
      Dreams & Deceptions


      Author: aria


      Rated: NC17



      Chapter 2
      Prince Charming, aka Darien van Beelen, leaned back in his chair feeling 
      quite content. He couldnt believe that he had let Nephlite talk him into 
      going to a chat room. But now that he did, and now that he met Lily it was 
      a lot more interesting. The conversation they had was the most stimulating 
      one hed ever had with a woman. Of course, the women he was use to were 
      more into shopping and their own looks to care about good conversation. It 
      was always my hair this or I got new clothes the other day that. 
      Darien had gotten pretty bored of that very quickly. It might come to 
      explain why newspapers photographed him with a new woman every week. He 
      looked at the cover of one, his midnight black hair and navy blue eyes 
      reflected in colour back to him. Shrugging, he got up and turned the 
      quietly humming machine off. There was a quiet knock at the door before it 
      swept open.
      "Hey youve been on the computer long enough. Want to come out with us?" 
      The tall blond stuck his head around the door.
      "Yeah, Nephlite. Ill be right there." Darien grabbed his coat and would 
      have headed out the door when the phone rang. Nephlite stuck his dark head 
      in again at the sound and raised an eyebrow. Darien put up a finger for 
      him to wait and picked up the receiver. "Yes? Oh yes sir. Ill be right 
      there." Frowning, he returned the phone then looked at his friend.
      "Let me guess. Youve gotta go."
      "Sorry. Sounds like my dads got some news for me. He had the tone." He 
      frowned and walked out after Nephlite. "Ill catch up with you later?"
      "Yeah sure. Youll know where to find us."
      Outside, the two men headed in different directions. Darien hurried over 
      to his little black sports car and jumped in. with a quick turn it roared 
      to life and under his control, sped noisily out of the lot. After swerving 
      in and out of traffic for some time, he arrived at a magnificent building 
      surrounded by a tremendous courtyard. Darien waved at the guards standing 
      at the gate as he zoomed past. With a loud screech he brought the powerful 
      machine to a halt right in front of the main entrance to the sprawling 
      stone building.
      A tall slight man stood there waiting. He swept over to the side of the 
      car and opened it. "I do wish youd be more careful, highness. You 
      shouldnt take such liberties with your welfare."
      "Aw come on Bramley! You know youd love to go racing someday. Tell you 
      what. Ill take you out with me one day. Wouldnt that be great?" Darien 
      laughed as the butler stuttered and flushed in frustration.
      "Darien! Leave Bramley alone!" An older man with black hair that was 
      greying at the temples stepped into the sunlight.
      Darien smiled warmly at his father and bowed. "Father. So whats so 
      important that you needed me to come right away?"
      "Son," Gustav van Beelen put his hand on his sons shoulders and led him 
      to the fountain that dominated the central courtyard. "What do you 
      remember of your childhood?"
      Darien shrugged. "The usual kids stuff. School, friends." Puzzlement 
      apparent on his face, he turned to Gustav. "Why?"
      Gustav sighed deeply. "How time flies. It seems like only yesterday I saw 
      you taking your first steps just over there." He looked over at the spot.
      Darien was getting worried now. His father was hardly ever given to fits 
      of nostalgia. "Father whats wrong? Are you ok? Are you sick?" In one easy 
      movement Darien moved his father to sit on the ornate bench near the 
      fountain.
      Gustav pulled his arm out of his sons iron grip. "Im fine. Fit as a 
      horse!"
      "Whats all this about then?" Relieved Darien sat down beside him.
      "Do you remember when you were eight? You were introduced to a young 
      lady." He looked into his sons deep blues eyes to see if there was any 
      recognition.
      Darien thought back. He vaguely remembered meeting a little girl. She was 
      a tiny, shy girl. What stuck out in his mind about her were her pale blond 
      curls. He remembered at the time he had no clue why she was there. He had 
      thought she was there to play with him but she spent most of her time 
      hiding behind her mother. Darien eventually gave up and went out with 
      Nephlite. "I barely remember a little blond girl that was here one day." 
      Why did his dad want to talk about her?
      Gustav smiled broadly. "Im glad that you remember her. I was afraid that 
      you would have forgotten."
      "Forgotten what?" What could he have possibly forgotten about her?
      "Shes your wife to be."
