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Michiru slowly walked into the restaurant waiting room, her eyes wandering around the antiquated decorations. Before she could say anything, the hostess beckoned her to follow as she entered the dining room. She quickly led her to the table where her fiancé was already ordering for them both. She glanced ardently at the outdoor seating, inwardly sighing as she would have preferred to be out in the light breeze. Taking her seat across from the dark haired man, Michiru once again stared off towards the blue sky visible from the windows. The light colored sky was a stark contrast to the dim yellow glow inside the restaurant. To her, the unpleasant light gave everything around a sickly glow. But Dachi never wanted to sit outside, as it would mess the perfect coif of his hair or something like that. He managed always to dismiss her suggestions with a counterpoint she couldn't possibly get past.
"I told you that outfit would look striking on you," his compliment really directed to himself. She recalled the scene earlier after she descended the stairs at her parents' mansion in her chosen summer dress. Dachi was waiting, only to direct her to change into something more high-end before arriving at the restaurant. "We have an appearance to maintain, my dear," he reminded her with a toothy smile.
Michiru kept the slight smile on her face, not listening much to the man across from her. She was introduced to Dachi by her parents mere months ago, obviously their choice for her in marriage. At first glance, there was not much wrong with him. He was attractive enough, with his dark hair and eyes easily matched. He put more than an enlightened effort into his appearance to ensure he wasn't hard on the eyes. On top of that, he was about to step up as the new CEO of her father's company. The upcoming promotion likely played a significant role in becoming engaged a few months after their meeting.
Focusing back on her table from her musings, Dachi was still lecturing her on all the things she should keep in mind for the evening's event, a gala to celebrate his official announcement as CEO. So he dwelled on, not noticing that his words were falling flat between them, reminding her of all the things wrong. Simply saying he was highly focused on how people perceived him was an understatement. Unfortunately, he was arrogant and strong-willed to force everyone only to view him in an agreeable light. Which just meant that most people who had to deal with the ugly side were very put off. Michiru was simply his latest accessory to show off, to raise his image. Wishing her to be more than something that looked good on his arm, Dachi consistently monitored her. The current lecture seemed to be on the do and don't of being a socialite like a child and not his future wife. This lunch date was no exception, and as his pompous voice carried through the room, she noticed more eyes focusing on her. Some staff would look at her sympathetically as they moved about the table to deliver their meals. It was apparent to just about everyone she was not pleased to listen to him, but she could do little about it.
Dachi snapped his finger at one of the staff, pointing to his wine glass demanding it filled. Almost instantaneously, a waiter approached the table to pour the requested wine. Michiru caught the shine in the blonde waiter's eyes as he, no she, winks at her. She watched the waiter curiously, noting that she is dressed more like the male waiters, with a black vest over the button-down shirt and a tie. The face the blonde made was slightly more interesting as Dachi gave a dissertation about the wine he selected as she showed him the bottle. Then, moving to pour the glass, Michiru watched as she oh so casually slipped and poured wine straight into Dachi's lap.
He quickly raised from his seat, cursing aloud on how expensive his suit was and how impervious the wine stain will be to remove. The blonde waitress was apologizing, Michiru observing that no one was really attempting to help Dachi as he continued the carry-on. Watching the scene unfold, the blonde wipes the wine from the tabletop, and she catches the heart-shaped wine stain remaining on the otherwise white linen. Next to the heart shape stain was a folded piece of paper. Michiru quickly grabbed it while Dachi's held his phone to his head, already calling for his driver.
"It's ok. I have a spare in the Bentley. I'll have the driver bring it around," he proclaimed, sending the wait staff away. As the driver brought in a black garment bag, Michiru sat in silent observation, and Dachi disappeared subtly to change. She glanced at the paper still in her hands once she was sure no one was looking. A questioning look appeared on her face as she read the cryptic message. Then, pondering the possible meaning, or even if it was for her, she simply spaced out. She didn't dare to let her mind travel to the events waiting for her after they left the restaurant. In an attempt to occupy her mind, her eyes carelessly wandered over the walls of the restaurant. Glancing around at the decor, she wondered why Dachi favorited the place. The food was rather ordinary and decorated to look like an old establishment when she knew for sure it was not more than a few years old.
Her thoughts fleeted away as Dachi returned and took his seat at the table. Pretending that nothing had happened just moments ago, he presented a large velvet box in his hands. He opened it for her, and her eyes fell on the sapphire necklace contained within. Dachi flashed another toothy smile as he placed it on the table in front of her.
"What do you think?" He questioned as he took a bite from his sandwich. Michiru looked at the oversized gold braiding contracting around the comically sized blue jewels. It really was ghastly. Realizing he likely intended for her to wear it this evening, her thoughts suddenly drifted to the gala that evening. It would be the first appearance that Dachi and herself will make together after their engagement announcement. Although they held an official engagement party hosted by her parents, this would be the opportunity to show off for both Dachi and her father's potential business partners. Dachi was a longtime family friend, and they planned engagement to occur when he took over the CEO seat. Michiru was not much more than a piece of the perfect CEO package.
"Michiru, honey?" He asked again, and she glanced up, noticing he was still waiting for her praise for the ugly present. She smiled, but before she could get a word out, Michiru felt something stuck in her throat. She tried to sip water to clear her throat elegantly but found her glass empty. She gestured for help from her fiancé, but he just looked at her passively, taking another bite from his sandwich and awaiting her answer. Seemingly oblivious, as always, to her distress.
Just as she thought she would succumb to the lack of oxygen and the lack of brain cells in Dachi, there were pair of strong arms around her. She felt a slight pressure on her stomach, but the voice in her ear was more predominant. "You need to speak the truth, Mermaid." Air rushes into her lungs once again, and she feels the ability to breathe return. She looked around to see her slightly concerned fiancé and the blonde waitress standing just behind her.
