Prologue

I should be a happy person . . .  Shouldn't I? I mean I am happily engaged to the man of my dreams. We are going to be married in two weeks. Why shouldn't I be happy? I looked around my classroom. Everyone was working intently on their test. I was studying to be an English teacher for highschool. I have about two more months to go before I graduate. See there is another reason to be happy!

When I was 15, my house was set on fire. Police think it was set by a candle. In the fire my parents got burnt a lot and died.  My brother was at a friend's house when that happened. I was barely burnt but I guess I was too panicky.  I fell and went unconscious as I was told. I almost died of the smoke. When they got me out, I had amnesia. When I was well enough to leave the hospital, I went to live with the person who always visited me at the hospital, my grandma. My brother Sammy was living with my grandma to. When I was 18, I moved out. Then I found out that my parents had written a Will if they ever died too early. When they read the Will, I found out my parents owned a large business and made lots of money. I wondered why my grandma never told me about that. The Will said that I inherited $1000 a year since the day I was born. When I turn 18, I stop inheriting and get the money. So I got $18000. Of course I put it in my savings account.

"Serena is there something wrong?" my teacher said in a curious tone. My teacher always has an eye at me, waiting for me to just make one mistake. I am the best in my class, maybe even better then my teacher but she doesn't want to believe it. So she watches me waiting to prove me wrong.

"Yes Mrs. Amber," I answered, "I am actually done with my test and I am just resting." Everyone looked at me but not surprised. I always finish tests early. Just then the bell rang. I could hear moans and groans coming from people because they were not yet finished with the test. I was the first one out of my seat and at the door. I dropped my test off in the basket by the door.

I already had my day plan out. Right now I was going to go home and change out of the skirt and shirt I was wearing, and into something more comfortable. I drove up the driveway to my house. I ran to my room but stopped in front of Chris's (my friend) door. I leaned my ear onto the door trying to make out what was going on. Apparently he was talking on the phone with the speaker on. I could hear him laughing and talking to some women. Curious I knocked politely on the door and stepped in. Immediately I saw Chris push the speaker button obviously cutting the person off at the end. Chris looked up at me and smiled. I wasn't sure if I should be mad or just ignore what happened. Unfortunately I am a very stubborn person. So I wasn't going to let this escape my mind.

I stomped my way to him and yelled, "Who's that you were talking to?"

Chris like he is smiled one of those angelic smiles and said, "It was just a business person,  I was making a deal with. No big deal! Now tell me, why are you home so early?"

I relaxed a little and answered, "Oh, all my classes ended early today. I am just gonna go up to my room and change then maybe go and spend time with my friends, ok?"

"Oh go and take your time!" Chris said in his polite way of saying I want you out of my way.

I smiled and quickly kissed him before running out and heading to my room. I changed into a pair of jeans and a light blue shirt. It was kind of chilly outside so I put a white cardigan over my shirt. I walked down the stairs and put my ear against the door again. It seemed like Chris was talking on the phone again except this time he wasn't on speaker phone. I walked into the bathroom and picked up my brush. 'You got to calm down. Chris isn't doing anything that he will regret' I told myself. I began to brush through my blonde hair.

Chapter 1
Time to Party

When I thought I looked good enough, I ran to my car and drove to the nearest mall. Inside the mall I ran to my favorite department store. And began going through the clothes. I was walking along and saw this man  leaving a rack with the most out of fashion shirt I have ever seen. I ran up to him and said hi.

"You are not going to buy that shirt are you?" I asked him not able to take my eyes away from him. I mean who wouldn't. He was well dressed. He had sandy blonde hair and the lightest blue eyes I have ever seen. He smiled.

"Yea. Why what's wrong with it?" the man said.

"Well, it is just that it is way out of fashion. I mean something like this is way better." I leaned over and pulled a light pink shirt out.

"Well I am shopping for my daughter and I am not exactly sure what is in fashion and what isn't." He explained smiling. I traded shirts with him smiling myself. But I didn't the show the anger I had. He was married! I couldn't believe that. Well actually I could, I  mean he could probably get a wife in less then two seconds.

"Thanks for helping me out Miss...."

"Moon." I answered for him. He smiled once more before waving goodbye. I watched as he left and then stopped.

"You know what? I need to repay you."   He said as he withdrew a ticket from his wallet and handed it to me. I read the ticket it said in big bold letters "Darien Shields Business Celebration" I made a funny face considering it was a Business party.

He seemed to read my mind, "Well it isn't really a business party. It is just a ball. He is celebrating his 100th year of being is business ."

I nodded and said I would think about it. He had to go so I we exchanged good byes and he ran off. I looked at the ticket. I wasn't sure if I was going to go. I mean it's not like I haven't been to a ball before. When I was younger my dad would take me to all his business balls because my mom didn't really want to go. I tucked the ticket in my purse and decided to decide later.

I drove home and changed. Chris was still in his study room. I got changed into some sweat pants and a sweat shirt and went into my living room to watch some t.v. I turned it to channel 4. The news was showing. I listened as the person was talking.

" Today we just found out that the millionaire Darien Shields is holding a elegant ball for the celebration of his companies Shield's Corporation of there 100th year of being in business. Darien and his Best Friend Andrew....." I let the sound of the t.v. fade away. Because there in front of me was the most gorgeous man I had ever seen, standing next to the man I met earlier. I took in his whole appearance. His stormy blue eyes. His shining ebony hair. I simply fell in love with him!

'What are you  thinking about Serena. I can't be in love with this man! I mean I am going to get married in two weeks!' I looked down at the diamond ring on my left hand. I just noticed. The diamond was pretty small for a person like Chris. I am not saying Chris is rich I just mean he is rich enough to have bought me a bigger diamond if he loves me as much as he says he does. Suddenly I felt  soft lips on the back of my neck. It sent a shiver  down my spine. I turned around to find myself face to face with Chris. He was smiling.

"So I see you are watching the news." Chris said looking at the picture of Darien on the t.v. screen. The lady was still blabbering away.

"You know that right there is Darien Shields, one of the most richest people on earth. He is holding a ball this Saturday. Ya know it is impossible to get tickets for that. I tried to get a ticket but they only invite certain people. You know I bet if you suck up to his best friend right there he will probably give us tickets." he said jokingly.

I smiled wryly. I leaned over and grabbed my purse from the table. I took out the ticket and showed it to Chris.