      For the first time in his life he felt faint. He had rock climbed, cliff 
      dived, luged, sky dived, raced motorbikes and cars but none of them have 
      ever, in the slightest, made him feel like this. Marriage? "No way!" 
      Darien virtually shot up off of the bench. "You cant expect me to marry 
      on a whim! Especially to some girl I barely remember!"
      "Darien." Gustav stood up and followed Darien.
      "Father, dont." Darien took a deep breath. "When is this supposed to 
      happen?
      "We wanted you two to take some time to get to know each other first."
      "How thoughtful of you." Darien made no attempt to hide the biting sarcasm 
      in his voice. "Now if youll excuse me. I think Ill go and risk my life 
      again." With that, he strode to his car, his long legs eating up the 
      distance easily. Car roaring, he waved at his father on his way out of the 
      gates.
      Married. Married. He said the word over and over in his mind trying to 
      figure out how he was going to get himself out of this mess. There was no 
      way he was going to get married especially not to some snooty princess. He 
      had to do something about this and fast. He headed over to the racetrack 
      where he knew Nephlite would be. Maybe he would have an idea.
      As Darien had predicted, Nephlite, along with the rest of the gang were at 
      the track. From the look of them they were just about to hop on their 
      bikes and do a few laps. Nephlite was about to put on his helmet when he 
      saw Darien.
      "Hey! Decided to come and get you butt kicked after all, eh?" Nephlite 
      frowned when no witty retort came. Sliding off his bike he approached his 
      friend. Darien looked really shaken. It had to be bad. "Whats the 
matter?"
      Darien raised his hand in greeting to the other men then walked off with 
      his friend. "Im getting married."
      Nephlite laughed, showing off rows of white teeth. "No seriously."
      "Seriously."
      Nephlite took a look at his friend and saw that he was deadly serious. "Oh 
      no. Who? Not that model Mina." His eyes widened. "Shes not pregnant is 
      she? What does your father think of this?"
      He put a hand to stop the tirade. "No, shes not pregnant. We broke up 
      weeks ago." Darien rubbed his eyes with the heels of his hands. "Some 
      princess that I hardly remember."
      Nephlite arched a brow. "That doesnt sound so bad."
      "Are you kidding me? Im hardly ready to get married. I still want to get 
      out and see the rest of the world."
      "You mean see the world again. Weve been just about everywhere. I think 
      its a good time for you to settle down."
      Darien felt like he was just betrayed by the last person he ever expected 
      it from. Glaring at him, Darien stalked off. "Not a chance."
      ----
      Lita and Serena spent the next month scouring through photos of racecar 
      drivers trying to figure out who Prince Charming was.
      "How about him? Talk about yummy!" Lita waved a photo of a gorgeous man in 
      Serenas face.
      Laughing, Serena pushed it away. "Maybe. Whats it say on the back?"
      Lita frowned. "That hes married. It better not be him."
      Serena laughed even more. She and Prince Charming talked every night and 
      she had to admit she was getting interested. He was everything she had 
      ever wanted in a man. He was intelligent, funny, and could talk about 
      everything. Serena found herself getting to the computer early to see if 
      he would be there. Most of the time he would be too. This had to be the 
      best assignment shed ever had. She gazed at her watch for the twentieth 
      time in the past quarter of an hour.
      Lita smiled. At Serena and nudged her gently in the ribs. "Cant wait to 
      talk to him eh?"
      Serena simply shrugged and wandered over to her computer. The shrill 
      ringing of her phone broke the silence. She reached over and picked it up.
      "Serena," the deep voice was unmistakable. "We need to talk."
      "Hi dad. What can I do for you?" she already knew what was coming.
      "When are you going to come back?" The anger in his voice could not be 
      disguised.
      Serena cringed at the tone. She knew he was mad. But she wasnt going to 
      give in. Not about this. Serena refused to be pushed into a loveless 
      marriage. "Im not sure yet father. I need more time to think about 
      things." She decided to try another tactic. "I want to take some time to 
      reflect."
      But obviously it did nothing to placate his mood. "You have three weeks." 
      The line went dead.
      Serena hung up the phone her shoulders slumped in defeat. "Hes given me 
      three weeks. Then I have to return and marry that prince."
      "Well have to move fast then. Are you still up for finding the right 
      man?"
      Serena took a couple of deep breaths and nodded. She turned to the monitor 
      and to her surprise Prince Charming was waiting for her.