"Well, Michiru?" Dachi impatiently asked. Her eyes moved about the room, confused as to what happened. Finally, her eyes met the concerned face of the waitress, who began to move away from the couple but never broke her stare. "Michiru! What do you have to say for yourself?" He berated.
"I... I never liked this restaurant!" she shouted. Dachi just stared, eyes slowly going wide, confusion evident on his face. She looked around as her loud proclamation still seemed to echo in the room. Michiru glanced over at the blonde standing a few feet away, receiving just a wink in response. Her green eyes seemed brighter, almost glowing in the dim yellow light of the restaurant.
Deciding this was all just too weird for her, Michiru stood, turning on her heels, and briskly made her way towards the front of the restaurant. Once out the door and the feeling of the fresh air on her face, a smile graced her lips. But, before she could truly enjoy the calming breeze, a sharp noise broke the calm atmosphere. Suddenly she heard an ear-piercing screech, and as her eyes began to search for the source, darkness abruptly overcame everything.
Jolting up with a shock, her dream pulled her from her slumber much more effectually than the alarm. Reaching over and turning off the annoying contraption, she rubbed her head slightly as she recalled her dream. Such a harsh ending to a strange dream, she thought. Moving her eyes around the room in her parent's home, she lightly groaned as she made her way from under the covers. Still shaking from the strange dream, she entered the shower hoping it would wash away the lingering feeling. Unfortunately, her mind was unrelenting, replaying the details again as she lathered herself. Maybe her dream warned her of the impending threat of becoming locked in a golden cage. Dachi's unsurprising haughtiness brought Michiru closer to the doll he wanted her to be. Gasping as the warmth of the green eyes suddenly washed over her memory. Why could she remember in such detail the blonde with green eyes? Knowing she wouldn't find any answer in the suds making their way down the drain, she exited the shower and began to prepare for the day. She glanced at the calendar on her desk as she applied lotion, reminding her that tonight was the gala. Maybe that was what the dream was trying to tell me. She pushed the vision to the far corner of her mind as she pulled the light blue sundress over her head. She admired the results of her reflection, ensuring everything was perfectly in place before she headed down the stairs.
Inwardly pondering if she would manage to convince Dachi to enjoy having lunch outside, she didn't notice the voices flowing from the living room until it was too late. She paused in the doorway of the large gathering room at the scene. Dachi was animatedly conversing with her father. Neither acknowledged her presence right away, choosing to finish their business discussion before her father turned to greet her.
"Good morning to you too, father." She smiled. Turning her attention to Dachi, she softly spoke as she lowered her gaze, "I apologize for causing you to have to make a trip to the Kaioh residence. My understanding was that we were meeting at the restaurant."
"Dachi stopped by with a gift," her father offered. Dachi nodded to an awaiting maid, who produced a large box for her. She opened the lid, and a familiar-looking twill blazer and skirt set greeted her. She scrunched her nose at the memory of her dream that this was for her. It screamed old lady wear in the worst way. Her internal fears were confirmed when Dachi approached her.
"Why don't you go try it on," he suggested. Michiru knew there wasn't much of a suggestion behind the statement.
"Thank you for the gift, Dachi. I don't want to cause us to be late because of trying it on. I'm sure it fits perfectly. You always have great taste." Trying to slip out of being directed what to wear, she wore the most disarming smile she could. Dachi didn't even blink at the enchanting smile she flashed.
"Michiru, we have appearances to maintain," he blandly replied as he glanced down at her sundress. "Why don't you wear it to the restaurant?" Michiru sighed in compliance and returned up the stairs to change, cursing under her breath the whole time. Once the ugly tweed material adorned her body, she again inspected the results in the mirror. The twill set was too hot and heavy for the time of year, and it was just cut all wrong. She looked like a box. It even had a matching hat! she cried to herself. She emerged down the stairs a few moments later, and the two left for the restaurant
An extraordinary feeling of deja vu washed over her as she passed through the glass receiving room of the restaurant. The same decor flooded her memory again, distinctly fashioned to make the room seem more seasoned than it was. Then, following Dachi to a table near the back of the room, everything started to move in slow motion. Until her eyes came upon the sight of a very familiar-looking waitress with short blonde hair, dressed in the male staff uniform when time stood still for a moment, she spent the morning recalling the blondes striking features. Those splendid green eyes. Those feminine curves. She swallowed the lump that rose in her throat at the last unexpected thought. "I told you that outfit would look striking on you," he seemingly complimented himself as he pulled Michiru from her thoughts. Her heart jumped as she suddenly snapped her head back towards Dachi.
"What did you say?" She cautiously asked, recalling her dream.
"Oh, don't fret my dear. We have appearances to maintain my dear," Dachi explained with a practiced smile. Michiru's eyes went wide, trying to rationalize what was going on. Dachi continued to lecture her on all the things she should keep in mind for the evening gala, which still all went in one ear and out the other. Michiru watched discreetly as the blonde approached with the red wine bottle. I'm losingmy mind... There is no way I dreamed this last night, not in this detail! Michiru looked up in time to catch the blonde winking at her as she lifted her hand to pour the glass of wine.
As soon as Dachi stood to yell about the wine now covering his lap, Michiru's eyes doubled in size, and a shocked gasp escaped her. Then, true to her dream, she watched the blonde wipe the wine from the tabletop, leaving a heart-shaped stain on the otherwise white linen. Next to the heart stain sat the folded piece of paper. Michiru quickly palmed it, already knowing what was on the inside. Dachi soon returned to the table in his new suit and presented the large velvet box. He didn't have to open it for her to know it contained the large sapphire necklace.
"What do you think?" he eagerly questioned. Thoughts were running through her head like a mouse trying to find the cheese in a maze. And at that moment, not a single idea had anything to do with the jewelry. "Michiru, honey?" He asked again, and her eyes raised to glimpse at him awaiting her praise for the ugly present. She stood from the table slowly, looking deep into Dachi's eyes, a storm swirling within her.