"Where did you get this!?!" He screamed at me.

"I met Andrew in the department store. I helped him pick out a shirt for his daughter. He gave me this ticket to show me  his gratefulness." I explained.

"Why didn't you ask for another! One for me!"

"Well it didn't really come to mind. Anyway I might not go." Chris suddenly grabbed the ticket out of my hand.

"Then I will go!"
"No. I didn't say I wasn't going to go for sure. I probably am." grabbing the ticket back. I saw the jealousy on Chris's face. I ignored it and went up to my room. I shut the door quietly behind me and went to bed.
 
Chapter 2
A Greedy Millionaire

I went for a walk in the park. When I bumped into on of my best friends, Rei Cunning. I told her about what happened at the store and the reaction on Chris's face. Rei started laughing at the site of Chris being jealous of me. Because you know. Chris is rich and he usually gets everything he wants.

"So I think I am going. Got any tips?" I asked Rei.

"Just one. Stay away from Darien!"

"Why?" I asked.

"Because   in magazine they say how greedy Darien is. He isn't really a bad guy he just is really greedy about all his money. He only spends his money for his satisfactions. Also he is really mean and cruel. They make him sound almost evil. They say despite his great looks he never will get married because he is afraid of gold diggers." Rei replied.

~~~~~

I thought about what Rei said earlier. What if this Darien guy really is evil as she says he is. I didn't really want to go now. But I didn't want Chris to take my ticket so I forced to convince myself that I was going to go.

Just then the phone rang.

"Hello?" I said.

"Hey Sere. It's me Lita!" Lita another one of my best friends said.

I talked to Lita about lots of stuff for about two hours before I had to go down and eat dinner.

Chapter 3
A Sheep in Wolves Clothing

I got ready for the ball on Saturday. That whole day Chris was begging me for the ticket. I kept turning him down. Actually I liked Chris begging me for things. Because it is usually me begging Chris for things. Finally I was done getting ready. I went downstairs to show Chris. I was wearing a white silky evening gown. With a slit on the side. I had my hair up in a bun so you could see I was wearing a pair of dazzling diamond earrings.

Chris looked not showing any interest in me. He said I looked fine before he went back to doing what he was doing. I knew Chris was still mad at me. And I would be wasting my time to comfort him so I left. It took me about a half hour to drive down to Darien Shields home. When I got there it was still a little early but people were still crowding to be let in. I parked my car and got out. I saw that lots of people were being thrown away from the house, probably because they were trying to get in with out a ticket. I walked up the long stairway up to the front door. It took me awhile to get to the top because of the crowd.

When I got there, there were two big guards in front of the door. I just stood there looking at them. I got a little scared. I finally remember to show them my ticket. I fumbled with my purse for awhile before revealing the ticket. I showed the guards it and they let me in. I gasped in relief, happy that were away from me. When I got to the ball room, I almost fainted. It was absolutely beautiful. I walked around admiring all the paintings and lights, the food beverages. I looked around and saw all the people dancing. I came across a beautiful painting. It was a starry night with a full moon glowing beautifully. I was so much concentrating on the painting I didn't notice that someone was behind me.

"Beautiful painting, huh?" Some one said in a whisper so close to my ear. I whizzed around and soon found my self face to face with Darien Shields!

I was so surprised to see him. He looked absolutely wonderful, just like when I saw him on the t.v. except he was more handsome. I looked into his stormy blue eyes.

"Yes," I said my voice just barely above a whisper,"it is truly remarkable!"

He smiled so dreamily. I wanted to reach out to him. But I couldn't.

"Would you like to dance?" He said. He shocked me. I mean why would this millionaire like me.

"Sure." I replied.

He led me to the dancing floor and we began to waltz. I knew how to waltz and I guess this surprised him. While we were dancing I told him my name and a little about my life. Of course I
 didn't tell him about Chris.

When the song was over Darien led me to a corner of the ball room. There stood Andrew and beside him was this lovely blonde hair lady. I walked up with him. Andrew turned around and saw me. He immediately remembered who I was.

"Why Miss. Moon glad to see you here!" Andrew said. I knew Darien was shocked that we already met.

"You know her?" Darien asked stunned.

"Yes, I do. We met in a department store when I went shopping for my daughter." Andrew explained. Darien nodded.

"Miss. Moon-"

"Oh, please call me Serena" I said.

"Ok, Serena may I introduce you to my wife Mina." Andrew replied.

I shook hands with Mina who smiled at me.

"Why don't us men leave you women alone to talk." Andrew suggested. It wasn't really a suggestion more like a demand. Andrew and Darien left Mina and I.

Mina and I instantly became really good friends. Our conservation ended when Andrew and Darien came back. Darien kinda looked a little flushed. He was all red as if Andrew and him were talking about a really serious personal issue. I just ignored it, I knew it was none of my business and I didn't want to be nosy.

"So what were you two ladies talking about while we were gone?" Andrew asked.

"Oh lady stuff that you men don't need to know about!" Mina exclaimed so loudly as if she really meant it. I couldn't help but burst out laughing along with me, Andrew and Darien were laughing too. Mina turned a bright red. She was obviously embarrassed. When we were all calmed down some more waltzing songs came on. Mina and Andrew left to go and dance. Darien came up to me and asked me to dance again. Of course I said yes.

On the floor I began to think how wrong Rei was. I mean Darien isn't all mean and stuff like she said. I mean right now he is dancing with me not afraid if I am a gold digger or not. Darien seemed to have saw how deep in thought I was.

"So what are you thinking about?" He asked.

Blood all the sudden rushed to my cheeks. "Oh nothing!" I replied.

The song ended. And Darien and I separated. I looked down at the gold watch I was wearing. It said 12:00 p.m. I looked at in awe. I mean I have been out for nearly five hours. I really had to go because I knew how worried Chris would be. Another song started up again Darien stepped forward to start dancing with me again but I pulled away. I saw a flash of hurt in his eyes.

"I have to get going Darien. I have to get home." I told him hoping he wouldn't be disappointed. I knew he understood because he walked me off the dance floor. He walked down to the entrance and to the parking lot. Of course there were still lots of news cameras there trying to get all they could on t.v. Darien just ignored them. But I couldn't. There were lots of people scurrying trying to get to Darien. I just noticed that those two big guards were keeping the news people away. When I got to my car I told him a quick good bye and unlocked the door. To my surprise he still stuck around.

"Serena before you go I want to ask you. Do you want to do something sometime."

