a long time and that bothered him. Mina had married Andrew and there hadn?t been a fuss in the papers. There was no mention of the letters. Seiya hadn?t even dropped him a threatening note. ?He?s probably waiting until Mina and Andrew are at their most respectable, then he is going to strike like the snake he is!? This thought depressed Darien considerably. So did thinking about Serena. He hadn?t seen hide or hair of the girl since their kiss, well, kisses is more like it. Darien went up to her home several times and she never seemed to be there. He often saw her from a distance on the street and when he got closer, she would disappear, like an illusion. Darien had even considered going to the McMullen house just to see if she were still alive. But he knew that that option would pose a lot of uncomfortable questions and he didn?t want Serena to be pressured by the press. He sighed. It had been very lonely the past few weeks. He missed the company of Andrew. They had been friends for such a long time. Charles was too rambunctious for any serious talk and ever since he had met Raye, most of his evenings were occupied at his desk, where he wrote long love poems to her. Lita was a very sweet girl but now that Andrew was on his honeymoon, she had to take over the position as doctor. And Raye, Raye was different. She was living with Lita at the moment and spent most of her evenings out. No one was quite sure where she went or what she did. Not even Charles knew, and he had been following Raye around like a lost puppy. No, Raye wasn?t ideal company. Everything to her was an attack, a challenge that needed a cutting answer. Darien sighed again. At least Andrew and Mina were coming home tomorrow. In the meantime, Darien decided to take a walk. He needed to think about the Seiya problem, and maybe he would see Serena. In the Street? Serena walked through the market, looking for possible appetizer ideas. Since the lord and lady of the house were returning, a grand feast was needed to welcome them back. All of their friends were invited, Darien, Lita, Ken, Charles, and Raye. Serena was sure it would be grand; it was just to bad she would have to watch the show from the wings. She stopped in front of a stand selling fish. ?Can I ?elp ye missy?? The burly seaman questioned, his bushy beard twitching. ?Please, I?ll have some of the salmon and some of the trout.? ?Aye.? The man selected twp very large fish and wrapped them both in a large piece of brown paper. ??Ere ye go. That?ll be ten pounds. ?Njoy it!? Serena paid the man his money and turned back onto the sidewalk, putting the fish into her basket. She looked up and gave a loud gasp. There was Darien! He was walking down the street straight for her! Serena whirled back around and looked desperately for a hiding place. The fish barrel!! She leapt behind it and crouched there, trying to quiet her shaky breath. The sailor looked down at her with questioning eyes. ?Please don?t tell that man I?m here,? she whispered pleadingly. He nodded. Darien approached the fish stand and looked around. He had been so sure that she was there. The man running it stared darkly at him. Darien gulped. ?Have you by any chance seen a young girl about so high with blond hair and blue eyes? The seaman shook his head. ?Are you sure? I could have sworn that I saw her around here?? Serena began to shake. He had moved closer to the barrel and was looking around. ?Ey ?aven?t seen ?er,? the sailor growled. ?Now does ye want some fish or not?? Darien shook his head. He opened his mouth to speak, but then shut it again. He looked like a man who had lost his mind. ?Thank you anyway,? he murmured as he walked away. When he was out of sight, the sailor leant behind the barrel, ?E?s gone now little missy, not to fear. I wouldena let ?im ?urt ye. Cannut trust gennelmen anyways.? ?Thank you so much. You have been such a great help to me. Thank you a million times over.? The man blushed under his whiskers. ?Twas nothing.? Serena gave him a dazzling smile and walked hurriedly away keeping a watch for Darien. Her home wasn?t safe, Darien knew where it was and would most likely go there next. The McMullen?s house was safe. Darien wouldn?t dare go there and call for her, a mere servant. Then Serena spied a bakery. It