"The necklace is ghastly. And... And your fake tan makes you look like an orange!" She called out. She watched as the shock spread across his smug face with the realization of her words. Not waiting for whatever response he may have, she turned on her heels and made her way quickly towards the restaurant's front hall. As she approached the entrance foyer, she suddenly recalled how her dream had ended. She stopped a few feet short of the room, glancing around in an attempt to determine what to do next. She suddenly caught sight of a familiar crop of blonde hair near the door leading to the patio. Pondering for a moment how she unsuccessfully tried to convince Dachi to dine outside, she continued to look longingly at the outdoor seating. Finally, her decision seemed made when the blonde casually opened the patio door, seemingly unaware of the commotion she caused still echoing from the table towards the back. She flashed a shining smile as Michiru stepped onto the patio. She felt the breeze on her skin as her eyes adjusted to the afternoon sun. She was right, and it was a beautiful day to be on the patio. She knew that this was what her dream must have been telling her all along. She then heard the unsettling screech towards the restaurant's front, followed by screams as some ran to see what happened.
Michiru tensed for a moment, thinking that maybe she didn't dream the events. The breeze caressed her cheek again, signaling that this was still the time to make her exit. She opened the gate to exit the patio, stepping on the sidewalk towards their car waiting on the side street. Approaching the car, she risked a glance towards the front of the building at what was going on. She moved slightly further into the road to get a clear view past the crowd. Shock flowed through her system, realizing a car had indeed crashed into the front entrance. As she stood looking toward the front, she heard a bell ring behind her, followed by shouting.
She turned to see a spandex-clad bicyclist heading towards her. And then another. And when quite a few more were heading in her direction, she took action to move out of the way. Then, what she would describe as the Tour de France heading in her direction with the hundreds of bike riders did she start to panic. She closed her eyes, but instead of feeling pressure from crashing bikes, she felt a sudden force from her side. Feeling her body slam against the asphalt, she glanced up at the heavy object that landed on top of her. She gasped as shining green eyes examined her for injuries. She struggled, and pain shot through her as she got up, but the blonde led her to relax back down.
"There are many people who wish to tell him the truth about his fake tan. You need a few more changes than that Mermaid," she heard a husky voice murmur as her heavy eyelids succumb to darkness again.
Jolting straight up in bed, she grimaced at the piercing sound coming from her alarm on the nightstand. Glancing nervously around her room, she realized that she again was at her room in her parent's home. Silently relieved at the familiar location, she began to ponder how she ended up here in the first place. Her mind drifted to one of the many times she requested to live independently while attending classes and how they always refused. Even now, they did not want her to move in with Dachi even though there was a guarantee she would have her own room. She mused, I'll have my own room even after we are married.
Momentarily shaking her disgust with her current living situation, her dream jumped to the forefront of her mind. She jumped up to look at the calendar, confirming tonight was the gala, and she was supposed to meet Dachi at the restaurant he loved to frequent. Did she seriously have a dream within a dream about today? Shaking her head once again, she struggled to understand what was going on. Without changing or touching her teal hair, she threw on her robe and ran downstairs to confirm her suspicions that Dachi was waiting for her.
Just as her foot left the last step, the voices reached her from the living room. She froze as she could make out the words of both her father and Dachi clearly. Panic stuck her whole body as she struggled to determine what could be happening. Her heavy breathing catches her father's attention as she hears his voice much closer to her now.
"You're up early, Michiru... And you're not dressed," her father's disapproving tone was evident as he eyed her appearance. "Are you feeling ok?" She could only manage a slow nod in reply.
"I thought I heard Dachi here and was excited to see him." She shyly added. Dachi moved from his spot in the living room, unconcerned with the possibility that his fiancé could be ill.
"Well, I guess it is better this way. I brought you a gift. You can take it upstairs with you and get ready." He nodded to a nearby maid, and she produced a large box for her. She opened the lid to be greeted by a familiar-looking twill blazer and skirt set. "Hurry along now Michiru, we have appearances to maintain," he said as he dismissed her urgently.
"I'll wear it if we can sit on the patio today," Michiru suddenly found her voice, startling both men. "An outfit like this would catch more attention in the sunlight." Not sure how to perceive her bargaining with him, Dachi mindlessly nodded in agreement as Michiru made her way back to her room.
Silently she followed Dachi through the restraint foyer hall, slightly smiling that he requested patio seating when the hostess started walking towards the dark corner of the restaurant. She even held her eye roll when he added that the table must be under an umbrella to help block the wind.
That makes no sense! But at least I can enjoy the beautiful weather during the dreadful lunch. Taking in the feel of the soft breeze offering a familiar caress on her cheeks from her dreams, she couldn't hold in the smile that beamed across her face. They took their seat on the patio, and Michiru glanced around. She didn't catch sight of the blonde waitress, and she sighed. She was slightly disappointed but perhaps relieved that she was not in a live version of her dream.
"Are you sure you're feeling well, darling?" Dachi asked, finally appearing slightly concerned for his fiancé's health. More precisely, he was worried Michiru's odd behavior would carry over to tonight's gala.
"I'm just going to powder my nose," Michiru hesitantly replied as she stood from the table. Although she may not be entirely sure what was going on, she needed a moment to compose herself.
"I told you that outfit would look fabulous on you," he seemingly complimented himself as she began to walk away. Michiru looked back at him, trying to hide the shock on her face. Something bizarre was still happening. She made her way inside the restaurant and towards the powder room. Just as she made it to the door, she spotted the familiar blonde waitress carrying a tray to a table.
Without hesitation, she grabbed the blonde by the wrist. She wordlessly pulled her into the powder room with her, locking the door behind them. Turning to look at the blonde, she saw she tried her best to conceal her amusement. She was livid that the blonde not only knew what she was experiencing but was enjoying it.
"What is going on here?" Michiru demanded. The blonde just raised an eyebrow at her and shrugged a shoulder.