I looked at him unable to believe what I was hearing. I mean Darien Shields this millionaire who I heard never was going to get married was asking me out! "Well maybe I am not sure. I might be busy. I mean it was a real hectic just trying to come hear without being busy." I let him down nicely, because well you know I am engaged.

"Oh, well then maybe I can talk to you sometime on the phone then." He said. Now I couldn't refuse this, I mean what would I say `no you can't have my number!' I don't think so. So I got a piece of paper out of my purse along with pen and wrote my number down. I gave it to him and said a final good bye before getting into my car. I was about to shut the door when Darien's hand
came and stopped me from doing it. I looked up and was about to protest before Darien bent down and kissed me fully on the lips. I gasped but didn't pull back.

Chapter 4
In Love With Two

I couldn't believe what just happened. Darien kissed me. I got to admit it was a very passionate kiss. It was even better then Chris's. No wait what am I saying! I am comparing a man I don't even know to my fianc‚. And this stranger is winning. I got a really messed up head. I decided to just turn on the radio to get this thought out of my mind. A song has just ended and the host was speaking.

"Tonight the stars shine down for Darien Shields. As he walks out of his house following a young and beautiful girl! I mean is this the Darien Shields we know? That mean nasty greedy  guy. I mean the one who hates all women? Yep it is. I think Darien Shields has a crush on someone! As     we hear. Darien led a young blonde girl to her car and kissed her in front of     everyone. This is way new! Well this next song is dedicated to that lucky girl where ever you are!"

The song started to play but I didn't bother to listen to it. It just occurred to me. There were news people all over and they got all our kiss. `Oh no! What if Chris was watching. I am pretty sure that was live. He probably was watching. Oh no!'

I finally got to my house. I parked my car in the driveway and tiptoed to the front door. I didn't want to wake Chris if he was asleep. When I stepped in it was all dark. I stood where I was, waiting for my eyes to get adjusted to the darkness. When I could see better I could make out a figure at the end of the hallway. At first I couldn't see what it was. Then it moved I knew it was Chris.

"Hello Chris why are you still up?" I asked him. He didn't answer but he did start moving toward me. When he got close enough I could see that his face was all red and wrinkly. In his left hand he was carrying a beer bottle. He had been drinking. `Oh no! He is drinking. I wonder how many bottles he has. Well no matter what he is drunk.' Maybe I should I go to one of my friends house. It might not be safe hear. I started moving toward the door, Chris picked up his pace. I started running to the door Chris ran to me he was about to get to me but I quickly opened the front door and closed it on his face. I ran to my car and locked the door. I backed out and drove off. I looked in the rearview mirror and saw that Chris had ran out of the house.

"Fine then! Go to you Mr. Perfect. I don't need you!" Chris yelled at me as he threw the bottle toward the car. It hit the street creating a loud clashing sound, with beer going everywhere. I drove my car down to Maple street where my friend Lita's apartment was. I ran up to her door. It was late so barely anyone was in the hallways. A few people were just getting home from there late night shifts so when I ran past them they stared at me. I didn't really care. When I got to room A307 I knocked furiously on the door. I heard a grunt on the other side. Lita opened the door with a sleepy face. When she saw me her face suddenly turned to a worried face.

"Serena what are you doing here? Come get in here!" Lita said while opening the door wider to let me in. I ran in and collapsed on her couch, crying furiously. She came over and sat next to me.

"Serena what's wrong? Ok take a deep breath and tell me why you are crying. Did Chris do something to you. Tell me!" Lita replied. I took a deep breath and told her about Darien the news people and then what happened with Chris. Lita had listened very closely. She looked at me with those big green worried eyes.

"Well it is obvious you are not going back home so you will bunk here tonight. Tomorrow we will call Chris and work this all out. You just sleep now." Lita said as she went over to her closet and pulled a long dress shirt from her closet. "Here sleep in this for now." I took the shirt from her. I got out of my dress and slipped the shirt on. I laid down on the couch and instantly fell asleep from being so tired.
Chapter 5
Sunday Brunch

I woke up to a smell of pancakes. It carried me all the way to the kitchen. There was Lita cooking pancakes. I went and sat in one of the chairs and watched her. Lita is my best friend who is a great chef. She one day will own a huge restaurant. And will get lots of money. Well that is her dream. And I am pretty sure it will come true. Because Lita is well really good. She cooks for me and my other friends a lot of times when ever we have a girls night out. My friends Rei and Ami and I are going to help her buy a building later on. Right now we are saving up. About in a year we will be able to buy a building for Lita and we will help her clean it up. Lita can't wait. She says she practices her cooking on us. Of course we always like her food. I especially like her desserts.

"So Serena did you sleep well?" Lita asked me finally.
"Yea I did. Thanks for asking Lita." I answered. She turned around and flashed me a smile before going to back to work. She had just finished a big batch of pancakes and was working on another.

"Go Serena. You can start eating." Lita said.

"No I am going to wait for you." I really didn't want to wait for her. But I was being polite. Finally she got done with the batch and carried two plates of pancakes that were like mountain high. I mouth started watering. When she set my plate down I put butter and syrup on at and started chowing down. Lita giggled at the sight I made. I didn't really care because I am already used to having my friends watch me eat in a un-perfect manner. When it comes to being polite and stuff I am perfect at it but when it comes to eating I am a whole new person my friends tell me all the time.

Lita and I hung out for awhile before we decided to call Chris. Lita decided to talk. She dialed the number but nobody had picked up the phone. I got a little worried about Chris wondering where he was. I wanted to go down to my house but Lita said I wasn't going to go alone. So she went with me. Despite Lita's love for cooking she is a really good martial arts fighter to.

Lita and I went to my house in the car. The ride there was really quiet. When I looked over at Lita she was in a deep thought. I wondered how she could be in deep thought and drive at the same time. When we got to my house all the windows were dark despite how sunny it was outside. It looked like a haunted house. I ignored my fear and made my was up tp the front door with Lita right behind me. I turned the knob and stepped in and it was all dark. I reached and turned on a light. I gasped. The whole house was a total mess. Lita and I made a journey around the whole house. Chris was no where in sight but the whole house was trashed.