would provide a hideaway for a while, and she needed some pastries. Serena walked in to the shop and the warm smell of bread filled her senses. A young girl with curly black hair ran the counter. ?Can I help you miss?? She asked politely. ?Please. I need ten pastries, four loaves of bread, and two sugar cookies,? Serena smiled, she and Molly would have treat after dinner tomorrow night. ?Yes miss.? The girl quickly went to fill her customer?s order. Serena waited patiently at stared at all the goodies in front of her. There was carrot cake, Christmas pudding, bits of chocolate, and even a sweetmeat pie. She felt her stomach rumble at the thought of all the wonderful food. ?Here you are miss, that?ll be twelve pounds ten.? Serena paid the girl the money and was about to walk out the door when her eyes met Darien?s. He was outside and staring at her through the window. ?Serena!? Darien cried and dashed through the door. Serena, however, in fear of his pursuit, ran through the back door of the bakery. Darien followed her. They ran through the kitchen dodging the bakers and loads of plates. Serena flew through the door out into the alley. Darien was on her heels and showed no signs of fatigue. Serena pushed herself to the limit, trying to avoid crashing into the people that were about on the street. ?Serena!? Darien called out again. She kept running, she was almost home? There!! Serena darted up the front steps and slipped inside just as Darien reached the front door. ?Arrgh!? he groaned as he walked slowly down the stoop. ?Why on earth is she running anyway?? He cried to the sky. Darien vented his frustration on a nearby lamppost, and regretted it immediately. ?Smart Darien. Now why don?t you go tell Serena that you want to marry her? You?ll feel real clever then.? And so, his shoulder slumped in defeat, Darien trudged home. Serena watched him from the basement window and winced when she saw him hit the lamppost. ?That has got to hurt.? Serena frowned; she would give him the letters tomorrow when he came for dinner. He is probably in agony thinking that someone knows about Mina and him. ?I wish it were me in the letters and not her!? The Next Evening? Darien knocked on the McMullen?s door and adjusted his bow tie slightly. Finally Mina and Andrew were home, the king and queen of society had returned to their kingdom. The door opened. ?Ah yes, Master Shields. Please follow me.? An aging butler led Darien down the main hall toward the sitting room. ?Tonight is going to be wonderful,? he thought. ?Just my close friends and me with no press, no games, and no Sei-? ?Good evening Darien,? a familiar voice said. Darien looked up and saw his brother sitting next to Mina, looking quite cozy. ?Hello Darien. Your brother was keeping me entertained while I waited for you. Why didn?t you tell me he was in town?? She smiled at him. Darien was beginning to feel sick. ?Must have slipped my mind.? ?Oh well, he?s here now and that is what counts.? Darien sat down opposite of Mina and watched his brother tell stories about their childhood. How could he be here? Slowly, the rest of the guests began to arrive. The look of shock on their faces told Darien how surprised and displeased they were to see his brother too, except for Lita of course, who knew he was in town. Lita and Raye. Well, Raye didn?t really know Seiya so she couldn?t really be surprised to see him. Then they were just waiting for Andrew. ?He is down at the office. The Bucking twins are sick and their mother is in a frenzy. He said he would be a little late.? ?How like him,? Mina said fondly. ?Darien, why don?t you give Seiya a tour of the house? He hasn?t seen it in ages.? Darien was about to protest but Mina looked at him so pleadingly that he had to agree. ?All right,? he growled. ?Come on.? Seiya stood and kissed Mina?s hand. ?It was a pleasure to meet you once again. I?ll see you at dinner.? She smiled in return. Darien nearly fell over with exasperation; the performance was sickly sweet with an extra coating of sugar. Seiya followed Darien out the door and into the main hall. ?This is a portrait of the first McMullen, Harold Alfred?What the hell are you doing here?? Darien whispered furiously. ?Why, visiting some of our friends of course. I?m sure they missed me