"I tend not to ask too many questions when a beautiful woman pulls me into a washroom room with her. But I do think that is one question you should ask yourself." The blonde offered. Michiru felt the wave of defeat coming over her.
"I have no idea why I am here, why I am reliving this moment. I felt somehow talking to you would give me the answers I was looking for," Michiru was on the verge of tears. The blonde approached her cautiously, unsure of the smaller woman's turmoil. She placed an arm gently on the teal haired woman's shoulder.
"Hey," she said as she placed a finger under Michiru's chin, causing her to look up at her. "I'm not sure what happened to you to cause those tears, but I am sure you don't deserve them. If you think there is some way I can help you, I will," the blonde offered with a smile. She gave a husky chuckle as she knocked the matching tweed hat off Michiru's head. "First thing would be to get rid of that hat," the blonde smirked, earning a smile from the shorter woman. Michiru launched herself into the blonde's embrace, her arms cautiously closing around the girl. Once Michiru calmed down, the blonde excused herself to return to work, giving Michiru a few moments to freshen herself up. Then, she exited the bathroom leaving the ugly hat behind on the floor.
Upon returning to the table, Dachi was waiting with a velvet box already placed in front of her seat. "What happened to your hat?" Dachi accusingly questioned as Michiru sat down.
"I don't like it," she simply stated.
Dachi gave her a suddenly puzzled look before trying to take her hand. Then, he firmly added, "we have appearances to maintain..."
"No, you have an appearance to maintain!" Michiru suddenly interrupted, standing again. "I will be your accessory no longer. I don't want the necklace, and I don't want you picking out my clothes." Enjoying the stunning face staring back at her, Michiru continued. "I have been able to dress myself since I was eight, and you're not going to change that. And I don't like your suits either! So I will take a walk!" Michiru turned away from Dachi, concealing the smile on her face.
As she made her way to the patio exit, she heard Dachi call out, "My limo will pick you up at 7!"
He had to get the last word in, didn't he? she thought as she exited, ensuring to stay on the sidewalk this time as the Tour de France passed by the street.
Once she was about two blocks away, a small park came into view. Her head was still spinning from the events this morning, encouraging her body to take a break. She found a small white bench adjacent to the small garden. Perfect place to take a rest, just out of sight from the entrance, and the scent of the flowers began to help her relax. She glanced at her phone to check the time, two hours before she would need to get ready for the gala. She had turned the ringer off shortly after leaving the restaurant on foot, the second she got a call from her parents. Dachi likely called them, unsure if this was normal behavior for her. Combined with the incident this morning with her father, they would be sure she was coming down with a fever.
"Hey!" She turned towards the sound of a husky voice to see familiar blonde hair jogging towards her. "I was so worried when you ran off; I took my break to come to look for you," the blonde smiled as she reached the shorter woman.
Michiru looked at her attire and noticed that she was still in the waiter's uniform minus the apron and bow tie. "And then I got caught in this crazy bike race. I'm surprised I caught up to you," the blonde continued to mumble.
"Apparently, the Tour de France is in town," Michiru joked before the weight of the blonde's words settled on her. "You were worried about me? But I'm just some crazy girl that you don't even know." A frown appeared, disappointed that she somehow dragged the blonde into her problems.
"Well, let's fix that," the blonde said as she extended her hand. "Haruka Tenoh."
"Michiru Kaioh." She offered as she took the blonde's hand. Haruka's presence slightly calmed her as she looked into the concerned green eyes.
"Now, there is no more unknowns between us. Would you like to shed any light on what is causing a mermaid such turmoil?" Michiru observed the care in the blonde's face as she studied her form. Some sort of an explanation would be necessary, she figured. Michiru began to chew on the inside of her cheek, torn over how to proceed. She had Haruka standing in front of her, seemingly ready to do what she asked.
"Your fiancé seems like a real jerk. He didn't hurt you, did he?" The concern was even more evident in her defined features.
"No. Well, not like that," Michiru let out a heavy sigh. "He's daft to anything that has to do with me. The only exception with how I make him look." Both women glanced down at the tweed outfit that she still wore. A husky chuckle rumbled through the air as a soft hand took hers and pulled her to a standing position.
"Well then, Mermaid, it appears we need to get you into something a little more you speed." Her worries melted from her body as Haruka pulled her out of the park. She was watching Haruka glance around and finally getting her bearings made their way down the block. They entered a storefront a short moment later, the endless racks of clothing converging her almost instantly.
"This place had a little bit of everything," she proclaimed as she started sorting through the racks. "A likely place to find what your heart desires." Michiru joined in and started sifting through the shelves, almost overwhelmed by the number of choices. She never had this many options available in her life, quickly feeling overwhelmed as she sat in a chair.
Then, feeling a warm presence behind her, before she could look, a pair of arms were hovering over her head with a pile of garments falling into her lap. "Try these on first. It's a little bit of everything to start, and we can see what the Mermaid fancies." Michiru took the suggested garments into the tiny dressing room.
Certainly not like anything she experienced before, which gave her another reason to be happy. She gleefully tried on the articles that Haruka found and put on a mini fashion show exiting dramatically from the tiny curtained room. The first item selected for her was a polyester number with a floral print that screamed the 60s. She stepped out from the curtain, striking a mod squad pose. Her blonde counterpart started dancing the monkey around her. (a/n the dance from the 60s when you swing your arms in front of you)
She giggled as she retreated to the dressing, still watching Haruka dance around the floor, singing a tune for which the two of them could dance. Then, pulling the next garment over her head, she sashayed out from behind the curtain to the song the blonde sang.
"I like that one. You look like you stepped out of a romance novel," Haruka sing songed, not missing a step to the beat. She took Michiru's hands and danced with her around the room. She twirled her around a few times to allow the ruffles of the navy blue dress to flare out. Both women continued in their fit of giggles as Michiru returned to the small room, ready for the next outfit. She picked up a light blue sundress, just like what she wore in her first dream. Running her hands to feel the comfort of the material, she knew this was the perfect outfit to replace the tweed monstrosity.