Just then the phone rang. I had to go through an obstacle just to get to the phone. The person on the other line almost hung up when I answered it.

"Hey Serena! It's me Darien. I was wondering if you were busy today. Maybe we could go out to lunch." Darien asked me. I was a little surprised that he called me. I told him to wait. So I could check my schedule. Of course I lied. I turned to Lita and told her who it was and what he wanted.

"Hey I have to go to a class. So maybe you should go with him so you have someone to protect you if you run into Chris. You can't stay here just in case if he comes back more angrier then before." Lita said. I agreed with Lita. The way Chris acted the night before I am sure he is going to kill me.

"Sure Darien. I would like to go to Lunch with you. I am not busy." I answered Darien.

"Great I will come by your house to pick you up. Where do you live?"

"Well actually maybe we can meet somewhere. I think that is better." I said.

"Ok then I will meet you at Starlight Restaurant, ok?"
"Ok that is fine with me. I will be there as soon as I can."

Darien and I exchanged good byes. I ran up to my room with Lita behind me. I went through my clothes trying to figure out what to wear. Most of my clothes were ruined because of Chris. Finally I settled on a plaid mini skirt with a white tank top. I wore knee high socks and a pair of white shoes. I put my long blonde hair up in a pony tail and I put on a pair of black sunglasses to fish it up. Lita said I looked great. She said she would drop me off at the restaurant and to come by her house after. She thought it still wasn't safe to go home alone.

Lita dropped me off. I stepped into the restaurant and saw Darien. I started walking toward him. Suddenly I was stopped by a waiter.

"Excuse me Miss but you will have to wait in line to get a table like everyone else." He said motioning to a long line of people. Darien saw me and the commotion the waiter was making. He got up and walked toward me.

"Excuse me but this young lady is with me." Darien said in a harsh tone. The waiter looked startled and then turned a bright red.

"Oh, I didn't know I am terribly sorry Miss." Then the waiter scurried off.

"Sorry about that." Darien said

"Oh no it wasn't you fault." Darien led me to the table he was sitting at earlier. It was towards the back of the restaurant. It was by a huge window. There was a beautiful view. In the outside there was a really beautiful rose garden with a swing in the middle of it for decoration. Darien and I didn't talk when we ate. But I noticed he was watching me very carefully. When we were done. Darien led me to the rose garden. It was spectacular. It smelled great. Darien led me to the swing. I sat down on it. I didn't know what he was going to do when suddenly I was flying into the air. Darien was pushing me very high. I started laughing. Darien was laughing to. He was amused at how childish I seemed. The rest of the day we had lots of fun. We went out for ice cream. We chatted while walking down the sidewalks. People passing by smiled at us. They thought what a cute couple we made. I then really wished I wasn't engaged to Chris. Because then and there I simply fell in love with Darien.

When the day came to an end, I showed Darien where to go to Lita's apartment. He insisted on walking me up. When we got to the door I turned around and faced him.

" I really had a really good time today Darien." I said.

"So did I, maybe we can do this again."

"Sure that is fine with me." I answered.

I  said bye and turned around and rang the doorbell. I was surprised when Darien twirled me around and kissed me again on the lips. Lita opened the door to have found me kissing Darien passionately.

Chapter 6
Gossip

The rest of the night I couldn't help but day dream. I could tell Lita was worried about me. But in a way she was happy for me. I love Darien. I really love Darien. I want to find Chris and call the engagement off right now. Oh I can't wait to see Darien again.

The next day Lita and I went over to Rei's house to talk. Ami was also coming with us. When we got there   we all settled and Lita started gossiping about Darien and I. How she saw him a I kissing.

"Serena I think you should get rid of Chris and go with Darien. I mean he is drop dead gorgeous and you two make a good couple." Lita said.

Rei lived at a temple. Her family was like a religious family so they are all into that superstitious stuff. Like Rei can predict things by looking at a fire. She also has a weird kind of physics power. Anyway I liked going to Rei's temple it is always peaceful here. Rei's grandfather set up a store hear about a year ago. They sell charms and stuff. Rei didn't really like it and neither did her grandfather but they had to set it up because they were going into a money depth. I tried to help them but they refused the money. Rei has always been a stubborn girl. She always wants to get things on her own. So I understood. I wasn't going to protest because I knew I would just lose. Anyway you can see they didn't need my help. The store they set up has a really great business.

My friend Ami here is really smart. If we are not gossiping or having fun somewhere Ami always has her head in a book. Right now Ami is a doctor, Dr. Anderson, we call her. She is one of the best. I always knew she would be a doctor. She has always been smart. Ever since we were little she has been smart.

Rei, Lita, Ami and I have known each other since kindergarten. Lita has always been the one who protects us, Ami has always been the one to get us out of a tough situation, Rei has always been the one to help us with our future, and I , I have always been the one to eat all the food that they didn't eat. No I am kidding I have always been the one to cheer up them when they have been let down or something like that. Ami says I am the glue that keeps us together. If I was never there friend we wouldn't be sitting here right now. Everyone else agreed with her. I never knew I could be that special to someone. Just then a bell rang.

"Oh that is a costumer who wants some service. I will be right back." Rei said getting up.

"I will come with you. Just incase if you need help." I said getting up to. We left the others and went into the front of the temple where the store was. At the counter there was a beautiful woman with long blonde hair. I knew her instantly. It was Mina.
"Hi Mina!" I said.

Mina looked up and smiled.

"Hello Serena. What a lovely surprise to see you here."

"Yea you to. What you doing?"

"Oh I am just stopping by to pick up a present for my daughter. Her birthday is tomorrow. You know what Serena? Darien talks about you a lot." Mina said with a wink.

Rei just stood there. `Oh my gosh how could I be so blind!'

"Oh Mina this is my friend Rei. Rei this is Mina." I said apologetically. Rei and Mina both said hi and shook hands.

"Come on Mina to the back. I will introduce you to the rest of my friends."

"Oh no. I don't want to impose." Mina said.

"Oh you are not imposing. Rei tell her she isn't imposing."

"Your not imposing." Rei answered.

"See you are not imposing! Now come on. Everyone will be delighted to see you." Rei and I led Mina to the back room where everyone else was.

"Lita, Ami, this is Mina," I said motioning to Mina, " Mina this is Lita and Ami." All three of them said hi.

"Why don't you take a seat Mina. We are just doing our daily gossip session." I said with a giggle. She took a seat. And everyone got along well. As if they knew each other there whole life.