terribly, just like you.? ?I wouldn?t miss you if you fell off the face of the earth. Where are the letters?? ?Now, now there is no need to get feisty. What do you mean by letters?? Seiya put on an innocent look. ?Don?t be stupid, you know exactly what I mean? This is the library, I?m sure you remember being here as a child? What about your threats? You lost them didn?t you? Typical.? Seiya scowled. ?Of course I didn?t lose them!! I would never let anything happen to those letters!!? Darien saw fear flash through his brother?s eyes. ?I just came up with a better idea.? Seiya?s face became clear again and smiled. Darien shivered slightly. ?Oh? Tell me this new idea of yours.? Seiya?s grin widened. ?When Mina was a single lady, she was considered to be the princess of society, perfect and acceptable in every way. Andrew was the same way, a bit flirty perhaps, but still the picture of London society. I find that incredibly annoying.? ?You said you would leave Mina alone!? ?I didn?t say that, you merely supposed it. As I was saying, it seems only natural that the two most famous people in all of London should marry and become, pardon the clich鬠the king and queen of Camelot. People are already starting to look up to them as an example. Imagine what they would think if their ?example? turned out not to be so perfect.? Suddenly, the awful truth dawned on Darien. It was going to be exactly as e thought. Seiya was going to wait until Mina and Andrew had become comfortable in their positions then put the love letters out into circulation. He stared at his brother in horror. ?Oh, come now Darien! Don?t look at me that way! You must admit it is a brilliant plan. Only a genius could have come up with it.? Seiya smiled smugly. ?Why you-? ?Darien,? a sweet voice called, ?could you come here for a moment?? It was Mina, she was standing at the foot of the stairs looking up at the two men. ?Of course,? Darien smiled down at her. Mina turned and went back into the sitting room. ?We?ll finish this conversation later Seiya. Go into the sewing room and don?t touch anything! This house doesn?t need to be dirtied with your fingers.? He turned and walked down the stairs. ?Yes, mother.? Seiya mimicked as he walked into the room. Meanwhile? Serena was picking the clothes off of the floor in Mina?s room. Goodness was this girl messy! She had tried on several different dresses for tonight?s occasion and had snapped so many dress hooks that it was going to take Serena hours to patch them up! She sighed. There was a party going on downstairs, she could hear the laughter. Darien was down there with them, probably having a marvelous time. ?I bet he isn?t even thinking about me!? She piled the dresses into the mending basket and carried them into the sewing room so that they could me mended. Serena opened the door. Looking out the window was a tall man, expensively dressed, with thick black hair. ?Darien!? Serena panicked and tried to escape out the door but the figure turned. It was not Darien? it was Seiya! ?Can I help you?? His voice sounded bored. ?No sir, I just didn?t think anyone was in here. Sorry to disturb you.? Serena?s insides shook like mad; she hoped her voice didn?t show it. Trying not to look ass if she were in a hurry, Serena backed out into the hall. ?Wait,? Seiya called, and he moved toward her. ?What were you going to do in here anyway?? He slowly pulled her back into the sewing room. ?Miss McMullen had some dresses that need to be mended.? ?Well, don?t let me bother you. I would hate to get in the way of your work.? His smile was oily. ?I just can?t help thinking that we?ve met before.? Serena paled. ?Tell me, have you ever been to Europe?? He didn?t think she was the girl from his room. Serena smiled slightly. Seiya took this as an invitation advanced even closer to her. ?Why don?t you put down that basket of clothes, I?m sure it?s very heavy.? Serena was walking backwards toward the wall. ?I?ve carried heavier.? But Seiya grabbed the clothes from her, and threw them to the ground. Serena now had her back completely against the wall. He came forward, and leaned his arm next to her face, so that Serena could not turn away. ?What is your name?? ?Serena, sir,? she said desperately trying to remain calm. ?Pretty name, pretty