"Haruka, this one is perfect!" She exclaimed as she twirled out from behind the curtain. Haruka just caught her in her arms, the adornment on her face leading to Michiru's heart to pound against her chest.
"Perfect for a Mermaid," Haruka murmured into her ear, her hand tracing down the length of the dress. Michiru only now realized how close they were in their embrace. She felt like she could easily capture those soft-looking lips.
Before she could make a move, the music stopped as Haruka broke the embrace. "I spoke with the girl at the counter, if you'd like to trade in that," scrunching her nose toward the crumpled tweed suit that still lay on the floor just outside the dressing room. "You can leave in this," she finished, glancing down at the outfit.
Haruka gave her a good once over with her eyes for good measure as the smile turned wolffish on the blonde's face. Michiru felt the flush come over her face as she sensed the green eyes on her. However, she knew it more in her soul that somehow Haruka would know what Michiru wanted.
As they exited the store, Haruka pulled Michiru into another embrace. "I hope the Mermaid feels slightly better," she offered as a comforting hand stroked her back. Then, she produced a familiar-looking folded piece of paper to Michiru.
"My number," she simply provided, placing the form securely in her hand. "I stayed way past my break. So I'm not sure if I have a job where you'll be able to see me again at the restaurant." Chuckling at her joke, she gifted the girl's forehead with a soft kiss. "I have a feeling I'm not done helping you yet," she whispered as she broke the embrace and started back towards the restaurant. Michiru just stood there staring at the spot Haruka once occupied. Her eyes moved from the paper in her hand to the crumpled clothes that spilled out of the tiny dressing room. Her heart thumped in her chest, almost as if she had just woken up from a dream yet again. Feeling the comforting material of the blue sundress against her skin tingled all of her senses. An elated feeling flowed through her as she twirled herself around in the middle of the door. Noticing that she earned a few stares from the young girl operating the counter, she bowed as a way to excuse herself and exited the store.
The soft breeze she felt as she once again stood on the sidewalk felt refreshing. A subtle scent of Haruka was in the air, perhaps still dancing off her skin from their last embrace. The smell, combined with the breeze, caressed her cheeks and played with her teal hair.
"Michiru! There you are!" A shrill familiar voice broke her reverie. She turned ever so slowly, almost hoping that by the time she faced the direction of the sound, the owner would have become annoyed and give up. "Are you hurt? You're oddly sluggish today. If you're running a fever or something, I can probably call in a favor to get you some medicine so you'll be presentable for the gala."
Kami sama he is so daft! She inwardly cursed at Dachi's relentless rambling. A smile pursed her lips slightly, as his imprudent behavior had allowed her to run off with Haruka for the afternoon.
Suddenly, Dachi uncharacteristically grabbed her arm and pulled her towards his waiting Bentley. He released her arm just as she ungraciously fell into the backseat of the car. Although Michiru watched him gauging her response to his action, his attention was on something in the distance. A frown settled on her face as he quickly turned back to the car, climbing in next to her. The scowl grew deeper as he finally took in her appearance, likely taking note of the new dress. Michiru sat quietly, deciding this was not the time to challenge Dachi. Her bravery diminished with the confines of his car with just him and his driver. Never had he grabbed her like he just did, and she did not want to test the depths of what else she had not yet experienced with him.
"I have been looking all over for you," he mumbled in aggravation. She quickly read that he was more displeased he spent time looking rather than her actual whereabouts. "I haven't the slightest idea what has gotten into you today. Your father assured me this behavior is highly irregular for you, so he has a doctor waiting to see you."
Michiru smiled at the thought that she may be able to excuse herself from accompanying him to the gala. However, Dachi crushed that hope almost instantly. "He will meet you at the gala and has something that will pep you up a little, so it shouldn't affect your ability to get ready on time."
As if her illness was nothing but an inconvenience to him! She signed inwardly, deciding it was best to do a little damage control if she was to endure the evening with him.
"I'm so grateful to have someone as caring as you are looking out for me," Michiru stated as warmly as she could as she took Dachi's hand. "However, I am concerned that I will not be the adornment you need in a simple dress like this. I look like such a plain fiancé." Michiru shamefully lowered her gaze. She was surprised when he gently placed his finger under her chin and raised her gaze to meet his. A warm smile graced his face, reaching to his eyes.
"Oh my dear Michiru, we have appearances to maintain," he stated rather monotone. Most definitely not the reassurance of her natural beauty that any fiancé would give their lover. "I took the liberty to arrange to have your dress and Alejandro meet you are the gala. As I said, you have a fever, so I thought it would be romantic of me to grant you this huge favor." His smug smile spread across his features, washing away any trace of the warmth she thought she saw.
True to his word, the Bentley pulled to the side entrance of the building. Ensuring they were far out of the view of the red carpet. The driver opened the door on his side of the car while Dachi just stared blankly at her. Finally, she pulled herself from the vehicle, almost literally having to climb over him in his refusal to assist his ailing fiancé.
She saw Alejandro's unmistakable bleach blonde hair propped against a side door. She slowly made her way towards him, her mind pondering if she could convince him just to let her leave. He was good for a good laugh while getting ready, but she knew that Alejandro's first love was money. And Dachi likely paid a pretty penny to pull these strings.
"Oh Michi, honey, why do the oceans look like they are about to spring a leak? We've made you cover ready in less time than this!"
"I never doubt your skills," Michiru regarded him with a smile as she fully entered the room in the back. She began to wipe away the tiny beginnings of tears in her eyes.
"Oh no, honey," he added as he moved her hand away from her face. "This pouty look you have right now just screamed to become a full siren. We will cause many of men to fall to your song tonight, my beauty." She coyly smirked at his words. This was how she was to escape tonight. She shall make many men desire over her and force Dachi to defend her honor or challenge another man. Neither did Dachi ever have the capability of doing without bruising his pride.