When the day came to an  end Mina stood up, "Oh it is getting late. I really must get going. It has been a pleasure talking to you all. You know I would love it if all of you could come to my daughters birthday party tomorrow. Please, she is turning 15." Mina said.

"Sorry I can't go. I have a class tomorrow." Lita said.

"I can't go either. Sorry, the hospital is expecting me." Ami said.

"I am not busy I can go." Rei said.

"I can go to Mina. What time does it start."

"Oh that's wonderful. It starts at 4:00. I will see you later. Oh I almost forgot. Here you go Rei. This is for the charm." Mina said handing Rei a dollar. She said a final bye and scurried off.

" I like her. She is nice." Lita said. Everyone else agreed.

"So Serena what are you going to get her daughter?" Rei asked me after Lita and Ami left.

"Well I probably will get her a dress or something like that. What about you?"

"The same." Rei answered. Today Lita and I told Ami and Rei my situation with Chris. So Rei was letting me stay with her. She led me to a spare room.

"Good night Serena. I will see you tomorrow." Rei said.
 

"Good night Rei. Remember wake up bright and early tomorrow so we have time to shop for her present." I said.

"Ok, good night." Rei said. She left me and went to her room.

Chapter 7
Birthday Disaster

Rei and I both arrived at Mina's House at 3:30. Mina's daughter greeted us. At first she looked at us in disgust. I was wearing a white dress that went down to my thigh. Rei was wearing a back skirt with a red top. Rei was wearing her long black hair down. I was wearing my hair in a pony tail.

"What do you want? I think you got the wrong house!" Just then she slammed the door on our face. Rei and I stood there in shock. Maybe that wasn't Mina's daughter.

"If that is Mina's daughter I am going to puke!" Rei pronounced. I agreed. It probably wasn't though. I rang the doorbell again. The same girl answered the door.

"I said what do you want? Go away! You are not welcomed here!" She was about to slam the door shut but someone came up behind her.

"Cathy who is it? Oh, Rei, Serena, you are here! Welcome! Come on in," Mina opened the door wider so we could get in, "I like you to meet my daughter Cathy. Cathy these are two of my friends, Rei and Serena." This girl, Cathy was Mina's daughter. I couldn't believe it. This snotty girl related to someone as nice as Mina. I looked over at Rei who was looked like was thinking the same thing.

"Nice to meet you Cathy. I am Serena." I said smiling. I extended my hand to shake hands with her. She just stood there and looked at it. I brought my hand back. This time I looked over her. She looked a lot like Mina. She had blonde hair. Except she kept her hair short. Probably up to her chin. Mina's hair was long. She had the same blue eyes and everything. Cathy was wearing a pink skirt with a matching pink shirt. She wore a pair of light pink sandles to top it off.

"Come on Serena, Rei. I will show you to the ball room where the party will be held. The theme is a ball room dance." Mina led us to the ball room. It was beautiful. It wasn't as large as Darien's ballroom but it was a fairly big. There were streamers everywhere. On the sides there were tables if food and beverages. Balloons were hung on all corners. And there were colorful lights set up on the ceiling. There were speakers all around. And in one corner was the music player. On one of the tables there was a big beautiful birthday cake. It had 15 candles decorating the sides.

"It is beautiful Mina." Rei and I both complimented.

"Thank you. I had a designer some in and set it up last night." just then the clock in the parlor rang indicating it was 4:00. The doorbell started ringing. And more and more people started showing. Both Rei and I were surprised at how popular Cathy was. At 4:30 everyone had showed up and had gotten settled. The music was now playing and some people were dancing. Cathy was in a corner talking to some of her friends.

"Daddy!" Cathy yelled. She ran to the door of the ball room and greeted her father (Andrew) with a big hug. Darien was standing next to Andrew.

"Hi Darien," Cathy said in a sweet voice, " Are you going to dance with the birthday girl?" Darien looked down at Cathy. He looked as if he was going to crack up. Cathy didn't notice. It was obvious Cathy like Darien. Darien looked up and searched around the room. Just then his eyes met mine.

"Maybe Cathy." Darien replied before leaving the girl. He walked up to Rei and I.

"Hi Serena!" Darien said

"Hi Darien," I replied, " Darien I would like you to meet my friend Rei. Rei this is Darien." Rei and Darien shook hands.

"So this is the famous guy who Lita was talking about," Rei said with a giggle, "I will leave you two love birds alone." I couldn't help but blush.

"Serena would you like to dance?" Darien asked me.

"I would love too." I said. Darien escorted me to the ball room. The song that was playing ended and a new song came on.

::
There comes a time
When we got face the toughest of fights...
Searching for a sign...
Lost in the darkest of nights...
The wind blows so cold, standing alone, before the battle the begun...
But deep in you soul, the future unfolds, it right at the raise of the sun...
You got to believe (you got to believe) in the power of love
You got to believe (you got to believe) in the power of love...
There a thing to each moment...
Its what are hearts are all made of...
You got to believe (you got to believe) in the power of love... in the power of love...in the power of love....
::

"So Serena. You want to do something sometime?" Darien asked me while we were dancing to the song Power of Love.

"Sure! I would like that." I leaned my head against his shoulder and he tightened his grip around me. I looked over Darien's shoulder and saw Cathy. It looked like steam was coming out of her ears. I could see jealously in her eyes. It seemed like her friends were holding her back from coming charging toward me. No, her friends were holding her back from charging toward me. Just then they let go and fell backwards. Cathy ran to me and separated Darien and I. She took a glance at the shocked Darien then looked at me. Her face was all red. She had her fist clenched at the side. She ran toward me and tackled me to the ground. I was able to kick her off and stand up on my feet but she tackled me again throwing me into the cake. I tipped that table over and the cake was ruined. Darien ran to my side and helped me up.

"Oh my god are you ok?" Darien asked me. Mina came running over with a towel.

"Oh Serena I am so sorry about Cathy!" Darien took the towel and gave it to me. I started wiping the cake of me. My dress was already ruined. Rei came running over when she got through the crowd. Mina led me to a bathroom where I got cleaned up. Rei helped me. Mina would of but she had to go and take care of Cathy.

"Oh look Rei my dress it's ruined. It has cake smudges everywhere!"Just then Mina walked in with a pink sun dress.

"Here Serena wear this. It probably will fit you. You look my size." I took the dress from Mina and put it on. It fit fine. When I got out of the bathroom everyone at the party was gone. It was very quite compared to the noise at the party. But you could hear a faint sign of crying coming from the upstairs.

Chapter 8
Both Loves Lost