girl.? He face was so close to hers that their noses were touching. ?I like you Serena, and I can tell you like me. Let?s get to know each other better. What do you say?? He leaned in closer. ?I feel I know you well enou-? but Serena didn?t get to finish her sentence, for Seiya mouth was upon hers, pushing hard against her teeth. His arms were tightly around her waist, like and iron clamp. Serena struggled fiercely and managed to push him off of her. ?How dare you sir! I am-?But Seiya was around her again, this time he held her arms so that she could not wriggle away. Serena tried to scream, but Seiya thrust his tongue into her mouth!! Finally resorting to pain, Serena kicked him hard in the shins. Seiya broke away with a grunt of pain as she made a dash for the door. But he recovered quickly and grabbed her once more. ?No need to play coy with me, I understand you perfectly.? Serena slapped him with all her might. A crack sounded across the room and a red handprint lay on Seiya?s face. He stared into her face with shock. Then he snatched Serena?s hands and began to squeeze them, making her cry out. ?You-you-you wretch!!? His voice shook with terrifying anger. ?How dare you hit me? Me!! I am above you in every way!! How dare you!!? Then Seiya slapped Serena, his hand twice as hard as hers. Serena fell down, clutching her face. Seiya raised his hand to do it again, just as Darien walked in the door. He looked at the scene before him, Seiya with his hand up in the air and Serena on the floor close to tears. Wait a minute, SERENA ON THE FLOOR CLOSE TO TEARS???!!! Darien rushed forward and slammed his brother to the ground and punched him right in the nose. ?You aren?t fit to kiss her feet!? His voice was a livid roar. He punched Seiya again and again, the fit of a berserker. Serena?s cries finally reached his brain and he stopped. His shoulders heaving, Darien turned and stared at Serena. She was kneeling on the floor, red marks all over her face, a bit of blood was at the corner of her jaw. Her eyes were watery with unshed tears and her hair had come loose from it?s bun, leaving tangled waves of hair all over her head. Darien thought she had never looked more beautiful. ?Are you all right? Did he hit you hard? What did he do?? Serena lowered her eyes and gulped for air. ?Hard enough. I think I?m all right, he only ki-kis-kissed me?? Serena let her voice trail off. She looked back up at him; Darien looked as if he wanted to punch Seiya again. ?No, don?t hit him anymore, I?m okay.? She shakily got to her feet. ?Serena,? his eyes never left her face, ?why were you running from me in the market?? She looked away, suddenly feeling afraid. ?I-? ?No lies, just tell me.? He stood up alongside her. ?Because of these.? Serena reached into her pocket and pulled out the letters she had been carrying since the robbery. ?They?re yours and, well, Mina?? Darien stared at the papers she had placed in his hands. They were his letters. They weren?t going to be in the newspapers! ?Serena!? He hugged her close. ?You have no idea how much you have saved me. Thank you! Without these?? ?I know, the world would have found out about you and Mina. I?m sorry I read, but I had to be sure that they did belong to you.? ?How did you know I was looking for them?? ?I overhead a conversation between you and him,? she motioned towards Seiya, ?something about letters. You had been so kind to me.. I wanted to help.? ?You have helped more than you know.? He smiled down at her, relief spilling across his features. ?Yes, I helped keep Mina?s secret. You love her, but now she is married. How can you stand it?? ?Mina? Secret?? ?You?re in love with her. It?s obvious from those letters that you can?t live without her.? Darien stares at the letters, then back at Serena. There was pain in her eyes but she was trying to hide it. Then, the situation dawned on him. ?You think I?m in love with Mina?? ?Yes,? her voice was a mere whisper. ?You think I can?t live without her?? ?Yes.? ?You think I?m going crazy with out Mina in my life?? ?Yes,? her voice was broken. ?You?re wrong.? Darien titled her chin upwards, so that he could look in her eyes. They were wide open with shock. ?But, those love letters?? ?I had written them ages ago. Mina isn?t in love with me she loves