As promised, Alejandro made quick work, and soon Michiru was adorning the grown for the evening. With his help, the waitstaff directed her to the back staircase. The doors at the top of the stairs dramatically opened in a grand spectacle, reveling the sultry siren. Many guests paused their conversations to watch her descend the staircase, the train of her satin navy blue dress trailing behind her. With every step she took down the stairs, the slit on the front seemed to creep dangerously closer to becoming indecent.
Reaching the bottom of the stairs, she simply held her hand out in an inviting pose. She was seemingly alluring any man who dared to come and claim her.
Fortunately for her plan, she glanced up through half hooded eyes to see the host lightly taking her hand and leading her to the dance floor. They share a brisk dance as she ensures to keep her body closer to his than she usually would. The room clapped when their dance finished, and the host thanked her for allowing him to be her partner. His eyes caught something behind her, and he bowed and made his exit.
A wicked smile graced her lips as she turned around to see an annoyed-looking Dachi. Well, as annoying as he can look with all that Botox! She chuckled at her joke as he pulled her back onto the dance floor in an attempt to reclaim what was his.
"That was quite an entrance you made." His tone alluded to her suspicions he was not impressed.
"I thought you coordinated it with Alejandro," she shrugged. Alejandro certainly got paid enough to take the fall for this one. "Since you walked the carpet without me, one could only assume it was for a good reason," she rationalized. Dachi pursed his lips in contemplation and swallowed any remark he had.
By the time Dachi had to share the fourth dance with her, she knew her plan was working. As soon as he moved away to talk business with a guest, another admirer would swoop in and take her to the dance floor. She could tell he was reaching his limits.
Unfortunately, so we're her feet with all of the unplanned dances. Finally, she excused herself to the powder room, pleased that Dachi never broke his gaze with her back as she made her way through the crowd.
Entering the large alcove inside the ladies' room, she sought refuge on the couch. She sank into it, resting her head against the back. She momentarily closed her eyes and heard someone else enter the room and make their way towards the cubicles. Good, I don't want to talk to anyone in here.
She happily sighed as she heard no additional noise, and her mind drifted to green eyes. Her heart picked up slightly as the memory of the warm embrace, the loving eyes that looked deep in her soul. She swore she felt a breeze move through the room at that moment. She would have dismissed it as the air conditioning, but she noticed the fresh scent in the air that reminded her of Haruka. Sinking deeper into her daydream, she could recall the feeling of the soft but firm hands caressing her skin, setting it on fire at the slightest touch.
Her eyes jerked open as an almost soundless moan escaped her lips. A husky chuckle broke the silence in the room, her eyes rushing to find the source only to be met by piercing green ones.
Haruka sat on her knees in front of her, softly massaging her sore feet. The mirth was evident on her face at the reaction she raised from the other woman.
"With that kind of reaction, I understand why the mermaid in the story wanted legs so bad," she chuckled again at her joke, never stopping her soft caresses. Her hands continued to massage up her legs as she continued. "I was worried. I saw that man throw you in a car, so I followed it. I ended up here and conveniently already dressed for the occasion, I guess." Glancing down to find the waitress's attire still on her figure, she couldn't help but giggle. "They just pulled me in and started having me help out." The blonde suddenly stopped her ministrations, a pensive look on her face. "I wonder if they expect me to show up for work tomorrow?" She pondered aloud, her hand graced circles on Michiru's exposed thighs.
"Do you want to go to work tomorrow?" She whispered, pulling the blonde closer as she sing songed her question.
"Well, that depends on what I am doing tonight." A sided smile on the blonde's lips as she began to close the gap. An electrified sensation went through her body as she was hypnotized by the blonde's lips for the second time that day. The touch, the scent, the kiss all were doing wonders with her senses. She felt herself melt to the blonde's gentle caress as if that was all she wanted in the world.
The blissful feeling stopped as warm lips pulled away from her. She looked up to see Dachi above her with his hand on Haruka's collar. He yanked the blonde roughly, and she slid on the floor towards the opposite wall. Her eyes glanced towards Haruka to ensure she was not hurt. The blonde only frowned in annoyance as she stood to confront Dachi. Great, now he decides to be concerned with her honor. Instead of engaging with Haruka, Dachi turned his fury to her. She barely had time to raise her arms as a defense as her eyelids snapped closed. She didn't sustain the strike she knew was coming as darkness overtook her.
As she lingered in the darkness, her arms drifted up as if gravity had not affected her. Unsure of what she would find around her, she kept her eyes pressed tightly closed. Her senses centered on any sounds around her, a desperate attempt to determine the scene that lay before her. She focused on the sound of Dachi's grunts as he continued to exert himself, the sound of movement across the floor. As she strained to determine more, those sounds seemed further and further away. The fainter the sounds grew, the more weightless she felt.
As her mind attempted to comprehend what was happening, she again felt the breeze caress her skin, cradling her like a lover's embrace. Am I falling? How...? As the embrace held her tighter, she gathered her courage and flung her eyes open.
Blue eyes scanned her surroundings taking in the morning light and the pale colors on the wall. Confusion daunted her as she looked down to find her blankets wrapped around her tightly like she was a human spring roll. Fighting through the bedspread to free herself, she soon stood in the middle of the room, examining the contents. The room, her nightgown, the noises she knew meant one thing; she was in her parent's house once again.
A glance at the calendar on her desk confirmed her fears. It was the morning of the gala. It is not possible that it was all a dream! She pinched herself to ensure that she was awake this time. Definitely awake. Perhaps I should have tried that to awaken all the other times in my imagination. But they felt so real, and the fear I felt as I woke up... argh, focus, Michiru!
She concentrated on the current plight. Her experiences have made a few things clear, and the first steps were hers alone. She took a deep breath, threw her robe over her slightly shaking figure, and grabbed her bedroom door.