We went into the parlor where Andrew and Darien were I heard stomping coming down the stairs. Andrew sat up when he saw me walk in.

"Serena I am terribly sorry of what my daughter did to you. You can probably be able to tell that she has a silly crush on Darien."

"Oh that is ok Andrew. I am just sorry you didn't get to eat the cake. Even though I am pretty sure I had my share." Everyone laughed at my joke. When it became quite I could hear snuffles on the other side of the parlor door. Just then Cathy burst into the room with Mina right behind her. It looked as if Mina had pushed her in. Cathy stood in the door way her head down. Mina was right beside her. I saw that Mina had nudged Cathy were her arm.

"I am sorry Serena. I shouldn't have tackled you like that. But you deserved it. You aren't supposed to be with my hmmmm........" Mina had covered Cathy's mouth before she continued.

"I am terribly sorry Serena." Mina said still covering Cathy's mouth. She dragged Cathy out.

"Well wasn't that a sight." Andrew said trying hold back his laughter.

"Hey you know what? Cathy never opened the present I gave her. I payed big bucks for that thing!" Rei said.

Suddenly I burst out laughing, "Rei you got her a $5.00 shirt. Oh my god you are so cheap!" Rei blushed. I was able to look at the clock it read 6:00. Rei followed my gaze and saw the time. She yelped.

"Oh Serena we got to go. I have a date with Chad today at 7:00. Come on!" Rei said tugging on my arm.

"Wait," Darien said interrupting Rei, " Why don't you leave Serena here. And I can drop her off at her place." Darien suggested. Rei didn't even argue one bit.

"Yea, Yea, Yea, ok. Serena Darien is going to drive you. And I am going right now. Bye Sere!" Rei said with a quick wave and then ran off. I listened for the front door to shut before I turned around to face Darien and Andrew.

"Well then Darien. I guess you will be giving me a ride home." I said smiling. Darien smiled back. He left Andrew's side and walked up to me. He linked arms with me.

"Andrew I will see ya later. Tell Mina we said good bye." Darien said before running out of the house dragging me along. He opened the passenger side of his car for me and I got in. He closed the door, went around to the other side of the car and got in himself.

"So Serena where do you live?" I gave him instruction and he followed them. The car ride was very fun. Darien and I talked about lots of things. When we pulled up into my drive way the car grew silent. I got out and Darien followed. I walked up to the front door. I put my hand on the knob but stopped. I just remembered the little incident with Chris. And how the house was trashed. I couldn't let Darien walk into a house that messy.

"Well what are you waiting for?" Darien asked me. I smiled.

"Oh, nothing.' I looked at the door and slowly turned the knob. I thrust the door opened. To my surprise it was spotless. I walked in further and saw a maid in the kitchen. She looked over startled. I didn't know we had a maid.

"May I help you miss?" I looked over at Darien. He looked confused. I ignored the maid and made my way to my room. I wanted to see if my room had been cleaned. When I got there I opened the door. There lying on my bed was another women lying in Chris's arms. I was to shocked.

"So Serena you are back! Welcome. I would like you to meet my girlfriend! While you were gone I decided to get myself a new girl!" Chris said to me. Again I was shocked. Chris had replaced me! In a way I felt good. But in another way I felt bad. I never knew the feeling of being dumped. I had always dumped the other person. I turned around. I completely forgot about Darien. At the front of the door. I turned and yelled, " Good Chris. I am glad I am not with you anymore! Go ahead and enjoy you time with that women!" I turned around again and ran as fast as I could. Tears were running down my face right now. My vision got blurry. But I still kept running. I didn't want to stop. I wanted to get away from Chris... FOREVER!

Finally I tired out. I figured out I was in a park. I walked to one of the benches and sat down. I placed my face in my hands and cried continuously. I didn't even notice that Darien was there, until he put his hand on my shoulder. I turned around hoping it was Chris. Hoping he will be on his knees for forgiveness. NO! What am I thinking about? I am no longer in love with Chris. I love Darien! Why am I crying? Why am I wasting these tears on him. When I saw Darien standing next to me I was startled. I totally forgot Darien was there.

"Serena, who was that man?" Darien asked me calmly. I couldn't speak. I didn't know what to say. Finally I could let words out.

"He... He... He is my fiance."I said. Darien took his hand from my shoulder.

"Your fianc‚. You have been showing feeling towards me and you have a fianc‚! Serena how could you do this to me! What were you going to do. Tell me the truth when I ask you to marry me!" I looked up at him. He was going to ask me to marry him! I didn't know what to say.

"You...You were going to ask me to marry you?" I asked.
"Yes Serena I was. But now that I see you are already going to get married I better leave you alone." Darien turned around and started walking. I loved Darien. I didn't want him to get away.

"Darien wait! I don't love Chris. I love you! Please Darien come back. Come back." I said my voice going into a mute. I fell to my knees. Darien didn't come back. He just kept walking into the horizon.

Chapter  9
True Friends

I woke up feeling terrible. That is the same way I have woken up for the last week. A week ago Darien had left me. I didn't want to get out of bed. But I made an enormous effort to. My friends were all worried about me. I am staying with Lita right now. I wouldn't dare go back home.

I got out of bed and sulked my way to the bathroom. I undressed and turned on the water. I just stood there letting the warm water run down my body. Just then the memory of Darien and me on our brunch came to mind. I remembered how much fun we had. It brought tears to my eyes. I sank to the bottom of the tub and just started crying. After awhile I got up and turned off the shower. I wrapped myself in a towel and ran to my room. I made myself to stop crying. I looked at my bed and I was tempted to just crawl back in it and start crying but I knew my friends would worried about me so I dried myself up and went the closet. When I came to Lita's apartment she had gone back to my house to retrieve my clothing. When she got back she said Chris wasn't there.

I sorted through my clothes in the closet. I wanted to wear something cheerful so my friends would think I am feeling better. I picked out a pink sun dress that printed roses along the neck and waist line. I put on a little blush and eyeshadow to hide how pale my face was and how puffy my eyes were. Looking at my reflection I saw how much I hated myself for ever falling in love with Darien. Tears came to my eyes but I didn't let them fall for fear that they might smudge my makeup and I would have to do it all again.

I stepped out of my room and put on the brightest and happiest smile I could and walked into the kitchen where I found Lita reading a newspaper. She looked up and smiled.

"You look better Serena!"

"Thanks! I feel better too!" I said putting as much cheeriness into my voice as I could.

"That's great! Do you feel like going shopping with the girls  today?"

"Sure that would be great!"