      They talked for some time. Serenas attention wasnt on the conversation 
      though. She was busy trying to think of a way to get out of the marriage 
      when the perfect opportunity appeared on the screen.
      Prince Charming: Do you want to meet?
      Serena blinked her grey eyes at the words. "Oh my god."
      Lita, who was busy with the mess of photos on the floor jumped up and read 
      over Serenas shoulder. She squealed and slapped Serena on the back. "Of 
      course you do!"
      "I dont know. What if he turns out to be a complete psycho?"
      "Take me with you. Ill get Dave to come along and that way if you dont 
      like him youll have us."
      Serena thought about it for a second. "What the hell."
      ----
      Lily: Sure. Where?
      Prince Charming: Where are you?
      Lily: Vancouver
      Prince Charming: Im in Monte Carlo at the moment. How about we meet at 
      St. Moritz? My treat.
      ----
      Lita was bouncing around the room now. "St. Moritz? Wow! This is going to 
      be so much fun!"
      Serena laughed. "Its alright. But I say its like all the other ski 
      hills. Just with more rich people."
      Lily: You dont have to worry. I can pay my way.
      Prince Charming: I insist.
      Lily: Is it alright if I bring a couple of friends along?
      Prince Charming: Of course. I wouldnt expect you to go to a foreign 
      country to meet a stranger all on your own. Ill make the arrangements and 
      give you a call. Whats your number?
      ----
      Serena hesitated for a moment; she didnt really want to give out her 
      number to someone she only new a month. She ended up giving him her cell 
      phone number. He promised to give her a call the next day with the 
      details. After saying goodnight, Serena turned to Lita.
      "Looks like were going to St. Moritz!"
      ----
      The next morning, Serena was awakened by her phone. Groggily she leant 
      over and picked it up expecting it to be Audrey.
      "Hello?"
      "Lily?" A deep masculine voice on the other end asked.
      Serena immediately perked up. "Yes. Prince Charming?"
      "You got it. Did I wake you?"
      She sat up. Serena definitely liked the sexy voice. "Yeah kind of."
      There was a sigh on the other side. "Sorry about that."
      "Dont worry about it." Serenas heart was beating a mile a minute. Mouth 
      suddenly dry, she found it hard to form words. "I take it youve managed 
      to make the arrangements?" Duh! Why else would he be calling?
      "Yes. Tickets will be waiting for you and your friends at the airport this 
      afternoon."
      "T...this afternoon?" she hadnt expected it to be this soon.
      "Is that a problem?"
      "Oh no. Definitely not. I just havent packed anything yet." Her mind was 
      already whirring with what she needed to bring with her.
      "Good. So Ill see you tonight." The voice sounded pleased.
      "Yup." She was about to end the conversation so she could pack but she 
      realized she had no idea what he looked like. "Wait! What do you look 
      like? How will I know who you are?"
      "Umm. Im 62" with black hair and blue eyes. How about you?"
      Serena looked at herself in the mirror on the other side of her room. "Im 
      56" blond with grey eyes."
      "Oh and my names Darien."
      "Serena."
      "Well see you in a few hours then. Cant wait to meet you, Serena."
      "Me neither."
      "Good bye."
      "Bye!"
      Serena hung up the phone and scrambled out of the bed. She needed to pack. 
      But first she needed to call Lita. Quickly dialling, Serena opened up her 
      wardrobe and starting going through it for suitable clothes. A tired voice 
      picked up.
      "Hello?"
      "Lita? Get packing. The tickets are waiting for us at the airport."
      "Youre kidding!"
      "Nope! Now hurry up! Ill meet you at the airport." She hung up and 
      started stuffing clothes into her suitcase. Serena was definitely getting 
      excited now. This had to be the most outrageous thing she had ever done. 
      As she whirled around the room gathering her things Serena found herself 
      wondering what he father would say if he knew what she was up to. Pushing 
      the discomforting thought aside she finished packing up and got dressed.
      Now what did a woman wear to meet with a man she never met and was going 
      on a vacation with? Serena picked navy trousers and a loose silk blouse. 
      Casual and comfortable yet sophisticated. She topped it off with simple 
      diamond studs and gold necklace. Taking a look at herself in the mirror 
      she decided to tuck her hair up in a chignon at the base of her neck. 
      Makeup was applied light and fresh then quickly packed away.
      Serena quickly tallied up everything in her bags, and satisfied that she 
      had everything, packed everything into her car and sped off to the 
airport.