As her bare feet padded across the floor, the men in the living room did not notice her approach. She was able to hear more of the conversation they had that morning, particularly the details about the merger of Dachi's company with her father's with her as the center bargaining chip. Infuriated by this new information, she burst into the room.
"Father! Is this your profit more important than my happiness?" She demanded, meeting her father's cold eyes. Then, when he did not answer right away, she turned her anger to Dachi. "I will not be joining you this afternoon. And if you want any chance at my company this evening, you will hold whatever opinion you have until my father can explain my role in this deal to me in private."
Turning on her heels, she stormed out of the room. She paused just outside the living room door, once again catching the two men's discussion.
"Don't be too concerned. It must be some women issues this morning, an unfortunate side effect when one takes a wife, they find it slightly harder to keep it to themselves," she heard her father sigh. "But consider this an opportunity to tie up some business agreements for the merger. I will speak to her and ensure she is in better spirits this evening."
Anger flowed through her veins as she returned to her room. She knew deep down these changes would not be painless or easy, but she saw the hope she needed in those green eyes. Haruka! The thought suddenly evoked the next step she knew she needed, to find the blonde. She pulled the blue sundress from her closet and dashed into the shower to prepare.
Emerging from her room, happy with the results of her morning routine, she made her way to the home's foyer. As she reached her hand to the door, she felt a hold on her shoulder. She spun around in shock, startling her father in the process.
"Michiru, what has gotten into you?" He questioned. The concern in his eyes seemed misplaced to her. He was not taking in her appearance to see if she had a fever or any other signs of illness. Instead, his eyes focused on where she was heading.
"I called for the driver. I was going to go and apologize for my outburst this morning and make amends," she quickly replied. Her father appeared to accept her reasoning. However, she still felt the need to seal the deal to keep her father from what was to unfold. "I also made arrangements to have my dress for the celebration delivered to the gala and Alejandro there to set me to my best. This should ensure Dachi's fate as the CEO." She exchanged a warm smile with her father. Seemingly content with her answer, he released his grip on her shoulder.
She entered the dark car, sinking herself into the seat. Trying to calm her nerves, she reasoned her next destination would seal her fate. If everything were being directed by an unseen thread and pulling her to her future, she would soon find out. She would know if the compass was pulling her along, hopefully to the blonde, and she would accept the cost.
She exited the car and took in her surroundings, shaking off the driver's questioning look. She waved him off as she walked deeper into the park, finding the white bench from her vision. She took a seat upon the wood, taking a deep breath to inhale the scent of her surroundings. Then aroma seemed fresh and exciting to her, and her mind drifted more to her vision. In the few moments she had to think this morning, she decided that her experiences before this morning were a vision to her, no longer considering it to be a simple dream. The breeze picked up slightly, introducing a familiar scent to her. She opened her eyes to be greeted by a curious set of green eyes watching her from the garden.
"I thought I'd find you here, Haruka." She coyly offered as she rose from the bench. The blonde in front of her watched her peculiarly but said nothing. "This may sound bizarre, but I have been admiring you from afar for some time. I heard that I would be able to find you here today. May I join you?" She offered in the way of explanation, testing the waters on how much the blonde believes her.
"Who am I to deny the request of a lovely Mermaid?" The husky voice simply responded, extending a hand to her.
"Michiru," she responded with a giggle, realizing that the blonde may not know who she was.
"A beautiful name for a beautiful lady." Haruka produced a flower for her, slowly approaching and placing it in her hair. A shiver went down her spine, and the light touch as she tucked the flower with her hair behind her ear. She again saw the hope she sought in the sparkling green eyes.
"Is there anything in particular that the mermaid Michiru would like to talk about?" Michiru paused with the question. She only focused on finding her once again and had not thought much further than that. She was encouraged by the calming presence of Haruka and recalled the gala that evening. She began to tell Haruka of her intention to get out of a relationship with her fiancé. She felt herself melt together with Haruka with every detail she provided until she found herself in her calming embrace.
"I know we just got aquatinted, but I truly feel with you by my side, anything is possible. That is why I dared to meet you here today." She cooed, not lifting her head from the comfort it found on her chest. Haruka gently began stroking her hair, comforting and whispering soft words of reassurance. It all felt right at that moment. She finally knew where she was supposed to be.
A sudden loud noise broke their trance and snapped Michiru back to reality. She quickly lifted her head from the embrace to hear a harsh voice shouting as it drew closer to them. Then, she felt a strong hand clasp upon her shoulder, jerking her out of the embrace.
"Michiru, just what is going on here?" Dachi demanded, his gaze focused intently on her.
"What the hell do you think you're doing?" Haruka interposed between the two fiancés.
"What does it matter to you, maggot?" He spat with annoyance clear in his tone. "Do you know this scum?" He demanded from Michiru.
"Let go of the lady," she growled through her teeth. "No one should have a hand placed on them."
"What right do you have to make any type of demand?" He seethed, grasping Michiru tighter with her hair.
"I'm warning you," she warned, her voice dropping an octave.
Dachi let a chuckle escape his lips. "I'd teach you a lesson myself, but shit stains," he sneered in her direction as he continued to pull Michiru with him to the waiting car. Tears began to fall from her eyes when she realized she couldn't escape him. She wanted to call out to the blonde, to beg to be in her arms again. But, how could she ask that of someone she didn't know? She felt like she had known Haruka for a lifetime already and had no idea if the blonde felt the same.
What would I ask of her? To duel with Dachi? Her heart dropped as it lost all of the hope it had mere moments ago.
As she arrived into a sitting position in the car and Dachi released his grip from her hair, she felt her body go numb. In her languid stage, she did not hear the shouts that followed them to the car and the threats that continued as they drove away.
The Bentley pulled to the side entrance of the building, far out of the view of the red carpet. The driver opened the door on her side of the car while Dachi just glared, the distance clear on his face. Then, the driver reached and pulled her from the car and held her tightly by the arm as Dachi exited on the other side.