Andrew! And Andrew loves her!? ?Then, who are you in love with?? Serena?s voice was soft, but her eyes betrayed her feelings. Darien searched her face, running his fingers over her trembling mouth. ?You,? he said. ?I?m in love with you.? He bent to kiss her face, when a slight groan from the body on the floor interrupted their moment. They looked down at it with disgust. ?Now how can we get it our of here?? Darien chewed his lip in thought. ?You could carry him down the dumbwaiter, and take him out through the servant?s entrance.? Darien kissed her. ?You?re brilliant.? He picked up his unconscious brother and carried him to the dumbwaiter and snuck him downstairs. They snuck through the kitchen and out to the stable yards. ?Jamie! Jamie!? Serena called. The redheaded man came running forward but stopped short when her saw Darien. ?I-uh?? He stared at the body in Darien?s arms. ?Another victim of yours?? Darien grinned. ?Help me put him in the carriage. He?s my brother. He-uh- tends to faint a lot.? James looked at the body sympathetically. ?Must be the nose- bleeds. They can make you dizzy so that you fall over and get bruises on your face. Poor man, he must have had twelve of them. Where do you want him?? ?The Goat?s Head.? Serena gave him instructions. ?Ah, now that is a good pub. I could take you there sometime if you want?? James caught sight of Darien?s face. ?But then again, I?, probably going to be busy for the rest of my life so I won?t be able to take you myself.? He drove off. Darien wrapped his arms around Serena?s waist and let his head rest on her shoulder. ?Are you sure you?re all right?? Serena nodded. ?You had better go back inside. Your friends are probably looking for you.? ?Hmmm, I can?t just stay out here with you?? ?Not if you want to get me fired.? Serena smiled. ?But I do want to get you fired.? She turned her head to stare at him. ?That way you can come work for me.? He kissed her temple. ?Go inside Darien. I have to clean up anyway.? ?Fine, but that doesn?t mean I won?t miss you. Parting with you is like telling all the air to leave, it is like removing the sun from the Earth forever,? he put his hand next to his brow in mock-anguish. ?Go on Master Shakespeare, enough with your dramatics.? Darien swung Serena into his arms and kissed her again. ?I meant what I said. Good bye.? He disappeared into the kitchen. Serena stayed outside for a while longer. A great weight had been lifted from her shoulders. Darien loved her!! She wanted to scream it from the rooftops and yell it to the world! Serena settled on a goofy grin and walked back inside. The Next Morning at the McMullen House? Andrew and Mina had invited Raye, Charles and Darien for brunch. Since he had not gotten to Serena at all for the rest of the night, Darien was only too happy to comply. He was even early. ?Hullo Darien!? Mina and Andrew rose to greet their first guest. ?You?re early!? ?I just couldn?t wait to see you Mina.? He kissed her cheek. ?Have some of the omelets Darien, they are delicious this morning,? Andrew said as he stuffed some into his mouth. Darien filled his plate with fruit, eggs, and ham. ?How are the ball preparations coming?? Mina rolled her eyes. ?It is taking forever! I never realizing how much trouble it is. Mother usually did them for me. There are the caterers, the musicians, the florists, the dressmakers, the gardeners? The list just goes on and on; I don?t know how I am going to finish this before tomorrow night.? ?Well, you could always have the florists make the rose radishes,? Andrew chuckled. ?And you could help scrub the ballroom floor! Would you do that for me darling?? Andrew reddened slightly and kissed Mina?s hand, his eyes begging for forgiveness. Darien laughed at the couple, which was so obviously in love. At that moment, Charles and Raye came in, holding hands. Charles had a grin the size of the English Channel spread across his face and even Raye looked a bit flustered. ?Hello you two. Took your time coming,? Andrew said as he and Darien stood. Charles helped Raye into her chair before sitting down himself. ?Couldn?t be helped. Raye?s carriage had a loose tire so I gave her the ride over here.? He looked over at her, hoping to catch her eye. But Raye was involved with Mina in conversation. ?Do