      Lita and Dave were waiting when she finally dragged her bags into the 
      terminal.
      "Serena! Thought you would never get here." She looked at her friends 
      array of baggage and smiled. "Sure you brought everything?"
      Serena ignored the sarcasm and nodded hello to Litas man de jour. He 
      smiled and came forward to help Serena with her bags. His hand grazed 
      Serenas. She turned to him suddenly feeling uneasy. "Thanks but I can 
      handle it." She took control of the cart herself and wheeled it to the 
      desk. "Hi. I was told that there would be tickets here for Lily." The man 
      smiled and handed them to her. The moment they touched her hands Serena 
      thought she was going to start screaming in excitement.
      ----
      Darien arrived at the airport and hour and a half early. He was really 
      looking forward to meeting Lily. That was a switch. Usually he was the 
      calm and collected one. But today he was a wreck. Unbelievably it was over 
      a woman too.
      Over the past month he had the most extraordinary conversations with Lily. 
      Her wit and intellect not only surprised him, but gained his interest as 
      well. He fiddled with the single blood red long stemmed rose he held in 
      his hand.
      Nephlite rounded the corner and laughed before sitting down beside his 
      friend. "Is this nervousness I see? Prince Darien of Illaria, number one 
      heartbreaker, is nervous about meeting a woman? Now this is a sight!"
      "Its not funny Nephlite. Things have to go smoothly if my plan is going 
      to work."
      Nephlites handsome face grew grave. "Youre not serious about going 
      through with that insane plan are you? Your father will have a fit!"
      "Well see if this girl is princess material first. But if she is like her 
      personality on the computer is, Im sure shell make a fine match."
      "Are you completely crazy? You cant just pick up any girl off the street 
      and hope that shell make a good princess. And what about her? Its not 
      exactly fair what youre asking of her you know!" He couldnt believe that 
      Darien would go that far to rebel against his father. It seemed like 
      everything he did was to contradict his fathers wishes. The dangerous 
      sports, the women Gustav had hoped he would get it out of his system, but 
      apparently Darien was just getting started. "This is not a good idea."
      "Whatever. If Im going to marry its going to be on my terms to a woman 
      of my choice."
      "Youre acting like a petulant child, Darien. Why dont you just meet with 
      this princess first, then make judgement." They both knew that Darien 
      would eventually give in to his fathers wishes. He might as well just cut 
      the crap and face up to his fate.
      Darien laughed. "Well I probably would, but according to what my father 
      says, shes not too interested in meeting me either. Shes run off 
      somewhere and refuses to come home."
      Nephlite shook his head and muttered under his breath, "Sounds like you 
      two have much in common."
      After much arguing and pacing, passengers started disembarking from the 
      plane. A virtual tidal wave of travel weary passengers made their way 
      through customs and over to the baggage carousels.
      Darien and Nephlite made their way through the crowd and started searching 
      through the mass of people who were frantically trying to get to their 
      luggage.
      "See anyone who could be her yet?" Nephlite was searching for her as well 
      and so far he couldnt see the blond of Darien description.
      "No. Not yet." A man with a bag walked into him almost knocking him over. 
      "Damn people!"
      Nephlite couldnt help but smile. "Maybe you should announce your 
      presence. Im sure theyd give you plenty of room then."
      "Shut up." He grabbed Nephlites leather encased arm and dragged him over 
      to the side to wait out the frenzied activity. He continued to scan the 
      crowd when he caught a flash of pale blond hair out of the corner of his 
      eye.
      ----
      Serena, Lita and Dave followed the rest of the people as they were herded 
      off of the plane. That had to be the longest flight she had ever had to 
      endure. It didnt help that she was too excited to get any sleep. Now she 
      was tired and her entire body ached from the cramped seating. She watched 
      as everyone rushed to get their baggage. Why did people hurry? She 
      couldnt see the logic in rushing from the plane to go and wait by the 
      carousels. Instead, the trio waited over to one side and watched the 
havoc.
      Serena scanned the crowd for a tall raven-haired man but there were so 
      many people moving about that she couldnt home into just one. Letting out 
      a breath, Serena decided the crowd had diminished enough to hazard an 
      attempt to retrieve her bags.
      "Come on Lita. Lets get our stuff." Her friend nodded and followed 
      dragging Dave with her.