She saw Alejandro's unmistakable bleach blonde hair propped against a side door. Dachi was walking towards him, and the driver shoved her in the same direction. Her torpid movements caused the driver to push her forward a few times. Is this my life now, to be Dachi's prisoner? Living my life contained in a golden cage? She slowly made her way towards the door, her mind pondering if she could continue this life without any freedom, without her love.
"Oh Michi, honey, why do the oceans look like they are about to spring a leak? You can still make it!" Michiru raised her gaze to him only to see a knowing smile on his face. However, the smile did nothing to reassure her, and she began to wipe away the tiny beginnings of tears in her eyes.
"Oh no, honey," he added as he moved her hand away from her face. "This pouty look you have right now screams to become a full siren. We will allow you to sing your song to beckon your love." She watched him, confused at his words. "Alright, lover boy, time for you to exit. We have magic to work. You will be astounded!" He asserted as he urged Dachi out of the room. Not seeming please with leaving her with the stylist, he eyed them both as he closed the door behind him. Michiru let out a whimper as she realized he likely locked them into this room.
Alejandro worked his magic, and she found herself in a navy blue dress once again with cascading teal curls down her shoulder. She numbly rose from her seat and heard Alejandro call out to her. "Don't you want to see yourself?" She shook her head, as the vision would only remind her what was waiting for her in the evening. Ignoring her protest, he guided her to a full-length mirror and placed his hands on her shoulders, encouraging her to take a look.
As her eyes met her reflection, she took in her appearance for the first time that evening. The sight was not what she remembered from her previous vision. Well, at least not for the gala part. Her hand moved up to trace the ruffles around the neckline and the sleeves, the laughter from her memories filling her mind.
"Told you that one was appropriate for a romance novel." She immediately spun around at the sound of the husky voice and jumped into the waiting blonde's arms. After a few blissful moments, she pulled back, meeting the blonde's green eyes. Haruka just chuckled, noticing the questioning glance she was receiving. "I called in a few favors. I hope you don't mind," she provided for the shorter woman's unanswered questions. Michiru lifted her head from the blonde's chest to shoot a look to Alejandro, who still looked on in awe from the corner of the room.
"Who am I to say no to a romantic request from an old friend?" He provided. "She had me switch the garment bags. I can buy you some time, but likely not a whole lot," he added as he ushered them to the door. Haruka paused in front of the door and kissed Michiru deeply.
"Most of the staff know we're heading out the back. This is your chance, Mermaid. This is your chance to tell me no and attend the gala. If you don't tell me now, I won't be able to stop myself from stealing you away... tonight." She placed a hand on her chin, lifting her gaze to her. "I don't know what you want, and I cannot promise you anything except that I will be at your side as long as you need me." Michiru stepped onto her tiptoes to reach the blonde's lips. The sweet kiss deepened until they heard Alejandro's slight cough from behind them. They nodded in gratitude to him as Haruka took her hand and reached again for the doorknob. Michiru squeezed her hand in return. I take control of my own destiny. She smiled inwardly, swallowing the anxiety about their escape.
Haruka opened the door just enough for them to pass through and silently closed the door behind them. Then, never releasing her hand, Haruka moved confidently through the corridor. She did not realize how vast the dark hallways of the gala were but was relieved to see that that used by only staff.
As she reached one of the leading galleries, she noticed one of the ushers' signals to the blonde, causing her to pause. She moved Michiru against the wall, leaning on her arm like they were deep in conversation. She didn't dare say anything, just watching the care and softness in the determined green eyes. Then, momentarily holding her breath when she felt a presence next to them, she released it when a server handed them both a glass of champagne. "The toast will begin in a moment, sir." The server mentioned. The blonde nodded as she thought she saw the blonde quickly pocket something.
"Then let us toast to the host," she blonde said with a smirk as she moved away from the wall and into the main gallery. Michiru lightly panicked since they were now mingling with the guest. Moving swiftly yet gracefully, the blonde navigated the crowd as the host gave their thanks to those in attendance.
By the time they raised their glasses, they were close to the front of the room, just behind the platform the host occupied. She blinked as the realization set in that they had crossed the whole room. She was sure she did not breathe the entire time, either. She gasped slightly, releasing the breath she didn't know she was holding, as a server appeared at their side.
"Let me take those glassed for you," he calmly whispered as he retrieved the untouched champagne from her hand. Haruka smiled thankfully at the man as she squeezed Michiru's hand. Then, with one last reassuring smile to the smaller woman, they ducked silently out the front door, handing a ticket to the waiting valet. A moment later, a black car was pulled up, and Haruka placed her in the passenger seat. Running around to the driver's side to take her spot, they quickly were off into the darkness.
Slowly opening her eyes the following day, she began her recent ritual of checking her surroundings as she awoke. The small bedroom was just enough for what she needed. She glanced at the clock on the small table as she saw the familiar folded paper sitting next to it.
Sitting up in bed, she picked up the paper and once again read the word scribbled across it;
All I do
The whole day through
Is dream of you
She recalled the night before, as they road away in the car for what seemed like hours, Haruka explained their destination.
"I was able to get a small apartment on the outskirts of town. It is not much at all, but it currently belongs to a friend who is abroad. I will bring you there for the night. I'm sure that your fiancé will be looking for you, but I will do what I can to make sure he cannot find you," she reassured with a smile to the passenger and a squeeze on the hand that she still has not released.
She smiles to herself at the memory and the happiness that flooded over her to wake up in this small room. She knew the road ahead would not be the luxury she had had her whole life but will be richer than anything she had before.
Concern falls over her as she hears a knock at the door. She grabbed a cotton robe that she found in the bathroom and headed to the door. She slowly cracked the door to view who was visiting her, throwing the door open at the sight of Haruka carrying doughnuts. Michiru knows it is the start of a new day and a new happier life.