you think you could come with me to the florist shop Raye? I don?t know whether to get the white lilies with the pink roses and the baby?s breath or the white roses and baby?s breath and just forget about the lilies. You have such wonderful judgment with flowers. Please say you?ll come.? Raye smiled. ?Of course I will. How can I refuse?? ?Thank you darling, you are such a wonderful friend. I couldn?t get this party done without you.? To everyone?s surprise, Raye burst into tears! Charles ran over to her and knelt by her chair, holding her hands. ?Raye, darling, what?s wrong? Why are you crying?? Her voice was in hiccups. ?Be-becau-because you all are so-so-so nice!? Tears flowed down her face like rain. Mina look terribly confused. ?You?re crying because we?re nice?? ?And I have been so horrible to you!? Charles shook hid head vehemently. ?You haven?t been terrible at all!? ?I have! To Darien I have been so cruel! I am a spy in your midst! I have been working for his brother,? she sobbed. Darien stared at her. Seiya? Raye managed to quiet her loud weeping. ?I have been gathering information about you ever since Mina and I met in France. That is how he knew about your affair and where you were going all the time. It?s all my fault!? Mina looked over at Andrew, afraid. ?Andrew, I meant to tell you but-? ?I know darling. I know everything.? He enfolded his wife into his arms. Darien was still looking at Raye. ?But how are you involved with Seiya?? ?We met in France, my family had a lot of debts, he offered to pay them off if I did some work for him. My family was so poor?I couldn?t refuse?? She broke off and stared at Darien dejectedly. ?I?m very sorry. I can get you the letters if you want them.? ?I already have them. A friend of mine acquired them for me. I don?t blame you Raye. The brains behind it was Seiya, it?s his fault.? ?And he seemed like such a nice man,? cried Mina. Raye turned to Charles, fear dominating her features. ?Oh Charles,? she whispered. ?Can you ever find it in you?re your heart to forgive me? Can your hatred for me ever disappear?? Tears threatened to spill over. Charles stared at her. ?Hate you? Raye, angel, how can I do anything but love you?! My heart, my soul, I could never ever hate you, not even if I wanted to! I?m in love with you too much!? His eyes held absolute adoration. ?But if you want to make up for what you have done,? Charles whipped a tiny velvet box from his pocket. ?Consent to be my wife.? Raye took the box from him and opened it. Inside laid a ruby, as red as blood, surrounded by small diamond. Raye gasped. ?Charles?yes. Yes. Yes!!? She threw herself into his arms and they kissed. When they stepped away from each other, Charles looked as if he had gone to heaven, and Raye mirrored his expression. Mina began to snicker along with Andrew. Darien joined their mirth. They all started to laugh at the ridiculous situation. Suddenly, a scream interrupted them! Minutes Before? Serena walked aimlessly through the ballroom. She had finished all of her chores for the morning, and was enjoying the peace and quiet of the morning. She had seen Darien come in from the upstairs window. She would have gone to answer the door but the butler beat her to it. ?There now, easy Fred, easy?? Serena turned at the unexpected voice. Two men were standing on ladders adjusting some candles that lay on a shelf. In fact, now that Serena looked at the ballroom, candles seemed to be everywhere! All across the walls, layers of them, there could be a thousand! ?What are all the lights for?? She asked the workmen. They looked at her in surprise. ?Oh, sorry miss, didn?t see you. We?re working on the candle display for the McMullen ball tomorrow night. The lady wants a thousand candles to light up at midnight. We think we?ve got it. Want to watch?? The one called Fred smiled at her. Serena smiled back. ?I would love to. How does it work?? ?Well, we light this tiny fuse. It?s connected to every candle in the room. It should light up pretty fast. Here we go.? Fred carefully lit a match and held it up to the fuse. With shaking hands, he lit it. The fuse sizzled and snapped, and the tiny flame traveled quickly traveled up the string as quick as lightening. The candles lit up one after another, until the