~~~~~

My friends and I walked out of a department store in the mall. We have been shopping for almost two hours now! And I actually cheered up a bit. I was more happy and put the memory of Darien behind me.

We were eating ice cream listening to Ami telling us about one of her patients at the hospital when I saw him. There Darien Shields was walking down the walk with a beautiful blonde in his arms. She was far more beautiful than me. She had blonde hair that went down to her waist. And green eyes that sparkled. Darien looked happy with her but when I looked into his eyes he held an unbearable sadness. Ami, Lita, and Rei were wondering what I was looking at and followed my gaze. They too saw Darien and the gorgeous women in his arms.

I felt a bit of jealousy but then sadness seeing that Darien had moved on when I only feigned to move on. My friends deciding to get out of this unpleasant atmosphere decided to leave the ice cream shop. They ushered me out of the store a little to fast and I rammed into a person, nearly knocking me to the ground. If it weren't for Rei who was standing behind I would have fallen down.

I looked up at the person who I bumped into ready to say sorry but I stopped when I saw Darien standing there looking down on me.

"So...So...Sorry," I stuttered avoiding to look into his eyes.

"That's alright," he said stepping around me and continuing on his way with out looking back. Once again Darien walked away from me.

"How rude! To just walk away from you without asking if you are all right! Man Serena you should be happy he is out of you life!" Rei said. Looked up at her tears swelling in my eyes. Instantly Rei regretted what she said.

"I think we should call it a quits today." Ami said calmly. We all agreed and headed for Rei's temple. When we got there we were visited by Mina.

"Serena! Hello! I came here to see if you were ok. Andrew only told me about the break up between you and Darien yesterday!" Mina said. By this time tears were already streaming down my face washing away my makeup and showing my pale face. Mina walked closer and Lita and Rei tensed up as if Mina were some kid of enemy. Mina seemed to notice and backed down. I stepped away from the group and walked up to Mina.

"I am fine Mina," I said urging my self to stop crying, "Why don't cha come in and maybe we can have our gossip session again." Everyone looked at me with smiles. Rei and Lita calmed down a bit too.

After awhile the day was coming to an end. Mina got up saying she had to go.

"Why don't you guys come over tomorrow and we can gossip even more." Mina said happily. We all agreed to meet there at noon the next day. When everyone left Rei and I sat down in front of a fire. I decided to stay with her tonight.

"Today I had fun Rei. Except for the encounter with Darien. But the rest was fun!" I said.

"I'm glad Serena. Really glad!" Rei answered back.
 

Chapter 10
Iris Labor

As we said Rei, Lita, Ami, and I all met at Mina's house. Rei and I were not as shocked as Lita and Ami were. They were gawking at how big and beautiful Mina's house was. Mina led us to the back porch. There were five chairs set up around a table that had some goodies on it. Beside the table about ten feet away was a shining beautiful pool.

"Please, take a seat!" Mina gestured. We were talking for awhile when Cathy came strolling in through the sliding door wearing a sky-blue bikini that was very skimpy, just barely covering her body. Cathy instantly stopped when she saw me. Then suddenly a big grin came onto her face.

"Serena! I heard about what happened between you and Darien! I am sorry it didn't work out! I mean that's why I attacked you at my birthday party! I looked at you and knew you couldn't stand a big, tall, dark and handsome man like Darien. I mean someone like me! A real women could handle him. You well, you should just go crawling back to that ex- fiance of yours!"

"Cathy! Say your sorry. Then after that get some clothes on! I will not allow you to go around wearing clothes as skimpy as that!" Mina yelled.

"Mother, mother. I needn't say sorry! Why Serena deserves what she got! I mean she tried a challenge and did not succeed! And by the way the clothes deal. Mother I will wear whatever I want. If I look like a prostitute to you well I don't care! I mean I am after all a grown women!" And before Mina could answer back Cathy went back inside.

"I am sorry Serena! Cathy... well I think we spoiled her a little to much. She is well as you would say on the wild side. Just yesterday I found Andrew kicking out some boy. He wouldn't tell me what he was doing there but I fear I already know what. Also the night of her birthday party I went up to her room and there we saw that she had snuck some of her girl friends into the room and they were smoking! I mean we have punished her for days on end and she still does not listen to a word we say! I don't know what to do. I just don't know!" Mina said tears filling her eyes.

"Speaking of Andrew where  is the guy?" Rei asked.

"Oh Andrew and Darien went out with Iris. I didn't go because I much rather spend the day with you girls than with the stuck up Iris snob!" Mina said.

"Who... Who is Iris?" I asked already knowing the answer.

"Oh Serena," Mina said. She thought about an excuse but knew better than to lie to her friend, " Iris is Darien's girlfriend" Mina said in a whisper. But still I heard her and I fell silent looking down at my lap.
I then was on the verge of crying so I left saying I had to go to the bathroom. When I got there I locked the door and the tears came spilling out. I sat on the toilet just crying for about a minute r two before I dabbed them dry and went back down stairs. I knew if I stayed to long everyone would think I have a problem!

When I got there I paused at the door way. Sitting in my seat was Darien and Iris was sitting on his lap. Luckily no one saw me as I backed out of the room. Andrew was standing by the edge of the pool staring down into the water. Just then Darien got up and went to join him. I overheard Iris talking.

"So as Mina probably told you I am Iris! What are your names? Oh forget the introduction I might not see you after this day anyway. I mean after Darien and I get married next week we are moving to America leaving everyone behind. Well you might see me on t.v. and stuff! Oh my god I am just the luckiest girl in the world! I mean that other girl what was her name? Oh yes Serena Moon! She is the dumbest girl I ever heard of! She comes and tries to get Darien to marry her and then what does she do steal his money! Gets a divorce! And then goes back to that fiance of hers! But she got caught, didn't she! And she ended up losing both Darien and her fiance! She is the..." Iris
said interrupted by Ami.