      With the last of her strength, Serena managed to drag her last bag of the 
      swiftly moving belt. She felt a tap on her arm. Lita pulled her over and 
      pointed into the quickly diminishing crowd. "Look at them!" She pointed at 
      two tall figures peering intently into the crowd. "You think thats him?"
      Trust Lita to find the two most attractive men in the terminal. The two 
      couldnt be more different from the other, or more incredibly handsome. 
      The long haired one was looking around, running a hand through his auburn 
      mane apparently searching for something. He spotted Lita and Serena and 
      eyed them for a moment before he nudged the darker man standing next to 
      him. The man that Serena couldnt take her eyes off of.
      He fit the description that she was given. He was tall and broad 
      shouldered. Definitely the physique of someone who kept themselves at peak 
      physical condition. His hair was jet black and as he approached she could 
      make out that his eyes were a beautiful deep blue. His large frame was 
      draped with jeans, a sweater and a leather jacket. Serena watched as he 
      made his way over. He gave her a dazzling smile and stopped a few feet 
      away. She recognized the deep, seductive voice instantly.
      "Lily?"
      Serenas throat suddenly tightened up. Close up he was even more 
      breathtaking. "Serena," she squeaked. Serena took a deep breath. "You must 
      be Darien." She held out her hand to shake his.
      He took it and grazed the back with his lips. "I am." Darien stood back 
      and presented her with the rose. "For you."
      "Thank you." Trembling, she took it from him. Her fingers touched his and 
      their eyes locked. For a moment there was nothing but the incredible shade 
      of blue of Darien eyes and he gazed into hers. A bump on her shoulder 
      brought her instantly out of her reverie. She backed up a bit, blushing 
      furiously. "This is my friend, Lita Delaney."
      Lita stepped forward and smiled. "Hi." Serena could see that she had her 
      sights on Darien friend.
      Darien and Nephlite smiled and took turns kissing her hand. "This is my 
      friend, Nephlite Giancarlo."
      He waved. "Hi."
      Serena smiled at him. Why did that name sound so familiar? She didnt get 
      a chance to analyze it any further. Darien hard already picked up her 
bags.
      "Do you all have everything?" he looked over at Lita, who was scanning the 
      crowd. "Did you loose something?"
      "Yeah." She turned to Serena. "Whered Dave go?"
      Serena spotted him over by some women, obviously trying to win their 
      attention. Shaking her head she started to follow Darien. Lita walked over 
      and dragged Dave along behind them.
      Darien led them outside to a helicopter that was waiting for them. They 
      all piled in and Darien found himself, to his delight, pressed thigh to 
      thigh with Serena.
      She was stunning to say the least. Her hair was the palest blond verging 
      on silvery white. Serenas eyes were almost the same colour. What got 
      Darien the most though, was the fact her beauty was all natural. It almost 
      emanated from within. He could detect a faint touch of lip-gloss and that 
      was about it. And her voice! He could listen to it forever. Smiling to 
      himself, Darien leaned back for the flight. This was going to be a great 
      ski trip!
      ----
      They landed at the hotel after thirty minutes of so. Hotel staff, eager to 
      help with their luggage, immediately greeted them. The manager himself 
      came to meet them on the roof and immediately approached Darien and 
      Serena, greeting them with a bow.
      His actions horrified them both though they were both so shocked that 
      neither noticed the others reaction.
      He knows who I am! The thought ripped its way through Serenas mind. 
      Shocked she turned her wide eyes to Lita who looked just as stunned as she 
      felt. She watched as Darien turned to her. That was it! He knew too! 
      Panicking, Serena tried to think of an explanation. Her heart stopped when 
      he gave her a devastating smile and turned back to the manager.
      "No need for that my good man! Im simply a race car driver!" he laughed 
      heartily as he put his arm around the man shoulders and strolled with him 
      a ways.
      He whispered something to the man who nodded in agreement with whatever it 
      was that he said. Serenas quick eyes caught him slipping what looked like 
      a small wad of bills into the mans breast pocket. That jerk! He was 
      paying the man to make him look good! She couldnt believe it! Her back 
      ramrod straight, she followed the bellboy that had her bags into the 
      building.
      Serena barely noticed her opulent surroundings as she stalked through the 
      obviously old halls on the way to her room. Lita caught up with her as she 
      turned the corner.