entire room was ablaze. Serena whirled about. The candles were everywhere. Fire all around her? Serena blinked and saw blackness. The burning fire? She felt herself slipping and began to scream? The entire party ran towards the shrieking. They came upon the ballroom and threw open the doors. Mina was the first to see the body on the floor. She cried out, ?Look!? Fred was kneeling by the body trying to revive it. Darien stared it the person, long golden hair, creamy skin? ?SERENA!!? He ran forward the speed of a lion. He held her in his arms, she was still whimpering loudly. He patted her cheeks, shook her gently, called her name, but to no avail. Her eyes were still closed. By this time Andrew, Mina, Charles and Raye had reached him by now. Mina was kneeling beside him. She rolled up Serena?s sleeve and stared at her arm. There was a tiny crescent moon birthmark on her wrist. Mina gasped. ?It is she?? Suddenly, Serena jolted forward! ?V! Go!? She cried and then fainted again. Tears began to slip down Mina?s cheeks. ?Oh Andrew,? she whispered. ?It?s her, Serenity?I knew it. I knew she was alive.? Darien stared at the girl in his arms. Serena was Mina?s sister. He had been right in his suspicions. ?What do we do now?? ?Take her upstairs and call for a doctor,? ordered Mina. ?Hey!? Andrew cried. Andrew walked out of Serena?s room, a smile upon his face. Mina and Darien jumped to their feet. ?Well, how is she? Will she be all right?? They asked at the same time. ?Calm down! She is going to be all right. It was just a fainting spell. She has been asking for you Mina.? ?Can I go in and see her?? ?Yes, just be careful not to overwhelm her. Serena?s still a bit weak.? Mina nodded and opened the door. The drapes were drawn and Serena was lying on the bed. Mina walked over to her and sat on the edge of the bed. ?How are you?? she asked softly. Serena smiled at her. ?Fine now. You were right. We are sisters. Serenity. I?ll have to get used to it.? Mina threw her arms her sister. ?You have no idea how much I?ve missed you Serry. No idea at all. There was no one to call me V, no one to talk about the first ball with. You disappeared!? ?Well, I?m here now if you want me.? ?Of course I do! You are going to live with Andrew and me. The ball! You have to go! We need new dresses for you and new shoes, hats, parasols, gloves-? ?And lace on my petticoat? There won?t be anytime to make a new dress. I just won?t go to this party.? Mina scowled at her. ?You are going whether you like it or not. You can borrow a dress of mine and we can get Miss Elle to update it. No one will recognize it. We had better hurry; I have less than 48 hours to make you into a princess.? From that moment on, Serena was never left alone. Charles, Darien and Andrew had been shooed out of the house leaving Raye and Mina to clean her up. They started with a bath. Rosemary and bubbles were slipped in to wash off the street off her Serena?s skin. Her hair was shampooed and conditioned until she smelled like the bottle; Raye cut her waist-length tresses so that they hung down to her ribs. Serena?s nails were cut and filled, her face powered, her cheeks pinched, her lips reddened. Finally, the afternoon before the ball she exploded. ?Get out!! Just get out! Now! I have been cut, curled, powered, filed, pinched, pulled, tugged and trimmed. I cannot take it anymore! Get out of this room before these scissors end in your back! NOW!!!!!? ?But-? ?Get out!? ?Serena-? ?Away!! AWAY AWAY AWAY!!!!? Her thunderous voice sounded throughout the house and Mina and Raye escaped as quickly as they could. Serena fell on the bed with an exhausted sigh. What a day! The candles in the ballroom? memories of the attic were still in her brain and she shivered. Then she turned her thoughts to Darien. What was he thinking of all this? Her newfound identity and the status that came with it certainly made her more available. The ball that evening made her nervous. What would people think of her; Mina?s long-lost sister suddenly appearing after ten years. They might think her street-trash; Serena would never stand for that. Her lip set in a determined line, she called Mina and Raye back into the room. ?Make me beautiful and do it fast.? That Evening at the Ball? Darien, Charles, Kenneth, and Andrew