"Iris well how do you know she was trying to steal his money? I mean you don't know her. It might have just been a simple love at first sight game!"

"Oh dear stupid girl you should know these days women are just after mens money!" Iris said back.

"Iris I am not stupid and yes I should know because I am a doctor.    And if what you say is true
are you just going after Darien for his money?" Ami said with a grin.

"Of course not! It happens to be I am deeply in love with Darien." Iris said without any enthusiasm. "And to end this horrible conversation all I got to say is about Serena...." I couldn't take anymore! I strolled in without even looking at Iris! I was mad. I went to the table grabbed my purse in a very harsh way!

"Mina thank you so very much for inviting us over. We really had so much fun. Girls maybe we should go!" I said. Everyone agreed with me. I could tell nobody liked Iris! Mina stood up.

"Serena if it is alright may I come with you and the girls. It's time I  get out and do something!" Mina said.

"That would be wonderful Mina. We could all go to the mall!" I said happily.

"Uh... Yea Serena! We could go to the mall! NOT! Remember we are all broke. Well maybe except for you and your rich parents!" Rei said.

"Well Rei if it will make you feel any better I could pay for some things  until you are able to pay me back!" Rei yelled at me and I just yelled back. We got into another argument again! I forgot all about Iris, Darien, and Andrew!

"Shut Up!" Lita yelled, " If we are going anywhere we should leave now! Shouldn't we!?! I mean I not going to have this day spoiled anymore with the two of you having one of those silly fights!" Rei and I stopped yelling!

"Uh... Sorry! Your right Lita! Lets get out of here!" Rei said picking up her purse!

"WAIT! Your Serena?" Iris said, "If you Serena how come that girl just said you and your rich parents?!?" I turned around to face Iris. I noticed that Darien and Andrew already took notice of me.

"Well actually I am not really all that rich my parents were but they died when I was 15. I only inherited money from them!" I said quickly wanting to get away from them.

"Yea you inherited $18,000! That's more than I would have in a life time. And plus when your grandmother dies you are going to inherit more!" Rei said. She was always a bragger.

"Well not as much! If you haven't forgotten Rei, I do have brother named Sammy!" I yelled. We were getting into another argument. As if on cue Mina and Lita went over to Rei and I and ushered us out of the house. I looked behind me and saw we left a bewildered Iris, Darien, and Andrew.

Chapter 11
Darien's Wedding

After the encounter with Iris I didn't think of anything, except about   what Iris said. She and Darien getting married. I was in Lita's spare room and that was all I could think about. Just then I heard Lita call from the kitchen.

"Serena telephone!" I yelled I was coming. I went to the phone and answered it. It was Mina.

"Serena? HI! You probably know what is coming up on Saturday right? Yea Darien's wedding. Well I wanted to invite you to it. I mean not to tease you or anything I wanted a friend to come along so I won't be bored out of mind. Please say you can come. I would have invited the girls but I only had one extra ticket!"  Mina said. I thought. Maybe if I go and see Darien give himself to another women he will get off my mind.

"Sure Mina I will go!" I answered she said great. We talked awhile then she had to go so we said our goodbyes and hung up. I didn't need to ask the time or place where the wedding was because Darien's wedding was the big news in the whole town!

~~~~~

The day of the wedding I took my car and drove down to the church. I was wearing a lavender dress with white sandles. Mina was waiting by the entrance for me.

"Serena! Hey, how are ya doing?" Mina asked.

"Doing fine Mina!" I said. We went into the church and took our seats. Darien was already at the alter and Andrew was standing beside him as his best man. There were also some other men standing behind Andrew but I did not recognize them. Then all to soon the organ began to play. And two little cute flower girls were walking down the aisle wearing little light pink dresses that looked adorable. Behind the flower girls came a boy about 10 years old. He was dressed up in a tuxedo and carrying a pillow with rings on it. Then the brides maids came. They all looked wonderful, wearing pink dresses that came just above the knees. Then the music changed and Iris came out. Her wedding dress was white. Her dress seemed way long. Her veil cast over her like it was the dress and the train seemed five feet long. Her sleeves and collar was trimmed with ruffles. I thought it was the most beautiful wedding dress I have ever seen.

She got to the alter and Darien took her hands. Then the priest began saying those wedding words and the vows. When he got to the part where he said if anyone objects please come forth now I was about to stand up but knew better. Anyway I didn't need to. Right then and there Mina stood up.

"Darien I don't think you should marry Iris!" Mina said, "You don't seem happy with her! I mean you seemed happier with Serena!" When she said my name I blushed and tried to sink down into my seat.

"I think you just picked the first girl you saw and asked her to marry you because you were so much in love with Serena you wanted to get her off your mind. Well, I got some things to say. Yes, Serena has made some awful mistakes in her life. So awful that you were not willing to sit down and listen to her. But if you really love give her chance! I really think..." Mina said.

"SHUT UP!!! You ruined my wedding, Mina! I hate you! I hate you!" Iris yelled. "How could you!"

"Iris tell me! Do you really love Darien? Tell me the truth!" Mina said. Iris answered with tears non-stop falling down her cheeks.

"Of course I love Darien! I mean if I did why would I be hear right now trying to marry Darien to steal his money!" Iris said. A hand quickly flew to her mouth. I could see she only meant to think that last sentence and not say it ! "I mean... Darien..."

"That's enough Iris. Mina is right anyway. I don't love you, I don't even like you. I only wanted to get Serena off my mind. But I can't." Darien looked at me. "I can't because I love her so much that if I can never get her back in my life I know I will be miserable to the day I die." Darien stepped down from the alter. His eyes were on me and started walking toward me. I moved from my seat and ran into his arms. Happy tears were already falling my face.

"I love you. I am so sorry!" I whispered into Darien's ear.

"It doesn't matter. As long as we are with each other it doesn't matter!" Darien said.

~~~~~ Years later

"And that's how your father and I fell in love, Pure," Serena said to her 10 year old daughter.

"Mommy please tell me the story again! I like it! I hope I find my true love soon!" Pure said.

She laughed and pulled her daughter into her arms.  "Pure, a child as beautiful as you I am sure that day will come soon! Very soon!"

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