      "Isnt this place gorgeous?" she looked at Serena when she didnt receive 
      a reply. "Whats the matter? You look like youre out for blood. You dont 
      think that the manager knows who you are do you?"
      "No." He hadnt even looked at her. His attention was focused on the 
      wonderful Darien.
      "So whats wrong then?"
      "Not sure. Something just doesnt feel right about Darien. Theres 
      something hes not telling us."
      They finally stopped in front of a dark oak door. The bellboy made a 
      display of pulling out the key and unlocking the door, like he was about 
      to bestow a great treasure upon them. The door swung open and Lita let out 
      a gasp.
      "This is your and the gentlemans room, maam." He smiled at Lita who 
      seemed to have forgotten Dave when she saw the room.
      In silent awe she followed him in, mouth agape at the beautifully 
      decorated room. "This is incredible!" Lita gave Serena a hug. "Thank you 
      for inviting me!"
      "No problem." She turned to the bellboy. "Now where will I be staying?"
      He gave her a look that read, give me a chance! then lead her wearily to 
      the room across the hall. "Here you are maam." He began to drone about 
      the services the hotel provided and the sights to be seen.
      Serena wasnt listening. She had been to St. Moritz several times before, 
      although not to this particular hotel. She was sure their services were 
      similar to the rest of them. Politely she let him finish then handed him a 
      few bills. "Thank you."
      His eyes widened at the amount. "No. Thank you! If I can be of any service 
      to you just ring down and ask for Marcel."
      Nodding she shut the door behind him. An instant later there was a knock. 
      Serena dropped her bag on the bed and walked to the door expecting it to 
      be Lita. "Its a nice hotel isnt it?"
      "Yes it is. One of my favourites." Smoothly answered the deep voice.
      Serena looked into the devilishly handsome face. Not fair. Why did the 
      jerks always have to be so good looking? "Oh hi. What can I do for you?"
      Her cool response puzzled him. Not a few minutes before they had been 
      laughing and enjoying themselves on the helicopter. What could have 
      possibly changed her mood so quickly? "Whats the matter? Dont you like 
      the room?" he pushed his way past her and began inspecting the room.
      Serena sighed. "Its fine." She wished he would leave so she could get 
      freshened up and gather her wits. "I just spent too long cramped in the 
      plane." Lame excuse, but he seemed to buy it.
      He noticed she looked quite tired. "You must be tired from such a long 
      flight. I just came over to invite you to dinner. Theres a fantastic 
      restaurant in the hotel."
      Her stomach gave and answering growl. "That sounds great. Ill tell Lita 
      and Dave." Serena looked pointedly at the door.
      Darien gave her one of his devastating smiles and said, "Ill be back to 
      get you in a half an hour. Will that be enough time to get formally 
      dressed?"
      "Thats not necessary." Serena held the door open for him. "Well meet you 
      down there."
      His large frame blocked the door. "I insist."
      Desperate to get him out of her room, Serena nodded. "Alright. Half an 
      hour then."
      "See you then." Darien turned and sauntered down the hall.
      Serena turned and headed into the bathroom.
      Dariens room was right next door to Serenas. Shutting the door, he 
      started thinking of what could have attitude change so abruptly. That 
      thing about being stuck in the plane might have been part of it but there 
      was something else. Shrugging, Darien decided to take a shower as well. He 
      had to be at his best if he was going to seduce the beautiful creature 
      called Serena.
      ----
      Serena put on an elegant, yet simple sapphire blue, sequined sheath. The 
      full-length mirror reflected the image of a gorgeous woman back to her. 
      She smiled to herself quite proud of how she looked. It wasnt often that 
      she dressed like this, at least not when she wasnt at the palace. Her 
      make up was much more dramatic now, accenting her sultry eyes and full 
      pouting lips. Her hair cascaded down her back in a shining silvery wave. 
      Serena scowled maybe this was too much. Before she could change, there was 
      a knock at the door.
      "Come in."
      Darien swept magnificently into the room. He was wearing a dark, well-cut, 
      very expensive looking suit. If possible he looked even more handsome than 
      he did at the airport. His eyes widened appreciatively when he saw her. 
      Closing the door behind him, he came to stand before her. He was close 
      enough for Serena to smell the tantalizing aroma of his cologne and 
      something that she could only define as him.
      "You look magnificent, Serena."
      "Thank you. You look wonderful too." Serena berated herself mentally. Why 
      did she always sound like a tongue-tied idiot when she talked to him?