waited rather impatiently at the bottom of the stairs. They were wearing their tuxedos and were pacing slightly. All were waiting for their respective loves to enter the ballroom. ?Where is that woman?!? Andrew cried. ?Why did I marry such an unpunctual lady?? ?Because you love her,? said a voice. The three gentlemen looked up. There they were, dressed in their finest. Raye glided down the stairs into Charles waiting arms. She wore a navy gown with pale blue lace. Her hair was up in tiny curls that hung delicately around her face. Mina went to Charles and twirled for him. Her dress was gold and had beautiful pale yellow layers of chiffon that seemed that gave her an ethereal glow. The smile upon her husband?s face told her of his love. Lita walked to up to Kenneth and curtsied, waiting for his look of approval. He gave it willingly. Lita?s forest green velvet gown with sheer sleeves looked as though it was made just for her. Darien looked up at the stairs and saw? no one. He looked over at Mina. ?Uhhh, where is Serena?? Mina turned and stared. ?Serena,? she called gently. ?Serena, could you come down her please? SERENA!!? ?Coming!? came the voice from upstairs. Then she appeared. It was as if a light from the heavens had just appeared on the McMullen?s landing. Darien stared, awestruck. Serena slowly glided to him. Her gown was a silvery-white that shimmered in the candlelight. Her hair was put up into soft curls that were held up by a diamond tiara. When she curtsied to him, the front of her gown displayed sparkling crystals sewn into her bodice and skirt. A necklace of diamonds graced her white throat. Managing to get his voice back, Darien said, ?Shall we dance?? Serena nodded and took is offered arm. Darien led her on to the floor with the utmost care. ?You don?t have to treat me like a glass doll, I won?t break you know.? Serena smiled. ?Your appearance says otherwise,? he murmured. They were silent for a moment. ?Darien, what do you think of? all this?? ?You mean you being Mina?s sister. I expected it.? ?You expected it?!? ?Yes, no two people in the world can look that much alike and not be related.? ?I don?t know what to think; it?s almost too much for me to handle.? ?Serena, would you like to meet my mother? You two would get along beautifully.? Darien blushed slightly. ?I would love to meet the woman who brought up such a charming person.? Darien blushed even more than disappeared into the crowd. Serena waded between the crowds the side of the room in search of her new friends. ?May I have this dance?? Serena turned and saw a young man bowing very deeply to her. His face was hidden in the shadows but his voice was familiar. ?Of course.? He led her quickly out onto the dance floor and began to twirl her around and around. Serena began to notice that they were dancing away from everyone else. He whirled her out into the hall before stopping abruptly. Serena came face to face with Seiya. ?Hello.? She gasped out loud. ?What are you doing here?? ?Enjoying the party, same as you. Having fun princess? OR should I say imposter?? ?What do you mean? I am Mina?s sister.? ?I know that. But, you could be pretending. You could really be a thief, who steals.? ?Th-thief?? ?Yes. I knew I recognized you from somewhere. You were that girl in my bedroom a few nights ago weren?t you? Collecting information about Mina?s sister I suppose. Thief!? ?No! You?re lying. You are the thief. You?re the one who stole from Darien!? Seiya began to wrap his fingers around her throat. ?I won?t tell, don?t worry. If you pay enough, I won?t expose you.? ?I have nothing to expose!! You are a lyer, no one would believe you!? ?Are they going to believe you? A street urchin, or the brother of a rich man?? ?The disowned brother.? His grip on her became tighter. ?I wouldn?t talk that way if I were you. Your life is in my hands whether you like it or not. You are going to pay me and you aren?t going to tell anyone are you?? His voice mocked her. ?Never!? Serena began to lose her breath. Wasn?t anyone noticing that she was gone? ?I?ll never pay you. You can?t blackmail me!? ?Then I will kill you.? Be-dum-dum-dum? yes, I know that I said this would be the last part. Part 7 will be the last, I promise. Be prepared for an exciting ending!! -Bubbles