One for Three

Chapter 9

It was finally Friday, the day of the surprise. Seiya had come back late last night, well past midnight, and had the day off today. I leaned over to him and gave him a gentle kiss. Even without opening his eyes, a wide, contented grin spread across his face. "Can't you stay in bed?" he mumbled.

"Unfortunately not. I have appointments at work, but I'll try to come back early. Can you at least give me a little hint about the surprise?" I asked him curiously.

"Forget it, darling. You can endure a few more hours," he replied with a grin.

Oh man, he was being mean. He wouldn't even give me a tiny clue. I dragged myself to the bathroom and got ready. Once I was out of the house, I glanced at my phone. Three missed calls from Diamond and a message from an unknown number. Huh? Who could that be? Open.

>My dearest Bunny, this is my new number. I hope you had a restful night. Soon, we'll make it, and I can finally hold you in my arms again. I love you, M. <

Mamoru. Mister Perfect. It would shatter him if he found out what I was up to here. His face flashed before me, his eyes so loyal. How could he just leave for 18 months and leave me behind? No, stop. It's not his fault. Both Seiya and Diamond were my choices.

>Yes, I hope you did too. Can't wait. I love you too. <

He mustn't suspect anything until I'm clear about what I really want. Moving on, time to call Diamond.

"Finally. Do you know how many times I've called?!" he whispered irritably into the receiver.

"I have a personal life too. What's so urgent?"

"Avoid anything that could be dangerous. I think I've figured out what Saphir is planning."

"Diamond, stop speaking in riddles. Just tell me what's going on. I'm tired of being kept in the dark."

"I'll tell you everything tomorrow in Osaka. Should I arrange the jet for you?"

"I haven't even agreed yet! Honestly, all this bossing around of yours is really getting on my nerves!"

I heard Diamond sharply inhale. "Usagi, it's important that I tell you the truth. In a safe place. Please come to Osaka tomorrow so I can tell you everything."

Did he just say "please"? Those were quite new tones. Now I just had to come up with something for Seiya because he probably wanted to accompany me to Osaka.

"I'll try to make it, but then no more secrets," I said. Barely had he received confirmation that I was doing what he wanted, he hung up. Typical.

At least work remained quiet today. No disturbances from the Prince family, no disasters. It was almost too good to be true. The sun was already shining at me as I left the office. Seiya, as usual, stood on the corner, grinning at me. "Well, sweetheart, how was your day?" he asked, taking my hand. It felt unusual for him to show public displays of affection. But a pleasant tingling sensation washed over me. I interlocked my fingers with his and hoped that no one recognized him.

"So far, it's been relaxed. Will you tell me where we're going now?" He sneaked a glance at his watch.

"Not yet. Let's go home first. We'll leave in two hours." "Has anyone ever told you how mean you are? You could at least give me a tiny, tiny hint," I pouted, to which he pulled me into his arms. "Okay, a tiny, tiny hint," he began, leaning his head toward my ear. Finally!

"Oh, no. It's much more fun to keep you guessing," he whispered. Man, that was mean. Slightly annoyed, I nudged him in the ribs. "Jerk." When we arrived home, I couldn't believe my eyes. There was a dark blue dress hanging on the bathroom door. It was knee-length and adorned with beautiful lace. The skirt was made of soft, flowing chiffon. It looked stunning. Seiya's taste was miles better than those skimpy outfits Diamond sent me. Next to the dress were a matching pair of shoes and a handbag. In disbelief, I turned to Seiya.