      "Ready?" he held out his arm, which Serena linked hers through.
      "Yes."
      As they entered the dimly lit dining room, Serena could hear whispers. 
      Ignoring them, she adopted her regal stance and strode in. Lita, Dave and 
      Nephlite were already at the table and looked as though they were having 
      an engaging conversation. Well, Lita and Nephlite did. As usual, Daves 
      attention was elsewhere. Serena really was starting to dislike the guy. 
      But she knew she wouldnt have to do anything. Lita wouldnt take much 
      more of this. And now that Nephlite was in the picture it was a matter of 
      time before Dave disappeared.
      Darien pulled out her seat for her. Then sat down to her right. "Hi 
      everyone. Having a good time?"
      Nephlite nodded and Lita smiled. "Yes. Im having a great time."
      Darien ordered two red wines before they settled into another 
conversation.
      Serena was interested to learn that Darien and Nephlite had been friends 
      for as long as they could remember, and that they shared a passion for 
      dangerous sports. Together they had travelled extensively looking for 
      greater challenges when they werent racing cars.
      Darien smiled warmly. "So tell us about yourselves."
      Trying to keep her smile genuine, Serena spoke. "There isnt much to tell. 
      Like I told you Im a writer and I work for Vivre in Vancouver. Ive been 
      doing it for several years now."
      Lita piped up as well. "I am a free lance photographer. Thats how we met 
      actually. We were on assignment together in the Andes."
      "How interesting. We were there a few years ago trekking through the 
      mountains. Beautiful country." Nephlite couldnt keep his eyes off of 
Lita.
      Serena felt quite hopeful that they would get together. They would make a 
      good-looking couple. "It is."
      "Have you always lived in Vancouver?" Darien took a sip of wine and rolled 
      it around letting the flavours burst on his tongue.
      "No. I grew up not too far from here actually. In Lidaria." Thats all 
      that Serena was willing to tell him.
      "Really? What a coincidence. I grew up in Illaria." He felt quite hopeful 
      now. They had quite a bit in common. If he could just get her more 
      interested. He on the other hand was quite interested in the pale beauty 
      that sat next to him.
      Serena wrinkled her nose at the name. Her fathers ultimatum instantly 
      came to mind. Three weeks. Three weeks and she would have to marry the 
      prince of Illaria.
      Darien noticed the look of distaste. "What is the matter? Do you not like 
      Illaria?"
      "Actually I have never been. I hear it is quite beautiful."
      "It is. You will have to visit some time. Ill show you around."
      "And I will take you around."
      All eyes went to Nephlite who had Litas hand in his. She looked 
      absolutely thrilled while Dave sat quietly fidgeting with his napkin.
      Darien cleared his throat. "Well Dave, you dont say much do you?"
      "Nah. I like to listen." He seemed to sink further into his seat. "If 
      youll all excuse me. I need to use the little boys room." He got up and 
      quickly walked away.
      Darien shook his head and returned his attention to Serena. The waiter had 
      arrived and was taking her order. She was smiling at the man as she 
      ordered. Serena was the kindest woman he had ever encountered. She spoke 
      to him politely and softly as if she was asking for something not 
      ordering. The waiter moved onto Lita next, though he could not take his 
      eyes off of the breathtaking Serena. He watched the candlelight play off 
      her fine features. Even the dim light from the flame seemed to seek her 
      out, gently caressing her cheeks with its soft glow. Before he could stop 
      himself, he took her hand. "Would you care to dance?"
      Caught off guard, Serena simply nodded. He tenderly tugged her to her feet 
      and led her to the dance floor.
      "You are an absolute vision." He took her against him so that their bodies 
      made as much contact as was decent on a dance floor. "How did I get so 
      lucky as to meet someone like you?"
      The flattery brought colour to her cheeks. "Youre too kind." Close 
      proximity to Darien was completely overwhelming to her senses. Under her 
      hand she could feel the unyielding strength of his shoulder. Just the way 
      that he filled out his suit told her that this was a man who was in peak 
      physical condition. They slowly swayed to the rhythm of the music, both 
      content in listening to the strains of the violin. Serena breathed in his 
      intoxicating cologne and sighed. A chuckle rumbling its way through his 
      chest making her look up. She was trapped in the depths of his cerulean 
      eyes.
      "This feels so right." Truer words had ever left his lips. She fit 
      perfectly against him. Like she was made for him.
      Serena was inclined to agree. She felt safe and warm in his arms. "It 
      does." Shocked at what she just admitted to him, Serena stiffened a 
      little. What was she doing? She knew that this had been her goal, to get 
      him interested in her, but now she wasnt so sure. Things were just moving 
      way too fast for her. Unsure of what to do now, Serena continued to dance, 
      a little stiffly but she managed not to embarrass herself. Maybe she 
      should just give in to her father. She mentally shook the thought away.
      Darien felt her withdrawing and realized that she was rather shy. He 
      decided to slow things down a little. If not for her, then for him as 
      well. He knew that he had had many women but never once was he in danger 
      of loosing his heart like he was with Serena. Darien could feel himself 
      being inexplicably drawn to her. He tore his eyes away from her shining 
      grey ones and looked over to their table. Pulling away he said, "The 
      waiter is back with our food." Without waiting for an answer he turned, 
      abruptly, and walked back to the table.
      A little confused over what just happened, Serena followed in a daze. One 
      second he was totally attentive and the next cool and aloof. It must have 
      been because I pulled away, she rationalized. What else could it have 
      been? Then she was reminded about the little scene with the money. Was he 
      angry because she wasnt showing him enough attention? Perhaps he wanted 
      her to fawn all over him. Well he had another thing coming! Fuming, she 
      took her seat again. She coolly thanked the waiter and started on her 
meal.
      She looked angry. This was not good. He racked his brain trying to think 
      of a conversation topic. He looked over at Nephlite for inspiration, but 
      his friend was enraptured with the girl at his side. Fighting the urge to 
      roll his eyes, Darien looked at Serena who was taking small bites of food.
      "Do you ski?" he felt like an idiot the moment the words left his mouth.
      "Yes I do." Serena didnt even look up from her food.
      "Good well go out tomorrow for a few runs. Its supposed to be a glorious 
      day."
      "That sounds nice." Serena took a final bite of her steak and smiled at 
      him. "Im stuffed. I think Ill head up now. I could really use the sleep 
      if Im going to keep up with you in the morning." She stood up gracefully.
      Darien did the same. "Ill walk you up." She hardly ate a thing. He knew 
      she was upset and that he had to smooth things over before it got out of 
      hand. Darien didnt give her the chance to say no. He put his arm casually 
      around her waist and smiled at the rest of the table, minus Dave who still 
      hadnt returned. "Good night."
      Lita and Nephlite barely acknowledged their departure they were so 
      engrossed in each other. At least things were working out for Nephlite.
      They walked silently for a few minutes. Then Darien had to ask. "You dont 
      like me."
      Serena looked at him. "I dont know you well enough to make that judgment 
      yet."
      "But youve already started to dislike me. Why?"
      He was observant. What could she say? That she had seen him bribe the 
      manager to make him look good? That she had intended on seducing him but 
      was not going to put up with a man like him for the rest of her life?
      He stopped them in front of her room. "Tell me how you feel about me after 
      this." And his lips descended on hers.
      With her hands still being firmly held within his, and before she had a 
      chance to utter a word, she found herself jerked forward and drawn into 
      his embrace, and worse, his lips suddenly came down on hers hard and 
      possessively.
      She had been kissed before, but not like this! His body pressed against 
      hers, so she was forced to feel the entire length of his hard body. His 
      mouth was hard and merciless; they seem to sear her mouth, forcing them 
      apart to accept the onslaught of his tongue.
      When she would have moved her head to escape his mouth, his hand only 
      merely held her head in place, grasping her long silver hair within his 
      fingers, while the other hand of his held her firmly around her slim 
waist.
      Serena was completely breathless being crushed against him. She felt her 
      head beginning to spin, her head falling back as waves of heat enveloped 
      her. Tiny involuntary whimpers were forced from her throat as the man 
      continued his pillage of her mouth.
      The sensation was too much for her. She gathered what was left of her 
      strength and tried to shove him back. "How dare you!" Since he wasnt 
      going anywhere, Serena backed up against the door trembling from head to 
      toe.
      "You didnt seem to mind a moment ago."
      The arrogance! Unable to answer she decided to hide in the only haven she 
      had, her room. Serena slammed the door in his still smiling face. She fell 
      onto the bed and buried her face in the soft pillows. This was a very bad 
      idea.